South Africa: Security cluster to flesh out details of 2019 Elections

The Justice, Crime Prevention and Security Cluster (JCPS) Ministers are scheduled to brief the nation on the National and Provincial Elections on Monday.

The Cluster will brief media on security matters related to the sixth General Elections.

Mondays briefing follows the Electoral Commission of South Africas (IEC) declaration that the 2019 elections were free and fair.

The results of the elections, announced at a ceremony at the National Results Operation Centre (ROC) n Pretoria on Saturday, declared the African National Congress (ANC) as the majority winner.

The briefing, which will be held at the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) headquarters in Pretoria, will get underway at 10am.

A record 48 political parties contested Wednesdays polls.

Meanwhile, government has congratulated the IEC for a job well done in administering the elections. It also commended the IEC for the way in which it handled disputes and various issues that arose.

We are satisfied that the IEC addressed these issues and that they are in no way detracted from the success and credibility of the elections.

The GCIS said the elections have served to renew and strengthen South Africas democracy.

We are inspired by the spirit of unity and comradeship which prevailed during the elections. Citizens who stood in line to vote did so not as members of political parties but as proud South Africans, the GCIS said, following the release of the results. - SAnews.gov.za

This story has been published on: 2019-05-12. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
King Maha Vajiralongkorn and his bride attended the "royal ploughing ceremony". The ritual dates back to the 13th century and marks the annual start of the rice growing season. The latest celebrations show a monarchy stuck in rituals from another era.

Bangkok (AsiaNews)  Court astrologers have forecast a bountiful harvest for Thailand after a pair of sacred white oxen munched on grass and rice and slurped up water in an annual ritual watched by the newly crowned King Maha Vajiralongkorn.

Seated next to Queen Suthida, the monarch yesterday saw the "royal ploughing ceremony" (pictured), symbolising the nation's fortunes.

According to observers, this is just one of the public events showing a royal court stuck in rituals from another era, a great contrast with the image of a country that has become the most advanced in Southeast Asia.

Yesterdays ceremony at the Sanam Luang (Royal turf), in the heart of Bangkok, dates back to the 13th century. Every year, it marks the start of the rice growing season.

Led by Hindu Brahmin priests, two white oxen walked the field to the sound of blaring trumpets. Women, dressed in traditional clothes and carrying trays of jasmine flowers, followed the animals.

Royal soothsayers base their forecast on the foods the animals eat after ploughing. Following the tradition, the crowd rushed onto the field after the king left to pick up the auspicious rice grains scattered during the ritual.

The real ploughing will follow a few days after coronation (4-6 May), which saw members of the Thai royal family and high-ranking aristocrats prostrate themselves before the king, inching their way on their knees towards him, then lying at his feet in complete submission.

In Thailand, "the king, queen, princes and regents" are protected by very strict lese-majeste laws. Anyone showing disrespect for the royal house can face up to 15 years in prison.

Article 112 of Thailand's criminal code makes it virtually impossible for anyone to express negative views about the sovereigns inside the country, media included.

The image of the monarch, seen as the incarnation of the Hindu god Vishnu, was re-sacralised in the 1950s, after the kings were marginalised for decades in the wake of the first military coup in 1932 that ended a century and a half of absolute monarchy.

In a recent article, French daily Le Monde compared the visual treatment of the Thai royals with those of Japan on the occasion of the abdication of Japanese emperor Akihito and the subsequent enthronement of his son Naruhito.

According to journalists Bruno Philip and Philippe Pons, the two Asian monarchies "are evolving in opposite ways: the imperial court in Tokyo is trying to be in harmony with its times," whilst the royal court in Bangkok has remained stuck in anachronistic traditions. Thailand, they write, is a kingdom looking for a balance that it has not found yet.
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.
Kattankudy: A Saudi-educated scholar is arrested for the links with Zahran Hashim, the suspected ringleader of the Easter Sunday bombings.

In a statement, police said, "Information has been revealed that the suspect arrested had a close relationship with ... Zahran and had been operating financial transactions,"

Mohamed Aliyar is the founder of the Centre for Islamic Guidance, which boasts a mosque, a religious school and a library in Zahran's hometown of Kattankudy, a Muslim-dominated city on Sri Lanka's eastern shores.

Sachin Tendulkar pens a heartfelt note for her mother on Mother's Day

The statement said Aliyar was "involved" with training in the southern town of Hambantota for the group of suicide bombers who attacked hotels and churches on Easter, killing over 250 people. A police spokesman declined to provide details on the accusations.

Reuters was unable to find contact details for a lawyer. The government says Zahran, a radical Tamil-speaking preacher, was a leader of the group.

Mothers Day special: Sara Ali Khan shares a beautiful throwback picture of mom Amrita Singh

The source told Reuters his hardline views were partly shaped by ultra-conservative Salafi-Wahhabi texts that he picked up at the Centre for Islamic Guidance's library around 2-3 years ago. The sources are not affiliated with the centre.
In todays frequently changing market of global technology, linear growth is replacing the exponential growth in businesses, bringing major implications for organizations by creating the need for leaders capable of navigating an entirely different universe. The ability to adapt to change and lead in uncertain environments has increasingly become a sought-after competency. This dire need has encouraged companies to opt for executive search firms which help the organizations to attract & retain a skilled executive for them. Catering to this need of the hour is GExSearch, a Gandhinagar-based executive search firm established in 2018, which exclusively focuses on IT, Renewable Energy, Infrastructure, Pharma, and more.Finding executive-level talent is challenging, especially in the global platform of the candidate-driven market. But thats where GExSearch excels by providing borderless talent solutions. We are an innovative and progressive global recruitment company and we understand the importance of mapping talent pockets & generating a global pool of talent

for our clients, states Robin Thomas, CEO, GExSearch. Migration of the executive talent across countries is the speciality of GExSearch Going Beyond the Limitation of Geographic Realm Nowadays, executive search is more interlinked with the business plan of the organizations, and GExSearch takes complete care of it with innovative sourcing and validating methods, which results in the outcome of a highly credible fitment. The firm follows Impact  Led approach, where it understands clients exact needs, analyses the candidates & similar organizations to understand the market and then initiates the search for the best talent available in the city or migrates the talent from other parts of the country. Along with this, GExSearch covers the most important parameters like skills, culture and attitude while searching for a candidate who enables the firm to ensure the best fitment in all aspects. These strategies have helped GExSearch to master the technique of identifying active & passive candidates while segregating genuine job seekers form window shoppers. With conducting such a long interviewing process along with psychometric assessments, GExSearch confirms the right fitment both in terms of need and attitude. GExSearch leverages its in-house developed technological tools to stay in touch with its clients. The firm has also moved into process automation. So once it gets a

mandate on the cart, the team puts it into the software which publishes the requirements and scrutinizes available candidates in social platforms. The firm starts with identifying the targeted industry and goes ahead with finding the best candidate using the social network followed by approaching them personally. GExSearchs highly specialized consultants who have a great amount of experience in executive search then take care of the further process by speaking, analysing and validating the interest level of the candidates. Indeed, finding the right talent and mapping the right industry which is not in the local geographical realm is a difficult task for search firms. New job, new geography and new work environment are the reasons why many employees leave in the interim stage of their job. GExSearchs process ensures that candidates are comfortably inducted to avoid initial teething problems. The firm provides a local orientation program for all the migrated candidates that helps them to familiarize and acclimatize into the new environment.



Being prominently strict about data security of the candidates, the firm adheres to GDPR compliance, uses highly secured tools & techniques while offering services and hosts entire data on its secure cloud server to make it theft-proof. With such dedicated & determined services, GExSearch has placed close to 25 top executives globally till date, and is looking forward to launching its new products in employment market while setting-up a branch in Pune in coming future.
A faculty-researcher at Rochester Institute of technology has developed a prototype micro device with bio-sensors that can detect the deadly Ebola virus. With this type of device, those infected can be treated earlier, and the early detection process can potentially decrease the spread of infections.

Ke Du, a faculty-researcher in RIT's Kate Gleason College of Engineering, developed a microfluidic device that utilizes CRISPR gene-editing technology to monitor and detect the nucleic acid markers that indicate Ebola virus. The virus is highly contagious and there is limited treatment once an individual has been diagnosed, he said. There are several prominent strains of Ebola, and his research team has focused on the EBOV strain, which has a high mortality rate.

"If an individual travels from one infected community to another, they can easily spread the epidemic. That is why before any symptoms of Ebola, such as cough or fever present, individuals can take a blood test before being allowed to travel," said Du, an assistant professor of mechanical engineering. He leads a multidisciplinary team of engineers and biochemists developing a rapid point-of care system and biochemistry array for in-field pathogen diagnosis. According to early results, the team has found that the Ebola RNA in test environments can be detected within five minutes by combining automated sample processing, fluorescence sensing and a unique CRISPR-Cas13a assay originated from a bacterial adaptive immune system.

The microfluidic device is an automated and small chip with a highly sensitive fluorescence sensing unit embedded into the device. Physicians take patient samples and add them into the device where Ebola RNA can be seen by activating the CRISPR mechanism. Du is also developing a device that could detect multiple virus strains from Ebola to influenza and zika, for example.

Du's research was published in the April 2019 issue of ACS Sensors. The article "Rapid and Fully Microfluidic Ebola Virus Detection with CRISPR-Cas13a," features an international and multidisciplinary team assessing the use of CRISPR technology--gene editing technology--to improve virus detection. The group members are from University of California, Berkeley; Tsinghua Berkeley Shenzhen Institute (China); Dong-A University (Korea); Texas Biomedical Research Institute; and Boston University.

"For this work, we are trying to develop a low-cost device that is easy to use especially for medical personnel working in developing countries or areas where there are outbreaks. They'd be able to bring hundreds of these devices with them for testing, not just one virus or bacteria at one time, but many different kinds," he explained.

Researchers have tried for the past 40 years to develop an effective Ebola vaccine. Early detection remains an important strategy for controlling outbreaks, the most recent in the Congo, where more than 1,000 individuals have died, according to the Centers for Disease Control.

"If you look at this like influenza, and people don't look at it as a virus which also can kill people each year. Some strains may not be as deadly as Ebola, but we know that infectious diseases, regardless of the type, are problems that can threaten the public," Du said. "I grew up in China and experienced the 2002-2004 SARS outbreak. I have seen many people lose their relatives and friends because of infectious diseases. If we can have early detection systems to help screen for all types of diseases and patterns, this can be very useful because it can provide information to medical doctors and microbiologists to help develop the vaccines, and early detection and identification can control and even prevent outbreaks."

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'Oil' and 'Gas' Are Out: How Energy Firms Are Rebranding for the Climate Change Era

When Denmarks state energy company changed its name in 2017, almost everyone involved agreed it was high time: after all, it was called DONG Energy. (It originally stood for Danish Oil and Natural Gas.)

The revamp was also part of a move to get out of the oil and gas business and focus on offshore wind, where the company has become a world leader. But changing its name to the hard-to-pronounce rsted, after one of the countrys best known scientists, turned out not to be the controversy-free choice management had envisioned.

Other energy companies in Europe that have changed their names have faced charges of greenwashing, or scrubbing their branding of fossil fuels while failing to do the same to their portfolios. rsted (pronounced Ehr-still) side-stepped such allegations, but it still confronted opposition: from the rsted family itself.

On Friday, the energy company won a court battle to keep the rsted name brought by seven descendants of Hans Christian rsted, the scientist who discovered electromagnetism.

The family members filed the lawsuit in January 2018, objecting to their newfound association with the company. They argued the rsted name is rare and significant enough to be off-limits.

The judge didnt agree; it should be noted that about 1,200 people in Denmark now have rsted as a middle or last nameincluding the pop star M. (Interestingly enough, the company ran into a similaralbeit less litigiousproblem when selecting its earlier name of DONG. In addition to snickers by English speakers, the Dong family of Valby, Denmark was not thrilled, though it never pursued legal action.)

rsted stands out for its legal tiff, but in the world of energy, its just one more company changing its name to eliminate words like oil or gas. Norways state energy company, for instance, changed its name from Statoil to Equinor last year. The company says the change reflects the countrys shift away from petroleum extraction to renewable energy, but its been accused of using a rebranding effort to make itself appear more green than it really is.

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Statoil became Equinor last year. (LEON NEALAFP/Getty Images)

And there are others: Finlands Neste cut the oil from Neste Oil in 2015, the same year Frances GDF Suez (GDF stood for Gaz or gas de France) changed its name to Engie.

The transitions presented new, and often more sustainable, imagesnot uncommon for energy companies as a whole these days. That was rsteds official reason, too: the company has become the worlds largest producer of offshore wind energy. The Danish state has a 50.1% ownership stake in rsted.

But embarrassment was something of a factor too: DONG, while innocuous in Denmark, tends to have a different meaning among English speakers.

Meanwhile, the debate over the companys new name is not necessarily settled: Fridays ruling in rsted vs. rsted could be appealed, the familys lawyer, Jens Jakob Bugge, told Fortune. If so, he said, it could end up before the Danish Supreme Court.

More must-read stories from Fortune:

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Tencents new video game: part propaganda, part peace offering

Why the new U.S.-EU trade talks might go nowhere

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Catch up with Data Sheet, Fortunes daily digest on the business of tech
China tariff's went into effect Friday , and Wall Street strategists were trying to figure what's next for their clients. Some are hopeful for a deal. Others are waiting for China to retaliate before recommending action. A few fear an all-out trade war.

Stocks were down only slightly in early trading Friday .

'Potential for a bear market'

In a note to clients, Bank of America outlined three trade scenarios and its implications for the broader market.

"The worst-case scenario: an all-out trade war, with tariffs on the remaining Chinese goods, retaliation from China, and an increased risk of auto tariffs that could push the global economy into recession," wrote Bank of America's Savita Subramanian.

"Under a deal, we expect the S&P 500 could rally above 3000 near-term...while under a full-fledged trade war, the S&P 500 could pull back 5-10% near-term, with potential to enter a bear market," she said.

Other strategists were taking more of a wait and see approach.

"The next focal point for markets will be whether we see Trump and Liu actually meet. As mentioned, a potential release valve for sentiment would be if Trump and Xi speak on the phone following Liu's visit," Deutsche Bank said.

"We expect China to hike retaliatory tariffs, and the US to begin the process of imposing tariffs on all other imports from China, but further US tariff increases are still unlikely in our view and would likely take a couple months to implement," said Goldman Sachs chief economist Jan Hatzius.

Here are what some of the major strategists think:

Bank of America

"Based on typical market responses to similar issues, we expect that: (1) under a "Benign" scenario (deal reached), the S&P 500 could rally above 3000 in the near term; (2) under a "Brinkmanship" scenario (tariffs rise to 25%; deal eventually reached in 2H19), the S&P 500 could pull back 5% ahead of an extended period of volatility; and (3) under a full-fledged "Trade War" (25% tariffs on all Chinese goods, strong threat of auto tariffs), the S&P 500 could pull back 5-10% in the near term (typical pullback on geopolitical strife), with potential to enter bear market territory in a global recessionary scenario. Note that the typical peak-to-trough decline during S&P 500 bear markets is 30%."

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Goldman Sachs

"The tariff rate on the $200bn tranche of imports technically increased to 25% at midnight. In practice, the US will not collect these additional Customs duties for at least a few days and potentially not for a few weeks. This delay might provide an opening to reach an agreement in the interim, though challenges remain. We expect China to hike retaliatory tariffs, and the US to begin the process of imposing tariffs on all other imports from China, but further US tariff increases are still unlikely in our view and would likely take a couple months to implement."

Deutsche Bank

"The next focal point for markets will be whether we see Trump and Liu actually meet. As mentioned, a potential release valve for sentiment would be if Trump and Xi speak on the phone following Liu's visit. Either one of those should at least dictate the direction of travel into the weekend and whether or not either side is willing to put a lid on further escalations for now."

Nomura Instinet

"We believe that although China will take retaliatory measures, it will not take steps to weaken RMB and both governments will express their willingness to continue with talks. However, we do not expect a new agreement to be reached in May but instead be pushed back until after the thirtieth anniversary of the Tiananmen Square incident on 4 June. During this period, we expect the market's expectations to be fed by ongoing conversations between the two sides, via telephone conference and other means, and a steady stream of leaks from the US about "alternative measures" to reach a trade agreement. In this scenario, the market's risk sentiment would not deteriorate more than it already has, in our view."





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Authorities to send more specimens abroad to test for bird flu virus

The Epidemiology and Disease Control Division says it is preparing to send specimens collected from the people who came in close contact with the person who died after contracting the H5N1 (bird flu) virus on March 29.
COPENHAGEN (Reuters) - Danish prosecutors have charged Thomas Borgen, former chief executive of Danske Bank, over his involvement in one of the world's biggest money laundering scandals, newspaper Borsen reported on Tuesday, citing his lawyer.

Borgen is the first person to be charged in a case that involves suspicious transactions of some 200 billion euros (171.08 billion pounds) that passed through Danske Bank's Estonian branch between 2007 and 2015.

Denmark's biggest bank is being investigated by authorities in several other countries including the United States, where it could face major fines.

Shares in Danske Bank have more than halved since March last year, and on Tuesday fell to their lowest since August 2013 following the Borsen report, which did not specify the nature of the charges against the bank's former CEO.

Borgen, who had been in charge of Danske Bank's international operations, including Estonia, between 2009 and 2012, resigned in September after an investigation revealed the scale of the suspicious payments.

Prosecutors raided Borgen's home on March 12, the report quoted the lawyer as saying.

Borsen also cited unnamed sources as saying the Danish prosecutor had charged at least two other former managers at Danske Bank in relation to the money laundering case, but did not give any names.

Borgen and his lawyer did not respond to calls, while the prosecutor and Danske Bank both declined to comment.

Denmark's state prosecutor filed preliminary charges against Danske Bank itself in November for alleged violations of the country's anti-money laundering act in relation to its Estonian branch. The prosecutor said at the time he would clarify whether individuals could be held responsible.

The money laundering scandal has spread to Sweden where Swedbank in March dismissed its chief executive over allegations its Baltic accounts were used to launder money.

(Reporting by Jacob Gronholt-Pedersen; Editing by Dale Hudson/Keith Weir/Alexander Smith)
QUETTA, Pakistan, May 11 (Reuters) - Gunmen attacked a hotel in Pakistan's southwestern port city of Gwadar on Saturday and were battling security forces, officials said.

One official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorised to talk to the media, told Reuters most guests had been evacuated but the attackers appeared to have reached the first floor of the hotel.

(Reporting by Gul Yousafzai Writing by James Mackenzie Editing by Edmund Blair)
(Bloomberg) -- Breezy Point is beautiful in the summertime, a quaint neighborhood sitting on a slim peninsula that juts out into the Atlantic just south of New York City.

In a storm, though, that dreamy setting can become a nightmare.

Breezy Point was devastated by Hurricane Sandy in 2012. Flooding, high winds and fires destroyed more than 300 homes, with many more left damaged and unlivable. Now, seven years later, architect Illya Azaroff has designed and built a home there he says can withstand a storm even more powerful than Sandy, "maintaining operation, even if all else fails.

Welcome to the home of the future in a time of climate change. As weather gets wilder and less predictable, firms that design, construct or improve housing with storm safety and resiliency in mind are increasingly in demand, said Matt Belcher, a builder in tornado-prone St. Louis. Its a powerful marketing message that cuts across the political divide, he said.

The frequency and severity of the storms are increasing," said Belcher, who builds houses designed to withstand 140 mile-an-hour winds. "Whether people credit it to climate change or think its cyclical, it doesnt matter if your house is destroyed. Either way, resiliency applies.

In 2008, the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety, an industry research group, created a set of construction standards that generally exceed local building codes, certifying that a home is likely to survive hurricane-force winds and rain.

The needle barely moved on the number of homes meeting the designation in a handful of hurricane-prone states from 1,122 in 2008 to 1,638 in 2014. By 2018, the number jumped ten-fold to 11,031 homes, and its moved to 12,530 in the first four months of 2019.

The "fortified" designation is provided by trained evaluators primarily based in Texas, Florida, the Carolinas and Alabama, though the institute is now expanding the numbers of states they serve. In some areas, the designation can help homeowners with insurance and renovation costs.

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"When the consumer has a different perception of the risk, it changes the demands they make on home builders," said Roy Wright, the groups leader and a former head of risk mitigation at the Federal Emergency Management Agency. "The home building industry will respond to the market, they always do."

The Breezy Point design by Brooklyn-based Azaroff, who also serves as the New York disaster coordinator for the American Institute of Architects, keeps Sandys devastation in mind, from the bottom up:

The house is elevated more than 3-feet above average flood elevation, with open concrete posts sunk deep into the ground and vents that let flowing water easily escape underneath the house. The walls and floor are made with concrete-filled forms made from polystyrene and recycled plastic that can withstand driving rain and 300-mile per hour winds. It has fire-resistant fiber cement-board siding, and inflexible, interlocking polymer roof shingles locked in with screws. Safety glass in the windows can withstand a 9-pound piece of wood flying at 34 miles per hour.And the roof is held in place with ultra-strong connectors.

Cost remains key for homeowners. The hurricane-strong house, as Azaroff has labeled it, is about 7% to 9% more expensive to build. But with energy and insurance savings, the upgrades should pay for themselves in 8-10 years, according to Azaroff.

While the Breezy point house is built to withstand hurricanes, architects elsewhere face other issues. Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas and Nebraska are the center of a region sometimes called Tornado Alley, and other times known as Hail Alley. Extreme weather there can can mean violently rotating winds that move in excess of 110 miles per hour.

Q4 Architects Inc., a Canada-based group, has designed a home that will not only keep residents safe during a tornado, but allow them to live at home for months, even if basic services are cut off.

At the houses center is a concrete and steel reinforced space that includes the kitchen, bathroom, laundry and an emergency supply closet. Theres a cistern that captures rainwater and filters it, solar panels for electricity, a sun tunnel that can be opened or closed for natural light and Murphy beds.

A tornado can destroy a home in four seconds, said Jason Sampson, an architect at Canada-based Q4. The initial ideal was to ensure some sort of comfortable living situation while disaster relief was put into place, he said. This could take months, so lets make sure they have the right systems in place to live there."

Rima Taher, a civil and structural engineer who teaches at the New Jersey Institute of Technology, has published the textbook Building Design for Wind Forces. The strategies behind recent improvements in housing resiliency can be attributed to improved building codes based on research in wind engineering that started back in the 1960s, she said.

"We have more knowledge in this field now, and building codes and standards are stronger," Taher said by telephone.

Taher frequently gets calls for advice, she said, noting that a couple of important things to focus on are roof design and strong connections between walls, between the walls and the roof, and between the structure and its foundation. Taher advises "hurricane ties," or straps, to join the roof tightly to walls, and says roofs should be designed with multiple slopes with overhangs limited to less than 20 inches.

"The roof can be the first thing to go," she said.

Architects and builders are searching out materials designed for every environment, said Wright, the insurance institute chief executive officer. The group tests home designs in a giant wind tunnel that can simulate hurricanes, rain, hail and flying fire embers, he said.

Products made by some of the worlds largest businesses for years are increasingly coming into play, he said, as builders and architects move to meet consumer demands. A DowDupont Inc. roof membrane that keeps the indoors cooler is being tested in brutal heat in India. LafargeHolcim Ltd. makes a lightweight concrete cladding that was used on a shoreline museum in Miami to add strength to window casings and walls.

While few of these materials are new, they are more frequently being experimented with in designs for new homes in storm-prone areas.

But its not just new houses being worked on with extreme weather in mind. Older houses on the East Coast offer other opportunities for builders. In the Carolinas and on New Yorks Long Island, local contractors have raised hundreds of houses six-to-eight feet higher within the past few years, taking advantage of government programs that popped up after major hurricanes.

Mike Roms company, Long Island House Lifting, now raises 45 to 50 homes a year at a cost of between $150,000 and $300,000 apiece.

In the wake of Hurricane Sandy, he said, every other house is up in some neighborhoods." But its not just the big storms that are a problem, according to to Rom. Shoreline areas that used to see street flooding at most two or three times a year now see it monthly, he said.

Billy Ward, co-owner of AABC House Moving in Camden, South Carolina, used to raise only one or two homes a year. Thats changed in the wake of hurricanes Matthew, Irma and Florence in 2016, 2017 and 2018.

We all talk about it," Ward said. How things have gotten a lot worse."

--With assistance from Tara Patel and Brian K. Sullivan.

To contact the reporters on this story: Jim Efstathiou Jr. in New York at jefstathiou@bloomberg.net;Prashant Gopal in Boston at pgopal2@bloomberg.net

To contact the editors responsible for this story: Lynn Doan at ldoan6@bloomberg.net, ;Debarati Roy at droy5@bloomberg.net, Reg Gale, Joe Ryan

For more articles like this, please visit us at bloomberg.com

2019 Bloomberg L.P.
* Yemen government awaits U.N. timetable for peace moves

* U.N. says Houthi forces withdrawn from Red Sea ports

* Four-year war has left millions facing hunger

ADEN, Yemen, May 12 (Reuters) - Yemen's government wants the United Nations to give time-frames for next steps of a peace deal after Houthi forces began withdrawing from key ports in the most significant advance yet for efforts to end the four-year war and relieve hunger.

In line with an accord in Sweden last year, the Iran-aligned Houthi movement began on Saturday a unilateral pullout from three Red Sea ports used for grain, oil, commerce and aid.

Local coast guards have taken over security at the Saleef, Ras Isa and Hodeidah ports, according to the United Nations which is supervising operations there.

Some officials from the Saudi-backed, internationally recognised Yemeni government dismissed the pullout as a "show", but government negotiator Sadiq Dweid acknowledged it marked the start of implementing the Stockholm accord.

The war has killed tens of thousands of people and left millions on the brink of famine.

Dweid tweeted late on Saturday that he had held a positive meeting with the chief U.N. observer, agreeing that the pullout should lead to time frames for implementing a U.N. mechanism for inspecting ships, de-mining and removing military installations.

While the Houthi move encouraged foreign powers pushing to re-open humanitarian corridors, displaced Hodeidah residents said they were not ready to return.

"We fled the war and I do not want to go back unless it ends, I fear death," said Sami, an 11-year-old who lives with his family in a graveyard in the capital Aden.

"War destroyed everything - no work and no security," said Abdul Rahman Taher, a 34-year-old man forced from his home in Hodeidah and now washing cars in Aden.

RETREAT FROM HODEIDAH

Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, leaders of the coalition backing President Abd Rabbu Mansour Hadi's government, have so far not commented on the Houthi ports withdrawal.

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Sources saw this as a sign U.N. envoy Martin Griffiths had managed to get the warring sides to agree to the plan, since the coalition had quickly rejected a previous attempt by the Houthis to unilaterally withdraw last December.

Under plans to avert a full-scale assault, the Houthis are to pull back five km (three miles) from the ports between May 11 and 14. Coalition forces, currently massed four km from Hodeidah port on the edges of the city, are to retreat one km from two flashpoint districts.

In a second phase, both sides would pull troops 18 km outside the city and move heavy weapons 30 km away.

Aid organisation the International Rescue Committee said the Houthi move was a positive step, but a wider peace deal was needed to avert violence elsewhere.

"Among our biggest concern is ensuring sustained access to Hodeidah port," the Norwegian Refugee Council's Sultana Begum told Reuters. "Further military escalation risks cutting the supply line of vital food, fuel and medicines."

Hodeidah became the focus of the war last year when the coalition twice tried to seize its port to cut off the main supply line for the Houthis, whom they accuse of smuggling Iranian weapons, including missiles that have targeted Saudi cities. The group and Tehran deny the accusations. (Reporting by Mohammed Ghobari in Cairo, Aziz El Yaakoubi and Lisa Barrington in Dubai Editing by Andrew Cawthorne)
ROSTOV, RUSSIA / ACCESSWIRE / May 12, 2019 / Russia A security broker firm is a financial institution engaged in securities trading services. It is one of the basic components of the securities market. The main business activity is the communication between investors and issuers of securities. They provide transaction services between those two. Their job is to promote the efficient issuance, circulation of securities and maintaining the operation of the securities market.

In the old days, investors who want to invest in stocks have to go to certain business department to open stock account and capital account. The buying and selling orders also have to be operated by business department personnel. The whole investment process is not only extremely complicated, but also has a high risk of asset security. As customers become more and more mature as investors, they need more professional and high-quality services when the operational experience of investment products and the demand for investment services are increasing day by day.

Security broker companies become a communication bridge between investors and enterprises. They are able to simplify account opening process and optimize trading operation by means of entrustment guarantee. From the early telephone commission to the later Internet and mobile Internet brokerage platforms, they have promoted the progress and development of the financial industry and also created huge market value for themselves. JP Morgan Chase, for example, is one of the world's largest brokerage firms, with $2.5 trillion in assets, more than 5,000 publicly traded companies covered by equity research and more than $1.5 trillion under management.

The blockchain brought by Bitcoin has swept the world in recent years, with the total market value of global cryptocurrencies reaching $810 billion at one time. The hot market is sought after leading companies from many industries. However, we cannot deny that blockchain is still a new and brutal growing financial market. There are more than 16,000 exchanges in the world, according to CoinMarketCap. But their professional ability is uneven, the difference between service levels is huge. It's hard for investors to jump into cryptocurrency investments as quickly as it was for stock market investors from old days.

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High user participation threshold, non-standard operation rules and poor user experience greatly hindered the development of crypto industry. Referring to the composition and structure of the traditional stock exchange market, we find that the blockchain industry needs professional "brokers" to promote the regulation and development of the industry.

CoinPOS (CPOS) is committed to building a global offline payment network platform with blockchain technology, creating the world's first professional intelligent terminal "broker" in the blockchain industry, and providing users with an overall solution from online to offline.

Like a large over-the-counter (OTC) network, CoinPOS is built on top of the CoinPOS protocol and is a point-to-point (P2P) financial marketplace that provides a direct bridge between cash and tokens.

For cryptocurrency issuers, they can raise the profile of their projects by displaying their tokens on CoinPOS platform, and this will allow users worldwide to buy their tokens with different legal fiat cash. The applicable scenarios of applying to brokerage services to blockchain must have the characteristics of multi-party collaboration, data credit investigation, data sharing and decentralization. All in a word, it increases efficiency with low cost, safe and credible.

CPOS PASS card is more convenient. We have global nodes partnerships where investors only need to buy or carry a CPOS PASS card, Letting the shopkeeper add up the corresponding cryptocurrency amount to complete the purchase process. As simple as using a commute card, it simplifies the complicated operation of account opening and real-name authentication. So that users can participate in the application of digital assets more easily, and it also meets the participation needs of users with difficulties in real-name authentication.

The goal of CoinPOS is to make every store connected to the blockchain system directly in the future, so that every cryptocurrency investor can enjoy the brokerage consulting services or provide them to others. CoinPOS aims to become a professional blockchain broker as great as JP Morgan Chase, sparing no effort to promote the progress and development of the blockchain industry.

Email: media@pressreleaseemail.com

SOURCE: CoinPOS





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By Richard Lough and Myriam Rivet

PARIS, May 12 (Reuters) - The flagbearer of President Emmanuel Macron's European election challenge on Sunday foresaw building a centrist alliance of more than 100 lawmakers, enough she said to thrust the French leader and his grouping into the position of kingmaker in the chamber.

Nathalie Loiseau, a career diplomat whose campaign has faltered after a series of early blunders, said detractors who predicted the president's Renaissance grouping would sit isolated in the European parliament would be proven wrong.

"I'm here to create a centrist group in the European Parliament which makes the difference, a group without which no majority is possible," Loiseau told LCI television.

Representatives from some 10 European parties -- from the Czech Republic and Hungary in central and eastern Europe to Spain and Netherlands in the west -- attended her Saturday rally in Strasbourg, the official seat of the European assembly.

"Those who say that we will be isolated and that will have no clout in the parliament will discover we have at least 100 lawmakers on whom they will have to rely," Loiseau added.

A kingmaker role would give Macron greater influence over shaping EU policy and the filling of key upcoming jobs, such as the European Commission presidency.

An ardent Europhile, Macron wants to redraw the European political landscape, much as he did in France in 2017, building a new political group by tapping into growing disaffection among the mainstream alliances on the left and right.

Polls show the centre-right EPP and centre-left S&D are both unlikely to win a majority. In a sign Macron could count on the support of parties sitting outside the existing centrist group, Portuguese Prime minister Antonio Costa, a Socialist, publicly backed Macron's list of candidates on Sunday.

Created after the last EU elections in 2014, En Marche has no lawmakers in the European chamber but polls show it could win about a fifth of Frances seats in the parliament.

Macron's chief European election strategist, Stephane Sejourne, told Reuters in October it was possible the Renaissance grouping might even dislodge the EPP as the dominant force.

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Since then, Macron's authority has been challenged by a grassroots rebellion that has hurt his popularity and forced the president into costly policy concessions. "Yellow vest" protesters took to the streets for a 26th straight weekend on Saturday, albeit in their lowest numbers yet.

"For weeks they've been saying that the "Yellow vest" movement is weakening, but the anger is still there," far-right leader Marine Le Pen told BFM TV. Macron had failed to address the protesters' demands for fairer taxes, more spending power and a more participatory democracy, she said.

A Harris Interactive opinion poll this weekend showed Le Pen's far-right Rassemblement National nosing ahead in the campaign race with 22.5 percent of voter support, compared with 22 percent for Macron and his allies. (Reporting by Richard Lough and Myriam Rivet with additional reporting by Michel Rose; Editing by Toby Chopra)
Despite action plans and ambitious targets, Nepal lags behind in e-mobility transition

As countries around the world make a pitch to go electric in order to curb carbon emissions released in the atmosphere, Nepal too, at least in principle, has decided to join the call. But when it comes to implementation, the campaigners, environmentalists and even officials and policymakers say in unison: there are challenges galore.
Zuckerberg, in an interview with French broadcaster France 2, was responding to an op-ed written by Facebook co-founder Chris Hughes, who said Zuckerberg had acquired 'unprecendented and un-American' power.

Zuckerberg, who was in France to meet with President Emmanuel Macron, argued that Facebook's size is actually a benefit to its users and the security of the democratic process.

Facebook FB CEO Mark Zuckerberg has forcefully dismissed growing calls for regulators to break up the social media company, arguing that Facebook's size allows it to invest billions of dollars in security every year.



Zuckerberg , in an interview with French broadcaster France 2, was responding to an op-ed written by Facebook co-founder Chris Hughes , who said Zuckerberg had acquired 'unprecendented and un-American' power. Hughes joined politicians, such as Sen. Elizabeth Warren, in calling for regulators to break up Facebook.

"My main reaction is that what he's proposing we do isn't going to do anything to help," Zuckerberg told France 2 in a heavily dubbed interview that was published Friday.

In his op-ed in The New York Times , Hughes said he came to his position in the wake of the 2016 election, in which Russia used Facebook as a platform to wage a disinformation campaign, and the Cambridge Analytica data scandal.

But Zuckerberg, who was in France to meet with President Emmanuel Macron, argued that Facebook's size is actually a benefit to users and the security of democracy.

"If what you care about is democracy and elections, then you want a company like us to invest billions of dollars a year, like we are, in building up really advanced tools to fight election interference," Zuckerberg said.



"Our budget for safety this year is bigger than the whole revenue of our company was when we went public earlier this decade," he said "A lot of that is because we've been able to build a successful business that can now support that."

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Facebook faces growing scrutiny from regulators and politicians both in the U.S. and abroad. The Federal Trade Commission launched an investigation into the social media company after the Cambridge Analytica data scandal, probing whether Facebook violated a 2011 agreement to gain users' explicit consent for their data to be shared.



Facebook recently disclosed that it took a $3 billion charge due to the FTC's inquiry and estimated the final charge could amount to $5 billion.

Sen. Elizabeth Warren, who is running for the Democratic 2020 presidential nomination, laid out a proposal in March to implement "structural changes" to the tech sector , including breaking up Amazon, Facebook and Google.





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Its official  President Donald Trump has raised the existing 10 percent tariff to 25 percent on $200 billion worth of Chinese goods shipped to the United States, the net result being that there is now a 25 percent tariff imposed on a total of $250 billion worth of Chinese products. After a week-long sell-off in anticipation of new tariffs, there was an uncharacteristic reaction from Asian stock markets to the confirmation.

The Shanghai Composite Index initially pared gains but rebounded to a new intraday high. The Nikkei 225 reversed losses after its lunch break, while many other Asian stocks remain in positive territory. The unexpected price action in Asian equities could be due to optimism that the United States and China can still find a resolution to this long-standing issue with trade talks set to continue on Friday in Washington.

Safe haven assets such as Gold and the Japanese Yen are little changed at the time of writing, instead of surging as one may come to expect following an escalation in trade relations between the two largest economies in the world.

Meanwhile, Brent futures are refusing to take things lying down, and look set to continue testing the $71/bbl level. However, beyond the initial price movements, the escalation of trade tensions between the United States and China could be negative for global GDP momentum, and it would be expected that Oil markets would find themselves under negative pressure from concerns over the global economy in the long-run.

More trade drama ahead?

Investors will try to ascertain next what Chinas necessary countermeasures will entail exactly, and whether this path will eventually lead to Trump pressing ahead with the 25 percent tariff on a separate $325 billion worth of Chinese goods. Noting that subsequent moves are only expected to ramp up tensions between the US and China, such posturing on both sides begs the question  how much further does this tit-for-tat tariff track go on for?

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Judging by 2018 trade figures from the US Census Bureau, about 47% of Chinese imports into the United States currently have tariffs levied on them, while 91% of US goods sent to China are subjected to tariffs. This indicates that the United States has more mileage to implement tariffs than the other way around.

Should tariffs be imposed on all US-China trade, this will very likely raise the prospect of a global economic downturn and severely dent the year-to-date gains for riskier assets. Keep in mind that, according to calculations by Bloomberg Economics, using OECD data, someone percent of global GDP is exposed to risks stemming from US-China trade risks. Ramped up trade tensions could have broader ramifications beyond the exchange of goods and services between the worlds two largest economies, potentially feeding fears in the global financial markets and impact consumer spending as well, while affecting other countries that are intertwined in the global supply chain.

Can investors still hope for a positive resolution?

The saving grace amid all these trade tensions is that trade talks in Washington are set to continue on Friday, offering markets a silver line of hope that a positive breakthrough may still be on the cards. Until then markets will remain on the edge of their seats, amid scant signs of a much-needed positive headline from these persistent negotiations.

Disclaimer: The content in this article comprises personal opinions and should not be construed as containing personal and/or other investment advice and/or an offer of and/or solicitation for any transactions in financial instruments and/or a guarantee and/or prediction of future performance. ForexTime (FXTM), its affiliates, agents, directors, officers or employees do not guarantee the accuracy, validity, timeliness or completeness, of any information or data made available and assume no liability as to any loss arising from any investment based on the same.

This article was originally posted on FX Empire

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WINDSOR, ENGLAND - MAY 08: Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, pose with their newborn son during a photocall in St George's Hall at Windsor Castle on May 8, 2019 in Windsor, England. The Duchess of Sussex gave birth at 05:26 on Monday 06 May, 2019. (Photo by Dominic Lipinski - WPA Pool/Getty Images)

Meghan Markle has been warned not to allow her father be part of Archies life - by his former wife.

Markle and Prince Harry welcomed Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor last week, and his short life has already sparked huge public interest and controversy.

Now Tom Markles ex wife, Roslyn Markle, has warned the happy couple about her ex-husband, saying he was an awful father with little interest in his own children. She advised Meghan against a reconciliation with her estranged father, or to allow him to be a proper grandad to the new royal.

Read more: Radio host fired after tweeting photo comparing royal baby Archie to chimpanzee: 'Casual racism is alive and well'

Talking to the Mirror, Rosly said: Knowing Tom as I do, Meghan would be a fool to have him in her life.

LONDON, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 20: Meghan, Duchess of Sussex (C) arrives with her mother Doria Ragland (L) and Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex to host an event to mark the launch of a cookbook with recipes from a group of women affected by the Grenfell Tower fire at Kensington Palace on September 20, 2018 in London, England. (Photo by Ben Stansall - WPA Pool/Getty Images)

While he portrays himself as a loving father, he was anything but to our two children during our marriage. It may sound cliche but a leopard doesn't change its spots.

Repeatedly he has shown to Meghan he cannot be trusted. She must know that now. I speak not out of bitterness, my life moved on many years ago, but out of concern.

Archie deserves to be brought up in a happy home, not in this vengeful situation that has been created.

Tom was an awful father. What makes him think hed be a great grandfather to Archie?

Roslyn was married to Markle between 1964 and 1975, having two children. He later married Doria Ragland, Meghans mother, in 1979, before they separated in 1989.

Read more: Piers Morgan mocks Meghan Markle and Prince Harry for giving son Archie a 'white middle-class name'

Roslyn revealed how she was struck by the tall, handsome man with a great sense of humour and charming smile, she met at a party in 1963.

The couple were soon married with two children, and the cracks in the marriage began to show. Roslyn, who lives in Albuquerque, New Mexico, said: As I was no longer working, Toms paycheck was the only money coming in.

But to him, his money was his and his alone. Whenever I asked for help to feed to kids or buy diapers, hed scream, Get a f*****g job and then laugh.

I can still see the look in his face and how hed clench his teeth in anger. Although he was never violent, Tom would often lose his temper.
People may one day live on top of the ocean in this 'floating city'take a look

Would you live in city that floats, produces its own food and is resilient to natural disasters like hurricanes and floods?

It may one day become a reality, according to Oceanix, a company of architects, engineers and sustainability experts who design and build floating cities.

It recently unveiled the design of its"Oceanix City," a collection of floating platforms or "neighborhoods," which can hold up to 1,650 residents each, according to the company.

Six of the floating platforms would make up a village with approximately 10,000 residents, according to Oceanix. Each neighborhood would cluster around a central harbor that serves as the heart of the city, with a public square and market place.

The platforms would float though they would be moored to the ocean floor, and they would be located about a mile from a major coastal city.

Marc Collins Chen, CEO of Oceanix, tells CNBC Make It that people will work, live and play in the self-sustaining city.

"It's not envisioned as a daily commuter city, though it will be located about one or two kilometers from mainland."

The floating city would produce its own power and heat using renewable sources like solar, wind, wave and current. The fresh water supply would come from vapor distillation technology, atmospheric water generators and rain harvesting systems, according to Chen, and a closed-loop integrated water reuse systems would eliminate water waste. The cities would also have a system that transports garbage through tubes to a remote station.

On the bottom of the platforms would be a system that harvests seafood like scallops and grow produce year-round, with the goal to feed all the residents.

There would be no high-rises and no cars.

The components of the cities would be modular and built in factories instead of using traditional construction methods, says Chen, and once built, the modules will be towed to their final anchored sites.

"The choice of building material is also essential here," says Chen. "We are not going for marble or gold-plated interiors. We will use locally sourced, natural and repurposed materials." Timber would be the main building material, and it would be designed to withstand natural disasters including tsunamis and Category 5 hurricanes, according to the company.

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If approved, construction of Ocean City would take about five years, according to Chen, from prototyping to securing the site, permits and actual buildings. "It is too early to determine the exact building cost," Chen says.

So where might you find a floating city?

Chen says coastal cities facing housing shortages or problems due to rising sea levels or flooding would be candidates.

"Floating cities are not affected by rising sea levels; they are buoyant and rise with the water," says Chen. "They are therefore flood-proof."

He names Hong Kong, Shanghai, Singapore and San Francisco as candidates.

The floating city will be part of its host city, and have its own based on that, Chen says.

There has been push back on the idea of floating cities, which could be expensive to build, according to Engineering.com, which compared Oceanix to a planned floating city project that would cost approximately $176 million for 300 full-time residents (whereas Oceanix would have 10,000 people). "Transporting people, goods and waste to and from the shore" is another high cost Engineering.com points out.

Chen, however, says that "floating cities will be cheaper than living in major cities because the underlying cost of 'land' (water) is virtually free." However one has to wonder whether it is at all likely that would remain the case if people did live in floating cities; entrepreneurs are already trying to commercialize space.

Chen believes the biggest challenge for one of these cities coming to fruition is the psychological aspect of supporting something so unique.

"Generally speaking," says Chen, "there are people who are still not comfortable with the notion of living on the water, though cruise ships are really floating cities that move from port to port."

And "there are communities worldwide that have lived on the ocean for many years, some hundreds, like the Tanka in China , Uros people in Peru, Bajau in Indonesia, Makoko community in Nigeria and thousands of floating homes in the Netherlands," he says.

Oceanix architect Bjarke Ingels designed and built the Urban Rigger , a floating student housing complex in Copenhagen, Denmark in 2016. One complex has 15 residences and " may be Copenhagen's answer to affordable housing," according to Fortune.

And The World, a residential cruise ship with wealthy residents that have minimum net worth of $10 million, is considered a "floating city."

The United Nations supports Oceanix too.

At a roundtable meeting at the United Nations in April, Oceanix's concept was supported and endorsed by Amina J. Mohammed, the U.N.'s deputy secretary-general .

"Our approaches to development and environmental sustainability in cities need a serious retooling to meet the challenges of today and tomorrow," Mohammed said at the roundtable. "Floating cities can be part of our new arsenal of tools."

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There is no more normal in California, says Kenny Belov, the owner of Two X Sea, a seafood restaurant and wholesaler on San Franciscos waterfront. Hes not talking about the states wildfires or housing pricesalthough he certainly could be. Instead he means California fish: People will drop their gear in the water, but there is no guarantee that they will bring something up.

When it comes to seafood harvested from the Pacific Ocean, whats familiar may not be sustainable. And whats sustainable may not have mass appeal. But thanks to a determined group of fishermen, purveyors, and foragers in California, that may be changing. It just may not be changing fast enough.

Thanks to human activity, the water off of Californias coast is warming. Last August, the surface of the sea surface off San Diego reached the highest temperature ever recorded. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, average sea surface temperatures on Californias Pacific coast rose a degree to a degree and a half Fahrenheit since the beginning of the 20th century.

Climate change has already pummeled an industry that reached $196 million in revenue in 2017, the most recent year for which data is available. In 2015, an outbreak of toxic algae that may thrive in warming waters triggered the closure of most of the years Dungeness crab season. Climate change is expected to cause moderate to severe declines in salmon populations across California and the Pacific Northwest. And the habitat of species like the spiny lobster has been pushed northward.

General scene of commercial fishing boats in San Francisco Bay. | The Washington Post/Getty Images

To be sure, not every indicator is negative. In March, Christopher Free, a postdoctral scholar at the University of California,Santa Barbara was the lead author on a paper in Science that estimated the effect of climate change on fisheries. Although the global maximum sustainable yield dropped 4.1% from 1930 to 2010, the decrease was not evenly distributed. In the California Current, a Pacific Ocean current moving southward along the western coast of North America, Free tells me, fish populations havent been strongly impacted by warming. Its probably the result of good management. For each of the species that Free and his coauthors analyzedwhich included sardine, lingcod, and rockfishthe estimated effect of warming in California was statistically indistinguishable from zero.

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But past successes do not guarantee future ones. For Belov, the problem is easy to state and hard to solve: The things we want are the things we shouldnt be eating.

What to Eat Next

Its depressing. What do Americans eat? The number one seafood consumed in North America is shrimp, adds Kirk Lombard, a friend of Belov and the founder of Sea Forager, which gives coastal walking tours and sells sustainable seafood.

For Lombard, the most sustainable seafood to eat live at the bottom of the food chain: The gospel of small fishes, he says. Its one thing to realize that wild salmon or bluefin tuna isnt the most sustainable option. Its quite another to convince consumer to substitute them with unfamiliar seafood like purple urchins, which tend not have the same amount of roe as their more commonly eaten cousins, or spiny lobsters, which lack the big claws that American eaters prize.

Kirk Lombard, founder of Sea Forager | Courtesy of Kirk Lombard

Lombard proselytizes fishes like herring, which are plentiful in the San Francisco Bay, but not consumed here as they are in cities like Amsterdam, where the Dutch snack on them like hot dogs. But unlike legally-tolerated marijuana, that innovation has failed to catch on in the United States. In 2017, the most recent year for which complete data is available, just $196 worth of herring was caught commercially in Californiaall of it in Los Angeleswhile $14,884 worth of herring roe was harvested in San Francisco. Those are rounding errors compared to the states major fish industries. By contrast, market squid landings totaled $68 million in revenue, Dungeness crab $47 million, Chinook salmon $4.8 million, swordfish revenue totaled $3.9 million, and bigeye tuna $3.5 million.

Californias seafood, in other words, might as well swim in two different oceans, says Dave Colpo, senior program manager at the Pacific States Marine Fisheries Commission. On the one side, there are industrial-scale trawlers that catch things like whiting and pollack destined for the freezer aisle and fast food sandwiches. You cant imagine how much gets pumped off those boats. On the other are the mid-scale boats that fish for Dungeness crab and salmon, as well as the smaller outfits that catch everything else. Urchin is not the McDonalds of fish, he says with a laugh.

Is Seaweed the Next Big Thing?

And if urchin is boutique, what does that make seaweed? For Catherine OHara, its the next big thing. In 2017, she and two other women founded Salt Point Seaweed, harvesting wild seaweed from the Mendocino Coast and selling it to restaurants and directly to consumers. They gather kombu, wakame, and noriseaweeds that OHara thinks pass a tough test: Theyve been around for long enough in mainstream culture that preschoolers are hooked on them.

The numbers bear her out. In 2015, the most recent year for which the California Department of Fish and Wildlife has data available, the commercial edible algae harvest reached 27 metric tons. In 1997, when the state began keeping that data, the amount was less than five metric tons.

In addition to wild harvesting, OHara is exploring farmed seaweed. This year, she completed a pilot project with Hog Island Oyster Co. in Tomales Bay, in which she grew red algae similar to that served in poke bowls, alongside the cultivated oysters.

Turns out that farming the two species together can bring significant benefits. One of the big threats to shellfish from climate change is ocean acidification, the decrease in pH caused by the uptake of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere into the water. When the water turns too acidic, it can eat away shells, killing oyster larvae before they develop.

Enter the seaweed. Just like most plants on earth take out of the air, seaweed takes carbon and nitrogen out of the water, says OHara. In the water right now, theres too much carbonic acid. Over the last year, their experimental plot of seaweed pulled some of that carbon out of the water, lessening the damage to the oysters.

Its an alternative model of how seafood might be harvested from the Pacific Ocean in the future. Now all that remains is to see whether consumers will catch up.
If you're like most Americans, your retirement savings are probably looking a little sparse. Only a quarter of baby boomers think they're saving enough for retirement, according to a report from the Insured Retirement Institute, and 42% of boomers have nothing at all stashed away for the future.

As a result, more people end up depending on Social Security to get them through retirement. But when the average Social Security check amounts to just $1,300 per month, that doesn't leave you much to work with.

While relying on Social Security to make ends meet isn't ideal, it doesn't mean you have to give up your retirement dreams. If you've always envisioned yourself spending retirement relaxing on the beach sipping a cold drink, that could still be a reality even if you're short on savings. If you're willing to pack up and move, you could be sitting beachside for less than $1,500 per month in these cities.

Man and woman sitting in lounge chairs on the beach

Image source: Getty Images

1. Pensacola, Florida

Pensacola is more than just a popular tourist destination. With loads of restaurants, museums, and, of course, miles of sugar-white beaches, it's a retirement haven for those who are looking for a place to relax yet still explore. The best part, though, is the city's relatively low cost of living.

The median home value is just $145,000, and the average renter pays around $950 per month. Home values are quickly rising, though, according to predictions from Zillow, so if you're thinking about buying a home in Pensacola, now is the time. And if home values continue to increase, you may be able to make a nice profit if you decide to sell later -- boosting your retirement income even more.

There's also a major tax advantage to living here: Florida residents don't have to pay income tax, which also applies to retirement income. If your savings are already stretched thin, saving some money on income taxes can help stretch every dollar.

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2. Corpus Christi, Texas

Tucked away off the Gulf of Mexico, Corpus Christi offers both a quiet retreat on the beach as well as a bustling city life with plenty of activities.

From the Texas State Aquarium to the Art Museum of South Texas to a busy restaurant scene, the city has something for everyone. Mustang Island State Park is just a short drive away, and it offers nearly 4,000 acres and 5 miles of beachfront. Padre Island National Seashore is another popular destination for beach lovers, with 70 miles of coastline, prairies, and dunes with wildlife galore.

Texas residents are also exempt from income taxes, making it another ideal retirement location for those on a budget. The median home value hovers around $150,000, and the average rent is around $975 per month.

3. Bay St. Louis, Mississippi

Bay St. Louis is a quaint city with a population of roughly 13,000 people, and it has plenty of small-town charm. It also has the 400-acre Buccaneer State Park right off the gulf, perfect for beachgoers and nature enthusiasts. As a bonus, it's also only about an hour's drive from New Orleans.

The median home value in Bay St. Louis is around $155,000, and you can find apartments right off the beach for less than $1,000 per month. Mississippi is also tax-friendly for retirees, and you won't need to pay taxes on any type of retirement income.

The city also offers milder temperatures than some of the other beach towns out there, with the average temperature in the warmest part of the year hovering around the 80s, while the colder months see average temperatures in the 50s and 60s.

Before you start packing your bags...

Think you're ready to pack up and move to the beach? Make sure you think through the decision first, because there's more to choosing a retirement destination than just price alone. Think about what type of environment you're looking for. If you're dreaming of spending your evenings at different restaurants, theaters, and concerts, a small, quiet town may make you miserable -- even if it's right within your budget. On the other hand, if all you want is to relax on the beach, the hustle and bustle of a busy city may cause more stress than it's worth.

Also don't forget about factors like healthcare, visiting family and friends, and potential part-time work. If you have significant health issues, it's a good idea to look for a destination with quality hospitals. If you're moving far from home and expect to fly back to visit friends and family often, living close to an airport may save you some time and money. And for those hoping to pick up some part-time work during retirement, check out the job market in your potential new city before you move to see what your options look like.

You don't have to be a millionaire to enjoy a sun-soaked retirement on the beach. Even if most of your retirement income comes from Social Security benefits, if you're strategic about it, you can still live the beach life you've been dreaming about.

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Grounded Chinese planes to take to the skies again by July

Grounded Chinese-made Y12e planes of Nepal Airlines that has been causing the state-owned carrier millions in losses will take to the skies again by July-end, the Nepal Airlines Corporation has said.
American Eagle





The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has posted a new proposal from Crescent Crypto Index Services, a subsidiary of Crescent Asset Management, for the launch of a crypto-backed exchange-traded fund (ETF).

According to the application, the company, which is based in New Jersey, will be looking to monitor the performance of a portfolio of ether (ETH) and bitcoin (BTC). The fund has been named the USCF Crescent Crypto Index Fund with XBET being its proposed ticker.

It will also be sponsored by United States Commodity Funds LLC, a commodity pool operator which, according to the filing, is under regulatory oversight from both the National Futures Association and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC).

The new ETF proposal joins the list of proposals being reviewed by the SEC, including the Bitwise Bitcoin ETF Trust, an ETF proposal filed jointly by Bitwise Asset Management and the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) Arca, and the VanEck SolidX proposal that has yet to be approved since it was first filed in 2018.

The fact that there are three separate ETF proposals is an encouraging sign for crypto investors, even though the SEC has yet to approve any of them. But in the last two years, numerous companies have failed in their bids to secure ETF approval, including the Winklevoss-owned Gemini Trust, ProShares and Direxion. Some other companies have also had to withdraw their proposals after several delays from the regulator.

Among other rationale, the SECs stated reasons for denying these proposals rest on concerns over market manipulation and insufficient investor protection.

This article originally appeared on Bitcoin Magazine.
FILE PHOTO: Coal is unloaded onto large piles at the Ulan Coal mines near the central New South Wales rural town of Mudgee in Australia, March 8, 2018. REUTERS/David Gray

By Melanie Burton and Henning Gloystein

MELBOURNE/SINGAPORE (Reuters) - A crash in Australian thermal coal prices is raising fresh questions about the viability of a controversial $4 billion (3 billion pounds) coal mine just a week ahead of a national election in which climate change is a key issue.

Final approval of the Carmichael coal mine in Queensland, owned by India's Adani Enterprises, should come in "a matter of weeks, not months" following nearly a decade on the drawing board, the company's mining chief executive, Lucas Dow, told Reuters last month.

But a 40 percent slump in benchmark Australian thermal coal prices since mid-2018 to a two-year low last month, points to tight profit margins and questions as to whether the economics will support the launch of the mine as soon as next year.

(For graphic on Prices for Newcastle coal hit three year lows last month, click https://tmsnrt.rs/2WBEjIC)

Adani has said it is aiming to start producing 10 million tonnes a year of coal from March 2020, but analysts say the target date is optimistic.

"I think a lot of people are doubting as to whether it will see the light of day," said Wood Mackenzie analyst Victor Tanevski in Sydney.

Adani estimated in January that total costs of bringing the coal to port via rail would be A$54 (29 pounds) a tonne ($39). Based on current market prices, the selling price for the mine's lower-grade thermal coal would be just over $47, suggesting a profit margin of $8-$12 per tonne.

Adani said the A$54 estimate takes into account royalties, processing fees and the cost of financing part of a rail line to the export terminal, although analysts suggest the company's figures are too bullish.

Tanevski suggests benchmark Newcastle 6,000 grade coal would need to be close to $100 a tonne for the mine to break even. The 6,000 benchmark was quoted at $86.20 on Thursday.

Analysts suggest the mine is unlikely to start commercial production until the middle of the next decade at the soonest, if at all. A profit margin of $8-$12 a tonne is half the averages of 2017 and 2018, highlighting how rapidly the market has turned since the Paris agreement on climate change.

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(For graphic on Oil, gas & coal prices, click https://tmsnrt.rs/2VVoaRl)

Apart from the economics of the mine, Adani faces other headwinds, including an Australian coal boom that has probably peaked, analysts said.

As users move away from so-called dirty fuel sources, coal prices are set to drift lower, consultants AME Group say.

That scenario will impact producers of lower-grade coal first as they feel the pinch of competition from lower-cost miners like Indonesia and renewable or cleaner fuels.

"The boom period for Australian thermal coal exports has plateaued" said Peter Kiernan, lead energy analyst at the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) in Singapore.

"A sharp reduction in coal use from export markets such as China, Japan, and India represents a considerable threat," he said.

Adding to uncertainty over the mine is an Australian general election next week which could return a Labor government, which has more aggressive targets towards cutting climate emissions.

To be sure, a growing reluctance among lenders to finance thermal coal projects could crimp supply and rally prices.

As an integrated producer selling to its own plants in India, Adani may also be able to offset small margins with gains elsewhere, such as giving other parties access to its planned rail line if authorities allow new mines in the same coal basin.

"The Carmichael Project's low-cost profile, the quality of the resource and forecast demand from our target markets of India and South-East Asia mean that the project's economics are strong," said an Adani spokeswoman in a statement, even when adjusting for the coal's quality.

"The IEA and other respected analysts are reporting an increase in demand for seaborne thermal coal, particularly from Indian and South-East Asia, which Carmichael is well-placed to meet."

ARE COAL'S DAYS NUMBERED?

Australia is one of the world's biggest coal suppliers and its miners face an increasingly competitive future as buyers shift towards cleaner or renewable fuel sources, underlining the view that the country's coal boom is topping out.

The Australian Department of Industry, Innovation and Science expects thermal coal imports from Japan, Australia's biggest buyer, to shrink to 131 million tonnes a year by 2024 from over 140 million tonnes last year.

Ports in China, another big buyer, have been restricting imports from Australia this year, claiming environmental concerns.

Many analysts say the restrictions are down to political tensions between Beijing and Canberra over issues of cyber security and China's influence in Pacific island nations.

Australian producers are struggling to make inroads in coal's remaining boom markets of South Asia in the face of lower-cost competition from Indonesia.

Shipping data showed Indonesia supplied 149 cargoes, carrying 8.9 million tonnes of thermal coal to India and Pakistan in April alone, while Australia has only shipped sporadic cargoes to these large and growing markets.

Coal remains the most-used source for electricity generation, but the International Energy Agency (IEA) expects renewables to overtake coal as the most important power generation source by the mid-2020s.

(This story has been refiled to fix spelling of word "economics" in headline)

(Reporting by Melanie Burton in MELBOURNE and Henning Gloystein in SINGAPORE; additional reporting by Yuka Obayashi in TOKYO and Meng Meng in SHANGHAI)
President Trump's trade views stretch back decades, and represent perhaps his most consistent political stance.

Most recently, the Trump administration hiked up tariffs on $200 billion in Chinese goods to 25%.

No deal emerged from the two days of negotiations between China and the U.S. this week.

President Donald Trump 's decision to slap China with additional tariffs , after hinting for weeks that a groundbreaking trade deal was near complete, shocked the markets  but it shouldn't have.

Fueled by a deep-rooted nationalism and pride in his own skills as a dealmaker, Trump has wielded the threat of tariffs during his presidency as a key weapon for retaliation against countries he accuses of taking advantage of the U.S. But long before he took office, Trump was railing against what he deemed unfair trade through "globalist" deals like the North American Free Trade Agreement or the Trans-Pacific Partnership.

Most recently, the president threw into doubt ongoing trade negotiations with China by hiking tariffs on $200 billion in Chinese goods from 10% to 25%  a threat he issued last Sunday , even as a Chinese delegation prepared to travel to the U.S. for high-level trade talks that week.

Stock indexes see-sawed throughout the week as the drama unfolded. Hours after the tariffs were imposed, the self-described " tariff man " president reaffirmed his belief that the taxes on imports "will make our Country MUCH STRONGER, not weaker."

No deal emerged from the two days of negotiations in Washington, D.C. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said there were no further trade talks planned as of Friday afternoon.

But despite steady pushback from mainstream economists, many of whom claim that the U.S. economy's recent gains have come in spite of tariffs, Trump's populist rhetoric on trade represent perhaps his most consistent political stance and may be one of his strongest assets in what is expected to be a long and bitter reelection fight in 2020.

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"The average American voter sympathizes with the idea that we're getting taken to the cleaner by the Chinese," said Robert Kuttner, co-editor of The American Prospect and a professor at Brandeis University's Heller School.

The Trump trade

Trump's views on trade, tariffs and multinational trade deals were set in stone long before he became president.

In the 1980s, Trump lambasted Japan for "taking advantage of" the U.S., along with other countries. He railed against the trade deficits the U.S. had amassed with Japan and other trade partners. "It's time for us to end our vast deficits by making Japan, and others who can afford it, pay," Trump wrote in an open letter "To The American People" that ran as a full-page newspaper ad in 1987.

During Japan's economic boom in the '80s, the U.S. became a major importer of the island nation's cars and electronics, giving rise to a populist backlash.

Trump capitalized on that environment, watering the seeds of a fiercely competitive view of international relations that would later resonate with millions of working-class Americans who saw their industries and jobs dwindle amid globalization.

Trump's depiction of the U.S. being ravaged by trade wasn't all wrong. "Previous administrations had a kind of willfully naive view of protectionism that was being engaged in by other countries ... and how it harms U.S. industry," Kuttner said. "In that respect, Trump used trade as part of his general story about economic nationalism."

As president, Trump has boasted about the advantages of protectionism . "Trade wars are good, and easy to win," Trump tweeted in March 2018 , as his administration dangled steel and aluminum tariffs. "When we are down $100 billion with a certain country and they get cute, don't trade anymore  we win big. It's easy!"

He had entertained the idea of a trade war with Japan, in nearly identical terms, in 1999. "Perhaps there has to be a trade war. It's not going to last very long because Japan, if they don't sell to this country, they go out of business, OK?" Trump said, The Wall Street Journal reported .

His song on trade remained largely the same through the next two decades, even as his other political views began to shift.

Years before he entered the race for the White House in 2016, Trump had been a registered Democrat who was pro-choice and had advocated for universal health care. By the time he became a presidential candidate, Trump had reversed all of that, re-branding himself as a Republican culture warrior while continuing to tout his business acumen.

That transformation never extended to trade, however  putting him at odds with Republicans on one of the sturdiest planks in its platform. But while Trump's was one of the few Republican voices espousing protectionism, it was also the loudest.

"The Trans-Pacific Partnership is another disaster done and pushed by special interests who want to rape our country, just a continuing rape of our country," Trump said of the 12-member trade pact in June 2016. The Trump administration later withdrew the U.S.' signature from that deal.

NAFTA, which Trump had called "the worst trade deal ever," has been renegotiated into a new trilateral deal with Canada and Mexico, known as the USMCA. With a few key distinctions , it leaves the original deal largely intact . The USMCA has not yet been approved by Congress with both parties calling for changes.

Trump has been accused of economic isolationism by critics who see his most radical comments as being altogether anti-trade.

At a rally in Florida on Wednesday, Trump tore into China, saying "We won't back down until China stops cheating our workers and stealing our jobs."

In "Fear," the tell-all book about the Trump White House, author Bob Woodward reports that Trump edited a speech by writing, "Trade is Bad."

"Though he never said it in a speech," Woodward wrote, "he had finally found the summarizing phrase and truest expression of his protectionism, isolationism and fervent American nationalism."

Trump, who now enjoys support from the vast majority of Republicans, appears to have catalyzed a huge shift away from the free-trade position that had been championed by the GOP for decades.

A March 2016 Pew Research poll , for instance, found that 53% of Republicans viewed free trade agreements as a "bad thing" for the U.S., compared with 34% of Democrats. Two-thirds of those Republican respondents who supported Trump agreed.

But some experts argue that, despite some tariffs and his relentlessly incendiary rhetoric, Trump hasn't actually governed like that much of a protectionist.

Kuttner said Trump has shown his administration is not serious about some of the policies he's previously touted, such as so-called Buy American and Hire American laws.

While his tariffs have "really managed to piss off the EU," Kuttner argued that they are not large enough to significantly affect the overall economy or domestic politics. "It's just not that big a deal" in those areas, he said.

Robert Scott, trade expert at the Economic Policy Institute, summed up Trump's governance on trade more bluntly: "Smoke and mirrors," he said, "and trade policy by press release."





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President Donald Trump said that it would be "appropriate" for him to speak to Attorney General Bill Barr about investigating the Biden family.

Joe Biden is his potential 2020 rival.

Rudy Giuliani, the president's personal attorney, was set to travel to Ukraine to push for the country's president-elect to launch an investigation around Biden and his son, Hunter, but called off the trip on Friday.

President Donald Trump said on Friday that it would be "appropriate" for him to speak to Attorney General Bill Barr about investigating the Democratic presidential contender Joe Biden and his son, Hunter.

Trump hasn't approached Barr yet, but told Politico on Friday that, "certainly it would be an appropriate thing to speak to him about.  It could be a very big situation."

Rudy Giuliani, the president's personal attorney, was set to travel to Ukraine to push for the country's president-elect to launch an investigation around Hunter Biden's involvement with a Ukrainian gas company.

Giuliani also wanted Ukraine to look into whether the country's officials tried to help Hillary Clinton's 2016 campaign.

As of Friday afternoon, Giuliani was planning to leave for Ukraine on Sunday. Later that night, though, he reversed course. "I'm not gonna go," he told Fox News on Friday night, "because I think I'm walking into a group of people that are enemies of the President."

The meeting "would have accomplished little and may be in the hands of those who might misrepresent it," he told CNN on Saturday.

He announced his change of plans hours after Trump told Politico that he was going to speak with Giuliani about the trip.





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MIAMI (AP)  In 1958, Jose Ramon Lopez's father owned Cuba's main airport, its national airline and three small hotels. Conchita Beltran's family had about 2,160 acres (874 hectares) of sugar and tobacco fields. And the families of Mickael Behn and Javier Garcia Bengochea had docks in Havana and Santiago de Cuba.

All properties were taken in Cuba's socialist revolution.

The dispossessed families later moved to the United States and abandoned hope of compensation as Cuba and the U.S. severed relations and fought during decades of the Cold War.

But on Thursday, Behn and Garcia Bengochea filed what were believed to be the first lawsuits against European and American companies doing business on confiscated properties in Cuba  thanks to the Trump administration's decision to activate a provision of the U.S. embargo on the island.

Known as Title III of the 1996 Helms-Burton Act, the section allows Americans, and Cubans who later became Americans, to sue almost any company deemed to be "trafficking" in property confiscated by Cuba's government. Every president since the law's passage has suspended Title III because of objections from U.S. allies doing business in Cuba and because of the potential effect on future negotiated settlements between the U.S. and Cuba.

The law contains exceptions for residential properties, properties worth less than $50,000 and properties linked to travel to Cuba deemed legal under U.S. law.

Its activation, however, could generate dozens or even hundreds of lawsuits, along with trade fights between the U.S. on one side and countries including Spain, France and Britain on the other.

Behn and Garcia Bengochea, who filed cases in federal court in Miami, are the heirs of families that owned ports which are now being used to dock cruise ships that began traveling to Cuba in 2016 under President Barack Obama's detente with the island.

Behn's grandfather, American William C. Behn, was president of the company Havana Docks, which owned three docks in the capital that were confiscated in 1960. Mickael Behn, a television executive who lives between Miami and London, says he is suing Carnival Cruise Corporation for up to three times the current value of the docks, as permitted under the law.

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Bengochea, a neurosurgeon who lives in northeast Florida, owns 80 percent of the shares of the confiscated Cuban company La Maritima, which operated the port of Santiago de Cuba. He is suing for up to $20 million.

"We want to get justice," said Bob Martinez, the lawyer for both men. "This was a robbery and what we're trying to get is compensation for the illegal use of these properties."

But for George Fowler, an attorney who has advised Carnival on Cuban matters, the law provides an exception for companies that go to Cuba legally, like the cruise lines. For that reason, he said, the Helms-Burton law does not apply to them.

"I don't think the lawsuits are going to go very far," said Fowler, who also is vice-chairman of the Cuban-American National Foundation, a Cuban exile organization. "It is all about money," he said after explaining that Carnival agrees with him.

During the Obama administration, the cruise companies were issued licenses by the Treasury Department to carry American passengers to Cuba.

Other potential major targets include Spanish hotel chains Melia and Iberostar, Pernod Ricard of France, and other U.S. cruise lines that dock at ports confiscated from U.S. residents."

Lawyers and potential plaintiffs say they expect only a trickle of lawsuits at first due to the expense and complexity of filing litigation under a law that is being put into effect for the first time and touches on issues of international trade and sovereignty.

Suing is also expensive, with initial filing fees of more than $6,500 a case, and there is the difficulty and expense of proving ownership with old Cuban documents.

For its part, Cuba fears it's already lagging levels of foreign investment could be permanently crippled as a result of the activation of the provision. At a Cuban government-organized May Day parade Wednesday in Havana, marchers carried signs and chanted slogans denouncing the Helms-Burton law.

The law "was an effort to tie the hands of any president to improve relations with Cuba," Carlos Fernandez de Cossio, Cuba's director-general of U.S. affairs, told The Associated Press in Washington.

"No doubt that there will be a threatening effect that will inhibit some investors of going to Cuba. We cannot ignore that that will occur," he said. "It will perhaps have an impact on the living standards, the living conditions, of common Cubans ... It will damage perhaps the relationship of the United States and Cuba more than it is today."

On Thursday, the European Union also said it could file a World Trade Organization lawsuit or levy its own sanctions against U.S. entities that sue under Title III.

"The EU sees the extraterritorial application of unilateral restrictive measures as violating international law, and will take all appropriate measures," the EU said in a statement.

Others, however, celebrated the first lawsuits.

Orlando Gutierrez Boronat, from the exile group Cuban Democratic Directorate, said that the lawsuits have a clear message.

"Everyone who wants to invest in Cuba will have to go to federal court," he said after a press conference in front of the downtown court where the suits were filed.

Beltran said her family had 860 acres (348 hectares) of sugar fields and 1,300 acres (526 hectares) of tobacco in western Pinar del Rio province. She has no idea if she will be able to sue a foreign corporation doing business related to her properties, but she is optimistic.

"God willing, I want to see restitution or compensation before I die," said Beltran, 76, who fled to Miami in 1961. She said her husband died 35 years ago dreaming of some form of compensation for their loss.

"For me, justice is being done," she said of the decision to activate the law.

The Justice Department has certified some 6,000 claims worth approximately $8 billion at current values. There are an additional 200,000 uncertified claims, many by Cuban-Americans, whose value could reach into the tens of billions of dollars.

One of the uncertified claims belongs to Lopez, whose family had owned the airport, airline Cubana de Aviacion and three hotels in Havana and the southern city of Cienfuegos since 1952. Along with the airlines Aeromexico, LATAM of Chile and Copa of Panama, Lopez said he is preparing documents to sue the Cuban government and Melia, which runs the Cienfuegos hotel.

He said he isn't worried by the potential investment of time or money.

"At the end of the day they're going to recognize that it's ours," said Lopez, a 65-year-old retiree who divides his time between Madrid and Miami. "The moment has finally come."

___

Associated Press writer Gisela Salomon reported this story in Miami and AP writer Michael Weissenstein reported from Havana.
The UK firm has been dropping hints of its interest in electric vehicles since mid-decade, last November revealing plans to set up an assembly line in Singapore.

Dyson has indicated the project will cost around $2.7 billion to bring to market.

Dyson said the patent filings reveal an "androgynous vehicle," rather than a specific product under development.

Dyson, a British manufacturer best known for vacuums, fans, air purifiers and hand dryers, could add electric vehicles to its product portfolio, the company confirmed this week, releasing images of new patents it has received.

"We've been researching motors, batteries, aerodynamics, vision systems and robotics for 22 years. Now the time is right to bring all our knowledge and experience together into one big project  an electric car," founder and CEO Sir James Dyson said in a statement on the company's website.

The UK firm has been dropping hints of its interest in electric vehicles since mid-decade, last November revealing plans to set up an assembly line in Singapore, with Dyson indicating the project will cost around $2.7 billion to bring to market.

The patent images, among other things, show what looks like a three-row crossover-utility vehicle that follows the latest industry approach to electric vehicle design, with its battery pack and motors mounted below the floorboards. But while the patents "provide a glimpse" of what the company is working on, the Dyson founder wrote that they "don't reveal what our vehicle will really look like or give any specifics around what it will do."

Launched in 1991, Dyson Ltd. today offers a broad array of products, mostly consumer household goods like the vacuums and fans that are widely advertised. But Dyson has done little to hide his interest in getting into the auto industry.

In 2015, he underscored his commitment with the purchase of Michigan-based Sakti3, a start-up that was developing a new type of battery known as solid state. Proponents contend the technology could offer significant advantages over the more familiar lithium-ion technology in widespread use today by boosting range and reducing charge times, particular pluses for electric vehicles, but also useful for the cordless appliances Dyson has been shifting towards.

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Questions about the vehicle program cropped up last year when Dyson wrote off 46 million, or about $60 million, of its 58 million investment in the University of Michigan spin-off due to problems with the technology. But it subsequently announced new details that made it clear the automotive venture was moving forward. That included word that it would build an assembly plant in Singapore, which the company now says will be complete next year.

"Singapore has a comparatively high cost base, but also great technology expertise and focus," CEO Jim Rowan told employees in a letter last November. "It is therefore the right place to make high quality technology loaded machines, and the right place to make our electric vehicle."

The founder's latest e-mail revealed that the project is centered at the old RAF base at Hullavington Airport, 2.5 hours west of London and employees about 500 workers, though with testing set to accelerate next month, that job count is expected to grow.

"Our bespoke automotive development site at Hullavington, UK is a 200m investment in the Dyson electric car. It's 517 acres house restored hangars, with some of the most advanced Research, Design and Development (RDD) labs in the world," the company says on its website.

Dyson said the patent filings reveal an "androgynous vehicle," rather than a specific product under development. But he did offer a few hints at what is coming.

"Signicantly, many of our competitors base their electric vehicles on existing formats and adapt them for electric propulsion systems," Dyson wrote in an email to employees. "Such an approach is cost eective, however, it tends to miss opportunities for mass-reduction and aerodynamic improvements which would improve the energy eciency of the vehicle. Another approach has been to focus on smaller vehicles, as this generally keeps the mass of the vehicle low which can extend driving range. However, the size and ride comfort of such vehicles tends to limit their attractiveness and utility."

Referencing the patent renderings, Dyson did note that the basic shape, a bit lower than today's typical SUV and CUV, would reduce aerodynamic drag while "the long wheel base could be employed, increasing the driving range and enabling a larger cabin capacity."

Based on comments James Dyson has made over the last year and reports in various news outlets, the expectation is that three vehicles are in various stages of development, company officials indicating production should launch by 2021. They have offered no details on pricing nor where they plan to launch the product line, though Dyson is expected to set up its own dealer network.

The outspoken company founder has, meanwhile, taken a publicly proactive position in support of a proposal now being studied by Britain's government that would eliminate the sale of all new gas and diesel vehicles. The original concept set a target date of 2040 but British regulators have begun considering the option of pushing that up to 2035. Dyson, for his part, would like the ban to go into effect in 2030.

Similar measures are under study in a number of countries, including China, India, Germany and France. In Norway, where electric vehicles currently account for more than half of the new car market, a ban has already been approved.

Such a move would improve the odds that start-ups like Dyson could carve out a market niche, though traditional automakers like Daimler AG, General Motors and Volkswagen, are intent on reclaiming market dominance. That said, the arrival of upstart Tesla has shown the potential for new entrants, of which plenty more are looking to launch, such as Rivian and Faraday Future. There is also Apple, the technology giant working on its own vehicle program, though it has sent a number of conflicting signals about what it is developing in recent years.





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ICYMI: Here are our top stories from Sunday, May 12

Here are some of the top stories from The Kathmandu Post (May 12, 2019).
WellCare of Nebraska, a WellCare Health Plans, Inc. company, has donated $25,000 to United Way of the Midlands to support the victims of the record-breaking floods that hit the state in March 2019.

During the floods, 89 cities, 77 counties, four tribal nations and five special government areas issued emergency declarations, which was more than 80 percent of the state, according to the Nebraska Emergency Management Agency. Many residents were displaced from their homes after the disaster.

Agriculture, the states leading industry, was hit particularly hard by the floods with the Department of Agriculture reporting damage to farms and livestock exceeding $1 billion. Now in the aftermath of the floods, there is a growing need for supplies and resources as Nebraskans work to rebuild and heal from this ordeal.

This donation will provide flood victims access to much-needed shelter, crisis counseling, case management, cleanup and recovery, transitional housing, temporary rental assistance, food pantries and legal services in the areas of Nebraska with the highest flood impact, including Douglas, Dodge, Knox, Madison, Saline and Lancaster counties.

The Community Connections Help Line, a toll-free, nationwide line, is also available to both members and non-members who need help accessing resources and social services. For assistance, call 866-775-2192 Monday-Friday from 9 a.m.-6 p.m. CDT. For inquiries about your insurance, call 855-599-3811 or visit www.wellcare.com/Nebraska.

As of March 31, WellCare of Nebraska serves approximately 80,000 Medicaid members in Nebraska. For more information about Heritage Health, visit www.neheritagehealth.com.

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She didnt see her cafe until the day after it flooded, because she couldnt get out of Verdigre.

Laura Sucha knew the Spencer Dam had failed upriver, and that a wall of water and ice had swept away much of the low-lying west edge of Niobrara, where shes spent 25 years either working at, leasing or owning the Country Cafe.

Shed filled it with her antiques, catered to locals and tourists, staked her reputation on homemade food and replaced most of the kitchen with new appliances. Only the grill was old, and shed planned to replace it this summer.

The busy season was approaching, but she was stranded at home, surrounded for the first time by floodwaters from Verdigris Creek.

But on March 15, she spent nearly an hour navigating back roads to Niobrara, normally a 10-minute drive down Nebraska 14. Her son-in-law had to use an excavator to pick a final path through the ice so she could get close to the Country Cafe.

It was unbelievable; it was heart-wrenching, she said. The ice crushed everything  it came in through the walls.

The flooding Niobrara River had punched through her walls and dislodged her roof, filling the Cafe with water and ice. Her kitchen was destroyed, her dining room swamped, the ice chunks so massive they would need heavy equipment to drag it all out.

There wasnt a whole lot left. Everything was sitting in 7 feet of water.

Sucha took stock. The ice-filled water had moved the roof, but it could be moved back. It had breached a quarter of the walls, but three-quarters remained intact. Some of the tables and chairs appeared salvageable.

What looked like a total loss at first was starting to look like it could be rebuilt.

I was kind of thinking this wouldnt work, she said. But this is just where I want to be.

She had help. A few volunteers showed up to assist the family with patching the walls, repositioning the roof and wrapping the building in new siding.

But the dining room and kitchen were still gutted, stripped to the studs.

Nearly 200 miles away, a Lincoln construction company was looking for ways to help flood victims. Brester Construction encourages its 73 employees to donate their time and talent, said owner Chris Brester.

This is something we believe is very important, he said. It certainly blesses us as a company.

His company had launched a program that pays its employees to volunteer, and it challenges them to match the contribution with their own time.

After the historic mid-March flooding, its executive team gathered, looking for ways to help. It had the personnel, machines and materials to help build, or rebuild. They asked employees if they had relatives affected and heard from just one, whose familys farm field was covered in debris. But the field was so muddy it might have taken months before they could help.

Then Brester talked to his mother, whose family is from Verdigre. He learned one of his own relatives had suffered.

Mom was talking to her cousins and found out Lauras Cafe had been basically wiped out, he said. It was still standing, but it was a huge mess.

Brester Construction offered its employees a list of flood-related volunteer opportunities, including the Country Cafe in Niobrara.

The employees picked the Cafe. And after talking to Sucha for nearly a month to determine her needs, the company sent a team of five employees in three trucks and trailers north from Lincoln last week.

They cleaned up and regraded her parking lot, which had been scarred by water and ice. They hung fresh plywood in the dining room, and then covered all of the walls with barn roof tin on the bottom half  like wainscoting  and reclaimed barnwood above.

They prepared the kitchen for its restocking. And they restored Suchas hope shell soon be back in business.

She still needs to install kitchen equipment. She needs to furnish the dining room. And she needs to wait until the town repairs its sewer lift, so the bathrooms work.

But shes eager to put her part-time employees back to work, and to begin serving her community again.

The Brester boys, theyve got everything looking good, she said. I was hoping it would all come together, and it is.

Reach the writer at 402-473-7254 or psalter@journalstar.com. On Twitter @LJSPeterSalter.

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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:
Joe Barrera, Ph.D, is the former director of the Ethnic Studies Program at UCCS and a combat veteran of the Vietnam War.
WASHINGTON  A U.S. Senate hearing this week gave a glimpse of the kind of activity planned for a new U.S. Space Command, for which Colorado i
John Suthers is the Mayor of Colorado Springs and the former Attorney General of Colorado, U.S. Attorney for Colorado and Fourth Judicial District Attorney.
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Joint land ownership campaign leads to rise in number of women land owners in Baitadi

The number of women with land ownership certificate in Baitadi district has risen over the past few years.
Decades ago, when discussing the complexity of U.S. tax code, an ag lobbyist friend noted that all he wanted in any tax reform was to pay the same taxes the generals paid: General Mills, General Motors, General Dynamics

Hed still take that deal. In 2018, General Dynamics had an effective tax rate of 17.8 percent, more than three percent below the federal corporate tax rate of 21 percent. General Mills did even better; its effective federal tax rate was a gluten-free 2.7 percent.

General Motors, however, was the Cadillac of the 2018 federal tax game. Despite a net income of $4.3 billion, GM not only paid no federal taxes, it received a $104 million rebate to give it an effective federal tax rate of negative 2 percent.

Big Aggies benefited, too. The green giant, Deere & Co., netted $2.2 billion in 2018 profit yet harvested a $260 million federal tax rebate to drop its effective federal tax rate to an astonishing negative 12 percent.

Talk about green paint envy.

Given those numbers, you might feel like a tax-paying chump. Rest easy because you cant hold a candle to the 2018 tax chump champ, me: I paid more for my Amazon Prime membership last year, $119, than Amazon paid in federal income taxes.

Thats right, folks, Amazon got a prime deal from Uncle Sam; no taxes despite $11 billion net profit on $232 billion in sales.

And then, no kidding, it must have had a special promo code at checkout because Amazon also received a $129 million federal tax rebate.

So goes the great federal tax reform of 2017 where corporate federal tax rates fell from 35 percent to 21 percent and, correspondingly, corporate tax collections fell from $297 billion to $205 billion. That decline, according to the U.S. Treasury, contributed the biggest share (82 percent) of the $113 billion increase in 2018s federal deficit over 2017.

Are you, like me, surprised that U.S. corporate income taxes totaled just $205 billionor a meager 6.5 percentof the more than $3.2 trillion in federal income taxes collected in 2018?

We should all be because that relatively small amount runs counter to the central argument behind the $1.5 trillion, 2017 tax cut: that our sky-high, corporate taxes were killing U.S. business around the world.

The truthnow as it was thenis that U.S. corporate tax collections, according to the U.S. Treasury (as reported by the conservative corporate diarist, Forbes.com) have fallen from FY 2014, when they totaled $321 billion, to FY 2017, when they hit $297 billion.

Despite that steady slide, Congress and White House, deaf to warnings that tax cuts would bloat the federal deficit, slashed the corporate tax rate 40 percentfrom 35 percent to 21 percentin late 2017 and, as predicted, the federal deficit ballooned in 2018.

And the balloon will only get bigger.

One item to note, explains Chuck Jones, a senior contributor to Forbes.com wrote last October, is that the lower tax rates were not implemented until January of (2018). This means that the full impact of the lower tax receipts wont show up until fiscal 2019, and it could take another year of two after that

In other words, explained the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) in its January 2019 report, The Budget and Economic Outlook: 2019 to 2029, In CBO projections, the federal budget deficit is about $900 billion in 2019 and exceeds $1 trillion each year beginning 2022.

And thats only if the economy continues to grow at rate of 2.3 percent or better for the next decade (fat chance) while federal spending doesnt grow faster (an even fatter chance).

So, sure, my taxes and yoursincome taxes, fuel taxes, local and state sales taxes, property taxes, pick your taxare going up because the 2017 federal tax cuts, like $7 beans and $3 corn, are unsustainable.

Unless, of course, we become generals.

The Farm and Food File is published weekly through the U.S. and Canada. Source material, past columns and contact information are posted at farmandfoodfile.com.

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PaulLanzillotti wrote:





What are your goals? that will help you tailor my office. That's the only missing piece I neeed to know.



- Paul Lanzillotti



vr18039 wrote: Hi everyone, thanks for taking the time to read my profile. Only looking to apply to the Haas EWMBA because I work in San Francisco, and can't move anywhere else. Looking for honest advice on how I should position myself as an applicant and where I can improve to stand out the most. Since I'm only applying to Berkeley, want to make sure I do everything in my power to get admitted there.



Personal Life:

-25 years old

-American Citizen Male (south asian)

-43 months work experience



Academics:

-3.0 GPA

-700 GMAT

-UC Berkeley Grad



Extra Curricular's in College:

-Student Senator (1 of 20 people elected to oversee a $3M budget)

-City Commissioner & Advisor to the Mayor of Berkeley

-Created syllabus and taught inmates at the San Quentin Prison in their inmate rehabilitation program

-Contributing Writer for The Huffington Post



Employment:

-Startup Cofounder (started it during senior year of college)

-Went through Y-Combinator

-$3M funding from top tier VC's

-110,000 users across 50+ schools in America

-5 employees in total



Awards:

-Forbes 30 under 30 Finalist

-Inc Magazine's 50 emerging global entrepreneurs to watch

-Leadership Award Scholar at UC Berkeley Hey VR:What are your goals? that will help you tailor my office. That's the only missing piece I neeed to know.- Paul Lanzillotti

Hey VR:Me again. With respect to positioning, the very first thing you should be doing is taking a look at the essays for Haas EWMBA. if they haven't released the most updated versions, then take a look at last year's. assess how well you can answer these questions? This includes understanding whether (or not) you have examples that will serve as a good foundation for whatever they may be asking this year. knowing how to answer these essay questions will also require you to understand the "four principles." Haas tends to ask questions that evoke an applicant's alignment with these 4 principles. so whether they're asking you about a six word story or your most significant accomplishment, they are really asking you to tell them a story or provide an example that aligns with the four principles. this is based off of my experience with the Haas essays over the full time and evening and weekend MBA programs.To be honest, I don't think you will have a problem at all getting into the EWMBA program. it's definitely easier than getting into the full-time MBA program. In fact, I don't think you have a problem getting into the full-time program either. Yes, even with a 700 GMAT score. I can expand upon this if you would like. Just lemme know.Respectfully,Paul Lanzillotti_________________


Worlds biggest inland port puts German rustbelt on Chinas map



Duisburg has become the western terminus of Chinese leader Xi Jinpings new Silk Road



Guy Chazan in Duisburg





 Getty





The vast map of the world that hangs in Shanghai Pudong airport shows only four European cities. Three  Paris, London, Berlin  are marked with small dots. The biggest is reserved for Duisburg.



This might seem a strange choice. Stuck in Germanys north-western rust belt, the city is hardly a throbbing metropolis and was long a byword for industrial decline and unemployment.



But Duisburg is the worlds largest inland port and one of Europes biggest transport and logistics hubs. It is also the western terminus of Chinese leader Xi Jinpings new Silk Road, the Belt and Road Initiative to finance and build infrastructure in more than 80 countries.



The Chinese see Duisburg and its port as their gateway to western Europe, said Johannes Pflug, the citys commissioner for China. That has given it a whole new significance.



The China factor is clearly visible in Duisburg Intermodal Terminal, one of several such cargo-handling hubs in the port. Every day containers arriving by train from Chongqing and Wuhan are loaded on to trucks and ships and distributed to Italy, Switzerland, France and beyond. Chinese logos  Cosco, China Shipping, UES  are ubiquitous.



The terminals big China breakthrough came in 2014, when Mr Xi came to welcome a train arriving from Chongqing. Growth of our China traffic has been exponential since then, said Amelie Erxleben, DITs head of international development. Thirty of the 90 trains DIT receives every week are from China, she said.



Last year the company leased an additional 200,000 sq m of land from Duisburg Port to cope with its growing China business. It was the last available space, Ms Erxleben said. Were really reaching the limits of our capacity here.



Chinas Belt and Road plan is increasingly controversial in the west. There was dismay in Berlin and Paris last month when Italy, hoping for new investment in its stagnant economy, became the first G7 country to endorse the programme.







The move came at a time of increasing concern in Europe about Chinas global ambitions. As the EU prepared for a bilateral summit with China this month, the European Commission issued a paper branding the country an economic competitor and systemic rival. It warned that Chinese investments in some countries may result in high-level indebtedness and transfer of control over strategic assets and resources.



Germany has in recent months assumed a particularly hawkish stance on China. Heiko Maas, foreign minister, sharply criticised Italy for breaking ranks with its allies over the BRI. If some countries think they can do clever deals with the Chinese, theyll be surprised and wake up one day dependent [on China], he said. Offers that seemed lucrative in the short-term could acquire a bitter aftertaste.



But in Duisburg, few share Mr Maass scepticism. The BRI is a huge opportunity for us, said Erich Staake, head of Duisburg Port AG. Last year, the city received 6,300 trains from China: that could rise to 10,000 within the next five years, he said.



The appeal of the rail connection is clear: it takes 45 days to ship goods by sea from Chongqing to Duisburg, and only about 13 days by rail. In the future, Mr Staake hopes to bring that down to 10.



The increased traffic with China has acted as a catalyst for other investors, said Mr Pflug. They include transport and logistics company Kuehne + Nagel, which recently set up one of its biggest European hubs in Duisburg. The number of Chinese companies active in the city had doubled to 100 in the past five years, Mr Pflug said. Chinese developer Starhai plans to build a 260m China Trade Center Europe in one of Duisburgs business parks.



However, Mr Staake said he understood the alarm about Chinas rise. You get the impression some people feel blindsided by the speed with which China is creating new trading routes and by the influence its acquired through its investments along the Silk Road in places like Africa and southern Europe, he said.



But he is fatalistic about a process he sees as inevitable. I know of no case in history when big powers havent deployed all their power and strength to create dependencies, and Id be amazed if China turned out to be an exception, he said.



A short walk from his office, the Kingdom, a big Chinese restaurant housed in a former car showroom, stands near the confluence of the Rhine and Ruhr rivers. Manager Qing Wang has just opened a German-Chinese Business Centre on the first floor. A table flanked with Chinese and German flags stands ready for ceremonial contract-signings while a poster welcomes visitors with the words: Where the train stops, the opportunities begin.



Since President Xi came here, everyone in China knows about Duisburg, Mr Wang said. One businessman familiar with the city is Chang Su, head of SRL Global Forwarding. Based in the southern Chinese city of Chengdu, his company, which specialises in customs brokering, is looking to build a bonded warehouse in Duisburg.



Were hoping therell be a direct rail link soon between Chengdu and Duisburg, and when it comes we want to be ready, Mr Su said.



Mr Pflug, a former Bundestag MP and long-term East Asia expert who has visited China more than 60 times, is proud of Beijings obsession with his city. But he also has red lines when it comes to Chinese investment.



He wants to ensure Duisburg doesnt share the same fate as Hambantota, a Sri Lankan port, which in 2017 passed to Chinese control under a 99-year lease.



We must preserve our independence and at all costs avoid falling into a debt trap with the Chinese, Mr Pflug said. We dont want to end up like Sri Lanka.
"He has always affiliated with the Republican Party, and holds to its great cardinal doctrines."

Grand Old Partisan salutes Joshua Newbold, born in Pennsylvania this day of 1830. Age twenty-three, he relocated to Iowa, farming and working at his father's flour mill. During the Civil War, he commanded a company of the 25th Iowa Infantry. His regiment fought at Vicksburg, Lookout Mountain, Atlanta, and the March to the Sea.

Union restored, Newbold turned his attention to merchandising and cattle-raising. In 1872, he first won election to the state house. Elected to the lieutenant governorship in 1876, he served as Governor for a year after the incumbent was elected a U.S. Senator. The final four years of his life he was a small-town mayor.

Here is a Video Version of this article on YouTube: https://youtu.be/iYujskeIbSI

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"
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.
" " This photo shows the effects of three psychedelics and a control on rat neurons. The control group is the top row. DOI, DMT and LSD are the second through fourth rows, respectively. Ly et al.

Psychedelic drugs have long been associated with an opening of the mind, and now a June 2018 study published in Cell Reports points to evidence of psychedelic-induced neuroplasticity in rats and flies.

The University of California, Davis study examined the effects of several drugs in test-tube and animal experiments  including DMT, LSD and the amphetamine DOI. They found that DOI, DMT and LSD in particular made neurons more likely to branch out and develop  a changeable state of neurology often referred to as neuroplasticity.

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Neuroplasticity is simply the brain's ability to adapt. We humans boast incredible powers of neuroplasticity, especially during early childhood. Our neural circuitry branches out to master the skills necessary for survival  and then neural stability sets in. The door doesn't quite shut on, say, learning a new language, but it closes considerably. That which was plastic becomes stable.

And neural stability is important, too  part of a necessary balance in the human brain. But scientists continually look to possible ways of widening those doorways to learning and tapping back into adult latent neuroplasticity. After all, neuroplasticity treatments could one day aid in the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders (like Parkinson's), anxiety, depression and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Based on their findings, the UC Davis team thinks that that psychedelic compounds such as DOI, DMT and LSD may pave the way for prescription neuroplasticity drugs. It's all a matter of capitalizing on their ability to expand the very neural circuits observed to atrophy during depression, anxiety and PTSD.

The researchers observed functional and structural changes in cortical neurons for both vertebrates and invertebrates exposed to psychedelic compounds  and isolated activity to the protein called brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). When BDNF was blocked, the psychedelics lost their ability to promote neural growth. The case proved to be the same with the mTOR signaling pathway, which plays a role in creating proteins for new synapse formation. If you think of the brain as a complex map, then this research places two key markers on what could one day prove the pathway to induced neuroplasticity.

Senior author and UC Davis assistant chemistry professor David E. Olson stresses that there's still a lot to learn  and that his team's experiments didn't entail human trials. But it's enough to suggest that the mind-expanding aspects of psychedelics may one day aid us in exciting new treatments.

Of course, we'll need to proceed with caution. While the possibility of neuroplasticity drugs offers tremendous hope for the treatment of debilitating neural and psychological conditions, there's also tremendous room for abuse.

Now That's Interesting For an excellent discussion on the importance of neuroplasticity, check out the 2018 World Science Festival panel "Nuts & Bolts of Better Brains."
Kaczmareks celebrate 50th

Mike and Helen Kaczmarek celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on April 12 at their home in Helena.

The celebration was attended by their children and families from Helena, Boise, Idaho, and Florence, Arizona, Helens brother and niece from Bozeman, a brother and sister from Great Falls, a niece from Missoula and many friends from the Helena area as well as friends from the Shelby area.

Mike and Helen were married in Great Falls and three weeks later were in Thailand, where Mike was stationed with the U.S. Army. Helen worked in the Department of the Army as a civilian executive secretary for the local troop command.

After 15 months in Thailand and two years at Fort Lewis, Washington, Mike returned to graduate school in Bozeman. In 1974, Mike was employed as the geologist for Morrison-Maierle in Helena, where he became the water resources department head in the 1980s.

In 1987, Mike took a leave of absence to work in the Sultanate of Oman, where he and the family lived for six years, the children going to school in Muscat in Oman and for the last four years, at a school in the United Arab Emirates.

Mike and Helen moved back to Helena in 1993 with their children, and Mike resumed work at Morrison-Maierle as the chief geologist. He still works part-time on selected projects. Helen and Mike have been active in the Church of Christ in Helena and Helen has been a member of local quilting groups while working for Montana Sign Works and later for 13 years as an insurance technician with the state auditors office.

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Jan Campana said the most rewarding part of her 43-year career as a nurse and teacher was connecting with patients and students on a personal level.

I did a lot of chronic disease management where I really got to know people," she said. "I saw them often, and making that connection was probably the best."

Campana spent most of her career in Anchorage, Alaska, where she was a nurse and a nurse practitioner in a coronary care unit and a cardiology specialty unit.

She moved to Helena about seven years ago and took a job teaching nursing at Helena College.

Jan really was beloved by our students and by our faculty, said Kristina Kenning, who worked with Campana at Helena College. She made the students learn in really unique ways. She had a really unique perspective, and they really appreciated all of her hard work.

After about five and a half years with Helena College, Campana went to work as a nurse for the low-income Leo Pocha Memorial Clinic.

I had been teaching at Helena College, which I totally enjoyed, but I found myself totally missing clinical practice, she said. I wanted to be a little more hands-on with patients.

After a little more than a year with the clinic, Campana agreed to help teach a nursing class at Carroll College.

She joked that she has now attempted to retire three times.

Well hope it takes, she said with a laugh.

During her long tenure in the nursing field, Campana has seen a variety of medical advances that have improved patient outcomes.

When she started, she said, the standard practice was to give heart-attack victims emergency drugs and just hope for the best. As a result of new technology, she said, the blocked artery is now opened up within 90 minutes.

People are living longer and theyre living better quality of life with that change, she said.

Campana said she has no regrets and wants young people to know that nursing "is a wonderful profession to go into."

Its a profession where you never stop learning and you can reinvent yourself in so many different ways over the course of your career, she said. And youre never bored.

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The Lewis and Clark County Fairgrounds is one of the premier venues in Helena for hosting banquets, concerts and carnivals; and Saturdays celebration of commencement was no different.

Families and friends gathered in Exhibition Hall to celebrate the commencement of Helena Colleges 2019 graduates and Access to Success graduates. Students at Helena College received degrees in a range of disciplines from accounting and business technology to fire and rescue to nursing.

In addition to awarding college graduates with diplomas, the ceremony honored students receiving their high school diplomas through Access to Success. This unique program partners with the Helena School District to provide high school students with the opportunity to earn their diploma within an adult setting.

CEO/Dean of Helena College Kirk Lacy set the tone of the celebration by addressing the anxiousness that graduates often feel and then offered a healthy dose of encouragement.

Graduates, I know that each of you have long anticipated this day, some with eagerness, some with anxiety, others with a wide mix of emotions, he said. But whatever you are feeling today, in addition to what you are feeling, I hope you are each immensely proud of yourselves. Youve done it, youve made it, congratulations.

Lacy emphasized the importance of celebrating that accomplishment of graduation together, before turning the page to lifes next chapter. He hoped that graduates would not only apply what they have learned to their continued education or career, but to every facet of their lives.

It is our hope that the knowledge and skills that youve gained here will serve you well in the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead, and that what you have learned here at Helena College will help you in successfully serving your family, your friends, your community and yourselves in what I hope will be a great journey of lifelong learning, he said.

Lifelong learning is the foundation of Helena Colleges mission statement, and was a common theme built on throughout the ceremony. Student speaker and associate of arts candidate, Joseph Wohlers, shared a riveting story of his tumultuous past: from drinking alcohol at an early age, to witnessing his best friend die in a shooting. His Helena College education not only had a positive effect on his academics; it transformed his life outside of the classroom.

I had no idea that altruism existed and I didnt know that I could be myself, he said. Coming to college has led me to understand what is actually true and I can drop those old beliefs and gain new ones. I believe that we endure negative experiences in order to overcome them, so we help others prevail in theirs. Education is making that possible for me.

Wohlers thanked his peers, instructors and advisers for unwavering support and guidance, instilling lessons that will remain with him long after graduation day.

Dalton Johnson, took the podium next to deliver the commencement address. Johnson is now serving as student regent on the Montana Board of Regents, appointed by Gov. Steve Bullock. As a regent, he has an opportunity to shape Montanas university system. But long before taking that position, Johnson went through some personal struggles of his own. He shared his checkered past, explaining how he dropped out of Helena College three times within a six-year period, was on academic probation, and considered a high-risk student. It wasnt until one particular class that Johnson realized that he had much more to offer.

It was not until I was in a remedial writing class, that I realized my full potential. It was a combination of faculty and staff that made me who I am today.

Johnson became more engaged on campus and jumped at leadership opportunities. Perhaps most importantly, he moved past his failures, doing what was in his power to create a better future. He inspired students to move forward, using their negative experiences for good.

Im sure every single one of you here today know someone like Joe (Wohlers) or me who needed this community. I charge you, class of 2019, to be that guiding light of truth.

Next, Tyler Ream, superintendent of Helena Public Schools, expressed his gratitude for the Access to Success program, thanking staff and students who have contributed to its progress. Craig Crawford, Access to Success administrator, followed Ream in congratulating those high school students earning their diplomas.

(Graduation is) quite an accomplishment, but its just the beginning.  This is not the end, thats why sometimes graduation is referred to as commencement  because youre just starting.

Following the presentation of awards, degrees and the moving of tassels, the song Happy by Pharrell Williams blasted through the speakers, becoming an exclamation mark to end one of lifes most treasured chapters.

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ATLANTA  On any given morning, a steady stream of customers flows into Rev Coffee in Smyrna, mixing cups of espresso with white chocolate, frappe with coconut and drip coffee with hazelnut syrup.

But lately, there's a new ingredient patrons can choose.

Listed on the menu between "Strawberry Fields," a strawberry vanilla drink, and "Lawn Boy," a honey matcha latte, is the hip coffee shop's latest concoction: the "Legalize It." The latte contains cannabidiol, derived from hemp, a cousin of the resurgent marijuana plant.

As edgy as the new offering might sound to some of Rev's customers, the coffee shop is hardly alone in its creative use of CBD, as the compound is popularly known.

CBD is suddenly everywhere in Georgia  from sparkling water and kombucha to ice cream and coffee. Signs proclaim "CBD sold here" at head shops and strip mall nutrition stores, drawing interest from health enthusiasts, would-be potheads and those looking to treat a wide variety of maladies.

As recreational marijuana use becomes more mainstream, at least according to polls, so do cannabis-infused products.

But while pot remains illegal in most states, CBD, for the most part, is legal.

That's because CBD has only trace amounts of THC, the compound that gives marijuana users their high. CBD can have no more than 0.3 percent THC, and medical marijuana oil may contain up to 5 percent.

The wide embrace of CBD, however, is not universal. Some legal questions remain on issues such as how hemp-based CBD products are advertised and whether CBD can be mixed in with food and drinks and then shipped between states. The medical community also is reticent.

At Rev Coffee, Dani Hermoza scans the expansive drink menu and spots the new addition on a chalkboard festooned with pink flowers. She opts for a 20-ounce CBD decaf latte for $8.25, which includes a $4 up-charge for CBD.

The barista's dropper precisely measures 10 milligrams of a dark green oil, in this case flavorless but sometimes described as having an earthy or grassy taste. The CBD gets vigorously mixed with a shot of espresso, which is poured into a tall paper cup with steamed milk and milk foam.

Hermoza, 27, says she sometimes wrestles with anxiety, but thinks the "Legalize It" might help with that.

"I am working without worrying," she says about 90 minutes after sipping the drink.

CBD aficionados see CBD as a natural alternative to prescription medications. Lately, it's been touted as a magic bullet that eases not just anxiety, but also pain, insomnia, seizures and struggles with addiction and eating disorders.

"We are very much self-centering creatures, and we always want to believe that there are these solutions for everything," said Dr. Nora Volkow, director for the National Institute on Drug Abuse, a federal government research organization in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

Some of its medicinal claims are legitimate, she said. Some are hype.

Research indicates that CBD may help reduce seizures, anxiety and some types of pain, Volkow said. CBD appears to be safe to use, but high doses of it could be harmful to the liver, she said. The biggest danger from CBD is that patients will use it instead of other treatments that are proven to be beneficial.

Dr. Vinita Singh, who treats chronic pain patients at the Emory Pain Center, often fields questions about CBD from people interested in trying it. She calls CBD, "a big gray" area.

"We don't have much data on how well it works, at what dose, how frequently to use it, and about the long-term side effects," she said.

Singh urged caution for patients intent on trying CBD, saying she can't recommend it until it is more regulated.

The U.S. The Food and Drug Administration has approved one CBD-based drug, Epidiolex, for patients with Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, which both cause severe seizures.

Only drugs that have been approved by the FDA can be advertised as effective in treating or preventing medical conditions. Many CBD producers try to get around that by using vague language about promoting general health and wellness.

The bottom line: It will require a lot more research to truly understand the therapeutic potential of CBD, Volkow said.

That hasn't thwarted the explosive popularity of CBD.

Golda Kombucha's West End tap room serves a CBD grapefruit and rosemary fermented tea drink. Cirrus, a new sparkling water company based in Atlanta, will release a CBD-infused beverage this month.

The restaurant Bocado recently unveiled a CBD cocktail menu _ including a CBD pisco sour and an aperitif with amaro, vermouth and orange-flavored CBD oil.

Higher Standards, a new high-end retailer at Ponce City Market, sells a wide variety of all things CBD: tinctures, oils, creams, bath bombs, gummies.

Other businesses are using CBD as an enhancement.

Lark & Sparrow nail salon offers CBD pedicures. Instead of a glass of wine, it begins with a CBD-infused gummy candy and includes a massage with a CBD oil blend.

Last December, Congress primed the market for rapid growth when it legalized hemp farming and sales as part of the farm bill. The bill removed hemp's designation as a controlled substance and reclassified it as an agricultural product. Before that, CBD was legal under some state laws, but not federal law.

In addition, shipping CBD to Georgia was a violation of federal interstate commerce laws, said Sam Kamin, a law professor at the University of Denver. But it was already widely available in Georgia and across the nation; the feds just didn't take action against violators.

States will still decide their own rules on hemp. To allow hemp farming, they need to pass local laws, as the Georgia General Assembly did last month. Gov. Brian Kemp has until May 12 to decide whether to sign House Bill 213, which would allow in-state production of the CBD oil that retailers currently import from other states.

Kemp already signed a separate bill that allows medical marijuana, the more potent offspring, to be grown in Georgia and sold to the state's 9,500 registered patients. The medical marijuana measure restricts production to six companies on a total of nine acres; the hemp farming bill doesn't limit growers and acreage.

Meanwhile, the FDA is playing catch up. The agency recently warned that is still illegal to add CBD or THC to food and transport it over state lines. The FDA will hold its first public hearing in Maryland on May 31 to figure out how to regulate the use of CBD in products, including foods and beverages.

The agency also sent warning letters to three companies that market CBD products, saying the companies are making false claims about treating diseases, such as stating the products stop cancer cells or slow down the progression of Alzheimer's.

A 2017 study published in JAMA medical journal evaluated dozens of CBD products online and found that nearly 70 percent were not labeled correctly. They had either higher or lower concentrations of CBD than indicated on the label.

Even with the regulatory concerns, the industry is projected to keep growing. In 2019, CBD retail sales in the United States will reach an estimated $1 billion, according to Hemp Industry Daily.

Farmers are excited about the possibility of growing the hemp crop, but it's unclear how profitable it will be, said Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Gary Black.

Whether hemp succeeds in Georgia will depend on agricultural conditions, regulations and prices.

CBD CBD retail sales in the United States are expected to grow exponentially in the coming years. Here's a look at sales were in the past and what's predicted, according to the Hemp Business Journal and the Hemp Industry Daily, online publications that track the hemp industry. 2017 $190 million 2018 $390 million 2019 $1 billion, projected 2021 $3 billion, projected 2023 Up to $7.5 billion, projected WHAT'S CBD? It's cannabidiol, derived from hemp, a cousin of the marijuana plant. CBD has only trace amounts of THC, the compound that gives marijuana users their high.

"We're receiving more calls about this issue in the first quarter of 2019 than any I've dealt with," Black said. "There are a large number of people that are exploring the opportunities.

"Forty-one other states have already approved hemp farming, including Kentucky, North Carolina and Tennessee. But, while others might have been first to the market, Georgia could easily catch up if hemp crops prosper in the state's warm climate, he said.

"If there's a demand for the product, Georgia farmers are going to be equipped to provide the supply," Black said.

Heather Novotny, who occasionally uses CBD, recently woke up at 4:15 a.m., her mind racing, thinking about work meetings and projects. By 3 p.m., the 34-year-old Atlanta resident was enjoying a CBD pedicure at Lark & Sparrow nail salon.

There, she started the treatment by eating a sweet red CBD gummy, then closed her eyes and leaned back into a gray leather recliner. A hot towel wrap, nail clipping, foot soak and CBD massage later, she stepped out of the chair with toe nails painted a pale blue color called "daydreamer."

Novotny and others in the salon are excited about the CBD offerings, eager to try CBD-infused dining and cocktails.

"I come here to decompress and get away from it all," said Novotny.

By the end of her pedicure, she said, her mind and body were at ease.

"I feel much better now," she said. "I really truly do."

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BELLEVILLE  During a visit from nurse manager Kristin Atchisson, patient Frank Austin lays in bed during the 10th day of his stay at Memorial Hospital in Belleville after the Shiloh resident suffered a fall and hit his head on the concrete as he was walking out of church.

"(There's) definitely an adequate number to let me know they have my interest at heart," the 75-year-old Austin said, referring to the number of nurses and other hospital personnel tending to his care.

Austin's nurse on Tuesday had four other patients, according to a white board at the nurses station listing assignments for the day on the fourth floor unit. Telemetry nurses will have between four and five patients a piece at Memorial Hospital, administrators said.

But under proposed legislation in Illinois, there would be certain nursing ratios mandated in the state, including up to three patients per nurse in telemetry. Austin and other patients could conceivably see more attention.

"Wouldn't we all. There would be more, quicker responses to my calls," Austin said. "That's like saying wouldn't we like it if our care takers would have less of a workload, they could concentrate more on us? Sure, we all would."

However having more nurses wouldn't come cheap.

"I know it's going to create an expense," Austin said.

That expense is something hospitals in the state are worried about. They point out the mandatory ratios may lead to patients needing to wait for care when they go to a hospital as hospitals would need to make sure they have adequate staff amidst a nursing shortage.

The proposed Safe Patient Limits Act calls for mandatory nurse-to-patient ratios at hospitals. The legislation includes a 1-to-3 ratio in telemetry, and 1-to-4 for medical and surgical floors. Intensive care units would need to have a 1-to-2 ratio; operating rooms would need 1 to 1.

Telemetry nurses typically care for patients who are out of the ICU, but need their vital signs monitored closely, such as after surgery. These are considered "step-down" units.

The Illinois Economic Policy Institute has argued in favor of the legislation. It says the hospital industry could save $1.4 billion with the mandatory ratios through improved staff injury rates and patient care costs. The savings would offset 75 percent of the cost of hiring the additional nurses that hospital lobbyists say would be needed to implement the patient limits in the legislation.

"While prior research has highlighted the fact that staffing standards would improve patient care and mitigate the occupational hazards that are driving about one-third of all new nurses out of the profession within their first three years, this subsequent research shows that the policy would mostly pay for itself," said study author and ILEPI Policy Director Frank Manzo IV.

The economic policy institute argued Illinois hospitals could afford the costs. They had $40 billion in expenses in 2018, but brought in $3 billion more in revenue than they spent, according to the organization.

The ILEPI argues that one of the reasons for the existing nursing shortage is because insufficient staffing levels can exacerbate the occupational hazards of nursing and undermine the quality of patient care. There also is a rising demand for health-care services and the labor market competitiveness for Illinois nursing jobs.

The Illinois Health and Hospital Association (IHA) has said the state's proposed nurse staffing legislation would require about 20,000 more nurses in the state at a cost of nearly $2 billion.

"IHA's figures appear to include only the labor cost of hiring more nurses, but fail to account for the significant cost burdens that understaffing currently imposes on our hospitals," Manzo said. "This includes hundreds of millions of dollars in staff turnover and injury costs, reduced Medicare reimbursements due to higher patient readmissions, and additional patient time in costly intensive care and surgical units. On these four metrics alone, safe patient limits could save Illinois hospitals over $1.4 billion."

California enacted mandatory ratios in 2004 and has seen a reduced nurse turnover rate, lower hospital readmission rate, lower hospital mortality rates, and reduced the average length of patient stays, the economic policy institute said.

"Safe patient limits have been a net positive for patients, nurses, and the bottom line of California's hospital industry," Manzo said. "In debating similar standards, Illinois legislators must not just consider the short-term cost of adding health-care professionals, but the long-term benefits of better nurse retention and higher-quality care."

Hospitals: It's an unfunded mandate

Sulbrena Day, the chief nursing officer at Touchette Regional Hospital in Centreville, said she meets with nurses and supervisors every day to determine how to staff every unit of the hospital to meet patients' needs.

"We rely on the clinical and professional judgment of the nurse to make these types of decisions because not all patients are equal in their presentation or in their continued stay in a hospital," Day said. "I can tell you that Touchette cannot absorb any new, additional costs of an unfunded mandate to staff up to meet arbitrary, one-size-fits-all staffing ratios."

Terri Halloran, the chief nursing executive for Memorial hospitals in Shiloh and Belleville, said most of the nursing ratios outlined in the bill match what the two campuses already have in place. However, for patients who would be in the telemetry department, those patients whose vitals need to be monitored, the hospital's ratio of 1 to 4 or 5, would need to be adjusted to 1 to 3 under the legislation.

Under the proposal, hospitals face a fine of $25,000 a day for not meeting the ratios.

The legislation has been proposed several times in the past, but it has been voted out of committee, and the intensity around the legislation is a lot higher, Halloran said.

In March, the state House Labor and Commerce Committee recommended the legislation be passed in a 17-8 vote. State Reps. Jay Hoffman, D-Swansea, and Katie Stuart, D-Edwardsville, were among those to vote yes in committee. State Reps. LaToya Greenwood, D-East St. Louis, and Blaine Wilhour, R-Beecher City, voted no. The bill has since been referred back to the Rules Committee.

The state Senate version of the legislation has been referred to the Assignments Committee.

Halloran said the Memorial hospitals prefer to base staffing levels on patient acuity, or how complicated a particular patient's diagnosis and treatment would be, such as whether he needs surgery and what the patient's recovery plan is.

For example, a patient who is recovering from open-heart surgery would need more attention than a patient with a sprained ankle.

"We see acuity as these are the immediate needs that need to be addressed, whether they're the physiological needs of your body all the way to the discharge planning needs you would require," Halloran said.

She said a patient who just had open heart surgery would have a nurse whose sole responsibility is to care for that patient. However, as the patient recovers, that same nurse could then take care of other patients as well.

"We do that today, based on knowing that an open-heart patient needs ICU care initially, and then as they get better, we progress them to different areas of the hospital, until they're discharged," Halloran said. "We kind of already have that kind of system in place, where we assign a patient to the right place in the hospital."

The Illinois Hospital Association estimates the nursing ratios would add $2 billion a year in health care costs in the state. Halloran estimated the two Memorial campuses would need to spend an additional $6 million to $8 million a year to have an additional 80 to 100 more nurses.

"That dollar amount is going to be absorbed by hospitals, by patients, it's going to be absorbed by health insurance companies, there's no extra funding or way in order to recoup that needed dollar amount to recruit enough nurses to meet this ratio," Halloran said.

There's already a nursing shortage

To further make staffing more difficult to fill, Halloran said there's a nursing shortage. By 2020, it's estimated Illinois would have a shortage of 21,000 nurses.

The Hospital Sisters Health System has nine hospitals in Illinois including St. Elizabeth's in O'Fallon, St. Joseph's in Highland and St. Joseph's in Breese.

HSHS St. Elizabeth's Hospital President and CEO Patti Fischer said the proposed legislation is not workable.

"Our first priority as a health-care provider is to make sure we provide the best care possible to anyone who comes to a Hospital Sisters Health System facility for care. However, this proposal to create a mandatory nurse-to-patient ratio is simply unattainable due to the nationwide nursing shortage that continues to challenge the health care field," Fischer said.

"We are additionally concerned that it removes the bedside nurse's ability to make staffing decisions based on the acuity of the patient that he or she is caring for at the time."

At Memorial, there are 40 unfilled nursing positions and filling a position can take three to six months.

"It (comes) at a time when all Illinois hospitals are struggling to hire nurses," Halloran said.

Staff members at Memorial said their first impressions of the legislation is it would be good for patients. However, it ultimately could bring problems with access to care if hospitals can't meet the ratios, forcing patients to wait for care.

Halloran argued California hospitals had to rely on nursing agencies to help fill the gaps, and patient outcomes such as preventing infections, falls and pressure ulcers did not improve, all while losing flexibility on how to handle staffing.

Halloran said if nurses in an emergency department are at their maximum patient amounts, then other patients would have to wait until a patient is admitted to the hospital or is discharged.

"Having an overpacked E.R. is not the right solution for our community, because there's no way they're getting the type of care, that acuity care we talked about, that they would need if they were in the right room in the hospital," Halloran said.

The hospital makes nursing assignments based on the hospital's daily census, how much attention each patient may need based on their diagnosis, and the nurse's experience level.

Having the mandatory ratios could have an adverse ripple affect on patient waiting times.

"If we're looking at a 1-to-3 ratio, and this change just happened, we're not going to be able to move the patient from the emergency room because you're not going to be able to move the patients up on the floor. Not only that, they're going to be waiting in the waiting room in the emergency room because they're not going to be able to have the staffing they have to abide by, too," said Atchisson, the nurse manager. "It's going to impact our community because they're going to be waiting longer times to get health care."

Cathy Fenton, an operating room nurse at Memorial, said when people have elective or pre-planned surgeries they have to prepare for the procedures, sometimes week ahead of time, such as halting certain medications, going through tests, and not eating anything after midnight before the surgery.

Fenton feared pre-planned surgeries could be delayed with the ratios because emergent cases would always take precedence.

"I think the families would be very dissatisfied," Fenton said.

Fenton said she hoped legislators listen to the concerns of hospitals.

"I would really like them to talk to the nurses and see how we are functioning now and listen to our concerns, because I think everybody comes here to do a good job. When patients come through these doors we want them to know we care for them and we don't want something like this having a negative impact on their experience here in the hospital," Fenton said.

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This is one in a series of profiles published Sunday as part of our "NURSES: THE HEART OF HEALTH CARE" section. To become a Herald & Review member and see more our special content, visit herald-review.com/members.

Samantha Vogel remembers in junior high school thinking about becoming a nurse.

"I always wanted to help people. I knew it was a respectable field and there was a wide array of areas that I could work as a nurse. I also knew the job outlook was great," said Vogel, a health facilities surveillance nurse for the Illinois Department of Public Health.

The mother of two spent 15 years as an emergency room nurse, balancing work, home life and school. The ER brought with it heartbreaking situations.

"The hardest part of my job was seeing patients and families that are scared and/or mourning," she said. "The loss of family members unexpectedly was one of the hardest situations I had to deal with, especially when it involved a child."

Vogel recalls the time she had a patient come in by ambulance and she determined that there was a problem with the "aorta was splitting from chest thru abdomen and into the groin."

Tests confirmed it and she worked "tirelessly to save this patient as I waited for the cardio-thoracic surgeon to arrive and for surgery to get ready."

"The patient was scared, but still at peace, stating, 'God is not done with me yet.' As I took the patient to surgery, the blood pressure was plummeting and the patient was starting to go unresponsive. I said a quick little prayer as the patient was wheeled into surgery. This patient was an exception to the rule. The odds were stacked against the patient. The patient made it through the surgery and was discharged to a rehab facility a week later," she said.

Her job is different now as someone who inspects facilities.

"The hardest part of my job is not being able to give advice or opinions," she said. "My job is regulatory and not advisory."

Decatur, she said, is "is very lucky to have the quality of healthcare that is available. Decatur has two hospitals that provide top-notch care. Not only does Decatur have acute care hospitals, they have many different primary care providers and specialty providers. Most of all patient care can and is provided in Decatur."

Her advice to those entering the field: "School will be hard, work will be harder, you will leave a little piece of yourself in it, but it will be well worth it."

Meet the top 10 picks for the best nurses in Central Illinois NURSES: THE HEART OF HEALTH CARE is about the incredible contribution this profession provides to our community. They are on the frontlines en

About the honoree NAME: Samantha Vogel POSITION: Health facilities surveillance nurse, Illinois Department of Public Health AGE: 40 WHERE SHE LIVES: Bethany YEARS OF SERVICE: 18 years

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Today's Highlight in History:

On May 12, 1949, the Soviet Union lifted the Berlin Blockade, which the Western powers had succeeded in circumventing with their Berlin Airlift.

On May 12:

In 1780, during the Revolutionary War, the besieged city of Charleston, South Carolina, surrendered to British forces.

In 1932, the body of Charles Lindbergh Jr., the 20-month-old kidnapped son of Charles and Anne Lindbergh, was found in a wooded area near Hopewell, New Jersey.

In 1937, Britain's King George VI was crowned at Westminster Abbey; his wife, Elizabeth, was crowned as queen consort.

In 1943, during World War II, Axis forces in North Africa surrendered. The two-week Trident Conference, headed by President Franklin D. Roosevelt and British Prime Minister Winston Churchill, opened in Washington.

In 1955, Manhattan's last elevated rail line, the Third Avenue El, ceased operation.

In 1958, the United States and Canada signed an agreement to create the North American Air Defense Command (later the North American Aerospace Defense Command, or NORAD).

In 1978, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration said that hurricanes would no longer be given only female names.

In 1982, in Fatima, Portugal, security guards overpowered a Spanish priest armed with a bayonet who attacked Pope John Paul II. (In 2008, the pope's longtime private secretary revealed that the pontiff was slightly wounded in the assault.)

In 2002, Jimmy Carter arrived in Cuba, becoming the first U.S. president in or out of office to visit since the 1959 revolution that put Fidel Castro in power.

In 2003, the Texas House ground to a standstill after 51 Democratic lawmakers left the state in a dispute over a Republican congressional redistricting plan. (The Democrats returned four days later from Oklahoma, having succeeded in killing the bill.)

In 2008, a devastating 7.9 magnitude earthquake in China's Sichuan province left more than 87,000 people dead or missing.

In 2009, five Miami men were convicted in a plot to blow up FBI buildings and Chicago's Sears Tower; one man was acquitted. Suspected Nazi death camp guard John Demjanjuk was deported from the United States to Germany. On the second day of his Holy Land tour, Pope Benedict XVI took his message of peace to the Dome of the Rock in Jerusalem.

In 2014, scientists expressed concern during a NASA news conference over a pair of studies which said the huge West Antarctic ice sheet was starting a glacially slow collapse in an unstoppable way, a melt that could eventually add 4 to 12 feet to current sea levels.

In 2017, dozens of countries were hit with a huge cyberextortion attack that locked up computers and held users' files for ransom at a multitude of hospitals, companies and government agencies.

In 2018: North Korea said it would dismantle its nuclear test site later in the month, in what analysts described as a mostly symbolic event that wouldn't represent a material step toward denuclearization. Iraq held its first elections since the collapse of the Islamic State group; there was a record-low turnout for balloting that saw the political coalition of Shiite cleric Muqtada al-Sadr win the most seats in parliament without capturing a majority.

Thought for Today:

"We are taught you must blame your father, your sisters, your brothers, the school, the teachers  but never blame yourself. It's never your fault. But it's always your fault, because if you wanted to change you're the one who has got to change."

 Katharine Hepburn, American actress

(born this date in 1907, died 2003).

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The proposal is a joint venture between the city, which owns the lake; the Decatur Park District, which owns the surrounding land; and G&H Marine, a Decatur-based dock builder that would construct and operate the new facilities.
DECATUR  Cold rain didn't dampen the spirits of Decatur's active and retired postal workers on Saturday who were collecting donations for the annual Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive.

True to the post office motto: Neither snow nor rain nor heat nor gloom of night stays these couriers from the swift completion of their appointed rounds, volunteers turned out in force for the food drive.

Sponsored by the National Association of Letter Carriers, the 27th annual event, on the second Saturday in May each year, provides a much-needed mid-year boost to local food pantries. Community residents put non-perishable donations next to their mailboxes, and the carriers pick up the donations, which are passed off to volunteers who deliver them to distribution centers. On Saturday, those centers included both Nelson and Fairview parks, The Salvation Army and the letter carriers' union hall on North Woodford Street. The food drive is a national event, but donations are given to local food banks on the same day the drive is held.

I'm standing out here in the rain, joked Chris Bragg, who was on duty at the union hall.

Volunteers collected food donations with letter carriers on their routes and dropped them off at one of the four centers, and the food banks sent more volunteers to pick up the donations and take them to one of 11 local food banks.

Ed Bacon, director of Northeast Community Fund, said he had two trucks making trips between the union hall and Northeast's pantry.

It helps a lot, given that we don't receive any state or federal funding, Bacon said. We serve, on average, 100 families every day that we're open, which is four days a week, so we're serving about 2,000 families a month. For an organization that gets no state or federal funding, every little bit helps to get it out to needy families. We're really grateful for this food drive.

Bacon began his job in October, after founder Jerry Pelz retired, so he's never been through the food drive before.

(Pelz) has done this for many years and he's on vacation this week, Bacon said. But I have several other people to help me and we'll make as many trips as necessary.

At Nelson Park, about 50 volunteers were accepting drop-offs from letter carriers, both active and retired, and weighing the food before distributing it to the food pantries using that as their pickup point.

For Edward and Cheryl Yoder and their daughter, Laura Sturgeon, the postal service is a family tradition. Cheryl Yoder is a retired rural letter carrier, Sturgeon is an active letter carrier, and Cheryl Yoder's uncle worked for the post office, too. Helping with the food drive is something they do every year.

I collected food on my route (when I was still working) and took it to the post office for someone to come and get it, Cheryl Yoder said. You usually end up with a whole load of food, so it takes longer to stop and load it and get back in. It's time-consuming.

Edward Yoder said he never worked for the postal service himself, but with so many members of the family working there, he's been a volunteer for years.

My daughter is in charge, so she's kind of volunteering all family members, Cheryl Yoder joked.

Contact Valerie Wells at (217) 421-7982. Follow her on Twitter: @modgirlreporter

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Old wine in new bottle

The governments policies and programmes for 2019-20 look like more of the same.
SAN FRANCISCO  Kim had been wine tasting with a friend in Sonoma, Calif. They got into an argument in the car that night and Kim thought someone was following them. She was utterly convinced. And she had to get away.

"I jumped out of the car and started running, and I literally ran a mile. I went through water, went up a tree," she said. "I was literally running for my life."

Kim was soaking wet when she walked into a woman's house, woke her from bed and asked for help. When the woman went to call the police, Kim left and found another woman's empty guesthouse to sleep in  Goldilocks-style.

"But then I woke up and stole her car," said Kim, who is 47 and now in recovery. (KHN is using her first name only because she has used illicit drugs.) Kim had been high on Xanax and methamphetamine. "I was crazy. Meth causes people to act completely insane."

While public health officials have focused on the opioid epidemic in recent years, another epidemic has been brewing quietly, but vigorously, behind the scenes. Methamphetamine use is surging in parts of the U.S., particularly the West, leaving first responders and addiction treatment providers struggling to handle a rising need.

Across the country, overdose deaths involving meth more than quadrupled from 2011 to 2017. Admissions to treatment facilities for meth are up 17%. Hospitalizations related to meth jumped by about 245% from 2008 to 2015. And throughout the West and Midwest, 70% of local law enforcement agencies say meth is their biggest drug threat.

But policymakers in Washington, D.C., haven't kept up, continuing to direct the bulk of funding and attention to opioids, said Steve Shoptaw, an addiction psychologist at UCLA in Los Angeles, where he hears one story after another about meth destroying people's lives.

"But when you're in D.C., where people are making decisions about how to deploy resources, those stories are very much muffled by the much louder story about the opioid epidemic," he said.

Even within drug treatment circles, there's a divide. Opioid addiction advocates are afraid their efforts to gain acceptance for measures like needle-exchange programs and safe injection sites will be threatened if meth advocates demand too much.

"The bottom line is, as Americans, we have just so much tolerance to deal with addiction," Shoptaw said. "And if the opioid users have taken that tolerance, then there's no more."

So, lawmakers in San Francisco are trying to get a grip on the toll meth is taking on their city's public health system on their own. The mayor recently established a task force to combat the epidemic.

"It's something we really have to interrupt," said Rafael Mandelman, a San Francisco district supervisor who will co-chair the task force. "Over time, this does lasting damage to people's brains. If they do not have an underlying medical condition at the start, by the end, they will."

Since 2011, emergency room visits related to meth in San Francisco have jumped 600% to 1,965 visits in 2016, the last year for which ER data is available. Admissions to the hospital are up 400% to 193, according to city public health data. And at San Francisco General Hospital, of 7,000 annual psychiatric emergency visits last year, 47% were people who were not necessarily mentally ill _ they were high on meth.

"They can look so similar to someone that's experiencing chronic schizophrenia," said Dr. Anton Nigusse Bland, medical director of psychiatric emergency services at San Francisco General. "It's almost indistinguishable in that moment."

They have methamphetamine-induced psychosis.

"They're often paranoid, they're thinking someone might be trying to harm them," he said. "Their perceptions are all off."

If the person is extremely agitated, doctors might administer a sedative or even an antipsychotic medicine. Otherwise, the treatment is just waiting 12 to 16 hours for the meth to wear off. No more psychosis.

"Their thoughts are more organized, they're able to maintain adequate clothing. They're eating, they're communicating," Nigusse Bland said. "The improvement in the person is rather dramatic because it happens so quickly."

The trend in rising stimulant use is nationwide: cocaine on the East Coast, meth on the West Coast, said Dr. Daniel Ciccarone, a professor of medicine and substance use researcher at the University of California, San Francisco.

"It is an epidemic wave that's coming, that's already here," he said. "But it hasn't fully reached our public consciousness."

Drug preferences are generational, Ciccarone said. They change with the hairstyles and clothing choices, like bell-bottoms or leg warmers. It was heroin in the 1970s, cocaine and crack in the '80s. Then opiate pills. Then methamphetamine. Then heroin. And now meth again.

"The culture creates this notion of let's go up, let's not go down," Ciccarone said. "New people coming into drug use are saying, 'Whoa, I don't really want to do that. I hear it's deadly.'"

Kim has been with meth through two waves. When she got into speed in the 1990s, she was hanging out with bikers, going to clubs in San Francisco.

"Now what I see, in any neighborhood, you can find it. It's not the same as it used to be where it was kind of taboo," Kim said. "It's more socially accepted now."

A hint about who uses meth now comes from the data on deaths.

Meth is not as lethal as opioids: 47,600 people died of opioid-related overdoses in 2017 compared with 10,333 deaths involving meth. But the death rate for meth has been rising. Meth-related deaths in San Francisco doubled since 2011, another indication that more people are using meth and that today's supply is very potent, said the UCSF's Ciccarone.

Another hypothesis to explain the growth in meth-related overdoses is that meth users are aging. Most meth deaths are from a brain hemorrhage or a heart attack, which would be unusual for a 20-year-old.

"Because your tissue is so healthy at that age," said Dr. Phillip Coffin, a physician and the director of substance use research at the San Francisco Department of Public Health. "Whereas when you're 55 years old and using methamphetamine, you might be at higher risk for bursting a vessel and bleeding and dying from that."

Another explanation for the rising death rate is that meth has become contaminated. And that affects everyone, old and young. Last year, three young people in San Francisco died after smoking meth together. It turns out the meth had fentanyl in it. The synthetic opioid has been causing waves of heroin overdoses across the country, but now it's showing up mixed into cocaine and meth.

Most researchers believe the contamination happens accidentally, when a dealer uses the same equipment to bag fentanyl and later meth, Ciccarone said.

Over her two decades of meth use, Kim has been through drug treatment more than a dozen times. Relapse is part of recovery, and among meth users, 60% will start using again within a year of finishing treatment. Unlike opioids, there are no medication treatments for meth addiction, which makes it particularly hard to treat.

In April, Kim completed a six-month residential treatment program for women in San Francisco called the Epiphany Center. She came directly from jail, after serving time for her housewarming-and-car-theft spree in Sonoma. She said that in the first 30 days all she could do was try to clear the chaos from her mind.

"You have to get used to sitting with yourself, which is essential for life, is to get along with your own self," she said.

Kim, who has four children, is hopeful that this round of treatment will stick. She is living in transitional housing now, has a job and has been accepted to a program at the University of California, Berkeley to finish her college degree.

"I've gone through 12 different programs and it's been for my children, for my mom, for the courts. I've never come to be there for myself," Kim said. "So it's like I've come to a place where it has to be for me."

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That was some good financial news Illinois received last week after seemingly decades of nothing but bad news.

The state came out of April with $1.5 billion more in tax collections than was originally estimated by the state's budget gurus. That's not chump change, even in the world of state government finances where you can get numb to the big numbers tossed around.

How much was it? It was enough to pretty much wipe out the deficit that everyone said existed in the current year's budget. And there is supposed to be enough continuation of this next year that Gov. J.B. PRITZKER was able to abandon that ill-received plan to short the pension systems for the next several years. That alone should help grease the efforts to reach a budget compromise for next year.

If that makes you feel good, try this. Remember Minnesota, that state to the north that has a successful economy despite having higher taxes than most in the Midwest? Minnesota last week announced its revenues for April. They were $489 million higher than expected. So Illinois actually out-performed its supposedly superior neighbor.

* Both Comptroller SUSANA MENDOZA and the Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability issued warnings of sorts that the windfall is not a be-all and end-all to the state's financial problems, which didn't stop the House Republicans from saying all is well and Pritzker could back off of his call for some tax and fee increases this year and the graduated income tax forever.

Needless to say, it didn't happen.

* Sunday is Mother's Day and hopefully everyone can enjoy the occasion.

However, it isn't always the case as Lt. Gov. JULIANA STRATTON noted in a short essay posted on Instagram.

In it, Stratton discussed the trials she faced caring for her mother, Velma, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer's-related dementia three years before she died in 2016.

"It was my greatest honor to care for her for which I have zero regrets," Stratton wrote. "Yet, it was easily one of the most stressful experiences of my life."

She said work was interrupted constantly by calls to address medical issues or just calm her mother when she was confused. Stratton said she had to work to support her family, but also had to be available for her mother.

"This was a constant tension," she said. "The stress of caregiving affected me emotionally, physically and financially. And there was really no way to step away and tend to my own needs or those of the girls."

Stratton said she decided to write about the experience "in support of care givers because I know how hard and isolating it can be." She also praised the Alzheimer's Association 24/7 Helpline (1-800-272-3900) for being available to have someone to talk to who understood what she was going through.

* "We can actually vote for a bill, and because of the way taxes are calculated all across the United States, you can actually, very accurately determine how many people's lives you actually can save. That's about the most rewarding thing anybody can do in the legislature." Senate President JOHN CULLERTON, D-Chicago, extolling the virtue of raising the cigarette tax by $1 a pack.

* "This is an evil, evil process." Rep. MARGO McDERMED, R-Mokena, decrying the speed that a gasoline tax increase was pushed through a House committee last week.

* "Capital bills in Springfield are like the second coming of cicadas. Every 10 years. That's not the way to go in regards to funding our infrastructure." Sen. MARTIN SANDOVAL, D-Chicago, on the merits of a pay-as-you-go capital plan.

* Less than three weeks remain for the legislature to tackle hundreds of bills, including some pretty major stuff.

Just in case you want to cancel your vacation plans now.

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CHAMPAIGN  Authorities say a 14-year-old boy was fatally shot inside a Champaign home where an older teenager suffered a gunshot wound.

The Champaign County coroner says Elijha James Booker of Champaign died soon after he was shot about 1:30 a.m. Saturday at a home he was visiting on the city's northwest side. The News-Gazette reports he was an eighth grader at Franklin STEAM Academy.

Police later learned a 17-year-old boy also in the house had been shot but was treated and released from a local hospital. Lt. Nate Rath said detectives were interviewing the young people and adults who were in the house to determine what led up to the shootings.

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As a candidate, J.B. Pritzker repeatedly criticized Springfield's habit of putting off tough decisions. Once elected, he wanted to do just that. His proposed budget for the next fiscal year included extending by seven years the state's pension payment schedule. Doing that would push to 2052 the target date for a 90 percent-funded pension system, and reduce what the state would pay in the short term. For the budget that begins July 1, it would cut what the state owes from about $9.1 billion to about $8 billion.

Tuesday brought good news and bad news on this front. The good is that Pritzker is nixing the proposed seven-year extension and the partial pension holiday. The bad is that those terrible ideas could resurface: Pritzker's office told us Tuesday evening that the governor is "not taking any options off the table for future years."

Team Pritzker's stated reason for nixing the pension proposals for fiscal 2020 is a surprise April windfall of income tax revenue: The reported total of $4.1 billion is $1.5 billion more than anticipated. Credit ripple effects of the booming national economy -- more people working, wages rising, stock prices increasing. Each of those factors translates to more revenue for state governments, many of which have reported higher revenues in early 2019.

Who knows, maybe an appreciative Pritzker will send a note of thanks to President Donald Trump for federal tax and regulatory changes that helped raise economic growth to 3.2 percent and drop unemployment to 3.6 percent.

This windfall cancels most of the $1.6 billion shortfall in the current fiscal year's budget. The Illinois Department of Revenue also is raising by $800 million its income tax revenue projection for fiscal 2020, which starts in eight weeks. That expectation allows Pritzker to set aside his proposal to short the pensions.

We're grateful that economic growth is putting more money in workers' pockets, and in state coffers, too. We're also wary of one-month blips. Illinois still has policies, laws and regulations that drive employers elsewhere. And the next recession always looms; the only question is when it'll arrive.

We're also grateful that Pritzker is devoting some of the windfall to pensions. He has said he would like to bolster the pension system from proceeds of a graduated-rate income tax. But adoption of that structure is uncertain. Even if approved by voters, graduated rates wouldn't generate new money until after the November 2020 election. And who knows what lawmakers would do with the billions of new dollars they would collect?

So let's focus on Pritzker's still-on-the-table notion of a partial pension holiday and extension of the payment schedule. Those ideas demonstrate exactly how Illinois taxpayers became victims of a pension crisis. The mere mention of options that have proved so damaging to Illinois taxpayers should aggravate them -- especially members of public employee unions who count on retirement checks.

Taking shortcuts has driven Illinois' unfunded pension liabilities to $133.5 billion, up from $111 billion when Gov. Bruce Rauner took office in 2015. Rauner made required payments into the pension funds, and a roaring stock market brought good investment returns. But the liabilities cannot be tamed. By constructing benefits as they did and then not properly funding the pensions, lawmakers made this debacle.

After Pritzker's February call for shortcuts, House Republican leader Jim Durkin offered a reality check that we hope sticks with the governor: "The largest obligation we have hanging over taxpayers are public pension systems, and there's been no effort to revisit changing the constitution or going back to the courts to reform our system. So to suggest we should extend out the ramp and short the system ... sounds like what created the problem in the first place."

Set aside politics. Can anyone argue that Durkin is wrong? That it's ever acceptable to shove today's costs of doing business onto our children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren?

Departing Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel has urged the state's Democratic leaders to support moderating the Illinois Constitution's rigid language on pensions. Another option: passing mild pension reforms to test their constitutionality. But since the Illinois Supreme Court's May 2015 decision tossing pension reform, legislators have done almost nothing. One month's revenue bump doesn't eliminate their need to act.

Governor Pritzker, you know that pension holidays and ramp extensions would do further serious damage. Take credit for setting aside those notions. Then reassure Illinois taxpayers by abandoning them for good.

 Chicago Tribune

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Idle Words > Talks > Privacy Rights and Data Collection in a Digital Economy (Senate hearing)

You can find the original testimony as submitted (PDF) , as well as video of the two hour hearing . My 5 minute oral statement starts at minute 42.

This is an HTMLized version written testimony I provided on May 7, 2019, to the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs for their hearing on Privacy Rights and Data Collection in a Digital Economy . I've added some hyperlinks but otherwise left it unchanged.

Thank you for the opportunity to address you today.

I am the founder and sole employee of Pinboard, a small for-profit archiving service founded in 2009 that competes in part on the basis of personal privacy. I have also been a frequent critic of Silicon Valleys reliance on business models requiring mass surveillance, speaking on the topic at conferences both in the United States and abroad.

As someone who earns his living through data collection, I am acutely aware of the power the tools we are building give us over our fellow citizens private lives, and the danger they pose to our liberty. I am grateful to Chairman Crapo, ranking member Brown, and the committee for the opportunity to testify on this vital matter.

The internet economy in 2019 is dominated by five American tech companies: Apple, Microsoft, Google, Facebook, and Amazon. These are also the five most valuable corporations in the world, with a combined market capitalization exceeding four trillion dollars.

Between them, these companies control the market for online advertising, mobile and desktop operating systems, office software, document storage, search, cloud computing, and many other areas of the digital economy. They also own and operate a significant portion of the physical infrastructure of the internet, and act as its de facto regulating authority.

The concentration of power in the hands of these giant firms is the epilogue to a spectacular story of American innovation and dynamism. The technologies underpinning the internet were all developed here in the United States, and the many fortunes that they produced owe their thanks to fruitful cooperation between government, industry, and the research community. Working together, the public and private sectors created the conditions for a startup culture unlike any other in the world.

Today, however, that culture of dynamism is at risk. The surveillance business model has eroded user trust to such a point that it is impeding our ability to innovate.

In many ways, the five internet giants operate like sovereign states. Their operations are global, and decisions they take unilaterally can affect entire societies. Denmark has gone so far as to send an ambassador to Silicon Valley. When Jeff Bezos, the CEO of Amazon, met recently with the Canadian prime minister, the occasion was covered in the press like a state visit.

The emergence of this tech oligopoly reflects a profound shift in our society, the migration of every area of commercial, social, and personal life into an online realm where human interactions are mediated by software.

To an extent that has no precedent, the daily activities of most Americans are now tracked and permanently recorded by automated systems. It is likely that every person in this hearing room carries with them a mobile phone that keeps a history of their location, is privy to their most private conversations, and contains a rich history of their private life. Some of you may even have an always-on microphone in your car or home that responds to your voice commands.

Emerging technologies promise to afford these systems even more intimate glimpses into our private livesphones that monitor our facial expressions as we read, and connected homes that watch over us while we sleep. Scenarios that were once the province of dystopian dime fiction have become an unremarkable consumer reality.

The sudden ubiquity of this architecture of mass surveillance, and its enshrinement as the default business model of the online economy, mean that we can no longer put off hard conversations about the threats it poses to liberty.

Adding to this urgency is the empirical fact that, while our online economy depends on the collection and permanent storage of highly personal data, we do not have the capacity to keep such large collections of user data safe over time.

The litany of known data breaches is too long to recite here, but includes every one of the top five tech companies, as well as health and financial firms and government agencies. Every year brings new and more spectacular examples of our inability to protect our users. At Yahoo, an internet giant at the time with a world-class security team, over 3 billion user accounts were compromised in a 2013 breach. In 2015, the US Office of Personnel Management allowed unauthorized access to the records of over four million people, including many with highly sensitive security clearances. And in 2017, Equifax exposed data, including social security numbers, on 147 million Americans, nearly half the US population.

While many individual data breaches are due to negligence or poor practices, their overall number reflects an uncomfortable truth well known to computer professionalsthat our ability to attack computer systems far exceeds our ability to defend them, and will for the foreseeable future.

The current situation, therefore, is not tenable. The internet economy today resembles the earliest days of the nuclear industry. We have a technology of unprecedented potential, we have made glowing promises about how it will transform the daily lives of our fellow Americans, but we dont know how to keep its dangerous byproducts safe.

Discussing privacy in the context of regulation can be vexing, because the companies doing the most to erode our privacy are equally sincere in their conviction that they are its champions.

The confusion stems from two different ways in which we use the word privacy, leading us to sometimes talk past each other.

In the regulatory context, discussion of privacy invariably means data privacythe idea of protecting designated sensitive material from unauthorized access.

Laws like the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act (GLBA) delimit certain categories of sensitive information that require extra protection, and mandate ways in which health and financial institutions have to safeguard this data, or report when those safeguards have failed. The Children's Online Privacy Protection Act of 1998 extends similar protection to all data associated with children.

We continue to use this framework of data privacy today, including in the recently enacted General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).

It is true that, when it comes to protecting specific collections of data, the companies that profit most from the surveillance economy are the ones working hardest to defend them against unauthorized access.

But there is a second, more fundamental sense of the word privacy, one which until recently was so common and unremarkable that it would have made no sense to try to describe it.

That is the idea that there exists a sphere of life that should remain outside public scrutiny, in which we can be sure that our words, actions, thoughts and feelings are not being indelibly recorded. This includes not only intimate spaces like the home, but also the many semi-private places where people gather and engage with one another in the common activities of daily lifethe workplace, church, club or union hall. As these interactions move online, our privacy in this deeper sense withers away.

Until recently, even people living in a police state could count on the fact that the authorities didnt have enough equipment or manpower to observe everyone, everywhere, and so enjoyed more freedom from monitoring than we do living in a free society today. .

A characteristic of this new world of ambient surveillance is that we cannot opt out of it, any more than we might opt out of automobile culture by refusing to drive. However sincere our commitment to walking, the world around us would still be a world built for cars. We would still have to contend with roads, traffic jams, air pollution, and run the risk of being hit by a bus.

Similarly, while it is possible in principle to throw ones laptop into the sea and renounce all technology, it is no longer be possible to opt out of a surveillance society.

When we talk about privacy in this second, more basic sense, the giant tech companies are not the guardians of privacy, but its gravediggers.

The tension between these interpretations of what privacy entails, and who is trying to defend it, complicates attempts to discuss regulation.

Tech companies will correctly point out that their customers have willingly traded their private data for an almost miraculous collection of useful services, services that have unquestionably made their lives better, and that the business model that allows them to offer these services for free creates far more value than harm for their customers.

Consumers will just as rightly point out that they never consented to be the subjects in an uncontrolled social experiment, that the companies engaged in reshaping our world have consistently refused to honestly discuss their business models or data collection practices, and that in a democratic society, profound social change requires consensus and accountability.

Further complicating the debate on privacy is the novel nature of the data being collected. While the laws around protecting data have always focused on intentional communicationsdocuments that can be intercepted, conversations that can be eavesdropped uponmuch of what computer systems capture about us is behavioral data: incidental observations of human behavior that dont seem to convey any information at all.

Behavioral data encompasses anything people do while interacting with a computer system. It can include the queries we type into a search engine, our physical location, the hyperlinks we click on, whether we are sitting or standing, how quickly we scroll down a document, how jauntily we walk down a corridor, whether our eyes linger on a photo, whether we start to write a comment and then delete iteven the changes in our facial expression as we are shown an online ad.

This incidental data has proven to be such a valuable raw material that an entire industry now specializes in finding ways to mine it. The devices used to spy on us include our computers, cell phones, televisions, cars, security cameras, our childrens toys, home appliances, wifi access points, even at one point trash cans in the street.

The extent to which anyone consentsor can consentto this kind of tracking is the thorny question in attempting to regulate the relationship between people and software.

The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), enacted in May of 2018, is the most ambitious attempt thus far to regulate online privacy. It takes a very traditional view of the relationship between people and data.

In the eyes of the GDPR, people own their data. They make an affirmative choice to share their data with online services, and can revoke that choice. The consent they give must be explicit and limited to a specified purposethe recipient does not have carte blanche to use the data as they please, or to share it with third parties, with some complicating caveats.

People have the right to request a full download of their data from the services they have entrusted it to, and they have the right to demand that it be permanently erased.

The GDPR imposes a notification requirement for data breaches, and requires affirmative consent for the sale of user data. It also restricts the movement of data to outside jurisdictions (though in the case of the United States, this restriction is superseded by the US-EU Privacy Shield framework).

Finally, the GDPR mandates that privacy safeguards like data tokenization and encryption be built in to new systems, and that companies appoint a dedicated privacy officer.

The GDPR is not a simple regulation, and many of its most potentially significant provisions (such as the scope of a data controllers legitimate interests, or what the right to erasure means in the context of a machine learning model) await interpretation by regulators.

What limits, if any, the GDPR will place on the application of machine learning is a particularly important open question. The law on its face prohibits automated decision making that has a legal or similarly significant effect on data subjects, but the definition of significant effect is not clear, nor is it clear whether having a human being simply countersign an algorithmic decision would be enough to satisfy regulators that the decision process is not fully automated.

As it is so new, the GDPRs ultimate impact on online privacy in the EU is unclear. Some of the dramatic early impacts (like major US newspapers going offline) have proven to be transient, while many of the biggest impacts hinge on future decisions by EU regulators.

Enough has happened, however, to draw some preliminary conclusions.

The GDPR so far has made life hard on internet users. It is not clear that this is the GDPRs fault.

The plain language of the GDPR is so plainly at odds with the business model of surveillance advertising that contorting the real-time ad brokerages into something resembling compliance has required acrobatics that have left essentially everybody unhappy.

The leading ad networks in the European Union have chosen to respond to the GDPR by stitching together a sort of Frankensteins monster of consent, a mechanism whereby a user wishing to visit, say, a weather forecast page is first prompted to agree to share data with a consortium of 119 entities, including the aptly named A Million Ads network. The user can scroll through this list of intermediaries one by one, or give or withhold consent en bloc, but either way she must wait a further two minutes for the consent collection process to terminate before she is allowed to find out whether or not it is going to rain.

This majestically baroque consent mechanism also hinders Europeans from using the privacy preserving features built into their web browsers, or from turning off invasive tracking technologies like third-party cookies, since the mechanism depends on their being present.

For the average EU citizen, therefore, the immediate effect of the GDPR has been to add friction to their internet browsing experience along the lines of the infamous 2011 EU Privacy Directive (EU cookie law) that added consent dialogs to nearly every site on the internet.

The GDPR rollout has also demonstrated to what extent the European ad market depends on Google, who has assumed the role of de facto technical regulatory authority due to its overwhelming market share. Google waited until the night before the regulation went into effect to announce its intentions, leaving ad networks scrambling.

It is significant that Google and Facebook also took advantage of the US-EU privacy shield to move 1.5 billion non-EU user records out of EU jurisdiction to servers in the United States. Overall, the GDPR has significantly strengthened Facebook and Google at the expense of smaller players in the surveillance economy.

The data protection provisions of the GDPR, particularly the right to erase, imposed significant compliance costs on internet companies. In some cases, these compliance costs just show the legislation working as intended. Companies who were not keeping adequate track of personal data were forced to retrofit costly controls, and that data is now safer for it.

But in other cases, companies with a strong commitment to privacy also found themselves expending significant resources on retooling. Personally identifying information has a way of seeping in to odd corners of computer systems (for example, users will sometimes accidentally paste their password into a search box), and tracking down all of these special cases can be challenging in a complex system. The requirements around erasure, particularly as they interact with backups, also impose a special burden, as most computer systems are designed with a bias to never losing data, rather than making it easy to expunge.

A final, and extremely interesting outcome of the GDPR, was an inadvertent experiment conducted by the New York Times. Privacy advocates have long argued that intrusive third-party advertising does not provide more value to publishers than the traditional pre-internet style of advertising based off of content, but there has never been a major publisher willing to publicly run the experiment.

The New York Times tested this theory by cutting off all ad networks in Europe, and running only direct sold ads to its European visitors. The paper found that ad revenue increased significantly, and stayed elevated into 2019, bolstering the argument that surveillance-based advertising offers no advantage to publishers, and may in fact harm them.

While it is too soon to draw definitive conclusions about the GDPR, there is a tension between its concept of user consent and the reality of a surveillance economy that is worth examining in more detail.

A key assumption of the consent model is any user can choose to withhold consent from online services. But not all services are created equalthere are some that you really cant say no to.

Take the example of Facebook. Both landlords and employers in the United States have begun demanding to see Facebook accounts as a condition of housing or employment. The United States Border Patrol has made a formal request to begin collecting social media to help vet people arriving in the country. In both those contexts, not having a Facebook account might stand out too much to be a viable option. Many schools now communicate with parents via Facebook; Facebook groups are also the locus for political organizing and online activism across the political spectrum.

Analogous arguments can be made for social products offered by the other major tech companies. But if you cant afford to opt out, what does it mean to consent?

Opting out can also be impossible because of how deeply the internet giants have embedded themselves in the fabric of the internet. For example, major media properties in the EU use a technology called ReCaptcha on their GDPR consent forms. These forms must be completed before a user can access the website they are gathering consent for, but since the ReCaptcha service is run by Google, and the form cannot be submitted without completing the Google-generated challenge (which incidentally performs free image classification labor for the company), a user who refuses to give Google access to her browser will find herself denied access to a large portion of the internet.

While this specific example may change when it comes to the attention of an EU regulator, the broader issue remains. The sheer reach of the tech oligopoly makes it impossible to avoid using their services. When a company like Google controls the market-leading browser, mobile operating system, email service and analytics suite, exercises a monopoly over search in the EU, runs the largest ad network in Europe, and happens to own many of the undersea cables that connect Europe to the rest of the world, how do you possibly say no?

Beyond ones basic ability to consent, there is the question of what it means to give informed consent. Presumably we are not opting in or out of the services we use for capricious reasons, but because we can make a rational choice about what is in our interest.

In practice, however, obtaining this information is not possible, even assuming superhuman reserves of patience.

For example, anyone visiting the popular Tumblr blogging platform from a European IP address must first decide whether to share data with Tumblrs 201 advertising partners, and read five separate privacy policies from Tumblrs several web analytics providers.

Despite being a domain expert in the field, and spending an hour clicking into these policies, I am unable to communicate what it is that Tumblr is tracking, or what data of mine will be used for what purposes by their data partners (each of whom has its own voluminous terms of service). This opacity exists in part because the intermediaries have fought hard to keep their business practices and data sharing processes a secret, even in the teeth of strong European regulation.

Organizations like the Interactive Advertising Bureau Europe (IABE) defeat the spirit of the GDPR by bundling consent and requiring it across many ad-supported properties in Europe. If regulators block the bundling in its current incarnation, it will no doubt rise from the dead in a modified form, reflecting the undying spirit of surveillance advertising. But at no point will internet users have the information they would need to make a truly informed choice (leaving aside the ridiculousness of requiring a legal education and two hours of sustained close reading in order to watch a cat video).

Finally, there is a sense in which machine learning and the power of predictive inference may be making the whole idea of consent irrelevant. At this point, companies have collected so much data about entire populations that they can simply make guesses about us, often with astonishing accuracy.

A useful analogy here is a jigsaw puzzle. If you give me a puzzle with one piece missing, I can still assemble it, reconstruct the contours of the missing piece by looking at the shape of the pieces around it and, if the piece is small compared to the whole, easily interpolate the missing part of the image.

This is exactly what computer systems do to us when we deny them our personal information. Experts have long known that it takes a very small amount of data to make reliable inferences about a person. Most people in the United States, for example, can be uniquely identified by just the combination of their date of birth, gender, and zip code.

But machine learning is honing this ability to fill in the blanks to surprising levels of accuracy, raising troubling questions about what it means to have any categories of protected data at all.

For example, imagine that an algorithm could inspect your online purchasing history and, with high confidence, infer that you suffer from an anxiety disorder. Ordinarily, this kind of sensitive medical information would be protected by HIPAA, but is the inference similarly protected? What if the algorithm is only reasonably certain? What if the algorithm knows that youre healthy now, but will suffer from such a disorder in the future?

The question is not hypotheticala 2017 study showed that a machine learning algorithm examining photos posted to the image-sharing site Instagram was able to detect signs of depression before it was diagnosed in the subjects, and outperformed medical doctors on the task.

The paradigm of automatic ownership of personal data does not mesh well with a world where such private data can not only interpolated and reconstructed, but independently discovered by an algorithm!

And if I can infer such important facts about your life by applying machine learning to public data, then I have deprived you of privacy just as effectively as I would have by direct eavesdropping.

In order to talk meaningfully about consent in online systems, the locus of regulation will need to expand beyond data collection, to cover how those data collections, and the algorithms trained on them, are used. But to do this, we will first need far greater visibility into the workings of surveillance-dependent tech companies than they have so far been willing to grant us.

As it stands, the consent framework exemplified in the GDPR is simply not adequate to safeguard privacy. As much as we would like to be the masters of our data, we are not. And the real masters arent talking.

Absent a clear understanding of how our data is being used, and the role it plays in surveillance-based business models, it is hard to lay out a specific regulatory program.

Nevertheless, there are some general goals we can pursue based on the experience of regulation attempts in Europe, and what we know about the surveillance economy.

Privacy regulation should be understandable, both for users of the technology, and for the companies the regulations govern. Users especially should not be required to make complex and irrevocable decisions about privacy. To the extent possible, intuitions about privacy from the human world (a casual conversation between friends is not recorded forever) should carry over into the digital world.

At the risk of sounding tautological, privacy regulation should not punish people for seeking privacy. It should not be necessary to turn on invasive tracking technologies in ones browser in order to express the desire to not to be tracked.

Knowing that we lack the capacity to keep data collections safe over time, we can reduce the potential impact of any breach by setting strict lifetimes for behavioral data.

Google has demonstrated the feasibility of this approach with their recent announcement that users will be able to set their account to automatically delete location data after three or 18 months. This demonstrates that permanent retention of behavioral data is not critical to surveillance-based business models. Such limits should be enforced industrywide.

Moving to a norm where behavioral data is kept briefly instead of forever will mark a major step forward in data security, both reducing the time data is potentially exposed to attackers, and reducing the total volume of data that must be kept safe.

Time limits on behavioral data will also reduce consumers perception that they are making irrevocable privacy commitments every time they try a new product or service.

The right to download is one of the most laudable features in the GDPR, and serves the important secondary purpose of educating the public about the extent of data collection.

This right should, however, be expanded to include the right to download, and correct, all information that third-party data brokers have provided about a user, in a spirit similar to the Fair Credit Reporting Act.

Tech startups in the highly regulated areas of health, finance and banking should be required to compete on the same regulatory footing as established businesses in those areas. In particular, they should not be allowed to do an end run around existing data privacy laws by using machine learning and algorithmic inference.

For example, the use of a machine learning algorithm should not allow a loan company to evade consumer protections against discrimination in fair lending laws.

(For a fuller discussion of this point, see the addendum on machine learning at the end of this document).

While the above suggestions seek to impose limits and restrictions, there is an important way that privacy regulation can create new ground for innovation.

What is missing from the regulatory landscape is a legal mechanism for making credible and binding promises to users about privacy practices.

Today, internet startups in the U.S. who want to compete on privacy have no mechanism to signal their commitment to users other than making promises through their terms of service (which usually include a standard legal clause that they may change at any time).

Except in the case of the most egregious violations, which sometimes attract the attention of the Federal Trade Commission, these terms of service carry little weight.

As the owner of a company that markets itself to privacy-conscious people, I would derive enormous benefit from a legal framework that allowed me to make binding privacy promises (for example, a pledge that there is no third-party tracking on my website), and imposed stiff fines on my company if I violated these guarantees (including criminal liability in the case of outright fraud).

Such a legal mechanism would not only enable competition around privacy-enhancing features, but it would also give future regulators a clearer idea of how much value consumers place on data privacy. It is possible that the tech giants are right, and people want services for free, no matter the privacy cost. It is also possible that people value privacy, and will pay extra for it, just like many people now pay a premium for organic fruit. The experiment is easy to runbut it requires a modest foundation in law.

Academic research in computer science is full of fascinating ideas that could serve as the seed for business built around user privacy. Results in fields like homomorphic encryption, differential privacy, privacy-preserving machine learning, and zero-knowledge proofs all await a clever entrepreneur who can incorporate them into a useful product or service. It is very hard to compete against companies like Amazon or Facebook on price, but it is not hard to beat them on privacy. With a minimum of regulatory scaffolding, we might see a welcome new burst of innovation.

The final, and paramount goal, of privacy regulation should be to preserve our liberty.

There is no clearer warning of the danger of building up an infrastructure of surveillance than what is happening today in Chinas Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. Claiming to be concerned about the possible radicalization of a Muslim minority, Chinese authorities have imposed a regime of total surveillance over a population of twenty-five million people.

As recent reporting by Human Rights Watch has shown, a computer system called the Integrated Joint Operations Platform (IJOP) monitors the location and movement of all people in the province (based on phone data), as well as their gas and electricity consumption, which apps they use, where they worship, who they communicate with, and how they spend their money. This surveillance information is fed into machine learning models that can bin people into one of thirty-six suspect categories, bringing them to the closer attention of the police. Never before has a government had the technical means to implement this level of surveillance across an entire population. And they are doing it with the same off-the-shelf commercial technologies we use in America to get people to click on ads.

The latent potential of the surveillance economy as a toolkit for despotism cannot be exaggerated. The monitoring tools we see in repressive regimes are not dual use technologiesthey are single use technologies, working as designed, except for a different master.

For sixty years, we have called the threat of totalitarian surveillance Orwellian, but the word no longer fits the threat. The better word now may be Californian. A truly sophisticated system of social control, of the kind being pioneered in China, will not compel obedience, but nudge people towards it. Rather than censoring or punishing those who dissent, it will simply make sure their voices are not heard. It will reward complacent behavior, and sideline troublemakers. Its even possible that, judiciously wielded, such a system of social control might enjoy wide public support in our own country.

But I hope you will agree with me that such a future would be profoundly un-American.

There is no deep reason that weds the commercial internet to a business model of blanket surveillance. The spirit of innovation is not dead in Silicon Valley, and there are other ways we can grow our digital economy that will maintain our lead in information technology, while also safeguarding our liberty. Just like the creation of the internet itself, the effort to put it on a safer foundation will require a combination of research, entrepreneurial drive and timely, enlightened regulation. But we did it before, and theres no reason to think we cant do it again.

Machine learning is a mathematical technique for training computer systems to make accurate predictions from a large corpus of training data, with a degree of accuracy that in some domains can mimic human cognition.

For example, machine learning algorithms trained on a sufficiently large data set can learn to identify objects in photographs with a high degree of accuracy, transcribe spoken language to text, translate texts between languages, or flag anomalous behavior on a surveillance videotape.

The mathematical techniques underpinning machine learning, like convolutional neural networks (CNN), have been well-known since before the revolution in machine learning that took place beginning in 2012. What enabled the key breakthrough in machine learning was the arrival of truly large collections of data, along with concomitant computing power, allowing these techniques to finally demonstrate their full potential.

It takes data sets of millions or billions of items, along with considerable computing power, to get adequate results from a machine learning algorithms Before the advent of the surveillance economy, we simply did not realize the power of these techniques when applied at scale.

Because machine learning has a voracious appetite for data and computing power, it contributes both to the centralizing tendency that has consolidated the tech industry, and to the pressure companies face to maximize the collection of user data.

Machine learning models poses some unique problems in privacy regulation because of the way they can obscure the links between the data used to train them and their ultimate behavior.

A key feature of machine learning is that it occurs in separable phases. An initial training phase consists of running a learning algorithm on a large collection of labeled data (a time and computation-intensive process). This model can then be deployed in an exploitation phase, which requires far fewer resources.

Once the training phase is complete, the data used to train the model is no longer required and can conceivably be thrown away.

The two phases of training and exploitation can occur far away from each other both in space and time. The legal status of models trained on personal data under privacy laws like the GDPR, or whether data transfer laws apply to moving a trained model across jurisdictions, is not clear.

Inspecting a trained model reveals nothing about the data that went into it. To a human inspecting it, the model consists of millions and millions of numeric weights that have no obvious meaning, or relationship to human categories of thought. One cannot examine an image recognition model, for example, and point to the numbers that encode apple.

The training process behaves as a kind of one-way function. It is not possible to run a trained model backwards to reconstruct the input data; nor is it possible to untrain a model so that it will forget a specific part of its input.

Machine learning algorithms are best understood as inference engines. They find structure and excel at making inferences from data that can sometimes be surprising even to people familiar with the technology. This ability to see patterns that humans dont notice has led to interest in using machine learning algorithms in medical diagnosis, evaluating insurance risk, assigning credit scores, stock trading, and other fields that currently rely on expert human analysis.

The opacity of machine learning models, combined with this capacity for inference, also make them an ideal technology for circumventing legal protections on data use. In this spirit, I have previously referred to machine learning as money laundering for bias. Whatever latent biases are in the training data, whether or not they are apparent to humans, and whether or not attempts are made to remove them from the data set, will be reflected in the behavior of the model.

A final feature of machine learning is that it is curiously vulnerable to adversarial inputs. For example, an image classifier that correctly identifies a picture of a horse might reclassify the same image as an apple, sailboat or any other object of an attackers choosing if they can manipulate even one pixel in the image. Changes in input data not noticeable to a human observer will be sufficient to persuade the model. Recent research suggests that this property is an inherent and ineradicable feature of any machine learning system that uses current approaches.

In brief, machine learning is effective, has an enormous appetite for data, requires large computational resources, makes decisions that resist analysis, excels at finding latent structure in data, obscures the link between source data and outcomes, defies many human intuitions, and is readily fooled by a knowledgeable adversary.
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Although the report did not specify what kinds of products have been banned by Iraq, Baghdad had previously halted Iranian cement imports. One major reason given for the reduction is a difficulty in payment system caused by US sanctions, which will likely only get worse given new US sanctions on Iran.

Irans customs ministry showed in its latest statistics that non-oil exports to Iraq during the period March 21-April 20 equated to $389 million. In the previous 30-day period, this figure stood at $722 million.

This is a significant drop and the cause is unclear because no new sanctions came in during that timeframe, although tensions between the US and Iran had risen significantly, with the US eventually removing sanctions waivers on exports of Iranian oil on May 2 and Iran threatening to attack US forces and close a key shipping strait in the region.

In the Iranian year that ended on March 20, 2019, Iran had exported almost $9 billion of products to Iraq, a jump of 37% compared with the previous year. This is likely related to Iran being one of only nine countries granted sanctions waivers on Iranian oil (and the only one that still has a waiver in place). Irans sale of electricity and natural gas to Iraq was roughly $3 billion during the last Iranian fiscal year.

Roughly 25% of Irans total exports go to Iraq, making Iraq the second largest market for Iranian exports, just after China. In fact, before the US pulled out of the 2015 nuclear deal last May, Iran and Iraq were projected to have $20 billion annual trade.

Iranian officials have been floating the idea of increasing their trade with Iraq in recent months, in order to counter the effect of US sanctions that have devastated Irans economy.

However, this may not work as the US seeks to increase its relationship with Iraq. Earlier this week, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo took an unplanned visit to Iraq to reassure their leaders that the US stood ready to help them evade Iranian interference in their country.
Proposed NEA rental charges likely to skyrocket internet prices

The Nepal Electricity Authoritys move to increase the rent on internet service providers for using its poles and optical ground wire is likely to have a direct hit on consumers.
CHARLESTON -- A woman arrested for having methamphetamine about seven months after an earlier conviction for the offense received prison time when her probation revoked.

Emily N. Smith, 21, of Charleston, admitted to violations of the terms of the two-year probation sentence she received in September.

With the agreement reached in her case, a charge alleging she had methamphetamine on April 9 was dismissed.

With her earlier probation revoked, Smith faced resentencing in that case. She received a two-year sentence for the conviction that could have brought up to five years in prison.

Coles County Circuit Judge James Glenn imposed the sentence by accepting the terms of an agreement that Assistant State's Attorney Joy Wolf and Assistant Public Defender Stephanie Corum recommended.

In other cases in court recently, Glenn accepted guilty pleas from:

William W. Easter, 49, of Mattoon, to a methamphetamine possession charge alleging he had the drug on Feb. 13.

With the agreement reached, Easter received the maximum probation sentence possible, 2 1/2 years, for the conviction that could have resulted in a two- to 10-year prison term.

He was eligible for twice the usual maximum prison sentence for the offense because of an earlier methamphetamine possession conviction.

Terms of Easter's sentence included a treatment evaluation and stayed jail time, which he won't have to serve if there are no violations.

Wolf and Public Defender Anthony Ortega recommended the plea agreement.

Keon D. Cooper, 27, of Chicago and formerly of Mattoon, to a charge of failure to register as a sex offender.

Cooper was placed on probation for two years and prosecutors agreed not to seek revocation of his probation for a 2017 Coles County sexual abuse conviction.

Case records indicate that Cooper was homeless in Mattoon at the time and admitted to police he also hadn't register when he lived in Chicago.

Assistant State's Attorney Tom Bucher and Ortega recommended the plea agreement.

Jamario D. Brown, 22, of Park Forest, to a delivery of cannabis charge alleging he sold marijuana in Charleston on Dec. 6.

The amount of marijuana listed in the charge was reduced so Brown was eligible for first offender probation, which can lead to no record of a conviction. His probation terms was two years.

Wolf and Corum recommended the plea agreement.

Contact Dave Fopay at (217) 238-6858. Follow him on Twitter: @FopayDave

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CHARLESTON -- A Mattoon man was sentenced to prison after he admitted having a handgun when his criminal record made it illegal.

Prison time was required for Corey J. Mitchell, 29, who received a 4 1/2-year prison sentence for pleading guilty to a charge of possession of a firearm by a felon.

Case records indicate police found Mitchell with a handgun in his possession in Mattoon on Jan. 25 of last year. Mitchell's criminal record includes a 2016 methamphetamine possession offense for which he served prison time.

The agreement in his case led to the sentence for the conviction that could have resulted in a term of two to 10 years.

Also with the agreement, charges of methamphetamine possession and obstructing justice in a separate case were dismissed.

In that case, Mitchell was accused of having the drug and trying to hide from police in the ventilation system of a Mattoon apartment on Nov. 13.

Coles County Circuit Judge James Glenn accepted a plea agreement that Assistant State's Attorney Tom Bucher and Public Defender Anthony Ortega recommended.

In other cases in court recently, Glenn also accepted guilty pleas from:

Jacob M. Schneider, 33, of West Allis, Wis. and formerly of Mattoon, to a charge of aggravated driving under the influence of alcohol.

Schneider admitted driving while intoxicated in Mattoon on April 23, when he didn't have a valid driver's license.

He was sentenced to 2 1/2 years of probation for the felony conviction that could have brought as much as four years in prison. A misdemeanor disorderly conduct charge accusing Schneider of threatening a man on the same day was dismissed.

Probation terms included a treatment evaluation and a requirement that Schneider not enter any business primarily for the sale of alcohol. Jail time was stayed, meaning he won't have to serve it if he follows his sentence's other requirements.

Glenn accepted a plea agreement that Assistant State's Attorney Jenifer Schiavone and Ortega recommended.

John Staudinger, 28, of Charleston, to a methamphetamine possession charge accusing him of having the drug on April 22.

Terms of Staudinger's two-year probation sentence included a treatment evaluation and stayed jail time. He also agreed to waive extradition so he can be transported to face charges in Indiana.

Assistant State's Attorney Joy Wolf and Ortega recommended the plea agreement.

Dustin D. Brown, 35, of Charleston, to a methamphetamine possession charge alleging he had the drug on April 4.

The charge was reduced from possession with intent to deliver and Brown was sentenced to two years of first offender probation. It allows for no record of a conviction if completed successfully.

Probation terms included a treatment evaluation on stayed jail time. Wolf and Ortega recommended the plea agreement.

Contact Dave Fopay at (217) 238-6858. Follow him on Twitter: @FopayDave

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Richard A. Dick Lumpkin, founding director and former chairman of the Consolidated Communications Board of Directors, was remembered not only for his lasting contributions to East Central Illinois, but also his warmth and humor.
SPRINGFIELD  A bill that would require Illinois-headquartered corporations to include women and minorities on their boards of directors is now being considered in the Senate, where a committee chairwoman on Thursday suggested changes could be applied.

House Bill 3394 stirred heated debate when it passed out of the House last month. In its original form, it would have required every publicly traded corporation that has its main executive headquarters in Illinois to have at least one African-American and one woman on its board of directors, and it would impose financial penalties on corporations that fail to comply.

So far in the Senate, it has been expanded to include Latino representation as well, and it now provides that one person can serve to fill two or more categories.

Speaking to the Senate Commerce and Economic Development Committee, Sen. Christopher Belt, D-Cahokia, a sponsor of the bill in the Senate, said it is not intended to be punitive.

The intent of it is to look at the disparities on these boards, he said. Women, who make up 50 percent of the population nationally, and I think 32 percent on corporate boards; African-Americans, who make up 13.4 percent nationally and only make up 6.3 percent on boards; and Latinos, who are 18.1 percent of the population nationally but they only make up 2.0 (percent) on boards.

Belt cited studies showing that corporations with diverse boards of directors tend to outperform those that dont.

The studies that Ive read, that Ive been reading, it really underscores the fact that diversity does well for businesses. The corporations that have diversity do well, they do better profit-wise, he said.

Also testifying Thursday was Larry Ivory, president and CEO of the Illinois Black Chamber of Commerce, who said the bill would strengthen black communities, which in turn would help strengthen the entire state.

For our members, we have a saying. If youre not at the table, then guess what. Youre on the menu, Ivory said. If were not sitting at corporate boards and having input, were on the menu.

The bill is modeled after a law California enacted last year that requires all corporations headquartered there to have at least one woman on their boards. The bills House sponsor, Rep. Emmanuel "Chris" Welch, D-Hillside, said in a separate interview that he expanded on that concept by including ethnic minorities.

If enacted into law, it would apply to any publicly traded corporation that is headquartered in Illinois, regardless of the state in which the original articles of incorporation were filed. It would also apply to any entity incorporated in Illinois, even if the business is headquartered elsewhere.

But some legal scholars have said that raises a number of legal issues, including a principle known as the internal affairs doctrine, which generally holds that only one state can have authority to regulate the internal affairs of a corporation.

Sen. John Mulroe, D-Chicago, raised the latter issue when he asked the question about corporations that might be organized in one state but have their corporate headquarters in another.

That subject has come up and weve tried to address it in this bill, Belt said. If they file in Illinois, we would consider them also subject to the legislation that were pushing.

Several members of the committee, including Chairwoman Laura Murphy, D-Des Plaines, said she agreed with the principle and the intent of the bill.

But we have a lot of people that have expressed some concerns here that this bill really is not as inclusive as some would like it to be, Murphy said, because there are various groups that are left out of the discussion.

Murphy suggested the bill might need further revision before it could gain enough support to pass the full Senate.

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1. Comments must not be racist, misogynistic, homophobic, or otherwise bigoted.

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4. Comments must not try to sneak in some free advertising for themselves (like spam).

I invite anyone who wishes to comment on this blog to do so. I enjoy the comments, whether you agree with what I have said or not. But some people want to abuse the right to comment, and since this is my blog, I have decided to lay down the following rules. If your comment violates these rules, it will not be published.
We still have some time, the Lincoln senator said. I was reluctant to charge in and change it all when we dont have a full appreciation of how it works.

Instead, Hilgers and Omaha Sen. Wendy DeBoer will co-sponsor a legislative resolution calling for a study of Nebraskas redistricting history, with the goal of educating senators  only two of the 49 have been in office during a redistricting year  before the 2020 session.

I think its important for the body to understand how the process has worked, and understand where it has worked well and where it hasnt, Hilgers said.

DeBoer said the study will also examine the computer software used to draw congressional and legislative districts as well as other political boundaries for the University of Nebraska Board of Regents, State Board of Education and other bodies as outlined in the state constitution.

The study will also look at other states redistricting procedures and how their policies may be compatible with Nebraska law, she added.
While at Moody Church, Warren was the speaker on the church's radio program, Songs in the Night, which was aired every Sunday evening. Dr. Theodore Epp of Back to the Bible radio ministry got to know Warren and eventually invited him to teach on the broadcast. The response was positive, and the Wiersbes moved to Lincoln in 1982 as Warren became the associate teacher. After Dr. Epp's death, Wiersbe became the general director and Bible teacher. He enjoyed radio ministry and was effective at crafting the message to fit the medium. But he also enjoyed live radio and was often on various Christian stations to discuss books, or answer callers' questions, or to be interviewed about a Christian perspective on current events. Warren resigned from Back to the Bible in 1992 to focus on his writing and Bible conference speaking. He completed the Be series in 2002, a 30 year project. The series has been published in several editions and in many languages. Along with these commentaries, he wrote books on pastoral work, preaching, worship, the Christian imagination, grief and suffering, devotional and doctrinal studies, and Christian biography. His canon includes 177 books (according to Betty), and 180 if you include the books of magic tricks. He contributed articles and columns to certain Christian magazines in the 1970s and 1980s. He stopped preaching in late 2004, but kept on writing. Wiersbe will be remembered as a student of God's Word, a careful exegete and a creative, powerful preacher. His life-long habit of early morning Bible reading and prayer produced the fruit of his speaking and writing. He had a mind that remembered information accurately, even to the page number and location on the page in a book. He always read with a pen in his hand and made his own index in the back of the book. Warren Wiersbe had a wonderful sense of humor, which he did not always work hard to restrain. His ministry was global. He spoke at Bible and mission conferences around the world, especially in connection with Child Evangelism Fellowship. He especially enjoyed conferences in Great Britain, so he could visit the churches where his spiritual heroes had preached. Wiersbe ministered at several Christian schools, including Moody Bible Institute, Tennessee Temple University, Cornerstone University, Beeson Divinity School, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, Dallas Theological Seminary, and Cedarville University to whom he donated his library. Warren W. Wiersbe was a student, a disciple, a pastor, a preacher, a teacher, an author, a mentor, and a Christian example. He was a devoted husband and a wonderful father. His family life he kept private, but he loved his wife Betty (without whom he could not have been Warren Wiersbe) and children. He enjoyed being a grandfather and great-grandfather (he could magically pull quarters from their ears). Warren Wiersbe died peacefully on May 2, 2019, entering heaven's joy.
They voted on the title: All in One and each student had a part, either on stage or behind the scenes.

On Friday, the curtain on the portable stage will open on a high school sophomore huddled under the covers, anxiety and depression binding her there, a mom who doesnt understand, a sister trying to help.

Another scene begins on the first day of school as three friends deal with the loss of another friend to suicide.

There is humor, too, some silliness and a bit of lighthearted dialogue, but this play is a drama, about real-life issues.

Some of the stories students shared made their way into the play, Carter said. They included serious moments, such as a missed call from someone who died.

And student interests became the basis of more lighthearted scenes: A war hammer a student wanted to make became a bit about a kid who enjoys live action role playing.

Kathryn Gydesen, a sophomore who wore a pig nose last year in a comedy that combined fairy tale characters into a Law and Order format, took the theater class again because she loved it then and was intrigued by the idea of doing an original play.
Journal Star reporters and photographers have received three first-place awards in two regional journalism contests.

Reporter Peter Salter earned first-place honors in the specialty feature category in the Great Plains Journalism Awards, which cover an eight-state region and are coordinated by the Tulsa Press Club.

Columnist Cindy Lange-Kubick won a first prize for a personal column in The Associated Press Great Plains News and Photo Contest, which involves newspapers in Nebraska, North Dakota and South Dakota.

Photographer Francis Gardler also won a first place in the AP contest for best feature photo.

In addition to the first-place awards, a number of other Journal Star staffers were honored in both contests.

Finalists in the Tulsa Press Club contest were: Alex Lantz, Lange-Kubick, Gardler, Margaret Reist and a staff project.

Other award winners in the AP contest were: Staff, second place in enterprise reporting; Nicole Neri, second place in feature photo, Gardler, second place in general news photo and Salter, third place in feature story.

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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
Protest Against Patriarchy

I hadnt watched the previous iterations of The Vagina Monologues but based on what I was hearing on the grapevine, I expected it to be radical, in-your-face and ferocious. Private is Political, the latest version of it, is indeed, no different.
1949: Missouri Basin funds approved by the Senate Appropriations Committee included Harlan County Reservoir, $13.5 million; Missouri River from Sioux City, Iowa, to Kesler Bend, $422,000; Gavin's Point Reservoir, $3 million; and Omaha, $1.5 million.

1959: After Gov. Ralph Brooks threatened to fire the entire three-member state Board of Control, Penitentiary Warden Joseph Bovey resigned.

1969: Gov. Norbert Tiemann called for the state to observe a day of mourning each time the death of a Nebraskan was reported in Vietnam. Known deaths of Nebraskans in the Southeast Asian war then numbered 277.

1979: The Legislature voted 30-18 to pass the Nebraska Clean Indoor Air Act, which would mandate special smoking and nonsmoking sections in restaurants of more than 1,200 square feet.

1989: Education leaders debated the pros and cons of Kearney State College's proposed merger with the University of Nebraska system. All agreed the merger would increase NU's political power. However, several expressed concern for the future of the remaining state colleges.
Our Constitution provides checks and balances through separation of powers between the legislative, executive and judicial branches of government.

This is to ensure that no one branch could obtain too much unchecked power. This worked through much of our history.

But, in recent years, the executive branch has obtained more and more power, until we find ourselves in our current situation. The current person in charge of the executive branch seems to be able to dictate all foreign and domestic policy by executive order or tweet.

Unilateral imposition of tariffs, doing away with clean water and air legislation, declaring national emergencies, etc. All with a few illegible up-and-down strokes of a magic marker.

The legislative branch is supposed to rein in harmful actions by the executive branch. The current Congress seems to be unable or unwilling to do its duty.

The House of Representatives may be able to propose legislation to put the brakes on the current occupant of the White House, but there is a one-man roadblock in the Senate, Majority Leader Mitch McConnell.
STURTEVANT  Corporations, businesses, nonprofit agencies, government entities and individuals are invited to attend a free, two-hour sustainability event sponsored by the Racine Sustainable Business Network (RSBN). The focus will be to urge organizations to work toward zero waste.

The meeting is scheduled for 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. Wednesday at the Goodwill Industries Retail Center, 1630 Enterprise Drive. Refreshments will be served with networking opportunities and table talk.

One of RSBNs key goals is to counter a throwaway mentality with a zero-waste mindset. The group said Kestrel Hawk Landfill is set to close in about five years.

This program urges businesses to do their part in reducing waste. Attendees can learn about key methods to approach zero waste in a manufacturing plant or small business, including success stories. Participants will also be invited to share their efforts in waste reduction. The program will also provide information about the local Zero Waste movement in the greater Racine community.

Randall Olson, Goodwill business development manager for the organizations E-cycle and Data-Shield program will address the growing issue of electronic waste and give a virtual tour of the Goodwill E-cycle plant in Greendale.

RSBN promotes healthy people, planet and profit for Racine County. To learn more and to register for this event, visit www.sustainableracine.org or find Racine Sustainable Business Network on Facebook.

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RACINE  A young man with a yearlong toothache. A cancer survivor with no money for a checkup. An uninsured father with a daughter worried about his health. These are just a few of the people who sought free medical and dental care Saturday at Park High School, 1901 12th St., through Ascension All Saints Medical Mission at Home.

In the first hour alone, 183 patients registered to receive care from the doctors, nurses and numerous others who volunteered their time on Saturday. In total, All Saints and its 410 volunteers served 279 medical patients and 115 dental patients.

Jenny Martinez, 20, brought her uninsured father to the event because she felt it was important for him to get a checkup. It was her first time experiencing anything like the free Medical Mission.

It was amazing, she said. They were so friendly to him and they were going out of their way to help him.

Although Saturdays event is the first event of its kind in Racine, Ascension has been doing Medical Missions at Home in other communities in the United States since 2008, and All Saints hopes to host another one next year.

The Medical Mission provided locals who are uninsured, underinsured or who have high co-pays they cannot afford with things like medical evaluations, lab testing, X-rays, dental care and mammograms.

Kristin McManmon, Ascension All Saints Hospital president, said she spoke with some patients toward the end of their visit who said they wouldnt change anything about their experience.

Thats what we want to hear, McManmon said.

McManmon said she chatted with a woman who was waiting to see a doctor on Saturday who had a history of breast cancer in her family but hadnt been able to afford a mammogram for three years.

Those are the things that weigh on your mind, McManmon said.

Rose Myhre, 59, of Racine said she came to the Medical Mission because her children had been pestering her to get a physical.

Myhre said she is a uterine cancer survivor who had a hysterectomy four years ago. She said she would not have gone to the doctor for a checkup if it werent for the medical mission.

Myhre cares for her son who is blind and diabetic, as well as for his son who has special needs, so she knows its important for her to stay healthy. Her employer does not provide health insurance.

This is absolutely wonderful for low-income families that cant afford insurance, Myhre said. This is a blessing for people.

Dental care

Not only could attendees receive free medical care, but Hope Smiles, a non-profit based in Tennessee, set up 20 chairs to provide dental procedures, like extractions, as well as dental hygiene services.

We know that dental is an important part of overall health, said Jeff Atwood, executive director of Hope Smiles. And often there is a tremendous need.

Marquese Ford, 32 of Racine, came to the clinic in hopes of getting care for a tooth thats been bothering him for quite some time.

He had been holding off on the dental work for a year because he doesnt have dental insurance and was told the bill would be $1,800.

Ford said he was grateful that Ascension was offering free care.

You can see that its not just me, the community needs this, Ford said, as he gestured to the other patients waiting to see a doctor.

At the end of their visit, the patients who needed it received referrals for resources to provide them free medications or follow up care. Attendees also received lunch, packed by volunteer Park High School students, a bag of groceries and personal hygiene items.

Ascension chose Park High School for its location, parking availability and its location near a bus route.

Jeff Miller, Parks principal, said the medical mission was an opportunity to help the families of its students.

Park is more than a school, its a community organization, he said.

In fewer than 12 hours, Miller said, volunteers turned the gym into a hospital and dental clinic.

Some of the volunteers on Saturday were Park students in the schools health sciences and biomedical pathways.

Estefania Alonso, a senior at Park who is already a Certified Nursing Assistant, or CNA, worked as a volunteer, taking patients heights, weights and vital signs.

Its really been great, Alonso said. I didnt expect such a big turnout.

Shes been working as a CNA at Ascension All Saints Hospital, 3801 Spring St., for two years.

She said she volunteered on Saturday because she enjoys helping people in the community.

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RACINE  Police said they are investigating the death of two people found dead in a home early Friday in the 2600 block of 19th Street as a potential murder/suicide.

At 6:50 a.m. Friday, city police responded to the scene after a child called police indicating that shots were being fired inside the home, Sgt. Adam Malacara said during a press conference outside of Racine Police headquarters Friday afternoon.

When police arrived, they discovered the bodies of two individuals  a 30-year-old woman and a 34-year-old man. The two were an estranged couple, Malacara said. Police confirmed that after a preliminary investigation, the incident is being investigated as a possible murder/suicide.

Two of the couples children were also found in the home. Malacara said the children are safe and uninjured.

We are all very happy that the kids are safe, Malacara said. We worry about them.

The Police Department has classified the shooting as a homicide, but officers said they are not actively searching for a suspect. In the home, two guns were recovered, with the possibility of a third, Malacara said. Police confirmed that they had responded to calls at the house in the past.

Police said that out of respect for the families involved, they would not be releasing the names of the victims on Friday. The Wisconsin State Patrol is also assisting in the investigation.

Malacara said this incident is not connected to the arrest of 15-year-old Martice Fuller, who was taken into custody Friday morning in Racine in connection to the fatal shooting of 16-year-old Kaylie Juga in Kenosha on Thursday. Fuller was found in the 2000 block of Blake Avenue.

Unlucky coincidences

David Huppenbauer, a maintenance technician working for a property developer, said this is the second day that he has gone to work near an active police scene.

On Thursday, Huppenbauer was assigned to complete flooring work on 37th Avenue in Kenosha, not far from where the fatal shooting of Juga took place.

On Friday, he was responding to an apartment building at the corner of 19th Street and Flett due to hot-water issues in a building. The building is adjacent to the scene of Fridays homicide.

The scene in Kenosha looked exactly like this, Huppenbauer said.

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Stephanie Jones Managing Editor Stephanie Jones is the managing editor for The Journal Times. To stay informed about what is going on in Racine County, subscribe at journaltimes.com/subscribenow. It's only about 10 cents per day for a digital subscription. Follow Stephanie Jones 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
RACINE  For Wednesday and Thursday, Park High School rooms 261 and 263 were not classrooms; they were portals into a tropical rainforest, complete with a waterfall, sneaky snake, authentic ambient sounds, live plants and a smorgasbord of tropical food samples.

Regular and special-education classes teamed up to create the display, which included paper leaves hanging from the ceiling and dimmed lights to set the mood. Horticulture students created dioramas, wood-shop students created a Rainforest Jeopardy game and stagecraft students erected a large papier-mache tree.

Zenobia Haniff, a special-education teacher at Park who organized the project, said she wanted to help students explore the world.

One of my basic goals was to show students there is more to the world than 12th Street, Racine, said Haniff, originally from the Caribbean island of Trinidad, adding that some students have never left the state or even the city.

This was the second year that Haniff organized the rainforest display. But last years project was contained to just one classroom and did not involve as many students. This year, she said, she dedicated about a month and a half to planning and got other staff involved.

The expansion meant the rainforest engulfed special-education teacher Lisa Schissels room, too. Schissel and Haniff work with the same general group of students, so it was a natural fit to expand it to her space.

Schissels students loved it, she said.

The kids had a lot of fun, and its learning for them, Schissel said.

Educational assistant Joann Harris also noticed students enjoying themselves.

Horticulture students presented their dioramas, explaining the parts of a rainforest and also speaking on deforestation and how to solve it. Juniors Azia Price and Dontarious Gamble and senior Matthew Creuziger suggested building a wall around rainforests to let them grow back in and preserve them.

Sophomore Ethan Chacon, who was collecting feedback cards, said he enjoyed helping with the exhibit and that his favorite part was getting to try papaya.

Academies of Racine

With all the students working together, the rainforest project stands as an example of the good that can come from project-based learning, which Racine Unifieds Academies of Racine initiative focuses on, said Jennifer Barncard, Parks Academy of Health Science and Education principal. She praised Haniffs extensive planning and work outside of school hours to bring the whole project together.

It just shows how much work teachers do outside of the regular work day, Barncard said.

Haniff used a day off to go to Waukegan, Ill., to buy mangoes for the food sampling area, she said.

Haniff already plans to bring the rainforest back next year and make it bigger and better than ever before.

She said she would like to have SC Johnson representatives visit to speak about carnauba wax, which is one of the major ingredients of the companys wood paste wax. Carnauba wax is derived from the carnauba palm, a tree species native to Brazil.

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One of the slogans you come across in front-line management training is Catch them doing something right. In other words, make a point of telling those you supervise that theyre doing a good job.

We dont supervise Racine Police Chief Art Howell or his officers. But weve caught them doing something right.

Reports of violent crime fell by 17 percent within the Racine Police Departments jurisdiction between 2017 and 2018, according to new statistics reported to the FBI and the Wisconsin Department of Justice.

Its a far cry from 1991, when Racines violent crime rate was among the highest in the state  even Milwaukees rate was lower then.

(Violent crime) in Racine has dropped to record lows each of the past six years, while this has not been the case in neighboring major cities, Howell said in a May 5 Journal Times report.

Howell said that the positive shifts can be largely attributed to the departments two-pronged approach when it comes to crime reduction, as well as the improved technology available to law enforcement.

In the 1960s, police officers didnt even have radios. Theyd have to go to a police call box to radio something in, Howell said. Now, the officers can talk to each other with radio and we have computers in the squad cars  technology has really assisted law enforcement.

Even 40 years ago, Howell said, it would sometimes take weeks to identify patterns in crimes, such as a series of shots-fired incidents or robberies. Police would do this through placing physical pins in maps, hoping to identify patterns or clusters that could lead to identifying suspects and catching a culprit.

Now, we have a computer database that will show us in real time if there is an emerging trend, Howell said. Advances in tech have really changed how policing is done.

The first prong of the departments approach is targeting past lawbreakers.

10% of the criminals are responsible for 60% of the crime. Were most successful when we target that 10%, Howell said. Anyone who has presented a threat to public safety is tracked  all the way through the criminal justice process.

The other prong of the departments crime-reduction efforts is relationships.

That starts with the citys six Community Oriented Policing Houses, aka COP Houses. Howell said that the presence of a COP House on Anthony Lane (formerly Jacato Drive), as well as collaborations with other city departments, has played a major role in reducing crime on Racines northwest side.

The key there is, you cant develop relationships at the time of a crime. You have to have trust and equity already built, and the way you do that is through our programs.

Weve written here previously of our enthusiastic support of the COP Houses.

It was in 2008, in a series of reports on Racine gang culture, that The Journal Times quoted a Racine Police sergeant as seeing kids walking around with Stop Snitchin T-shirts on. The shirts  specifically, the message behind them  were meant to discourage cooperation with the police.

One sure way to fight the spread of that anti-police mentality is to have officers stationed in the citys neighborhoods, at the COP Houses, to create an environment where officers know the residents and the residents know the officers.

While Friday was a hard day in Racine with two deaths on 19th Street, overall Racines streets and neighborhoods have gotten safer on Chief Howells watch.

Well done, Chief. Well done, Racine police officers.

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Supreme Court set to hear review petition on its landmark 2015 ruling

In February 2015, the Supreme Court issued a landmark ruling ordering the government to revise the Enforced Disappearances Enquiry, Truth and Reconciliation Commission Act-2014. The court ruled that the law failed to adhere to the principles of transitional justice and international practices.
- Chienna Filomeno previously admitted that she went under the knife to enhance her nose

- Her revelation received praises from many people because of her honesty

- Recently, she also disclosed the real reason why she had to undergo plastic surgery

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Chienna Filomeno is very open when it comes to her nose, which she let to be enhanced through plastic surgery.

As reported by Philippines' Ultimate Showbiz Hub (PUSH), the Kapamilya actress revealed that there is a story behind her decision of getting her nose done surgically.

She said that she was born via Cesarean Section and during the operation, her nose got hit by the scalpel, but she explained that her family was all blessed with a pointed nose.

Theres a story behind it kasi noong pinanganak ako, I was born in Japan, gusto ni mommy normal delivery. It took her siguro whole day na mag-labor, hindi kaya, eh 50-50 na kailangan ko nang lumabas so emergency CS (Caesarean Section) ako."

"Since emergency, yung doctor paghiwa niya, natamaan ang ilong ko. Tapos sabi nila magre-regenerate daw kasi baby pa naman ako so okay tapos 14 [years old na ako], wala, hindi pa tumubo yung buto. Si mommy ko, daddy ko, lahat matangos ang ilong so yun sa akin tinamaan. If you can see theres a scar here. Yun ang tama ng scalpel, she narrated.

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In a previous report by KAMI, Photos showing the jaw-dropping 22-inch waistline of Chienna Filomeno went viral.

Chienna is 22 years old and is part of 'It's Showtime'.

She already starred in some movies such as 'Crazy Beautiful You' and 'Can't Help Falling in Love'.

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In this video, Kapamilya star Jodi Sta. Maria shared her experiences working together with Gabbi Concepcion. Check out more of our videos - on KAMI HumanMeter Youtube channel!

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- Kris Aquino once again took to Instagram to share about the recent board meeting for her food venture, Nacho Bimby Pilipinas Corporation

- This was in partnership with opular franchise brand Potato Corner

- Along with this she was also able to reveal more updates on the alleged unaccounted 45M from sons trust accounts

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Kris Aquino revealed some details about a recent board meeting for her food venture, Nacho Bimby Pilipinas Corporation. This business venture was in partnership with Potato Corner.

Kris is the chairman and president of Nacho Bimby Pilipinas Corporation. She revealed that two employees  the corporate secretary and one who assists in the filing of financial reports for Nacho Bimby were close associates of Nicko Falcis. They both failed to show up in the meeting according to her.

She also mentioned Jose JoMag Magsaysay who showed up to the meeting along with Atty Bong Bernas.

Nacho Bimby is doing well but Kris said she is willing to do necessary things even if it takes selling her share if needed for her to get out of it.

She also explained about the unaccounted 45M from her sons trust accounts which she had been mentioning ever since she exposed the alleged money problems with her former business partner.

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In an earlier statement, Kris said Nicko got her to invest in Nacho Bimby Pilipinas Corporation under his name. She wanted to transfer the 40 million-worth of investment to her sons' names.

I asked for an accounting of 40M invested for my sons, and financial reports for our 12 Potato Corner+Nacho Bimby branches and my lawyers & I were ignored, she revealed.

Kristina Bernadette Cojuangco Aquino is a Chinese Filipino television host, actress, producer, product endorser and businesswoman.

POPULAR: Read more about Kris Aquino here

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- The Its Showtime hosts were surprised after seeing Ion Perez with his new look

- The said personality stated that he sported a new guise for a change

- Many netizens expressed their reactions about the changes in Ions look

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Kuya Escort Ion Perez was able to surprise the Its Showtime hosts and studio audience as he confidently entered the stage sporting a new look.

KAMI learned that the famous personality decided to flaunt his new guise during the KapareWho segment of the said noontime program.

Mariel Padilla, Anne Curtis, and the other hosts of the show immediately expressed that they are not used to Ions scruffy bearded look.

However, Kuya Escort tried to explain that the reason why he decided to have a bearded look is because he wanted to try something new.

Because of this, the hosts poked fun at his look, making witty jokes that successfully caused laughter in the Its Showtime studio.

Vice Ganda then asked Ion if he is comfortable having a beard, to which he responded by asking if it looks good.

Moreover, the Unkabogable Star inquired about who willed the said prominent personality to have a new look.

"Ako, 70 percent. Diba 30 percent pumayag ka?" Ion hilariously responded.

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Here are the reactions of netizens:

Not suitable for him. He looks old. But he is still cute and sweet for meme.

I still like the clean-cut look on Ion. A bit long hair with gel and shaved face. Maybe Vice likes the dirty look for now so Ion looks older but I always favor the clean cut.

Clean look or scruffy look, Ion looks sooo handsome either way.

Yehey! Inaabangan ko talaga si Ion! Thank you po. Gwapo pa rin eh kahit anong itsura.

Ion, youre very handsome with the beard and mustache. I love it. Kilig na kilig ako, bagay na bagay sa iyo.

Watch the video below:

In a previous article by, Vice and Ion were spotted together at an airport in the United States.

Ion Perez is a one of the promising celebrities in the Philippines. He is rumored to be in a romantic relationship with Vice Ganda but they are still not confirming if the speculations are true.

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- Kim Chiu served as the guest host in a recent episode of Its Showtime

- The regular hosts of the show then teased him about her former partner

- Vice Ganda even threw a question that made the madlang people react

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Kapamilya actress Kim Chiu made a lot of netizens smile and laugh after she subtly dodged Vice Ganda's question about working with former partners.

KAMI learned that this funny moment took place during the KapareWho segment of Its Showtime where the celebrity was invited as the guest host.

Vice initially made an insightful statement about choosing a partner in life, as he stated that a persons significant other must not bring stress in someones life.

"Nako, wag kang sumasama sa stressful! the comedian quipped.

May mga ganyan eh. Yung girlfriend mo maganda pero stressful, ang ganda pero bungangera, ang ganda pero konting utot lang mag-aaway na naman kayo," he added.

Vhong Navarro and Billy Crawford decided to divert the topic by asking the Phenomenal Star if it feels good for him to be with his partner in the same work.

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In response, Vice told his co-hosts that he never experienced working with his boyfriend and he just threw the question to Kim instead, who was listening to his funny antics.

Ay si Kim Chiu kasi nagkaroon na siya ng katrabahong jowa. Mahirap? he asked.

Anong mas mahirap, katrabaho mo yung boyfriend mo o katrabaho mo yung ex mo? he added.

The former My Binondo Girl star then tried to avoid the question by emphasizing that she was a guest host in the show and not a contestant.

"Hindi naman ako contestant dito, sumasali-sali lang kami dito," Kim replied as she jokingly retreated behind the prop on the stage.

Watch the funny moment here:

In a previous article by , the hilarious video of Kim and Vhong fighting over KZ Tandingans magic microphone went viral.

Kim Chiu is a multi-awarded actress in the Philippines who gained popularity after winning in the reality competition entitled Pinoy Big Brother. She had a long-time relationship with actor Gerald Anderson.

POPULAR: Read more news about Vice Ganda!

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- Korina Sanchez celebrated her first mother's day on Sunday, May 12, 2019

- She had been sharing a lot about her twins on Instagram

- One of her IG post elicited reactions and hate messages from some netizens

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Korina Sanchez who was very happy to finally celebrate Mother's day with the arrival of her adorable twins Pepe and Pilar. Her excitement just like most of the first time moms is evident in her social media posts.

She shared pictures of their babies most of the time. However a certain IG post of hers elicited mixed reactions from some of the IG users.

The Kapamilya newscaster shared a picture of two babies feeding on a bottle attached to holders which was clipped on the headboard of the bed.

It was a photo which already circulated the net for quite some time and Korina shared it on her Instagram. She wrote, "Huh? I waaaaant this!!! Good morning!"

Some of her followers got the humor in her post but there were those who reacted negatively. There were some who said that babies are meant to be cuddled and they will miss the parents' warmth with that kind of setup.

There were even those who judged and described it as just "katamaran.'

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Korina Maria Sanchez-Roxas, is one of the country's most popular broadcast journalist, television news anchor, host, radio anchor and a columnist. She was married to Mar Roxas who is curretnly running for Senator.

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- Jennica Garcia-Uytingco is among the celebrity moms who advocate breastfeeding

- However, she recently shocked moms when she endorsed a formula milk

- The actress received a lot of judgement and bashing just because of her endorsement

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Jennica Garcia-Uytingco was among the celebrity moms who advocated breastfeeding. She and her husband Alwyn Uytingco had always been admired for their simplicity.

However, she agreed to endorse a formula milk which elicited intense reactions online especially from some breastfeeding moms.

She already has two daughters, 3-year-old Mori and her younger baby Alessi who is turning a year old this June.

Some moms reacted and reminded her of some words she used to say being a breastfeeding advocate.

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Some of her followers however defended her and pointed out that having two kids to be breastfed is not easy.

Marian Rivera also received the same online backlash when she decided to accept the same product endorsement.

Jennica Garcia is the daughter of the award winning actress Jean Garcia. She was married to the actor turned director Alwyn Uytingco.

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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!

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- Mariel padilla recently was among the celebrities who got to attend an appreciation dinner in Malacanang

- She took to Instagram to express her gratitude for the invitation

- Kris Aquino got reminded of not being able to invite the actress who endorsed her brother in the past election

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Mariel Padilla took to Instagram to share some pictures taken during a private dinner at Malacanang. The dinner was an appreciation dinner for the president's supporters.

Mariel wrote about how unforgettable her experience was being one of the invited guests along with some celebrities.

She wrote, PRRD is not the first President that I campaigned for but he is the first President to invite me to the palace.

This post elicited reactions. Some critics of the president reacted negatively. Kris Aquino also reacted as she was reminded by the time Mariel supported her brother's candidacy.

Kris Aquino commented on this post and apologized to Mariel for not being able to get invited for an appreciation wedding with her brother's victory during the past elections.

"Hi Ma... its those human gestures of saying THANK YOU that matter... Nahiya ako that hindi ka na invite for a proper thank you celebration (i am keeping my fingers crossed at some point you did receive flowers?) "she wrote.

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Robin's wife replied to Kris's comment and revealed she was not able to receive any flowers but she assure Kris that their friendship is what mattered more to her.

Robin Padilla's wife recently revealed they are exxpecting baby number two. She emotionally shared the news on It's showtime Mother''s Day special.

Mariel Rodriguez-Padilla is a Filipina commercial model, endorser, television host, VJ and actress.She is one of the TV host of kapamilya's noontime show It's Showtime. Kris Aquino is a Chinese Filipino television host, actress, producer, product endorser and businesswoman. Mariel was one of the celebrities who supported Kris's brother Noynoy's candidacy.

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Michelle and Chad Fonger of Holmen are approaching the one-year anniversary of their FarmDish LLC meal preparation and delivery service, and plan to open a restaurant in a few years and to offer catering.

Michelle, who is FarmDishs executive chef, and some of the services 15 employees prepare meals in a rented commercial kitchen space in downtown La Crosse on Sundays.

FarmDish offers deliveries to customers on Sunday evening and Monday morning, and also offers free pickups either in downtown La Crosse on Sunday evening or at FarmDishs office in Suite 103 at 405 S. Main St. in Holmen anytime on Monday.

Customers either subscribe to a meal plan or buy meals on an ala carte basis.

FarmDish began operating last July and now has about 50 customers, mostly in Holmen, Onalaska and La Crosse. It offers free delivery within those three communities, and theres a small fee for delivery elsewhere.

The meals are delivered in reusable insulated cooler bags with freezer packs. Most of the meals will keep in the customers refrigerator or at room temperature for five to seven days, Michelle said. The meals also can be frozen.

FarmDish offers meal plans for breakfast, lunch, dinner and children, and in the near future will offer additional plans, such as vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free.

So far, the dinner meal plan is the most popular. Thats definitely our biggest market, Michelle said. We have a lot of busy moms, busy families. People who want their nights back. They can have their dinner ready, pop it in the microwave, and its good to go.

Salmon dishes and frittatas have been some of the most popular menu items so far.

Weekly menus are posted on the www.farmdish.com website.

Michelle said almost all of the ingredients FarmDish uses are organic, and ingredients come from local or regional sustainable farms as much as possible.

Michelle grew up on French Island and the North Side of La Crosse, and Chad was raised in Onalaska.

The Fongers, who have two young children, moved back to the area from California in 2016.

Michelle said she lived in Los Angeles from 2011 to 2016, and received a bachelors degree in culinary management from The International Culinary Schools at The Art Institute of California  Los Angeles in 2015. She said she has worked in and managed kitchens for years, including a job cooking at a West Hollywood seafood restaurant that attracted celebrities.

The Fongers, whose first child was 4 months old at the time, returned to the area from Los Angeles because We just didnt want to raise our child in Los Angeles, Michelle said. Its a very big, crazy city and its also really expensive to live there.

We wanted to have a food business after returning to the area, Michelle said. I was hesitant to do a restaurant right off the bat, because restaurants are so labor-intensive to start. And you need a lot of capital and a staff of people. She got the idea for FarmDish from working for a woman who had a somewhat similar business in Los Angeles.

We have a really cool blueprint for where we want to take it, Michelle said of the couples business.

Wed like to have our own kitchen eventually, she said. Something where we could have an actual restaurant Monday through Saturday, and on Sunday we could still do the FarmDish deliveries. We also want to get into catering, especially lunches for local businesses and things like that. And we also want to do cooking classes.

Michelle said she hopes to open the restaurant in a few years.

FARMDISH, LLC WHAT: A meal preparation and delivery service owned by Michelle and Chad Fonger of Holmen. WHERE: Michelle and FarmDishs 15 employees prepare the meals in rented commercial kitchen space in downtown La Crosse on Sundays. Delivery to customers is available Sunday evening and Monday morning, and customers also can pick up their meals in downtown La Crosse on Sunday night or at FarmDishs office in Holmen anytime on Monday. MORE INFO: Call 608-318-DISH (3474) or visit www.farmdish.com or Facebook.

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Trempealeau has a new restaurant, and Onalaska is getting one.

The Liberty Peak Deli opened April 29 in a renovated railroad caboose in Trempealeau. Meanwhile, the former Ground Round Grill & Bar in Onalaska is about to be remodeled into a Crooked Pint Ale House restaurant.

You cant miss the burgundy-color railroad caboose that was trucked to downtown Trempealeau last August, and renovated, next to the Driftless Bike N Bean shop at 11369 Main St.

Especially since the Brad and Amy Stanislowski family, which operates Driftless, opened their new Liberty Peak Deli in the caboose. Brad said its named after one of the Trempealeau areas most visible peaks, which also is commonly called First Peak.

The deli, which has inside and outside seating, offers build-your-own deli sandwiches, soup, snack chips and bottled and canned beverages such as soda pop, water and iced tea. Sandwiches can be made from five kinds of meat, five kinds of bread baked in a new kitchen in the Driftless building and three kinds of cheese.

The Stanislowskis opened Driftless in December 2016 after buying the former Green Heron Bicyle Works bike shop there from Kevin Miller. Driftless is a combination espresso, coffee and ice cream cafe/full-service bicycle repair and rental shop.

The Driftless building is still owned by Miller, who bought, trucked in and renovated the caboose for the new deli. The 20-ton caboose had been part of an Erie Mining Co. train in Minnesotas Iron Range, until the mid-1980s. It was in storage in East St. Louis, Ill., until it was sold and hauled to Trempealeau.

I thought if we could bring in a novelty structure, it would be more of an attraction, Miller said. Having a fun novelty structure is good for the business and for the community.

I had told (Miller) that if I had more space, I could do more things, said Brad Stanislowski, who was glad to open a deli next to Driftless.

The delis hours are 10:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily but are subject to change, he said. For more information, call the deli at 608-534-5504 or visit its Facebook page.

A building permit for remodeling the former Ground Round restaurant at 9348 Hwy. 16 in the Crosseroads Center shopping center, into a Crooked Pint Ale House, was issued by the city of Onalaska on Thursday. The Ground Round closed last June after 3  years in business.

Crooked Pint Ale House is expected to open in late summer, according to online advertisements for two management positions that were posted Thursday.

Crooked Pint Ale House is part of the St. Paul, Minn.-based Hightop Hospitality family of restaurants, which also includes Green Mill Restaurant and Bar, Sweet Peas Public House and Harriets Inn.

The www.crookedpint.com website lists 11 locations, all in Minnesota, North Dakota and South Dakota. The Crooked Pint closest to La Crosse opened in a former Green Mill restaurant in Rochester in 2015.

A Hightop Hospitality official wasnt available for comment last week.

Chiropractic First of La Crescent opened May 1 in its new location at 120 Midnite St., along the pike, in La Crescent.

The practice is owned by Christopher Wood, doctor of chiropractic, who started it in 2005 at its previous location in the KC Professional Building at 205 N. Chestnut St.

With the larger space, Wood said, the practice will be able to add chiropractors and expand hours. We are grateful for the last 14 years in the KC Building and are looking forward to continuing our services in our completely renovated new location, he said.

An open house with a ribbon cutting will be from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Thursday.

Office hours, which Wood said probably will expand as chiropractors are added, are 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday; 2 to 6 p.m. Tuesday; and 9 a.m. to noon Saturday. Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments are recommended.

For more information, call 507-895-2225 or visit www.BeforeDrugs.com or Facebook.

Advanced Multimedia Solutions officials say the business has moved into its new state-of-the-art facility at 2908 Airport Road in La Crosse.

With the move, the business more than doubled its space to allow for continued growth, better customer service and the ability to showcase technology solutions. Founded in 2007, AMS provides a wide range of services for business and home, and specializes in audio/video, conference room, smart home, home theater, system design, installation, programming and service.

AMS will host a Technology Showcase and Open House at its new location on May 31. The event will feature vendors, technology demonstrations, door prizes, food and beverages and other activities. Its open to the public, but RSVP at Office@AMSAudioVideo.com or 608-783-0949. For more information, visit www.amsaudiovideo.com or Facebook.

Steve Cahalan can be reached at stevecahalan.reporter@gmail.com or 608-791-8441.

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On a warm, breezy day in April, Jenna Hemstock walks outside with one of the residents of Roger Metz Manor in Winona, both enjoying the sun on their skin and the view of the lake in the distance.

When the two come back inside the manor, which is home to about a dozen older adults with memory-related disorders, its time for lunch. Hemstock scans the room, making sure each person has what they need and is seated by a friend.

The moments are so rewarding, she said. You just have your special moments together. And they may not remember it, but they remember you as a person.

Hemstock, who for five years has been nurse manager of Winona Healths senior living facilities, is one of the top 10 nurses nominated for outstanding service in the La Crosse and Winona areas as part of the Nurses: The Heart of Health Care, sponsored by the River Valley Media Group honoring those in the nursing profession.

In school at Winona State University, Hemstock enrolled in the nursing program to pursue a future as a midwife. But when she took an internship with Winona Countys public health department, she knew life had led her to something good.

Hemstock spent 16 years as a public health nurse for the county, treating young and elderly folks alike. She transitioned to Winona Health prepared to use her public-health background to continue seeing the whole person, not just a patient.

Youre not just the nurse. A lot of times youre the social worker, youre a financial worker, youre somebody to talk to when they need emotional support, she said. A lot more than just passing the pills and doing a care plan.

As one might imagine, Hemstocks job does not fall within the 9-to-5 hours. She splits her time between the two memory-care homes on the Winona Health campus and the Watkins assisted-living residence on Wabasha Street, and shes on call in the evenings.

And as the only registered nurse at the Watkins facility, she said the door to her office spins when shes there, either working with patients or providing a listening ear for the staff.

For example, because seniors sleep less than the general population and those with dementia are awake in the night even more, pacing and wandering during the early hours of the morning is common, she said.

That can be a challenge for both the resident and for the staff member staying up with them, so she leaves her door open in case they need to talk it through.

If theyve struggled with that, maybe in the morning they come and talk to me for a while, Hemstock said. I know it helps them, and hopefully Im meeting a need.

Despite it all, though, the job doesnt tire her out. Her team is flexible, respectful and always supportive of one another, she said.

The respect piece is key: The new resident youre caring for isnt going to be exactly like your last one, she tells her staff, and most importantly, treat them the way youd want to be treated  especially because unlike other Winona Health departments, theyll be caring for them for much longer than a quick hospital stay.

We get to know people on a different level, more intimately. And you can kind of see if things are changing. They may not notice it, or want to tell you that somethings necessarily bothering them, Hemstock said. So you can usually approach them, because you got to know that person over time, and say, Hey, something seems to be going on, and have a conversation about it.

And with those strong relationships in place, the special moments she holds so dear can happen almost every day  even if its just a leisurely walk in the sun.

Jenna Hemstock Employer: Winona Health Position: Nurse manager, Winona Health senior living communities Years at Winona Health: 5 Fun fact: Hemstock started her college nursing program hoping to be a midwife, then transitioned to public health, then her current role. She said the right answer for which type of nurse to be "just grabs you."

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Thirteen-year-old Kim Nahrgang was helping out on her family farm, racking up what would be the first of many experiences with blood, shots and needles, when the idea of nursing first crossed her mind.

My dad actually said, Youre never going to be a nurse if you dont learn how to do this. And I kind of looked at him and said, What do you mean, be a nurse? she said.

She didnt remember ever telling him she wanted to pursue that path. But at that moment, he planted a seed  one that has blossomed into a robust career that took her from Minnesota to Las Vegas and back, gave her a laundry list of experience in the field and played a part in creating a life shes proud of.

Nahrgang, who has spent the past five years as staff development director at Saint Anne of Winona, was nominated for outstanding service in nursing in the La Crosse and Winona areas for Nurses: The Heart of Health Care, sponsored by the River Valley Media Group.

She is also an instructor at Saint Annes training center, which readies future nurses for their career with CNA and CPR certifications, as well as coordinating her organizations part in REACH at Winona Senior High, a program that allows students to gain real-world experience in the healthcare field.

Every path my life has taken, there has been a nursing position that fits very well with that path, Nahrgang said.

After graduating college, Nahrgang went west, working at a childrens hospital in Las Vegas.

She then returned home  because its really hard to take a Minnesota farm girl and plant her in the desert, she said with a laugh  and worked in home care in Rochester and as director of nursing at an assisted-living facility in Lewiston, as well as a smattering of other related jobs, before accepting the position at Saint Anne.

And her breadth of experience on the front lines makes a solid bridge between staff and management.

I know both ends of it, Nahrgang said. I love saying, That is not going to work. This might work, and then seeing the final product.

For example, the information a new CNA needs to digest is staggering, she said. Shes working to evaluate how that information is shared and streamlined during the onboarding process.

We know we need to meet regulation, but we also need them to provide the care, Nahrgang said. Lets start developing other programming where we can get them to the floor.  Lets make some more engaging learning opportunities, versus just PowerPoints.

Shes also resurrected SAW University, an orientation program where Saint Anne staff can gather once a month for a meet-and-greet, as well as the preceptor program, which reimburses certain employees who are responsible for thoroughly training new associates.

The best part of mentoring and training the next generation of nurses, she said, is watching the students on the last day of their clinical experience, noting how theyve come out of their shell and can speak enthusiastically about their time with patients at Saint Anne.

Im very proud of them, each and every class that goes through here, because they feel so good about themselves, she said.

And though its been a few years since she was in their shoes, shes only a step away from her roots.

Any time I want to, I can empty a garbage, scrub toilets, serve a meal. I can go help someone get dressed, I can bathe someone, Nahrgang said. Nobody is going to say, Whoa, Kim, what are you doing? If I see something that needs to be done, I just do it.

Kim Nahrgang Employer: Saint Anne of Winona Position: Staff development coordinator, training center instructor Years at Saint Anne: 5 Fun fact: Nahrgang's first nursing position out of college was in Las Vegas, after which she realized some Minnesotans just aren't meant to live in the desert.

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When the Andrjeski family was looking for a new home in La Crosse, they wanted something move-in ready with more space. They didnt expect to 
LANSING, Iowa  When the Black Hawk Bridge connecting Lansing to De Soto, Wis., opened in 1931, some thought the new cantilever through-truss bridge over the Mississippi River would make La Crosses old wagon bridge obsolete.

La Crosse with its 39,868 people will have to start a definite and enticing campaign to induce tourist traffic to pass through and stop in the city, city leaders said, according to the Feb. 8, 1931, edition of the La Crosse Tribune and Leader-Press.

Then La Crosse replaced its old wagon bridge with a new crossing on Cass Street in 1939, after a fatal car crash demolished part of the old structure.

Today, its the existing Black Hawk Bridge, also known as the Lansing bridge, thats about to become obsolete.

The Iowa Department of Transportation is taking the lead on weighing four bridge replacement options against major repairs that would extend the useful life of the Black Hawk Bridge by 20 to 30 years maximum. Without intervention, the bridge will have to close by 2028.

Daily traffic on the Black Hawk Bridge  one of three Mississippi River crossings within the almost 70 miles from Prairie Du Chien to La Crosse and a critical route for local commuters  averages about 1,910 vehicles, almost 400 fewer than projected in the original 1931 prospectus used to raise funds for the bridge. By comparison, 16,500 vehicles use the Cass Street bridge per day, according to the Wisconsin Department of Transportation.

While the Black Hawk Bridge might be best known for its 7.18% incline, which gives motorists a rollercoaster-like feel, its also a historic bridge eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places.

As an older bridge, the Lansing bridge wasnt built to accommodate todays traffic. At 25 feet wide, it has two 10-foot lanes and no shoulders. Traffic is closed to one lane when extra-wide trucks go through or the bridge requires repairs, and the bridge is off limits to cyclists and pedestrians.

The Lansing bridge is also one of the trickier Mississippi River crossings to navigate from below. The bridge stretches about 650 feet over the main navigation channel where the river bends, short of the 770-feet span between piers now required by the U.S. Coast Guard. The Coast Guard has recorded six tow collisions with the bridge between 1987 and 1991, and the River Industry Action committee ranked the Black Hawk Bridge the 12th most difficult upper Mississippi River bridge to navigate in an 1991 survey, according to the 2004 DOT bridge replacement feasibility study.

The new bridge would have a main span of at least 770 feet and be built wider to accommodate two 12-foot travel lanes and 8-foot shoulders on either side, according to the DOTs 2018 bridge project display.

Three of the four new bridge locations being considered by the DOT are within blocks from the current Ballou Street approach from the Iowa side, and would reuse the Big Slough Bridge over the back channels on the Wisconsin side. A fourth option that connects from downtown John Street, closer to more businesses and homes, would require a new slough bridge, but disturb fewer historic resources and archaeological sites.

Possible bridge designs, developed during a 2004 feasibility study, include arch and simple span truss bridges (between $60 million and $70 million), a continuous truss bridge (between $70 million and $80 million), and a cable stay bridge (more than $80 million.)

Because of the bridges historic value, the Iowa DOT is also considering a major rehabilitation at a cost of almost $30 million. This option, which would close the bridge to traffic for about a year and a half, would include replacing the stringers, floor beams, and deck, as well as stabilizing pier 3. The work would need to take place by 2024, and would extend the bridges remaining service life to 2048 at most. Because a new bridge will still need to be built, the DOT estimated the total cost to range between $107.7 million and $136.8 million.

If the bridge were left as is until 2028, it would cost $125,000 each year to inspect, as opposed to $75,000 for a new bridge. Approximately $1 million would also be required to maintain the bridge until 2028, at which point the bridge would be closed.

Either way, the current bridge could not be left as a bike or pedestrian walkway, the DOT said in its project display. Because of the anticipated cost, neither the Iowa or Wisconsin DOTs nor the city of Lansing would be able to maintain the condition of the bridge for continued use, even by only pedestrians or bicyclists.

The DOT is conducting an environmental assessment to look at how each option affects factors including land use, wetlands and waterways, floodplains, wildlife, plants, noise and light emissions, and historic, architectural and archaeological resources.

The findings will help the DOT narrow its options, said Krista Billhorn, Iowa DOT transportation planner. The environmental assessment will be shared in a public meeting held in June or July, Billhorn said, at which point the project will be open again to public comments.

The community is very attached to this bridge, its very iconic, Billhorn said.

Plans for a Lansing bridge date back to the turn of the 20th century at least, but it wasnt until 1916 that Congress granted the Interstate Bridge Company a charter to build one. Construction didnt take place until 1929 because of World War I. By then, the original charter had expired and a new contract was granted to the Iowa-Wisconsin Bridge Company.

The bridge, named for Sauk leader Chief Black Hawk to commemorate the centennial of the nearby Bad Axe Massacre, was designed by chief engineer Melvin B. Stone of Minneapolis. It cost $75,000 to build, spanned 1,623 feet, and the original bridge floor was asphalt plank on treated timber supported by steel beams.

When complete, the bridge will sustain a maximum load of 30 tons in transit, the La Crosse Tribune and Leader-Press reported ahead of the bridges June 17, 1931, opening.

The bridge was reinforced in the 1950s during a $1.3 million rehabilitation project to handle heavier truck loads, after it closed in 1945 due to ice dam damage.

Further strengthening of the bridge would be very challenging from a technical perspective, according to the Iowa Department of Transportation. This bridge has a finite service life because of fatigue caused by the flexing of steel members under load.

The bridge was closed for repairs after its 2011 inspection found cracks in the beams under the floor deck.

This April, the bridge was closed to replace deck panels and repair other steel structures.

Jennifer Lu is the La Crosse Tribune environmental reporter. You can reach her by phone at 608-791-8217 and by email jennifer.lu@lee.net.

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Gov. Tony Evers and Tourism Secretary-designee Sara Meaney paid a visit Tuesday to Island Outdoors in the town of Campbell.

Here to celebrate Tourism Week, they brought with them some great news for the state of Wisconsin and La Crosse County.

In 2018, the state saw an increase in direct tourism spending of 4.86% to $13.3 billion with an overall economic impact of $21.5 billion, an increase of 4.68%, according to a report released last week.

La Crosse County tourism remains ahead of the state average, retaining its Number 9 spot out of 72 counties statewide.

La Crosse County reported growth of 5.82% in direct visitor spending in 2018 compared with 2017.

That is an increase from $263.8 million to $279 million in direct visitor spending in just one year, making it the second highest percentage of increase out of the top 10-ranking counties in Wisconsin.

Gov. Evers and the Department of Tourism announced plans to focus on promoting outdoor recreation.

From my perspective, what La Crosse County has to offer aligns perfectly with the departments direction.

Explore La Crosse is proud to promote the city of Onalaska, the village of West Salem, the town of Campbell, the village of Holmen and the city of La Crosse, as well as the entire county, all of which are rich in outdoor recreation opportunities.

We have an extremely dedicated Board of Directors who are committed to guiding and supporting our team. I am especially proud of the Explore La Crosse staff and all their hard work.

Like so many of us who live here, they take great pride in the area and what we have to offer.

In La Crosse County, we have a countywide collaboration that drives tourism as part of the creative and energetic public/private partnerships that take place every day.

We are fortunate to have a vibrant private sector. We have some of the most committed business people in the state, if not in the entire Midwest. By partnering to tie their business drive with the drive everyone has to improve our county and take care of where we live, we truly have the best of both worlds.

We are proud of the growth and success we have seen, and we look forward to welcoming even more visitors in the years to come.

La Crosse County has a unique combination of attractions, physical beauty, and talented people. This combination and our continued cooperative partnerships will ensure successful growth.

A.J. Frels is executive director of Explore La Crosse.

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I am Jewish, a member of Jewish Voice for Peace, and strongly support House bill H.R. 2407.

The Promoting Human Rights of Palestinian Children Living Under Israeli Military Occupation Act was introduced to the House by Minnesota Rep. Betty McCollum on May 1.

Palestinian children detained by Israeli military forces in the West Bank are automatically subject to a military court system -- often without due process, access to legal representation and even contact with their family. By contrast, all children of Israeli settlers are processed through a civilian court system.

Human Rights Watch reports that unnecessary force is used with children as young as 12, including choke holds, beatings and coercive interrogation. The Israeli peace group 'B'Tselem reports that children are often taken from their homes and families, handcuffed and blindfolded, in the middle of the night by Israeli security forces.

The United States provides $3.8 billion of military assistance each year to Israel. H.R. 2407 would prohibit the use of United States military aid funds to any country that detains children in military courts. It is long past due that Israel be held accountable for what is essentially state-sponsored child abuse.

These are our taxpayer dollars funding unconscionable violations of the human rights of children. These practices violate international law, are fundamentally immoral and undermine the potential for a just and lasting peace.

All Americans, of any faith, should support this bill and tell our legislators to uphold the rights of all children by becoming cosponsors.

Bob Goonin, La Farge

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lts time the American people take back our government from the professional politicians.

Congress raided the Social Security fund and as a result I'm worried it will be out of funds shortly.

Medicare has problems also, and the fastest and easiest way to correct these two problems is to put Congress on Social Security and Medicare and see how fast they solve the problem.

Now is the time for term limits and to send the professional politicians home. Also, it's time to realize what the Democratic Party has done to this country. The five large major cities in such a sad state of repair have been governed by Democrats for the past 50 years.

Change is needed. Last but not least, Congress should not be allowed to exclude themselves from any bill passed by them.

Robert L. Cupp, La Crosse

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Three journalists are under investigation over publishing news about the Dalai Lama

Three journalists at the state-owned wire service told the Post that after some media outlets ran the RSS report on the Dalai Lama, the Chinese Embassy in Kathmandu raised concerns with the government of Nepal.
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Sunday, May 12, 2019





Ghosts of Gold Mountain: The Epic Story of the Chinese Who Built the Transcontinental Railroad by Gordon H. Chang

A groundbreaking, breathtaking history of the Chinese workers who built the Transcontinental Railroad, helping to forge modern America only to disappear into the shadows of history until now.

From across the sea, they came by the thousands, escaping war and poverty in southern China to seek their fortunes in America. Converging on the enormous western worksite of the Transcontinental Railroad, the migrants spent years dynamiting tunnels through the snow-packed cliffs of the Sierra Nevada and laying tracks across the burning Utah desert. Their sweat and blood fueled the ascent of an interlinked, industrial United States. But those of them who survived this perilous effort would suffer a different kind of deatha historical one, as they were pushed first to the margins of American life and then to the fringes of public memory.



In this groundbreaking account, award-winning scholar Gordon H. Chang draws on unprecedented research to recover the Chinese railroad workers stories and celebrate their role in remaking America. An invaluable correction of a great historical injustice, The Ghosts of Gold Mountain returns these silent spikes to their rightful place in our national saga.



Andrew Graybill reviews the book for the New York Times. The concluding paragraph of the review:

"The poignancy of such stories has preoccupied Chang since he was a child, and so in 2012 he and several colleagues established the Chinese Railroad Workers in North America Project at Stanford. Its team of interdisciplinary researchers has combed through archives and interviewed descendants of the workers, for whom  like the author  the story is deeply personal. And yet it is a powerful political project, too. The labor of the Railroad Chinese, Chang declares, is `the purchase of, and the irrefutable claim to, American place and identity.' In our own time, much the same could be said of other immigrant workers as well, especially the millions of Mexicans whose labor puts food on American tables and roofs over American heads."

Here is an interview with Gordon Chang.

Ghosts of Gold Mountain is a timely intervention, as the nation celebrates the 150 anniversary of the completion of the Transcontinentla Railroad.

KJ

https://lawprofessors.typepad.com/immigration/2019/05/from-the-bookshelves-ghosts-of-gold-mountain-the-epic-story-of-the-chinese-who-built-the-transcontin.html
Women rebuilding Chhau sheds in Chhaupadi free areas of Bajhang

Local women of Jagera in Saipal-4 have recently constructed a collective Chhaupadi shed in the area, stating that they have to suffer even more in the absence of sheds.
Sunday, May 12, 2019

From the Bookshelves: Helen Zias Last Boat Out of Shanghai (Penguin Books 2019).

Journalist and Asian-American civil rights activist Helen Zia has produced a nonfiction account of an overlooked era of modern immigration history: Last Boat of Shanghai: The Epic Story of the Chinese Who Fled Maos Revolution (2019). Reflecting her talent and training as a story teller, the book reads as vivid portraits of four young people who left mainland China during the immense civil strife and Communist transformation of 1949. Over the course of a generation, these refugees (as she calls them) migrate to Hong Kong and Taiwan en route to the U.S., illustrating the variety of experiences in this diaspora.

On a more personal note, this book was very meaningful to me as it tells my familys history. After finishing it in a long weekend, I gave my mother my copy of the book, with doubt about whether she would read a 400-page book in English and whether she would want to keep an accounting of this painful history. She recently told me she read it cover-to-cover. So I made it her Mothers Day gift  fittingly, since it turns out one of the stories profiles Zias mother -- and will buy another copy to keep on my own bookshelves.

Summary from Penguins RandomHouse Books (with book excerpt and reading guide). An interview with Zia appeared on NPR and an op-ed appeared in the NY Times.

Shanghai has historically been Chinas jewel, its richest, most modern and westernized city. The bustling metropolis was home to sophisticated intellectuals, entrepreneurs, and a thriving middle class when Maos proletarian revolution emerged victorious from the long civil war. Terrified of the horrors the Communists would wreak upon their lives, citizens of Shanghai who could afford to fled in every direction. Seventy years later, members of the last generation to fully recall this massive exodus have revealed their stories to Chinese American journalist Helen Zia, who interviewed hundreds of exiles about their journey through one of the most tumultuous events of the twentieth century. From these moving accounts, Zia weaves together the stories of four young Shanghai residents who wrestled with the decision to abandon everything for an uncertain life as refugees in Hong Kong, Taiwan, and the United States.



Benny, who as a teenager became the unwilling heir to his fathers dark wartime legacy, must decide either to escape to Hong Kong or navigate the intricacies of a newly Communist China. The resolute Annuo, forced to flee her home with her father, a defeated Nationalist official, becomes an unwelcome exile in Taiwan. The financially strapped Ho fights deportation from the U.S. in order to continue his studies while his family struggles at home. And Bing, given away by her poor parents, faces the prospect of a new life among strangers in America. The lives of these men and women are marvelously portrayed, revealing the dignity and triumph of personal survival.



Herself the daughter of immigrants from China, Zia is uniquely equipped to explain how crises like the Shanghai transition affect children and their families, students and their futures, and, ultimately, the way we see ourselves and those around us. Last Boat Out of Shanghai brings a poignant personal angle to the experiences of refugees then and, by extension, today.

-MHC

https://lawprofessors.typepad.com/immigration/2019/05/from-the-bookshelves-last-boat-out-of-shanghai-by-helen-zia.html
Friday, May 10, 2019

Professor Kenneth D. Chestek, a former President of the Legal Writing Institute, was recently elected Chair of the university-wide Faculty Senate at the University of Wyoming. Ken will begin his one-year tenure has the head of the Faculty Senate in the fall.

Professor Chestek joined the University of Wyoming College of Law faculty in the summer of 2012. He graduated cum laude from University of Pittsburgh School of Law where he was Editor in Chief of the Law Review. He practiced law for 21 years in Pennsylvania in a variety of settings, from solo practice to managing attorney for a branch office of a large law firm. While in practice, he also served for 18 years as Chief Civil Counsel to Erie County, Pennsylvania.

From 2010 to 2012 he served as President of the Legal Writing Institute (LWI), an organization of more than 2700 legal writing professionals in the United States and around the world. Previously, he served as a member of the Board of Directors and Treasurer of LWI. From 2005-2008 he co-chaired the ALWD/LWI Annual Survey Committee, and from 2004-2008 he served as a member of the Editorial Board of Legal Writing: The Journal of the Legal Writing Institute, a peer-reviewed academic journal..

Hat tip to Michael Smith.

(mew)

https://lawprofessors.typepad.com/legalwriting/2019/05/congratulations-to-ken-chestek.html
Friday, May 10, 2019

Professor Jessica Webb has been promoted to Professor of Law at Villanova University School of Law. Professor Webb developed and teaches Appellate Advocacy, a course that now includes the Theodore Reimel Moot Court Competition. She is also the Moot Court Boards faculty advisor. She received her B.A. from Penn State University and her J.D. from the Villanova University School of Law (cum laude). Before teaching she was an associate in the litigation group at Blank Rome LLP. Subsequently, she practiced employment law at Rubin Fortunato & Harbison P.C. and medical malpractice defense at Post & Post LLC, where she specialized in appellate advocacy. Before joining Villanova Law as an Assistant Professor of Legal Writing in 2013, Professor Webb was a Visiting Assistant Professor of Legal Writing at Villanova and an Adjunct Professor of Legal Writing at Widener Law School. She also developed and regularly teaches a graduate level course at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine and several law and education courses for public school administrators and teachers at the Delaware County Intermediate Unit.

Professor Candace Centeno, who recently assumed the role of Director of the Duane Morris LLP Legal Writing Program at Villanova, has been appointed Associate Dean for Academic Affairs at Villanova. Professor (now Dean) Centeno teaches in the first year Legal Writing Program and an upper level medical malpractice course. She is a graduate of Muhlenberg College (summa cum laude and Phi Beta Kappa) and Boston College Law School (cum laude). Before joining the Legal Writing Faculty at Villanova Law School in 2006, Professor Centeno was a defense litigator for thirteen years at White & Williams in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where she represented physicians, hospitals, and other healthcare professionals in medical malpractice and premise liability actions; she also served as an Arbitrator for the Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas. She served as Treasurer on the Legal Writing Institute Executive Board from 2014-2018, and she has helped coordinate and plan three national conferences (2010 program committee member and poster presentation chair, 2012 co-chair of program committee, and 2014 conference co-chair).

Hat tips to Mary Ann Robinson, Heather Baum, Diane Edelman, Amy Emerson, Christine Mooney, and Mitch Nathanson.

(mew)

https://lawprofessors.typepad.com/legalwriting/2019/05/villanova.html
In Delta Amacuro, a Venezuelan state on the Caribbean Sea, a large Chinese construction company made an agreement with the countrys former president, Hugo Chavez. The state-run company would build new bridges and roads, a food laboratory, and the largest rice-processing plant in Latin America.

The 2010 agreement says China CAMC Engineering Co, Ltd. would develop rice fields two times the size of Manhattan in New York City. The project would create jobs for the area's 110,000 residents.

"Rice Power! Agricultural power!" Chavez wrote on Twitter at the time.

Nine years later, locals are hungry. There are few jobs and the plant is only half built. It runs at less than one percent of the predicted output. People who know about the development say it has not produced a single grain of locally grown rice.

Yet, CAMC and a few Venezuelan partners have made money.

Court case in Andorra reveals corruption

Project contracts and court documents from an investigation in Europe show that Venezuela paid CAMC at least $100 million for the development.

Reporters with the Reuters news agency examined thousands of pages of court papers on the CAMC case. The papers were filed in Andorra, a small country in the mountains between France and Spain. Lawyers there claim Venezuelans involved in the project tried to hide the money they received from CAMC for helping it get the contract.

Andorra is known for its large financial industry. Because of widespread corruption, the Andorran government decided to clean up its banking practices. In 2015, it took over the private bank, Banca Privada D'Andorra. That is the bank that handled money from Venezuelan officials and their families and friends.

The Reuters report is the first time the public is able to learn about Venezuelas deal with China.

Last September, an Andorran high court judge charged that CAMC paid over $100 million in bribes to several Venezuelan officials to make sure the Chinese company would get contracts for five agricultural projects.

The result, according to prosecutors, was a far-reaching culture of bribery. The money was paid through foreign bank accounts to well-connected Venezuelans.

Such payments illegally took money away from projects that were supposed to develop poor, forgotten parts of Venezuela.

The Andorran court charged 12 Venezuelans with crimes including hiding the source of money they got from the Chinese.

Neither CAMC nor any of its leaders were charged in the indictment.

Abandoned projects

Since 2007, China invested over $50 billion in Venezuela, mostly in the form of oil-for-loan agreements, government documents show.

In a 2017 speech, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro said Chinese companies had agreed to 790 projects in areas ranging from oil to housing to telecommunications. Of those, he said, 495 were complete.

Some developments have been slowed because of corruption, people familiar with the projects said. Others got delayed because of poor management and a lack of supervision.

In Delta Amacuro, even government officials say a mixture of graft and poor management ruined the rice project. "The government abandoned it," said Victor Meza. He is with Venezuela's rural development agency, which worked with CAMC. "Everything was lost. Everything was stolen."

During a recent visit by Reuters to Delta Amacuro, the CAMC rice plant remained unfinished. Only one storage area, half full, held grain. Some machinery was running, but it was processing rice imported from Brazil. The nearby paddies hold no rice plants. The laboratory is incomplete. And the roads and bridges are not yet built.

We don't produce anything

Delta Amacuro's capital city, Tucupita, is a town of 86,000 people. In the past, Tucupita was a stop for vessels shipping goods from inland factories to buyers in the Caribbean and other places.

In 1965, the government dammed the nearby river. The land was damaged by sea water. By the time Chavez became president in 1999, little farming remained.

"When I was a kid, there was rice everywhere," said Rogelio Rodriguez, a local agronomist. "Now we don't produce anything."

In 2009, Chavez and Xi Jinping, China's vice president at the time, expanded a joint fund that the two countries had created with the 2007 development agreement. Chavez promised to supply Beijing with oil "for the next 500 years." He then announced the plan to redevelop the area around Tucupita.

But progress was slow. Chinese workers spoke little Spanish and struggled with local crews, according to engineers who worked on the project.

Maduro became president in 2013, shortly after Chavezs death. He has sought to make something of the unfinished project.

Hand-packing rice imported from Brazil

In February, Agriculture Minister Wilmar Castro opened the "Hugo Chavez" plant. He did so by cutting a ribbon in front of rice sacks with pictures of Venezuelan and Chinese flags. An individual who went to the ceremony said no one from CAMC attended.

Instead of machinery able to process 18 tons of rice each hour, workers are packing imported rice by hand. "There's not a gram of rice growing anywhere here," said Mariano Montilla, a 47-year-old local who lives off the few crops he can grow in the low-quality land nearby.

"It seemed like a revolutionary idea," Montilla said of Chavezs promise. "Now we're starving."

Im Jill Robbins.

Angus Berwick reported on this story for Reuters. Jill Robbins adapted it for Learning English. Ashley Thompson was the editor.

_______________________________________________________________

Words in This Story

bribe  n. something valuable (such as money) that is given in order to get someone to do something

indictment  n. an official written statement charging a person with a crime

prosecutor  n. a lawyer who represents the side in a court case that accuses a person of a crime and who tries to prove that the person is guilty

graft  n. dishonest activity in which people with power (such as political leaders) use their position and influence to get money and advantages

abandon  v. to leave and never return to (someone who needs protection or help)

paddy  n. a wet field where rice is grown

agronomy - n. a science that deals with the methods used by farmers to raise crops and care for the soil

ribbon - n. a narrow piece of cloth (such as silk) that is used to tie things or for decoration

sack - n. a bag that is made of strong paper, cloth, or plastic

Is there any Chinese development taking place in your country? What do you think of it? We want to hear from you. Write to us in the Comments Section.
Native Americans spoke as many as 300 languages at one time in history. But centuries of conflict, forced removal and forced assimilation killed half of the languages.

Bringing back a dead language is a big job, but making sure it survives is just as much work.

Jessie Little Doe Baird is a co-founder of the Wopanaak Language Reclamation Project. The award-winning linguist is also a citizen of the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe in the American state of Massachusetts.

In the 1600s, Wopanaak, the language of her ancestors, was spoken by tens of thousands of people in southeastern New England. Baird said missionaries worked with the tribe to create written alphabets in order to translate the Bible and other books.

She said the Wampanoag people welcomed the idea of writing and soon used it as a tool to protect themselves during land deals and other situations.

We have the largest collection of Native-written documents in North America, she said.

Baird said her organization has been working for about 25 years to bring back the language that died out a century ago. It has put together around 12,000 words from those early documents.

Today, the Wampanoag have two expert linguists and a Wopanaak language school for small children, which Baird hopes will expand in the future.

Creating new words

For a language to survive, it has to be passed on to the next generation. And that means making the language likeable to young people by creating new words and phrases.

The Wampanoag pretty much do what English speakers do, Baird said. Communities borrow words, and if somebody at some point decides that something is important, they will give it a name in that language.

Some tribes would rather not borrow, said James Andrew Cowell. He is a linguist at the University of Colorado. Cowell is working to preserve Arapaho, an Algonquian language native to a large area between the Mississippi River and the Rocky Mountains.

Cowell is interested in keeping Arapaho culture and the structure of the language unbroken. He gives some examples.

In Arapaho, the word for computer translates as It knows everything. And there is also a way to turn verbs into nouns. Cowell said, So, I am typing on the It knows everything means I am typing on the computer.

The word in Arapaho for Facebook is "gossip," and for Twitter is "little gossip."

Community effort

Creating new words and expressions is not new to tribes, said Ben Black Bear. He is a member of the Sicangu Lakota Tribe and founder of the Lakota Studies Department at Sinte Gleska University in South Dakota.

Back in the early 1900s when they first established the reservation, he said, we Lakota had to create words for all kinds of new things we had never seen until the Europeans came  wooden houses, clothing, the automobile.

Often, the tribe did this by describing an items qualities.

The apple did not exist in nature before we met the Europeans, so we had to create a word," Black Bear said. "When you bite into an apple, the inside is sort of like wet snow. So, we combined the words for wet snow (spanla) and fruit that has skin (tha) to come up with a new term, 'thaspan.'"

Today, Black Bear and other Lakota linguists meet every year for a summer language development program. In addition to taking a class in developing new words and expressions, the linguists debate and approve new words just as their ancestors did.

Once we come up with a new term, we put it out there for the community, he said. If people like them, theyll use them. Its not up to us.

More help to come

In 1990, the United States Congress passed the Native American Languages Act to provide money and programs to help tribes bring back their languages.

Recently, the National Endowment for the Humanities, a government agency, and the First Nations Development Institute, a nonprofit organization, announced financing to support language efforts in 13 tribes across the country.

Among the awards: The Wampanoag in Massachusetts will receive $90,000 to help expand their language school by another three school levels.

Im Susan Shand. And Im Alice Bryant.



Cecily Hilleary reported this story for VOA News. Alice Bryant adapted it for Learning English. Hai Do was the editor.

________________________________________________________________

Words in This Story

assimilation  n. the act of causing a person or group to become part of a different society or country

linguist  n. a person who studies language and the way languages work

alphabet  n. the letters of a language arranged in their usual order

translate  v. to change words from one language into another language

type  v. to write with a computer keyboard or typewriter

gossip  n. information about the behavior and personal lives of other people

reservation  n. an area of land in the U.S. that is kept separate as a place for Native Americans to live
scholarship, news and new ideas in legal history
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
The National Guard Bureau, a federal agency that oversees National Guard units nationwide, confirmed Wednesday that it will review how Wisconsin's Guard handles and responds to allegations of sexual assault and harassment.

Gov. Tony Evers and Sen. Tammy Baldwin asked the National Guard Bureau's Office of Complex Investigations to examine Wisconsin's policies for the Air Force and Army components of the Guard earlier this year after hearing complaints from current and former soldiers who said they were discriminated against and sexually harassed and assaulted while serving.
"We've become a victim of our own success in a lot of ways," Conway told Here & Now.

In a follow-up interview with WisContext, Conway discussed fielding dozens of measles-related inquiries from doctors and nurses around the state as the national outbreak has spread. Most of them have never diagnosed measles in a patient and are scrambling to prepare for a possible cases in Wisconsin.

The advice Conway is dispensing is two-pronged. First, he said, doctors should double check that they and their patients are properly immunized. That means at least one vaccine dose for anyone ages 18 to 61, and an additional dose for healthcare workers, college students and international travelers. People 62 and older are likely to have been exposed to measles before the vaccine was developed, Conway said, meaning they are almost certainly already immune.

Children 12 months and older should also receive two doses of the vaccine. Those as young as 6 months can receive the vaccine if they're at higher risk for exposure, Conway added, such as if they're traveling internationally.
The Universal Declaration of Human Rights outlined what Eleanor Roosevelt and the other authors of the document believed should be the basic premise of the modern world: "Everyone has the right to a standard of living adequate for the health and well-being of himself and of his family, including food, clothing, housing and medical care and necessary social services."

When the declaration was approved 70 years ago, the notion that health care is a universal right was not a radical vision. Americans had just defeated fascists who rejected universal rights by dismissing the humanity of those who did not match the narrow standards established in Hitlers anti-Semitic and racist Nuremberg Laws.

Franklin Roosevelt countered with an American standard, promising to deliver a Second Bill of Rights that recognized the right to adequate medical care and the opportunity to achieve and enjoy good health. There could be no compromises because, the 32nd president warned, America's own rightful place in the world depends in large part upon how fully these and similar rights have been carried into practice for all our citizens. For unless there is security here at home there cannot be lasting peace in the world.
Anyone who's completed the climb out of their early 20s hopefully has the wits to remember when life was as vivid as Kodachrome and the experience to recognize that perhaps all those new colors were duller than they seemed. Perspective, after all, is one of the great pleasures of getting older. But at the date of her death Thursday at the age of 87, Joan Didion's 1967 essay "Goodbye to All ...
City Hall Reporter

Monique 'Mo' Brand joined the Herald in May 2019. Before that, she covered border coverage and county government in Arizona. She also worked as a reporter in Kerrville, Los Angeles, and Norfolk Virginia. The U.S. Navy veteran grew up in Killeen.
Facing a dwindling and aging membership, service club leaders are asking themselves two questions: What happened? And whats next?

Communities across the region boast many busy civic organizations  Masons, Elks, Kiwanis and more  that build parks, fund scholarships and support Little League teams. But with membership declining nationally, and local clubs struggling to attract and retain millennials  people age 25 to 40  their long-term ability to carry out their missions is uncertain.

Whats going to happen in 10 years at our club? asked Nancy Schaper of the Portage Lions Club, whose roster of 15-20 members has remained steady over the past decade. I think we all trudge along, trying to get by.

Nationwide, Optimist Clubs have seen membership nearly cut in half from 97,000 to 49,000 over the past 20 years. Rotary membership has dipped from 386,000 in 2004 to 316,000 today.

John Breitwisch, president of the Beaver Dam Lions, said membership has dropped from 80 to 45 since he joined in the 1970s. He has seen the average age rise.

Weve had only limited success attracting younger members, he said. The families are busy, its hard to get young families with children.

New groups

The formation of new groups in south-central Wisconsin speaks to the challenges service clubs face. A consortium of organizations united to create the Portage Service Club Association, designed to spearhead communitywide projects and recruit members.

Thats the reason behind forming that, because there was concern, said George Beasley, a Portage Rotarian.

In Baraboo and Portage, millennials have formed groups of their own and in Beaver Dam, the chamber of commerce has launched efforts to form a young professionals group called Catalysts.

The Baraboo Young Professionals organization was founded in 2017 to help people under 40 network and socialize. The group is stimulating nightlife with periodic Night Markets that have developed a regional draw.

Theyre doing something different, Baraboo Rotary President Karen Kothbauer said.

Baraboo Young Professionals President Mike Johnsen, 37, said he attended service club lunch meetings and left unsure what the organizations were about and what his role might be. He also noticed he was the youngest person in the room by decades.

Its hard for a millennial to join that group and feel like he or she is contributing and getting something back, Johnsen said. Theres such an age gap.

Johnsen said hes more interested in building community than rubbing elbows, and said its critical to give new members specific tasks that make them feel that they belong and are needed.

Service club leaders have taken notice. Beasley said Rotary clubs must demonstrate theyre doing more than having lunch. They must highlight their many community projects. I think sometimes you have to get somebody involved in something, he said.

Kothbauer said some younger members have been attracted to Rotary efforts such as its student exchange program and its anti-polio campaign. The Baraboo club holds evening socials each month so members can get to know one another.

We need to change with the times, she said. Were trying to catch that younger group.

Whats next?

There is no doubt service clubs play vital roles in their communities. In Baraboo, the Kiwanis Club has partnered with the city to develop a scenic Riverwalk. The Portage Service Club Association built a splash pad at Goodyear Park.

Breitwisch of the Beaver Dam Lions said its roster of 45 is a strong 45 that rolls up its sleeves. Everyone is involved, doing something, he said, whether it is running a fundraiser or leading meetings and club activities.

But there is doubt about the long-term future of the traditional service club model. Some leaders said todays young professionals arent interested in serving, at least not the way their parents and grandparents did.

Service clubs arent the only institutions struggling to fill their ranks with younger members. Gallup finds the percentage of Americans who report belonging to a church, synagogue or mosque at an all-time low, averaging 50% in 2018. A 2014 study commissioned by the National Club Association found that country club membership was down 20 percent from 1990.

This generation right now, they are not joiners, said Schaper of the Portage Lions. Some of them are eager to help if you ask them, but they arent interested in joining your club.

Johnsen said those set to age out of the Baraboo Young Professionals are talking about what to do next. Instead of joining established service clubs, he predicted theyll take on one of their own. The trappings of typical club meetings  reciting the Pledge of Allegiance, tossing happy bucks into the kitty  dont appeal to many in his generation. Its really traditional, he said.

Breitwisch said service clubs could get a boost from Generation X  people age 40 to 55  over the next decade or two. People are retiring earlier, and when they retire they look for a service club, he said.

But what about the longer term? With her clubs youngest members in their 40s and the oldest in their 80s, Schaper said the Portage Lions future is unclear.

You wonder, Schaper said. Its kind of scary.

Follow Ben Bromley on Twitter @ben_bromley or call him at 745-3507.
Paige Schultz, a company spokeswoman, said that the list of farms from which Imperfect sources its produce changes, but currently the company is working with Wisconsin Food Hub Cooperative in Madison, which has a collection of 21 farms, and Specialty Potatoes & Produce, a Rosholt packinghouse that specializes in Fresh Organic Potatoes. Schultz said 78% of Imperfects produce is sourced from family farms or cooperatives, 13% is wholesale, 6% comes from grower representatives and 3% comes from corporate farmers.

Other viewpoints

Andy Watson owns Sprouting Acres, a 5-acre CSA farm between Cambridge and Stoughton. Founded in 2003, the operation grows a wide range of vegetables, has drop-off locations throughout Dane County and sells at three farmers markets. Watson frequently sells blemished tomatoes that can be used for sauce and other vegetables that some choose to use in smoothies. He also just built a wood-fired oven that cooks up pizza on the first and third Sunday evening of each month. The 12-inch pizzas are ideal for parts of vegetables that may not be aesthetically pleasing in one of his CSA boxes, although his vegetables can vary in size and may not match those sold in a grocery store.
In 2012, when novelist Celeste Ng was feeling pressure to join Twitter, she found that she couldnt use her own name.

Everyone said, you know, as an author you need to do this, Ng said during a phone conversation from her home in Cambridge, Massachusetts. My name had already been taken by someone else whose name doesnt actually appear to be Celeste Ng.

Ng said shes not sure what her name means to that person, but it forced her to pick something else. And, just for fun, she settled on @pronounced_ing.

No one ever seems to know how I pronounce my name and I figured this would just answer the most frequently asked question, Ng, 38, said. And actually it works really well. Now people know how to pronounce my name, which is awesome.

She published her first book, Everything I Never Told You, in 2014, and her second, Little Fires Everywhere, in 2017. Both were New York Times best sellers, with the latter spending 48 weeks on the list.

Ng is coming to Madison for the annual Lunch for Libraries, a $125-per-ticket fundraiser for the Wisconsin Book Festival Wednesday at Monona Terrace. The event will feature her talking with local author Chloe Benjamin.
I think its a very important institution  and it needs support, Kohl said. I wanted to make a significant contribution.

Kohl is a Milwaukee businessman and philanthropist who owned the Milwaukee Bucks and Kohls, a chain of department and grocery stores. He also provided the lead donation for the Kohl Center arena at UW-Madison.

His donation to the La Follette School of Public Affairs, called the Kohl Initiative, will allow the school to educate more students, support undergraduate internships, fund more research, expand partnerships with nonpartisan organizations, host conferences, and teach more high-demand classes.

Kohl said he had spoken with Webb Yackee and UW-Madison Chancellor Rebecca Blank about the donation on several occasions.

Blank was not at the ceremony but said in a statement that the funds will help the school expand its impact in Wisconsin and the nation.

Senator Kohl has shown lifelong dedication to UW-Madison, and this gift will provide tremendous opportunities for our students, faculty, staff, and community, Blank said.
The latest thinking would have the museum be an integrated yet separate structure with views of the state Capitol, State Street, Overture Center and Central Library, Historical Society director Christian Overland said.

Our building is going to be lower, he said. Its going to be a different architectural style. It needs to read as a different building. People need to see this part of the development as a museum, not as an office building or residential.

The project still needs to be approved as part of the states capital budget and a developer formally selected before starting construction, which could begin in 2020 with an opening in 2024 or 2025.

The private use likely will feature office space along Carroll Street facing the Capitol and some office space facing Mifflin Street, Hovde said. Earlier, it seemed a hotel would be a good fit along Fairchild Street before a recent boom of Downtown hotel construction and approvals, he said, adding that the housing element could be apartments or condos.

Now, we have to pick up the ball and start making assessments, he said.
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Its the perfect time of year for morel mushrooms to start springing up in Idaho as soil temperatures warm, and already competition to find the tasty, coveted fungi is heating up.

Members of online Idaho morel-hunting groups have been posting their finds for a few weeks. Excited commenters will ask what elevation the honeycomb-capped mushrooms were at and perhaps what region of the state.

But theres one question youd better not bother asking: Whered you find them?

If you have to ask ... you will never know, one commenter wrote last weekend in a Facebook group for Idaho morel hunters.

In the world of morels, much like in fishing, game hunting or even huckleberry picking, the whereabouts of fruitful caches are kept secret.

So how can a newbie morel hunter track down the tasty mushrooms when mums the word?

WHY THE SECRECY AROUND MORELS?

Morels are prized by professional chefs and amateur foodies alike for their nutty, earthy flavor. The truffle-like fungi can fetch prices upward of $20 per pound due to their scarcity and short growing season.

So theres an obvious element to the vagueness with which morel hunters share their finds  no one wants to find their favorite spot picked clean or otherwise disturbed. But the morels themselves are, by nature, a little perplexing, and that adds to the secretive culture around finding them.

Morels are notoriously difficult to cultivate, and the vast majority of each yearly crop is collected in the wild. But where exactly those wild mushrooms will pop up is largely a guessing game.

Thats sort of the fun (of morel hunting), its an enigma, said Jonathan Oppenheimer, an avid morel hunter who works as the government relations director for the Idaho Conservation League.

Its different than huckleberries, where you have your spot and you know theyll be there year after year after year, Oppenheimer said.

Instead, morels tend to follow wildfires, cropping up in larger numbers in areas that burned the previous summer. But no one really knows why.

The big game in Idaho and the West is in burned areas, Oppenheimer said.

Coloradans Trent and Kristen Blizzard comb through wildfire data to offer a burn morel map of the West each year through their website, Modern Forager. A PDF of burned areas across 10 states where youre likely to find morels (including the top 11 burns in Idaho) will run you $40.

Because they only grow in recent forest fires, they are not such a secret location and we are able to share new maps every year, the Blizzards said in an email to the Statesman. The real secret is to know what burn is the right one to go to  which we suss out in our book and maps for people. Finding the correct trees, elevations, aspects, etc. is the secret there  but, frankly, it is not rocket science!

The couple said most of the  secret spot culture doesnt matter for burn morels  the really hush-hush spots are the ones where natural morels grow.

We dont share our maps of the natural morels, the Blizzards said. Those are our hard-earned spots.

Thats a common theme from morel hunters: Hopeful foragers should earn their finds.

The Idaho Statesman asked members of the Idaho Morel Mushrooms Facebook group why they think mushroom hunters are so tight-lipped.

We put in too much work searching for our spots to just give them up, one commenter said.

Another agreed: Its the time invested up front as a novice that creates the mystique and value. What if we could buy diamonds for the cost of rose quartz?

Krista Gragg Willmorth, a Treasure Valley resident who blogs under the name The FunGal Forager, said she has shared the locations of natural morels with a select few worthy foragers who Ive known long enough that I can be sure we share the same ethics and practices.

As for beginners?

With others, I share education so they can put in the miles and learn to get there, too, she said.

Oppenheimer said he thinks the majority of the secrecy is done in good spirit. But things could become more competitive as the local population grows.

Things are changing a little bit in Idaho as Boise is booming, Oppenheimer said. Its only a matter of time before we see some limits put on (harvesting).

(Most national forests in Idaho limit personal use harvests to 5 gallons per person per day.)

HOW YOU CAN FIND MORELS IN IDAHO

For the last two years, Oppenheimer has hosted a beginners guide to morel hunting at the Foothills Learning Center, teaching newcomers how to identify the mushrooms and what sort of conditions the fungi like.

Attendees are half-jokingly sworn to secrecy  but Oppenheimer never actually reveals where hes found morels.

Instead, he offers some general suggestions: Morels tend to grow in cottonwood forests, under elms or near rivers. Where you find one, there are often others nearby. They can vary in color from blonde to dark black, and sometimes the best way to spot them is by kneeling, crouching or changing your perspective.

Above all, its crucial to be certain what youve picked is a morel. False morels and other lookalikes can make you sick.

Look for a pitted, honeycomb-like cap thats fully attached to the mushroom stem  it shouldnt pop off or hang free. If you slice the mushroom in half, it will be hollow inside. If youre at all doubtful that youve found a true morel, do not eat it.

Oppenheimer warned hunters to stay safe in burned areas, where trees can tip over or rocks can easily come loose. He recommends morel hunting with a friend, a GPS and plenty of water. And dont get discouraged if youre not successful right away.

Many times its just being out there in nature finding fun and interesting things, he said. For the most part, the people out picking are just mushroom lovers.

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Before I start this weeks column Im going to answer a question that some of you might have this week when you see flags at half-mast or black bands on law enforcement badges. Tomorrow, May 13, is the beginning of National Police Officers Week, which runs to May 19. May 15 is Police Officers Memorial Day, a day set to honor all law enforcement officers, especially those who have died in the line of duty.

Q: I have a question regarding the handicapped placards that are displayed on rear-view mirrors. My neighbor has one in her vehicle and is not disabled. I think she kept it from when her father passed away and is still using it. I know this person well enough to know neither she nor her husband are disabled. Who would a person contact regarding this type of abuse? My father-in-law is in a wheelchair and I really hate seeing people abuse this privilege because they are too lazy to walk that few extra feet to the store entrance.Sally

A: The first thing to do is find out who has parked there and if nobody is handicapped, make them that way (please dont do that. Its another dry joke).

Here is what to do: Call the local police and advise them of what is going on when it is happening. The person that parked there who is using a handicap placard illegally can get cited for parking illegally in a handicap space.

The code for this violation is Idaho code 49-410 (9) which reads: Any use of the plate or placard by any person other than those meeting the definition of disability under section 49-117(7) (b), Idaho Code, or as otherwise authorized by this section, to obtain parking shall constitute an infraction punishable by a fine of $100.

Something else I might add is that if you loan out or duplicate a handicap placard for others to use, the crime is a misdemeanor. The penalty for this one is a fine of up to $1,000, up to 30 days in jail and up to 40 hours of community service to a nonprofit organization which serves people with disabilities. The placard can also be seized and sent back to the Department of Motor Vehicles, which means if you are handicapped you would have to file for another placard.

The best thing to remember here is that if you are not handicapped, leave the spot for the people who are. Like the public service announcement goes, Would you really want to change places with a handicapped person?

Officer down

Please put these officers, killed in the line of duty, and their families in your prayers. They fought the good fight, now may they rest in peace. God bless these heroes.

Special Agent in Charge Liquat A. Leo Khan, U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Division

Police Officer Jordan Sheldon, Mooresville Police, North Carolina

Have a question for Policeman Dan? Email your question(s) to policemandan@cableone.net or look for Ask Policemandan on Facebook and click the like button. Mail to: Box 147, Heyburn, Idaho 83336

Dan Bristol is the City of Heyburn Chief of Police.

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TWIN FALLS  The National Association of Active and Retired Federal Employees will hold a monthly meeting at 11:30 a.m. Monday at the Loong Hing Restaurant, 1719 Kimberly Road, Twin Falls.

The speaker will be Jonathan Spendlove, director of the Twin Falls Planning and Zoning Commission.

If you are actively employed or retired from the federal government, come and enjoy the company of your peers and discuss information regarding benefits.

Information: 208-732-0360.

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TWIN FALLS Tax season is over but not for La Posada which is a nonprofit organization that assists those less fortunate in south-central Idaho and northern Nevada. It provides immigration assistance within immigration law, counseling, emergency assistance, a low-income taxpayer clinic and notary services. The office is located on Fourth Avenue in downtown Twin Falls.

La Posada, along with the AARP tax-aide program, completed 3,289 tax returns for 2018 in this district. AARP tax-aide offers free tax preparation assistance Feb. 1 through April 15. You dont have to be an AARP member to benefit, and there is no age requirement to get tax help from the IRS-certified volunteers. The program just completed its 51st year. Tax-aide has helped more than 68 million low- to moderate-income taxpayers nationwide.

Locations are at the senior centers is Glenns Ferry, Hagerman, Jerome, Shoshone, Gooding, Hailey, Twin Falls and at La Posada. Appointments are required at those locations. This year, one of the busiest centers was located at the College of Southern Idaho which was open six afternoons a week and served taxpayers without appointments.

AARP tax volunteers at all sites are hardworking and dedicated  openly appreciated, with much positive feed back, by clients. The organization is always looking for more volunteers.

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TWIN FALLS  The College of Southern Idaho Foundation and Science, Technology, Engineering and Math Department co-hosted a signing ceremony May 1. It was held to recognize the 2019 high school graduates who received CSI STEM scholarships. Each recipient plans to major in a STEM-related field and will begin classes during the 2019 fall semester.
BATON ROUGE, La.  Magic Valley residents were recently initiated into the Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, the nation's oldest collegiate honor society for all academic disciplines.

Natalie Olsen of Kimberly, Taylor Hall of Twin Falls, Jordan Gentry of Twin Falls and Jamie Loughmiller of Twin Falls were initiated at Idaho State University.

They are among about 30,000 students, faculty, professional staff and alumni to be initiated into Phi Kappa Phi each year. Membership is by invitation only and requires nomination and approval by a chapter.
BOISE  Eight local students are among 35 winners in Idaho Public Televisions annual PBS KIDS Writers Contest. Winners were chosen for first-, second- and third-place for kindergarten through third grades in three regions of Idaho.

Idaho Public Television has hosted the annual PBS KIDS Writers Contest for 25 years and encouraged children to write and illustrate their own imaginative stories. IdahoPTV received 410 entries and a team of volunteers judged the entries on creativity, originality, language skills and illustrations.

In the KAID/Boise Southwest Idaho Region for the third-grade category, Abby Shepherd of Kimberly won first place for the entry D & C, along with Joshua Sonderegger of Kimberly, second place for The Mountain That Didnt Grow, and Hazel Wyatt of Kimberly, third place for The Mixed Up Monkey. Winners were honored at a regional awards ceremony May 11 at the Boise Library.

In the KISU/Pocatello Southeastern Idaho Region for the kindergarten category, Stella Snow Romney of Burley received third place for the entry Black Pup and Adventures, and for first-grade, Quinn Blauer of Heyburn took third place for A Run Away Tractor. For second grade, Kayden Morgan of Rupert won second place for The Animal Heist and Bellamy Czarnecki of Rupert, took third place for an Antarctica entry. For third grade, Tye Cook of Jackson won second place for The Magical Piano.

The Southeastern Idaho Region awards ceremony to honor the students and their stories will be held at 1:30 p.m. Saturday at Idaho State Universitys Student Union Building in the Little Wood River Room in Pocatello. A ceremony will also be held Saturday for the KUID/Moscow Northern Idaho Region.

The winning stories will be available by June 1 for viewing on the IdahoPTV website, idahoptv.org/kids/writers.cfm.

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Volunteers  Encompass Hospices work can be supported by volunteers in many ways. Patients need compassionate volunteers to provide companionship, caregiver respite, light housekeeping, shopping or yardwork. Veterans are needed to make a connection of shared experiences that only a Veteran to Veteran can share. Information: Cindy, 208-733-8600 or ckeithley@ehhi.com.

Volunteers  Horizon Home Health and Hospice is looking for volunteers to join their team to provide quality compassionate care to patients through the following activities: companionship, socialization, respite, and support for patients and families. Information: Cynthia Nixon, 208-800-8085 or cnixon@horizonhh.com.

Drivers  The American Cancer Society is looking for volunteer drivers for its Road to Recovery program. Volunteers are needed to drive cancer patients to and from medical treatment facilities, especially for appointments in Twin Falls. The Cancer Society trains volunteer drivers and schedules rides for patients for free. Drivers must have a current and valid drivers license, a good driving record, a reliable car, and proof of car insurance. Volunteer drivers donate their time and the use of their vehicles. The program is flexible for volunteers to provide as many rides as they want. Information: 1-800-227-2345.

Volunteers  St. Lukes Home Health and Hospice is looking for new volunteers to join its team to share compassion and increase the quality of life for patients and their families. This program is designed to offer companionship and socialization to patients as well as respite and support for the caregivers. Information: Marie Sharp, 208-814-7603 or sharpm@slhs.org.

Volunteers  CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) is in need of volunteers for children in foster care in the community. Volunteers commit to 8-10 hours per month, stay with the child for the duration of the case and is the voice of the child in court proceedings. Background checks and extensive trainings are provided. Information: 208-735-1177.

Volunteers  The Twin Falls Senior Center, 530 Shoshone St. W., needs drivers to deliver meals to homebound seniors in Twin Falls, Monday through Friday. The routes take an hour or less to complete. Volunteers must be 18 and older with their own car, have proof of liability insurance, and complete a background check. Drivers receive 58 cents-per-mile fuel reimbursement. The senior center also needs dining room attendants from 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Monday through Friday to help with dining room set-up, beverage service, clearing tables and general cleanup. Information: 208-734-5084.

Volunteers  The West End Senior Center, 1010 Main St., Buhl, is looking for full-time volunteers to deliver home-delivered meals on Mondays. Drivers leave the center at 11 a.m. and meal deliveries take about one hour. Information: 208-543-4577.

Volunteers  The Ageless Senior Center, 310 Main St. N., Kimberly, is in need of volunteers to deliver meals and to help in the dining room along with other assistance. Information: 208-423-4338.

Volunteers  The Golden Heritage Senior Center, 2421 Overland Ave., Burley, is looking for volunteers to support the Meals on Wheels program. Volunteers are needed to deliver meals to homebound seniors and also to assist in the kitchen and office for three to five hours a day and from one to five days a week. Information: 208-878-8646 or 208-431-3526.

Volunteers  Habitat for Humanity of the Magic Valley and the ReStore are seeking adult volunteers. Opportunities are available at the ReStore for volunteers to provide general customer service and drivers are needed to pick up donations. Enjoy an hour or spend the day helping. Information: 208-735-1233 or ReStore or the Habitat office, 669 Eastland Drive S., Twin Falls.

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International Soroptimist of Mini-Cassia is assisting a local law enforcement agency in its fight against sex trafficking and online abuse of children by donating a Lorex surveillance system to the Rupert Police Department investigations division. One of its members saw a posting on Facebook and invited Rupert Police Detective Sam Kuoha to speak at its meeting on March 20 in Burley about sex trafficking and online abuse occurring in the Mini-Cassia area.

After Detective Kuohas presentation, members wanted information on how they could help. Detective Kuoha explained that being from a small rural agency has its disadvantages in the way of funding and equipment. Along with computer programs and software needed to gather evidence, the equipment is often expensive. One of the needed equipment was a surveillance system that could be used for operations. A system that is easily and quickly set up, records and be viewed from a distance.

One of our goals in Soroptimist of Mini-Cassia is to assist with issues involving women and this is an area we wanted to assist in with the purchase of the surveillance equipment. Detective Kuoha did some price checking and systems available for their needs.

Soroptimist of Mini-Cassia purchased a Lorex system, which will provide both stationary and mobile applications and also meet the required needs of the Rupert Police Department.

Soroptimist International is a global volunteer organization working to improve the lives of women and girls through programs leading to social and economic empowerment. In our community Soroptimist of Mini-Cassia awards cash grants to local high school senior girls and to women who are the heads of household, who are continuing their education. Anyone interested in becoming a volunteer, please check us out on Facebook at Soroptimist of Mini-Cassia.

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TWIN FALLS  Because of additional funding from the Idaho Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, the Idaho Educational Services for the Deaf and the Blind work-readiness camp  Ready, Set, Go to Work  will host 36 students at its June 9 to 14 event at the College of Southern Idaho.

Thats a 20% increase from the 2018 event and the largest number of participants the program has ever facilitated.

The event is part of the IESDB post-secondary transition program and is designed for students ages 15 to 21 who are deaf or hard of hearing. Students attending the camp will learn how to find and secure long-term employment following high-school graduation and what skills and technology might help them in the pursuit.

They will participate in a variety of activities, including the following:

Team-building and self-determination via ropes courses

Producing resumes

Participating in practice interviews

Touring businesses

Job shadowing

Kristy Buffington, IESDB post-secondary transition specialist, said in a statement that Ready, Set, Go to Work might be the first time many of the participants meet and socialize with students who have similar conditions or become familiar with a variety of assistive technology and accommodations available to them.

Following Ready, Set, Go to Work, students will return to their home communities to work for four weeks on a part-time basis at local businesses. Job training and accommodations are provided to facilitate their success. Approximately 80% of the students who participated in the camp in 2018 were offered continuing employment or volunteer opportunities.

The students participating in the 2019 Ready, Set, Go to Work event represent about 12 percent of the eligible population. With contributors assistance, though, the IESDB Foundation will be able to offer additional students the opportunity to attend.

To learn more about the camp, text Kristy Buffington at 208-490-3017 or email kristy.buffington@iesdb.org.

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January 23, 1938May 8, 2019

BURLEY  Surrounded by her family, Lois Juanita Klingler, 81, peacefully passed away in her Burley home on May 8, 2019.

Juanita, or Nita as her friends called her, was born on January 23, 1938, in the small rural town of West Point, Ga., to Clarence and Rebecca Brock. In 1955, Nita met and married Dale Klingler, who had just finished serving in the United States Army at nearby Fort Benning, Ga. They then moved to Minidoka where they started an extensive farming and ranching operation in 1956.

While raising her four daughters, Nita was extra busy volunteering with the Pink Ladies and working as part-time activities coordinator in the geriatrics wing of Minidoka Memorial Hospital.

After her daughters were grown, Nita received her GED, served as Relief Society president for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and received a Certified Nursing Assistant license.

For a short time, Dale and Nita lived in San Diego, Calif., until Dale passed away in 1998. She then bought a second home in St. George, Utah, and divided her time between there and her home in Idaho. She also traveled extensively. Some of her trips included genealogy research in Alabama, Georgia, and Colorado, an excursion with her daughters family to New York, and international travel to Italy, Switzerland, England and Paris with friends and family.

Nita loved spending time with her growing family. She enjoyed hosting reunions for her children and grandchildren in fun places like Mission Beach, Calif., Las Vegas, Nev., and St. George, Utah.

In her later years, Nita enjoyed spending time on the deck of her home which overlooked the Snake River. She began doing creative writing and was never alone, having several cats and a faithful dog. In addition, she was constantly surrounded by grandchildren and great- grandchildren.

She is survived by a brother, Ronald Brock of Louisville, Ky.; her four daughters, Angela (Dr. Kenneth) Turner of Burley, Kellene (Jonathan) Giloff of Laguna Niguel, Calif., Becky (Todd) Whitehead of Burley, and Lisa Pena of Rupert; 14 grandchildren; and 27 great-grandchildren.

The funeral will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, May 18, 2019 at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day SaintsUnity First Ward, 275 S. 250 E., of Burley, with Bishop Walter M. Graham conducting. Burial will be in Rupert Cemetery.

Friends may call from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, May 17, 2019 at Rasmussen-Wilson Funeral Home, 1350 E. 16th St., in Burley, and at the church on Saturday, from 10 to 10:45 a.m.
Colorado finds itself the location of another school shooting, this time at the STEM School Highlands Ranch.

Sadly, and typically, the immediate response was political and crass. Students of the school walked out of a candlelight vigil to honor victims of the Tuesday shooting, which killed 18-year-old student Kendrick Castillo and wounded eight. Castillo died heroically, trying to stop a shooter.

Students left the vigil upset about presidential candidate and U.S. Sen. Michael Bennet, D-Colorado, and U.S. Rep. Jason Crow, D-Colorado, who exploited the prayer and mourning event to promote a gun control agenda.

It was really sad, parent Lisa Lopez told Denvers KDVR TV. All those kids wanted was to be heard as part of the grieving process, and I think they had that right. I dont think it should have been turned into something political about gun control.

It should have been about something to remember their friend and classmate and schoolmate and let them get a chance to grieve.

It just turned straight into gun control. We need to do this and were not doing this and Im in Washington fighting for this and like, thats not what this is about.

In addition to brazenly politicizing the vigil, Crow blasted anyone concerned enough to pray on the day of the killing. Copying other left-wing politicians from prior shootings, Crow tweeted his unoriginal opposition to the sentiment of thoughts and prayers for the injured and dead.

...it is empty, it is weak, and it does an injustice to our children who are on the frontlines of this violence, Crow wrote.

Other political hacks will likewise exploit this tragedy to promote self-serving agendas that promise almost no hope of stopping the next school shooting. In this case, police think two suspects  students at the school  committed this crime with guns one of them stole. No new gun law would prevent a crime of this nature.

Mass shootings inspire others to talk about the need for better mental health services, and they have a good point. Better mental health would surely mean fewer crimes.

Tweaks to policies affecting guns and mental health might have some small, long-term effects that reduce future massacres.

More pressing is the need for practices that prevent these crimes immediately, on the front lines.

It is past time Congress (thats you, Bennet and Crow), the president, state legislatures, charities and philanthropists, school boards and other local governments insist on hard security measures at K-12 schools.

No one other than law enforcement officers or trained security personnel should have been inside STEM School with guns. The suspects could not have walked with guns into most courthouses, professional sporting events, concert venues, emergency rooms, or any number of other public spaces.

Increasingly, we enter public buildings only after emptying our pockets of metal and passing through metal detectors. Security personnel search and/or X-ray our backpacks and bags. These measures limit potential killers to the likes of Harry Houdini.

No one wants hard security checkpoints at schools, where students and parents used to come and go at will. Checkpoints are impersonal and inconvenient. They crush our nostalgic views of primary education.

That is all pretty sad, but less so than dead kids in hallways and classrooms.

Secure entrance points work. If they did not, we would have routine crowd shootings at sporting events, concerts, amusement parks and government buildings. We do not. They are legitimate gun-free zones, kept gun free by measures to screen out weapons of all types.

Society should decide now to stop allowing killers to enter schools with guns, knives and bombs. Spare no expense. We could secure entrances to K-12 schools with a fraction of the largesse wasted on bridges to nowhere, Medicare for able-bodied adults and countless billion-dollar boondoggles of federal pork.

As members of a civilized society, we should keep schoolchildren in our thoughts and prayers. We should simultaneously secure our school buildings, and do so now, to provide immediate and tangible protection from the next crazed killer. If we do not invest in the safety of our kids, we stand for nothing that really matters.

REPRINTED FROM THE COLORADO SPRINGS GAZETTE

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WASHINGTON  Can Attorney General William Barr thumb his nose at Congress and get away with it? Can the nations top lawman refuse to honor a House Judiciary Committee subpoena for an unredacted version of special counsel Robert Muellers report and not pay a penalty?

In 2012, then-Attorney General Eric Holder did just that. Holder defied a congressional subpoena to furnish documents about Operation Fast and Furious, a program to attempt to trace gun trafficking along the southwest border that went awry. The House held Holder in contempt, but since Holder declined to indict himself, the controversy faded. Holder resigned in 2015.

Congress cant enforce their own contempt charges; all they can do is give notice to the attorney general that they would like it enforced, and Eric Holder never enforced it against himself, observed Mark Harkins, a senior fellow at the Georgetown University Government Affairs Institute. Harkins doesnt expect Barr to charge himself, either.

Stanford law professor Michael McConnell wrote in The Washington Post about the parallels between Barr and Holder. The Obama administration said disclosing information about executive decision-making would inhibit the candor of officials inside the administration. An assistant attorney general falsely told Congress the Obama administration was unaware of Fast and Furious  a claim the administration had to pull back  and Holder said he would provide the subpoenaed documents only if the committee agreed to close the investigation.

Next, as far as Holder was concerned, nothing happened. The Obama administration ran out the clock. Holder never complied with the subpoena and went unpunished for the contempt, McConnell wrote.

Harkins says if Congress charges Barr with contempt, You can easily see the court cases for this lasting more than 18 months.

Expect an epic legal battle in which Democrats challenge executive privilege and Republicans challenge congressional oversight. In the meantime, both sides can duke it out in the court of public opinion.

Barr Boycotts House

Barr did testify last week before the GOP-controlled Senate Judiciary Committee. He was set to appear before the Democratic-controlled House Judiciary Committee, but then the committee demanded Barr take questions from staff lawyers as well as elected members. Barr balked.

If House Democrats believe having professional lawyers ask questions would help them do a better job at oversight, thats Congress constitutional prerogative, said Harkins. Thats their call. The court of public opinion will ultimately decide.

While Democrats demanded unredacted versions of the Mueller report, Barr maintained he could not legally release grand jury material, sensitive national security information, information that could affect ongoing investigations or material that violates the privacy rights of people not central to the special counsels investigation.

Barr, however, did forward the committee a less-redacted version of the report.

Press Secretary Sarah Sanders scoffed Monday at House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerry Nadlers demand for an unredacted version of the report when not a single Democrat has yet to go read the less-redacted version of the report, she said.

Nadler already had rejected Barrs offer to read the less-redacted version because it applied only to a dozen House members and the deal would not permit them to discuss it with other Members of Congress who all have top security clearances.

Fighting Subpoenas

The White House resisted House subpoenas on other fronts, too.

On Monday, Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin again informed the House Ways and Means Committee that he would not hand over Trumps tax returns from 2013 to 2018, as the request lacks a legitimate legislative purpose.

On Tuesday, White House counsel Pat Cipollone invoked executive privilege, as he informed Nadler that the White House and former White House counsel Don McGahn would not honor an April subpoena seeking documents and testimony from McGahn, who is slated to testify before the committee before May 21.

Some legal scholars contend the White House effectively waived executive privilege in allowing McGahn to speak and provide evidence to the special counsel so that the administration now cannot claim executive privilege to prevent McGahn from testifying to Congress.

But John C. Yoo  a University of California, Berkeley law professor and former deputy assistant attorney general in the Office of Legal Counsel under former President George W. Bush  maintained that since McGahn spoke to the Department of Justice, which is part of the administration, the White House was just giving the information to itself.

Even though Trump told reporters in April, Were fighting all the subpoenas, Barr, Cipollone and Mnuchin have offered to continue negotiating with House Democrats.

To go by the Holder model, Harkins noted, both parties may find an advantage in letting the partisan battles percolate in the court system, a process likely to run beyond 2020. Republicans can maintain that the fight is all about Russian collusion and there wasnt any, while Democrats can maintain their cause is to stop the Trump White House from impeding an investigation. Harkins added, There will be winners and losers.

Contact Debra J. Saunders at dsaunders@reviewjournal.com or 202-662-7391. Follow @DebraJSaunders on Twitter.

Contact Debra J. Saunders at dsaunders@reviewjournal.com or 202-662-7391. Follow @DebraJSaunders on Twitter.

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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.

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iShares MSCI United Kingdom ETF's stock was trading at $25.60 on March 11th, 2020 when Coronavirus (COVID-19) reached pandemic status according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Since then, EWU shares have increased by 28.5% and is now trading at $32.90.

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Machine learning is overtaking humans in predicting death or heart attack. That's the main message of a study presented today at ICNC 2019.

The International Conference on Nuclear Cardiology and Cardiac CT (ICNC) is co-organised by the American Society of Nuclear Cardiology (ASNC), the European Association of Cardiovascular Imaging (EACVI) of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC), and the European Association of Nuclear Medicine (EANM).

By repeatedly analysing 85 variables in 950 patients with known six-year outcomes, an algorithm "learned" how imaging data interacts. It then identified patterns correlating the variables to death and heart attack with more than 90% accuracy.

Machine learning, the modern bedrock of artificial intelligence (AI), is used every day. Google's search engine, face recognition on smartphones, self-driving cars, Netflix and Spotify recommendation systems all use machine learning algorithms to adapt to the individual user.

Study author Dr. Luis Eduardo Juarez-Orozco, of the Turku PET Centre, Finland, said: "These advances are far beyond what has been done in medicine, where we need to be cautious about how we evaluate risk and outcomes. We have the data but we are not using it to its full potential yet."

Doctors use risk scores to make treatment decisions. But these scores are based on just a handful of variables and often have modest accuracy in individual patients. Through repetition and adjustment, machine learning can exploit large amounts of data and identify complex patterns that may not be evident to humans.

Dr. Juarez-Orozco explained: "Humans have a very hard time thinking further than three dimensions (a cube) or four dimensions (a cube through time). The moment we jump into the fifth dimension we're lost. Our study shows that very high dimensional patterns are more useful than single dimensional patterns to predict outcomes in individuals and for that we need machine learning."

The study enrolled 950 patients with chest pain who underwent the centre's usual protocol to look for coronary artery disease. A coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) scan yielded 58 pieces of data on presence of coronary plaque, vessel narrowing, and calcification. Those with scans suggestive of disease underwent a positron emission tomography (PET) scan which produced 17 variables on blood flow. Ten clinical variables were obtained from medical records including sex, age, smoking and diabetes.

During an average six-year follow-up there were 24 heart attacks and 49 deaths from any cause. The 85 variables were entered into a machine learning algorithm called LogitBoost, which analysed them over and over again until it found the best structure to predict who had a heart attack or died.

Dr. Juarez-Orozco said: "The algorithm progressively learns from the data and after numerous rounds of analyses, it figures out the high dimensional patterns that should be used to efficiently identify patients who have the event. The result is a score of individual risk."

The predictive performance using the ten clinical variables alone (similar to current clinical practice) was modest, with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.65 (where 1.0 is a perfect test and 0.5 is a random result). When PET data were added, AUC increased to 0.69. The predictive performance increased significantly (p=0.005) when CCTA data were added to clinical and PET data, giving an AUC 0.82 and more than 90% accuracy.

Dr. Juarez-Orozco said: "Doctors already collect a lot of information about patientsfor example those with chest pain. We found that machine learning can integrate these data and accurately predict individual risk. This should allow us to personalise treatment and ultimately lead to better outcomes for patients."

Explore further Study confirms diagnostic accuracy of non-invasive technology for heart pain

More information: The abstract 'Refining the long-term prognostic value of hybrid PET/CT through machine learning' will be presented during the Young Investigator Awards session on Sunday 12 May at 09:00 to 10:00 WEST in room Faro.
The relocation and expansion of the Coca-Cola distribution facility from South Third Street in Missoula to an industrial park near the airport was pushed along by Tax Increment Financing and means a prime piece of real estate is opening up for development.

This week, the owners of the facility, High Country, broke ground on a new $9 million, 70,000-square-foot warehouse and distribution center in the Missoula Development Park on Expressway Boulevard. Its expected to open in the spring of 2020.

In 2017, the Missoula County Board of Commissioners approved distributing $600,000 in Tax Increment Financing (TIF) to pay for a new road at the site and other public right-of-way improvements. The money will be paid back by the new property taxes generated by the project.

And that means that a year from now, five acres of property at 2010 S. Third Street W., just down the street from the Good Food Store, will be vacant. The property is zoned for both light industrial and residential uses, contains two parcels, and is for sale for $4.5 million. The land is mostly surrounded by residential housing and non-industrial businesses, and now the noisy trucks will be out in the industrial park where the company has more room for its operations.

I want to say thank you to the City of Missoula and the County for their support, said Trevor Messienger, the CEO of High Country, a South Dakota-based Coca-Cola bottling company. Without the TIF support, theres a good chance that this project wouldnt be happening. And so it takes really not just private business interests but it takes cooperation with local governments to make this sort of a project happen. Were thrilled to be here.

The county approved the TIF money in the hopes that the new road and infrastructure will allow other companies to develop the formerly vacant and undeveloped sites around the new Coca-Cola facility. Messienger said it would have been cost prohibitive for the company to build the road itself, and the company might have looked outside of Missoula County for a new location otherwise.

Grant Kier, the executive director of the Missoula Economic Partnership, said TIF is a useful economic development tool for undeveloped sites in the Missoula Development Park.

Those Tax Increment Financing districts are really important for giving our developers the sort of confidence that the infrastructures going to be in place, theres going to be a place for them to develop to expand and grow in the long term, he said. Its been a great partnership and honestly it was a really visionary endeavor for our county commissioners to develop this business park when they did two decades ago.

Kier also said the land where the old warehouse sits could be developed in a number of different ways.

Theyre very aware of what an important place it is and how much opportunity it has to serve many of our needs in our community, Kier said. Obviously, affordable housing is one of those big ones everyones looking at. We know its on the radar and were talking to people whenever they come into town about important sites.

"I think all eyes are on that to see it well developed and see it be a meaningful part of how that community moves forward in that neighborhood.

Messienger said his company is well aware of how the centrally located old location could be valuable to the community.

Our current facility has served the community for over 50 years and its been a good location, he said. But we really believe that location can serve the community of Missoula better with something different for the future, so we think this will be a win-win all the way around as we come out and become part of this great development park out here and hopefully have other businesses join us and were glad to be an anchor here.

County Commissioner Cola Rowley said the TIF money for infrastructure enticed the company to move, which means a valuable plot of land opens up in the city and the countys Development Park gets an anchor business.

Its exciting to see activity out here, she said. I think a lot of people think the county still owns the lots and that nothing is happening but really all the lots are sold and theyve been waiting for the right economic climate and the incentives that are necessary to bring the infrastructure out to start really developing this part."

She said its energizing to see a big project come out to the Development Park.

"And Im glad that we were able to help with the infrastructure costs to make this place attractive to them. They certainly had other options," she noted.

Rowley believes that although the $600,000 is diverted away from the countys general fund that pays for roads and public health and other services, taxpayers are getting a good deal from the TIF program.

I think they did" get a good deal, she said. Not only opening up the valuable real estate in Missoula (at the old location) but the new development out here."

Having a distribution facility in a residential neighborhood isn't ideal, but Rowley said its a "very appropriate use" out near the airport.

"And by putting in the infrastructure systems, I think it will spur more development by having this company and the infrastructure out here, she added.

Kier said the county did its part 20 years ago by creating the Development Park and now its his turn to keep things going.

I think now the onus is on our generation and people like me to figure out what were doing today to make sure were ready for great businesses like this to move forward 20 years from now, and if we do that well well continue to see great growth in our community, he said.

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The Missoula Public Librarys Swing into Spring programming series continues this week with the free class Mushroom Identification 102, which occurs on Wednesday, May 15, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. in the librarys Large Meeting Room.

During this second class on mushroom identification, participants will gain further knowledge of how to utilize their field guides, learn how to take constructive field notes, and build more confidence with mushroom identification.

This class is brought to us by the Western Montana Mycological Association and taught by long-term member Egan Jankowski-Bradley. Egan is a microbiologist specializing in fungal research and the utilization of fungi to solve issues in agriculture, forestry and land restoration.

Those planning on attending are encouraged, but not required, to bring their mushroom field guide with them to this class.

Missoula wildflower presentation

Come help us celebrate the return of spring at Missoula Public Library during the upcoming talk Missoula Wildflowers 101, which is part of our Swing into Spring programming series and occurs on Tuesday, May 21, at 6:30 p.m. in the librarys Large Meeting Room.

Drew Lefebvre, Teaching Naturalist at the Montana Natural History Center, will introduce us to some of the fascinating wildflowers of the Missoula area, and attendees will get to know their botanical neighbors and learn about their amazing histories.

Cheap Date Night

Bring yourself and a date for a fun night in front of a big screen when the library hosts Mays installment of Cheap Date Night, which features a screening of a recent feature film on Friday, May 17, at 7 p.m. in the librarys Large Meeting Room.

This months movie is an action-packed adventure that spans the vast underwater world of the seven seas. The film reveals the origin story of half-human, half-Atlantean Arthur Curry and takes him on the journey of his lifetime  one that will not only force him to face who he really is, but to discover if he is worthy of who he was born to be  a king.

Call 721-BOOK (2665) to find out the title of the film.

Staff Review

Good Omens by Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett (Workman Pub., New York 1990) Call number: SFPB GAIMAN, BKCD GAIMAN

Its the end of the world as we know it, but Aziraphale (an angel) and Crowley (a demon) dont feel fine. In fact, theyre both pretty upset about it. After countless years of living on Earth, they have become quite comfortable with their respective lifestyles and have no desire to see it all cast into ruins by the coming of Armageddon. But what are two supernatural beings on opposite sides of the moral divide to do? Team up, of course! With the help of Anathema (a witch), Newton (a witch-hunter in training) and Madame Tracy (a fortune teller), they attempt to head off the Four Bikers of the Apocalypse. Ultimately, they discover that the fate of the world rests squarely in the hands of Adam, an eleven-year-old schoolboy from Lower Tadfield, Oxfordshire.

Keep an eye out for the six-part television adaptation of Good Omens, which premieres on Amazon Prime on May 31st.

Reviewed by Laura Cote

MakerSpace classes

3D Printing 101 Workshop

Wednesday, May 15, at 6:30 p.m.

Come and learn about how to use MPLs 3D printers during this workshop. Topics covered include how to set up prints, where to find 3D objects online to print, and resources available for 3D modeling and 3D scanning.

Space is limited to 6 participants and online registration is required.

Register online at: https://tinyurl.com/mpl3dprinting101may2019

Watercolor Travel Kit Class

Friday, May 17, from 3 to 5 p.m. in the Large Meeting Room

Come and learn how to make your own upcycled travel watercolor kit during this class.

All supplies to make the kit provided, but please bring your own watercolor brush.

Space is limited to 12 participants and online registration is required.

Register online at https://tinyurl.com/watercolorkitmay2019

Weekly MakerSpace Offerings:

Open Hours

Monday, Tuesday and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 to 6 p.m., Wednesday from noon to 5 p.m., Friday from 1 to 6 p.m.

Open Hours allows users to explore the resources of the MakerSpace, or to work on a project of their choice.

Community Creative Writing Workshop

Tuesdays from 6 to 7:30 p.m.

Drop-in environment focusing on the creative writing workshop process.

Computer Classes

Searching the Library

Thursday, May 16, from noon to 1 p.m.

This class offers an introduction to library services available through its computers.

Topics include how to search the library catalog, including tips and strategies for finding the item you are looking to check out.

Registration is required to attend MPLs Computer Classes. Please call 721-BOOK (2665) to register.

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As the suicide prevention coordinator for the Missoula City-County Health Department, I think about preventing suicides full time. The daunting reality in Montana is that we have the highest rate of suicide in the nation. I work with a coalition of dedicated community organizations to tackle this problem from many angles. Whether were training community members in suicide intervention or advocating for laws that will keep people in crisis safe, were working hard to help support those who are already in crisis.

But what if there was something we could do to prevent people from becoming suicidal in the first place? What if there was a way to teach our kids how to get along, how to relate, so that they felt more secure and connected to their peers? Could we change the trajectory for a child who is likely to end up in trouble, before that trouble begins?

There is such a program: The PAX Good Behavior Game, and with the help of grants from the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services and Providence Hospital, Missoula County Public Schools (MCPS) is training elementary school teachers in this classroom management system which has proven to significantly reduce aggressive and disruptive behavior in the classroom, and increase their emotional regulation and social skills. Further, research has shown the long term effects of the Good Behavior Game (when those in the program have reached 19-21 years of age) to be significantly lower rates of drug and alcohol use disorders, smoking, antisocial personality disorder, incarceration for violent crimes, suicide ideation, and use of school-based services among students who have played the GBG than those who had not.

Its brilliantly simple. The PAX Good Behavior Game is a classroom management tool, where kids are encouraged to work in collaborative groups. They are rewarded as a team for working well together, and kindly reminded when their behavior doesnt meet classroom standards. Behavior is taught as a skill. Instead of being an additional classroom lesson, teachers integrate PAX into their lessons as a way of managing, encouraging and rewarding the students as they learn.

MCPS has trained kindergarten through second-grade teachers in the Good Behavior Game, so parents of early elementary students will be hearing more about this as their kids enter the next academic year.

Carol Ewen, student wellness coordinator at MCPS, has really championed the effort to bring PAX GBG to Missoula students. She says: The PAX GBG is part of our MCPS Suicide Prevention Strategic Plan. But the good news for teachers is not only does it have positive long term effects, it helps increase pro-social behavior and self-regulation resulting in better academic outcomes. It is so important that educators teach the whole child, which includes social emotional learning.

Montanas Addictive Mental Disorder Division is extremely interested in expanding PAX GBG statewide and is currently working with federal agencies to identify funding streams that will ensure the programs expansion and sustainability.

My hope is that we as a community support this effort that can truly have a positive ripple effect in the lives of those students and their families. Parents, when the school reaches out to you in the early fall with information about the Good Behavior Game, please take some time to digest the ideas and tips you can use at home. Because we all know that students learn best when they have consistent and positive support at home. Together we can give our young students the skills they need to be resilient and thrive.

Nancy de Pastino is the suicide prevention coordinator for the Missoula City-County Health Department.

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The 2019 legislative session turned out to be a success for wildlife and habitat. We look back at a session that had more than 80 bills affecting our core issues of wildlife, habitat and access, and see many wins and a handful of losses when it comes to improving public access to public lands.

First off, our best conservation and hunting access program, Habitat Montana, came out of the session intact and fully funded. Habitat Montana uses hunting license dollars to protect important wildlife habitat through conservation easements and targeted land purchases. For over 30 years, Habitat Montana has been a vital tool to ensure that family farms and ranches stay how they are, while providing meaningful protections for prime wildlife habitat and access to those lands.

In addition, Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks comes out of this session with the best budget its had in over a decade. The agency will receive the needed equipment and personnel to properly manage wildlife, including two new permanent grizzly bear management specialists, a statewide deer and elk planner, upgrades to hatcheries, a new automated licensing system to keep up with the times, and new boats, snow machines and ATVs for wardens and biologists so they can safely do field work.

The Legislature also passed the first significant increase in funding for our state parks in well over a decade. Senate Bill 24 will pump an additional $2 million per year into our state parks and recreational trails, and was passed after a broad coalition of public lands advocates, trail users, community leaders and health advocates came together.

Montanas fair chase hunting heritage also won. SB 349 makes it illegal to use wildlife location data to hunt or harass wildlife. Senate Joint Resolution 30 lays out an interim study to look at how FWP can better manage wildlife data in the digital age.

Hunter-landowner relations received a boost with two bills that build on incentives for landowners who open their land to public hunters, including updating the 454 program that lets FWP negotiate better access with landowners in exchange for non-transferable permits and licenses, and another that gives the required base hunting license for block management participants.

We strengthened the sage grouse conservation program while providing more surety for industry, and Montana also renewed the aquatic invasive species program in order to protect our world-famous waters.

Public access to public lands had a mixed bag. SB 341, the public access land act, is designed to open opportunities to access landlocked public lands. This program will undergo rulemaking which Montana Wildlife Federation will be participating in to ensure that the program is instituted as envisioned.

Public access advocates were disappointed that the Legislature failed to pass SB 224 and SB 301. Those bills would have gone a long way toward addressing the difficult issue of when people cut off access to our public lands. It was also disappointing to see the Legislature pass House Bill 265, which re-injected politics into the decision-making process of Habitat Montana after all hunting and angling organizations opposed the bill.

Still, Montanas hunters, anglers and recreational users can look back at the 2019 Legislature and see a lot of wins. Its what happens when Montanans work together on the key conservation issues that are important to all of us.

Bill Geer is president of the Montana Wildlife Federation.

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Instead of a Mothers Day gift, this year Montana legislators gave moms of young children an added burden. But not just moms; entire communities will suffer the results of their failure to provide any funding for preschool.

Lawmakers left the parents of more than 1,400 young children twisting in the wind, unsure if their preschool will have the necessary resources to continue providing high-quality care and education to Montanas neediest students. With declining enrollment, some teachers at these schools are likely to lose their jobs. Dozens of preschools in the states most rural communities are at risk of closing entirely.

These programs, which cater to the unique developmental needs of 4- and 5-year-olds, participate in Montanas STARS Preschool program or have received preschool development grants in the past few years. But both those supports are ending thanks to legislators who opted not to continue funding them.

Some of these legislators opposed public support for preschool on the mistaken assumption that young children who dont have access to preschool can simply stay at home with mom. But thats just not true.

The parents of low-income families often hold low-paying jobs, sometimes multiple jobs, with odd hours that already make child care a challenge. In desperation, parents who cannot afford high-quality child care are forced to make substandard arrangements  often with an unlicensed family member, neighbor or friend. Montanas most at-risk children start kindergarten at a distinct disadvantage, lacking basic school readiness skills such as social awareness, emotional regulation and the ability to follow directions.

Public schools must then pick up the slack and help their students get ready to learn  before they can actually begin to learn. This is a process that may take several years, depending on the needs of the child.

Gov. Steve Bullock has long championed a logical solution to this problem, a solution with mountains of evidence supporting its efficacy: public preschool programs. In 2015, Montana successfully secured a federal preschool development grant that created more than 1,000 preschool slots. It provided $10 million a year for four years.

The 2017 Montana Legislature kicked in an additional $6 million  just $3 million a year for two years  in one-time funding for the STARS program, which received nearly 50 applications from public schools, private child care centers and in-home childcare providers, and awarded 17 grants to support 20 classrooms in its first year. That represents more than 300 new preschool slots.

The next year, the state Early Childhood Services Bureau released an evaluation report that showed a 21% overall increase in school readiness among children attending STARS Preschool participants. Assessment data show that the biggest growth occurred among children identified with high needs. These are children from low-income or homeless families. They might have teen parents, or their families might have mental or physical disabilities, or the students themselves might need special accommodations. Every dollar spent boosting the school readiness of these students saves $7 down the line in other public costs, according to the Montana Budget and Policy Center.

Yet this year, the Legislature ignored the pleas of teachers and parents across the state and rejected every proposal to provide funding for preschool. The House Education Committee tabled a bill from Miles City Republican Rep. Eric Moore that would have provided $11 million over the biennium for preschool programs, and Republicans rejected subsequent attempts to add funding for preschool as amendments to a budget companion bill.

Montana is now one of only a handful of states in the nation that do not provide any public support for preschool. The others are Idaho, New Hampshire, South Dakota and Wyoming. States with public preschool programs not only see significant improvements in school readiness, they are eligible for federal funding that further boost the positive impacts of successful pre-K programs. In the latest round of grants from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 43 states shared a total of $241 million for preschool.

A few months ago, Montana did learn it will be awarded a $4.2 million grant as part of the second round of the original four-year federal grant. However, none of that money will go toward maintaining the preschool slots already created. Instead, it will be used to study the existing preschool system.

Its a safe bet that research will yet again tell Montanans what we already know: that the state needs a program that supports high-quality preschool for children at risk of starting public school unprepared.

The lack of affordable preschool has ripple effects for working parents, their employers and their communities. A recent survey from the Missoula Area Chamber of Commerce revealed that the sky-high costs of child care is forcing local workers to sacrifice their careers. With the average monthly child care bill exceeding $600 a month, child care is the fourth-highest expense for a young family.

The survey garnered some 550 responses from a wide cross-section of Missoula residents, and represented the highest response rate the chamber has ever seen. Nearly half of these respondents reported they had scaled back or abandoned their career(s)  due to child care issues. A 2019 report from the National Bureau of Economic Research notes that mothers, far more than fathers, are likely to be underemployed or unemployed as a direct result of having children.

Many women chose to stay at home or work fewer hours in order to spend more time caring for their children. But for too many mothers in Montana, its not a choice. They have to work to put food on the table and pay the rent, and that means they have to pay someone else to care for their children for the hours they are at work as well. But they, too, want their children to have access to enriching, high-quality child care, and a chance to start school on a level playing field with other students.

This Mothers Day, Montanans should contact their elected representatives and ask them what they intend to do to help prepare our youngest learners for a successful school career.

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Just two hours after seeing a well-respected veterinarian, for the fourth consecutive day (three of which were specifically for IV fluids), our dog, Ellie, went into serious distress. At the emergency hospital, she was declared severely dehydrated.

We were devastated to discover that despite our repeatedly voiced concerns, the seriousness of Ellie's condition had been blatantly misrepresented by the professional we trusted with her care, and the fluids she had received over those three days were grossly inadequate.

The emergency veterinarian tried to save her, but trying to make up for days of insufficient fluid intake was impossible; Ellie's organs were failing. My heart aches at the needless suffering she endured.

On this anniversary of our loss of our beloved Ellie, I write to warn other animal guardians, hoping they may avoid a similar tragedy.

Please, research your current or prospective veterinarian's history. Talk to other animal guardians about their experiences, and who they recommend. Call the Montana Department of Labor, or use the License Lookup on their website, to find out if any disciplinary action is a part of their record. This tool is not perfect, but it could aid in preventing more suffering and heartache.

Teresa Beck,

Missoula

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Who will take care of the caregiver?

Lindsay LeProwse's grandma was a nurse  and when she developed a chronic pulmonary condition late in life, she was blessed to have her granddaughter take care of her.

"I moved in with her when I was 16, and cared for her until I was 20, when she passed," Leprowse said. "And I learned that I had a passion for helping people."

That same year, LeProwse became a nurse. After going to Butte Central and then Montana Tech's nursing program, she headed to the UC Davis Medical Center, where she worked as a nurse in the accelerated access unit, caring for patients with a wide range of health problems. "I loved it," she said. "If I could have picked up that job and moved it back to Butte Montana it would have been great."

After a couple of years, the pull to return to Butte was undeniable.

"I always wanted to come back," she says. "Who doesn't love this community? I don't have words to describe the feeling of Butte, the people, the history."

After returning, she worked in a variety of nursing roles, including nursing home, hospital and hospice work, until taking her present job in correctional nursing at the Butte Pre-Release Center.

It's an understatement to say her job is challenging. But she finds it rewarding as well.

"It is humbling," she said. "We often frown on people who are in the correctional system. I had a patient tell me the other day that I was the first person to look him in the eye in a couple of weeks."

"I don't care what they did," LeProwse says. "I'm not interested in their crime, or their past. They need to be treated like any humans do, with kindness.

"I'm interested in helping them physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually so they can get to a better place in their lives."

LeProwse says that "my parents raised us to not give people one or two chances, but to give them three or four, sometimes five."

She said that "when you're dealing with addicts, the interactions aren't always rewarding. But it is rewarding when they get better, and say, 'Thank you. You listened. You were kind to me.'"

Anyone who mistakes LeProwse for a pushover finds out differently, fast. She clearly has an inner core of steel.

She says that "You can't be afraid to stand up to a person when they're in the grip of addiction. The end result is you want to help them to a healthy place."

In addition, for the past year and a half to two years, LeProwse has been the caregiver for a local Vietnam veteran suffering from brain cancer.

"I met him in the community," she said. "He's had a tough path. He has no family and the war experience was very hard on him. Now, he's facing his own mortality and he's come to grips with it pretty well."

One of the things she likes about her job is that "I never miss any of my kids' activities. If I were still doing hospital work I wouldn't have that flexibility."

She said motherhood and nursing pretty much "go hand in hand. ... I'm probably tougher on my kids, actually," she said with a smile. "I'll tell them, suck it up, you'll be all right, let's go."

Now, LeProwse serves on the Montana Tech nursing program's advisory board, which she enjoys a lot. "I think it's an awesome program," she says. "Nothing against Carroll, or MSU, or anywhere else, but the program at Tech is great. The classes are smaller, it's affordable, the instructors are awesome.

"I encourage people to go there all the time."

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The driver suspected of being responsible for a hit-and-run resulting in a motorcyclists death has been found dead from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound near the city of Deer Lodge, according to Anaconda law enforcement.

Anaconda-Deer Lodge Police Chief Tim Barkell said Saturday that officers in the Smelter City received a call from Butte police Friday night reporting that a woman had located Marcus Sepulveda at the Racetrack Campground, about 11 miles south of the city of Deer Lodge.

Barkell said Anaconda police arrived around 10 p.m. at the campground, where they found Sepulvedas truck. About 50 yards away, they discovered the man inside a tent deceased, Barkell said.

Butte-Silver Bow Sheriff Ed Lester said in a Saturday-morning press release that Anaconda authorities are investigating the matter.

The events of yesterday are a tragedy for our entire community, said Lester in a written statement.

Sepulveda was suspected of hitting and killing a 41-year-old male motorcyclist while driving a 2014 Subaru and fleeing the scene.

The alleged hit-and-run occurred on Dewey Boulevard just east of Lexington Avenue at 1:53 a.m. Friday.

Both vehicles were reportedly traveling westbound when the car struck the motorcycle.

Lester said Friday there's no suggestion or information "either way" as to whether the victim and the Subaru driver knew each other.

The male adult rider of the motorcycle was treated by fire rescue and ambulance personnel who arrived on the scene and was transported to St. James Healthcare, where he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.

Midday Friday, Butte police released a statement indicating they suspected Sepulveda may have been the hit-and-run driver. Police urged the driver to turn himself in and the public to call police with any information on his whereabouts.

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When Father Tom Haffey was a 17-year-old growing up in Anaconda in 1960, the Smelter City had three parishes, three Catholic grade schools, a Catholic high school, a Catholic hospital, 12 priests and 65 nuns.

So I was raised in a Catholic ghetto, Haffey said on a recent afternoon, with his characteristic mix of wry humor and directness.

But things have changed: today, Anaconda has a one Catholic church, one priest, and no nuns.

Fittingly, Haffey rattles off these statistics about the decline of local Catholicism from what was once a classroom in St. Anns Catholic School and what is now his office in the St. Anns Parish Office Building.

That school closed in the midst of his tenure, when he was at the very start of what would become a 50-year career as a priest in Butte, Anaconda, Bozeman and elsewhere in western Montana.

And now, hes at the end of that career: On July 1, after half a century serving his parishioners and his God, Haffey will officially retire from his current position as pastor of St. Anns.

But while the size of the area Catholic community has declined and Haffey is at the tail end of a half-century of service, you couldnt detect a hint of exhaustion or lack of enthusiasm on Thursday morning, before Butte Centrals final all-schools mass of the year  and Haffeys final turn performing mass for the parochial schools.

With an audience of Central students, staff and administrators in the pews, Haffey strode before them on the altar with an acoustic guitar slung around his neck and led them in a joyful singing of Ive got the Joy (Down in My Heart).

Im so happy, so very happy, Haffey sang. Ive got the love of Jesus down in my heart.

Where? the kids called back.

Down in my heart.

And if the Devil doesnt like it, Haffey continued, strumming his guitar, he can sit on a tack.

Ow! the kids responded.

***

Haffey traces the origins of his decision to join the priesthood to his own upbringing in Catholic schools and in Anacondas then strongly Catholic culture, where being a priest was like a being a Major League pitcher.

When his first-grade class was asked who wanted to be a priest or nun, Haffey says everyone raised his or her hand.

And a surprising number followed through. Haffey says three priests and five nuns came out of his graduating class at Anaconda Central High School.

Haffey pursued his aim of entering the priesthood at Carroll College, where he studied philosophy and earned his undergraduate degree in 1965. From there, he went to Iowa, to attend seminary.

In 1969, he was ordained in Butte, in the church where he is now the pastor.

His first assignment was in Browning and involved regular visits to East Glacier and other spots within and around Glacier National Park.

What a nice assignment, to be tooling around Glacier for the summer, Haffey said, looking back.

He was then sent to a parish in Hamilton for two years, before receiving his first assignment in Butte in 1971.

At the time, he says, Butte's Catholic grade schools had all closed, leaving him with the job of finding ways to convey the religious education to students who might otherwise lose it. He also helped out as a priest at St. Anns.

After five years in Butte, Haffey returned to his hometown and his home parish from 1976 to 1981. Being home those years proved especially good, Haffey said, because his father died during that period, allowing him to be around and involved at a crucial time for his family.

When he left the Smelter City, it was to become pastor at Resurrection Parish at Montana State University.

Haffeys time in Bozeman proved to be a wonderful experience, he said. It was his first post as a pastor, and he enjoyed working with the university students and in a campus environment.

But his time there wasn't all sweetness and light. While in Bozeman, Haffey said he was forced to confront his issues with alcohol. It wasn't easy to face his alcoholism, but it was productive: he got sober.

Looking back on what is now 35 years of sobriety, Haffey said that his decision to quit drinking proved useful not only in his personal life but also in his ministry, which has come to include work with others in recovery for substance addiction and abuse.

From the relative buzz of Bozeman, Haffey was moved next to the calm and quietude of Conrad, a small agricultural community on the Hi-Line.

It slowed me down, Haffey said of his time there. And it taught him important lessons about his faith: Farm people have to be a lot more God-reliant than city people, because theyre reliant on nature.

In 1997, Haffey returned to Butte for good. Here, he has served not only as the pastor of St. Anns but in the same role at Holy Spirit parish in Butte, St. Catherine Parish in Boulder and St. Teresa of Avila Parish in Whitehall.

Haffey was eligible to retire six years ago, at age 70, but he decided to keep going.

My health was good and I was enjoying it, Haffey said.

But recently, hes begun to feel the effects of the grueling work of managing so many parishes and performing so many functions. One recent day began with a mass at 7 a.m. and was followed by both a funeral and confirmation.

I was dragging by the end of the day, Haffey said. When youre 76, stuff happens to your body.

***

Of those three priests and five nuns who graduated with Haffey, he says only two remained in the religious life.

Theres Haffey, of course, and theres Father Dan Shea.

We were in the nursery together, Haffey said of Shea, and according to Shea, they met as boys while delivering copies of The Butte Daily Post.

They have remained close friends ever since, attending Carroll College together, being ordained together, taking vacations together at least once a year and visiting mutual friends together.

He's the best friend in the world," Shea said. Hes got a good heart, a good soul. He gives people the benefit of the doubt. (He has) a trusting soul and a willingness to do exciting things. ... And hes got an incredible sense of humor."

Through a lifetime of friendship within and outside the priesthood, the two have leaned on one another through the ups and downs of leading a devout religious life in an increasingly irreligious world.

Today, lifes about sex, hamburgers and girls, Haffey said.

And hes upfront about the challenges hes encountered remaining so faithful to the religious faith and tradition he grew up in: Its not a cakewalk. Its reality. Theres good times and bad times.

As people generally are drifting away from religion, Haffey said, You get discouraged with the empty pews.

Despite such discouragement, Haffey has persisted, finding so much good in the people he works with and finding so much joy from being invited into the holiest moments of peoples lives. (See related column.)

I consider it a tragedy, Haffey said of declining involvement in the Catholic Church. But God always works through the chosen few.

***

An indeterminate number of those chosen few were gathered Thursday morning for Centrals all-schools mass, where, after singing and playing guitar, Haffey led attendees in the May Crowning, a Church ritual that honors the Virgin Mary with a garland of flowers.

Mary is the model of living with uncertainty, Haffey said during his homily. She teaches us how to trust when things dont make sense in our head.  We put a crown on Mary to show we dont totally understand God, but we trust God.

Such faith in what Haffey called the happy mysteries, joyful mysteries are infectious, and the reach of his belief has surely extended widely in Buttes, Anacondas and western Montanas persistent, if less thriving, Catholic communities over the past 50 years.

A small sign of that could be seen at Thursday's mass, as kids from Centrals various grade came forth with a procession of gifts for their priest.

The middle-schoolers gave him gift cards and a crucifix. The fifth-graders gave him a book of poetry, and the fourth-graders gave him a book of jokes. The third-graders gave him a copy of Dumbo to make up for the time, as boy, Haffey gave up movies for Lent and so missed seeing it. The kindergartners came last, with a manuscript theyd made and titled The Reasons We Love Father Haffey.

Don Peoples Jr., president of Butte Central Schools, offered his own expression of gratitude to Haffey for what he called his leadership and dedication as well as his spiritual direction.

We cant thank you enough, Peoples said.

A standing ovation followed, but Haffey did his best to tamp down the sentiment.

Even though Im going to retire, Im going to be around, said Haffey, who plans to continue performing masses as a substitute priest, working with Buttes addiction-recovery community and being active in Buttes Catholic schools, churches and community. Im not sad, because Im going to be seeing you some more in the days to come.

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It's a given: Nurses take care of people.

But instead of focusing on treating one person at a time, public health nurses take care of large groups of people at once. Karen Maloughney's large group happens to be the population of Butte-Silver Bow County.

"When public health is working really well you don't necessarily hear from us," says Maloughney, who is one of just a handful of nurses in the public-health realm here. "Public health probably saved your life today  you just didn't realize it."

And that's not unusual. "People don't realize what we do to keep them healthy day in and day out," she says. "We try to keep people informed and immunized against disease."

Right now, Maloughney is on edge about outbreak of measles in the United States  the worst in decades  that has infected more than 700 people, the New York Times reported this week.

"It's one of the most contagious diseases there is," Maloughney says. "It's probably only a matter of time before somebody gets on an airplane and brings it here. Once it's here, it's here. So we're constantly encouraging people to get vaccinated."

She stressed that vaccines aren't just for kids. Adults need vaccinating too, and not just for measles. "Just because you grow up doesn't mean you don't need protection," she says. "Vaccines protect adults against diseases like pneumonia, pertussis and shingles."

Butte native Maloughney said her instinct to get into nursing arose from having older parents. "They were in their 40s when I was born, and later they were not in the best of health, and I wanted to know how I could help them," she said.

She was in the first graduating class of Montana Tech's registered nurse program. "I didn't want to leave Butte to get that training so I was so happy when they offered it," she said.

Public health in Butte means tackling the rate of suicide, particularly among children, and Maloughney has been a part of a community task force since 2014. She says that in Butte, the number of attempted suicides has dropped "from a little over 17 percent to 12 percent in three and a half years. We are moving the needle in the right direction."

She also has Superfund-related health responsibilities, working with the RMAP program administered by Butte-Silver Bow and following blood-lead cases and statistics.

And she works closely with doctors and nurses to monitor the community for infectious disease. "School nurses know what pertussis sounds like," she says with a wry grin. "We'd be lost without our community partners. I'm just one piece of the puzzle."

One thing Maloughney has in common with all nurses: The work never stops.

"It can be overwhelming," she says. "But I take pride in knowing we're helping a lot of people  even if they might not know it."

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Noting its 47th season, Shakespeare in the Parks will celebrate, beginning in June, with productions of Shakespeare's Henry IV, Part I, directed by Kevin Asselin and Merry Wives of Windsor, directed by Marti Lyons. The summer season opens June 12. As always, all performances are free.

Henry IV, Part I  Opening on June 12, theater-goers will experience the power, honor, and rebellion displayed in the fight for the throne, as a young prince must live up to his father's expectations.

Merry Wives of Windsor  Duels, deceit, and attempted seduction alight in this comedy featuring the beloved Sir John Falstaff. Watch as he tries to fool two clever women and has the tables turned on him instead.

The company features professional actors selected from national auditions who tour without technical assistance to bring live theatre to mostly rural communities. This summer, 66 percent of the communities reached by the troupe have populations of 5,000 or fewer.

Montana Shakespeare in the Parks is an outreach program of Montana State Universitys College of Arts and Architecture. Grants, corporate sponsorships and hundreds of individual donors support the free performances.

For more details on the plays and a complete tour schedule, visit the companys website: www.shakespeareintheparks.org. The area tour schedule is listed below.

Henry IV, Part 1

Aug. 17  Butte, Stodden Park

Aug. 23  Philipsburg, 210 W. Stockton

Merry Wives of Windsor

Aug. 14  Boulder, Jefferson County Fairgrounds

Aug. 16  Anaconda, Washoe Park

Aug. 21  Deer Lodge, Old Prison Yard

Aug. 28  Dillon, 710 S. Atlantic St.

Aug. 29  Whitehall, rodeo grounds

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Gov. Steve Bullock on Friday vetoed a bill that would have increased penalties for repeat drunken drivers, calling the legislation well-intentioned, but a step backward for Montana.

The bill, HB 534, would have required prison time for a second or subsequent felony DUI.

In Montana, a persons first three DUIs are misdemeanors, so the mandatory prison time would have kicked in at the fifth conviction.

Carried by Rep. Bill Mercer, R-Billings, the bill was pushed by prosecutors in response to criminal justice reforms passed in 2017 that eased the penalties for repeat offenders.

In the past, prosecutors could seek stiffer penalties based on if a person had received multiple felonies. The 2017 reforms stipulated that those increased penalties could only be used if the criminal history was violent or sexual in nature, meaning drunken drivers were excluded.

The House passed Mercers bill 68-30 and the Senate 28-22.

Under current law, anyone convicted of a second or subsequent DUI is sentenced to the Department of Corrections, which can place those people in any setting from probation to prison. Most often, theyre sent to in-patient treatment, according to Bullocks veto letter.

Bullock pointed to a four-year downward trend statewide in felony DUI convictions, saying the Department of Corrections approach was working.

The bill would institute costly mandatory minimum sentences and limit options for treatment and other evidence-based intervention, Bullock wrote.

The Montana County Attorneys Association had pushed for the changes in the bill Bullock vetoed, saying they would have affected a relatively narrow segment of people whod already been through court-ordered treatment but received another conviction afterward.

The bill would have required a mandatory two years in prison (and maximum of 10) for a second felony DUI, or a fifth total DUI.

It would have required a mandatory three years in prison (and maximum of 20) for a third or subsequent felony DUI, which would be the persons sixth or subsequent conviction.

Yellowstone County Attorney Scott Twito, who had been a vocal advocate for the bill, said the measure would only have affected a small segment of the population.

Im not talking about the guy thats challenging because their breath test was right at the threshold limit, Twito told lawmakers at a committee hearing in February. Im talking about the people that are functioning at like a 0.3 alcohol level, 0.2, and its the middle of the day, the time when you go to pick up your kids at school.

Twito said he had not yet seen Bullocks reasoning for vetoing the bill.

So, well have to see what he says, but, [Im] totally disappointed, he said.

Bill supporters included the Montana Department of Justice and the Montana Sheriffs and Peace Officers Association.

Opponents included the Montana Department of Corrections and the American Civil Liberties Union.

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Mr. Trump, I have heard you use the word terrorist many times. The recent hate crimes: the killings of American Jews in synagogues and the murders of African Americans in their churches, are acts of terrorism.

The perpetrators have been young, white, American males. Not American Muslims, not Americans of color, not even undocumented immigrants. They have been white supremacists - American white supremacists. We could call this movement what it is: A White Supremacist Jihad.

Mr. Trump, you have said you are not anti-Semitic, that nobody loves "the" Jews like you. You seem to support Benjamin Netanyahu unconditionally. You have moved the American Embassy to Jerusalem and stated that the West Bank should be part of Israel.

This proves your love for the Jewish people? They should re-elect you? Do you think Jewish Americans are so easily bought? That these political moves prove your "love"? I know an important part of your religious base are American evangelicals and they are cheering your Israeli politics. But I think you could show Jews just how much you love them by using your bully pulpit and calling out white supremacists for what they are: TERRORISTS.

Saving the life of any American, any human being, that is targeted  especially in a house of worship, shows true concern and love. That will get all Americans' attention to this homegrown insanity. And since your true agenda is always about you, and staying in power  maybe that will garner more votes.

Marlyn Atkins, Clancy

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Although she was born and raised in Argentina, Sonia Rivero has spent most of her life in the Napa Valley as a cancer unit nurse at Adventist Health St. Helena. Now in her 43rd year of nursing, Rivero says she wanted to a nurse as far back as she can remember.

I had a rubber doll that had holes all over it because I would give it shots, she chuckled.

Rivero was visiting Argentina recently when she got the news that she had been selected to be profiled in the Napa Valley Registers Nurses Week section. I didnt know what to say, she recalled. We all work together as a team, and I think everyone deserved to be nominated. I think of my team as my second family.

A charge nurse in the hospitals Martin-ONeill Cancer Center, Rivero earned her nursing degree from the National University of Rosario in Rosario, Argentina.

When I was finishing high school, I took those tests to see what your interests are and one was a social worker and another was being a reporter, Rosario said. I said No, thats not for me, so I went into nursing and Ive never regretted it.

Rivero said she and her husband came to the United States because her husband wanted to go to school and get a masters degree in education.

We were planning to be here three to five years and its been almost 40. We moved to Angwin about 1980, and I worked as a CNA at St. Helena Hospital (now known as Adventist Health St. Helena) for a little while. We then we moved to Southern California for a couple of years and we didnt like the city, so we came back and have been here since, Rivero said.

Right now, I am the charge nurse of the infusion room at the cancer center here, Rivero said. Cancer patients inspire me because they have to live a day at a time, and seeing these people fighting to survive makes me realize that I need to take care of myself and enjoy every day of my life. I love giving my patients hugs so they know that somebody cares about them. We have people here who are by themselves who dont have any family and they have to deal with it alone.

Rivero said working with cancer patients is hard work. Sometimes you dont know what to say, you pray and find the right words to encourage them to keep going and support the decisions that they make. Rivero says she tries her best to help give cancer patients the strength to go through treatments.

Sometimes you have patients who are angry because of what they have to go through, and you have to respond to that with kindness and make people feel safe, she said. Our goal is to treat the body, the mind and the soul.

Patients are much sicker today when they are admitted than they used to be, according to Rivero. Now because of insurance, hospitals cant admit patients until they are really sick.

As many nurses have said, computers have really changed their world and not always in a good way. Sometimes I feel that there are so many things you need to put in the computer that nurses are spending more time doing that than taking care of their patients, she said. Thats a change I dont like because you need to spend time with your patients and listen to them. Sometimes, nurses dont have time for that today.

Rivero also echoed other nurses in advising people considering going into nursing to think about their motives. If it is to help people, then go for it. But if your motive is to just earn money, then you wont be a very good nurse. My patients come first, she added.

Rather than being nominated by a nurse or a patient, Rivero was nominated by the entire oncology nursing team at Adventist Health St. Helena. Her team shared that she is a seeker of the important details and wants to understand what the underlying issues are for every patient including clinical social, and emotional needs. She does this fact finding in a way that is comfortable for the patient and their loved ones and can establish trust quickly. Her approachable style also makes her a welcoming and skilled mentor for new nurses, they said.

Although working in the cancer unit is challenging, Rivero remains as committed as ever. I have never regretted coming to help cancer patients, she said. It fills my heart and thats why Im here and why Ive been a nurse for so long.
Karen Good says nursing is her calling  one that came early but needed a little push to fulfill, and that the final nudge came from the Almighty, Himself.
Two Vallejo sisters were arrested Thursday after attacking a woman who was with her 5-year-old daughter inside the Walmart in American Canyon, police say.

The woman was left with clumps of hair pulled out of her head, an injured eye and a red face, according to the American Canyon Police Department. Her daughter let go of her hand and hid in a clothing rack during the attack, police say.

Marciela Flores, 30, and Maria Lourdes Flores, 20, saw the woman around 2 p.m., police say. Marciela confronted the woman, but Maria suggested she hold back because there were children with them, police say.

"Not here," Maria said to her sister before walking away, according to police.

Marciela started attacking the woman, who was still holding her daughter's hand, police say. Maria ran toward the fight and joined in, and the woman's daughter ran off, police say.

It took several employees to stop the fight and the Flores sisters left before police arrived, police said. Officers reviewed video footage, and interviewed employees and the woman who was attacked, police say.

Officers headed to an area near the sisters' Vallejo home. The two women, in a car, pulled onto the street around 5:20 p.m. and officers arrested them.

Marciela and Maria were both arrested on suspicion of felonies related to child cruelty, conspiracy, false imprisonment and a misdemeanor charge of battery causing injury, according to police. They were released around 9:30 p.m., jail records show.

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Some bills are just more trouble than theyre worth for nervous legislators who must worry about voter support.

One such bill is a current California 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. State 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 percent 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.

George Skelton is a columnist for the Los Angeles Times.
President Donald Trump says "executive privilege" prevents the House from seeing the unredacted Mueller report and investigating a number of other subjects. The White House's letter rebuffing Congress doesn't spell out exactly why it thinks the requested material is privileged; rather, it asserts a "protective" power of the president, as a matter of constitutional right, to decide what to share. In response, Democratic House leaders complain that Trump is sparking a "constitutional crisis" by blocking their authority to investigate wrongdoing by officials (including, thanks to the impeachment clause, the president).

But few pause to ask where a president's supposed executive privilege comes from. What if the oversight pileup we're witnessing flows not from Trump's norm-busting tendencies but rather from the hazardously open-ended concept of executive privilege itself?

Conservative jurists have ferociously criticized the idea of "unenumerated" constitutional rights (such as aright to abortion), describing them as licenses for partisan entrepreneurship. Yet the right to executive privilege is not mentioned in the Constitution's text, and its historical pedigree is dubious: In the early republic, presidents did not consistently claim a constitutional right to withhold information from Congress. When the privilege has been invoked, it's been in situations laced with obvious self-interest and partisan motives. Strikingly, its formal judicial recognition came almost 200 years after the founding. Its tenuous foundations ought to shape how we evaluate Trump's invocation of executive privilege.

Start with the constitutional text - or, rather, with the absence of any relevant language in the Constitution giving the president power to withhold documents or to prevent testimony by executive-branch officials.

Article I vests in legislators a right to "not be questioned" about "any Speech or Debate in either House." This "speech and debate" protection gives members of Congress the ability to decline to testify in court, or to produce documents related to their lawmaking responsibilities, without fear of being held in contempt. Courts have rightly read the language broadly to encompass privilege claims by legislators' aides and even to prohibit FBI searches of lawmakers' offices during corruption investigations.

In stark contrast, Article II, which governs the executive branch, conspicuously lacks parallel language about a privilege. This is not because the framers were sketching the presidency with broad strokes, failing to include details comparable to those in Article I. For example, Article II outlines the president's right to seek Cabinet heads' written opinion about the departments they oversee, and even explains the process by which the president can make temporary appointments when the Senate is in recess.If the founders thought something like executive privilege existed, it seems they would have said so.

The late Raoul Berger, a leading originalist scholar on executive privilege, called the presidential perquisite a "constitutional myth." He noted, too, that the president's Article II obligation "to from time to time give to the Congress information on the State of the Union" has no stated limit. For Berger, it was clear that the president had a primary obligation of disclosure to lawmakers, not a license for reticence.

When Justice Departments are called on to defend executive privilege, Republican and Democratic appointees generally cite history, not text. George Washington, they say, invoked it in 1792 against the House's request for documents related to a disastrous military defeat in the Northwest Territory. The president instructed Secretary of State Thomas Jefferson to convince Congress that such an investigation would be counterproductive. Later, Presidents John Adams and Jefferson also took the position that they did not need to comply immediately with Congress's demands for pieces of information.

But this historical practice isn't as relevant as government lawyers imagine. Neither Washington nor Adams nor Jefferson made any constitutional claim. Washington appealed to "the public good" and lamented the "impolitic" nature of such requests, while Jefferson mentioned principles of "safety" and "justice" when refusing to disclose specific documents. Certainly, none offered the blanket contempt for congressional inquiry that the present president has telegraphed. And Congress did nothing to suggest that it had accepted the sweeping idea of executive privilege.

The Justice Department's own historical documentation shows that it was not until the populist Andrew Jackson entered the White House that refusals to disclose would be underwritten with nebulous references to "the constitutional powers of the Executive." Jackson made this sort of claim when Congress tried to investigate his dealings with the Bank of the United States, for example.

There have been skirmishes since over the boundaries of executive privilege. A lower court in 1997 denieda claim by former agriculture secretary Mike Espy in the context of an independent counsel investigation. A decade later, another lower court rejected blanket invocations of the privilege by former George W. Bush White House staff members Harriet Miers and Josh Bolten. (The White House was able to stall the litigation long enough to avoid politically embarrassing testimony.)

But beyond those cases, the executive has generally won. The modern court's enthusiasm for executive privilege is not surprising. The president's central role in selecting justices means a high percentage of appointees have had formative experience working for the executive branch - six of nine at the moment. This translates into a general deference among the justices to executive-branch claims. Still, that doesn't mean executive privilege is written in stone. Because it lacks a clear historical or textual anchor, the justices have broad discretion to narrow it (or let it run rampant).

In the 1974 Nixon case, the Supreme Court held that presidents can't do their job effectively without shielding at least some decision-making from exterior scrutiny. Really? In Britain, the opposite rule long prevailed. Until the 2000s,government meetings were held in the presence of officials who would prepare written minutes to ensure "clarity, formality, and consistency," in the words of one scholar of the British constitution. When the government changed parties, internal deliberations would therefore routinely fall into the hands of the political opposition. (The policy changed under Prime Minister Tony Blair.)

Clearly, mature constitutional democracy is possible without anything like executive privilege. Inter-party transparency makes officials debate and decide issues with an eye to how they might sound if their discussions were made public, which could reduce levels of partisanship and self-interest.

In the court of public opinion, claims of executive privilege, especially blunderbuss ones like Trump's, should be met with skepticism. That's because the concept is a late, dubious addition to constitutional law - and because democracy and the rule of law are ill-served by the concept.

Aziz Huq teaches law at the University of Chicago, and is co-author of "How to Save a Constitutional Democracy. He wrote this for The Washington Post.
Bangladeshs security apparatus is worried over flow of illicit arms entering its territory from Indias Northeast and West Bengal state.

Senior intelligence officials told Northeast Now that Chinese designed weapons enter the north-eastern Indian states from Myanmar and are then finding their way to the hilly border of Mizoram with Bangladeshs Chittagong Hill Tracts.

While the Assam Rifles have made some big seizures of weapons over the years, not much preventive action to check these arms smuggling cartels have been noticed in recent months.

In one such seizure near Mizorams only airport Lengpui, more than thirty AK series rifles were recovered in March 2013.

Bangladesh intelligence says that in the last two years, the arms cartel linking Burmese producers with end-users in Bangladesh have become active again.

While sophisticated weapons reach Bangladesh through Northeast India, countrymade weapons manufactured in Bihar are entering Bangladesh through West Bengals border districts like Maldah and Murshidabad, said a senior official of the National Security Intelligence (NSI) .

He said both type of weapons find takers in Bangladesh  while the AK rifles are lapped up by Islamist extremists and underground groups in Chittagong Hill Tracts, the country made weapons sell well with the local gangsters and even political activists.

The official said that Bangladesh Border Guards (BGB) officials have been asked to take up this with Indias Border Security Force (BSF) soon after the national elections in India is over.

He said there were reliable reports that a former Chakma insurgent leader in Chittagong Hill Tracts was frequently visiting India because he was connected with the weapons trafficking.

We are watching his activities closely, but we can do little when he is in India, he said.

But it was not clear who the official was referring to. The former Shanti Bahini, which laid down arms after the historic 1997 CHT accord, has been split into many factions, who are often involved in turf wars.

Chakma civil society leaders allege that Bangladesh military intelligence often plays these factions against each other.
The United States is building up forces in the Middle East in case Iran tries to harm American interests, the US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said in an interview with CNBC TV channel.

Weve done all the right things to increase our security posture to the best of our ability, Pompeo said, but we also want to make sure that we had deterrent forces in place, so in the event that Iran decided to come after an American interest  whether that be in Iraq, or Afghanistan, or Yemen, or any place in the Middle East  we were prepared to respond to them in an appropriate way. 

According to him, an attack on American interests from an Iranian-led force, whether its an Iranian proper or its an entity that is controlled by the Iranians, we will hold the responsible party accountable. President Trump has been very clear about that: Our response will be appropriate.

Were not going to miscalculate: Our aim is not war, our aim is a change in the behavior of the Iranian leadership. We hope the Iranian people will get what they finally want, and what they so richly deserve, he said. The forces that were putting in place, the forces that weve had in the region before  you know, we often have carriers in the Persian Gulf  but the president wanted to make sure that, in the event something took place, we were prepared to respond to it in an appropriate way.

The US National Security Advisor John Bolton announced on May 5 that Washington would send a naval strike team led by aircraft carrier Abraham Lincoln and a tactical bomber group to the operational zone of the US Central Command (CENTCOM).

On Tuesday, representatives of the US Central Command stated that Washington allegedly received information about Irans preparation for a possible attack on US forces in the Middle East.
Armenian President congratulates Justin Trudeau

Macron calls launch of the James Webb telescope a historic event

Iran closes land border with neighboring countries due to omicron strain

Ariane successfully launches with latest James Webb telescope

Turkey and Azerbaijan Foreign Ministers discuss situation in South Caucasus

Pashinyan congratulates Trudeau on his anniversary

Flight to Yerevan cancelled due to plane engine fire

Yerevan ex-mayor Marutyan submits letter of resignation from his city council seat

Artsakh Prosecutor's Office: Chartar village resident killed by long-range shot by Azerbaijan

4 dead after Sri Lanka policeman opens fire on fellow officers

What 2021 event did The Simpsons predict?

Newly appointed Yerevan mayor takes oath of office

At least 16 people die after boat full of migrants capsizes off Greece coast of

Mourinho gets offer from Nigeria national team

Amirabdollahian: Iran Azerbaijan charted roadmap to further enhance ties

Christmas Eve does not pass without incident for Biden

118 new cases of COVID-19 confirmed in Armenia

How much Queen Elizabeth spends on Christmas gifts for royal staff?

Mkhitaryan, with his wife and son, wishes peace, joy, unconditional love (PHOTO)

New mayor of Yerevan to swear in today

Dembele gets married, they were surprised at Barca

Kim Kardashian introduces beau Pete Davidson to her kids

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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

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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

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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

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Maria Zakharova wishes Yerevan and Baku peace and patience

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By Benjamin Jumbe

The Inspector general of government Irene Mulyagonja has been appointed the chair of the association of anti-corruption agencies of common wealth Africa.

This was at the closure of the week long 9th Commonwealth Regional Conference for Heads of Anti-Corruption Agencies in Africa.

Mulyagonja who takes over from her predecessor Ibrahim Mustafa from Nigeria who has served for one year is also expected to handover to another party in the next Africa common wealth heads of Anti-Graft Conference to be held next year in Kigali Rwanda.

Mulyagonja expressed readiness to serve

Sound Mulyagonja appointment
The Armenian Foreign Ministry made a statement dedicated to the 25th anniversary of the establishment of ceasefire regime in the Karabakh conflict zone, Armenian MFAs press service reported.

The statement runs as follow:

12 May 2019 marks the 25th Anniversary of the establishment of a ceasefire regime between Nagorno-Karabakh, Azerbaijan and Armenia. The Bishkek Protocol, signed earlier on 5 May 1994 between the Heads of Parliaments of Nagorno-Karabakh, Azerbaijan and Armenia paved the way for the cessation of hostilities and the conclusion of subsequent trilateral ceasefire agreements in 1994 and 1995.

On this 25th Anniversary we reiterate our deep appreciation and acknowledgment of the efforts of the mediators and first of all the Russian Federation, who played a critical role in achieving these agreements. They were subsequently endorsed, and their validity reinforced by the international community, particularly at the OSCE Summit in Budapest in 1994.

The people of Nagorno-Karabakh have manifested their unwavering capacity to defend and counter the devastating aggression by Azerbaijan and the threat of ethnic cleansing and annihilation at the beginning of the 1990s, to establish firm foundations for a democratic society and to freely determine their political, economic, social and cultural development in pursuit of the full realization of their right to self-determination. Armenia has been and remains the guarantor of the security of Nagorno-Karabakh and of its people.

Against the background of continued ceasefire violations by Azerbaijan, and particularly of the aggression against Nagorno-Karabakh in April 2016, the 1994-1995 ceasefire agreements remain valid and constitute the only solid foundation against the use of force and the resumption of hostilities, which will entail devastating consequences for all the people in the region. In their joint statement of 16 May 2016 the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs reiterated their support to and insisted on the importance of respecting the 1994-1995 ceasefire agreements.

Armenia remains committed to firmly respecting the letter and the spirit of the 1994-1995 ceasefire agreements. Furthermore, these agreements remain the backbone of denouncing the use of force and securing a conducive environment for a genuine progress in the negotiations for the peaceful settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict within the internationally agreed format of mediation by the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs.

The agreements reached in Dushanbe in September 2018 on respecting the ceasefire regime demonstrate the importance of political will in sustaining ceasefire and reducing risks of escalation. There were recent instances of ceasefire violations by Azerbaijan, which resulted in heavy injuries to two soldiers of the Nagorno-Karabakh Defense Army and one soldier of the Armed Forces of Armenia on the line of contact and across border respectively. These deplorable incidents call for recommitment to the respect of the ceasefire regime and its reinforcement. Specific measures, particularly those agreed during the 2016 summits in Vienna and St. Petersburg should be implemented.

The 25th Anniversary of the establishment of the ceasefire regime attests to the validity and sustainability of the trilateral format of the 1994-1995 agreements, and to the importance of full engagement of Nagorno-Karabakh in the settlement process in order to achieve a lasting resolution of the conflict.

This Anniversary is also an encouragement for the renewed commitment of all the parties to the peaceful settlement of the conflict under the auspices of the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs. Armenia remains fully committed to achieving lasting peace, as has been numerously reiterated by the Prime Minister of Armenia Nikol Pashinyan, including during the latest summit in Vienna on 29 March 2019.
Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg spoke out against Facebook splitting, Tech Crunch reported.

"When I read what he wrote, my main reaction was that what hes proposing that we do isnt going to do anything to help solve those issues. So I think that if what you care about is democracy and elections, then you want a company like us to be able to invest billions of dollars per year like we are in building up really advanced tools to fight election interference," Zuckerberg told France Info while in Paris to meet with French President Emmanuel Macron.

Facebook has been repeatedly criticized for the misuse of user data. In March 2018, it became known that Cambridge Analytica collected data through Facebook app. It is assumed that these data could be used during the election campaign in the US 2016 elections and Brexit.

The difficulties of recent years have caused a sharp drop in the value of Facebook shares. Because of this, the board of directors of the company proposed to sharply limit the voting rights of the founder and head of the board, Mark Zuckerberg. Now he can actually make all decisions alone.
The chair of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer, has denied that Angela Merkel can leave the post of the German Chancellor ahead of schedule and hand over her powers, the head of the German conservatives said in an interview with the newspaper Welt am Sonntag, published on Sunday.

According to her, the Chancellor and the Government have been elected for the entire legislative period, and citizens rightly expect them to take seriously the responsibilities that flow from these elections, TASS reported.

According to the CDU leader, the party intends to present its new election program by the fall of 2020 and in the autumn of the same year decide on the candidate for chancellor.

Earlier it became known that Kramp-Karrenbauer appointed an extraordinary meeting of the party leadership for June 2-3. The official agenda is a discussion of tax issues. At the same time, there were rumors about the likelihood of early elections to the Bundestag, which would mean Merkels early resignation as chancellor. Allegedly, this is what the conservatives will discuss at the meeting.

A week before the meeting of the CDU leadership, elections to the European Parliament will take place, as well as parliamentary elections in the German federal state of Bremen. It is not excluded that the Social Democratic Party of Germany will suffer losses there as well. In theory, one of the possible defensive reactions of the Social Democrats is an early exit from the current German government. In this case, new elections will be scheduled for the Bundestag.

At the end of 2018, Angela Merkel resigned from the chair of the CDU, but remained the chancellor. According to her, she is going to finalize the fourth term to the end - until 2021. She does not intend to nominate her candidacy anymore. Her successor is Kramp-Karrenbauer.
The Prosecutor General's Office of Ecuador decided to transfer to the US all documents, as well as some personal belongings of the founder of the WikiLeaks organization, Julian Assange, which he left at the country's embassy in London, TASS reported referring to El Pais newspaper.

According to the source, the prosecutor's office agreed to search the room where Assange lived for the past seven years. As expected, all of his documents, mobile phones, computers and other devices will be transferred to the United States. It is assumed that the search will take place on May 20.

In 2006, Assange founded the WikiLeaks portal, which publishes secret information about the activities of several governments, including the United States. Fearing extradition to the United States from Sweden, where two women accused him of sexual harassment and rape, in 2012 he sought refuge at the Ecuadorian embassy in London, where he was continuously for almost seven years.

In April, Ecuador refused to grant him further asylum, after which Assange was arrested by police for failing to appear at a London court on a warrant from 2012, as well as on the basis of an extradition request filed by the United States to the British authorities in 2018. On May 1, a London court sentenced Assange to 50 weeks in prison for violating the conditions of release on bail.
Armenian President congratulates Justin Trudeau

Macron calls launch of the James Webb telescope a historic event

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Pashinyan congratulates Trudeau on his anniversary

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Artsakh Prosecutor's Office: Chartar village resident killed by long-range shot by Azerbaijan

4 dead after Sri Lanka policeman opens fire on fellow officers

Newly appointed Yerevan mayor takes oath of office

At least 16 people die after boat full of migrants capsizes off Greece coast of

Amirabdollahian: Iran Azerbaijan charted roadmap to further enhance ties

Christmas Eve does not pass without incident for Biden

118 new cases of COVID-19 confirmed in Armenia

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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
By Benjamim Jumbe

President Yoweri Museveni has applauded leaders from West Nile Region for endorsing his sole candidature come 2021.

The endorsement was done this afternoon at St Lwanga Parish grounds in Koboko where the president was for the launch of the NITA nationwide connectivity project in West Nile and Karamoja region and water system.

Speaking shortly after being endorsed, the president scoffed at individuals who have castigated a recent move to amend the constitution which lifted the presidential age limit.

He promised to do more for the people of west Nile in the coming years further noting that the launched projects will a long way in improving the wellbeing of the people in West Nile

The endorsement from westnile leaders comes shortly after leaders from Tooro region endorsed the presidents sole candidature.
114 Kalmia St. | Photos: Zumper

Curious just how far your dollar goes in Park West?

According to Walk Score, this San Diego neighborhood has excellent walkability, is fairly bikeable and offers many nearby public transportation options. Data from rental site Zumper shows that the median rent for a one-bedroom in Park West is currently hovering around $2,195.

So, what might you expect to find if you don't want to spend more than $1,500/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.

114 Kalmia St.

First, listed at $1,495/month, this 550-square-foot one-bedroom, one-bathroom is located at 114 Kalmia St.

The unit offers hardwood floors. The building features on-site laundry. Neither cats nor dogs are welcome. Future tenants needn't worry about a leasing fee.

(Take a look at the complete listing here.)

2452 Fourth Ave.

Next, there's this one-bedroom, one-bathroom located at 2452 Fourth Ave. It's listed for $1,450/month for its 600 square feet of space.

In the unit, there are hardwood floors and high ceilings. For building amenities, anticipate on-site laundry and on-site management. Pets are permitted. The rental doesn't require a leasing fee.

(Check out the complete listing here.)

1747 Fifth Ave.

Finally, here's a 450-square-foot studio at 1747 Fifth Ave. that's going for $1,425/month.

In the unit, expect hardwood floors, bamboo shades and granite countertops. The building offers secured entry. Good news for cat lovers: kitties are welcome. There's no leasing fee required for this rental.

(Check out 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.
1801 Chestnut Place. | Photos: Zumper

Curious just how far your dollar goes in LoDo?

According to Walk Score, this Denver neighborhood is quite walkable, is great for biking and has excellent transit. Data from rental site Zumper shows that the median rent for a one bedroom in Union Station is currently hovering around $2,200.

So, what might you expect to find if you're on a budget of $1,800/month? 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.

1750 Little Raven St.

Listed at $1,755/month, this 616-square-foot studio is located at 1750 Little Raven St.

In the unit, you can anticipate hardwood floors, in-unit laundry, a walk-in closet and a balcony. Building amenities include a business center, a fitness center, a roof deck, garage parking and outdoor space. When it comes to pets, both meows and barks are allowed. Future tenants needn't worry about a leasing fee.

(See the complete listing here.)

1650 Wewatta St.

Next, there's this studio situated at 1650 Wewatta St. It's also listed for $1,755/month for its 495 square feet of space.

In the apartment, there are hardwood floors, a dishwasher, a walk-in closet, a balcony and a ceiling fan. In the building, expect a fitness center, a roof deck, a swimming pool and garage parking. When it comes to pets, both meows and barks are permitted. There isn't a leasing fee associated with this rental.

(Check out the complete listing here.)

1801 Chestnut Place

Here's a 714-square-foot one-bedroom, one-bathroom at 1801 Chestnut Place that's going for $1,705/month.

In the apartment, you'll get in-unit laundry, a walk-in closet, a fireplace and a ceiling fan. Building amenities include a business center, a fitness center, a swimming pool, secured entry and garage parking. For those with furry friends in tow, know that cats and dogs are welcome on this property. There's no leasing fee required for this rental.

(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.
(Corrects mayor's first name in paragraph three, Ousmane instead of Boucary, and fixes spelling of "borders" in paragraph 5)

By Thiam Ndiaga

OUAGADOUGOU, May 12 (Reuters) - Gunmen killed six people including a priest outside a Catholic church in Burkina Faso on Sunday, the government said, the second attack on Christians in two weeks in a nation increasingly overrun by jihadists.

Congregants were leaving church around 9 a.m. (0900 GMT) in the town of Dablo in the Central North region when about 20 men encircled them and shot six dead, according to a government statement and local sources.

The attackers then burned the church, looted a pharmacy and some others stores, and left, Dablo mayor Ousmane Zongo told Reuters. The government statement only mentioned the burning of a shop and two vehicles.

"These terrorist groups are now attacking religion with the macabre aim of dividing us," it said.

Burkina Faso has been beset by a rise in attacks in 2019 as groups with links to Islamic State and al Qaeda based in neighboring Mali seek to fuel local tensions and extend their influence over the porous borders of the Sahel, the arid scrubland south of the Sahara.

The government declared a state of emergency in several northern provinces bordering Mali in December because of deadly Islamist attacks.

But violence has only worsened since. Two French soldiers were killed in an operation to rescue four people taken hostage in Burkina last week, France said. Over 100,000 people in Burkina Faso have been displaced by the unrest this year, the United Nations has said.

Roughly 55% to 60% of Burkina Faso's population is Muslim, with up to a quarter Christian. The two groups generally live in peace and frequently intermarry.

Then in late April unidentified gunmen killed a pastor and five congregants at a Protestant church, also in the north, suggesting the violence was taking a religious turn. (Writing by Edward McAllister; Editing by Andrew Cawthorne)
(Adds information minister, paragraph 4)

BEIRUT, May 12 (Reuters) - Retired soldiers in Lebanon, concerned about any pension or benefit cuts as the government debates a draft budget, started picketing the Central Bank building late on Sunday, saying they aimed to stop workers from entering on Monday morning.

As about 100 protesters gathered outside the Central Bank, Lebanon's coalition government held its latest meeting to try to agree a budget that would reduce the fiscal deficit in the heavily indebted state.

General Sami Ramah, a spokesman for the retired soldiers, said they would stay at the bank, stopping employees from entering, until their demand of no cuts to the military budget was met.

Information Minister Jamal Jarrah said after the meeting that the level of public sector salaries in the draft budget was not discussed on Sunday, but that decisions were made on "significant cuts" in the budgets of government departments.

The retired soldiers have blocked the Central Bank's three entrances, including the one for vehicles, said a Reuters video journalist at the site.

There was no immediate comment from the bank, but Abbas Awada, the head of its workers' syndicate, told Reuters that Monday is supposed to be a normal work day for his members.

"The soldiers are blocking the doors of the bank and this obstructs the arrival of employees, but God willing there will be another way for employees to get in," he said.

Retired soldiers have been among the most vocal opponents of reported cuts in the draft budget, blocking roads with burning tires to protest any cuts to their pensions and benefits.

The government said on Friday it had agreed to tighten the allocation of financial incentives that are intended for soldiers on frontline duty but applied more widely in practice.

Central Bank workers went on strike early last week over proposed cuts in the wage bill, causing the Beirut Stock Exchange to suspend trading for two days because the transaction clearance and settlement process could not be completed on time.

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Workers at other state institutions including the national power producer, telecom firm Ogero and the port of Beirut held strikes for several days last week.

With Lebanon suffering from years of low economic growth, long-stalled reforms are seen as more pressing than ever.

But the strikes and protests point to the political difficulties facing Prime Minister Saad al-Hariri's unity government as it seeks to craft a budget to narrow a gaping deficit.

The public-sector wage bill is the government's biggest expense followed by debt servicing costs and the big subsidies paid annually to the state-owned power producer.

Lebanon has public debt equivalent to 150% of gross domestic product (GDP). The draft budget aims to reduce the deficit to below 9% of GDP from 11.2% in 2018.

Cabinet talks on the draft budget will continue on Monday, Jarrah said.

(Reporting by Laila Bassam, Angus McDowall and Issam Abdallah; Editing by Will Dunham, Peter Cooney and Daniel Wallis)
Want to participate in a short research study? Help shape the future of investing tools and you could win a $250 gift card!

Important news for shareholders and potential investors in Jarvis Securities plc (LON:JIM): The dividend payment of UK0.065 per share will be distributed to shareholders on 06 June 2019, and the stock will begin trading ex-dividend at an earlier date, 16 May 2019. Investors looking for higher income-generating stocks to add to their portfolio should keep reading, as I take a deeper dive into Jarvis Securities's latest financial data to analyse its dividend attributes.

See our latest analysis for Jarvis Securities

5 checks you should do on a dividend stock

If you are a dividend investor, you should always assess these five key metrics:

Is their annual yield among the top 25% of dividend payers?

Has it paid dividend every year without dramatically reducing payout in the past?

Has it increased its dividend per share amount over the past?

Is its earnings sufficient to payout dividend at the current rate?

Will the company be able to keep paying dividend based on the future earnings growth?

AIM:JIM Historical Dividend Yield, May 12th 2019

Does Jarvis Securities pass our checks?

The current trailing twelve-month payout ratio for the stock is 77%, meaning the dividend is sufficiently covered by earnings. Furthermore, analysts have not forecasted a dividends per share for the future, which makes it hard to determine the yield shareholders should expect, and whether the current payout is sustainable, moving forward.

When assessing the forecast sustainability of a dividend it is also worth considering the cash flow of the business. A company with strong cash flow, relative to earnings, can sometimes sustain a high pay out ratio.

Reliablity is an important factor for dividend stocks, particularly for income investors who want a strong track record of payment and a positive outlook for future payout. Although JIM's per share payments have increased in the past 10 years, it has not been a completely smooth ride. Investors have seen reductions in the dividend per share in the past, although, it has picked up again.

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In terms of its peers, Jarvis Securities has a yield of 5.1%, which is high for Capital Markets stocks but still below the market's top dividend payers.

Next Steps:

Taking all the above into account, Jarvis Securities is a complicated pick for dividend investors given that there are a couple of positive things about it as well as negative. But if you are not exclusively a dividend investor, the stock could still be an interesting investment opportunity. Given that this is purely a dividend analysis, you should always research extensively before deciding whether or not a stock is an appropriate investment for you. I always recommend analysing the company's fundamentals and underlying business before making an investment decision. There are three key factors you should further research:

Future Outlook: What are well-informed industry analysts predicting for JIMs future growth? Take a look at our free research report of analyst consensus for JIMs outlook. Valuation: What is JIM worth today? Even if the stock is a cash cow, it's not worth an infinite price. The intrinsic value infographic in our free research report helps visualize whether JIM is currently mispriced by the market. Dividend Rockstars: Are there better dividend payers with stronger fundamentals out there? Check out our free list of these great stocks here.

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.
Spirit. | Photo: Larry F./Yelp

Looking to shake up your regular routine? Check out these four ideas for what to do in Pittsburgh this week, all clocking in at under $20 per person.

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.

Life Sciences Week Pittsburgh - Keynote: Dr. Frances Arnold

From the event description:

The Pittsburgh Innovation District is welcomes 2018 Chemistry Nobel-Laureate, Dr. Frances Arnold back to Pittsburgh as the Keynote Speaker for Pittsburgh's Life Sciences Week. Frances Arnold is the Linus Pauling Professor of Chemical Engineering, Bioengineering and Biochemistry and Director of the Rosen Bioengineering Center at the California Institute of Technology, where she has been on the faculty since 1986. Recognized most recently with the 2018 Nobel Prize in Chemistry, Arnold pioneered directed protein evolution and has used those methods for applications in alternative energy, chemicals, and medicine.

When: Monday, May 13, 5:30-8:30 p.m.

Where: Carnegie Music Hall, 4400 Forbes Ave.

Admission: $20 (students); $40 (standard admission)

Click here for more details, and to get your tickets

Eli Paperboy Reed

From the event description:

Eli Paperboy Reed is performing on Tuesday at Cattivo. The artist is supporting his latest album, "99 Cent Dreams."

When: Tuesday, May 14, 7 p.m.

Where: Cattivo, 146 44th St.

Admission: $15

Click here for more details, and to get your tickets

John Paul White

From the event description:

John Paul White is playing a concert on Wednesday at Spirit Hall. The artist is touring to support his latest album, "The Hurting Kind." Folk and indie-rock artist Erin Rae is the supporting act.

When: Wednesday, May 15, 7 p.m.

Where: Spirit Hall, 242 51st St.

Admission: $18

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.
The Bristol Pub. | Photo: Tim S./Yelp



Wondering where to find the best breweries near you?

Hoodline crunched the numbers to find the top breweries in Colorado Springs, using both Yelp data and our own secret sauce to produce a ranked list of the best spots to venture when cravings strike.

1. Bristol Brewing Company

Photo: kate r./Yelp

Topping the list is Bristol Brewing Company. Located at 1604 S. Cascade Ave., it's the highest rated brewery in Colorado Springs, boasting four stars out of 383 reviews on Yelp.

The family owned brewery offers a wide selection of handcrafted flagship and seasonal beers.

2. Red Leg Brewing Company



Photo: bev c./Yelp

Northwest Colorado Springs's Red Leg Brewing Company, located at 4630 Forge Road, Suite B, is another top choice, with Yelpers giving the brewery 4.5 stars out of 114 reviews.

The small, veteran owned brewery offers several house beers on tap daily.

3. Cerberus Brewing Company

Photo: ernest b./Yelp

Cerberus Brewing Company in Old Colorado City is another go-to, with four stars out of 278 Yelp reviews. Head over to 702 W. Colorado Ave. to see for yourself.

In addition to craft beer, you'll also find craft food, such as steaks, sliders and sandwiches at the brewery.

4. Goat Patch Brewing Company

Photo: Rachael B./Yelp

Last but not least, check out Goat Patch Brewing Company over in Central Colorado Springs. The brewery, located at 2727 N. Cascade Ave., Suite 123, has earned 4.5 stars out of 58 reviews on Yelp.

The taproom features more than a dozen brews, and it always showcases seasonal beers on tap.

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.
* Fujairah lies near vital oil and gas shipping route

* UAE did not blame any country, other party for incident

* Tensions between Iran, U.S. have been escalating

* Fujairah denies what it said were reports about blasts (Adds Iran, Bahrain comments)

DUBAI, May 12 (Reuters) - Four commercial vessels were targeted by "sabotage operations" near the territorial waters of the United Arab Emirates without causing casualties, the foreign ministry said on Sunday, without giving details of the nature of the sabotage.

The incident occurred near the UAE emirate of Fujairah, one of the world's largest bunkering hubs which lies just outside the Strait of Hormuz, the ministry said in a statement.

Trading and industry sources said operations at Fujairah port ran smoothly on Sunday.

The strait, a vital global oil and gas shipping route, separates the Gulf states and Iran, which has been embroiled in an escalating war of words with the United States over U.S. sanctions and the U.S. military's regional presence.

"Subjecting commercial vessels to sabotage operations and threatening the lives of their crew is considered a dangerous development," according to the statement that was carried by state news agency WAM.

The statement, which did not identify the vessels beyond saying they were of various nationalities, said the incident did not result in spills. The UAE did not blame any country or other party for the operation.

Regional tensions have increased, with Washington saying it was sending a U.S. aircraft carrier and other forces to the Middle East due to what it said were Iranian threats, while Tehran has called the U.S. military presence "a target" rather than a threat.

The U.S. Navy's Bahrain-based Fifth Fleet told Reuters it was aware of the UAE report but referred queries to the UAE authorities.

SECURITY MEASURES

A senior Iranian lawmaker and head of parliament's national security committee, Heshmatollah Falahatpisheh, said on Sunday that reports of "explosions" near Fujairah port showed the security of Gulf states was fragile.

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The government of Fujairah, one of the seven emirates that make up the UAE and which has a coastline on the Gulf of Oman, denied in a tweet media reports about blasts inside Fujairah port and said the facility was operating normally.

Fujairah's statement did not identify media outlets that had published reports about any blasts but Iran's Press TV website cited a Lebanese broadcaster, Mayadeen, saying seven oil tankers had been attacked in the port.

The UAE ministry statement, which denied any incident had taken place inside the port, said the government had taken all necessary measures and launched an investigation in coordination with international authorities.

"The international community should carry out its responsibilities to prevent any parties trying to harm maritime security and safety, which would be considered a threat to international safety and security," it added.

The administration of U.S. President Donald Trump has been ratcheting up pressure on Iran with sanctions since Washington withdrew a year ago from a 2015 international nuclear deal between Tehran and world powers.

Washington tightened sanctions on Iran this month, eliminating waivers that had allowed some countries to buy its oil, saying it wanted to cut Tehrans crude exports to zero. Iran has said it will not let its oil exports by halted.

The UAE's Gulf Arab ally Bahrain described the Fujairah incident as "a dangerous criminal act."

(Reporting by Maher Chmaytelli, Alexander Cornwell and Rania El Gamal Editing by Jason Neely and Edmund Blair)
Gyro City Cafe. | Photo: Jeff M./Yelp

Looking to satisfy your appetite for Greek fare?

Hoodline crunched the numbers to find the top Greek spots around Oklahoma City, using both Yelp data and our own secret sauce to produce a ranked list of where to fulfill your urges.

1. Gyro City Cafe

Photo: jeff m./Yelp

Topping the list is Gyro City Cafe. Located at 7300 Northwest Expressway, the Greek spot is the highest rated Greek restaurant in Oklahoma City, boasting 4.5 stars out of 94 reviews on Yelp.

2. Zorba's Mediterranean Cuisine

Photo: afsheen h./Yelp

Next up is Belle Isle's Zorba's Mediterranean Cuisine, situated at 6014 N. May Ave. With four stars out of 187 reviews on Yelp, the bar, Greek and Mediterranean spot has proven to be a local favorite.

3. Gyros Etc

Photo: abigail t./Yelp

Gyros Etc, located at 7006 Northwest Expressway, is another top choice, with Yelpers giving the Mediterranean and Greek spot 4.5 stars out of 38 reviews.

4. Zoes Kitchen

Photo: zoes kitchen/Yelp

Zoes Kitchen, a Mediterranean and Greek spot that offers sandwiches and more, is another go-to, with four stars out of 104 Yelp reviews. Head over to 14110 N. Pennsylvania Ave., Suite 4, to see for yourself.

5. Let's Do Greek Food Truck

Photo: court m./Yelp

Finally, there's Let's Do Greek Food Truck, a local favorite with four stars out of 11 reviews. Stop by 7202 W. Hefner Road to hit up the food truck and Greek and caterer spot next time you're looking to satisfy your cravings.

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.
Photo: Coast and Valley/Yelp

Looking for the New York City wine bar of your dreams? We've found a lineup of new spots worth checking out. Here are the newest places to check out the next time you're in search of a new wine bar near you.

Coast and Valley

587 Manhattan Ave., Greenpoint

Photo: Mike C./Yelp

Coast and Valley is a wine bar, offering tapas and more.

Coast and Valley specializes in California wines and offers all of its wines by the bottle or by the glass. The menu features West Cost-inspired small plates made with sustainable and farm-fresh ingredients.

Coast and Valley currently holds 4.5 stars out of three reviews on Yelp, indicating good reviews.

Yelper Mike C., who reviewed Coast and Valley on May 1, wrote, "This place has the 'California' vibe of a nice bright room with floor-to-ceiling windows at the front and vegetable-heavy dishes. I will be back."

Coast and Valley is open from 511 p.m. on Tuesday-Thursday, 5 p.m.1 a.m. on Friday, 11 a.m.1 a.m. on Saturday and 11 a.m.11 p.m. on Sunday. (It's closed on Monday.)

Coco Bistro

233-235 Front St., Financial District

Photo: coco bistro/Yelp

Coco Bistro is a wine bar, cocktail bar and French spot.

According to the business's Facebook page, Coco Bistro is a "Cute French Bistro with terrace in the middle of South Street Seaport." This cozy restaurant specializes in French-themed brunch and dinner dishes and serves up a full array of wines, including crisp roses, perfect for the warmer months.

Coco Bistro currently holds five stars out of 15 reviews on Yelp, indicating good reviews.

Yelper Kammal M., who reviewed Coco Bistro on May 5, wrote, "This is a very nice intimate place in lower Manhattan for a nice glass of rose."

Coco Bistro is open from 410 p.m. on Monday, noon10 p.m. on Tuesday and Wednesday, noonmidnight on Thursday, noon2 a.m. on Friday, 11:30 a.m.2 a.m. on Saturday and 10:30 a.m.9 p.m. on Sunday.

Tzarevna

154 Orchard St., Lower East Side

Tzarevna is a wine bar and Russian spot, offering tapas and more.

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Tzarevna provides a stylish, contemporary atmosphere in which to enjoy wine and New Russian cuisine. The wine list features wines from around the world, and the menu emphasizes zakuski, which are Russian-style small plates. Brunch is available on the weekends and happy hour specials are available on weekdays.

Yelp users are excited about Tzarevna, which currently holds five stars out of three reviews on the site.

Yelper Theo R. wrote, "I had a fantastic dinner here last night. It was one of my first experiences with Russian food and everything we had was delicious, especially the borscht and radishes with roe."

Tzarevna is open from 511 p.m. on Tuesday-Friday, noon11 p.m. on Saturday and noon4 p.m. on Sunday. (It's closed on Monday.)

Zusik

202 W.14th St., West Village

Photo: bora g./Yelp

Zusik is a beer bar, wine bar and Korean spot.

Zusik offers an extensive wine list, specialty cocktails and traditional Korean drinks. Its menu boasts tasty, Asian-inspired brunch, lunch and dinner options. Keep an eye out for the grilled short ribs and the braised pork belly.

Zusik currently holds five stars out of 15 reviews on Yelp, indicating good reviews.

Yelper Kathy M., who reviewed Zusik on April 28, wrote, "My colleagues and I came here for lunch and I've been thinking about it ever since. Between the food and the friendly service, I will definitely be coming here during my lunch break as many times as I can."

Zusik is open from noon1 a.m. on Monday-Thursday, noon2 a.m. on Friday, 10 a.m.2 a.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m.1 a.m. on Sunday.

Tailfeather



581 Myrtle Ave., Bedford-Stuyvesant

Photo: autumn s./Yelp

Tailfeather is a wine bar and beer bar.

This new business specializes in natural wines and craft beers, with extensive selections of both. To satisfy your appetite, Tailfeather also serves hearty cheese and charcuterie boards, as well as other bar snacks.

Tailfeather currently holds five stars out of eight reviews on Yelp, indicating good reviews.

Yelper Sarah B., who reviewed Tailfeather on February 20, wrote, "Wonderful to have a wine bar like this on Myrtle Avenue. Delicious wine selections and friendly staff. I can't wait to try the charcuterie board! It looked scrumptious."

Yelper Josh H. noted, "I had the cheeseboard last night for the first time and it was amazing!"

Tailfeather is open from 4 p.m.midnight on Monday-Thursday, 4 p.m.1 a.m. on Friday and Saturday, and 411 p.m. on Sunday.

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.
NEW YORK (AP)  The deadly confrontation five summers ago flickers in Gwen Carr's mind, competing for attention with warm, happy memories of her late son Eric Garner's life. For all the smiles and laugher they shared, there are flashes of Garner being grabbed by a New York City police officer and crying out: "I can't breathe."

Carr said she has been reliving what she pointedly calls "my son's murder" every day since his July 2014 death : Her first born succumbing to cardiac arrest after a white officer wearing plainclothes, Daniel Pantaleo, restrained her 34-year-old son with what she contends is an illegal chokehold and what Pantaleo's lawyer argues is an approved technique.

A long-delayed internal disciplinary trial that could lead to Pantaleo's firing is slated to begin on Monday. A ruling late last week requires the police watchdog agency bringing the case prove not only that Pantaleo violated department rules, but that his actions fit the criteria for criminal charges. Pantaleo does not actually face criminal charges.

"It has been five long years," Carr told The Associated Press last week. "Pantaleo and all those other officers who actually murdered my son that day, they are still collecting their salaries. They still go home every day and it's business as usual with them. But with me, we relive this every day."

Video of the struggle on a Staten Island street corner quickly went viral, amplifying Garner's plaintive pleas of "I can't breathe" into a rallying cry in the face of police brutality against unarmed black men and women.

"Very troubling," Mayor Bill de Blasio said at the time.

Pantaleo was placed on desk duty. Investigations were launched. The medical examiner ruled Garner's death a homicide caused by a police chokehold.

And then nothing happened.

A grand jury declined to indict Pantaleo on criminal charges. Facing a July deadline, federal prosecutors don't appear inclined to file civil rights charges, either.

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Pantaleo has remained on the city payroll, stripped of his gun and badge but pulling in a hefty salary  peaking at more than $120,000 in 2017, according to city payroll records.

The NYPD argued the federal investigation was holding up Pantaleo's disciplinary case. Last summer, however, the department decided to move forward anyway. It will begin 1,761 days after Garner's death.

Pantaleo's administrative trial is open to the public, but space in the court-like room at police headquarters in lower Manhattan is limited. The police department won't allow video, photos or even a sketch artist. The trial is expected to take about two weeks.

The Civilian Complaint Review Board said it expects to call fewer than 20 witnesses. Stuart London, Pantaleo's attorney, said he'll bring up to 10 people to the stand. They include a retired NYPD training sergeant who London said taught Pantaleo an approved technique known as a "seat-belt hold" that is being confused for a chokehold.

The NYPD's chief surgeon ruled in 2014 that Pantaleo hadn't used a chokehold on Garner, contradicting the medical examiner's findings, London said. London said part of his defense case would focus on attacking the medical examiner's report, which he called a "political document" and "the worst possible autopsy ever done."

Pantaleo's union, the Police Benevolent Association, has blamed the 350-pound Garner's poor health and resisting arrest for his death. Garner shouted at officers as they approached him, saying: "Every time you see me, you want to mess with me. I'm tired of it. It stops today. I'm minding my business. Please just leave me alone."

Garner, a father of six, had been arrested for selling untaxed cigarettes numerous times and was suspected of doing the same when officers approached him, police said. The man who recorded the video of the confrontation said that wasn't true and that Garner had just broken up a fight between two other men.

Garner, who had asthma, suffered a heart attack in an ambulance and was pronounced dead at a hospital.

The city paid Garner's family $5.9 million in 2015 to settle a wrongful death claim. Carr said that money went to Garner's wife, not her.

Use of force complaints against the NYPD have fallen sharply in the years since Garner's death, according to data compiled by the review board. In 2014, there were 2,412. In 2018, there were 1,764, marking a 27% drop. But alleged chokeholds have still been a problem. Last year, the review board reported receiving 133 chokehold complaints. So far in 2019, there have been 39.

The NYPD hasn't fired an officer for a fatal chokehold since Francis Livoti , who was dismissed from the department and convicted by a federal jury for violating the civil rights of a Bronx man prosecutors say died after Livoti used a choke hold on him in 1994.

A few weeks after Garner's death, 18-year-old Michael Brown was fatally shot by a police officer in Ferguson, Missouri. A few months after that, officers in Cleveland fatally shot 12-year-old Tamir Rice. Other confrontations followed between police officers and people of color, sparking tensions, calls for reform and nationwide protests.

Carr, turning to activism as a means of healing from her grief, lobbied for an executive order directing New York's attorney general's office to review cases in which unarmed civilians are killed by police. Gov. Andrew Cuomo, a Democrat, signed it a year after her son's death. She also wrote about her life and Garner's death in a book, "This Stops Today," published last October.

"All of this needs to stop," Carr said. "This is very important to me for Eric, but not only for Eric  for the other families, and for the families that we know will be."

___

Follow Michael Sisak at twitter.com/mikesisak

___

Send news tips, documents and recordings to AP securely and confidentially: https://www.ap.org/tips
When Afghan businessman Haji Yakup Burhan fled the violence of his home country 30 years ago, he brought with him his family -- and all his money.

He headed to Saudi Arabia, where he opened a restaurant but, as refugees, his children had difficulty getting into a school. Then he moved to the United Arab Emirates, but Dubai's costs seemed impossible.

So, two years ago, he moved to Turkey and opened a restaurant in Istanbul's Esenyurt neighbourhood, taking advantage of the countrys relatively open business environment for refugees.

"I have 15 people working for me in this restaurant. They are Afghans, Iranians and Turks.

"I have invested about $120,000 (107,000 euros) in this restaurant so far," Burhan, 52, told AFP at his Afghan Kebab establishment.

"Over 60 percent of our customers are Afghans living here. The rest are Arabs, Iranians and Turks," he said.

Afghan refugee entrepreneurs appear to be increasingly finding success in Turkey, where they bring to the local economy, not only their savings, but sought-after know-how, whether in restaurants, commerce or skilled crafts and specialities.

In turn, Turkey offers refugees simplified administrative procedures for setting up a new business.

Turkey hosts nearly four million refugees, with Syrians making up the largest group, but Afghans number more than 145,000, according to Amnesty International figures released last year.

Some people in Turkey view refugees as a burden, but a different picture emerges in Burhan's bustling Istanbul suburb, where refugees like him have made significant investment in the Turkish economy.

- Citizenship investment -

Inside Burhan's restaurant, a TV blares Afghan channels showing Turkish soap operas over the hum of customers eating the popular Afghan dish Qabeli Palaw -- rice with lamb meat and mixed with caramelised carrots, raisins and almond slivers.

"We are the only Afghan restaurant in this neighbourhood for now," he told AFP, sitting cross-legged on a mattress, sipping green tea.

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To attract more investment at a time when the Turkish economy was struggling last year, the government in September slashed from $1 million to $250,000 the threshold at which Turkish citizenship is offered to foreigners buying property.

It sparked an 82-percent increase in foreigners buying real estate in the first quarter of this year, the Turkish Statistical Institute (TUIK) said.

Afghans likely account for a small percentage of this hike -- precise figures are unavailable -- but not all those fleeing the war-ravaged country are destitute.

Mehmet Yasin Hamidi, an Afghan who runs the Royalist real-estate agency in Beylikduzu, on Istanbul's outskirts, told AFP that their sales of homes had doubled this year compared to the same period last year.

"People cannot protect their lives and money in Afghanistan," Hamidi, who has lots of Afghans among his clients, said.

"If you have money, you or your children could get kidnapped. The businessmen are threatened there. That is why they bring their money here."

- Rare skills -

Construction of new housing has exploded in Beylikduzu in recent years to meet a growing demand for real estate investment by foreigners.

The Association of Housing Developers and Investors says that foreigners bought $4.6 billion of Turkish property in 2018 and the figure is expected to jump to $10 billion this year.

Many refugees arriving in Turkey bring with them diverse skills and experience that allow them to make a contribution to the country's workforce.

Hadi Ekhlas, an engraver from Afghanistan's Hazara ethnic group, left the war-torn nation eight years ago. He first went to neighbouring Pakistan to sell his skills.

He then moved to Turkey, where he now engraves Islamic and Ottoman scripts on gemstone rings and semi-precious stones -- a skill he learned from his grandfather -- in Istanbuls Grand Bazaar, one of the world's oldest covered markets.

"In the past, some Turkish traders would import stones with engravings from other countries, but now I am making them here and taking orders," Ekhlas told AFP.

Ekhlas has a Turkish partner, who helps him with marketing, and runs one of the 42 Afghan shops in the Grand Bazaar.

"I plan to expand my business in the near future. I'd also like to teach my skills to other Turks here," he said.

In another corner of the Grand Bazaar, Khalil Nuri, an expert Afghan jeweller, sells rings, necklaces, pendants -- just about anything that can be found in Kabul's many curiosity shops.

"I am a jeweller and an expert in handicrafts and I wanted to continue my profession here," said Nuri, who fled Afghanistan and has been doing business for the past 12 years in Istanbul.

Meanwhile, Burhan said that he hoped his business continued to do well "because there are a lot of Afghans living here".

"There are also people who want to give the taste of Afghan cuisine a try."
TIRANA (Reuters) - Albanian opposition protesters hurled petrol bombs at the entrance of Prime Minister Edi Rama's office on Saturday, after three months of demonstrations calling for him to quit over alleged election fraud and corruption.

Chanting "We want a European Albania", the slogan of pro-democracy protests when the Balkan country dumped communism in 1990, they renewed the call they made since February for snap polls after their lawmakers also cut ties with parliament.

Some protesters, including a group with masked faces, hurled petrol bombs, firecrackers and paint at the entrance of the government building and later at parliament. A dozen policemen and several protesters were hurt, police and reporters said.

During a lull in the attacks at the premier's building, opposition Democratic Party leader Lulzim Basha said they were "determined to keep waging a bigger and more resolute battle as long as the government was keeping Albania apart from Europe".

"We are here with a mission, to liberate Albania from crime and corruption, to make Albania like the rest of Europe," Basha told a crowd of several thousand along the main boulevard.

Recognising progress, the European Commission recommended Albania start accession talks last year, but the European Council delayed the decision for this year in June as Albania overhauls its judiciary to flush out corrupt judges.

Then the crowd moved near the parliament building where a group of protesters kept hurling petrol bombs and firecrackers, to which police responded with tear gas and water jets. After four hours, the crowd moved to the Tirana police precinct to protest the arrest of a Democratic party official.

Calling the opposition's policies "blind", Rama said he was saddened to hear an opposition leader begging the government to quit, and their fire harmed not his government but the country.

The European Union and the United States have called the government legitimate, and have urged the opposition to return to parliament and take part in local elections on June 30.

"The opposition's stated objective to make Albanias democracy stronger runs counter to the violence currently being perpetrated by protesters," the United States Embassy said in a statement, condemning the violence and calling for restraint.

(Reporting by Benet Koleka; Editing by Marguerita Choy)
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
Want to participate in a short research study? Help shape the future of investing tools and you could win a $250 gift card!

For investors with a long-term horizon, examining earnings trend over time and against industry peers is more insightful than looking at an earnings announcement in one point in time. Investors may find my commentary, albeit very high-level and brief, on AMN Healthcare Services, Inc. (NYSE:AMN) useful as an attempt to give more color around how AMN Healthcare Services is currently performing.

See our latest analysis for AMN Healthcare Services

Was AMN's recent earnings decline worse than the long-term trend and the industry?

AMN's trailing twelve-month earnings (from 31 March 2019) of US$133m has declined by -7.0% compared to the previous year.

Furthermore, this one-year growth rate has been lower than its average earnings growth rate over the past 5 years of 28%, indicating the rate at which AMN is growing has slowed down. Why could this be happening? Well, let's look at what's going on with margins and if the whole industry is experiencing the hit as well.

NYSE:AMN Income Statement, May 12th 2019

In terms of returns from investment, AMN Healthcare Services has invested its equity funds well leading to a 20% return on equity (ROE), above the sensible minimum of 20%. Furthermore, its return on assets (ROA) of 9.6% exceeds the US Healthcare industry of 6.0%, indicating AMN Healthcare Services has used its assets more efficiently. However, its return on capital (ROC), which also accounts for AMN Healthcare Servicess debt level, has declined over the past 3 years from 19% to 15%. This correlates with an increase in debt holding, with debt-to-equity ratio rising from 71% to 90% over the past 5 years.

What does this mean?

Though AMN Healthcare Services's past data is helpful, it is only one aspect of my investment thesis. Companies that are profitable, but have capricious earnings, can have many factors impacting its business. I recommend you continue to research AMN Healthcare Services to get a more holistic view of the stock by looking at:

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Future Outlook: What are well-informed industry analysts predicting for AMNs future growth? Take a look at our free research report of analyst consensus for AMNs outlook. Financial Health: Are AMNs operations financially sustainable? Balance sheets can be hard to analyze, which is why weve done it for you. Check out our financial health checks here. Other High-Performing Stocks: Are there other stocks that provide better prospects with proven track records? Explore our free list of these great stocks here.

NB: Figures in this article are calculated using data from the trailing twelve months from 31 March 2019. 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.
With one swift, shocking and scary moment, the UFC had a new strawweight champion on Saturday night.

Brazil's Jessica Andrade picked up Rose Namajunas of Denver in the second round of their UFC 237 main event in Rio de Janeiro and slammed her full force to the mat. Namajunas landed at an angle in which it appeared she narrowly avoided a broken neck.

But she didn't escape the knockout from the slam, and Andrade is now champion of the UFC's 115-pound weight class. The time of the stoppage was 2:58.

"I was very certain what I had to do in the second round," said Andrade, whose 11 wins are the most by a woman in UFC history. "I've never done that move before in the UFC."

Namajunas dominated the opening round, using her speed, length advantage and footwork to fluster her opponent. Andrade responded in the second by closing the distance as the bout rapidly turned into a wild brawl.

Andrade made a first slam attempt earlier in the round and was nearly submitted by Namajunas when they hit the mat, but there was no such response the second time around.

With her 14th career stoppage victory, Andrade has now won four straight contests and seven of eight. Namajunas had a three-fight win streak snapped.

The main event salvaged what had been a downer of a night for Brazilian favorites.

Legendary former middleweight champion Anderson Silva, now 44, lost via injury TKO in the opening round of his bout with Jared Cannonier of Anchorage, Ala. Cannonier blew out Silva's right knee with a kick to Silva's planted leg that landed full force to the back of the knee.

Former featherweight champion Jose Aldo lost a methodical unanimous decision to Australia's Alexander Volkanovski, who won his 17th consecutive bout.

--Field Level Media
Don't expect Aurora Cannabis (NYSE: ACB) to receive a huge investment from a big company outside the cannabis industry. There aren't likely to be high-dollar transactions like Canopy Growth (NYSE: CGC) or Cronos Group (NASDAQ: CRON) had. There's a simple reason: Aurora doesn't want that kind of a deal.

Aurora's chief corporate officer stated in an interview with MarketWatch earlier this month that the company is "taking a different approach" to partnering outside of the cannabis industry than some of its peers have. Sure, Aurora wants a major partner. But it doesn't want to give up an equity stake to make such a deal happen.

Is Aurora's partnering strategy brilliant? Or could it actually be a boneheaded approach?

Chalkboard drawing of six small white light bulbs and one larger yellow light bulb with a question mark in the center of it

Image source: Getty Images.

Why it makes sense

Aurora's executives didn't come up with the idea of taking a different approach to partnering, according to Battley. In March, Aurora brought billionaire investor Nelson Peltz on board as a strategic advisor. Peltz recommended that the company not start down a path where control of Aurora could eventually be handed over to a larger company.

This scenario could -- and many think will -- happen for both Canopy Growth and Cronos Group. Big alcoholic-beverage maker Constellation Brands owns a 38% stake in Canopy and has warrants that could up its interest to above 50%. It's a similar story for tobacco giant Altria, which owns 45% of Cronos.

But Peltz urged Aurora's management team to remain independent. And instead of teaming up with just one big company outside of the cannabis industry, he advised Aurora to seek multiple partners across several industries that could be disrupted by cannabis. Aurora CEO Terry Booth and the rest of the company's top executives bought into Peltz's plan.

There are two primary advantages to this approach. First, Aurora shareholders could make even greater returns over the long run if the company achieves tremendous success as a standalone entity. Second, this approach allows Aurora to partner with several major companies outside of the cannabis industry rather than just one -- which just might increase its odds of succeeding.

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Aurora isn't the only major Canadian cannabis company employing this partnering strategy. Tilray hasn't given up an equity stake to a partner so far. The company has already teamed up with partners in several industries: big drugmaker Novartis, giant beer maker Anheuser-Busch InBev, and consumer brands company Authentic Brands Group. Tilray's partnering approach is arguably its biggest competitive advantage right now.

A few key drawbacks

This partnering strategy that Aurora is adopting isn't perfect, though. While it could reward the company's shareholders over the long term, you could make a pretty good case that the lack of a major equity partner is holding Aurora back at least somewhat for now.

Some might argue that Aurora's stock performance has been really good even without a big partner. And it has been.

But Aurora's market cap is only a little over half the market cap of Canopy Growth. Yet Aurora has a greater production capacity than Canopy, has a stronger international presence, and is a close No. 2 behind Canopy in the Canadian adult-use recreational marijuana market. The most plausible explanation as to why Canopy's market cap is so much higher than Aurora's is that Canopy has a big partner and Aurora doesn't.

Another drawback to Aurora's partnering approach is that it won't have the huge infusion of cash that comes with an equity partnership deal. Canopy Growth reported a cash stockpile of more than $4.9 billion Canadian (around US$3.7 billion) at the end of 2018. Aurora, on the other hand, had only CA$88.2 million (around US$66.8 million) in cash and cash equivalents at the end of last year.

So while Canopy Growth is flush with cash to fund its expansion efforts, Aurora must raise additional cash by either taking on more debt or issuing new shares. The company has done a lot more of the latter, announcing in April that it had filed regulatory paperwork to raise up to US$750 million by issuing new securities. The main problem with issuing new shares is that it dilutes the value of existing shares.

There's also one other potential fly in the ointment with Aurora's partnering strategy. It's entirely possible that a big partner outside of the cannabis industry is adamant about obtaining an equity stake in its cannabis partner. Aurora could conceivably lose out on winning a major partnership deal if it isn't flexible about handing over ownership interest. Maybe this won't turn out to be a problem, but it seems likely that Altria and Constellation Brands wouldn't have teamed up with Cronos and Canopy if the two cannabis producers had not been willing to give up equity stakes.

Wait and see

If the company's partnership deals are structured in the right way, Aurora could be in great shape. The problem for now, though, is that there aren't any partners lining up at Aurora's doorstep that we know about.

Still, it seems likely that Aurora will land one or more big partners in other industries. But we'll have to wait and see if the company's partnering strategy turns out to be brilliant or boneheaded -- or maybe somewhere in between -- over the long run.

More From The Motley Fool

Keith Speights has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool recommends Anheuser-Busch InBev and Constellation Brands. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
CANBERRA, Australia (AP)  Australia's prime minister on Sunday officially launched his conservative coalition's campaign less than a week before an election in an extraordinarily personal presentation.

Scott Morrison is his government's third prime minister in the administration's six years in office and still remains relatively unknown to many Australians, who he is asking for a third three-year term when they vote on Saturday next week.

The coalition's launch in the city of Melbourne at a convention center included recorded interviews with Morrison family members that covered his wife Jenny's diagnosis with endometriosis, their 14-year failed battle to conceive through IVF before having their two daughters naturally, and Jenny Morrison's brother's struggle with multiple sclerosis.

Morrison, a policeman's son, also spoke of his modest upbringing in Sydney and sharing a bedroom until he was in high school with an older brother who was studying at university.

"Life's about what you contribute, not what you accumulate. That's what mum and dad have taught me," Morrison told a gathering of government ministers and supporters of his Liberal Party.

Morrison was joined on the stage by his mother Marion Morrison, his wife and daughters Abbey, 11, and Lily, 9. He said his father John Morrison was "too frail" to attend. Morrison gave his mother and wife bouquets of flowers to acknowledge Mother's Day in Australia.

Morrison also outlined government policies including support for first-home buyers to help them enter the housing market.

The government argues that the center-left opposition Labor Party's policy of reducing tax breaks for landlords would steepen a current downturn in house prices in major cities.

Morrison described the election as a choice between him and opposition leader Bill Shorten as prime minister.

"The choice between a government that knows how to manage money, has returned the budget to surplus and will now pay down debt," Morrison said. "Or Bill Shorten and Labor, whose reckless spending and higher taxes will put all of that risk at the worst possible time."

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The government in April outlined an economic plan that would balance the books in the next fiscal year for the first time in 12 years. Labor has promised to deliver bigger budget surpluses by reducing tax breaks for landlords and some shareholders.

The bitter divisions within the Liberal Party that thrust Morrison into power in August last year were still evident at the launch on Sunday.

None of the three surviving former Liberal prime ministers attended. John Howard is Australia's second-longest serving prime minister who spent 11 years in office until his government was defeated at elections in 2007. Tony Abbott spent three years in office before he was dumped by party colleagues in 2015 in the face of dismal opinion polling. He was replaced by Malcolm Turnbull, who was similarly dumped by colleagues last year.

By contrast, three of the four surviving Labor prime ministers attended Shorten's Labor campaign launch a week earlier. The oldest, Bob Hawke, 89, sent his apologies.

Morrison is hoping his personal charisma will persuade people to vote for his Liberal Party candidates, but opinion polls suggest they prefer Labor despite misgivings about Shorten as leader.

Shorten is a former labor union leader who turned 52 on Sunday. Morrison is a former tourism marketer who turns 51 on Monday. Both were first elected to Parliament at the 2007 election that ended Howard's government and decades of relative political stability.

Shorten addressed a campaign rally in Melbourne on Sunday in which he focused on Labor's pledge to reduce Australia's greenhouse gas emissions by 45% below 2005 levels by 2030. The government has committed to reduce emissions by 26% to 28% in the same time frame. Climate change did not feature in Morrison's launch.

Opinion polls suggest that climate change is a growing concern for voters, but is a divisive policy issue among the conservatives who are split between those who give priority to reducing emissions and those who want the lowest possible power prices.

"There are now six days to win this election, end the chaos and change the country for the better," Shorten said in his own Melbourne seat."The only way the Liberals will learn to take climate change seriously is to lose this election."
NongHyup Bank CEO Lee Dae-hoon / Courtesy of NongHyup Bank



Bank carries out two-track strategy for platforms, Southeast Asia



By Park Hyong-ki



NongHyup Bank will carry out a "two-track digital strategy" for its two mobile banking platforms, said Lee Dae-hoon, the bank's chief executive.



NH Smart Banking is for the general public, especially the elderly.



And All One Bank is for young people, who not only seek to use mobile banking services, but also access and experience nonfinancial content.



Because of the two platforms, NongHyup said it was not interested in applying for a mobile internet banking license.



But before it can further beef up the two, Lee said it will take more than just strengthening its computer programmers, engineers and data analysts unit.



Everybody at every department will need to change and develop their digital skills if NongHyup wants to succeed in carrying out the two-track mobile strategy and become a "true digital company," Lee said.



"We need to change into a fast and agile organization that can help spur innovation with the use of technology," Lee told The Korea Times in a written interview.



"This is where our digital R&D center comes in to push NongHyup Bank's digital transformation."



The bank opened an innovation campus that encompasses the R&D center and a startup center in Yangjae-dong, Seoul, in early April.





gettyimagesbank

The campus will not only have 1,000 data scientists, but also house more than 30 startups experimenting and commercializing their ideas using technologies such as artificial intelligence, blockchain and cloud computing.



NongHyup has forged ties with Seoul National and Dongguk universities in big data and blockchain as part of its long-term plan to develop and offer customized services through its platforms and startup ecosystem.



Above all, the campus will serve as the control tower, which will push not only NongHyup Financial Group and NongHyup Bank, but also all subsidiaries including NH Investment & Securities and NH Capital to embrace innovation and "run like a startup."



Having this culture is very important to achieve digital transformation, Lee said.



"Lowering the walls between departments, having flexibility and encouraging collaboration through alliances are key to developing a digital organization that can rapidly move and respond to external changes," he said.



NongHyup Financial Group and some of its key subsidiaries including NongHyup Bank and NH Investment & Securities have together launched a 20 billion won ($18 million) fund to invest in startups inside the campus.



They will be holding events and competitions on collaborative computer programming, showcasing their business models in front of investors, as well as teaming up with NongHyup subsidiaries in financial technology, Lee noted.



"NongHyup Bank will focus on solving customers' problems with those startups. This is where our innovation will begin," Lee said.





NongHyup Bank CEO Lee Dae-hoon, center back row, poses with employees after holding a program on digital innovation at the bank's headquarters in Seoul, April 19. Courtesy of NongHyup Bank
By Will Ziebell

MELBOURNE, May 12 (Reuters) - Australia's Prime Minister Scott Morrison officially launched his party's election campaign on Sunday, less than a week before the May 18 vote that opinion polls have consistently indicated he will lose.

At the campaign launch in Melbourne, Morrison's focus was on economic management and said his center-right Liberal-National coalition would support the "decent, simple and honest aspirations" of Australians.

"A stronger economy where people have the confidence to invest more, to employ more, to invent more, to work hard," Morrison said.

The government has been trailing the center-left Labor Party, led by Bill Shorten, in polls for years, though recent figures indicate the race is tightening.

Morrison's Liberal Party has been rocked by division in recent times, having had three different leaders in four years.

Neither of Morrison's two immediate predecessors as prime minister, Malcolm Turnbull and Tony Abbott, were present at the campaign launch. Former Prime Minister John Howard, who led Australia from 1996 to 2007, also did not show up.

Morrison previously dismissed questions about why the former prime ministers wouldn't be attending, saying the day was about speaking directly to the Australian people.

"It's not about party festivals and slapping backs and doing all that sort of stuff," Morrison told reporters on Saturday.

Morrison has been the dominant figure for the government in the campaign but members of his front bench attended the launch on Sunday, including Environment Minister Melissa Price, who has largely been unseen during a campaign in which climate change has been a prominent issue.

The coalition has had to focus its attention on many traditionally safe seats this election, which appear to be under threat from candidates running on platforms focused on more action on climate change.

The Age newspaper reported on Sunday the government was facing tight contests in Tony Abbott's seat of Warringah in Sydney and the seat of Higgins, in Melbourne's wealthy inner-east.

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Labor leader Bill Shorten said there were a lot of disillusioned voters in Higgins, which the Liberal Party has held since the seat was created in 1949. "There is a mood for change," Shorten told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation.

Morrison also took aim at Shorten and said Labor had a history of poorly managing the economy.

"Reckless spending is not a vision ... its a burden on current and future generations," Morrison said. (Reporting by Will Ziebell Editing by Robert Birsel)
Eight Islamist extremists from a banned group were charged by Bangladesh police Sunday for the 2016 murders of two prominent gay rights activists.

Dhaka police's counter terrorism unit filed the charge-sheet against the eight men, saying they were members of Ansar al Islam, deputy commissioner of police Mohibul Islam Khan told AFP.

"Among them four have been arrested and the rest are still at large," he said, adding the group was led by Syed Ziaul Haque, a sacked Bangladesh army major who was leading the extremist group.

Xulhaz Mannan, publisher of Bangladesh's first magazine for the gay and lesbian community, and fellow activist Mahbub Tonoy were hacked to death in a Dhaka apartment in April 2016 by unidentified men carrying machetes and guns.

Al-Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS) said it was behind the killings of the men, both aged 35, who it said had worked to "promote homosexuality" in Bangladesh.

But Bangladesh police chiefs have said their murders bear the hallmarks of local Islamists, denying that international jihadist networks have a presence in the world's third largest Muslim-majority country.

Ansar al Islam -- also known as Ansarullah Bangla Team -- has been blamed for a series of murders since 2013, including of atheist writers, publishers, members of religious minorities, social activists and foreign aid workers.

Washington had condemned the killings of Tonoy and Mannan, who worked for US government aid organisation USAID. Both men had received threats from Islamists over their championing of gay rights.

Bangladesh launched a crackdown on Islamist extremism after attacks in July 2016, when IS-inspired militants stormed a Dhaka cafe killing 22 people, including 18 foreigners.

Since the 2016 attacks, security forces have staged nationwide raids in which, they say, nearly 100 members of two extremist Islamist groups have been killed. Hundreds of suspects have been detained.

The South Asian nation has also boosted security since April 21 Easter Sunday bombings in Sri Lanka, which killed 258 and were carried out by jihadists affiliated to the Islamic State group.
HERIKA MARTINEZ

The Trump administration has taken an unprecedented step to combat the growing number of migrants detained at the border: organizing aircraft flights for relocation to other detention facilities for processing.

According to The Washington Post, Customs and Border Protection began transporting migrants by plane last week to several border detention centers along the border to mitigate the reports of overcrowding and understaffing.

This is the worst I have ever seen it, by far, one Border Patrol veteran told the Post about the number of migrants apprehended along the southern border.

The damage control tactic began on Friday, transferring migrants from McAllen, Texas to a facility about five hours away, and the flights are scheduled to continue daily next week, the newspaper reported, citing three Homeland security officials. Each flight costs $16,000 and can transport about 135 adults per flight, the The Washington Post reported.

While the U.S. has used airplanes to transport migrants to various detention facilities before, this is the first time airplanes have been used to transport migrants to booking and processing facilities. Nearly 100,000 migrants were apprehended along the border in April, according to the Department of Homeland Security.

For the first time in over a decade, CBP is performing direct releases of migrants when [Immigration and Customs Enforcement] is unable to provide bed space to relieve overcrowding, Kevin McAleenan, acting DHS secretary and head of Customs and Border Protection, said in March on the increasing number of illegal border crossings. That breaking point has arrived this week at our border.

Border Patrol Chief Carla Provost echoed these concerns before the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Border Security and Immigration on Wednesday, testifying the apprehension numbers are off the charts and have already broken a 10-year record in only seven months.

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.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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Rio de Janeiro (AFP) - Brazil's legendary indigenous chief Raoni headed to Paris Sunday for the start of a three-week tour across Europe where he will meet heads of state, celebrities and the Pope to highlight growing threats to the Amazon.

The elderly Kayapo chief, internationally recognizable through his traditional lip plate and feather headdress, will seek to raise one million euros ($1.1 million) to better protect the Amazon's Xingu reserve -- home to many of Brazil's tribal peoples -- from loggers, farmers and fire.

Raoni Metuktire, famous for his work campaigning in defense of Brazil's rainforest alongside personalities like pop star Sting, will be accompanied by three indigenous leaders from the Xingu.

They will hold talks with French President Emmanuel Macron and environment minister Francois de Rugy before travelling to Belgium, Switzerland, Luxembourg, Monaco and Italy where they will meet with Pope Francis at the Vatican, according to the Paris-based Association Foret Vierge, or Virgin Forest Association, of which Raoni is honorary president.

Raonis trip comes as the Amazon faces increasing threats from mining and farming lobbies who have found a champion in far-right President Jair Bolsonaro, a climate change skeptic.

Funds raised will be used to replace or reset hundreds of signs and markers on the boundary of the vast Xingu as well as pay for drones and satellite imaging to monitor the region, and create firebreaks, Foret Vierge said in a statement.

Some Xingu communities also need urgent investment in health, education and know-how in extracting and selling renewable forest products.

"Thus Indians will be able to live in dignity in the Reserve while protecting it and their ancestral cultures, instead of going into urban or rural areas where they can not find their place," the statement said.

There are hundreds of demarcated territories in Brazil, established in the 1980s for the exclusive use of their indigenous inhabitants, and access by outsiders is strictly regulated.

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But Bolsonaro's anti-environment rhetoric before and after winning last Octobers elections has alarmed indigenous communities and green groups.

Bolsonaro has said he wants to "integrate into society" Brazil's estimated 800,000 indigenous people who have long battled to protect their traditional way of life, away from towns and cities.

"The Indian cannot continue to be trapped within a demarcated area as if he were a zoo animal," the former army captain once said.

A number of recent reports have sounded the alarm over rampant destruction of the Amazon and threats to indigenous inhabitants.

An indigenous alliance warned last month that native peoples in the Amazon faced an "apocalypse."

They warned in particular of Bolsonaro's pledges to allow more farming and logging in the Amazon, and to ease safeguards and grant more licenses for Brazil's huge mining industry, and build more dams.
By Elizabeth Piper LONDON (Reuters) - European elections will be difficult for Britain's governing Conservatives, their education minister said on Sunday, after the party slumped into fourth place in an opinion poll and a new Brexit Party took top spot. Almost three years since Britain voted to leave the European Union, the country's Brexit process has become mired in chaos with Prime Minister Theresa May's inability so far to get a deal through parliament fuelling anger among voters. With little movement in talks between the government and the opposition Labour Party to try to end the impasse in parliament, an election to the European Parliament on May 23 will offer a new opportunity for voters to show their discontent. And both of Britain's main parties, which are deeply divided over how to leave the EU, are set to be punished by frustrated Britons, with the Conservatives losing votes to the new Brexit Party, led by veteran eurosceptic campaigner Nigel Farage. "I don't think anyone is in any doubt these are going to be difficult elections for us ... for some people this is the ultimate protest vote opportunity," education minister Damian Hinds told the BBC's Andrew Marr Show. With the March 29 deadline for Brexit rapidly becoming a distant memory, Britain is increasingly divided between those who want the country to leave the EU abruptly with no deal and those who hope to avert Brexit - options neither big party back. According to the latest Opinium poll for the Observer newspaper, Farage's newly formed party is on 34% before the European election, with Labour in second place on 21% and the Conservatives back in fourth on 11%. LITTLE PROGRESS IN TALKS May's government hopes that Britons elected to the European Parliament will not need to take their seats, still wanting to get a divorce deal passed by parliament before the end of June. But talks with Labour to try to secure what ministers describe as the "stable majority" in parliament to get the deal, or Withdrawal Agreement, ratified, have yet to find a breakthrough which would offer the government opposition votes. Labour policy chiefs offered little optimism that an agreement was in the offing, and Gavin Williamson, who was sacked by May as defence minister this month, said the talks "can only ever end in tears" in the Mail on Sunday newspaper. Jon Ashworth, Labour's health policy chief, said the party's negotiators were "not getting very far" in trying to persuade the government to adopt its Brexit plan, which envisages a permanent customs union - something that is anathema to many pro-Brexit Conservatives. Labour's trade policy chief Barry Gardiner told Sky News one of the "big sticking points" was that there was no guarantee that any successor to May would "actually deliver on it". May is under pressure from some Conservatives to quit office sooner than her pledge to resign after the first phase of the Brexit process is complete, prompting ministers and other hopefuls to pronounce their leadership ambitions. But other ministers said now was not the time to force May out, arguing her departure would do little to change the arithmetic in parliament, which has already rejected her deal three times. "This is about the maths in our parliamentary party and indeed in parliament itself," Hinds said. "No one should be under any illusion that just changing the person in that position would change the parliamentary reality." (Reporting by Elizabeth Piper; Editing by Keith Weir)
As the Milwaukee Bucks prepare for their first appearance in the Eastern Conference Finals since 2001, team officials are investigating claims that drinks were spiked at a party this week outside of their home arena, Fiserv Forum.

According to the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel, team spokesperson Barry Baum confirmed the investigation in the interest of "safety."

Milwaukee's WISN-TV reported that six people became ill or "blacked out" after consuming alcoholic beverages. Multiple people reported that drinking "Moscow Mules" gave them adverse side effects not compatible with a typical alcoholic beverage.

The party took place in an outdoor tented area adjacent to the arena after the Bucks completed their 4-1 series victory against the Boston Celtics.

Milwaukee police said they did not receive any complaints from partygoers about spiked drinks. The newspaper said a check of area hospitals reported no visits from individuals that became ill from events at Fiserv Forum.

--Field Level Media
Photo: Bianca S./Yelp

A new New American cafe and bar has opened up shop in the neighborhood. Located at 5895 San Felipe St., Suite B in Greater Uptown, the new arrival is called The Roastery.

This new business offers breakfast, lunch and dinner options, in addition to baked goods and sweets. The coffee and tea selections feature items like a traditional Americano, an oatmeal latte and almond Chai tea, along with smoothies and frappes. Alcoholic drinks are also offered. Stopping in for breakfast? Try the bacon, onion & gruyere quiche. For dinner, dive into the short rib rotolo pasta or the summer squash fritters.

With a five-star rating out of five reviews on Yelp so far, the fresh arrival has made a promising start.

Chau L., who was among the first Yelpers to review the new spot on April 8, wrote, "Staff so friendly. I got the donut latte. Comes with a small fluffy mocha donut. The latte is just the right amount of sweetness, not sugar overload at all. I'm a heavy coffee drinker, and this was a perfect pick-me-up."

Yelper Barret L. added, Finally got to try the coffee here for the first time. I really enjoyed the atmosphere of the coffee house and the coffee was very good."

The Roastery is now open at 5895 San Felipe St., Suite B., so head on over to check it out. There is a second location in Houston at 2300 N. Shepherd Drive.

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.
Why are pro-abortion activists such as Brian Sims so angry? Because they abhor the alternative.

Sims, a Democratic member of the Pennsylvania state legislature, filmed himself berating an old woman and a few children who were praying outside of an abortion clinic in Philadelphia  a city that, as the home town of that ghastly butcher Kermit Gosnell , knows something about the horror of abortion. Sims even went so far as to share photos of the children on social media with requests that his followers help him dox them, meaning to track down private information about them for the purpose of harassment.

Children, these were.

And that is what this is really all about.

The Lefts war on children is by no means restricted to the project of maximizing the scope of opportunity to surgically dismember them prior to birth, preferably at public expense. From radical feminists to radical environmentalists to academics and such mainstream figures such as Bill Nye, the word has come down: Children are not the future, but the futures enemies.

An interesting fact about our political discourse is that Population Bomb author Paul Ehrlich is still a part of it, commanding some attention in spite of his having been spectacularly wrong about every single major claim of his long public career. Erhlich has been delivering homilies on overpopulation since before I was born. Population Bomb, published in 1968, garnered a great deal of attention (and brisk sales!) for its claims that overpopulation made it inevitable that hundreds of millions of people would die of starvation in the 1970s. He was awfully sure of himself, as progressives so often are  science says! and all that  writing: The battle to feed all of humanity is over. In the 1970s, hundreds of millions of people will starve to death in spite of any crash programs embarked upon now. At this late date, nothing can prevent a substantial increase in the world death rate.

What happened, of course, was the opposite. Extreme poverty worldwide has been reduced by more than half in the past few decades; to the extent that famine exists at all in the world today, it exists almost exclusively as a political phenomenon, the product of failed states rather than failed crops.

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But the cult of overpopulation takes no notice of the facts. Abortion advocates such as Representative Sims habitually present their case in Malthusian terms: He demanded of the elderly woman he was bullying whether she herself would provide for the material needs of the unwanted children who were being chopped to bits and stuffed into medical-waste containers inside the Planned Parenthood facility. Never mind, for the moment, the fact that there are far more American families looking to adopt children than there are abortions performed or children eligible to be adopted  the imbalance is so great that Americans go all over the world looking for children to adopt  and just consider the implicit argument there on its own merits, which is this: If we think that there might be some inconvenience involved in seeing to the needs of these children, then it would be better to put them to death.

But this line of argument does not end with the unwanted children who are killed by abortionists. Figures such as Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D., N.Y.) have suggested that having children may be immoral, and many of her progressive allies have gone much further than that. Utilizing the familiar Science says! rhetorical formulation, Travis Rieder of the Berman Institute of Bioethics insisted that people should forgo having children because of the impact those children might have on climate change. Science proves kids are bad for Earth, NBC headlined the essay, Morality suggests we stop having them. Writing in the New York Times under the headline  Would Human Extinction Be a Tragedy ? Clemson philosophy professor Todd May concludes that the disappearance of Homo sapiens might just be a good thing. The cultivated folksiness of the expression adds a special horror to the display of moral illiteracy. (And ordinary illiteracy: He writes that nature itself is hardly a Valhalla of peace and harmony, apparently unaware of the martial character of Valhalla or that the heroes there spent their time preparing for the great climactic battle of Ragnarok.) Professor May asks:

How much suffering and death of nonhuman life would we be willing to countenance to save Shakespeare, our sciences and so forth? Unless we believe there is such a profound moral gap between the status of human and nonhuman animals, whatever reasonable answer we come up with will be well surpassed by the harm and suffering we inflict upon animals.

Unless . . .

Chelsea Follett, writing at Human Progress, briefly taxonomizes the partisans of anti-natalism, the Voluntary Human Extinction Movement (vehement, they pronounce it; at least the end of the human race would spare us these dopey acronyms), etc. Some anti-natalists are not content with promoting the voluntary reduction of birth rates, she writes, and would prefer to hurry the process along with government intervention. Various prominent environmentalists, from Johns Hopkins University bioethicist Travis Rieder to science popularizer and entertainer Bill Nye , support the introduction of special taxes or other state-imposed penalties for having too many children. In 2015, Bowdoin Colleges Sarah Conly published a book advocating a one-child policy, like the one China abandoned. . . . Even after that policys collapse, she maintains it was a good thing.

One of the fundamental differences in our public life is between those who see human beings as liabilities  as mouths to be fed and souls to be policed  and those of us who see human beings as assets. The economist Julian Simon ran the numbers and made the case for human beings as assets. His  Simon Abundance Index  measures the availability of resources relative to population and finds that with more people there are more resources. The Malthusians always forget to count the most dynamic and productive of all human resources: humanity.

One might be forgiven for seeing something providential in Representative Simss decision to attack a woman praying the Rosary, which points us toward a radically different understanding of childbirth and motherhood and fatherhood, one in which human beings participate in the creative work of the universe. It seems that none of Herods men ever thought to demand of Joseph or the Magi: Are you going to pay for feeding that child? Huh? Huh? It was understood. One need not be a Christian, or even religious, to grasp the moral philosophy illustrated there  or to be repulsed by the grotesque and vicious alternative to it personified by Representative Sims et al.

More from National Review




By Park Hyong-ki







Local banks are seeking to increase their presence in Indonesia by expanding their services in digital banking and asset management.







Bank Shinhan Indonesia has launched a new online service enabling local customers to wire money overseas, according to Shinhan Bank in Seoul, Sunday.







They can transfer funds in six currencies including the Japanese yen and Hong Kong dollar.







The bank said it seeks to further expand by introducing its SOL platform in Indonesia.







Shinhan Bank told The Korea Times last year that it will launch the Indonesian version of the SOL in 2019, as well as a Vietnam version.







"We will launch the SOL in Indonesia by June this year. This will enable local customers to open accounts without having to visit our retail branch there," said a Shinhan Bank spokesman.







Bank Woori Saudara, meanwhile, has been holding a series of seminars on asset management for Indonesia customers, Woori Bank in Seoul said.







While the Indonesian unit is moving to boost its asset management service there, it is also implementing its digital strategy by taking note of its parent bank's WiBee Talk platform.







This comes as Indonesia is seeing a growing number of people opening up mobile bank accounts and purchasing goods online.







"We are looking to strengthen our global presence by offering digital and asset management services in Indonesia connected with Seoul-based banking," said a Woori Bank spokesman.







Bank Woori Saudara is a small player compared to banking giants such as Bank Mandiri and Bank Negara.







Indonesia has been growing at an annual 5 percent on average, the bank noted.







Woori Bank acquired Bank Himpunan?Saudara in 2014.










Visiting Central Business District, or just looking to better appreciate what it has to offer? Get to know this Pittsburgh neighborhood by browsing its most popular local businesses, from a cocktail bar to a Korean and Asian fusion restaurant.

Hoodline crunched the numbers to find the top places to visit in Central Business District, using both Yelp data and our own secret sauce to produce a ranked list of neighborhood businesses. Read on for the results.

1. Tako

Topping the list is New American and Mexican spot tako. Located at 214 Sixth St., it's the most popular business in the neighborhood, boasting 4.5 stars out of 1,290 reviews on Yelp.

On the menu, expect tacos with octopus, carnitas, chicken, mushrooms, shrimp tempura, steak and fish, as well as a poke bowl (tuna, avocado, spicy soy dressing and sesame mayo), ceviche (shrimp, chipotle aguachile, avocado, radish and orange oil) and roasted squash (goat cheese, morita vinaigrette and candied seeds). Wash it all down with signature cocktails, margaritas, sangria, frozen options and Mexican beer.

2. Butcher And The Rye

Photo: butcher and the rye/Yelp

Next up is butcher, cocktail bar and New American spot Butcher and the Rye, situated at 212 Sixth St. With 4.5 stars out of 893 reviews on Yelp, it's proven to be a local favorite.

The restaurant boasts an extensive whiskey collection, which is available to sample with flights, as well as a full bar to tag along with a unique menu. Entrees include grilled filet with roasted potatoes, pan seared halibut and buttermilk fried rabbit.

3. The Carlton

Photo: marty b./Yelp

Diner and steakhouse The Carlton, which offers seafood and more, is another top choice. Yelpers give the business, located at 500 Grant St., BNY Mellon Center, four stars out of 106 reviews.

Look for fish, seafood and steak dishes like crab and shrimp pasta, Chilean sea bass, the Carlton surf and turf (prime rib and sauteed Cajun barbecue shrimp) as well as braised short ribs (click here to view the menu).

4. Bae Bae's Kitchen

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Photo: bae bae's kitchen/Yelp

Bae Bae's Kitchen, a Korean and Asian fusion spot that offers salads and more, is another much-loved neighborhood go-to, with 4.5 stars out of 286 Yelp reviews. Head over to 951 Liberty Ave. to see for yourself.

Bae Bae's Kitchen serves healthy, organic, local Korean-inspired cuisine that changes seasonally. Expect rice and noodle bowls with ribeye, fried chicken or tofu as well as sides like kimchi and vegetable tempura (sweet potato, broccoli, onions and more). Daily specials include Korean chicken wings, KimBap and Dukbokki. The drink menu offers boba tea, Vietnamese coffee and Kombucha tea. (Click here to view the menu.)

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 Yawen Chen and David Lawder

BEIJING/WASHINGTON (Reuters) - China and the United States have agreed to hold more trade talks in Beijing, Vice Premier Liu He said as U.S. President Donald Trump ordered his trade chief to begin the process of imposing tariffs on all remaining imports from China.

Liu voiced a measured optimism on reaching a deal, but said there were "issues of principle" on which China would not back down.

"Negotiations have not broken down," Liu, China's chief negotiator in the talks, said in Washington on Friday, according to state television on Saturday. "Quite the opposite, I think small setbacks are normal and inevitable during the negotiations of both countries. Looking forward, we are still cautiously optimistic," Liu said.

Liu's optimism was tempered by U.S. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, who told CNBC on Friday that there were no further talks with China planned "as of now."

Trump wrote on Twitter on Saturday that he thinks China felt they were being "beaten so badly" in the recent negotiations that they may as well wait for the 2020 presidential election "to see if they could get lucky & have a Democrat win - in which case they would continue to rip-off the USA for $500 Billion a year."

"The only problem is that they know I am going to win," Trump wrote on Twitter, "... and the deal will become far worse for them if it has to be negotiated in my second term. Would be wise for them to act now, but love collecting BIG TARIFFS!"

The United States escalated a tariff war with China on Friday by hiking levies on $200 billion worth of Chinese goods in the midst of last-ditch talks to rescue a trade deal. Trump had delayed the tariffs as negotiations between Washington and Beijing were progressing.

On Friday, Trump issued orders for the tariff increase, saying China "broke the deal" by reneging on earlier commitments made during months of negotiations.

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China strongly opposes the latest U.S. tariff hike, and as a nation, has to respond to that, Liu told a small group of Chinese reporters in the video clip.

"Right now, both sides have reached mutual understanding in many things, but frankly speaking, there are also differences. We think these differences are significant issues of principle," Liu said. "We absolutely cannot make concessions on such issues of principle."

He added that talks would continue in Beijing, but gave no details. Underscoring a lack of progress in the talks, Trump ordered a further escalation of tariffs.

Trump's move would subject about $300 billion worth of Chinese imports to punitive tariffs, U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer said in a statement on Friday. Lighthizer said a final decision has not been made on the new duties, which would come on top of an early Friday tariff rate increase, to 25% from 10%, on $200 billion worth of Chinese imports.

China's widely-read Global Times newspaper, which while published by the ruling Communist Party's official People's Daily newspaper does not speak for the government, said in a Sunday editorial that the United States has "seriously underestimated China's endurance".

"Washington tried to bring up terms that either harmed the sovereignty and dignity of China, or that were seriously unequal and unrealistic. Those requests have made the negotiations more difficult," the paper said.

CHINA DETAILS DIFFERENCES

Three differences remain between the two countries, according to China's account of the latest talks.

One of those is over tariffs, Liu said, according to a transcript of the Q&A published by Phoenix, a Hong Kong-based television station that is close to Beijing. China believes that tariffs were the genesis of the trade dispute, and that if both sides wanted to reach an agreement, then all tariffs must be eliminated, Liu said.

The second is about procurement, on which an initial consensus was reached between the leaders of the two countries in Argentina late last year. The two sides now have differing views on the volumes, Liu said. The third is over how balanced the text of the draft agreement should be, he said.

"Every nation has its dignity, so the text ought to be balanced," Liu said.

Sources told Reuters this week that China had deleted its commitments in the draft agreement that said it would change laws to resolve core complaints of the United States: theft of U.S. intellectual property and trade secrets; forced technology transfers; competition policy; access to financial services; and currency manipulation.

Liu denied the accusations of China's reneging on promises, saying China thought it was normal to make changes before a final deal. Both sides had differing views on how to phrase it, he said.

Liu said he hoped this issue would be resolved, so it was unnecessary to "over react" to that point. Similar to Liu, Chinese state media said China would not give in on its core interests.

"China clearly requires that the trade procurement figures should be realistic; the text must be balanced and expressed in terms that are acceptable to the Chinese people and do not undermine the sovereignty and dignity of the country," the People's Daily newspaper said in a commentary on Saturday.

The trade war has weighed on the Chinese economy.

When asked about domestic concerns over how the latest tariffs could further pressure the economy, Liu said he was optimistic about China's economy in the longer term, adding that it had entered an up-cycle after bottoming out somewhat last year.

He said he believed the Chinese economy would maintain a stable and healthy trend despite some downward pressure, and that China had ample room for fiscal and monetary policy maneuvers.

On Monday, hours after Trump said he intended to raise tariffs, the Chinese central bank cut the amount of reserves that some small and medium-sized banks need to hold, freeing up more funds for lending to cash-strapped firms.

(Reporting by Yawen Chen and David Lawder; Additional reporting by Ryan Woo in Beijing; Lucia Mutikani and Katanja Johnson in Washington; Writing by Ben Blanchard; Editing by Leslie Adler, Matthew Lewis and Daniel Wallis)
By Gabriella Borter

May 12 (Reuters) - A Connecticut man has been indicted after prosecutors say he threatened to kill U.S. President Donald Trump and sent others bomb threats and mail containing suspicious white powder, according to court documents.

Gary Gravelle, 51, was indicted on 16 counts, including that he threatened the president in September 2018 by sending an envelope containing white powder and the handwritten message "You Die."

He sent similar envelopes to a synagogue, a mosque and a chapter of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), according to the indictment.

The note claimed the power was a biotoxin but it was found to be harmless, officials said.

Gravelle also sent emails and made phone calls threatening to detonate bombs in Vermont, Washington and at various locations in Connecticut, including government buildings and a mental health facility.

If convicted of all 16 counts, he could face a maximum prison sentence of 140 years.

Gravelle was previously sentenced in 2013 for sending threatening communications and had been released under federal supervision until his arrest on the new charges last year, according to U.S. Attorney John Durham's statement on Friday.

It was not immediately clear if Gravelle had a lawyer. (Reporting by Gabriella Borter; Editing by Lisa Shumaker)
It was 2047, not 2019, in ConsenSys CEO Joseph Lubins keynote address Saturday in Red Hook, Brooklyn.

To close out the 2019 Ethereal Summit in Brooklyn, he foresaw a future where assets had all been tokenized, the web was completely decentralized and networks organized around topical interests had become roughly as important to human life as nation states.

Notably, Lubin predicted President Donald Trump would win a second term in 2020.

The Big Question at Ethereal Summit NY: Is DeFi Enough for Ethereum?

He foresaw those following four years as marking a downturn in American civilization, marked by an increase in radical divisions and even hate crimes. The turnaround would only arrive, he predicted, when Facebook, finally admitting its role in global radicalism, broke itself into Facebook Media (the news feed) and Open Book, a decentralized social web that any startup could tap into.

In Lubins vision, most of the progress since 2019 can be linked back one way or another to ConsenSys, despite a 2018 that ended with broad layoffs and challenges in spinning out incubated startups.

Lubin foresaw a medium-term future where, as he put it from his 2047 perch, Liberal democracy was on its death bed.

Despite doubts about ethereums potential to change how data is shared, he particularly foresaw a new era in more sustainable, more valuable journalism. Platforms like Civil triggered the recovery of the journalism industry, especially local journalism, Lubin said.

Vitalik Buterin, Joe Lubin Back $700K Donation to Ethereum Project MolochDAO

Civil is a ConsenSys-supported project aiming to bring distributed verification and micropayments to the media industry.

He continued, Divorcing news delivery from the influence of advertising dollars was the breakthrough that drove the turnaround of western democracies.

Lubin described a decentralized era in which ethics with respect to the truth, ethics with regard to the nature of facts took hold, as opposed to our backwards era, in which presenting balanced viewpoints and fostering critical thinking was anathema.

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By 2047  with a decentralized open platform where former web giants had come to embrace a distributed ethos  We are all as a society able to engage in direct democratic decision-making, Lubin said.

The dream has been made real and we are all in it, the Lubin of 2047 said. He told the crowd:

These days we dont hear people talking about changing the world, just like we dont hear people talking about breathing or walking. Its just what we do.

Joseph Lubin speaks at Ethereal Summit NY 2019 photo by Brady Dale for CoinDesk

Related Stories
Athens (AFP) - Every month, when his respiratory medicine runs out, Dionysis Assimakopoulos heads to the most unlikely pharmacy in Athens.

Amid derelict stadiums dating from the 2004 Athens Olympic Games, the volunteer-staffed social pharmacy of Hellinikon has handed out free medicine to hundreds of poverty-stricken patients, keeping some of them out of death's reach.

"My wife and I have been unemployed for over two years. We need about 150 euros for medicine every month," says Assimakopoulos, a former baker.

Established at the height of the crisis in 2011, the pharmacy runs on donated medicine and disposables. Some 40,000 people have brought medicine, many from abroad, says on-duty pharmacist Dimitis Palakas.

Another patient waiting in line is Achilleas Papadopoulos, a retired tenor. His pension of 700 euros is not enough to cover the antibiotics he has come for.

During nearly a decade of cuts imposed as Greece struggled to avert national bankruptcy, public education and health were among the sectors hit the hardest as the country lost a quarter of its national output.

Amid sweeping layoffs, wage cuts and tax hikes, many could not maintain their social insurance contributions and were pushed out of state-provided health support.

"Only 11 percent of Greeks can currently afford private insurance giving full health coverage," says Grigoris Sarafianos, head of the association of private Greek health clinics.

According to the national statistics service, Greeks paid 34.3 percent of their medical expenses out of their own pocket in 2016.

The crisis exposed "huge state shortages", says Petros Boteas, a member of the Hellinikon health team, which serves over 500 patients every month.

"There are fewer doctors and hospital staff. Money for medicine has been cut. There is a long waiting list for doctor's appointments... we had a cancer patient given an appointment in three months," he told AFP.

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To avoid a long wait -- especially in an emergency -- many are forced to seek private healthcare, regardless of the cost. There are currently over 120 private clinics in the country.

- 'Go to a better school' -

A similar scenario casts its shadow over education.

When Aspasia Apostolou's son was 11 years old and finishing Greek public primary school, his class teacher did something unexpected.

"He told us our son is bright and that he should be in a better school," says Apostolou, a 44-year-old lawyer.

According to the government, public funding for education fell by about 36 percent during the crisis.

Thousands of trained staff including teachers and doctors emigrated -- part of an exodus of some 350,000 people -- or opted to retire.

A recent study by the London School of Economics found 75 percent of Greek crisis emigrants hold university degrees.

The OECD in a 2017 study -- prepared at Greece's request -- said austerity cuts had "a major impact on the demands on the Greek education system, and on those working within it."

It said that in 2015, there were approximately 25,000 posts vacant for teachers in primary and secondary education schools.

Apostolou now pays 5,800 euros ($6,500) a year in tuition fees at a private school where her son can be assured of a well-structured curriculum.

"At our old school, the children usually come home early. So many school hours are lost because of teacher shortages during the year," she says.

"There is no evaluation, no reward for effort in a public school. You wallow in mediocrity."

Between 2011 and 2014, the state cut education wages and expenses by 24 percent, the OECD study said.

While school books are provided by the state free of charge, the cuts continue to affect other essential resources including computers and petrol for heating.

It is not uncommon for schools to be shut down for lack of heating. The last instance was in February at the Athens school complex where Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras himself was a pupil.

In public schools, much now relies on private initiative and personal goodwill, what Greeks call 'filotimo', says Athanassia, a veteran public school teacher.

"I've worked in schools where the principal or teachers or parents paid out of their own pocket for essentials... or discreetly brought food to needy families," says Athanassia. She has worked in 20 public schools as teachers are shared out to plug staffing gaps.

"Whatever works is based on filotimo," she adds. "If funding were better, it would be totally different."

According to the Greek statistics agency, around 12 percent of the country is near the poverty level.

In response, Tsipras's government in 2016 began a programme giving out free school meals at hundreds of schools in poorer regions.

Similarly, the government allowed access to public hospitals to long-term jobless Greeks without health insurance.

"It's a step forward, but inequalities persist," says Petros at the Hellinikon clinic.

"Without health insurance, securing a public hospital appointment might take six months, even for critical examinations."
Havana (AFP) - Cuban police on Saturday broke up an unauthorized pro-LGBT rights march in Havana, held as an alternative to the government-sanctioned Gay Rights parade that authorities canceled earlier in the week.

To the cries of "Yes we can!" the demonstrators, several waving rainbow flags and carrying signs with slogans like "Diverse Cuba," managed to march a mere 400 meters along Havana's downtown Paseo del Prado before being dispersed by police.

The lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender activists, numbering around 100, were protesting the cancellation of the parade against homophobia organized by the government's National Center for Sexual Education (Cenesex), an office under the Ministry of Health, and held for the past ten years.

The colorful parade, or "conga," used to kick off activities educating people about homophobia and transphobia that are nevertheless taking place.

At least three protesters who refused to obey orders to leave were arrested, according to AFP journalists.

Laydel Alfonso, a 31 year-old restaurant waiter who marched with his face concealed by a silver mask and waving a rainbow flag, was upset that police had broken up the march.

"I don't believe this is right because we're doing nothing wrong," he told AFP.

In a first for Cuba, where there is tight government control, the march was organized on social media.

Cenesex is led by lawmaker Mariela Castro, the daughter of former president Raul Castro, who at the age of 87 is still first secretary of the island's ruling Communist Party.

Earlier in the week Cenesex announced that the official march was cancelled due to unspecified "new tensions in the international and regional context." The office urged people to respect the official calls for unity.
Wade Modisette is a local husband and father that seeks the best and most appropriate entertainment for his family. A movie connoisseur in his own mind, he seeks to educate his friends and community on quality choices for their family. Find more reviews and information at wadereviewsstuff.wordpress.com.
Aledmys Diaz hit his second career grand slam, and Gerrit Cole struck out a season-high 12 in six innings to help the Houston Astros record an 11-4 victory over the visiting Texas Rangers on Saturday night.

Michael Brantley also homered, and Robinson Chirinos had two RBIs and scored twice as Houston beat the Rangers for the third straight night. The Astros, who scored 10 of their runs with two outs, have won seven of their past eight games.

Texas has lost 12 of its last 17 games. Ronald Guzman hit a three-run homer, and Hunter Pence smacked a solo shot for the Rangers, who struck out 18 times against four Houston pitchers.

The Astros played without second baseman Jose Altuve, who injured his left hamstring during Friday's contest and is expected to be placed on the injured list.

Cole (4-4) gave up one run, four hits and walked none while winning his third consecutive start. He struck out at least two batters in each of the first five innings.

Texas left-hander Drew Smyly (0-3) gave up five runs (four earned) and four hits in 4 2/3 innings. He walked four and struck out three.

Smyly entered in the second inning after right-hander Jesse Chavez opened and threw a perfect first.

Smyly walked the bases loaded in the bottom of the sixth, including the last two batters he faced before being pulled with two out. Right-hander Kyle Dowdy entered, and his 0-1 curveball was slugged over the left-field fence by Diaz to give Houston a 6-1 lead.

Guzman blasted a three-run homer to right in the seventh off right-hander Chris Devenski to bring Texas within two.

The Astros got the three runs back in the bottom of the inning on Tyler White's RBI single and Chirinos' two-run single. Carlos Correa and Yuli Gurriel delivered run-scoring singles in the eighth to make it 11-4 as Houston improved to 15-4 at home.

The Rangers got on the board in the second when Pence sent a 2-2 fastball over the fence in right field, a shot that barely cleared the leap of Houston's Josh Reddick. The homer was Pence's fourth in the past five games.

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The Astros tied the score in the fourth when Brantley drilled a 1-0 fastball on a low line that narrowly made it over the fence in right.

Reddick's RBI single to center in the fifth gave the Astros a 2-1 advantage.

The Rangers had two on with two out in the top of the sixth, but Cole struck out Joey Gallo to complete his outing.

--Field Level Media
CAIRO (Reuters) - An Egyptian court on Sunday sentenced two men to death and eight others to between three years and life in prison over an attack on a church and Christian-owned shop in Cairo that killed 10 people. A gunman opened fire in December 2017 on Christians in a shop in the southern Cairo suburb of Helwan, killing two people, before firing on the entrance to the nearby Mar Mina church, where he killed seven Christian worshippers and a policeman. The emergency state security court sentenced the main suspect, who is in custody, and another suspect, who is on the run, to death. Two defendants were handed life sentences, four were given four years in prison and two were handed three years in jail. One suspect was acquitted and two others are still at large. The authorities had said the gunman was wounded by security forces during the attack. Islamic State claimed responsibility. The main suspect appeared in court on Sunday wearing death row prison clothes, having also been handed two death sentences in military trials after being convicted of attacking military buildings. The main suspect embraced the other defendants in the court after the verdict. Under Egypt's state of emergency law, the defendants can appeal to have the sentence by the security court reduced. Egypt's Coptic Christians, who make up about 10% of the population, have been targeted by Islamist militants in recent years. In November, militants killed seven people when they attacked a bus returning from a baptism at a desert monastery in the governorate of Minya, about 260 km (160 miles) south of Cairo. (Reporting by Haitham Ahmed; Writing by Yousef Saba)
DUBAI (Reuters) - Emirates Chief Commercial Officer Thierry Antinori has resigned, a spokeswoman said on Sunday, days after the Gulf airline announced its weakest profit in a decade.

Antinori, also an executive vice president, was responsible for commercial operations, products, the frequent flyer program and cargo division, according to Emirates' website.

The spokeswoman declined to comment when asked why Antinori resigned and when it was effective.

Antinori spoke to media in his capacity as an Emirates executive on April 24 in Dubai and was seen at the Emirates stand at a travel exhibition in Dubai on April 29.

Adnan Kazim, divisional senior vice president, strategic planning, revenue optimization & aeropolitical affairs, has been appointed acting CCO, the spokeswoman said.

Emirates reported a 69 percent fall in full-year profit last week, its lowest in 10 years as soaring fuel costs and a strong dollar took a toll on earnings, while passenger growth stalled.

Antinori joined Emirates as executive vice president for passenger sales worldwide in October 2011 and was promoted to CCO in June 2013, Emirates' website shows.

Antinori said in 2016 he was contacted about becoming the Air France-KLM chief executive but that he was sticking with the Dubai-based carrier.

(Reporting by Alexander Cornwell; editing by Toby Chopra and Jason Neely)
Photo: iStock

Looking for an adventure in one of the worlds great megacities, but without the hassle of flying halfway around the world? Mexico City is North Americas largest, at over 8 million people (and more than twice that number in the greater metro area).

It's the oldest capital city in the Americas, rich in history and culture and a major economic center in the region today. In addition to Aztec ruins, the city has the worlds largest single-metropolitan concentration of museums, plus extensive art galleries, concert halls and theaters. And the citys 16 boroughs and many colorful neighborhoods offer an abundance of shopping, restaurants, bars and nightlife.

Fortunately, there are plenty of relatively inexpensive flights between El Paso and Mexico City, at least according to travel site Skyscanner.

Heres a list of flights, hotels, restaurants and local attractions in Mexico City to get you started.

(Hoodline offers data-driven analysis of local happenings and trends across cities. Links included in the articles may earn Hoodline a commission on clicks and transactions. Prices and availability are subject to change.)

Flight deals to Mexico City

Currently, the cheapest flights between El Paso and Mexico City are if you leave on September 17 and return from Mexico on September 20. Aeromexico (aerm) currently has tickets for $280 roundtrip.

There are also deals to be had in July. If you fly out of El Paso on July 10 and return from Mexico City on July 17, Alaska Airlines can get you there and back for $388 roundtrip.

Top Mexico City hotels

To plan your stay, here are some of Mexico Citys top-rated hotels that we selected from Skyscanner's listings based on price and customer satisfaction.

The Four Seasons Mexico City (Paseo de la Reforma 500 Colonia Juarez)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

If you're looking to splurge on top quality, consider The Four Seasons Mexico City. The hotel has a 4.9-star rating on Skyscanner, and rooms are currently available for $179.

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Set in the heart of Mexico City on the busy Paseo de la Reforma, this luxury hotel is close to the Monumento a los Ninos Heroes and the Monumento a los Heroes de la Independencia.

The St. Regis Mexico City (Paseo de la Reforma 439)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

If you're looking to splurge on top quality, there's The St. Regis Mexico City, which has rooms for $255/night.

The Condesa DF (Avenida Veracruz 102 Colonia Condesa)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

If you're looking to treat yourself, try The Condesa DF. The 4.6-star hotel has rooms for $265/night. This 40-room luxury hotel is located in Mexico City's Condesa district, close to many restaurants, bars and cafes.

Featured Mexico City restaurants

If you're looking for a popular spot to grab a bite, Mexico City has plenty of excellent eateries from which to choose. Here are a few from Skyscanner's listings to help you get started.

Panaderia Rosetta (Colima 179)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

One of Mexico City's most popular restaurants is Panaderia Rosetta, which has an average of 4.9 stars out of 11 reviews on Skyscanner.

Visitor Leila wrote, "It's a very cozy breakfast spot with only a few bar stools for seating. Get there early to get your hands on the good pastries."

El Moro (Eje Central Lazaro Cardenas, 42)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

Another popular dining destination is El Moro, with 4.8 stars from 17 reviews.

"This 1930s-era churreria is a stand-out and must visit," wrote reviewer Harold. "The lines can be long, but they move quickly. It was a highlight of our visit."

Casa de los Azulejos (Av Francisco I. Madero, 4)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

Finally, there's Casa de los Azulejos.

"It's set on one of the main touristic streets in Mexico City, Madero, and lots and lots of people stop by every day to take a picture of the facade or just for having a coffee inside," wrote Gianfi. "The prices are good, and the service is honest."

Top Mexico City attractions

Not sure what to do in Mexico City, besides eat and drink? Here are a few recommendations, provided by Skyscanner.

Kiosco Morisco de Santa Maria la Ribera (Calle Salvador Diaz Miron S/N)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

The top-rated visitor attraction in Mexico City, according to Skyscanner, is the Kiosco Morisco de Santa Maria la Ribera.

"The kiosk of Santa Maria la Ribera is a benchmark of ancient Mexico," wrote visitor Maru. "Few people know, but this was a 100 percent Mexican architectural project that was assembled in the United States. Its primary location was the Alameda Central of the city. Do not lose the detail of its dome and the eagle that gives the final touch at the tip."

Callejon Regina (Calle Regina Centro Historico)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

The Callejon Regina is another popular destination.

"This is the home to very trendy cafes and restaurants as well as the refuge of urban and independent artists," wrote visitor Rebeca. "One of the spots that you should not miss on your walk on this street is Jeronimas, a restaurant with a university atmosphere that offers good food at a very affordable price, as well as a variety of national and international beers."

The Palacio de Bellas Artes (Av. Juarez)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

Finally, consider checking out The Palacio de Bellas Artes.

Inaugurated in 1934, the Palacio de Bellas Artes in Mexico City is a major cultural center where you can attend poetry readings, operas, dance recitals, art shows and more. From outside, marvel at the building's white-marble beauty and symbolic sculptures that include an eagle eating a snake. Inside, find spectacular murals by renowned artists, such as Rufino Tamayo and Diego Rivera.

"The place in itself is a beauty," wrote visitor Analu. "The lobby feels like youve stepped back in time."

This story was created automatically using flight, hotel, and local attractions data, then reviewed by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback.
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Rezekne (Latvia) (AFP) - A Latvian border guard helicopter hovers over a vast forest split by a long, narrow strip of sandy land where a fence topped with barbed wire marks the EU's border with Russia.

Fifteen years after Latvia joined both NATO and the European Union, the Baltic state's remote Latgale region -- closer to Moscow than to Brussels -- is among the bloc's poorest areas, but its residents are staunchly pro-European.

Smuggling cheap alcohol and cigarettes from Russia has been a mainstay of the local economy since Latvia regained its independence in 1991 after a half century of Soviet occupation.

A growing stream of illegal migrants crossing over from Russia, mostly from Vietnam, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan and Syria, prompted Latvian authorities to start building the fence in 2016 to protect a 300-kilometre (186-mile) stretch of the EU's eastern border.

As Latgale gears up to vote in European Parliamentary elections on May 25th, locals may differ on the candidates they choose, but there is no doubt that pro-European sentiment prevails overall, largely thanks to the EU's generous development subsidies and open markets.

A eurozone member of 1.9 million, Latvia has absorbed a net 7.2 billion euros ($8.1 billion at the current rate) in EU subsidies since 2004, making it the bloc's fourth-largest beneficiary per capita.

- 'More European' -

Nestled deep in the forest, Zilupe -- population 3,000 -- is one of the EU's easternmost municipalities.

"The European Union is helping us like nobody before," Skaidrite Marcenoka, a local farmer and municipal official, told AFP as she reflected on Latvia's turbulent history.

Over the last century, Latvians suffered under Soviet and Nazi occupation which brought the Holocaust and then Stalinist-era mass deportations to Siberia.

Forced Russification and atheism during nearly half a century of Soviet rule was intended to strip Latvians of their language and cultural identity.

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"Now, we're receiving EU farming subsidies for agricultural machinery, better livestock and farm development," said Marcenoka, who has used the payments to buy new equipment to run her 150-hectare farm.

Classified as "green" or eco-friendly, it receives around 230 euros for every hectare per year in direct EU farm payments.

"On average, the EU covers around 40 percent of agricultural investments," Marcenoka adds.

She also breeds Latvia's traditional brown cows with Limousine and Charolais bulls from France, saying that "this way my own livestock becomes more European".

- Public works, open markets -

Heading west away from the Russian border, vast forests give way to small patches of farmland and the occasional village or town able to overhaul often rickety public infrastructure thanks to EU funding.

"Over the last decade, we've received 16.2 million euros in EU funding for 90 different projects," says Edgars Mekss, the mayor of Ludza, a poor rural town of 12,000 people.

"For every euro we spend for street repairs, construction works, laying water pipelines, church and synagogue restoration, we receive 4.7 euros from European coffers.

"Our border region won't be able to develop and create new jobs without it," he adds, although some critics warn that a lack of oversight on how funds are spent raises the risk of graft.

For Andris Mejers, business is booming even without subsidies.

Latvia's geopolitical shift from Moscow to Brussels has opened new, lucrative markets for his traditional Latgalian sausages, hams and smoked bacon.

"We take our simple rural food and travel all around the EU to various food fairs," he tells AFP.

"In the past, we visited St Petersburg and Moscow; now that border seems closed but others have opened," he says, pointing to fellow EU members Germany, Poland and Sweden.

"I even went to Brussels with my sausages! All the documents by local authorities confirming the quality of my products are recognised internationally."

- Unpredictable -

Committed eurosceptics are few and far between in Latgale and elsewhere in Latvia, where the latest Eurobarometer poll suggested support for EU membership stands at 73 percent.

Fridijs Bokiss, a Communist-era mayor of Ludza who co-founded the Socialist Party of Latvia after the Communist Party was outlawed, rails against NATO, but he expresses no such disdain towards the EU.

NATO ramped up its presence on its eastern flank since Russia's 2014 annexation of Crimea from Ukraine, setting up multi-national battle groups in Poland and the three Baltic states.

Polls show that around 60 percent of Latvians supports the alliance.

"We must leave NATO to have a good relationship with Moscow and then reap benefits from both the EU and Russia," he told AFP but was unable to name the rewards Latvia might receive from closer ties to Russia.

"We have a cross-border cooperation initiative with the Pskov region in Russia named Ezerzeme ('Lakeland'), but even that is financed by the EU," he admitted.

His views are so unpopular that his Socialist party sees no point in running in the European Parliament election later this month.

Turnout is expected to exceed the 30 percent recorded in the 2014 ballot.

"I'll vote because I live in the proximity of (Russian President Vladimir) Putin's Russia, and Putin is like a novice driver at the wheel: you'll never quite know what he'll do next!", Ilmars Ostrovskis, a Latgale businessman, told AFP.
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With the 10th anniversary of my mothers death approaching, this Mothers Day was wistful. She would have turned 100 in weeks.

Mom grew up tough in southwest Arkansas. Pre-Great Depression, before penicillin, where railroads and river shipping reigned. She married my father during World War II, moved west and never looked back.

Honoring her memory, I asked top women at my firm what advice they would give women seeking to fulfill their vision of life.

Here's what my colleagues had to say about careers, investing and relationships.

Jill Hitchcock, a 20-year veteran, who heads our national Private Client Group, offers this advice:

Don't settle for comfortable

Run toward the things that scare you, especially early in your career, Hitchcock says.

Too often, I see associates, especially women, seeking comfortable roles instead of what really challenges them to build new skills," she said. "Dont close doors opting for comfortable or known roles that play to skills you have; move toward roles that build skills you dont have.

Carrianne Coffey, also 20 years at my firm, who runs our comparable overseas group, echoed this: Feeling role-comfortable creates mediocrity and stagnation. Get a comfortable bed, some good sheets  then leave the comfort zone when you wake in the morning.

She adds, Be direct about your aims. Her favorite advice comes courtesy of her older brother: If you dont ask for it, some other jerk will.

More: Being a mom is like having more than two full-time jobs and we aren't at all surprised

More: Need last-minute gifts Mom will actually like? We've got you.

Don't expect to have all the answers

Take time to breathe and reflect, says Laurine Garrity, our global marketing head.

Dont expect to have all the answers early in your career," she says. "I often see young adults seriously stressed thinking they need a long-term career road map. Life is unpredictable. You need to be flexible and resilient. So find out what you enjoy, what challenges you  then learn from those experiences and build on them. Over time, with work and self-reflection, you should land in a good place.

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Lane Jarvis, our human capital czar, stressed avoiding burnout.

Take care of your health. Dont prioritize work over taking care of yourself. It will make you better and healthier so you can work longer.

On finances, listen to Jarvis: Save some money. Pay yourself first. Do what you can afford, but put some money away. Always put money into your 401(k).

Always fund your 401(k)

Garrity agrees. Invest in yourself. Participate as much as you can in your 401(k). Get invested in the market and stick with a basic plan  dont get too cute with it.

Coffey also stressed simplicity. For longer-term savings, save all you can in any amount you can and invest in stocks. Look up in 20 or 30 years from now, and you will be glad you did.

Then, some frank talk about the trade-offs accompanying marriage and kids.

If you're going to marry, Garrity says, Marry someone who supports you  personally and professionally. I wouldnt be where I am today without my husband. I dont like the phrase you can have it all  it sets false expectations. You can have a successful career and family. But it takes hard work, compromise, direct communication and the realization it will never be perfect.

Create a support network

Realistic expectations rang Hitchcock's bell, too. If youre to stay home to raise kids, understand youre taking on major personal risk if something happens to the primary breadwinner in your family. Make sure you have enough disability and life insurance to support you and your kids if the unexpected happens. It happens.

And make sure you have a support network, says Jarvis. This group can help you navigate through opportunities and setbacks.

Finally, they agreed, your path is up to you and no one else  to go your own way  maybe a bit like my mom did, just different.

Ken Fisher is founder and executive chairman of Fisher Investments, author of 11 books, four of which were New York Times bestsellers, and is No. 200 on the Forbes 400 list of richest Americans. Follow him on Twitter: @KennethLFisher

The views and opinions expressed in this column are the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of USA TODAY.

The second of Ken's two columns on bond investing will publish next week.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Female executives offer some career advice to younger women: 'Leave the comfort zone'
Five people including a soldier were killed after gunmen stormed a luxury hotel in the southwestern Pakistani city of Gwadar, the centrepiece of a multi-billion dollar Chinese infrastructure project, the military said Sunday.

The soldier was among security forces who rushed to the five-star Pearl Continental Hotel after the attack on Saturday.

During the attack "5 individuals got Shaheed (martyred) including 4 hotel employees and a Pakistan Navy soldier," the military said in a statement. One of the hotel staff killed was a security guard shot at the entrance.

Six others were injured including four security service officers and two hotel staff members.

The military said all three terrorists had been killed. Local police had earlier claimed there had been four attackers.

A Baloch separatist group, the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), claimed responsibility for the attack via Twitter.

Prime minister Imran Khan said the attack was a bid to "sabotage prosperity".

"Such attempts especially in Balochistan are an effort to sabotage our economic projects and prosperity. We shall not allow these agendas to succeed," Khan said in a statement issued by his office.

The Chinese embassy in Islamabad also strongly condemned the incident.

- 'The next Dubai'-

The Pearl Continental, part of Pakistan's largest five-star hotel chain, is the only luxury hotel in Gwadar, frequented by foreign and Pakistani business delegations as well as diplomats.

It sits isolated on a ridge overlooking the Arabian Sea port city that was formerly a small fishing village, but now touted by officials as "the next Dubai" thanks to the multi-billion dollar China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

Part of China's Belt and Road initiative, CPEC seeks to connect the western Chinese province of Xinjiang with Gwadar, with the development of the port as the plan's flagship project.

Gwadar will provide China with safer and more direct access to the oil-rich Middle East than the waterway trade route it currently uses through the narrow Malacca Straits.

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But it has also drawn its share of attacks -- particularly from separatists who have long complained that residents of Pakistan's poorest and largest province do not receive a fair share of profits from its resources.

The BLA has targeted Chinese workers in Pakistan multiple times, including during a brazen daylight attack on the Chinese consulate in Karachi which killed four people in November last year.

At the time, the BLA branded Beijing "an oppressor".

Balochistan is tightly guarded by the Pakistani military, who have been targeting insurgents there since 2004. The army has been repeatedly accused by international rights groups of abuses there, but denies all allegations.

The attack was the second deadly attack in a prominent Pakistan city this week, after a suicide blast claimed by the Pakistani Taliban at one of the country's oldest and most popular Sufi shrines killed at least 12 people in the eastern city of Lahore.
Marseille (AFP) - France has released Belhassen Trabelsi, brother-in-law of ousted Tunisian president Zine El-Abidine Ben Ali, on bail while it mulls a extradition request from Tunisia, sources said Sunday.

Lawyers Xavier Nogueras and Marcel Ceccaldi said they had obtained Trabelsi's conditional release "owing to procedural problems", confirming news initially announced by the Tunisian justice ministry.

Trabelsi, 56, who faced charges of organised money laundering and has paid 100,000 euros ($112,000) in bail, must remain in France and report regularly to a local police station, they added.

It was the second time that an appeals court in Aix-en-Provence, southeastern France, had ordered his release from a jail in Marseille.

The first time was on March 28, but before Trabelsi walked free, the Aix-en-Provence prosecutor arrested him again based on a February 2017 warrant issued by a Tunisian magistrate.

Tunisia's extradition request refers to a series of convictions in absentia and three 10-year sentences handed down between February 2017 and June 2018 for financial crimes.

A Tunisian prosecutor has accused Trabelsi of "pillaging Tunisian businesses" alongside Ben Ali.

Trabelsi, whose holdings included hotels and an airline, has denied the allegations against him, saying he accumulated his wealth legally.

A leaked US diplomatic cable in 2008 described Trabelsi and his family as a "quasi-mafia" involved in a series of suspect businesses and deals.

The millionaire businessman and brother of Ben Ali's wife Leila Trabelsi left Tunisia in January 2011 when the Arab Spring uprising forced the veteran leader to flee to Saudi Arabia.

Trabelsi and his family flew in a private jet to Montreal to seek Canadian political asylum, a request that was denied twice.

He disappeared in June 2016 just days before he was to be expelled from Canada, and was arrested in southern France in March 2019.

France's hearing of the Tunisian extradition request is expected to be held in June.
SAVANNAH, Ga. (AP)  A robbery suspect fatally shot a police officer in the Georgia port city of Savannah and wounded the officer's colleague before fleeing and being fatally shot by another officer during an ensuing search, authorities said Sunday.

The Georgia Bureau of Investigation said 50-year-old Savannah Police Sgt. Kelvin Ansari and 49-year-old robbery suspect Edward Fuller III were pronounced dead at a hospital where both were taken Saturday evening after being shot.

The bureau, Georgia's top law enforcement agency, said Ansari and Officer Douglas Thomas had answered a call about a person who had been robbed Saturday evening outside a Savannah barber shop. The statement said the suspect was in a vehicle and got out and fired on the officers, striking both.

Fuller then ran and police converged on a nearby area, seeking the suspect near a residence, according to authorities. When Fuller was spotted emerging from a backyard shed, he was pointing a handgun at officers and was shot by one of the officers, according to the bureau statement. The handgun was recovered and determined to have been stolen, the statement added.

Thomas, 40, was treated and released at the same hospital where the two others were taken.

A Savannah Police Department statement said Ansari joined the department in 2008. He worked in various units including patrolling, public housing enforcement and lately as a precinct supervisor. It said Ansari also had served 21 years previously in the U.S. Army.

"Last night we lost a great man," Police Chief Roy Minter said. "We lost a man who spent a substantial portion of his life protecting the country and protecting the community ... we lost a leader."

Savannah's police chief said the shooting investigation had been turned over to the Georgia Bureau of Investigation.
EDITORIAL: Just for Mom: Unlike many of our national holidays, Mothers Day is still observed basically for what it is supposed to be: A day to honor mothers
Berlin (AFP) - Support is growing in Germany for a "mosque tax" to make Islamic institutions less dependent on potentially anti-democratic or "radical" foreign funding sources, a media report said Sunday.

The federal government sees it as "a possible path", according to an answer to a parliamentary query, the Welt am Sonntag newspaper reported.

Several of Germany's 16 states had also signalled support in principle for the idea which would mirror Germany's voluntary Christian "church tax", the rnewspaper said.

Concern has grown in Germany about the influence of foreign funding sources on mosques for the country's estimated five million Muslims, who hail mostly from Turkey and Arab countries.

Some 900 mosques in Germany are run by the Turkish-Islamic Union of the Institute for Religion (Ditib), under the authority of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's government.

Its imams are paid by the Turkish state, and the group has come under scrutiny with some of its members suspected of spying on Turkish dissidents living in Germany.

At the height of a bitter row between Germany and Turkey in mid-2017, two German ministers warned in a Spiegel Online commentary that Erdogan's "dangerous ideologies must not be imported to Germany via certain mosques."

In other cases, some mosques have come under police scrutiny or been closed for preaching radical and militant Islamist ideas.

Welt am Sonntag said that, in the newspaper's own survey, several states had affirmed that mosque communities in Germany should be able to finance themselves.

The interior ministry of the regional state of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania had said it was open to "mosque financing based on the church model" to reduce foreign influence, including "the danger of possible radicalisation".

A spokesman for the interior ministry of Baden-Wuerttemberg state had also pointed to the threat of outside influence "on theological content and political opinion".

"In the worst case", the spokesman had told the newspaper, this included "radical Islamist or anti-democratic content or aspirations".
BERLIN (AP)  The Israeli ambassador to Germany says he is avoiding any contact with the far-right Alternative for Germany party because their leaders have said things that are "highly insulting for Jews, for Israel and for the entire issue of the Holocaust."

Jeremey Issacharoff told German news agency dpa Sunday it is very difficult for him to imagine any interaction with those who feel nostalgia for Germany's past.

During the Nazis' reign from 1933-45, the Germans organized and participated in the genocide of 6 million Jews in Europe.

Party leader Alexander Gauland has referred to the time of Adolf Hitler's dictatorship as a "speck of bird poop" in Germany's history, while Bjoern Hoecke, a powerful party leader in the east, suggested it's time for the country to stop atoning for its Nazi past.
Most of the roughly 7 million Americans graduating from high school or college this year will receive gifts from parents, grandparents, other relatives or friends to mark their academic accomplishments.

Those doing the giving can help put these mostly young adults on the path to success with financially impactful gifts. These include donations that can help a young person get started on an investment path, especially with tax-sheltered growth. Parents and others also can provide sage financial guidance.

Amounts vary, but the people who gave gifts last year to high school or college graduates said they were planning to spend about $103 on average, according to a survey of nearly 7,700 Americans by the National Retail Federation. The 2019 update will be available later this month.

A survey of 1,075 people by retailmenot.com found that

Cash was the most popular gift last year, cited by 55% of givers. Greeting cards, many with cash inside, were the next most common category at 43%. Then came gift cards at 32%, clothing at 14% and electronic devices at 10%. Some respondents gave multiple answers.

Job tips: Female executives offer some career advice to younger women: 'Leave the comfort zone'

Congrats!Good news, graduates: Hiring will be up this year

Cash gifts including personal checks are the easiest and most widely accepted option, but gift cards and prepaid debit cards often are more personal, or at least, memorable. They also provide protection against theft if you register the cards, but you should inquire about possible fees if you go this route.

What about investing?

Graduation also provides an opportunity for parents, grandparents and others to start teaching investment lessons that can help a recipient throughout his or her lifetime.

They could, for example, use gift money to help a new grad invest. Many public companies sell their common stock in modest amounts of $250 to $500, if not less, through dividend reinvestment plans or DRIPs. But for purposes of diversification, parents would be better off encouraging a new grad to lean toward low-cost mutual funds, especially index funds, with low-dollar minimums.

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For example, the new Zero Funds from Fidelity Investments (fidelity.com) feature no management fees and no minimums yet offer broad stock-market exposure. Charles Schwab (schwab.com) also offers various funds with little or no investment minimums. Accounts are easy to set up online, without the help of an investment broker, though those professionals stand ready to help, too.

Money smarts: Financial moves for your 30s: From getting out of credit card debt to creating a will

Stock-oriented funds are appropriate choices for young adults who can leave this money untouched for years if not decades. Young adults can benefit greatly from letting their investments compound for many years. Compounding involves earning interest or dividends on interest or dividends that were reinvested earlier.

A Vanguard study, geared to young adults, showed the compounding potential of small-dollar investments. It suggested skipping a Starbucks coffee drink to save maybe $3.50 or so a day, then putting that into an investment account. Over 30 years, the money reasonably could be expected to swell to more than $100,000.

What about retirement accounts?

Graduation can be a great time to get a young adult started on the path to retirement, even if that won't arrive for another four or five decades. People who begin early can take advantage of long-term compounding and the tax-sheltered growth that's available in many types of retirement accounts.

Dan Keady, chief financial planner at investment firm TIAA, touts Roth Individual Retirement Accounts for young adults. Parents and others can seed them with gift money, as long as the graduating student has job income at least equal to the contributions. Roths are off-limits to high-income people, but recent grads aren't likely to hit these limits  eligibility isn't a problem until a person earns more than $122,000.

Roths don't offer tax deductions, but most new grads won't be sacrificing much because their initial earnings will place them in relatively low tax brackets, he noted.

Keady considers Roth IRAs to be a type of emergency fund, as investors can pull out amounts equal to their contributions at any time, tax and penalty free. Many Americans don't have much in emergency money. But to maximize the compounding benefits, it's best to leave these retirement funds alone for decades.

If possible, Keady recommends that parents and other family members pool their gifts to get a Roth IRA off to a good start, preferably with around $1,000 or more, and he suggests that they help the student select a suitable stock fund and fill out the paperwork.

"Don't just hand them cash and tell them to open an IRA," he said.

What about advice?

Parents, grandparents and others also can give the gift of financial guidance, assuming they are good role models themselves. Keady's suggestions here include helping to explain budgeting, compounding and the benefits of workplace retirement plans.

When new grads land their first jobs, they often can sign up for benefits such as 401(k) retirement plans and take advantage of employer-provided matching funds. But not all eligible workers participate in these plans, and many don't even know what's available.

Three in 10 workers surveyed recently by the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards said they didn't know if their employer offers a plan, and one in four described retirement savings as too complicated.

Income taxation is another area where parents, grandparents and others can provide guidance.

"All that education you got in college might not help you in the real world, especially with taxes," said Dave Du Val, chief customer advocacy officer at TaxAudit, an audit-defense company.

Not only can tax-return preparation be complicated but new taxpayers often don't realize their responsibilities. For example, Du Val cites paycheck withholding as an often-difficult and inexact exercise, especially with a new, more complex federal W-4 form out this year.

"Basically, you will need to do a tax return just to fill it out," he said.

As another example, new grads who go into business for themselves might not realize that they need to start paying Social Security and Medicare- self-employment tax.

"If you're in your first job, how would you know that?" he said.

Du Val considers the period around graduation and workforce entry as a great time to develop a recordkeeping system for investments, taxes and more  systems that a new grad can use for life. Parents and grandparents who are organized can offer guidance here, too.

Reach Wiles at russ.wiles@arizonarepublic.com or 602-444-8616

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Graduation gifts: Why stocks are better than straight cash
Ali Baba Mediterranean Grill. | Photo: Payton K./Yelp

Visiting Raleigh, or just looking to better appreciate what it has to offer? Get to know this Memphis neighborhood by browsing its most popular local businesses, from a Mediterranean spot to a Chinese restaurant.

Hoodline crunched the numbers to find the top places to visit in Raleigh, using both Yelp data and our own secret sauce to produce a ranked list of neighborhood businesses. Read on for the results.

1. Ali Baba Mediterranean Grill

Photo: Faye D./Yelp

Topping the list is Mediterranean and Middle Eastern spot Ali Baba Mediterranean Grill. Located at 5800 Raleigh Lagrange Road, it's the highest-rated business in the neighborhood, boasting 4.5 stars out of 85 reviews on Yelp.

On the menu, look for shawarma, wood-fire grilled entrees, sandwiches, salads and more.

2. Tim's Chicken

Photo: Camille W./Yelp

Next up is Tim's Chicken, a spot to score chicken wings, cheesesteaks and fish and chips, situated at 2881 Covington Pike. With four stars out of 31 reviews on Yelp, it's proven to be a local favorite.

Try the Memphis Gold wings with fries and a drink or the gyro wrap with a side of wings with your choice of sauce, ranging from very mild to extra hot. The house fried rice accompanied by wings is another favorite.

3. Taqueria Guadalupana # 3

Photo: Tere G./Yelp

Mexican spot Taqueria Guadalupana # 3 is another top choice. Yelpers give the business, located at 3160 Austin Peay Highway, four stars out of 24 reviews.

The restaurant offers tacos, burritos and chimichangas, among other Mexican favorites.

4. Sing Lay Chinese Restaurant

Photo: Tiffany J./Yelp

Finally, there's Sing Lay Chinese Restaurant, a local favorite with four stars out of 15 reviews. Stop by 2684 Frayser Blvd. to hit up the Chinese spot next time you're in the neighborhood.

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.
Photo: Rusty Bucket Restaurant & Tavern/Yelp

Visiting St Vincent-Greenbriar, or just looking to better appreciate what it has to offer? Get to know this Indianapolis neighborhood by browsing its most popular local businesses, from a pub to a bakery.

Hoodline crunched the numbers to find the top places to visit in St Vincent-Greenbriar, using both Yelp data and our own secret sauce to produce a ranked list of neighborhood businesses. Read on for the results.

1. Rusty Bucket Restaurant & Tavern

Photo: rusty bucket restaurant & tavern/Yelp

Topping the list is pub and traditional American spot Rusty Bucket Restaurant & Tavern, which offers comfort food and more. Located at 1130 W. 86th St., it's the highest rated business in the neighborhood, boasting four stars out of 106 reviews on Yelp.

2. Lulu's Coffee & Bakehouse

Photo: faith b./Yelp

Next up is bakery and breakfast and brunch spot Lulu's Coffee & Bakehouse, serving coffee and tea and more, situated at 2292 W. 86th St. With 4.5 stars out of 159 reviews on Yelp, it's proven to be a local favorite.

3. India Cafe

Photo: ann l./Yelp

Indian spot India Cafe is another top choice. Yelpers give the business, located at 1450 W. 86th St., 4.5 stars out of 118 reviews.

4. Manee Thai Cuisine IN

Photo: jeff h./Yelp

Manee Thai Cuisine IN, a Thai spot, is another much-loved neighborhood go-to, with 4.5 stars out of 71 Yelp reviews. Head over to 2274 W. 86th St. to see for yourself.

5. Sawasdee Thai Cuisine

Photo: megan w./Yelp

Check out Sawasdee Thai Cuisine, which has earned four stars out of 227 reviews on Yelp. You can find the Thai spot, which offers soup and seafood, at 1222 W. 86th St.

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.
CAIRO May 12 (Reuters) - The Gulf Cooperation Council for the Arab states condemned "sabotage operations" of commercial vessels near UAE territorial waters on Sunday.

That "would increase tensions and conflict in the region and jeopardize the interests of their peoples," Abdul Latif Al Zayani, the GCC secretary general, said in a statement.

Four commercial vessels were targeted by "sabotage operations" near the territorial waters of the UAE without causing casualties, the UAE foreign ministry said on Sunday, without giving details of the nature of the sabotage. (Reporting by Ali Abdelaty; Editing by Peter Cooney)
OUAGADOUGOU, May 12 (Reuters) - Gunmen killed six people in an attack on a Catholic church in northern Burkina Faso on Sunday, the mayor of Dablo town, where the attack took place, told Reuters.

It was the second church attack in as many weeks in a country known historically for its religious tolerance, and comes as jihadist groups seek to destabilize Burkina and the wider Sahel region. (Reporting by Thiam Ndiaga; Writing by Ed McAllister; Editing by Andrew Cawthorne)
By Thiam Ndiaga

OUAGADOUGOU (Reuters) - Gunmen killed six people including a priest outside a Catholic church in Burkina Faso on Sunday, the government said, the second attack on Christians in two weeks in a nation increasingly overrun by jihadists.

Congregants were leaving church around 9 a.m. (0900 GMT) in the town of Dablo in the Central North region when about twenty men encircled them and shot six dead, according to a government statement and local sources.

The attackers then burned the church, looted a pharmacy and some others stores, and left, Dablo mayor Boucary Zongo told Reuters. The government statement only mentioned the burning of a shop and two vehicles.

"These terrorist groups are now attacking religion with the macabre aim of dividing us," it said.

Burkina Faso has been beset by a rise in attacks in 2019 as groups with links to Islamic State and al Qaeda based in neighbouring Mali seek to fuel local tensions and extend their influence over the porous borers of the Sahel, the arid scrubland south of the Sahara.

The government declared a state of emergency in several northern provinces bordering Mali in December because of deadly Islamist attacks.

But violence has only worsened since. Two French soldiers were killed in an operation to rescue four people taken hostage in Burkina last week, France said. Over 100,000 people in Burkina Faso have been displaced by the unrest this year, the United Nations has said.

Roughly 55% to 60% of Burkina Faso's population is Muslim, with up to a quarter Christian. The two groups generally live in peace and frequently intermarry.

Then in late April unidentified gunmen killed a pastor and five congregants at a Protestant church, also in the north, suggesting the violence was taking a religious turn.

(Writing by Edward McAllister; Editing by Andrew Cawthorne)
By Gul Yousafzai

QUETTA, Pakistan (Reuters) - Gunmen stormed a luxury hotel in Pakistan's southwestern port city of Gwadar on Saturday, killing at least one guard and battling security forces inside, officials and the army said.

Balochistan Home Minister Ziaullah Langove said most guests were evacuated from the five-star Pearl Continental Hotel, which helicopters circled as fighting was under way. Police said that in addition to the guard killed by the attackers, at least two other people were wounded but there was no final casualty total.

The military said at least three gunmen killed a guard at the entrance to the hotel when they entered. Security forces cordoned off the area and cornered the attackers in a staircase leading to the top floor, the military said in a statement.

The Balochistan Liberation Army, a group fighting for greater autonomy in Pakistan's poorest province whose resources it says are exploited for outside interests, claimed responsibility in an emailed statement that said the attack was aimed at "Chinese and other foreign investors".

A Twitter account apparently run by the insurgents said the attackers had "achieved all their targets" but there was no official confirmation that the fighting was over and officials said security forces were ensuring no surviving attackers remained concealed.

Prime Minister Imran Khan issued a statement condemning the attack. "Such attempts, especially in Balochistan are an effort to sabotage our economic projects and prosperity," he said.

Gwadar is a strategic port on the Arabian Sea that is being developed as part of the $60 billion China Pakistan Economic Corridor, which is itself part of China's Belt and Road infrastructure project.

The Pearl Continental Hotel, on a hillside near the port, is used by foreign guests, including Chinese project staff, but there were none in the building at the time of the attack, Langove said.

The Chinese embassy in Islamabad condemned the attack and said "the heroic action of Pakistani army and law enforcement agencies is highly appreciated".

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Pakistani officials have said the security forces were on alert for attacks during the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan, which began in early May.

Security across most of Pakistan has improved over recent years following a major crackdown after the country's worst attack, when some 150 people, most of them children, were killed in an assault on a school in the western city of Peshawar in 2014.

But Balochistan, Pakistan's largest province, remains an exception and there have been several attacks this year, with at least 14 people killed last month in an attack on buses travelling between the southern city of Karachi and Gwadar.

The province is rife with ethnic, sectarian and separatist insurgencies, with several militant groups, including the Pakistani Taliban group Tehrik-i Taliban Pakistan (TTP), Balochistan Liberation Army and the Sunni group Lashkar-e-Jhangvi.

Saturday's incident follows a bombing this week that targeted police outside a major Sufi shrine in Lahore, in the east of Pakistan, that killed at least 10 people and wounded more than 20, officials said.

(Reporting by Gul Yousafzai in Quetta, Pakistan; Writing by James Mackenzie; Editing by Edmund Blair and Matthew Lewis)
Los Angeles (AFP) - The recent love affair between Hollywood producers and the US state of Georgia, with its low taxes and affordable lifestyle, is suddenly in jeopardy.

Strict new abortion laws passed in the southern state have prompted calls not only for a boycott of filming there -- but for a sex strike.

A coterie of film stars led by actress-activist Alyssa Milano, including Alec Baldwin, Don Cheadle, Ben Stiller, Mia Farrow and Amy Schumer, had threatened in March to refuse to work in Georgia if it adopted the new abortion restrictions.

But the state's Republican governor, Brian Kemp, signed the bill into law last week.

Several independent film and television production companies have since pledged to boycott the state unless the legislation -- which bans abortion as soon as a fetal heartbeat can be detected, generally in the sixth week of pregnancy -- is rescinded.

"Killer Films will no longer consider Georgia as a viable shooting location until this ridiculous law is overturned," the company's CEO Christine Vachon wrote on Twitter.

Milano -- the onetime star of "Charmed" and "Who's the Boss?" -- had said she would fight "tooth and nail" for her Netflix series "Insatiable" to stop filming in Georgia.

But then she took it one step farther, urging women to join her in a sex boycott until the law was repealed.

"JOIN ME by not having sex until we get bodily autonomy back," she wrote on Twitter.

"Protect your vaginas, ladies. Men in positions of power are trying to legislate them. #SexStrike"

Somewhat inevitably, the call by Milano -- whose profile has risen as the #MeToo movement has taken hold -- has sparked controversy.

- 'Surprisingly effective' -

Though her idea earned praise on social media, including from actress Bette Midler, and #Sexstrike trended on Twitter for a while, the idea also earned scorn -- from both sides of the political spectrum.

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Liberals accused the actress of pushing the idea that women have sex to make men happy, which she denied, while conservatives mercilessly trolled her.

Milano did not waver, even noting: "History shows that a #sexstrike is surprisingly effective."

Sex strikes -- usually in the cause of peace or an end to sexual mistreatment -- have been carried out in countries from Colombia to Kenya to the Philippines, with varying success.

Perhaps the earliest reference came from "Lysistrata," Aristophanes' comedy about women in ancient Greece withholding sex to pressure their men to end the Peloponnesian War.

The women prevailed.

- What's at stake -

Georgia offers filmmakers a number of enticements: a far lower cost of living than in Los Angeles, a variety of landscapes and tax credits of up to 30 percent.

Blockbuster movies like Marvel's "Black Panther" and "Avengers: Infinity War" were filmed in the state; television series including "Stranger Things" and "The Walking Dead" have been shot there.

Last year, more than 450 productions were set in Georgia, where they spent the non-negligible sum of $2.7 billion.

Kemp has stood firm, saying before he signed the legislation into law: "We protect the innocent, we champion the vulnerable, we stand up and speak for those unable to speak for themselves."

The new restrictions could mark a tipping point.

The Writers Guild of America, representing screenwriters, said the law would make Georgia "an inhospitable place" for industry people to work.

But the major studios -- with huge financial stakes at issue -- have remained largely quiet.

Chris Ortman, a spokesman for the Motion Picture Association of America -- which represents Hollywood heavyweights including Paramount, Sony, Universal, Disney, Warner Bros. and Netflix -- said the group would "monitor developments" and wait for the courts to decide.

The film industry, he added, supports 92,000 jobs in Georgia -- a fact that did not go unnoticed by some lawmakers who are worried about employment.

"I appreciate the calls to action... but please do not #boycottgeorgia," tweeted Stacey Abrams, a Democrat who nearly defeated Kemp in November's election.

"The hard-working Georgians who serve on crews & make a living here are not to blame. I promise: We will fight - and we will win."

With a nod to Abrams' plea, directors Jordan Peele and J.J. Abrams told The Hollywood Reporter that they will proceed with filming their new show "Lovecraft Country" in the state -- but they will donate their "episodic fees" to groups fighting the abortion law.
ADEN, Yemen (Reuters) - Yemen's government wants the United Nations to give time-frames for next steps of a peace deal after Houthi forces began withdrawing from key ports in the most significant advance yet for efforts to end the four-year war and relieve hunger. In line with an accord in Sweden last year, the Iran-aligned Houthi movement began on Saturday a unilateral pullout from three Red Sea ports used for grain, oil, commerce and aid. Local coast guards have taken over security at the Saleef, Ras Isa and Hodeidah ports, according to the United Nations which is supervising operations there. Some officials from the Saudi-backed, internationally recognized Yemeni government dismissed the pullout as a "show", but government negotiator Sadiq Dweid acknowledged it marked the start of implementing the Stockholm accord. The war has killed tens of thousands of people and left millions on the brink of famine. Dweid tweeted late on Saturday that he had held a positive meeting with the chief U.N. observer, agreeing that the pullout should lead to time frames for implementing a U.N. mechanism for inspecting ships, de-mining and removing military installations. While the Houthi move encouraged foreign powers pushing to re-open humanitarian corridors, displaced Hodeidah residents said they were not ready to return. "We fled the war and I do not want to go back unless it ends, I fear death," said Sami, an 11-year-old who lives with his family in a graveyard in the capital Aden. "War destroyed everything - no work and no security," said Abdul Rahman Taher, a 34-year-old man forced from his home in Hodeidah and now washing cars in Aden. RETREAT FROM HODEIDAH Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, leaders of the coalition backing President Abd Rabbu Mansour Hadi's government, have so far not commented on the Houthi ports withdrawal. Sources saw this as a sign U.N. envoy Martin Griffiths had managed to get the warring sides to agree to the plan, since the coalition had quickly rejected a previous attempt by the Houthis to unilaterally withdraw last December. Under plans to avert a full-scale assault, the Houthis are to pull back five km (three miles) from the ports between May 11 and 14. Coalition forces, currently massed four km from Hodeidah port on the edges of the city, are to retreat one km from two flashpoint districts. In a second phase, both sides would pull troops 18 km outside the city and move heavy weapons 30 km away. Aid organization the International Rescue Committee said the Houthi move was a positive step, but a wider peace deal was needed to avert violence elsewhere. "Among our biggest concern is ensuring sustained access to Hodeidah port," the Norwegian Refugee Council's Sultana Begum told Reuters. "Further military escalation risks cutting the supply line of vital food, fuel and medicines." Hodeidah became the focus of the war last year when the coalition twice tried to seize its port to cut off the main supply line for the Houthis, whom they accuse of smuggling Iranian weapons, including missiles that have targeted Saudi cities. The group and Tehran deny the accusations. (Reporting by Mohammed Ghobari in Cairo, Aziz El Yaakoubi and Lisa Barrington in Dubai; Editing by Andrew Cawthorne)
Vilnius (AFP) - Conservative ex-finance minister Ingrida Simonyte won a paper-thin victory over political novice Gitanas Nauseda in round one of Lithuania's presidential election on Sunday, sending both to a tight May 26 run-off set to focus on inequality and poverty in the Baltic eurozone state.

Centre-left Prime Minister Saulius Skvernelis vowed to quit after he was eliminated from the run-off having finished in third place.

Conceding that "the failure to get into the second round is an assessment of me as a politician," Skvernelis told reporters that he would "step down on July 12."

He did not rule out early elections. The next regularly-scheduled parliamentary elections are due in October 2020.

Although Lithuanian presidents do not directly craft economic policy, bread and butter issues and tackling corruption have dominated the campaign.

Simonyte, who is popular with wealthy, educated urban voters, garnered 31.13 percent of the vote compared to 30.95 for Nauseda who advocates a welfare state, full official results showed early on Monday.

Skvernelis whose populist approach resonated with the rural poor took 19.72 percent of the vote contested by a total of nine candidates.

- Resist populism -

Simonyte told supporters she would resist "populism" during her second-round campaign and seek support from political forces "with consistent views that do not try to be on the right with one leg and the left with the other."

Simonyte, 44, a technocrat who also warns against deepening inequality and the rural-urban divide, has vowed to reduce it by boosting growth further.

Socially liberal, Simonyte supports same-sex partnerships which still stir controversy in the predominantly Catholic country.

Economist Nauseda is campaigning on promises of seeking the political middle-ground and build a welfare state.

"I want to thank all the people who took to their hearts our message that we want a welfare state in Lithuania and we want more political peace," Nauseda told reporters in Vilnius as results rolled in.

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The 54-year-old former banking consultant is seeking to bridge the growing rich-poor divide in the former Soviet republic of 2.8 million people, which joined the European Union and NATO in 2004.

"Nauseda has a greater chance to attract votes that went to other candidates, especially from the left," Vilnius University analyst Ramunas Vilpisauskas told AFP.

Both Nauseda and Simonyte are strong supporters of EU and NATO membership as bulwarks against neighbouring Russia, especially since Moscow's 2014 military intervention in Ukraine.

Lithuanian presidents steer defence and foreign policy, attending EU and NATO summits, but must consult with the government and the prime minister on appointing the most senior officials.

Popular incumbent President Dalia Grybauskaite, an independent in her second consecutive term, must step down due to term limits.

The politician nicknamed the "Iron Lady" for her strong resolve has been tipped as a contender to be the next president of the European Council.

- 'Risk of poverty' -

Analyst Vilpisauskas said that both Nauseda and Simonyte are very likely to opt for continuity in foreign and defence policy.

"With Nauseda, there can be some tactical changes when it comes to communication with neighbours but the strategical line is unlikely to change."

Lithuania is struggling with a sharp decline in population owing to mass emigration to Western Europe by people seeking better opportunities.

The global financial crisis triggered a deep recession 10 years ago and austerity measures imposed to prevent further crisis took a high toll, especially on low-income earners.

Despite solid economic growth, a recent EU report noted that almost 30 percent of Lithuanians "are at risk of poverty or social exclusion" and that this risk is "nearly double" in rural areas.

Robust annual wage growth of around 10 percent has raised the average gross monthly salary to 970 euros ($1,100) but poverty and income inequality remain among the highest in the EU, largely due to weak progressive taxation.

Unemployment stood at 6.5 percent in the first quarter of 2019, and the economy is forecast to grow by 2.7 percent this year, well above an average of 1.1 percent in the 19-member eurozone.

Brussels has urged Vilnius to use solid growth fuelled mostly by consumption to broaden its tax base and spend more on social policies.

Nauseda voter Feliksas Markevicius said he wanted the new president to help emigrants to return home to Lithuania.

"We need to improve living conditions because many people are forced to work abroad," the pensioner told AFP after voting in Vilnius on Sunday.

Voter turnout was 54.96 percent.
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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 before you buy or sell The Royal Bank of Scotland Group plc (LON:RBS), you may well want to know whether insiders have been buying or selling.

What Is Insider Selling?

It is perfectly legal for company insiders, including board members, to buy and sell stock in a company. However, rules govern insider transactions, and certain disclosures are required.

We would never suggest that investors should base their decisions solely on what the directors of a company have been doing. But logic dictates you should pay some attention to whether insiders are buying or selling shares. As Peter Lynch said, 'insiders might sell their shares for any number of reasons, but they buy them for only one: they think the price will rise.'

Check out our latest analysis for Royal Bank of Scotland Group

The Last 12 Months Of Insider Transactions At Royal Bank of Scotland Group

The , Christopher Marks, made the biggest insider sale in the last 12 months. That single transaction was for UK657k worth of shares at a price of UK2.53 each. That means that an insider was selling shares at around the current price of UK2.33. While we don't usually like to see insider selling, it's more concerning if the sales take price at a lower price. Given that the sale took place at around current prices, it makes us a little cautious but is hardly a major concern. Christopher Marks was the only individual insider to sell shares in the last twelve months.

Happily, we note that in the last year insiders paid UK320k for 139k shares. On the other hand they divested 260k shares, for UK657k. You can see a visual depiction of insider transactions (by individuals) over the last 12 months, below. If you want to know exactly who sold, for how much, and when, simply click on the graph below!

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LSE:RBS Recent Insider Trading, May 12th 2019

If you like to buy stocks that insiders are buying, rather than selling, then you might just love this free list of companies. (Hint: insiders have been buying them).

Insiders at Royal Bank of Scotland Group Have Sold Stock Recently

There was substantially more insider selling, than buying, of Royal Bank of Scotland Group shares over the last three months. In total, Christopher Marks sold UK657k worth of shares in that time. On the other hand we note insiders bought UK300 worth of shares. Because the selling vastly outweighs the buying, we'd say this is a somewhat bearish sign.

Does Royal Bank of Scotland Group Boast High Insider Ownership?

Many investors like to check how much of a company is owned by insiders. A high insider ownership often makes company leadership more mindful of shareholder interests. Royal Bank of Scotland Group insiders own about UK10m worth of shares. That equates to 0.04% of the company. We've certainly seen higher levels of insider ownership elsewhere, but these holdings are enough to suggest alignment between insiders and the other shareholders.

So What Do The Royal Bank of Scotland Group Insider Transactions Indicate?

The stark truth for Royal Bank of Scotland Group is that there has been more insider selling than insider buying in the last three months. Despite some insider buying, the longer term picture doesn't make us feel much more positive. But since Royal Bank of Scotland Group is profitable and growing, we're not too worried by this. Insider ownership isn't particularly high, so this analysis makes us cautious about the company. So we'd only buy after careful consideration. Therefore, you should should definitely take a look at this FREE report showing analyst forecasts for Royal Bank of Scotland Group.

Of course Royal Bank of Scotland Group 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.
GENEVA, May 12 (Reuters) - The United States has started a psychological war in the region, the commander of Irans elite Revolutionary Guards said in a parliament session on Sunday, according to a parliamentary spokesman.

The U.S. military has sent forces, including an aircraft carrier and B-52 bombers, to the Middle East to counter what the Trump administration says are clear indications of threats from Iran to U.S. forces there.

The USS Abraham Lincoln is replacing another carrier rotated out of the Gulf last month.

"Commander Salami, with attention to the situation in the region, presented an analysis that the Americans have started a psychological war because the comings and goings of their military is a normal matter, the spokesman for the parliamentary leadership, Behrouz Nemati, said, summarizing the Guards commander's comments, according to parliament's ICANA news site.

Major General Hossein Salami was appointed as head of the Guards last month. (Reporting By Babak Dehghanpisheh; Editing by Toby Chopra)
JERUSALEM, May 12 (Reuters) - An Israeli cabinet minister warned on Sunday of possible direct or proxy Iranian attacks on Israel should the stand-off between Tehran and Washington escalate.

The United States has increased economic and military pressure on Iran, with President Donald Trump on Thursday urging its leaders to talk to him about giving up their nuclear program and saying he could not rule out an armed confrontation.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government, which supports Trump's hard tack against its arch-foe, has largely been reticent about the spiraling tensions.

Parting with the silence, Israeli Energy Minister Yuval Steinitz said that, in the Gulf, "things are heating up."

"If there's some sort of conflagration between Iran and the United States, between Iran and its neighbors, I'm not ruling out that they will activate Hezbollah and Islamic Jihad from Gaza, or even that they will try to fire missiles from Iran at the State of Israel," Steinitz, a member of Netanyahu's security cabinet, told Israel's Ynet TV.

Hezbollah and Islamic Jihad are Iranian-sponsored guerrilla groups on Israel's borders, the former active in Syria as well as Lebanon and the latter in the Palestinian territories.

The Israeli military declined to comment when asked if it was making any preparations for possible threats linked to the Iran-U.S. standoff.

Israel has traded blows with Iranian forces in Syria, as well as with Hezbollah in Lebanon and Palestinian militants. But it has not fought an open war with Iran, a country on the other side of the Middle East. (Writing by Dan Williams)
GENEVA (Reuters) - A senior Iranian lawmaker said on Sunday that explosions near Fujairah port in the United Arab Emirates showed that the security of Gulf states is fragile.

"The explosions of Fujairah showed that the security of the south of the Persian Gulf is like glass," Heshmatollah Falahatpisheh, head of parliaments national security committee, wrote on his Twitter account.

On Sunday the UAE Foreign Ministry said four commercial vessels were targeted by "sabotage operations" near the territorial waters of the United Arab Emirates without causing casualties. Earlier the government of Fujairah denied media reports about blasts inside the port and said the facility was operating normally.

(Reporting By Babak Dehghanpisheh; Editing by Raissa Kasolowsky)
By Fayaz Bukhari and Alasdair Pal

NEW DELHI/SRINAGAR, India (Reuters) - Islamic State (IS) claimed for the first time that it has established a "province" in India, after a clash between militants and security forces in the contested Kashmir region killed a militant with alleged ties to the group.

IS's Amaq News Agency late on Friday announced the new province, that it called "Wilayah of Hind", in a statement that also claimed IS inflicted casualties on Indian army soldiers in the town of Amshipora in the Shopian district of Kashmir.

The IS statement corresponds with an Indian police statement on Friday that a militant called Ishfaq Ahmad Sofi was killed in an encounter in Shopian.

IS's statement establishing the new province appears to be designed to bolster its standing after the group was driven from its self-styled "caliphate" in Iraq and Syria in April, where at one point it controlled thousands of miles of territory.

IS has stepped up hit-and-run raids and suicide attacks, including taking responsibility for the Easter Sunday bombing in Sri Lanka that killed at least 253 people.

"The establishment of a 'province' in a region where it has nothing resembling actual governance is absurd, but it should not be written off," said Rita Katz, director of the SITE Intel Group that tracks Islamic extremists.

"The world may roll its eyes at these developments, but to jihadists in these vulnerable regions, these are significant gestures to help lay the groundwork in rebuilding the map of the IS 'caliphate'."

Sofi had been involved in several militant groups in Kashmir for more than a decade before pledging allegiance to Islamic State, according to a military official on Saturday and an interview given by Sofi to a Srinagar-based magazine sympathetic to IS.

He was suspected of several grenade attacks on security forces in the region, police and military sources said.

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"It was a clean operation and no collateral damage took place during the exchange of fire," a police spokesman said in the statement on Friday's encounter.

The military official said it was possible that Sofi had been the only militant left in Kashmir associated with IS.

Separatists have for decades fought an armed conflict against Indian rule in Muslim-majority Kashmir. The majority of these groups want independence for Kashmir or to join India's arch-rival Pakistan. They have not, like Islamic State, sought to establish an empire across the Muslim world.

Nuclear powers India and Pakistan have fought two wars over Kashmir, and came to the brink of a third earlier this year after a suicide attack by a Pakistan-based militant group killed at least 40 paramilitary police in the Indian-controlled portion of the region.

A spokesman for India's home ministry, which is responsible for security in Kashmir, did not respond to a request for comment.

(Reporting by Fayaz Bukhari in SRINAGAR and Alasdair Pal in NEW DELHI, additional reporting by Hesham Hajali in CAIRO; Edited by Martin Howell and Christian Schmollinger)
Jerusalem (AFP) - Israeli pharmaceutical giant Teva vowed Saturday to defend itself after being accused of orchestrating price-fixing among drugmakers in a US antitrust lawsuit.

According to The Washington Post, 40 American states joined forces Friday to sue more than a dozen former and current executives of generic drugmakers.

"That the biggest generic drug manufacturer in the world is one of the leaders of this marketwide collusion is beyond disappointing," Connecticut state attorney general William Tong told the Post.

"Teva had understandings with its highest quality competitors to lead and follow each others price increases, and did so with great frequency and success," the complaint charges, "resulting in many billions of dollars of harm to the national economy over a period of several years."

The lawsuit alleges that companies agreed on prices rather than competing, effectively raising the cost of over 100 drugs.

A spokeswoman for Teva in Israel dismissed the lawsuit as nothing other than "claims".

"Teva will continue to examine the issue internally and there is nothing in its conduct that could lead to civilian or criminal accountability," she said in a statement sent to AFP.

"Teva supplies high quality medication to patients around the world while retaining its commitment to all laws and rules," she said.

"We will continue to resolutely defend the company."

Last year, the Israeli justice ministry fined Teva $22 million for bribing foreign officials to win business in Russia, Ukraine and Mexico, rather than pressing charges in court against the drugmaker.




One of the first real debates of the Democratic primary broke out on Friday  and in both timing and substance it raised anew the half-suppressed doubts about whether frontrunner Joe Biden is too stuck in the past to be a credible standard-bearer.

A Reuters story Friday morning said that Bidens energy policy team was looking for what the reporter called a middle ground on climate change, and in particular that it planned to rely on expanding the use of fracked natural gas as a way to reduce emissions. This is, to put it plainly, a return to the all-of-the-above energy strategy that marked the Obama years, and a terrible idea.

As is now entirely clear, increasing fracking increases the flow of methane to the atmosphere, and since methane is a potent greenhouse gas it drives up the rate of global warming. In the early days of the Obama years, when we knew far less about the chemistry of methane, it was a perhaps-defensible plan; in 2019 its embarrassing, the equivalent of idling your muscle car outside the Earth Day picnic. There is no middle ground on climate changetheres only meeting the demands of physics and chemistry (and justice), or watching the temperature soar.

A few hours after the story, as environmental activists (and primary opponents) tweeted their dismay, the Biden team seemed to blush. Bidens energy advisor Heather Zichal said that the Reuters reports were wrong, and that instead he planned to enact a bold policy to tackle climate change in a meaningful and lasting way. But the fact that it was Zichal making the statement essentially confirmed the accuracy of the original story: in the early Obama years, shed headed up an interagency working group to promote the development of domestic natural gas.

The working group had been formed after pressure from the American Petroleum Institute, the chief fossil-fuel lobbying group, and Zichal, in a talk to an API gathering, said: Its hard to overstate how natural gasand our ability to access more of it than everhas become a game changer. Zichal left her White House job in 2013; one year later, she took a gig on the board of Cheniere Energy, a leading exporter of fracked gas, which has earned her over a million dollars.

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And Zichal said Biden was also turning for advice to former energy secretary Ernest Moniz, who oversaw the rise of the United States to its position as the biggest oil and gas producer on the planet and continues to recommend natural gas development, and Frank Verrastro, co-author of a report on fracking that found no unmanageable risk that would require widespread reconsideration of current recommended practices. In short, hes relying on people deeply attached to the status quo.

The timing of the gaffe couldnt have been more stunningit came just 72 hours after the UN released a report pointing out that climate change would help wipe out a million species in the decades ahead. Secretary of State Michael Pompeo later that day lauded the rapid melt of the Arctic, saying it would increase access to gold and diamonds, not to mention make it easier to ship junk from China. You couldnt have asked for a much better opportunity to draw a contrast, not search for a middle ground.

As recently as 2016, climate was seen as a losing issue. It was a distant problem, with unclear consequences, that would require huge sacrifices to solve. But then California caught fire, Puerto Rico got ravaged by a hurricane, and people woke up to the fact that this was clear and present danger. The IPCC report hammered home the threat. And with ideas like the Green New Deal gaining prominence, people have understood that solving the problem wont require sacrifice as much as it will create opportunity. Why would we stay in the middle of the road when the left lane promises solutions that will not only help the climate, but also our economy, public health, and national security?

But Bidens team apparently is fixated on the relatively small number of workers in the building trades unions who want to keep on constructing natural gas pipelines (and perhaps, since he hasnt signed the No Fossil Fuel Money pledge, on big donors from the hydrocarbon sector). This is old-school thinking at its best: throw young voters, overwhelmingly fixated on climate change, under the dirty diesel bus in an effort to win a narrowing pool of union leaders, who gathered in the Oval Office with Trump to celebrate in the early days of his presidency.

Obviously Biden will be better than Trump on this (and every other) issue; obviously everyone who cares about the earth should support him if hes the nominee. (That paramount need is why Ive been running the #DemUnityTwitterProject these past weeks). And hes got time to turn his policies aroundI remember when he gave a wink and a nod support to those fighting the Keystone pipeline, well in advance of Obamas eventual veto of the project. His credibility with union workers is understandably high, which is why he would be the perfect person to push for large-scale retraining programs for clean energy jobs.

But for now Biden has done precisely the thing youd think hed be trying his hardest to avoid: showing that hes stuck in the dirty energy past. If hes going to mount a serious challenge to Trump, hes going to need the huge number of Americans for whom climate change has become the issue. On the biggest issue our civilizations ever faced, we need him thinking like its 2030, not 2010.
At a rally in Caracas on May 11, Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido said that he had instructed the Venezuelan ambassador to the United States to contact the Pentagon to pressure President Nicolas Maduro to step down, according to reports.

We have instructed our ambassador Carlos Vecchio to meet immediately  with the Southern Command and its admiral to establish a direct relationship, Guaido reportedly said at the rally. We have said from the beginning that we will use all the resources at our disposal to build pressure.

The US Southern Command tweeted on Thursday that they would cooperate, When invited by @jguaido & the legitimate govt of #Venezuela, I look forward to discussing how we can support the future role of those @ArmadaFANB leaders who make the right decision, put the Venezuela people first & restore constitutional order. We stand ready! #EstamosUnidosVE.

Guaido also said he had received word from China that the nation would join a diplomatic effort to negotiate an end to Venezuelas ongoing political crisis, according to Reuters.

This footage, shot by activist group Primero Justice, shows Guaido speaking to a crowd at the Caracas rally. Credit: Primero Justicia via Storyful
Abortion ban: Georgia prosecutors refuse to enforce 'heartbeat' law District lawyers in Georgia have announced they will not prosecute women for getting an abortion after the US state effectively banned the procedure.Georgia governor Brian Kemp signed the controversial heartbeat abortion ban into law earlier in the month  giving the southern state one of the most restrictive laws in the US.The legislation, which has provoked outrage among womens rights groups, bans abortion once cardiac activity can be detected in an embryo. This can be as early as six weeks  at which point most women do not yet know they are pregnant. The bill imposes jail sentences for women found guilty of aborting or attempting to abort their pregnancies, with the potential for life imprisonment and the death penalty. It is not scheduled to come into effect until 1 January and is expected to face challenges in the courts  with it potentially being postponed. But anti-abortion activists hope challenges will lead to the US Supreme Court reversing Roe vs Wade  the landmark Supreme Court decision which legalised abortion nationwide in 1973  especially with new conservative justices Neil Gorsuch and Brett Kavanaugh sitting on the court.The Supreme Court has previously ruled that states cannot ban abortion before a foetus is viable  about 23 to 25 weeks.District prosecutors for Georgias four most populous counties  Fulton, Gwinnett, Cobb and DeKalb  have said they would not, or could not, prosecute women under the controversial new law.As District Attorney with charging discretion, I will not prosecute individuals pursuant to HB 481 [the heartbeat bill] given its ambiguity and constitutional concerns, DeKalb County district attorney Sherry Boston told The Atlanta Journal-Constitution.As a woman and mother, I am concerned about the passage and attempted passage of laws such as this one in Georgia, Alabama, and other states.She added: There is no language outlined in HB 481 explicitly prohibiting a district attorney from bringing criminal charges against anyone and everyone involved in obtaining and performing what is otherwise currently a legal medical procedure.According to the publication, the technical language of the bill means that district attorneys could potentially seek a murder charge against someone who breaches the heartbeat law.As a matter of law (as opposed to politics) this office will not be prosecuting any women under the new law as long as Im district attorney, Gwinnett County DA Danny Porter said. He said he did not think it would be possible to prosecute a woman for either murder or unlawful abortion if she got an abortion after six weeks.John Melvin, acting District Attorney of Cobb County, echoed this position, saying women could absolutely not be prosecuted under the unlawful abortion statute.Fulton County district attorney Paul Howard has no intention of ever prosecuting a woman under this new law", a spokesperson said, adding that he also would not prosecute abortion providers.Georgias new bill does include exceptions for cases involving rape, incest, or in situations where the health of a mother is in danger.Planned Parenthood will be suing the State of Georgia. We will fight this terrible bill because this is about our patients lives, Dr Leana Wen, president of Planned Parenthood Action Fund, said.Georgias bill comes after Alabama Governor Kay Ivey signed a controversial abortion bill into law last week that is the most restrictive abortion bill in the US.Under the law, doctors would face 10 years in prison for attempting to terminate a pregnancy and 99 years for carrying out the procedure. The abortion ban, which has been branded a death sentence for women, would even criminalise performing abortions in cases of rape and incest. Ms Ivey said the new law might be unenforceable due to Roe v Wade but said the new law was passed with the aim of challenging that decision.Alabama state lawmakers compare abortions in America to the Holocaust and other modern genocides in the legislation  spurring Jewish activists and abortion rights groups to rebuke the bill as deeply offensive.Alabamas new bill comes as politicians in several other states propose legislation to restrict abortion  with some 16 other states looking at new measures.More than a dozen other states have passed or are considering versions of Georgias law. Kentucky, Mississippi and Ohio have also approved bans on abortion once a foetal heartbeat is detected. On Friday, Missouri lawmakers passed a bill banning abortions after eight weeks.Groups such as the American Civil Liberties Union of Georgia vowed to sue on the day the governor signed Georgias heartbeat bill. It has also fuelled many in the entertainment industry to threaten to boycott Georgia.Were putting lawmakers on notice: Your votes are far outside the mainstream, and we will now spend our time and energy launching a campaign to replace you, Staci Fox, the president and CEO of Planned Parenthood Southeast, said at the time.A federal judge blocked a heartbeat bill in Kentucky which was scheduled to come into effect instantly as it could be unconstitutional, while Mississippi passed a six-week abortion law in March that is not due to come into force until July and is also facing challenges.Ohio passed a similarly restrictive law in 2016 which was vetoed by the governor.
Julian Williams celebrates after defeating Jarrett Hurd for the IBF, WBA and IBO super welterweight boxing titles in Fairfax, Va., Saturday, May 11, 2019. Williams won by unanimous decision. (AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana)

Julian Williams fought such a perfect fight Saturday against Jarrett Hurd in their bout in Fairfax, Virginia, for the IBF and WBA super welterweight titles that he found it difficult to find the proper words to describe his feelings after it was over.

Williams was magnificent on the inside, raking Hurd with crunching hooks and uppercuts at close range. He put the previously unbeaten Hurd down for the first time in his career in the second when he landed a short right and then a left that appeared like it may have landed on the top of Hurds head.

Hurd quickly got to his feet, but he was never able to find an answer for Williams work on the inside.

Judges had it 115-112 twice and 116-111 for Williams (27-1-1, 16 KOs), whose only loss came on Dec. 10, 2016, in Los Angeles when he was knocked out in the fifth by Jermall Charlo in a bout for the WBC super welterweight title.

I worked so hard, Williams said through his tears of joys. They told me I was done. They told me I had no chin. I just got basic.

He proved himself in a big way on Saturday at Eaglebank Arena on the campus of George Mason University. He took on the 23-0 Hurd (23-1, 16 KOs) in front of Hurds hometown crowd and was cool as if hed done it 100 times before.

He was consistently landing the harder and sharper punches and fended off a charge from Hurd by standing his ground and landing strikes to Hurds head.

Hurd dismissed any notion that his performance suffered because he was nervous fighting at home.

No, no, no, Hurd said. Its just that J-Rock was the better man tonight. He put me down for the first time in my career and he came out with the victory. Nerves didnt have anything to do with it.

Williams was brilliantly prepared by trainer Stephen Breadman Edwards, who had a great game plan and made all the right adjustments during the fight. When Hurd started to get momentum, Williams picked up the pace and blunted it.

Im so blessed, Williams said. Im so, so blessed.

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Hes also the unified champion with a lot of options. There is a rematch clause in the contract, and so he could fight Hurd again, but he also could choose to face the winner of the June 23 bout for the WBC title between champion Tony Harrison and Charlo.

Williams, though, didnt want to talk about that on this night. He wanted to savor a hard-earned, well-deserved victory.

More from Yahoo Sports:
SOUTHPORT, England (AP)  Marcus Kinhult birdied the final two holes to claim his first European Tour title after a tense finish to the British Masters on Sunday.

Kinhult shot a 2-under 70 and finished on 16-under 272 overall.

His chance looked to have gone when he surrendered a one-shot lead with bogeys on the 15th and 16th, but the 22-year-old Swede recovered to finish a shot ahead of defending champion Eddie Pepperell (66), Matt Wallace (71) and Robert MacIntyre (68).

Pepperell had set the clubhouse target on 15 under before MacIntyre produced a stunning eagle-birdie finish to join him at the top of the leaderboard.

"I'm speechless, I don't know what happened the last two holes," Kinhult said. "There's a lot going through my mind, a lot of emotions and I am just so happy that I managed to handle those pretty well."

A four-man playoff looked on the cards when Kinhult birdied the 17th and playing partner Wallace missed from four feet, but after Wallace also missed for birdie on the last, Kinhult holed from 12 feet to seal a remarkable win.

"It's small margins," Kinhult said. "I got off to a good start and just kept the momentum through the week."

Tommy Fleetwood, who hosted the tournament at Hillside in his home town of Southport in northern England, was tied for eighth after a 1-over 73.

___

More AP sports: https://apnews.com/apf-sports and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports
Laos in Town. | Photo: Lille Z./Yelp

Looking to find out about the newest businesses to open in Washington? From Loatian food to hand-tossed pizza, read on for the newest destinations to open for business near you.

Laos In Town

Photo: Lillie z./Yelp

Now open at 250 K St. NE in NoMa is Laos In Town, a Laotian spot.

This stylish restaurant offers a full drink and dining menu, featuring Laotian specialties. Keep an eye out for the chef's specialty salad, a combination of papaya, bean sprouts, pork loaf and mellow fish sauce. There are plenty of vegan options, as well.

Brew'd Coffee Bar

Head over to 901 Fourth St. NW in Mount Vernon Square and you'll find Brew'd Coffee Bar, a new spot to score coffee, tea and more.

Brew'd served up classic espresso drinks, pastries and snacks daily, from early morning to late afternoon.

Bandoola Bowl

Photo: Maxwell P./Yelp

Head over to 1069 Wisconsin Ave. NW in Georgetown, and you'll find Bandoola Bowl, a Burmese spot, offering salads and more.

Bandoola Bowl is a fast-casual eatery specializing in Burmese-style salads. This spot offers salads chock-full of healthy mix-ins and topped with proteins like roasted pork and tofu.

Nicoletta Pizzeria

Photo: kyle o./Yelp

Nicoletta Pizzeria is a spot to score pizza and more, that's made its debut on the Boardwalk at the Navy Yard, at 355 Water St. SE.

This is the first Washington location of the regional chain of pizzerias, which specialize in classic pies and other Italian-American favorites. Feeling thirsty? Grab a frozen Negroni.

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!

Today we'll look at Shenzhen Expressway Company Limited (HKG:548) and reflect on its potential as an investment. Specifically, we'll consider its Return On Capital Employed (ROCE), since that will give us an insight into how efficiently the business can generate profits from the capital it requires.

Firstly, we'll go over how we calculate ROCE. Then we'll compare its ROCE to similar companies. Finally, we'll look at how its current liabilities affect its ROCE.

Return On Capital Employed (ROCE): What is it?

ROCE is a measure of a company's yearly pre-tax profit (its return), relative to the capital employed in the business. In general, businesses with a higher ROCE are usually better quality. In brief, it is a useful tool, but it is not without drawbacks. Author Edwin Whiting says to be careful when comparing the ROCE of different businesses, since 'No two businesses are exactly alike.'

How Do You Calculate Return On Capital Employed?

Analysts use this formula to calculate return on capital employed:

Return on Capital Employed = Earnings Before Interest and Tax (EBIT)  (Total Assets - Current Liabilities)

Or for Shenzhen Expressway:

0.074 = CN2.6b  (CN40b - CN5.2b) (Based on the trailing twelve months to March 2019.)

So, Shenzhen Expressway has an ROCE of 7.4%.

View our latest analysis for Shenzhen Expressway

Is Shenzhen Expressway's ROCE Good?

ROCE is commonly used for comparing the performance of similar businesses. It appears that Shenzhen Expressway's ROCE is fairly close to the Infrastructure industry average of 7.3%. Separate from how Shenzhen Expressway stacks up against its industry, its ROCE in absolute terms is mediocre; relative to the returns on government bonds. It is possible that there are more rewarding investments out there.

In our analysis, Shenzhen Expressway's ROCE appears to be 7.4%, compared to 3 years ago, when its ROCE was 5.6%. This makes us think the business might be improving.

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SEHK:548 Past Revenue and Net Income, May 12th 2019

Remember that this metric is backwards looking - it shows what has happened in the past, and does not accurately predict the future. Companies in cyclical industries can be difficult to understand using ROCE, as returns typically look high during boom times, and low during busts. ROCE is, after all, simply a snap shot of a single year. Future performance is what matters, and you can see analyst predictions in our free report on analyst forecasts for the company.

Shenzhen Expressway's Current Liabilities And Their Impact On Its ROCE

Current liabilities include invoices, such as supplier payments, short-term debt, or a tax bill, that need to be paid within 12 months. The ROCE equation subtracts current liabilities from capital employed, so a company with a lot of current liabilities appears to have less capital employed, and a higher ROCE than otherwise. To check the impact of this, we calculate if a company has high current liabilities relative to its total assets.

Shenzhen Expressway has total liabilities of CN5.2b and total assets of CN40b. As a result, its current liabilities are equal to approximately 13% of its total assets. This very reasonable level of current liabilities would not boost the ROCE by much.

What We Can Learn From Shenzhen Expressway's ROCE

That said, Shenzhen Expressway's ROCE is mediocre, there may be more attractive investments around. But note: make sure you look for a great company, not just the first idea you come across. So take a peek at this free list of interesting companies with strong recent earnings growth (and a P/E ratio below 20).

For those who like to find winning investments this free list of growing companies with recent insider purchasing, could be just the ticket.

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.
By Alexandra Ulmer

KATTANKUDY, Sri Lanka, May 12 (Reuters) - Sri Lankan authorities have arrested a Saudi-educated scholar for what they claim are links with Zahran Hashim, the suspected ringleader of the Easter Sunday bombings, throwing a spotlight on the rising influence of Salafi-Wahhabi Islam on the island's Muslims.

Mohamed Aliyar, 60, is the founder of the Centre for Islamic Guidance, which boasts a mosque, a religious school and a library in Zahran's hometown of Kattankudy, a Muslim-dominated city on Sri Lanka's eastern shores.

"Information has been revealed that the suspect arrested had a close relationship with ... Zahran and had been operating financial transactions," said a police statement late on Friday.

The statement said Aliyar was "involved" with training in the southern town of Hambantota for the group of suicide bombers who attacked hotels and churches on Easter, killing over 250 people.

A police spokesman declined to provide details on the accusations.

Calls to Aliyar and his associates went unanswered. Reuters was unable to find contact details for a lawyer.

The government says Zahran, a radical Tamil-speaking preacher, was a leader of the group.

Two Muslim community sources in Kattankudy told Reuters his hardline views were partly shaped by ultra-conservative Salafi-Wahhabi texts that he picked up at the Centre for Islamic Guidance's library around 2-3 years ago. The sources are not affiliated with the center.

"I used to always run into him at the center, reading Saudi journals and literature," said one of the sources.

During that time, Zahran started criticizing the practice of asking God for help, for instance, arguing that such pleas were an affront to pure Islam.

"That kind of teaching was not in Sri Lanka in 2016, unless you read it in Salafi literature," the source added, requesting anonymity to avoid repercussions in Kattankudy.

Salafism, a puritanical interpretation of Islam that advocates a return to the values of the first three generations of Muslims and is closely linked to Wahhabism, has often been criticized as the ideology of radical Islamists worldwide.

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Wahhabi Islam has its roots in Saudi Arabia and is backed by its rulers, although Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has committed the kingdom to a more moderate form of Islam.

Other than the fact that Zahran visited the center, the sources in Kattankudy said they did not know of any personal ties between him and Aliyar.

Aliyar founded the center in 1990, a year after he graduated from the Imam Muhammad ibn Saud Islamic University in Riyadh, in what one resident said marked a key moment in the spread of Salafi doctrine in Kattankudy. The center was partly funded by Saudi and Kuwaiti donors, according to a plaque outside.

TROUBLEMAKER

Reuters spoke to three members of the center's board before Aliyar's arrest. They asked to remain anonymous, citing security concerns amid a backlash against some Muslims.

They said Zahran was a troublemaker and that they had warned authorities about his extremist views. The members said they thought Zahran frequented the library around a decade ago, but had no recollection of him visiting recently and denied that any of its books were to blame for his views.

Funding for the center came from local donations, student fees, and private donors who were classmates of Aliyar's in Riyadh, the center's sources said. Reuters was unable to immediately determine further details about the funding of the center.

The Saudi government communications office in Riyadh did not respond to requests for comment on the funding of the center. (Additional reporting by Stephen Kalin in Riyadh and Ranga Sirilal in Colombo Writing by Alexandra Ulmer, Editing by Raju Gopalakrishnan)
Jerusalem (AFP) - Israeli prosecutors on Sunday agreed not to press murder charges against a Jewish suspect in a 2015 arson attack that killed a Palestinian toddler and his parents, the justice ministry said.

The fire bomb attack in the occupied West Bank village of Duma killed 18-month-old Ali Saad Dawabsha and fatally injured his mother and father.

His brother Ahmed, four at the time, was the sole survivor from the immediate family and escaped with severe burns.

The justice ministry said that in a plea deal, the accused -- 17 at the time of the killings and on trial as a minor -- had admitted to staking out the village ahead of the killings.

In a statement, it said the unidentified youth, together with adult defendant Amiram Ben-Uliel, had observed the village through binoculars and discussed possible arson targets.

The youth was charged in 2016 with being an accessory to committing a racially motivated murder.

Ben-Uliel, from the northern West Bank settlement of Shilo, remains on trial on three counts of murder and one of attempted murder, along with arson and conspiracy to commit a hate crime.

Sunday's statement said that the two had decided to raid Duma but the minor did not show up at the planned rendezvous and therefore did not take part in the murders.

"It was determined that the defendant committed a conspiracy to commit a crime motivated by a racist motive," it said.

It added that under the plea bargain, the prosecution would seek a sentence of five and a half years in prison, subject to a mandatory review by the probation service.

The suspect has already spent two years in jail and a year under house arrest, Haaretz daily said Sunday.

An Israeli district court had ordered him transferred from prison after throwing out parts of his confession, which it ruled that investigators had obtained through physical coercion, described by defence lawyers as torture.

The attack drew renewed attention to Jewish extremism and sparked accusations Israel has not done enough to prevent such violence.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu labelled it "terrorism" -- a word more usually used by Israelis to refer to violence committed by Palestinians.
BEIRUT (Reuters) - Cardinal Nasrallah Sfeir, the former patriarch of Lebanon's Maronite church who presented himself as a champion of Christian rights and pushed for Syrian forces to leave his country, died early on Sunday, state news agency NNA reported.

Born in Reifoun in Lebanon's mountainous Kisrwan district in 1920, Sfeir played a prominent role from the time of the 1975-90 civil war. He resigned as patriarch in 2011.

Prime Minister Saad al-Hariri, a Sunni Muslim, announced two days of national mourning for Sfeir on Wednesday and Thursday, with flags to be flown at half mast, and declared Thursday, when the funeral will take place, a holiday.

Sfeir and Hariri were allies a decade ago in supporting the March 14 movement opposing Syrian influence in Lebanon.

Hariri described the late patriarch as having had "toughness, leadership, consistency and courage" at a difficult time for Lebanon, making him "a national symbol".

The Maronite church, which follows an Eastern rite of the Roman Catholic Church, is Lebanon's largest Christian community and the role of president is reserved for one of its members under the country's sectarian power sharing system.

Sfeir was elected its patriarch or spiritual leader in 1986 and was invested as a cardinal by Pope John Paul II in 1994. Having cast himself as a defender of Christian rights during the conflict, he was instrumental after the war in effecting reconciliation between Christians and the Druze sect.

Druze leader Walid Jumblatt on Sunday described Sfeir as "patriarch of independence, reconciliation, love and peace" in a Tweet.

After the withdrawal of Israeli forces in 2000 after an 18-year occupation of south Lebanon, Sfeir demanded that Syria also pull out its troops who had been in the country since 1976.

He described Lebanon as neither independent nor sovereign and even after Damascus was forced to withdraw its military in 2005, he supported factions opposed to its continued influence.

President Michel Aoun, a Maronite whose own stance on Syria put him at odds with Sfeir, praised him in a statement for his "defence of Lebanon's sovereignty and its independence".

(Reporting By Angus McDowall; Editing by Keith Weir)
Beirut (AFP) - Lebanon's former Maronite patriarch Nasrallah Boutros Sfeir, who wielded considerable political influence during the country's civil war and was an ardent advocate of a Syrian troop withdrawal, died Sunday, the church said.

Sfeir, who was set to turn 99 on Wednesday, died at 3:00 am (0000 GMT) "after days of intensive medical care", said a statement by the Maronite church.

He became the leader of the church in 1986 until he resigned in 2011 due to his declining health, and held the title "76th Patriarch of Antioch and the Whole Levant".

He was a respected power broker during the 1975-1990 civil war, which saw bitter infighting between rival militias including opposing Christian factions.

Sfeir, who spoke fluent Arabic and French, was made a cardinal by Pope John Paul II in 1994.

Born in 1920 in Rayfoun, a village in Lebanon's Kesrwan mountains, Sfeir studied theology and philosophy but was never shy to delve into Lebanon's tumultuous politics.

His backing of the 1989 Taif agreement that brought the 15-year civil war to an end bolstered Christian support for the accord, but reduced the powers of the presidency -- a seat reserved for Lebanon's Maronite Christians under the country's confessional power-sharing.

Maronite Christians made up the most powerful single community prior to Lebanon's 1975-1990 civil war, but their influence has since waned as they have been outnumbered by Shiite Muslims in the multi-sectarian country.

Sfeir also spearheaded the opposition to Syria's three decades of military and political domination over Lebanon.

"His biggest struggle was to end the Syrian presence in Lebanon, which we all thought was impossible because of the divisions in Lebanon," his biographer Antoine Saad told AFP.

"But he worked on it steadily, objectively, meticulously and quietly," he said.

Sfeir refused to visit Syria during his time as patriarch, even when John Paul II made a trip to the country in 2001.

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His outspokenness helped swell the anti-Syria movement in 2000.

It eventually lead to the withdrawal of thousands of Syrian troops from the country five years later, following the assassination of former prime minister Rafik Hariri, whose murder the opposition blamed on Damascus.

Premier Saad Hariri, the son of Rafik, on Sunday called Sfeir a "national symbol" who had worked "to bring Lebanon back to its natural status as a free and independent sovereign country".

The cabinet announced two days of national mourning set for Wednesday and Thursday.

President Michel Aoun said Lebanon had lost one of its "most prominent patriarchs".

After he stepped down, Sfeir's opinion and advice continued to be sought by politicians of all stripes, not only Christians.

"He was completely against war," Saad said of the cleric who enjoyed hiking in nature until his late years.

"His loss can't be compensated for."
The more that progressive policies have failed to address the homelessness problem in urban areas, the more that progressives are doubling down on bad solutions.

Take Denver. The Mile High City presented voters last week with Issue 300. It was placed on the ballot by advocates for the homeless who wanted to legalize camping in parks and in vehicles on city streets, including in front of homes and local businesses. This was too much for voters, even in a city that gave Donald Trump only 19 percent of the vote in 2016. The idea of legalizing vagrancy was shot down by a resounding 83 percent of local voters.

Liberal mayor Michael Hancock said the city had dodged making a bad situation worse. Noting that tent cities had already begun already sprouting up in parks and alleyways, he maintained that 300 would have created an unsanitary problem for the homeless and for Denver residents.

But that doesnt mean the courts elsewhere arent stepping in to impose what voters rejected. Last September, the notoriously liberal Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that officials in Boise, Idaho, had violated the Eighth Amendment rights of the homeless when they issued citations for sleeping or camping in public. In 2015, the Obama Justice Department backed a lawsuit against the Boise anti-vagrancy laws, arguing that if a person literally has nowhere else to go, then enforcement of the anti-camping ordinance against that person criminalizes her for being homeless.

But its not as if cities arent already spending vast amounts on the homeless. In 2017, the Puget Sound Business Journal in Seattle reported that Seattle-area governments were spending $1.06 billion a year on programs for homeless people. Having failed to build enough shelters for the growing numbers of homeless, the activists will soon be back with a rock-stupid big-government solution  and all theyll need to implement it is a massive amount of taxpayer funding, says John Carlson, a Seattle radio talk-show host.

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Peter Droege is a former executive director of Step 13, an innovative homeless shelter in Denver. What these activists do not understand is that people struggling with homelessness, mental health issues, or addiction do not want to be enabled in their behavior, he wrote last month in the Washington Examiner. Nor do they need greater access to drugs or alcohol. What they need is community support and supportive services that require them to be accountable and self-sufficient.

When I first toured Step 13 some 20 years ago, it was an eye-opening experience. The late Bob Cote, a homeless man who picked himself up off the streets and founded Step 13, had a high success rate in rehabilitating people with his no drugs, no booze, find a job program. My biggest adversaries are government homeless shelters that dont ask people to do anything for themselves, and Social Security Disability programs that allow people to continue the same mistakes theyve been making, he told me. Cote was constantly battling local bureaucrats who oversaw homelessness issues. Its one reason he would not accept government money, or the strings that came with it.

Every homeless person has a different story, and some are truly down on their luck through no fault of their own. But most are mired in a cycle of behavior that they refuse to change. I once reported on an effort in San Francisco to encourage pedestrians and tourists to hand out coupons instead of money to the homeless. The coupons were redeemable for many things: a free meal, clothing, haircuts, and laundromat services. Over the course of several days, I tried to distribute such coupons myself and met rejection about 80 percent of the time. Cash was what homeless people wanted  and for you know what.

Allowing people to remain mired in problems involving mental illness, drugs, or alcohol affects the wider community. In Seattle, Scott Lindsay, a former public-safety adviser to the mayors office, has written a new report called System Failure. He found that a mere 100 prolific offenders among the homeless are responsible for more than 3,500 criminal cases. Often they are released from jail the same day they are taken in.

We need help, I have businesses broken into every single night, says Erin Goodman, head of a local Seattle Business Improvement Area. Something has to change. Goodman says crime is up 31 percent this year in her area because of the prolific offenders.

There are options out there. Rhode Island has had great success with its Medically Assisted Treatment (MAT) program, which blends punishment with treatment, managing to keep most addicts from straying into old alliances and bad habits. Several people in the MAT program say that jail, accompanied by treatment, saved their lives. Rhode Island authorities are hosting a two-day workshop at the end of the month for cities around the country that have asked about it. But progressive Seattle cant be bothered and isnt sending anyone. The city attorney, Pete Holmes, told a local podcast that the Seattles problems are caused in part by its failure to impose a new city income tax.

Last month, Michael Gordon, a former vice president for grants at the San Franciscobased Thiel Foundation, wrote in NRO that a walk through his city is a sobering experience:

You notice homeless men and women  junkies, winos, the dispossessed  passed out in the vestibules of empty storefronts on otherwise busy streets. Encampments of tents sprout in every shadowy corner: under highway overpasses, down alleys. Streets are peppered with used syringes. Strolling the sidewalks, you smell the faint malodorous traces of human excrement and soiled clothing. Crowded thoroughfares such as Market Street, even in the light of midday, stage a carnival of indecipherable outbursts and drug-induced thrashings about which the police seem to do nothing. The confused mumble, the incoherent finger-pointing tirade, the twitch, the cold daemonic stare, the drunken stumble and drool  these are the rhythms of a city on the edge of a schizophrenic explosion.

Whatever cities like San Francisco, Seattle, and Denver have been doing isnt working.

Finding the right balance between compassion and personal responsibility in homelessness policy is incredibly difficult. Simply spending money on more apartments for the homeless only attracts more homeless and breeds corruption. Demanding that people get off drugs and alcohol and on to any prescribed medication they have invites howls of outrage and civil-rights lawsuits.

Thats why its noteworthy that the citizens of liberal Denver finally said Enough to liberal plans to broaden the right of homeless people to live on city streets. Its now time for reformers to realize that the public is yearning for answers and to propose tough-love solutions that address the root cause of the homeless problem, rather than sentimentalize it.

More from National Review
Washington (AFP) - Former military intelligence analyst Chelsea Manning said Sunday she again plans to refuse to testify before a grand jury about her leak of classified documents to WikiLeaks -- even if it means returning to jail.

Manning, who served seven years in prison over her transfer of secret diplomatic and military documents, recently spent another two months in lock-up for contempt of court after refusing to answer the grand jury's questions.

Federal prosecutors have for years been investigating WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange and they apparently want Manning to testify about her dealings with him.

Her release last week came on a technicality -- that grand jury's term was expiring. But a new grand jury has been convened and called on her to appear this week.

"They've already stipulated they want to ask the same questions," Manning told CNN.

"I am going to refuse," she added. "I have nothing new to provide."

Manning admitted that while she and her legal team do not know if she will be jailed again, she believes she has a "much stronger case in terms of the legal objections."

"We're certainly going to raise every single legal challenge that we have," said Manning, a transgender woman who was known as Bradley at the time of her interaction with WikiLeaks.

Her leak of classified documents, including some related to the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, made her a hero to anti-war and anti-secrecy activists, and her actions helped make WikiLeaks a force in the global anti-secrecy movement.

Manning said she believes that the efforts to prosecute Assange are part of a wider campaign to "go after journalists."

Assange was arrested in April at the Ecuadoran embassy in London, where he spent seven years after seeking asylum.

He sought refuge there to escape extradition to Sweden, where he had been accused of rape and sexual assault.

Assange is now serving a 50-week sentence in Britain for jumping bail and is contesting an extradition request from the United States, where he is wanted for hacking.
Erin and Kelly Meek play a game with their adopted son, Griffin, 6, as their dogs join in on Tuesday, May 7, 2019, at their home in Des Moines.

When you become a parent, you learn to start your voicemails with a clear declaration of urgency.

Its a simple shorthand. Either, Hey, not an emergency, but call me when you have a moment, or some version of, Holyheck,crisis,callmeassoonasyoucan.

Youll have to excuse Kelly Meek for not knowing the code back in 2013 when she left her wife, Erin, a message saying the state had finally called with a placement, a newborn who needed a foster home.

Its not an emergency, Erin, 29, lovingly mimics in a high voice meant to be Kelly. But the agency called and theres a baby that needs a home, and I said, yes.

What? Kelly says, pushing back with a sly smile. I had it handled.

Kelly, 41, may not have known the parental code then, but shes grown intimately familiar during the Meek's circuitous child-rearing journey.

Since becoming licensed foster care providers seven years ago, the Meeks have adopted three kids  now 6, 15 and 17  and fostered more than 20 children. Ten were babies delivered by placement workers to the Meeks' door, and five were just days old when the couple picked them up from the hospital.

Along the way, theyve housed a handful of four-legged children and guided countless offspring of friends and family.

To put it more directly, when the Meeks mom, they mom hard.

We have friends who joke that we have babies more often than people who actually birth babies, Erin said.

Very true, Kelly replied, because we dont have to grow them.

Redefining Mother's Day

So it seems Mothers Day  a time set aside to celebrate moms with handmade cards and breakfast in bed  would be a holiday made for the Meeks. But in our modern world where family lineages look less like a tree and more like a bush, Mothers Day can be complicated.

Setting aside that the Meeks are a same-sex couple, most of the kids they mother arent in their house for long. Theyre a way station on someone else's journey to motherhood, and thats absolutely fine with them  but then this pesky day in May pops up.

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Mother's Day can be hard for me because almost all of the time I feel like I am mothering, like I am parenting, I am in it all the time, she said. But then the way that Mother's Day shows up in places doesn't connect with me.

It hits like a tsunami in birth stories and breastfeeding complaints and mommy-and-me class meetups and meal train spreadsheets and baby showers. Erin pauses to point out that though the Meeks have parented 10 babies, they've never had a baby shower.

Understand that the Meeks arent complaining. Theyre merely pointing out that Mothers Day paints a sameness on unique stories, and they get me thinking that maybe we need a redefining of Mothers Day. That maybe it shouldnt focus on June Cleaver-like status in a home, but instead be a day defined by love and mentorship  in all its forms.

But, Im getting ahead of myself. First, I have to tell you about a baby named Griffin.

A voice with an offer

Kelly was at a conference for work when her phone rang.

Can you take a newborn? Kelly remembers the voice on the other end saying. Were trying to discharge him from the hospital, like, now.

After a year of hosting respite foster child  where the Meeks acted as foster homes when permanent foster families needed to leave the state or get away overnight  this was the call she had been waiting for, to be sure, but there was no time to process it. The voice wanted an answer  now.

Yes, Kelly said, knowing that if she had any trepidation, the caseworker would move down the list.

By the time Erin called her back that afternoon, Kelly had secured Family and Medical Leave for a few weeks and bribed a friend with baby snuggles in exchange for watching Griffin the few hours she and Erin had prior engagements.

The pair planned to pick him up after work, giving Erin enough time to drop by the book store for a few titles on what to expect when you are expecting.

It just made me feel better about the fact that, OK, we are getting this newborn, she said with a chuckle.

Baby carrier in hand, a protective group of nurses met them, obviously sizing the pair up. One handed over diapers and formula and gave them a briefing on Griffin.

After she kind of looked at us for a minute, she smiled and said, You want to hold him? Erin remembered.

She got up and walked over to the nurse before being stopped with a terse, Wash your hands first. It was her inaugural parenting fail, she laughs now.

Their five-minute trip home rounded up to 20 as they took taking turns with care and stopped extra long at every sign. The first night, Kelly snuggled a bundled Griffin with one hand and read through grant proposals for her day job at the Iowa Coalition Against Sexual Assault with the other.

There, on that couch, everything they had been through  the classes, the licenses, the interviews  was made real.

This fragile life was under their supervision and it was an awesome responsibility  for however brief he would be with them.

Griffin's first night

But first, puppies

A few years earlier, a different kind of baby was responsible for bringing Erin and Kelly together  puppies.

She was my dog sitter, Kelly said with a laugh.

In the summer of 2010, Erin, then a Drake student who had been taking care of Kellys three dogs, needed a place to stay. Kelly offered her house, suggesting itd be easier for the dogs if Erin was already there during Kelly's busy summer of travel. In the hot Iowa air, a friendship evolved into more than a friendship, and Erin basically never left.

Things felt better when she was around, Kelly said. And the dogs liked her; dogs are a good judge of character.

With a 12-year age difference, Kelly was hesitant to tell Erin she wanted to be a parent right after they cemented their relationship. Kelly had already grappled with her emotions about not experiencing pregnancy, which in her mid-30s wasnt going to be in the cards.

Through her work, she'd seen a lot of kids move through the foster care system. She intimately knew there were kids who needed a place, and she desperately wanted her home to be one of those spaces.

Griffin with mom, Kelly

She soon discovered Erin also saw herself as a mom. Erin's Texan mother reminds her often that when people asked little Erin what she wanted to be when she grew up, she listed off a million things, but mommy was always first.

Still, Erin was 22 and needed a slow start, so they became respite-only providers.

I wanted to get our feet wet, you know, figure out what worked for us and what didn't work for us, she said.

As respite-only providers, the Meeks molded their lives to maintain kids routines while they stayed at their home. If the couple normally ate at 7 p.m., but their placement ate at 4 p.m., the family set the table at 3:45 p.m. If the child went to taekwondo on the other side of town, one of them got off work to beat the traffic on I-235.

After a year of that, they started to wonder if it wouldnt be easier to bring kids into their routine and if it wouldnt be more fulfilling to take kids on adventures with them.

I realized that Im sad when the kids go, Kelly said. Im ready for the kids to be here all the time.

So they readied their home for full-time placement, which is where they were going to stop. Adoption was something they were licensed for, sure (its recommended by most state workers to be dually licensed), but they didn't have any intention of using that part for a while.

But, Kelly sighed, things change.'

Griffin at a pumpkin patch with mom, Erin

Bow-ties and guilt

As the Meeks were mastering diaper changing and bottle feeding, the situation with Griffins birth mom quickly changed.

The state does everything they can to place children back with their mother or within their extended family, experts said. But at the same time, they start concurrent planning or preparing foster families if mothers parental rights are terminated.

As part of signing up to be a foster parent, Kelly reconciled the impermanence she would have in kids lives. The Meeks take seriously their role as co-parents while birth parents got themselves straight.

They trade photos and stories with birth parents over text. They host additional visits, allow moms to do their childrens hair once a week or families to help with bath time.

Other kids they'd housed were thriving back at home by the time the state determined Griffin wasnt going to be safe with his birth mom. A caseworker called: Did they want to adopt Griffin?

Its not that Kelly didnt want a child, she did. But questions nagged at her; had she failed his birth mom in some way?

By the time somebody gets their kids removed, so many systems have failed at so many different points, Kelly said. And so for me, it was very much, yes, very happy that we have him. I love him to bits and pieces. I can't imagine my world without him. And I can also clearly see all the mistakes that were made to get his mom or any mom or parent in that situation.

That's just a hard thing to hold, she added. I carried some guilt around that and I still carry that guilt.

But they switched gears, re-threading their lives together with permanence in mind.

Griffin walks down the aisle with his mom, Kelly.

After securing an attorney, the Meeks headed to the courthouse that fall to adopt Griffin, then 19 months old.

He had a mullet, Kelly said, remembering her favorite part of his adoption day. She liked his blond locks long, but, in hindsight, they were too long.

I was just afraid he was going to eat the crayons he was using to color, Erin said, and they were going to be like, clearly these people are not fit to be parents, they are letting their kid eat crayons.

The judge asked them if they wanted to put anything on the record, but neither knew what to say. The judge noted that Griffin was wearing a bow-tie, matching his mom Erins, and that he was the spiffiest toddler hed ever had in his courtroom.

As her bouncy six-year-old walks in the door from after-care, Kelly and Erin are beyond happy he is their son  their little Gryffindor, as the super Harry Potter fans call him  but they never let themselves forget that they are caring for a child somebody else birthed.

What is a mother?

The outline of a tree crafted out of white string crawls up the center wall of the Meek's house. Its leaves are photos of children who passed through their doors. Pointing at each, their names, favorite foods and pet peeves come to Kelly easily. They all left a deep mark on her, and she hopes she affected them, too.

Its in front of these familial branches that we get to the root of the issue with Mothers Day.

Neither Erin nor Kelly have birthed a child, but could anyone deny that they are mothers at least 20 times over?

A friend told me that Mothers Day might be the most egalitarian holiday there is," writing "the one thing we have in common is mothers."

A sentiment fit for a Hallmark card, but one that's only true if you change how you define "mother." If you separate the title from birth and use it to characterize anyone who guides, nurtures, believes in and even calls you out in those moments you need it.

My mother is a grounding force in my life, teaching me to give without receiving, to enjoy a glass of white wine at the end of the day and to laugh when you want to cry (still working on that one).

But I have had lots of other mothers: My babysitter, Andrea Miller, who treated me like an adult when everyone else saw me as a child; my sister, who delivers much needed reality checks with an empathetic hand; and even the editors, Rick Kogan and Mike Trautmann, who believed in me more than I ever believed in myself.

Kelly Meek talks with her adopted son, Griffin, 6, after school on Tuesday, May 7, 2019, at their home in Des Moines.

Mothers are the step-parents, the single dads, the aunts, the cat parents, the mentors, the rainbow parents of children who didnt breathe our air, the good colleagues, the woman in the elevator who asks you how you're doing every day, and, yes, the matriarchs in Norman Rockwell-like families, too.

So this Mothers Day, dont flail about trying to get the last bouquet at the grocery store. Instead, call all the mothers in your life and share a moment they made an impact on you. Then spend some time thinking about the ways you are a mother to those around you. Make a plan to be more motherly.

As another person told me its all "perspective," and thats true. But as members of the greater human community, we can do something about how we talk about mothers, mothering and being a mom. Namely, treat it like religion, politics and your thoughts on the Mueller report  dont assume that everyone feels the way you do, had it just like you did or, frankly, cares at all.

In January, the Meeks adopted two more kids  Leo, 15, and Selena, 17  and the judge again asked them if they wanted to put something on the record. This time they did.

I wanted to make sure to say that we think of this as an opportunity to add to our family, rather than replacing somebody in another family, Erin said.

Thats the great thing about love and mothers, theres a never-ending supply.

COURTNEY CROWDER, the Register's Iowa Columnist, traverses the state's 99 counties telling Iowans' stories. She just got married, so stop asking about kids, OK! You can reach her at (515) 284-8360 or ccrowder@dmreg.com. Follow her on Twitter @courtneycare.

Like All the Moms? Connect with us on Facebook.

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This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: They may not have birthed their kids, but all mothers deserve to be celebrated
Bristol (United Kingdom) (AFP) - British Prime Minister Theresa May's Conservatives are facing a battering at this month's European Parliament elections amid the Brexit impasse, presenting their candidates with quite a challenge in the campaign for votes.

With May's authority hanging by a thread, Brexit postponed, voters fed up and eurosceptics deserting the party in droves, according to opinion polls, Ashley Fox, who leads the Conservatives in the outgoing European Parliament, concedes that this election campaign is "difficult".

"I understand why people are angry," the 49-year-old MEP said, drinking a cup of tea in the Conservative Party offices in Bristol, southwest England.

In June 2016, 52 percent of voters were in favour of Britain leaving the European Union.

Brexit was originally set to happen on March 29 this year. But MPs could not agree on the divorce deal May struck with Brussels and now the departure date has been set back to October 31.

As a result, Britain must take part in the European Parliament elections, being held in the UK on May 23, to elect MEPs who may take their seats for a few months only.

- Protest vote fears -

The election "will be difficult for my party because electors are frustrated, and we saw that in the local elections," said Fox.

In the local authority polls on May 2, both main parties -- the Conservatives and the Labour opposition -- took a pounding as exasperated voters switched elsewhere.

The Brexit Party, newly formed by eurosceptic figurehead Nigel Farage, is leading the opinion polls for the European Parliament elections.

"We would prefer that they wouldn't be taking place. But we will fight them," said Fox, as he urged voters not to defect to Farage's single-issue start-up.

A survey by pollsters Opinium, out Sunday in The Observer newspaper, put the Brexit Party on 34 percent, Labour on 21 percent, the anti-Brexit Liberal Democrats on 12 percent and the Conservatives on 11 percent.

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The campaigning enthusiasm shown by Fox is not matched by Conservative headquarters in London.

Perhaps sensing which way the wind is blowing, the centre-right party is yet to hold an official campaign launch, leaving the battle to the footsoldiers.

Standing for re-election in the southwest England constituency, which returns six MEPs, Fox has planned a limited campaign focused on social media rather than doorknocking.

He insists that is not out of fear of meeting the voters, but due to the lack of time between now and polling day for elections he never expected to be standing in.

With less than a fortnight to go until the polls, Stephen Williams, who is standing for the Liberal Democrats, is hoping the centrist party can maintain the impressive resurgence it witnessed in the local elections.

He is out knocking on doors almost every day.

"My main message is: we want to stop Brexit," Williams told AFP while out campaigning in Redcliffe in the heart of Bristol.

Calling at one opulent house, he is met by a young man who seems startled by the knock and uninterested in the election.

But Williams, 52, is used to the hazards of doorknocking: he has been doing it for 35 years and was the Bristol West member of the British parliament from 2005 to 2015.

- Brexit 'mess' -

The next house offers a more enthusiastic welcome. On the porch, Dan Tyndall, a reverend, willingly shares the candidate's pro-European outlook.

"I hope for something that gives us a very clear indication as to how we can get ourselves out of this mess," the cleric said of the elections.

With a thick wad of leaflets, Williams goes tirelessly from door to door, and does not encounter a single Brexiteer.

In Bristol, 62 percent of voters wanted Britain to remain in the EU.

"The Liberal Democrats are the largest pro-remain party," Williams tells Elizabeth Davies, 57, as her little black dog barks.

Here again, his message falls on receptive ears.

"I have never ever voted Conservative in my entire life and I now can't vote for the Labour Party because they haven't come out as an opposition party," she said.

The two main parties are continuing to negotiate on a possible Brexit compromise, and Labour is pursuing what has been dubbed "constructive ambiguity" on the topic.

Satisfied, Williams presses on with his campaigning, in the hope of securing a seat -- and keeping it if Britain does a U-turn on its Brexit decision.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex with their baby son Archie, during a photocall in St George's Hall at Windsor Castle [Photo: PA]

The Duchess of Sussex has shared a new photo of her baby son Archie, to celebrate her first US Mothers Day.

Meghan posted a candid image on the @SussexRoyal Instagram account, of her holding her baby boy in her arms, wrapped in a shawl, showing just his feet and her hands holding them.

Believed to have been taken within the grounds of their new home Frogmore Cottage in Windsor, it also features Princess Dianas favourite forget-me-nots flowers in the background.

Meghans bridal bouquet for her wedding last May also included the same flowers, in another sweet tribute to Harrys late mother.

The Instagram caption reads: Paying tribute to all mothers today - past, present, mothers-to-be, and those lost but forever remembered.We honor and celebrate each and every one of you.

Today is Mothers Day in the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Kenya, Japan, and several countries across Europe.

This is the first Mothers Day for The Duchess of Sussex.

READ MORE: Meghan and Harry's son Archie has no title 'to give him a normal life'

The post also included a quote from a poem called Lands by Nayyirah Waheed.

My mother was my first country; the first place I ever lived.

The proud parents with their baby son [Photo: PA]

Meghan, 37, gave birth to son Archie Harrison Mountbatten Windsor at 05:26 on May 6, 2019 with husband Harry, 34, by her side.

The couple set up their own Instagram page on April 2, and it broke a world record by gaining one million followers within the first six hours of its launch.

READ MORE: Duchess of Sussex's touching post-birth interview

At the time, royal watchers predicted that the first image of Baby Sussex would appear on social media.

Buckingham Palace announced the couple wanted to keep details around the birth of their first child private so they could enjoy some time with their newborn before showing him off to the world during a brief photo call last Wednesday.

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But like any modern couple, they shared the news that their baby was a boy on their social media channel.

The traditional birth notice was also placed on the ceremonial easel outside Buckingham Palace on the day of his birth.

The couples immediate families were informed and Meghans mother Doria Ragland is overjoyed by the birth of her first grandchild.

Ms Ragland has been staying with her daughter Meghan and Harry at Frogmore Cottage in Windsor.

After the photocall on Wednesday, Harry and Meghan shared another photo of them with Archie, Doria and the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh.

Archie is seventh in line to throne and is the Queens eighth great-grandchild.

The duke and duchess moved into their new home Frogmore Cottage at the beginning of April. They previously lived at Nottingham Cottage within the grounds of Kensington Palace.

Harry broke his paternity leave last Thursday to visit The Hague in the Netherlands to launch the countdown to the 2020 Invictus Games.

He also has a day of engagements in Oxford on Tuesday 14 May.
Berlin (AFP) - German Chancellor Angela Merkel's preferred successor, Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer, said Sunday that she would not seek the top job before Merkel's term ends in 2021.

The woman usually dubbed "AKK" took over from Merkel as head of the centre-right Christian Democratic Union (CDU) last December, while the chancellor said she wants to serve out her 2017-2021 term.

"The chancellor and the government were elected for an entire legislative term and the citizens rightly expect them to take seriously the commitment that came with the election," said Kramp-Karrenbauer.

"So I can rule out the possibility that I will work deliberately to seek a change earlier," she told the Welt am Sonntag newspaper.

Rather, the CDU should work on a new policy platform and nominate its chancellor-candidate in the late autumn of 2020, she said.

German media have been speculating for months over whether Germany's veteran leader Merkel may leave earlier as head of her left-right coalition government.

Under one scenario, her junior partners the centre-left Social Democrats (SPD) could quit the "grand coalition" if they receive further election setbacks.

Upcoming electoral tests are the European parliament elections this month and three state polls in Germany's ex-communist east later in the year.

In all those elections, the far-right and anti-immigration AfD could make further gains at the expense of the mainstream CDU and SPD parties.

Kramp-Karrenbauer acknowledged that the coalition with the SPD "did not emerge smoothly and doesn't always have an easy time cooperating".

On her relationship with Merkel, she said that "on some days I speak more with her than with my husband".

She stressed however that Merkel to her was neither a "personal friend" nor a "benefactor", and that instead they are "fellow travellers".

"Our relationship is very good, just as it was before," Kramp-Karrenbauer told the newspaper.
MEXICO CITY (Reuters) - Unidentified gunmen shot dead a trade union leader in Mexico's central city of Salamanca, authorities said on Sunday, the latest outbreak of violence in an area plagued by a murderous struggle between gangs over fuel theft.

Gilberto Munoz, a former federal lawmaker and the leader of the national chemical and petrochemical union, died after being shot on Saturday, the government of Salamanca's home state of Guanajuato said in a statement.

Salamanca is home to one of Mexico's six oil refineries, and the facility has been under the protection of the army since the start of the year after President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador launched a crackdown on fuel theft across the country.

The motive for the attack on Munoz was unclear. A spokeswoman for Guanajuato's government said investigations were ongoing and that no further details could be revealed for now.

The fight for control of access to pipelines has turned the once relatively peaceful state of Guanajuato, a center of the carmaking industry, into one of the most violent.

Between 2007 and last year, the annual murder tally in Guanajuato leapt more than ten-fold to over 2,600.

Taking office in December, Lopez Obrador pledged to reduce the violence in Mexico. So far, murders are still rising.

A total of 969 murder investigations were opened in Guanajuato in the first four months of his administration, a jump of 50 percent from the same period a year earlier, according to figures published by the interior ministry.

(Reporting by Dave Graham, Editing by Rosalba O'Brien)
MEXICO CITY (AP)  Mexico City's government warned people Sunday to remain indoors as forest and brush fires carpeted the metropolis in a smoky haze that has alarmed even many of those accustomed to living with nagging air pollution.

Outdoor activities on the capital's main avenue continued, although fewer capital dwellers than usual came out to bike, rollerblade or do aerobics on Paseo de la Reforma, parts of which are closed on Sundays for exercise. The capital and surrounding metropolitan area are home to about 22 million people.

The Environmental Commission of the Megalopolis said the air was polluted with high levels of solid particles, such as ash, that can cause respiratory problems and other illnesses upon prolonged inhalation. In recent days, 258 firefighters have been dispatched to extinguish 13 brush fires, four fires on barren plots of land, two house fires, a forest fire and a blaze at an industrial warehouse in the capital. In the nearby state of Mexico, 992 firefighters have been sent to fight 30 fires.

At the same time, fires in the southern states of Oaxaca and Guerrero  combined with a high-pressure weather system  have carried contaminants into the Valley of Mexico and trapped them there, the commission noted. And in Tepoztlan, a popular weekend retreat just south of the capital, authorities closed access to archaeological ruins over the weekend while they stamped out fires that consumed more than 200 acres of grass, bushes and other flammable plants.

The hashtag #SmokeinCDMX was trending on Twitter, while an image of the iconic Angel of Independence statue on Reforma circulated with the angel donning a gas mask.

Olivia Meza, 28, strode on roller blades alongside her white Lhasa Apso dog Sunday despite the pollution warnings.

"I'm used to the air, somehow," she said with a shrug. "We're like cockroaches -- It's hard to kill us."

Meza blames the city's increasingly high levels of air pollution on global warming. Mexico's dry season has extended in recent years, leading to less rain during the summer months and higher temperatures. The capital has the added challenge of being in a valley, which traps dirty air and particles. Then there are the millions of cars belching exhaust.

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And now the fires.

Curtains of smoke have blanketed the capital in recent days, blurring visibility at street level especially at night and invading nostrils with the smell of smoke. Parents of young children have reported that their little ones are awakening with nosebleeds.

"Last night it smelled burnt," said Michelle Serralde, 40, who joined Meza on roller skates Sunday in spite of the poor air quality, she said, "because we have so few free days."

Nearby, a city-sponsored aerobics session wrapped up for the day. Irene Cruz, a 60-year-old whose gives instructional courses on how to use fire extinguishers on weekdays, sweated it out for four hours in the sun Sunday despite the warnings.

Saturdays are for church, she said, and Sundays are for outdoor exercise.

Pollution "is something we live with every day," Cruz said dismissively, joking that she would rust out if she ever left the city of her birth.
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If you own shares in Moog Inc. (NYSE:MOG.A) then it's worth thinking about how it contributes to the volatility of your portfolio, overall. In finance, Beta is a measure of volatility. Volatility is considered to be a measure of risk in modern finance theory. Investors may think of volatility as falling into two main categories. The first category is company specific volatility. This can be dealt with by limiting your exposure to any particular stock. The second sort is caused by the natural volatility of markets, overall. For example, certain macroeconomic events will impact (virtually) all stocks on the market.

Some stocks see their prices move in concert with the market. Others tend towards stronger, gentler or unrelated price movements. Some investors use beta as a measure of how much a certain stock is impacted by market risk (volatility). While we should keep in mind that Warren Buffett has cautioned that 'Volatility is far from synonymous with risk', beta is still a useful factor to consider. To make good use of it you must first know that the beta of the overall market is one. A stock with a beta greater than one is more sensitive to broader market movements than a stock with a beta of less than one.

Check out our latest analysis for Moog

What MOG.A's beta value tells investors

Looking at the last five years, Moog has a beta of 1.67. The fact that this is well above 1 indicates that its share price movements have shown sensitivity to overall market volatility. Based on this history, investors should be aware that Moog are likely to rise strongly in times of greed, but sell off in times of fear. Many would argue that beta is useful in position sizing, but fundamental metrics such as revenue and earnings are more important overall. You can see Moog's revenue and earnings in the image below.

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NYSE:MOG.A Income Statement, May 12th 2019

Does MOG.A's size influence the expected beta?

Moog is a fairly large company. It has a market capitalisation of US$3.2b, which means it is probably on the radar of most investors. It takes deep pocketed investors to influence the share price of a large company, so it's a little unusual to see companies this size with high beta values. It may be that that this company is more heavily impacted by broader economic factors than most.

What this means for you:

Since Moog has a reasonably high beta, it's worth considering why it is so heavily influenced by broader market sentiment. For example, it might be a high growth stock or have a lot of operating leverage in its business model. This article aims to educate investors about beta values, but it's well worth looking at important company-specific fundamentals such as Moogs financial health and performance track record. I urge you to continue your research by taking a look at the following:

Future Outlook: What are well-informed industry analysts predicting for MOG.As future growth? Take a look at our free research report of analyst consensus for MOG.As outlook. Past Track Record: Has MOG.A been consistently performing well irrespective of the ups and downs in the market? Go into more detail in the past performance analysis and take a look at the free visual representations of MOG.A's historicals for more clarity. Other Interesting Stocks: It's worth checking to see how MOG.A measures up against other companies on valuation. You could start with this free list of prospective options.

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.
KORAKOU, Cyprus (AP)  Before Cyprus gained fame as the mythical birthplace of the goddess of love Aphrodite nearly three millennia ago, Cyprus was known around the Mediterranean for its perfumes, scents that the mighty queens of Egypt coveted.

What appears to have distinguished the Cypriot fragrances was the quality of the rich olive oil in which the ancient perfumers captured the musky scent of indigenous oak moss, citrusy bergamot and labdanum or rockrose. This was done through a distillation process using clay vases of exacting dimensions.

"Perfume is the symbol of life," said Maria Rosaria Belgiorno, a retired professor with Italy's National Council for Research whose own archaeological digs on the east Mediterranean island 15 years ago unearthed the oldest perfumery of the Bronze Age.

Perfumes hide the smell of the dead and of decay. They, according to Belgiorno, have a "spiritual connection" to life.

And that connection is one of the motivations behind a new perfume theme park nestled in Cyprus' verdant Solea valley, which allows visitors to recreate those ancient perfumes in the traditional way, with replicas of the ancient clay distillers extracting the scents from the locally grown herbs over an open fire.

Belgiorno says evidence to the popularity of Cyprus' fragrances is found in a reference to a Cypriot perfume merchant inscribed on 4,000 year-old tablets found in the ancient Greek city of Thebes. That reference pre-dates the emergence of the deity Aphrodite, meaning Cyprus was famous for its perfumes before it gave birth to the ancients' love goddess.

The origins of perfume-making are believed to date back to 5,000 B.C. in ancient Mesopotamia, where archaeological digs in the early 20th century near the city of Mosul in modern-day Iraq turned up the first evidence of such activity.

From there, perfume-making migrated to Anatolia and then to the Mediterranean and beyond, with perfumeries discovered in such diverse places as Sardinia and Slovakia.

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It was a long journey to perfume's modern spiritual home in France.

For thousands of years, Cypriots  from the highest echelons of nobility to the average commoner  produced and used perfumes. The popularity of those fragrances carried through the ancient Egyptians to the Templars, medieval Venetian merchants and up to the present. Early on in the last century, famed French perfumer Francois Coty created the perfume Chypre  French for Cyprus  which is one of the seven main perfume groups and the only one that bears the name of a place.

The Italian Research National Council, along with Belgiorno, has teamed up with the Lazarou family that runs a successful herbal business to build the park which rests on a parcel of the family's farmland near the village of Korakou.

The park puts on display a range of working replicas including those from the earliest known perfumery in the Mesopotamian Tepe Gawra settlement, from the Minoan era on Crete  of Minotaur fame  and of course from Cyprus.

Distillers hailing from different areas vary, but are identical in their simplicity and ingenuity. The herbs boil at the bottom with the steam rising to the domed top where it condenses into a liquid that flows through a bamboo reed into vases. The design has proven so successful that distillers identical to those found in Tepe Gawra are now producing rose water in Iran, said Belgiorno.

Although the perfume park was inaugurated late last year and is still a work in progress, word is spreading. A group of University of Cyprus archaeology students led by the university's archaeological research unit head Vasiliki Kassianidou visited the park for a hands-on demonstration on ancient distillation techniques.

Even a new luxury hotel in Cyprus' southern coastal resort town of Limassol will encourage guests to visit the park for a unique experience.

"We wanted to show future generations how their ancestors produced fragrances and used herbs for food as well as for medicine," said Yiannoula Lazarou, on whose property the park is built.

That is a spiritual connection to life, too.
By Shihar Aneez and Ranga Sirilal

COLOMBO (Reuters) - Several dozen people threw stones at mosques and Muslim-owned stores and a local man was beaten in the town of Chilaw on Sri Lanka's west coast on Sunday in a dispute that started on Facebook, sources told Reuters.

Three weeks ago in Sri Lanka Islamist bombers blew themselves up in four hotels and three churches, killing more than 250 people. Since then Muslim groups say they have received dozens of complaints from across the country about people being harassed.

"A police curfew has been imposed in Chilaw Police area with immediate effect until 6 a.m. tomorrow to control the tense situation," police spokesman Ruwan Gunasekera told Reuters. The police later said the curfew would be lifted at 4 a.m.

A screenshot of the alleged Facebook exchange seen by Reuters showed a user had written in Sinhalese "It is difficult to make us cry" and added a local slur against Muslim men.

A Facebook user identified as Hasmar Hameed, whom two locals said was the man later arrested, replied in English: "Dont laugh more 1 day u will cry."

Authorities said they arrested the author of a Facebook post, identifying him as 38-year-old Abdul Hameed Mohamed Hasmar. Locals in Chilaw, a majority Christian town, said Hasmar's post was interpreted as menacing and an angry crowd beat him.

Reuters was unable to determine what the original conversation was about or to contact Hasmar for comment.

"Later they pelted stones at three mosques and some Muslim-owned shops. Now the situation has calmed down, but we are scared of the night," said one local Muslim man who asked to remain anonymous for security reasons.

One mosque suffered extensive damage, he said. Video footage circulating online shows several dozen young men shouting and throwing stones at a clothes store called New Hasmars, which locals said belonged to Hasmar.

Some communities say they are fearful that the government, which failed to act on successive warnings about looming Islamist attacks, has not caught all potential militants.

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A week ago in Negombo, where more than 100 people were killed during Easter prayers, a violent clash erupted between local Muslims and Christians after a traffic dispute.

Unlike after the Negombo clashes, the Sri Lankan government did not impose a ban on social media platforms on Sunday.

(Writing by Alexandra Ulmer; editing by Jason Neely)
2201 Pennsylvania Ave., #221. | Photos: Zumper

Logan Square has excellent walkability, is convenient for biking and boasts excellent transit options, according to Walk Score's rating system.

So what does the low-end rent on a rental in Logan Square look like these days  and what might you get for the price?

We took a look at local listings for studios and one-bedroom apartments in Logan Square via rental site Zumper to find out what price-conscious apartment seekers can expect to find in this Philadelphia neighborhood.

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.

1700 Benjamin Franklin Parkway

Listed at $1,325/month, this 500-square-foot studio , located at 1700 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, is 11.3 percent less than the $1,493/month median rent for a studio in Logan Square.

Building amenities include a swimming pool, a roof deck, a fitness center, on-site laundry and a business center. In the unit, which comes furnished, you're promised air conditioning, a balcony, a walk-in closet, in-unit laundry and a dishwasher. Pet lovers are in luck: cats and dogs are allowed. This rental does not require a leasing fee.

(See the complete listing here.)

1520 Hamilton St.

This studio, situated at 1520 Hamilton St., is listed for $1,345/month for its 329 square feet of space.

In the unit, look for both central heating and air conditioning, carpeted floors, a fireplace, a dishwasher and in-unit laundry. The building boasts garage parking, a fitness center and a residents' lounge. When it comes to pets, both meows and barks are allowed. This rental does not require a leasing fee.

(See the complete listing here.)

333 N. 15th St.

Here's a one-bedroom, one-bathroom condo at 333 N. 15th St., which, at 1,600 square feet, is going for $1,350/month.

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In the unit, you can expect air conditioning. Neither cats nor dogs are welcome. The rental doesn't require a leasing fee.

(See the full listing here.)

2201 Pennsylvania Ave., #221

Then there's this 750-square-foot condo with one bedroom and one bathroom at 2201 Pennsylvania Ave., #221, listed at $1,395/month.

In the unit, you'll find both central heating and air conditioning, hardwood flooring and ample closet space. For those with furry friends in tow, know that cats and dogs are welcome on this property. Amenities offered with the building include a swimming pool, a roof deck and a fitness center. Future tenants needn't worry about a leasing fee.

(See the listing here.)

2121 Market St., #215



Over at 2121 Market St., #215, there's this 650-square-foot one-bedroom, one-bathroom condo, going for $1,595/month.

In the unit, you're promised air conditioning and in-unit laundry. The building offers a roof deck and a fitness center. Pet owners, inquire elsewhere: this spot doesn't allow cats or dogs. There isn't a leasing fee associated with this rental, but there is a $500 security deposit.

(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.
Jerusalem (AFP) - Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Sunday he would ask President Reuven Rivlin for more time to form a new coalition government, citing recent holidays and the Gaza flare-up.

Netanyahu's Likud won 35 seats in the April 9 general election, with most party chiefs represented in the 120-seat parliament recommending that he forms the next governing coalition.

On April 17 Rivlin formally tasked him with the mission, which by law needs to be completed within 28 days -- although a 14-day extension is automatically granted upon request.

"As in past instances of forming a government, I intend on asking an extension from the president," Netanyahu said in the opening remarks of the weekly cabinet meeting.

"Such an extension is not only acceptable but also required due to scheduling problems," he said citing a busy holiday season, including Passover and Israeli Independence Day, as well as the Gaza flare-up.

On May 4, militants in the Hamas-ruled Gaza Strip fired hundreds of rockets at Israel, prompting the army to striked dozens of targets inside the blockaded coastal enclave in response.

Four Israeli civilians and 25 Palestinians, including at least nine militants, were killed in the two-day flare-up, which ended on Monday in a tentative truce.

Netanyahu has been conducting low-intensity meetings with heads of the parties expected to join his coalition.

It is expected to include the 16 members of the ultra-Orthodox Jewish parties, the far-right national religious union, Avigdor Lieberman's nationalistic Israel Beitenu and the centre-right Kulanu.

Netanyahu's lawyers were meanwhile negotiating with the justice ministry when the premier's pre-trial hearings would take place.

The attorney general announced in February his intention to indict Netanyahu for bribery, fraud and breach of trust -- pending a hearing.

Netanyahu is not required to resign if indicted, only if convicted with all appeals exhausted.
Nick Clegg has responded to Facebook co-founder Chris Hughes, who called on the company to be broken up. - AFP

Nick Clegg has hit back at calls for Facebook to be broken up after claiming that critics should focus on getting the rules of the internet right and not dismantling successful American companies.

In an op-ed for the New York Times, the former deputy Prime Minister and Facebooks head of global affairs responded directly to Chris Hughes, a co-founder of Facebook, who took aim at the company earlier this week.

Mr Hughes said that his fellow founder Mark Zuckerberg had created a leviathan of a company and its monopoly needed to be broken up.

Facebook operates the worlds largest online social network with more than 2bn users, and also owns popular photo-sharing app Instagram and messaging services WhatsApp and Messenger. Its string of acquisitions has left consumers with few alternatives for online communication, Hughes claimed.

The company has faced a torrent of criticism over the past year, particularly after the Cambridge Analytica episode embroiled the company in a privacy scandal that left the data of 87m users exposed.

Mr Hughes also said that Facebook needed to be held to greater account as its power has become unprecedented in scale and could unwittingly be used to be a significant influence on global elections.

Sir Nick retaliated to the comments by saying that what matters is not size but rather the rights and interests of consumers, as well as the companys accountability to governments and legislators.

Mr Hughes is right that companies should be held accountable for their actions, he said.

But the challenges he alludes to, including election interference and privacy safeguards, wont evaporate by breaking up Facebook or any other big tech company.

Sir Nick admitted that if people were to write the rules for the internet from scratch today, they wouldnt want to leave many crucial social and political questions in the hands of private companies.

Big in itself isnt bad. Success should not be penalized. Our success has given billions of people around the globe access to new ways of communicating, he said.

Facebook shouldnt be broken up  but it does need to be held to account.
Nigel Farage has been banned from his local pub after he allegedly made a swift exit when he was involved in a head-on crash with the landlord (Picture: SWNS)

Nigel Farage has been banned from his local pub after allegedly making a swift exit when he was involved in a head-on crash with the landlord.

Patrick Tranter, 38, says he was driving home with his one-year-old son when his Jaguar was hit by a Range Rover that Farage was a passenger in.

He claims that instead of checking on Patrick and his son, the Brexit Party leader - who was apparently being driven to Question Time - fled the scene.

Patrick and his baby son George were taken to hospital by ambulance and the landlord, who suffered neck and shoulder injuries, says his car has been written off.

Patrick said he has now banned Mr Farage from his George and Dragon in Westerham, Kent, which is just a few miles from the MEPs home.

READ MORE

Theresa May could set resignation day this week, says Graham Brady

Man of the people my arse, he said. "He didn't even bother to see if me and my little boy were OK. He just upped and left.

Had he had done so he would have recognised me as I've served him countless pints and I worked with his daughter just over a year ago.

There's no way he'll be welcome back in my pub - which has the most British sounding name going.

Patrick Tranter says he will never serve Nigel Farage again (Picture: SWNS)

Mr Tranter, who branded the former Ukip leader a terrible, terrible human being, said he was driving his classic 1986 Series 3 Sovereign Jaguar along Clacket Lane, Kent, around 9:30am on Thursday, May 9 when he collided with Mr Farages car.

He said Farage's driver stopped at the scene, but the MEP made off.

Patrick said: "I ran out to see if my little boy was OK but Farage just got out of the car.

"Farage just walked out of the car. God knows where as it was a country lane.

"I turned around and asked one of his people, 'Is that Farage?' and she said yes. I don't think she was meant to say that.

Patrick says his Jaguar is a write-off after the crash (Picture: SWNS)

He said his car is a complete write-off, adding: "His driver was really courteous and waited by our car. He called the police and ambulance too.

"The police even launched a small manhunt for Farage. It was for his safety more so for any criminality.

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"If he bothered to stop and see if we were OK he'd have recognised me.

"That man shouldn't be anywhere near power."

Patrick and his shaken baby son George were taken to hospital in an ambulance (Picture: SWNS)

A police spokeswoman did not comment on whether Farage was being hunted.

She said: "We were called following a two-vehicle collision in Clacket Lane, Titsey, around 9.55am (9 May).

"No one was injured as a result of the incident. The road was closed in both directions while the vehicles were recovered.

"We are not investigating."
The grand reception area at No. Ten Manchester Street.

No. Ten is a boutique hotel just off Marylebone high street, an architecturally stunning building from the outside while inside it is intimate enough to feel like a (much nicer) home away from home. Our stay began with checking into the reception area, which boasts an Art Deco design with sumptuous red asymmetric chairs.

We were taken up to our plush Junior Suite, complete with a king size Richmond Hypnos bed and a Nespresso machine plus a TV with a rotating screen so you can enjoy the full Sky package both in bed or from the sofa. The room offers ample wardrobe facilities and a luxurious sitting area, which features a comfy sofa and armchair set by Christopher Guy.

Youre never short of things to do near No. Ten, which is just a short walk away from some of the most famous London attractions, including Madame Tussauds and the Sherlock Holmes museums, while on a sunny day Regents Park is also on your doorstep.

Our plush Junior Suite at No. Ten Manchester Street.

But, for our purposes, this trip was all about shopping  as we were staying for the Bicester Village VIP shopping experience package which includes return train tickets to Bicester Village, a Full English breakfast for two, a bottle of champagne upon arrival, and a 10% off discount card to spend at Bicester where you can expect complimentary hands-free shopping and access to The Apartment at Bicester Village  a by appointment only VIP area  including refreshments.

If youre looking for one of the UKs best discounted luxury shopping experiences, Bicester Village is an inside secret you need to know about. Thankfully, No.Ten is just a few minutes walk away from Marylebone train station, where you can get whisked away on a direct train to designer outlet shopping spot, Bicester Village, in just over an hour.

Billage Village is home to designer brands including Tory Burch and Cos.

Bicester Village is home to some 160 designer brands, ranging from Acne Studios to Zadig & Voltaire. Cookery fans can enjoy the rainbow shades of crockery at the Le Creuset boutique, while gym lovers might want to pop into the Lululemon shop for heavily discounted lycra. Theres also all the high-end luxury fashion labels, including Gucci, Prada and Mulberry, for those looking to splash out on a designer accessory.

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We also enjoyed a delicious lunch at the Farmshop Restaurant & Cafe while we were there. We tried the spit roast quarter chicken with coleslaw and aioli, and the beetroot, walnut, feta cheese, together with a side of mac n cheese. Drinks were Hendricks gin made with house tonic and cucumber.

The delicious foodie offering at the Farmshop Restaurant & Cafe, Bicester.

Returning from a hard days shopping, we returned to our room. Before nodding off, I relaxed with the excellent selection of luxury magazines in the room and enjoyed a long bath in the roomy tub, which is stocked with T London products.

The next morning, we enjoyed mixed berry pancakes with fresh berries and Canadian maple syrup, before checking out feeling refreshed and revitalised, as well as all shopped out (for now).

The Bicester VIP Experience starts at 265 based on two sharing a room for a one night stay, and can be purchased using the promo code BICESTER.

The hotel is also offering a Bridal Concierge Package, which starts from 371 per night per person, based on two people sharing. It includes an overnight stay in the hotels beauty-appointed Junior Suites or Grand Suite, including breakfast, A welcome bottle of prosecco, a Molton Brown gift or similar, and The Little White Book.
Raqa (Syria) (AFP) - More than a year after the Islamic State group fled, Syrian boys and girls are finally back on stage -- bobbing to the rhythm of drums in the northern city of Raqa.

At the first cultural centre to open since the jihadists' draconian rule ended, sunlight floods into the brand new library, while books line shelves along a wall that still smells of wet paint.

After almost four years under IS, which banned music and the arts, US-backed forces expelled the last jihadists from Raqa in October 2017.

But it's taken a bit of time to resuscitate cultural life.

"I can't describe how happy I am," said Fawzia al-Sheikh at the centre's opening earlier this month, in the still largely devastated city.

"After all this destruction, and no arts or culture, we finally have a centre where we can listen to song and poetry" again, the Raqa resident added.

In the Raqa Centre for Arts and Culture's brightly lit gallery, paintings hang beside charcoal drawings, near sculptures of human figures.

In the concert hall, Malak al-Yatim stepped off stage after performing -- exhilarated to finally be able to sing in public again.

"I feel like a bird sweeping through the spring sky," he said.

Yatim added that IS smashed his instruments and banned him from singing.

"We were like nightingales in a cage," he lamented.

"If we did anything, they'd chop off our head or whip us."

IS overran Raqa in 2014, making the city its de facto Syrian capital and imposing a brutal interpretation of Islam on everyone in its orbit.

- Books 'saved from the ruins' -

Before IS arrived, the city had more than 20 cultural centres, the largest housing 60,000 books.

But the extremists forced all these facilities to close, burning and destroying books and paintings.

But in the new centre's library, hundreds of volumes that survived the extremists adorn shelves.

"These books you can see -- we saved them from the ruins," said Ziad al-Hamad, the centre's director.

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"During IS' rule, residents hid them wherever they could," added the 62-year-old, dressed neatly in a brown V-neck jumper over a stripy white shirt.

"When the city was liberated, they gave them back to us," added Hamad, who also sits on the city council's culture and antiquities commission.

The Kurdish-led and US backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) expelled IS from the village of Baghouz, its last scrap of Syrian territory, in late March.

While the jihadists have continued to claim deadly attacks in areas controlled by the SDF -- including Raqa -- local artists have returned to their easels.

In the cultural centre's gallery, painter Amal al-Attar has work on display after returning from exile in Beirut.

Among her works is a painting of a white boat adrift on an ocean, and another of a home on the shoreline.

"It's like a re-birth," the 37-year-old said of the centre's opening, sunglasses perched atop her dark shoulder-length hair.

Attar used to run a studio for artists, but when IS overran the city they told her art was forbidden.

She left 50 works behind when she fled to neighbouring Lebanon.

"IS burned them," she said.

"I can't forget what happened back then, but this cultural centre will give us a new drive," she said.
Islamabad (AFP) - An attack on a luxury hotel in the southwestern city of Gwadar was a bid to "sabotage prosperity", Pakistani prime minister Imran Khan said Sunday, as police confirmed all the attackers had been killed.

At least one person was shot dead Saturday after gunmen stormed a luxury hotel in the southwestern Pakistani city of Gwadar, the centrepiece of a multi-billion dollar Chinese infrastructure project.

A Baloch separatist group, the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), claimed responsibility for the attack via Twitter.

"Such attempts especially in Balochistan are an effort to sabotage our economic projects and prosperity. We shall not allow these agendas to succeed," Khan said in a statement issued by his office.

The Chinese embassy in Islamabad also strongly condemned the incident.

Local police said four gunmen who had stormed the hotel, shooting dead a security guard, had been killed overnight by security forces.

"All four terrorists were killed and security forces had taken complete control of the hotel building," a local police official in Gwadar told AFP via telephone.

His account was confirmed by a security source in Islamabad. The military had said on Saturday that there were three gunmen.

Mohammad Aslam, a police official in Gwadar, told AFP Saturday that only staff were present in the building at the time of the attack.

The BLA is one of a myriad of insurgent groups fighting in tightly-guarded Balochistan province, which has been rocked by separatist, Islamist and sectarian violence for years.

- 'The next Dubai' -

The Pearl Continental, part of Pakistan's largest five-star hotel chain, is the only luxury hotel in Gwadar, frequented by foreign and Pakistani business delegations as well as diplomats.

It sits isolated on a ridge overlooking the Arabian Sea port city that was formerly a small fishing village, but now touted by officials as "the next Dubai" thanks to the multi-billion dollar China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

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Part of China's Belt and Road initiative, CPEC seeks to connect the western Chinese province of Xinjiang with Gwadar, with the development of the port as the plan's flagship project.

Gwadar will provide China with safer and more direct access to the oil-rich Middle East than the waterway trade route it currently uses through the narrow Malacca Straits.

But it has also drawn its share of attacks -- particularly from separatists who have long complained that residents of Pakistan's poorest and largest province do not receive a fair share of profits from its resources.

The BLA has targeted Chinese workers in Pakistan multiple times, including during a brazen daylight attack on the Chinese consulate in Karachi which killed four people in November last year.

At the time, the BLA branded Beijing "an oppressor".

Balochistan is tightly guarded by the Pakistani military, who have been targeting insurgents there since 2004. The army has been repeatedly accused by international rights groups of abuses there, but denies all allegations.

The attack was the second deadly attack in a prominent Pakistan city this week, after a suicide blast claimed by the Pakistani Taliban at one of the country's oldest and most popular Sufi shrines killed at least 12 people in the eastern city of Lahore.
Peggy Lipton, a former model and actress known for her roles on TVs The Mod Squad and Twin Peaks, has died after battling cancer, according to published reports. She was 72.

Liptons daughters from her marriage to music producer Quincy Jones, Rashida and Kidada Jones, announced her death Saturday.

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Peggy Lipton Mourned With Online Tributes From Hollywood

She made her journey peacefully with her daughters and nieces by her side, the two said in a statement to the Los Angeles Times. We feel so lucky for every moment we spent with her.

Lipton was initially diagnosed with and treated for colon cancer in 2004.

She was born in New York City in 1946. She began modeling at age 15 before giving acting a try a few years later.

The actress launched her television career with a series of guest roles, and landed the iconic role as flower child and crime fighter, Julie Barnes, on ABCs Mod Squad. The series co-starred Michael Cole and Clarence Williams III, and ran from 1968 to 1973. Lipton won a Golden Globe for the role in 1971, and received four Emmy nominations.

She had a decades-long Hollywood career, with other credits including the miniseries Secrets, TVs Crash, Alias and Angie Tribeca, in which she played daughter Rashida Jones mom.

Lipton married legendary producer Jones in 1974, and the two divorced in 1990. She is survived by her two daughters.

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Democratic presidential hopeful Pete Buttigieg confronted what he called a crisis of belonging in the country, criticizing President Donald Trump for using white identity politics  but also warning his fellow Democrats against elevating one groups interests above another's.

The wall I worry about the most is not the presidents fantasy wall on the Mexican border thats never going to get built anyway, he said Saturday in a speech to gay rights activists. What I worry about are the very real walls being put up between us as we get divided and carved up.

The administration, Buttigieg said, uses what he called the most divisive form of "identity politics"  white identity politics.

That can leave black women, immigrants, the disabled, displaced auto workers and others feeling as if they're living in a different country, Buttigieg said at a Human Rights Campaign gala in Las Vegas.

Who is running in 2020?An interactive guide to the presidential candidates

Courting the black caucus:Candidates fight for support of black lawmakers and their powerful voting bloc

But Buttigieg, who is openly gay, said there is also some schismatic thinking in the Democratic Party, such as when "we're told we need to choose between supporting an auto worker and supporting a trans women of color, without stopping to think about the fact that sometimes the auto worker is a trans woman of color and she definitely needs all the support that she can get."

As Democrats try to determine who in their large field of candidates could best defeat Trump, they've debated whether the party should try to win back white, working class voters or focus instead on energizing core Democratic constituencies including women and racial minorities.

Buttigieg, who has faced questions about seeking the presidential nomination as another white male of privilege, said every person has a story that can be used to either separate  or connect  them to others.

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"What every gay person has in common with every excluded person of any kind is knowing what its like to see a wall between you and the rest of the world and wonder what its like on the other side," he said. "I am here to build bridges and to tear down walls."

South Bend, Indiana Mayor Pete Buttigieg delivers a keynote address at the Human Rights Campaign's (HRC) 14th annual Las Vegas Gala at Caesars Palace on May 11, 2019 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Buttigieg is the first openly gay candidate to run for the Democratic presidential nomination. The HRC is the largest LGBTQ advocacy group in the United States.

Buttigieg's remarks continued a unity theme he has emphasized since launching his presidential campaign last month. His campaign logo includes a bridge that encapsulates his first name.

Trump sounded out his potential rival's harder-to-pronounce last name at a campaign rally in Florida Wednesday while ticking through Democratic presidential contenders: "Boot-edge-edge," the president sounded out, "They say 'edge-edge.'"

On Friday, Trump compared Buttigieg to the longtime mascot of Mad Magazine, a freckled-faced cartoon boy.

"Alfred E. Neuman cannot become president of the United States," he told Politico.

Buttigieg, who had to Google the character that was popular long before he was born to understand the jab, made an oblique reference to it Saturday.

He said his teenage self would not have been able to comprehend the fact that he would wake up in Las Vegas one day "to reports that the president of the United States was apparently trying to get his attention."

"Let alone if you told him that the president somehow pronounced his name right," Buttigieg said as the audience laughed.

Buttigieg to Pence: If you have a problem with who I am, your quarrel is with my creator

Pence answers Buttigieg's criticism: 'He knows better. He knows me'

Rising star? 7 hurdles facing Democrat Pete Buttigieg's 2020 presidential campaign

Saturday's event at Caesars Palace was one of more than 30 local dinners the Human Rights Campaign is holding before its national dinner in September in Washington.

Two other presidential candidates  California Sen. Kamala Harris and Sen. Cory Booker of New Jersey  spoke at a dinner in Los Angeles in March.

The Human Rights Campaign Foundation, the educational arm of the nations largest lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer civil rights organization, will co-host a forum for 2020 Democratic presidential candidates this fall.

Anyone in this room understands that politics isnt theoretical; it is personal," Buttigieg said. "So many of us have a marriage that exists by the grace of a single vote on the U.S. Supreme Court."

That's why, he said, what matters in Washington is "not the show." But "the way a chain of events starts in one of those big white buildings and reaches into our lives, into our homes, our paychecks, our doctors' offices, our marriages," he said. "That's what's at stake today."

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This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Pete Buttigieg says Donald Trump's white 'identity politics' contributing to a 'crisis of belonging'
Filipinos vote Monday in midterm polls that are expected to strengthen President Rodrigo Duterte's grip on power, opening the way for him to deliver on pledges to restore the death penalty and rewrite the constitution.

Duterte has found international infamy for his foul-mouthed tirades, but remains hugely popular among Filipinos fed up with the country's dysfunction and elite politicians.

He wants to bring back capital punishment for drug-related crimes as part of a deadly crackdown on narcotics in which thousands of suspects and drug dependents have already been killed.

His tough-on-crime platform -- which also includes lowering the age of criminal responsibility from 15 to 12 -- was key to his landslide election victory in 2016.

More than 18,000 posts are at stake when polls open for the more than 61 million registered voters at 6:00 am (2200 GMT Sunday), including half of the seats in the upper house Senate.

But for Duterte the key is wresting control of an independent-minded Senate while keeping the House of Representatives in the hands of his allies.

Historically, the nation's 24 senators -- who serve six-year terms -- have had a reputation for being more independent-minded than the lower house.

Winning a Senate majority, something which independent national surveys indicate is well within reach, would give him legislative backing for his anti-crime proposals and his plan to rewrite the constitution.

The opposition warns that could lead to the single-term limit for the presidency being lifted, allowing him to seek re-election despite his repeated statements that he would stand down at the end of his mandate.

It would also allow him to expand his contentious anti-drug crackdown by bringing back the death penalty, a pledge which the UN Human Rights Council said gave it "deep alarm".

The Philippines outlawed capital punishment in 1987, reinstated it six years later and then abolished again in 2006.

- Family politics -

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The 73-year-old hit the campaign trail to get his supporters in the Senate, giving two-hour speeches at late-night rallies and routinely insulting their opponents -- calling one a "faggot" and accusing another of lawyering for communist guerrillas.

The results for municipal and city mayors and councils are expected within hours after the polls close at 6:00 pm Monday, with winners for the Senate and congressional seats scheduled to be declared from Friday.

Even if the presidential term limit is not lifted, the Duterte family looks well-placed to continue after him.

The president's daughter Sara -- tipped by many as the president's potential successor in the 2022 presidential vote -- is running to keep her post as mayor in its southern bailiwick of Davao city.

Her younger brother Sebastian is seeking, unopposed, the city's vice-mayoral seat, while the eldest presidential son Paolo is standing for a seat in the House of Representatives.

Electoral contests in the Philippines have always been bloody, with dozens, including candidates and their supporters, getting killed in the fierce competition for posts that are a source of wealth in a nation with deep poverty.

Police are on full alert to safeguard Monday's balloting as the bloody trend continued this year, with 14 dead and 14 wounded in "election-related violent incidents" since January, according to a grim official count.
Dubai (AFP) - Rana Nawas left the corporate world nearly two years ago to produce and host a podcast -- one that is now considered the most popular in the Arab world.

The English-language series, "When Women Win", tells the stories of successful women from all over the world and, according to Apple, has become the most listened to podcast in the Middle East.

It first gained traction in 2017 in Dubai, where it is produced, before it started to spread across the region.

Nawas said she created the series "to give women all over the world access to role models" by highlighting the "extraordinary things" ordinary women are doing.

"I've been surprised at how the region has embraced 'When Women Win'," the 40-year-old told AFP, adding aviation giant Emirates Airline would start airing her show this month.

"There's clearly a thirst for this content, there's clearly a thirst for female role models," said the Briton of Lebanese and Palestinian origins.

"When Women Win", which is available to download in 144 countries, is the most popular podcast even in the ultra-conservative kingdom of Saudi Arabia, according to Nawas.

"I've been... surprised that actually my biggest market is Saudi Arabia," said the former sales executive at an aviation company.

"Everybody tells you (Saudis) only consume Arabic video content, so I was really delighted... to know that they also consume English-language audio content."

Nawas, whose show is entirely self-funded, said she hopes to be able to draw financing from other sources.

"It's not sustainable," she told AFP.

"I am hoping in a couple of years, once I have the impact that I want... to start bringing investors on or bringing advertisers or sponsors on board."

Nawas gets messages about the podcast from around the world via social media, including Instagram and LinkedIn, and believes the podcast will gain even more popularity.

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"I think the global future of podcasts is very positive, and the reason is people are not going to get less busy. We are only getting busier," she said.

"We need ways to consume content where it is a secondary activity."

She said most people listen to podcasts on mobile devices during their commute, or while cleaning or cooking.

- 'Third-culture kids' -

Like Nawas, Sudanese-born Omar Tom and friends created a podcast in 2016 that touches on topics they feel are neglected in traditional media.

One such issue his English-language podcast -- the Dukkan Show -- focuses on is life in the Gulf for members of its huge expatriate population.

In the show, the hosts chat to guests as if sitting in a dukkan -- or "corner store" -- where it is common culture in the Arab world to socialise with friends and neighbours.

"I wanted to fight a couple of stereotypes," said Tom, 30, who is sporting a Made in Sudan T-shirt.

"One was the Sudanese stereotype when I first started, which is the lack of representation in media, and if there is a representation it doesn't always speak for the diaspora or for the third-culture kids.

"As Arabs we don't look so good in international and western media. So how do we tackle that? The only way to do that is to speak in a language that everybody would understand, which at the moment just happens to be English."

- 'Here to stay' -

Many young Arab people now prefer podcasts over traditional radio programmes.

For Rami Baassiri, 26, podcasts allow him to be more productive and do two things at once.

"There's a lot of downtime in my day, whether I'm commuting to work, driving, in the gym, in queues in the mall, at the airport, so I like to make use of that time," he told AFP.

"I think of podcasts as radio on demand.

"Radio ... is very random. Podcasts allow me to control the radio by choosing whoever I want to listen to, whatever I want to listen to."

Reem Hameed, a Canadian who takes part in the Dukkan Show, said podcasts are "here to stay and in the Arab world".

"We have, in the Arab world, an amazing tradition of radio. If you think about how deep radio and its history falls into the Arab world, podcasting is a natural, digital extension of that," said Hameed, 36, who is of Iraqi and Filipino origins.

Podcasts have been spreading across the Arab region, including Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait, Jordan and Lebanon.

In Jordan, the platform Sowt -- or "voice" -- has aired an array of podcasts that touch on subjects ranging from politics to music since its launch in 2017.

Hebah Fisher, chief executive and co-founder of Dubai-based network Kerning Cultures, the first venture-funded podcast company in the Middle East, said podcasts are the future.

"Our seed round is a strong signal for the podcast industry in the Middle East: the medium is taken seriously, and its value for listeners and users is clear," she told AFP in an emailed statement.

"Podcasting is the future of media."
By Alan Charlish and Anna Wlodarczak-Semczuk

WARSAW, May 12 (Reuters) - The leader of Poland's conservative ruling party promised harsher sentences for child abuse on Sunday, as the release of a documentary about pedophile priests created a fresh battleground in an election campaign marked by debate on religion and sexuality.

The film "Just don't tell anyone," which features victims confronting their abusers, has reignited criticism of the Catholic Church's handling of such cases and had over 3 million views within 22 hours of being posted on YouTube.

"We prepared changes to the penal code meaning this crime (child abuse) will be punished very severely ... there will be no suspended sentences, there will be severe penalties, maybe even up to 30 years in prison," said the nationalist Law and Justice (PiS) party's head Jaroslaw Kaczynski at a rally.

Currently, sexual abuse of a child under 15 is punishable by up to 12 years in prison.

Kaczynski's words came amid tensions between liberals who feel the church wields too much power in Poland and conservatives who see the Catholic faith as a key element of national identity whose influence must be protected.

On Monday, a woman was detained by police for posting images near a church of the Virgin Mary with her halo painted to resemble the rainbow flag of the LGBT community.

CHURCH "SORRY FOR EVERY WOUND"

PiS, which leads most opinion polls, has made protecting traditional values a key plank of its bid to win European elections on May 26 and parliamentary elections in the autumn.

"Does this (stance against child abuse) mean that the crimes ... of a small number of priests give the right to attack the church, to offend Catholics? No, that is no justification," added Kaczynski in the northern city of Szczecin.

The film, by brothers Tomasz and Marek Sekielski, shows elderly priests, including Franciszek Cybula who was the chaplain of former president Lech Walesa, being confronted by people they abused as children. It presents allegations that known pedophiles were shifted between parishes.

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"I am deeply disturbed by what I saw in Tomasz Sekielski's film. The enormous suffering of those who have been hurt gives rise to pain and shame," Poland's most senior archbishop Wojciech Polak said in a recorded statement. "I am sorry for every wound inflicted by people of the church."

Anna Frankowska of the charity "Have no fear," which supports abuse victims, said the Catholic Church in Poland had not taken concrete steps to bring pedophile priests to justice.

"This is just another apology, it almost appears as if the statement was prepared before the church officials saw the movie," she told Reuters. (Reporting by Alan Charlish and Anna Wlodarczak-Semczuk; Editing by Andrew Cawthorne)
Warsaw (AFP) - The leader of Poland's governing right-wing party vowed Sunday to crack down on child sex abuse as an in-depth documentary on paedophilia among Polish priests went viral in the Catholic country.

"Those to whom children have been entrusted will be especially severely punished (for sex abuse), and this applies to priests, of course, but also to all including... well-known celebrities," Law and Justice (PiS) party leader Jaroslaw Kaczynski was quoted by Polish media as saying.

Those currently found guilty of abusing children under 15 years of age face up to 12 years behind bars.

Kaczynski, regarded as Poland's de facto powerbroker, suggested that prison sentences could run to up to 30 years, but did not indicate which celebrities he might be referring to.

He spoke at a rally for May 26 elections to the European Parliament amid a campaign in which the PiS has railed against gay rights and accused opponents of unjustly attacking the Catholic church.

Meanwhile, "Just don't tell anyone", a documentary on priestly sex abuse in Poland by independent Polish journalist Tomasz Sekielski has been viewed more than four million times in the 24 hours since it was posted Saturday on YouTube.

The two-hour-long film includes compelling hidden camera footage of victims who are now adults confronting elderly priests about the abuse they suffered decades ago at their hands.

Several of the priests admit to the abuse and apologise for it, sometimes hinting at monetary compensation.

The film also documents how priests who were accused or even convicted of child sex abuse were transferred to other parishes where they were able to continue their duties and work with children.

"I apologise for every wound inflicted by the Church's people," Polish Primate Wojciech Polak said in a statement, while vowing to do everything he could to help victims.

Liberal opposition leader Grzegorz Schetyna welcomed Polak's pledge but said it was "clear" the church had failed to confront child sex abuse and that now "only the state will be able to be effective".

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Recent opinion polls show that the PiS and Schetyna's European Coalition are running neck-and-neck ahead of the European ballot.

The ground-breaking Polish documentary concludes that Polish-born pope and Catholic Saint John Paul II turned a blind eye to sex abuse by priests when the Warsaw's communist regime was working to undermine the church, then Poland's only independent institution.

Pope Francis on Thursday passed a landmark new measure to oblige those who know about sex abuse in the Catholic Church to report it to superiors, which could bring many new cases to light.
Washington (AFP) - US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo is heading to Russia with an unusual and thankless task -- standing firm against the rival power even as his boss, President Donald Trump, reaches out to reconcile.

Pompeo will meet Tuesday with Putin in the Black Sea resort of Sochi, in the highest-level US engagement with the Russian leader since a July summit in Helsinki after which Trump faced wide scorn at home for his trustful embrace of the Russian leader.

The top US diplomat's trip comes less than two months after Special Counsel Robert Mueller wound up an investigation that found that Russia interfered in the 2016 presidential election -- but that the Trump campaign did not collude with Moscow.

After spending the first two years of his presidency under the cloud of Mueller's probe, Trump chatted for more than an hour by telephone with Putin on May 3, in what he hailed as a "very positive" conversation.

Trump said that Putin had assured him that Russia was not involved in Venezuela -- directly contradicting Pompeo and other top officials who for weeks have demanded that Moscow stop backing leftist leader Nicolas Maduro, whom Washington is trying to topple.

Venezuela is only one of a slew of issues where the United States and Russia have clashed.

Others include the Syrian war, arms control commitments and the conflict in Ukraine, where Western powers have been attempting for five years to little avail to end Moscow's support for armed separatists.

Jonathan Katz, a former US official focused on Central and Eastern Europe, believed that Russia was looking to see if the end of Mueller's probe would allow a new beginning with Trump, whom Putin supported over Hillary Clinton in 2016.

"I think this is Moscow testing whether there is a new modus operandi in Washington, (after) the release of the Mueller report," said Katz, now a senior fellow at The German Marshall Fund of the United States.

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Despite heading the US government, Trump is a major outlier in Washington, with virtually all senior administration officials including Pompeo and lawmakers across party lines advocating a harder stance on Russia, including sanctions over election interference and its 2014 takeover of Crimea from Ukraine.

For Pompeo, "it's incredibly difficult because the interlocutors on the other side don't know who speaks for the United States," Katz said.

- Progress sought on arms control -

A State Department official said Pompeo, who will also meet with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov for the second time in as many weeks, would push for progress in particular in one area -- arms control.

The New START treaty, which caps the number of nuclear warheads well below Cold War limits, is set to expire in 2021 and Trump has called for a broader successor that will include a rising China.

Even Pompeo has acknowledged that those goals may be too optimistic. Another key accord, the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces treaty, just collapsed, with the United States pulling out over charges that a new Russian missile system violated it.

Despite deep rifts on many hotspots, the State Department official said that Russia and the United States, if not seeing eye-to-eye, had developed "constructive" relationships on Afghanistan and North Korea.

"It is in our interest to have a better relationship with Russia," the official told reporters on condition of anonymity.

"Where we have concerns, we're going to raise them directly, narrow those differences and find areas where we can cooperate to protect and advance our interests."

But Victoria Nuland, who championed a tough line on Russia as an assistant secretary of state during Barack Obama's administration, voiced doubt on whether hopes for a better relationship could be realized under Putin's increasingly autocratic rule.

She said that a "lack of leadership, unity and consistency" in the United States was the greatest challenge to countering a resurgent Russia.

"What we don't know, and what we have to continue to test, is whether Russian President Putin truly wants to improve relations," she recently testified before the House Foreign Affairs Committee.

"It may well be that his psychology and leadership model are too dependent on an enemy abroad to change course -- and we have to steel ourselves for what may be a very long game that outlasts Putin."
Prince Harry seems to be settling into his new role as father quite nicely following the birth of his first child, Archie, with Meghan Markle. Yesterday, at a series of Invictus Games events in the Netherlands, he chatted with other attendees about his first day with baby Archie, collected lots of presents, and even sported a "Daddy" jacket signifying his new title.

But he also opened up to a fellow veteran about missing his own mother, Princess Diana. Harry was just 12 years old when Diana was tragically killed in a car accident in Paris. The world mourned her loss, but not nearly as much as her two young sons (Prince William was 15), who famously walked behind her casket during her funeral procession. In recent years Harry has been quite honest about the mental health struggles he's faced due to the loss of his mother. Everything can be OK, but I really regret not ever talking about it for the first 28 years of my life. I never talked about it," he's said.

The Duke & Duchess Of Sussex Pose With Their Newborn Son Dominic Lipinski/Getty Images

Dennis van der Stroon, a veteran who will be competing in the next Invictus Games, says that he and the Duke of Sussex connected about new babies and missing their mothers during an "amazing and emotional" conversation yesterday. At a certain moment, we just got connected on this level, van der Stroon said, according to People. We talked about how my wife, Mireille, is 20 weeks pregnant with our first child, a girl, and he told me how special it was that his son has just been born."

"I told Harry about my mother [who died in 2014], and we talked about our shared experience of missing a mom, he continued. He said missing a mother is like missing some kind of security, how you need that as a son and it falls away when you lose your mother. He said he meets a lot of people in his work who have lost a mother, father, sister, brother, or relatives, and when he hears their story, as he heard my story, he said he doesnt feel so alone.

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Diana and Harry Georges De Keerle/Getty Images

Above all, he said he was just amazed by the miracles in the world, and how his child has made a lot of people happy," van der Stroot said. "He also told me hes really happy that his son is so far very quiet. But he also told me not to make too many plans and that theres no way you can plan for when the baby arrives.

Diana, William & Harry At Thorpe Park Julian Parker/Getty Images

Harry's feelings are so understandable, and extremely relatable to anyone out there who's lost a parent. All I want to do is make my mother incredibly proud, he told People in 2016. Thats all Ive ever wanted to do.

Originally Appeared on Glamour
LONDON, May 12 (Reuters) - Prince Harry and Meghan paid tribute to all mothers on Sunday, when the Duchess of Sussex's native United States celebrates Mother's Day, by honoring and celebrating "past, present, mothers-to-be and those lost but forever remembered."

Writing alongside a picture of the couple's new baby Archie's feet, they said: "Paying tribute to all mothers today - past, present, mothers-to-be, and those lost but forever remembered."

"We honor and celebrate each and every one of you," they wrote on their official Instagram account.

Meghan gave birth in the early hours of Monday morning to Archie, the seventh-in-line to the British throne, leaving his father, Queen Elizabeth's grandson, and royal fans across the world enthralled.

While Britain celebrates Mother's Day on March 22, other countries including the United States, Canada, Australia and others mark it on the second Sunday in May.

The couple also quoted from the poem "lands" by Nayyirah Waheed: "My mother was my first country; The first place I ever lived." (Reporting by Elizabeth Piper Editing by Raissa Kasolowsky)
Three production companies said they will no longer film in Georgia after the state passed a controversial abortion law.

On Tuesday, Brian Kemp, the governor of Georgia, signed a law that effectively bans abortion after six weeks of pregnancy according to the New York Times. The Times reports that six weeks of pregnancy is usually when doctors can start to detect a fetal heartbeat, but it is also before many women realize they are pregnant.

As a result of the new law  which will go into effect in 2020 unless it is blocked by a court challenge  some Hollywood industry figures are calling for production companies to stop filming in the state.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, Georgias tax incentives make it a popular location to shoot films and television series. (For example, Black Panther, The Walking Dead and Stranger Things have all been shot in the state.)

David Simon, who created The Wire and now runs Blown Deadline Productions wrote on Twitter on Wednesday: I cant ask any female member of any film production with which I am involved to so marginalize themselves or compromise their inalienable authority over their own bodies. I must undertake production where the rights of all citizens remain intact. Other filmmakers will see this.

In a follow-up tweet, Simon continued, Can only speak for my production company. Our comparative assessments of locations for upcoming development will pull Georgia off the list until we can be assured the health options and civil liberties of our female colleagues are unimpaired.

Meanwhile, CEO of Killer Films Christine Vachon tweeted on Thursday: Killer Films will no longer consider Georgia as a viable shooting location until this ridiculous law is overturned. The company is behind movies including Vox Lux and Carol.

Mark Duplass, who started the production company Duplass Brothers Productions with his brother, also shared a similar message.

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Dont give your business to Georgia, he wrote on Thursday. Will you pledge with me not to film anything in Georgia until they reverse this backwards legislation?

RELATED: Busy Philipps Opens Up About Having an Abortion at 15: Every Woman Deserves Compassion and Care

Despite the statements from these three companies, THR notes that many major film studios have not put out a similar message.

The Motion Picture Association of America  which represents five big film studios  told THR that it will monitor developments in the law before making a decision.

Film and television production in Georgia supports more than 92,000 jobs and brings significant economic benefits to communities and families, an MPAA spokesperson told the outlet. It is important to remember that similar legislation has been attempted in other states, and has either been enjoined by the courts or is currently being challenged. The outcome in Georgia will also be determined through the legal process. We will continue to monitor developments.

RELATED: Singer Joy Villa Wears Anti-Abortion Dress to Daytime Emmys and Claims Pro-Life Is Pro-Woman

Celebrities including Alyssa Milano and Busy Philipps have also spoken out about the new abortion law.

SO FD UP, Milano tweeted on Wednesday in reference to the law, while also retweeting similar sentiments.

Meanwhile, Philipps shared her own abortion story on Tuesday nights episode of Busy Tonight in response to the signing of the law.

The statistic is that one in four women will have an abortion before age 45, the actress said. That statistic sometimes surprises people, and maybe youre sitting there thinking, I dont know a woman who would have an abortion.

Busy Philipps

Well, you know me, she added, visibly emotional. I had an abortion when I was 15 years old and Im telling you this because Im genuinely really scared for women and girls all over the country.

After the show, Philipps wrote on Twitter, I spoke about my abortion on my show tonight because I can not sit idly by while womens rights are stripped away.
Photo: Dunning Pour House/Yelp

A new pub has made its debut in the neighborhood. The fresh addition to Belmont Heights, called Dunning Pour House, is located at 7718 W. Addison St. between Ozark Ave. and Overhill Ave.

"The Dunning neighborhood on the city's Northwest Side is home to Dunning Pour House, which offers local residents and visitors the nostalgic feel of a traditional Chicago neighborhood bar," according to its Facebook page.

Courtesy of Dunning resident Robert "Bobby" Klans, this neighborhood spot boasts a 50-foot bar, more than a dozen pool tables and a game room for dart leagues and private parties, notes the business' website. On the menu, you'll find 16 draft beers on tap, plus a selection of wine and craft cocktails, including the Dunning Mule, North Side Punch and more.

Dunning Pour House has garnered rave reviews thus far, with a five-star rating out of four reviews on Yelp.

David K., who was among the first Yelpers to review the new spot on April 28, wrote, "Tasty margarita and a lot of other cocktails on the menu to try for my future visits. Welcoming and friendly staff!"

Yelper T L. wrote, "Casual neighborhood bar with friendly staff, reasonable prices and a large drink selection."

Intrigued? Stop in to try it for yourself. Dunning Pour House is open from 5 p.m.1 a.m. on Monday through Thursday, 4 p.m.2 a.m. on Friday, noon2 a.m. on Saturday and noon-midnight on Sunday.

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.
White Oak Drive and Usener Street. | Photos: Zumper

Curious just how far your dollar goes in Houston?

We've rounded up the latest rental listings via rental site Zumper to get a sense of what to expect when it comes to hunting down an apartment in Houston with a budget of $2,100/month.

Read on for the listings. (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.

4727 W. Alabama St. (Afton Oaks)

Listed at $2,100/month, this 820-square-foot studio apartment is located at 4727 W. Alabama St.

The furnished unit has air conditioning and a ceiling fan. The building features outdoor space. Good news for animal lovers: Both dogs and cats are welcome here. Look out for a broker's fee equal to one month's rent.

According to Walk Score, the area around this address requires a car for most errands, is bikeable and offers many nearby public transportation options.

(See the complete listing here.)

504 Bering Drive (Greater Uptown)

Next, there's this one-bedroom, one-bathroom situated at 504 Bering Drive. It's also listed for $2,100/month for its 701 square feet of space.

The building has garage parking. In the apartment, anticipate a dishwasher and in-unit laundry. Pet owners, take heed: Cats and dogs are permitted. Future tenants needn't worry about a leasing fee.

According to Walk Score's assessment, the area around this address isn't very walkable, has minimal bike infrastructure and has some transit options.

(Take a gander at the complete listing here.)

White Oak Drive and Usener Street (The Heights)

Here's a 940-square-foot one-bedroom, one-bathroom apartment at White Oak Drive and Usener Street that's going for $2,086/month.

In the unit, you'll get hardwood floors, high ceilings and a walk-in closet. When it comes to building amenities, expect garage parking and a fitness center. Luckily for pet owners, both dogs and cats are allowed. There's no leasing fee required for this rental.

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Walk Score indicates that the surrounding area is somewhat walkable, is very bikeable and has a few nearby public transportation options.

(See the full listing here.)

San Felipe Street and Bancroft Lane (River Oaks)

Next, check out this 784-square-foot one-bedroom, one-bathroom apartment that's located at San Felipe Street and Bancroft Lane. It's listed for $2,084/month.

In the unit, you'll get a dishwasher, in-unit laundry and a balcony. The building has garage parking and a roof deck. Dogs and cats are allowed. The rental doesn't require a leasing fee.

Per Walk Score ratings, the surrounding area is somewhat walkable, is bikeable and has good transit options.

(Check out the complete listing here.)

1111 Rusk St. (Downtown)

Located at 1111 Rusk St., here's an 875-square-foot one-bedroom, one-and-a-half-bathroom that's listed for $2,080/month.

Building amenities include storage, a fitness center and a swimming pool. Pet lovers are in luck: Cats and dogs are welcome.

Per Walk Score ratings, the surrounding area is a "walker's paradise," is convenient for biking and boasts excellent transit options.

(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.
2221 W. Bonanza Road, #105. | Photos: Zumper

Curious just how far your dollar goes in Las Vegas?

We've rounded up the latest rental listings via rental site Zumper to get a sense of what to expect when it comes to scoring housing in Las Vegas if you've got $600/month earmarked for your rent.

Take a peek at what rentals the city has to offer, 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.

2221 W. Bonanza Road, #105 (West Las Vegas)

Listed at $600/month, this 400-square-foot studio condo is located at 2221 W. Bonanza Road, #105.

The unit features a mix of carpet and hardwood floors and in-unit laundry. The building boasts a swimming pool. Cats and dogs are not welcome. Future tenants needn't worry about a leasing fee.

According to Walk Score's assessment, the area around this address is somewhat walkable, is fairly bikeable and has some transit options.

(See the complete listing here.)

204 Orland St., #2

Next, there's this one-bedroom, one-bathroom condo located at 204 Orland St., #2. It's also listed for $600/month for its 612 square feet of space.

The unit is air-conditioned. Cats and dogs are not allowed. The rental doesn't require a leasing fee.

According to Walk Score, this location isn't very walkable, is somewhat bikeable and has some transit options.

(See the complete listing here.)

230 W. Boston Ave. (Meadows Village)

Finally, here's a 540-square-foot one-bedroom, one-bathroom at 230 W. Boston Ave. that's going for $600/month. Cats and dogs are allowed.

The unit has hardwood floors.

According to Walk Score's assessment, the surrounding area is quite walkable, is relatively bikeable and has good transit options.

(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.
346 Leavenworth St. | Photos: Zumper

Curious just how far your dollar goes in San Francisco?

We've rounded up the latest rental offerings via rental site Zumper to get a sense of what to expect when it comes to finding a place in San Francisco if you're on a budget of $2,000/month.

Take a peek at what rentals the city has to offer, 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.

2144 Grove St., #2 (Lone Mountain)

Listed at $2,000/month, this 350-square-foot one-bedroom, one-bathroom apartment is located at 2144 Grove St., #2.

Amenities offered in the building include garage parking. The unit boasts cherry cabinets, hardwood floors and granite countertops. Hairball alert: cats are allowed. Future tenants needn't worry about a leasing fee, but there is a $2,500 deposit.

According to Walk Score, this location is a "walker's paradise," is convenient for biking and boasts excellent transit options.

(Take a look at the complete listing here.)

700 Santiago St. (Parkside)

Next, there's this studio situated at 700 Santiago St. It's listed for $1,995/month.

When it comes to building amenities, anticipate on-site laundry and storage space. In the unit, expect hardwood floors, a walk-in closet and natural light. Pets are not welcome. The rental doesn't require a leasing fee.

Walk Score indicates that the area around this address is extremely walkable, has some bike infrastructure and boasts excellent transit options.

(Take a gander at the complete listing here.)

621 Taylor St., #61 (Lower Nob Hill)

Next, check out this 232-square-foot studio apartment that's located at 621 Taylor St., #61. It's listed for $1,995/month.

In the unit, you'll get a dishwasher, a walk-in closet, natural light and carpeting. Building amenities include on-site laundry, an elevator and storage space. Pet owners, inquire elsewhere: this spot doesn't allow cats or dogs. The rental doesn't require a leasing fee.

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According to Walk Score's assessment, the area around this address is extremely walkable, is very bikeable and is a haven for transit riders.

(See the complete listing here.)

346 Leavenworth St. (Tenderloin)

Listed at $1,995/month, this 366-square-foot studio is located at 346 Leavenworth St.

In the apartment, you can anticipate hardwood floors, in-unit laundry and a bay window. The building offers an elevator. Pet lovers are in luck: cats and dogs are welcome. The rental doesn't require a leasing fee.

Walk Score indicates that the area around this address has excellent walkability, is quite bikeable and is a haven for transit riders.

(See the complete listing here.)

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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.
Following is a summary of current US domestic news briefs.

'Golden Spike' event marks 150th anniversary of Transcontinental Railroad

Thousands of visitors, many of them train enthusiasts, are expected to crowd onto a remote bluff in northern Utah for a day of speeches, music and a historical re-enactment marking the 150th anniversary of the first U.S. Transcontinental Railroad. The three-day "Golden Spike" celebration opens on 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.

Tanker collision, gasoline spill closes portion of Houston Ship Channel

One barge was severely damaged and another capsized following a collision with a 755-foot (230-m) tanker in the Houston Ship Channel near Bayport, Texas, that spilled about 9,000 gallons of gasoline into waywater, officials said. No injuries were reported. Salvage teams were at the site on Saturday, U.S. Coast Guard officials said.

Pentagon eyes longer-term support on U.S.-Mexico border

Acting U.S. Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan made his second trip to the U.S.-Mexico border on Saturday as the Pentagon looks to develop a longer-term plan to support President Donald Trump's immigration policies. Shanahan traveled to McAllen, Texas, to meet with officials and visit a migrant processing facility and Border Patrol station, two days after the White House announced Trump's intention to nominate the former Boeing Co executive as defense secretary.

Defective fuel tube caused September F-35 crash in South Carolina: report

A failed fuel tube caused the first crash of an F-35 jet in September of last year, U.S. government investigators said in a report issued this week. "An investigation determined a manufacturing defect caused an engine fuel tube to rupture during flight, resulting in a loss of power to the engine," the Government Accountability Office said in a report issued this week.

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Exclusive: Philip Morris suspends social media campaign after Reuters exposes young 'influencers'

Cigarette maker Philip Morris International Inc has suspended a global social media marketing campaign in response to Reuters inquiries into the companys use of young online personalities to sell its new "heated tobacco" device, including a 21-year-old woman in Russia. The company's internal "marketing standards" prohibit it from promoting tobacco products with youth-oriented celebrities or "models who are or appear to be under the age of 25."

North Carolina man charged with 1985 murder of top Hollywood director

A North Carolina man has been charged in the long-unsolved murder of a top Hollywood television director and world-class bridge player who was found slain at his Los Angeles home in 1985, prosecutors said on Friday. The arrest came after more than three decades of mystery surrounding the bludgeoning and strangulation death of Barry Crane, known for his work in the 1960s, '70s and '80s on such hit shows as "Dallas," "Mission: Impossible" and "Hawaii Five-O."

Teens accused of deadly Colorado school shooting face charges next week

The two Colorado teenagers accused of opening fire with handguns at their Denver-area charter school this week, killing one classmate and wounding eight others, are due to face formal charges in court next week, authorities said on Friday. Devon Erickson, 18, and Alec McKinney, 16, who was listed on the court docket by the name Maya Elizabeth McKinney but who identifies as male, were both arrested on suspicion of a single count of first-degree murder and 29 counts of attempted murder immediately after Tuesday's shooting.

Lawyer for Nipsey Hussle's accused killer withdraws after threats

Prominent defense attorney Chris Darden, a onetime member of the O.J. Simpson prosecution team who was representing the accused killer of Los Angeles rapper-activist Nipsey Hussle, withdrew from the case on Friday, citing threats against his family. Darden had been defending Eric Ronald Holder, 29, who pleaded not guilty on April 4 to charges of killing the Grammy Award-nominated rapper and was ordered held on $5 million bail.

U.S. states accuse Teva, other drugmakers, of price-fixing: lawsuit

U.S. states filed a lawsuit accusing Teva Pharmaceuticals USA Inc of orchestrating a sweeping scheme with 19 other drug companies to inflate drug prices - sometimes by more than 1,000% - and stifle competition for generic drugs, state prosecutors said on Saturday. Soaring drug prices from both branded and generic manufacturers have sparked outrage and investigations in the United States. The criticism has come from across the political spectrum, from President Donald Trump, a Republican, to progressive Democrats including U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren, who is running for president.

Harvard professor loses house dean role after joining Weinstein defense

A Harvard law professor who joined the legal team defending Hollywood mogul Harvey Weinstein against sexual assault charges will not be allowed to continue as dean of a residential house on campus, a university official said on Saturday. The Ivy League university's move to end the role of law professor Ronald Sullivan Jr and law school lecturer Stephanie Robinson, Sullivan's wife, at Winthrop House follows protests over his representation of Weinstein.
Following is a summary of current world news briefs.

Latest Sri Lanka arrest throws spotlight on Wahhabism in eastern hotbed

Sri Lankan authorities have arrested a Saudi-educated scholar for what they claim are links with Zahran Hashim, the suspected ringleader of the Easter Sunday bombings, throwing a spotlight on the rising influence of Salafi-Wahhabi Islam on the island's Muslims. Mohamed Aliyar, 60, is the founder of the Centre for Islamic Guidance, which boasts a mosque, a religious school and a library in Zahran's hometown of Kattankudy, a Muslim-dominated city on Sri Lanka's eastern shores.

Egypt sentences two to death over church attack

An Egyptian court on Sunday sentenced two men to death and eight others to between three years and life in prison over an attack on a church and Christian-owned shop in Cairo that killed 10 people. A gunman opened fire in December 2017 on Christians in a shop in the southern Cairo suburb of Helwan, killing two people, before firing on the entrance to the nearby Mar Mina church, where he killed seven Christian worshippers and a policeman.

U.N. Secretary-General warns world 'not on track' to limiting temperature rise to 1.5 percent: TVNZ

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said the world was "not on track" to limiting global temperature rises to 1.5%, TVNZ reported on Sunday, during his visit to New Zealand. Speaking to the media in Auckland alongside New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, Guterres warned about the dangers of not addressing climate change.

Myanmar pilot safely lands plane on its nose after landing gear failure

A Myanmar pilot safely landed a passenger jet without its front wheels on Sunday, after landing gear on the Myanmar National Airlines plane failed to deploy, the airline and an official said. It was the second aviation incident in Myanmar this week, after a Biman Bangladesh Airlines plane skidded off the runway during strong wind in Yangon on Wednesday, injuring at least 17 of those on board.

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Lebanese Maronite patriarch who opposed Syrian army presence dies

Cardinal Nasrallah Sfeir, the former patriarch of Lebanon's Maronite church who presented himself as a champion of Christian rights and pushed for Syrian forces to leave his country, died early on Sunday, state news agency NNA reported. Born in Reifoun in Lebanon's mountainous Kisrwan district in 1920, Sfeir played a prominent role from the time of the 1975-90 civil war. He resigned as patriarch in 2011.

Iran's Guards commander says U.S. military presence in Gulf is 'an opportunity': ISNA

The United States' military presence in the Gulf used to be a serious threat but now it is an opportunity, a senior commander of Iran's Revolutionary Guards said on Sunday, according to the Iranian Students' News Agency (ISNA). The U.S. military has sent forces, including an aircraft carrier and B-52 bombers, to the Middle East to counter what U.S. officials have said are clear indications of threats from Iran to its forces there.

Brexit anger makes European vote 'difficult' for Conservatives: UK minister

European elections will be difficult for Britain's governing Conservatives, their education minister said on Sunday, after the party slumped into fourth place in an opinion poll and a new Brexit Party took top spot. Almost three years since Britain voted to leave the European Union, the country's Brexit process has become mired in chaos with Prime Minister Theresa May's inability so far to get a deal through parliament fueling anger among voters.

U.N. says first day of Houthi withdrawal from Yemen ports went to plan

The first day of a withdrawal of forces by Yemen's Houthi movement from three of Yemen's Red Sea ports went "in accordance with established plans," the head of a U.N. mission to monitor the deal said on Sunday. "All three ports were monitored simultaneously by United Nations teams as the military forces left the ports and the Coast Guard took over responsibility for security," Lt. Gen. Michael Lollesgaard, head of the U.N.'s Redeployment Coordination Committee (RCC), said in a statement.

Pope approves visits to contested Bosnian shrine

Pope Francis has approved pilgrimages to Medjugorje, a village in Bosnia that is steeped in controversy over whether the Madonna appears to local people, the Vatican said on Sunday. A statement by spokesman Alessandro Gisotti, said, however, that the official approval should not be interpreted as Church authentication of the alleged apparitions, because more investigation and study was needed.

Pakistan security forces kill attackers after raid on luxury hotel

Pakistani security forces have killed three separatist insurgents who had stormed a luxury hotel in the port city of Gwadar 24 hours earlier, the military said on Sunday. Officials said three gunmen dressed as military officers raided the five-star Pearl Continental Hotel on Saturday, killing three hotel security guards, an employee and a navy soldier in the ensuing gunbattle.
Noumea (AFP) - The anti-independence movement in New Caledonia won a narrow majority in the Pacific archipelago's Congress in provincial elections Sunday, official figures showed.

Six months after a closer-than-expected referendum raised questions over France's grip on the strategic islands, the anti-independence right was set to win 28 of 54 seats, while separatists would claim 26, according to projections based on figures released by the High Commission in Noumea.

In the November 6 referendum, 56.7 percent had voted to stay French, a much tighter outcome than predicted.

Separatists, who have gained ground since 1998 and held 25 seats in the outgoing Congress, had hoped to win control of the Congress and local government in Sunday's vote.

New Caledonia sits on a quarter of the world's known supplies of nickel, a vital electronics component.

Around an hour before the polls closed at 6pm (0700 GMT), turnout was 58.5 percent, around 15 percent lower than the level recorded in the referendum six months ago, the high commission said.

"The most important thing is that the majority in Congress is still loyalist," said Sonia Backes, who heads of the list of republican candidates.

Under a 1998 agreement, there can be two further votes on independence in 2020 and 2022 in the archipelago located more than 1,000 kilometres (600 miles) northeast of Brisbane, Australia.

The pro-independence supporters are mostly ethnic Kanaks who make up less than half the population of 269,000 people.

White residents -- descendants of early European settlers as well as more recent arrivals -- overwhelmingly want to stay French.

Last November's referendum was the culmination of the 1998 peace deal which followed a quasi-civil war between Kanaks and whites that left more than 70 dead in the 1980s.

The "Noumea deal" has also paved the way for the islands to become increasingly autonomous, with wide areas of policy under the control of local authorities.

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Almost 170,000 people had been eligible to vote, with more than 900 candidates to chose from.

There are 76 elected provincial representatives in all, 54 of whom will sit in the Congress.

Voting is restricted to the "population concerned" with the archipelago's political future and requires electors to have been resident at least since 1998.

In the vote, the northern province of the Loyalty Islands remained in the hands of the two heavyweights of the separatist movement, the National Union for Independence (UNI) and the Caledonian Union (UC) alliances.
JOHANNESBURG, May 12 (Reuters) - Thousands of supporters of South Africa's African National Congress (ANC) took to the streets of downtown Johannesburg on Sunday to celebrate their party's victory in last week's election despite a lower share of the vote.

The ANC won 57.5% of the parliamentary vote and retained power in eight of nine provinces in President Cyril Ramaphosa's first test at the polls since he took power in February 2018.

The result was the ANC's worst performance in a parliamentary vote since the end of white minority rule in 1994, when the party swept to power under Nelson Mandela. But it was at least at an improvement on its vote share in local government elections in 2016.

To supporters of Ramaphosa, the ANC victory was an endorsement of his corruption-fighting agenda after he replaced Jacob Zuma.

"Ramaphosa has done the right thing by targeting corruption. It helped us win the election," said Tlaleng Radebe, 45, an ANC member from the Soweto township on the outskirts of Johannesburg.

Another ANC member, Themba Shabalala, 39, said he wanted to see Ramaphosa, a union leader turned business tycoon, rid the country of the "scourge of unemployment." Around 27 percent of South Africans don't have jobs, according to one definition of unemployment.

Radebe and Shabalala were part of a crowd of several thousands wearing the ANC colors of black, green and gold outside the party's headquarters, Luthuli House.

Music blared from speakers and people waved party flags as they waited for ANC leaders to address them.

Ramaphosa's first full term as president should start later this month after his nomination by ANC lawmakers in the new parliament.

Ramaphosa, 66, replaced Zuma as ANC leader in December 2017, after a decade in which the party's image was seriously tarnished by corruption scandals and weak economic growth.

Some analysts think last week's election result will leave Ramaphosa short of ammunition to battle party rivals who oppose his reforms to tackle corruption and galvanize the economy.

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Others say he did well to win a narrow majority in Gauteng province, the country's economic hub where Johannesburg is located and where the ANC was under pressure.

The ANC achieved its best parliamentary election result in 2004 under former president Thabo Mbeki, when it won more than 69% of the vote. Support had slipped under Zuma.

(Reporting by Alexander Winning Editing by Keith Weir)
Colombo (AFP) - Thousands of Catholics attended mass in Sri Lanka's capital Colombo Sunday amid tight security to prevent a repeat of Easter bomb attacks that killed 258 people.

Soldiers armed with automatic assault rifles guarded St. Theresa's church at Colombo's Thimbirigasyaya residential quarter, while members of the congregation were searched for explosives.

The sprawling church car park was empty as the authorities did not allow any vehicles into the compound as part of high-level security.

The government has blamed local jihadists for the deadly April 21 bombings, which targeted three Christian churches and three luxury hotels.

Regular services were cancelled across all churches soon after the deadly suicide attacks, but the archbishop of Colombo Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith announced Thursday that mass would be held in his diocese from Sunday.

The Cardinal conducted private Sunday services in the past two weeks, which were broadcast live on national television.

He also said a special mass for the victims of the April 21 attack at the St. Lucia's cathedral on Saturday. The congregation was made up of relatives of victims and survivors of the Easter Sunday attacks.

At least 258 were killed and nearly 500 people were wounded.

Most churches outside Colombo had resumed regular services from last week, but under tight security provided by the local police.

Catholic private schools which remained closed after the Easter holidays will now reopen on Tuesday, church officials said.

All state-run schools -- more than 10,000 in total -- resumed classes last week 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.

The government has blamed a local group, the National Thowheeth Jama'ath (NTJ), for the bombings. The Islamic State group claimed responsibility and the bombers filmed themselves making a pledge of allegiance to the militants' elusive leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi before the attacks.

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The authorities have banned the NTJ under new emergency laws that were invoked to deal with Islamists responsible for the attacks.

President Maithripala 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.

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.
Sri Lankan troops in a northern town fired shots into the air and police imposed a curfew Sunday after mobs attacked a mosque, in renewed religion tensions in the wake of the Easter terror attacks.

Police spokesman Ruwan Gunasekera said that the mobs in Chilaw, 80 kilometres (50 miles) north of the capital Colombo, also attacked Muslim-owned businesses.

The violence erupted in Chilaw, a Catholic-majority town, after a resident misunderstood a Facebook post as a threat against Christians.

Gunasekera said the Muslim man who posted the comment has been arrested. He said the curfew would be lifted at dawn on Monday.

The latest unrest came as Catholic churches resumed their public Sunday masses for the first time after the April 21 bombings at three churches and three luxury hotels left 258 people dead.

The attacks were blamed on a local group which had pledged an oath of allegiance to Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, the leader of the Islamic State group.

Last week, there were similar tensions at a town between Colombo and Chilaw where an argument between two men degenerated into religious violence leaving three people wounded.

Official sources said the curfew was imposed in Chilaw to prevent the unrest spreading to other areas.

Sri Lanka has been under a state of emergency since the suicide bombings. Security forces and police have been given sweeping powers to arrest and detain suspects for long periods.

Muslims make up around 10 percent of Buddhist-majority Sri Lanka's 21 million population and Christians about 7.6 percent.
Bitcoin wont break into the payments mainstream for some years to come, if ever. Thats the view of FinTech heavyweight Chris Skinner, Chair of the European networking forum The Financial Services Club and Nordic Finance Innovation.

In a blog post, he notes that there have been a number of reboots (forks) of Bitcoin and Ether since their inception, and this demonstrates the experimental nature of where we are today and why cryptocurrencies are not ready for prime time yet.

The future could well be stablecoins, he argues. We have IBM developing stablecoins, tied to the US dollar, Facebook about to launch oneIn fact, some claim the stablecoin marketplace is already overloaded. Nevertheless, it does make sense to have a digital currency backed by real assets. Whether it be US dollars, gold, property or any other asset, true asset-backed stablecoin currencies should win over currencies backed by nothing.

Theres little behind Bitcoin except the promise of a global currency without government, and even thats been pooped. China has successfully banned Bitcoin as a currency, Bitcoin trading, ICOs, and is now moving on to banning Bitcoin mining.

Blockchain blues

Earlier this year, Skinner argued that the blockchain hype train had been derailed as people realised that the technology wasnt going to change things overnight.

In a blog post, he said: I used to blog about blockchain and DLT almost once a week  four years ago. Today, I hardly blog about it at all. I guess it just shows whats top of mind and whats not at any time in FinTech and, right now, blockchain is not top of mind. In fact, most of the conferences I go to these days its a surprise if anyone is talking about blockchain or DLT at all. Its a no-no. How can a rising technology that everyone loved fall so fast? Is DLT dead? Where do we go from here?

Blockchain and DLT need to get agreement about how to use them before they can work and use cases involve areas that have the most complex structures, and therefore the most complex agreements, Skinner observed. Digital identity involves agreements between governments, corporations, financial institutions and citizens before it can be applied. Similarly, another major use case  clearing and settlement  needs agreements between financial institutions, clearing authorities, cross-border infrastructures, government authorities and central banks before it can be applied.

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In fact, if you look at any of the major areas blockchain can make a difference, it involves complex discussions around structural change before it can work. Thats why it takes a long time and doesnt happen overnight, Skinner wrote.

This is why many commentators are now writing negative news about blockchain and DLT which, BTW, are not the same. A distributed ledger can work without a blockchain, as demonstrated by Corda from R3  a blockchain-inspired open source distributed ledger platform.

The post Stablecoins should win over currencies backed by nothing, Chris Skinner appeared first on Coin Rivet.
DAMASCUS, Syria (AP)  Insurgents fired rockets into a government-held Christian town in northwestern Syria on Sunday, killing six people, including five children who were playing near a monastery and wounding several others, state media and a local priest said.

State TV said the shelling just before noon caused widespread material damage to the town of Suqailabiyah. It said the dead also included a 35-year-old woman.

State news agency SANA said Syrian troops had retaliated by firing shells toward insurgents' positions on the southern edge of Idlib province, the last major rebel stronghold in the country. Al-Qaida-linked Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, or HTS, is the main insurgent group in the area.

Priest Maher Haddad told The Associated Press by telephone from Suqailabiyah that a rocket struck near a group of children, instantly killing five and wounding others. He said the woman was killed in a nearby street by a separate rocket.

"The kids went out to play after some days of calm," Haddad said, since the town had not targeted for days by insurgents who were pushed further north by the Syrian army.

The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, an opposition war monitor, also reported that six people were killed, adding that eight others, including six children were wounded.

The Observatory said government shelling of a rebel-held village to the north killed one person and wounded others.

The insurgent enclave has been rocked by a wave of violence since April 30, killing and wounding dozens while forcing some 150,000 people to flee their homes in rebel-held areas. Idlib is home to some 3 million people, many of them displaced from other parts of the country.

Syrian troops have been on the offensive under the cover of airstrikes for days, capturing several strategic locations and villages.

Sunday's deaths are another blow to a cease-fire reached in September between Russia and Turkey. The truce avoided a government offensive on Idlib.

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Turkey's official Anadolu news agency on Sunday reported Turkish military deployments in southeastern Kilis province and southern Hatay province, both bordering Syria. The fresh commando and armored vehicle deployments were to reinforce border units, according to the agency.

The Observatory said that since the latest wave of violence began late last month 297 people have been killed.

____

Mroue reported from Beirut.
Khartoum (AFP) - Sudan's army rulers and protesters are to hold fresh talks over handing power to a civilian administration on Monday, spokesmen for the generals and the protest movement said.

On Saturday, the Alliance for Freedom and Change -- an umbrella for the protest movement -- said the generals had invited it for a new round of talks after several days of deadlock.

"The meeting was planned for today but it has now been postponed to Monday," alliance spokesman Rashid al-Sayed said.

Sayed did not explain why the talks were postponed, but sources in the alliance said that more time was needed for consultations within the leadership.

Late on Sunday the spokesman for the ruling military council, Lieutenant General Shamseddine Kabbashi, confirmed the new round of talks will be held on Monday.

The talks are being held in an "optimistic atmoshphere," Kabbashi said in a statement, adding that the negotiations aimed "to reach an agreement over the arrangements of the transitional period".

The latest planned round of talks come as thousands of protesters remain camped outside army headquarters in central Khartoum.

They say they are determined to force the ruling military council to cede power -- just as they pushed the military into deposing veteran president Omar al-Bashir on April 11.

The army generals and protesters are at loggerheads over who will sit on a new ruling body that would replace the existing military council.

- 'Totally unacceptable' -

The generals have proposed that the new council be military led, while the protest leaders want a majority civilian body.

Late last month, the alliance -- which brings together protest organisers, opposition parties and rebel groups -- handed the generals its proposals for a civilian-led transitional government.

But the generals have pointed to what they call "many reservations" over the alliance's roadmap.

They have singled out its silence on the constitutional position of Islamic sharia law, which was the guiding principle of all legislation under Bashir's rule but is anathema to secular groups like the Sudanese Communist Party and some rebel factions in the alliance.

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"We want to hold the talks quickly and sort out all these points in 72 hours," the alliance said on Saturday.

Protesters meanwhile blocked the Nile street, a major avenue that runs along the river Nile in the capital, witnesses and the military council said.

Witnesses said angry protesters blocked the avenue after police initially stopped them from going to the sit-in outside the army complex from that road.

Groups of men and women then blocked the avenue using rocks, tree trunks and branches, witnesses said.

The military council slammed the blocking of the avenue.

"It is totally unacceptable what is happening on the Nile street as it creates chaos and makes life difficult for citizens," the council said in a statement.

It also dismissed unconfirmed reports that security forces were trying to disperse the sit-in outside the army complex.

"There are reports circulating on social media about the military council's intention to disperse the sit-in by force," it said.

"We assure that this is totally false."
Photo: Long N./Yelp

A new sushi bar, offering ramen and more, has made its debut in the neighborhood. The new addition to Central Northwest, called Tamashi Ramen Sushi, is located at 1214 W. 43rd St., Suite 500.

This new business provides appetizers, sushi platters and ramen bowls. From edamame and shoyu ramen to assorted sashimi plates, this spot hopes to satisfy your Japanese cravings. Here's the menu.

Tamashi Ramen Sushi has proven popular thus far, with a 4.5-star rating out of 10 reviews on Yelp.

Edmund K., who was among the first Yelpers to review the new spot on April 26, wrote, "The ramen is as good as at the older location on Silber. I had the spicy miso (medium spicy), and it lived up to expectations. My girlfriend got the chirashi, which was quite large given the price."

Yelper Jenn L. added, "We absolutely love Tamashi, and we are so excited to have them open this location. Our go-to items are the 3 sushi roll combo and their chirashi bowl. They're always consistent, quick service, fairly priced and great portions."

Tamashi Ramen Sushi is now open at 1214 W. 43rd St., Suite 500, so stop by to welcome the new business to the neighborhood. There are additional locations at 1106 Silber Road and 2518 W. Holcombe Blvd.

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.
Beijing (AFP) - With or without a trade deal, US-China relations are destined to deteriorate as they enter an era of increasingly nationalistic rivalry in the diplomatic and economic arena, according to analysts.

The United States faces a growing challenge to its lone superpower status from a Communist-ruled China whose global influence, military might and high-tech capabilities are rapidly rising.

The toughening stances on both sides in their trade war showed that the two powers are ready to play hardball to protect their national interests.

President Donald Trump followed through Friday on a threat to target all remaining Chinese exports with tariffs, then warned Saturday any trade deal would be "far worse for (China) if it has to be negotiated in my second term".

Beijing said it would make no concessions on core principles, even as the two sides eye more talks.

There are many other sources of tension ripe for flare-ups: US military aid to self-ruled Taiwan, Chinese territorial claims in the disputed South China Sea, US criticism of Beijing's Belt and Road global infrastructure programme, and US security warnings against Chinese telecom champion Huawei.

"US-China relations are continuing their steady deterioration, which I think is an inevitable consequence of national interests that are starting to overlap and bump into each other and cause friction," said Jonathan Sullivan, a China specialist at the University of Nottingham.

"Despite the Trump wild card factor, I would suggest that the current trade war is a symbol of things to come."

- Clash of civilisations -

The downward spiral coincides with increasing top-level nationalism in both countries.

Xi touts his "Chinese dream of national rejuvenation" -- a return to the nation's former glory -- which sounds like Trump's "Make America Great Again".

The director of policy planning at the US State Department, Kiron Skinner, raised eyebrows last month when she described the rivalry as a "a fight with a really different civilisation and a different ideology."

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Skinner put it in racial terms, telling a security forum the China was first US "great power competitor that is not Caucasian".

Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang hit back, calling it "absurd and utterly unacceptable" to look at bilateral ties "from a clash-of-civilisations or even racist perspective."

The trade war is stirring nationalist sentiment in China.

"Objectively, trade war has unprecedentedly mobilized hostility between Chinese and American societies toward each other," the editor-in-chief of China's nationalist Global Times tabloid, Hu Xijin, wrote on Twitter on Saturday.

"I am very worried the mutual hostility could spiral out of control, causing a big retrogression of the entire international relations."

The trade war has made "many more people in China, not just the paranoid cadres, but a much broader swath of the elite and population realise or believe that America's goal is to keep China down," said Bill Bishop, publisher of the Sinocism China Newsletter.

Beijing could attempt to harness nationalism in the trade war, he added, though it is a "double-edged sword" that could spiral out of control.

"There's a pretty deep wellspring of anti-foreign, anti-American sentiment," Bishop told AFP, which could trigger consumer boycotts of US goods or even protests, like those that followed the 1999 US and NATO bombing of the Chinese embassy in Belgrade.

"We've yet to see any real significant news for boycotts of American goods," he said, "but that's something that's in the toolkit."

- 'Key is high-tech' -

The two countries are also locked in a battle for global influence, with Washington calling Xi's cherished Belt and Road Initiative -- a project to connect Asia, Europe and Africa via a network of ports, railways and roads -- a "vanity project".

On the military front, China is rapidly modernising its army with big spending on aircraft carriers, stealth warplanes and other state-of-the-art weaponry.

Even if China and the US sign a trade agreement, competition will remain "fierce and frequent", said Hua Po, a Beijing-based independent political commentator.

"The US's concerns about China are well-founded," Hua told AFP. "Even though China is still a developing country, it is working hard to catch up to the US."

Technology has taken centre stage in the battle for economic supremacy.

One company, Huawei, is in the middle of the skirmish as it seeks to become the global leader in ultra-fast 5G wireless technology.

The United States has pressed Western allies to shun Huawei over fears that its equipment can serve Chinese intelligence services, and a top executive was detained in Canada on a US warrant over Iran sanctions violations.

"The trade war has little to do with surplus and deficit," said Shi Yinhong, a professor at Renmin University's School of International Relations.

"The key is high-tech," he said, adding that the trade dispute is also a way to "force China to change many parts of its economic system and industrial policies."
JERUSALEM (Reuters) - Teva Pharmaceutical Industries' chief financial officer on Sunday reiterated that the company has done nothing wrong in the wake of a price-fixing lawsuit filed by 44 U.S. states.

Mike McClellan told a conference in Israel that the suit was an amended one and not new, while stressing it was civil and not criminal.

"There have been no developments in this area," he said. "We take these accusations seriously and we are going to defend ourselves."

The Israeli company's U.S. unit and 19 other drug companies conspired to divide up the market for drugs to avoid competing and, in some cases, conspired to prevent prices from dropping or to raise them, according to the complaint filed on Friday in the U.S. District Court in Connecticut.

Prosecutors said Teva Pharmaceuticals USA Inc had orchestrated to inflate drug prices - sometimes by more than 1,000% - and stifle competition for generic drugs.

"The allegations in this new complaint, and in the litigation more generally, are just that  allegations," Teva said in a statement.

"Teva continues to review the issue internally and has not engaged in any conduct that would lead to civil or criminal liability."

Teva's Tel Aviv-listed shares were down nearly 11 percent in afternoon trading.

(Reporting by Steven Scheer; Editing by Elaine Hardcastle)
Hugh Grosvenor, Duke of Westminster attends the wedding of Charlie van Straubenzee and Daisy Jenks at the church of St Mary the Virgin on August 4, 2018 in Frensham, England. Prince Harry attended the same prep school as Charlie van Straubenzee and have been good friends ever since. (Photo by Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty Images)

Aristocrats are some of the richest people in Britain and at the top of the list for those types of people is 28-year-old Hugh Grosvenor, the 7th Duke of Westminster, according the Sunday Times Rich List.

However, the Queen ranks way down the table for overall richest people in Britain and only 17th in the aristocrat list.

Every year, the Sunday Times calculates who are the richest people in Britain and release dozens of lists, according to identifiable wealth including land, property, other assets such as art, and shares in companies. The calculations do not include the amount contained in people's bank accounts. One of the lists rank the richest aristocrats in the UK  which total 38 people and their families.

Hugh Grosvenor has a fortune of 10.1bn ($13.1bn) after he inherited his familys huge property portfolio following the death of this father in 2016. The Grosvenor familys property portfolio includes some of the most affluent and sought-after locations in Britain. The 300 acres of property they own include that in Londons Mayfair and Belgravia and investments in 60 cities worldwide.

Grosvenors wealth not only allowed him to top the table for richest aristocrats but also as the wealthiest person in Britain aged 30 and under. He also ranks as the 14th richest person in Britain.

READ MORE: The richest people in Britain aged 30 or under

Property, land, and art is a key component for the wealth of aristocrats. As you can see in the table of the 20 richest aristocrats, those industries has allowed them to remain billionaires or even richer than the Queen:

Source: Yahoo Finance/Infogram/Sunday Times

The Queen ranked just a 17th in the richest aristocrats table and as the joint 356th richest person in Britain with a fortune of 370m alongside logistics mogul Steve Parkin.

While her fortune remained the same as last year, she slipped down the ranking from joint 344th.

READ MORE: The richest people in Britain
Photo: Regina Pizzeria/Yelp

Food trends come and go. So how can you tell which tastes are trending today?

We took a data-driven look at the question, using Yelp to discover which eateries have been getting a notable uptick in attention this month.

To find out who made the list, we looked at Boston businesses on Yelp by category and counted how many reviews each received. Rather than compare them based on number of reviews alone, we calculated a percentage increase in reviews over the past month, and tracked businesses that consistently increase their volume of reviews to identify statistically significant outliers compared to past performance.

Read on to see which spots are getting plenty of attention, right now.

Regina Pizzeria

Photo: elena c./Yelp

This Italian spot, which offers pizza and more, is trending compared to other businesses categorized as "Italian" on Yelp.

Citywide, Italian spots saw a median 2.1 percent increase in new reviews over the past month, but Regina Pizzeria saw a 47.6 percent increase, with a slight downward trend from a 3.5-star rating a month ago to three stars today. Moreover, on a month-to-month basis Regina Pizzeria's review count increased by more than 1,000 percent.

It's not the only trending outlier in the Italian category: Fox And The Knife has seen a 39.3 percent increase in reviews.

Located at 700 Atlantic Ave. (between East and Essex streets) in downtown Boston, Regina Pizzeria offers pizza, salads and more. Try the pollo pesto pizza with chicken, pesto, garlic and mozzarella, or the sausage pizza with mushrooms, onions, peppers and a marinara sauce.

Burro Bar

Photo: angel s./Yelp

Whether or not you've been hearing buzz about South End's Burro Bar, the cocktail bar and Mexican spot is a hot topic according to Yelp review data.

While businesses categorized as "Cocktail Bars" on Yelp saw a median 1.7 percent increase in new reviews over the past month, Burro Bar bagged a 14.9 percent increase in new reviews within that timeframe, maintaining a sound 4.5-star rating. It significantly outperformed the previous month by gaining 1.6 times more reviews than expected based on its past performance.

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There's more that's trending on Boston's cocktail bar scene: Milkweed has seen a 9.2 percent increase in reviews.

Open at 1357 Washington St. (between Union Park and Waltham streets) since May of 2018, Burro Bar offers margaritas, signature cocktails, wine, beer and more. Try the cucumber margarita with cucumber infused tequila and lime, or the Green Goddess cocktail with gin, elderflower, lemon and ginger beer.

Eventide

Photo: will h./Yelp

Kenmore's Eventide is also making waves. Open since October of 2017 at 1321 Boylston St. (between Yawkey Way and Kilmarnock Street), the seafood spot has seen a 4.9 percent bump in new reviews over the last month, compared to a median review increase of 1.2 percent for all businesses tagged "Seafood" on Yelp. Moreover, on a month-to-month basis Eventide's review count increased by more than 220 percent.

There's more than one hotspot trending in Boston's seafood category: Bootleg Special has seen a 6.3 percent increase in reviews.

Eventide offers oysters, lobster wontons, fish sandwiches and more. (View the menu here.) Over the past month, it's maintained a healthy four-star rating among Yelpers.

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.
ISTANBUL (Reuters) - An opposition candidate announced on Sunday he was withdrawing from next month's rerun of mayoral elections in Istanbul, in a move likely to aid the man who was declared the winner when the vote was initially held in March.

"I have resigned from DSP's Istanbul mayoral candidacy as of today," Democratic Left Party (DSP) mayoral candidate Muammer Aydin said on Twitter.

Ekrem Imamoglu's surprise victory in March's closely fought municipal election marked the first time in 25 years that President Tayyip Erdogan's AKP or its Islamist predecessors had failed to win control of Istanbul.

Imamoglu, of the Republican People's Party (CHP), was declared mayor last month, beating former prime minister and AK Party candidate Binali Yildirim after weeks of wrangling over the result and a partial recount.

Erdogan and the AKP then called for the election to be cancelled, alleging widespread irregularities. The High Election Board ruled on Monday that the mayoral contest must be rerun on June 23.

Aydin, who has described the board's decision as unlawful, attracted more than 30,000 votes when the election was first held on March 31. Imamoglu won by a margin of just 13,000 out of 10 million eligible voters.

It is not clear if DSP voters will support Imamoglu in the June vote but both parties have secular voter bases. However, several small parties have already signalled they could back him in protest at the decision to cancel the election.

The DSP said it would not field a replacement candidate in June, according to broadcaster NTV.

(Writing by Ezgi Erkoyun; Editing by Giles Elgood)
Actress Peggy Lipton, best known for her roles in the original Mod Squad and Twin Peaks, has died after battling cancer. She was 72 years old. An announcement was made to The Los Angeles Times yesterday (May 11) by Rashida and Kidada JonesLiptons daughters from her previous marriage to Quincy Jones. Lipton was diagnosed with colon cancer in 2004.

She made her journey peacefully with her daughters and nieces by her side, Rashida and Kidada said in a statement to the Times. We feel so lucky for every moment we spent with her. They continued: We cant put all of our feelings into words right now, but we will say: Peggy was and will always be our beacon of light, both in this world and beyond. She will always be a part of us.

Early in her career, Lipton made appearances on The Alfred Hitchcock Hour and Bewitched. In 1968, Lipton joined the cast of Mod Squad, starring as Julie Barnes, the female lead in a trio of undercover hippie cops. Lipton married Quincy Jones in 1974, taking a break from acting to raise Kidada and Rashida. She returned to acting in 1989, after Lipton and Jones divorced. It was then that Lipton took on one of her most memorable roles: Norma Jennings, kind owner of the Double R. Diner in Twin Peaks. In 2017, Lipton reprised her role as Norma in Twin Peaks: The Return.

Originally Appeared on Pitchfork
May 12 (Reuters) - China's nationalist Global Times tabloid said in an editorial on Sunday that the United States would not have more bargaining chips at the negotiation table with China once the trade war intensifies.

"The U.S. has misunderstood the interests of both sides, and seriously underestimated China's endurance," the Global Times said on its website http://www.globaltimes.cn/content/1149490.shtml.

"China's confidence and core concerns will by no means be weakened by tariff hikes." (Reporting by Ismail Shakil in Bengaluru Editing by Marguerita Choy)
By Susan Cornwell

WASHINGTON, May 12 (Reuters) - Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris said on Sunday that U.S. officials should consider breaking up Facebook Inc, the world's largest social media company, saying it is a utility that has gone unregulated.

Harris, a U.S. senator and one of more than 20 Democrats seeking the party's nomination for the 2020 presidential election, said Facebook has prioritized growth over consumers' interests, especially on privacy.

"I think we have to seriously take a look at that (breaking up Facebook), yes," Harris said in an interview with CNN's Jake Tapper. She said very few people can get by in their communities, business or commerce without somehow using Facebook. "So we have to recognize it for what it is. It is essentially a utility that has gone unregulated."

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 other U.S. lawmakers, including Democratic presidential candidate Elizabeth Warren, have pushed for action to break up big tech companies as well as federal privacy regulation.

Facebook co-founder Chris Hughes called last week for the social network to be split into three parts.

Facebook, which has more than 2 billion users on its social network, rejected Hughes' call. Spokesman Nick Clegg said Facebook accepted that with success comes accountability, "but you dont enforce accountability by calling for the breakup of a successful American company."

Early opinion polls show Harris in the top tier of Democrats who have announced presidential campaigns. She and several other Democratic candidates have spent large sums on Facebook ads.

Warren and another senator seeking the Democratic presidential nomination, Amy Klobuchar, have proposed plans to increase antitrust scrutiny of the technology sector, with Warren vowing to break up Facebook, Amazon.com Inc and Alphabet Inc's Google if elected.

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But Senator Cory Booker, another Democratic presidential candidate, said Sunday "we do not need a president that is going to use their own personal beliefs and tell you which companies we will break up.

"We need a president that's going to enforce anti-trust laws in this country, and I will be that person," Booker told ABC's "This Week."

President Donald Trump, a Republican, has also suggested that Amazon and social media networks like Facebook need tougher regulation.

(Reporting by Susan Cornwell; Editing by Lisa Shumaker)
By Diane Bartz and Doina Chiacu

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. states filed a lawsuit accusing Teva Pharmaceuticals USA Inc of orchestrating a sweeping scheme with 19 other drug companies to inflate drug prices - sometimes by more than 1,000% - and stifle competition for generic drugs, state prosecutors said on Saturday.

Soaring drug prices from both branded and generic manufacturers have sparked outrage and investigations in the United States. The criticism has come from across the political spectrum, from President Donald Trump, a Republican, to progressive Democrats including U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren, who is running for president.

The 20 drug companies engaged in illegal conspiracies to divide up the market for drugs to avoid competing and, in some cases, conspired to either prevent prices from dropping or to raise them, according to the complaint by 44 U.S. states, filed on Friday in the U.S. District Court in Connecticut.

A representative of Teva USA, a unit of Israeli company Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd, said it will fight the lawsuit.

"The allegations in this new complaint, and in the litigation more generally, are just that  allegations," it said in a statement. "Teva continues to review the issue internally and has not engaged in any conduct that would lead to civil or criminal liability."

The 500-page lawsuit accuses the generic drug industry, which mainly sells medicines that are off patent and should be less expensive, of a long history of discreet agreements to ensure that companies that are supposedly competitors each get a "fair share."

The situation worsened in 2012, the complaint said.

"Apparently unsatisfied with the status quo of 'fair share' and the mere avoidance of price erosion, Teva and its co-conspirators embarked on one of the most egregious and damaging

price-fixing conspiracies in the history of the United States," the complaint said.

With Teva at the center of the conspiracy, the drug companies colluded to significantly raise prices on 86 medicines between July 2013 and January 2015, the complaint said.

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Representatives of Sandoz, another company named in the lawsuit, did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The drugs included everything from tablets and capsules to creams and ointments to treat conditions including diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, cancer, epilepsy and more, they said. In some instances, the coordinated price increases were more than 1,000 percent, the lawsuit said.

The lawsuit also names 15 individuals as defendants who it said carried out the schemes on a day-to-day basis.

"The level of corporate greed alleged in this multistate lawsuit is heartless and unconscionable," Nevada Governor Steve Sisolak said in a statement.

According to New Jersey Attorney General Gurbir Grewal, more than half of the corporate defendants are based in New Jersey, and five of the individual defendants live in the state.

The lawsuit seeks damages, civil penalties and actions by the court to restore competition to the generic drug market.

Generic drugs can save drug buyers and taxpayers tens of billions of dollars a year because they are a lower-priced alternative to brand-name drugs.

"Generic drugs were one of the few 'bargains' in the United States healthcare system," the lawsuit said.

However, it added, "Prices for hundreds of generic drugs have risen  while some have skyrocketed, without explanation, sparking outrage from politicians, payers and consumers across the country whose costs have doubled, tripled, or even increased 1,000% or more."

As a result of the drug companies' conspiracies, it said, consumers and states paid "substantially inflated and anticompetitive prices for numerous generic pharmaceutical drugs" while the drug companies profited.

The lawsuit filed on Friday is parallel to an action brought in December 2016 by the attorneys general of 45 states and the District of Columbia. That case was later expanded to include more than a dozen drugmakers.

(Reporting by Doina Chiacu in Washington; Additional reporting by Ishita Palli in Bengaluru and Nate Raymond in Boston; Editing by Matthew Lewis)
Drew Angerer

MOSCOWDemocracy-minded Ukrainians, of whom there are many, learned with grim bemusement this week that Donald Trumps eccentric lawyer, Rudy Giuliani, was on his way to Kiev. When they heard he canceled the trip as suddenly as he had announced it there was a collective sigh of relief.

But what the hell was he thinking?

Giulianis expressed intent was to politicize an investigation in a country where, for years, the Americans have encouraged Ukrainians to travel a difficult road toward the rule of law. Time and again U.S. officials have pleaded with Ukrainians to cleanse their justice system of politically-tainted investigations. It was as if a doctor had suddenly recommended taking up smoking.

Sounds like a shameful playthe arguments and motivations that U.S. Republicans are making seem all distorted," Natalia Gumenyuk, head of Ukraine's independent Hromadske television, told The Daily Beast.

Giuliani and other Trump allies have been openly cooperating with Ukrainian law enforcement to pursue two politically important cases in Ukraine. Their first concern is to discredit information about the alleged corruption of Paul Manafort, the former chairman of Trump's 2016 presidential campaign, by demonstrating its release by the Ukrainians was illegal. Manafort is serving his 47-month prison term in Scranton, Pa., for failure to pay U.S. taxes and fraud, and the Ukrainian investigation of Manafort helped touch off the wider Russia investigation, the origins of which Giuliani says he is trying to ferret out.

The former mayor of New York, who now acts as a kind of media magnet and enforcer for Trump, also wants to show that former Vice President Joe Biden, a possible opponent in 2020, had a conflict of interest in Ukraine. Biden has faced allegations that he pressured prosecutors in Kiev to close a case against a company, Borisma, where his son, Hunter, served on the board. Biden has denied the charges.

Giuliani had said he hoped to meet with the country's president elect, Volodymyr Zelenskiy, to ask him to continue these two investigations: into the origins of the Manafort case and Hunter Biden's business dealings.

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Gumenyuk, whose television channel has for years been carrying interviews with U.S. diplomats pressing for independent courts and prosecutors in Ukraine, said this effort was met in Kiev with an avalanche of criticism. Everybody here saw evidence, and knows the truth about how Manafort was stealing millions from Ukraine," she said.

Days before Zelenskiys inauguration, Ukraine is more interested in whether the new president will dissolve the parliament and call new parliamentary elections. Trumps desire to win a U.S. election was not at the top of the agenda.

Would Zelenskiy help Giuliani to discredit Biden?

This is laughable to expect President Elect Volodymyr Zelenskiy to commit political suicide now, and play a dangerous political game," television journalist Yevgeniy Kisilyev told The Daily Beast.

Trump fired the American ambassador to Ukraine for taking the side of our democratic optimists," he said. Career foreign service officer Masha Yovanovitch had been asked to stay on by Secretary of State Mike Pompeo but fell prey to a convoluted conspiracy theory promoted on Fox News.

"I dont expect Zelenskiy is going to make deals, said Kisilyev.

During these final days before Zelenskiys May 19

inauguration, every official, including Prosecutor General Yuriy Lutsenko, who has been cooperating with Giuliani, is seen as part of the old departing team. It's not clear who, if anybody, among the senior officials will remain in power in Kiev.

Earlier this year, Giuliani met with Lutsenko to discuss the Biden case. Lutsenko opened a criminal investigation into Burisma that cited Bidens own words. Back in 2017 the former vice president talked about having pressed for the firing of Victor Shokin, a former prosecutor. In an interview with The Hill, prosecutor Lutsenko suggested that Biden did that to protect the company where his son worked. But that investigation had in any case been shelved, and there were certainly other reasons to seek the firing of a reputedly corrupt prosecutor.

Shokin has always been seen as widely corrupt, said Gumenyuk, noting that in one recent interview he gave fake information about our tiny anti-corruption agency stealing money.

It was unclear whether President Trump directed Giuliani to go to Ukraine, or if that was the lawyers personal initiative. But dealing with prosecutor Lutsenko seemed a dubious move, Serhei Leschenko, a member of parliament, told The Daily Beast on Friday. The reason why Lutsenko was trying to help Giuliani was simple, he said: The prosecutor wants to keep his job, he has no place to go," with the change of president. "He is using Americans to try to cling to his post.

Ukraine, plagued by political scandal, needs a politicized investigation like a hole in the head. Strangely, even Manaforts longtime partner in Ukraine, Konstantin Kilimnik, whom U.S. authorities have said has links to Russian intelligence, re-emerged to comment on Giuliani's planned trip. He didn't think it would be a success: It is unlikely that anybody in the current chaos would meet with Giuliani, Kilimnik told The Daily Beast. This is a pure fantasy.

On Friday, Sen. Chris Murphy (D-CT) called for an investigation of Giulianis proposed trip to Ukraine. Later in the day, President Trumps lawyer called off his trip to Ukraine, claiming enemies of the president, in some cases enemies of United States and in one case an already convicted person who has been found to be involved in assisting the Democrats with the 2016 election were behind the alleged trickery.

In the interview for Fox News Mr. Giuliani said he was talking about Ukraine MP Serhiy Leshchenko, whom Giuliani said had supplied a black book [related to Manafort] that was found to be fraudulent. This is incorrect. While Leschenko published portions of the book, he did not publish documents involving the investigation of Manafort.

Read more at The Daily Beast.
Hodeida (Yemen) (AFP) - The United Nations said Sunday that a Yemeni rebel withdrawal from key Red Sea ports was proceeding as planned, after the government accused the insurgents of faking the pullout.

The first day of the redeployment by Huthi insurgents from the ports of Hodeida, Saleef and Ras Issa on Saturday "went in accordance with established plans," a UN statement said.

"All three ports were monitored simultaneously by United Nations teams as the military forces left the ports and the Coast Guard took over responsibility for security," it added.

Military equipment is expected to be removed in the coming days, while demining is also planned, the statement said.

Formal verification of the first redeployment will take place at the three ports on Tuesday, according to the UN.

Hodeida port serves as a lifeline for millions in the impoverished Arabian Peninsula country, which has been pushed to the brink of famine by more than four years of devastating war.

The pullback is considered a first step in implementing a hard-won truce agreement for Hodeida struck in Sweden in December between Yemen's Saudi-backed government and the Iran-aligned Huthi rebels.

Yemen's information minister dismissed the rebels' announcement, accusing them of "a policy of deception."

"What the Huthi militia did is a repeated theatrical play of handing over control of the port to its own forces (in different uniforms)," Moammer al-Eryani tweeted.
In August 2016, the lifeless bodies of a young French man and woman were discovered on a beach in Madagascar, with murder suspected.

The secret to the case could be in the last messages they sent, but those are stored in the databanks of US tech giants who don't have to turn over the information to French investigators.

The case is one of a growing number highlighting how key evidence needed to solve crimes could sit in computers a continent away under completely different legal jurisdiction.

Washington and Brussels have both proposed solutions to facilitate relatively easy cross-border access to the data for law enforcement officials.

But the issue has stirred up a hornet's nest of opposition over privacy rules and legal procedures.

Rights groups fear the solutions will lower the barriers to access private data, allowing abuse by governments who could conceivably use their access powers against political opponents or rights groups.

- Extraterritorial evidence -

The young French man and woman, volunteers for a local whale protection group, communicated Facebook's instant messaging service Messenger and via emails on Microsoft's Outlook.

Knowing their final messages and movements could be "decisive" in settling the investigation, according to sources familiar with the case.

But given the rise of cloud computing, such evidence is often stored far from the jurisdiction of investigating police.

Getting to it is hampered by old, bulky agreements on international legal cooperation and evidence sharing written before the rise of the internet and social media.

The problem has been growing for several years.

In 2013 US authorities obtained a search warrant in a narcotics case to get user information held by Microsoft.

But even though it is a US company, Microsoft fought back in court, saying the data was on extraterritorial Microsoft servers located in Ireland, out of the reach of US investigators.

- Ten months to obtain evidence -

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In the European Union, 85 percent of criminal investigations involve electronic evidence, of which two-thirds is stored in another country.

But obtaining potential evidence from Facebook account today takes Europeans on average ten months.

A European investigating judge must ask an official of his government to send an official request to the US government.

Then a US judge, who isn't familiar with the case, then makes the request to Facebook.

The FBI then reviews the evidence to ensure it does not contain confidential information unrelated to the original request.

The data is then sent to the requesting government which passes it to the investigators.

"This doesn't work, the operations are totally blocked," a frustrated European justice official said.

"We all know that virtually every serious threat we investigate today requires access to electronic evidence like the contents of emails, instant messages, photos, traffic data, session logs, subscriber information, and the like," Richard Downing, a top US Justice official, said in a speech in London last month.

"Our collective safety and security depends on our ability to maintain lawful and efficient cross-border access to that evidence."

- US seeks bilateral deals -

Seeking a longer-term solution, in March 2018 the United States passed the Cloud Act, which sets up the possibility of easier cross-border cooperation in obtaining the communications and other digitally-stored evidence needed in investigations.

The act would allow foreign governments to request the information -- emails, text messages, and stored records -- directly from US-based communications and internet companies holding it.

The act would require bilateral agreements that give Washington reciprocal rights to obtaining electronic evidence.

But many Europeans remain suspicious of Washington's bilateral approach, rather than dealing with the European Union as a whole.

Some believe the US would use the Cloud Act to collect information on European citizens, and not just Americans.

"No one can accept that a foreign government, even American, could come and with no warning look for data on our societies stored here by American companies, without us able to respond," said French Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire.

- EU plan: 'E-evidence' -

However -- as the French murder investigation shows -- Europe recognizes the need for new rules.

The European Commission has proposed its own solution, "E-evidence" for easing cross-border requests for electronic evidence.

As with the Cloud Act, it bypasses existing structures for evidence sharing: authorities would make requests directly to the service providers directly, regardless of where the data is stored.

The service providers would have 10 days maximum to respond.

Both systems have raised deep concerns of too few protections against abuse.

The European proposal has not been greeted unanimously by EU members: significantly, Germany and the Netherlands have expressed strong reservations about the E-evidence proposal over the lack of sufficient privacy protections.
The US is to install an air defence missile system in the Middle East to counter the escalating threat posed by Iran, the Pentagon has said.

The Department of Defence confirmed it was sending the Patriot surface-to-air missile system to the region in response to indications of heightened Iranian readiness to conduct offensive operations against US forces.

An official said the decision was made after intelligence showed Iran had loaded military equipment and missiles onto small boats controlled by Irans Revolutionary Guard (IRGC).

It comes amid rising tensions between the two countries after the US deployed an aircraft carrier to the Middle East this week in response to concerns Iran was planning an attack on American forces or interests in the region.

Tehran responded by announcing it would partially pull out from its commitments to the 2015 international nuclear deal and increase uranium enrichment unless a new agreement is reached in 60 days.

On Wednesday, Donald Trump ordered new sanctions on Iran targeting the country's steel, aluminium, copper and iron sectors, and warned of "further actions unless it [Iran] fundamentally alters its conduct".

A Defence Department official told Associated Press moving the missile system was discussed earlier in the week but it took a few days to get final approval to move the Patriot, a long-range air defence system used to counter tactical ballistic missiles, cruise missiles and advanced aircraft.

The USS Arlington, an amphibious transport ship, will also move to the Middle East earlier than expected, according to the Pentagon.

The US removed Patriot systems from Bahrain, Kuwait and Jordan late last year.

Iran and the US have each said they are not seeking conflict but both countries have adopted confrontational stances in recent weeks.

In the Pentagon statement, the Defence Department said it was postured and ready to defend US forces and interests in the region.

Earlier this week, Yadollah Javani, deputy head of political affairs in the IRGC, said no negotiations would be held with the US and warned Americans will not dare take military action against us, according to Irans Tasnim News Agency.

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When announcing the initial move on Sunday, John Bolton, the national security adviser, cited "troubling and escalatory indications and warnings" from Iran but did not explain what they were.

On Friday, a defence official said threats could include attacks by Iranian proxies, such as Shia militias in Iraq.

US officials told Reuters intelligence indicated Iran had moved missiles onto boats along its shore and an American official suggested missiles were capable of being launched from a small ship.

However, several officials said they have not yet seen any tangible move by Iran in reaction to the US military shifts in the area. They also noted there have been no attacks.

Agencies contributed to this report
Juan Guaido, Venezuelas opposition leader, has instructed his Washington envoy to meet with Pentagon officials to cooperate on a solution to the countrys political turmoil.

The 35-year-old declared himself the nations legitimate leader in January and has been attempting to oust embattle president Nicolas Maduro, with US backing.

We have instructed our ambassador Carlos Vecchio to meet immediately ... with the Southern Command and its admiral to establish a direct relationship, he said at a rally in Saturday.

We have said from the beginning that we will use all the resources at our disposal to build pressure.

The US Southern Command said in a tweet on Thursday that it was prepared to discuss how to support the future role of Venezuelan armed force leaders who restore constitutional order in the country.

When invited by [Juan Guaido] & the legitimate govt of Venezuela, I look forward to discussing how we can support the future role of those [Venezuelan naval] leaders who make the right decision, the body said.

The command has not responded to Mr Guaidos latest claims.

Vladimir Padrino, Venezuelas defence minister, said a US coast guard ship had entered the countrys territorial waters on Saturday, a move he said the Maduro administration would not accept.

A Southern Command spokesperson had said on Friday that a US coast guard vessel would be conducting a counterdrug detection and monitoring mission in international waters on 9 May.

Trump administration officials have repeatedly said all options are on the table to remove Mr Maduro, who has accused the US of trying to orchestrate a coup. Mr Guaido has used the same language.

Mr Guaido alleges that the presidents re-election last year was fraudulent.

But the 35-year-old is under increasing pressure in Caracas, where he led an unsuccessful military uprising against Mr Maduro on 30 April.

He declared himself the countrys legitimate president in January, backed by the US and 50 other nations, but has been unable to remove Mr Maduro or win the backing of Venezuelas military leaders.

Story continues

Edgar Zambrano, the opposition leaders deputy, was towed to prison while sitting in his car on Thursday.

Other lawmakers have left Caracas for foreign embassies, fearing a crackdown in the wake of the failed rebellion.

Mr Guaido claimed the countrys first vice president had been kidnapped, in a post on Twitter.

We live in dictatorship, he said at Saturdays rally. We dont have the option to stay at home waiting, but to keep demanding our rights in the streets.

Earlier this week Mr Guaido told an Italian newspaper that he would probably accept a US military intervention in Venezuela.

Additional reporting by agencies
By Anthony Boadle PACARAIMA, Brazil (Reuters) - Venezuela reopened its border crossing to Brazil on Friday, after its closure for nearly three months forced desperate Venezuelans to use indigenous trails to smuggle food and basic goods or to flee their crisis-stricken homeland. Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro closed the only formal crossing between the countries in February to block an opposition attempt to bring U.S. aid in from Brazil and Colombia. Opposition leader Juan Guaido has urged the military to oust Maduro, branding him a dictator, while the government in turn calls Guaido a puppet of Washington and a coup-monger. Venezuelan Economy Vice President Tareck El Aissami said on Friday the border was being reopened to restore development of the border economy for the benefit of both nations. Witnesses on both sides of the border said traffic started flowing again through customs posts mid-afternoon. The border's closure had driven hundreds of Venezuelans to bribe National Guard officials every day to make their way into Brazil along indigenous trails that cross the sun-baked savannah, according to interviews with two dozen migrants and two former National Guard officers. With roughly a quarter of Venezuela's 30 million people in need of humanitarian assistance due to an economic meltdown, according to the United Nations, the illicit border crossings provided a lifeline for many in the border region. The migrants interviewed by Reuters said that Venezuelan National Guard soldiers had taken advantage of the border closure to collect 50 reais ($12.50) per car on the parallel crossings. The tariff was higher for vehicles coming back loaded with rice, flour and sugar, they said. Those without cash to pay the informal toll must take even longer paths, hauling their luggage on foot for up to six hours, in a desperate trek witnessed by Reuters. "Wearing Venezuelan uniforms, they brazenly demand money even to pass on foot. They're raking it in," said Yeral Garate, as he waited with five other hungry migrants for rice to cook in a pot over a wooden fire on a trail inside Brazil. Neither the Venezuelan government nor the National Guard, which runs border controls, replied to requests for comment. Maduro has in the past said that criticism of the military is linked to opposition efforts to tarnish the armed forces. More than 3.4 million Venezuelans have left the country since 2015 due to a political and economic crisis, according to the United Nations. Garate said that a lack of food and medicine, miserable wages and Maduro's "catastrophic" policies drove him to flee. He said he took a bus to the border from his hometown of Maturin in eastern Venezuela, and then walked 11 miles (18 km) over rolling scrubland to Brazil, with only the few possessions he could carry. The trip can be easier for those with the means. Hired drivers offer packages from Puerto Ordaz in southern Venezuela to the border town of Santa Elena de Uairen, 400 miles (640 km) to the south, and then across trails to Pacaraima - with border bribes included. A reservation for the Pemon indigenous tribe that straddles the border is crisscrossed with dirt tracks along which cars, jeeps, vans, pickups and motor bikes ferry migrants to Brazil and return with goods. NATIONAL GUARDS Two National Guard sergeants, who had recently deserted from their posts at the border, said that bribe taking was systematic there and that military officials would compete to be sent to the lucrative postings. "They charge 50 reais per car to access the trails and 100 reais for larger vehicles. People who bring back lots of goods also have to pay," one of the sergeants told Reuters in Brazil. The sergeant said he had defected because he disagreed with the way opposition protests were being repressed in Venezuela. Some six dozen Venezuelan military officers have defected across the border in recent weeks, according to the Brazilian army. Six National Guard soldiers questioned by Reuters in Brazil said that lucrative bribe taking by military officials at border crossings and other black market activity was one reason that many troops had ignored the opposition's call to unseat Maduro. All of the soldiers interviewed by Reuters requested not to be identified for fear of reprisals against their families. A spokesman for Guaido did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Corruption is one of the main complaints by ordinary Venezuelans, ranging from National Guard shakedowns at checkpoints across the country to allegations of money laundering and graft by senior military officials being investigated by courts in the United States. Maduro's government has said the cases are politically motivated. Pacaraima, a town of 12,000 inhabitants that has thrived on Venezuelan demand, was hit hard by the February border closure. Daily sales of roughly 5 million reais ($1.2 million) to Venezuelans fell overnight to about a fifth of that, said Joao Kleber Soares, head of the local chamber of commerce. As traffic flowed to the side-trails, however, business had almost returned to previous levels, Soares told Reuters in the bustling main street packed with Venezuelans loading up their vehicles with sacks of food, toilet paper and other goods. Soares and other entrepreneurs in Roraima state, which borders Venezuela, had pleaded with Venezuela to reopen the border and Roraima Senator Telmario Mota visited Caracas to urge Maduro to do so for business to recover. (Reporting by Anthony Boadle and Leonardo Benassatto; Editing by Daniel Flynn, Alistair Bell and James Dalgleish)
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For long term investors, improvement in profitability and outperformance against the industry can be important characteristics in a stock. In this article, I will take a look at Vesuvius India Limited's (NSE:VESUVIUS) track record on a high level, to give you some insight into how the company has been performing against its historical trend and its industry peers.

View our latest analysis for Vesuvius India

Despite a decline, did VESUVIUS underperform the long-term trend and the industry?

VESUVIUS's trailing twelve-month earnings (from 31 March 2019) of 900m has declined by -5.5% compared to the previous year.

Furthermore, this one-year growth rate has been lower than its average earnings growth rate over the past 5 years of 11%, indicating the rate at which VESUVIUS is growing has slowed down. What could be happening here? Well, lets take a look at whats going on with margins and if the rest of the industry is feeling the heat.

NSEI:VESUVIUS Income Statement, May 12th 2019

In terms of returns from investment, Vesuvius India has fallen short of achieving a 20% return on equity (ROE), recording 12% instead. However, its return on assets (ROA) of 7.5% exceeds the IN Machinery industry of 7.3%, indicating Vesuvius India has used its assets more efficiently. Though, its return on capital (ROC), which also accounts for Vesuvius Indias debt level, has declined over the past 3 years from 21% to 16%.

What does this mean?

Vesuvius India's track record can be a valuable insight into its earnings performance, but it certainly doesn't tell the whole story. Companies that are profitable, but have volatile earnings, can have many factors influencing its business. I suggest you continue to research Vesuvius India to get a more holistic view of the stock by looking at:

Future Outlook: What are well-informed industry analysts predicting for VESUVIUSs future growth? Take a look at our free research report of analyst consensus for VESUVIUSs outlook. Financial Health: Are VESUVIUSs operations financially sustainable? Balance sheets can be hard to analyze, which is why weve done it for you. Check out our financial health checks here. Other High-Performing Stocks: Are there other stocks that provide better prospects with proven track records? Explore our free list of these great stocks here.

NB: Figures in this article are calculated using data from the trailing twelve months from 31 March 2019. 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.
Vineyard Vines and Target (TGT) are teaming up.

Between May 18th and July 13th, the popular preppy apparel brand that got its start in Marthas Vineyard will partner with Target to launch a new collection, both in stores and online.

The brands new release will offer over 300 items, including many that will be a first for Vineyard Vines. It will offer options for the entire family, with items ranging from men and womens clothing, to home and outdoor decor - and even something for your pets.

The collection, which runs the gamut on sizes for men, women and children, will be priced between $2-$120, with most items under the $35 mark.

Vineyard Vines teams up with Target for its new collection. (Courtesy: Vineyard Vines)

The Target partnership represents a great opportunity for us to really welcome more people into our brand that dont know us as a household name, Vineyard Vines co-CEO Ian Murray told YFi PM in an interview last week.

Co-CEO Shep Murray added that putting their apparel in the retail giants shops allowed [us] to enter new categories that our brand hasnt been in before, and its been exciting to see the potential of our brand promise.

Vineyard Vines teams up with Target for its new collection. (Courtesy: Vineyard Vines)

In addition, the Target tie-up lets Vineyard Vines expand its offerings into home goods and pet products, areas where Murray sees growth potential.

Its a great opportunity for us to try new product category, he told Yahoo Finance.

We listened to our customers, and theres been a big demand for home goods...and so this was a great opportunity for us to offer people access to that and see what the response is.

Growth

In fact, Vineyard Vines is expanding at a time when many retail companies are seeing slowing sales. Murray explained that the motto of our company is Everyday should feel this good.

McKenzie DeGroot is a producer at Yahoo Finance. Follow her on Twitter: @degrootmckenzie

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New York (AFP) - Proponents call it "slaughter-free," or "clean" meat. For many in the traditional meat industry, it is simply "fake."

One thing is certain: the battle over what to call the emerging alternatives to meat, whether made from plant or animal cells, is far from settled.

For animal cell-based products, "there is really no consensus," said Matt Ball, spokesman of the Good Food Institute, which promotes meat analogues.

When it was unveiled in 2013, the first Petri dish burger made headlines under the name "Frankenburger," and the words "lab meat," "artificial meat" or "cultured meat" were used.

Later, it was called "clean meat," only to be traded for the more recent term "cell-based meat."

In its search for the best word to whet the appetite of consumers, the Good Food Institute published a 37-page study in September on perceptions about the various names.

In the United States, the Department of Agriculture (USDA) will be in charge of labeling these new products when they reach the market -- as early as 2021, according to the most advanced startups.

"We are confident that the USDA will require accurate and descriptive labels for cell-based meat that include the type of meat it is," Ball said.

"This will be necessary simply from a public health perspective, to protect people who have allergies to different types of red meat or poultry."

- The law steps in -

Jean-Francois Hoquette, research scientist at the French National Institute for Agricultural Research, or INRA, said that in France, "we don't really ask ourselves how to define this (cell-based meat) product, because it hasn't triggered a major response."

The cell-based meat being produced today is more of a "pile of muscle fiber" that is still a far cry from sirloin steak, roasted chicken or pork chops, he said.

The consistency of conventional meat has to do with how it is aged after the animal is killed, Hoquette said.

Story continues

And the taste is another matter altogether.

US cattle breeders are taking steps to avoid the same fate as milk producers, who have faced the rise of vegetarian non-dairy products based on items such as almonds or coconuts that are still labeled as "milk."

The US Cattlemen's Association insists that "meat" is a word that should only be used for flesh from an animal conventionally born, raised and slaughtered, though "harvested" is its preferred term.

"USCA prefers to use the phrase 'foods produced using cell-cultured technology' or 'alternative protein' when referring to plant-based products," said spokeswoman Lia Biondo.

"We welcome the competition in the meat aisle, so long as the playing rules are equal for both sides."

The National Cattlemen's Beef Association has yet to take a position on animal cell-based products since their exact composition is unknown.

"We have not taken a position on cell-cultured, in vitro, lab-grown meat, because they have yet to be vetted by the scientific community," said the group's senior director of government affairs Danielle Beck.

"We would not stand for non-factual terms that aren't based on science like clean meat, because it is inherently disparaging to conventionally produced meat products, implying it's dirty."

Jim Dinklage, a cattle rancher in Orchard, Nebraska, said using the word "meat" for these alternatives is simply "wrong" and has a negative impact on his bottom line.

"They are using the word meat because it confuses the consumers. That's hurting my business," he said.

- 'Meat imitation' -

Some lawmakers are weighing the issue.

Last year, Missouri became the first of the 50 US states to officially define meat as a food product coming from animals. Similar bills are being examined across the country.

In France, lawmakers in the Chamber of Deputies adopted an amendment that was later rejected and taken up in the Senate targeting products with a "significant" plant-based component that use the words "steak," "bacon" or "sausage."

In Germany, where the terms "Fleischersatz" (meat substitute) and "Fleischimitat" (meat imitation) are widespread, the agriculture ministry published in late 2018 recommendations that packaging clearly indicate "vegetarian" or "vegan" when applicable, as well as what substitutes are used.

Authorities say the term "vegetarian steak" should be banned because it refers to a specific cut of meat, but "vegan goulash" is acceptable because it refers to a traditionally meat-based stew.
By Humeyra Pamuk and Ben Blanchard

WASHINGTON/BEIJING (Reuters) - The United States and China appeared at a deadlock over trade negotiations on Sunday as Washington demanded promises of concrete changes to Chinese law and Beijing said it would not swallow any "bitter fruit" that harmed its interests.

The trade war between the world's top two economies escalated on Friday, with the United States hiking tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese goods after President Donald Trump said Beijing "broke the deal" by reneging on earlier commitments made during months of negotiations.

White House economic adviser Larry Kudlow told the "Fox News Sunday" program that China needs to agree to "very strong" enforcement provisions for an eventual deal and said the sticking point was Beijing's reluctance to put into law changes that had been agreed upon. Kudlow said the U.S. tariffs would remain in place while negotiations continue.

Beijing remained defiant.

"At no time will China forfeit the country's respect, and no one should expect China to swallow bitter fruit that harms its core interests," said a commentary, due for Monday publication, in the Chinese ruling Communist Party's People's Daily.

It said Beijing was open to talks but would not yield on important issues of principle.

On Sunday, Trump sought to portray the United States as being in an advantageous position.

"We are right where we want to be with China," Trump wrote on Twitter, saying U.S. purchasers of Chinese goods could either buy them from domestic manufacturers or from other nations.

Trump also repeated an erroneous statement that the United States would be taking in "Tens of Billions of Dollars in Tariffs from China."

The tariffs are not paid by the Chinese government or by firms located in China. They are paid by importers of Chinese goods, usually American companies or the U.S.-registered units of foreign companies. These often pass on the costs to customers, mostly manufacturers and consumers in the United States.

Story continues

Kudlow, when asked who was paying, said "both sides will suffer on this," contradicting Trump, although he added that the U.S. economy should be able to cope.

"We're in terrific shape in order to correct 20 years plus of unfair trading practices with China," Kudlow said. "... This is a risk we should and can take without damaging our economy in any appreciable way."

G20 SUMMIT

Kudlow said there is a "strong possibility" that Trump will meet Chinese President Xi Jinping at a G20 summit in Japan in late June.

Until last week, there were expectations Trump and Xi would sign a trade deal at the summit. However, the trade talks suffered a major setback last week when China proposed extensive revisions to a draft agreement. Beijing wanted to delete prior commitments that Chinese laws would be changed to enact new policies on issues from intellectual property protection to forced technology transfers.

Vice Premier Liu He, China's top economic adviser, sought to defend the changes in talks with senior U.S. officials in Washington on Thursday and Friday, arguing that China could accomplish the policy changes through decrees issued by its State Council, or cabinet, sources familiar with the talks said.

U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer rejected that, telling Liu that the United States was insisting on restoration of the previous text.

"We would like to see these corrections in an agreement which is codified by law in China, not just a State Council announcement. We need to see something much clearer. And until we do we have to keep our tariffs on," Kudlow said.

China strongly opposes the latest U.S. tariff hike, and must respond to that, Liu told reporters on Saturday.

Kudlow said on Sunday he expected retaliatory tariffs to kick in but that it had not yet happened.

Trump has ordered Lighthizer to begin imposing tariffs on all remaining imports from China, a move that would affect about an additional $300 billion worth of goods.

Lighthizer said a final decision on that has not yet been made but it would come on top of the Friday tariff rate increase to 25% from 10% on $200 billion worth of Chinese imports.

U.S. farmers, a key constituency of Trump, have been among the hardest hit in the trade war, with soybean shipments to China dropping to a 16-year low in 2018.

(Reporting by Humeyra Pamuk and Ben Blanchard, additional reporting by Brenda Goh in Shanghai and Arshad Mohammed in Washington; Writing by Humeyra Pamuk; Editing by Lisa Shumaker, Rosalba O'Brien and Will Dunham)
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. President Donald Trump and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping are likely to meet during a G20 summit in Japan at the end of June and discuss trade, White House economic adviser Larry Kudlow said on Sunday.

"Let me repeat again the strong possibility that the two presidents will meet in Japan at G20," Kudlow told Fox News Sunday, adding that there were no other fresh talks scheduled between Beijing and Washington for now.

The United States escalated a tariff war with China on Friday by hiking levies on $200 billion worth of Chinese goods after Trump said Beijing "broke the deal" by reneging on earlier commitments made during months of negotiations.

Over the past couple of weeks, China had backtracked from some its commitments, Kudlow said. The sticking point right now was to ensure Beijing put the changes it had promised into law, he added.

The latest round of talks on Friday ended without success and Trump ordered his trade chief to begin the process of imposing tariffs on all remaining imports from China.

Kudlow said Washington was seeking strong enforcement provisions on a number of issues, such as forced technology transfer and intellectual property.

"We have to have a very strong agreement to correct, to right these wrongs before we will be satisfied," he said.

(Reporting by Humeyra Pamuk; Editing by Lisa Shumaker and Rosalba O'Brien)
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Today we'll look at Alaska Air Group, Inc. (NYSE:ALK) and reflect on its potential as an investment. Specifically, we'll consider its Return On Capital Employed (ROCE), since that will give us an insight into how efficiently the business can generate profits from the capital it requires.

Firstly, we'll go over how we calculate ROCE. Next, we'll compare it to others in its industry. Then we'll determine how its current liabilities are affecting its ROCE.

Return On Capital Employed (ROCE): What is it?

ROCE is a measure of a company's yearly pre-tax profit (its return), relative to the capital employed in the business. All else being equal, a better business will have a higher ROCE. Overall, it is a valuable metric that has its flaws. Renowned investment researcher Michael Mauboussin has suggested that a high ROCE can indicate that 'one dollar invested in the company generates value of more than one dollar'.

How Do You Calculate Return On Capital Employed?

The formula for calculating the return on capital employed is:

Return on Capital Employed = Earnings Before Interest and Tax (EBIT)  (Total Assets - Current Liabilities)

Or for Alaska Air Group:

0.087 = US$803m  (US$13b - US$3.4b) (Based on the trailing twelve months to March 2019.)

Therefore, Alaska Air Group has an ROCE of 8.7%.

Check out our latest analysis for Alaska Air Group

Does Alaska Air Group Have A Good ROCE?

When making comparisons between similar businesses, investors may find ROCE useful. Using our data, Alaska Air Group's ROCE appears to be significantly below the 12% average in the Airlines industry. This performance could be negative if sustained, as it suggests the business may underperform its industry. Aside from the industry comparison, Alaska Air Group's ROCE is mediocre in absolute terms, considering the risk of investing in stocks versus the safety of a bank account. It is possible that there are more rewarding investments out there.

Story continues

As we can see, Alaska Air Group currently has an ROCE of 8.7%, less than the 29% it reported 3 years ago. This makes us wonder if the business is facing new challenges.

NYSE:ALK Past Revenue and Net Income, May 12th 2019

When considering ROCE, bear in mind that it reflects the past and does not necessarily predict the future. ROCE can be deceptive for cyclical businesses, as returns can look incredible in boom times, and terribly low in downturns. This is because ROCE only looks at one year, instead of considering returns across a whole cycle. Since the future is so important for investors, you should check out our free report on analyst forecasts for Alaska Air Group.

Alaska Air Group's Current Liabilities And Their Impact On Its ROCE

Short term (or current) liabilities, are things like supplier invoices, overdrafts, or tax bills that need to be paid within 12 months. Due to the way the ROCE equation works, having large bills due in the near term can make it look as though a company has less capital employed, and thus a higher ROCE than usual. To counter this, investors can check if a company has high current liabilities relative to total assets.

Alaska Air Group has total assets of US$13b and current liabilities of US$3.4b. As a result, its current liabilities are equal to approximately 27% of its total assets. This very reasonable level of current liabilities would not boost the ROCE by much.

What We Can Learn From Alaska Air Group's ROCE

If Alaska Air Group continues to earn an uninspiring ROCE, there may be better places to invest. Of course, you might find a fantastic investment by looking at a few good candidates. So take a peek at this free list of companies with modest (or no) debt, trading on a P/E below 20.

If you like to buy stocks alongside management, then you might just love this free list of companies. (Hint: insiders have been buying them).

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.
Hodeida (Yemen) (AFP) - The United Nations said Sunday that a Yemeni rebel withdrawal from key Red Sea ports was proceeding as planned, after the government accused insurgents of faking the pullout.

The port of Hodeida serves as a lifeline for millions in the impoverished Arabian Peninsula country, which has been pushed to the brink of famine by more than four years of devastating war.

Yemen's government had accused rebels Sunday of a "policy of deception" after they announced the withdrawal in a long-delayed move agreed under a ceasefire deal last year.

But the UN, which said it had teams monitoring the Hodeida, Saleef and Ras Issa ports, later reported that the pullout had gone "in accordance with established plans".

It said the coastguard had taken over responsibility for security at the three sites after a Huthi rebel withdrawal that had begun Saturday.

Government officials had earlier cast doubts over the handover process, saying it was unclear who was taking control of the ports.

The pullback is part of a truce agreement for Hodeida brokered by the UN between Yemen's Saudi-backed government and the Iran-aligned Huthi rebels in December in Sweden.

The city's port is the conduit for the vast majority of aid and imports into Yemen.

But experts said it was too soon to say if the withdrawal represented genuine progress.

"The (Sweden) agreement is very difficult to execute because the lines are blurry and each side interprets it the way it wants to," said Yemen expert Farea al-Muslimi, a visiting fellow at the London-based Chatham House think tank.

"Overall, the next two weeks will show if this is a handover or a yet another hangover," he told AFP.

- 'Theatrical play' -

Yemen's information minister accused the rebels of faking the pullout.

"What the Huthi militia did is a repeated theatrical play of handing over control of the port to its own forces (in different uniforms)," Moammer al-Eryani tweeted on Sunday.

Story continues

"This shows its continued manipulation and evasion to implement the Sweden agreement... by adopting a policy of deception."

Sources close to the Huthis said the ports were handed over to coastguard personnel who were in charge before the rebels took over Hodeida almost five years ago.

Hodeida saw fierce clashes from June last year as pro-government forces surged up the coast into Huthi-held territory and briefly seized the city's airport.

Faltering UN peace efforts interspersed by outbreaks of fighting left hundreds dead before UN chief Antonio Guterres in December announced a series of breakthroughs in Yemen peace talks, including a ceasefire for Hodeida.

- 'Potential breakthrough' -

According to Adam Baron, a Yemen expert at the European Council on Foreign Relations think tank, the Huthi withdrawal represents a "potential breakthrough".

"That being said, it remains to be seen how significant it can truly be," he told AFP.

"Trust between both parties borders on non-existent, something that continues to hamper any efforts toward deconfliction.

"Even an implementation of the deal only signals progress on one part of the deal and one aspect of the conflict. It's key to remember that Yemen is not Hodeida and even amidst the relative calming there, the conflict continues to burn."

The UN Security Council is due to hear a briefing on Hodeida on Wednesday -- a day after the rebel withdrawal is expected to be completed.

Last year's deal was hailed as a breakthrough that offered the best chance so far of ending the war in Yemen, where a coalition led by Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates is fighting on the government's side.

But although the violence has largely stopped in Hodeida, there have been intermittent clashes and the promised redeployment of the warring parties away from the front lines has failed to materialise.

A peace deal for the rest of the country also remains elusive.

"The agreement in Sweden only stopped the fighting in Hodeida, the challenge is to turn it into an all-inclusive national agreement," said Muslimi.

The military coalition led by Riyadh intervened in March 2015 when President Abedrabbo Mansour Hadi fled into exile in Saudi Arabia after the rebels captured swathes of the country.

Yemen's conflict has killed tens of thousands of people, many of them civilians, relief agencies say.

The fighting has triggered what the UN describes as the world's worst humanitarian crisis, with 24.1 million -- more than two-thirds of the population -- in need of aid.
She started the day on the Metro and ended it on the L. https://t.co/BoPIzYwrtR  Racial Dolezal (@SirCoach) May 11, 2019





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HA

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this tweet killed me last night omfg

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lmao @ racial dolezal tho

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Lmao

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that account name lmao

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Thats itnothing could top this.

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HA. Suffer bitch.

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Omg that account name hahahha!

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LMAO

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lmao

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lol

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The tweet, the account name lol

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omg lmao

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bruhhhh lmao

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lollll

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HAHAHAHA

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For real, wtf, who is she hurting or bothering by eating. Good lord.

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Right? Wtf. Who knows if they're allowed a sit-down lunch.

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The reason you're not supposed to eat on public transit is so they can keep the cars as clean as possible, it's not an actual offense. And this employee was clearly eating her breakfast. I can't imagine "reporting" a PATH or MTA employee for fucking eating of all things.

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I mean technically it IS an actual offense/against the law in DC, but it definitely isn't enforced that often. (And when it is, it tends to be against like, black teenagers, which is why this is a problem).

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who has time to care about shit like this besides racists lol

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Seriously. She really thought she was doing something.

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for real.

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MTE

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YEP exactly

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literally how empty and meaningless is her life

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thank you! Is life this boring for these racists?

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I literally cannot imagine being such a horrible, wretched, miserable bitch that I would try to get someone fired for eating breakfast. Like, legit cannot imagine what she was thinking.

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I agree. Like can you imagine what other OTT crazy shit she does on a regular then? I bet she says can I speak to the manager on a daily basis.

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Seriously. Even if it's against the rules, if I saw a metro worker eating on a train, I'd probably be thinking, "Wow, I wonder if this is the only time she can eat," not, "Breaking the rules! Must report!"

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this, so much

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Mte

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Lol exactly. It CAN be annoying, but this woman was an actual employee. Idk how their breaks work and whatnot, so I really dgaf in this instance. Even if it was a regular passenger, going so far as reporting it, is such a dick move and a complete waste of time and energy.

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CACKLING

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LMAO

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lmaooooo

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omg, the eyes being so far below (and angled away from) the eyebrows is creeping me out the most

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I scrolled back up...omg. Can't stop laughing now.

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LMAO me

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Bloop!



The clown came back to bite bih!!!!

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LMFAO A++++++++

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What a fucking asshole. The internet has made people far too comfortable with taking pictures of random strangers and slapping them up for all to see. The fuck is wrong with you?





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Honestly! The majority of my family does this shit whenever anyone of us is just living our candid life, and they then slap it onto their social media. That's just family too. I can't imagine strangers doing this fucking shit. I'd fight someone.

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How the heck does anyone think they have the right to get someone fired for eating on public transportation? Let the poor woman eating her meal live.



Really tired of the prejudiced nonsense people pull. At least her book deal was pulled.

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I bet some people who pull this shit start out with smaller complaints and they work.

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Also like when I rode the bus, drivers switching shifts ate/drank all the time. Especially when another bus was late at a transfer point.



They only had so much time to eat before they had to drive the next bus.



Like...who fucking cares this much aside from a racist?

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I commute to work by bus regularly and see my drivers take these kind of breaks, and I know they have to because they don't have a lot of time. Since Starbucks and Wendy's are on my route, it's usually where they get breakfast/lunch/dinner depending on when I'm riding.

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I think most, if not all, public transit systems have rules against eating or drinking. DC is just unique in that they actually seriously enforce it with cops and stuff.

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This is a 'rule' in Atlanta on Marta, too. I've never seen it enforced with my own eyes, but I'm sure it has been.

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Yeah, I can sort of understand it because I've come across shrimp tails on the train floor, a spilled pile of spaghetti, nut shells, orange peels, etc., but this poor woman was neatly eating breakfast. Report the spaghetti slinger if you must be the hall monitor!

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Youre not supposed to eat on BART but people do and no one cares

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lol the crazy thing is no one follows it.

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Seriously. I was on the bus once and at a stop the driver asked if he could run into the nearby McDonald's because he really needed a washroom and hadn't had a chance to at the end of his route. Thankfully no one cared who was on the bus. The ppl who got on while he was gone did (where is the driver!? WHY AREN'T WE MOVING).



Also signs like that are more to detract from people eating smelly food or anything messy. I take transit almost every day and I've never seen it enforced when staff see people eating.

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The only ppl who care so much are people w/o any real problems.

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Clarkisha is my actual queen

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She should've listened to the good sis lol

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lmao

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Lol mte it was good advice.

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lol

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The answer was right in front of her all along!

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pretty much

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Lmao

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I wonder if Natasha would have taken things this far if the woman who was eating had apologized. Maybe Natasha would have felt placated and let it go? But NOOOOO as soon as she was told to "worry about yourself" the May I Speak To Your Manager jumped right out and she just had to shame this woman. I'm glad the Metro employee stuck up for herself and exposed Natasha for being a total bitch in the process.

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how bout we REMOVE THE DISGUSTING CARPET so people CAN EAT on the metro??



I swear NYC subway cars are cleaner than the DC metro cars even though NYC has about 10x the amount of people

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Ummmmm theres CARPET on the metro in DC? DAFUQ???

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Not in any of the new trains.

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https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/4/40/WMATA_Breda_2075_interior.jpg in the older cars, they shore do

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Yeah. On the old trains. Theyre all stained and dingy. Nagl

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This is how I feel about the fabric seats on bart. Them shits are so dingy and nasty but some cars are getting hard seats now so hopefully they all do because they got bed bugs and all kind of stank in the fabric one

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Oof, no. When I moved back to the DMV from NYC I almost rolled around on the floor of the metro it was so gloriously, comparatively clean.

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"I swear NYC subway cars are cleaner than the DC metro cars..."



As someone originally from the DMV and now lives in NYC...Just no.

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THERES CARPET?!!?!?!!!?



fucking helllll the PESTILENCE

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the carpet's gross but it makes riding on a rainy or snowy day SO much safer since the entire car isn't just one giant slippery puddle

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I cant imagine caring that a metro employee dared to eat breakfast on the train. What a fucking asshole.

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You should have just sat there & (let that woman) eat her food.



She had to change her twitter bio & everything since it was all about how her book is coming out LMAO



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"They Called Me Where's My Book Deal"

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'they called me to let me know they won't be again'

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Fuck her honestly.

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A tiny South American country until recently known mostly as the location of one of the worst mass suicides in modern history is about to acquire a whole new reputation, and this reputation has to do with its oil wealth.

Guyana, sandwiched between Venezuela and Suriname, has in just a couple of years turned from an empty spot on the international oil map into one of the new hot spots thanks to a series of discoveries offshore, made by Exxon and Hess Corp.

The Stabroek block is the place where the discoveries were made. The first ones came in 2015 and since then, Exxon has been announcing new ones on a more or less regular basis. To date, there have been 12 discoveries, with the reserves associated with them topping 5 billion barrels of oil equivalent.

This is certainly a lot of oil and it could either solve all economic problems of the tiny nation of less than a million people or, as history has sadly proved more than once, become an oil curse. It would all depend on how Guyana handles its future oil wealth.

The BBCs Simon Maybin noted in an analysis of Guyanas changing fortunes this week that the country, a former British colony, currently suffers high unemployment and poverty rates. It also has high levels of corruptiona practice that oil wealth has been found to exacerbate more often than not. The billions of dollars in oil revenues to be had also encourage political instability as more groups vie for power and accesspreferably exclusiveto the oil dollars.

Already, sings of this political instability are emerging in Guyana, Maybin reports. The coalition in power lost a no-confidence vote last December, but instead of calling elections, which would have been standard procedure, the coalition challenged the result of the vote in court. This has led to demonstrations and a prolonged legal battle that is still not over.

Guyanas only hope is if it can somehow manage to put a lid on political ambitions and focus on the actual benefits to be reaped when Exxon and Hess begin commercial production, such as improving the living conditions of the poorest Guyanese and reducing unemployment as well as boosting economic growth. Related: Oil Markets Uncertain As Trade War Counters Supply Shortages

Luckily, Guyana has both good and bad examples to look to. Norway is the best good example of how a nation can use its oil money in a productive way and turn into one of the wealthiest in the world without relying excessively on oil but rather on the smart investments of money from this oil.

And then theres Guyanas very own neighbor Venezuela, which is a picture of how it shouldnt be done, namely by neglecting other sectors of the economy in favor of oil, pouring oil money directly in otherwise good social programs and seeing them crumble along with the economy once oil prices drop. Corruption and the resulting authoritarianism to keep control of the oil money are also among Venezuelas problems that predate the U.S. sanctions. Now, the country is shaken by a perfect storm that could see its oil production obliterated.

So, the worlds new hot spot could either turn into a new Norway or a new Venezuela, Nigeria, Angola, and a host of other countries for whom oil turned from a blessing into a curse. It seems only time will tell which example the country will follow.

By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com:
A month and a half before OPEC and its allies are set to sit down and discuss how to proceed with their production cut pact, the leader of the non-OPEC partners, Russia, is sending mixed signals on its willingness to continue taking part in the supply agreement.

This is nothing new for Russia, which had dragged its feet in supporting each of the previous production deals with OPEC ever since the parties decided to team up to manage global oil supply and oil prices beginning in January 2017. After 2017, ahead of each meeting, comments and hints of top Russian officials, including Vladimir Putin, left the oil market and analysts only guessing would Moscow play ball this time around.

It did, every time.

At the meeting in December 2018, when the current oil production cut deal was forged, it was Putinthrough his energy minister Alexander Novakwho sat down separately with each of the ministers of Saudi Arabia and Iran and convinced them to word the supply agreement in such a way that Iran would vote for the deal, because OPEC needs a unanimous vote to pass decisions.

Now that we are approaching the date for the revision of the pactJune 25-26Russia is sending mixed signals once again about its commitment to the deal, again.

Not that OPECs members are sending unambiguous signals either.

The U.S. threw a major challenge to the cartel and allies supply pact by ending all sanction waivers for Iranian oil buyers, leaving the organization and the market guessing just how much supply will be lost from Iran until June and afterwards, and how much more the other OPEC membersthose with spare production capacity like Saudi Arabia and the UAEwill have to potentially pump to offset the lost Iranian barrels.

Saudi Arabia says that it is prepared to meet all market demand for oil and, as always, works toward market stability, but it has reiterated that it wouldnt rush in to ramp up production until it sees the actual barrels coming off the market.

However, OPECs task in estimating global oil supply going forward has been made more difficult by mounting uncertainty over Russian oil supplies to Europe via the Druzhba pipeline, expectations of further production declines in Venezuela, and the possibility of an outage in Libya, which is in the midst of a civil war with rival armies fighting for the capital Tripoli.

Amidst all this, Russia sent several ambiguous messages to the market last month. First, its Finance Minister Anton Siluanov said that OPEC and Russia might choose to fight for market share against the U.S., even if this means quitting the OPEC+ deal and sending oil prices significantly lower.

Then at the end of last month, Putin said that he hoped the Saudis wouldnt break their promises under the OPEC+ deal, adding that he hadnt heard of anyone indicating willingness to quit the agreement. Related: STEO: Brent To Average $70 This Year

As for Russia itself, it has been struggling to reduce its oil production to the agreed upon level under the pact.

Moreover, Russian oil companies have been balking at the output cuts because the OPEC+ deal has been meddling with their production growth plans. Russias firms benefit from higher oil production and dont need oil prices as high as Saudi Arabia does, for example, to balance its budget.

True, Russias budget has benefited from the higher oil prices due to restricted production from OPEC+, but higher production is also important for Russian companies that aim to develop new oil fields and offset declines from maturing fields in the Urals region and West Siberia.

Russias oil firms believe that production is just as important as oil prices, Alexei Kalachev, an analyst at Moscow-based investment firm Finam, told Petroleum Economist.

Russias position on the OPEC+ deal will probably not be known until the very day of the meeting with OPEC at the end of June, so the market and analysts will continue to speculate on the fate of the pact for another month and a half. This time around, Russia may decide that the time has come to start developing new oil fields and ditch the pact.

Yet Putin may decide that cozying up to OPEC and its de facto leader Saudi Arabia could continue to give Russia additional power in global oil supply management without actually being part of any formal organization. The Saudis are the ones who need the higher oil prices and Russia could continue to play ball to secure additional geopolitical leverage.

By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com

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U.S. sanctions on Iran are now really starting to bite. In contrast to what European media portray, Irans oil and gas exports are plunging. Tehrans ability to supply its Asian customer base has been largely blocked, as Washington has decided not to extend the waivers given to China, India or others to keep on signing crude contracts.

U.S. president Trump still boasts that Iranian exports will be falling to zero, but some tankers are still going to slip through the cracks. Illegal crude oil trade will be almost negligible, however, as Irans main customers have realized that Washingtons wrath will be real. The mullah regime in Iran also put its trust in a possible European answer, but European companies have chosen to be very cautious, and not to rely on the EU to mitigate potential U.S. sanctions against their operations. The more robust line taken by Washington, supported by Arab allies, seems to be working, as long as analysts are keeping an eye on Iranian oil sector options.

Oil analysts are also not yet worried by the negative impact of the sanctions as the global markets are still reasonably well supplied. This picture, however, could be changing extremely quick, if several underestimated factors begin to play out.

In contrast to the overall reporting, in which a direct Iran-U.S. confrontation seems to be in the making, reality shows that a surprising risk lies in Iraq. Analysts are focusing on the Arab/Persian Gulf, due to the announcement made by Washington that a significant U.S. naval force is steaming up to the region, partly to project U.S. military power and to counter a possible Iranian move to block the Strait of Hormuz. But the real conflict could play out in Iraq.

Washington admitted that it has been warned of possible attacks by Iraqi militias or IRGC proxy groups in Iraq on U.S. forces. The latter, as indicated by Tehran officials, would not only be in Iraq but potentially in the whole region. This proxy-war approach by Tehran has been expected for a long time, as Iran understands that a full-blown military confrontation with the U.S., and potentially its Arab allies, would not end well for the mullahs. Even if the conflict would be costly for both sides, the outcome is clear. Related: High-Cost Oil Faces Existential Risk

This strategy, as already has been employed by Irans IRGC troops in Syria, Lebanon, Yemen and parts of Iraq, would however be much harder to quell. Not only would the U.S. be forced to spread its forces, but low-level intensive military operations in mainly civilian areas would also constrain a U.S. response. It would also be very hard for Washington to compel European allies and the international community to form a united front against Iran.

Several analysts have already suggested that the first possible battleground of this looming conflict will be in Iraq. U.S. Central Command spokesman Urban reiterated previously that the USCC has seen preparations by Iran and its proxies to attack U.S. forces in the region. U.S. forces based in Iraq are the easiest to attack. Iraqi Shia militias are spread over the whole country, and more often than not are operating under the flag of the Iraqi government.

Taking into account the presence of hardline fundamentalist groups in the area, Tehran can mount a strong force without officially taking part in attacks against the U.S. The same could be done in Syria or Yemen, targeting U.S forces and its allies in the area. By using Hezbollah or Hamas, Tehran would even be able to instigate a full-scale regional war, forcing Israel to take part in the conflict. Related: China Set To Miss Shale Gas Production Target By A Mile

Proxy wars in several countries in the Middle East could have a detrimental effect on global oil and gas markets. Any disruption to oil and gas flows cannot be countered by increased OPEC output or even U.S. shale oil. The market may seem well supplied, and inventories are still at relatively high levels, but this reality could soon change.

Until now, the market is behaving like an ostrich. By putting its head under the surface, and convincing itself that there is enough crude supply, or that turning on the taps could rapidly add the missing barrels. The looming war in the Persian Gulf is only assessed on the merits of a US military invasion of Iran, which is unlikely to happen.

If the Iranian regime realizes it is heading for the brink, its proxies will do its bidding. On the global oil market, volumes are no longer the only factor of importance. It is quality and crude grades. These two factors are not being recognized, and it seems that traders and analysts believe Trumps version of reality at present. OPECs spare production capacity is not sufficient, as Iran and Venezuelan heavy crudes are in short supply.

The U.S. is not able to substitute any of this in the short-to-mid-term. When the market hits the brick wall at the end of this year, this quality problem, in combination with increased instability in the Middle East, will not only create a nightmare scenario for consumers but could also push crude oil above the current $70-85 per barrel range. Proxy wars and sanctions could create the perfect storm for oil. A possible spike to $90 seems within reach.

By Cyril Widdershoven for Oilprice.com

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Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salmans largely self-inflicted losing streak appears to have come to an end, and just in the nick of time, with arch-nemesis Iran in the process of consolidating its Shiite sphere of influence to the north of the kingdom and instability growing throughout the Middle East.

The Trump administrations no waiver sanctions on Irans crude and condensate exports, subsequent sanctions on the Islamic Republics steel, iron, copper and aluminum exports, and its sending of a carrier strike group and bomber task force to the region have again shown Americas unwavering support for Saudi Arabia.

Congress did attempt to end U.S. support for Saudi war efforts in Yemen, forcing a veto from President Donald Trump to overturn the legislation. But 70 percent of Americans recently identified Iran as an enemy in a public opinion poll, suggesting that U.S. support for the Saudis in this regional power struggle is unlikely to end any time soon.

The highly successful bond offering by Saudi Aramco in April was another important win for MBS, especially given last autumns horrific Khashoggi affair. Monetization of the state-owned oil company, whether by the sale of equity or debt, is a key step in funding MBS' ambitious Vision 2030 economic program. Net-inflows of foreign direct investment (FDI) into the kingdom have been modest in recent years, although there was a slight uptick in the first quarter.

The combination of Trump's support and Aramco's successful bond offering should buy MBS time to consolidate his top-down revolution in Saudi Arabia. In consolidating his power MBS will also be able to drive higher oil revenues that will help fund Vision 2030.

Consolidation of Power

It is clear that MBS has taken a page out of the post-Mao Chinese playbook, and he is hoping to achieve a revolution from above using whatever means necessary. But in the case of Saudi Arabia, it is not just in the economic sphere, but in the social and political ones as well. The Chinese Communist Party had already centralized absolute power in the late 1970s when it began adopting radical capitalistic economic reforms, and the Confucian belief system that assisted the implementation of these reforms was already deeply embedded in society.

In defense of MBS, the status quo in Saudi Arabia had become untenable economically, socially and politically. The age of high oil prices has come to an end  barring a major geopolitical event in the Persian Gulf region in which the kingdom likely would not benefit  given the Shale Revolution on the supply side of the world oil market equation and the global campaign against carbon emissions and the rise of alternative fueled vehicles on the demand side.

The House of Sauds centuries old pact with the conservative Wahhabi clerical establishment to help legitimize their rule in all or parts of Saudi Arabia has morphed Frankenstein-like, with Salafists such as Daesh calling for the overthrow of the Saudi ruling family. The Islamic Republic of Iran has gained substantial power in the Middle East since the U.S. invaded Iraq in 2003, primarily at the kingdoms expense.

Since becoming king in January 2015, Salman has consolidated power around the al-Saud family. MBS, in particular, has benefited from this consolidation, using his power to reform the kingdom and drive through Vision 2030 in the hope of creating a bright future for the monarchy and Saudi Arabia. The primary goals of MBS economic reform plan are to diversify the economy away from oil and create substantially more jobs for his subjects. Seventy percent of the kingdoms population of roughly 30 million is under the age of 30; many are under or unemployed. Related: Iraq Close To Signing Mega $53 Billion Oil Deal

The consolidation of power in his line of the family was completed through the velvet purge in November 2017, when many of the princes, government officials, military officers, and businessmen were arrested on corruption charges and held at Riyadhs five-star Ritz Carlton hotel. In this purge, Prince Mutaib, son of the previous king, Abdullah, lost control of the tribal-based national guard. MBS suddenly had control over the three main branches of Saudi security  military, internal security services, and national guard  which for decades had been distributed between different branches of the House of Saud as a way of balancing power between them.

Based on MBSs domestic and foreign policies to date, as well as the supposed rationale for the velvet purge, it appears he is attempting to make Saudi commoners the base of his power rather than his fellow princes and the Wahhabi clerical establishment. In order to do so, he is improving the economic prospects of his subjects, loosening the tyranny of hardline Wahhabi clerics over their everyday lives, and supercharging secular Saudi nationalism. A side-effect of this policy appears to have been the heating up Saudi Arabia's regional Cold War with Iran.

In 2016, MBS stripped the religious police of their power of arrest and has since been expanding the space for women in public life. He appears to be playing to youth and women in the kingdom with his modest social liberalization, while allowing women to drive vehicles, and join the Saudi workforce in greater numbers and in mixed-sex environments. The anti-corruption campaign, with MBS in the lead, was a huge hit among Saudi commoners, with many of them pleased to see the comeuppance of the rich and powerful in their highly stratified society.

On the other hand, to ensure social control during the Saudi transition, MBS has substantially ramped up political repression, both domestically and abroad  the gruesome assassination of Jamal Khashoggi inside the Saudi consulate in Istanbul is a prime example of the latter. Shiites in the oil-rich Eastern Province have been especially hard hit by this repression. MBS is increasingly resorting to draconian measures such as beheadings to crush even modest acts of political dissent, with 104 executions of Saudi nationals as of April 24 of this year, compared to 149 in all of 2018.

Manna from Heaven

Strict U.S. sanctions on Iranian exports of oil are like manna from heaven for Saudi Arabia, assuming a moderate amount of oil manages to leave the country in order to sustain the Islamic Republic. The memory of the 1951-53 oil embargo that toppled the democratically-elected government of Prime Minister Mohammed Mossadegh remains fresh in the minds of Iranians. If the Iranian regime nears the point of collapse at any point, the regime would likely lash out militarily at Saudi Arabia and/or targets in the Strait of Hormuz region.

Fortunately, China is likely to continue to import significant volumes of oil from the Islamic Republic, while neighboring Iraq and Turkey have both committed to importing oil from Iran. Iran was exporting 2.7 million bpd of crude and condensate prior to the U.S. imposing partial sanctions last year, a figure that fell to an estimated 1 million bpd in April. With the end of waivers at the beginning of this month, Iranian exports are likely to quickly collapse to the 500,000-700,000 bpd range before gradually rebounding 300,000 bpd or more on Iraqi and Turkish smuggling operations.

In this case, Saudi Arabia will benefit two-fold. The large drop in oil  and metal  exports will starve Iran of foreign exchange, forcing it to prioritize imports for domestic consumption over military operations and infrastructure projects designed to consolidate its territorial gains in Iraq and Syria.

At the same time, Saudi Arabia should benefit from substantially greater oil revenues due to a combination of higher crude prices and oil export volumes. The kingdom holds the most spare production capacity in the world and could certainly benefit from high prices and less competition. Related: STEO: Brent To Average $70 This Year

The Saudi budget break-even price of US$80 per barrel  add US$5 for Brent crude equivalent  is inconceivable in a none Iran sanctions world, with the Energy Information Administration (EIA) forecasting U.S. oil  crude and NGLs  output to increase by an average of 1.75 million bpd both this year and next with Brent below US$70 per barrel. But in a geopolitically-charged world with minimal spare capacity, a sustained price of US$85 per barrel for Brent  if not more  is much more plausible.

Assuming Saudi oil exports increase by 1.5 million bpd to 9.5 million bpd for an average price of US$80 per barrel  instead of US$65  the kingdoms oil revenues would average US$277 billion annually under strict U.S. oil sanctions on Iran, 46 percent more than otherwise.

Higher-than-anticipated oil revenues and the monetization of Saudi Aramco, whether through the sale of equity or debt, have the potential to cover a large proportion of the cost of MBSs Vision 2030, which McKinsey Global Institute has pegged at US$4 trillion.

To conclude, the losing streak of MBS and Saudi Arabia has come to an end in spectacular fashion in recent weeks, making it much more likely Mohammed will accede to the throne and have a long and prosperous reign.

By Vincent Lauerman for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com:
From Greg Swank, 12-4-2 You are about to read a list of 45 goals that found their way down the halls of our great Capitol back in 1963. As...
" " A group of protesters, including Princeton professor Cornel West (center), march in Boston during the Occupy Boston movement to protest corporate greed. See more protest pictures.  Rick Friedman/_DSC0800.jpg/Corbis

You've seen the headline dozens of times. A movie star or professional athlete gets fired for making an insulting or racist comment during a TV interview. The person's response: "Last time I checked, it's a free country!"

That's true. The First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution guarantees the right to freedom of speech. But that doesn't mean that people won't be offended by your words or that the First Amendment protects the right to say anything, anywhere or anytime without repercussions.

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The full text of the First Amendment reads:

Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances.

The Founding Fathers drafted the Constitution in 1787, but the states refused to ratify it without a Bill of Rights explicitly saying what the new government could and could not do. Recently freed from a tyrannical king, the American people wanted a limited government with strong protections for personal freedoms and political dissent [source: ACLU].

The Bill of Rights (which encapsulates the first 10 amendments to the Constitution) became law in 1791, but the broad freedoms outlined in the First Amendment have been refined by centuries of court rulings, including many historic Supreme Court decisions. America is still a "free country," but you might be surprised how many rights are absolutely not granted by the First Amendment.
" " Demonstrators hold signs during a rally against voter ID laws, Sept. 13, 2012 in Philadelphia. William Thomas Cain/MCT via Getty Image

In the U.S., the right of adult citizens to vote and elect public officials is one of their most hallowed principles  or at least, that's what is taught in middle-school civics class. In reality, though, there's another tradition that goes back even further in American history: finding ways to keep people from voting, whether through arcane laws or open intimidation.

In some ways, voter suppression, as such efforts are called, goes back to the earliest days of the country. As historian Jill Lepore wrote in a 2008 New Yorker article, only 6 percent of the U.S. population was eligible to vote in the first presidential election in 1789. That's because most states only allowed white male landowners to vote.

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In the 1800s, the property requirements started to fade, and over the next century, racial minorities and women legally got the right to vote. But, local and state governments came up with a variety of ways to limit who actually got to participate in elections, whether it was requiring poll taxes, literacy tests or changing the dates and times for polling stations.

Efforts to restrict voting continue even today. According to the Brennan Center for Justice, a New York-based think tank and civil rights advocacy organization, since 2010 alone, 25 states have passed new laws making it more difficult to vote.

Here are 10 ways that people have been kept from voting, both in the past and the present.
" " The U.S. Constitution gives the Senate the power to expel one of its members by a two-thirds vote, but it hasn't happened since the Civil War. Richard Sharrocks/Getty Images

With accusations swirling around Alabama Republican senatorial candidate Roy Moore, there's been increasing speculation that if Moore wins election in December, other legislators might try to keep him out of the Senate.

But how would they do that? They can't bar Moore from taking office. According to a 1969 U.S. Supreme Court decision, Congress only can deny a seat to someone if that person doesn't meet the constitutional requirements of being a U.S. citizen, doesn't reside in the state he or she has been elected to represent, and in the case of a U.S. senator, isn't at least 30 years old.

That's why Sen. Cory Gardner, a Republican from Colorado who heads the National Republican Senatorial Committee, has advocated an unorthodox solution. In a statement issued on Nov. 13, Gardner said that if Moore wins, "the Senate should vote to expel him."

In a scenario sketched out in this Politico article, Moore first would have to be sworn into the Senate, so that the body could start the process of kicking him out. Article I, Section 5 of the U.S. Constitution gives the Senate the power to expel a member, provided that a two-thirds majority approves the resolution. As this 2012 Congressional Research Service report explains, expelling a senator is simpler than removing a U.S. president from office, which requires the House of Representatives to pass articles of impeachment and the Senate to hold a trial and vote for conviction.

But that doesn't mean it would be easy. Only 15 senators have been expelled in the nation's history, and the last one was in 1862, according to a list on the U.S. Senate website. And none have been expelled for actions that occurred before they became senators. As the CRS report notes, the Constitution doesn't specify the grounds for expulsion, but most instances "have generally concerned cases of perceived disloyalty to the United States, or the conviction of a criminal statutory offense which involved abuse of one's official position."

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The History of Senate Expulsions

The first senator to be expelled was William Blount of Tennessee in 1787. His offense: Trying to instigate a rebellion in then-Spanish-controlled Florida and Louisiana that would allow the British to seize those colonies, which in turn would have allowed him to make money in land speculation. Unfortunately for Blount, an incriminating letter that he wrote fell into the hands of a political adversary, President John Adams. The Senate expelled him by a 25-1 vote. (Strangely, afterward, the Senate tried to subject him an impeachment trial as well, but eventually decided that he wasn't an impeachable officer under Article II, Section 4 of the U.S. Constitution.)

The other 14 expulsions occurred in the early years of the Civil War. Historian Fergus M. Bordewich, author of "The First Congress" and currently at work on a book about Congress during the Civil War, explains in an email that they were "Senators from the South and border states who had defected to the Confederacy, and were essentially condemned as traitors by their former Senate colleagues." The last senator to be kicked out of the body, Democrat Jesse D. Bright of Indiana, was voted out on Feb. 5, 1862. Bright "was a Northerner, but he had expressed what were deemed to be traitorously pro-Confederate views, and had recognized the legitimacy of the Confederacy in writing," Bordewich says.

In all these cases, there wasn't much difficulty getting the needed two-thirds. "With the Southerners gone, Republicans held huge majorities," Bordewich explains.

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Failed Expulsion Attempts

According to the Senate website, there have been nine other failed attempts to expel senators. In 1907, for example, Sen. Reed Smoot, a Republican from Utah and a leader in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, was accused of having taken a religious oath that made him ineligible to serve in the Senate, and of being part of a church that had once sanctioned polygamy. But Smoot survived a floor vote by 27 yeas to 43 nays. In 1919, Sen. Robert M. La Follette, a Republican from Wisconsin, was accused of disloyalty and sedition for giving a 1917 speech opposing U.S. entry into World War I. But in the end, the Senate voted 50 to 21 to dismiss the charge, and eventually paid La Follette $5,000 to cover his legal expenses.

Additionally, five other senators have avoided an expulsion vote by giving up their office. The most recent was Sen. Robert Packwood, an Oregon Republican, who resigned in a speech on the Senate floor in 1995, after the Senate Select Committee on Ethics issued a lengthy report recommending his expulsion, according to the U.S. Senate website.

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The Process Today

Today, a senator's potential downfall probably would start with an ethics complaint to the committee, which would investigate and make a recommendation about whether the full chamber should vote on expulsion. That could lead to an expulsion resolution that would be put up for a vote by the full chamber. The accused most likely would testify in the proceedings.

"A Senator could take the Fifth, if he thought that his testimony might be used against him in a court of law," David F. Forte, a professor at the Cleveland-Marshall College of Law and author of an essay on the expulsion clause in the Heritage Guide to the Constitution, says. "Outside of that, if he simply refused to testify, he might be held in contempt as well." But even if the senator wasn't punished, remaining silent might well backfire. "It probably would just increase his chances of losing," Forte said.

Now That's Interesting Sen. John Smith, a Democrat from Ohio, who was unsuccessfully brought up for expulsion from the Senate in 1808, was represented by a Baltimore attorney named Francis Scott Key, who later became more famous for writing the lyrics to "The Star-Spangled Banner." Though he won the vote, Smith ended up resigning anyway.

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Originally Published: Nov 17, 2017
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

CEBU should adopt a digital mindset before it can make a full digital transformation, information technology (IT) and telecommunications players said.

During the Transformation Summit on May 6, Monday, panelists saw the need for a change in mindset among Cebuanos in embracing digitalization in their daily lives.

Mitch Locsin, first vice president and head of PLDT Enterprise, said Cebu is always in their plans when it comes to advancement in connectivity.

Cebu was the next hub wherever we move. As you know, most of our fiber footprint is here in Cebu after Manila. We already have one data center and were about to launch our second data center. It tells you that ICT is booming in Cebu with (business process management) and the other enterprise businesses here, Locsin.

Locsin reiterated that even small and micro enterprises (SMEs) are now looking into innovations for their businesses.

Even the SMEs, a lot of them are adapting to cloud technology already. It also includes solutions and with the upcoming 5G, which is going to be launched this year. Cebu will play a very big role in that aspect, he said.

Butch Velasquez, product marketing head of Globe Telecom, said companies in Cebu are already thinking ahead.

Cebu is fast becoming an IT hub. Your thinking is really advanced. It competes not just regionally but also internationally, he said.

Aseem Roy, country head of Wipro Philippines, also called for the scaling up of the academe in terms of courses related to IT.

In his talk, Wilson Ng, president of Ng Khai Corp., encouraged those who offer digital solutions to brick and mortar businesses to know what solution the market really needs.

If we are selling solutions, we should understand how people adapt to innovation, he said.

Companies and people who are innovators have better results, he added. (JOB)
Conservative ex-finance minister Ingrida Simonyte won a paper-thin victory over political novice Gitanas Nauseda in round one of Lithuania's presidential election on Sunday, sending both to a tight May 26 run-off set to focus on inequality and poverty in the Baltic eurozone state. Centre-left Prime Minister Saulius Skvernelis vowed to quit after he was eliminated from the run-off having finished in third place. Conceding that "the failure to get into the second round is an assessment of me as a politician," Skvernelis told reporters that he would "step down on July 12." He did not rule out early elections. The next regularly-scheduled parliamentary elections are due in October 2020. Although Lithuanian presidents do not directly craft economic policy, bread and butter issues and tackling corruption have dominated the campaign. Simonyte, who is popular with wealthy, educated urban voters, garnered 31.13 percent of the vote compared to 30.95 for Nauseda who advocates a welfare state, full official results showed early on Monday. Skvernelis whose populist approach resonated with the rural poor took 19.72 percent of the vote contested by a total of nine candidates. - Resist populism - Simonyte told supporters she would resist "populism" during her second-round campaign and seek support from political forces "with consistent views that do not try to be on the right with one leg and the left with the other." Simonyte, 44, a technocrat who also warns against deepening inequality and the rural-urban divide, has vowed to reduce it by boosting growth further. Socially liberal, Simonyte supports same-sex partnerships which still stir controversy in the predominantly Catholic country. Economist Nauseda is campaigning on promises of seeking the political middle-ground and build a welfare state. "I want to thank all the people who took to their hearts our message that we want a welfare state in Lithuania and we want more political peace," Nauseda told reporters in Vilnius as results rolled in. The 54-year-old former banking consultant is seeking to bridge the growing rich-poor divide in the former Soviet republic of 2.8 million people, which joined the European Union and NATO in 2004. "Nauseda has a greater chance to attract votes that went to other candidates, especially from the left," Vilnius University analyst Ramunas Vilpisauskas told AFP. Both Nauseda and Simonyte are strong supporters of EU and NATO membership as bulwarks against neighbouring Russia, especially since Moscow's 2014 military intervention in Ukraine. Lithuanian presidents steer defence and foreign policy, attending EU and NATO summits, but must consult with the government and the prime minister on appointing the most senior officials. Popular incumbent President Dalia Grybauskaite, an independent in her second consecutive term, must step down due to term limits. The politician nicknamed the "Iron Lady" for her strong resolve has been tipped as a contender to be the next president of the European Council. - 'Risk of poverty' - Analyst Vilpisauskas said that both Nauseda and Simonyte are very likely to opt for continuity in foreign and defence policy. "With Nauseda, there can be some tactical changes when it comes to communication with neighbours but the strategical line is unlikely to change." Lithuania is struggling with a sharp decline in population owing to mass emigration to Western Europe by people seeking better opportunities. The global financial crisis triggered a deep recession 10 years ago and austerity measures imposed to prevent further crisis took a high toll, especially on low-income earners. Despite solid economic growth, a recent EU report noted that almost 30 percent of Lithuanians "are at risk of poverty or social exclusion" and that this risk is "nearly double" in rural areas. Robust annual wage growth of around 10 percent has raised the average gross monthly salary to 970 euros ($1,100) but poverty and income inequality remain among the highest in the EU, largely due to weak progressive taxation. Unemployment stood at 6.5 percent in the first quarter of 2019, and the economy is forecast to grow by 2.7 percent this year, well above an average of 1.1 percent in the 19-member eurozone. Brussels has urged Vilnius to use solid growth fuelled mostly by consumption to broaden its tax base and spend more on social policies. Nauseda voter Feliksas Markevicius said he wanted the new president to help emigrants to return home to Lithuania. "We need to improve living conditions because many people are forced to work abroad," the pensioner told AFP after voting in Vilnius on Sunday. Voter turnout was 54.96 percent.
KEEP a cool head.This was the advice of Police Regional Office-Central Visayas Director Debold Sinas on the supporters of candidates running for the 2019 midterm elections."Just relax and don't

KEEP a cool head.

This was the advice of Police Regional Office-Central Visayas Director Debold Sinas on the supporters of candidates running for the 2019 midterm elections.

"Just relax and don't fight. Because at the end of the day, after the elections, you still live in the same place," Sinas said.

Sinas inspected the police stations in the southern part of Cebu including San Fernando, which had a lot of election-related incidents.

Sinas said they deployed additional augmentation and K9 units to beef up the security in San Fernando.

San Fernando Police Station chief Police Major Lymel Pasquin said they are on the lookout for various reports of vote buying activities, liquor and illegal firearms.

A military tank and personnel from the Armed Forces of Philippines Central Command is also on standby and will be deployed in the hinterland Barangay Magsico, which is strategic, to respond to any possible incidents that might come up during the elections.

The Commission on Elections recently identified the town of San Fernando as a "hotspot" along wth 19 others.

San Fernando town was placed under orange category.

Category Orange are areas with yellow conditions as well as serious armed threats posed by domestic terror groups and other analogous armed groups.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres (L) will also take visit Fiji, Tuvalu and Vanuatu which are under threat from rising sea levels

UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres launched a brief South Pacific tour in New Zealand Sunday, warning the world was "not on track" to limiting global temperature rises.

In a strong message for action on climate change, Guterres said international political resolve was fading and it was the small island nations that were "really in the front line" and would suffer most.

His visit, ahead of the Climate Action Summit in September in New York will also take him to Fiji, Tuvalu and Vanuatu which are under threat from rising sea levels.

"We are seeing everywhere a clear demonstration that we are not on track to achieve the objectives defined in the Paris agreement," Guterres said on the failure to limit rises to 1.5 degrees Celsius (2.7 degrees Fahrenheit) above pre-industrial revolution levels.

"And the paradox is, that as things are getting worse on the ground, political moves seem to be fading," he added in the joint press conference in Auckland with New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern.

However, he did excuse New Zealand from his accusation, describing Wellington's leadership as "extremely important" after it introduced legislation to become carbon neutral by 2050, although greenhouse gas emissions from its economically vital agricultural sector will not have to meet the commitment.

Ardern called climate change "the biggest challenge" facing the international community and said it would be "gross negligence" to avoid the issue.

During his three days in New Zealand, Guterres will also meet with Muslim leaders in Christchurch to show solidarity following the March 15 massacre in which 51 people were killed by a lone gunman who attacked two mosques during Friday prayers.

Explore further New Zealand unveils plan to go carbon neutral by 2050

 2019 AFP
In this photo taken on Saturday, April 4, 2019, Yiannoula Lazarou lights a fire underneath a replica of a 5th millennium B.C. perfume distiller that was discovered in the ancient Mesopotamian settlement of Tepe Gawra near modern-day Mosul, Iraq, at an ancient perfume theme park and museum in Korakou, Cyprus. Even before gaining fame in antiquity as the birthplace of the love goddess Aphrodite 2,700 years ago, sun-drenched Cyprus had made a name for itself for the superior quality of its perfumes that it's said were even prized by the mighty queens of Egypt. (AP Photo/Petros Karadjias)

Before Cyprus gained fame as the mythical birthplace of the goddess of love Aphrodite nearly three millennia ago, Cyprus was known around the Mediterranean for its perfumes, scents that the mighty queens of Egypt coveted.

What appears to have distinguished the Cypriot fragrances was the quality of the rich olive oil in which the ancient perfumers captured the musky scent of indigenous oak moss, citrusy bergamot and labdanum or rockrose. This was done through a distillation process using clay vases of exacting dimensions.

"Perfume is the symbol of life," said Maria Rosaria Belgiorno, a retired professor with Italy's National Council for Research whose own archaeological digs on the east Mediterranean island 15 years ago unearthed the oldest perfumery of the Bronze Age.

Perfumes hide the smell of the dead and of decay. They, according to Belgiorno, have a "spiritual connection" to life.

And that connection is one of the motivations behind a new perfume theme park nestled in Cyprus' verdant Solea valley, which allows visitors to recreate those ancient perfumes in the traditional way, with replicas of the ancient clay distillers extracting the scents from the locally grown herbs over an open fire.

Belgiorno says evidence to the popularity of Cyprus' fragrances is found in a reference to a Cypriot perfume merchant inscribed on 4,000 year-old tablets found in the ancient Greek city of Thebes. That reference pre-dates the emergence of the deity Aphrodite, meaning Cyprus was famous for its perfumes before it gave birth to the ancients' love goddess.

In this photo taken on Saturday, April 4, 2019, Yiannoula Lazarou checks a replica of a 5th millennium B.C. perfume distiller that was discovered in the ancient Mesopotamian settlement of Tepe Gawra near modern-day Mosul, Iraq, as drops of perfume made from Cypriot herbs trickle from a bamboo, at an ancient perfume theme park and museum in Korakou, Cyprus. Even before gaining fame in antiquity as the birthplace of the love goddess Aphrodite 2,700 years ago, sun-drenched Cyprus had made a name for itself for the superior quality of its perfumes that it's said were even prized by the mighty queens of Egypt. (AP Photo/Petros Karadjias)

The origins of perfume-making are believed to date back to 5,000 B.C. in ancient Mesopotamia, where archaeological digs in the early 20th century near the city of Mosul in modern-day Iraq turned up the first evidence of such activity.

From there, perfume-making migrated to Anatolia and then to the Mediterranean and beyond, with perfumeries discovered in such diverse places as Sardinia and Slovakia.

It was a long journey to perfume's modern spiritual home in France.

For thousands of years, Cypriotsfrom the highest echelons of nobility to the average commonerproduced and used perfumes. The popularity of those fragrances carried through the ancient Egyptians to the Templars, medieval Venetian merchants and up to the present. Early on in the last century, famed French perfumer Francois Coty created the perfume ChypreFrench for Cypruswhich is one of the seven main perfume groups and the only one that bears the name of a place.

In this photo taken on Saturday, April 4, 2019, Yiannoula Lazarou puts herbs into a clay pots before tending to a fire boiling perfume inside a 2nd millennium B.C. distiller discovered in Cyprus at an ancient perfume theme park and museum in Korakou, Cyprus. Even before gaining fame in antiquity as the birthplace of the love goddess Aphrodite 2,700 years ago, sun-drenched Cyprus had made a name for itself for the superior quality of its perfumes that it's said were even prized by the mighty queens of Egypt. (AP Photo/Petros Karadjias)

In this photo taken on Saturday, April 4, 2019, drops of perfume made from Cypriot herbs trickle from a clay pot reed, after being distilled through a boiling method used thousands of years ago at an ancient perfume theme park and museum in Korakou, Cyprus. Even before gaining fame in antiquity as the birthplace of the love goddess Aphrodite 2,700 years ago, sun-drenched Cyprus had made a name for itself for the superior quality of its perfumes that it's said were even prized by the mighty queens of Egypt. (AP Photo/Petros Karadjias)

In this photo taken on Saturday, April 4, 2019, Yiannoula Lazarou inspects a millennia-old distiller used to make perfume at an ancient perfume theme park and museum in Korakou, Cyprus. Even before gaining fame in antiquity as the birthplace of the love goddess Aphrodite 2,700 years ago, sun-drenched Cyprus had made a name for itself for the superior quality of its perfumes that it's said were even prized by the mighty queens of Egypt. (AP Photo/Petros Karadjias)

In this photo taken on Saturday, April 4, 2019, drops of perfume made from Cypriot herbs trickle from a bamboo reed after being distilled through a boiling method used thousands of years ago, at an ancient perfume theme park and museum in Korakou, Cyprus. Even before gaining fame in antiquity as the birthplace of the love goddess Aphrodite 2,700 years ago, sun-drenched Cyprus had made a name for itself for the superior quality of its perfumes that it's said were even prized by the mighty queens of Egypt. (AP Photo/Petros Karadjias)

In this photo taken on Saturday, April 4, 2019, Yiannoula Lazarou tends to a fire boiling perfume inside a 2nd millennium B.C. distiller discovered in Cyprus at an ancient perfume theme park and museum in Korakou, Cyprus. Even before gaining fame in antiquity as the birthplace of the love goddess Aphrodite 2,700 years ago, sun-drenched Cyprus had made a name for itself for the superior quality of its perfumes that it's said were even prized by the mighty queens of Egypt. (AP Photo/Petros Karadjias)

In this photo taken on Saturday, April 4, 2019, Yiannoula Lazarou tends to a fire boiling perfume inside a 2nd millennium B.C. distiller discovered in Cyprus at an ancient perfume theme park and museum in Korakou, Cyprus. Even before gaining fame in antiquity as the birthplace of the love goddess Aphrodite 2,700 years ago, sun-drenched Cyprus had made a name for itself for the superior quality of its perfumes that it's said were even prized by the mighty queens of Egypt. (AP Photo/Petros Karadjias)

In this photo taken on Saturday, April 4, 2019, Yiannoula Lazarou tends to a fire boiling perfume inside a 2nd millennium B.C. distiller discovered in Cyprus at an ancient perfume theme park and museum in Korakou, Cyprus. Even before gaining fame in antiquity as the birthplace of the love goddess Aphrodite 2,700 years ago, sun-drenched Cyprus had made a name for itself for the superior quality of its perfumes that it's said were even prized by the mighty queens of Egypt. (AP Photo/Petros Karadjias)

In this photo taken on Saturday, April 4, 2019, assistants prepare to light a fire underneath a replica of a 5th millennium B.C. perfume distiller that was discovered in the ancient Mesopotamian settlement of Tepe Gawra near modern-day Mosul, Iraq, at an ancient perfume theme park and museum in Korakou, Cyprus. Even before gaining fame in antiquity as the birthplace of the love goddess Aphrodite 2,700 years ago, sun-drenched Cyprus had made a name for itself for the superior quality of its perfumes that it's said were even prized by the mighty queens of Egypt. (AP Photo/Petros Karadjias)

The Italian Research National Council, along with Belgiorno, has teamed up with the Lazarou family that runs a successful herbal business to build the park which rests on a parcel of the family's farmland near the village of Korakou.

The park puts on display a range of working replicas including those from the earliest known perfumery in the Mesopotamian Tepe Gawra settlement, from the Minoan era on Creteof Minotaur fameand of course from Cyprus.

Distillers hailing from different areas vary, but are identical in their simplicity and ingenuity. The herbs boil at the bottom with the steam rising to the domed top where it condenses into a liquid that flows through a bamboo reed into vases. The design has proven so successful that distillers identical to those found in Tepe Gawra are now producing rose water in Iran, said Belgiorno.

Although the perfume park was inaugurated late last year and is still a work in progress, word is spreading. A group of University of Cyprus archaeology students led by the university's archaeological research unit head Vasiliki Kassianidou visited the park for a hands-on demonstration on ancient distillation techniques.

In this photo taken on Saturday, April 4, 2019, Yiannoula Lazarou lights a fire underneath a replica of a 5th millennium B.C. perfume distiller that was discovered in the ancient Mesopotamian settlement of Tepe Gawra near modern-day Mosul, Iraq, at an ancient perfume theme park and museum in Korakou, Cyprus. Even before gaining fame in antiquity as the birthplace of the love goddess Aphrodite 2,700 years ago, sun-drenched Cyprus had made a name for itself for the superior quality of its perfumes that it's said were even prized by the mighty queens of Egypt. (AP Photo/Petros Karadjias)

Even a new luxury hotel in Cyprus' southern coastal resort town of Limassol will encourage guests to visit the park for a unique experience.

"We wanted to show future generations how their ancestors produced fragrances and used herbs for food as well as for medicine," said Yiannoula Lazarou, on whose property the park is built.

That is a spiritual connection to life, too.

Explore further Ancient perfume found on Venus' island

 2019 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.
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Douglas V. Gibbs is a proud member of the American Authors Association

Douglas V. Gibbs is a proud member of the Military Writers Society of America.
SOUTH GLENS FALLS  An auditorium full of rambunctious Oliver Winch Middle School Students fell silent as Ruth Mendel began to speak Wednesday morning.

Medical professionals teach students about vascular health GLENS FALLS  Doctors, nurses and surgeons volunteered to come to Glens Falls Middle School 

Mendel, born in Luxembourg to a Jewish family, was very lucky to avoid a tragic fate in the early 1940s as she and her family fled the country shortly after it was invaded by Nazi forces.

Mendel now lives in Delmar, New York, and took the opportunity to speak to the auditorium of mostly eighth-grade students because she said it was important to pass on her story to others.

Im so happy to be here because the first thing I saw when I got here was a big poster that says, No Hate, Mendel said. I adore speaking to young people like you because it gives me hope for the future. We cant live with hate in our hearts.

Mendel told the students all about her journey from Luxembourg to the U.S., a journey that took nearly a year from start to finish.

Mendel was only nine years old when German forces seized Luxembourg City, forcing her and her family to flee. Her grandmother arranged for visas for her and her family to travel to Portugal, and they loaded into the first of two transport trains headed west.

She said she later learned the second transport never actually began the journey and was redirected to a concentration camp somewhere in Nazi territory.

Her family was able to make it to Portugal, where they waited for more than nine months before being cleared to enter the U.S. because of the strict immigration quotas in place at that time.

She said because of her age, she was insulated from a great deal of the tension her parents and grandparents felt about the danger they were in. But even as she able to occasionally have fun and made friends during the journey, she felt a vague threat and knew that they would not be returning home.

Along the way, she encountered several strangers she still remembers vividly because of their kindness and willingness sometimes just to speak to her and treat her family as equals. She said the lessons in kindness she learned from those strangers is what she hopes to pass along to students today.

Words are important. The words that come out of your mouth affect the people you are speaking to, Mendel said. Words lead to actions.

Mendel closed with a question and answer session and left with a warning to the students in attendance. She said anytime she hears disparaging words on the news or sees stories of discrimination, she is reminded of her journey.

Its very reminiscent of the things that were in my childhood, Mendel said. Freedom, opportunity for everyone; those are the things we have to protect.

Student tech team makes hardware look easy SOUTH GLENS FALLS  Brandon Ferris has always been interested in how electronics work, and h

Some students stuck around to hear more after she was finished and were given the opportunity to see some of her books and photos from her childhood.

Several of the students were from the schools No Place for Hate Club, a group that was formed to combat bullying and discrimination against other students.

Seventh grader Kierra Skaarub said she appreciated Mendel was able to take her story and use it in a way to tell young people about what she went through and how to prevent it from happening again. She and others said the stories of the strangers who helped her along the way were also important because they showed its always possible to help others.

I thought it meant a lot to everybody and everybody took something away from it, fellow seventh grader Zachary Harrington said. I think its that theres never enough kindness. You can always do better and make people happier.

Samuel Northrop is the education reporter for The Post-Star. He can be reached at snorthrop@poststar.com.

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Molisani inducted into Oneonta society

ONEONTA  Kathryn Molisani of Queensbury was inducted into SUNY Oneontas Alpha-Kappa-Iota chapter of Phi Alpha Theta, the National History Honor Society. The students were inducted during the History Departments Awards and Phi Alpha Theta Induction Ceremony last week in Le Cafe at Morris Conference Center. The special guest was Elizabeth Mosher, Daughters of the American Revolution state chairperson and SUNY Oneonta alumna.

Phi Alpha Theta is an American honor society for undergraduate students, graduate students and professors of history, and is the second oldest such society in the United States. In order to be inducted, undergraduate students must complete a minimum of 12 semester hours (four courses) in history, achieve a minimum grade point average of 3.1 in history and a grade point average of 3.0 or better overall. A maximum of three credit hours of online, transfer or AP credits may be applied to the membership eligibility requirement. Membership is not limited to history majors.

Students initiated into Phi Kappa Phi

BATON ROUGE, La.  The following local residents were recently initiated into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, the nations oldest and most selective all-discipline collegiate honor society.

Tyler Moseman of Bolton Landing, initiated at State University of New York College at Plattsburgh;

Brittney Campbell of Corinth, initiated at State University of New York College at Plattsburgh;

Camryn David of Greenfield Center, initiated at State University of New York College at Plattsburgh;

Courtney Jaffe of Lake George, initiated at State University of New York College at Plattsburgh;

Kylie Shufelt of Lake Luzerne, initiated at State University of New York College at Plattsburgh; and

Stephanie McLain of North Creek, initiated at State University of New York College at Plattsburgh.

Students present research projects

ONEONTA  More than 100 students presented projects at SUNY Oneontas annual Student Research and Creative Activity Day event from April 18-19.

Created to recognize and promote undergraduate scholarship and creative activity, Student Research and Creative Activity Day has become the premier on-campus event for scholarly student exhibition. A total of 152 students, supported by faculty sponsors from a variety of academic disciplines, displayed poster presentations in the colleges Hunt College Union during the two-day showcase.

Local students include:

Amy Rohrman of Granville presented a project titled Survey of Microsporidia in the Aquatic Invertebrate Taxon Glossosoma sp. in Otsego County N.Y.; and

Eilean Underwood of Chestertown presented a project titled Waste Production, Energy Consumption, and Sustainable Practices within the Food Sector.

Students inducted into honor society

CANTON  Students have been inducted into Chymist, the chemistry honorary society at St. Lawrence University in Canton. This organization derives its name from Robert Boyles The Sceptical Chymist, a volume that solidifies Boyle as the founder of modern chemistry. To be eligible for membership, St. Lawrence students must have taken at least six courses of chemistry with a minimum grade point average of 3.5 and an overall grade point average of at least 3.2. Local students include:

Gabrielle T. Davis of Glens Falls, a member of the class of 2020, majoring in chemistry; and

Kellen M. Wolfe of Glens Falls, a member of the class of 2020, majoring in chemistry.

Local SUNY Canton students recognized

CANTON  SUNY Canton recognized students with the highest grades at the William J. Mein Honors Convocation, held as a formal recognition of student achievement. It is named annually to honor a retired faculty member who has made significant contributions to the college. An award is bestowed to each student with the highest grade point average for their academic year in each of the colleges programs. Local students include:

Elian L. Erickson of Hampton, game design and development;

Jonathan A. Luse of Middle Grove, mechanical engineering technology; and

Michael Wilson of North Creek, graphic and multimedia design.

Lake George student gets university award

HIGH POINT, N.C.  Michael Dreher, a senior from Lake George, received the University Award for Service from High Point University in High Point, North Carolina.

Dreher, a business major and computer science minor, has been an involved member of campus and the surrounding community. At HPU, he is chief justice of the Student Government Association and a presidential scholar. He is also a member of six honor societies: Alpha Chi National Honor Society, Order of Omega Greek Honor Society, Delta Mu Delta Business Honor Society, National Society of Leadership and Success, Order of the Lighted Lamp and Beta Theta Pi Fraternity, of which he is the past president. Under his leadership, Beta Theta Pi was the recipient of the Chapter of the Year Award.

Beyond campus, Dreher volunteers in the High Point community with organizations including the Boys and Girls Club, Open Door Ministries, the Salvation Army and Make a Wish Foundation. His nomination for the award called him an incredible example of a leader and said he has served as a valuable resource, guide and mentor to his community.

Local SUNY Oneonta students honored

ONEONTA  Sixty-one SUNY Oneonta students were recently inducted into the Tau Sigma National Honor Society, which is designed exclusively for transfer students. The mission of the organization is to recognize and promote the academic excellence and involvement of transfer students. The minimum academic average required for membership is either a 3.5 on a 4.0 scale (or the equivalent thereof) or an academic average that places the prospective candidate in the top 20 percent of all incoming transfer students during their incoming semester. Local students include:

Sean DAnnibale of Gansevoort;

Nick Lehoisky of Fort Ann;

Cheyenne Reuter of Schuylerville; and

Christine Ward of Middle Grove.

Local student named outstanding scholar

ROCHESTER  Andrew DeVries of Gansevoort was one of more than 100 Rochester Institute of Technology students honored March 28 as Outstanding Undergraduate Scholars. The students were also able to invite the high school or community college teacher that made the most impact on their education.

The Outstanding Undergraduate Scholar Awards, held annually since 1976, honored students who have achieved at least a 3.85 grade point average. The scholars have maintained a high standard of academic excellence while also giving back to their community through civic or volunteer work, conducting research or being engaged in a co-op or work in their field of study.

On Campus is compiled by Gretta Hochsprung. Email submissions to her at ghochsprung@poststar.com or call 518-742-3206.

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Bolton Supervisor Ron Conover faced a big test this year, his third as chairman of the Warren County Board of Supervisors, and so far he has failed it.

Other supervisors, including other Republicans, challenged Conover to make the way sales tax revenue gets distributed more fair and, before the leadership vote in January, Conover seemed to assure them he would. Lake Luzerne Supervisor Gene Merlino said Conover got his vote by pledging to make the issue his highest priority.

Maybe what Conover really meant was, Ill make it my highest priority to not budge an inch from my previous position, although we doubt thats how Merlino took it.

Its no wonder some of Conovers backers feel betrayed now. Warrensburgs supervisor, Kevin Geraghty, who also supported Conover, is blunt in saying that Conover is looking out only for the interests of his own town and does not care about the financial struggles of Warrensburg or Glens Falls.

Supervisors are expected to advocate for the interests of their own community. But the chairman of the board is supposed to represent the county as a whole. He or she should make every effort to be fair to all the countys communities, and Conover is not doing that.

Warren County keeps 50 percent of the sales tax revenue it collects. The other half is split among the countys municipalities, based on assessed value. The higher the value of land in the town, the bigger the slice of sales tax cash it gets.

Bolton has a small population, but its land carries a high assessed value because of its many lakefront lots on Lake George, so Bolton gets a fat slice of the sales tax pie every year. Hague is in the same enviable position.

Warrensburg has a bigger population, but its land is not as valuable, so it gets less. Lake Luzerne, also, does not fare well under the current revenue-sharing scheme.

Conover would have us believe that basing the split on assessed value is the only fair way to do it. He even suggested that doing it differently could be illegal, which would be a surprise to the numerous counties in New York that do it differently.

Many counties include population in their revenue-sharing scheme. In Westchester County, for example, the county keeps a third, half is distributed to municipalities based on their population and 17 percent goes to school districts based on their population.

In Wayne County, the county keeps half, distributes a third to school districts based on average daily attendance and 17 percent goes to towns based on population.

In Tompkins County, the county keeps half and distributes half to towns and villages based on population.

Some other counties use the same scheme Warren County does now. The point is, counties have leeway to make the split in various ways. (All of the county revenue-sharing schemes are listed in a 2015 report from the state Comptrollers Office, which can be found on the web at www.osc.state.ny.us/localgov/pubs/research/salestax2015.pdf.)

Conover says he has sympathy for the municipalities that are struggling to pay their bills and keep their local taxes down, even though Bolton isnt one of them. But so far his sympathy hasnt extended so far as helping.

Supervisors like Geraghty arent militant on this issue. Theyre ready to compromise. Theyre willing to take what they can get, but they have to get something.

The divide between the haves and have-nots in Warren County  where towns with valuable lakefront property can look forward to a revenue bonanza each year while others have to scrape just to fix their plow trucks  looks like it will only get worse. Something has to be worked out to make the situation more equitable, and its Conovers responsibility to do that. If he wont lead on this issue, then next year supervisors should make sure they elect someone who will.

Local editorials represent the opinion of The Post-Stars editorial board, which consists of Editor Ken Tingley, Projects Editor Will Doolittle, Publisher/Controller/Operations Director Brian Corcoran and citizen representatives Connie Bosse, Barb Sealy and Jean Aurilio.

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David Tacey, Emeritus Professor of Humanities, La Trobe University, Australia, most of whose books can be found in my personal library, along with many audio-recordings and conversations, is a voice Ive long-valued in my own journey. I dont agree with everything, but Ive found him a really helpful interlocutor. Undoubtedly, therefore, this book (The Postsecular Sacred: Jung, Soul and Meaning in an Age of Change) will be purchased at some point following its publication, sometime around the 12th July 2019.

Routledge, his publisher, describes his latest book in this way:

In The Postsecular Sacred: Jung, Soul and Meaning in an Age of Change, David Tacey presents a unique psychological study of the postsecular, adding a Jungian perspective to a debate shaped by sociology, philosophy and religious studies. In this interdisciplinary exploration, Tacey looks at the unexpected return of the sacred in Western societies, and how the sacred is changing our understanding of humanity and culture.

Beginning with Jungs belief that the psyche has never been secular, Tacey examines the new desire for spiritual experience and presents a logic of the unconscious to explain it. Tacey argues that what has fuelled the postsecular momentum is the awareness that something is missing, and the idea that this could be buried in the unconscious is dawning on sociologists and philosophers. While the instinct to connect to something greater is returning, Tacey shows that this need not imply that we are regressing to superstitions that science has rejected. The book explores indigenous spirituality in the context of the need to reanimate the world, not by going back to the past but by being inspired by it. There are chapters on ecopsychology and quantum physics, and, using Australia as a case study; the book also examines the resistance of secular societies to becoming postsecular.

Approaching postsecularism through a Jungian perspective, Tacey argues that we should understand God in a manner that accords with the time, not go back to archaic, rejected images of divinity. The sacred is returning in an age of terrorism, and this is not without significance in terms of the explosive impact of spirituality in our time.

Innovative and relevant to the world we live in, this will be of great interest to academics and scholars of Jungian studies, anthropology, indigenous studies, philosophy, religious studies and sociology due to its transdisciplinary scope. It would also be a useful resource for analytical psychologists, Jungian analysts and psychotherapists.

Contents

Introduction; The Postsecular Condition;

Chapter 1: The Postsecular Landscape;

Chapter 2: The Mystical Turn; Secularism Under Pressure;

Chapter 3: A Secular Country;

Chapter 4: The Aboriginal Gift We Will Not Accept; Reanimation of the World;

Chapter 5: Ecopsychology and Indigenous Cosmology;

Chapter 6: Physics and Reanimation; Postsecular Religion and Atheism;

Chapter 7: God After God;

Chapter 8: Derrida: Emissary of the Postsecular; Violence and the Sacred;

Chapter 9: Return of the Sacred in an Age of Terror;

Chapter 10: Epilogue: Sacrifice and the Future.
He also dropped in wide-ranging nuggets such as no one gets "something for nothing"; that in 2018, Colorado had the No. 1 farm economy in the nation; and that he is not for demonizing Republicans or businesses. While regulations are needed, some are, indeed, red tape, he said.

As for biography, he recounted how he grew up outside Philadelphia, that his mother was a child of the Depression and that his father died when he was eight years old.

"My mother taught me that you cannot control what life throws at you, but you can control how you respond. That has been my North Star."

After he was laid off from his job as a geologist during a dramatic downturn in the minerals industry in the mid-1980s, he and several others started a brew pub restaurant in a low-rent area of Denver. Known as the "lower downtown," the area has been revitalized and is sometimes now called "Lo Do."

Bouyed by this experience, he ran for mayor and won. Working together with the largely Republican mayors of the suburbs  traditional enemies of the generally Democratic-leaning Denver  the group built a 122-mile fast transit system, he said.
Im listening to the radio and Im thinking, Holy. All this stuff is going on that we, the community, have no idea about. We, as a community, really dont know what these guys are doing 24 hours a day.

The Blue Mass is not about donating or giving money, he said. The only thing were asking is that if you see one of our first responders you offer a smile, a thank you or a handshake, Gassen said. Look them in the eye and tell them how much you appreciate all they do.

Thank God for them and God bless every one of them, he said.

This is not just for the Iowa side of the Quad-Cities, Gassen said. If youre a first responder please come join us.

In 1962, President John F. Kennedy signed Public Law 87-726 designating May 15 as Peace Officers' Memorial Day, and the week in which May 15 falls as National Police Week.

The law was amended by the Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act of 1994, Public Law 103-322, signed by President Bill Clinton, directing that the flag of the United States be displayed at half-staff on all government buildings on May 15 each year.

National Police Week this year runs from Sunday (today) through Saturday.

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Today is Sunday, May 12, the 132nd day of 2019. There are 233 days left in the year.

1869 -- 150 years ago: JUST AS we go to press we learn that a workman at Weyerhauser & Denkman's saw mill has just met with a severe accident of some kind.

1894 -- 125 years ago: Mahl Modde, a boy 13 years of age and son of Mr. and Mrs. Peter Modde residing on Twenty-fourth and Vine streets, was drowned shortly after 1 o'clock this afternoon, near the foot of Eighteenth street.

The boy, with a companion, about his own age, was playing on the sand barges of Contractor Darling, and in jumping from one to another, he missed his footing and fell into the river. He quickly disappeared from sight, his little straw hat floating on the water near where he went down.
Today is Saturday, May 11, the 131st day of 2019. There are 234 days left in the year.

1869  150 years ago: BRIDGE ACCIDENT.  At about eight o'clock this morning, (11th) the steamer Antelope, in dropping a barge through the draw of the railroad bridge, swung around against the draw pier, striking it near her wheel on her star board side, smashing in her guards, and damaging her cam-rod. She steamed over to our levee for repairs.

1894  125 years ago: The city this afternoon began filling up with sand the old well on Market square, which was covered by the Jack fountain.

1919  100 years ago: Cigars, cigarets and candy valued at $150 were stolen from the Glenn Wisher pool hall in Highland last night.

The burglars obtained 4000 cigarets, 600 cigars and thirty pounds of chocolates. The place was entered after 11 last night.

Moline police investigated but found no clues. The Wisher pool hall is located at Twenty-third avenue and Twenty-first street and is outside the city limits.
The package also floats the promise of a pair of smart tax reforms -- killing the estate tax and instituting school property tax freezes for some Illinoisans. Those changes would happen, however, only if voters approve a constitutional amendment in 2020 to switch to a graduated income tax. There also is no guarantee they will be part of the final package after opposition to both cuts quickly surfaced.

The entire process is enough to make a voters head spin, and lawmakers are not done yet.

The Senate bills now move to Michael Madigans Illinois House. But don't count on the powerful speaker to set up any roadblock for this juggernaut. As Steve Brown, Madigans longtime spokesman, reminded reporters, the speaker has supported the graduated income tax since November and is committed to moving it to Pritzkers desk.

He has the votes to do it, and the freedom to put his own stamp on it before it gets to voters. Democrats hold 74 House seat. To reach the three-fifths majority required by law, supporters need only 71 "yes" votes. The horse-trading already has begun -- behind closed doors, of course.
Dozens of companies have announced donations, fundraisers and other efforts to support Quad-City residents and businesses affected by recent flooding.

Smithfield Foods, for example, has donated more than 42,000 pounds of protein to River Bend Foodbank, to support those affected by the major flood in Davenport. The donation, equivalent to 168,000 servings, was part of Smithfield's Helping Hungry Homes donation tour.

"This donation comes at a time of great need for the residents in our 23-county service area," said Michael Miller, president and chief executive officer of River Bend Foodbank, in a news release. "Smithfield has enabled us to continue to provide much-needed protein to those who have been affected by flooding throughout our region, and we are grateful for their swift response to support our disaster relief efforts."

On Thursday, Tyson Foods donated frozen chicken to families affected by the flooding on the Mississippi and Rock rivers. The Tyson Foods truck delivered the items to the flood donation center at NorthPark Mall.

In addition, several companies have announced cash donations to assist flood relief efforts. Mel Foster Co. donated more than $1,000 in cash and supplies to assist residents in downtown Davenport.
Despite these challenges, the manufacturing industrys outlook remains generally positive. On Thursday, the ISM released its semi-annual economic forecast. In its report, 17 of 18 manufacturing sectors are predicting revenue growth in 2019. On average, revenues are expected to increase by 4 percent from 2018.

More importantly, this optimism is conveyed by the industrys continued demand for skilled labor. In 2018, the manufacturing industry added 264,000 new jobs, its biggest annual gain in 22 years. For the prior 10 years, the industry averaged a 120,000 per year loss of jobs.

In the first four months of this year, the U.S. manufacturing industry has added only 29,000 new jobs. However, this is not from a lack of available jobs or employer demand. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, there are 476,000 job openings in the manufacturing industry currently unfilled. In fact, in a recent ISM survey, 76 percent of manufacturing firms have had difficulty hiring workers to fill open positions in the past six months. 53 percent of survey respondents have also raised wages to recruit new hires.

For employers, adding workers requires a sizable commitment in time, resources and cost. It also requires confidence in the future  that sales and revenues will continue to grow. For the manufacturing industry, its demand for skilled labor will measure just how optimistic the industry truly is.

Mark Grywacheski spent more than 14 years as a professional trader in Chicago, where he served on various committees for multiple global financial exchanges and as an industry Arbitrator for more than a decade. He is an expert in financial markets and economic analysis and is an investment advisor with Quad-Cities Investment Group, Davenport.

Disclaimer: Opinions expressed herein are subject to change without notice. Any prices or quotations contained herein are indicative only and do not constitute an offer to buy or sell any securities at any given price. Information has been obtained from sources considered reliable, but we do not guarantee that the material presented is accurate or that it provides a complete description of the securities, markets or developments mentioned. Quad-Cities Investment Group LLC is a registered investment advisor with the U.S. Securities Exchange Commission.
A free household hazardous waste collection event will be 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, May 18, at the Rock Island County Rock Island County Fairgrounds, 4200 Archer Drive, East Moline, sponsored by the Rock Island County Waste Management Agency.

On June 29, a similar event will be held at the Whiteside County Highway Department, 18819 Lincoln Road, Morrison, during the same hours.

Illinois residents are encouraged to bring chemical cleaners, oil-based paints, thinners, antifreeze, motor oil, gasoline, kerosene, weed killers, insecticides and pesticides, old or outdated medication, and similar hazardous household products.

Fluorescent and other high-intensity discharge lamps may also be brought to the collections.

Items not accepted include latex paint, explosives, propane tanks, fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, agricultural chemicals and business wastes.

A complete list of household hazardous wastes that are and are not accepted is available online at http://www.epa.illinois.gov/topics/waste-management/waste-disposal/household-hazardous-waste/acceptable-wastes/index.

For questions, call the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency at 217-524-3300.

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A more than year-long investigation by Davenport police has culminated in the arrest of a 22-year-old man on sexual abuse charges after two victims came forward, one of whom alleges she contracted an sexually transmitted infection from the man.

Caulin Jordan Hurt, of 1152 E. 14th St., Davenport, is charged with two counts of third-degree sexual abuse. The charge is a Class C felony under Iowa law that carries a prison sentence of up to 10 years.

Hurt also is charged with one count of telephone dissemination of obscene material to a minor, an aggravated misdemeanor that carries a prison sentence of up to two years.

According to the arrest affidavits filed by Davenport Police Detective Sean Johnson, the investigation into Hurt began Feb. 14, 2018, when a 15-year-old victim stated she had contracted a sexually transmitted infection from him.

While going through Hurts phone, police found 19 web searches for Chlamydia. All of those searches were on March 4, 2018.
The Salvation Army Flood Donation and Distribution Center in Davenport on Friday served 69 families affected by flooding on the Mississippi and Rock rivers, according to a news release from the Army.

Those families received 1,579 items that were donated to the center.

The center at the former Office Max location at NorthPark Mall still is in need of donations and volunteers to staff the center, though.

Urgently needed are: packaged snacks (chips, cookies, granola bars), dehumidifiers, fans, tools for building repair, cleaning supplies and tools, personal protective equipment such as work gloves, nitrile gloves, work masks, and eye protection and unopened bottles of bleach, according to the news release.

The Flood Donation Center will be open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday until at least the end of May.

Currently, flood clean-up kits and water are available for pickup by those impacted by the flood. A valid driver's license or state issued-ID is needed.

For more information, call 309-566-0350.

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A majority of Iowa voters believe the special counsel investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election should be released in full to the public. But Iowans are more divided on whether they believe President Donald Trump has been truthful when talking about the investigation, and whether they think the report has cleared the president of all wrongdoing.

All of this is according to a new poll of Iowa voters, conducted by the liberal-leaning Public Policy Polling.

A majority of Iowa voters  53 percent  said Special Counsel Robert Muellers full report should be released to the public, while 38 percent said the full report should not be released publicly. A partially redacted version has been released.

"The survey we conducted shows that Iowa voters value transparency," Jim Williams, an analyst with Public Policy Polling, said in a statement. "A strong majority wants to see the entire report released, not just the redacted version put forward by Attorney General Barr. Iowans believe they have the right to know the entire truth."
We find it unfortunate that the Trump administration has taken a hard line stand on congressional subpoenas. The president tweeted that all would be opposed.

We think this is the wrong tack. Congress has the duty to perform oversight; that is partly how we get transparency. Grassley, for example, has been one of the most aggressive practitioners of this duty. It irritated Democrats when Barack Obama was president, but he was within his rights to do it.

Its certainly true that other administrations have resisted congressional demands for information, but they have not refused to cooperate entirely.

The Trump administration complains that Democrats are using their subpoena power to have an effect on the 2020 election. We have no doubt about that. But thats not exactly unheard of. Just ask Hillary Clinton.

The more important point here is that, as much as we should try to insulate this process from politics, it is in the publics interest to get as much information as possible upon which to judge how our government functions.

We believe that's the case with all government, whether it's City Hall, the Statehouse or Washington, D.C.
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ABERDEEN | After 29 years with the Aberdeen Fire & Rescue, Michael Thompson is ready for retirement.

As the Aberdeen fire marshal, Thompson investigates fires, deals with the handling of hazardous materials and administration of burn permits for the city of Aberdeen.

Thompson's last day was April 26, where he said the thing he'll miss most is the big family he'll leave behind at the fire department.

Thompson worked with up to 49 others at Aberdeen Fire & Rescue's three fire stations.

"Usually when guys retire, they always say they'll come visit, but they rarely do. So I'm going to try to make sure to come back and visit these guys," Thompson said during his farewell celebration.

Thompson is looking forward to the time off and uninterrupted nights of sleep.

Of all the fire calls that stood out in his memory the most, Thompson recalled an incident in the early morning hours of March 17, 1998, when three fires broke out in town  at a warehouse on Railroad Avenue Southeast, a storage building on North Penn Street and an unoccupied duplex on South Rock Street. Authorities concluded that Richard Henke, who owned all three properties, set the fires.

The next day, Thompson said, Henke was found dead. Henke was a half-mile east of the Bath corner in his car. Authorities determined he died of a self- inflicted gunshot wound to the chest.

A Jamestown, N.D. native, Thompson has a bachelor's degree in engineering technology/fire protection and safety from Oklahoma State University in Stillwater, Okla. He worked as a sprinkler designer in private industry and in loss prevention for an insurance company before becoming Aberdeen's fire marshal.

Battalion Chief Joel Weig said Thompson will be missed.

Weig noted Thompson's plethora of knowledge, saying that if he didn't know the answer to a question it wouldn't be long before he'd get back to you with an answer.

Chad Nilson will take over the job as fire marshal May 13. He currently works for the city of Aberdeen as a building inspector.

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Rapid City residents and tourists will soon see friendly faces in bright red shirts in the downtown, ready to hand out maps and give directions, suggest restaurants and tourist attractions, and report crime to police.

The white lettering on the shirts says "Downtown Ambassador" as they're part of the new Rapid City ambassadors program.

"They'll be the friendliest person you see downtown. They'll be the person who can help you out with a map or pamphlet, help you decide on dinner, and let you know what kind of events are going on in Main Street Square," said Mayor Steve Allender. "It's primarily customer service, which also includes helping people feel safe while they're shopping."

The ambassadors will hit the streets Sunday, June 2, through September from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., according to Allender and the job description. They'll be expected to be friendly and helpful to tourists, "serve as additional eyes and ears" for the police and fire departments, and visit businesses, the description says. Ambassadors must be outgoing and will be trained by police and educated about Rapid City shopping, dining and tourist attractions.

Allender said he was first exposed to downtown ambassador programs when he visited Atlanta and an ambassador in a bright yellow vest gave him advice on where to eat and where not to go.

"It signaled to me that the city of Atlanta was aware of how visitors may feel when they come downtown," he said.

He said local businesses and tourism groups have been interested in a program in Rapid City for a few years and city staff has been researching how other cities run their programs.

The Rapid City ambassador program mirrors others around the county in that the employees are hired by a tourism or business group, rather than the city, and focus on helping visitors and the police.

While Rapid city ambassadors will stick to walking around the city, ambassadors in other cities travel by bicycle or Segway. Some, such as those in Grand Rapids, Michigan, receive specialized training in delivering physical and mental health first aid, treating drug overdoses and recognizing sex trafficking.

Allender said the downtown area can have "unruly behavior, intoxicated people, panhandling, other types of things going on" and that makes some people feel uncomfortable.

He said the ambassadors serve as an alternative to adding more police officers downtown, which is expensive, takes them away from other duties and can makes people think the city is unsafe.

"Police have plenty to do" and the ambassadors are "definitely not police officers," Allender said.

Lt. Cathy Bock said the ambassadors won't be trained to intervene in crime but will learn how to be good witnesses and feel comfortable calling the police. Both she and Allender said ambassadors can be helpful since tourists or residents on their way to work or an errand may not want to take time to report a crime.

Bock said the ambassadors will get to know officers assigned to the downtown area and those in the quality of life unit, which connects people with social services.

When asked about the possibility of an unnecessary 911 call leading to escalation and if ambassadors should be trained in when it's inappropriate to call police, Bock said officers are trained in de-escalation. She also said that just because an officer shows up doesn't mean someone will be arrested, instead they may provide resources.

"The whole goal is to get them help and be a good person in society," Bock said.

The ambassador program was unanimously approved May 14 by the board of the Business Improvement District, a taxing district in downtown Rapid City that uses funds to improve the area, Allender said.

The district will contribute $20,000 while Visit Rapid City and the city will each contribute another $2,000. Destination Rapid City will manage the program and is considering hiring four ambassadors with one or two working at a time.

Ambassadors must be at least 18-years-old, have a minimum of a G.E.D. education, and be able to walk three to five miles per day, the job description says. They'll be paid $12 an hour and must commit to at least 20 hours per week. To apply, send your resume to Cassandra@mainstreetsquarercc.com or mail it to Destination Rapid City/Main Street Square at 512 Main Street, #980 in Rapid City, SD 57701.

 Contact Arielle Zionts at arielle.zionts@rapidcityjournal.com.

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YANKTON | Josh and Deanna Johnson completed a 2,400-head swine nursery near Volin last summer, but not without pushback from the Yankton County Planning and Zoning Commission and county residents.

Deanna Johnson said that is why it is imperative they share their story. The Johnsons, along with several other Yankton County farmers, helped form Families Feeding Families to bring awareness about the impact family farms have on the region. It also is a response to the opposition over several proposed swine operations in Yankton County.

I dont think people realize that agriculture or family farms is a small business and they dont give them the permission or allow them to grow, Deanna Johnson said.

Families Feeding Families shared the story of the importance of livestock production at a recent "agvocacy" event in Yankton. The event included a free evening meal, speaker, auction and dance.

Money raised will be used to sponsor community and school educational events to raise awareness of modern, best practices used by family farms to protect the environment and produce more with a smaller carbon footprint.

At the event, the Johnsons talked about how their swine operation adds value to area grain. Right now, a lot of the corn, or even soybeans  it leaves the county, Josh Johnson said. It gets combined, it might hit a local elevator for a little while and goes in someones bin and then it all gets shipped off. If we can feed it here then the money stays here. Instead of paying somebody over here, were paying people in our community. Therell be more jobs. He said that also adds to the tax base of the county, which benefits everyone.

Ag United President Richard Vasgaard said Yankton County isnt alone in its struggle to expand livestock numbers. He said 30 years ago, farmers were in the majority and ran most of the county commissions, but that isnt the case anymore.

Were the minority, Vasgaard said. A lot of times the municipalities have the numbers if we have a vote on an initiative for something, so it gets tougher and tougher.

However, he said growing livestock numbers represent a huge opportunity for rural communities in South Dakota.

We need economic development in our counties, and this is a way for us to ... bring livestock in, because we already grow the feed and theres no sense in shipping it to another state and have them do it, Vasgaard said. We could just as well do it here.

Speaker Trent Loos has been advocating for agriculture for over 20 years through speaking events and his radio program. He said the early attacks on animal agriculture came from activists that claimed meat, milk and eggs were nutritionally bad for consumers. However, he said those myths were shattered through sound research. Now, most of the attacks on livestock have shifted to environmental concerns. He said those claims are false.

We would not have a healthy environment without animal agriculture, Loos said. When we confine animals, we have the opportunity to manage the manure, which is not a waste.

Loos said farmers need to share that positive story about agriculture with consumers. I would challenge the farmers to have more conversations with people who have been misled, he said. He said farmers need to have more events where they can talk with community members.

Quit saying us versus them because at the end of the day, we all really care about one thing. We care about making our communities stronger, we care about making it a better place for our next generation to raise their family, he said.

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Lincoln is alive. Im alive.

The wins far outweigh the losses.

A family unit and bond has been formed. 

Do I cry? Yep. Nearly daily.

Am I tired? Exhausted.

And I wouldnt change it for the world.

Im the luckiest Mother in the world.

 Amy Jo Martin

On April 13, with a blizzard approaching the Black Hills, Amy Jo Martin boarded a plane. She was headed for a sunny working vacation in Palm Springs, but she would not make it to California.

Her trip was waylaid by a harrowing surprise. Amy Jo gave birth to her son, Lincoln Gray Grewar, who arrived three months early. Today, Amy Jo is celebrating her first Mothers Day with her husband, Richard Grewar, as they marvel at and cheer on every bit of their tiny sons progress.

Looking back, I think I was in labor that morning and didnt know, said Amy Jo, recalling Lincolns birth day. I was getting ready to go to the airport, and I felt like something was a little different, but I thought it was Braxton Hicks. I still had three months to go. I thought there was no way this could be labor.

While on board her flight from Rapid City to Denver, the contractions became more intense. After arriving at Denver International Airport, Amy Jo booked a later flight and called her OB-GYN.

I said something seems a little off. She said to get some water and walk a little bit, and thats when I realized I couldnt really walk. I told her I was having a hard time walking and she said, You need to get to a hospital right now. You cant have a baby at 27 weeks at an airport, Amy Jo said.

Amy Jo made her way to a medical hub at the airport, then had her first ride in an ambulance.

The contractions were getting stronger and closer together. (Airport medical staff) called the ambulance. I still wasnt convinced I was in labor. It was three months early, she said. Things were getting more and more intense. I thought my friends should have warned me about Braxton Hicks.

Amy Jo was transported to UCHealth University of Colorado Hospital, an organization for which Amy Jo had done a speaking engagement two months earlier.

The ambulance doors opened up and I saw the UC logo. I felt a sigh of relief because I knew I was in a safe place even though I was scared. They took me in to assess me. I was still convinced this wasnt happening. They checked and I was nine centimeters dilated. They said, Youre having this baby, Amy Jo recalled. There wasnt any time to freak. I was just trying to figure out what I could do to help Lincoln.

Just a week earlier, Amy Jo and Richard had met with their midwife and doula. The couple, who live on wooded property near Hill City, had planned for their son to be born in an outdoor birthing pool in the forest. Instead, while Amy Jo was in the hospital, Richard was at Rapid City Regional Airport, where he watched his sons birth on FaceTime while awaiting a flight to Denver.

Its bittersweet, Richard said, grateful that his flight was late so he could view his sons birth. Realistically, thats better than being on a flight and not knowing what was happening. Its a modern-day way to watch a birth and make sure Amy was OK and Lincoln was alive and well and being looked after.

Doctors arent certain why Amy Jo went into labor three months early. Lincoln weighed 2 pounds, 3 ounces, and since birth he's been at the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at UCHealth, which specializes in caring for babies born between 23 and 28 weeks of gestation.

The unsung heroes really are doctors and nurses in the NICU. These people are angels, Richard said.

Though tiny, Lincolns parents say he is resilient. As of May 9, he weighed 3 pounds 6 ounces. Its amazing how strong he is. Hes a fighter, Amy Jo said.

Amy Jo and Richard have decorated Lincolns NICU pod with Amy Jos framed plane ticket and family photos. Within a couple of days after his birth, Amy Jo and Richard were able to hold Lincoln. They spend six to seven hours a day with their son and go on daily rounds with the medical staff. Because Lincoln should be in his third trimester of development  the stage at which babies begin learning language  his parents read and talk to him. Richard is a musician, and the couple is exploring the idea of introducing some music therapy for Lincoln.

We have taken it upon ourselves to make sure were his voice, and were his advocate for what were seeing and noticing, Amy Jo said. Its been really empowering to learn and have that as a way to contribute to his care.

Hes done well and the main things were focused on are his lungs, heart and brain because they typically would have had 90 more days of development, Amy Jo said. Grow, sleep, eat. Those are his marching orders.

Social media has been a beneficial tool since Lincolns arrival. Amy Jo is the author of Renegades Write the Rules, a New York Times bestselling book about innovative social media practices. Amy Jo and Richard leverage Instagram and other social media to keep family, friends and a growing number of internet aunties and uncles updated on Lincolns progress.

Through social media, weve found some of the best experts in the world, and were chatting with them, Amy Jo said. The amount of support from all over the globe has been a huge help for us, because we really feel that energy and its a positive thing. To be able to have the encouragement and people wanting to follow his journey has been a really neat way of making a big world real small real quick. The little guy has no idea he has his own hashtag.

Though Lincolns arrival was unorthodox, Amy Jo and Richard are grateful for the timing of it. Had Lincoln been born a day or two later, he and his parents would have been blizzard-bound at home and might have been unable to get even as far as Rapid City Regional Hospital, Amy Jo said.

Its been one day at a time. Sometimes, its one hour at a time. Were doing our best to stay positive and so far Lincoln's made that easy on us because hes doing well, Amy Jo said.

Amy Jo and Richard are still eagerly awaiting her original due date, July 10. On or near what should have been his birthday, Lincoln will likely be able to leave NICU and go home with his parents. His family has deep roots here. Amy Jos parents live in the Black Hills and Lincolns great-great-great-grandfather, John Brennan, is one of the founders of Rapid City.

As for Amy Jos Palm Springs getaway, she was planning to work on a book about entrepreneurs. Now, the book will include tales of her journey to motherhood as well, she said.

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Gas prices are rising, food prices are rising, the cost of clothes is rising, wages are not going up. A good economy doesnt mean squat when factoring everyday life into the equation.

Donald Trump bragged that trade wars are easy to win. Ask South Dakota ag producers if they feel like celebrating.

The Native American leaders once again try to widen the gap between non-Native Americans and Native Americans by not allowing Governor Noem on the reservation. Free speech is SPEECH not violence and destruction of public and private property without consequences.

Congratulations to Matthew and Spencer of St. Thomas More. Watched the video and it was great.

Mike Pompeo's recent comment that melting ice in the Arctic is a good thing because it will open up new shipping lanes shows the Trump administration's complete ignorance, hypocrisy and stupidity in regard to the seriousness of climate change.

With the big chemical spill from a barge wreck and a huge train wreck in just the last few days perhaps pipelines aren't so scary bad after all.

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Treaty disputes, historical aggression, poverty and cultural differences impede every inch of headway toward racial reconciliation in South Dakota. The ongoing fight over Keystone XL pipeline construction further complicates progress.

In recent weeks, state and tribal governments have entrenched themselves in ways that erode even the modest gains made since Gov. George Mickelson declared a Year of Reconciliation 30 years ago, since Gov. Mike Rounds declared a Year of Unity 10 years ago.

Its time to hit pause. Is there a better path forward?

Racial disputes in South Dakota naturally tend toward confrontation. They did so in 1890 in the frozen valley of Wounded Knee and again in 1973 after the American Indian Movement took over Wounded Knee for 71 days. The damage spreads quickly, but it takes so much time and cautious effort to reverse.

Today, two proud cultures gird themselves to win a fair share of respect and demonstrate strength. Its potentially explosive.

Gov. Kristi Noem must show real leadership to prevent further damage. It must start with a public and respectful acknowledgment of the legitimate interests that Native Americans have in the Keystone XL pipeline debate.

Respect does not mean surrender. Parties can respectfully disagree. Respect means listening and accommodating.

Last week, the Oglala Sioux Tribal Council informed Noem she is unwelcome on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation unless she rescinds legislation establishing civil penalties for "riot boosting."

Obvious to almost everyone is that Noem will not back down. South Dakota has a legitimate interest in protecting state and county budgets from the high costs of pipeline protests.

The tribal gesture was an act of anger, of defiance. It was a stand made by those who feel they have no alternative, who feel wronged.

The legal issues underlying Noems legislation matter greatly, but its a perception of dismissiveness that enrages tribal leaders. Noems defensive posture since gaining legislative approval only deepens tribal umbrage.

Tribes were informed they lacked standing in the legislative discussions because the proposed route for TransCanada's Keystone XL pipeline does not cross reservation boundaries. Tribal members and interests will be prominent among any pipeline protests. Everyone knows that. Theyre a major part of this. Consider what happened in North Dakota.

It seems more likely the tribes were excluded because no legislation easing the way for Keystone XL would be acceptable to them. It may be true.

Exclusion, however, has left the tribes believing they were intentionally dismissed and circumvented.

Noem later doubled down with additional defensiveness: "Tribal leadership had the opportunity to influence the legislation once it was introduced, just like every other South Dakotan."

Technically true, but the emergency rules used to speed legislative approval meant no South Dakota citizen had much of a say. Its one thing to weigh in as legislation is formulated. Its another to be an early reviewer. And its another altogether to be allowed to voice objections as a surprise package barrels across the finish line.

Noem recently called the tribes threat of banishment "unfortunate" and "quite a surprise." In effect, she told tribes they were overreacting. Try that some time during a spousal argument. The results wont be pretty.

Its a bad look for South Dakota.

There are two paths forward. One path will lead to escalating words and increasing anger. Hotheads will react, and there will be repercussions. Fear and distrust will fester for another generation.

Or, Noem can publicly acknowledge that respect was overlooked.

The tribes, meanwhile, must be willing to consider the position of state and county governments. Resentment that has accumulated over 130 years cannot be undone at once and especially not during an emotionally charged dispute.

We must pick our ways carefully during these difficult times. Divorce will not end well for anyone. Were stronger together.

Now is the time for both sides to swallow pride, set aside matters of right and wrong and of who started what. We must reach across the table, acknowledge the other, and listen.

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RAPID CITY | Glenn Curtiss Barber, 86, died May 9, 2019 at Westhills Village Healthcare.

Glenn was born on a farm near Watertown, SD, on May 2, 1933 to Cynthia Kellogg Barber and Lyle Barber. He was the oldest of three children. The family later moved to Watertown. He loved his summer breaks working on the family farm with his grandfather Curt and uncles Lawrence and Grant Kellogg. After high school graduation he joined them in farming.

In 1953 he married Ardis Lundberg, called her Ardie and the name stuck. The same year he was drafted into the U.S. Army where he was a member of the 70th Engineer Combat Construction Battalion and served in Austria primarily involved in bridge construction.

Due to the interest Glenn had developed in construction in the military, he decided to enroll at the SD School of Mines & Technology in the fall of 1956. In 1960 he graduated with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Civil Engineering and joined Private Homes Inc. in Rapid City, working on subdivision planning and development.

He transferred into Robbins & Stearns Lumber Company in 1963, helped form R & S Construction Company in 1964, and became a stockholder and director in 1966. In the early years R & S Construction Company worked in a 500-mile radius specializing in Indian Housing and schools. In Rapid City, a highlight of his career was the construction of Westhills Village in 1983.

After the death of major partners, the lumber yard closed, and the Construction Division continued as Glenn C. Barber & Associates Inc. (GBA) in 1989. GBA continued as a major builder and general contractor focusing on Indian housing, medical facilities and other general construction projects throughout the Black Hills region.

Glenn retired from GBA in 2000. Bill & Kristi Barber continued operations until their retirement in 2018.

Glenn loved the building industry and the people connections. After GBA he had opportunities to work on projects in Pine Ridge and Porcupine which he eagerly accepted. He had many long-term and treasured friendships with the Indian communities. He did not retire until health issues forced his retirement in 2014.

In addition to Glenns love of the building profession, he loved hunting, and learned cooking as a member of the Rapid City Gourmet Club. He served on the Board of Directors of Black Hills Corporation, Westhills Retirement Village, RC Chamber of Commerce, RC Economic Development, SD State Workers Compensation, and First Presbyterian Church of RC. He also loved being involved in the community serving as past president of the following: Associated General Contractors of SD (AGC), RC Home Builders Association, Mt. Rushmore Society, SDSM&T National Alumni Association, and SD State Board of Vocational Education. In 2000, he was honored by SDSM&T with a Degree of Doctor of Humane Letters.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Lyle and Cynthia Barber, sisters Marjorie Folven and Joyce Leach, brother-in-law Kermit Folven, daughter-in-law Diane Wallahan Barber, father- and mother-in-law Herman & Vera Lundberg, brothers-in-law, Lonnie, Norman, Beverley, Orvel and Morris Lundberg, and Herman Luken, sisters-in-law, Marjorie Douglas and Bonnie Barnes and nephews, Lance Leach and Tim and Dan Douglas.

Glenn is survived by his wife, Ardie, of 66 years, daughter Nancy Evans, Truckee Ca., sons Jim, Branson Mo., and Bill (Kristi) Rapid City. Grandchildren Kayla Evans Vom Dorp (Mischka), San Diego CA, Jamie Evans Christianakis (Stratos), Sausalito CA, and Jessica Barber, Branson Mo., brother-in-law, Ralph Leach, sisters-in-law Patricia Luken, Marsha Lundberg, Jeanne Lundberg and Gail Lundberg, and many treasured nieces, nephews and cousins as well as many friends who Glenn knew and loved.

Memorials have been established with the Employee Tuition Assistance Program at Westhills Village and The Hope Center of Rapid City.

Services will be at 11 a.m. on Thursday. May 16, at First Presbyterian Church. Burial will follow at Black Hills National Cemetery near Sturgis at 2 p.m., with full military honors rendered by the SD Army National Guard and the VFW Post 1273 Honor Guard.

Glenns online guestbook is available for friends and family to sign at www.osheimschmidt.com
This past week has become the beginning of the high water season for the Bitterroot.

If you are going to do a vacation this spring now is the time to do it when the Bitterroot is almost unfishable.

Painted Rocks Reservoir began spilling Tuesday and is increasing the water flows in the West Fork considerably. DNRC will continue to open the lower gates of the dam to prevent the reservoir levels of increasing too much and pushing large volumes of water over the spillway. Too much water could cause some deterioration of the spillway and the surrounding dam.

If you were lucky enough to get in some fishing before Tuesday you probably experience some good fishing with dry flies because the Skwalas continued to hatch and there were rather large mayflies that may have been a brown drake of some type.

The March brown mayflies are not this large and are around size 14 rather than the larger drake in a size 10.

At the FFB meeting Tuesday evening there were some good fish stories from the past month. The most interesting story came from one of our fishermen members who traveled down the Rock Creek road last weekend.

Upon seeing some fishermen wading Rock Creek he stopped and asked them about the fishing. They had been catching some rather large brown trout and were having a phenomenal day fishing.

I would like to share where they were on Rock Creek but I think I will keep this one to myself so I can get to this spot as soon as the water drops here. It will be sometime before the Bitterroot comes into shape so I think I can duplicate their success if I am extremely lucky.

Browns Lake is now ice free and could be a great place for you to go if you like fishing lakes. Chronomids should be coming to the surface on the warmer days and the big fish will be feeding heavily to make up for the cold and icy winter.

Kelsey Helfrich of Helfrich River Outfitters gave a great presentation Tuesday evening at the local Fly Fishers of the Bitterroot general meeting. Kelsey is a fourth generation outfitter and made me want to book a trip on the Middle Fork of the Salmon for one of their multi-day fishing trips. They also guide on the Salmon River, The Owyhee River, The Rogue River and the McKenzie River.

There are plenty of places to go if you want to fly fish during the high water here. In Montana we have to be more flexible about fishing lakes during this time of year. I have not experienced much fly fishing on lakes because of my preferences of fishing rivers but the few experiences that I have had were been good ones.

Two rivers that you could consider traveling to and fishing are the Big Horn or the Missouri. Dams control both rivers water flows and your chances of catching some good fish are high.

Good Fishing,

Bill Bean.

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Voters passed school bonds totaling $20.5 million for the Stevensville High School and Elementary School Districts on Tuesday.

Superintendent Bob Moore praised the community for their substantial turnout and positive endorsement.

In unofficial results, the high school bond passed by a vote of 2,102 to 1,763 and the elementary bond passed with a vote of 1,596 to 1,243. The results will be finalized on May 14.

The $6,369,000 Stevensville Elementary School District bond and the $14,169,000 Stevensville High School District bond address enrollment growth, special education space, agricultural and industrial trades and technology, renovations to buildings and grounds, safety, building access and parking.

A lot of people were interested and showed their support  parents, students, businesses and school staff, Moore said. Renee Endicott worked really hard mobilizing parents, community owners and businesses to show their support. When the community gets behind it, it makes it easier to get the information out.

Moore said it has been a long wait since portions of the high school building were built in 1958 and havent been improved.

Restroom facilities are not ADA accessible and science labs have 1958 equipment, he said. The technology alone has changed, we werent using computers in classrooms, we werent even using them in schools, so bringing in fiber optics, Cat 5 and Cat 6 cabling and figuring out where to run those lines, retrofit after retrofit, is challenging.

Protection, safety and best practices are three key reasons the school asked for the bond.

It is protecting an investment that this community has of their funds, Moore said. It is safety and sound educational practice. We are training students to be lifelong learners because there are jobs out there that dont even exist at this time that students will be walking into five, six, ten years down the road.

The funds will be used to modernize buildings and provide flexible learning spaces and new opportunities.

In 1958 they built a really solid state-of-the-art building, Moore said. The architects told us that the bones of the building are structurally sound for the high school, there are some things k-3 that we need to take care of. It means the community did it right the first time.

Moore said he is happy for the students and future students. He said that at the celebration for the bonds passing parents with young children said, This is who will benefit.

One child was 9-months old, Moore said. Its a great thing for the students, its a great thing for the community. Schools are a large economic driver in all communities. Having a strong, viable school brings people in.

He said the Industrial Technology center will give a huge boost to students who arent interested in attending college.

Providing students with skill-sets where they can walk out of high school and into jobs is important, Moore said. Instruction trades, manufacturing trades and providing a pool of workers for manufacturers to come in is important. Post high school training that has to go in for those certifications but it is just a different path towards a profession.

Educating todays students benefits the future.

I always tell people I want our students well-trained, Moore said. I want them to be the kindest people we can produce with absolutely the best skills because the students coming through the school right now are the ones who will be taking care of me in my old age.

Moving the playground will be a great safety improvement for the primary school.

We still have to go to the city for final approval of the abandonment of the surface and moving Phillips Street 200250 feet south on Park, Moore said. Moving the playground next to the school is absolutely a no-brainer.

He said having kindergarteners crossing the street six times a day with wishbone parking is a bad situation.

The bond will improve safety with parking for the elementary school, high school and events, and new drop off locations will help traffic flow for Stevensville schools.

It will relieve congestion and be a large benefit, Moore said. If you think over 1,000 students coming to school in cars, on busses or bicycles and foot traffic, then add over 100 staff members doing the same all into one traffic loop it creates interesting pedestrian versus vehicle interactions in the mornings.

Last May, Stevensville and Lone Rock voters rejected two bonds totaling $22.6 million for Stevensville high school and elementary districts. The Stevensville School Board surveyed the community on what they would be willing to support, rewrote the bonds, met with the community and found success.

A lot of times it takes several times for a community to pass a bond, Moore said. The survey was huge. Once we took the information that came from the community and put it in a ballot form we heard very little negative and gathered a great deal of support.

Moore said he appreciates that parents, businesses and other taxpayers in the community see the value of the Stevensville School District and the educational services they provide.

The community is taking on just over $20 million worth of debt over the next 20 years, for the community to take it on and have faith in the school that we are doing our best is greatly appreciated, Moore said. Its going to make Stevensville an even better place to live.

Mayor Brandon Dewey called the passage of the Stevensville School bonds a great step forward for our community.

These bonds invest in our children and let them know that we as a community believe in them and know that our towns future and our school district's future align and are one, Dewey said. As alumni of Stevensville Schools and as parents, Tasha and I are thrilled to see our community embrace its school and lead us into new opportunities for our education system here in Stevensville.

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Not a lot is known about the high-flying turkey vultures that sometimes soar above the Bitterroot Valley.

But, with a little help from the Florence-Carlton School District, MPG Ranch researcher Kate Stone may have taken a step forward in unlocking some of those secrets Friday.

After two weeks of trial and error, the researcher and her helpers finally got lucky when a turkey vulture flew into her trap in the pines just north of the districts administrative office, and someone pulled the string that slammed the door shut.

The 4-pound bird with sharp beak, distinctive red head and a wingspan of nearly 6 feet was fitted with a tiny radio transmitter and wing tags before it was released. Some of the school districts students and staff had a chance to get a close-up view before it left.

When I was holding it, it kind of felt like one of my chickens, Stone said. And then when it came time to release and it started flapping its wings, I was amazed at how long they were.

Researchers with the MPG Ranch and Raptor View Research Institute are working together to attempt to trap 10 turkey vultures this spring. That decision came after they noticed the unusual birds were starting to pop up in photographs taken by trail cameras used in an ongoing scavenger ecology study.

There is so little known about them, especially here in the inter-mountain west, she said. It also seemed like a perfect fit for our study on scavenger ecology.

Initially, the researchers homed in on a turkey vulture roost in West Carlton Creek near Florence and another in the giant spruce trees that surround an old funeral home building just two blocks south of downtown Hamilton.

Not all that many people in Hamilton know that its even there, Stone said. Turkey vultures normally arrive at their roost close to sunset and then leave a couple of hours after sunrise. A lot of what they do happens when people arent around.

In Missoula, theres a roost near the Coca-Cola plant.

A few weeks back Stone discovered the turkey vulture roost in Florence.

I saw them sitting outside the school, she said. When I started talking with people from the school and neighbors, they told me they were there all the time.

This was the second vulture that MPG Ranch researchers have captured and fitted with a transmitter. The first was caught in West Carlton Creek.

It didnt stick around the Bitterroot for long.

It flew from Florence to Frenchtown, where it spent a couple of nights, Stone said. And then it flew to St. Ignatius where it stayed a couple of days. Its now headed north along the Clark Fork.

At this point, Stone has no way of knowing if some the vultures call the Bitterroot home or if all are just migrating through. Every fall, they count 2,000 to 3,000 turkey vultures at the MPG Ranch during their annual raptor count.

They do know that some turkey vultures migrate as far south as Brazil to winter.

While vultures have been the focus of studies on the East Coast, Stone said not much is known about their nesting locations, population numbers or their range on this side of the country.

We know that they need some security during nesting seasons, but otherwise they tolerate people pretty well, she said. We also know that as conditions change, their population respond.  As climate and habitat changes, we might see them react to that, too.

People seem to be interested in learning more.

Ive been amazed at how people will stop and talk to us in the school parking lot or at Glens (restaurant in Florence) to tell us what theyve seen, she said. As a scientist, I want to be connecting with people and hearing about they know as much as possible.

We are looking for additional roost sites in the Bitterroot Valley, Stone said. We are interested in both documenting the numbers and behavior at the sites, collecting pellets from the ground, and, if people are willing, setting up additional capture sites.

Anyone with information to share can call Stone at 406-381-1115 or email at kstone@mpgranch.com.

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Pete Fromms new novel, A Job You Mostly Wont Know How to Do, is just out on Counterpoint Books. Its the story of a young man named Taz living with the death of his wife, Marnie, who dies in childbirth. Faced with raising a daughter alone in a house the couple were restoring together, Taz has to find a way to survive. Its a heartbreaking story, yet finds a way to uplift by showing how communities, and circles of friends, rally around each other in times of deepest trial.

This is Fromms first novel since 2014s If Not For This. There was a time when the Missoula writer probably wearied of consistently being referenced as something like the Northwests best kept secret. After all, the guy has won the Pacific Northwest Booksellers Literary Award a record five times  three times for novels, one time for a short story collection, and once for a work of nonfiction (1993s classic Indian Creek Chronicles, arguably his most popular book).

And yet he has never won the accolades nationally that other writers from fancier ZIP codes have. Now, though, when the subject is brought up, Fromm can just grin and nod knowingly, because France is onto him, in a big way. Pete Fromm joined the Missoulian for a wide-ranging discussion that touched on the new book, France, and more.

How did you come to be published in France?

I got an email from a French publisher (Gallmeister Editions) early in 2007 that said, Your book ('Indian Creek') is doing very well over here and I was wondering if you would consider coming over here with your wife to a festival in the fall. My U.S. publishers had never even told me they sold the rights.

Really?

I had no idea. I thought it was a joke. I thought it was my buddies, you know, Lets see if we can get Pete to fly to Paris. So I wrote back something snarky, and he wrote back, No, this is for real, heres the cover. So we went over there for that, and now hes doing my whole backlist. Its like walking around and lightning strikes one day, after 20 years.

Do you sell better over there than you do over here?

Oh, yeah. Every event is just standing room only. Its just insane. The whole book world is different over there. By law, nobody can discount a book more than 5%. So indie stores are big and theyre everywhere  chains dont have the kind of stranglehold like they do in the U.S. Its a four-year apprenticeship just to become a bookseller. Its amazing. Literature is still valued in France in a way it just isnt over here anymore.

Your characters are so strong, and so real. Like in the new book, these Missoula guys that show up, are so real. Theyre people we all know, if weve been here any length of time. Do any of your friends ever accuse you of putting them to work in your books?

I dont think enough of my friends read. (Laughs.) No, I never have. But like Tazs friend in the book, the character Rudy is based on a type of guy Id often see working on the river, or in the Park Service. In fact my French translator, when she was finished with translating the book, said, I love this book so much! So much so that, in fact, and this might be awkward, let Rudy know that if hes interested, I am available!

You know, in France so much is romanticized about what life out here is like, with all the stereotypes. In this book, I wanted to show what its really like to try to make a living. Especially if youre good at something, it still doesnt mean youre dialed into the money machine. It can be hard to make it work.

If Not For This dealt with a mother dying from multiple sclerosis. In the new book, a young mother dies in childbirth. You ever worry about people asking, What does Fromm have against mothers?

Did you know the U.S. leads developed nations, industrialized nations, for having the most maternal deaths (26.4 deaths per 100,000 live births)? Its just crazy! But this book started about seven years ago when I read a story in Glimmer Train (a literary magazine) about a guy whose wife dies in childbirth. The end of the story is this guy stepping out of the hospital carrying this baby, which is a fine end to that particular story. But I was like, Holy (expletive), thats where the story starts! and I immediately started writing about it. Not based on the original story at all, but the idea of the guy walking into his house and putting the baby carrier down, and wondering what to do now. The stuff in the finished book that precedes that scene came later, because I wanted to make people care about the young woman first, establish their relationship, all that.

How long did it take to write it?

I went like crazy and wrote the first draft in like seven months. I finished it and read through it, and realized there had to be something more than just grief.

Yes! That is what so many writers today seem to fail to realize, is that even in the darkest moments, people find a way to laugh. Theres humor.

Exactly. Otherwise its just grief porn. I realized that in that first draft, I was just working with the grief. Then I set it aside and worked on other things for a while. Finally I went back and figured out what it was gonna take to get Taz through it.

And thats the book.

Thats the book.

Chris La Tray is a freelance writer and photographer who lives in Missoula and works at Fact & Fiction Books. His work has appeared in the Missoulian and Montana magazine. His short fiction has been published in various crime, noir, and pulp collections and anthologies. Read more of his work at chrislatray.com.

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CALmatters is a public interest journalism venture committed to explaining how California's state Capitol works and why it matters. For more stories by Dan Walters, go to Commentary.
Moroccos royal navy rescued 117 migrants on May 10-11 on board dinghies, a military source told national news agency MAP.

The migrants were rescued off Moroccos Mediterranean coast and were taken to the ports of Ksar Sghir and Nador.

Morocco came under pressure as the main gate for migrants looking to reach Europe. So far this year 25,000 migrants were stopped from illegally crossing into Spain.

Last year Morocco thwarted 89,000 migrants including 29,000 rescued at sea. About 80 percent of foiled migration attempts in 2018 in Morocco concerned Sub-Saharans.

Morocco has also launched two campaigns to offer residency permits to some 54,000 migrants granting them access to the job market as well as health and social services.
 "Predatory Public Finance and the Evolution of the War on Drugs" | Main | A couple dozen Dimaya GVRs in federal criminal cases in latest SCOTUS order list 

May 13, 2018

Mother's Day review of moms in incarceration nation

Growing awareness and concern with incarceration levels in the US are reflected in the significant number of articles I have noticed this week discussing incarcerated mothers. I figure Mother's Day is a fitting day to round-up some of these recent pieces:

From The Crime Report here, "Mothers Day Behind Bars"

From Teen Vogue here, "Mother's Day Needs to Be Inclusive of Incarcerated Moms, and Heres How You Can Help"

From USA Today here, "In remembering her own mother, activist and attorney makes Mother's Day plea for incarcerated women"

From Jezebel here, "Mothers Are Incarcerated at Record Rates, Yet Prison-Nursery Beds Go Empty"

From Leafy here, "9 Ways to Help Moms Jailed for Cannabis"

From Yahoo here, "Mom serving 16 years for marijuana pens Mother's Day letter to daughters: 'I'm dreaming of your sleepy faces'"

May 13, 2018 at 11:01 AM | Permalink

Comments

Are children better off or worse off in the home of a criminal with an active addiction, with her visitors?

Posted by: David Behar | May 13, 2018 11:59:52 AM

No comment necessary.

https://www.cbsnews.com/news/opioid-epidemic-leaving-grandparents-to-raise-grandchildren/?ftag=CNM-00-10aab5j&linkId=51666711

Posted by: David Behar | May 13, 2018 8:00:15 PM

Post a comment
 Split California Court of Appeal rejects claim that second-degree felony murder provision unconstitutionally vague | Main | Split Sixth Circuit panel finds statutory max sentence substantively unreasonable(!) for felon-in-possession with long criminal history 

May 12, 2019

A Mother's Day round up of stories in incarceration nation

Last year in this post I did a review of mom-related incarceration articles in honor of Mother's Day. And another year brings another set of these articles worth posting:

From the Boston Globe, "Criminal justice reform must focus on women who are incarcerated"

From the Idaho State Journal, "Mother's Day Behind Bars: Card contest helps Pocatello women's prison inmates cope"

From the Marshall Project, "Why Mothers Are the Unsung Heroes of Prison"

From NBCNews, "#FreeBlackMamas works to bail black mothers out of jail in time for Mother's Day"

From WNYT, "Schenectady man offers shuttle so adult kids can visit mom in prison"

May 12, 2019 at 12:45 AM | Permalink

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There is one thing that only prison guards, inmates and their families really know about Mothers. When the world has forgotten about an incarcerated man, and the rest of his (former) friends and family have turned their backs on him, his Mother will still be there, to stand with him, love him, support him and fight for him. The bond between Mothers and their children is unique and virtually unbreakable. When I was serving 8 years in Federal prison, my Mother came to visit me frequently at the 10 different prisons the BOP sent me to. I was moved frequently because the BOP doesn't like former lawyers who know how to use the law library and type. I always knew when Mom was coming to visit, in advance, except for one occasion. I was held at the old FCI - Petersburg, Virginia (it is now a Low Security prison, and the BOP built a new Medium Security prison on land behind the old prison, which was originally built in 1916 as a prison farm). One day, a guard appeared and told me to get dressed, that I had a visit coming. I was not expecting anyone, and was curious about who my visitor might be. When I arrived in the visiting room, I found that the visitor was my Mother. I feared that she had shown up unannounced to let me know that my elderly Grandfather (her father) had passed away. But that wasn't it. Mom said that she had realized that it had been several months since she had seen me, and she had nothing planned for the weekend, so she decided at the last minute to drive 8+ hours from Lexington, Ky. to Petersburg, Va. to visit me for 2 hours (the maximum time for a visit). Mom could not afford a hotel for the night, so she had to drive 8 hours in the other direction home after visiting me. No one else on earth would have done that just to visit me in prison for 2 hours.

Posted by: James Gormley | May 12, 2019 3:15:36 PM

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 New issue of Crime and Justice covers "American Sentencing  What Happens and Why?" | Main | A Mother's Day round up of stories in incarceration nation 

May 12, 2019

Split California Court of Appeal rejects claim that second-degree felony murder provision unconstitutionally vague

A helpful reader made sure I saw an interesting and lengthy split California Court of Appeal ruling in In re White, No. E068801 (Cal. 4th App. Dist. April 30, 2019) (available here). Here is how the majority opinion gets started, along with the start of its substantive analysis:

Petitioner Gregory White challenges the constitutionality of his conviction for second degree felony murder (Pen. Code,  187) on the basis of the United States Supreme Courts decision in Johnson v. United States (2015) __ U.S. __, 135 S.Ct. 2551 (Johnson), and seeks relief via a petition for writ of habeas corpus.... As we discuss herein, there are some general similarities and some differences between the categorical approach analysis to the ACCAs residual clause that the United States Supreme Court found unconstitutionally vague in Johnson and the abstract analysis under California law for the second degree felony-murder rule. However, on this record, we do not find unconstitutional vagueness in petitioners conviction for second degree felony murder for the death of an accomplice arising out of the felonious manufacture of methamphetamine. Accordingly, we will deny the petition.

Here is how the dissenting opinion authored by Judge Raphael gets started:

Under Californias second degree felony-murder law, petitioner Gregory Whites guilt depended upon an abstract legal issue that had nothing to do with his actions. The trial court had to adjudicate whether Californias offense of manufacturing methamphetamine  in general, not in Whites case in particular  was inherently dangerous to human life such that it qualified as a felony murder predicate. If so, the fact that Whites co-conspirator died from burns incurred during the manufacture meant White was guilty of not just the drug crime, but of murdering his accomplice. Had our Legislature listed methamphetamine manufacture among the crimes that can serve as a predicate for first degree felony murder, White would be guilty of murder with no claim that the crime of conviction was unconstitutionally vague. The Legislature would have provided notice to the public and adequately guided the courts. But there is no statutory list of predicate crimes for second degree felony murder. A defendant such as White may find out whether his crime qualifies after he committed it, when a court determines whether the crime, taken in the abstract, fits the amorphous inherent-dangerousness-to-life standard.... I conclude that under Johnson, Californias second degree felony-murder law is unconstitutionally vague because it requires courts to assess the hypothetical risk posed by an abstract generic version of the offense.

May 12, 2019 at 12:23 AM | Permalink

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 A Mother's Day round up of stories in incarceration nation | Main | "Next Steps in Federal Corrections Reform: Implementing and Building on the First Step Act" 

May 12, 2019

Split Sixth Circuit panel finds statutory max sentence substantively unreasonable(!) for felon-in-possession with long criminal history

A helpful reader made sure I did not miss the interesting (unpublished!) ruling of a Sixth Circuit panel late last week in US v. Warren, No. 18-3141 (6th Cir. May 10, 2019) (available here). Here is how the majority opinion in Warren starts and ends:

At Davian Warrens sentencing hearing, both Warren and the government sought a 51-to-63-month sentence  a term that was recommended in Warrens presentence report and that fell within the applicable Sentencing Guidelines range. Instead, the district court imposed the statutory maximum of 120 months imprisonment. Warren challenges his sentence as substantively unreasonable, arguing that the district courts explanation for its upward variance does not justify doubling the Guidelines-recommended sentence and imposing the statutory maximum. We agree, vacate Warrens sentence, and remand for resentencing.... To be clear, we have declined to impose a bright-line rule that district courts cannot rely on factors accounted for by the Guidelines in imposing a variance, Tristan-Madrigal, 601 F.3d at 636 n.1, and we have affirmed the imposition of sentences that deviate from the Guidelines to some degree based upon a defendants criminal history, e.g., United States v. Villarreal, 609 F. Appx 847, 850 (6th Cir. 2015) (finding that serious criminal history warranted a slight upward variance); United States v. Lanning, 633 F.3d 469, 476 (6th Cir. 2011) (finding that serious criminal history warranted 42-month sentence, which was well above [the defendants] advisory Guidelines range of 18 to 24 months, though considerably below the statutory maximum sentence of 60 months). But we have also made plain that the greater the district courts variance, the more compelling the evidence must be. Stall, 581 F.3d at 28182. Even granting that some variance based on Warrens criminal history was justified, we are left with the definite and firm conviction that, in this case, the trial court imposed a sentence that was greater than necessary in roughly doubling the recommended sentence and imposing the statutory maximum based on Warrens criminal history without a fuller consideration of whether such a sentence avoids unwarranted sentencing disparities. Vowell, 516 F.3d at 512. On the record before us, the district court failed to provide a sufficiently compelling justification to impose the greatest possible upward variance under the statute. See Gall, 552 U.S. at 50; Stall, 581 F.3d at 28182. We are confident that on remand, the district court can fashion a sentence that reflects [the defendants] actual crime, that takes into account his dangerousness to the community, and that is sufficient, but not greater than necessary, to achieve the purposes of sentencing. Allen, 488 F.3d at 1262.

Here is how the dissenting opinion authored by Judge Batchelder gets started:

I respectfully dissent. The majority holds that, Because the district courts only discussion of whether the selected sentence avoids unwarranted sentencing disparities hinges on criminal history factors addressed by the Guidelines, the district court insufficiently distinguished Warren from other offenders in the same criminal history category, and thus the district courts reasoning was insufficient to justify such a stark departure from the Guidelines. The majority also characterizes Warrens criminal record as the only reason offered by the district court for the sentencing disparity. I must disagree. The district courts extensive discussion of its reasoning for an upward variance did not only hinge on criminal history factors, and in my view the district court did sufficiently explain how Warren was different from other offenders in the same criminal category. The district courts reasoning for imposing an above-Guidelines sentence for Warren was clear: the danger to the community posed by the unique combination of his refusal to be deterred by prior sentences and his violent nature.

I always find it heartening to see a circuit court take seriously its responsibility to review sentences for substantive reasonableness, and I wonder if this kind of rulings has become a bit more common now that there is more bipartisan concern for mass incarceration and the severity of federal sentences. As long-time readers know, I followed reasonableness review patterns closely for a number of years after Booker, but ultimately got very discouraged by this jurisprudence due to the unwillingness of many circuits to ever find within-guideline sentences unreasonable (and their eagerness to find below-guideline sentences unreasonable). The federal defenders have this notable list of reasonableness reversals through Nov 2017, and I think it would be a great empirical project to explore in great detail how reasonableness review has operated in the 15 years since the Booker ruling.

While excited by the Sixth Circuit panel here giving teeth to reasonableness review, I am also struck by the interesting fact that the defendant in this case was not subject to the extreme mandatory sentencing enhancement of the Armed Career Criminal Act given his extended criminal history. Given the Sixth Circuit setting here, I am reminded of a case from five years ago, US v. Young, in which a unanimous panel upheld against a constitutional challenge the 15-year ACCA sentence for a defendant with a much more modest criminal history than Davian Warren. Of course, Eighth Amendment claims are even harder to win (unless you are on death row) than reasonableness appeals. But comparing these defendants and the appellate outcomes serves as another reminder of how much arbitrariness infests the federal sentencing system.

May 12, 2019 at 09:29 AM | Permalink

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I fear that Mr. Warren will fall victim upon remand to a phenomenon I have long observed, when a defendant's sentence is vacated and remanded for re-sentencing by a Circuit Court. The District Judge will again impose the same sentence he did the first time (in this case, 120 months), but just more carefully explain and justify the sentence, so that it will hold up on review during the second appeal. Alternatively, the Judge might take a hint from the Circuit Court's opinion, and knock the sentence down to, say, 100 months, and try to justify it carefully, with a substantial and detailed explanation, so that it will stand up on appeal. The bottom line is that this defendant has nothing coming.

Posted by: James Gormley | May 12, 2019 2:49:59 PM

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Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte interacts with his supporters at the PhilSports Multi-Purpose Arena in Pasig City on May 11, 2019. (Photo: KING RODRIGUEZ/PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO)

By Andreo Calonzo and Philip J. Heijmans

Allies of President Rodrigo Duterte are leading in an early count of the Senate vote in what the Philippine leader sees as an affirmation of his three-year administration.

Nine of Dutertes allies are among 12 leading senatorial candidates, based on latest poll body data with 0.4% of the votes counted. His favored candidate and former aide, Bong Go, is in third place. The lone opposition candidate within striking distance to land a seat is Senator Bam Aquino, whos ranked 13th. While counting began when polling stations closed at 6 p.m. local time, those still in queues are still being allowed to exercise their vote.

Hundreds of malfunctioning machines and dozens of arrests for suspected vote buying marred the elections for more than 18,000 government positions, including half of the 24-seat Senate and about 300 House of Representatives posts. Those who agree with his policies likely voted for his candidates, Duterte told reporters after voting in Davao City.

If Im repudiated by the loss of my candidates, that could indicate that the majority doesnt want me, the president said. Early results are proving otherwise, even with slowing economic growth and his controversial policies including a deadly drug war.

Winning Streak

Opinion polls have predicted that allies of Duterte will dominate the race over a divided opposition. Duterte, 74, hasnt lost an election in his three-decade political career and is enjoying record high popularity as president despite criticisms against his drug war that has killed thousands and his governments pursuit of critics including journalist Maria Ressa,

The winners of the 12 senator seats will be proclaimed within the week, Commission on Elections spokesman James Jimenez said. The last time a lone opposition candidate won a midterm Senate seat was in 1967, under the late dictator Ferdinand Marcos.

Violence eased compared with the 2016 vote, police chief Oscar Albayalde said. The police recorded 20 deaths and 24 injuries since the start of the election season in mid-January. That compares with 106 violent incidents for the same period in 2016.

Story continues

Last Checks

A victory for Dutertes allies in the Senate could speed up policy implementation, including tax reform and his plan to move the country to a federal system of government. But it could also have negative implications for Philippine democracy by removing one of the last checks on Dutertes power.

Of the 12 leading candidates for the Senate, only Grace Poe, Nancy Binay and Lito Lapid were absent from Dutertes list and that of his daughter, Davao Mayor Sara Duterte. These three politicians escaped the presidents attacks during in his campaign speeches -- he reserved the bulk of his anger for those from the opposition Liberal Party coalition.

A big win will help Duterte push his policy priorities in the last three years of his term when leaders typically lose support, said Marthe Hinojales, senior Asia analyst at Verisk Maplecroft. "In the case of a sweeping Duterte-ally win in the Senate, two reforms that we expect to gain ground in legislature are the next phase of reforms  the bill lowering corporate taxes and federalism proposals  which can bring about regulatory uncertainty."

Weak Opposition

The opposition has remained disorganized and fragmented since the 2016 presidential elections, said Bridget Welsh, an associate professor at the John Cabot University in Italy. Dutertes critics from the Liberal Party and leftist groups fielded different Senate bets and campaigned separately.

They are making this election about Duterte and that only reinforces Duterte, said Welsh, who specializes in Southeast Asian politics.

Its likely Dutertes opponents will be almost completely shut out in the Senate race, said University of the Philippines political science professor Aries Arugay. This reflects his ability to control an electoral contest," Arugay said. "You still have a very formidable incumbent administration.

Pulse Asias latest pre-election survey shows only one opposition candidate for the Senate  incumbent Senator Bam Aquino, a cousin of the former president  has a shot at winning. The last time a lone opposition candidate won a midterm Senate seat was in 1967, under the late dictator Ferdinand Marcos.

Duterte has also attacked opposition candidates in his campaign speeches  from calling them gay to making fun of their teeth. Despite criticisms against his drug war that has killed thousands and his governments pursuit of critics including journalist Maria Ressa, Duterte remains widely popular. Latest poll shows his satisfaction rating is back to a record high.

Amid reports in local media of vote buying for as low as 20 pesos ($0.40), Duterte told supporters on Friday its okay to accept money so they could pay for their transport home after voting. Buying and selling votes is prohibited under Philippine election law.

Those who will be elected in Congress will be the administrations partners, so its better if the winners are the ones endorsed by the President, Dutertes spokesman Salvador Panelo said at a briefing before the vote.

Last Roadblock

A majority win for Dutertes allies in the Senate and House contests may have bigger implications for Philippine democracy, said Lee Morgenbesser, a Southeast Asia expert from Griffith University in Australia. Incumbent senators have investigated Dutertes drug war, and also blocked controversial measures including his federalism push and his plan to reinstate death penalty.

Since Duterte has seized control of the lower house through pork-barrel politics, stacked the high court with loyalists and launched assaults on media outlets, the Senate is the last real roadblock to him further eroding democracy in the Philippines, Morgenbesser said.

Beyond the midterms, the opposition can capitalize on issues where it can garner public support  particularly Dutertes closeness with China  if it wants a fighting chance in the 2022 presidential elections, Arugay said.

The territorial dispute with China is an issue that can evolve into Dutertes waterloo, mainly if he will be painted as favoring foreigners over Filipinos, Arugay said.

(Updates with early count.)

 2019 Bloomberg L.P
The recent love affair between Hollywood producers and the US state of Georgia, with its low taxes and affordable lifestyle, is suddenly in jeopardy. Strict new abortion laws passed in the southern state have prompted calls not only for a boycott of filming there -- but for a sex strike. A coterie of film stars led by actress-activist Alyssa Milano, including Alec Baldwin, Don Cheadle, Ben Stiller, Mia Farrow and Amy Schumer, had threatened in March to refuse to work in Georgia if it adopted the new abortion restrictions. But the state's Republican governor, Brian Kemp, signed the bill into law last week. Several independent film and television production companies have since pledged to boycott the state unless the legislation -- which bans abortion as soon as a fetal heartbeat can be detected, generally in the sixth week of pregnancy -- is rescinded. "Killer Films will no longer consider Georgia as a viable shooting location until this ridiculous law is overturned," the company's CEO Christine Vachon wrote on Twitter. Milano -- the onetime star of "Charmed" and "Who's the Boss?" -- had said she would fight "tooth and nail" for her Netflix series "Insatiable" to stop filming in Georgia. But then she took it one step farther, urging women to join her in a sex boycott until the law was repealed. "JOIN ME by not having sex until we get bodily autonomy back," she wrote on Twitter. "Protect your vaginas, ladies. Men in positions of power are trying to legislate them. #SexStrike" Somewhat inevitably, the call by Milano -- whose profile has risen as the #MeToo movement has taken hold -- has sparked controversy. - 'Surprisingly effective' - Though her idea earned praise on social media, including from actress Bette Midler, and #Sexstrike trended on Twitter for a while, the idea also earned scorn -- from both sides of the political spectrum. Liberals accused the actress of pushing the idea that women have sex to make men happy, which she denied, while conservatives mercilessly trolled her. Milano did not waver, even noting: "History shows that a #sexstrike is surprisingly effective." Sex strikes -- usually in the cause of peace or an end to sexual mistreatment -- have been carried out in countries from Colombia to Kenya to the Philippines, with varying success. Perhaps the earliest reference came from "Lysistrata," Aristophanes' comedy about women in ancient Greece withholding sex to pressure their men to end the Peloponnesian War. The women prevailed. - What's at stake - Georgia offers filmmakers a number of enticements: a far lower cost of living than in Los Angeles, a variety of landscapes and tax credits of up to 30 percent. Blockbuster movies like Marvel's "Black Panther" and "Avengers: Infinity War" were filmed in the state; television series including "Stranger Things" and "The Walking Dead" have been shot there. Last year, more than 450 productions were set in Georgia, where they spent the non-negligible sum of $2.7 billion. Kemp has stood firm, saying before he signed the legislation into law: "We protect the innocent, we champion the vulnerable, we stand up and speak for those unable to speak for themselves." The new restrictions could mark a tipping point. The Writers Guild of America, representing screenwriters, said the law would make Georgia "an inhospitable place" for industry people to work. But the major studios -- with huge financial stakes at issue -- have remained largely quiet. Chris Ortman, a spokesman for the Motion Picture Association of America -- which represents Hollywood heavyweights including Paramount, Sony, Universal, Disney, Warner Bros. and Netflix -- said the group would "monitor developments" and wait for the courts to decide. The film industry, he added, supports 92,000 jobs in Georgia -- a fact that did not go unnoticed by some lawmakers who are worried about employment. "I appreciate the calls to action... but please do not #boycottgeorgia," tweeted Stacey Abrams, a Democrat who nearly defeated Kemp in November's election. "The hard-working Georgians who serve on crews & make a living here are not to blame. I promise: We will fight - and we will win." With a nod to Abrams' plea, directors Jordan Peele and J.J. Abrams told The Hollywood Reporter that they will proceed with filming their new show "Lovecraft Country" in the state -- but they will donate their "episodic fees" to groups fighting the abortion law.
The Maraniss family in 1952, shortly after Elliott went before the House Un-American Activities Committee. Photo: Courtesy of David Maraniss

Over the course of 11 books, including biographies of Bill Clinton and Barack Obama, Washington Post editor David Maraniss has mastered the craft of tracking political and intellectual history through private lives. In his latest, A Good American Family, the author turns to the story of his own father: Elliott Maraniss, longtime editor of the Capital Times in Madison, Wisconsin, and onetime card-carrying Communist, who died in 2004. When David was a small child, Elliott was interrogated by the House Un-American Activities Committee about his involvement in the Communist Party and subsequently blacklisted from newspapers. Maraniss pieces together his fathers radical past in the context of the Depression, the labor movement, and the McCarthy era.

Intelligencer spoke recently with Maraniss about Elliotts legacy, his political influences, the abiding patriotism of both father and son, and the era when the Midwest was rife with communists and government spies.

The book centers on your fathers hearing before the House committee in Detroit in 1952. You tell readers to think of the hearing as the hub of a wheel, and the other events like spokes. What do you mean?

I meant that its not a traditional memoir or biography of my father. I was trying to put his experience into the context of those times, through the stories of many of the people who were in the hearing room that day, including members of the House Un-American Activities Committee, his lawyer, and the FBI informants who named him. I wanted to explore what it means to be American through all of those stories  not just my dads.

What happened earlier in his life that led him to that room?

My father was born in Boston, but he grew up mostly in Brooklyn, a couple blocks from the Coney Island beach. He was a student at Abraham Lincoln High School in the early 1930s. He was taught by fairly progressive teachers, including a principal who carried a pocket edition of Emerson in his back pocket. At that time, between the wars, there was a peace movement going on in high schools and on college campuses around the country.

High school seems to have played an important role in shaping his politics.

Some of the questions that I carried with me throughout the book were, What did he believe in? Why did he believe it? You could see the formations of that in his high-school years. This was during the depths of the Depression. The teachers were largely Jewish academics, who, because of the prejudice against Jews, didnt get hired in universities. The principal was a Spinoza scholar. And they all would talk about the excesses of the 1920s. They encouraged the students to be more serious and to work for social justice and social action. After high school, my father went to the University of Michigan. He quickly joined the Michigan Daily, the student newspaper. The papers other writers included Arthur Miller. In fact, my father had followed Miller from Abraham Lincoln High School to the University of Michigan.

You pored through the Dailys archives. What did your fathers writings reveal?

You can see, year by year, him becoming more radical  more prone to arguments that I found, at times, indefensible. Especially in 1939, after the Soviet-Nazi pact. His defense of that was pretty strained. But what I found in a larger sense was, time and again in his essays, whether they were about the Tennessee Valley Authority or Thomas Wolfe or Richard Wright or the meaning of America, everything that he believed was based on a foundational love of this country. So his radicalism was about trying to improve the country, not to overthrow its democracy, which was the basic accusation in the Red Scare.

Shortly after 1940, when he graduated, he went into the Army. His radical past caught up with him when he was investigated by military intelligence, but his commanders really thought he was a good soldier, and he eventually became the commander of an all-black unit, a salvage-and-repair unit. Then after the war, my father came back and worked on the Detroit Times until the day he was called before HUAC in 1952.

One of the spokes that connects to the hearing is the story of Bereniece Baldwin, who was responsible for your father getting hauled in.

She was called the Grandmother Spy  a working-class Detroiter whose second husband persuaded her to become an informant for the FBI. She joined the Communist Party in 1943 and didnt come in from the cold until that hearing in 1952. My fathers name was one of hundreds that she unveiled to the committee. She befriended many of the people that she later named to the FBI. She would go to their weddings, their baby showers, and it was part of her secret life for all of those years.

Near the end of my research, I found a few of her grandchildren. It took a long time because she had been married several times, and all of her children were dead, and everybody had different names. But I did find them. I told one of the granddaughters, You know, my dad was called before the committee and fired from the Detroit Times and it was your grandmother who named his name. It was a very interesting conversation. There were no hard feelings on either side. She said she hadnt even known about her grandmothers secret life until her mother died. She said, That was a weird time, wasnt it?

What had your father actually done?

I know my mother was a member of the Young Communist League. My father wrote and edited for what was a communist newspaper or a communist-front newspaper. First it was called the Michigan Herald, which was communist-oriented but also supported the Progressive Party in 1948 and the candidacy of Henry Wallace for president. So my father was on the left wing of the United Front, you might say.

Do you feel like the rules of acceptable politics had changed on him?

I think thats absolutely true  especially after the war, when the Iron Curtain went up. The Soviet Union and the U.S. were allies during World War II, but then everything changed. My father was slow to pick up on that change  and slow to appreciate the horror of the Soviet Union, in terms of its paranoia and murderous intent. Also, the U.S. had a peculiar bent in that way. There were communist parties in Europe that were still an accepted part of the political fabric  in Italy, and Great Britain, and France. But in the U.S., it became completely demonized.

At first, the books title seems ironic, as with the show The Americans. But actually, you take pains to show how your parents and their contemporaries were patriots.

I think the irony might be that the phrase came from one of the committee members, who was stunned to realize that someone from a good American family could become a communist. But also, its not irony! Its an intentional response to the 50-plus years of conservative drum-beating about family, and the notion that their definition of a good family is the only one. Theres so much hypocrisy from the right on those issues.

You make it easy to see how someone could love Jefferson and Emerson and conclude that in the 20th century, their ideas translate to a far-left politics.

Absolutely. Thats not a contradiction, but its presented often as one. You could see my fathers admiration for Lincoln and Jefferson and the foundational writers of the American experience.

Did he ever speak about the hearing when you were a kid?

He really didnt. He talked about it a little to my older brother, who was more conscious of what was going on during that time. I was not yet 3 when the hearing happened. And by the time we moved to Madison, Wisconsin, he had moved on and didnt want to talk about it again.

So you never had a conversation with him about it?

I tried a couple of times. It didnt go anywhere.

How do you think his story speaks to our current political moment?

Well, I started this book before Trump, but sadly, were living in another period where fear is used to manipulate the public, and where certain groups are demonized for political advantage. On a more specific level, you have a president whos asking for another Roy Cohn. Roy Cohn was Joseph McCarthys right-hand man.

Also, you had, in that era, Republicans who took a long time to see what was happening to their party. One of the figures in my book, Charles Potter, the congressman from Michigan, wrote a book a decade after these hearings called Days of Shame. I can only wonder whether, ten years from now, therell be a similar book, Days of Shame, about what the Republican Party has let Trump pull off.

Meanwhile, this is the first time since your fathers youth that people are calling themselves socialists in large numbers.

Thats true. Its been interesting to wonder about what people in my childrens generation and younger will think about their grandparents and that whole thing. I quickly discovered that communist affiliation and my fathers experiences didnt mean the same to them at all as it did to my generation, which grew up in the era of the atomic bomb and the fear of the Soviet Union.

What do you hope people will take away from reading this story?

Ive had early readers write about how it evoked their own childhoods in different ways, the anxieties and insecurities. So thats one level of what people will get out of it. I also want them to see what happens, how lives can be destroyed by the power of government, which is a constant concern.
Hong Kong authorities will soon be equipped with a new HK$169 million (US$21.5 million) weapon to fight seaborne crime in the citys waters.

The arrival of the first of 12 fast-pursuit craft follows a 177 per cent surge in the amount of contraband seized from maritime smugglers last year.

The value of the new boats is HK$22 million higher than the HK$147 million worth of high-valued goods confiscated in police crackdowns and the forces joint operations with customs against cross-border smuggling activities in 2018. The year before, HK$52 million worth of goods was seized in such operations.

In the first three months of this year, police confiscated HK$17 million worth of goods from seaborne smugglers.

Law enforcement sources said the 12 new boats were bought to replace the existing fleet, some of which have been in service for about 20 years.

Four of the vessels were manufactured in mainland China for the Customs and Excise Department, and two of those will come into service as early as this summer.

The other eight are being built in the United States and are expected to be deployed by the police in the first quarter of next year.

According to the technical specifications in the Marine Department shipbuilding tender, the four Customs craft are capable of topping 55 knots (100km/h) and are equipped with a water jet propulsion system that assures good manoeuvrability and emergency crash stop operation.

The vessel shall stop within three [vessels] length from maximum speed without damage or risk for the crew, it said.

The sources said every aspect of the new boats, such as speed and technology, were better than the existing fleet of fast-pursuit craft.

They said speedboats used by local gangsters to smuggle upscale goods to the mainland would be the main target of the new vessels.

The sources said at least three triad-controlled syndicates were the key players behind such cross-border smuggling, and they are hired by underworld shippers who want to avoid hefty mainland taxes and import restrictions.

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Their operation is just like a logistics service between Hong Kong and the mainland, one source said. Of course, it is illegal, but it is lucrative.

To attract their clients, the source said gangsters offer their services with a compensation package, which pays out if the goods are seized by authorities from Hong Kong or the mainland.

He said the smugglers could pocket tens of thousands of dollars per boat trip, with a cargo of 100 boxes of contraband. The goods include mobile phones, birds nests, computer parts, electronic products and endangered species.

In Hong Kong, waterfront sites in Lau Fau Shan, Sai Kung and Lantau Island have been used as loading points by smugglers, who usually operate during high tide.

To avoid detection, they run a one-stop service and hire their own triad members to work as porters and lookouts, another source said.

Smugglers also choose secluded coastal areas as their loading sites, making it difficult for police and customs officers to carry out surveillance. If officers move in, they have enough time to dump the goods on the shore and flee in speedboats.

Last year, gangsters even used a yacht to ship contraband near the maritime boundary between Hong Kong and the mainland, the source said, before loading the goods onto speedboats headed for the mainland.

One of most notorious smuggling hotspots is in the Lau Fau Shan waterfront area, from where speedboats can leave Hong Kong waters in a few minutes.

Earlier this year, Marine police also noticed a new smuggling route in which smugglers loaded contraband onto speedboats at the Lei Yue Mun waterfront before shipping the cargo out of the city. Following the crackdown, they moved their loading site to Shau Kei Wan typhoon shelter.

While speedboats and fishing vessels are a common means used for smuggling activities between Hong Kong and the mainland, smugglers are constantly changing their loading and unloading spots and take different routes hoping to escape detection, a Customs spokesman said.

Police said officers from the marine police region would continue to closely liaise with local and overseas law enforcement agencies for intelligence exchange, while conducting joint smuggling operations as necessary.

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Rainchem International, Inc. is introducing the Raimol Titanium Fuel Saver fuel additives, the new and economical way to save fuel for diesel and gasoline engines, and the Raimol Tribofilm Oil Additive, which prolongs engine life and reduces oil and fuel consumption for gasoline and diesel engines.

Rainchem International, Inc. is a 100-percent Filipino-owned company that is being managed by its President and Chief Executive Officer, Engineer Robert Dela Pena, a chemical engineer by profession.

Suce 1995, Rainchem has been serving a wide variety of consumers of heavy industrial lubricants, marine transport oil, greases, motor and engine oil of hundreds of corporations.

Rainchem started its export business in 2017, iniially with Vietnam, and is currently in negotiations with Papua New Guinea. It is also making itself viable with other Asian countries such as Thailand, Indonesia, Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar.

Rainchem is also into distributing biodegradable and eco-friendly home care cleaning solutions under its Natures Rain brand.

In our effort to accept the market challenges, Rainchem continuously reinvents, innovates, and competes, the company said in a statement. Raimol is not just a product, it is Rainchems answer to what every engine needs. We dare to compare!

The post Rainchem International Launches New Oil, Fuel Additives appeared first on Carmudi Philippines.
Stephen Kings "The Shining" may have been inspired by his stay at The Stanley Hotel, but wed argue the settings true parallel is The Black Monarch Hotel. Initially a Gold Rush-era casino, saloon, and brothel, the building is said to be haunted by the ghost of a man who died in a gunfight. Ever since, people have reported seeing unexplained things and in recent years, guests claim to have woken up to hear women laughing and men shouting only to learn that they were in the hotel alone.

Courtesy of The Black Monarch

These rumors of horrors and hauntings are embraced by the hotels new owner, Adam Zimmerli, whos worked in Denvers music scene and operated unique properties there. The Black Monarch features rooms themed after serial killers Elizabeth Bathory and H.H. Holmes, and according to the propertys press release, The self-proclaimed horror hotel is packed with curiosities, taxidermy, oddities and trinkets, giving alternative travelers myriad strange sights to explore.

On Colorados National Register of Historic Places, the hotel has been fully renovated and features a Victorian Gothic design aesthetic that accentuates the propertys storied past. The Black Monarch reopened to the public on May 1 and is located 46 miles southwest of Colorado Springs in Victor, Colorado, a tiny mountain town of less than 1,000 people. Hotel guests can explore the surrounding mountains, learn about the towns mining history, and enjoy live music, as Zimmerli plans to host live shows  with a dark twist  and special events featuring burlesque and circus performers.
Oh no, here we go again. Yet another article mocking millennials.

Indeed, ever since everyone collectively agreed that your generation was trash, writers have been relentlessly taking potshots at you guys from behind their computer screens.

Thanks to your constant job-hopping and complaints about hard work, theyve called you entitled. Youve been labelled the me me me generation for your narcissistic tendencies. Everythingfrom how youre always tired to your weird obsession with plantshas been carefully analysed and then criticised.

In a survey done by Milieu, an independent, Singapore-based research company, it was found that many of you gave extremely individualistic answers (not enough money, high cost of living, career dissatisfaction, etc) to questions that aimed to uncover why millennials are dissatisfied with life in Singapore.

Which is strange. You say you care about the world, and yet it seems when no ones watching, youre really only concerned about yourself.

Is this an accurate characterisation of your (our) generation?

To answer this question, we first have to examine the millennials who are dissatisfied with life in Singapore.

In Milieus survey, roughly 17% of respondents aged 16 to 29 indicated that they were either somewhat unsatisfied, unsatisfied, or very unsatisfied with their quality of life at the moment. They attributed this to tight finances; phrases such as no money and high cost of living regularly popped up.

This sounds individualistic, but its not all negativeat least not in the way you might assume.

Take the experience of 21-year-old Stacy Chua. To her, these answers come as no surprise. She is all for supporting causes she believes in, but other than signing online petitions or joining Facebook groups, Stacy admits she hasnt had the time to do more.

As a university student, her life revolves around family, school, and internships. Whatever free time she has is spent hanging out with friends. This naturally requires moneymoney she cant afford spending too often since her main source of income is the allowance she gets from her parents.

Story continues

While she has prioritised being financially independent for the time being, she has no plans to remain apathetic about the issues that matter to her generation. But like the phrase we often hear on airplanes Put your oxygen mask on first before helping othersshe wants to ease the burden off her parents before giving back to the community.

In fact, almost all of her peers feel the same way.

A couple of years older is Catherine Pang, 27.

An accounts executive in a marketing firm, Catherine spends her day dealing with clients and different creative agencies. Like any millennial in the workforce, she is usually drained after a day at the office.

Despite her hectic schedule, however, she does what she can to save the planet. This includes bringing her own bags when she goes grocery shopping and avoiding single-use plastic items, amongst other effortsnone of which sound like highly individualistic behaviour.

But similar to Stacy, she also has bigger, personal issues to think about. She and her boyfriend are thinking of tying the knot, and are currently in the midst of figuring out the logistics of a future life together. Between working out investment opportunities, living arrangements, and everything else, Catherine doesnt dedicate as much time to the greater good as she would like.

So who, then, is the most concerned with Singapores future? 34-year-old Bryan Lee may just have part of the answer.

With a stable job that pays well, a happy marriage, and parents spending their sunset years travelling the world, Bryans life is one that many younger millennials covet.

Hes comfortablewhich is also what makes the situation so tricky.

Once millennials get a taste of the Singaporean definition of success, they find themselves wanting more. A nicer car. A bigger house.

He too used to be just like that until a year ago, when his wife gave birth to their daughter.

This is gonna sound extremely lame and cliche but when you have kids, you start thinking about the kind of world you want them to grow up in. My perspective on a lot of things changed and I started looking even further down the road because it wasnt just about me anymore, he says.

To prove his point, Bryan refers me to the Life Beyond Grades initiative, which he thinks mightve indirectly brought about the implementation of subject-based banding in lieu of streaming in schools. He tells me that its always been heartening to see fellow Singaporeans band together and discuss the futurenot just for themselves, but for others too.

That said, if he wasnt a father, he admits he wouldnt have paid much attention since it wouldnt have affected him as personally.

Now, he understands why its so important for everyone to express their opinions and determine the kind of society they want to live inwe need to have that vision for the Singapore of the future.

So where do all these stories leave us?

For one, they tell us that it is possible to realise the need to do goodand that on some level, we already do.

Weve seen how student activists in universities are already speaking out and encouraging their peers to take a stand on a myriad of issues; to voice their opinions on politics. We saw this in a recent case of sexual voyeurism, where students banded together, pushing their school to organise a town hall to hear their views.

We saw this last year when a significant number of Singaporeans were galvanised to think more deeply about social inequality in the wake of Teo You Yenns This is What Inequality Looks Like, and CNAs Regardless of Class.

We continue to see this in how millennials are more informed about climate change than any other generation.

In other words, the conversation about what we want Singapore to look like in the future has already begun. We just need to keep this going. And at some point, merely talking about it wont be enough.

This is why its also important that individuals like Stacy and Catherine realise that helping society doesnt always require money, or specifically setting aside blocks of time. By even considering what they want the future of Singapore to look like, or standing up for a marginalised community when a friend says something insensitive, theyre already headed in the right direction.

If theres anything we do need to worry about, its the 16.8% of Singaporeans in Milieus survey who said that theyre doing nothing when it comes to working to change their own life or society at the moment. Second place went to Studying with 4.2% of the vote.

And we cant help but wonder: why?

Well, in the spirit of keeping the conversation going, a civic participation platform, YoCo, run by the National Youth Council encourages all millennials to partake in a more in-depth discussion of issues they care about. And they can do so by airing their views on YoCo.

This piece was brought to you by the National Youth Council.

Have something to say about this story? Tell us at community@ricemedia.co.

The post Singaporean Millennials Only Care About Themselves. Discuss. appeared first on RICE.
Prime Minister's comment on how he believed that clouds and heavy rain prevented Pakistani radars from detecting Indian fighter jets have received brickbats from the opposition leaders and people on social media. PM Modi disclosed that he gave a crucial go ahead when experts were in dilemma about launching the Balakot operation in the bad weather.

Speaking to News Nation, PM Modi said, "The weather suddenly turned bad, there were clouds... heavy rain. There was a doubt about whether we can go in the clouds. During a review (of the Balakot plan), by and large, the opinion of experts was - what if we change the date. I had two issues in mind. One was secrecy... second, I said I am not someone who knows the science. I said there is so much cloud and rain. There is a benefit. I have a raw vision, the clouds can benefit us too. We can escape the radar. Everyone was confused. Ultimately I said there are clouds... let's proceed."

The interview was televised on Saturday ahead of the crucial Phase 6 of the Lok Sabha elections. A total of 59 parliamentary seats are polling today.

BJP's official Twitter account had initially posted PM Modi's comment but it later took it down.

Opposition parties have latched on to the opportunity to roast the PM over his comments. Congress spokesperson Salman Soz said on Twitter, "It seems no one clarified for the PM how radars work. If that is the case, then it is a very serious national security issue. No laughing matter."

On PM Modi's radar & clouds comment, it seems no one clarified for the PM how radars work. If that is the case, then it is a very serious national security issue. No laughing matter! - Salman Anees Soz (@SalmanSoz) May 11, 2019

According to Britannica, "Radar's have the ability to detect faraway objects under adverse weather conditions".

He's one step away from saying he was the pilot... https://t.co/sQhCnTwrWu - Kunal Kamra (@kunalkamra88) May 11, 2019

"ISRO wasn't ready for the moon mission. The experts had their doubts. I told them to attempt it on the Full Moon Day because then they will have more area to land on. Vidya kasam." - Our scientist PM - Aisi Taisi Democracy (@AisiTaisiDemo) May 12, 2019

It was a cloudy and raining when Nirav Modi, Vijay Malya and Choksi escaped from India. - Supariman (@SupariMan_) May 11, 2019 National security is not something to be trifled with. Such an irresponsible statement from Modi is highly damaging. Somebody like this can't remain India's PM. https://t.co/wK992b1kuJ - Sitaram Yechury (@SitaramYechury) May 11, 2019

India had conducted air strikes on Balakot, Pakistan after a suicide bombing attack conducted by a Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorist killed several Indian soldiers on February 14.

Edited By: Udit Verma

Also Read: Lok Sabha Election 2019 Phase 6 LIVE updates: 39.10% voting percentage till 1pm; PM Modi says poverty is his inspiration

Also Read: Lok Sabha Election 2019: Poll dates, full schedule, voting FAQs, election results, constituencies' details
STORM LAKE, Iowa -- The Walmarts in Storm Lake and Le Mars are undergoing renovations and upgrades, including some high-tech systems to better accommodate online orders.

In Storm Lake, the old tile flooring was replaced with polished concrete; the store was re-painted and some signage replaced; fitting rooms were redone with lighted mirrors; a new electronics display was added; a 16-foot "pickup tower" was installed; and the store now has an online grocery pickup area. Renovations to the concluded in late March.

The Le Mars Walmart will get a remodel and a pickup tower later this summer. Sioux City's Floyd Boulevard Walmart was the first in Iowa to get a tower two years ago.

The tower, conveniently positioned at the front of the store, allows customers to pick up items they've purchased online, which are quickly delivered to them via a chute-like system. In the old online order pickup system, customers had to go to the back of the store to pickup online orders.

In the online grocery pickup area, customers who've purchased grocery items online can drive up to a designated parking area and Walmart employees will load the groceries into their vehicles.

"That's a big time-saver for the customer," Storm Lake store manager Jarib Johnson said.

Customers, he said, are starting to warm up to the idea of ordering products before they get into the store.

"Right at first it was a little slow, but it's definitely picking up -- this week alone we probably have almost 80 orders so far," Johnson said. "You could order your groceries watching TV at 8 o'clock tonight and pick your groceries up on a time slot that you select tomorrow, and you literally spend 5 minutes or less."

Walmart has spent $37.2 million this year on "new technologies and upgrades to stores throughout Iowa," according to a news release from the company -- each store gets $3 to $4 million for renovations.

"A good chunk of money is invested into every store, just to make sure they look bright and fit for the future," Johnson said.

The largest retailer in the U.S., the Bentonville, Arkansas-based chain has weathered a steep decline in the brick-and-mortar retail sector better than many of its rivals -- it reported more than $500 billion in revenues for 2018. That year, Walmart reported a 44 percent increase in e-commerce sales.

The trend toward e-commerce has eroded many competing brick-and-mortar stores, and some big names -- Shopko and Payless ShoeSource among them -- are disappearing completely.

Twenty-one of Iowa's Walmarts are getting autonomous floor scrubbers, while 16 are getting "FAST" freight unloaders, which help scan and sort items coming off the truck.

Tiffany Wilson, a director of communications at Walmart for the west, said the online-oriented amenities have been well-received by customers.

"Pickup towers have been really popular," she said. The store this year expects to install roughly 1,000 more pickup towers throughout the U.S., she said. "We know that speed and convenience are really important to our customers."

The automated nature of the pickup towers and online grocery pickup areas can be deceiving -- Walmart employees still have to load the tower from the back end and load up customers' cars during grocery pickup.

"They're not replacing people or replacing jobs," Wilson said. "They still require people -- what it does for our associates is, it allows them to spend more time working with customers and spend more time on the sales floor."

Automated floor scrubbers and the FAST unloaders, which do to some extent replace human labor, allow employees to up-skill and focus on the kinds of work robots can't do well, Wilson said.

"Those sorts of things are automating tasks or pieces of work, rather than entire jobs, so that our associates -- it takes some of the routine work out of the job. So it does change the job, but it's not replacing people," she said. "These are typically things that we struggle to find and retain associates to do."

Copyright 2019 The Sioux City Journal. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

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Spirit Lake, Iowa, formerly Sioux City

Kolton Nicholas Dicus, 25, of Spirit Lake, formerly of Sioux City, passed away April 18, 2019.

Services will be 11 a.m. Monday, May 13, at Waterbury Funeral Service of Sioux City. Following services, burial will be in Memorial Park Cemetery. Visitation will begin one hour prior to service time at the funeral home.

Kolton was born on July 9, 1993, in Sioux City to Michael Dicus and Denise (Claude) Kobold. He attended North High School and soon after received his GED. Kolton married Kaitlyn Hayek on Sept. 26, 2012. Together they made their home in Luton, Iowa, recently moving to Spirit Lake in 2017.

Upon completing his studies at Oklahoma College of Construction, where he studied crane operations and fundamentals of rigging, he became a certified heavy equipment operator. His most recent employment was at Halbur Lake Service in the Okoboji area.

Survivors include his wife, Kaitlyn Dicus; three daughters, Aliyah, Alaynah, and Amarah Dicus of Spirit Lake; father, Michael (Tracy) Dicus of Sioux City; mother, Denise (James) Kobold of Sioux Falls, S.D.; sister, Kara (special friend, Brandon) of Aurora, Colo.; brothers, Kyle (Jeff) Dicus of Sioux City, twin brother, Kolby Dicus of Sioux City, James Kobold Jr. of Cherokee, Iowa; and stepbrother, Trent Engling.

Kolton was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Ben and Luella Dicus; and maternal grandfather, Donald Claude.

In lieu of flowers, please direct donations to the family.
SOUTH SIOUX CITY -- An armed man was shot and killed and a police officer was wounded after an exchange of gunfire outside a South Sioux City nightclub early Saturday morning.

The South Sioux City officer, identified Saturday night as Brian Van Berkum, was rushed to a local hospital for treatment of his injuries. Dakota County Attorney Kim Watson reported he made it through surgery, and "is in stable condition and doing very well."

Officials had not officially identified the man who was shot, and had not yet reported his death by early evening. Earlier in the day, authorities said the man also was taken to a local hospital.

But his fiancee, Deshea Rodriguez, told the Journal that Luis Quinones, 26, of South Sioux City, died not long after the shooting.

"He didn't make it to the hospital," she said.

A tearful Rodriguez remembered Quinones as a gentle, family-oriented man, a good father and a hard worker. A native of Puerto Rico, he came to the U.S. mainland in 2012 and most recently worked as a deliveryman at a local furniture store, she said. The couple had been together for two years.

South Sioux City Police said the shooting took place at 2:08 a.m. outside Los Amigos, 1313 Dakota Ave. An unidentified person at that location reported seeing an individual with a firearm, according to a new release from police.

The first responding officer made contact with the man, and shots were fired shortly afterwards, according to the release.

Rodriguez said the authorities' description of the incident does not jibe with the man she knew.

"That's not him," she said of Quinones. "That's not the person I've been with all this time."

Rodriguez said Quinones did not keep guns around the house: "All of this for me is very -- I'm shocked."

Quinones went to the bar to meet with a former co-worker, she said. Rodriguez said she's been kept in the dark about the shooting, though she spoke briefly with officers in the hours after the shooting and confirmed his identity.

"Nobody will tell me anything about what exactly happened," she said. "No one will tell us where his body's been taken," she added, though she suspects the body has been taken for an autopsy.

The early morning release said no additional details would be provided to the public Saturday. South Sioux City Police Chief Ed Mahon, who was at the scene Saturday morning, said the Nebraska State Patrol has taken the lead on the investigation, and he could not comment further. Mahon and a state Patrol spokesperson referred questions to Dakota County Attorney Kim Watson. Watson declined the Journal's requests to provide further details.

Local law enforcement officials offered support to the South Sioux City Police Department and Officer Van Berkum.

"Thoughts and Prayers to the Officer and all the Brave Men & Women @sscpolice," Woodbury County Sheriff Dave Drew tweeted. "@WoodburySheriff is here to help in any way! #WeStandAs1."

In South Sioux City, investigators were seen outside Los Amigos Saturday morning wearing plastic coveralls, searching Rodriguez's silver BMW sedan parked next to the bar. Red stains, apparently blood, ran underneath the driver's side door, and several windows in the car were broken.

By Saturday afternoon, the vehicle was removed from the site, and a South Sioux City firefighter was using a fire hose to wash the last of the blood from the ground adjacent to the bar.

The liquor store portion of Los Amigos was open Saturday, but the bar and nightclub were closed. A show planned Saturday night at the bar, featuring the music group Escuadron Musical, was cancelled.

A check of Journal archives show this is the first shooting involving a law enforcement officer in South Sioux City in more than a decade. In March, 2001, a 29-year-old man was shot by officers and hospitalized after he shot and killed his girlfriend in a hotel room. In October, 2003, a 31-year-old man was shot and killed in a gunfight in which a Dakota County Sheriff's deputy sustained a gunshot injury.

Copyright 2019 The Sioux City Journal. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

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BJP candidate from West Bengal's Ghatal Lok Sabha seat Bharati Ghosh broke down into tears after she was heckled at two different polling stations on Sunday. Ghosh, a former IPS officer and once a trusted aide of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, was allegedly heckled, attacked, and even pushed to the ground by supporters of All India Trinamool Congress as she tried to enter a booth in Keshpur, reports said.

Later her convoy was pelted with stones and bricks as she was on her way to another booth near Keshpur. One of her security guards was injured in the altercation. Ghosh's security guards opened fire during the violence, reportedly injuring one TMC worker in the exchange. Keshpur is one of the Assembly segments under the Ghatal parliamentary constituency.

West Bengal: Vehicles in BJP Candidate from Ghatal, Bharti Ghosh's convoy vandalized. BJP has alleged that TMC workers are behind the attack pic.twitter.com/xdsJNkKhV8 a ANI (@ANI) May 12, 2019

BJP has blamed TMC for the attack on its candidate. "This is not for the first time that Bharati Ghosh was attacked. Since the TMC failed to stop her politically, it is trying to physically harm her," BJP state president Dilip Ghosh said.

Ghosh is contesting from Ghatal against Deepak Adhikari of TMC. Another candidates of note from the seat are Tapan Ganguli of CPI and Khandakar Mohammed Saifullah of Congress.

Meanwhile, the state CEO has sought a report from district magistrate regarding the attack on Ghosh. The CEO has also sought report after Ghosh was seen recording a video on her mobile phone inside a polling booth at Pikuda in Keshpur.

ALSO READ:Lok Sabha Election 2019 Phase 6 LIVE updates: 39.10% voting percentage till 1pm; PM Modi says poverty is his inspiration

Hours before the sixth phase of 2019 Lok Sabha election commenced, one TMC worker was found dead in East Midnapore district. Two BJP workers were injured in the same district after they were fired at in separate incidents . One BJP worker was found dead in Jhargra's Gopiballabpur on Saturday night with multiple injuries on his body. BJP has blamed TMC for the attack on its workers.

Violence between TMC and BJP workers has been commonplace in West Bengal during the ongoing Lok Sabha election. Reports of clashes between the two parties had been reported during the past phases too.

Eight seats - Tamluk, Kanthi, Ghatal, Jhargram, Medinipur, Purulia, Bankura and Bishnupur - in West Bengal are voting in the sixth phase of 2019 Lok Sabha election on Sunday. By 12:00pm, around 38.81 percent of 1.33 lakh voters had casted their ballots across these constituencies.

The Centre has deployed a total of 713 companies of the Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) and state forces across the eight constituencies of West Begal voting duing Phase 6 of 2019 Lok Sabha to ensure peaceful polling.

ALSO READ:Lok Sabha Election 2019: Poll dates, full schedule, voting FAQs, election results, constituencies' details
WASHINGTON -- 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.

Recently, 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% in the first quarter, far exceeding predictions of 2.5% growth. Unemployment is at the lowest level in five decades. In fact, America's 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%, the ninth straight month of above 3% wage growth. And the Wall Street Journal reports that wages for Americans without a high school diploma rose more than 6% last year, outpacing all other groups.

That's 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%; in Pennsylvania, it is 3.9%; in Michigan, it is 4%; and in Ohio, 4.4%. Are these voters really going to switch horses in midstream when they are doing so much better during Trump's presidency than they did during Biden's vice presidency?

Here is the bad news for Trump: While approval for his handling of the economy reached a new high of 56%, his overall job approval is still a dismal 45%, according to a CNN poll. Despite the booming economy, a 54% majority still disapprove of Trump's 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% of those who say they disapprove of Trump's performance generally say they approve of his handling of the economy. These Americans are happy with the results of Trump's presidency but not with him. The president's 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 recently that "after two years of hard work and each party trying their best to make the other party look as bad as possible, it's 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. He's got 545 days to do it.

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SIOUX CITY -- From the time she was a young child, the Rev. Erica MacCreaigh knew she wanted to become a parish pastor.

But MacCreaigh initially took a different path, first becoming a librarian, who specialized in prison and jail. She worked in the Colorado State Prison System and the Arapahoe County Detention Facility before returning to her early calling.

"I had some interesting experiences in that other field, but that pull toward parish ministry never went away," said MacCreaigh, who now serves as a pastor at Sioux City Westminster Presbyterian Church.

Back when MacCreaigh was going through the ordination process in Denver, she took a unit of clinical pastoral education (CPE). When she was doing the day to day work of a parish pastor in Sioux City, MacCreaigh realized she needed to take another unit of CPE to polish her pastoral skills. She entered the Clinical Pastoral Education program at St. Luke's College, completing 400 supervised hours of training in March.

"My first unit was six years ago and then I didn't have a pastorate for four years, so the skills got rusty," MacCreaigh explained.

While some young seminarians take CPE through St. Luke's College, the Rev. Roger Cauthon, department chair of Clinical Pastoral Education, said the majority are second-career students. CPE is an opportunity for lay persons, pastors, church leaders and healthcare professionals to get clinical experience as a chaplain in the hospital setting through visitation.

Cauthon said there is a demand for hospital chaplains. Most major hospitals, he said, have a spiritual care staff that treat all patients, regardless of their religious background.

"It's really a training in how do you be with a person that's really in the worst moment ever of their lives and, as they say in the medical field, do no harm, but help them to expand themselves and accept what's going on and to hopefully heal more quickly with spiritual help and some emotional support," he said.

St. Luke's College has a long history of providing pastoral education. The first CPE program, Cauthon said, began in 1982. Last year, he said 30 students completed the program. Ideally, Cauthon noted, prospective students should have both an undergraduate degree and a seminary education or a graduate degree in religion, but he said a lay person from a church could enroll in the program.

He cautioned that CPE is not the same as other graduate programs, where students read books and take tests. Instead, he said students meet with people in crisis in a hospital setting, write up a report about their experience verbatim and discuss it with a group of approximately five students who provide feedback.

"What we're really studying are the living human documents for our text, which are the students and the patients; and we're learning from them," he said. "A student will bring in a verbatim and we'll spend and hour, hour and a half talking about, 'Why did you say that?' or 'I wonder what was going one here?' or 'What was happening inside of you?'"

MacCreaigh said the verbatims challenged her attention to detail and memory.

"You've really got to pay attention in an encounter with a patient or parishioner in order to be able to report it and then being honest and somewhat exposed when you're sharing this with your peers and then being able to learn from their input," she said. "If we're not very honest and thoughtful in our feedback with each other, it's not a good learning experience."

Chaplains have to be able to cross racial, ethnic, cultural and religious bridges to help and support patients. Cauthon said they have just a couple minutes to become an "intimate stranger."

"A patient coming to a hospital is very much alone. They're in a strange place. They feel odd and out of place," he said.

According to Cauthon, studies show that patients who have had one or more visits with a chaplain report that their overall hospital experience is much better. Cauthon said students learn to listen not only for content, but what the patient is saying emotionally. He said chaplains are not just there for patients and family members, but also provide support to hospital staff who experience trauma and carry it with them.

In some of the best encounters with patients, MacCreaigh said a prayer might not be offered or God's name might not even be mentioned.

"You know it's a good encounter when the patient is talking and sharing what that experience is like," she said.

Chaplains should be curious, able to see people in a positive light and have compassion and empathy, according to Cauthon and MacCreaigh.

"We too are fragile. We're all going to be in those places," Cauthon said. "We're not fixers. We don't go and offer solutions. We go in to be with."

Copyright 2019 The Sioux City Journal. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

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The Washington Post on Sunday revealed that it had obtained Department of Defense documents outlining in more detail how the Trump administration plans to shift $1.5 billion originally designated for other military projects to help build the border wall.

Acting Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan told Congress on Friday that the Pentagon would be reprogramming money previously allotted for the war in Afghanistan and other military projects to help construct 80 miles of border barriers. Apart from this $1.5 billion, the Pentagon has also pledged $1 billion from Army personnel funds and $3.6 billion from other military construction projects to assist with border wall construction.

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Shanahan said that the shift in funding would not affect the militarys readiness but did not specify the particular projects from which the Pentagon would be drawing the money. However, Washington Post reports that, based on internal documents, the department plans to delay an upgrade for its Minuteman II ballistic missile program, which is decades old. The Air Force has been testing a Minuteman III program in order to replace the nuclear intercontinental Minuteman II missiles.

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The Pentagon also plans to delay an unspecified development in the Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS). AWACS planes conduct surveillance and communicate with fighter planes. The Post notes that the Pentagon terminated a $76 million contract with Boeing due to development delays late in 2018.

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The department will be shifting additionally funds from a space test experiment run by the Defense Advanced Projects Research Agency (DARPA), the Blended Retirement System for servicemembers, and Overseas Contingency Operations funds to assist coalition forces and the Afghan military.

The documents obtained by the Post do not specify the amount of money coming from each program, though the AP reported that $604 million would be coming from the Afghan Security Forces Fund, $251 million from a project to destroy chemical munitions, $344 million from miscellaneous Air Force programs, $244 million from a military retirement system, and $78 million from a fund for military coalition partners.

Democrats have voiced their displeasure over the Pentagons border wall funding plans, characterizing them as an attempt to bypass Congress. Several Democratic senators, including Patrick Leahy and Dianne Feinstein, sent a joint letter to Shanahan expressing their dismay. Once again, the Department of Defense has ignored decades of precedent and cooperation with the Congress in carrying out a transfer of funds without regard to any consultation with the Appropriations Committee, the letter read, in part. We are dismayed that the Department has chosen to prioritize a political campaign promise over the disaster relief needs of our service members, given the finite reprogramming authority available.

The White House announced Thursday that Trump plans to nominate Shanahan to permanently serve as Secretary of Defense. The senators indicated that they will likely bring the funding issue up during his confirmation hearing.
Donald Trump on Saturday evening sent out a tweet knocking former White House Counsel Don McGahn, who served under the president for nearly two years.

I was NOT going to fire Bob Mueller, and did not fire Bob Mueller. In fact, he was allowed to finish his Report with unprecedented help from the Trump Administration, Trump wrote, referencing allegations that he ordered McGahn to fire the special counsel in an attempt to obstruct justice. Actually, lawyer Don McGahn had a much better chance of being fired than Mueller. Never a big fan!

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The tweet came in the wake of a Wall Street Journal article on Friday, which found that McGahn had rebuffed a request from the White House last month to put out a public statement asserting that he did not think Trumps order to fire the special counsel amounted to obstructing justice. The New York Times further reported that Trump asked White House officials to reach out to McGahn with the request. According to the Times, Trump became angry when McGahn twice declined the request, seeing it as an act of disloyalty.

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The Mueller report revealed that, over the course of extensive interviews, McGahn told investigators that he refused Trumps orders to fire the special counsel and to put out a false public statement denying that such a conversation ever took place. However, the Washington Post reports that McGahn told the special counsels office that he did not think Trumps actions were an obstruction of justice. McGahn would nevertheless likely be a key witness in a potential obstruction of justice case against the president.

The House Judiciary Committee issued a subpoena to McGahn in late April seeking documents related to the testimony he gave to the special counsel. The White House blocked the subpoena, citing significant Executive Branch confidentiality interests and executive privilege. McGahns lawyer, Bill Burck, also sent a letter to the committee declining to comply with the subpoena. House Judiciary Chairman Rep. Jerry Nadler on Tuesday threatened to hold McGahn in contempt.
Georgian Downs will play host this summer to a new series for two-year-old pacers and trotters.

The Great Canadian Series will feature events for all two-year-old divisions and will be contested with three preliminary legs ($6,000 each) and a $12,000 added money final.

Event A: 2-Year-Old Trotting Colts

Leg 1: Saturday, June 29

Leg 2: Saturday, July 6

Leg 3: Saturday, July 13

Final: Saturday, July 20

Event B: 2-Year-Old Pacing Colts

Leg 1: Saturday, June 29

Leg 2: Saturday, July 6

Leg 3: Saturday, July 13

Final: Saturday, July 20

Event C: 2-Year-Old Trotting Fillies

Leg 1: Sunday, June 30

Leg 2: Sunday, July 7

Leg 3: Sunday, July 14

Final: Sunday, July 21

Event D: 2-Year-Old Pacing Fillies

Leg 1: Sunday, June 30

Leg 2: Sunday, July 7

Leg 3: Sunday, July 14

Final: Sunday, July 21

To view the nomination form, click here.

The nomination fee for The Great Canadian Series is $100 ($85 USD). Nominations are due May 15 and can be submitted online through Woodbine's website or through SC Stakes Online.

If sending payments by mail, envelopes must be clearly post-marked no later than May 15, 2019 or payment will not be accepted. Registered mail is recommended.

(Woodbine)
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Russia recently launched its first new-built special operations submarine; Belgorod. Another year or two will be spent on completing installation and testing equipment before this modified Oscar class SSGN (nuclear-powered cruise missile submarine) is ready for service. Belgorod wont work for the navy like other subs, but for the GUGI (Main Department of Deep-Water Researches) which works for the intelligence services and is attached to the Navy for ship and crew support. The Belgorod has come a long way since construction began in 1982. At one point the sub was canceled while still under construction. In 2006 Russia announced it would not finish construction of the Belgorod, the last of nine Type 949A SSGNs. Known in the West as the Oscar II class, these boats began entering service just as the Cold War ended. Three were in commission when the Soviet Union disintegrated in 1991. Construction continued on six more, and by 1997, eight were in service. But, at that point the navy had run out of the money, with the Belgorod not quite complete. Another $100 million was needed to complete Belgorod and the government (although not the navy) felt it wasn't worth it. Seven Oscar IIs remain in service, as the Kursk was lost in 2000, to a well-publicized accident. Work then resumed on Belgorod. That did not last long because the money was not there and not likely to be in the immediate future. Then in 2012 it was announced that the Belgorod, which had not been scrapped but put in storage, would once more be scheduled for completion. But this time there would be some major revisions. At this point, Belgorod became something more than an SSGN.

The original Oscar's were designed as "carrier destroyers," with long-range cruise missiles that could, in theory, take out an American aircraft carrier. The Oscar II class boats have a surface displacement of 14,000 tons. They have eight torpedo tubes (four 650mm, four 533mm), and 24 SS-N-19/P-700 Shipwreck missiles. These anti-ship missiles have a range of 550 kilometers, a speed of 1600 kilometers an hour, and a 1,650 pound high-explosive warhead (or a nuclear warhead of 350 or 500 kilotons as an option). The Oscar's crew of 107 contains 48 officers. That's because of the high degree of automation, and the need to offer officers pay and accommodations to attract the technical talent required to keep these boats going.

The new Belgorod was 11 meters longer (at 184 meters) and several tons heavier than the other Oscars. It no longer carried the 24 cruise missiles but instead was equipped to handle a number of new systems. These included four to eight Poseidon AUVs (autonomous underwater vehicles) that are allegedly armed with nuclear warheads and can be programmed to travel to enemy coastal cities, detonate underwater and create tidal waves that cause enormous damage along the nearby coasts. The Poseidon can travel thousands of kilometers on its own before detonating the 10-100 megaton warhead while on the seabed of the continental shelf.

Belgorod also can transport a new (since 2003), smaller (65 meters long) and nuclear powered Losharik minisub underneath it. This minisub can perform various operations using remotely controlled arms. It carries a crew of 25 to great depths (up to 6,000 meters) and has a top speed (for emergencies only) of 72 kilometers an hour. Losharik is believed to be for checking Russian underwater data cables for bugs (or damage in general) and tamper with underwater cables and other equipment belonging to the United States and other Western states. Because Losharik can dive deeper than any other sub and is quite large for a deep diving sub, it can find and retrieve useful items that end up in very deep waters (electronics from Western aircraft or ships). Losharik can also survey very deep sea bottoms for suitable sites for placing various electronic devices.

Belgorod can also transport a Shelf nuclear power plant that can be placed on the ocean floor to power the Harmony system of underwater sensors or any other new tech that needs to be powered for a long time. Power supplies similar to Shelf have been used in space satellites that require a lot of power (like those equipped with radar).

Belgorod is also equipped to carry combat divers (similar to U.S. SEALS) and Harpsichord AUVs that are the size of standard torpedoes but contain side-scan sonar and other sensors that can operate while up to 2,000 meters underwater. Belgorod is also designed to tow objects behind it. These can be a towed array sonar or other items.

Russia already has some specialized subs equipped for special operations. These are conversions of existing subs while Belgorod was custom designed and built for the special operations tasks. In late 2016 Russia finally sent its second special operations SSN, the Podmoskovie (BS64), to sea for trials. This sub is actually a Delta IV class SSBN (nuclear powered ballistic missile submarine) that began its career in 1986 as K64 Podmoskovie. Since 1999, K64 has been undergoing conversion to BS64, which appears to be something similar to customized U.S. SSNs that have been in service since the 1970s. The current American example of this is the USS Carter, a Seawolf-class SSN converted (while under construction) to be 30 percent longer and 20 percent heavier than the other two Seawolfs. The additional space was to hold mini-subs for the fifty SEALs it can carry, or to tap into underwater communications cables and perform other intelligence gathering tasks. The Carter entered service in 2005 and replaced an older Sturgeon class SSN (USS Parche) that entered service in 1991 and was retired in 2004. The Parche replaced earlier SSNs that had performed these intel missions throughout the Cold War.

The 13,500 ton Podmoskovie had its 16 ballistic missile silos replaced with facilities for launching remotely controlled mini-subs for intelligence missions. The renovations resulted in the sub becoming about five percent longer. This meant that the converted Podmoskovie was somewhat lighter (probably about 12,000 tons). The first Russian SSBN to undergo a similar conversion was the K129 Orenberg, a Delta III class SSBN whose conversion (to BS136) began in 1994 and entered service in 2008. The Delta III is about the same size and displacement as the Delta IV but the Podmoskovie conversion seems to be more extensive than the Orenberg. Both the Orenberg and Podmoskovie carry the Losharik minisub beneath it.

The United States has also converted four SSBNs, but not for intelligence work. On March 19th, 2011 the USS Florida, American Ohio class SSGN fired its Tomahawk TLAM-E cruise missiles in combat for the first time off Libya. Most of the hundred or so Tomahawks launched that day were fired by the SSGN. This was not the first time nuclear subs have fired cruise missiles in wartime as U.S. SSNs have fired Tomahawks several times. But the Ohio class SSGNs carry 154 cruise missiles, more than ten times the number carried by some SSNs.

The four Ohio class SSGNs are SSBNs converted to cruise missile submarines (SSGN) and these first entered service in 2006. Each of these Ohio class boats now carries cruise missiles as well as many as 66 commandos (usually SEALs) and their equipment.

The idea of converting ballistic missile subs, that would have to be scrapped to fulfill disarmament agreements, has been bouncing around since the 1990s. After September 11, 2001, the idea got some traction. The navy submariners love this one because they lost a lot of their reason for being with the end of the Cold War. The United States had built a powerful nuclear submarine force during the Cold War, but with the rapid disappearance of the Soviet navy in the 1990s, there was little reason to keep over a hundred nuclear subs in commission. These boats are expensive, costing over a billion each to build and over a million dollars a week to operate. The four Ohio class SSBN being converted each have at least twenty years of life left in them.

The idea of a sub, armed with 154 highly accurate cruise missiles, and capable of rapidly traveling underwater (ignoring weather, or observation) at a speed of over 1,200 kilometers a day to a far off hot spot, had great appeal in the post-Cold War world. The ability to carry a large force of commandos as well was also attractive. In one sub you have your choice of hammer or scalpel. More capable cruise missiles are in the works as well. Whether or not this multi-billion dollar investment will pay off remains to be seen, but it certainly worked off Libya.

The SSGNs are carrying a new version of Tomahawk, the RGM-109E Block IV Surface Ship Vertical Launched Tomahawk Land Attack Missile. Each of these weighs 1.2 ton, has a range of 1,600 kilometers and travels at 600-900 kilometers an hour. Flying at an altitude of 17-32 meters (50-100 feet) they will hit within 10 meters (32 feet) of their aim point. The Block IV Tomahawk can be reprogrammed in flight to hit another target and carry a vidcam to allow a missile to check on prospective targets.

The Russian special operations boats are certainly special with their nuclear-powered minisubs and AUV nuclear-armed minisubs as well as the sensor equipped smaller minisubs.
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When Jennifer Westerman was 16, she had to teach her father how to walk and talk again. A brain tumor had paralyzed him, and her mom had already been disabled by polio. The middle class family with eight children started relying on food stamps.

When she was 23, Westerman had a daughter, Christine. But just two weeks later she left her husband because hed started using meth. For 18 months, she lived off government assistance and dealt with the stigma of raising her daughter as a single mom.

Social workers treated you like you were less than. I didnt feel less than because I had been raised in a good family and we just fell on hard times, Westerman, now 51, said in an interview last week.

Can we get realistic here? she said. (My husband) used drugs. He did something wrong. I took my child to protect my child and I created a life for her. I do get frustrated that women so often bear the brunt of mens poor decisions.

Three decades later, Westerman is on a mission to create affordable housing for families whose lives, like her own, have been marked by hardship and tragedy. Her own tale is a Mothers Day success story that has taken her across much of the Western Hemisphere, including a stint as a United Nations peacekeeper, and now finds her in Longview as CEO of the local affordable housing agency.

I dont have the typical background of someone in an agency leadership role, she said. I have a more typical background of some of my clients, which is why I have the passion for this work.

Westerman started as the CEO of the Longview Housing Authority (formally called Housing Opportunities of Southwest Washington) in January, but the financial instability of her youth still informs her leadership, she said.

I still remember what its like and how hard it is when youre not sure how youre going to pay your next bill. Its a horrible feeling. Financial insecurity is a horrible, horrible, stressful, traumatic circumstance where all you can do is think about your financial circumstances, she said.

Motivated to give my kid a different life

Westerman found a way to pull herself out of financial hardship. When she was 24 and raising her 2-year-old daughter on welfare, she enrolled in the University of Montana, which had an excellent daycare on campus. She graduated in 1995 at 28 with a degree in political science, an emphasis in public administration and a minor in economics.

If I showed you a picture of me graduating, I had medals all over me, she said. I was hugely motivated to give my kid a different life.

She and Christine then moved to Colorado, where she pursued a masters degree in international politics at the University of Denver. Westerman was the first in her family to go to graduate school.

Part of her degree included fluency in a foreign language, so Westerman and Christine, by now 5 years old, attended a 10-week immersion course in Guatemala in 1996 and lived with a local family.

Guatemala was emerging from 30 years of civil war and genocide, and there were U.N. trucks everywhere. As one drove by Westerman, she thought, Some day Im going to drive that truck. ... Thats the type of work to aim for.

Two years later, after Westerman completed her masters, she and Christine returned to Guatemala, intending to stay.

Westerman didnt have a job lined up but she was determined to work for the U.N., so she gave herself six months to make it happen. On the last day of her self-imposed deadline, Westerman walked up the stairs to tell her landlady she was leaving, but instead her landlady handed her the phone. It was the U.N. offering her a job.

As a peacekeeper in the aftermath of a violent civil war, Westerman successfully brought former enemies together for a gentlemans agreement to hold a clean election. Before she returned to the U.S. in 2000, she received an official commendation from the U.N. for her work.

I needed a job quickly

When she returned to Montana, she married a man she had reconnected with during a previous visit, a widower with three teenage boys. Christine was in fifth grade. Two years later, he died, leaving Westerman the primary guardian of the boys.

I found myself a widow at 33 with four children at home, she said. I needed a job quickly with benefits, and thats how I started my housing career.

The Missoula Housing Authority was down the street, so she stopped by to see if there were job openings.

I didnt even know what a housing authority was. I was really surprised to find out that there were housing benefits for people that needed it because, man, there was a period in my life where I could have used that, she said.

Westerman was hired as a housing choice voucher specialist but was quickly promoted to admissions and leasing manager.

In 2005, after her youngest step-son graduated high school and moved out, Westerman started looking for other jobs and was hired as housing programs manager for the Bremerton Housing Authority. Christine, then a teenager, moved with her. (Westerman still stays in touch with her step-sons from time to time.)

Over the years, she kept getting promoted, eventually working for Plymouth Housing Group and then Housing Kitsap.

When she learned in 2011 that the Virgin Islands was hiring a deputy executive director, Westerman jumped on it. She had fallen in love with the Caribbean years before on a trip to Belize while living in Guatemala, and had always wanted to return.

She and her future husband, Robert Westerman, moved there together and got married on the beach two years later. (Robert Westerman is a retired 20-year Army veteran.)

In 2014, Westerman moved back to Kitsap County and worked at the Seattle Housing Authority as a Housing Operations Support Team Administrator.

Upheaval in Longview

After four years with the Seattle Housing Authority, Westerman grew tired of the daily commute across Puget Sound and felt ready to try her hand as an executive director of a housing authority.

Around the same time, the Longview Housing Authority was going through an upheaval. In December 2017, Longview Mayor Don Jensen and Mayor Pro Tem Mike Wallin asked the entire six-person board of directors to resign, saying they could be charged with inefficiency. They quickly backed away from the move after a public outcry, but most of the board left anyway during the next 12 months.

The mayors actions also prompted former CEO Chris Peggs decision to retire. She announced in early 2018 that she would step down at the end of the year.

Westerman said she learned of the opening because she had admired Peggs leadership in the affordable housing industry.

She didnt know much about Longview. So she arrived early for her interview last summer and immediately fell in love with Lake Sacajawea.

It reminded me of Missoula and I immediately wanted to get out and take a walk. I just felt so good, so peaceful. It felt like a place where I could live. And then I got excited about the job.

She was hired in October but didnt start until mid-January. Since then, she says she has been impressed with the quality of the agency and its staff, calling it a high performer at a recent meeting with the Longview City Council. (An April 20 article detailed Westermans annual report to the council and projects she hopes to continue.)

Westerman said she wants to run a housing authority where the employees feel supported so they have the emotional energy to treat their clients with care and compassion in the way that I wish I had been treated when I needed help.

We all need help sometimes, you know? she continued. There are people out here, for whatever has happened in their lives, they just have this moment where they need help. And I would like us to be there for them.

There are many different factors driving the nations current homeless crisis, she said. Rents are increasing while wages are stagnant. An opioid crisis is ravaging the country and mental health problems are not being addressed.

When people have these negative feelings about our clients, I think theyre classifying them all as drug addicts and miscreants  people that are making bad choices. Some of that could be true, she said. (But) we have an environment where wages arent keeping up with salaries, so no matter how hard you work, sometimes you cant afford the rent.

In Longview, Westerman said she expects to face challenges with aging housing stock, limited federal funds, increased housing demand and unstable soil conditions that complicate the construction of new housing.

However, she previously told the City Council that the agency has one of the highest success rates shes seen in her 17-year career in affordable housing. In 2018, the agency assisted more than 3,400 people and distributed 98 percent of its federal housing vouchers.

She wants to focus on making sure the agency is well-run and doesnt take on too much risk while also developing new housing projects.

Expanding the agency to Lewis, Pacific and Wahkiakum counties was a boon for the local community, she said, but Longview will always be the anchor of the housing authority.

As for the agencys relationship with the Longview City Council, Westerman said she gets the sense that everyone is ready to have a fresh start.

It happened. Its over and today is a new day, she said. Its unfortunate that it happened  (But) its not productive (to dwell on it). We just need to move on and work together.

Representatives of local agencies and governments have all been welcoming, helpful and eager to make the housing authority successful, she said.

I hope that Ill be able to do the work building relationships, working with other agencies, working with the City Council, working with the county commissioners, the mayor (and) everyone, so that this becomes a piece of pride for this community; that Longview has this great regional housing authority thats serving the region of Southwest Washington.

Westermans daughter is now almost 30 and was awarded Civilian of the Year for her work with Navy Legal Services on Whidbey Island. But Westerman says her own time as a struggling single mother still echoes throughout her work, even now as a CEO.

After 17 years in housing, I still have compassion.

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Although it may not include long hours on her feet, Kristi Lee said her role as a nurse in PeaceHealth St. John Medical Centers specialty clinic offers up plenty of challenges.

Theres a misconception about clinic nursing because while its not physically draining, its mentally challenging and the liability is huge, Lee said. A lot of times we dont have doctors around to run a scenario by and have to make a decision immediately.

Lee is the nephrology care coordinator at the Longview specialty clinic. Nephrology is the study of kidneys and kidney disease.

She is a triage nurse for nephrology, as well as gastroenterology and neurology part of the week. That role involves helping patients determine what kind of care they need over the phone.

The challenge is the patient and their family are your eyes, Lee said. You assume a lot of liability without ever seeing the patient face to face.

Lee said introducing a video option to communicate with patients would be helpful because the caregiver could assess the patients demeanor and see how they respond to questions. It could also help assess symptoms easier, she said.

Until that option becomes available, Lee said shes learned to trust her instincts.

If your gut tells you something, more often than not, thats the right call, Lee said.

Lee, 45, has been a nurse for nine years, but she has worked at St. John for 27. She said she started as a secretary in 1992, then became the community education coordinator and an administrative assistant before starting as a RN.

She said she was always interested in nursing but didnt want to attend college right after graduating high school. Lee went back to school for her nursing degree in her 30s while raising a family. Its never too late to pursue a career you want, she said.

It was very challenging in the moment but so fulfilling when said and done, Lee said. Dreams can become reality.

Working in the clinic is also more accommodating to a family, Lee said. Management understands that family is a priority, and Lee and her coworkers can cover for each other when needed, she said.

Lee said its also fulfilling to work with such a great group of doctors.

Educating patients about their conditions, preventing hospital visits and seeing them be successful is gratifying, Lee said. That success comes from teamwork between the doctors, nurses, patients and their families, she said.

The difficulty of clinic nursing is working over the phone, but being a caregiver is fulfilling, Lee said. You feel like you make a difference.

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WASHINGTON  With the passing of Jean Vanier on May 7, the sum of the world's welcoming kindness diminished appreciably.

More than 50 years ago, Vanier sparked an unlikely movement of conscience. Shocked by the despair and loneliness he found at a psychiatric hospital outside Paris, Vanier did not merely adopt the cause of the intellectually disabled; he decided to buy a dilapidated house and live with Raphael Simi and Philippe Seux, two people with severe intellectual disabilities. "Essentially, they wanted a friend," Vanier said. "They were not very interested in my knowledge or my ability to do things, but rather they needed my heart and my being."

This highly personalized model of compassion now inspires 10,000 people who live together in more than 150 L'Arche group homes around the world. Those without intellectual disabilities  known as "assistants"  spend a year or more committed to a L'Arche home and its disabled members. And the relationship can be transforming for both.

When you visit one of these L'Arche communities, you are immediately impressed by the rigor and order of the average day. Chores and work schedules are taken seriously. But so are affirming celebrations such as birthdays and rituals such as communal meals and prayer. These homes offer safety, routine and acceptance. And people with disabilities often respond by showing unsuspected aptitudes for friendship and love.

The L'Arche movement is not sectarian, but it is clearly informed by Vanier's Catholic faith. His life's work reflects a Christian anthropology  a belief in the inherent rights and dignity of every human life. Vanier identified this as "the belief in the inner beauty of each and every human being."

In one sense, Vanier's approach to compassion is wildly inefficient. Who would design a social program that strives for a one-to-one ratio of helpers to helped? How could that type of effort possibly be scaled? But that is precisely the point. L'Arche is not a traditional social program. Its commitment to the dignity of people with intellectual disabilities is lavish, extravagant. It rejects a utilitarian cost-benefit analysis. And it certainly rejects a Social Darwinism that views the vulnerable as worthless. By serving a group of human beings that others ignore or discount, Vanier made the case that no human being should be ignored or discounted.

Vanier's radical Christianity goes even a step further. Not only are the disabled inherently valuable, they have much to teach us. "It has been this life together that has helped me become more human," Vanier reflected. "Those I have lived with have helped me to recognize and accept my own weaknesses and vulnerability. I no longer have to pretend I am strong or clever or better than others. I am like everybody else, with my fragilities and my gifts."

As a teacher and writer, Vanier spoke to a broader cultural unease. In modern societies, it is not only the disabled who feel isolated, abandoned and alone. Vanier diagnosed loneliness as the great challenge of our time. "Loneliness is a feeling of being guilty," he said. "Of what? Of existing? Of being judged? By whom? We do not know. Loneliness is a taste of death."

The answer to loneliness is the same thing that L'Arche offers. Human beings can only thrive and be happy in small, family-sized communities. And communities of this type are only created through mutual vulnerability. And that sense of vulnerability requires a knowledge of our frailties. And so the happiness and belonging we need most in life begin with a recognition of our own weakness.

"If we deny our weakness and the reality of death," Vanier wrote, "if we want to be powerful and strong always, we deny a part of our being, we live an illusion. To be human is to accept who we are, this mixture of strength and weakness. To be human is to accept and love others just as they are. To be human is to be bonded together, each with our weaknesses and strengths, because we need each other. Weakness, recognized, accepted and offered, is at the heart of belonging."

Vanier's message was so different from our typical cultural emphasis on strength and independence. It will be terribly missed. But it is carried forward by the assistants and people with disabilities at L'Arche, who have much to teach us about the universal human need for acceptance and belonging.

Michael Gerson is a syndicated columnist whose work appears each week in the Washington Post.

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WASHINGTON  It happened again.

Another company that Ive done business with sent me a letter saying that my personal data had been compromised. An investigation found that my name, address and Social Security number had been improperly accessed. I shouted out some things not fit for print.

And, wouldnt you believe it, not long before I got the letter, some odd things happened. An expensive camera was delivered to my home. In a panic, I called the store and through my own search of my account I found that it had been purchased and charged to my credit card from a personal computer in Oklahoma. I was able to return the camera and get a full refund, but the incident rattled me.

Around the same time, I received a confirmation notice from UPS that I was enrolled in its My Choice service, which helps you schedule and monitor the delivery of packages. I had never signed up for such a thing.

A quick Internet search found that scam artists like to use the UPS tracking service to redirect your packages to other addresses.

As part of its apology, the company that was hacked offered free identity-theft protection for 24 months. But as I was registering, I paused to consider this irony: To get the service, I had to give yet another firm access to sensitive information so that it can monitor my personal data.

Trying to stay ahead of the creeps and criminals stealing our data from companies with vulnerable information networks has become a hellish adventure.

And, as much as we have the right to criticize corporations for data breaches, we consumers also leave ourselves exposed, too.

How much of your personal data do you routinely reveal online? Do you tag your best friend or post cute photos of your pooch? All this information can be mined to help an impostor answer security questions about you.

Most likely a lot of your information has already been compromised, but there are some things you can do to mitigate the damage. For the Color of Money Book Club for this month, Ive selected 200+ Ways to Protect Your Privacy by Jeni Rogers, a technology writer and consultant.

Whats in your wallet right now?

Are you carrying your Social Security card? What about your latest bank statement or utility bill? Do you have all your credit cards with you? Why? Are you going to use each and every one during your trip to Target?

You should make a special point never to regularly carry around sensitive documents on your person, Rogers recommends. She adds that you should get into the habit of reducing the amount of personal data you stuff in your purse or wallet. Shred or secure financial papers in your home.

Each page of her pocket-sized book provides one concise strategy to police your information. Here are a few tips for protecting your data.

Peel the label

. Think about all the information on your medication bottles. Before tossing them, destroy the labels.

Bypass the birthday freebie

. Loyalty programs and retail stores often give you stuff on your birthday  a cup of coffee, discount coupons or free dessert. Its prudent to keep your birthday out of superfluous databases, Rogers says.

Dont give your phone the finger

. Lots of mobile phone users (myself included) use a finger or thumbprint to open our phones or various apps. But Rogers says to be careful with this security feature. Its possible nowadays that a crook could swipe your phone and your glass at a cafe and, with some spy technique you think only happens in a movie, lift your fingerprint.

Dont charge using the free cord

. Your battery is low. You forgot your charging cord. But dont use the USB charging cord at a public charging station, Rogers advises. Your data could be accessed through the device. Use your own cord and only plug it into electrical outlets  not USB ports.

A 2018 Gallup poll found that 16% of Americans said they or someone in their household had been a victim of identity theft in the previous 12 months.

Your best defense to protect your privacy is to develop a criminal mind.

We have to look at our data from the perspective of a swindler who sees dollar signs with each piece of information about our lives that we post or keep unsecure  or that is stolen in a hack.

Im hosting an online chat about 200+ Ways to Protect Your Privacy at noon Eastern time May 23 at washingtonpost.com/discussions. Rogers will join me to answer security questions.

Michelle Singletary writes the nationally syndicated personal finance column, The Color of Money, which appears in The Post on Wednesday and Sunday.

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O.K, I admit it. I am not a dog person.

Still, a canine experience last weekend left me wondering how someone could be so heartless.

A week ago Saturday morning, my son Nicky and I were hauling some brush out to the alley behind our Old West Side home when I saw a Pampers diaper box set against the big trash receptacle.

Thats odd, I thought, fearing someone had disposed of used diapers there. But then I saw something back and white and furry moving through an opening in the lid.

I opened the box carefully and came upon one of the saddest sights Id seen in a long time. It was a small dog. It was emaciated, soiled in its own feces, and trembling. When I went to pat its head, it growled, but it was a feeble objection.

It appeared to a spaniel mix about the size of a large pumpkin. It stared up at me with longing and panic-stricken eyes. It obviously had been abandoned, and its reaction to my approach made me think it had likely been beaten.

I called 911, and when the police dispatcher heard the story she said the story saddened her, too, and so she dispatched the Humane Society. Animal control officer Tim McCuin called within minutes to get my location and arrived shortly afterward to investigate.

His big pickup startled the pooch, who managed to get out of the box and hide between my laurel hedge and a fence. But Tims gentle manner soon won the dog over and Tim was able to get a tether around its neck. He wrapped him in a blanket, continued to speak calmly and lovingly, and finally brought the struggling little canine to the truck.

I was impressed by Tims gentleness, which was such a stark contrast to the insensitivity of whomever dumped the dog out in the alley.

Why would someone just abandon a poor animal like this? Who would do such a thing? I asked Tim.

Youd be surprised, he said.

This past Wednesday, I checked up on how the pooch was doing at the Humane Society shelter on Fibre Way.

The good news: He didnt have parvovirus, a highly contagious disease spread dog-to-dog by contact with their feces. Vaccines can prevent the infection, but mortality can reach 91 percent in untreated cases.

He weighs 15 pounds, which is about double what I thought he weighed.

Hes doing a little bit better. But were still testing him. He still has issues with diarrhea and he has a long road ahead of him, Humane Society Director Charmaine Nawrocki said by phone.

The society scanned for a microchip but did not find any. Shelter personnel have concluded that the dog simply was abandoned for reasons that remain unclear.

What is clear is that it is illegal under state law to abandon a pet, though such cases are often hard to prove, Nawrocki said.

And theres no reason for it. The Humane Society is an open admissions shelter and takes all unwanted animals, she said.

If someone needs to unburden themselves of a pet, they should first look to adopt it out to friends or neighbors, Nawrocki said. If that doesnt work, the Humane Society will take the animal for a $20 relinquishment fee, which pays for injections, neutering and other care (the cost is $30 if the pet is just dropped off without an advanced phone call).

Unfortunately, Nawrocki said, abandonments happen more frequently than than you would know, as often as a few times a month, she estimated.

People abandon pets for many reasons, she said. They cant afford them. Their animals get sick. The owner cant afford veterinary care. They move away and leave the pets behind.

A lot of people dont have the resources and dont know who to call, Nawrocki said.

And, at least as of Wednesday, no one had a name to call the rescued pooch.

Nawrocki asked me if I had a suggestion. I didnt at that moment, but Narwocki later accepted my suggestion: Tuxedo. Hes black and white, and the name connotes a lifestyle far removed from living quarters near a garbage can, where Nicky and I found him.

I hope that Tuxedo, the sad and malnourished little pooch who touched my heart, recovers and finds a loving home.

Either way, I hope he becomes a poster pooch against pet abandonment.

Contact City Editor Andre Stepankowsky at 360-577-2520.

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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.

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PetroChina Company Limited, together with its subsidiaries, engages in a range of petroleum related products, services, and activities in Mainland China and internationally. It operates through Exploration and Production, Refining and Chemicals, Marketing, and Natural Gas and Pipeline segments. The Exploration and Production segment engages in the exploration, development, production, and marketing of crude oil and natural gas. The Refining and Chemicals segment refines crude oil and petroleum products; and produces and markets primary petrochemical products, derivative petrochemical products, and other chemical products. The Marketing segment is involved in marketing of refined products and trading business. The Natural Gas and Pipeline segment engages in the transmission of natural gas, crude oil, and refined products; and sale of natural gas. As of December 31, 2020, the company had a total length of 31,151 km, including 22,555 km of natural gas pipelines, 7,190 km of crude oil pipelines, and 1,406 km of refined product pipelines. The company is also involved in the exploration, development, and production of oil sands and coalbed methane; trading of crude oil and petrochemical products; storage, chemical engineering, storage facilities, service station, and transportation facilities and related businesses; and production and sales of basic and derivative chemical, and other chemical products. The company was founded in 1999 and is headquartered in Beijing, the People's Republic of China. PetroChina Company Limited is a subsidiary of China National Petroleum Corporation.

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Sixty years after it was scuttled off the coast of San Francisco, the bomb-scarred, radioactive hulk of the World War II-era aircraft carrier USS Independence (CVL-22) has been located on the seafloor near the Farallon Islands.

NOAA, working with private industry partners and the U.S. Navy, has confirmed the location and condition of the USS Independence, the lead ship of its class of light aircraft carriers that were critical during the American naval offensive in the Pacific during World War II. Resting in 2,600 feet of water off California's Farallon Islands, the carrier is "amazingly intact," said NOAA scientists, with its hull and flight deck clearly visible, and what appears to be a plane in the carrier's hangar bay. Independence (CVL 22) operated in the central and western Pacific from November 1943 through August 1945 and later was one of more than 90 vessels assembled as a target fleet for the Bikini Atoll atomic bomb tests in 1946. Damaged by shock waves, heat and radiation, Independence survived the Bikini Atoll tests and, like dozens of other Operation Crossroads ships, returned to the United States. While moored at San Francisco's Hunters Point Naval Shipyard, Independence was the primary focus of the Navy's studies on decontamination until age and the possibility of its sinking led the Navy to tow the blast-damaged carrier to sea for scuttling on Jan. 26, 1951.

This is a remarkable and fascinating discovery, because it's no exaggeration so say that the nuclear history of San Francisco and the USS Independence have long been intimately connected  and remain so to this day.

San Francisco is still grappling with the complex and messy task of cleaning up radioactive contamination at the former Hunters Point Naval Shipyard, in no small part because of the massive (and massively unsuccessful) effort undertaken there to try and decontaminate USS Independence after the Operation Crossroads detonations.

Independence was originally laid down as a cruiser, but during construction it was converted into a light aircraft carrier as an emergency wartime measure. Light carriers had short flight decks, and they were mostly used to transport aircraft between ports, but Independence saw combat too, sustaining torpedo damage at Tarawa in 1943. In January 1944, the ship came to Hunters Point for repairs.

Here's how Independence looked when it was moored near Hunter's Point in 1944:

After the war, Independence was sent to Bikini, where it became a target for the Operation Crossroads nuclear detonation experiments:

A fleet of 95 target vessels was assembled in Bikini Lagoon. At the center of the target cluster, the density was 20 ships per square mile (7.7 per km), three to five times greater than military doctrine would allow. The stated goal was not to duplicate a realistic anchorage, but to measure damage as a function of distance from the blast center, at as many different distances as possible.[34] The arrangement also reflected the outcome of the Army/Navy disagreement about how many ships should be allowed to sink. The target fleet included four obsolete U.S. battleships, two aircraft carriers, two cruisers, eleven destroyers, eight submarines, numerous auxiliary and amphibious vessels, and three surrendered German and Japanese ships. The ships carried sample amounts of fuel and ammunition, plus scientific instruments to measure air pressure, ship movement, and radiation.

Although heavily damaged by the force of the the 1946 atomic tests, Independence survived the blasts at Bikini. Here's how the ship looked while still smoldering in the immediate aftermath:





A closeup look at the blast damage to her stern (notice the two sailors on board the ship at the far right):

After Operation Crossroads, Independence and several other surviving ships were towed to San Francisco. These were the very early years of nuclear weaponry, so the goal was to investigate techniques that could be used to decontaminate navy ships after a possible nuclear conflict.



Here's how Independence looked when it was tied up at Hunter's Point, beneath the massive crane that remains a prominent local landmark today:





Much of the effort focused on the use of sandblasting techniques to decontaminate the major components of exposed ships.

By and large, this effort was deemed a failure. However, the Navy generated significant amounts of contaminated sand along the way, and much of this sand was collected and stored on metal barrels. In turn, many of those barrels were loaded onto the hulk of the Independence, which effectively turned the battered ship into a floating nuclear waste repository.



Writing for SF Weekly in 2001, Lisa Davis compiled a definitive history of the nuclear decontamination efforts at Hunters Point:





At some point, [National Radiological Defense Laboratory] scientists determined that there was no hope of ever cleaning up the Independence, and began to use the mighty ship as a floating laboratory. The theory behind this plan was elegantly simple: Because the ship was already contaminated and scheduled for disposal, it was the perfect place for high-level radiation experiments and storage. "Large quantities of fresh fission products were introduced on board and drained into empty tanks for stowage," one memo from the time says. Correspondence between shipyard personnel also shows that samples (including sea life and plants) from Operation Crossroads were moved on board the Independence. Finally, in January 1951, the mighty Independence -- apparently full of nuclear waste -- was towed underneath the Golden Gate Bridge and sunk at sea, apparently near the Farallon Islands.



Here are some of the last photos of the Independence ever taken (until now). In January 1951, loaded with its radioactive cargo, Independence was towed out to a point near the Farallons for use as a gunnery target:





The ship took a few direct hits:

And then, it keeled over and sank:

This map identifies where the wreck of the Independence was just found:

And here's a sonar detail of the wreck:

PHOTOS: Historical photos of USS Independence via Navsource.org. Hat tip to Jeremy Crandell
Kathmandu, Nepal, May 12, 2019: Nepali Congress has challenged the government to pass the proposed bizarre media bill from the parliament.

Organizing a press meet on Sunday, Nepali Congress President Deuba challenged the government to pass the proposed media bill.

The Nepali Congress will not allow passing the media bill, he said. Nepali Congress President Deuba has made such a challenge even though the incumbent government has a conformable majority in the parliament to pass the bill.

The media law is a kind of coup attempt against press freedom, Deuba said adding that the new bill registered by the government is against the norms of the constitution.

The Nepali Congress will defy any short of interference in the press freedom, he said even accusing the government of being autocrat.

The attempt of overshadowing the role and position of the press council is an attempt to be autocrat, Deuba said.
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Shawnee Health Service is pleased to announce our adoption of The DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses at Shawnee Health Care health centers. The award is part of the DAISY Foundation's mission to recognize the extraordinary, compassionate nursing care they provide patients and families every day. Shawnee Health Service began accepting nominations for The DAISY Award on May 6, the first day of Nurses Week 2019.

Nurses may be nominated by patients, families and colleagues at any Shawnee Health Care health center, or online at www.shawneehealth.com. The award recipient is chosen by a committee at Shawnee Health Service. This year, the award will be presented in September at a celebration attended by the Honorees colleagues, patients and visitors. After this year, the award will be presented during Nurses Week each year. Each honoree will receive a certificate commending him or her as an "Extraordinary Nurse." The certificate reads: "In deep appreciation of all you do, who you are, and the incredibly meaningful difference you make in the lives of so many people."

The DAISY Foundation is a not-for-profit organization, established in memory of J. Patrick Barnes, by members of his family. Patrick died at the age of 33 in late 1999 from complications of Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura, a little known but not uncommon auto-immune disease. (DAISY is an acronym for Diseases Attacking the Immune System.) The care Patrick and his family received from nurses while he was ill inspired this unique means of thanking nurses for making a profound difference in the lives of their patients and patient families.

Shawnee Health Service is a network of eleven Federally Qualified Health Centers and related Shawnee Alliance social services. Shawnee Health Care, the health center program of Shawnee Health Service, provides integrated primary medical and behavioral health care, dental care, and obstetric/gynecologic care to patients regardless of ability to pay.

 The Southern

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For 11 years, Black Diamond Harley-Davidson has been awarding scholarships for students who choose to remain in our local region to attend school. The scholarships are $1,000 each, and this year twelve local students from our district were among the recipients.

To be eligible, scholarship recipients must demonstrate a strong work ethic and cooperative work skills. They must also be enrolled in their districts community college for the summer 2019 and/or fall 2019 semester. Recipients were nominated and chosen by their schools administrative staff and faculty.

We are excited to welcome to the Saints Family the following student recipients: Grace Rendelman of Anna Jonesboro High School, Nigel Williams of Cairo High School, Sophia Oliver of Century High School, Evelyn Martinez of Cobden High School, Zachary Oneal of Dongola High School, Paige Butcher of Egyptian High School, Connor Johnson of Goreville High School, Cassiday Lance of Joppa High School, Juliet Vioso-Lozano of Massac High School, Charles Wyatt Halton of Meridian High School, Autumn McMahan of Shawnee High School and Alexander Smith of Vienna High School.

For more information, regarding scholarship opportunities for incoming Shawnee Community College students call 618-634-3200.

 The Southern

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Brendan Tolan was searching for something for his grandson to do in 2011. The Murphysboro teen had just turned 16 and was having a hard time finding a job for the summer. Drawing on his memories as a child in the northern suburbs of Chicago, Tolan had an idea.

He remembered agonizing over which ice cream treat to buy from the truck that slowly made its way down the street and how the call of the trucks soundtracks brought kids from throughout the neighborhood. With that, he thought he could set his grandson up as a modern-day Good Humor man.

My first idea was that Id get a little three-wheeled scooter like a moped with a box on the back. He could go out after school and in the summers and ride it and sell ice cream, Tolan recalls.

Tolan found the perfect trike on an online auction but didnt win it. He did, however, find a light-duty, small school bus which was converted to an ice cream truck. Tolan bought the bus which was complete with an American flag paint scheme. He immediately began calling the bus Stars and Stripes and his new venture, American Ice Cream, was born.

In the meantime, Tolans grandson landed another job and Tolan found himself behind the wheel of Stars and Stripes, peddling ice cream. He started in Carterville but quickly grew to three trucks making regular visits to communities from Chester to Harrisburg and south, serving ice cream treats and smiles.

People are never upset at the ice cream truck, he says with a smile. Im selling memories.

Tolan says the company uses regular routes, usually visiting a neighborhood every couple of weeks.

I found if you come to a community every week, it is too frequently for them to miss you, he says.

Much like in his childhood, the ice cream truck still brings treats, funs and memories, but unlike the vendors Tolan remembers, todays mobile units have an advantage.

Ive brought technology to the ice cream truck, allowing people to use their credit and debit cards, he explains.

Tolan has also taken the ice cream truck online.

Facebook has been a tremendous boost to our business. It is almost instantaneous. When I send out a notification saying that were coming to Benton, for instance, I will have 30 comments on that post in the next hour, saying exactly what address to come to. Its gone from driving a neighborhood, waiting for someone to come out to where you literally know exactly where they are waiting for you, he says.

Its not just the kids who love the ice cream truck, Tolan adds. He says American Ice Cream makes regular visits to auto repair shops, hospitals, vacation bible schools, assisted living facilities and even can be found during the third-shift lunch break at area manufacturers, always getting a warm welcome. The company recently was even featured at a wedding reception.

The bride said it was the absolute best thing, he adds.

He says he wants to continue to grow the event side of the business, but his company always will patrol the streets, quenching appetites and making memories.

Its the simplicity of it, he says. I love that people get to experience the same kind of thing that I experienced as a kid. Your day can be improved just with a couple of bucks at an ice cream truck playing some neat music.

The music plays constantly, working as a beacon for the young and hungry. He says he hears it in his head even when he is away from the truck. Toban says he is often asked why the ice cream trucks often play Christmas music even in the heat of July. His answer is two-fold.

Well, we dont run at Christmas and so its a reminder that you need to get me a present early, he jokes. Seriously, the Christmas music brings you back to the simpler times of your life  waiting to run downstairs and all of the excitement that brings. Im hoping we bring the same sense of joy.

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The curious case of Rakul Preet, Kriti Sanons same Instagram caption

As long as Rakul Preet Singh and Kriti Sanon are spreading cheer, who cares who copied what? Laughter is contagious, so it is good to spread it.

Rakul Preet Singh posted a smiling picture of herself on Instagram with the caption, There is always a reason to smile. Find it (sic).

Kriti Sanon later wrote the same caption on her Instagram account while sharing a happy-looking picture of herself. Kriti follows Rakul.

So did she do a copy paste job? May be, maybe not. As long as the actors are spreading cheer, who cares who copied what? Laughter is contagious, so it is good to spread it.

The talented and hardworking actor started the year with a promising role in Kalank.

Sanjay Dutt, who is leaving no stone unturned by prepping up for his sequences for all his five films is working really hard to slip into each character and is also following a strict diet depending upon the role he is portraying.


CARBONDALE  Wendy McDaniels happy memories of her childhood in Guatemala, the warm days and the fruit trees in her small town, are still clear in her mind.

But the dark memories are muddier  full of things a child could never understand.

She was born into the 36-year-long Guatemalan Civil War, during which a series of U.S.-backed military governments murdered tens of thousands of people, as they clashed with rebels representing the rural poor.

The conflict would eventually be classified a genocide, for the states extermination of indigenous Mayan people.

McDaniel, who was born Wendy Marlene Beltran Barrios, remembers rarely attending school for years as the military and then the rebels occupied her town.

She knows her mother, a shopkeeper, was caught dangerously between rebel and army factions, who demanded exclusive service.

There was only one store in our little town, and it was hers, McDaniel said. She would be washing clothes for one (group) and then for the other, when they took over. And if they had found out she helped the other, they would have hurt her.

Later, she would learn of the widespread violence, including a mass execution by burning, inside a church near her hometown.

But as an 11-year-old, she couldnt understand why she, her grandfather and brother had to leave La Veinte.

She only remembers walking in the dead of night.

My family all left little by little, so the soldiers wouldnt notice, she said. You couldnt make any noises. We were running for our lives.

From there, her journey is a blur of safe houses, until a month later, when she and her mother arrived at the U.S. border, and requested asylum.

Under U.S. law, any migrant who arrives on U.S. soil or at a point of entry like an airport or border crossing, may request asylum.

They must then convince U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services that they face danger in their home country, because of their race, religion, nationality, social group or political opinions, should they return.

Successful applicants are granted the right to remain in the U.S. and apply for legal permanent residence, and eventually full citizenship. Those denied receive an appeal and then must leave the country.

As McDaniel and her mother moved through the asylum process, they moved to live with Wendys brothers, who had immigrated earlier and settled in Carbondale, where they found work in restaurants. They were also joined by McDaniels younger sister.

The family arrived in the winter. Seeing cold, snowy Southern Illinois, McDaniel realized for the first time how far she was from home.

All the trees were dead to me because they were brown, she remembers. I kept asking, Why did we come here? Why couldnt we go somewhere else where there was life?

She was enrolled in school as a 12-year-old fifth grader, and failed classes as she struggled with the language barrier.

But, with the help of Dolores Koster, an English as a Second Language teacher at Unity Point Elementary, she made strides.

Wendy was a pretty little girl, reserved but very nice Koster said. The family was very poor, but their mother was a go-getter.

Koster hired McDaniels mother to help around her house as often as she could, she said. The woman didnt talk about Guatemala much, saying only that it wasnt safe, and they had often heard gunshots at night.

When we came here it was a new beginning. Everything we went through was forgotten, McDaniel said. My story is really lucky, I guess, compared to other people in our situation. The U.S. opened the door for us.

After graduating from Carbondale Community High School, McDaniel earned a scholarship to John A. Logan College and then moved to SIU Carbondale, where she studied early childhood education.

In 2008, she became the first member of her family to graduate college.

For the last 17 years, McDaniel has worked at the Womens Center in Carbondale. In the mornings, she provides daycare to the children of the Centers clients. In the afternoons she is a counselor specializing in domestic violence, and focused on the Hispanic community.

She is passionate about counseling, she said, because she doesnt want other children to go through what she did, without help.

Our family didnt believe in counseling. We had never heard of it, McDaniel said, sitting in her office full of toys and games. But we probably needed it, because I didnt understand nothing that was going on. Nothing. It wouldve been great to have someone to let us know, maybe your mom is going through a lot, maybe everything thats happening is crazy.

In her free time, she helps immigrants who attend her church to navigate the complexities of applying for citizenship.

I see how much they struggle, she said. They have kids that are born here, but they cant really claim them. I feel like Im related to them, somehow.

Since World War II, more refugees have settled in the U.S. than in any other nation. They include scientist Albert Einstein, artist Gloria Estefan and Madeleine Albright, the first female U.S. Secretary of State.

However, in recent years, the country has been less welcoming.

The Refugee Act of 1980 created two routes to refugee status. Some apply for admission from abroad as refugees, while others arrive in the U.S. or at its border, and request asylum, like McDaniels family did. Since midway through the Obama presidency, the U.S.s asylum denial rate has increased steadily. It continues to rise under President Trump.

For Fiscal Year 2018, Trump set a limit of 45,000 refugee admissions to the U.S., via executive order. Its the lowest cap the country has seen since the Refugee Act, which shaped modern refugee and asylum policy.

Of those 45,000 possible admissions, just 22,491 refugees were welcomed to the U.S. in FY 2018, according to the Migration Policy Institute.

For FY 2019, the Trump administration has further cut the maximum number of possible refugee admissions, to 30,000, and acceptance numbers are on track to match last years low.

Meanwhile, the global refugee population has increased dramatically over the past five years thanks to conflict in Africa, Latin America and the Middle East. The United Nations reports there are now 25.4 million refugees, more than half of whom are minors.

By mid-2018, the Trump administration had reduced Muslim refugee acceptance by 90 percent from FY 2017, according to the Pew Research Center. Latin American refugee acceptance is down almost 40 percent, NPR reported in December.

With the cutbacks, there were 49 nations that accepted more refugees and asylees per capita than the U.S in 2017, though the U.S. still ranked in the top 10 in total refugees accepted.

Recently, at the Mexican border, President Trump asked for new restrictions including application fees for asylum seekers.

He has also sought to cap Central American child asylees at 15,000 per year, and ban asylum for Central American minors who arrive at U.S. points of entry without applying for asylum from their home countries first.

At the same time, the number of migrant families fleeing violence and poverty in Central America is again surging, with unauthorized family border crossings nearly double last year, even as the Trump administration has attempted deterrent policies like family separation.

Data shows violence continues to be a major driver. In Guatemala, a 1 percent increase in homicides corresponds to a 100 percent increase in outmigration, according to the Inter-American Dialogue, a foreign policy think-tank.

McDaniel can see both sides of the immigration debate. She understands the frustration about illegal migrants, she said, but she remembers being in their shoes.

Everyone is determined to come for the same reason: having it hard at home, she said. Whether its for safety, for work or just to have a better life. Everybody deserves to live and to be well.

Her journey has convinced her that a wall will never close the southern border.

I still see people coming left and right, she said. What is a wall going to do? Theres always an entrance, I believe, no matter how many walls you put up.

Throughout her youth, McDaniel yearned to return to Guatemala. Even as she applied to become a citizen through her ex-husband Milton McDaniel II, she agonized over the requirement that she renounce her allegiance to her home country.

All my memories were still from there, she said.

But when she finally returned to Guatemala on a mission trip, two years ago, it wasnt what she expected.

In my naive mind, I thought I was going to encounter this experience with my land, like Welcome, Wendy, we missed you! she said.

Instead she spent most of the trip ill, and ready to come back. She decided not to visit her hometown, because of the violence there.

Thinking back and looking back I realize how far it was from my emotions and feelings and memories to what Guatemala is now, McDaniel said.

Its her home country, but its not where she feels most at home.

She still hopes to take her three kids there one day, she said, and her mother, who dreams of returning to do missionary work.

But for now, shes focused on providing for her family: a five-year-old daughter, a son in high school, and a daughter who just finished her freshman year at Tennessee State University.

McDaniel was nervous about sharing her story, she told the Southern, because of the scrutiny it could bring on her family.

With immigration stuff so crazy right now, if its read and people see, Oh we have these people who had problems in their country and now theyre here, I dont know what would happen, McDaniel said.

But she also wanted to share her message about migrants and refugees with people in her community:

Get to know the person first. Not everyone comes out and tells their story right off so you will not know until you ask, she said. Theres more to everyones story. And at the end of the day weve got to ask, what can we do to change whats going on over there?"

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Carrier Mills-Stonefort High School has honored Jordan Burnham, Kaci McFarland, Alexandria Morris, Cameron owens, Alex Peebels and Kale Rister for academics and leadership.

Burnham, 18, is vice president of National Honor Society and on the honor roll and Wall of Fame. She is a member of FCA, math and science club, student council and cheerleading squad.

The daughter of Charles and Kim Burnham of Carrier Mills, she plans to major in physical therapy at Southeastern Illinois College.

McFarland, 18, is on the Wall of Fame and received the math award. She is a member of Purple Pride and Wildcat Cafe.

Other information

The daughter of Laren and Ellen McFarland of Stonefort, she plans to study early childhood education at Southeastern Illinois College.

Morris, 18, is on the Wall of Fame and honor roll, SIC Presidential Scholarship recipient, class president and Speech Team Sectional Qualifier. She is a member of National Honor Society, student council, FBLA, theater, speech team, FCA, art club, math and science club, cheerleading, dance team and journalism.

The daughter of Jamie and Melissa Morris of Carrier Mills, she plans to study speech pathology at Southeastern Illinois College.

Owens, 18, is on the Wall of Fame. He is a member of National Honor Society, FFA and Illinois National Guard.

The son of Justin Owens and Brandy Blackwell of Rosiclare, he plans to major in criminal justice at Southeastern Illinois College.

Peebels, 17, is National Honor Society president, on the honor roll and Wall of Fame. He is a member of speech team, Scholar Bowl, National Honor Society, FCA, math and science club and the CEO Program.

The son of Thomas and Guylene Peebels of Carrier Mills, he plans to study ophthalmology at Southeastern Illinois College.

Rister, 18, is an IHSA Speech State Finalist and IHSA Sectional Speech Original Comedy Champion, received the Forensic Falcon Speech Team Scholarship and is on the honor roll and Wall of Fame. He is a member of National Honor Society, speech team, drama club, choir, FFA, math and science club.

The son of Zach and Stacey Rister of Harrisburg, he plans to major in performance students at Southeastern Illinois College.

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MARSHALL  Don Guinnip, part of a sixth-generation farm family in eastern Illinois near the Wabash Valley, knows the history of the land he works, the soils, climate and conditions.

Next year the farm marks 180 years since Guinnips great-great-great-great-grandfather, Joseph Guinnip, took out a land deed. Over the years the family had dairy, hogs and crops, and Guinnips son now has cattle.

Guinnip uses many of the practices his farther introduced to the farm in the 1960s, including grass waterways and dry dams. He says the water and sediment control basin

(WASCOB) structures help retain water like a dam and slowly release it, helping the nutrients and sediment stay on the land.

Its one of the tools in our tool box and it works, he said.

He farms on the Central Claypan, and has land that contains wooded slopes along the Wabash River. The Wisconsinan glaciation stopped just short of his land.

In general it is poorly drained, he said. It has slow permeating soil. Little of the land in this part of the state is tiled, but tiling is more popular today on about 10 percent of farms here, Guinnip estimates.

Our soils are productive and we make them work, he said.

Guinnips farm has about 8 inches of topsoil and two to three feet of hardpan clay.

If 8 inches is all you have to work with, you take care of it, he said.

Soil classification

Fertile loess, silty materials that were picked up and redeposited after the glaciers, blankets almost 90 percent of the state, said Ron Collman, NRCS state soil scientist. About 82% of all acres in Illinois are considered prime land, he said.

Some areas are blessed with more topsoil. In parts of central and northern Illinois, there are between 40 and 60 inches of loess over the glacial outwashes, said Collman. When settlers arrived here, this land was marshy and wet with a high buildup of organic matter. After drainage was added, it has some of the most fertile soils in the world, he said.

Taking these factors into account, Collman is working on updating the state soil map  not an easy task.

There are 560 soil series in the state. In each of those, there can be two to 10 or 15 phases, slopes and flood plains.

Things multiply quickly, he said. Now there are 7,000 different sets of data to represent all his units. There are 1.2 million map delineations of soil across the state.

Where Guinnip farms in southern Illinois, Collman says there is merit to adding wheat and cover crops to a rotation to help soils, he said.

Southern Illinois soils have less organic matter than prairie soils in central Illinois, but managed well they can be lucrative, Guinnip said. Soil tests are important here with attention being paid to keeping the pH up, he said.

The points Guinnip brings up are similar to what David Rahe, soil fertility specialist, certified professional soil scientist and certified professional soil classifier, examines when consulting with farmers.

Rahe considers five factors for soil recommendations:

 Topography (including convex slopes where water runs and concave slopes where water gathers)

 Vegetation/biological activity (high in the case of prairie areas with dark soil)

 Parent material (based on sources from glaciation periods often impacted by the amount of loess or windblown materials over time)

 Climate (with cooler temperatures in northern Illinois compared to southern Illinois)

 Time (the youngest soils are the bottomland soils that are deposited every time it floods).

Marked by glaciers

Multiple glaciations crossed Illinois three or four times with major advancements over a million years  all leaving mark on Illinois landscape and soil, Collman said.

Some of the unique areas in the state include Shawnee National Park in southern Illinois near Carbondale and Jo Daviess County in the northwest that did not experience glaciation, Rahe said.

When Rahe studies soil fertility in a field, he maps the landscape first and divides the land into management zones, often two to 10 acres. There can be three landscapes in an 80-acre field, he said.

We can compare it to yield maps and see if we missed anything, he said.

In Jo Daviess County, one of those not influenced by glaciers, many crops are grown in strips of hay, oats, wheat and soybeans. The rows are long to match long slopes. Terraces work well on long slopes, while grassed waterways work better in controlling erosion, Rahe said.

As soil research continues, practices change, Rahe said. When he was in school, it was thought you cant change organic matter in soil but work with no-till and cover crops show that you can improve organic matter, fertility and how the water moves, he said.

Its not without pitfalls, but people make it work, he said.

Soil types in other parts of the state encourage other practices. He said that in Mason County in west central Illinois, irrigation is often used on the relatively sandy soils. Some of the irrigated land is used to grow vegetable crops that have higher returns.

Other areas remain best suited to pastureland and incorporating cattle into the operation, he said.

When Rahe started consulting 14 years ago, there was some talk about variable fertilizer.

Today, about 70 percent of my business is variable fertilizer, he said of how technology and soil research continue to change farming practices.

Phyllis Coulter writes for Illinois Farmer Today, a Lee Enterprises sister publication of The Southern.

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A historic freed community is gaining more attention as archaeologists and researchers from Southern Illinois University Carbondale prepare to unearth and share the stories of bravery from those working in the Underground Railroad.

Two anthropology juniors, Megan Carson, of Percy, and Michaela Hoots of Galatia, are gearing up to uncover more of the hidden history of Miller Grove and will share their findings in a unique way.

Established in 1844 by Bedford and Abby Miller, Miller Grove was a freed slave community in Pope County. Now located deep in the heart of Shawnee National Forest, archaeologists and students have spent several summers excavating the area and finding links to past abolitionist work.

We believe Miller Grove is a historic Underground Railroad community that people just arent aware of yet, Carson said. There is a little bit of evidence so far to possibly prove it, but we need to find out more.

The community was rare for many reasons. Not only was it a freed African-American society, but evidence suggests that three former white slave owners accompanied the freed slaves. Miller Grove was also the only African-American community at the time that had its own school.

Previous digs show evidence of a printing press, tools, food ways, personal belongings and other artifacts that point to an educated and advanced society, all consistent with the oral history from Miller Grove descendants.

The remains of the community include 22 archaeological sites and two landscape features, consisting of 19 rural home sites, two possible church/school sites and a cemetery.

Other links to the Underground Railroad include the presence of white abolitionist missionaries, an African Methodist Episcopalian Church, stories of possible runaways in the area and local advertisements about escaped slaves. Further research will work to verify the findings and build on them going forward.

Both Carson and Hoots spent time interning at the Center for Archaeological Investigations, which gave them many opportunities to sort artifacts from Miller Grove and learn more about the people who once lived there. That background was the key motivation for their current study.

We both feel that it is important to raise awareness of this free African-American community that was probably associated with the Underground Railroad, Carson said.

Much of the history and stories come from word-of-mouth sources, which makes the research uniquely challenging. At the time, the community had to keep the school and other activities a secret, due to the fear of violent aggression. This caused the individuals to stray away from anything in writing.

The fact that these people were silenced so many years ago is one thing we hope to fix, Carson said. We want to bring it all out in the open and teach others about the bravery of those in the community who did so much to help others.

The history of Miller Grove goes beyond a simple story; it is relevant to the local community, Hoots explained. Understanding what happened there is vital for having the right perspective about the rest of the world.

To back up their work, Carson and Hoots recently received a REACH Grant to help document the archaeological evidence from this community. The grant includes $1800 of funding, along with paid assistantships for the fall 2019 and spring 2020 semesters.

After attending the archaeology field school this summer under director Mark Wagners expert guidance, the two will use 3D imaging to create replicas of the artifacts found at the site. They will also use an augmented reality application to give viewers an inside glimpse into the historical elements, with videos of the excavations and interviews with archaeologists and historians regarding daily life at Miller Grove.

Titled Silenced Lifeways: Using Augmented Reality (AR) Technology and 3D Imaging to Investigate the Archaeology of a Free African-American community in the Illinois Borderlands, the exhibit will eventually be on display at the Center for Archaeological Investigations.

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Schools were once considered safe havens for Americas young people. Parents who sent their children off to school in the morning were confident that they would return home safely in the afternoon. That sense of security has been shattered by episodes of classroom violence, including one in Colorado just days ago.

Unfortunately, when a tragic situation occurs at a school, the natural reaction from some politicians and pundits is to retreat to their political corners and resort to the tired, old blame games. I refuse to believe thats the way we can best serve our constituents and protect the communities we represent.

Rather than just talking about the problem, I teamed up with Congressman Brad Schneider, D-Illinois, last year to break through the political gridlock and actually get something done to protect our kids. We wrote common-sense, bipartisan legislation to improve security on school grounds. We worked hard to build support on both sides of the aisle and gained the backing of the National Education Association and the National Sheriffs Association. Our provision passed Congress and was signed into law by President Donald Trump.

So, what did the law do?

It created a grant program, totaling $25 million this year, through the COPS School Violence Prevention Program (SVPP) to help schools purchase life-saving technology, train staff, and strengthen the security infrastructure of local schools. In 2018, 91 school districts were awarded grants across the country, including seven in Illinois.

Importantly, not every school district has the same security concerns, which is why flexibility is built into the grant program. Maybe the school is located in an urban or suburban area and needs metal detectors, locks, lighting and other deterrent measures. The grant could cover that. Maybe the school is in a rural area and would benefit from quicker communication with local law enforcement and better response time. The grant program could cover that, too. Or maybe new computers, video monitoring equipment, or mapping technology are key. The grant could cover those improvements, as well.

Last year, schools in Union County received a $357,375 grant through the program. They are using it to build a communications tower to more quickly alert first-responders in the case of an emergency. Ninety other school districts across the country were awarded grants, as well. I hosted school officials and law enforcement at Granite City High School last month, and our office has reached out to local officials in all 12 counties of our district encouraging them to apply for this years grants.

The application process renews each fiscal year, and this years grant application deadline is on May 31. So if school safety is a priority for your family, please encourage your local and county government, school administrators, or local law enforcement to visit www.cops.usdoj.gov/svpp to apply.

We have advanced safety technology in banks, office buildings, and retail locations, there is no reason we shouldnt have this same technology at our schools to protect our children. As a father and a grandfather, I want to ensure our nations children are provided with a safe environment to grow and learn.

U.S. Rep. Mike Bost has represented the 12 counties of Illinois 12th District in the U.S. House of Representatives since 2015. Prior to Congress, Representative Bost served in U.S. military, as a first responder, a local job creator, and a state representative.

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If you listen closely to what Democratic state Reps. Sam Yingling and Jonathan Carroll are saying in public about their opposition to Gov. J.B. Pritzker's graduated income tax proposal, they appear to believe that Pritzker's proposed tax rates aren't high enough.

Yingling and Carroll are both demanding significant property tax relief. "In Illinois," Yingling wrote in the Chicago Tribune last week, "the disproportionate reliance on and financial burden of property taxes to fund government  roads and bridges, education, police, fire and other essential services  is devastating."

"My constituents are concerned that their taxes will go up without essential property-tax relief," Carroll was quoted as saying.

No sane person would argue that property taxes are too low in this state. Yingling didn't mention school spending in his letter to the Tribune, but that's by far the largest item in the local levies. And that's why both Yingling and Carroll signed on to a resolution during the last General Assembly opposing a proposed shift of pension costs from the state to local school districts, which would've driven up property taxes much higher than they already were.

But unless a solution to this mess involves a Bruce Rauner-style elimination of collective bargaining rights for unions, or drastic cuts to school classrooms and to municipal operations (which both Yingling and Carroll would oppose), combined with a wholesale elimination of state mandates and sweeping forced district consolidations, then lowering property taxes right away will require lots more money from the state. And state money doesn't grow on trees like it does at the federal level.

Sen. Don Harmon, D-Oak Park, has been working on this issue for years and told me that significant state-funded property tax relief would cost $7 billion to $8 billion every year. That means almost quadrupling Pritzker's proposed $3.4 billion tax hike on upper-income Illinoisans. Or, if the flat tax were kept in place, it would require at least a couple of percentage points added to the current income tax rate, taking it to almost 7 percent for everybody.

Yingling, however, voted against the 2017 income tax increase which ended the state's two-year budget impasse. Carroll was not yet appointed to his seat when that bill became law over Rauner's veto.

State funding and lots more were all discussed during the property tax working group meetings set up and facilitated by the governor's office that both Yingling and Carroll attended  although Carroll reportedly missed the final meeting. Yingling reportedly suggested some ideas, but no agreements could be reached, mainly because if this was so easy it would've been done decades ago.

Property taxes have been a major issue in this state since the 1980s, when the share of the state's funding of schools started sliding downward and local property taxes started shooting up. A half a point was added to the income tax in 1989 as a sort of "welcoming present" to newly elected Chicago Mayor Richard M. Daley. Half of the increase went to schools and the other half went to local governments.

But that money eventually got rolled back into GRF and the state did things like cap suburban property tax increases, which, as homeowners in Yingling's Lake County will certainly attest, obviously didn't work as advertised.

Yingling passed just four of his House bills this year. None of them were bad ideas, but none would significantly reduce anyone's property tax bills, either.

Carroll passed a bill (co-sponsored by Yingling) to place yet another unfunded state mandate on local schools to make sure third-party driver education teachers were properly certified. Those sorts of mandates drive up local taxes.

Nobody can read anyone's mind, but Yingling's 2017 income tax hike vote probably explains a lot more about his current refusal to support the graduated tax than his stated concerns about property taxes. He perpetually votes like a vulnerable targeted member, even though his district is now pretty safely Democratic. And Carroll has a whole lot of high-income constituents in his even more Democratic Northbrook-area district who likely aren't pleased with the prospect of paying more money to the state.

The fact that neither legislator bothered to give the governor's office a courtesy heads-up on their intentions to publicly oppose the plan also speaks volumes.

If these two seriously want to significantly reduce property taxes, then they should introduce a bill to actually do it  and to pay for it. Otherwise, they're just grandstanding and forcing everyone else do the heavy lifting.

Rich Miller also publishes Capitol Fax, a daily political newsletter, and CapitolFax.com.

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KANSAS CITY, Kan.  NASCAR driver Bubba Wallace acknowledged going through some tough times, on and off the track, before breaking down in tears ahead of Saturday night's race at Kansas Speedway.

The 25-year-old Wallace has struggled through his second full season at NASCAR's top level, his best finish coming in 17th at Martinsville. The iconic No. 43 of Richard Petty Motorsports sits 28th in the standings, a long way from being in week-to-week contention.

Wallace was talking about the challenges facing the team Friday when he said, "You try to be the best you can and sometimes it ain't damn good enough." He later admitted to going through "depression and everything with it," and that he has dealt with the turmoil in part by getting into his car.

"I'll be damned," Wallace said quietly, his blue hat pulled low over his eyes, "It all goes away when you get behind the wheel. It's 16 years of driving. It helps. But it's tough."

It was at that point, between practice and qualifying sessions, that Wallace said, "I'm on the verge of breaking down. And I am what I am." He then quietly buried his face in his hands.

"It's been a rough moment for a while," said the usually upbeat Wallace, an Alabama native and the only black driver in NASCAR's top level. "Just trying to do everything I can."

Wallace is known for wearing his heart on his sleeve, one of the reasons he has become a favorite among many fans. Tears also flowed after he finished second in last year's Daytona 500, which remains his only top-five finish in 51 career Cup Series starts.

There have been signs for a while that Wallace had been struggling beyond the track, though the results surely haven't helped. Normally a beacon of joy on social media, Wallace posted in a pair of tweets earlier this week that he hasn't "been in a good place for some time now."

Accompanying a montage showing Wallace joking, he tweeted: "Ha. With a laugh and smile like this every week you'd think there is no way one could mask so much negative and dark (poop). Lonely dark roads ain't fun, keep on keeping on I guess."

Wallace did acknowledge Friday walking through the stands after Monday's race at Dover and hearing people shouting support. He said that was an uplifting moment following a difficult weekend.

"They were just shouting my name," Wallace said. "A frustrating weekend, but going through the stands, it was nice. It was nice to see all the support and love."

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Eric Jermaine Lawson Jr., 22, of 1172 Schley Street, Orangeburg, pleaded guilty last month to unlawful carrying of a pistol and first-offense possession of methamphetamine.

Circuit Judge Diane Goodstein sentenced him to 18 months in prison, suspended to 18 months of probation.

She gave him credit for already serving two days in jail.

She ordered him to complete substance abuse counseling, undergo random drug/alcohol testing and participate in either Narcotics Anonymous or Alcoholics Anonymous once weekly.

As a result of his guilty pleas, prosecutors dismissed a charge of possession of a pistol by a person unlawful.

In other pleas:

 Rodney Jamal Lucas, 29, of 559 Indian Road, Bowman, pleaded guilty to first-offense possession of a schedule II narcotic.

Goodstein sentenced him to two years in prison, suspended to 18 months of probation.

She also ordered him to complete substance abuse counseling, undergo random drug/alcohol testing and to test negative for all drugs within 30 days of his sentencing date.

 Cedric Lamont Evans, 35, of 2244 Bass Drive, Santee, pleaded guilty to first-offense possession of less than one gram of crack cocaine.

Goodstein sentenced him to 18 months in prison, suspended to 18 months of probation.

She ordered him to obtain his GED, complete substance abuse counseling and undergo random drug/alcohol testing.

She also stipulated that he must attend Narcotics Anonymous or Alcoholics Anonymous twice weekly.

 Curtis Jermaine Furtick, 32, of 320 Wade Court, Orangeburg, pleaded guilty to forgery, valued less than $10,000.

Goodstein sentenced him to 33 days in jail. He was given credit for time served.

 Robert Edward Fleming, 48, of 1793 Rowesville Road, Orangeburg, pleaded guilty to third-offense or greater driving under suspension.

Goodstein sentenced him to 30 days in jail. Shes allowing him to serve time on weekends.

 Clarence Kinard Jr., 37, of 404 Seawright Street, Orangeburg, pleaded guilty to first-offense driving under the influence.

Goodstein sentenced him to 30 days in jail. He was given credit for having already served 70 days.

A grand jury indicted him on a charge of second-offense driving under the influence with a blood alcohol concentration of .16.

As a result of Kinards guilty plea, prosecutors dismissed a charge of second-offense driving under suspension.

 Latroy Jermell Jamison, 30, of 120 Fludd Street, Orangeburg, pleaded guilty to second-offense driving under the influence, with a blood alcohol concentration of .08, and first-offense driving under suspension.

Goodstein sentenced him to 90 days in jail and payment of a $2,100 fine, provided that upon the service of three days and payment of $1,100, the balance of the sentence will be suspended to two years of probation.

She stipulated that he can serve jail time on weekends.

She ordered him to complete substance abuse counseling, undergo random drug/alcohol testing and attend either Narcotics Anonymous or Alcoholics Anonymous once weekly.

A grand jury indicted Jamison on the charge of third-offense driving under the influence with a blood alcohol concentration of less than .10.

Contact the writer: mbrown@timesanddemocrat.com or 803-533-5545. Follow on Twitter: @MRBrownTandD

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COPE -- Orangeburg Consolidated School District 4 could be spending close to $600,000 in employee vacation payouts before the districts final day of operation on June 30.

Superintendent Dr. Lana Williams recently told trustees that the district will be paying for accrued vacation days if 240 employees request it.

District 4 allows workers to accrue 45 days of vacation, but the new Orangeburg County School District will allow them to transfer only 20 of those days. Employees hired by the new district could ask District 4 for payout for the entire 45 days or they could move over 20 days and ask for a payout for the other 25 days.

If they all choose to ask for the total payout, it could be quite expensive for the district, she said.

However, the cost probably wont be as bad as expected because some employees whove been hired by the new district are choosing to transfer at least some of their vacation days, said Williams. On the other hand, some of the ones going to work for the new district still want to get paid for their days, and OCSD4 doesnt yet know what percentage that will be.

One reason theyre probably asking for payment now is that the pay schedule for next year hasnt been approved, and their salaries could be lower than they are now, Williams said. The employees would prefer to have their vacation pay figured on the higher salary.

Williams noted that the money for the payouts will have to come out of the fund balance because the district did not anticipate the expense and did not include it in the years budget.

Only principals and office and maintenance workers are included in the vacation payouts.

In other business:

 Williams reported that the administration is requesting that all board members attend graduation at all three of the districts high schools as a farewell to the final graduating class of OCSD4.

Please put this on your schedule, she said. We really want every board member there to culminate the graduation of seniors from every school, this being our final graduation from Orangeburg Consolidated School District 4.

The hours of graduation, which will all be on Friday, June 7, will be staggered, with Hunter-Kinard-Tyler High graduating first at the school at 1 p.m. The Edisto High ceremony will be held at 4 p.m. at Smith-Hammond-Middleton Memorial Center at South Carolina State University, and Branchville High will hold its graduation at the school at 7 p.m.

Lunch and dinner will be provided for the trustees.

 Testing will run from May 8 through the end of the month, with grades 4-12 being tested on computers. The district got a waiver allowing the third graders to be tested on paper because of fears that the motor skills of the younger students arent advanced enough to allow them to do their best work on computers, Williams said.

 The Rev. Dr. John Wesley Evans, president of the Carver Hall of Fame, invited trustees to a ribbon-cutting ceremony to be held early in June.

The ceremony will honor one or two of the original teachers of Carver High School, and their pictures will be placed on the wall of the original building.

The date of the ceremony will be announced later.

Contact the writer: dlinderaltman@gmail.com.

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FLORENCE  A Clemson University researcher is using state-of-the-art facilities at the Pee Dee Research and Education Center to help develop a new wheat variety thats safe for people who suffer from celiac disease to eat.

Sachin Rustgi, an assistant professor for molecular breeding, altered the wheat genome to create the new variety, which has a built-in defense against celiac disease. Rustgi uses laboratories provided by Clemsons Advanced Plant Technology Program to conduct his research.

This program provides a unique environment for researchers, Rustgi said. Being a member of the program has allowed me to communicate with other researchers working in diverse fields of biological sciences which greatly benefits a multidisciplinary project such as this.

The new wheat variety contains two enzymes: one from barley that attacks gluten, the protein that gives breads, pasta and cereal a chewy, crunchy texture; and another from the bacterium Flavobacterium meningosepticum. These enzymes, called glutenases, break down gluten in the human digestive system and reduce the amount of indigestible gluten peptides by two-thirds. Peptides perform important biological functions, such as regulating activity in cells.

By packing the remedy to wheat allergies and gluten intolerance right into the grain, were giving consumers a simpler, lower-cost therapy, Rustgi said. Were also reducing the danger from cross-contamination with regular wheat, as the enzymes in our wheat will break down that gluten as well.

This new wheat variety is still in the research stage. Once its available to the public, Rustgi said he plans to educate growers and the public about this new variety by giving presentations at the Pee Dee REC Field Day. He also will work with Jonathan Windham, a Clemson Cooperative Extension Service associate, to provide educational materials.

The goal of the APT Program  part of Clemsons Institute of Translational Genomics  is to improve agriculture in South Carolina one field at a time by employing translational, problem-solving science to advance crop agriculture in the state.

The program is a key part of an overall effort at Clemson to optimize plants for production in South Carolina and the Southeast for all agricultural stakeholders  from large-scale producers to small-scale landowners who work with heirloom varieties for restaurants, brewers and more. The program is headquartered at the Pee Dee REC, with members found throughout South Carolina.

Research conducted as part of the APT program includes: biological and genetic diversity, bioenergy and alternative fuels, extension research and resources, genetics and genomics, nutrition, plant hazards and technology.

Celiac disease affects more than 3 million people in the United States.

Rustgi brought this research project with him when he came to Clemson from Washington State University in 2016. In addition to his position at the Pee Dee REC, Rustgi also is a faculty scholar in the Clemson School of Heath Research and adjunct assistant professor with the Washington State University crop and soil sciences department.

Other Clemson professors who assisted in this research are Hong Luo of genetics and biochemistry and Nishanth Tharayil of plant and environmental sciences. Luo and Tharayil helped analyze the altered wheat in Clemsons Multi-User Analytical Lab (MUAL) and Metabolic Core Facility.

Charles Rice of biological sciences, who is a veterinarian and an immunologist, will be helping us to take this research to another level, Rustgi said.

Outside researchers involved with this project are: Claudia Osorio, a scientist at the Center for Nutritional Agro-Aquacultural Genomics in Chile; Jaime Mejias with Chiles Institute for Agricultural Investigation; Nuan Wen of Washington State University; Bao Liu, a scientist at the Northeast Normal University in China; and Stephen Reinbothe, a scientist at Universite Grenoble-Alpes in France.

Denise Attaway reports for Public Service and Agriculture in the Clemson University College of Agriculture, Forestry and Life Sciences.

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Serena looking to turn the clock back in Rome before Roland Garros bid

Serena Williams returns from injury in Rome next week looking to get back to winning ways as she prepares her bid to match Margaret Court's record of major singles titles at the French Open later this month.

Rome will be Williams's fourth tournament of the season and the first since being forced to withdraw from the Miami Open in April due to a knee injury.

The 37-year-old American-now ranked 11th-has completed just seven matches this year, also withdrawing from Indian Wells in March with illness.

There are now doubts that the veteran can add to her tally of 23 Grand Slams, something which has so far proved beyond her since returning last year after taking time out following the birth of her first child.

Her last Grand Slam singles title was won at the Australian Open in 2017, where she was pregnant, breaking a tie with Steffi Graf for the most in the professional era.
NORWAY  Norway will hold its 44th annual Memorial Day service at 10 a.m. Monday, May 27, at the Veterans Memorial Site at the old Willow High School, town council announced at the May meeting.

The speaker will be retired Col. Jack Fogle of the U.S. Army, a Livingston resident. Sherryl Tay Mitchum, librarian at the North Branch of the Orangeburg County Library, will also be presenting a compact disc recording of regional veterans telling stories about their experiences to the town of Norway during the service.

In addition, Quilts of Valor will be presented to as of yet unnamed veterans during the event. Refreshments will be served at the end of the program, and in case of inclement weather, the service will be held at Norway Baptist Church.

The Norway Beautification Committee is working to have a flagpole with a flag installed at Norway Town Hall before Memorial Day so that it will be on display for that day and thereafter.

Mayor Ann Johnson said she believes that the flag may be a veterans or military service banner, rather than a traditional American flag.

The flagpole will be located near a current disability space at town hall, according to discussion at the council meeting.

Norway Police Chief Scott Ward said the town needs to make sure that the placement of the flagpole did not interfere with the disability space. Committee members assured him that it would not, and that they will just be using enough space to get the pole into the ground.

In other business:

 A citizen asked about a $900 building repair listed in the general fund.

Johnson said it was for a payment for a new air conditioning system.

 Under old business, Johnson said that the town had changed out meters for some of the citizens complaining about low water pressure. In the process, town personnel discovered that one citizen had roots growing into her meter and that another had a clogged line which they had to clean. Ward said that the town had repaired two water leaks as well.

 Under police business, Ward said that it had been quiet in the town.

We didnt have any break-ins this month, he said.

 Johnson said a fish dinner fundraiser will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. Saturday, May 25, at Three Cross Ministries to help with the lighting at Helping Hands. Tickets are $10 each and can be purchased at town hall.

 Council entered closed, executive session to discuss a personnel issue. No decisions or motions were made upon return to open session.

Contact the writer: rbaxley37@gmail.com.

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SC STEM Signing Day

COLUMBIA  Ninety-four South Carolina high school seniors were recognized at the 3rd Annual SC STEM Signing Day by Boeing South Carolina, BMW and the South Carolina Manufacturers Alliance.

They include:

Kerri Crosby and Donovan Price of Bamberg-Ehrhardt.

Angus Carter and JeTorian William of Calhoun County.

Thomas Savage of Orangeburg-Wilkinson.

SC STEM Signing Day recognizes students from across the state who have pursued STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education during their high school tenure and plan to continue their STEM education at two and four-year colleges. Students were identified through the SC Future Makers initiative using the Tallo platform.

Boeing is honored to recognize the achievements of some of the top students across South Carolina as they commit to careers in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM), said John Blazey, vice president of Boeing Global Engagement. Todays event demonstrates Boeings commitment to STEM education and ensuring that South Carolinas future workforce remains strong and thrives.

STEM Signing Day honors our talented South Carolina students. At BMW, we strive every day to make the best and most technologically advanced automobiles in the market, the BMW Ultimate Driving Machine. We are proud to recognize so many young people that have worked hard to achieve excellence in STEM disciplines, said Scott Medley, Human Resource Department Manager, BMW.

SC STEM Signing day was created to recognize the fact that theres so much talent and opportunity in South Carolina, said Sara Hazzard, president and CEO of the South Carolina Manufacturers Alliance. We are very proud to celebrate the achievements and future steps of some of our states brightest minds  students who will lead the way as we advance innovation and technology in the 21st century.

Berry White receives Clyburn Award

Virginia Berry White has received the James E. Clyburn Community Leader in Public Health Award.

The award recognizes the contributions made by individuals and community organizations that have demonstrated a commitment to improving and protecting the health of the community, particularly vulnerable populations with established health disparities.

Berry White has directed Family Solutions of the Low Country, formerly Low Country Healthy Start, and a program of the South Carolina Office of Rural Health for 20 years, in the rural communities of Allendale, Bamberg, Hampton and Orangeburg. For the 20 years, her work has been dedicated to address disparities in maternal and infant health status in high-risk communities.

In those rural communities with infant mortality rates at least 1.5 times the national average, high rates of low birthweight, preterm birth and maternal mortality, women and men in FSLC are served before, during and after pregnancy by addressing their health and social service needs, strengthening family resilience and engaging community partners to enhance systems of care.

The Annual James E. Clyburn Health Disparities Lecture is sponsored by the University of South Carolinas Arnold School of Public Health, the USC Civil Rights Center, the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control and its community partners.

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In his last commencement as president of Claflin University, Dr. Henry N. Tisdale encouraged the 2019 graduating class to use the tools they were given.

I want you to go forth and become the visionary leaders this fine institution has prepared you to become, Tisdale said Saturday.

You are well aware that Claflin University is about educating men and women with global perspectives, he said. Youve been educated to become visionary leaders who are expected to effect change for the better in a wide variety of professions and causes around the world.

Tisdale will be retiring from his alma mater next month. The 1965 graduate told his soon-to-be fellow alumni that they will be transitioning into a bigger world.

When you leave this place, expect to live in a bigger world than what you see. Remember the world does not revolve around Orangeburg, South Carolina or your hometown, Tisdale said.

As you transition into the world beyond the western wall, you will find that there are trying times for our country and the global village in which we live. As you transition into your new beginning, you should be aware that the world you will enter is facing major challenges, he said.

Tisdale noted a few of challenges the graduates will face, including climate change, large-scale conflicts and wars, inequality, lack of high-quality education and world poverty.

Tisdale encouraged the graduates to follow in the paths of visionary leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Nelson Mandela, Wangari Maathai and Barack Obama.

The world needs you as you commence on your journey of transformation, Tisdale told the graduates.

Tisdale also instructed the graduates to be attentive and appreciate words of encouragement.

Graduates, when you hear the voices of those who believe in you, listen, pay attention and believe in yourself, he said. Say thank you to those who helped you get this far.

We want you to look, we want you to listen and pay attention, we want you to imagine the possibilities and believe that you too can achieve greatness. We want you to go forth in the world and make your mark, he said. Never forget who you are and from whence you came.

Tisdale told the graduates to have a dream and vision.

You must have imagination. You must believe it can happen. You must be able to see and taste greatness, he said. Please protect and cherish your dreams.

The world is calling on you."

Contact the writer: bharris@timesanddemocrat.com or 803-533-5516

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It's been 10 years.

In May 2009, the point was driven home brutally in Orangeburg County: Police work is very dangerous.

We went so far as to name the events of that month "May mayhem."

An Orangeburg County sheriff's deputy was shot to death in the line of duty. A day later, a Highway Patrol trooper was shot while making a traffic stop. Later, a man admitted in court that he would have shot another officer but the weapon jammed. And then, Orangeburg Department of Public Safety officers were fired upon while responding to a distress call in which an estranged father was trying to kidnap his son.

In May 2009 there was more -- another vivid reminder of the dangers. Alabama jail escapee Thomas Ivey was executed for the slaying of Orangeburg officer Tommy Harrison in 1993.

In 1962, President John F. Kennedy signed a proclamation designating May 15 as Peace Officers Memorial Day and the week in which that date falls as Police Week.

Few can argue that law enforcement is a top priority during this Police Week. It was in 1993, it was in 2009 and it is very much so in 2019.

We live in a dangerous world and difficult times.

In his final interview with the Panther, the student newspaper, as Claflin University's president, the retiring Dr. Henry N. Tisdale was asked about the violence from which law enforcement from the campus to the community is tasked with preventing.

His insight is food for thought here as we deal with today and move into the future.

I am very concerned, Tisdale said. In America, we have an issue with guns and violence.

Tisdale said there is an overabundance of guns and gun violence seems to be increasing.

He sees the need for a proactive approach not unlike he has fostered many times during 25 years at the Claflin helm. The university just does more in collaborating with other agencies, he said.

That means more than institutions of higher learning and their security forces cooperating with the sheriff and city police, he said.

The universities and colleges locally offer a wealth of knowledge and research expertise. We have to use the intellectual resources on our campuses.

Rather than being reactive, study other approaches to preventing violence. Look at what has worked in different communities. Come up with a plan.

It is an approach with which law enforcement will surely agree as it should always be understood that officers are on the front line in trying to prevent violence and dealing with it when it occurs. But law enforcement alone cannot prevent violence. Doing so will take a collaborative effort of the legal system, community resources and people willing to try to make a difference.

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Luxembourg's organisation for consumer protection seems to prefer the model that is based on an EU proposal.

At the general meeting of Luxembourg's Confederation of Christian Trade Unionists, the organisation for consumer protection chose their mandate for the next 3 years. Nico Hoffman remains the ULCs president.

The discussions also made it clear that bank fees remain a priority: a petition that garnered over 4500 signatures is to be discussed in parliament on 21 May. ULC demanded a general reduction of fees - and a full abolition of fees for those termed "vulnerable persons". Since another matter of concern relates to purchasing power, taxes remain a hot topic for debate.

Representatives explained that "everyone was waiting to see what the government will promise in terms of introducing another tax bracket."

Regarding class actions, Nico Hoffmann welcomes the fact that the Luxembourg's new Minister for Consumer Protection hopes to submit a draft law by the end of the year. Opposing Paulette Lenert, however, the ULC does not approve of the German model.

In the German system, a judge first takes a decision on a class action lawsuit. After that, individuals need to file a separate lawsuit in order to be guaranteed their rights. The ULC hope to avoid this model at all costs.

The EU model, on the other hand, provides a good foundation for future developments, they explained. According to Hoffman, the national framework for this model should be worked out as soon as possible.
Monday support meetings

Alcoholics Anonymous: 6:30 a.m., 917 N. Beech; 8:30 a.m., 500 S. Wolcott; 10 a.m., 328 E. A St.; noon, 500 S. Wolcott; 2 p.m, 917 N. Beech; 5:30 p.m., 328 E. A; 6 p.m., 500 S. Wolcott, Ste. 200; 6 p.m., 456 S. Walnut; 7 p.m., 917 N. Beech; 8 p.m., 328 E. A. Douglas: 7:30 p.m., 628 E. Richards (upstairs in back). Unless otherwise noted, all meetings are open. Casper info: 266-9578; Douglas info: 307-351-1688.

Al-Anon: Noon, 701 S. Wolcott, St. Marks Church, enter at the back of the church across from parking lot.

Narcotics Anonymous: Noon, 500 S. Wolcott, 12-24 Club; 7 p.m., 302 E. 2nd, Methodist Church; 8 p.m., 4700 S. Poplar (church basement). Web site: http://www.urmrna.org.

Teen Addiction Anonymous: 3:30-4:30 p.m., Boys & Girls Club Teen Center. Info: 258-7439.

Adult Children of Alcoholics: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m., 12-24 Club, 500 S. Wolcott St., Suite 200.

Low vision support meets

The Low Vision Support Group meeting will be from 10 to 11 a.m. at the Casper Senior Center. The guest speaker will be Steven from Wal-Mart East. He will give information on services available at Wal-Mart which will allow visually impaired persons to shop on their own.

Rotary hears grizzly bears

The Rotary Club of Casper is pleased to welcome Dan Thompson of the Wyoming Game and Fish Department as the speaker at its noon luncheon meeting at the Ramkota Inn. Rotary Club members and their guests are invited.

Dan Thompson heads the large carnivore division for Wyoming Game and Fish, where he is responsible for science-based management and monitoring of large carnivores (mountain lions, wolves, black and grizzly bears) throughout Wyoming and the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem.

Shrine Circus at fairgrounds

Casper Shrine Circus is at the Central Wyoming Fairgrounds on Monday. Childrens tickets are free and include a chance to win a brand new bicycle. One winner will be drawn at the afternoon show and a second will be drawn at the evening show. Adult tickets are $10. Performances are 4 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Doors will be open one hour before each showtime. Interested sponsors are encouraged to call the Casper Shrine Club, 234-6154 or visit Casper Shrine Club on Facebook. Performances presented by Jordan World Circus.

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William F. Bill Knapp

LAS VEGAS, Nev.Former Casper resident William F. BillKnapp passed away on November 8, 2018, in Las Vegas, Nevada. Bill was born June 28, 1922, in Howell, Michigan.

During World War II, he served as a paratrooper with the 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment of the 82nd Airborne Division.

After leaving military service, he worked as a traveling salesman in Colorado. During the early 1960s, he became a co-owner and manager of a motel and restaurant in Lander and President of the Lander Chamber of Commerce. In 1965, he became owner of the Sunrise Standard service station in Casper.

Bill married Sandy (Shafer) McNees in Casper in 1970. They moved to Colorado, where they lived until 2000, when they moved to Las Vegas, Nevada. After Sandys passing in 2011, Bill became close friends with Em Stempin, who compiled a book of letters, documents, and remembrances from his time serving in World War II.

Bill was a 32nd degree Mason and a Shriner. He was President of the Broadmoor Rotary Club in Colorado Springs from 1991-1992. During his later years, he participated in services honoring unattended veterans at the Southern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery and was an honorary member of the Patriot Guard Riders.

Bill is survived by his daughters, Sheila Sarver and Nikki Kohmescher; son, Don Knapp; stepsons, Lance and Brendan McNees; and in-laws, Judy and Bob Bradshaw, and Jan and Jim Conn.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Sandy; and sons, Rick and Ron.

A memorial service will be held at the Oregon Trail State Veterans Cemetery in Evansville at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, May 17, 2019.
37 BD men feared dead in Med sea boat capsize

Staff Reporter :

A tragic boat capsize incident taking place in the Mediterranean Sea on Saturday cost 37 lives of the ill fatted passengers who were eyeing livelihood in the continent of Europe.

All of them were from Bangladesh. .

Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen said, " About 30-35 Bangladesh nationals might have died in the boat capsize after 14 were rescued out of 51 passengers.."

"It was very risky and dangerous voyage by the Bangladeshis despite knowing the consequence of danger. It is very regrettable, and heart breaking incident," he said while briefing reporters at his office in the city on Sunday.

The foreign minister said that Bangladesh ambassador to Libya Sk Sekander Ali conveyed information about the tragic incident circulated by the international media.

The minister said, Bangladesh representative in the Embassy in Tripoli will oversee the situation there physically. The bodies will be brought back home, if recovered." We came to know, primarily, there were 51 Bangladesh nationals among others on the boat," ASM Ashraful Islam, Labour Counsellor of Bangladesh embassy in Tripoli said. He said also that 37 of them are still missing. Ashraful Islam said, they do not know yet whether there is any chance of rescuing more. He said, the rescue operation is still going on.

The Embassy is in touch with Red Crescent in Tunisia to know the details. We are yet to reach Tunisia. We hope to reach there soon.

Tunisia Red Crescent Chief Mongi Slim said on Saturday that around 75 migrants had left Libya's Zouara by boat.

According to agency reports, most of the victims were Bangladesh nationals.

Mingo Slim said that 16 people were rescued by a Tunisian fishing boat and 14 of them were Bangladeshis.

He said those who were still missing are nationals of Bangladesh, Egypt, Morocco and unspecified countries in the sub-Saharan Africa.

At least 164 people hadbeen drowned in the first four months while crossing the sea from Libya to Europe, according to the UN.

The foreign minister said the government, amid the volatile situation there, has imposed full restriction on travelling to Libya considering the situation.

He said that the Bangladeshis went to Libya from other countries with a fake hope of reaching Europe for beetter income.

The minister stressed on collective tasks to stop people to take such a dangerous strips.

"We need a coordinated way to know whether people are going abroad in a valid way," the minister said.

In April, Bangladesh embassy in Libya advised all Bangladeshi nationals living in Tripoli-and its adjacent cities to remain alert to avoid untoward incidents as the government of the country issued a state of alert in this regard.




Few were surprised last week when Sen. Mike Enzi announced his retirement.

Enzi has served more than two decades in Washington, after all, and it was expected that the 75-year-old statesman wouldnt have much of an appetite for another campaign, followed, presumably, by six more years of constant travel and fundraising.

What caught many by surprise was the timing. Made roughly 18 months out from election day, Enzis announcement comes much sooner than has been traditional in Wyoming politics, beating out the retirement announcements of his predecessor, Alan Simpson, and of former Wyoming Reps. Cynthia Lummis and Malcolm Wallop by four months.

Within the week, rumors began to swirl around who would replace him in 2020, even with the early announcement. Second-term Congresswoman Liz Cheney dominated most of the conversation, as national media outlets erupted with rumors and speculation that she would leave the House for brighter prospects in the Senate.

But the contest might be more complicated than simply, Will Cheney run?

Wyoming pundits have tossed out other major names who could make a bid for the Senate, like Lummis  who sources said is seriously considering a 2020 run  or former Gov. Matt Mead. A potential Cheney run for Senate, meanwhile, could lead to a veritable free-for-all for an open House seat.

At this point, its still a matter of speculation. But observers say Enzis decision to leave politics could set in motion what could be one of the wildest races for the Senate ever seen in Equality State politics.

In an open race, its fair game, said Liz Brimmer, a political consultant in Jackson. I dont know if its anyones claim.

It all begins with Cheney

In East Coast political circles, many have considered Cheney to be the likely choice to replace Enzi  a fact that will surely play a factor in any other candidates decision to run.

The speculation is hardly surprising. Cheney has as much national name recognition as anyone in Wyoming politics save for her father, former Vice President Dick Cheney, and she briefly ran for Enzis seat in 2014 before dropping out while trailing him in the polls.

Numerous Beltway media outlets have floated Cheney as the likely candidate to replace Enzi in the Senate. The conservative news site, Newsmax, cited unnamed sources claiming it was a foregone conclusion that she would run in 2020. Earlier this week, the news site Politico alluded to a looming tug-of-war between the upper and lower chambers of Congress to woo Cheney to stay or move up, while the Washington Examiner wrote that most members of the House expect Cheney to make a move to the upper chamber.

In a tweet, famed University of Virginia professor and political oracle Larry Sabato said Cheney was a likely frontrunner for the seat, though the second-term congresswoman has given little outward indication she was considering a Senate run come 2020, avoiding the Star-Tribunes requests for confirmation that she was mulling the decision.

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, her Chief of Staff, Kara Ahearn, said in a statement this week.

Several factors complicate the narrative that Cheney will step up in a bid to replace Enzi. If she runs, Wyoming will be in the midst of a presidential election year with two open Congressional races at once, creating an environment of unpredictability at a time when its Washington delegation currently boasts more influence in Washington than its had since the late 1980s, when Sen. Al Simpson and Cheneys father, Rep. Dick Cheney, held office.

As the third-ranking Republican in the House of Representatives, Cheney is also on a trajectory to potentially rise to the rank of Speaker of the House one day, a prospect alluded to in Enzis remarks in Gillette last weekend.

Im leaving the Senate and House in good hands, since John [Barrasso] and Liz [Cheney] are in leadership, he said. I can see a future when Representative Cheney will be Speaker of the House and Senator Barrasso will be the Senate Majority Leader.

But Cheney ascending to Speaker of the House anytime soon could be a pipe dream. A blue wave election in 2018 wrested the majority from the hands of the GOP and, with the 2020 election pitting Democrats against the most unpopular presidential administration in the polling era, Republicans face stiff headwinds in their efforts to regain the House anytime soon.

Facing those odds, said GOP fundraiser Rob Jennings, makes a safe seat in the 100-member Senate all the more lucrative.

[Cheney] is not going to be Speaker of the House anytime soon, he said. Thats all in question. A Senate seat, meanwhile, is a Senate seat. Those dont come along often in Wyoming. Youve got to weigh that against maybe being Speaker of the House one day, or taking that Senate seat thats right there in front of her, where she would be a prohibitive front-runner.

Shed be crazy not to run, he added.

A long campaign ahead

Enzi was not the Senates only early retirement this year: In March, New Mexico Sen. Tom Udall announced he would be leaving his seat behind, following the lead of Kansas Republican Pat Roberts, Democrat Barbara Mikulski and Republican Lamar Alexander, who announced his intention to retire all the way back in December.

Coming only months after one of the most intense and expensive statewide elections in recent memory, Enzis early announcement also bore with it something else: the promise of another long and arduous campaign season that has traditionally been uncharacteristic for Wyoming politics.

According to a 2010 analysis by University of Minnesota political scientist Eric Ostermeier, the average length of a successful Senate campaign over the previous decade for a non-incumbent was 447 days  roughly 15 months. Wyoming, however, has rarely witnessed a campaign season in excess of that  or even something close to it. Liz Cheney, the most recent federal candidate to win an open seat in Wyoming, announced the start of her 2016 campaign in January of that year. In the 2018 governors race, most candidates waited until late winter or mid-spring to begin their campaigns.

There is a tradition in Wyoming of not announcing campaigns early, said University of Wyoming political scientist Jim King.

Nationally though, longer campaigns are becoming more characteristic of the political scene, said David Beaudoin, an editor with the nonpartisan election website Ballotpedia. Oftentimes, this means more money is needed for success  something an early announcement offers candidates the time to amass. With statewide campaigns here becoming increasingly expensive  and with a state as big and with politics as personal as Wyoming  that time is more than necessary to build effective candidacies.

A statewide campaign, even in a state such as this, takes time to structure and to begin operations, King added. Sen. Enzi has reached an age when many retire from politics, so his announcement isnt a shock. Im certain any candidate with ambitions for Congress has been preparing for the possibility that Sen. Enzi would retire, thus opening up either the Senate seat or House seat next year.

Making the leap

The pool of candidates who could make a run for Congress in Wyoming is a shallow one, with the barrier to entry for a statewide campaign so high, longtime political operatives say, that only a handful of individuals across the state today could feasibly mount a competitive campaign.

In addition to Lummis and Cheney, other individuals  former governors Mead and Dave Freudenthal or 2018 gubernatorial candidate Harriett Hageman  round out the elite group of politicians who not only have name recognition in Wyoming, but also the necessary networks of fundraisers and volunteers that are required to mount an effective campaign.

If youre running for the Senate, youre going to need $1 million or $2 million of your own money right out of the gate, said Jennings. That really narrows down whos going to run. If you dont have that, youre pretty much going to get smoked  unless you really know how to count 35,000 votes to win the primary. It can be done without the million bucks, but youve got to be extremely strategic. I know of few people in Wyoming who could do that.

Several months added to a campaign  as well as thousands of miles of ground for a candidate to cover during that time  means significant amounts of investment, both in travel costs and in building and recruiting staff and volunteers to organize and rally support from voters. This was most recently seen in the 2018 governors race, where candidates raised millions of dollars and spent significant sums of their own money in their bids to get elected.

Covering 97,000 square miles and nearly 300,000 voters takes an enormous amount of organizational skill and, in this day, a large amount of money, said longtime lobbyist and GOP operative Dave Picard. Not only from the personal wealth needed to invest in the race, but also in the ability to create momentum and excitement for your candidacy that will turn into donor dollars to support your candidacy. It is a money game in all of the 50 states, not just in the larger states. It now includes Wyoming.

While money cant buy everything  as seen by the several losing, self-funded campaigns of 2018  it can at least buy exposure.

Sometimes, said 2018 Senate candidate David Dodson, a message  and the exposure to get the word out  is all you need.

I didnt know how to run for office, said Dodson, who unsuccessfully challenged Sen. John Barrasso. I just did my best to get out there and meet as many people as possible, and nearly one-third of Wyoming went to the polls and said they wanted something different. Theres something in there that had nothing to do with Dave Dodson.

Wide open field

If Cheney were to run for the Senate seat, it would break the floodgates open for political aspirants of all stripes to take a stab at her seat in Congress, which has traditionally had a lower barrier of entry than the states two Senate seats.

In Wyomings electoral history, the Senate is often the final destination for those who have a proven and demonstrated legacy of state service. The past five people to represent Wyoming in the Senate  Malcolm Wallop, Alan Simpson, Craig Thomas, Mike Enzi and John Barrasso  all served in the state legislature prior to election or appointment to the Senate. The House of Representatives, meanwhile, has been split over the past three decades, King said, with delegates like Teno Roncalio, Dick Cheney and Liz Cheney ascending to the post without paying their dues in state-level politics.

Despite the success of those few, state legislators and statewide elected officials remain the archetypal House candidate today, Jennings said, both from their ability to understand the nuances of the states politics, but also the opportunity to build the grassroots connections necessary for a long and rambling race across the 10th-largest state in the union.

Having an established reputation here in Wyoming, a record of service to the state and the local community, is vital, said Kristen Walker, a consultant on Gov. Mark Gordons 2018 gubernatorial campaign. To be able to leverage that and build a strong ground game is absolutely critical  having a presence and reach in every community across the state. We are definitely retail politics here, and you need to be able to reach people in all four corners of the state.

With some of the biggest names in Wyomings politics attracted to the Senate race  along with the high-dollar donors theyll likely draw with them  Wyomings House race suddenly becomes much more accessible to a new crop of candidates looking to move up the ladder.

We can expect to see several members of the legislature expressing interest in either the Senate seat or the House seat, depending on Rep. Cheneys choice, said King.

Jennings named several current lawmakers  Cheyenne Sens. Affie Ellis and Tara Nethercott, Sundance Rep. Tyler Lindholm and current state Superintendent of Public Instruction Jillian Balow  as politicians who could likely fit that mold: legislators who are well-connected, ambitious, effective and recognizable.

Wyoming has a lot of strong leaders in the legislature, the county commission, and so forth, said Lindholm, who told the Star-Tribune he was unlikely to run. I hope thats who runs  people who have been driving all over the state, attending all the meetings and hearing situations throughout the state. The people who arent just looking to run for office  who are trying to find solutions. Thats who Im going to root for.

In an open-seat race, however, anything is possible. When Picard was working on Barrassos failed 96 Senate campaign, he kept a list on the wall of his Casper office with 39 names of county commissioners, lawmakers and well-known business people whom he thought could potentially challenge Barrasso for that seat.

Only three of those became candidates, he said.

Follow politics reporter Nick Reynolds on Twitter @IAmNickReynolds

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DENVER  Prosecutors investigating the case against two students suspected of shooting nine classmates, one fatally, in a suburban Denver charter school have until next week to decide what charges to pursue, a judge ruled Friday.

Meanwhile, all but one of those injured in the shooting have been released from hospitals, officials said.

District Judge Theresa Slade delayed hearings that had been scheduled for Friday for Devon Erickson, 18, and 16-year-old Alec McKinney, who is listed in court documents as Maya. They are suspects in the shooting at STEM School Highlands Ranch on Tuesday.

Court spokesman Rob McCallum said that both the prosecutors and defense agreed to a postponement until Wednesday.

Vikki Migoya, a spokeswoman for District Attorney George Brauchler, did not explain the reason for the delay.

The entire court file in the case is under seal. In an initial court appearance on Wednesday, Brauchler asked for a delay until Monday to file charges so that authorities would have the weekend to pursue their investigation.

The latest delay until Wednesday gives prosecutors more time to decide whether to charge McKinney as an adult. Colorado law permits prosecutors to file adult charges of serious felonies against 16- and 17-year-olds without prior approval from a judge.

Kendrick Castillo, the 18-year-old senior killed during the shooting, and two classmates at the school have been credited with helping thwart the attack by charging at one of the shooters when he entered a classroom. Authorities have said an armed private security guard restrained the second shooter.

Erickson and McKinney have been in jail since Tuesday on suspicion of murder and attempted murder.

The two students walked into their school with handguns and opened fire in two classrooms, authorities said. Investigators have offered no motive and refused to discuss how the students obtained the weapons.

Student Joshua Jones told ABCs Good Morning America on Friday that he, Castillo and Brendan Bialy reacted as soon as they saw the gun.

We rushed him, Jones said. Kendrick pushed him against the wall. Me and Brendan grabbed him and threw him to the ground. I stayed on top of him while Brendan went off and tried to help Kendrick.

Jones said he never specifically thought how he would react in such a situation.

When it actually happened, I had to make that decision that nobody should really ever have to make, which was run towards a gunman or run away from them. I chose to run towards them, he said.

Eight students were wounded.

The school was without a resource officer at the time because a contract with the sheriffs office had been canceled.

Douglas County Sheriff Tony Spurlock said Friday his department did not renew its contract with STEM School for the current school year because of a dispute over what duties a resource officer should be responsible for. Instead, the school signed a contract with a private security firm.

A law enforcement official with knowledge of the case told The Associated Press on Thursday the guard credited with capturing one of the suspects fired his weapon inside the school. Two news organizations citing anonymous sources reported that authorities are investigating whether the guard mistakenly fired at a responding sheriffs deputy and may have wounded a student.

The school released a statement Friday saying schools with and without resource officers have experienced violence. It also credited the guard, sheriffs deputies and students with thwarting the attack, which unfolded nearly three weeks after neighboring Littleton marked the 20th anniversary of the Columbine attack that killed 13 people.

The two schools are separated by about 7 miles south of Denver.

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This weeks announcement of the Cloud Peak Energy bankruptcy brought me back eleven years ago to when I visited the Appalachia region where my grandfather and great-uncle once mined the coal that fueled Americas industrial expansion. In much the same way that today our energy needs are shifting, years earlier America shifted its energy appetite from the anthracite coal of my fathers mines to bituminous coal, and I wanted to learn what became of the schools, main streets, playgrounds and hospitals after the coal mines were gone.

What I saw was not dissimilar to what I witnessed when I visited Jeffrey City during my U.S. Senate campaign. Jeffery City boomed after the discovery of uranium, but today its empty streets are populated by pronghorn. Grass grows up through the tarmac, and no trespassing is painted on the sides of abandoned buildings. Whether its coal or uranium, the mineral is where it is. That means communities are built around the mine, not the other way around. It also means when the mine closes, in most cases the community goes with it.

When Westmoreland Coal Company filed for bankruptcy late last year, I thought back to my trip to Appalachia and how the coal that came out of my grandfathers mine helped forge steel to make the skyscrapers and automobiles that benefited all of America. But then our energy needs changed and the towns were discarded along with the mines.

No politician can alter the laws of economics. In President Trumps first year in office, 14.3 gigawatts of coal-powered electricity was retired  twice that of the year prior. An additional 23 gigawatts are currently already approved for retirement over the next five years. Natural gas and renewables have cost and operational advantages that are hard to beat. Trump cant change that. But unlike when my grandfathers mines were shut down, we do have a choice on how we treat our mining communities after the coal mines are gone.

In a sign of just exactly what it prioritized, Westmoreland successfully petitioned the courts to take away the benefits it had promised its retirees, not one year after its executives awarded themselves $10 million in bonuses. I had assumed wed see tough opposition to these handouts from Wyoming congressional leaders who had promised to end the war on coal. But instead the coal communities got a sound bite, as if the workers were as expendable as the mines.

For years the American Miners Pension Act (a bill I have publicly supported), struggled for survival in Congress. Its a modest piece of legislation that would use already-collected mining industry taxes to restore the financially collapsing pension program that covers about 112,000 retired and soon-to-retire coal miners. Today, three similar bills now stand before Congress. The American Miners Act (S. 27), The Miners Pension Protection Act of 2019 (HR 935) and The Health Benefits for Miners Act of 2019 (HR 934) are intended only to protect what was promised to our miners after they risked their health and life to keep the lights on across America. Cloud Peaks bankruptcy only heightens the need to protect our miners.

Yet despite Democratic support, Senate leadership and House Republicans oppose these bills  even our own Wyoming delegation. They warn us that supporting the agreements made to our nations miners will unnecessarily add to the deficit. But the families of Kemmerer remember how these same lawmakers had no qualms passing a tax bill that gave $1.5 trillion in cuts to the top 1 percent. The mothers and fathers of Diamondville no doubt remember how our lawmakers bailed out Wall Street in 2008, and then allowed them to use taxpayer money to pay executives $1.6 billion in personal bonuses. In todays Washington there is a difference between an ordinary voter and a wealthy donor. One set of rules for an investment banker, another for a coal miner.

As we once again move away from one source of energy in favor of another, lets not also abandon the people whove made our privileged lives possible. We cant forget that for decades the mines of Lincoln County and the Powder River Basin have kept us warm at night. If Congress believes the richest among us deserve tax breaks and million-dollar bonuses, then surely, we have the means to keep the promises weve made to those who actually power our country.

Dave Dodson lives in Wyoming and is an entrepreneur and former Republican candidate for U.S. Senate. He can be reached at Dave@putwyomingfirst.com.

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The Star caught up with Kremer recently for his first local media interview.

Its an incredible honor to be selected as the president of a business, and now to have the opportunity to be president of two businesses, Kremer said. Both of these are critical aspects of Raytheon, and Im super excited to be back here in Tucson.

Its a homecoming for Kremers family as well.

Both of my kids graduated from high school here, they call Tucson home, and my daughter graduated from the University of Arizona a year ago, so Tucson definitely holds a special place for us, he said.

Though Kremer collaborated closely with Lawrence and Missile Systems during his time in Tewksbury, he was impressed when he got here amid a hiring and building boom.

Raytheon announced in 2016 that it would significantly expand its main campus at Tucson International Airport and add at least 1,900 jobs over a decade, enabled partly by a series of land swaps with the airport to create additional buffer zones around the airport plant.
Three people were injured in a shooting at a Circle K in midtown Tucson Friday night, an official confirmed on Saturday.

At about 7 p.m., Tucson police officers were dispatched near North Tucson Boulevard and East Grant Road for reports of the shooting. They found several shell casings spread out on the property.

A woman was one of the victims who suffered non-life-threatening injuries in the incident, said Officer Francisco Magos, a Tucson police spokesman.

It appears at least two people exchanged gunfire at the scene, according to Magos.

Friday's initial report said at least one person had suffered life-threatening injuries.

No one has been detained as of 2 p.m. Saturday, Magos said.

Detectives are determining if the shooting was gang-related. No further information has been released.

Contact Star reporter Shaq Davis at 573-4218 or sdavis@tucson.com On Twitter: @ShaqDavis1

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Reporter

Shaq is a public safety reporter and the Road Runner columnist, keeping readers up to date on transportation news. In 2017, he started as an apprentice and later worked part-time until graduating from the UA and being offered a full-time position in 2018.
It has always been clear to me that the hard circumstances of my boyhood could have resulted in a more typical story of lost hope and squandered potential, writes Cruz.

But his mentors told him otherwise, primarily his mother, who passed away in Tucson in 2009 at the age of 95.

Cruz thinks of his mother every day but today, Mothers Day, his thoughts of her will be more intense. Because of the work ethic that she instilled in her two sons, Cruz attributes his success to her. Because of my mom, I learned the willingness to take risks, he said in our conversation.

After his military discharge, Cruz earned two degrees from the University of Southern California and began teaching, first in high school and subsequently in college. He taught Mexican and Mexican-American history, which was not taught in the late 1960s, as the Mexican-American civil rights movement began to surge. He also helped create a landmark 20-part television series on the Chicano experience and contributions. This would lead Cruz into the television industry.
The Trump administrations plans for a border barrier in Southern Arizona are taking shape.

Last week, Customs and Border Protection said it planned to replace 63 miles of dilapidated or outdated border fencing in Southern Arizona with concrete-filled steel poles standing 18 to 30 feet tall.

On Friday, Department of Defense officials said $1.5 billion would be used in four fencing projects on nearly 80 miles of the U.S.-Mexico border, some of which would take place near Tucson.

If CBPs plans come to fruition, nearly 44 miles of the border along Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument and the adjacent Cabeza Prieta National Wildlife Refuge, located about 150 miles west of Tucson, will have the replacement fencing, known as bollards.

The bollard fence also would cut across the San Pedro River at the border, a small section in the Coronado National Memorial, and 19 miles in southeastern Cochise County, according to a May 6 notice from CBP.

Much of the border in the Cabeza Prieta refuge, the Organ Pipe monument and the area east of Douglas has chest-high, post-and-rail vehicle barriers or similar barriers. Those barriers can stop trucks and cars, but a person or animal can walk through them.
U.S. Rep. Raul Grijalva says hell investigate a longtime federal officials allegations that he was pressured politically to reverse a key decision on a 28,000-home Benson subdivision to smooth the way for its permitting.

Steve Spangle said he was pressured in 2017, when he was a U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service official, to reverse his earlier biological decision that broad study was needed of the proposed Villages at Vigneto developments impacts on endangered species and the San Pedro River. Spangle, now retired, made the claims in an Arizona Daily Star interview published April 28.

As chairman of the House Natural Resources Committee, Grijalva, a Tucson Democrat, has the power to call witnesses in an investigation.

Meanwhile, an attorney for Vignetos developer, El Dorado Holdings Inc., confirmed Friday that the companys CEO called then-Deputy Interior Secretary David Bernhardt in 2017 to raise concerns after Spangle made his initial decision. Bernhardt, a former lobbyist for oil and mining interests, including the Rosemont Mine near Tucson, now heads Interior, by appointment of President Trump this year.

The attorney, Lanny Davis, said El Dorado CEO Mike Ingrams action was not political and was solely based on the merits and facts of the law, which turned out to be on the side of the company, on the ... (final) decision made by Mr. Spangle and the Army Corps. (After Spangles reversal, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers granted Vigneto the Clean Water Act permit it needed to begin construction.)
The economy will continue to grow, Schorr said. Were not going to see the elimination of truck or automobile traffic in the next 40 to 60 years. It has to be smart growth. If we dont provide for it, others will, and well lose economic growth.

There is an alternative: ADOT could widen I-10 through Tucson to accommodate the trade corridor, but that would lead to some neighborhood destruction.

The department eliminated the idea of stacking freeways on top of each other, or tunneling, as too expensive and inadequate for the corridor concept, Laura Douglas of ADOT told me.

The department could also pick the no-build option and do nothing special to accommodate international trade. Congestion on I-10 likely would increase some, while a portion of trade would be diverted to other corridors that are faster.

The logic for building a freeway through Avra Valley is clear enough, but it belongs to another era, when the spread of cities could be something to celebrate, and the threat of a mass extinction was not looming over us.
Feni SP withdrawn for negligence of duty

Staff Reporter :

SM Jahangir Alam, Superintendent of Police (SP) of Feni has been withdrawn on charge of neglecting duty in connection with the murder of Feni madrasa student Nusrat Jahan Rafi.

The Ministry of Home Affairs on Sunday took the decision and issued a notification in this regard, said Sohel Rana, Assistant Inspector General (Media and PR) at the Police Headquarters.

Jahangir Alam has already been attached with the Police Headquarters, the AIG said.

The development arose after the committee formed by the PHQ to probe the murder of Nusrat submitted a set of recommendations on April 30, he said.

They are facing the actions on charges of violating departmental discipline, tarnishing the image of the police and behaving inappropriately, according to him.

On Friday, Sonagazi Police Station's Sub-Inspector (SI) Md Yusuf and SI Iqbal Ahammed had been suspended for the reasons of neglecting duty. They have been attached with the DIG office of Khulna range and the Khagrachari Hill Tract district office respectively, he said.

Earlier, former OC of Sonagazi Police Moazzem Hossain has been suspended and attached to the office of deputy inspector general (DIG) of Rangpur range as per committee's recommendation, said AIG Sohel.

Jahangir Alam and some other cops officials likely to face more disciplinary actions on account of their non professional activites, Home Ministry sources said. Disciplinary action against the SP is underway at the Home Ministry, they said.

The committee formed by the PHQ to probe the murder found that the OC and two other policemen, and the police superintendent if Feni, did their duties negligently.

The probe committee included Deputy Inspector General SM Ruhul Amin and Additional SP Mohammad Abu Suffiun of the PHQ.

The committee recommended suspension of OC Moazzem and Sub-inspector Iqbal and transfer of SP SM Jahangir Alam and Sub-inspector Abu Yousuf. It also suggested departmental proceedings against all of them.

On April 6, Nusrat, a student of Sonagazi Islamia Fazil Madrasa in, was set ablaze allegedly for refusing to withdraw sexual abuse charges filed against Principal Siraj Ud Doula.

After battling with critical burn injuries for five days, the 18-year-old unfortunate girl breathed her last at Dhaka Medical College Hospital on April 10.

Most of the suspects are now behind the bars.
A man who helped orchestrate one of the most horrific hate crimes in modern American history  the dragging death of James Byrd Jr. in East Texas  is slated to die Wednesday over the objections of some of Byrd's relatives. Here's a look back at the crime and Byrd's legacy.
A stretch of North First Avenue is in the top 10% for pedestrian crashes citywide and was meant to be made safer in the coming years, but a funding gap has put it at risk.
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For a foreigner, trying to publish a book in Vietnam is like going to the dentist every day for a month.

So heres a bit of a story for you

Pirate Kim, a bilingual illustrated childrens book teaching water safety, is the brainchild of Ms Thu-Trang Maria Tran, Ms Annie Duncan, Mr Garry Godfrey, all Australians, and Ms Trinh-Thuc Ha, Vietnamese.

Starting in 2018, they raised funds for the book encouraged by the Our Words Our Worlds Books initiative to create diverse bilingual books to help children not only learn to read but also learn about other languages and cultures.

To date they have published a thousand copies of Pirate Kim and fundraised for more copies to be produced in the near future. It was printed and distributed in Vietnam.

Boy & boy at desk: Maison Chance HCMC

I found out about the book through a Facebook promotion and contacted Tran. She wrote up a longish account, which Ive quoted from and edited, of how the book came to life:

I wanted my kids to see picture books of Vietnamese-Australian lives in Melbourne. A day with John, if it was written by me, would not only involve going on a road trip to the beach, but we finish up at a Pho restaurant at night before we get tucked into bed. Why didnt we have these stories on the bookshelves?

I asked my cousins from Vietnam to send some over from Vietnam, but alas, the Vietnamese myths were written in a zombie way, and the English translations were authored by Google Translate I believe. It annoyed me that bad English was being taught to Vietnamese kids, and that the beautiful Vietnamese language could not be captured and shared with kids.

And so in 2018, on a family sabbatical holiday/sea change from Melbourne to Nha Trang for a few months, I decided to use the quiet time to have a go at self-publishing an illustrated childrens English-Vietnamese book. I just needed an experienced writer, an illustrator, a printer, and some money

As she would discover, not that easy to accomplish; I drew and wrote a kids book about Vietnam (in English) myself about three years ago and made some serious and costly mistakes myself at the printing stage. So I know the pain! She formed a team of three; a retired experienced English writer (not for childrens books by admission), a published Vietnamese author who took Vietnamese literacy studies in her younger days, and herself.

The summer months in Nha Trang meant hearing of and reading about drownings. Despite the seaside location, I found out many schools did not offer basic water safety skills. So we had three (aims): cultural diversity, promoting literacy and bilingualism, and water safety.

Writing is about style, and the style of childrens books in English is very different from that of the books in Vietnamese. Vietnamese books are heavy-handed and didactic in their straightforward storytelling. Literary devices and made-up worlds like those employed by Dr Seuss are rare.

We were lucky for the most part; we could pull in help and expertise from around Vietnam and the world. We were unlucky that publishing has its own industry-speak and practices, not only in English, let alone Vietnamese. CMYK colors, bleeds, tripartite publishing and printing contracts and government permits would challenge any publisher working across English-Vietnamese, let alone a first timer self-publisher.

Reading in class with Ms Tran: Suoi Cat girl's school, Khanh Hoa. Photo: Ngoc Le

At this point, Tran and the group found Ms Duncan (in Hong Kong) to do the illustrations. They started fundraising on Kickstarter and successfully got enough money to begin the writing and drawings. Yet the next step would be arduous:

There are steps that we dont usually think of (in) editing and book design. It is itself a form of craft and is excruiatingly detailed. It involves researching and planning the front and back matters and activities often found in childrens books, designing the book cover, laying out the text and illustrations, planning the page turns, proofing the images (resolution, colours), proofing the text, double-checking the translations (a step I think current bilingual books in Vietnam really need to pick up their game), down to the fine print about the book and publishers details that no one ever reads.

At the final proofing stages, the pages are arranged out of order (for reading), but ordered for printing, that is, page 32 goes with page 1, page 31 goes with page 2, and so on. This makes it easy for errors to be missed, and for pictures and text out to be placed out of alignment.

All this before it goes to the printer.

Unlike Western countries, where publishing is a relatively straightforward matter, Vietnams laws make it all a bit harder. Back to Trans account:

Book printing/publishing is regulated, and like most things in Vietnam, one needs to get a permit by the relevant authority to do the said thing.

But it did become a success and is currently being distributed to schools and libraries in Australia and Vietnam. Tran had other suggestions such as using Print on demand services as an alternative to her publishing path, A strong writing-illustration partnership really helps to bring a story alive and Enjoy learning, whatever may come your way. In Vietnam, some new random step seems to crop up just as you think you completed one.

If you would like to nominate a disadvantaged school in Vietnam to receive a copy of the book please contact: trang@kitadelta.com.
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Community-based tourism is being introduced to poor localities in northern Vietnam in an effort to provide them with a sustained source of income, so as to significantly improve their quality of life.

Instead of building facilities, roads, and schools, a group of youngsters chose to help poor regions with tourism potential to practice community-based tourism, which requires very little investment yet is attracting a growing number of tourists.

In order to prepare the community for the new form of livelihood, these youngsters also teach English and other subjects to children of the regions.

Members of the Volunteer for Education Organization (VEO) not only acknowledge their responsibility with the society, they also do it out of their generous hearts.

New form of tourism

The combination of travel and volunteerism is what VEO has been pursuing for the past five years.

VEO members get to travel to distant regions with breathtaking sights no other places have, where they also help the local residents.

Until now, hundreds of volunteers have participated in the volunteering activities the organization held helping people in northern communes and provinces such as Ha Giang Province, Ban Gioc Waterfall in Cao Bang Province, Sa Pa in Lao Cai Province, and Mu Cang Chai Commune in Yen Bai Province, among others.

In these regions, youngsters work with local authorities to instruct the residents on how to practice community-based tourism, usually starting with making adjustments to the houses to turn them into a sufficient homestay spots to welcome tourists, while the organization also holds activities showing the locals how to improve the visitors experience and classes to teach English.

VEO co-founder and managing director Nguyen Huyen Phuong admits the difficulties she had introducing volunteering tourism to the young when she first started it in June 2013.

When the young have a chance to go to undeveloped regions and see how much the people there want to turn their lives around, the participants realize their own responsibilities with the society and learn to share more, the managing director said, adding that it is a great opportunity for the youngsters to develop themselves.

At first the volunteers who registered to participate in the trip also had to pay a participation fee to cover the transportation, accommodation, and meals.

The more trips the organization held, the more hope they had as many places significantly changed only after four to five months of working with VEO even though most residents there are ethnic minorities who have little understanding of the modern economy and markets.

The locals advised one another to constantly maintain and improve their homestays, children to be keenly studying English, and advertise the experiences available in the region, attracting an increasing number of tourists.

At first, the locals were confused to see the visitors coming here to teach but we came monthly so they had grown accustomed to us, Thuy Quynh, coordinator of one of VEOs projects, said.

Teaching English and soft skills

Beside instructing locals on how to attract tourists, the organization also teaches children English so they can be able to communicate with foreign tourists.

Whenever children get to interact with English through listening and reading activities, they get excited and enthusiastically participate in the activities.

In mountainous regions, students usually do not have access to foreign languages and soft skill education, so the organization tries to make up for what the children lack.

We bring literacy to the ethnic minorities through English curricula, science, skills, and history, Quynh said.

VEOs way of teaching also helps the children develop a passion for reading and dreams, she added.

After many visits to the regions, the locals started growing accustomed to the volunteers and at the sight of the organizations purple shirt, one could hear loud voices from afar shouting VEO volunteers are here."

Next time, you should come more often, Trieu Quoc Dat, a third grader in Hong Thai Commune, Tuyen Quang Province, said after a VEO class he attended.

He was one of the most active students of VEOs English class, with his accurate pronunciation that brought him the greatest number of gifts among his peers.

The volunteers believe teaching children English plays an important part in improving the service quality people in the regions can provide while exercising community-based tourism.

Established in June 2013, VEO is a non-governmental organization, creating a network of volunteers all over the world to help the poor through education programs.

Currently, the organization is only active in northern Vietnam but it has plans to expand to the southern part of the country to connect more volunteers who share the same vision.

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Here are todays leading news stories:

Politics

-- Vietnamese Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc convened a meeting with Myanmar President Win Myint in Hanoi on Saturday, as part of the latters trip to Vietnam to attend the UN Day of Vesak, scheduled for May 12 to 14.

-- Ngo Minh Chau, deputy director of the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Police, and Vo Van Hoan, head of the office of the citys administration, were elected as the two new vice-chairmen of the municipal Peoples Committee on Saturday.

Society

-- Many areas in Ho Chi Minh City were once again flooded as a downpour, accompanied by thunderstorms and strong winds, hit the southern metropolis on Saturday afternoon.

-- A passenger bus was carrying a group of Singaporean students to the Bach Ma National Park in the central province of Thua Thien-Hue on Saturday afternoon when it crashed into the mountainside, causing 18 passengers to be injured.

-- Authorities in the southern province of Binh Phuoc, about 121 kilometers north of Ho Chi Minh City, announced an African swine fever (ASF) epidemic on Saturday, after outbreaks were discovered in Tan Phu Town and Tan Lap Commune in Dong Phu District.

-- Police in the north-central province of Nghe An on Saturday initiated legal proceedings against three members of a family, aged 46 to 50, for attacking a doctor and disturbing public order at a local hospital.

-- A fire broke out at multiple warehouses along Bac Hai Street in District 10, Ho Chi Minh City on Saturday morning, resulting in a power cut and traffic congestion in the area. The flames were put out after an hour, and nobody was harmed.

Lifestyle

-- Many art and musical performances took place during the official opening ceremony of the Nha Trang-Khanh Hoa Beach Festival at the 2/4 Square in Nha Trang City on Saturday evening. The event runs from May 10 to 13.

-- A gallery named Stolen Sleep of photographer Bang Duong, which captures Vietnamese laborers as they take a break during their usual working day, was organized at the Saigon Life Cafe in District 1, Ho Chi Minh City on Saturday evening.

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Police and customs officers in Ho Chi Minh City have busted a drug ring, arresting four people and seizing almost 500kg of crystal meth stashed in package pressing machines and about to be shipped overseas.

Hundreds of police officers raided a warehouse in Vinh Loc A Commune, Binh Chanh District, Ho Chi Minh City and apprehended four people including Liu Ming Yang, the 34-year-old kingpin from Taiwan, Taiwanese Jhu Minh Jyun, 32, Taiwanese Nguyen Thi Thu Van, 36, and To Gia My, a 33-year-old person from mainland China, on Saturday, officials said on Sunday at a press meeting.

A Toyota Innova car and other exhibits in the busting of a 500kg meth ring in Ho Chi Minh City. Photo: Ngoc Hien / Tuoi Tre

The meth haul weighed nearly 500kg and was worth almost VND500 billion (US$21.4 million), they added.

It was hidden in four package pressing machines and was about to be transported out of Vietnam.

The drug dealers were cunning and caused difficulty for officers by loading the meth volume on a seeming supermarket delivery car and leaving it there for their accessories to pick up, Major General Pham Van Cac, a senior official from the Ministry of Public Security, said at the press meeting.

Nearly 500kg of crystal meth is seen in a car in Ho Chi Minh City. Photo: Ngoc Hien / Tuoi Tre

Liu ordered Jhu to come to Vietnam on March 14 to receive four package pressing machines imported from mainland China and transport them to a warehouse at 110/1, Go Xoai, Binh Hung Hoa A Ward, Binh Tan District, according to a police investigation.

The four dealers then shifted their meth to another warehouse in Vinh Loc A Commune, Binh Chanh District because local police had busted several major drug rings recently.

Three Taiwanese and one Chinese stashed nearly 500kg of crystal meth in this car in Ho Chi Minh City. Photo: Ngoc Khai / Tuoi Tre

They were arrested by police when carrying the drug volume in a Toyota Innova car to the warehouse in Binh Chanh to stash it in the four package pressing machines.

A special mission was first launched in September 2018, with the participation of Ministry of Public Security officers, Ho Chi Minh City customs officers, and even intelligence personnel, to bust this ring, Dinh Ngoc Thang, director of the Customs Department of Ho Chi Minh City, said.

In Vietnam, trading over 100 grams of heroin, meth, cocaine, amphetamine or MDMA (ecstasy) is punishable with up to 20 years imprisonment, life imprisonment or capital punishment.

Major General Pham Van Cac, a senior official from the Ministry of Public Security, speaks at a press meeting in Ho Chi Minh City on May 12, 2019. Photo: Ngoc Hien / Tuoi Tre

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"I put that question to another military vet, former Vietnam Green Beret Pat Lang.

Once hes committed to a war in the Mideast, hes just screwed, said Lang of Trump.

But Lang, who later spent more than a decade in the Mideast, noted that Bolton has no direct control over the military.

Bolton has a problem, he said. If he can just get the generals to obey him, he can start all the wars he wants. But they dont obey him.

They obey the commander-in-chief. And Trump has a history of hiring war-crazed advisors who end up losing their jobs when they get a bit too bellicose. Former UN Ambassador Nikki Haley comes to mind."

" In Langs view, anyone who sees Trump as some sort of ideologue is missing the point.

Hes an entrepreneurial businessman who hires consultants for their advice and then gets rid of them when he doesnt want that advice, he said.

So far that advice hasnt been very helpful, at least in the case of Bolton. His big mouth seems to have deep-sixed Trumps chance of a summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. And that failed coup in Venezuela has brought up comparisons to the failed Bay of Pigs invasion during the Kennedy administration." Mulshine

--------------

Well, pilgrims, I worked exclusively on the subject of the Islamic culture continent for the USG from 1972 to 1994 and then in business from 1994 to 2006. I suppose I am still working on the subject. pl

https://www.nj.com/opinion/2019/05/its-time-for-trump-to-stop-john-bolton-and-mike-pompeo-from-sabotaging-his-foreign-policy-mulshine.html
In the week that Nine was forced to cull its AFL Footy Show after 2 and a half decades, Sevens AFL is delivering good numbers.

On Saturday Seven pulled out a 40% share and another 37% on Friday, fundamentally due to AFL. That helped the network pull away from a close battle for a convincing win against Nine.

Meanwhile election-related programming and UK dramas helped ABC to top 10 once again -but 10 is doing good business with on of its multichannels.

Network:

Seven: 31.0

Nine: 27.4

ABC: 17.8

10: 16.7

SBS: 7.1

Primary channel:

Seven: 20.9

Nine: 19.6

ABC: 12.8

10: 11.2

SBS: 4.6

Multichannels:

7mate: 4.3

10 BOLD: 3.5

7TWO: 3.2

9GO!: 3.0

ABC KIDS Comedy: 2.8

9GEM: 2.7

9Life: 2.1

7flix / 10 Peach: 2.0

ABC News: 1.5

SBS VICELAND: 1.4

SBS Food: 0.8

7food / ABC ME: 0.6

NITV: 0.2

Seven won demos 16-39 and 25-54.

Seven won Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Nine scored Sunday and Tuesday. ABC bettered 10 on Sunday, Monday, Wednesday and Saturday.

Seven again claimed victory in Melbourne, Adelaide & Perth but Nine held Sydney & Brissy.

Best brands last week were:

Seven: Seven News (Sun: 1.1m), House Rules (Sun: 685,000), Home & Away (643,000) and Sevens AFL (Post match: 615,000).

Nine: Lego Masters (Sun: 1.09m), Nine News (Sun: 1.01m), A Current Affair (724,000) and The Big Bang Theory (640,000).

ABC: Vera (735,000), ABC News (Sun: 708,000), Australian Story (640,000) and Agatha Christie: The ABC Murders (602,000).

10: MasterChef Australia (Wed: 664,000), Mr. Black (471,000), The Project (7pm: 432,000) and The Living Room (422,000).

SBS: Who Do You Think You Are? (378,000), Secrets of Britain (256,000), Going Places with Ernie Dingo (192,000) and Michael Mosley: Trust Me, Im a Doctor (181,000).
Daniel Craig has backed the Fleabag writer and star Phoebe Waller-Bridge for the upcoming James Bond Film, prompting the talented actress to indicate that she will look to make the female characters feel like real people. Waller-Bridge was suggested to the film franchises producers by the James Bond lead man himself and has subsequently been announced as one of the writers for the 25th edition which has yet to have a confirmed title.

Fresh from the critical acclaim and success of Fleabag, a British television comedy-drama that has been widely praised in recent months, Waller-Bridge seems to be in great demand at present.

When asked recently on the Hollywood Reporter Awards Chatter podcast about her approach to writing material for the female characters in the new Bond film, the 33-year-old Londoner was quick to recognise previous efforts to portray women on screen more in line with the part they play in modern society.

Waller-Bridge looks to continue recent standard

She asserted that it is mainly just making them feel like real people, adding that recent Bond films featuring Craig have sought to do just that and have had really fantastic Bond girls and that it will be a matter of keeping up that (standard).

With her previous creations commonly incorporating feminist humour into the dialogue and visuals, Waller-Bridge hinted to the podcast host that she would be looking to see what she could sneak in on the new project.

Killing Eve success

The undoubted pedigree of Waller-Bridge as a writer has been established not only through Fleabag, but also as a result of her contribution to and development of the hugely popular Killing Eve television series. The BBC ratings winner has intrigued viewers from both sides of the Atlantic through its exploration of the slightly unusual chemistry between Sandra Ohs MI5 officer character Eve Polastri, as she pits her wits against the psychopathic assassin Villanelle portrayed quite expertly by Jodie Comer.

Cast takes shape for 'Bond 25'

James Bond film fans will no doubt be eager to hear how the cast list for the next movie is developing, with Craig returning to the main role and Bohemian Rhapsody star and Oscar-winner Rami Malek having been announced as the requisite villain. Captain Marvel star Lashana Lynch will also bolster the films expected global appeal, alongside the returning Ralph Fiennes, Rory Kinnear, Ben Whishaw and Naomie Harris. Director Cary Fukunaga takes over the reins from Sam Mendes (Spectre and Skyfall) and has indicated through Instagram that shooting for Bond 25 has already been completed in Jamaica.
PRETORIA, South Africa (AP)  The ruling African National Congress was on course to win South Africa's presidential and parliamentary elections by a comfortable margin with almost all votes counted Friday, but the tally showed the party lost support from five years earlier amid deep anger over corruption.

The ANC, led by President Cyril Ramaphosa, had 57% of the vote in Wednesday's election, according to results announced by South Africa's electoral commission after 95% of votes were counted. In 2014, the party received 62% of the total vote.

The main opposition party, the Democratic Alliance, had 20% of the vote as of Friday, down from the 22% it received in the last election. On Friday, 35 smaller parties jointly lodged a complaint with the electoral commission, complaining of irregularities and calling for an audit of the vote and a possible rerun of the election.

The ANC's lead, despite its reduced margin, was seen by many as a mandate for Ramaphosa to keep working to clean up corruption within the party that inspired South Africa under Nelson Mandela's leadership.

Another former ANC leader, Jacob Zuma, resigned as president last year amid numerous corruption allegations.

"It's now up to Ramaphosa to clean up the ANC, to stop the looting in government," said commentator Barney Mthombothi. "He can argue that the ANC lost its share of the vote because of the rampant corruption under the previous Zuma leadership."

In the campaign, Ramaphosa acknowledged the problem of graft in the party, which has governed South Africa since the end of apartheid 25 years ago. He vowed not to have any corrupt members in his Cabinet.

"After he voted in Soweto, Ramaphosa pledged to root out corruption," said Mthombothi. "He will have to deliver decisively on those words."

The results will embolden Ramaphosa, as the party probably would have performed worse if he was not at the helm, said political analyst Karima Brown.

Story continues

"He has positioned himself as a president who is focused on rooting corruption out of government," said Brown. "The fact of the matter is that he is more popular than the ANC, and that has shown in this election." She cited the example of the Western Cape province where people split their vote by voting nationally for Ramaphosa but for provincial elections, voting for the opposition Democratic Alliance.

However the resistance that Ramaphosa still faces within his party was evident by remarks made Friday by ANC secretary general Ace Magashule, who is considered to lead the ANC faction opposed to the president. He said the ANC's victory could not be attributed to Ramaphosa alone.

"This was the responsibility of the whole organization, the members on the ground and all the leadership," said Magashule.

Voter apathy also has been a factor, as turnout dipped to 65% from 74% in 2014.

"Even though we've lost a few votes, we've held the center of South Africa politics," Mmusi Maimane, the Democratic Alliance party leader, said Friday at the electoral commission's results center in Pretoria. "We will work to regain those votes because we are the party for all South Africans of whatever race."

The populist, left-wing Economic Freedom Fighters increased its share of the vote from 6% to 10.

In South Africa, the president and parliament are not elected directly. The number of votes won by each party determines how many representatives are sent to the national 400-seat legislature. The president of the country is the leader of the party that gets the most votes.

The remaining results from South Africa's more remote areas are trickling in, and electoral officials say final results will be announced Saturday afternoon.

___

Follow Africa news at http://twitter.com/AP_Africa
French special forces launched a raid to liberate two hostages in Burkina Faso to prevent them from being handed over to militant groups in neighbouring Mali, miltary chiefs said on Friday.Two French soldiers died along with four hostage takers during the operation to free Patrick Picque and Laurent Lassimouillas who disappeared on 1 May while on safari in Benin.Army chief-of-staff General Francois Lecointre said the operation was ordered to stop a handover to the Katiba Macina jihadist groups in Mali.Lecointre said the hostage takers had been under surveillance for several days. "Once transferred it would have been impossible to organise a rescue operation," he added.The women who were freed - a South Korean and an American - were discovered by chance. "We didn't know they were there with the two French citizens," said French defence minister Florence Parly."And it seems that neither the South Korean nor American authorities were aware they were there either."Pique, 51, and 46-year-old Lassimouillas were kidnapped on the last leg of a 14 day trip while driving with their local guide Fiacre Gbedji through the Pendjari National Park.Victims foundGbedji's body was later discovered in the park, while the charred remains of their white Toyota jeep was found over the border in eastern Burkina Faso.Pique and Lassimouillas are expected to return to France on Saturday to be greeted by family and well-wishers.Picque's father, Jean-Claude Picque, said: "We are relieved at the good news. We'll be in Paris to welcome them home."A statement from the French presidency added: "President Emmanuel Macron wants to congratulate the French armed forces for the liberation of the hostages."He bows with emotion and solemnity before the sacrifice of our two soldiers who gave their lives to save those of our citizens."

French special forces launched a raid to liberate two hostages in Burkina Faso to prevent them from being handed over to militant groups in neighbouring Mali, miltary chiefs said on Friday.

Two French soldiers died along with four hostage takers during the operation to free Patrick Picque and Laurent Lassimouillas who disappeared on 1 May while on safari in Benin.

Army chief-of-staff General Francois Lecointre said the operation was ordered to stop a handover to the Katiba Macina jihadist groups in Mali.

Lecointre said the hostage takers had been under surveillance for several days. "Once transferred it would have been impossible to organise a rescue operation," he added.

The women who were freed - a South Korean and an American - were discovered by chance. "We didn't know they were there with the two French citizens," said French defence minister Florence Parly.

"And it seems that neither the South Korean nor American authorities were aware they were there either."

Pique, 51, and 46-year-old Lassimouillas were kidnapped on the last leg of a 14 day trip while driving with their local guide Fiacre Gbedji through the Pendjari National Park.

Victims found

Gbedji's body was later discovered in the park, while the charred remains of their white Toyota jeep was found over the border in eastern Burkina Faso.

Pique and Lassimouillas are expected to return to France on Saturday to be greeted by family and well-wishers.

Picque's father, Jean-Claude Picque, said: "We are relieved at the good news. We'll be in Paris to welcome them home."

A statement from the French presidency added: "President Emmanuel Macron wants to congratulate the French armed forces for the liberation of the hostages.

"He bows with emotion and solemnity before the sacrifice of our two soldiers who gave their lives to save those of our citizens."
Graham Norton has described his famously scathing commentary during the Eurovision Song Contest as unlike anything else I do as he prepares for the grand final on Saturday.

The presenter, known for his flamboyant delivery and wit, said work is a really big word to describe what he does on the night.

This years event in Tel Aviv, Israel, marks a decade since Norton, 56, took over from Sir Terry Wogan as host of the BBCs coverage, bringing his innuendo-laden commentary to the contest.

Graham Norton will reprise his role as commentator during the Eurovision grand final (Yui Mok/PA)

Explaining his take on the grand finals less successful acts, he said: My job at Eurovision is unlike anything else I do.

I just sit back and watch the show, making the odd comment when I think its needed.

Work is really a big word for what I actually do on the night.

Norton said he believes UK entry Michael Rice has a chance of stealing the crown.

I think the song is strong but what makes it really stand out is Michaels voice and personality, he said.

To those that say we can never win I would remind them of Portugal, Israel, Austria, Germany, all recent winners and countries that never gave up though many said they should. Keep the faith, United Kingdom.

Rice will have his work cut out for him, as UK entrants have largely failed to finish in a high-ranking position in recent years, and a number of times have come in last place.

The last time the UK won Eurovision was in 1997 with Katrina And The Waves Love Shine A Light and the UK has not finished in the top 10 since 2009 with Jade Ewens Its My Time.

Norton hosts Michael Rice (far right) as well as (left to right) Kylie Minogue, Keanu Reeves, Suranne Jones, Taron Egerton and Jamie Bell on his BBC show (Isabel Infantes/PA)

Apart from the UK, Norton said he backs Russias entry  a former member of boy band Smash!!  as a contender for first place.

He said: Russia this year have Sergey Lazarev, a former top three act, so Im sure they will pull out all the stops but really the thrill is being totally blindsided by a countrys staging.

Story continues

Norton also offered advice to those planning on playing a Eurovision-inspired drinking game come Saturday.

Pace yourselves, he said.

Michael Rice with his backing singers and PR team at the Expo Tel Aviv in Israel (PA)

If you play a drinking game that is too easy youll never stay awake to laugh at the various presenters standing in front of the bleak abandoned streets of obscure European capitals saying thank you for this wonderful show you are giving tonight.

This years Eurovision will mean Norton misses hosting the The Graham Norton Show for the first time in 20 years. Jack Whitehall will stand in for him on May 17.

 The 2019 Eurovision Song Contest will be held in Israel between May 14 and 18 after the 2018 contest was won by Israel entry Netta with her song Toy.
Yemens Houthi rebels said on Saturday they had begun the long-delayed process of withdrawing their forces from three key ports, in a move that will pave the way for political negotiations to end Yemens four-year war. The withdrawal began at 10am (0700 GMT), according to the head of the Houthis Supreme Revolutionary Committee, Mohammed Ali al-Houthi.The UNs Redeployment Coordination Committee (RCC), led by Danish Lieutenant General Michael Lollesgaard, head of the UN observer team in Hodeida, drew up the redeployment plans under a pact agreed last December in Stockholm, Sweden, the first major breakthrough in peace efforts to end a war that has killed tens of thousands and pushed Yemen to the brink of famine. The pullout is currently proceeding as planned, according to the UN.Under the plan, the Houthis will make an initial unilateral redeployment between May 11 and May 14 from the ports of Saleef, which is used for grain, and Ras Isa, used for oil, as well as the countrys main port of Hodeida, according to a RCC statement. At Stockholm, it was hoped the redeployment would happen in January, but its implementation has repeatedly stalled on a lack of trust between the combatants: the Iran-aligned Houthis and a coalition, led by Saudi Arabia, of the internationally recognised Yemeni government and other forces.Al-Houthi said earlier on Saturday that his groups intention to unilaterally redeploy from the ports was a result of the coalitions refusal to implement the Stockholm Agreement.The UN mission will monitor the redeployment, a first step towards concluding the peace agreement, the UN statement said, adding that it must be followed by the committed, transparent and sustained actions of the parties to fully deliver on their obligations.The redeployment should allow the United Nations to take a leading role in supporting the Red Sea Ports Corporation in managing the ports and to enhance UN checks on cargoes. The Saudi-backed Yemeni government did not state whether their side would make a reciprocal move.They are also expected to leave positions around the outskirts of Hodeida in the initial redeployment, before a second phase in which both sides pull back further.The spokesman for the Yemeni governments delegation to the RCC, Sadiq Dweid, said on Twitter that a Houthi withdrawal is the first step of the first stage. We support the implementation of the agreement.A show to disinform the international communityHowever, Moammar al-Iryani, Yemens information minister, lambasted the Houthi pullout as a "show" meant to "disinform the international community". "What happened today is a flagrant show, a group of (Houthi) militiamen left (the city) and they were replaced by others wearing coast guard police uniforms," he told Reuters.Yemens Information Minister Moammar al-Eryani criticised the Houthi offer to redeploy on Twitter, calling it misleading and unacceptable if it did not allow for joint monitoring and verification as stipulated by the December pact.The Sunni Muslim coalition led by Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates say the Houthis use the ports to smuggle weapons. The Iran-aligned Houthis say the government would try to choke them off if it gained control.Yemeni government representative Dweid said his side would hold the United Nations responsible for implementing the December pact as agreed in terms of verification, monitoring, and the removal of mines, obstacles and military installations.Western states, some of which supply arms and intelligence to the coalition, are pressing for an end to the conflict, seen in the region as a proxy war between Saudi Arabia and Iran.Last month UN special envoy Martin Griffiths told Reuters the Saudi-backed government and the Houthi group had formally agreed a first phase of troop redeployments, while discussions were still under way for the second phase.Humanitarian officials have long pleaded with Yemens warring sides to spare Hodeida, a lifeline for the crippled economy, dependent on the World Food Programmes biggest aid operation to feed more than 10 million people.(FRANCE 24 with AP, REUTERS)

Yemens Houthi rebels said on Saturday they had begun the long-delayed process of withdrawing their forces from three key ports, in a move that will pave the way for political negotiations to end Yemens four-year war.

The withdrawal began at 10am (0700 GMT), according to the head of the Houthis Supreme Revolutionary Committee, Mohammed Ali al-Houthi.

The UNs Redeployment Coordination Committee (RCC), led by Danish Lieutenant General Michael Lollesgaard, head of the UN observer team in Hodeida, drew up the redeployment plans under a pact agreed last December in Stockholm, Sweden, the first major breakthrough in peace efforts to end a war that has killed tens of thousands and pushed Yemen to the brink of famine. The pullout is currently proceeding as planned, according to the UN.

Under the plan, the Houthis will make an initial unilateral redeployment between May 11 and May 14 from the ports of Saleef, which is used for grain, and Ras Isa, used for oil, as well as the countrys main port of Hodeida, according to a RCC statement.

At Stockholm, it was hoped the redeployment would happen in January, but its implementation has repeatedly stalled on a lack of trust between the combatants: the Iran-aligned Houthis and a coalition, led by Saudi Arabia, of the internationally recognised Yemeni government and other forces.

Al-Houthi said earlier on Saturday that his groups intention to unilaterally redeploy from the ports was a result of the coalitions refusal to implement the Stockholm Agreement.

The UN mission will monitor the redeployment, a first step towards concluding the peace agreement, the UN statement said, adding that it must be followed by the committed, transparent and sustained actions of the parties to fully deliver on their obligations.

The redeployment should allow the United Nations to take a leading role in supporting the Red Sea Ports Corporation in managing the ports and to enhance UN checks on cargoes. The Saudi-backed Yemeni government did not state whether their side would make a reciprocal move.

Story continues

They are also expected to leave positions around the outskirts of Hodeida in the initial redeployment, before a second phase in which both sides pull back further.

The spokesman for the Yemeni governments delegation to the RCC, Sadiq Dweid, said on Twitter that a Houthi withdrawal is the first step of the first stage. We support the implementation of the agreement.

A show to disinform the international community

However, Moammar al-Iryani, Yemens information minister, lambasted the Houthi pullout as a "show" meant to "disinform the international community". "What happened today is a flagrant show, a group of (Houthi) militiamen left (the city) and they were replaced by others wearing coast guard police uniforms," he told Reuters.

Yemens Information Minister Moammar al-Eryani criticised the Houthi offer to redeploy on Twitter, calling it misleading and unacceptable if it did not allow for joint monitoring and verification as stipulated by the December pact.

The Sunni Muslim coalition led by Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates say the Houthis use the ports to smuggle weapons. The Iran-aligned Houthis say the government would try to choke them off if it gained control.

Yemeni government representative Dweid said his side would hold the United Nations responsible for implementing the December pact as agreed in terms of verification, monitoring, and the removal of mines, obstacles and military installations.

Western states, some of which supply arms and intelligence to the coalition, are pressing for an end to the conflict, seen in the region as a proxy war between Saudi Arabia and Iran.

Last month UN special envoy Martin Griffiths told Reuters the Saudi-backed government and the Houthi group had formally agreed a first phase of troop redeployments, while discussions were still under way for the second phase.

Humanitarian officials have long pleaded with Yemens warring sides to spare Hodeida, a lifeline for the crippled economy, dependent on the World Food Programmes biggest aid operation to feed more than 10 million people.

(FRANCE 24 with AP, REUTERS)
The UKs entry for this years Eurovision Song Contest has said arriving in Tel Aviv for the event has been daunting but magical.

Speaking after his second rehearsal at the Expo Tel Aviv venue, Hartlepool native Michael Rice said being at the centre of preparations had given him a burst of motivation.

The 21-year-old found success after winning the BBC One singing show All Together Now, where contestants sing to an audience of 100 music industry experts.

 @MichaelRiceOff, representing the United Kingdom, will perform in the second half of the Grand Final on Saturday 18 May.@BBCEurovision#DareToDream #Eurovision pic.twitter.com/tfEsMMOt4B  Eurovision (@Eurovision) May 12, 2019

Asked how it felt to know he would be singing to a predicted global audience of 200 million come the grand final on Saturday, Rice replied: Its definitely different from 100 people.

I really thought 100 was a daunting number but this is so much more daunting.

Last years grand final in Lisbon, Portugal, was watched by an estimated 189 million worldwide.

It feels magical, he said of the venue in the north of Tel Aviv.

There is so much going on in the background and backstage. It makes you know that you are here to do this  that its your time to shine.

The lightings incredible and the people who work at the Expo are just so nice, so helpful.

Being here for Eurovision is incredible. Its just amazing to be here and experience the big stage like this.

Story continues

During the conference Rice took part in a hat draw to determine where he would perform in the grand final, pulling out a slip which said he would appear in the second half.

Michael Rice performs on the the Graham Norton Show (Isabel Infantes/PA)

He also performed an a-capella rendition of Bigger Than Us, the song chosen for him during the BBCs national selection show Eurovision: You Decide earlier this year.

Rice hinted that he had four or five meetings with big record label people organised for when he returns to the UK.

He will be joined by his mother, Stephanie, and his grandmother the night before Saturdays grand final.

He said: My mums coming out and my nana is coming out next Friday. They are all so excited and proud of me. The towns going wild  the whole of the North East.

This is their first time actually coming to watch Eurovision. My mums a big fan and my nana watched it growing up in Ireland. Its going to be amazing seeing me on stage.
A Catholic church in north-central Burkina Faso was attacked by armed men on Sunday morning, leaving at least six people, including the priest, dead, Radio France Internationale (RFI) reported. The attackers opened fire on the faithful at the beginning of Mass in the village of Dablo, 90 km from Kaya, according to FRANCE 24s sister radio station, RFI."Towards 9:00am, during mass, armed individuals burst into the Catholic Church," the mayor of Dablo, Ousmane Zongo, told AFP. "They started firing as the congregation tried to flee."The attack is believed to have been carried out by a "group of some twenty to thirty armed men", according to a security source."They burned down the church, then shops and a small restaurant before going to the health centre where they searched the premises and set fire to the head nurse's vehicle," Mr. Zongo said. "The city is filled with panic. People are holed up at home. Shops and stores are closed. It's practically a ghost town." The government confirmed the toll of six included, including a priest, and condemning the "barbaric and cowardly attack". After "failing to pit communities against each other with targeted killings of traditional chiefs and community leaders, terrorist groups are now attacking religion in an evil plot to divide us", it said in a statement.The attack comes two days after the release of four hostages in northern Burkina Faso by French special forces in a daring night-time raid. Frenchmen Laurent Lassimouillas, 46, and Patrick Picque, 51, were seized by kidnappers in Benins Pendjari National Park, near the border with Burkina Faso, on May 1.Intelligence agencies tracked their captors across the semi-desert terrain of eastern Burkina Faso, where it appeared they would soon cross the border into Mali.Officials feared the hostages would be handed over to the Macina Liberation Front (FLM), a jihadist group formed in 2015 that is aligned with al Qaeda in the region. Macron gave the order for the nighttime raid on the militants' camp on Thursday.Burkina Faso has witnessed increasingly frequent and deadly terrorist attacks over the past four years, attributed to jihadist groups such as Ansarul Islam, the Group to Support Islam and Muslims (GSIM) and the Islamic State in the Great Sahara (EIGS).Sundays attack is the second assault on a Catholic church since the terrorist attacks in the country began in 2015.UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres condemned Sunday's attack and offered condolences as he cited "the sanctity of all places of worship", according to a UN spokesman.Guterres "urges all citizens of Burkina Faso to stand firmly with one another across communities and not to succumb to efforts to sow discord and breed further violence".(FRANCE 24 with AFP)

A Catholic church in north-central Burkina Faso was attacked by armed men on Sunday morning, leaving at least six people, including the priest, dead, Radio France Internationale (RFI) reported.

The attackers opened fire on the faithful at the beginning of Mass in the village of Dablo, 90 km from Kaya, according to FRANCE 24s sister radio station, RFI.

"Towards 9:00am, during mass, armed individuals burst into the Catholic Church," the mayor of Dablo, Ousmane Zongo, told AFP. "They started firing as the congregation tried to flee."

The attack is believed to have been carried out by a "group of some twenty to thirty armed men", according to a security source.

"They burned down the church, then shops and a small restaurant before going to the health centre where they searched the premises and set fire to the head nurse's vehicle," Mr. Zongo said. "The city is filled with panic. People are holed up at home. Shops and stores are closed. It's practically a ghost town."

The government confirmed the toll of six included, including a priest, and condemning the "barbaric and cowardly attack".

After "failing to pit communities against each other with targeted killings of traditional chiefs and community leaders, terrorist groups are now attacking religion in an evil plot to divide us", it said in a statement.

The attack comes two days after the release of four hostages in northern Burkina Faso by French special forces in a daring night-time raid.

Frenchmen Laurent Lassimouillas, 46, and Patrick Picque, 51, were seized by kidnappers in Benins Pendjari National Park, near the border with Burkina Faso, on May 1.

Intelligence agencies tracked their captors across the semi-desert terrain of eastern Burkina Faso, where it appeared they would soon cross the border into Mali.

Officials feared the hostages would be handed over to the Macina Liberation Front (FLM), a jihadist group formed in 2015 that is aligned with al Qaeda in the region. Macron gave the order for the nighttime raid on the militants' camp on Thursday.

Story continues

Burkina Faso has witnessed increasingly frequent and deadly terrorist attacks over the past four years, attributed to jihadist groups such as Ansarul Islam, the Group to Support Islam and Muslims (GSIM) and the Islamic State in the Great Sahara (EIGS).

Sundays attack is the second assault on a Catholic church since the terrorist attacks in the country began in 2015.

UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres condemned Sunday's attack and offered condolences as he cited "the sanctity of all places of worship", according to a UN spokesman.

Guterres "urges all citizens of Burkina Faso to stand firmly with one another across communities and not to succumb to efforts to sow discord and breed further violence".

(FRANCE 24 with AFP)
World War II was one of death and destruction but there were moments when humanity ruled supreme. That's why 98-year-old Gail Halvorsen, a former US Air Force pilot, is today a guest of honor in Berlin. He was engaged in a task that brought a ray of sunshine in the lives of the hungry children in West Berlin. They had nothing to eat because the Soviet Union had blocked all communication links to the city and the food supply system had broken down.

Daily Mail UK reports Halvorsen came up with the idea of airdropping small bags of sweets to the children down below.

It was a novel idea and this humanitarian work earned for him the nickname of the 'candy bomber.' When he arrived in Berlin, the city accorded him a hero's welcome. He wore his military uniform, interacted with the people, signed autographs, and posed for photos.

U.S. Air Force pilot, 98, known as the 'Candy Bomber' after he dropped sweets to starving children during the Berlin Airlift, receives a hero's welcome returning to the German capital 70 years after the crisis https://t.co/k1wZEXl833  The_News_DIVA (@The_News_DIVA) May 12, 2019

The Candy Bomber

The blockade by the Soviet Union went on from June 1948 until May 1949 and was the first crisis in the Cold War. Western allies, including the US, intervened and launched the Berlin Airlift.

Its purpose was to fly food and other essential supplies to the millions of people in the city. On a rough estimate, the amount of supplies added up to more than two million tonnes. It also involved nearly 277,000 flights.

Daily Mail UK goes on to add that Gail Halvorsen took the initiative to drop bundles of chocolate tied with handkerchief parachutes to the children who were waiting below.

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In order to let the kids know that he had arrived with the goodies, the Air Force commander would signal by dipping the wings of his plane. One elderly woman, who was a child at the time, remembered the special deliveries. She admitted to a section of the media about some letters she exchanged with Halvorsen. She had grown up fatherless and he was like a father to her.

The two of them went on to have a long-lasting friendship. The horrors of WWII surface even today like the unexploded bomb discovered in the city of Hanover.

The Berlin Airlift

According to France 24, the 98-year-old ex-pilot Gail Halvorsen of the USAF was at Berlin's former Tempelhof airport to participate in the festivities to commemorate the operation by the western Allies in 1948-49. Sunday marks the 70th anniversary of the end of the 15-month Soviet blockade.

Gail Halvorsen, aka "Candy Bomber," used to airdrop candies for the hungry children. They did not have regular food supplies because of the blockade and the Berlin Airlift (officially known as 'Operation Vittles') tried to mitigate their sufferings.

It was a mammoth logistical operation to airdrop supplies into West Berlin and Halvorsen insists that the real heroes were not the pilots, the heroes were the Germans -- the parents and children on the ground." The supplies came into Tempelhof airport, which no longer exists. It was converted into a public park in 2008.
The HoloCenter is a New York-based nonprofit organization that is dedicated to educating the public about the beautiful art and science of holograms and holographic. After presenting exhibitions on Governors Island several years in a row, in May of 2019, the HoloCenter will be on Manhattans Canal Street displaying the works of eleven artists.

IRIDESCENCE, as the Canal Street exhibition is titled, includes beautiful photo-realistic and abstract works that all contain holographic elements. Featured artists include Michael Bleyenberg, Lana Blum, Patrick Boyd, Philippe Boissonnet, Betsy Connors, Sam Moree, Pascal Gauchet, Setsuko Ishii, Ray Park, August Muth, and Fred Unterseher.

All of the exhibiting artists were awarded production funding via the Hologram Foundation. Each piece of artwork represents a significant investment of time, skills, and technology to develop the fledgling medium of holographic Art. The artists range in experience from emerging to pioneers.

Holographic art is an intersection of physics and imagination. The works on display at IRIDESCENCE contemplate themes including nature, culture, and memory. Relationships of light and time, of the body and of spirituality, all play into the creation of these holograms which are essentially sculptures of light. The holographic artworks alter depending on the angle from which they are viewed.

The Paris based Hologram Foundation has been described as a funding pool for art production.

It actively supports contemporary artists in their creation of holograms which are designed to be displayed in public environments. Collaborating with the HoloCenter to bring IRIDESCENCE to Canal Street is their latest effort to promote this art form.

To enter into IRIDESCENCE is to enter into a world of wonder and beauty.

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Gone is a Canal Street storefront and, instead, is a dreamscape of color, imagination, and playful and lively art that seemingly follows you around the room. The miracle of holograms is that, from different angles, they change color and even alter in shape--challenging ones perception of them and the space in which they are housed.

Brilliantly curated, the show features work of abstract, realistic, and naturalist themes making its offerings suitable for viewers with a wide range of different tastes and styles.

I recently spoke to curator and HoloCenters Creative Director Martina Mrongovius, Ph.D., who discussed her experiences organizing the show and working with Wallplay to present this exhibition ON CANAL.

Grants, artists, and WallPlay

Meagan Meehan (Q): How did you get involved with Wallplay and what most excites you about getting a space ON CANAL?

Martina Mrongovius (MM): I first reached out to Wallplay in 2014 when they were on Delancey Street and the building that housed the HoloCenter's gallery in Long Island City was sold.

I was looking for a large projection wall to showcase Peace Lights that was being developed by Pete Rogina and Elieen Cohen. We've stayed in contact through projects, Julia Sinelnikova had a residency at the HoloCenter on Governors Island in 2016 where she developed an installation and hand cut the mylar that became part of 'Organ Farm' shown by Wallplay when they were in Industry City. Last year I exhibited with OSMUNDA when they were at Gallery 151 operated by Wallplay on 14th Street. I wanted to bring IRIDESCENCE to Manhattan so proposed the exhibition to Wallplay.

Being ON CANAL we are around the corner from the original Museum of Holography that was at 11 Mercer Street until 1992. Now Soho is a hub for media and technology and it is great to be part of the Art+Technology offerings of ON CANAL.

This collision of past and future adds something to IRIDESCENCE that is hard to describe.

Q: What kind of turn out did you have on opening night and what sorts of feedback have you gotten from the public so far?

MM: We have been overwhelmed with the response to this exhibition. We had people knocking on the door before the opening wanting to get in to see the art holograms and they kept coming all night for the opening. We had visitors from across the USA travel to see the show, and more holographic artists in one room than New York has experienced in years. Our security gave an impromptu live music performance halfway through the night with a local musician. It was amazing. People love the artwork, and the exhibition brings together diverse styles, so almost everyone finds a piece that really speaks to them.

Q: What was the process of getting grants for the artists like?

MM: The Holographic Art Grant is the only funding for artists dedicated to hologram production. For the artist's this means we know the costs and they don't have to spend half of the proposal spelling out what is a hologram. Beyond the money though we support the artists. We connect them to resources and offer technical support if needed. The grant is open to artists at all stages of their career so it means something different for everyone. Fred Unterseher  a pioneer of the art form, was able to make a series of holograms at the Light Foundry from pulse laser masters he recorded in the 1980s while for Lana Blum the grant enabled her first hologram artworks.

Holography, art, and the coming summer

Q: How do you envision holography expanding as an art form in the coming years?

MM: If you think about the history of photography and how long it took art photography to develop, we are still at an early stage of holography. The analogue art form of holography is stepping into its own, artists have become masters and the works they can produce are beautiful art objects. Art holograms are still very rare in comparison to other art mediums.

The various forms of digital holography open up new mode of expression  such as Lana Blum's series of digital hologram prints that combine 3D scanning of dancers with computer-generated art. The most advanced digital hologram printing methods are for small security holograms  I would love to see this technology used for art.

Photonics and the manipulation of materials at nano-scales is having a huge impact on the industry and some fascinating projects are emerging. Take a look at the Optical Materials Express feature on 'Design, Manufacture, and Analysis of Photonic Materials for Historical and Modern Visual Arts' if you are interested in learning more about this research.

The digital is also becoming more holographic. The HoloCenter's next exhibition Holographic Embodiment explores our relationship to imagery and immersion. The exhibition includes hologram portraits drawn in VR by Ioana Pioaru and an augment reality drawing installation that we are creating in collaboration with Jump into the Light.

Q: Whats next for the HoloCenter as we head into the summer of 2019?

MM: The HoloCenter will return to Governors Island in New York for September and October with Holographic Embodiment and we are planning to bring IRIDESCENCE to Paris.

Q: Is there anything else that you would like to mention and have me quote?

MM: The Holographic Art Grant was the idea of Hugues Souparis who founded the Hologram Foundation to support artists. His company Surys puts holograms on passports, currency and other documents. Hugues Souparis makes more holograms a year than anyone I know. We are talking billions of holograms...small ones that are very technical. Part of his success is that he really cares about image quality. He created The Holographic Art Grant to give artists the resources to make their best artwork and to put holograms within the reach of people who appreciate the art.

******

HoloCenter ON CANAL is part of the district for new ideas program which is operated by Wallplay and co-curated by Vibes Studios. The show runs from May 2 to May 26, 2019.
Legislation that was slated to slash the massive Auto insurance bills that Michigan is known for was criticized for not being expansive enough by Governor Gretchen Whitmer (Dem). According to US News, the governor stated that the bill falls short and advised legislators to keep the measure off her desk until negotiated changes were made. The significance of the law in Michigan especially is because of the expensive average insurance rates charged in the state.

Click on Detroit mentions that Michigan's insurance rates are demonstrably the highest on average in the entire country, across the board.

The bill was scathingly criticized by the governor, and she had some even more choice words for the legislators who are attempting to pass the measure as well.

Consumer protection is key

Governor Whitmer was irate at lawmakers, stating, "They can either negotiate in good faith and send me a good 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 that fails to protect Michigan drivers, and we can start all over again."

The Democratic governor's position to protect the average consumer is laudable but she had an idea of what she wanted the bill to present, and it fell short of it. According to various media reports, the governor was quoted as saying that she was done playing games over the controversial bill, and added that she expected legislation to come up with real solutions that would be of benefit to the people.

Whitmers aim, as she stated to the assembled press earlier this month in asking for the reform of insurance in the state, was to increase consumer protections and transparency within the industry, leading to better accountability for clients of the insurance industry.

A surprising vote

Although the GOP legislators introduced the auto insurance bill, discussion in the Michigan Senate ended with some Democrats voting alongside the Republicans to see the bill passed.

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Governor Whitmer insisted that the allowances existing in the current proposal were insufficient to give people significant savings and said that she expected the consumer to have far more options. The bill would benefit people by allowing them to pay the same amount for medical services as public and private health insurers do.

Additionally, the bill allowed for reimbursement for auto insurers for any expenses that surpassed $580,000 in the case of severe injury. The governor wanted a similar level of attention paid to individuals as opposed to insurers and sent the bill back for reconsideration before she would agree to sign it.
Narendra Modi must be flabbergasted at the negative review given by the top American magazine Time in its latest edition. The magazine has no doubt given front-page coverage to Narendra Modi, but in an article published by the magazine written by Aatish Taseer, he is categorized as a man who is the divider in chief in the country. Aatish Taseer is the son of the Sikh Indian writer/journalist Tavleen Singh. Times Now has published the article by Taseer who has accused the prime minister of silence about 2002 Gujarat program proving him to be a friend of the mob. The report also accuses the Modi government of being silent on a spate of cow lynchings.

On Cover

There is a second article published by the magazine which says the Modi is the biggest hope for the country for economic reforms. Modi has been featured on the cover of Time magazine earlier and in 2015 was named as the person of the year. Modi's fall from grace has been precipitous, and this year with the election in full swing the magazine has labeled the Indian PM as a divider in chief. The Economic Times has reported that Modi featured on the International edition of the magazine while the US edition has a cover story on Democrat Elizabeth Warren who is running for the White House in 2020.

Good days

Modi came to power in 2014 with the promise of " good days ahead" and "development and progress for all." Somewhere down the years his real face probably showed up and thinking he may lose the election started pandering to an aggressive form of Hindutva.

The general election is in full swing, and this mammoth exercise will be over by May 19, and the results will be out by May 23 this year. Modi and his allies who form the National Democratic Alliance must win 272 seats in the house to be able to form the government. This is not an easy task, though Modi as a leader is miles ahead in popularity to the next man in the list-Rahul Gandhi.

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Fall from grace

Modi's fall from grace is partly his inability to keep his promises. He also angered the ex-servicemen and armed forces by soft-pedaling the issue of One Rank One Pension and curtailing many of the facilities like free rations for officers which were in vogue for decades. Many accuse him of trying to undermine the secular character of the constitution.

The Time cover story at this juncture can only add to his discomfort and is ammunition to the opposition which eyes the possibility of a government sans the BJP.

Last word

Despite the fond hope of the opposition Gallup polls show that Modi will be back to power albeit with a reduced majority. In that case, many of his pet social development programs like abolishing triple talk (instant divorce) for Muslims may go into cold storage.

America and Donald Trump will be following this election with great interest as India is a strategic partner of the USA and with China conducting war drills some time back in Taiwan Strait and start looming as a great power, the US needs India as a counterweight.
While Vietnamese livestock companies complain they are meeting difficulties, foreign companies are eager to invest in Vietnam.

The African swine fever epidemic has put Vietnams livestock companies on tenterhooks as consumers have turned their back to pork, leading to a sharp price decrease in price.

According to the General Statistics Office (GSO), pigs make up 52 percent of total value of the entire livestock industry. As the epidemic has spread to 23 cities and provinces, 82,000 pigs have been ruined.

It is expected that the value of the livestock industry will decrease by 1.3 percent more in the second quarter compared with the scenario.

Chair of Hoa Phat Group Tran Dinh Long said at the companys shareholders meeting some days ago that the company could not make profit last March from husbandry division because of the epidemic. He said if the situation cannot improve, Hoa Phat would take a loss in this field.

According to the General Statistics Office (GSO), pigs make up 52 percent of total value of the entire livestock industry. As the epidemic has spread to 23 cities and provinces, 82,000 pigs have been ruined.

However, husbandry for Hoa Phat is not a core business field, and thus it has not suffered heavily from the epidemic.

The situation is more serious for Dabaco, for which husbandry is the major source of income.

Bao Viet Securities in its latest report predicted that Dabacos revenue in 2019 may reach VND7.614 trillion, up by 14 percent compared with 2018, but the profit would decrease by 23 percent to VND276 billion.

Masan Group has reported that the pork sales in Hanoi at some sale points have decreased by 30 percent since the epidemic as the live pork price has dropped by 18 percent.

Nevertheless, Vietnam remains an attractive market for foreign livestock companies.

Sources said New Hope, a Chinese big group, is planning to enter Vietnam. The company will pour 1.1 billion yuan, or $163.51 million, into pig farms in the country.

The farms, to be located in Thanh Hoa, Binh Phuoc and Binh Dinh, would produce 930,000 pigs a year when the construction is completed by 2021.

The investment is hoped to turn the company into the leading one among eight animal feed companies in Vietnam. It sold 700,000 tons of products in 2018.

Meanwhile, CP Food from Thailand is strengthening investments in Vietnam. CP Vietnams CEO Montri Suwanposri said his company has invested $1 billion in total in Vietnam since 1993.

CP Food plans to build more meat processing factories, including poultry meat processing factory with processing capacity of 1 million chicken a week.

Bualuang Securities in Thailand said that CP Food will turn Vietnam into an export center which can enjoy tax preferences and no-quota export scheme from the CPTPP trade agreement.

Montri said Vietnam has more advantages than Thailand for export and Vietnam has lower labor costs.

RELATED NEWS

VN's livestock sector looks to increase exports

Animal feed market in the hands of FIEs

H. Dung
Vietnams cosmetics market is worth $2.3 billion, but domestic companies pocket only 10 percent of the value.

Analysts say Vietnams cosmetics market is relatively small compared with other markets. However, it has been growing very rapidly and is worth investing in.

Vietnam is relatively small compared with other markets

International experts predict that the middle-class population in Vietnam will reach 33 million by 2020. Mintel, a market analysis firm, estimated that Vietnams cosmetics market has the value of $2.3 billion this year.

The domestic market is controlled by foreign names with 90 percent of market share. South Korea is the leading cosmetics supplier in Asia, including Vietnam. The countrys success in exporting cultural value is behind its success in the cosmetics industry, especially after South Korea signed an FTA with Vietnam in 2015.

A report from the HCMC Cosmetics Association showed that 30 percent of revenue from cosmetics in Vietnam go to South Korean suppliers pockets. The EU is holding 23 percent of market share, followed by Japan with 17 percent, Thailand 13 percent, and the US 10 percent. The remaining countries hold 7 percent of market share.

A report from the HCMC Cosmetics Association showed that 30 percent of revenue from cosmetics in Vietnam go to South Korean suppliers pockets. The EU is holding 23 percent of market share, followed by Japan with 17 percent, Thailand 13 percent, and the US 10 percent. The remaining countries hold 7 percent of market share.

According to Nielsen, Vietnams spending level on cosmetics remains modest, $4 per head per annum, much lower than Thailand with the average spending of $20. As such, the Vietnamese market remains promising for cosmetics manufacturers.

Vietnamese cosmetics companies, with 10 percent of market share, can sell products in the low-cost market segment and export products to some neighboring markets. 90 percent of Vietnamese companies act as sales agents for foreign brands. At shopping malls, foreign-made products are dominant.

Sai Gon Cosmetics, a Vietnamese owned company, for example, sells products mostly in rural areas and traditional markets. About 500,000 bottles of perfume sell a year at VND60,000 per 50 ml bottle. Its exports to Cambodia, Laos and Thailand bring 40 percent of total revenue. However, to date, its products cannot enter shopping malls.

Similarly, Lan Hao-Thorakao reported 30 percent growth rate of revenue from the domestic market, but it has been relying on exports.

Deputy chair of the Association of Essential Oil - Aromatherapy  Cosmetics, Nguyen Van Minh, pointed out some reasons behind this. Vietnamese enterprises focus on product quality, but dont pay appropriate attention to packaging, design and marketing.

In addition, some Vietnamese brands target export markets, and dont spend money on advertisements in Vietnam. As a result, their products remain unknown to Vietnamese customers. And Vietnamese high-income earners prefer foreign products.

Currently, Vietnamese producers have to import most input materials, including chemicals from Germany and essential oils from France. They mostly do preparations and sales.

RELATED NEWS

Vietnamese spend billions of VND on imported cosmetics

Vietnam's US$2 billion cosmetics market controlled by foreign brands

Kim Chi
HCMC leaders are thinking of developing the city into a smart one.

Professor Jason Pomeroy

During the Invest Asia 2019 conference organized in Singapore on May 9-10 by Maybank Kim Eng, The Saigon Times spoke with Professor Jason Pomeroy, an expert in Smart Cities and a keynote speaker at the conference, over the smart city matter.

What should a city be optimized for, for the people or for businesses?

Jason Pomeroy: It's a combination of both. Historically, cities were born out of trade and commerce often by riverfronts like here in Singapore. You wouldn't be able to do that without people: people's interactions, people's trading and conversing in order to create opportunities for businesses to grow. But, as we move from the Manufacturing Revolution and Industrial Revolution to the Technological Revolution and now the Digital Revolution, we see cities not necessarily be by the mouths of river: they can actually be anywhere.

Have you been to HCMC?

- Yes.

So how leaders of a city like HCMC can help residents be happy and reach their potential?

- It's very important for legislators, policymakers to be in tune with the people's needs. What will make them happier? What will actually make them productive? Bandung of Indonesia is an example. What we see there is a wonderful way that the government and in particular the former mayor Ridwan Kamil help make a good living for citizens. He reached out to his people, and said, tell me what will make you happy, what will actually make you more productive, what will give you a greater lifestyle. He asked them to share their experiences through social media like Twitter and Facebook.

And through the Digital Command Center that he created, he could sift through information to understand what the real critical issues were, for instance, street congestion, crime, pollution, ... Then he was able to respond to their immediate needs, and he was also able to apply Bandung City resources wisely.

So you need smartphones to spread your messages

- It's important that people are able to communicate since we're living in a digital world. We need to bear in mind that the technology needs to be applicable from the child to the grown-up. I would like to come back to the idea of how to transform existing cities into smart cities. It's not just about the people, it's not just about the government but it's also about the private sector and academia willing to participate in creating better cities.

Academics can test new ideas relating to zero carbon development or the reduction of noise or pollution or flooding risk. And the private sector can contribute to testing some of these ideas. Once their concepts work, there can be immediate benefits for the people. And citys leaders, then the government can ratify those ideas.

Great examples are Barcelona and Amsterdam.

Id like to get back to HCMCs problems. Its now crowded, overheating and polluted. What need to be done to transform it into a smart city?

- Ill answer your question by an example. Its Barcelona, which is an old city. What we see in Barcelona is that it had the same problems that you just described. It was crowded and overheating. And it was one of the most polluted city environments for many years. Ive read that the mayor of Barcelona thought why they we cannot take the cars off the streets, why they don't try and create superblocks where interior streets could be closed off to cars, thus making it possible for people to walk, cycle and create an opportunity for bars, restaurants and cafes to operate. So the Barcelona citys government brought in urban greenery trees and pocket spaces which help reduce temperatures and flood risks because trees help absorb excess rainwater. I see no reason why HCMC can't borrow a few wonderful lessons from a UNESCO Heritage City like Barcelona (This city has seven UNESCO World Heritage sites).

HCMC also has some wonderful French neoclassical and colonial pieces. There are wonderful opportunities for the city to reinvigorate that Cafe Culture of the past, and because this culture can bring back greenery into the heart of HCMC. And it will also help reduce congestion, reduce overheating and absorb pollutants. And ultimately give people a place which they would love to live.

Can you help?

- Of course, I can. We're advising in Saudi Arabia. We're currently also doing a zero carbon project in Sweden. So our portfolio of green projects spread far and wide, not just in Asia. But you may know that projects are like tailoring. You just can't buy a suit and, expect it to fit everybody. What we have to do is look at the culture of the place, the climate of the place and technologies used at the place and tailor solutions that will respond to the smart and sustainable agenda of HCMC.

Ngoc Tran

SGT
Professor Phan Xuan Son from the Ho Chi Minh National Academy of Politics talks to Voice of Viet Nam (VOV) about the application of the late President Ho Chi Minhs ideology in current anti-corruption efforts.

Financial sector makes efforts in anti-corruption

Anti-corruption watchdog releases results

More than $1 billion retrieved from corruption, economic crimes

Phan Xuan Son.  Photo vov.vn

Do recent achievements in anti-corruption follow late President Ho Chi Minhs ideology in corruption prevention?

After Vietnam gained independence in 1945 and started to build the country, President Ho Chi Minh held an important position as leader of the Party and the State and was the first person in the new Government to face corruption, wastefulness and bureaucracy.

President Ho Chi Minh was the first person to sign an order to execute a military official for embezzlement. This was the first case of corruption to be put on trial in the country.

President Ho Chi Minh considered bureaucracy and the greed of cadres, civil servants and public employees as the root of corruption so he always asked for them to have good quality and to show industry, thrift, integrity, uprightness, total dedication to the public interest and to completely get rid of individualism.

Uncle Ho saw corruption as an internal invader which could damage all of the countrys development cause without a gun or a sword.

He called for the fight against corruption in all fields, including both public and private sectors, traders and farmers, cadres, public employees and businesses, which still meets current international practices.

President Ho Chi Minh said anti-corruption must depend on the people who directly supervise cadres and those involved in corruption must be strictly punished no matter what position they held or what sector they were working in.

All President Ho Chi Minhs ideology in anti-corruption has been applied and its value remains the same at present.

In the fight against corruption recently, what is the role of the public?

People play an important role and a decisive factor in the fight against corruption. If we have tools to fight against corruption but fail to uphold the strength of the people, the results would be limited. It is because no agency can have eyes on all sectors, localities and levels, but the people can.

To promote the role of the public in the fight against corruption, it is necessary to help people understand their rights and capacity and encourage their honesty and solidarity; create a mechanism to help people access different sources of information; and have policies to praise those contributing to the fight against corruption.

It is also crucial to have policies to protect people who fight corruption.

We have to protect the life and reputation of corruption fighters and even provide them with unemployment insurance to promote the role of the public in the fight against corruption.

Do you have any comments on current regulations on anti-corruption?

People have paid great attention to the fight against corruption so agencies need to work more strongly to speed up the efficiency of the Law on Corruption Prevention and Control.

In the past two years, we have uncovered big corruption cases and strictly punished violators.

However, related mechanisms need to be tightened to let no one take advantage of loopholes of any regulation and law to be corrupt. We have carried out general administrative reform but shortcomings remain. Many general procedures have been cut but smaller procedures are born, creating room for corruption.

It is also necessary to improve the living conditions of cadres to help them live well with their salary without corruption and to educate them to raise their ethics.

What should we do to continue following President Ho Chi Minhs anti-corruption ideology?

At present, we have enough conditions and factors to speed up the fight against corruption and can achieve higher results. The problem is how to use these tools effectively together with promoting the role of the public.

The 2018 Law on Corruption Prevention and Control still lacks regulations on corruption activities abroad so it is hard to find and punish corruption activities committed by cadres, businesses or public employees abroad. So it is necessary to complete this law which is considered the sharpest tool in fighting corruption.

VNS
A delegation of the Vietnam Fatherland Front Central Committee (VFFCC) paid a visit to Singapore from May 7 to 11, where the two countries agreed to actively cooperate in cultural and people-to-people exchanges.

The meeting of the delegation of VFFCC and the officials of Singapore People's Association. Photo: Vietnamplus.vn

Vice President and Secretary General of the VFFCC, Mr. Hau A Lenh, stressed that the committee appreciates its cooperation with the Singapore Peoples Association and the similarities in people and culture as well as targets and activities between Vietnam and Singapore to improve living standards.

Based on this, the two sides will promote cultural exchange and artistic performances.

The Singapore Peoples Associations Chief Executive Director Desmond Tan also expressed his appreciation of the relationship between two countries over time and the signing of memoranda of understanding that have taken bilateral relations to a new level in both study and cultural exchange.

He also believes that culture and arts are the most effective way for the two peoples to enhance mutual understanding, not only in regard to culture but also more broadly.

Viewing culture as an important aspect of cooperation, in the time to come the two sides will send more art troupes to each others country to attend major festivals such as the Hue Festival or the annual Chingay Festival in Singapore. Modern art forms will be the focus, such as visual arts, painting, and contemporary art.

With some 12,000 Vietnamese citizens living in Singapore, Mr. Lenh also expressed his expectation of the Singapore Peoples Association continuing to cooperate with local organizations to support the Vietnamese community.

As Vietnam attracts more and more Singaporean investors, it will also provide them with favorable conditions.

He also expects that the two countries will strengthen cooperation in all fields, especially in defense and security, economy, trade, and education and training, and in cooperative activities in ASEAN and other regional events.

The Vietnam-Singapore Cooperation Center (VSCC) opened in Hanoi in March, which is an upgrade of the Vietnam-Singapore Training Center that opened in 2002 under the Initiative for ASEAN Integration (IAI) launched in 2000. More than 10,000 Vietnamese officials have attended courses at the center, on topics such as language, communication skills, economic development, trade and tourism, public administration, administration and law, and information technology and communication.

In the context of Vietnams rapid growth and development, the Vietnam-Singapore Training Center was upgraded and became the VSCC to demonstrate Singapores long-term commitment in addressing regional countries development needs and narrowing the development gap in the region, Ambassador of Singapore to Vietnam, H.E. Catherine Wong, said at the ceremony opening the new center. VN Economic Times

Le Diem
National Assembly Chairwoman Nguyen Thi Kim Ngan met with Myanmar President Win Myint in Hanoi on May 11, describing the latters attendance in the UN Day of Vesak celebration in Vietnam as a contribution to the events success.

National Assembly Chairwoman Nguyen Thi Kim Ngan (R) welcomes Myanmar President Win Myint in Hanoi on May 11

The host leader said the UN Day of Vesak is an important event of global Buddhists, including in Vietnam and Myanmar, adding the Myanmar delegations presence will help with the celebrations success, thereby contributing to regional peace and cooperation.

President Win Myint said this is the first time he has come to Vietnam, stressing that the two countries have recorded fruitful cooperation.

He affirmed Myanmars support for Vietnams candidacy for a non-permanent seat in the UN Security Council for the 2020-2021 tenure.

The President said during his term, he will also work to intensify partnership with Vietnam, particularly in economy, trade and investment.

With 18 projects worth 2.1 billion USD, Vietnam now ranks seventh among the 49 countries investing in Myanmar. Bilateral trade has surged from 152.3 million USD in 2010 to nearly 860 million USD in 2018.

At the meeting, Chairwoman Ngan said the two countries have enjoyed growing ties between their parliaments, which signed a cooperation agreement in September 2013 and have coordinated closely and effectively at regional and international inter-parliamentary forums.

President Win Myint noted Myanmar will support Vietnam when the country holds the chair of ASEAN and the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA) in 2020 so as to continue contributing to the ASEAN Communitys development.

Prime Minister welcomes Myanmar President in Hanoi

Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc (R) and Myanmar President Win Myint in Hanoi on May 11

Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc had a meeting in Hanoi on May 11 with Myanmar President Win Myint, who is in Vietnam to attend the UN Day of Vesak celebration.

The two leaders expressed their delight at the countries thriving relations in various fields, especially since bilateral ties were lifted to a comprehensive cooperative partnership in 2017.

Applauding the recent strides in defence and security cooperation, they agreed that aside from effectively implementing the reached agreements, the two sides will consider expanding cooperation to potential spheres, including navy, military medicine, defence industry, logistics, search and rescue, and fighting crimes related to national and regional security.

They also agreed to promote negotiations for the early signing of a memorandum of understanding on mutual assistance in criminal matters.

PM Phuc welcomed President Win Myint to the UN Day of Vesak celebration in Vietnam.

The visiting leader said under the theme Buddhist Approach to Global Leadership and Shared Responsibilities for Sustainable Societies, this years celebration will help bring into play the core values of Buddhism to resolve major challenges, thereby contributing to peace, cooperation and development.

VNA
Boasting some of the best beaches in Vietnam, Nha Trang, Danang and Phu Quoc are now under threat of pollution from wastewater following fast tourism growth.

Wastewater spill out to the beach in Danang City on May 8

Authorities in the southern coastal city of Nha Trang on May 9 had to deal with a large amount of blackish wastewater running to some beaches near Hon Chong Beach and Ha Ra residential area after a heavy rain which lasted two hours.

Nguyen Sy Khanh, vice chairman of Nha Trang City People's Committee said due to heavy rains, the pump stations in the area were overloaded and the wastewater had spilt out. They would dredge the canal to deal with the problem and check the sewage system in Ha Ra residential area.

According to Nguyen Van Dam, director of Khanh Hoa Water Supply And Sewerage JSC, when the discharge sewer was opened at Hon Chong Beach, the planners hadn't thought about the rise of hotels and apartments in this area so the sewer had become overloaded.

"The drainage system was built for a small residential area, not for so many hotels and buildings," he said. "The temporary solution is to add more pumps but it's not good enough because we can't control the rainfall."

Le Tien Vinh, head of Nha Trang City's Community Services Management Board, said that with funding from the World Bank, Khanh Hoa Provincial People's Committee has carried out a project to improve the environment in the south of the Cai River.

"Wastewater from local households in the central city has been collected and properly treated," Tien said. "The environment in the northern part of the Cai River will be dealt with in the second phase of the project which is still waiting for investment of over USD70 million from the government."

Danang, which is listed as the world's most beautiful beaches have recently been seriously polluted by wastewater while the local authorities still struggling to deal with the problem.

After heavy rains on May 8-5, many beaches in Danang City turned black as a huge amount of wastewater spilt from discharge pipes. This has become a familiar scene in beaches in Ngu Hanh Son and Son Tra districts but has not been properly addressed. Danang City Department of Natural Resources and Environment reported that they have dealt with 200 such cases since April 2018.

Director of Danang City Department of Natural Resources and Environment, To Van Hung, admitted that many wastewater treatment plants in the city are being overloaded with a rising amount of discharge.

"The wastewater treatment facilities have become unable to meet the fast urban development in the city, especially in Son Tra and Ngu Hanh Son District," Hung explained. "There have not been clear policies and instructions on wastewater standard and reuse."

The same situation is also occurring in Phu Quoc Island. A South Korean tourist recently posted a video clip showing black wastewater running into a beach near Tran Hung Dao Street, Duong Dong Town after heavy rain. The tourist said she would leave the island earlier than scheduled after seeing the scene.

Explaining the problem, vice chairman of Phu Quoc District People's Committee, Pham Van Nghiep, said that there are now no wastewater treatment facility on Phu Quoc and as the amount was becoming bigger, it can flow onto the beach during heavy rain. VNS
Foreign firms like Facebook and Google dominate the digital ad market in Vietnam but pay no taxes, a minister says.

Minister of Information and Communications Nguyen Manh Hung said this has to change.

While foreign companies like Google and Facebook account for 70 percent of Vietnam digital ad revenues, they neither pay taxes nor comply with Vietnamese laws, Hung noted at a forum Thursday on developing Vietnam technology companies.

"Vietnam has its own sovereignty, laws and forces, and we cannot allow this situation to continue. We must strive to have every foreign business comply with our laws," he said.

Last year, Facebook and Google accounted for 66.7 percent of Vietnams ad revenue, which was $550 million, according to market research firm ANTS.

The market share of these two global giants will rise to 69 percent this year, while thousands of Vietnamese advertising agencies account for just 28 percent.

Both Facebook and Google do not have a representative office in Vietnam. The countrys cybersecurity law, which took effect at the beginning of this year, requires foreign businesses to open representative offices in Vietnam and store their Vietnamese users' data in Vietnamese territory.

Minister Hung has previously proposed that new policies are issued to facilitate the creation and growth of homegrown social networks, aiming to garner at least 60 million accounts and 60-70 percent of the social network markets pie in Vietnam by 2022.

But for now, Facebook remains the most popular social network in the country. The number of Facebook users in Vietnam is the seventh highest in the world with over 58 million people last year, an increase of 16 percent from 2017, according to marketing agency We Are Social.

VNA
Viettel Military Industry and Telecoms Group today, May 10, successfully piloted the first call using fifth-generation (5G) technology in Vietnam, the local media reported.

Delegates at the event test the first 5G call in Vietnam. Viettel has successfully piloted the first call using fifth-generation technology in Vietnam

At the event, the mobile internet speed reached 1.5-1.7 Gigabits per second, much faster than 4G and equivalent to the speed of commercial cables.

A representative of Viettel said that the group will pilot its 5G mobile service in HCMC and Hanoi, adding that it is working out solutions to calculate 5G mobile service charges when it is put into commercial service.

However, the mobile carrier may collect fees based on customers experience rather than the data volume they use.

Minister of Information and Communications Nguyen Manh Hung described the event as a significant milestone for Vietnam as it is one of the first countries in the world to successfully test the 5G service, after the United States, Australia, Japan and South Korea.

Earlier, he had confirmed that Vietnam would pilot 5G this year and officially provide the service in 2020.

Viettel will cooperate with Swedens Ericsson Group during the pilot phase.

The group is the first telecom carrier in Vietnam to be permitted to test the 5G service. Accordingly, it will be allowed to launch the service on a trial basis in HCMC and Hanoi for one year.
Close to 120kg of cocaine hidden in a container has been confiscated by police in Tien Giang province.

While handling a fish meal shipment transported from Peru to My Tho Port in Tien Giang Province on May 6, staff at feed producer Uni-President Vietnam found 119 packets of cocaine, sources said.

Tran Bao Chau, head of the Legal Department at Uni-President Vietnam, based in the southern province of Binh Duong, told the local media that the company had handed over the cocaine to the police of Tien Giang Province for further investigation.

Chau said that a branch of the company, located in My Tho City of Tien Giang Province and specializing in the production of poultry, animal and fishery feed, had imported the shipment of fish meal on Monday.

While storing the shipment in the companys warehouse, some employees found four black bags containing 119 packets of white powder wrapped tightly with plastic tape. Chau stated that the white substance felt hard rather than soft like fish meal.

She added that a representative of the company called its suppliers in Hong Kong and Peru and, upon providing descriptions, was told that the bags were not part of their products. The company then reported the discovery to the competent authorities.

Representatives of the provincial police and the Peoples Procuracy of Tien Giang later arrived to conduct a quick test and confirmed that the substance was cocaine.

The police retrieved the packages and sent a sample to a specialized agency for analysis, according to Pham Anh Tuan, vice chairman of Tien Giang Province. SGT
The Automobile Association Vietnam (AA Vietnam) and AIP Foundation, in collaboration with the Hanoi Traffic Safety Committee, launched a new child car seat initiative at Nam Tu Liem School in Hanoi on May 9.

Students of Nam Tu Liem School take part in the launching ceremony of the child car seat initiative

The launch event was held during the fifth United Nations Global Road Safety Week and attended by 800 primary school children and teachers.

Public awareness and education campaigns will be implemented to promote the use of car seats and seatbelts for children, specifically targeting the behaviors and attitudes of parents.

The initiative is modeled after the International Automobile Federations toolkit for child safety in cars, and will advocate for child seatbelt use and car safety seats to be included in Vietnamese law.

Vietnam does not currently have laws enforcing the use of restraint systems and seatbelts for children. As more families make the shift from motorcycle to car, the Government and the public sector need to work together to address these growing safety concerns through legislative changes, said Luu Xuan Binh, deputy chief of the secretariat of the Hanoi Traffic Safety Committee.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), road crashes in Vietnam cause an estimated 24,970 fatalities and more than 499,000 injuries a year. Children are particularly vulnerable, with 1,900 children perishing on Vietnams roads a year. Road crashes are the second leading cause of death for Vietnamese children between the ages of 5 and 14.

WHO reports show that using the seatbelt can reduce the risk of death among drivers and front seat occupants by 45-50% and the risk of death and serious injuries among rear seat occupants by 25%.

In addition to parent training workshops and government advocacy, AIP Foundation will implement a public awareness campaign on social media and install a series of billboards in busy traffic areas around Hanoi. The campaign will reach around 78,500 people.

The program aligns with the theme of the fifth United Nations Global Road Safety Week: leadership for road safety, said Hoang Na Huong, managing director of AA Vietnam. The parents attending the training program will become champions to change societys behavior and protect children. SGT

Van Ly
Denmark has decided to donate hundreds of paintings to healthcare facilities in Vietnam.

Danish Ambassador Kim Hojlund Christensen (centre) donates the paintings for leaders of hospitals.

The paintings would create positive energy for little patients, Le Thanh Hai, director of the Viet Nam National Childrens Hospital, said at a ceremony with the Danish Embassy and Viet Nam  Denmark Friendship Association (VIDAFA) yesterday in Ha Noi.

Entries from the Denmark in Your Eyes 2018 Art Contest will be handed to the Viet Nam National Childrens Hospital, the Viet Nam-Germany Friendship Hospital and the National Hospital of Traditional Medicine.

Research in Denmark has shown that exposure to lively visual arts can bolster spirits, reduce stress and calm anxieties for family members while contributing beneficially to the patients recovery, said Danish Ambassador Kim Hojlund Christensen.

It is my sincere hope the vivid artworks donated to Vietnamese hospitals will add a much-needed distraction to the young patients who come here for life-saving treatment, he said.

Director Hai said when being hospitalised, both children and their families enter an especially vulnerable and stressful period.

The paintings are expected to transform the hospitals clinical areas into warm, hopeful and healing spaces for both patients and healthcare providers, he said.

Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, Chairman of VIDAFA, Tran Hong Ha also expressed his belief in the difference the paintings would make to the children and their families.

These paintings offer childrens exploration's of beautiful green dreams in which people, animals and nature live in harmony. These artworks radiate great imagination and inspiration. I believe they will have a very positive impact on the healing process of the patients undergoing treatment here and their families, said Ha.  VNS
Hanois first bus rapid transit (BRT) line has not run at full capacity after two years of operation.

According to the Hanoi Transport Service Company (Transerco), the route has 35 buses, carrying around 90 passengers each.

A bus of Hanoi's BRT route faces traffic jam

Last year, the route served 5.3 million passengers, accounting for just half of capacity.

Dr. Nguyen Xuan Thuy, former director of and editor-in-chief of Transport Publishing House, Initially, I disagreed with the project and over two years it's proved its inefficiency, and wasteful level of investment.

According to Thuy, Hanoi should not develop BRT projects in the next 5 - 7 years as up to 50 - 60% of the citys roads are too narrow to accommodate BRT standard routes.

BRT stops are quite large, but few passengers use them, Thuy noted.

Bui Danh Lien, chairman of the Hanoi Transport Association, agreed with Thuy on the BRT lines failures.

Associate Prof. Dr. Dinh Thi Thanh Binh from The Hanoi University of Transport and Communications said BRT projects are effective for long routes with large numbers of passengers.

Dr. Phan Le Binh, infrastructure engineering lecturer at the Vietnam-Japan University, said that Hanoi needs to have a long-term strategy for the development of a BRT network, instead of just a line at present. It was important to arrange separate lanes for BRT routes.

Le Nhu Tien, a former National Assembly deputy, said the BRT project in Hanoi was unfeasible and should be discontinued, he remarked, adding that the individuals concerned should take responsibility.

The Government Inspectorate earlier cited loses of billions of Vietnamese dong in the projects development.

The Hanoi BRT project cost more than VND1 trillion (USD44.64 million) funded by official development assistance loans from the World Bank.

Lao Dong/Dtinews
Indian Vice President Venkaiah Naidu on May 11 attended an inaugural ceremony in Hanoi for the new Jaipur Foot Artificial Limb Fitment Camps in the northern provinces of Quang Ninh and Yen Bai.

Indian Vice President Venkaiah Naidu (first row, in white) poses for a photo together with patients of new Jaipur Foot Artificial Limb Fitment Camps in Quang Ninh and Yen Bai provinces

The Indian official is paying an official visit to Vietnam from May 9-12 and to attend the United Nations Day of Vesak 2019, at the invitation of Vice President Dang Thi Ngoc Thinh.

The first Jaipur Foot Artificial Limb Fitment Camps were launched in two Vietnams northern provinces of Vinh Phuc and Phu Tho in July 2018, as part of a Vietnam  India friendship cooperation programme. Since then, the centres have helped more than 500 people with disabilities have artificial limbs to ease their difficulties.

This time, the two newly-inaugurated centres in Quang Ninh and Yen Bai provinces are expected to support additional 500 people with disabilities in Vietnam.

The humanitarian project represents a strong symbol of Indias commitments towards its development cooperation partnership with Vietnam as well as the nations close-knit friendship.

At the ceremony, Indian Vice President Venkaiah Naidu voiced his hope that more ideas for cooperation will be implemented in the coming time, thereby promoting the friendship and cooperation between the governments and people of India and Vietnam.

In reply, Vice Standing Chairman of the Quang Ninh Peoples Committee Nguyen Van Thang underlined that the project will bring positive effects to the lives of the disabled in Vietnam and bolster the countries people-to-people exchanges.

On the occasion, six Vietnamese people with disabilities received surgery to attach artificial limbs.

The Jaipur Foot, also known as the Jaipur Leg, is a rubber-based prosthetic leg for people with below-knee amputations. It is inexpensive and widely acceptable as a prosthesis and as a result has been widely used in India. Ram Chandra Sharma designed and developed it in 1968.-VNA
The central province of Nghe An held a ceremony on May 12 in Ky Son district to receive the remains of 98 Vietnamese volunteer soldiers and experts who laid down the lives in Laos during wartime.

At the ceremony

The ceremony was attended by representatives from the Lao Peoples Army, Vientiane and Xaysomboun provinces of Laos, as well as leaders of Nghe An province and Ky Son district, and a large number of local people.

At the ceremony, participants showed gratitude to the martyrs who laid down their lives for peace, independence of both countries and the friendship between Vietnam and Laos.

They also spoke highly of efforts that the repatriation team has made to search and bring the remains home.

According to the Military Command of Nghe An, over the years, the province has coordinated with Lao localities to search and repatriate the martyrs remains. In the 2018-2019 dry season alone, the provinces repatriation team collected 98 sets of remains of Vietnamese volunteer soldiers and experts who died in Laos. So far, thousands of sets of remains have been laid to rest in cemeteries across Vietnam.

As scheduled, later the same day, the remains will be brought to Nghi Loc Martyrs Cemetery for reburial on May 14.-VNA
Minister of Education and Training Phung Xuan Nha has decided that headmasters of schools must be responsible for any school violence cases taking place in their schools.

School violence in Vietnam has become so serious that the Ministry of Education and Training (MOET) had to organize a national online conference to discuss the solutions. Nearly 20,000 teachers and managerial officers attended the event on April 17.

Prior to that, the Hung Yen Education & Training Department organized an online conference after a ninth female grader was beaten and hospitalized.

The provincial authorities of Quang Ninh, where a series of violence cases occurred recently, have also stated a conference on ensuring security in school will be organized in the locality.

Nha, at the national conference, emphasized the important role of the staff of 1.4 million teachers in teaching ethics and preventing school violence.

He said teachers must not be teaching workers, who come to class when lessons begin and leave the office when school hours finish. They must be educators who love students and understand them. Those who violate teachers ethics must stop teaching, rather than move to other classes or other schools.

School violence in Vietnam has become so serious that the Ministry of Education and Training had to organize a national online conference to discuss the solutions. Nearly 20,000 teachers and managerial officers attended the event on April 17.

Teachers must have pedagogical skills and love for students. The training curriculum must be adjusted and teachers must be trained to become educators, not teaching workers, Nha said.

Nguyen Van Hoa, chair of Nguyen Binh Khiem Secondary School, put emphasis on ethics lessons at school.

During his 20 years of working as headmaster, he had to spend time to deal with problems between students, teachers, and parents. However, the situation improved since the school began teaching value and life skills for one 45-minute period a day.

Students have learned life skills, teachers have learned how to control their feelings and give psychological advice to students, he said, adding that the schools environment has changed and these problems no longer exist.

Meanwhile, Nguyen Van Minh, rector of the Hanoi University of Education, strongly proposed to tighten control over games and videos on the internet.

We still cannot control cyberspace, so many problems have arisen, he said, adding that the effects from online violence games, negligence of families and the lack of life skills are the causes of school violence.

Nguyen Tung Lam, chair of the Hanoi Psychology Association, agrees that teachers play a very important role in forming students personality. If teachers are observant and communicative, students will ask for their advice and tell them about serious problems.

In general, educators all believe that school violence needs to be settled by psychological counseling and advice, not physical punishment.

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Better cooperation needed to prevent school violence

School violence, disorder shake up education community

Thanh Lan
Police have arrested three Taiwanese and one Chinese suspects for illegal transporting 500kg of Ketamine meth, the most expensive in the drug market.

Liu Ming Yang (centre), head of the trans-national drug trafficking ring, and three others have been arrested in HCM City

The four are Liu Ming Yang (born in 1985), Jhu Minh Jyun (born in 1987), Nguyen Thi Thu Van (born in 1983) from Taiwan, and Su Jia Mei (born in 1986) from China. They were arrested in different places in Ho Chi Minh City on May 11.

During the raids, the police seized 500kg of meth, one car, four packaging machines and other exhibits.

According to the police, Liu is the head of the trans-national drug trafficking ring that transported drugs to Vietnam and camouflaged in other goods before shipping to a third country by sea.

Liu asked Jhu to hire a warehouse in Binh Tan district, which was then moved to Binh Chanh district. Jhu was arrested while using a car to transport the drugs to the new warehouse. Van, Jhus girl friend, and Su, the interpreter of Jhu, assisted him in hiring the warehouse.

Nearly 500 kilograms of ketamine is found on a car

The case is under further investigation.

Meanwhile, the border guard force in the northern mountainous province of Dien Bien also arrested two suspects transporting eight bricks of heroin (nearly 3kgs).

The duo, Va A Chu (born in 1994) and Va A Nu (born in 2000), both residing in Ka Hau hamlet, Na U commune, Dien Bien district of Dien Bien province, confessed that they received the drugs from a man called Phing in Phongsaly province of Laos to deliver to an unknown man at a bus station in Dien Bien for 40 million VND.

Authorities are investing the case.-VNA
Vietnamese scholars, Buddhist dignitaries and followers highlighted the use of Buddhist philosophy as an approach to ethics education across the globe at a forum held in Ha Nam province on May 11.

Most Venerable Thich Thanh Quyet addresses the discussion at Tam Chuc Pagoda in Ha Nam province on May 11

The panel discussion, themed "Buddhist Approach to Global Education in Ethics", forms part of activities of the UN Day of Vesak 2019 that is underway in Tam Chuc Pagoda in Kim Bang district, the northern province of Ha Nam until May 14.

At the event, Most Venerable Thich Thanh Quyet, Head of the Vietnam Buddhism Academy in Hanoi, expressed concerns over recent social crises, saying: given the unsettled society with numerous crises nowadays, global educations in ethics through Buddhist philosophy is the key to bring about peace for all people."

Delegates shared their knowledge and ideas on applying Buddhist philosophy in ethics education worldwide and in Vietnam. They reiterated education helps young people develop their conscience, behave properly and preserve traditional ethics values amid the global integration.

For his part, Venerable Thich Hue Dao from the Vietnam Buddhist Research Institute underlined the introduction of Buddhist moral philosophy for the sustainable development of Vietnam.

In the light of Buddhas teachings, Buddhist philosophy teaches people to help each other and have compassion with others. This lays a foundation for a sustainable society, he said.

Meanwhile, Nguyen Thi Minh Hai from An Giang University, the Mekong Delta province of An Giang, suggested relevant authorities, Buddhist organisations and institutions take advantage of the achievements of the Fourth Industrial Revolution to spread the Buddhist goodwill to more people, thus improving morality while curbing conflicts and social evils worldwide.

Delegates also brought on international lessons and experience in applying Buddhist philosophy in education to change social behaviors in many countries, suggesting the practice be applied in Vietnam.

The 16th United Nations Day of Vesak 2019 brings together 1,650 delegates from 112 countries and territories worldwide.

Nearly 400 speeches in English by foreign scholars and 110 others in Vietnamese will be presented at forums in the framework of the Festival.

The forums will focus on responsible leadership for sustainable societies; Buddhisms approach to harmonious families, education and responsible consumption; and Buddhism and the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

This is the third time Vietnam has hosted the UN Vesak celebration. Previously, it took place in Hanoi in 2008 and the northern province of Ninh Binh in 2014.

The UN Vesak 2019 celebration is an important external event, contributing to improving the role of Vietnamese Buddhism in international integration and affirming Vietnam's position and responsibility for UN activities in all fields.-VNA
Authorities in the southern largest economic hub of Ho Chi Minh City have been taking drastic measures in response to African swine fever after outbreaks were reported in the neighbouring province of Dong Nai.

According to the citys Sub-department of Veterinary Health, no pigs with African swine fever had been discovered. However the swine fever had attacked Dong Nai province which provides up to 50 percent of pork for HCM City, so the chances were high that it could spread.

Some 4,000 pigs from northern provinces are sent from HCM City to be distributed in the Mekong Delta everyday. This also poses the risk of disease spreading in southern provinces.

Huynh Tan Phat, the sub-departments deputy head, said that management of pigs imported to the city had been tightened.

However, it was difficult to control pork dispatched from other provinces and shipped to the citys markets for consumption.

Phat urged authorities in southern provinces and cities to collaborate to prevent the disease from spreading.

Meanwhile, illegal slaughterhouses in districts 12, Go Vap and Binh Tan posed a threat of African swine fever infecting HCM Citys pig population.

There are nearly 4,000 pig farming households with some 274,000 pigs in the city, of which 274 households feed pigs with leftover food, one of the main causes of the disease.

Since May 2, pigs have only been transported to HCM City via national highways 1A and 1K, and are being sterilised at Thu Duc and Xuan Hiep quarantine checkpoints.

Quarantine certificates are not being issued for slaughterhouses in affected areas.

Checkpoints have been set up along borders with neighbouring provinces including Binh Duong and Long An.

Binh Phuoc province on May 9 reported its first case of African swine fever at a smallholding in Tan Lien ward, Tan Phu town, Dong Phu district. Seven pigs were culled immediately.

On the same day, provincial authorities held an urgent meeting to discuss solutions for African swine fever.

Binh Phuoc province has a 260km border with Cambodia and serves as a transit area between the southern Central Highlands and southeast provinces, making it hard to control the disease.

The province is home to 11,000 pig-farming households and 250 farms with some 740,000 pigs.

African Swine Fever not yet announced in Vietnam

The Department of Animal Health under the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development has not yet announced African Swine Fever as well as instruction of prevention and culling.

African Swine Fever not yet announced in Vietnam

By May 10, ASF has fast spread to many localities killing tens of thousands of pigs. In addition to outbreaks in northern provinces, the disease has occurred in southern provinces such as Dong Nai and Binh Phuoc.

In the middle of April, the Department of Animal Health announced that many localities have had no fresh outbreaks of ASF within 21 days even some announced no ASF virus in its animal.

This move deceptively made people think that the fatal disease of pigs has lessened; nevertheless, in reality, the virus continued spreading within the last two to three weeks ; specifically, Hanoi reported new outbreaks of ASF.

The central province of Nghe Ans Dien Chau District yesterday said more outbreaks of ASF in communes Dien My, Dien Bich, and Dien Quang. Within the past ten days, the district has had an extra of seven outbreaks in communes Dien Van, Dien Kim, Dien Thai and Dien Truong. Worse, in the same time, outbreaks of ASF occurred in Hoang Mai Town and Nghi Loc District also.

Meantime, from May 4 to 10, Thanh Hoa Province also reported outbreaks of ASF in communes Hai THanh, Thanh Thuy, Thanh Son and Hai Hoa and Thieu Hoa District.

VNA/SGGP
Vietnam will welcome more than 1,600 foreign delegates, including national leaders, to the 2019 UN Day of Vesak.

By hosting the event from May 12-14, Vietnam shows the world that it respects and protects the freedom of belief and religion as well as non-belief and non-religion of all citizens. A recent report on the religious situation in Vietnam released by the US Commission on International Religious Freedom contains a biased assessment and a lack of goodwill toward Vietnam.

Vietnam is a multi-belief, multi-religion country. 95% of Vietnams population hold spiritual beliefs. 27% of the population - 24.3 million people - follow a religion. Vietnam has nearly 190,000 religious dignitaries, 28,000 places of worship, and more than 8,000 annual religious festivals.

Clear stance on belief, religion

Vietnam pursues a consistent policy of respecting and ensuring the right to freedom of religion and belief for all citizens. This is written into Vietnam's Constitution and laws, and is strictly enforced.

The 2016 Law on Belief and Religion stipulates that everyone has the right to freedom of belief and religion, to follow or not follow any religion. Everyone has the right to conduct religious practices and attend religious festivals.

The 1992 Constitution says The citizen shall enjoy freedom of belief and of religion; he can follow any religion or follow none. All religions are equal before the law. The places of worship of all faiths and religions are protected by the law. No one can violate this freedom of belief and of religion; nor can anyone misuse beliefs or religions to contravene the law or State policies.

Vietnam-a peaceful place to practice religion

The practice of belief or religion is protected. Each year thousands of religious festivals and activities are organized, attracting crowds of people and official recognition from government authorities. The Chol Chnam Thmay New Year festival of the Khmer, which occurs in mid-April, features a variety of religious rituals: a rice offering, a Buddha bathing ceremony, sand pile making, and a requiem. Party, State, government, and Fatherland Front leaders organize activities to congratulate Christians at Christmas.

Vietnam has emerged as a peaceful place for religious practice, this week welcoming more than one thousand of delegates from 112 countries and territories to UN Day of Vesak. Among the participants will be the Vice Secretary General of the UN, Myanmars President, Nepals Prime Minister, and the Senate Speaker of India.

Vietnam successfully hosted UN Vesak Day in 2008 and 2014 and the 500th anniversary of the Protestant Reformation in 2017.

Vietnams laws and policies and its thriving religious communities are vivid proof that the right to freedom of religion and belief is respected and guaranteed in the country.

VOV5
The Founding Dean Cynda Ann Johnson Vision Fund at the Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine has reached the $1 million mark in gift commitments just five months after Johnsons retirement. The mark was met thanks to a new finishing gift from Carilion Clinic, in addition to almost 150 gifts from individuals over the last year.

Johnson announced her intent to retire in February 2018, but stayed in the role until the end of the calendar year as the search for her replacement began. Lee Learman was announced as the new dean in January 2019.

Soon after Johnson announced she would retire, the school established the vision fund as a permanent tribute to her legacy. Efforts to establish the fund and seek gifts were led in part by the schools Deans Council on Advancement advisory board. As founding dean, Johnson built the school from the ground up and provided leadership over the medical school for almost 11 years.

The school began asking for gifts for the fund in her honor from community members, faculty and friends of the school, supporters and friends of Johnson, alumni, staff, and students about a year ago. Those efforts yielded gifts and commitments from nearly 150 individual donors, including all members of the class of 2019, totaling almost $850,000. Carilion Clinic revealed their plans this week to direct a finishing gift of approximately $150,000 to get the fund to $1 million.

Cynda took the vision set forward by the late Ed Murphy and Charles Steger and made it even better, said Nancy Howell Agee, president and CEO of Carilion Clinic. The medical school surpassed expectations throughout Cyndas tenure. This contribution to her vision fund is Carilions way of honoring her accomplishments, passion, and collaborative spirit and deepening our commitment to the future of the VTC School of Medicine.

The outpouring of support from all of those who have contributed to the vision fund has been humbling and proud for me at the same time, said Johnson. Being founding dean of the Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine was the crowning jewel to my career. Im touched that part of what I leave behind  this fund in my name  will allow the schools current and future leaders a real edge to try new and innovative things to continue producing future physician thought leaders.

The vision fund will provide much needed resources to continue evolving the innovative curriculum, student support, ongoing faculty development, and entrepreneurial programming that Johnson helped pioneer for the Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine. The schools dean will have discretion in spending money from the fund for various initiatives.

Cynda has not only created an innovative medical school with top students and faculty, but now this vision fund in her honor will help me and any future deans continue to build on what she started here and stay at the forefront of medical education, said Learman. He officially begins his tenure July 1.

Learman, along with Johnson and Virginia Tech President Tim Sands, attended Saturdays commencement for the Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine, where Agee was this years keynote speaker. In her remarks, Agee announced Carilion Clinics finishing gift in celebrating Johnson, welcoming Learman, thanking members of the Class of 2019 for their generosity to the fund, and wishing them success in their medical careers. Carilion Clinic has also designated funds to be distributed to the medical school for student scholarships.



For more about the fund or to make a gift, visit the medical schools giving website.
Leader named at research park

AMES  After a nationwide search, the Iowa State University Research Park has named Rick Sanders as president. Sanders succeeds Steve Carter, who retired in December 2018 following an 18-year stint. The search was led by Buffkin/Baker and an ISU Research Park Board-appointed search committee.

Sanders announced his resignation from the county Board of Supervisors Wednesday. He will remain in the supervisor role at Story County until May 31, and begin work at the Research Park June 1.

Iowa State Fair entries available

DES MOINES  Entries for the competitive events at the 2019 Iowa State Fair are now being accepted by mail or online at iowastatefair.org. The Iowa State Fair boasts a variety of competitive event categories, including the largest food department of any state fair, the states largest art show, one of the largest livestock shows in the world and Iowas finest exhibits of agricultural commodities and photography.

Premium books and entry forms can be accessed at www.iowastatefair.org/participate/competition/how-to-enter/. Entrants in competitive events may enter by mail or submit entries online. Check iowastatefair.org for specific deadline entry dates. Fine arts and photography deadlines are earlier than most other divisions. Fine art entries must be submitted online at https://iowastatefair.artcall.org by May 31. Photography entries must be submitted by June 15 and 16.

For more information, call Competitive Events Department at (515) 262-3111 ext. 207.

Independence firm wins award

INDEPENDENCE  Jensen Transport Inc. was presented with the Acuity Insurance Safety Award.

This award is given to businesses that are exemplary in their partnership with Acuity to help ensure a safe workplace.

Century Farm applications due

DES MOINES  Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig reminds eligible farm owners to apply for the 2019 Century and Heritage Farm Program by June 1. The program is sponsored by the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship and the Iowa Farm Bureau Federation and recognizes families that have owned their Century Farm for 100 years or Heritage Farm for 150 years.

Century Farm applications are available at iowacenturyfarms.com and Heritage Farm applications can be found at iowaagriculture.gov/heritageFarmsProgram.asp. Applications may also be requested from Becky Lorenz, coordinator of the Century and Heritage Farm Program at (515) 281-3645, email at Becky.Lorenz@IowaAgriculture.gov or by writing to Century or Heritage Farms Program, Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship, Henry A. Wallace Building, 502 E. Ninth St., Des Moines, IA 50319.

PIPAC wins agency honor

CEDAR FALLS  PIPAC has been named a top agency in Iowa as part of Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shields annual Promise Awards. The awards recognize Wellmark agents and agencies who provide exceptional service to Wellmark members in todays marketplace.

PIPAC Health & Life Insurance Brokerage owned by Greg and LeaAnn Saul, has been providing service since 1981.

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PEOSTA (AP)  Kristin Thomas, the co-owner of Bio-Bond, is not shy when discussing the ambitions of the Peosta-based business she and her husband started four years ago.

Packaging is the future  just look at Amazon, she said. And we are basically going to change the whole packaging industry.

Bio-Bond creates biodegradable and compostable adhesives for a wide range of industries, ranging from box manufacturing to book publishing.

The creation of the business marks the culmination of a lengthy career for Kristins husband, Richard Thomas, who has worked in the gelatin-based adhesive industry for more than four decades.

He said Bio-Bond already has established a foothold in the publishing industry, where its glue-like products are used to strengthen spines and attach labels on hardcover books.

A walk through the Bio-Bond facility displays the sheer volume of the companys production, with boxes of completed products placed on racks that reach toward the ceiling. About 300,000 pounds of the companys best-selling adhesive  a product named Bio-Bond 777  are on hand and ready to ship at all times.

The adhesive is used in a wide range of products, including yearbooks, cookbooks and textbooks.

We sell it throughout the United States, as well as in Canada and Mexico, Richard said.

Many of the products constructed within the facility begin with materials that previously would have been bound for a landfill.

Large containers on the factory floor include hundreds of pounds of stamped-out gelatin. According to Richard, this is the byproduct of gelatin previously used to form the capsules of vitamin and supplement pills.

The byproduct, which vaguely resembles netting, historically has been thrown away. By using it to produce adhesive, Bio-Bond officials believe they are cutting down on waste.

We totally close the sustainability loop, Richard said. That is a unique propositional value that we can bring to the table.

The gelatin byproduct is lifted into 350-gallon, stainless steel kettles. It is mixed at 150 degrees with other ingredients, including vanilla, defoamer, preservatives, water and Epsom salt.

After about three hours, the mixture is released from the bottom of the kettles and placed into pans.

As it cools, the adhesive product takes on the shape of a loaf of bread. It is packaged and prepared for shipping.

Richard launched his career in the gelatin industry in the late 1970s, initially working as a lab technician in the Boston area. He later worked in manufacturing and sales, giving him a broad perspective of the industry.

Enticed by the tri-state regions combination of gelatin producers and publishing companies, he moved to Asbury in the late 2000s.

He spent multiple years working as a consultant, providing guidance to adhesive producers as well as publishing businesses, before deciding to roll the dice with his manufacturing venture.

He opened Bio-Bond about four years ago. In August 2017, it moved across the street to its current location.

In the 20 months since the short move, the companys growth has been abundant. Bio-Bond initially occupied around 15,000 square feet in the facility, but now takes up 30,000 square feet of space.

Seven people, including the owners, work at the business, Richard said.

The massive stacks of adhesives within Bio-Bonds facility serve as a testament to the growth the business has achieved in its short run.

While Bio-Bond 777 is the biggest seller, the Thomases noted they sell nine adhesive products.

The couple also has patents pending for a pair of new products, dubbed Bio-Bond 1230 and Cooler-Melt 999.

Richard said the latter of these products offers a new approach to packaging. Adhesives serve a critical role in that industry, creating the interior seam on boxes, as well as helping to seal the top and bottom of the boxes.

It doesnt hurt that the packaging industry is in the midst of a boom that has no end in sight.

Everyone is getting lazier and lazier, Richard said with a smile. They are going out and shopping less and less and ordering more and more things online through Amazon. That means more and more packaging being done globally.

But the way in which this packaging is being done could soon change, as companies look for a product that is both effective and environmentally sustainable.

Unlike traditional, petroleum-based products on the market, he said, the adhesives created in Peosta are compostable and biodegradable. Moreover, they are created at 140- or 150-degree temperatures instead of the standard 350 degrees.

Richard believes this ultimately will create safer work conditions for employees.

A lot of injuries occur with these hot melts and (employees) can burn themselves, he said. This could eliminate skin burns.

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WATERLOO  The Board of Education Monday will consider approving salaries for administrators and administrative support staff.

The board meets at 5 p.m. in the Education Service Center, 1516 Washington St.

Waterloo Community Schools administrators as a group will receive a 1.5 percent total salary increase for the fiscal year starting July 1. Details of the raise for administrative support staff will be available at Mondays meeting.

According to a board memo, the administrator raise will boost the starting pay of elementary school principals to be competitive with their counterparts in seven other largest Iowa districts, known as the Urban Education Network. The overall increase will also maintain competitive salaries for all administrator positions and decrease the variance in salaries between administrators with similar jobs.

Members of the group include central administrators located at the Education Service Center as well as building and assistant principals. Superintendent Jane Lindaman is not included. Her salary will be set later following an evaluation by board members.

The administrative support group includes some technology staff, confidential clerical positions, language interpreters, food service management, building administrative assistants, academic deans and coordinators.

In other business, the board will accept a $4,700 donation from the R.J. McElroy Trust for youth emergency fund purposes at six elementaries, three middle schools and two high schools. These discretionary funds are for an ongoing program of financial support to meet student needs.

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WATERLOO  Cynthia dLamant wanted desperately to jump-start her college education in 2007 when she moved to the Cedar Valley from Florida.

Pregnant and trying to work through past college debt, she struggled to move forward with her goals. Her dad and stepmom, who were the initial draw to the area, provided support during the pregnancy and early stages of motherhood, along with her then-boyfriend.

But it wasnt until dLamant walked into the University of Northern Iowas Center for Urban Education that she figured out how to get back into college. Its where she met Nikole Dillard, assistant director of UNI-CUEs Educational Opportunity Center. The federally funded program works with adults who are low-income or first-generation college students in starting or returning to post-secondary education.

A lot of students that we work with, there are barriers, said Dillard, including financial issues. That was the case with dLamant.

I had some school loans. I tried to go to school several times, she said, first in New Mexico and later in Florida. Nikole was instrumental in helping me clean that up.

Her education began at Hawkeye Community College and continued later when she transferred to UNI in Cedar Falls. But difficult personal situations slowed the progress of dLamant, who is now 48. She crossed the stage in December, though, graduating with a bachelors degree in movement and exercise science.

She had a strong start, enrolling full-time at Hawkeye in 2008  the same year her son was born. Having a baby and maintaining a college schedule is definitely a challenge, said dLamant. I did my best to create an environment where I could still go to school.

She studied photography and journalism during two years at Hawkeye, earning an associates degree in 2010. UNI-CUE staff encouraged dLamant to use Hawkeyes free tutoring center, which was important to her success in some classes.

Thats part of what we do is lead people to the resources on their individual campus, said Dillard.

Due to an unhappy relationship with her sons father, dLamant decided to move back to Dallas, Texas, where she had grown up and her mom still lived. Once there, she planned to complete a bachelors degree at the University of Texas.

However, she didnt have the kind of resources that are available through UNI-CUE. The complexities of trying to raise a very young child and trying to educate yourself with no guidance proved too difficult, said DLamant. I had to stop school and work full-time.

Eventually, she met and married her husband, whom she later realized had serious alcohol and drug addiction problems.

Addicts dont tell you theyre addicts  ever, said dLamant. So I found myself where I was now married to an addict and his problems became so much bigger than my problems were. It was completely into survival mode, and not my survival.

Her husbands issues led to legal troubles and time in jail. Before he went through the legal process, though, dLamant decided it was time to return to a more stable life in Waterloo, which her husband joined prior to being locked up.

He was in jail the entirety, basically, of 2016, she said. He moved to a Dallas halfway house for the first part of 2017 and then, at her insistence, to a sober living house.

Meanwhile, she was going to UNI part-time and working full-time as the manager of a spa. But in the fall of 2016, she learned her mom had an inoperable brain tumor and needed care. So dLamant quit her job and classes, arranged for her son to live with his grandfather, and went to take care of her mother in Dallas during the four months before she died on Dec. 31.

After mom died, I decided to go back to school full-time, she said. In addition, dLamant filed for divorce from her husband, who was still in Texas. But phone contact between the two continued, and she couldnt completely escape from his problems.

On Jan. 20, 2018, he killed himself. I was on the phone with him when it occurred, she said. DLamant was nearly finished at the University of Northern Iowa, but I couldnt handle the pressure of that last semester after the suicide.

She used UNIs free mental health and counseling services and decided to scale back her studies. Last fall, she took the final class and completed an internship. DLamant also finished her senior project, planning a pop-up health fair that was held in downtown Cedar Falls.

She is now looking at online masters degree programs in counseling or social work and planning to move back to Dallas with her son, who is 11.

DLamant continues to credit UNI-CUEs Educational Opportunity Center for the help and guidance it provided through the difficulties she faced while earning a degree. It was paramount to my success as a student and as a parent and as a woman and as a mother, she said.

At times, she admitted, it was incredibly difficult to get that grit and finish. But dLamant was able to move ahead, thanks to the support available and her own determination.

Everybody has choices, she said, you just have to want it bad enough.

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DES MOINES  Iowa schools are creating new school emergency plans or updating existing plans to satisfy the requirements of a new state law before its June 30 deadline.

But those emergency plans will not be reviewed by the state or anyone else, as the new law contains no such requirement.

The new law, passed in 2018, requires public and private school districts to have emergency response plans for responding to natural disasters and active shooters. The plans must be unique for each building in the school district, and each building must conduct annual emergency response drills.

The plans, under the new law, must be high quality, developed in conjunction with local law enforcement and emergency response agencies, and confidential.

The plans must be completed by June 30. But they will not be verified or vetted for their quality. Districts will simply report to the state education department whether they have completed their plans.

In essence, the law requires district leaders be taken at their word that they have completed the plans and met the laws requirements since they will not be vetted by the state or subject to public review for safety reasons.

Concerns were raised about the lack of oversight when the law was being debated by state lawmakers, although it ultimately passed both the Iowa House and Senate with unanimous votes of support.

It does absolutely nothing, Cindy Winckler, a Democratic state legislator from Davenport, said during the lawmakers debate. It is hard to take a positive vote on such incomplete work.

Skyler Wheeler, a Republican state legislator from Orange City, said he disagreed with the assertion that the bill was nothing more than a feel-good proposal.

Staci Hupp, a spokeswoman for the state education department, said the new law is part of a holistic approach to school safety taken by the state. In addition to the new law for school emergency response plans, the department has offered resources to districts to help ensure their plans are high quality, and the department has provided or sponsored training for school officials, for example, to recognize behavioral issues and potentially violent behavior, Hupp said.

We really are doing our best as an agency to support schools as they develop these plans, as we ultimately try to keep our kids safe, Hupp said. Its a piece of the overall picture.

Roark Horn, executive director of the organization that represents school administrators across the state, praised the state education department, state lawmakers, Gov. Kim Reynolds and local school leaders for working together to enhance school safety.

Undoubtedly, the collaborative efforts of all these entities have made schools even safer learning environments for our students and teachers, Horn said in an email.

Most local school leaders contacted for this story said they have long had in place emergency response plans. Some said their plans already met the requirements established in the new law; others said their plans needed minor updates or tweaks to satisfy the new law.

But the state education department in 2018 said while 88 percent of Iowa school districts reported having security plans, fewer than 10 percent were high-quality plans that included drills for school staff.

Those plans didnt necessarily meet the law because we were finding variability in quality, and the plans werent always tailored to every school in a district as they need to be now, Hupp said.

Districts will report to the state education department whether their emergency response plans meet the new state requirements during the departments annual spring collection from districts of myriad data.

Local work

Emergency plans were already in place at schools across the Cedar Valley when the governor signed the bill mandating them throughout the state.

Dan Conrad, Cedar Falls Community Schools director of secondary education, facilitates the districts safety committee. He said they had to do very little to update the plan. Weve got a pretty wide-ranging committee that helped initially develop the plan a number of years ago and kept it current.

Everything that was required was in our plan, said Conrad, except for a procedure allowing students to anonymously report a threat. Were looking right now at potential vendors that would allow for that to happen. The threat would be reported through a phone app sent to an outside agency that contacts the school and law enforcement.

Currently, the state requires four drills each for fires and tornadoes plus two bus evacuation drills. But Dan Huff, Waterloo Community Schools safety officer, said district policy already calls for a number of others.

Once a year, each district school holds drills for students concerning evacuation to an alternative site and dangerous intruder/active shooter. The evacuations could relate to a number of situations like a suspected gas leak or other building safety concerns as well as a fire, for example. Prior to the active shooter drill, said Huff, each level  elementary, middle and high school  has age-appropriate lesson plans for three-four days and then do the drill.

Staff members at the elementary schools do a missing child drill each year, where they go through the steps that would be required in that situation. Two table top exercises on various situations are also required for district staff annually. Its preparation, but its not a full drill, said Huff.

Each district school building has a designated safety chairperson, responsible for coordinating drills. The people in those positions across Waterloo Schools meet monthly. Drill completion dates are entered into a Google document and safety chairs can expect follow-up from Huff if any are missed.

Weve got people who work pretty hard at it, he noted. Its just a priority here at Waterloo Schools to stay on top of our safety drills.

Superintendent Ed Klamfoth has headed up the effort to create safety plans in the Waverly-Shell Rock Community Schools, with review done by the principals.

Weve got a draft plan pretty much for every building now, he noted. I would say its an update and more comprehensive than we had before. There isnt a lot of change.

He has sat in on a number of webinars done by the Iowa Department of Education about creating the plans and attended other meetings face-to-face. You take a look at whats mandated and try to figure out how it fits into your plan, said Klamfoth.

The reality is you need to have it, he added, of the emergency plan. You hope you never have to use it.

All of the districts are working with emergency management and law enforcement personnel in completing their plans.

The state requirements are to make the creation of the plans a more collaborative effort with local emergency management and services, said Sarah Smith, advancement director for Cedar Valley Catholic Schools in Waterloo. The school system has used a state template for developing this latest version of its emergency plan.

After each monthly webinar, a section of the plan is completed, said Smith. Then the team comes together to review the progress made that month on the plan. Roughly four to six hours each month has been devoted to this learning and planning process.

Waterloo Community Schools has seven police officers, referred to as school resource officers, in its three high schools and four middle schools. The officers assignments also include the districts 11 elementary buildings. In addition, the Waterloo Police Department has an officer assigned to the citys five Catholic schools.

One officer serves all of Cedar Falls Schools 10 buildings. Hes housed out of the high school, but is available to all our buildings, said Conrad. No police officers or security guards are stationed at Waverly-Shell Rocks six schools.

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WATERLOO  Mayor Quentin Hart will be running to keep his job in the fall.

Hart announced his plans to run in the Nov. 5 municipal election for a third-straight term as the citys top elected official.

The 48-year-old former Hawkeye Community College administrator was first elected on a platform that included economic development, neighborhood empowerment, safer streets, a positive city image and creating a collective vision for the future.

Weve seen the power of partnership and collaboration at work in our skyrocketing small business development, improving housing stock and transforming neighborhoods, Hart said in a news release.

Weve seen business growth surge in nearly every part of our community; weve experienced a steady downward trend in overall crime; and our city departments are advancing the goals of our first strategic plan and following a clear road map to the future, he added.

Hart said he believes the city has gained positive momentum under his leadership.

People from around the state and across the country are taking notice of our progress, he said. I am asked wherever I go, How are you doing it?

I tell them it is through working together as one city: public, private, individuals and organizations coming together for the common good. That is how we are creating change and becoming One Waterloo.

Hart served eight years on the City Council before becoming Waterloos first African-American mayor, defeating former Mayor Tim Hurley in a 2015 run-off election. He won a second two-year term while running unopposed in 2017.

Looking forward, Hart said the city is facing critical decisions on its infrastructure, technology needs, work force demands and has capital projects to complete.

With my experience, proven leadership and ability to build relationships we are better equipped get things done, he said.

No other candidates to date have announced their intentions to run for the Waterloo mayors position this year.

Hart and his wife, Cassandra, have three children, Quentin Jr., Quenden and Halayah.

Information on the Hart for Mayor re-election campaign can be found at www.HartforMayor.com or by emailing qhartformayor@gmail.com.

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" I thought, when I got back people would kind of be over it -- but they are still so behind me and just so supportive, and it really doesn't go unnoticed. It's awesome. I'm so proud to be from Iowa."
We're always interested in hearing about news in our community. Let us know what's going on!

Just The Facts

Fact box:

Iowa Colony has the largest municipality increase, with an estimated 46.42 percent bump this year.

The Town of Quintana was the only municipality to show an estimated decrease, dropping 8.23 percent.

Most municipalities increased by about 10 percent.
Since April was tax payment month, it seems only fitting that we examine the fate of the Internal Revenue Service, which for years has been under attack by the corporate captives in the Republican Party. Alas, what had been the fierce guardian of the treasury has evolved into a toothless tiger, a sick one at that. On April 18, the Des Moines Register published an editorial from which I quote the main message:

The biggest winners of the GOP tax laws are corporations. Reports show 60 companies reported their 2018 taxes amounted to zero or less than zero. Added up they paid on $79 billion in pretax income and got all of it back as rebates and more.

The real state of our ability to finance the needs of our country came in a blazing article in Nation magazine by Bryce Covert and Mike Konegzat. Here is the thrust of their expose:

The IRS is cut so severely it no longer can conduct audits on super rich and corporations. Since 2010 Congress slashed their budget $2 billion resulting in drastic drops to audits. Audits for the wealthiest have fallen from 8 percent in 2011 to 2.5 percent in 2017.

I am gleaning the actual state of things from the Nation article, and if there are any thinking persons out there they will realize our country is in dire danger from within. If the agency had pursued tax law enforcement as aggressively in 2017 as it did before 2010 it would have collected $18 billion more in 2017 than it actually did collect. Over the seven-year period our treasury missed out on $95 billion! All from those who need the money the least. Audits from millionaires recouped only $1.8 billion in 2017 compared with $5.1 billion in 2010.

Who is being audited? Believe it or not, it is people being aided by the Affordable Care Act. Translation: Poor people who have the least wherewithal to cheat and wouldnt even know how. The super rich and corporations playing their complicated tax avoidance games can gamble on never being audited and escape scot-free. Their attitude is, We paid our taxes all year, we deserve to get it back the following year. For years I have overpaid my taxes from earnings, and yes, I get rebates, but the IRS still gets its share. When can we get over this attitude that our government is the enemy? That attitude arrived on our shores along with immigrants from oppressive regimes that simply descended on them and took what they wanted, whether it was needed or not.

Reducing or eliminating the IRS, as proposed by 29 Republican senators, is simply cutting off our noses to spite our faces. It would be catastrophic. With the IRS back in its original mode of guarding our nations badly needed income, every dollar spent on its enforcement and modernization saves $200 for the government. However, if the IRS cannot do its job, money is left on the table or in the pockets of people and corporations who need it least. Thats why the IRS needs its audit capability returned to what it was before 2010 when corporate-backed congressional lackeys obeyed their masters, and thus have put our nation in danger of becoming a possession of overseas predators in a few years. You think Im being facetious? Look at page 7 of the April 26 Nation magazine.

Ashland, Ky.: The Russian aluminum company Rusal announced plans this week to invest $200 million in a Kentucky plant. That is in Mitch McConnells backyard, folks!

Stanley Smith is a former Cedar Falls City Council member.

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Sanford Bishop and Sonny Perdue go way back.

So far back that Bishop, now a 14-term, Democratic congressman from south Georgia, remembers when Perdue, now the secretary of agriculture under President Donald J. Trump, was a Democrat.

Their friendship was tested April 9 when Perdue appeared before the House Appropriations Agriculture Subcommittee to defend the presidents 2020 budget request for the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Bishop, as chairman of the subcommittee, oversees every taxpayer nickel USDA receives.

During his question time, Bishop roasted the secretarys plan to move two USDA agencies, the Economic Research Service and the National Institute for Food and Agriculture, out of Washington, D.C. No one, he said, favors the move except Perdue.

Not only that, Bishop went on, Perdue was moving ahead with his plan despite the subcommittee not receiving a cost-benefit analysis on it that the secretary had promised. In fact, he continued, Perdues rush to shuffle ERS and NIFA out of town just seems to be a solution in search of a problem.

When asked to comment on those facts  especially that no one with any working knowledge of his plan endorsed it  Perdue went full farm folksy: Mr. Chairman, he said, Im just amazed that all those people you mentioned could all be wrong. He then grinned weakly.

Bishop is just the latest public official to question Perdue on his ERS/NIFA plan. All  like Perdue himself  have seen no evidence to support it because, in fact, there is no evidence to support it. Moreover, Perdue cant explain it in any terms other than nonsense like getting ERS closer to its customers.

On May 7, however, Politico, a Washington-based news service, reported the plan was the Trump administration retaliating against the ERS for publishing reports that shed negative light on White House policies.

Specifically, ERS has run afoul of  Perdue  with its finding on how farmers have been financially harmed by President Donald Trumps trade feuds, the Republican tax code rewrite and other sensitive issues. Politico then quoted a current ERS employee who said Perdues push to send the ERS and NIFA packing was retaliation to harm the agency and send a message (from)  the administration.

Additionally, the piece continued, the retaliation was spurring an exodus of talent from ERS that included six (economists) quitting the department on a single day in late April.

None of this matters to Perdue. On May 3  despite Bishops April 9 warning the ag appropriation subcommittee needed more information before the secretary proceeded  USDA announced it had three finalists for the potential new locations of the ERS and NIFA.

If Perdue heeds the White Houses worst instincts and continues to retaliate against bearers of bad ag news, the secretary wont have much time left to address the torrent of bad news headed his way. For example:

Trade wars that the White House continues to ratchet up as commodity prices continue to ratchet down.

U.S. ag export markets being overtaken by competitors even as White House trade talks stumble toward breakdown.

Net farm income, despite rising 10 percent in 2019, remains 40 percent below its 2013 high.

Perdues inability to help broker a compromise between Congress and the White House on the long overdue disaster relief package.

Saving any legislative goodwill to help secure a likely, even bigger ag bailout this fall.

Each one of those reasons is reason enough for the secretary to simply let go of a departmental reshuffle he cant explain and, legally, cant do without congressional consent.

Emerging evidence, however, points to why hes wasting our time and his credibility in doing it: The White House doesnt like ERS telling the truth about the effects of Trumps trade and tax policies.

Looking at todays farm prices and the bleak future they promise, farmers and ranchers  just like Perdue and the White House  know ERS got it right.

As such, Perdue needs to step away from all the White House claptrap and stand up for rural America. If he cant, he, like dozens of other Trump appointees, needs to step aside.

The Farm and Food File is published weekly through the U.S. and Canada. Source material and contact information are posted at www.farmandfoodfile.com.

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Bond vote

BROOKS MARTIN

President, Martin Brothers Distributing Co.

CEDAR FALLS  As a business owner in Cedar Falls, I have firsthand knowledge of how important our school system is for potential employees who are considering a move to our area. It is often the No. 1 item that potential recruits look at when deciding whether or not to relocate to Cedar Falls.

Our city has done a wonderful job on the economic development front, and our educators have done a fantastic job of teaching our children in a facility that is not up to modern standards. However, it is time for us to build a state-of-the-art high school that reflects the premium we place on education and reflects the pride we all take in our fine city. Vote yes on June 25.

Water quality

MARGARET WHITING

WATERLOO  We have a water pollution crisis in Iowa. More than 750 water bodies of water are impaired.

These rivers, streams and lakes do not meet the water quality standards to support their designated uses. For example, it is not safe to drink the water, it is not safe to eat fish taken from the water and it is not safe to swim in the water.

Iowa has too many factory farms (CAFOs), and their numbers continue to grow each year while our water quality gets worse. The manure spills increase levels of bacteria and nitrates in our water. Iowa is the second-largest contributor of nitrates to the dead zone in the Gulf of Mexico. Sixty cities in Iowa battle high nitrate levels in their drinking water and they will have to invest millions for nitrate removal equipment. More private wells in Black Hawk County test positive for elevated nitrate and bacteria.

Ask the Black Hawk County Board of Supervisors to join 23 other counties in signing a resolution for a moratorium on new CAFO construction in Iowa until Iowa waters are safe again. It is on their agenda for the meeting at 9 a.m. Tuesday.

Grain-based dairy

WILLIAM CARRUTHERS

WATERLOO  Mothers Day celebrates the cherished bond between mother and child. But mother cows, the very icons of motherhood, never get to see their own babies.

Newborn calves are torn from their mothers at birth and turned into veal cutlets, so we can drink the milk that was meant for them. The grief-stricken mother cows bellow for days, calling in vain for their return.

Dairy cows spend their lives chained on concrete floors, with no access to the outdoors. Each year, they are impregnated artificially, to maintain production, and milked by machines twice a day. When production drops, around four years of age, they are ground into hamburgers.

Dairy products are laden with cholesterol, saturated fats, hormones, pathogens, and antibiotics, leading to obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. Most African and Asian Americans lack the enzyme for digesting dairy products.

But help is on the way. Food manufacturers throughout the world are developing excellent nut and grain-based dairy products. U.S. sales alone are expected to exceed $2 billion.

This Mothers Day, lets honor motherhood and compassion. Lets replace the products of cow misery with delicious, healthful, cruelty-free plant-based milk, cheese, and ice cream products offered by our supermarkets.

Banned from site

CRAIG COHEA

CEDAR FALLS  NextDoor is a neighborhood website for the exchange of information, a lost cat, yard sale or to conduct a poll, etc.In Cedar Falls, Rob Green is the lead. He decides the content of the site. Last month I conducted a poll, Should a man be allowed to use a womans restroom? After two days the poll results were 65% against this issue. On the third day I tried to log in; my NextDoor account had been terminated. There was no notice or explanation. Only Green has the power to do that. Someone informed me the termination was due to how I had presented the poll and some of my comments. In other words, it wasnt politically correct. Political correctness is a ploy to control the narrative to support a particular agenda. It has no role in open discussions. Green bypassed PC and went directly to censorship. Censorship nullifies free speech and the First Amendment. Its a form of tyranny. The argument can be made this was Greens prerogative. But where was the explanation of his action?

Abortion

DAVE SMITH

WATERLOO  Have you noticed some recent headlines, such as Trump defends life, Democrats push abortion-on-demand and Democrats openly campaign for late-term abortion and infanticide even though 81% of Americans oppose third-trimester abortions?

Virginia Democratic Gov. Ralph Northam came under fire for photos in his medical school yearbook. He posed as a person in blackface in a Ku Klux Klan hood. As reprehensible as those racist images are, Mr. Northam faced not a peep of criticism from the media or liberals for his support for infanticide.

President Trump swiftly condemned Northams gruesome advocacy for late-term abortion and infanticide. Trump tweeted, Democrats are becoming the Party of late-term abortion, high taxes, Open Borders and Crime!

I know some Trump supporters wish he would not tweet so much, but this tweet defending life was welcomed indeed.

Giveaways

BERYL RICHARDS

NASHUA  I take it as an article of faith that I have a great deal more respect for those things I earn than those things that are given to me. I will bet you require your children to earn their allowance in some way or other for the same reason. Why then are we listening to 20 or so politicians right now who insist that we give almost everything to the next generation?

Dont we want them to have some respect and appreciation for the things they have? Isnt it better to feel a sense of pride for our accomplishment and some idea of what it cost us? Why then would you not want your children to have that same feeling for what they had done and the work they had to put into the tasks to become successful?

There are better ways to help and still allow those who will succeed do so without more huge expensive federal programs.

Vietnam losses

ORRIN E. MILLER

WATERLOO  I have purchased a book that gives information on aircraft lost during Vietnam from 1961-1973. All I need is the exact date the aircraft went down or was lost and a name (in case more than one aircraft was lost on the same day).

This information lists officers and enlisted crewmen aboard the aircraft. I can tell the type of aircraft used, the full name and rank for the person or persons aboard the aircraft, the mission of the aircraft or what the planes job was at the time, and where the aircraft went down or about where it went down.

If the friend or relative inquiring provides a photograph of the missing person, I will include the photograph along with what is written in the book. All free. Contact me at 233-0908.

Mental health

RACHEL L. DRAY

CEDAR FALLS  Finally someone recognizes the need for donations toward mental illness. I am just so sorry it took the death of Mollie Tibbitts. I commend her mother asking others to contribute $21 in her honor for her 21st birthday.

I have been advocating for 20 years without luck of receiving any consideration for this cause. Privatizing Medicaid was and is a big mistake. It will be all of us who will suffer. I hope we do not wait for more similar events before we wake up.

Yes, most persons with a mental illness are not dangerous, but a few are (which in the last 10 years have been far too many) and in horrific ways harming many at one time.

These are my people! To neglect those with a diagnosis is discriminating. I say one life lost is too many. I say shame on you!

I thank the governor for signing a bill for helping children. But do not give up on adults. These are the ones who self-medicate with illegal drugs which in turn creates more crime. Its faster than the legal way. However, jail isnt cheap and it is through our taxes.

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Aatish Taseer in Time:

Populists come in two stripes: those who are of the people they represent (Erdogan in Turkey, Bolsonaro in Brazil), and those who are merely exploiting the passions of those they are not actually part of (the champagne neo-fascists: the Brexiteers, Donald Trump, Imran Khan in Pakistan). Narendra Modi belongs very firmly to the first camp. He is the son of a tea seller, and his election was nothing short of a class revolt at the ballot box. It exposed what American historian Anne Applebaum has described as unresolvable divisions between people who had previously not known that they disagreed with one another. There had, of course, been political differences before, but what Modis election revealed was a cultural chasm. It was no longer about left, or right, but something more fundamental.

The nations most basic norms, such as the character of the Indian state, its founding fathers, the place of minorities and its institutions, from universities to corporate houses to the media, were shown to be severely distrusted. The cherished achievements of independent Indiasecularism, liberalism, a free presscame to be seen in the eyes of many as part of a grand conspiracy in which a deracinated Hindu elite, in cahoots with minorities from the monotheistic faiths, such as Christianity and Islam, maintained its dominion over Indias Hindu majority.

Modis victory was an expression of that distrust. He attacked once unassailable founding fathers, such as Nehru, then sacred state ideologies, such as Nehruvian secularism and socialism; he spoke of a Congress-free India; he demonstrated no desire to foster brotherly feeling between Hindus and Muslims. Most of all, his ascension showed that beneath the surface of what the elite had believed was a liberal syncretic culture, India was indeed a cauldron of religious nationalism, anti-Muslim sentiment and deep-seated caste bigotry.

More here.
Kwame Anthony Appiah in the New York Review of Books:

How enlightened was the Enlightenment? Not a few critics have seen it as profoundly benighted. For some, it was a seedbed for modern racism and imperialism; the light in the Enlightenment, one recent scholar has suggested, essentially meant white. Voltaire emphatically believed in the inherent inferiority of les Negres, who belonged to a separate species, or at least breed, from Europeansas different from Europeans, he said, as spaniels from greyhounds. Kant remarked, of something a Negro carpenter opined, that the fact that he was black from head to toe was proof that what he said was stupid. And David Hume wrote, in a notorious footnote, that he was apt to suspect that nonwhites were naturally inferior to the whites, devoid of arts and science and ingenious manufactures.

The more general critiques take up larger intellectual currents in the eighteenth century. The eras systematic forays into physical anthropology and human classification laid the foundation for the noxious race science that emerged in the nineteenth century. So did the rise of materialism: it became harder to argue that our varying physical carapaces housed equivalent souls implanted by God. A heedless sense of universalism, in turn, might encourage the thought that the more advanced civilizations were merely lifting up those more backward when they conquered and colonized them.

More here.
The best athletes, teams, coaches of 2021: South Dakota Sportswriters awards

The South Dakota Sportswriters Association honored the best teams, players and coaches in college, high school and independent sports.
The scope of Jim Kristofics new book is really of epic proportions, an intriguing, accessible history of the Ganado Mission on the Navajo reservation in northeast Arizona.

Which means the title  Medicine Women: The Story of the First Native American Nursing School  is so narrow as to be misleading.

Yes, a portion of the book is about the flowering of the students in the missions nursing school, the continuing struggles of the school to find the money to stay open, and the devotion to the school of the instructional and administrative leadership, particularly Dr. Clarence Salsbury.

The nursing schools first graduating class of two young Navajo women was in 1933. Its final class of nine students graduated in 1951. Over those years, 148 received diplomas from the nursing school. Students came from many Native Americans tribes, including indigenous peoples of Alaska. It also welcomed non-Indians.

The nursing school, Sage Memorial Hospital and related facilities were on the Ganado Mission campus. The mission was under the auspices of the Presbyterian Board of National Missions.

Kristofic discovers many human stories from archives and oral histories he tapped  plus his own interviews  about the Ganado Mission. The stories relate the origins of the mission, the Navajos initial strong reluctance to be treated in a white mans hospital, which they branded a death house, and their eventual acceptance of the facilities. That attitude change led to them overcoming their fear of the American Way.

In 1927, the year Salsbury arrived, he looked in on isolated Navajo patients by driving out with his Navajo interpreter and his pack of medicine. When the locals saw this brawny Anglo man in a noisy car, they mostly kept their distance. His first breakthrough came when they trusted him enough to let him doctor their horses, Kristofic writes.

The book explains how Salsbury, a physician, missionary and insistent raiser of funds, respected the Navajos perspective. He sympathized with their reluctance, but held fast to the belief that the hospital and school could be a bridge between traditional Navajo beliefs, such as medicine sings, and Western medicine.

The Ganado Mission owes its existence in part to the goodwill of Juan (John) Lorenzo Hubbell, the New Mexico-born owner of the Hubbell Trading Post, now a National Historic Site.

At the turn of the century, missionary William Riley Johnston and several clergymen rode out from Flagstaff, Ariz., to scout a location for a Presbyterian mission. They met with Hubbell.

Kristofic writes, Johnston understood how valuable a trusted trader like Hubbell would be in opening up the territory to the Presbyterians  When a strange Anglo man wanted to come into the Navajo country, the way was straight and narrow. And it often ran through a trading post.

One could say Kristofics research and writing of the book was of epic proportions. The 37-year-old Anglo worked on the book for 12 years. He said he was inspired by Hampton Sides Blood and Thunder, An Epic of the West.

Kristofic has had a long personal relationship with Ganado. Ariz. He was about 6 when he moved there with his mom, brother and pets from Pittsburgh, Pa. She took a job as a nurse at Sage Memorial Hospital.

Kristofic lives in Taos, where he teaches high school English.

He wrote three previous books: Black Sheep, White Crow and Other Windmill Tales: Stories from Navajo Country, winner of the 2018 Southwest Book Award from the Border Regional Library Association; The Hero Twins: A Navajo-English Story of the Monster Slayers, winner of the 2016 Skipping Stones Honor Award for Multicultural and International Books; and Navajos Wear Nikes: A Reservation Life, a 2012 Spur Award finalist.
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When it comes to artwork, especially in New Mexico, it is the lively paintings inspired by the states incredible beauty, or the stunning pottery crafted for centuries by Native Americans or the sculptures that capture the surrounding world that spring immediately to mind.

Yet fiber as an art medium has had a long and energetic history of its own in New Mexico.

The upcoming New Mexico Fiber Crawl (nmfibercrawl.org) that starts Friday and runs through May 19 is a celebration of all things fiber, said Denielle Rose, spokeswoman for the events organizer, Espanola Valley Fiber Arts Center.

New Mexico has a really vibrant fiber arts history, she said. Weaving, knitting, designing and spinning. There are so many different traditions in the medium. The traditions are very dynamic and very broad. Thats what makes it very special. The event is more like a step into New Mexicos fiber arts tradition and culture.

The event is spread across the state at 42 different sites, with more than 100 local and national artists represented among the venues, she said. Albuquerque, Espanola, Los Alamos, Santa Fe, Las Vegas, Mora, Taos and Tierra Amarilla are all involved in some way and many of the artists will be on hand to discuss the inspiration behind their work.

This is the third annual fiber crawl in New Mexico and its largest yet, Rose said.

Its one of the biggest in the country, she said. Its quite large.

Among the numerous Albuquerque sites, the Open Space Visitors Center will be showing the juried Earths Thread exhibit.

Featuring artists strictly from New Mexico, the display covers a range of fiber art, said Kent Swanson, Open Space Visitors Center manager.

We have some of the more traditional weavings and tapestries, he said. And French-style tapestry, mixed-media artists with recycled materials, rug hooking and Japanese traditional forms of art.

Much of the exhibit will feature large-scale pieces, as well as work from local student artists, Swanson said.

Although the entire exhibit will be up into July, a special exhibit on loan from the Espanola Valley Fiber Arts Center for the weekend will discuss the history and importance of the Navajo churro sheep, as well as natural dyes used in traditional textile and weaving.

South Valley artist and instructor Elizabeth Buckley will be among those whose work will be on display at the visitors center, as well as at the galleryFRITZ in Santa Fe.

I think it really helps to bring more educational and public awareness of fiber as alternative medium to work in, said Buckley, who will display a hand-woven tapestry at the visitors center using various weights of yarn. This is a way to celebrate all of the different facets of this medium.

Fiber is so versatile and has been such an important, yet underrated, part of the states culture for some time.

Fiber has been present in this area for a long time, she said. Textiles have been a part of the traditions here for a very long time, celebrating not only indigenous historical work, but what you can do on a contemporary basis now. Pushing the boundaries, that sort of thing.

The Yarn Store at Nob Hill will be using the fiber crawl as a means of showing the process in what owner Teresa McDowell calls sheep to shawl.

Several small, local farmers will be bringing some of their animals, as well as raw fleece.

So people can understand what this product is, she said. Theyre very knowledgeable in talking to people and showing how it goes from animal fleece to product.

The process is laid out in a step-by-step way so people can get a real feel for how it works, McDowell said.

Fiber products starts with the animals, tending to the wool, carding the wool, then spinning the wool into usable fiber, she said. This process has been around for 20,000 years. Its one of the oldest processes for clothing for physical needs for covering and protecting the body.

McDowell said her goal is to show the importance of the small, local farmers to New Mexicos overall well-being.

Its for people to become more knowledgeable about the importance of supporting local farms and how can we as a people really support our state and farmers, whether for food or fiber, she said. When people get the opportunity to talk to farmers  the bottom line of production whether vegetables or fiber  they get a much better understanding of the community and our state at large.
For the last 15 years of working in the non-profit housing sector Ive heard just about every excuse why we cant do the right thing for affordable housing. And were doing it again with the current debate about reforming our casita regulations.

Neighborhood organizations are spreading misinformation. They claim that we need more time for input, to find consensus, while shunning opportunities to meet with the affordable housing and community groups that put forward these common sense recommendations. This is nothing new, but the time where we listen to this misinformed fearmongering to the detriment of the thousands of renter families needs to end.

This Accessory Dwelling Unit proposal is an incremental step. The changes to the land use code will make it easier and less costly for homeowners to build casitas and allow two units on a property to be rented long-term. It is just one of the solutions we need to begin to close the rental housing supply shortage that now exceeds 5,000 units.

These changes are also a critical first step to be able to launch innovative programs that can make new casitas rent-controlled and truly affordable.

In other cities, there are proven examples of similar initiatives that show how we can use casitas to make real community impacts. A program in Los Angeles provides financing for homes set aside for Section 8 voucher holders, and one in Multnomah County, Oregon, will build a guesthouse for free if you make it available for homeless families for five years, after which you own it outright. But if we dont make them easier and less costly to build, we cant do any of that.

During the past 15 years, Ive always worked to represent the needs of our most economically vulnerable neighbors. The people who cant show up at lengthy public hearings because they work at night, have second jobs, or cant afford child care. The people who dont have councilors cell phone numbers or host house parties during election season. People like this also dont complain to their city councilors or write op-eds when their rent shoots up $200 at the end of their lease. They just leave town.

I have the amazing privilege of doing affordable housing work all over the country, and the truth is, what we do here is not normal, and it is not sustainable.

As we watch the federal governments commitment to a social safety net crumble; as we chant We Stand with Immigrants; as we march, saying we want to systematically deconstruct racist colonial patriarchal systems; as we say we want to fight climate change; we have to also act locally, and at the scale of the problem. We need to be the example that we want our country to be.

If you want to help immigrants, support local affordable housing funding that isnt bound by federal exclusions for the undocumented. If you want to deconstruct hundreds of years of institutional racism and patriarchy, make sure that your most economically vulnerable neighbors are housed. If you want to fight climate change, stop pushing critical new housing to the greenfield sprawl at the edge of town.

And to those who quietly whisper accusations of capitalist conspiracy and malintent behind this advocacy work, I ask them why is it so hard to believe that we sincerely have the best interest of the community at heart?

The truth is that Im more of a socialist. Sadly, when I propose truly radical housing ideas  the solutions at the scale of the problem  thats when I get the real political pushback. (Seriously, lets raise property taxes, tax second homes and short-term rentals to fund affordable housing. Heck, lets ban all non-owner occupied short-term rentals in town!)

The truth is that we are at a crossroads as a community and cannot abide our legacy of indifference any longer. The statistics are dire. Nearly three-quarters of renter households that earn below $50,000 a year are paying unaffordable rents, and the census says we lost nearly 300 families in that income bracket in one year between 2016-2017. Per capita GRT has been flat for 17 years. When we lose working families, we lose so much more, including the funds to operate our city.

Its time to do the right thing for the people who are fighting for their most basic right: the right to decent housing. We owe it to them. Lets regulate the hypothetical problems if they actually happen, not hobble peoples opportunity for new housing for made up fears stoked by the well-housed elites.

Daniel Werwath is chief operating officer of New Mexico Inter-Faith Housing.
A few weeks ago, on an unseasonably warm day in Washington, D.C., I was looking across the House Select Committee on the Climate Crisis committee room at young activists who had traveled to Washington to make an urgent plea to Congress: Act boldly to solve the climate crisis.

Most of these young women and men are 18, 19 or 20 years old and have spent their entire lives seeing how global warming and climate change are drastically reshaping the world around them.

It drew a distinct parallel to where the world stood when I was their age in 1990. When I was 18, the polar ice caps were nearly 40 percent larger than today. Seas were roughly 3 inches lower. The average daily temperature was close to a degree lower.

When it comes to climate, those changes are considered extreme and dangerous. And unless we take equally as extreme and drastic actions, the consequences will be dire.

Its that belief, and my belief in science, that spurred me to take two bold actions on climate. First, last month I signed onto the Green New Deal  a comprehensive set of goals to combat the climate crisis. Last week, I followed up with bold legislation that will put the U.S. power sector on the path toward net-zero emissions by the 2050s, the decade the U.N. Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change and the U.S. National Climate Assessment team have pinpointed as critical for ensuring a safe and sustainable world.

The Clean Energy Standard legislation, which I introduced alongside U.S. Sen. Tina Smith, D-Minn., is an ambitious plan that will leverage our nations strengths to achieve a clean energy future and grow our economy. New Mexico is already leading the way with the Energy Transition Act, and its time we bring that approach to the federal level.

Our plan will reduce greenhouse gas emissions to tackle the climate crisis by offering more renewable energy to consumers and incentivizing companies to bring innovative, emission-free technologies to market. This process will get us to net-zero emissions without killing jobs or raising costs.

The impact would be dramatic. The science-driven environmental think tank, Resources for Our Future, found the Clean Energy Standard Act could increase renewable energy generation to 56 percent in just 15 years and prevent 30,000 premature deaths from air pollution.

The science is clear, Resources for Our Future found. The legislation would reduce fossil fuel sources of energy to just 26 percent in the next two decades and reduce power sector greenhouse gas emissions by 61 percent.

This legislation is ambitious, and it is possible. Im ready to do the work to get this done. I will continue listening to New Mexicans about climate change and how we can move forward together. Already, our legislation is proudly supported by labor and environmental groups, and we are building momentum across the country.

New Mexicans understand the urgent need for action on climate change. We have seen severe droughts and wildfires that threaten our way of life and put lives in danger. We have also seen how reckless fossil fuel companies have been with contaminating the water we drink and air we breathe. Things have got to change  our children and families deserve better.

Now is the time when we can lead or we can follow, and Im choosing to lead on climate change.
I was just eight years old when I learned about the harsh reality of immigration in the United States.

My grandfather passed away in March of 2009. For some time prior to that, he had been living in Madera, the Mexican city in Chihuahua where my mom and her sisters grew up.

That night, my whole life changed.

My mother and I set out on a long journey that included crossing a border I had no idea even existed. As an eight-year-old, I didnt fully understand what that meant. It wasnt until a few days later that my mom told me she could not return to Albuquerque.

Albuquerque was my home, my family lived there, and so did my friends.

How do you tell an eight-year-old girl who spent every day of her life playing with her cousins, singing with her aunts, even cooking with her grandmother, that she may never get to see them again?

How do you tell an eight-year-old that if she wants to return to her home, she must leave her mother behind? Or that the government of the country she was born in did not want people like her mom?

My mother had committed an immigration offense, and she would not be able to ask the government for forgiveness until her 10-year sentence was carried out. The process of getting a visa was long and expensive.

Year after year, my mom tried again.

Until one day, we had to make the hard choice of leaving her behind and returning to Albuquerque. It was a tough choice, but we knew the opportunities I would have in the U.S. were greater than those offered in Mexico, a country overrun with corruption leading to forced poverty.

It has now been 7 years since I came back to the United States and left my mom behind.

Its hard having to grow up without my mother by my side, especially during such a crucial time in my life. It hurts not being able to consult my mom as I make huge decisions like deciding where I will pursue my higher education. It hurts to see my girlfriends shopping for their prom dresses with their moms while I shop on my own.

Sadly, I am not the only child whose life has been completely changed due to immigration laws.

Approximately 18 million children lived with at least one immigrant parent in 2016, according to the Immigration Policy Institute. They accounted for 26 percent of the 70 million children in the U.S. For many of these children, a daily fear is that when they return home from school, their family may not be there.

Since late 2016, the American Immigration Council says doctors have reported they have seen more children exhibiting stress- and anxiety-related behavioral changes, including symptoms of toxic stress, due to fear that a family member will be deported.

With the number of deportations rising each day, the anxiety and fear also rise within these kids.

Family separation is not only occurring at the border, but it is also occurring in our cities and our communities. Even worse, continual funding is being given to Trump and his  administration to fund more detention centers, increase the number of federal immigration agents and continue separating families.

Harsher immigration policies will not only affect people who are here without documentation, but also their children. Many adults come to the U.S. in hopes of giving their children a better life. We need to focus on making sure they succeed.

Every day, we must join the fight to end family separations, whether they are occurring at the border or in our own homes.

We need you in this fight with us, because families belong together.
Recently, columnist and poet V.B. Price recognized UNMs Grand Challenges Initiative, launched by President Garnett Stokes last November, as a move of genius. Price recognized two of the problems this effort addresses  fragmented academic disciplines that do not communicate with each other and poor relationships between the university and its broader community. The Grand Challenges will indeed address these issues, but it will also do much more for UNM and the people of New Mexico.

Through a rigorous process that engaged over 160 faculty, staff and community members, three interdisciplinary grand challenges were selected: Sustainable Water Resources, Successful Aging and Substance Use Disorders. Each challenge was proposed and justified by teams of UNM faculty representing departments from across the university and external partners. Teams are now working to develop their plans: targeting research opportunities, engaging more partners from both within and beyond the university, and developing explicit connections to undergraduate and graduate academic programs. This initiative represents a large investment of time, energy and resources. Why is UNM doing this now?

In addition to building more interdisciplinary collaborations, addressing issues of importance to New Mexico, and fostering stronger partnerships with the community, the Grand Challenges serve as a significant stimulus to generate new funding to support UNMs research mission. Decreases in state funding in the 10 years since the Great Recession have negatively impacted UNMs academic mission. New funding  from both within and outside the university  for issues important to the people of New Mexico and beyond invigorates the intellectual and social life of the university. Creating a climate in which students and faculty work productively with community partners to address complex problems from multiple perspectives and arrive at tangible outcomes will raise the academic and research profile of the university. In turn, this will attract more students and support the hiring and retention of faculty committed to working in an environment of collaboration for the social good.

UNM has always had outstanding faculty who conduct ground-breaking research and is arguably the premier minority-majority research university in the nation. This initiative will harness and focus that excellence in ways that foster greater interdisciplinarity and community engagement. It also makes clear that research and education are inseparable at a modern research university; their explicit connection will help to shape the next generation of diverse leaders that will lead New Mexico and the nation.

Providing a stimulus for the universitys research mission is also essential for supporting the economic development of New Mexico. Research generates new knowledge and understanding that leads to innovation and new technologies to enable new business and economic activity. Through a robust research enterprise, we will educate the next generation of highly-skilled, scientifically literate workers for our national labs, industry and innovative start-ups. While the current boom in oil and gas production provides a time of relative financial comfort for the state, new areas of economic development are necessary to provide a more stable financial foundation for the state and the public education institutions that rely on state funding. Each of UNMs Grand Challenges has clear opportunities for economic development and job creation. Taking a coordinated, broad approach to these areas enables participation by workers in many fields and opens new possibilities for future workers in all corners of the state.

The UNM Grand Challenges Initiative is a proactive and ambitious approach to finding solutions to complex problems faced by New Mexicans while also strengthening the states flagship university. By working together  across disciplines, campuses and communities  we can position New Mexico as a national and global leader in research and education.

Take up a Grand Challenge

Visit grandchallenges.unm.edu and join the Grand Challenges listserv to learn about upcoming events and how you can be involved.
We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, the Founding Fathers stated in the Declaration of Independence in 1776. Of course, they didnt really mean all men, as they excluded slaves and indigenous Native Americans. And they certainly didnt include women. The U.S. Constitution that followed a dozen years later maintained the inequality. Over the intervening 240 years, this governing document, the oldest written constitution in the world still in use, has been amended many times  but never to extend the guarantee of equality to women.

The Equal Rights Amendment, or ERA, first introduced in 1923, seeks to correct that, and may now, nearly a century later, be close to passage. As with all significant progressive advances achieved over the history of this country, grass-roots organizing has brought the ERA this far. Whether it gets passed and included as the 28th Amendment depends on the strength of the intersectional movements demanding equality for women.

Why didnt women achieve full constitutional equality in 1787 or 1982? Because the country wasnt ready? actor Patricia Arquette asked last week at a congressional House Judiciary Subcommittee hearing on the ERA. It was the first such hearing in almost four decades. Well, I hope youre ready now! Because women have been waiting 240 years for equality in this country, and it has failed them. Legislators have blocked the passage of the Equal Rights Amendment for decades. But were done waiting.

California Democratic Congresswoman Jackie Speier is leading the renewed push to pass the ERA. She is the sponsor of House Joint Resolution 38, which legislatively strips away an arbitrary deadline for ratification of the ERA, established in 1972, requiring ratification within 10 years. After the deadline passed in 1982, and under assault by the Reagan administration, efforts to approve the ERA faded.

We need the ERA so that we can join the rest of the industrialized countries in the world, Speier said at the hearing, so that we can achieve our full economic and social potential. We will no longer allow ourselves to be an afterthought. We need the ERA now.

The Equal Rights Amendment states: Women shall have equal rights in the United States and every place subject to its jurisdiction. Equality of rights under the law shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any State on account of sex. This language was passed by Congress in 1972, then sent to the states for ratification. Thirty states ratified quickly, out of the 38 needed. Several more states joined in during the 1970s. Nevada ratified the ERA in 2017, and Illinois did the same in 2018  bringing the total to 37 states.

If one more state legislature votes to ratify the Equal Rights Amendment, and if Speiers resolution passes removing the old ratification deadline, the ERA will become the 28th Amendment to the Constitution.

Kathleen Sullivan, former dean of the Stanford University Law School, also spoke at the congressional hearing. She said that the U.S. Constitution is the only major written constitution in the world that lacks a provision declaring that men and women are equal.

She elaborated: The French Constitution provides that the law guarantees to the women in all spheres rights equal to those of men. The German Constitution provides that men and women have equal rights, and that nobody shall be prejudiced or favored because of their sex. The Constitution of India provides that the state shall not discriminate against any citizen on grounds of sex. And every written constitution promulgated since World War II contains a sex-equality provision.

A poll recently released by the ERA Coalition/Fund for Womens Equality found that 94% of the American public supports a constitutional guarantee of equality for men and women  and that 80% mistakenly thought it was already guaranteed. One reminder that its not is Equal Pay Day, which marks how far into a new year a woman has to work in order to earn what a man did in the previous year. For all U.S. women in 2019, the date was April 2. But women of color have to work much longer; for Latinas, Equal Pay Day falls this year on Nov. 20, almost a full year of work more to earn what a man earns in one year. Pay equity is just one problem that the ERA would help eliminate.

Generations of women and their allies have fought for the ERA, from the suffragists who won women the right to vote in 1920 to the feminists in the 1960s and 1970s. With more than 100 women elected to Congress for the first time in history, with millions coming out for the Womens Marches from coast to coast, and with the powerful #MeToo movement focusing world attention on systemic sexual abuse, the time is long overdue to pass the Equal Rights Amendment.

 2019 Amy Goodman and Denis Moynihan. Distributed by King Features Syndicate.

N.M.-ratified

The Land of Enchantment ratified the ERA on Feb. 28, 1973.
Copyright  2019 Albuquerque Journal

SUNLAND PARK  The armed group that was kicked out of its campsite near the border fence in New Mexico has a new base of operation and a new name, but its mission is the same: Helping Border Patrol.

Nobody whos been on the border left. Theres been no breakup. Everyone is still here, said Jim Benvie, spokesman for the newly named Guardian Patriots.

During an interview on a patio outside a restaurant in this border town, Benvie reiterated that the group formerly known as the United Constitutional Patriots is not a militia, but volunteer patriots who are concerned about a crisis created by the influx of migrant families.

The organization attracted the attention of the American Civil Liberties Union of New Mexico, which called on the state attorney general and governor to investigate whether its members were holding migrant parents and children at gunpoint.

Were continuing to work with our state and local partners and the investigation is ongoing, said David Carl, a spokesman for the Attorney Generals Office.

Benvie said his group isnt breaking any laws.

You can try to manufacture were breaking laws, but the fact of the matter is were here and were going to stay here and the hell with them, Benvie said.

The Guardian Patriots have a new campsite on private property, but for safety reasons they do not want to reveal the location, according to Benvie.

He said some members have had to deal with death threats, and that, recently while on patrol, one of the vehicles, all four tires were stripped off the vehicle in a specific location where it was parked, Benvie said.

The eviction from the original camp on April 22 happened after Union Pacific officials said the group was trespassing on railroad land. It came a few days after the arrest of a man who had claimed to be the commander of the United Constitutional Patriots New Mexico Border Ops. Larry Mitchell Hopkins, 69, is facing federal weapons charges that are not related to his border activities.

Hopkins, also known as Johnny Horton Jr., is being held without bond in Albuquerque. The FBI declined to comment on why he was arrested for violations that date back two years ago in Flora Vista.

Benvie repeated his assertion that Hopkins did not carry a gun and was simply cooking and provided a trailer at the campsite near the border fence.

The change in name to Guardian Patriots happened after the crowd funding sites PayPal and GoFundMe shut down United Constitutional Patriots campaign seeking donations to help pay for their border operations.

But videos posted by Benvie on social media, including some with #BorderCrisis and #Invasion, still attract thousands of views and hundreds of comments in support of the groups effort to patrol the New Mexico border.

Vetting volunteers

The Guardian Patriots have also had to guard against some of those trying to join their ranks. An Oklahoma man with an AR-15 rifle and a handgun showed up at their original campsite last month.

He had never been vetted. He was never a member of the group, Benvie said.

He said the man was eager to draw his weapons when he saw migrants crossing into the U.S., but a member of the group told him,  Dude, it aint like that. Were not using guns. We dont point guns at people. 

The man then responded by saying that the migrants should be put in gas chambers and shoot them all,according to Benvie.

We got rid of him and we filed a police report, he said.

The Sunland Park Police Department has an incident report with the comments, but names of the individuals were redacted.

We have a vetting process. We dont just allow any Dick, Tom and Harry to come down to the border, Benvie said.

That vetting includes background checks, references, and the individual is supervised the first three days he or she is on the border.

They dont just get to go run out on their own with a gun, Benvie said.

Benvie does not carry a weapon but instead is armed with a camera to shoot video and photos of the migrants the group encounters while on patrol.

And the others in the organization have stopped carrying long arms, according to Benvie. But they keep the weapons in their vehicles in case theyre needed, he said.

Despite the controversy about their activities, the Guardian Patriots believe volunteers are needed on the border as the number of migrants continues to grow.

Border Patrol welcomes assistance from the public in reporting illegal activity but does not endorse private groups or organizations taking enforcement matters into their own hands, according to a U.S. Customs and Border protection official. Interference by civilians in law enforcement matters could have public safety and legal consequences for all parties involved. Border Security operations are complex and require highly trained professionals with adequate resources to protect the country, according to the statement from CBP.

Vowing to stay

The Border Patrol took more than 1,700 migrants into custody on Thursday alone in the El Paso sector, which includes all southern New Mexico. In Antelope Wells, 218 people crossed the border and 302 in Sunland Park turned themselves in to agents on that one day. Most are families from Central America seeking asylum.

If we dont have enough Border Patrol agents on the front line, is it only right that maybe a sheriff deputizes people? Benvie asked.

The handful of Guardians Patriots on the New Mexico border vow to stay.

If we left here right now were letting America down, Benvie said.
You could call this the black pug scam, but it has lessons for anyone who tries to buy live critters from an online source.

Richard of Raton (he didnt want his last name used) was the target, and he says the experience left him brokenhearted.

His beloved pug died recently, and he thought the best way to cope was to get another of the same breed and color  black, which is an unusual color for pugs.

I had only him in my life, Richard said in a phone interview. I was so devastated that the only way to get over it was to get another pug.

So he did what many of us would do: launch an online search. In Richards case, he went to Craigslist and found an authentic-looking site for a breeder in Maryland, who offered to send the puppy if Richard wired the $550 sales price via Western Union.

He did that and paid a $24 service charge to Western Union.

Next, the so-called breeder told him to contact a particular shipping company, which said it could transport the pup with a special crate. However, the Raton man would have to pay $25 for rental, plus a $575 damage deposit.

Richard, who says he previously worked in the shipping business, did some research and concluded the shipper was trying to scam him. Which, of course, raised questions about the breeder.

When confronted, the bogus breeder threatened Richard with charges of animal abandonment if he didnt pay that particular shipper to transport the dog. Regarding the scam accusation, the breeder added, Im a Christian man. I wouldnt do such a thing.

Richard never heard from the breeder or the shipper again. He was out the $550 for the dog, plus the Western Union fee, but he knew enough not to send any money to the shipper.

The worst part, he says, was how the scammers took advantage of him during a time when he was vulnerable. He reported the crime to police and Western Union and wanted to tell his story publicly to save anyone else the same heartache.

I dont want any person to experience the heartache Ive experienced, he said. This is not about buying a car. It involves a life.

When he did a little investigating, he found three other Craigslist ads for black pugs. In each instance, he asked for the breeders address so he could meet the puppy and pick it up himself. In each instance, he never heard from the breeder again.

There is a happy ending, though. Richard got himself a pug puppy  not a black one  from an El Paso woman who agreed to bring the puppy and meet him in Albuquerque. Richard got to meet the now-named Odie before purchasing him and making him his newest companion.

  

Sadly, this story is not unusual when it comes to buying pets online. The Better Business Bureau quotes experts as saying 80 percent of sponsored online advertisements about pets might be fake. Here are some tips:

 Dont buy a pet without seeing it in person. Do an internet search of the picture of the pet you are considering. If the same picture appears on multiple websites, you may be dealing with a fraud.

 Never pay a stranger with a money order or through Western Union or Moneygram.

 Always use a credit card in case you need to dispute the charges.

Contact Ellen Marks at emarks@abqjournal.com or 505-823-3842 if you are aware of what sounds like a scam. To report a scam to law enforcement, contact the New Mexico Consumer Protection Division toll-free at 1-844-255-9210.
More could be done to improve the well-being of young children and their mothers in New Mexico if there were greater collaboration among state programs charged with helping families, legislative analysts said Wednesday.

The researchers released their findings and recommendations during a meeting of the Legislative Finance Committee, saying the states resurrected Childrens Cabinet will be an opportunity to build coordination across state agencies and even between programs within the same department.

Health Secretary Kathy Kunkel told lawmakers that the Childrens Cabinet held its first meeting Tuesday and that the new report will provide a blueprint for how to make the states numerous efforts targeted at mothers and children easier to access and less redundant.

Kunkel and other officials said one of the key issues facing New Mexicos children is hunger and that the state suffers from one of the highest level of household food insecurity in the nation.

Nearly 18 percent of households in New Mexico experienced food insecurity between 2015 and 2017, according to figures from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The U.S. Census Bureau reports a similar proportion of children in New Mexico living in food-insecure households.

The legislative analysts said they were even more concerned since the federal figures showed New Mexico was the only state with a statistically significant increase  more than 5 percent  in food insecurity from 2012-2014 to 2015-2017.

The level of food insecurity is almost certainly having a negative effect on the health of children, according to the evaluation.

Kunkel said Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham has given her a mission to find out how to change those statistics.

In addition to the Childrens Cabinet, the legislative evaluation highlighted opportunities for data sharing and collaboration through the states creation of an Early Childhood Education Department to oversee several existing programs.

One of those relies on Medicaid funding to provide voluntary home visits to parents of newborn children and coordinate medical care and educational services.

The new childhood agency also will oversee the Families, Infant and Toddler program geared toward infants and toddlers at risk of developmental delays, including babies born to drug-addicted mothers.

Micaela Fischer, a program evaluator with the Legislative Finance Committee, said collaboration has been a challenge even for programs housed within the same agency.

Its worth noting as we move ahead to establishing this new state agency that theres a great need for strategy and for the cabinet secretaries of all agencies with early childhood programs to really make concrete plans to show how their programs are going to operate better together moving ahead, she said.

Fischer outlined a new program thats being piloted by the Health Department in Albuquerques South Valley through a private grant. If successful, the Family Connects program  developed at Duke University  could serve as New Mexicos centralized intake and referral system to catch women soon after they give birth.

The program would address one of the recommendations made in the evaluation to organize a comprehensive home visiting and early childhood support system.

Other recommendations include developing strategies to ensure state-funded programs are actually making a difference. This means regularly monitoring performance and sharing data, Fischer said.

The other recommendation reinforces the mandate that the Childrens Cabinet meet at least six times a year.
Copyright  2019 Albuquerque Journal

Hongyou Fan has been called a serial inventor.

The materials scientist, who is a distinguished member of Sandia National Laboratories technical staff and a professor at the University of New Mexico, has more than 20 patents to his name.

He has developed products that can selectively block ultraviolet and infrared sunlight through windows, determine if a submarine is dropping to a dangerous depth, and one that mimics plants in converting sunlight into energy for solar cells.

And his work hasnt gone unnoticed.

Fan is the sole recipient of this years Mid-Career Researcher Award from the Materials Research Society, the largest materials society in the United States. The distinction is given midway in a researchers career for exceptional achievements in materials research and for notable leadership in the field.

Fan is the first U.S. national lab researcher to win this award, which has been presented annually for the last seven years. Previous winners have been associated with Harvard University, Stanford University, the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and other universities.

Considered a pioneer in his field, Fan was chosen for outstanding contributions in nanoparticle self-assembly of functional nanomaterials.

This really is a recognition of Sandias accomplishments, Fan said, giving credit to the students and collaborators who have been a part of his research teams.

The collaborators and students are the real heroes for this award, he said. The students and collaborators really make our ideas come true. I conceive the ideas and then I guide them to do the work.

Former Sandia postdoctoral researcher Kaifu Bian, whose work at Sandia was guided by Fan, has been awarded the societys Postdoctoral Award for advancing the understanding of nanoparticle assembles under stress.

He is the first Sandia postdoctoral researcher to win the award.

I think that shows the kind of leadership in materials research that we have at Sandia, and the mentoring that we do, said Fan, who called mentoring the most rewarding part of his job.

Among the products he and his teams have worked on are optical coating products that could block various forms of sunlight for windows, glasses and windshields. The products can allow natural heating through a window during winter but block the heat during summer. The coating on the windshield can also block the glare from a vehicle traveling ahead.

And while all submarines carry depth sensors, his invention is low-cost, lightweight and highly sensitive.

Fan has also developed a product that can detect substances at airports that other sensors cannot detect. It is as sensitive as a dogs nose, he said.

And the photo-catalyst he invented mimics photosynthesis in plants to convert sunlight into energy in solar cells.

Because of those accomplishments, the New Mexico Legislature this year honored him for his contributions in science and engineering. The lawmakers were the ones who called him a serial inventor.

Fan is a Materials Research Society and American Physical Society fellow. He has received the MRS Fred Kavli Distinguished Lectureship Award in Nanoscience, four R&D 100 Awards for the development of technically significant products, two Federal Laboratory Consortium Technology Transfer-Outstanding Technology Development Awards, the University of New Mexico Outstanding Faculty Mentor Award and the Asian American Engineer of the Year Award.

He received his doctorate in chemical engineering at UNM in 2000 after coming to New Mexico from his native China.

He came to the U.S. to explore broader research opportunities and became a U.S. citizen in 2006. He rapidly moved up through the ranks because of his talent from postdoctoral researcher to principal member of the technical staff to distinguished member of the technical staff.

His wife, Dongmei Ye, also works at Sandia Labs. His son Charlie, 17, attends Albuquerque Academy, with plans to attend Purdue. Daughter Cindy is a sixth grader at Academy.
Copyright  2019 Albuquerque Journal

After graduating from Silver High School in 1993, Jackie Zamora enrolled in, but soon dropped out of, two colleges.

The native of Peru had powered through a language barrier in high school, but it caught up with her at the university level. She has since overcome that barrier.

On Saturday, Zamora, a 44-year-old mother of four, walked across the stage and accepted a diploma signifying her second masters degree from the University of New Mexico.

When I reflect back on those days, I think I needed to go through (dropping out of college) in order to really want to make a change in my life, Zamora said in an interview at HB Construction, where she is a project coordinator. I knew that if I wanted to be successful, I had to excel in language.

Zamora was one of nearly 4,000 scholars who earned a degree from UNM this semester. They range from 314 students who completed an associate degree to 79 new doctors from the School of Medicine, according to university documents.

Her latest masters degree is in construction management.

Zamora moved to Silver City when she was 15. Her father, a mechanical engineer for a mining company in South America, had wanted his daughters to learn English and made arrangements for them to study here on student visas.

Zamora and her sister lived with a host family in southern New Mexico while in high school.

After she dropped out of Western New Mexico University and then UNM, Zamora started working at University of New Mexico Hospital as a facilitator for people with disabilities.

She worked in the field for about 17 years. During that time, Zamora got married and started a family, along with her own business, El Portal Employment Services, which linked people with disabilities to employment.

It was through her work with clients with disabilities that Zamora greatly improved her English skills. She returned to UNM as a part-time student and took a class or two a semester, ultimately earning her bachelors degree in 2014.

Once I got the swing of things, it was like a faucet I couldnt turn off, she said.

In 2015, Zamora entered a masters program in the School of Architecture and Planning, earning her first masters degree in 2017. While working for a local architecture firm, she became interested in the construction side of building. She was one of 12 students who this spring completed a masters degree in construction management, which is in UNMs School of Engineering.

She married her husband, Jonathan Zamora, at age 21. The two have four children together: a 12-year-old, 9-year-old twins and a 5-year-old. She became a United States citizen last year.

Jackie Zamora may be a common face, or voice, for those who like Latin music. She sings in five bands in the Albuquerque area, including Calle 66 and Baracutanga.

Husband Jonathan said his wifes pursuit of higher education has made her a great role model for their children and other mothers.

For years Zamora has worked most days, taken care of her family and studied late into the night when the children were asleep, he said.

I think she is a role model for all mothers who had children young and felt like they could never get back into school, Jonathan said. Shes proof that women can have children, start a family and go back to school.
Unraveling jurisdictional hurdles and improving infrastructure in Indian Country are among the solutions members of New Mexicos congressional delegation are offering to protect Native American women and children from domestic abuse.

U.S. Sen. Tom Udall and U.S. Rep. Deb Haaland have offered provisions to protect Native women in the Violence Against Women Act, the reauthorization of which now rests in the Senate after passing the House.

U.S. Rep. Ben Ray Lujan shared the story of Ashlynne Mike, a 7-year-old Navajo girl who was kidnapped and murdered, in making a pitch for broadband service in a meeting with President Donald Trump, Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi and Senate Minority leader Chuck Schumer at the White House.

Udall and Haaland offer frightening statistics behind their efforts:

 Eighty-four percent of Native women have experienced violence in their lifetime.

 In some tribal communities, Native women are murdered at rates more than 10 times the national average.

 One out of three Native women has been raped.

Behind these statistics are thousands of faces  thousands of lives, disrupted, shattered, cut short, Udall told a news conference last Tuesday.

This is about life and safety, that parents would be able to make a phone call to law enforcement when a child goes missing, when a loved one goes missing, Lujan said in a video following his White House meeting. If someone is taken or kidnapped, maybe that phone can send the right signal. We have to make sure we get this done. We have make sure we get this done for rural America.

Haaland said in a recent op-ed with the Guardian that the Amber Alert for Ashlynne wasnt issued for 10 hours, and told the Journal in an earlier interview that communication between families and law enforcement agencies was critical in cases of domestic violence.

That means communicating and sharing information, so that these cases can be tracked, is critical, but right now communication between jurisdictions is limited and often times non-existent, Haaland said.

She said Indian Country hasnt been adequately funded for decades.

She and Udall are seeking federal funding for infrastructure needs for tribal areas. Udall said funding was not only needed for internet, but also for road and school projects. And he said that was needed not only for Indian Country, but for other rural areas in New Mexico as well.

Udall is pushing legislation to remove some of the jurisdictional hurdles law enforcement officials face following a 1978 U.S. Supreme Court decision.

In the Oliphant vs. Suquamish Indian Tribe case, the court held that Indian Tribes cannot exercise criminal jurisdiction over non-Indians who commit crimes on reservations.

This ruling undermined the sovereign right of tribes to enforce the law on tribal lands. It undercut public safety in Indian Country. And it let violent offenders escape prosecution, the senator said.

Udall pushed for provisions in the VAWA in 2013 that restored tribal authority in domestic violence cases. But he said gaps remain that must be closed to stop violence against Native women.

He said VAWA didnt address acts committed against children, sexual acts beyond domestic violence and wasnt clear about tribal jurisdiction about attempts of domestic violence.

Udall also said protections for law enforcement attempting to halt domestic violence were needed. He is urging the passing of legislation that addresses those areas.

In addition to calling for the reauthorization of VAWA, he is pushing for the passage of the Native Youth and Tribal Officer Protection Act and Justice for Native Survivors Act.

Haaland is also a sponsor of the Not Invisible Act of 2019, which would establish an advisory committee on violent crime comprised of law enforcement, tribal leaders, federal partners, service providers, and survivors to make recommendations to the Department of Interior and Department of Justice.

Every woman deserves to feel safe, but women in Native communities are going missing without a trace, Haaland said.

Scott Turner: sturner@abqjournal.com
Copyright  2019 Albuquerque Journal

Cassandra Scott says her son Evyn was always one step ahead of her.

The mother of three said she just couldnt keep up with the 15-year-old, who stopped going to school and fell in with the wrong crowd.

He was trying to fit in. He was trying to find himself, she said. Its deeply sad that he trusted those people.

In March  days after Evyn traded threats with another teen on Facebook  he was found shot to death beside a quiet road near Tijeras.

They stood over him and shot him in his face, Cassandra Scott said. I cant even think of anything on this earth that could ever justify that.

Detectives say Evyn was lured into a car in Southeast Albuquerque by people he called friends, while the alleged triggerman, 17-year-old Russell Spencer, hid in the trunk. Spencer is behind bars on an open count of murder.

Its part of an alarming trend playing out in Albuquerque and Bernalillo County. Authorities say Evyns slaying is one of dozens of violent acts being tied to more than a dozen youthful gangs around the city.

Research will show you that people that are in these groups are not only the most likely to be pulling the trigger, but also the most likely to be the victims, 2nd Judicial District Attorney Raul Torrez said. So the two most likely outcomes for the people in any of these groups is either prison or death. The real challenge is how do you get in front of that and not just acting after a shooting has occurred.

To tackle the issue, Torrez is adopting an initiative, known as Operation Ceasefire, that targets the most violent individuals and presents them with an ultimatum. Its been replicated in dozens of cities after being launched in Boston, where it was credited with a 63% reduction in youth homicides, a 25% reduction in gun assaults and a 32% reduction in calls for shots fired, according to the National Institute of Justice.

Investigators are hoping for the same results, if not better, in the Duke City, as juvenile shooting cases spike in 2019.

Last year, the DAs Office filed charges against 13 juveniles for serious violent crimes. Five months into this year, 17 juveniles have already been charged with serious violent crimes, ranging from drive-by shootings and gunfights to armed robberies and two homicides, including the slaying of a letter carrier and what authorities are calling the planned execution of Evyn Scott.

Kyle Hartsock, a special investigator with the DAs Office, said that at least 30% of recent shootings can be tied to gangs, due to the victims affiliation  a figure he calls a low number because suspects have not been identified in about 60% of the cases.

If we had a 100% suspect rate, this easily shoots up higher, he said.

Hartsock works with analysts on an initiative to map out the gang climate around the city and routinely meets with law enforcement agencies to better recognize gang ties.

Their ultimate goal: to stop the bullets from flying.

A young mans sport

Hartsock said many of the storied, traditional gangs of Albuquerque have been largely dismantled and a new generation is keeping law enforcement busy.

The nature of gangs, its kind of a young mans sport, Hartsock said.

The key players are now young men and boys who often boast, flash guns, sell drugs and even incite bloodshed from behind a screen.

When we think they are showing violent tendencies, we just identify them, Hartsock said, adding that they are trying to keep tabs on it to help solve cases but also predict future ones.

So far, they have identified 14 groups, but more are likely. At least four of the groups have been tied to multiple shootings. One has been connected to eight.

Some of these groups lay claim to territories, such as street blocks and neighborhoods. Others are spread out and exist in big spaces.

The groups vary in size from just a few members to dozens, and social media is their sounding board.

What was once spray-painted on ditch banks and brick walls  threats, aliases and flexing  now gets plastered across the internet, mainly on Facebook, Instagram and Snapchat.

That same posturing often ends up in the hands of law enforcement and in case files.

Youre trying to build your reputation, Hartsock said. They have to talk about their exploits. These are not disciplined groups and criminals. That is the purpose of doing it.

Members will identify with subgroups within their gangs on their profiles. Law enforcement officials refer to these subgroups as crews. Rivalries and alliances play out over public posts and comments. In extreme examples, executions are set up over Facebook Messenger and beatings are shown in Snapchat videos.

In one of the more high-profile cases, investigators say Matthew Delena, 23, and his girlfriend, Leticia Nicolet, 19, along with Kalani Hodges, 17, and Seven Long, 15, set up executions of perceived gang rivals under the guise of drug deals.

The four are accused of carrying out three shootings over a two-month stretch last fall.

The attacks took the life of Adrian Martinez, 17, and left Vicente Sanchez, 16, paralyzed and Aneas Price, 16, blind.

Afterward, police say, the crew shared a video of Martinezs killing, talked about finishing off Sanchez as he lay in a hospital bed and called Prices mother with threats aimed at her other children.

While Delenas crew may be off the street and on their way to trial, Hartsock said they are monitoring those still out there as ongoing feuds continue to leave bodies in the streets.

We have to recognize that these groups tend to produce violence as a group.  Its going to result in more shootings. Its going to keep compounding until the right person is dead, or theyre all dead, or theyre all locked up, he said. Were behind the power curve every single time. Were trying to get ahead of it.

Stop shooting

As part of Operation Ceasefire, the DAs Office wants to identify the most violent group on the streets and ask its members to stop the bloodshed or face the consequences. Simple as that.

To that end  and to keep better track of shootings going forward  local law enforcement are now given shooting scorecards to fill out every time a bullet hits a body.

The scorecard takes note of specifics: the date, time, victim and suspect information, incident type and likely motivation.

Motivations can include domestic violence, drug debt, gang against gang, road rage, self defense, and  the category Hartsock hates most  unknown.

Then the DAs Office tries to fill in any blanks during meetings with the Albuquerque Police Department, Bernalillo County Sheriffs Office and other local law enforcement entities.

Together, they will examine recent shootings, look for possible connections and advise law enforcement on gang attributes that may come into play on investigations down the road.

What starts off as a hopeless shooting with a gang member, thats not going to help, we just gave you whole narratives, Hartsock said. Now you can ask more detailed questions when you interview the victim or talk with witnesses.

Meanwhile, the DAs Office will work backward to look for unseen gang connections to shootings in the county over the past several years.

That means scouring incident reports of shootings dating back to 2015 and having biweekly meetings with initial investigators on cases to find any gang connections in the hope of identifying trends.

All of this work is built into the endgame of Operation Ceasefire.

Once the DAs Office has identified the most violent group in the Albuquerque area, it will call its members to a meeting at a community center or some other neutral site.

Attendees will be the chief of police, federal prosecutors, a victims family, a reformed gangster and community leaders. The meeting will be short, perhaps 45 minutes, and will come with a simple message: Stop shooting, stop shooting, stop shooting.

Members of the group will be offered access to social services  counseling, help with getting a job, resources  to get out of the gang life. But if they go back out on the streets and wreak more havoc, the hammer drops.

Authorities will come at them from every angle  whether its a property crime, drug possession, child support debt, zoning violations  and make it stick.

Once youve demonstrated that you can credibly do that, then you go to the next group and say, This is what happened to the last group. This future awaits you if you dont choose a different path,  Torrez said.

But what can undermine that message, he said, is judges rejecting requests to detain suspects in gun violence cases until trial. Of the 17 juveniles who prosecutors have asked to detain recently, all but six were released.

Its very difficult for law enforcement to deliver a message to a group that says, You will be dealt with swiftly  with certainty and severely  in the system,  Torrez said, adding that he hopes the tide will turn on pretrial detention as Operation Ceasefire ramps up.

From Chief Public Defender Ben Bauers perspective, holding juveniles in custody just to send a message to other potential offenders, its not justice and its not effective.

Bauer said its on prosecutors to present enough evidence during a detention hearing to prove someone is a danger to the community. He said detainment is not the only option to keep juveniles in line, and thats why there are conditions for release.

As for Hartsock, he hopes the targeted groups will take advantage of the opportunity theyre being given and he can erase their names from the database. A clean slate.

Were not trying to brand people gang members for life; once you do that, its problematic, he said. They might turn it around.

Evyn Scott, the 15-year-old Manzano High student with gray eyes and brown curly hair, never got the opportunity to choose a different path.

I always told him, If theres ever a problem, as a mother, my job is to defend and protect you. Let me know so I can help fix it,  Cassandra Scott said.

While she never got that chance, shes still fighting for her son by pushing for stiffer sentences for crimes by and against youths.

To keep Evyns memory alive, she has added his name to the Childrens Wall of Tears and the National Gun Violence Memorial  where he joins thousands of others.

Its hard to see my childs picture on that, Scott said. You live every day like its halfway normal, or at least you try to.

Her home is filled with reminders: a blanket with an image of Evyns face hangs over a window; his toddler shoes sit atop a mantle in a corner.

Evyns two brothers are spitting images of him. Skyler, 8, misses his big brother; 4-month-old Carter will never know him.

A relative told Cassandra Scott recently that it is all part of Gods plan, an idea she rejects.

God did not take him. They took him.




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The banging jolted Bryan Carmody awake. Outside his San Francisco home Friday morning, the longtime journalist saw a throng of police officers with a sledgehammer, trying to break down his front gate.

Carmody told the eight to 10 officers he would only let them in with a search warrant. Police confirmed a judge signed off on their barging into his home. Then the officers drew their guns and scoured his residence. When police left, they carted away his notebooks, computers, cameras, phones and even his fiancees iPod from her college days.

I knew what they wanted, Carmody told the Los Angeles Times. They wanted the name.

A few weeks before, he said two San Francisco police officers  a sergeant and a lieutenant  knocked on his door and cordially asked him to identify the source who shared a confidential police report into the Feb. 22 death of San Francisco Public Defender Jeff Adachi.

Of course, I politely declined, Carmody said of the visit from police last month. He had the same response Friday.

After police came into his home, officers handcuffed him for six hours as they collected his equipment. A receipt certifying his release from custody confirms he was handcuffed from 8:22 a.m. to 1:55 p.m. The search warrant for his home said officers were investigating stolen or embezzled property.

It was unclear whether he was handcuffed because of the guns he says he legally owns. Carmody said the guns were locked in a safe, and he said that over the hours-long search, it was evident officers didnt view him as a threat. At one point, some police took off their bulletproof vests on account of the heat, he said.

While he was shackled, officers got a second warrant to search his newsroom, where police seized a thumb drive, CDs and, inside a safe, the sought-after police report about Adachis death.

Carmody, 49, said he has not shared the name of his source with anyone, and no markings on the document could be traced to the person who provided it.

Fellow journalists in the Bay Area and beyond were outraged by the search of Carmodys home and office. And the incident provided a new wrinkle into the evolving aftermath of the unexpected death of Adachi, who left behind a legacy of championing civil rights.

Initial reports said the 59-year-old public defender had been traveling when he suddenly had a heart attack.

Carmody remembers his goal as a reporter on the story was to figure out where exactly Adachi died. But soon, salacious details emerged that were difficult to confirm. There were leaks happening all over the place, he recalled. He ultimately obtained an incident report that detailed Adachis final moments.

The San Francisco Chronicle also obtained a copy of the report, but not from Carmody.

The document, as reported by KGO-TV in San Francisco, detailed that shortly before his death, Adachi had dinner with a woman named Caterina who was not his wife, then returned to an apartment he arranged to use for the weekend. The woman called 911 for emergency medical help, and Adachi was taken to the hospital, where he died. Later that night, officers went to the apartment and found alcohol, cannabis-infused gummies and syringes believed to have been used by the paramedics, The San Francisco Chronicle reported. Photos of the apartment circulated online by KTVU and other outlets.

Carmody said he called up his clients and sold the fruits of his newsgathering, which included the police report. He told the Chronicle that he sold the package to three TV stations.

Amid a public mourning, city officials chastised police for allowing the details of a confidential report to end up in the headlines. The police launched an internal investigation into the reports leaking, which led to Fridays raid at Carmodys home.

The citizens and leaders of the City of San Francisco have demanded a complete and thorough investigation into this leak, and this action represents a step in the process of investigating a potential case of obstruction of justice along with the illegal distribution of confidential police material, police spokesman David Stevenson said in a statement Saturday to The Times.

The citys public defenders office, which Adachi once led, said in a statement that all of the criminal justice and City Hall leaders agree that the release of police reports in this fashion is wrong and we hope that the truth of who leaked the police report will emerge so that it doesnt happen again.

The FBI was not involved in the search. Katherine Zackel, a spokeswoman for the agency, said two agents were present solely to interview the journalist.

To Carmody and his attorney, the raid smacks of impropriety and an invasion into the work of a professional reporter.

Its designed to intimidate, said his lawyer, Thomas Burke. Its essentially the confiscation of a newsroom.

Burke, a partner with Davis Wright Tremaine who has previously represented the Los Angeles Times, said under usual circumstances, journalists would receive a subpoena and retain an attorney to help secure protections. That process also is efficient for detectives, he added, because of the time and resources required to search through phones, hard drives, computers and notebooks.

So much information has nothing to do with the purpose of their investigation, Burke said. If you are looking for one piece of information, thats why you issue a subpoena.

The affidavits that police used to search Carmodys home were filed under seal, so its unclear what investigators told the judge to secure the warrants. Burke said he did not know whether the judges were aware Carmody was even a journalist.

The search has brought Carmodys business, North Bay News, to a halt. As a freelance videographer for nearly three decades, he works through the night to supply the locations, video, images, and on- and off-camera interviews that feed the beast of local TV news. The search warrant documents show police collected check stubs from Fox, Disney and CBS, among others.

He estimates that police hauled off between $30,000 and $40,000 worth of equipment, along with personal photos. Without functional equipment, he cannot work  so his friend Aaron Lee started an online fundraiser to collect donations.

Carmody is insisting on protecting his sources identity. And he swears he never paid the person for the police report. No, he said, not even a cup of coffee.

2019 Los Angeles Times
Homicide detectives are investigating the death of a woman who was found with suspicious injuries in northwest Albuquerque, police say.

Officer Simon Drobik said that officers received a call around 6:30 p.m. Saturday night from Raymond Pacheco who wanted officers to check on his unresponsive wife.

Officers entered the apartment at 10600 Cibola Loop NW and found the body of Veronica Pacheco, Drobik said.

He said the medical examiner was called to the scene due to the injuries on Veronicas body.

An autopsy will be conducted to determine the cause of death, Drobik said.

Drobik said, police executed a search warrant and seized some items.
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https://www.aish.com/f/p/5-Ways-Judaism-Honors-Mothers.html

Mothers are honored all year round in Jewish tradition.

Mothers are central to Jewish life, and Jewish tradition is full of concrete ways we honor mothers. Here are five ways Judaism honors mothers  on Mothers Day, and every day of the year.

Heroic Jewish Mothers

Throughout the Torah and Jewish literature, mothers stand out as key figures who enabled Judaism and the Jewish people to survive.

Each Passover, we remember the Jewish midwives in ancient Egypt who, on pain of death, defied Pharaohs order to kill all Jewish baby boys and throw them into the Nile. We recall the matriarchs  Sarah, Rebecca, Rachel and Leah  who molded and created the Jewish people. Hauntingly, the Torah describes that our matriarch Rachel is charged with pleading on behalf of the Jewish people in the World to Come: A voice is heard on high, wailing, bitter weeping, Rachel weeps for her children (Jeremiah 31:14); it is her merit that we returned from exile, intact and whole and continued Jewish life.

The Torah recounts that time and again, it was Jewish women, often mothers, who stood up for what was right. In our darkest days of slavery in Egypt, Jewish men began to despair: what was the point of getting married and building Jewish families, when their children would only suffer in slavery as they did? It was Jewish wives and mothers who came to the rescue: day after day, after hours of backbreaking work, these women found the energy to dress beautifully and carve out time with their husbands, making space for family life and ensuring the survival of future generations of the Jewish people. Later, when some Jews built a golden calf to worship in the desert, again it was the Jewish women who resisted, maintaining their belief in God alone.

King Solomon described all of Jewish tradition as emanating from our mothers: Do not forsake the Torah of your mother (Proverbs 1:8). Throughout history, its Jewish mothers whove instilled Jewish knowledge and a love of being Jewish in their children, and our tradition recognizes this profound truth.

A Woman of Valor

Each Friday night, Jews around the world recite a beautiful poem at the Shabbat table, Eishet Chayil (A Woman of Valor). Written by King Solomon, this is the ultimate tribute to the Jewish people and our relationship with God.

Eishet Chayil describes an ideal woman and her relationships with her friends and family, neighbors, husband and children. Jewish tradition teaches that it is also allegorical: this idealized mother is none other than the people of Israel. King Solomon wrote the poem as a paean to his own mother Batsheva, and its infused with love and admiration. In describing the ideal woman and mother, we are painting a picture of the qualities we most want in ourselves.

In my own family, my husband started a unique family tradition at our Shabbat table. Before we sing Eishet Chayil, he first asks each of our kids to name three things Mom did for them that week. Its a fun exercise and sets a tone of gratitude and appreciation that lasts far beyond Friday dinner. It also helps them realize that the woman of valor we sing about shares many qualities with real life mothers: she is charitable, shes hardworking, she takes care of her family. Her children rise up and call her blessed with happiness; also her husband, and he praises her we sing. (Proverbs 31:28) Its a beautiful moment that underscores Judaisms reverence of moms.

Respecting Mothers

The Ten Commandments tell us to treat parents with respect. The Torah repeats this timeless injunction with two different word choices. In Exodus, were instructed Honor your father and your mother (Exodus 20:12). In Leviticus God commands You shall fear your mother and your father (Leviticus 19:3). Traditionally, Jewish thought has interpreted this to mean that there are certain key obligations we have to honor our parents and others to fear them.

Fearing our parents means not being rude to them. This might sound like common sense, but its a refreshing change from some behaviors that modern parents are dealing with. Jewish tradition stipulates concrete steps: children arent to call parents by their first names. If parents have an accustomed seat that everyone knows is theirs, were not allowed to sit in it. Were not to do anything that might embarrass our parents.

The commandment to honor our parents has its own specific advice. We are to help our parents: bringing them food and drinks, standing in respect when we encounter them, and helping them in material ways. We are to talk about them in ways that enhance their dignity and avoid dwelling on their shortcomings when we talk to our friends and others.

For moms these days, these ancient instructions are particularly refreshing. One 2005 poll found that nearly 70% of Americans felt that people were ruder than a generation ago  and kids were ranked the least courteous and respectful of all. A 2002 study found that only 9% of Americans felt the children they saw acted respectfully towards adults. For parents caught in the crosscurrents of raising courteous kids in a discourteous age, Judaisms tried-and-true rules for respecting parents can be a big help. It might seem restrictive at first to be told we cant roll our eyes and complain about our parents when were fed up, but trying to live up to the Jewish ideal of honoring our parents can help us grow and become more sensitive  and can help send a powerful message to our children about compassion and respect.

Honoring Parents Continues After Death

In Judaism, our obligation to honor our mothers and fathers never ends. The injunctions to speak respectfully about our parents, to honor them and burnish their memories continues even after our parents are no longer in this world. Its customary to refer to parents who are no longer living with the Jewish phrase of blessed memory, and to perform acts of Jewish learning and charitable actions in their memories.

Mothers as Partners with God

In Jewish thought, motherhood isnt only raising a child; its being partners with the Divine. The Talmud teaches that there are three partners in (creating) a man: the Holy One, blessed be He, his father and his mother (Niddah 31a). (The Talmud specifies that this includes adoptive parents too, not only biological parents.) The moment of giving birth is compared to the creation of the world: both are awesome miracles and times of intense holiness.

When we name our children, the Talmud explains that mothers (and fathers too) receive a measure of prophecy in order to choose the right name for their particular child (Brachot 57b). Its a different way of looking at parenthood: not only raising children, but doing so in a way that brings sanctity and spirituality into the world.

This Mothers Day, amid the flowers and gifts and celebrations, try carving out time to incorporate some of these traditional Jewish mindsets and ways to honor our mothers, as well. Doing so can enhance the ways we look at our moms and approach motherhood  and can make the time we spend with our mothers extra special and meaningful.
https://www.aish.com/sp/so/God-Loves-the-Brokenhearted.html

Shlomo Dror has lived two lives: one before the suicide of his son, and one after.

The call came late on a Sunday night in June 2003. Shlomo Drors ex-wife was worried about their elder son, Emils, emotional well-being. A psychoanalyst in Tennessee, Dror promised to follow up quickly. Phoning the next day from his office, he couldnt mistake Emils deep distress. Dror whirled into action. Telling his secretary to cancel all his patients that week, he rushed to catch the first flight to San Francisco and arrived at Emils door unannounced after midnight.

The next day they had heartfelt talks from morning to night. Emil, 34, echoed a complaint he had first lodged years before as a rising high school senior. He dredged up the hurt of a 6-year-old boy whose father pounced to make a winning move while teaching him chess.

Dror recalls, I had this crazy idea I had to teach Emil how to get along in a rough world. Here he was years later telling me this was one of the most crushing experiences he ever had, and for the rest of his life it gave him a sense he couldnt count on my help to make him feel good.

Now Dror was there in person to rescue his precious son from major depression. He called a colleague in the San Francisco Bay area and made a therapy appointment for the two of them the following day. Having a plan seemed to foster a sense of calm over the situation.

The next morning, after reviewing the plan for the day and confirming Emils agreement, Dror was showering when he heard Emil shout cheerfully, Ill be back in a minute. Intuitively, he knew his son didnt plan to come back. He feared Emil was about to do the unthinkable.

One psychiatrist asked, Have you called the Golden Gate Bridge?

Dror called all over town, including police and emergency personnel, hoping to prevent Emil from harming himself. One psychiatrist he consulted asked, Have you called the Golden Gate Bridge?

As Dror was to learn later, it was too late.

After almost an hour of dreadful foreboding, he answered the phone to hear a highway patrolman say, We recovered your sons body from the bay.

Dror lay on the floor in anguish, pounding his fists and screaming with all his might, "Emil, don't jump! Please, please, please dont jump!" He knew he couldnt change the reality, but he continued screaming and crying anyway.

I was filled with terror, horror, unbearable pain. I was expressing it with my entire mind and body. I cannot think of any equivalent moment of concentrated experience in my entire life.

Life after Death

After picking himself off the floor, a great sense of calm unexpectedly washed over him. That moment marked an indelible turning point. I have had two lives, before and after the suicide. I brought one life to a close and started a new life, almost as an infant, Dror reflects.

Soul-searching became his constant focus. While agonizing over his tremendous loss and what kind of father he had been, Dror was counseled by his Chabad rabbi, among others, and over time he became an observant Jew.

At that point we had already been studying on a weekly basis, Rabbi Yossi Wilhelm of Knoxville, Tenn. explains. We discussed many of lifes happenings through a Torah lens, which without question looking back was gave Shlomo a foundation to allow growth to come out of this terrible tragedy.

Rabbi Wilhelm describes how Dror wrestled with his grief, pain and regret. He mourned, and Im sure he continues to mourn, struggling to get over the blame, and then he realized he would choose to learn from this. He accepted what happened and looked at how he could grow. By choosing to live life in a fulfilling way he is honoring his sons memory. I believe this is a very Jewish approach to suffering.

By choosing to live life in a fulfilling way he is honoring his sons memory. I believe this is a very Jewish approach to suffering.

Drors slow journey toward Jewish observance had begun when he got cancer at age 40  one year after the trauma of his divorce. As he says, I intuitively felt that getting cancer was meaningful, although it would be several years until I gained broad understanding of its import. That catastrophe provoked serious soul-searching as a close encounter with mortality often does.

Dr. Dick Felder zl, a personal friend, visited me in the hospital while I recovered from a second surgery. He said he had read everything in the medical literature on psychological characteristics of cancer patients  psychosomatic disease was one of his specialties  and he learned only one thing of significance. If you want to survive this, he said portentously, youd better get connected to someone.

I didnt know what to make of this at the time, but after four months of intensive radiation therapy post discharge, I traveled to Spain to present a paper at an international professional conference. By coincidence, I met Ruth Dayan, widow of Moshe Dayan, in a Madrid art gallery. Hearing that I lived in Knoxville, she asked which shul I belonged to, and named both of them. I was embarrassed to say I had never been to either.

Dicks admonition to connect and Ruths mention of congregations in my hometown combined to influence me to investigate the opportunities. After comparison shopping I became a member of the Reform temple, my first act of Jewish affiliation. It was also the beginning of an experience of connection that would culminate in a connection the likes of which I never imagined.

During Rosh Hashanah services on the second year of synagogue attendance, he had a series of unprecedented experiences. First I realized that the language of the prayers  recited mainly in English as is the reform custom  was beautiful, in fact poetic. Then I realized that this was more than elegant language  the words of the machzor conveyed ideas  ideas I deeply agreed with. I had one of the most startling revelations of my life.

Having been a 60s counterculture radical, I held the unjustified conceit that the system of values that mattered to me had been formed through my individual effort to develop a philosophy of life. With an enormous shock I awakened to the fact that all the values I imagined I had selected independently had actually come from my parents, who learned them from their parents. My values were Jewish values passed from generation to generation beginning with the gathering Mt. Sinai thousands of years before me. In a flash, the concept I am Jewish changed from a nearly empty verbal formula to an altered existence. With this new insight, I am Jewish became the defining feature of my life. This was the first time my identity as a Jew gained existential gravity and intellectual substance.

Building a Spiritual Life

Growing up in the only Jewish family in the small agricultural community of Moultrie, Ga., Dror wasnt given a Hebrew name. He changed his name from Stephen to Shlomo Yaacov after Emils death. His spiritual journey intensified and he made aliyah, becoming a citizen of Israel, in his 60s. As he studied Torah with new teachers, he decided to have a traditional bris, the ritual Jewish circumcision.

His internal landscape shifted dramatically. Dror, now 74, says he has given up the materialistic focus of his life before Emils death. He is driven to contribute to society by seeking opportunities to give charity, provide free counseling to those in need and share his teaching gifts. He pours his heart into his relationships with his younger son, Jesse, 47, his daughter-in-law and three grandchildren.

I had been a bad father in the boys youth, he confesses. I was bad-tempered even when I wasnt shouting. I couldnt change what had occurred in the past, but I devoted myself to acknowledging the damage Id done and to doing everything in my power to rectify things, doing tikkun (repair).

After Emils passing, Dror could not get a passage from Psalm 34 out of his head: God is close to the brokenhearted, and the crushed in spirit He rescues. He says these words perfectly expressed his understanding that loss can be transformative.

After Emil died, I no longer exclusively focused on the concept of being a better father; it broadened to the entire world. I review my behavior all the time, the good and the bad, Dror says.

I gave up the pretense of being better than other people. I dropped so much ego. If I had certain strengths other people didnt have, it didnt make me a better person. If I went to services on Shabbat and other people didnt, it didnt make me a better person. Since then I have never had a concern as great as my concern for teshuvah, genuine change. Whatever time God allows me, nothing can push me off course.
CAIRO  Egyptians looking to snag lucrative reconstruction contracts in Libya are divided over whether their country's support for one side in the civil war will hurt their chances.

On May 5, Fayez al-Sarraj, prime minister of Libya's Government of National Accord (GNA) in Tripoli, called on Egypt and other countries to end their support for the rival Libyan National Army (LNA) government led by military strongman Gen. Khalifa Hifter. Sarraj asked them to throw their weight behind the Libyan people represented by the elected GNA.

The GNA is considered the internationally recognized government because it is backed by the United Nations and European Union. It had backing from the United States until last month, when President Donald Trump flipped his position despite opposition in Congress. The general and his LNA are also supported by Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Russia and sometimes France, which last month was said to back Hifter and this month "reaffirmed" its backing for the GNA.

Hifter leads the eastern government" based in Tobruk. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi has consistently backed Hifter, even supporting his move on Tripoli that began April 4. The GNA has condemned the ongoing offensive, describing it as an attack on areas of sovereignty in Tripoli.

While Egypt has been a leading contender for Libyan reconstruction operations, its position could be jeopardized by its support for the GNA's rival. The turbulent security and military situations in Libya are also casting doubt on the projects themselves. This comes amid unconfirmed reports April 28 that Egyptian authorities closed the land borders with Libya indefinitely. These borders represented Libya's gateway for many Egyptian exports and labor.

Many Egyptian businesspeople from the Federation of Egyptian Industries (FEI) have said the war will not affect Egypt's investments in reconstruction operations, either through exports to Libya or through direct investment. Most Egyptian exports to Libya go to the reconstruction of Benghazi, where there is no war. The war [now] is concentrated in Tripoli and its outskirts, hundreds of miles away, Kamal al-Desouki, deputy head of the Building Materials Chamber at FEI, said in a press statement April 9.

Speaking to Al-Monitor, Desouki said he doesn't expect Egyptian exports for Libya's reconstruction to decline. He noted that the reports about the closed land borders remain unconfirmed and that many Egyptian exports are reaching Benghazi through Libya's seaports.

Rebuilding just Benghazi could cost $56 billion, Osama al-Kaza, manager of the city's reconstruction project, told Reuters in a March 6 story.

However, Mustapha Younis, who owns a small Egyptian firm for imports and exports, told Al-Monitor that Desouki didn't take into consideration that Benghazi is a distribution point for Egyptian products to other Libyan cities. This means that after Egyptian products reach Benghazi  whether by land or sea  they must still be distributed to Tripoli, Tobruk or other Libyan cities, said Younis, a former marketing and distribution manager at one of Egypts cement factories, which he declined to name.

He noted that the war in Tripoli and the surrounding cities will reduce the demand for reconstruction materials from Egypt and from all countries as the reconstruction process seems to be halted in light of the security situation.

Many other Egyptian businessmen and workers in Libya who spoke to Al-Monitor expressed their concerns over the situation and Egypt's participation in the reconstruction.

Egyptian exports to Libya, especially construction materials, are considered one of the main pillars of the private sectors participation in Libya's reconstruction. According to Trade Map, a website that tracks international trade, Egyptian exports to Libya of ceramics, cement, aluminum, electrical appliances, furniture, carpets, iron and steel reached almost $150.7 million in 2018.

Although the amount seems modest compared with total Egyptian exports to the world  which stood at about $29.4 billion in 2018, according to Trade Map  exports to Libya remain an important source of income for Egyptian manufacturers.

Since 2012, many Egyptian construction and infrastructure companies  most notably Orascom, Arab Contractors, Elsewedy Electric and its affiliate Elsewedy Cables, and Hassan Allam Holding  have tried to acquire large shares of Libyan reconstruction projects. But the work has faltered because of the ongoing tension and the change of official governments. However, last month, some newspapers reported that these same companies resumed negotiations.

A source from Cairo-based Global Consolidated Contractors who requested anonymity told Al-Monitor that the situation in Libya will indeed hamper Egyptian companies' participation in reconstruction in most areas. His company's reconstruction projects in Misrata came in 2014, after just one year, due to the unrest there. The civil war began in February 2011 and quieted that October, but picked up again in 2013 and has continued.

The source believes tensions in Libya will only keep escalating, especially in light of the current battle for Tripoli.

Moutassim Bou-Bker, project manager for Algasr Contracting Co. of Tripoli, which is participating in reconstruction projects in many Libyan areas, told Al-Monitor he thinks Egypt will suffer due to its support of Hifter when the GNA chooses foreign companies for reconstruction projects in GNA-controlled areas.

But Al-Mahdi Al-Amin, minister of labor and rehabilitation for the GNA, said the Libyan government prioritizes efficiency when selecting workers and companies for reconstruction projects  regardless of any political disputes. Amin told Al-Monitor that when he visited Egypt last month, he met with Egyptian Minister of Manpower Mohamed Saafan in Cairo to discuss ways of bringing Egyptian labor back to Libya despite Egypt's support for the LNA and Hifter.

Still, Arif Desouki, an economics professor at October 6 University, told Al-Monitor there is no doubt the security and military situation in Libya will negatively affect Egyptian companies and workers seeking Libyan reconstruction contracts, even if the GNA does not object.

He also warned that the suddenness of the assault on Tripoli might even deter Egyptian businesses from investing in reconstruction efforts in other countries, such as Syria and Iraq, for fear the same thing could happen there.
As the US administration looks into the possibility of designating the Muslim Brotherhood a terrorist organization, one of the countries that will feel the backlash  if that decision is made  will be Jordan. The Muslim Brotherhood is represented in parliament through its political arm, the Islamic Action Front (IAF), which has allied itself since 2016 with nationalist figures in a broad coalition. Al-Islah bloc is now the largest opposition group in the Lower House with 16 members.

But after more than seven years of ruptured ties between the Muslim Brotherhood and the royal palace, King Abdullah met April 16 with members of the bloc for the first time. In a statement to Arabi21.com, member of parliament Saleh al-Armouti described the meeting as historic and positive, representing a new phase in relations between the group and the palace. He said the meeting dealt with three files: Jerusalem, the US "deal of the century" and the legitimacy of the Muslim Brotherhood. He thanked the king for not labeling the group a terrorist organization.

Abdullah has been holding meetings with lawmakers, politicians and media figures since his return from the United States in mid-March. During these meetings, he made his position clear in rejecting any compromise over his custodianship of Muslim and Christian holy places in Jerusalem, any deal that would turn Jordan into an alternative homeland for the Palestinians and attempts to settle Palestinian refugees in host countries.

His meeting with Islamist lawmakers was seen as a move to solidify the domestic front ahead of the release of President Donald Trumps peace plan in June.

Speaking to Al-Monitor, spokesman for the Brotherhood Muaz al-Khawaldeh praised the kings position on refusing to designate the group as a terrorist organization. He described the relationship between the palace and the group as mature, adding that it is anchored in democratic, civil, reformist values.

We dont care about the US stand. What we care about is the position of the political leadership in this country toward what is an intrinsic part of the national fabric, Khawaldeh said.

Writing in Addustour daily on May 2, Oraib al-Rantawi, a political analyst and the director of the Amman-based Al Quds Center for Political Studies, said that the US move will come at an inappropriate time for Jordan. The kingdom had resisted pressure in the past to ban the group and this led to a more moderate and reconciliatory attitude by the Muslim Brotherhood, he said.

He added, But now our strategic ally [the United States] is expected to exert additional pressure on us, as if the challenges embedded in the deal of the century are not enough for us to confront. We have to defend our exclusivity as Jordanians through mature and responsible internal dialogue."

Since the 1950s, the movement has been active in the kingdom, first as a charitable organization and in the 1990s through its political arm, the IAF. And for decades it had allied itself with the royal palace against pan-Arab nationalist waves, including that of late Egyptian President Gamal Abdel Nasser in the 1950s and 1960s, with whom it had clashed following the 1952 coup in Egypt that toppled the monarchy.

But that alliance had suffered following the resumption of political life in Jordan in 1989 as the IAF emerged as the largest and most organized bloc in Jordans parliament. The government responded in the mid-1990s by annulling the multi-vote system that had benefitted the movement and its candidates. The result had weakened the Islamist representation in parliament but not without fragmenting the power of other nascent political parties. Since then, the IAF had boycotted a number of polls in protest.

But ties between the Brotherhood and the royal court dipped further when the former Brotherhood supported popular protests calling for bold political reforms in the early months of the Arab Spring in 2011. Despite the breakdown in communication, the Islamists continued to make gains in local elections, including professional associations, municipal councils and university student councils.

But when in 2014, Saudi Arabia, Egypt and the United Arab Emirates banned the movement and designated it a terrorist organization, Jordan resisted pressures and refused to do the same.

It was not until the winter of 2015 that internal rifts began to surface inside the Muslim Brotherhood in the kingdom. A number of leading figures split from the group and applied for a new license under the name of the Muslim Brotherhood Society, which the government granted in 2015. That was followed by a shocking declaration in early 2015 by the government that the original group was never legally registered  something that the group had denied.

Between 2015 and 2016, the government appeared to side with the newly registered society against the old group. A number of the Muslim Brotherhood centers across the kingdom were shut down by the government and a legal battle ensued between the society and the group.

But although weakened by the splits, the September 2016 parliamentary elections proved decisive on where Jordanian voters stood. In the end, a coalition of IAF and nationalist members made important gains in the 130-seat Lower House. Its Islamist rivals did poorly. It was an important victory for the old group and their allies.

Since then tensions between the government and the Muslim Brotherhood had noticeably subsided. The geopolitical scene was changing. Trump had won a historic election in the United States. His pro-Israel stands ran directly opposite to Jordans national security interests. Abdullah needed to unite the domestic front ahead of the unveiling of Trumps deal of the century peace plan.

There has been no official reaction in Amman to the planned US move, but news reports spoke of a bipartisan pushback in Congress against it. Analysts here say that labeling the group as a terrorist organization, when there is no credible evidence for that, would damage ties between the United States and many of its allies where the group is legal such as Jordan, Turkey, Morocco and Qatar. Furthermore, it will certainly push many members to go underground and affiliate themselves with more radical Islamist groups  something that Jordan is keen to prevent.
Actress Alyssa Milano ignited social media with a tweet Friday night calling for women to join her in a sex strike to protest strict abortion bans passed by Republican-controlled legislatures.

The former star of "Charmed" and current cast member of "Insatiable," which is filmed in Georgia, urged women in her tweet to stop having sex "until we get bodily autonomy back." Her tweet came days after Georgia became the fourth state in the U.S. this year to ban abortions once a fetal heartbeat is detected, which can be as early as six weeks, before many women know they are pregnant.

Full coverage of Alabamas abortion debate

"We need to understand how dire the situation is across the country," Milano told The Associated Press on Saturday. "It's reminding people that we have control over our own bodies and how we use them."

She noted that women have historically withheld sex to protest or advocate for political reform. She cited how Iroquois women refused to have sex in the 1600s as a way to stop unregulated warfare. Most recently, she noted that Liberian women used a sex strike in 2003 to demand an end to a long-running civil war.

Milano received support from fans and fellow actress Bette Midler joined her in also calling for a sex strike with her own tweet. But both liberals and conservatives also lampooned her idea, with conservatives praising her for promoting abstinence and liberals saying she was pushing a false narrative that women only have sex as a favor to men.
Its been a rainy, soggy and sometimes stormy few days across Alabama.

Just how much did it rain?

NOAAs Weather Prediction Center offered up some preliminary rainfall totals from across the South on Sunday.

South Alabama, as expected, got the most rain in the state.

From 7 a.m. Tuesday through 9 a.m. Sunday, the Mobile Downtown Airport got 5.59 inches, tops in Alabama from the sites selected by the WPC.

Alabama rainfall totals will climb more in some areas thanks to more rain later Sunday morning and into the afternoon.

Other Alabama totals (in inches):

Wilmer (Mobile County): 5.14

Dannelly Field, Montgomery: 4.03

Birmingham: 3.86

Auburn-Opelika Airport: 3.72

Muscle Shoals Regional Airport: 2.82

Alexander City (10 miles southwest): 2.60

Mac Crenshaw Memorial Airport (Greenville/Butler County): 2.53

Evergreen/Middleton Field (Conecuh County): 2.40

Pryor Field (Decatur): 2.26

Tuscaloosa Municipal Airport: 1.65

Huntsville International Airport: 1.59

Some of the bigger totals across the South are:

Richmond, Texas: 14.26 inches

Perkinston, Miss.: 14.07 inches

Sugarland, Texas: 13.04 inches

Nearby Wiggins, Miss.: 12.89 inches

Denham Springs, La.: 10.22 inches

Brownfield, La.: 10.14 inches

See more rain totals from across the South here.

Alabama will finally get a chance to dry out starting later today and on Monday as a cold front sweeps out the last of the rain. That will set the stage for a few dry days before rain chances begin to creep up again midweek.
Four years ago, Baldwin County voters overwhelmingly refused higher property taxes that would have cost the typical homeowner $150 to $400 annually to pay for new schools.

Thats small change compared to what Baldwin commuters might be forking out in tolls to travel the Interstate 10 Bayway to reach jobs in Mobile: Their bill could easily run $2,500 or more a year.

The estimated $3 to $6 toll assessed to drivers along the future Bayway, a brand-new I-10 Bridge and the existing Wallace Tunnel, sent shockwaves around the fast-growing county this week. At a public hearing on the bridge project in Spanish Fort on Tuesday, opposition to the tolls dominated the meeting.

And the tolls are likely to roil local politics leading up to the 2020 election. Tea party activists are planning to advertise against the tolls soon, and business groups are already taking anxieties to city halls.

After all, in historically conservative Baldwin even the smallest tax increase proposals will run into swift and energetic opposition.

The politics of this toll bridge will be front and center in this next election, said Jonathan Gray, a longtime Republican political strategist based in Mobile who has worked on plenty of Baldwin County-related campaigns in the past.

He said, The fact were even having a logical conversation about this is mind-blowing to me. How did this get so far that it snuck up on everyone that the state of Alabama will levy a $2,500 tax on the residents of Alabama?

Not good news for anyone

The Alabama Department of Transportation has set a 5 p.m. May 23 deadline to receive public comment on the $2 billion Bayway and bridge project and the tolls to underpin it.

In the Eastern Shore area, home to thousands of workday commuters, city leaders reached last week by AL.com said they knew of no formal resolutions in the works to oppose the tolls or the project in general. But a good number of them said that some kind of expression of concern could be given to ALDOT ahead of May 23.

Our next scheduled meeting would be the 20th, so well see if they want to do anything, said Spanish Fort Mayor Mike McMillan, who worries that drivers trying to avoid tolls will jam the roads in his city as they travel the US. 98 Causeway to cross Mobile Bay.

Not long ago, Eastern Shore communities embraced the bridge-and-Bayway project, viewing it as the ultimate solution to bottlenecks plaguing present-day I-10, where the counts of motorists can soar past 100,000 in busy summer months.

But support has waned as the toll scenario unfolded. ALDOT maintains that tolls are the only viable source of funding, and points out that motorists would be charged only for how far that they travel along the projects 10-mile span, from Virginia Street in Mobile to U.S. 90/98 in Daphne. Also, the state is offering a 15% frequent user discount to those who travel the Bayway 20 times in a month.

But ALDOT is also well-aware that many drivers will try to maneuver around the tolls, thronging the free routes like the Causeway and Bankhead Tunnel, and the Cochrane-Africatown USA Bridge.

It will force employees to analyze where they live or work, and I think it will force companies to have to choose where they locate at regionally, said Lee Lawson, president and CEO of the Baldwin County Economic Development Alliance. That is not good for anyone.

Its going to be an issue

U.S. Rep. Bradley Byrne, R-Fairhope, who is running for the Senate in 2020, has repeatedly spoken of his opposition to tolls. But he also wants to keep the bridge-and-Bayway project moving quickly, and is pitching alternative funding sources such as oil and gas reserve revenues to help pay for the project. Thus far, ALDOT hasnt included those revenues as an actual option.

The input of local residents must be taken seriously in this process, as it is the local residents on both sides of the bay who will be most impacted, Byrne said in a statement.

Also opposing the tolls are the three GOP candidates who hope to fill Byrnes U.S. House seat: Mobile County Commissioner Jerry Carl, former state Sen. Bill Hightower and state Rep. Chris Pringle of Mobile.

Said Carl: I oppose efforts to toll our roads and bridges. They should be easily accessible and open to everyone. We need to find ways to cut government and use those savings to fund our infrastructure projects.

Said Hightower: Someone will have to work hard to convince me this is fair to our region and fair to the pocketbooks of Mobile and Baldwin.

Said Pringle: We passed a gas tax to provide money to build roads and bridges. An additional toll on the citizens of this area is too much to ask of them.

The gas tax, in fact, is starting to come up frequently in the toll debate. The Legislature passed the 10-cents-per-gallon tax earlier this year to fund the Rebuild Alabama package of statewide infrastructure improvements.

Among Baldwin and Mobile counties lawmakers, only state Sen. Vivian Figures, D-Mobile, voted against the gas tax increase.

Pringle and other coastal lawmakers supported the tax, largely due to the fact that it would supply $150 million to help support an enlargement of the Mobile Bay ship channel.

Gray, the GOP strategist, predicts that tolls will be the single issue framing the 1st District congressional race. Gray said he anticipates candidates also being scrutinized over their viewpoints on the gas tax increase. Hightower, in a March commentary published by AL.com, wrote of his objection to the higher gas tax.

On the toll question, state Sen. Chris Elliott, R-Daphne, is the only Baldwin lawmaker thus far to write to ALDOT to protest the tolling. Elliott, too, said the gas tax increase needs to be set aside for big road-building jobs like the I-10 Bridge and Bayway.

The increase in the gas tax has put additional funding into ALDOTs coffers and it should absolutely be used to pre-pay the public subsidy for this project, Elliott said.

Right now, ALDOT says thats not in the plans. Allison Gregg, ALDOT spokeswoman for the project, said that revenue from the gas tax increase will be directed statewide for maintenance and construction. She said that it wouldnt raise sufficient funding for major capacity projects such as I-10s reconstruction.

Gregg said the state hopes to receive $150 million from an Infrastructure for Rebuilding America (INFRA) discretionary grant for which it applied in February. She said ALDOT anticipates hearing about the grant later this year.

ALDOT is continuing to pursue all funding and financing options to deliver the project including federal grants and loans, and private activity bonds, she said.

Meanwhile, tea party activists are preparing to inundate radio shows with advertisements encouraging action by Republican U.S. Sen. Richard Shelby, chairman of the Senate Appropriations Committee, to help out Mobile and Baldwin counties.

Shelby has been having ongoing conversations with state and federal transportation officials about funding options. During a January trip to Mobile, Shelby vocalized support for the ship channel project but was more tepid toward I-10. He said the bridge and Bayway project would have to be funded out of a massive federal infrastructure bill, which has yet to materialize.

Lou Campomenosi, chairman of the Common Sense Campaign tea party in Baldwin County  which helped lead efforts to defeat the school tax referendum in 2015  said his group is especially curious as to why projects in other parts of the state, such as Birmingham and Huntsville, are being paid for by state funding without tolls.

Campomenosi, who predicts that some commuters could find themselves paying nearly $5,000 a year in Bayway travel costs, said that the tea party group plans on making tolls a campaign focal point in 2020. Its going to be an issue, he said.
Abortion legislation in Georgia and Alabama ascended in the news cycle this week, with Georgias governor signing a heartbeat bill into law on Tuesday and Alabamas Senate postponing until next week its vote on a near-total abortion ban.

The Georgia law will ban abortions after a doctor is able to detect "a fetal heartbeat in the womb," usually at about six weeks, before many women know they are pregnant. It was one of the nation's most stringent proposals until the all-out ban introduced in Alabama.

Full coverage of Alabamas abortion debate

Under the proposed Alabama bill, doctors would not be able to perform the procedure once a fetus is "in utero." That version caught national attention because the bill that passed in the House allowed for a single exception, in cases involving a serious health risk "to the unborn child's mother." Cases of rape and incest were not exempt as they are in other states.

The abortion bills are not simple.

"In Georgia, you have to go down a rabbit hole and have to be a lawyer to understand what you're reading," said Bonyen Lee-Gilmore, director of Planned Parenthood state media campaigns.

Since Tuesday, fear has spread, confusing further reporting on the bills. Information has been misconstrued, criminal penalties have been misstated, and social media platforms have morphed into prime false-narrative territory.

And while there has been much attention on the issue of bans on early-stage abortions, women who miscarry are not going to be sent to prison for life.

So, let's correct the record.

- - -

Abortion is not outlawed right now

Neither Alabama's proposed ban nor Georgia's abortion law is currently in effect.

The Georgia law is scheduled to become enforceable in 2020, though "everyone in America expects it will be challenged in court before then," said Mary Ziegler, professor at Florida State University College of Law and author of "After Roe: The Lost History of the Abortion Debate." "Courts may block it from being enforced even in 2020."

The bill introduced in Alabama was tabled on Thursday; because it was not passed, there is nothing to enforce. Other states, including Mississippi and Ohio, recently passed "heartbeat" laws. Neither state's law is currently in effect either.

State Rep. Terri Collins, R, who sponsored the hotly debated Alabama bill, reiterated during an interview on Friday with The Post that abortions are currently allowed in the state. The bill must pass through the Senate and then the governor must sign it. It will take an additional six months after that to go into effect.

Several states have signed abortion legislation into law, but any law that has moved through the courts has ultimately been blocked or struck down, Zeigler said. Iowa, North Dakota and Kentucky have seen related laws blocked.

"Women who are panicked should know they have time," said Alexa Kolbi-Molinas of the ACLU's Reproductive Freedom Project, and patients should not cancel their appointments.

Kolbi-Molinas was also confident that the ACLU would "be able to overturn these laws because they violate decades of Supreme Court laws."

"We've been inundated with calls from patients who think abortions are already illegal," said Staci Fox, president and CEO of Planned Parenthood Southeast. "They don't understand that we'll challenge this in court and it will likely be blocked."

What worries her more, though, are the patients who aren't calling. They need to know that "compassionate, nonjudgmental care is still legal."

- - -

Women in Alabama and Georgia will not be criminalized

Unlike other states - which have passed limited abortion bills such as bans on the types of abortion procedure and gestational age of the fetus - Alabama's proposed bill is an all-out ban on abortion.

"This bill is very simple," said Collins. "It's not about birth control or the morning after the pill. It's about not allowing abortion once the woman is pregnant. The entire bill was designed to overturn [Roe v. Wade] and allow states to decide what is best for them."

However, the bill explicitly states that women are exempt from criminal and civil liability, a tenet that Alabama lawmakers have repeatedly reinforced.

"In my bill, women would not under any circumstances face jail time if they got an abortion," Collins said. Instead, the law targets doctors, who can be prosecuted for performing an abortion, a felony punishable by up to 99 years imprisonment.

Carol Sanger, professor at Columbia Law School, said such penalties on doctors were "just another way to make women frightened" and create "more disincentives for physicians and residents to take up this practice."

The Georgia law is more complex.

Like Alabama, it explicitly states that doctors who perform abortions will be prosecuted. It is clear about those penalties. The bill is more vague about the prosecution (or non-prosecution) of women.

On Tuesday, Slate published an article with a not-entirely-accurate headline: "Georgia just criminalized abortion. Women who terminate their pregnancies would receive life in prison."

It suggested that under the Georgia law, women who terminate their pregnancies would be prosecuted and sentenced to either life in prison or death.

That is incorrect.

"The news headlines and social media headlines that speculate about the bills' unintended consequences are - at the very least - not productive. At most, they're harmful," Planned Parenthood's Staci Fox told The Post on Friday.

HB 481 could not be used to successfully prosecute women, she argued. But if a woman had a miscarriage, she could be pulled into an investigation looking at whether someone performed an illegal abortion on her.

"You don't want a woman to be forced to prove how she lost her baby," said Sanger.

Georgia's law does not unequivocally say that women are exempt, but legal experts point to other areas of Georgia's penal code which have specific defenses for women, including those who miscarry.

- - -

A Roe v. Wade challenge is the goal

In Roe v. Wade, the Supreme Court decided that the right to privacy and liberty was broad enough to encompass a woman's choice to continue her pregnancy with consulting with her doctor.

"In addition to giving women the right to choose whether to terminate a pregnant, the court also said that right is not absolute and there are certain rules that govern how long that right lasts," Sanger explained. To do that, it looks to trimesters and viability, ignoring that reason a woman chose to have an abortion.

The recent spate of abortion bills that try to ban abortion early into pregnancy focus on duration - some states picked 16 weeks, others (like Georgia) are down to six. Alabama took it one step further. Under the new legislation, the state has said all it requires is pregnancy.

"By making the fetus a person, it's an end run around Roe," she said. "Once you determine a fetus is a person, you can't kill."

For Collins, the Alabama state representative, the bill's true purpose is to trigger litigation that would force the U.S. Supreme Court to reconsider Roe v. Wade.

"My point on keeping an amendment about rape or incest out of this bill is that Roe v. Wade does not mention that issue and I want this bill to focus on the reasoning used in the Roe v. Wade decision, 'Is the baby in the womb a person?' Any amendment would contradict that point."

Even in Alabama, it seems, there's still a dispute over why a woman should be able to have an abortion.

"That's what Roe is all about - no one should be able to decide why a woman should have an abortion," Sanger said.

The Supreme Court decides which cases it wants to hear, and legal experts believe there are some things to suggest the court would not take one of the length-of-pregnancy ban cases.

The justices prefer taking cases that are disputed in jurisdictions across the country, according to Sanger. They want uniformity across the states, and since no state has upheld the durational requirements, there has not yet been a split circuit.

The antiabortion legal and political community seems confident it has the votes to overrule Roe.

"They're saying, 'We dare you to take us to court because we think we'll win,'" Collins said, but there are rules that govern when it's appropriate for the Supreme Court to overturn a case.

According to a doctrine known as stare decisis, judges are bound by precedent. They cannot overturn a case simply because new justices have joined the court.

Sanger explained, We want the law to have more durability than that. We want it to be more stable and not change when a new administration comes in.
A Mobile woman died in a Mississippi crash on Friday night, according to news reports.

The crash happened at approximately 9:15 p.m. that night on Highway 98 eastbound in George County, according to a Mississippi Highway Patrol news release obtained by WKRG.

The station reported that Betty Jean Chestnut was driving a 2012 Lincoln MKT westbound in the eastbound lane of Highway 98. She then collided head-on with an eastbound 2009 silver Honda Civic, driven by a Lucedale man.

Chestnut, 88 and of Mobile, was pronounced dead on the scene. The station reported that she was not using a seat belt.

The Civics driver and passenger were taken to nearby hospitals with life-threatening injuries, and reports said they were both using seat belts.

Highway patrol officers are still investigating the crash.
As activist arrested for posters of Virgin Mary with a rainbow halo, experts fear crisis of democratic values.

Warsaw, Poland  Last month, in the central Polish city of Plock, artist and activist Elzbieta Podlesna put up posters of the Virgin Mary against a rainbow-coloured halo, symbolising the LGBT flag.

Featuring the Black Madonna  a venerated painting housed at the Jasna Gora monastery in Czestochowa  Polands interior minister Joachim Brudzinski called the images cultural barbarism.

Last week, police held and questioned Podlesna over the stunt.

Elzbieta now faces up to two years in prison if found guilty under these absurd charges, said Amnesty International. She is being put through several legal proceedings and this is just another example of the constant harassment she faces simply for carrying out her peaceful activism.

The LBGT community has featured strongly in Polands political debate ahead of the European Parliament elections, expected to take place between May 23 and 26, and with parliamentary elections scheduled for later this year.

The ruling Law and Justice (PiS) party, led by Jaroslaw Kaczynski, has campaigned on the protection of the Polish family and national values against its pro-European opponents, the centrist European Coalition. Polls put the two parties neck and neck.

We are dealing with a direct attack on the family and children  the sexualisation of children, that entire LGBT movement, gender, Kaczynski told supporters in April. This is imported, but they today actually threaten our identity, our nation, its continuation and therefore the Polish state.

Rising attacks

In 2017, Podlesna, 52, was one of 14 women attacked by far-right protesters during an Independence Day March in Warsaw, amid chants such as Europe will be white or deserted.

According to the Campaign Against Homophobia, 12 percent of people who do not identify as heterosexual are victims of physical violence in Poland, while around half say they have been subjected to mental abuse. Ninety percent of incidents go unreported, according to the survey.

The government downplays hate crime and in 2016, an anti-discrimination council was abolished. The body, part of the interior ministry, had been responsible for monitoring hate crime among other tasks.

The LGBT community is excluded from hate crime legislation and police treat crimes motivated by the victims sexual orientation as ordinary crimes.

The LGBT flag, meanwhile, has become the symbol of the struggle for liberal democracy in Poland.

The rainbow is not offensive, hatred is offensive, a protester shouted at a solidarity demonstration in central Warsaw, after Podlesnas arrest.

About 300 people gathered around a giant rainbow flag, many holding copies of the incriminated picture.

A very important social activist in Poland was arrested for an absurd thing, Piotr Laskowski, a professor at the University of Warsaw, told Al Jazeera, which was of course a [protest] against the institutional homophobia of the Polish Catholic church, or the Catholic church as a whole.

This kind of political and police repression is of course intolerable and has to be opposed. What they want to do is to intimidate people.

Protesters rally in central Warsaw following the arrest of Podlesna [Ylenia Gostoli/Al Jazeera]

Sociologist Rafal Pankowski said Podlesnas arrest illustrates a broader trend.

Political campaigns became focused on the construction of the enemy image. The groups that are targeted may change, but the mechanism is quite similar, and not very subtle, Pankovski, who runs an anti-racist organisation, Never Again, told Al Jazeera.

In 2015 it was the refugees, despite the fact that the so-called refugee crisis did not affect Poland in any meaningful way, Pankovski said.

PiS won Polands last general election with a landslide in 2015, at the height of the refugee crisis.

It was framed in a very negative way as a threat to Polish identity. What we had during that campaign was different far-right groups competing with each other about who would be more anti-Muslim or anti-refugee, Pankovski said.

He fears Poland is going through an identity crisis that could reverberate through the rest of Europe, combined with the strong influence of the Polish Catholic church in political life.

We are witnessing a very real crisis of democratic values that can have repercussions in the long-term, he said.

There is a price for coming out

PiS leader Kaczynski is Eurosceptic, but his message is hard to sell  most Poles believe being part of the European Union has been good for the country.

To that end, alongside other European right-wing and far-right populist movements, even against the backdrop of Brexit, he has adapted his message to focus on protecting national sovereignty and identity, rather than advocating for leaving the EU.

According to LGBT activist Hubert Sobecki, co-president of Love Does Not Exclude, which campaigns for equal marriage rights, rising discrimination has altered how the community organises.

The Pride season has started, he said. There used to be a couple of Pride marches in Poland. Very small, always surrounded by police.

Right now this is changing. People from small towns are self-organising, and that is a completely new thing.

This is a country dominated by political inertia and by the church, Sobecki, continued. There is very little room for [action] for us. But there is very positive social change going on.

One example of that change is Robert Biedron, Polands first openly gay MP.

Biedron founded a new party, Wiosna (spring), in February which has attracted young, liberal left-leaning voters. It currently polls around 10 percent.

Politicians including the leader of the ruling PiS party have slammed the LGBT movement [Ylenia Gostoli/Al Jazeera]

In another positive development in the same month, Warsaws mayor Rafal Trzaskowski signed an anti-discrimination declaration pledging support for the citys LGBT community. The move led to a debate around the issue of sexual education in schools, one of the points in the declaration.

Spin doctors took care of it and it was presented as deviants wanting to teach masturbation at school, Sobecki said.

However, he believes that this exposure had a positive impact on the LGBT community; it mobilised the mainstream opposition in support of LGBT rights, where in the past they had preferred skirting around the issue to avoid upsetting more conservative voters.

It became impossible for them to again try to [avoid] the topic, Sobecki said, adding that his organisation, which is funded by the EU as well as private and corporate donors, helped write three drafts of a bill on same-sex partnerships.

According to a 2017 survey by CBOS, more than 50 percent of Poles think homosexuality is not normal but can be tolerated, while 25 percent believe it should not be tolerated at all.

Even so, an increasing number of people have been coming out in Poland in recent years, in some cases helping shift attitudes at the personal level.

But of course there is a price for coming out, Sobecki said, and one of the costs of this gesture is to become exposed to hate.
War of words intensifies but former US admiral doesnt expect the situation to escalate despite the media hype.

The United Statess military presence in the Gulf used to be a serious threat but now represented a target and opportunity, a senior Iranian Revolutionary Guard commander said, raising the rhetoric as US forces head towards the region.

A former top US defence official, meanwhile, warned on Sunday of a real risk of a miscalculation between the two sides as the war of words intensifies.

The US military has deployed forces, including an aircraft carrier and B-52 bombers, to the Middle East in a move US officials said was to counter clear indications of threats from Iran to its troops in the region.

The USS Abraham Lincoln is replacing another carrier rotated out of the Gulf last month.

An aircraft carrier that has at least 40 to 50 planes on it and 6,000 forces gathered within it was a serious threat for us in the past. But now it is a target and the threats have switched to opportunities, said Amir Ali Hajizadeh, head of the Revolutionary Guards air force

If [the Americans] make a move, we will hit them in the head, he added, according to the Iranian Students News Agency (ISNA).

Speaking to CNBC in an interview which was slated to be broadcast on Monday, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said the military deployments came in response to intelligence about potential Iranian attacks and aimed both to deter them and to be able to respond if necessary.

Weve seen this reporting, Pompeo said. Its real. It appears to be something that is current, that is things were worried about today.

In the event that Iran decided to come after an American interest  whether that be in Iraq or Afghanistan or Yemen or any place in the Middle East  we are prepared to respond in an appropriate way, he said, adding our aim is not war.





Psychological war

William Fallon, former commander of the US Central Command, told Al Jazeera he did not expect the situation between Iran and the US to escalate despite the media hype.

Fallon said tensions between Tehran and Washington had been ongoing for decades and he saw no serious outcome despite the recent heated rhetoric from both sides.

Ridiculous reporting was exaggerating the situation in the Gulf when in fact it was the same scenario militarily as it had been for years between the archrivals, he noted.

The US has been coming in and out of the Gulf for decades and is committed to open, clear and free passage of ships in the Gulf, said Fallon.

Irans parliament held a closed session on Sunday to discuss the developments in the Gulf.

Heshmatollah Falahatpisheh, who heads the influential parliamentary committee on national security and foreign policy, told the official IRNA news agency Iran wasnt looking to deepen the crisis.

He said the US position would weaken with time, and there were currently no grounds for negotiations with Washington.

Major-General Hossein Salami, appointed head of the Revolutionary Guard last month, told parliament the United States had started a psychological war.

Commander Salami, with attention to the situation in the region, presented an analysis that the Americans have started a psychological war because the comings and goings of their military is a normal matter, his spokesman Behrouz Nemati said.





Unforeseen consequences

Robert Gates, former US defence secretary, told CBS News a miscalculation by military forces in the Gulf was a very real risk right now.

Gates said a conflict between the US and Iran would have tremendous unforeseen consequences in the Middle East that would be very, very dangerous.

The United Arab Emirates said four commercial ships were subjected to sabotage operations on Sunday, but didnt identify who was responsible.

The incident in the Gulf of Oman came as the US warned ships that Iran or its proxies could be targeting maritime traffic in the region.

Israeli Energy Minister Yuval Steinitz said things are heating up in the Gulf.

If theres some sort of conflagration between Iran and the United States, between Iran and its neighbours, Im not ruling out that they will activate Hezbollah and Islamic Jihad from Gaza, or even that they will try to fire missiles from Iran at the state of Israel, Steinitz, a member of the security cabinet, told Israels Ynet TV.

Al Jazeeras Ali Younes contributed to this report
Le Soir investigation shows Riyadh used Belgian arms and technology in operations against Houthi rebels in Yemen.

Belgian leaders are mulling the suspension of arms sales to Saudi Arabia, national broadcaster RTBF has said, after it was reported they had been used in Yemen.

Foreign Minister Didier Reynders told RTBF on Saturday: I think it would be good to suspend arms deliveries to Saudi Arabia if it were shown they had been used in an ongoing conflict, such as in Yemen, in which case, he said the regional Walloon Government must take that decision.

Belgiums constitution places responsibility for such decisions on the producer region, in this case Wallonia, which owns the arms manufacturer FN Herstal.

Regional president Willy Borsus told RTBF it could go as far as suspending existing arms export licences if conditions under which they were granted had been violated.

Belgian newspaper Le Soir said on Wednesday an investigation showed Riyadh had used Belgian arms and technology in operations against Houthi rebels in Yemen, where more than four years of fighting has killed tens of thousands of people, relief agencies say.

The fighting has triggered what the United Nations describes as the worlds 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.

The issue of Saudi arms sales divides European governments, with French President Emmanuel Macron defending such sales on Thursday as part of the fight against terrorism.

Germany, however, suspended arms sales to Riyadh after the killing last year of Saudi dissident Jamal Khashoggi in Istanbul, posing a problem for European partners because it can affect weapons produced jointly.

A diplomatic source said the issue would be discussed on Monday by EU foreign ministers in Brussels, because Saudi Arabia is also backing Libyan rebel commander Khalifa Haftar in his bid to overthrow a government in Tripoli that is recognised by the EU.

The EU has committed to enforcing a UN arms embargo in Libya.
In Benin, protesters are still demanding the president resign after days of violent demonstrations.

The opposition in the West African country of Benin is refusing to accept Aprils parliamentary election results.

Members of parliament are now calling for President Patrice Talon to resign after days of violent protests.

Al Jazeeras Nicolas Haque reports from Cotonou.
Countries failing to live up to commitments under the 2016 Paris agreement to keep global temperature rise at bay.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said the political will to fight climate change has faded at the same time as it is getting worse for those feeling its effects.

Guterres made the comments after arriving in New Zealand on Sunday where addressed the media alongside Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern in Auckland. Guterres plans to spend three days there as part of a trip to the South Pacific to highlight climate changes global threat.

Climate change is running faster than what we are  The last four years have been the hottest registered, Guterres said.

Countries are not living up to their commitments under the 2016 Paris Agreement to keep the global temperature rise to below two degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, he said.

We are not on track to achieve the objectives defined in the Paris Agreement, and the paradox is that as things are getting worse on the ground, political will seems to be fading, he added.

A string of apocalyptic reports on the state of the planet is bringing home the need for concrete steps to tackle climate change and environmental catastrophe.

One million species are on the brink of extinction. Carbon dioxide emissions continue to rise, pushing targets from the Paris accord further out of reach.

Guterres commended Ardern for introducing an ambitious bill last week aiming to make New Zealand mostly carbon neutral by 2050 while giving some leeway to farmers.

A turning point?

He noted that Pacific Island nations are on the front line of climate change.

We cannot allow for runaway climate change, he said. We need to protect the lives of our people and we need to protect our planet.

Guterres trip comes ahead of the Climate Action Summit he plans to convene in September in New York City.

In Fiji, Tuvalu and Vanuatu, Guterres will meet with families whose lives have been upended by cyclones, flooding and other extreme weather events.

Pacific island countries face an especially dire risk from climate change because of sea level rise. In some cases, low-lying countries could disappear completely.

Fiji is working to build a coalition of more than 90 countries from the Caribbean, Africa and Asia facing the climate crisis.

We hope that the secretary-general will draw far more inspiration from his first visit to go further, faster and deeper with the climate summit, said Fijis UN Ambassador Satyendra Prasad. We are very hopeful that the climate summit will mark a turning point.

Gross negligence

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Ardern, speaking at the joint press conference in Auckland, called climate change the biggest challenge facing the global community and said it would be gross negligence to avoid the issue.

But the United Nations push on climate change is shaping up amid geopolitical shifts: the United States under President Donald Trump pulled out of the Paris Agreement, giving China more space to assert its views.

Trump announced in 2017 the US would exit the landmark Paris deal, but under its terms the withdrawal will only become effective in 2020.

The US administration is not taking part in summit preparations but has not said it will skip the event, according to UN officials.

Guterres mission may also be further complicated by Trumps nomination of Kelly Knight Craft as UN ambassador.

Craft, who is married to a major coal magnate, raised eyebrows for declaring that she believed both sides of climate science, indicating she may well be out of sync with the UN on the issue.

The summit is seen as critical because of US resistance to discussing climate change at other forums, including the G7 and G20, and again last week at a meeting of the Arctic Council in Finland.

What people are looking for is countries to commit to major ambition increases in 2025 and 2030 at the summit or in 2020, said Nick Mabey, head of the E3G climate think-tank.

This should include legally binding targets for countries to phase out coal, become climate neutral, and invest in climate resilience, especially for the poorest countries, he added.
Colombia launched a large anti-narcotics operation, going after poor coca-plant farmers and drug traffickers.

Colombian police are running one of the largest campaigns against drugs in recent years as they try to curtail cocaine trafficking.

United Nations estimates suggest Colombia is producing more cocaine than ever before.

As Al Jazeeras Alessandro Rampietti reports from Tumaco, the situation is angering US President Donald Trump.
Houthi forces are handing over control of the ports of Hodeidah, Saleef, and Ras Isa to the Yemeni coastguard.

The United Nations has said the first full day of the Houthi withdrawal from three of Yemens Red Sea ports went in accordance with established plans, while an official from the internationally recognised government said there was deception.

The Houthis began the long-delayed pull out of their forces from the key port of Hodeidah, as well as the two smaller ports of Saleef and Ras Isa, on Saturday as part of a ceasefire deal reached in Sweden in December.

All three ports were monitored simultaneously by UN teams as the military forces left the ports and the coastguard took over responsibility for security, former Danish Lieutenant General Michael Lollesgaard, head of the UNs Redeployment Coordination Committee (RCC), said in a statement on Sunday.

The Houthi move is seen as a key first step towards ending the civil war, which erupted in 2014 when the Houthis seized the capital, Sanaa.

Activities in the following days are expected to focus on removal of military manifestations and de-mining, the UN statement said.

Faking the pullout

Yemens information minister accused the rebels of faking the pullout.

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What the Houthi militia did is a repeated theatrical play of handing over control of the port to its own forces (in different uniforms), Moammar al-Eryani tweeted on Sunday.

The ports are used for grain, oil, commerce and aid, with Hodeidah handling 70 percent of the countrys food imports and humanitarian relief.

Security concerns prevented the UN for months from accessing 51,000 tonnes of wheat in silos near Hodeidah that could feed millions in the impoverished country. The team regained access on May 5.

The war in Yemen has been at a stalemate for years, with the Saudi-UAE-led coalition and Yemeni forces unable to dislodge the Iranian-aligned Houthi rebels from the capital, Sanaa, and other urban centres.

The peace deal agreed in December has been at a standstill for months.

Houthis began the long-delayed withdrawal from three ports as part of a ceasefire deal reached in Sweden in December. [Abduljabbar Zeyad/Reuters]

The (Sweden) agreement is very difficult to execute because the lines are blurry and each side interprets it the way it wants to, Farea al-Muslimi, a visiting fellow at the London-based think-tank Chatham House told the AFP news agency.

Overall, the next two weeks will show if this is a handover or a yet another hangover, he said.

Under the plan, the Houthis are to pull back five kilometres from the ports between May 11 and 14. Coalition forces, currently massed four kilometres from Hodeidah port on the edges of the city, are to retreat one kilometres from two flashpoint districts.

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Security Council meeting

Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, leaders of the coalition backing President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadis government, have so far not commented on the Houthi ports withdrawal.

UN monitors will verify the Houthi withdrawal on Tuesday.

Saeed Thabet a Yemen political analyst based in Doha said the redeployment appeared to be going smoothly because both sides of the conflict were trying to buy more time to reposition themselves on new front lines.

In addition, both sides are eager to show their commitment to work with the UN especially as the UN Security Council is scheduled to meet this week to discuss progress in Yemen, he told Al Jazeera.

Yemens conflict has killed tens of thousands of people, many of them civilians, relief agencies say.

The fighting has triggered what the UN describes as the worlds worst humanitarian crisis, with 24.1 million  more than two-thirds of the population  in need of aid.

The Houthi withdrawal represents apotential breakthrough, Adam Baron, a Yemen expert at the European Council on Foreign Relations think-tank told AFP.

He said he was not how significant it can truly be because of lack of trust between the parties.

[It] only signals progress on one part of the deal and one aspect of the conflict. Its key to remember that Yemen is not Hodeidah and even amidst the relative calming there, the conflict continues to burn.
More than 100 million people across seven states were eligible to vote in the sixth phase of the 39-day poll.

Voters in Delhi and elsewhere in Indias north have cast their ballots in the second last round of a seven-phase general election, with the opposition seeking a united stand to deny Prime Minister Narendra Modi a second term.

More than 100 million people across seven states were eligible to vote in the sixth phase of the poll. The election began on April 11 and will end on May 19. Votes will be counted on May 23.

Voter turnout overall was 63.3 percent, according to the election commission. In Delhi, it was 59.1 percent, down from 65.1 percent in 2014, broadcaster NDTV said.

Sundays voting in 59 constituencies, including seven in the Indian capital, completes polling for 483 of 543 seats in the lower house of parliament. The voting for the remaining 60 seats will be held next Sunday.

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Turnout in the first five phases averaged 67 percent, nearly the same as in 2014 elections that brought Modi to power.

Opinion polls say the Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) continues to be the frontrunner, but it is likely to return with fewer than the 282 seats it won in 2014.

The BJP captured 31 percent of votes in 2014, but it won more than half the seats to wrest power from the Congress party in a first-past-the-post electoral system in which a candidate who receives the most votes wins.

Lok Sabha Election 2019: Total 59.70% voting till 6 pm in #Phase6. West Bengal- 80.13, Delhi-55.44, Haryana- 62.14, Uttar Pradesh- 50.82, Bihar- 55.04, Jharkhand- 64.46, Madhya Pradesh- 60.12 pic.twitter.com/UOOe6V9by4  ANI (@ANI) May 12, 2019

Referendum on Modi rule

Modi is running his campaign like a presidential race, a referendum on his five years of rule with claims of helping the poorest with benefits, free healthcare, providing toilets in homes and giving women free or cheap cooking gas cylinders.

At the same time, he is banking on stirring Hindu nationalism by accusing the Congress party of being soft on nuclear rival Pakistan, pandering to minority Muslims for votes and indulging Kashmiri separatists.

Opposition parties accuse Modi of digressing from the main issues affecting nearly 70 percent of the population living in villages and small towns.

The opposition is challenging him over Indias 6.1 percent unemployment rate  the highest in decades  and the economic difficulties of farmers hurt by low crop prices that have led many to take their own lives.

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Opposition officials have also alleged corruption in a deal for India to purchase French fighter jets.

Rahul Gandhi, 48-year-old scion of the Nehru-Gandhi family and the Congress party president, has accused Modi of buying 36 French Rafale fighters jets at an exorbitant price, and helping a private industrialist by promoting him as an offset partner of Dassault, the aircraft manufacturer.

It was a good fight, Gandhi said after he cast his vote. Narendra Modi used hatred, we used love. And I think love is going to win.

Visuals of voters from outside a polling booth in Mayur Vihar Phase-3 (East Delhi Constituency). #LokSabhaElections2019 #Phase6 pic.twitter.com/4XwPuwxwNr  ANI (@ANI) May 12, 2019

Indias opposition parties have recently taken heart at what they see as signs the BJP is losing ground and have begun negotiations over a post-election alliance even before polling ends on May 19.

Some voters in Delhi said they were backing Modi because they were won over by his tough stand on security.

I have voted for Modis sound foreign policy and national security, a 36-year old first-time voter who declined to be identified told Reuters news agency.

Nilanjan Mukhopadhyay, a political commentator and Modis biographer, calls the Hindu nationalist leader the most visible prime minister.

But he adds: There could be an element of fatigue also. People at the end of it are looking at their bottom line. I think the issues of employment and rural distress are very important.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi shows his ink-marked finger after casting his vote at a polling station in New Delhi [Adnan Abidi/Reuters]

Personal attacks

Political analysts say that state-based and caste-driven parties could be decisive in determining the make-up of the next government, as a lack of new jobs and weak farm prices have hurt the BJP.

Regional parties will play a bigger role compared to the previous five years or even 15 years, said KC Suri, a political science professor at the University of Hyderabad. They will regain their importance in national politics.

Recent weeks have also been marked by personal attacks between leaders, including comments from Modi about the family of Rahul Gandhi.

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At a recent rally Modi called Gandhis late father, former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, Corrupt No. 1. The BJP says Modi was reacting to Rahul Gandhi calling him a thief.

The political vitriol has become intense, and negatively intense, said Ashok Acharya, a political science professor at the University of Delhi.

It seems as if this particular election is all about a few political personalities. It is not about issues, any kind of an agenda.
ISIL claims to establish province in India following clash between rebels and security forces in disputed Kashmir.

The Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL, also known as ISIS) has claimed for the first time that it has established a province in India, a claim that police in India-administered Kashmir have described as pure propaganda.

The ISIL claim followed a clash between armed rebels and security forces in the disputed Kashmir region in which a fighter with alleged ties to the group was killed on Friday.

Late on Friday, ISILs Amaq News Agency said in a statement that it called the new province Wilayah of Hind, and also claimed the group inflicted casualties on Indian army soldiers in the town of Amshipora in India-administered Kashmirs Shopian district.

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The ISIL statement corresponded with an Indian police statement on Friday that an armed rebel called Ishfaq Ahmad Sofi was killed in an encounter in Shopian, Reuters news agency reported on Saturday.

This is pure propaganda. The militancy part of the ISIL is over in Kashmir completely. However, the ideological inclination is there to some extent, a senior police official in India-administered Kashmir told Al Jazeera on condition of anonymity.

The police officer added that Sofi was the last ISIL fighter in Kashmir. One more was there but he joined another armed group, he said.

Rita Katz, director of the SITE Intel Group that tracks armed fighters, told Reuters that the ISIL claim should not be written off.

The establishment of a province in a region where it has nothing resembling actual governance is absurd, but it should not be written off, said Katz.

The world may roll its eyes at these developments, but to jihadists in these vulnerable regions, these are significant gestures to help lay the groundwork in rebuilding the map of the ISIL caliphate.

Claim to bolster standing?

ISILs statement establishing the new province appeared to be designed to bolster its standing after the group was driven from its self-styled caliphate in Iraq and Syria in April, where at one point it controlled thousands of miles of territory.

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ISIL has stepped up hit-and-run raids and suicide attacks, including taking responsibility for the Easter Sunday bombings in Sri Lanka that killed at least 253 people.

Sofi had been involved in several rebel groups in Kashmir for more than a decade before pledging allegiance to ISIL, according to a military official and an interview given by Sofi to a Srinagar-based magazine sympathetic to ISIL, Reuters said.

He was suspected of several grenade attacks on security forces in the region, police and military sources said. It was a clean operation and no collateral damage took place during the exchange of fire, a police spokesman said in the statement on Fridays encounter.

The military official said it was possible that Sofi was the only fighter left in Kashmir associated with ISIL.

Separatists have for decades fought an armed conflict against Indian rule in Muslim-majority Kashmir. The majority of these groups want independence for Kashmir or to join Indias archrival Pakistan.

They have not, like ISIL, sought to establish an empire across the Muslim world.

Nuclear powers India and Pakistan have fought two wars over Kashmir, and came closer to the brink of a third earlier this year after a suicide attack by a Pakistan-based group killed at least 40 paramilitary police in the Indian-administered portion of the Himalayan territory.

A spokesman for Indias home ministry, which is responsible for security in India-administered Kashmir, did not respond to a request for comment, Reuters said.

Additional reporting by Rifat Fareed from Srinagar, India-administered Kashmir
Former Maronite patriarch Nasrallah Boutros Sfeir was a respected power broker during 1975-1990 civil war in Lebanon.

Lebanons former Maronite patriarch Nasrallah Boutros Sfeir, who wielded considerable political influence during the countrys civil war and was an ardent advocate of a Syrian troop withdrawal, died on Sunday, the Maronite church said.

Sfeir, who was about to turn 99 on May 15, died at 3:00am (01:00 GMT) after days of intensive medical care, a statement by the church said.

The church is orphaned and Lebanon is in sadness, the statement said.

Sfeir became the leader of the church in 1986 until he resigned in 2011 due to his declining health, and held the title 76th Patriarch of Antioch and the Whole Levant.

He was a respected power broker during the 1975-1990 civil war, which saw bitter infighting between rival militias including opposing Christian factions.

Sfeir was made a cardinal by Pope John Paul II in 1994.

Born in 1920 in Rayfoun, a village in Lebanons Keserwan mountains, Sfeir studied theology and philosophy but was never shy to delve into Lebanons tumultuous politics.

His backing of the 1989 Taif agreement that brought the 15-year civil war to an end bolstered Christian support for the accord, but reduced the powers of the presidency  a seat reserved for Lebanons Maronite Christians under the countrys confessional power-sharing agreement.

Maronite Christians made up the most powerful single community prior to Lebanons 1975-1990 civil war, but their influence has since waned as they have been outnumbered by Shia Muslims in the multi-sectarian country.

Sfeir also spearheaded the opposition to Syrias three decades of military and political domination over Lebanon.

His biggest struggle was to end the Syrian presence in Lebanon, which we all thought was impossible because of the divisions in Lebanon, his biographer Antoine Saad told AFP news agency.

But he worked on it steadily, objectively, meticulously and quietly, he said.

Sfeir refused to visit Syria during his time as patriarch, even when John Paul II made a trip to the country in 2001.

His outspokenness helped swell the anti-Syria movement in 2000.

It eventually lead to the withdrawal of thousands of Syrian troops from the country five years later, following the assassination of former Prime Minister Rafik Hariri, whose murder the opposition blamed on Damascus.

Sfeirs opinion and advice continued to be sought by politicians of all stripes, not only Christians, after he stepped down.

He was completely against war, Saad said of the cleric who enjoyed hiking in nature until his late years.

His loss cant be compensated for.

Cardinal Bechara Rai, who succeed Sfeir in 2011, called on churches to ring their bells and hold prayers for the late leader.
Attack on soldiers took place in town of Gajiganna in northeastern Borno state on Friday, groups news agency claims.

ISIL fighters killed 11 Nigerian soldiers in an attack on the northeastern town of Gajiganna, the group has claimed through its news agency AMAQ.

The armed group said on Saturday the attack on the soldiers took place in the town in northeastern Borno state on Friday. It published pictures of burned barracks and dead bodies it claimed belonged to the soldiers.

Three sources, including one hospital source, confirmed the attack to the Reuters news agency. The sources said the fighters stormed the town on a motorbike at roughly 6:30pm (17:30 GMT) and opened fire on residents and the military in sporadic shootings.

The fighters fled after the military called in air force support and reinforcements from a battalion in a neighbouring town.





Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), an affiliate of the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL, or ISIS) has carried out a string of attacks in Nigeria in recent months.

The group split in 2016 from Nigeria-based Boko Haram, which has waged a decade-long insurgency in northeast Nigeria that has killed some 30,000 people and displaced a further two million.
Three attackers storm Pearl Continental Hotel in port city, planting bombs and disabling cameras before being killed.

Islamabad, Pakistan  Gunmen have stormed a five-star hotel in Pakistans port city of Gwadar, killing four hotel workers and Navy soldier, the military has said.

In a statement, Pakistans military said three armed men killed a security guard as they attempted to enter the Pearl Continental hotel on Saturday in the southern city.

Five people were killed, and there were six wounded, Abdul Latif, the chief of Gwadars main government hospital, told Al Jazeera by telephone.

All five bodies had been moved to Karachi, the countrys largest city, he said. One of the wounded was in a critical condition, while the other five were out of danger.

Indiscriminate firing

The military said the attackers came into the hotel to kill hotel guests or take them hostage.

In a statement, it said a security guard challenged the gunmen in the main hall of the hotel, and they headed to the staircase, firing indiscriminately, killing the guard and three other hotel employees.

When quick reaction forces from the army, navy and police arrived, they evacuated guests and staff and trapped the fighters on the fourth floor of the hotel.

The attackers had disabled CCTV cameras and planted bombs at entry points to the floor, the military said.

The Pakistani security forces made special entry points to get onto the fourth floor and exchanged fire with the fighters, killing all three. A navy soldier was also killed, with two army captains and two Pakistani navy soldiers injured. Two hotel employees were also injured in the incident.

According to the military, all guests at the hotel, which has 114 rooms, were safely evacuated.

The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), an ethnic Baloch separatist group fighting for independence for Balochistan province, claimed responsibility for the attack, saying that four fighters were involved.

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Our fighters have carried out this attack on Chinese and other foreign investors who were staying in PC hotel, said Jihand Baloch, a BLA spokesperson, in a statement emailed to Al Jazeera.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan condemned the attack in a statement on Sunday and thanked security forces for foiling greater loss to human lives.

Such attempts, especially in Balochistan, are an effort to sabotage our economic projects and prosperity, Khan said. We shall not allow these agendas to succeed.

Massive investment

Gwadar is the site of a major port built as the culmination of the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a trade corridor that links southwestern China to the Arabian Sea through Pakistan.

The $60bn CPEC project has seen massive investment in infrastructure across Pakistan, including major roads and the Gwadar port in Balochistan province.

Recent days have seen an uptick in violence in the province, with ethnic Baloch separatist groups ramping up attacks against security forces and civilians.

On Thursday, at least five people were killed when BLA gunmen attacked a coal mine in the Harnai district of Balochistan.

The BLA and other armed groups have been fighting Pakistani security forces for more than a decade, demanding independence for the ethnic Baloch areas of Balochistan province, which they claim has been neglected by the Pakistani state and exploited for its mineral resources.

Balochistan, located in southwest Pakistan, is the countrys largest but least populated province, with rich deposits of natural gas, coal, metals and minerals.

Rights groups allege that Pakistani security forces have abducted hundreds of pro-freedom Baloch political activists and fighters in their fight to quell the rebellion.

Last month, an alliance of Baloch separatist groups ambushed a passenger bus en route from Gwadar to Karachi, Pakistans largest city, killing at least 14 people.

Asad Hashim, Al Jazeeras digital correspondent in Pakistan. He tweets @AsadHashim.

Additional reporting by Saadullah Akhtar in Quetta.
More than 61 million people are registered to vote with roughly 43,000 candidates vying for government posts.

Manila, Philippines  A national election of legislators and local executives may help strengthen Rodrigo Dutertes hold on power halfway through his controversial presidency.

More than 61 million Filipinos are registered to vote in Mondays midterm polls, with roughly 43,000 candidates vying for some 18,000 government posts.

The election of 12 senators for the 24-seat higher congressional chamber will be decisive. The chamber has so far tempered some of Dutertes more polarising objectives, such as his attempts at changing the constitution to change the form of government from unitary to federal or reinstating the death penalty.

Senatorial candidates endorsed by Duterte have dominated voter preference surveys by private pollsters, indicating a likely affirmative outcome for his administration.

But critics have expressed fears that a victory for Dutertes allies would reduce the Senates independence and prevent it from keeping a check on the president.

Dutertes senatorial slate does not come from a single party. Aside from members of his PDP-Laban party, candidates from other parties comprise the Hugpong ng Pagbabago or Collective of Change fielded by his daughter, Sara Duterte.

Among candidates Duterte has supported are Imee Marcos, Jinggoy Estrada, Ramon Revilla and Juan Ponce Enrile, with the first three seen as probable winners according to opinion polls.

Marcos is the daughter of the late dictator Ferdinand Marcos, who embezzled at least $5bn in government funds when he ruled from 1965 to 1986.

Enrile and Estrada, veterans of the Senate, are facing plunder charges.

Revilla, although acquitted by an anti-graft court of plunder last December, owes the national treasury the equivalent of $2.3m in public funds that went missing under his watch in an earlier Senate term.

Straight eight

No single political party has been able to challenge Dutertes rule but a coalition of eight senatorial candidates from different backgrounds are running as an opposition bloc.

Although the Otso Diretso or Eight Straight opposition bloc appears unlikely to win many Senate seats, they were able to shape the campaign in terms of the issues at stake, said Nicole Curato, senior research fellow at the Centre for Deliberative Democracy and Global Governance at the University of Canberra.

In their campaign, the opposition bloc criticised Dutertes foreign and economic policies as being too favourable towards China. They denounced the impunity for thousands of killings in his war on drugs, and his endorsement of politicians tainted with grave allegations of corruption.

The Otso Diretso were able to make a sustained critique about Chinas relationship to the Philippines, as well as insist on the importance of liberal values like human rights and gender equality, Curato, who is also the editor of A Duterte Reader: Critical Essays on Rodrigo Dutertes Early Presidency, told Al Jazeera.

Owning their underdog status in the race, the Otso Diretso accused the pro-administration bloc of using public resources to fuel their campaign, calling them dishonest.

Sara Duterte, who spoke for the pro-administration bloc, retorted that honesty should not be an issue in the elections. Her statement backfired, drawing the media spotlight on the candidates integrity and track record.

As the opposition bloc put more pressure on the pro-administration bloc, the Office of the President hit back by accusing the Otso Diretso of trying to overthrow Duterte, a claim that did not seem to gain credence among the public.

But will it all translate into votes for the opposition?

The narratives and issues the Otso raised seems to have failed to capture the publics imagination, said Dindo Manhit, president of the Albert del Rosario Institute for Strategic and International Studies, a policy think-tank based in the capital, Manila.

We must accept that elections are about what people care about, and right now it is still Duterte and his candidates who are saying the right things, Manhit told Al Jazeera.

Last week, a new survey showed that 81 percent of Filipinos expressed satisfaction with Dutertes administration, citing its efforts to help the poor and improve security, among other reasons.

Curato said Dutertes enduring popularity shows that people are willing to overlook some democratic values for the sake of Dutertes promise of change.

Besides, midterm elections in the Philippines tend to affirm the status quo, especially when the president is popular, both analysts noted.

Politics in the Philippines is strongly oriented towards personalities, which explains the general success of familiar names and faces even despite less-than-ideal track records.

Duterte himself had ruled the major southern city of Davao for nearly three decades before becoming president in 2016.

Among those likely to win another term as senators are Grace Poe, Nancy Binay and Lito Lapid  candidates popular enough not to need Dutertes endorsement, and are running neither under the administration nor the opposition.

Poe is the daughter of two of the Philippines biggest movie stars. Binays father is a former vice president. Lapid used to star in action films.

Grace Poe is the daughter of two of the Philippines biggest movie stars [Gallo/Getty]

Not necessarily puppets

Although Duterte can expect to gain more allies in the Senate after Mondays vote, Manhit said they will not necessarily act as his puppets.

With those three strong candidates setting themselves apart from Duterte, theres reason to think the Senate can continue to be independent, he added.

As for the candidates supported by Duterte, they are not a homogeneous bloc, said Curato. They have different interests, appeal to different constituencies and form different alliances.

Still, the new Senate will probably be generally supportive of Duterte, both analysts said. What will be crucial are their positions on Dutertes dealings with China, and his proposal to shift to a federal form of government that may give him a chance to stay in power beyond the end of his legally mandated single term in 2022.

There is no precedent to think that the Senate will simply follow Dutertes wishes, Curato said, though vigilance is always good.
Christians attacked mosques and Muslim-owned businesses in Chilaw after what they believed was a threat on Facebook.

Police have imposed a curfew in the Sri Lankan town Chilaw after a dispute between Christians and Muslims, that began on Facebook, turned violent.

Mobs threw stones at mosques and Muslim-owned stores on Sunday after residents believed a posting on the social media site was a threat to Christians.

Residents in the mainly Christian town 80km north of the capital Colombo, beat the man they believed was responsible for the Facebook post. Police said he had been arrested.

A police curfew has been imposed in Chilaw Police area with immediate effect until 6am tomorrow to control the tense situation, police spokesman Ruwan Gunasekera told the Reuters news agency. The police later said the curfew would be lifted at 4am local time (22:30 GMT on Sunday) on Monday.

Sri Lankan troops had fired shots into the air to halt the violence.

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Scared of the night

They pelted stones at three mosques and some Muslim-owned shops. Now the situation has calmed down, but we are scared of the night, one local Muslim man who asked to remain anonymous for security reasons, told Reuters.

One mosque suffered extensive damage, he added.



Tensions have been running high after Muslim suicide bombers blew themselves up in three churches and four hotels on April 21, Easter Sunday, killing 257 people.

While the countrys acting police chief Chandana Wickramaratn said last week that all those involved in the attacks are either dead or in custody, some Sri Lankans are concerned there may still be attackers at large.





A week ago in Negombo, where more than 100 people were killed during Easter prayers, a violent clash erupted between local Muslims and Christians after a traffic dispute.

Sri Lanka has been under a state of emergency since the suicide bombings. Security forces and police have been given sweeping powers to arrest and detain suspects for long periods.

One of the latest to be arrested was Mohamed Aliyar, Saudi-educated scholar. Police claim he had links with Zahran Hashim, the suspected ringleader of the bombings.

Information has been revealed that the suspect arrested had a close relationship with  Zahran and had been operating financial transactions, said a police statement late on Friday.

The statement said Aliyar was involved with training the group of suicide bombers in the southern town of Hambantota.
With tightening US sanctions, Rouhani says Iran can overcome unprecedented pressure by its enemies if it stays united.

President Hassan Rouhani has called for unity among Irans political factions to overcome conditions which he said may be harder than those during the 1980s war with Iraq.

As Iran faces tightening US sanctions, Rouhani said on Saturday that his country was under unprecedented pressure comparable to when Saddam Husseins army invaded Iran in 1980, which prompted eight years of intense fighting and economic problems.

Today, it cannot be said whether conditions are better or worse than the (1980-88) war period, but during the war we did not have a problem with our banks, oil sales or imports and exports, and there were only sanctions on arms purchases, Irans state news agency IRNA quoted Rouhani as saying.

The pressures by enemies is a war unprecedented in the history of our Islamic revolution but I do not despair and have great hope for the future and believe that we can move past these difficult conditions provided that we are united, Rouhani said.

The USS Abraham Lincoln was pictured while travelling through the Suez Canal on May 9 [Bud Kinsey/via Reuters]

Hardliners have criticised Rouhani after US President Donald Trump unilaterally withdrew from Irans 2015 nuclear deal with world powers, which Rouhani supported, and reimposed sanctions last year.

The Iranian president has also been abandoned by some of his moderate allies.

Psychological war

Rouhanis comments came as the commander of Irans elite Revolutionary Guards said in a parliamentary session on Sunday that the US has started a psychological war in the region, according to a parliamentary spokesperson.

Commander Salami, with attention to the situation in the region, presented an analysis that the Americans have started a psychological war because the comings and goings of their military is a normal matter, the spokesperson for the parliamentary leadership, Behrouz Nemati, said.

Major General Hossein Salami was appointed as head of the guards last month.

The US military has sent forces and military hardware, including an aircraft carrier, B-52 bombers and a Patriot missile defence battery, to the Middle East to counter what US officials have said are clear indications of threats from Iran to its forces there.

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Washington did not provide details on the nature of the threat from Tehran.

Amirali Hajizadeh, head of the Guards aerospace division, said the US military presence was an opportunity, according to the Iranian Students News Agency (ISNA).

An aircraft carrier that has at least 40 to 50 planes on it and 6,000 forces gathered within it was a serious threat for us in the past but now  the threats have switched to opportunities, he said, adding: If [the Americans] make a move we will hit them in the head.

Meanwhile, Ilan Goldberg, an analyst at the Center for a New American Security, urged the media to stop overhyping possible war with Iran, saying the US deployment is far from a massive game changer.

Goldberg, who previously worked for the Pentagon, added that the deployment was still not close to what the US had in the region at the peak of the campaign against the Islamic State of Iraq and Levant (ISIL, or ISIS).

Telephone number for Trump

On Friday, the Guards rejected an invitation from Trump in which he urged Irans leaders to talk with him about giving up their nuclear programme.

Trump made the offer while saying he could not rule out a military confrontation. But, Yadollah Javani, the Guards deputy head for political affairs, said the US was unreliable.

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On the same day, CNN reported that the White House had passed a telephone number to the Swiss for contacting Trump in case Iranian officials want to hold talks.

The Swiss embassy in Tehran represents U.S. interests in the Islamic Republic.

Separately, a media court in Iran on Saturday suspended the weekly Seda (Voice), the semi-official news agency ISNA reported, after the reformist magazine published an issue that included articles warning about the possibility of war with the US.

At the Crossroads of War and Peace, have moderates lost or will they again save Iran from war? the main headline on the front page read against a photograph of US Navy warships.

On social media, hardliners attacked the magazine as Trumps voice, suggesting its warning about the danger of war amounted to a call for talks with the US.

At the height of Americas political, economic and media war against the Iranian nation, an Iranian publication supplements the enemys media operations inside the country, the hardline-led news agency Fars wrote in a comment.
State security spokesperson says cell was preparing to carry out terrorist activities against the country.

Eight members of what Saudi authorities call a terrorist cell were killed on Saturday in a police raid in Saudi Arabias eastern Qatif region, a Shia minority stronghold, state media has reported.

The recently-formed cell was preparing to carry out terrorist activities against the security of the country, the official Saudi Press Agency reported, citing a state security spokesperson.

The spokesperson said the men were killed after they fired shots at security forces, who had surrounded a residential apartment in the Sanabis neighbourhood.

They were called on to surrender, but they did not respond and opened fire at the security forces  which resulted in their killing, said the spokesperson.

No civilians or security forces were injured in the operation, he added.

/indepth/opinion/saudi-shia-iranian-rock-saudi-hard-place-190507153257184.html

Earlier this year, the Saudi authorities announced they had killed several people after an exchange of fire in Qatif.

According to local media, Saudi security forces besieged the town of Umm al-Hamam in Qatif for more than 15 hours, during which they raided several houses in search of wanted suspects. The Saudi authorities had accused them of committing acts of terrorism in the eastern region.

Saudi Arabias Eastern Province  which includes Qatif  has seen bouts of unrest since 2011 when protesters emboldened by the Arab Spring uprisings took to the streets.

The demonstrators have demanded an end to what they say is discrimination by the Sunni-dominated government, a charge Riyadh denies.

One of the leaders of the protest movement, prominent Shia leader and scholar Nimr al-Nimr, was executed in 2016 after he was convicted on terrorism charges.

Nimrs execution exacerbated sectarian tension both across the Gulf and with Saudi Arabias main regional rival, Iran.

The Shia community is estimated to make up between 10 and 15 percent of the kingdoms population of 32 million, but the government has released no official statistics.
With censorship and media harassment gone along with the deposed regime of Omar al-Bashir, no topic is off limits any more.

Journalists in Sudan are enjoying long-lost freedom following the toppling of long-time leader Omar al-Bashir a month ago.

Reporters are writing without fear of government interference, intimidation, and censorship for a change.

But it is unclear how long that will last, with the military leadership failing to meet protesters demands for a civilian government.

Al Jazeeras Mohammed Adow reports from Khartoum.
Stalemate in talks between Sudans two sides, with the military council threatening to hold early elections if no deal is reached within six months.

Talks between Sudans military council and opposition groups remain deadlocked, a month after street protests forced the military to oust longtime president Omar al-Bashir.

He was replaced by a transitional military council, which is resisting protesters demands to cede power to civilians.

Al Jazeeras Hiba Morgan reports from the capital Khartoum.
Syrian President Bashar al-Assads government has been running a network of secret torture facilities across Syria while the countrys civil war unfolded, a new report has found.

In a lengthy report, the New York Times found that the rate at which people are being detained in the country is still increasing, despite Assads military win in the bloody conflict  now in its ninth year.

In the report, several survivors shared gruesome testimonies of how they were arrested and tortured across a number of prison facilities run by the Syrian intelligence.

The survivors are just a handful of hundreds of thousands of people believed to have passed through the secret prison system since the Syrian uprising kicked off in 2011.

Memos sent to Syrias head of military intelligence, and obtained by the New York Times, are reporting the deaths of those imprisoned, while also apparently showing government officials ordering crackdowns and discussing deaths in detention, the Times reported.

The memos were signed by top security officials, including members of the Central Crisis Management Committee, which reports directly to Mr. al-Assad, the Times reported.

The exact number of civilians detained in these prisons is unknown, but around 128,000 Syrians are either considered to be detained or dead, according to the Syrian Network for Human Rights.

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Nearly 14,000 were killed as a result of torture. Testimonies by survivors of the prison system reveal torture methods including regular beatings, hanging by the wrists, being shocked with electricity, rape, and other forms of sexual assault.

Other methods have forced detainees to act like animals and beat or kill one another.

Methods of routine torture have been utilised as a tool to crack down on opposition and dissent, and according to the Times, have been critical to Assads military success in Syria.

Although the Syrian government has denied that it carries out systematic abuse, it has recently acknowledged the death of hundreds in detention by issuing death certificates, or listing them as dead in family registration files.

The Times said the millions of relatives of those missing detainees remain living in social and psychological limbo.

Without death certificates, presumed widows cannot remarry. Children cannot inherit, the report read.

A United Nations panel said last year that the conditions of the prisons  where detainees, crammed in tiny cells, are often denied water, clean food, blankets, and clothes  amounted to extermination.

Medical neglect and poor hygiene conditions have claimed the lives of many in detention, the Times revealed. The Times said those transferred to a military hospital are also unsafe as many have been tortured and killed by the staff.

According to the Syrian Network for Human Rights, government detention accounts for about 90 percent of all disappearance cases in Syria  a figure significantly higher than the number of people detained by the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL, or ISIS), the Times said.

While Assad and his aides remain in power, a growing movement is seeking justice via European courts. French and German prosecutors have arrested three former security officials, the Times said, and have issued arrest warrants for individuals including Syrias national security head, Ali Mamlouk.

Today, there are nearly six million Syrian refugees who fled the war in Syria. Even as the war ends, many fear persecution upon returning and have voiced their need for a UN-sponsored safe return process.
Venezuelas opposition leader threatens to open talks with US military  as many of his political allies forced into hiding.

Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido has called for direct contact between his movement and the US military.

He made the appeal as opposition supporters gathered for another day of demonstrations against President Nicolas Maduro.

But turnout fell short of expectations.

Al Jazeeras Teresa Bo reports from Caracas.
Some government ministers have accused the Houthis of faking a pullout and handing the port to some of its own fighters.

The United Nations says the withdrawal of Yemens Houthi rebels from three major ports is going according to plan.

This, despite the Yemeni government saying the pullout is just a ploy.

It accuses the Houthis of handing over control to its allies.

The redeployment of fighters is part of a UN-brokered deal and is expected to continue over the next few days.

It includes Hodeidah, which is the main entry point for food and humanitarian aid.

Al Jazeeras Laura Burdon-Manley reports.
Armed attackers killed a priest and five worshippers during mass on Sunday in an attack on a Catholic church in northern Burkina Faso.

The attackers  numbering between 20 and 30  managed to trap some of the people inside then set fire to the church in the town of Dablo, about 200km from the capital Ouagadougou.

Several shops were also torched before they headed to the local health centre, which they looted and then torched the chief nurses vehicle.

Towards 9am, during mass, armed individuals burst into the Catholic church, said Ousmane Zongo, the mayor of Dablo. They started firing as the congregation tried to flee.



They killed five of them. The priest, who was celebrating mass, was also killed, bringing the number of dead to six.

Urbain Kabore, a government spokesman for the West African countrys Sahel region, said the attackers also destroyed all places serving alcohol.

Ghost town

Zongo said there was an atmosphere of panic in the town.

People are holed up in their homes, nothing is going on. The shops and stores are closed. Its practically a ghost town, he said.

Security reinforcements were sent from Barsalogho, about 45km south of Dablo, and were combing the area.





The attack came two days after French special forces freed four foreign hostages in the north of the country in an overnight raid that cost the lives of two soldiers.



The operation was ordered to free French hostages Patrick Picque and Laurent Lassimouillas who disappeared while on holiday in the remote Pendjari National Park in Benin on May 1.



The team also found two female captives, an American woman and a South Korean national.

Hundreds killed

Sundays church bloodshed came two weeks after a similar attack against a Protestant church in Silgadji, also in the north, when gunmen on motorbikes killed a pastor and several worshippers.



Burkina Faso has suffered from increasingly frequent and deadly attacks attributed to a number of armed groups  including the Ansarul Islam group, the Group to Support Islam and Muslims (GSIM), and the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL or ISIS) in the Greater Sahara.



Nearly 400 people have been killed since 2015  mainly in hit-and-run raids, according to an AFP news agency tally.



Armed groups target both Muslim leaders and Christian clerics, mainly in the north.



Former colonial ruler France has deployed some 4,500 troops in Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger and Chad in a mission codenamed Barkhane, to help local forces try to flush out armed groups.
Prime Minister Netanyahu says will submit new settlement plan for cabinet approval once a new government takes office.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said a site for a promised new settlement to be named after US President Donald Trump in the occupied Golan Heights had been chosen and formal approval was under way.

Netanyahu pledged to do so last month in appreciation of Trumps recognition of Israels claim of sovereignty over part of the strategic plateau seized from Syria in the 1967 Six-Day War.

I promised that we would establish a community named after President Trump, Netanyahu said at the start of the weekly cabinet meeting on Sunday.

I would like to inform you that we have already selected a site in the Golan Heights where this new community will be established, and we have started the process, he said.

Trump broke with long-standing international consensus on March 25 when he recognised Israels claim of sovereignty over the part of the Golan it captured during the 1967 war.

Israel annexed 1,200-square kilometres of the Golan it seized in 1981, a move never recognised by the international community.

Trumps controversial move came after the US president in December 2017 said Washington would recognise the disputed city of Jerusalem as Israels capital, sparking outrage among Palestinians who claim Israeli-annexed East Jerusalem as the capital of their future state.

The US Embassy was moved from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem and inaugurated on May 14, 2018.





About 18,000 Syrians from the Druze sect  most of whom refuse to take Israeli citizenship  remain in the occupied Golan.

Some 20,000 Israeli settlers have moved there, spread out over 33 settlements.

Netanyahu said he would submit the new settlement plan for cabinet approval when a new government took office in the wake of last months snap general election.



The prime minister has been conducting low-key meetings with heads of the parties expected to join his coalition, and has until the end of May to put together an alliance.
About the show

A weekly programme that examines and dissects the worlds media, how they operate and the stories they cover. Watch The Listening Post every Saturday at 0830GMT
We are told, by the Left, that matters of right and wrong are situational. They change with the times, with cultures, or with other conditions. They reject the idea that there are eternal, objective standards to which we are all obliged to conform, regardless of our personal opinions or preferences.

I recall having seen online a videotaped debate on this between two teams of participants. One of them included a prominent atheist (either Hitchens or Dawkins), while the other team was composed of recognized advocates of religious values.

The reason I was searching for the video is because I remember that, throughout the debate, the atheist side of it centered on claims that they are supported by science, not by opinion and not by faith.

Then a curious thing happened. Near the end of his presentation, one of the supposedly scientific atheists launched into a tirade against people who oppose same-sex "marriage." This was one of the same people who had been asserting that questions of morality are entirely subjective, with no basis in science. Obviously, this esteemed scientific atheist did not really believe his own pronouncements. He did not disbelieve in morality; he simply believed in his own version of it. As do so many others on the social Left, he seemed to believe that his standards should be enforced on the rest of us.

Judging from this, most people seem to intuitively believe that there really is such a thing as morality. We just disagree on which standards, if any, to uphold. So the question becomes more important: is there an objective, perhaps scientific, standard of morality independent of our personal opinions?

Modern science is underpinned by a philosophy called by various names, including "physicalism." That philosophy says that nothing objectively exists except that which is explained in terms of physics. It rejects any notions of spirit, soul, or God. That rejection is well and fine for a philosophy, but it is entirely unscientific. A purely physicalist view of reality has no place for notions of good or evil, right or wrong, justice or injustice. It is entirely neutral, neither preferring nor disdaining either side.

Therefore, to assert that there is an objective standard of morality is not unscientific; it is merely non-physicalist.

Is there, then, some way to prove the matter, one way or the other?

Yes, there is, but society is so complex, the human mind so inscrutable, that it takes years, even centuries, for a social experiment to produce verifiable results. Oftentimes, the outcomes of social policies are completely opposite those predicted by the experts.

The following bit of recent history provides an example.

Up until the 1960s, the out-of-wedlock birth rate in most segments of society was very small, despite there being no reliable contraceptives available. One overwhelming reason for the low incidence of premarital pregnancy was social opprobrium. For a young, unmarried woman to be known not to be a virgin was considered shameful. For her to become pregnant was scandalous. The prospect of being humiliated was a powerful inducement, for women, to delay sexual intercourse until marriage.

The advent of the birth control pill changed all that, and as history shows, the incidence of out-of-wedlock motherhood, which was supposed to have been dramatically reduced, instead increased, and did so intensely. Why?

The birth control pill helped to reduce the stigma of losing one's virginity before marriage. This, in turn, indirectly reduced the stigma of premarital pregnancy. This, in turn, reduced the perceived need for the birth control pill. Once the initial phase of these events had occurred, the flood gates were opened, and what quickly followed was what is called the Sexual Revolution.

This revolution was supposed to free women from the injustice of sexual repression. Instead, it led to millions of women becoming pregnant and abandoned, left on their own, to raise their fatherless children. Many of them were, as a result, raised in poverty and amid crime. The welfare state sought to correct this mistake by subsidizing single motherhood. This, in turn, predictably increased what it subsidized.

Today, the harm wrought by the abandonment of sexual morality has left us with a society that cannot even recognize the good and natural differences between the sexes, even to the point of denying that there are two complementary sexes, and certainly denying that they are a naturally ordained partnership, one without which society suffers consequences so pervasive that many people call them good.

The illusion is now deeply ingrained that sexual morality is an antiquated notion and that its violations have no harmful consequence.

Worse yet, casual acceptance of homosexuality and transsexuality has morphed from one of mere tolerance to the present state of enforcement. Small, confused children can be subjected to the radical procedure of so-called transitioning from their birth sex to a chosen sex. This can be done in opposition to the parents' wishes, as, indeed, pregnant teenage girls can have their pregnancies aborted with neither the knowledge nor consent of her parents.

To interfere is to be accused of child abuse. Even to openly advocate Judeo-Christian standards of morality can bring about significant penalties.

We are now at the point where pedophilia itself is gaining traction as a so-called sexual orientation.

Where will all this end? The expesrts say, a Utopian society. When have they been right?
Islamic terrorism in its violent expressions coexists with Islamic terrorism in thought. The blatant and barbarous aspect of Islamism, its murderous activities in New York and Jerusalem, Bali and London, Paris and Nairobi, Argentina and the Philippines, Madrid and Mumbai, Syria and Sri Lanka, mesmerizes world attention. Yet the terror of thought is no less, and perhaps more, menacing and paralytic: it constricts freedom of consciousness, intimidates free speech, and submits and smothers society under conformist Islamist religious forces. Islam from its beginning promoted both jihad warfare "in the path of Allah" and dawa missionizing to advance the new religion and make it supreme, if not exclusive, in the world.

Salim Mansur, Professor Emeritus of Political Science at the University of Western Ontario, is a believing but dissident Muslim. Among Muslim reformers and free thinkers in the West, like his fellow-Canadian Irshad Manji, also Nonie Darwish and Boualem Sansal, are those who categorically denounced Islam, pointing to the obscenity of compulsory female genital mutilation and "honor killings," beheadings, and brutal massacres. Some left the fold; among these apostates are Ibn Warraq, Mohamed Sifaoui, and Ayaan Hirsi Ali. Some dissidents in Muslim lands fled into exile and required police protection. A noteworthy and particular case was that of Nobel Literature laureate Naguib Mahfouz, a Muslim secularist, who was assaulted by fanatics in Cairo, survived the attack, and remained in his country.

In The Qur'an Problem and Islamism, published by Mantua Books in Canada, Salim Mansur offers an exceptionally courageous and principled Muslim narrative of his personal beliefs and philosophy of life in a world where Khomeinism, Al-Qaeda, Wahhabism, the Muslim Brotherhood, and ISIS, dominate and suffocate the Islamic conversation. Islamism is a "monstrosity," affirms Mansur, reflecting the rot in the Muslim world. Its savagery in murdering thousands of innocent human beings in Nigeria and Pakistan, France and Spain, Egypt and Iraq, has brought shame upon many good Muslims globally.

Which Islam?

As a classic liberal and modern-day political conservative, Mansur is an intellectual savant whose worldview includes rationalism, individualism, and enlightenment, buoyed by loyalty to Canada and her roots in liberty and law. In his quest to sustain Islam as a religion embodying morality and humanism, Salim Mansur reads, with an open and critical eye, the Qur'an and the life of Muhammad, who spread "the Word of God." Manifestly explicit passages in the Islamic holy book call upon believers to practice righteousness, to give alms to the poor, to treat orphans with fairness, and honor and show kindness to parents; faith demands belief in Allah and the final Day of Judgment. Muslims are to attend to their prayers and reject idolatry. They are obligated to refrain from imposing their faith on non-Muslims.

With support from the Qur'an, Mansur reaches out to "one human family" with a universalism to encompass all people and believers  not only Muslims -- in the One God. The Qur'an that "makes things clear" is part of the prophetic legacy in monotheism. Islam is one path and not the only one toward this truth. In his writings and interviews, Salim conveys his love for humanity whatever people's background or faith. This is for him the message of Islam writ large in daily life.

So where is the problem? It is in the totalitarian ideology of Islamism, this "crippling of Islamic culture and civilization," which abandoned philosophy and reason, and formulated a "fascistic" and perverted version of Islam. Great Muslim thinkers like Al-Ghazali, Ibn Rushd (Averros), and Jalaluddin al-Rumi, have been ignored or rejected. The infamous preachers advocated jihad, militancy, and martyrdom. Among the radical fundamentalists were Ibn Taimiyya, Hasan al-Banna, and Sayyid Qutb. Islam, now reduced to warfare and blood, metastasized into Islamism. This is Mansur's central claim and he is therefore at one with non-Muslim authors like Bat Ye'or, Robert Spencer, and Andrew Bostom, who have elucidated the warlike and expansionist ambitions of a conquering Islam pursuing the vision of a world caliphate.

One chapter in the book deals with Muslim anti-Semitism that, for Mansur, is a diabolical strand that has no inherent foundation in the Qur'an and Islam. Anti-Jewish bigotry is foreign to the holy text and Jews indeed survived and even sometimes flourished in Muslim lands. There are ways to interpret the Qur'an through the method of abrogation (naskh) and contexualizing to invalidate the contemporary relevance of harsh Qu'ranic verses. The text then becomes subject to the meaning the reader gives to it. Yet, radical Muslim preachers today are rife with blistering Qur'anic-based attacks against Jews as cursed, vile people, murdering prophets and breaching agreements, to the crescendo of likening them to apes and monkeys. For Mansur, the Qur'anic demand that Jews be reduced to "humiliation and misery" (Ch.9, 29) is limited to an earlier period of history alone.

When Muslims promote hatred for Jews and Christians, this is in the view of Mansur a deviation and distortion of Islam's basic tolerance for other monotheistic religions.

Is There a Non-Political Islam?

Salim Mansur and other Muslims who share his frustration and rage confront the Islamist domination of Islam's agenda and activity that possess vast financial and educational networks with a radical program to Islamize the world, America and Europe included. Over a thousand years ago, the fanatical Hanbali Muslims in Baghdad raided houses if they found wine and poured it away; if they found a singing girl they beat her; if they saw a man going with a woman, they charged them with immorality and dragged them to the police. These scenes of oppression sound familiar in Saudi Arabia and Afghanistan of today.

However, other Muslims a millennium ago evoked a very different sensibility. Avicenna, born in Bukhara (Uzbekistan), was educated in the Qur'an and jurisprudence, also in mathematics and logic, Aristotelian philosophy, astronomy, geometry, and medicine. He was a man of learning and open to acquiring knowledge from whoever could teach him. In Baghdad Islamists hounded the people in the name of Islam, in Bukhara and beyond Avicenna sought the horizons of scholarship in tandem with Islam. The debate regarding the true version of Islam continues until today.

Salim Mansur is a modern man, valuing reason while not discarding revelation, though choosing the former over the latter. He seeks coherence and comprehensiveness in knowledge, without sacrificing his deep faith in Islam. Perhaps he is trying to square the circle, hold the rope from both ends. He confidently recognizes the cultural continuity in evolving revelations, Muhammad's included, throughout history. As a Muslim believer, he seems drawn to the softness and individuality embedded within the Sufi track, as in the thought of Ibn 'Arabi who identified the "Oneness of Being" for the mystical climb to be at one with God. This is an invitation for all human beings regardless of their particular religious affiliation. God transcends all, and distinctions among men dissolve with the common quest for a god-like experience and life. Mansur's is a personal religion rather than a political religion; the classic characterization of Islam as din wa-dawla (religion and state) is alien to Salim's sensibility.

His nobility of character in an age of extremism is exceptionally admirable. He feels engaged in the vortex of a historical moment that imperils both Islam and the West. In Ontario, where he lives, he had to change the mosque he attends. He was threatened for his 'unorthodox' ideas. No less, he is a spiritual brother to the Jews and a vigorous supporter of Israel. These convictions fly in the face of the ideological rigors of Islamism.

Overall, Mansur wants an Islam of "many faces." He chooses the West for its modernity and openness, individual liberty and the rule of law. This he found in Canada, the country he adopted and embraces. He hopes to enter Canadian politics; as a Member of Parliament he could be a commanding voice for moderation and common sense to challenge the vagaries of multi-culturalism, religious fanaticism, and anti-Semitism.

As of today, the chicanery of Islamophobia and Political Correctness control much of the language and discussion. The West has been artfully and partly disarmed of its heritage  including Christianity, and values of equality and liberty, progress for all -- choosing to privilege Islam by accommodating its parallel society separatism, sharia courts, and execrable youth marriages (as in parts of Europe today). In the East, Islam has persecuted and terrorized the Christians; but in the West, Islamist Muslims have been free to advance an Islamist agenda  in schools, in mosques, in public and political fora, in the media  successfully intimidating the weak-willed while glorifying the supremacy of Islam over all other cultures and religions.

Dr. Mordechai Nisan is a retired lecturer in Middle East Studies at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. His most recent book is The Crack-Up of the Israeli Left, published by Mantua Books in Canada.
Is decriminalizing sex work a way to protect women from oppression and abuse?

Rhode Island is considering a proposal to decriminalize prostitution. The proposal is supported by the ACLU and various sex work advocacy groups like the SOAR institute and COYOTE ("Call off your tired old ethics"). Their argument is that decriminalizing prostitution reduces violence against sex workers and empowers women.

It would seem that elected officials have short memories  Rhode Island has already experimented with decriminalized sex work, and the consequences were disastrous.

For 29 years (19802009), because of a legal loophole, Rhode Island banned outdoor solicitation  seeking clients by standing on street corners or walking the streets. But it legalized indoor prostitution  sex work that takes place through brothels, strip clubs, massage parlors, escort agencies, and the online market.

During that period, Rhode Island became a sex tourist destination, functioning as the red-light district for all of New England. In addition to outright prostitution, sex businesses concealed as spas, nail salons, health centers, modeling agencies, and other "thinly veiled houses of prostitution" posed as legitimate businesses, offering "acupressure," "body work," or "table showers." The state became a Petri dish for all sorts of crime sexual assault, murder, and armed robbery, to name just a few.

Given this history, how is it possible that legislators are even considering going down this road again? The Rhode Island experiment debunks the claimed benefits of legalization.

Claim #1: Sex rights groups argue that decriminalization allows states to regulate the practice.

If the state legalizes prostitution, so the argument goes, violence will decrease because women will not fear being arrested if they report crimes committed against them. In practice, however, legalization had the opposite effect. Women were not protected because police could not get entry into places of prostitution without probable cause. As a result, criminals were emboldened, knowing they were safe behind the locked doors of brothels.

In addition, strip clubs and brothels became hangouts for the mafia. La Cosa Nostra, one of the most dangerous and violent mafia groups in the United States, chose Rhode Island strip clubs as their safe haven. Knowing that police could not enter, they extorted brothels for thousands of dollars a month in exchange for "protection." Luis CdeBaca, who served in the Department of Justice to combat human-trafficking in the U.S., said decriminalizing prostitution created a "zone of impunity in which police [could not] go, and where traffickers [could] exploit their prey."

Claim #2: Sex rights groups argue that legalization empowers women who have chosen to work in the sex industry.

For the majority of women, just how voluntary is their choice? Most enter the industry as young teens, seduced by boyfriends who turn out to be pimps. These men entice young girls into the industry with false promises of love and care  then set them to work.

Most of these teens do not understand they are entering a world of crime, drugs, violence, and sexual assault. They do not realize that most prostitutes end up using drugs and alcohol to dull their pain. They have no idea that the stress of sex with multiple strangers is so damaging to the soul that many suffer from PTSD. Can we really say a woman chose to sell her body if she first made the decision as a teen? Melanie Thompson, a trafficking victim, says, "The vast majority of people in prostitution were sex-trafficked as children, homeless, sexually abused, in foster care or otherwise racially and economically marginalized. When they turn 18, they don't magically become 'consenting adults' who stay freely in the sex trade. The trauma they experienced never goes away."

Another common route into the sex industry is via work in strip clubs. Young girls typically do not understand that they will be pressured to sell sexual favors as well. In Rhode Island, girls as young as 16 were found working in strip clubs. Although that is the legal age for both employment and sexual consent in the state, the girls were still victims of violence and sexual assault.

For example, in response to a domestic violence call, police found a 16-year-old runaway girl with injuries on her face who had been beaten by her 40-year-old "boyfriend." She told police she danced at a local strip club. Given the large quantity of condoms found in her purse, she was likely forced to engage in prostitution in the club's private booths. In the words of the medical technician who examined the victim, "Her ID said she was 20 and lived in Connecticut. Her face said she was 16 and lived on the streets. Her face was right; her ID a lie." Police determined that the girl had been missing from Boston for six months and was being held against her will by an escaped convict.

Finally, most women in the sex industry have been trafficked  not even a semblance of choice is involved. During Rhode Island's trial with legalization, the number of women trafficked skyrocketed. Many of the women in the state's sex industry had been smuggled into the U.S. from Asian countries. They were given promises of work, which turned out to be lies. As the Providence Journal put it, they were "trapped in dirty brothels ... fearful of being beaten or killed if they tried to leave, serving men with their bodies from the time they got up until they went to sleep. They slept on filthy mattresses and cooked from Sterno cans in a back room  essentially they lived as slaves."

In light of this history, it is surprising and disturbing that not only Rhode Island, but also California; New York; and Washington, D.C. are considering decriminalization. Given the facts, they should ask themselves: who is truly protected by decriminalization  the prostitute or the pimp?

Studies are trotted out by both opponents and proponents of legalization, and it is easy to get lost in the statistics, failing to remember that women's lives are at stake. They are not just numbers on a spreadsheet.

When I was V.P. of Texas A&M International Justice Mission chapter, I traveled to Houston as part of an anti-trafficking convention that entered into brothels, strip clubs, and other sex industries. As I talked with women who are currently in the industry, I saw clear evidence of how their lives had been shattered  many did not even have the courage to look up, they bore tattoos of gang signs and obscene phrases on their neck to identify them as their pimps' property, and their voices did not have the strength to explain what had been done to them. These women were obviously not engaged in a "normal" career. They clearly had not been empowered through sex work; instead, they had been degraded, reduced to items on a menu. As states discuss legalization, we should think of our mother, our sister, our classmate, our neighbor, and decide if we are willing to make it legal for them to sell their bodies at the expense of their souls.

A more effective approach would be to target the demand for sex work. Lawmakers in Sweden, Norway, and Iceland have created a model in which it is legal to sell sex but illegal to purchase sex. Since Sweden enacted this law, prostitution has been cut in half. Moreover, Sweden offers various educational opportunities and avenues to leave prostitution; as a result, 60 percent of prostitutes have been empowered to leave the industry.

Decriminalizing may address the small number of women who choose prostitution, but it also communicates the message that society thinks it's okay for women to be used, objectified, and violated, as long as they get paid. We should expose the lie that decriminalized sex work empowers women. Don't allow your state to become a microcosm for the growth of crime. Oppose decriminalization.

Rylee Free interned at the Texas attorney general's office in the Human Trafficking Unit. She is currently doing graduate work at Houston Baptist University.
As Spygate proceeds to its certain conclusion -- the trials of those who engaged in this scandalous coup attempt -- we receive the details of the scheme only in dribs and drabs. Too many were involved and have too much to lose at this point by not revealing to the investigators their role in exchange for more lenient treatment, which is why I believe all will soon be revealed.

So for the moment lets turn to the broader picture that explains in large part why so many officials were so determined to keep Donald Trump from the White House and to oust him once he won the election.

To me, it has seemed they are clinging to the privileges and benefits of an order which is dying because its underpinnings -- the post-World War II order -- no longer suit the citizens of the countries involved, or the changing world.

In this respect, I was much taken by this article in the Claremont Review by Christopher Caldwell.

The subject of this essay is Hungarian prime minister Viktor Orban, who famously closed his countrys borders to hordes of migrants from Iraq, Iran, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, and elsewhere. I urge you to read the entire article, which I can only selectively discuss. As Caldwell explains, Hungary has been a member of the European Union since 2004 and his political party was closely aligned with Angela Merkels. Remembering Hungarys history and intellectual curiosity, Orban rejected the policies of the E.U. on migration.

Orban believes that Western countries are in decline, and that they are in decline because of liberalism, which in his political vocabulary is a slur. He uses the word to describe the contemporary process of creating neutral social structures and a level playing field, usually in the name of rights. This project of creating neutral institutions has two problems. First, it is destructive, because the bonds of affection out of which communities are built are -- by definition -- non-neutral. Second, it is a lie, because someone must administer this project, and administration, though advertised as neutral, rarely is. Some must administer over others. Carried to its logical conclusion, liberalism will, in Orbans view, destroy Hungary. It is not written in the great book of humanity that there must be Hungarians in the world, he said in his State of the Nation address in February. It is only written in our hearts -- but the world cares nothing for that. This sense that Hungary might be only one political miscalculation away from extinction is widely shared. There was one country, in the wake of World War I, which was treated more harshly than Germany. The Treaty of Trianon turned a cosmopolitan, advanced central European powerhouse of 20 million people -- the Kingdom of Hungary, Budapests half of the Austro-Hungarian empire -- into a statelet of 8 million and divvied up two thirds of its territory among other nations.

He recognized that the nations existence depends on its economic performance, and boosted Hungarys by a series of measures that Caldwell describes, including cutting the tax rate and instituting work-to-welfare.

Orbans program, universally denounced as a gamble, was a staggering success. Hungary had repaid its IMF loans in full by 2013. The country now has 4% growth and an unemployment rate of about 3%. Debt has fallen from 85% to 71% of GDP, and labor force participation risen from 55% to around 70%.

Despite pressure from the EU, he refused to open his borders to immigrants from Africa and the Arab world, foreseeing that otherwise Hungarys patrimony -- a Christian ethos -- would be lost. Among those who opposed them was the Hungarian-born American George Soros, who, with his money sheltered from taxation by U.S. foundation tax laws, used those funds to undercut Hungarian nationalist desires. As is often the case, the Soros NGO in effect constituted another political party against which he had to battle to preserve his nationalist agenda. He succeeded against Soros, but then faced a difficult dilemma: The countrys dependence on EU subsidies and the opposition of the leaders of the EPP (the European Peoples Party) which endorses candidates for the Byzantine and undemocratic European Parliament. Without examining the ridiculous top-heavy structure of the EU, its enough to say that being ousted from the EPP can predictably negatively impact Orbans economic policies.

Nowhere does the globalist set take easily to ouster from power and prestige, but here I think they have a tougher battle than they might have imagined.

Its not just Hungarian and U.S. voters that are moving away from the inept supranational controlling institutions and globalist worldview. Large number of Brits, Germans, and Italians are also having second thoughts about being ruled by unaccountable bureaucrats who eschew the very concept of nationalism.

Italys Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini argues:

... Europe will become an Islamic caliphate unless nationalist parties make gains in the European elections later this month. Salvini, Italys deputy prime minister and leader of the Northern League party, is trying to form a coalition of nationalist and far-right forces ahead of the elections and was speaking in Budapest during a visit to his ideological soulmate Viktor Orban For our children, to leave behind an Islamic caliphate with sharia law in our cities is not something I want to do and Im going to do everything in my power to avert this sad ending for Europe, he said at a joint press conference with Orban, who has used similarly incendiary rhetoric to rail against migration to Europe from Africa and the Middle East. Salvini made similar comments earlier this week in Italy.

In Germany, Angela Merkel has her lost grip on her party -- and the issues seem, in large part, to relate to her views on immigration and family issues.

(As an aside it is indeed ironic that the foreign policy disasters of Obama and Hillary Clinton are a major factor in this stream of outmigration from Arab lands and Africa, outmigration which doom the globalization policies they endorse and promote.)

In Britain the Brexit party seems to have caught fire.

In the U.S., there are those on both sides of the political spectrum who prefer global control of borders, economies, and trade, and those who oppose it.

On the right, Rich Lowry opposes it, taking a view similar to Orban and Salvini:

The bottom line of a nationalist program should be putting the national interest first, and protecting our sovereignty, as well as honoring our national symbols. Furthermore, it means insisting on national assimilation and the primacy of the English language. Lastly, we need to teach our history as it is, not a legacy of oppression and theft. Lowry asserted We must resolve to live as a free people and a free nation forevermore.

Its no wonder that Ukraine and Russia attempted to interfere with our election, not with a paltry $100k buy on Facebook for both candidates, but by providing Hillary Clinton with made-up dirt on Trump to try to defeat him.

If you believe in global control over sovereignty, you are inviting foreign involvement in our domestic affairs. As Richard Fernandez observes:

One inescapable drawback of globalization is that it requires, actually requires, foreign intervention in "internal affairs". That's why joining the EU meant Brussels made British law; Brussels controlled UK borders. That's why the Iran deal was made in the UN and not in the Senate. John Podesta is a lobbyist for the Saudis. Someone has to represent their interests in the US government. You can say, "This is good in the net". But there are some minor side effects. One of them is that foreign powers take an interest in elections. They try to influence them in any way they can. So when we say Putin interfered with the election one can resist this, but it shouldn't be surprising. Once the electorate understand the side effects of integration, transnational institutions and a world order they may adjust the dose. This is what the UK did with Brexit. They didn't "leave" Europe completely, but they did adjust the terms. President Obama himself said that globalization needed adjustment. But he still sees adjustment in terms of more international regulation. He doesn't get that it's the international regulations themselves that are the source of internal interference. It's the tight coupling that does it. If you want more sovereignty, you must loosen the coupling and allow for more, not less subsidiarity.

Indeed, theres a good argument to be made that devolving even more decision-making to local levels leads to both better decisions and an electorate better schooled at it than placing it in the hands of others whom they have little chance to influence or replace.

In any event, looking at the accomplishments of international organizations like the incompetent, graft-ridden EU and UN, the elite claim to special talents for governance is laughably ridiculous. Perhaps if those at the top of the international institutions had not proven so corrupt and incompetent, populist nationalism would not be gaining ground. On the other hand, if one considers people too weak and stupid to act in their own best interests, on what possible basis should we assume that elected and appointed officials, often far removed from ordinary life, are more capable than we voters of acting in our best interests, rather than their own?
The Baby Boomer Generation growing up in the 1950s was enamored by the transition of Superman from radio to television. Millions of Americans during those postwar years turned on their black and white television sets weekly to hear the following exciting introduction:

Faster than a speeding bullet; more powerful than a locomotive; able to leap tall buildings in a single bound. Look! Up in the sky; it's a bird. It's a plane. It's Superman! Yes it's Superman, strange visitor from another planet who came to earth with powers and abilities far beyond those of mortal men. Superman who can change the course of mighty rivers, bend steel in his bare hands, and who disguised as Clark Kent, mild-mannered reporter for a great metropolitan newspaper, fights a never-ending battle for Truth, Justice and the American Way.

As quaint as it now sounds, Americans from all walks of life cheered and approved of this warrior for Truth, Justice and the American Way. Americans believed in America. They saw it, flaws and all, as a source of truth and justice in its distinctly American Way. In schools public and private students daily pledged allegiance to the American Flag and to the republic for which it stands. In history and government classes a sense of pride was instilled and the American Way was seen as valuable, meaningful and absolutely worth defending. America was to them the difference maker that had for the second time in a half century defended the world against unspeakable tyranny and oppression. Americans were rightfully proud of their country.

A new generation of Americans no longer takes pride in the uniqueness and greatness of their nation. Many Americans dwell on early flaws that America has overcome rather than the freedoms and opportunities that have made it the marvel of the world. The American Dream, aspired to by people from all parts of the world is held in contempt by so many who have enjoyed it as a birthright. A politician running for the presidency of the United States, a politician who has enjoyed all of Americas blessings and freedoms, expects to win election by saying things like, America never was all that great. American citizens cheer such disparagement of the American Way of which their parents and grandparents were so rightfully proud.

Has America made mistakes? Of course it has. Was the slavery that the newly founded nation of America allowed wrong? Yes, but while wrong it was not at all unique to America and was necessary given attitudes at that time if there was to be a United States of America. Was the treatment of Native Americans terrible? Without question it was. These things, however, make up but a part of our history. We cannot fairly judge the past by the attitudes or mores of the present. We cannot undo the past, we can however learn from the past and this we have mightily done.

God blessed the American colonies with a group of brave and brilliant men who in a Declaration of Independence followed by a U.S. Constitution created not only the America that was, an America that had the ability to become something even better. The framework was there to bring an end to evils such as slavery. The framework was there to provide suffrage (voting rights) to every United States citizen regardless of race, religion, gender or political beliefs. The framework was there to create a representative form of government that prevented the swings of emotion that make potentially dangerous a pure democracy. The framework was there to guarantee to each citizen the freedoms necessary to live the life each desired, to worship in a manner each chose, to believe those things each chose to believe and to enjoy in the eyes of the government the equality granted to each by a divine creator. America was a nation such as the world had never before witnessed.

It is on the basis of the freedoms and rights so defined by the U.S. Constitution that America became the most successful and powerful nation in the world. It is on the basis of such a Constitution that Americans enjoyed freedoms neither previously known in the history of the world nor enjoyed even today in much of the world. Americans can excoriate their president, their congressman, their governor, their mayor, and their local police department with abandon without fear of reprisal. Americans can assemble and protest on any cause without any fear of those in authority. Law-abiding Americans enjoy the opportunity to rise from poverty, to enjoy the benefits of an education, to start a business, to move from state to state, to create wealth and to live in peace with their neighbors without fear of an oppressive government.

It is tragic that so many young Americans, having grown up with all of the benefits life, liberty and the American Way have to offer, lack understanding and appreciation of the extravagant blessing it is to be an American. It is tragic that a major political party seeks power by dividing Americans over race, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation or any other invented or imagined ism or status. It is tragic that the culture and character of what has been the most free and successful nation in the history of the world is under assault not just from without but more seriously from within. It is tragic that the Constitution creating and maintaining this magnificent experiment in governance of the people, by the people and for the people is so little appreciated by so many who have enjoyed its unparalleled freedoms. One can only hope and pray that America will not be deprived of that which has made her the envy of the world. It is time for all believing Americans with voice, prayers and vote to peacefully defend as never before truth, justice, and the American Way.
Apparently, it's not just ballot-harvesting that has made the state of California impenetrably blue.

If you ever wondered why a political charlatan such as Rep. Maxine Waters could have so much power, well, take a look at how her daughter makes money.

According to the Washington Free Beacon's investigative reporter, Joe Schoffstall:

Rep. Maxine Waters (D., Calif.) paid $50,000 from her campaign's coffers to her daughter in recent months to chip away at six figures of accrued debt for an operation that pulls in large sums of money for the congresswoman's campaign committee, Federal Election Commission filings show. Rep. Waters's committee disbursed two payments to her daughter, Karen, in the amounts of $42,000 and $8,000 during the first quarter, which runs from Jan. 1 to March 31. The $50,000 in payments were made to Karen for running a slate mailer, or endorsement mailer, operation from the campaign and were the most paid out by the committee for any activity throughout the first three months of the year.

Nothing apparently illegal about it, given the FEC filings cited, but like ballot-harvesting, it sure as heck isn't practiced in many states - only adjacent Oregon is named by the Beacon, perhaps mainly because it amounts to selling endorsements on little mailed cards to unwitting voters.

The slate mailers are sent out to South Central Los Angeles residents and contain a sample ballot and quote from Waters in support of other California Democratic politicians. The candidates pay hefty sumssometimes tens of thousands of dollars eachto Waters's campaign from their own committees to be included on the mailers. The operation brought in $400,000 from candidates running for office during the midterm election cycle, including $52,000 from now-governor Gavin Newsom. Waters's campaign received more than 20 separate checks of $10,000 or more from other committees this past cycle. Karen Waters has greatly benefitted from overseeing the slate mailers and has pocketed north of $800,000 over the years, the Free Beacon previously reported.

Waters, according to the Beacon, is the only one doing it on a federal level, maybe because it's such a sleazy political backroom practice. What it amounts to is selling endorsements for money quite possibly the highest bidders (one wonders if rival Democrats have these bidding wars for who gets the Citizens for Waters endorsement card endorsement) making the selling of an endorsement a lucrative thing for the Waters side of the thing - apparently it is, and her daughter, who runs the operation, has made six-figure income from the concept.

Voters, meanwhile, remain in the dark and think there really is a group out there called 'Citizens for Waters' that deliberates to the best of its ability to present a fine set of recommendations from its own perspective. No, it's not that at all - and many voters just see 'Democrat' or 'Republican' on such cards, or maybe some donkeys or elephants, and imagine that these are the best representations of their values.

I follow politics closely, I google groups that send me slate endorsements, I've actually gotten some of these Citizens for Waters mailers in fact, and I sure as heck didn't know about this practice until I researched this story. I always wondered what those little slate mailers at election time were about, they sure didn't seem to want to reveal much of who they were on the cards themselves - apparently, they were just instruments for swooshing money from one campaign coffer to another, making some of them into profit-making operations, not actual endorsements, and worse still, fooling voters.

According to this excellent Los Angeles Daily News piece, which explains exactly what is going on with this questionable political racket, conservatives are especially targeted because they have to pick solely between leftists in a race and are large enough a block for Democrats to try to fool into voting for them. This would explain why the practice tends to be more local than federal, although Waters stands out because she does it from the federal level, as the Beacon notes.

The Daily News explains it this way:

If youre the kind of Californian who votes in most elections, you have by now received stacks of the political mail sent out to convince voters that people they trust have made a slate of recommendations for every race in the upcoming election. But many of these mailers dont come from people you trust. They come from political consultants. The peculiar California institution known as the slate mailer typically features images of people you trust on one side and a lot of little boxes on the other. Inside each box is the recommendation for a candidate or measure on the ballot. But these recommendations have an asterisk. Literally. The asterisk next to the name or ballot measure indicates that the candidate or committee paid to be on that mailer. Its advertising. And often, its extremely deceptive advertising. Many Republicans contacted me to ask why the Republican Party was endorsing a bunch of Democratic candidates in the upcoming city elections. They had received very convincing mailers that featured pictures of elephants or Ronald Reagan, or both, typically accompanied by the words, Republican Voter Guide and Take this card to the voting booth with you. But the Republican Party isnt endorsing Democrats and it isnt sending out slate mailers. There are still enough Republicans in Southern California to swing a race between two Democrats, so campaigns pay consultants to send mail that tricks GOP-registered voters into thinking Democrats are Republicans.

I can't tell if Waters's operation is to trick South Central's conservatives (and I think there are some) into voting for the candidates that give her the most money or not, but it kind of doesn't matter. It's a gamy practice premised on selling endorsements under the color of grassroots groups that don't exist, and it doesn't contribute to clean politics or honest voting decisions. Like ballot-harvesting, it relies on voter ignorance or indifference.

Yet Waters makes a lot of money from it, via her daughter's operation, and certainly has found her safe congressional seat seemingly conducive toward it. And she's the only one in Congress doing it - imagine if someone else in a California Republican safe seat, such as GOP representatives Duncan Hunter, Jr. or Devin Nunes, did that. There would be all sorts of investigative reporting on this practice, and probably call to ban it.

Speaking of Hunter, recall that Hunter lost all of his congressional committee seats over charges of campaign finance violations. What Waters is doing is apparently not a violation, but it sure as heck is a shenanigan, because it doesn't contribute to free or fair elections. Why isn't she kicked of her committee seats in the name of clean elections, too? Oh, forgot: She's a Democrat.

Image credit: Majunznk, via Flickr // CC BY-SA 2.0
Much has been written about the huge cost to American citizens of illegal immigration. The staggering numbers include border enforcement, detention, housing, food, health care, education, emergency medical treatment, infant and child care, legal process, detention, and deportation  and, lamentably, dispersement of the ever growing hordes of unmonitored illegals into the general population.

Those costs are dwarfed, however, by the pain and anguish some citizens bear as a result of the criminal acts perpetrated by known criminals, in plain sight, in the illegal alien population. Yet, there is another cost borne by private citizens that, while not violent rape, kidnapping, or murder, can produce economic destruction and irreparable family discord.

These destructive acts, being perpetrated in our legal system, have heretofore gone unreported.

Workers in America are required to have a Social Security number. Operators of vehicles, buses, trains, ships, and planes must have the requisite license to move these various modes of transportation. All manner of professions and skilled trades require education, examinations, and the granting of licenses.

Responsible citizens abide by all of these requirements and work hard to earn them. Yet there are hundreds of thousands and probably millions of individuals who work and operate in our midst without a single one of these identifiers or the qualifications required to engage in the work for which they are illegally hired.

In tort litigation, a plaintiff's case is valued by a combination of factors such as age, degree of injury, how it affects activities of daily life and annual salary, contributory negligence of all parties, and the various state laws governing monetary apportionment of negligence. Typically, the younger victim with a concomitantly projected longer life will have a greater projected salary loss than a much older victim. This disparity will be reflected in the expert opinion dollar award.

Now, imagine that you are a law-abiding citizen. You have a birth certificate, a Social Security number, a driver's license, and perhaps a passport. If you are in one of the monitored professions such as the skilled trades  a first responder, a beautician, a barber, electrician, plumber, teacher, truck-driver, doctor, dentist, nurse, or lawyer  you have endured special training and require a license for your work.

Suddenly, you are sued for millions of dollars by a person you never met, but who alleges and claims he was seriously injured performing work for you. Moreover, that injured person holds none of the licenses required for the work he purports to have performed. Worse, the person has two different birthdates (one of which could drastically increase potential damages), though neither matches up to any legal Social Security number, does not have a driver's license, and is not in any way legally qualified. Finally, the lawsuit is not costing the illegal a cent, as a personal injury lawyer has taken the case on a contingency basis.

Thus, the non-English-speaking illegal is in violation of myriad laws. He is in the United States illegally. He is working without a Social Security number. He has forged one or both of his birth certificates.

He does not have the requisite license to perform the work he asserts was being performed at your behest, and he does not have a license to drive back and forth from the purported work site.

Unfortunately, the purported "accident" took place in a sanctuary city. Regardless of illegal status and the myriad laws he has broken, the illegal is permitted, and has the legal right, to bring a lawsuit. The extant legal and penal systems are riddled with employees who flout the law, openly protest against and refuse to cooperate with ICE, and the city, with its mayor's blessings, provides tens of thousands of social welfare dollars to illegal aliens.

Thus, the law-abiding citizen is forced to spend money hiring an attorney, answering the complaint and fighting back aggressively. He fears going bankrupt. He fears that his wife will leave him. He fears he will lose everything he has spent a lifetime working two and three jobs to create.

It is robbery, it is blackmail, and It is a disgrace. Every politician who supports this abuse of our judicial system should be voted out of office.
Kamala Harris has always had a problem with authenticity - dating from her political start at Willie Brown's knee, so to speak, to her claim that she went to a racism-infested Berkeley high school in the 1980s, to her claims to smoking pot as a 'Jamaican' thang, something her real Jamaican father publicly corrected her on.

Now she's stepped in it again, posing in an apron and pearls and perfect makeup to whip up some of her famous jerk chicken marinade in her kitchen for her husband's Twitter feed.

My wonderful wife @KamalaHarris rushing home between LA events to prepare Jerk Chicken marinade for our Mothers Day feast Tmw.  pic.twitter.com/BWvwbhFrXf  Douglas Emhoff (@douglasemhoff) May 12, 2019

Twitchy has some choice tweets questioning the matter.

How many things are wrong with this picture?

Well, start with the fact that it's a duplicate of what fellow campaign rival Elizabeth Warren tried to do, drinking beer for the cameras to prove she was just a regular joe for those poor deplorable voters who supposedly want this sort of thing.

We all know how well that worked out for Warren.

And Harris is trying to duplicate it?

I've heard of politicians imitating each other but not imitating each other's mistakes. This is a new one. Rimshot, Kamala.

Because against this homey picture (and yes, she does look pretty cute), everyone has another one of her: That of the 1980s-style ambitious yuppie career politician in fierce heels and pearls with a taste for expensive clothing, who slept her way to the top to burnish her resume, and who has an impressive meanness in questioning and slanting a case against President Trump's Supreme Court nominees as an impersonal part of the job. Let's face it, there's nothing she won't do to get to the top. Not exactly someone you'd want to have a beer with.

Hence, the picture.

The Twitchy denizens jump onto her for authenticity issues in the picture - the whiteness of the apron, suggesting it's brand new, meaning, a theatrical prop, something a stylist or political campaign operative looking at internals might come up with, particularly with what the Twitchy denizens identify as its supposed factory folds, which might or might not be accurate. There are folds alright but it's notable that the fold is slanted, which usually isn't the case in something packaged new unless it's cheap. Just as likely it might have been pressed by an expensive laundry service or else stored at the bottom of a heap of things in the closet (read: little used) to give it that slanted fold, but even with those possibilities, it doesn't make her look authentic. She's got a tiny spot of jerk sauce on her blouse, O.K. But given the crispness of the apron, one wonders if it was put there for the picture. Whatever the case, the viewers are suspicious because first thing that comes to mind with Harris is how inauthentic she is.

I find it even more suspicious that she's makin' jerk chicken, just like dad used to make, presumably. Really? Given her bio, it would seem far more likely she would be making dosas or Mulligatawny soup, or something presented on a banana leaf, which would match the cuisine of her Tamil mom who raised her. Those dishes, of course, would scare some Democrats in the flyover, but most everyone in the states knows what jerk chicken is. But did she really make jerk chicken just like dad used to make? Her parents divorced when she was seven and she had virtually no contact with her dad growing up. If she knows how to cook jerk chicken, it's likely she taught herself or learned about it in a cooking school. Those expensive appliances down the long kitchen corridor suggest the latter.

I'm gonna give her a pass on the dainty bracelets on both wrists - that is a Tamil thang, and they aren't dripping into her food, so it's probably something she really did pick up from her mother.

Then there's the pearls, oh those June Cleaver pearls. Doesn't everyone like to cook, do the dishes, and vaccuum the floor in pearls like June Cleaver did? Not to mention, perfect makeup - note that fine brow job that looks like something she got at Anastasia's near Rodeo Drive. Harris's husband says she was rushing between campaign appointments in Los Angeles, presumably where she lives (the entire Sacramento establishment loves to jet-commute between Sacramento and Los Angeles, and to heck with going green. Just off the job as state attorney general, Harris fits that profile, too). Maybe everyone cooks in pearls (and an apron, which some Twitchyite question, though that's arguable given that apron sales seem to be strong given their presence at Target) and who knows, heels, too, but that might work best for the Martha Stewart crowd, not the average joes the ad was targeting.

Bottom line, hard to think Kamala Harris really rushes home to make poppa's famous jerk chicken marinade in her pearls for the young 'uns in the zillion-dollar kitchen.

Maybe it's authentic, sure. But given what we know of Harris, it's natural to think it's not.

Image credit: Twitter screen grab
The first-term Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez's ambitiously socialist Green New Deal to decarbonize the U.S. economy and create jobs isn't a metaphor for money  although it will require all of yours and much more just to attempt her utopian vision of a carbon-free world in which everyone is staked with a home, food, transportation, higher education, and health care.

Despite (or maybe because of) a degree in international relations and economics from Boston University, Ocasio-Cortez suffers from a core economic misunderstanding. In a phrase, it is her belief that the rich have money the poor would otherwise have. So she has a problem with billionaires. Hers is the delusion that possesses every socialist, so many of whom believe that the movie Trading Places was a documentary.

Ocasio-Cortez doesn't understand why so much of the world's wealth is possessed by so few. The answer is diversity: the diverse distribution of the traits necessary for enormous success. As might be expected, all the human traits are distributed more or less normally throughout any population  roughly the way grades break out in a large classroom.

It is the same with most any measure of a population: the majority (more than two thirds, actually) of individuals will score within one standard deviation of the mean (or average) on any measure of humanity, whether it is our height or our hemoglobin, our resting heart rate or our bone density, our general drive or how fast we can run, the strength of our immune system or our longevity  you name the category.

The normal distribution of human traits also explains why freedom and diversity are so positively correlated  that is to say, the more individual freedom, the more diversity expresses itself in any form of human productivity, from toys to tablets, from art to aircraft, from molly bolts to movies.

An unusual endowment of several traits is necessary for the creation of great wealth in a comparatively free market: good health and high intelligence, along with four of the Big 5 traits (distilled from Raymond Cattell's 16 Personality Factors). High scores on openness (that leads to creativity) and conscientiousness (the likelihood of staying on task and following through on commitments) are essential, along with at least enough extroversion to accomplish some networking or collaboration and sufficient agreeability to get along with potential partners and customers.

The recognition that only a small subset of any population scores really high on any of the traits that are most essential to great success explains why the one or two percent most wealthy people are...one or two percent. But it is a little more interesting than that.

There is a rule in statistics about combining probabilities that is in a profound sense the beginning of socio-political wisdom. The Multiplicative Rule states that to calculate the likelihood that two or more events will occur requires the multiplication together of each event's individual probability of occurring. The commonest easy example is the probability of two consecutive coin tosses both coming up tails: one in four, or 25 percentthe result of multiplying together the 50 percent probability that each coin toss will come up tails (0.5 x 0.5 is 0.25).

Now apply the multiplicative rule to the odds that any one person will acquire an unusually large measure of the several traits required for exceptional wealth. Assume good health (an uncertainty in itself), but apply the rule to people that score at the 95th percentile (five out of 100 people) or above on just three of the success dependent traits  say, openness, conscientiousness, and intelligence. The math  0.05 x 0.05 x 0.05 = 0.000125  suggests that little more than one in ten thousand people has that kind of potential, or around 17,000 individuals in the U.S. between the ages of birth and forty. Obviously, beyond some point (perhaps the age of 40), with increasing age, unmade fortunes are increasingly likely to remain unmade.

The 17,000 are very unusual, as evidenced by how infrequently their level of combined traits actually occurs. They will make a good living at most any profession to which they commit themselves. Even if it is just their well-informed time they have to sell, they will work their way into the top one or two percent of American income-earners.

Of the few people who have the personality traits  not to mention the interest  necessary to devise, develop, and bring to market a successful invention or product, brand, or service that can make them super-rich  most manage to do so because what they devise and offer is scalable, and "everybody" wants their product, to be on their payroll, or to own some of their stock. (An individual's time is not scalable, although it almost seems to be in the case of the salaries of the CEOs of major corporations or when that defense attorney sends a bill just for thinking about you.)

Unusual cognitive ability and manifestation of the requisite personality traits are essential to, but not exclusively determinative of, great wealth. There is a measure of time and chance in all accomplishment.

Without the much maligned one percent who devise, build, and distribute the benefits of our most essential industries (food production, health care delivery, transportation, communication, construction, and service), large populations concentrated in modern megalopoli would not have jobs  wouldn't have socks, for that matter.

But the radical truth about the extent of human diversity appears lost on old and new socialists like Bernie Sanders and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez as they blame the rich for earning money they seem to think the poor would otherwise have and attempt to herd their fellow Americans toward a Green New Deal. Their idea of Heaven on Earth is the politics of Hell.

The author has a master's degree in psychology from Pepperdine University and directs publications at an American school of dentistry.

Image: Global News via YouTube.
The Washington Post article "Gaza's homemade rockets still test Israel's sophisticated defense system," published May 7, 2019, uses biased phrasing in the title to downplay the threat Gaza imposes against Israel, stating that Gaza's "homemade" rockets merely "tested" Israel's defense system.

The authors open the article highlighting the tight border controls Israel enforces on Gaza but disregard Egypt's border controls on Gaza. More importantly, the authors neglect to mention why border controls exist! The reader is primed to feel that Israel is singularly acting unjustly against impoverished Gaza. Why is Gaza impoverished when Hamas receives billions in humanitarian aid? Largely because Hamas exploits aid funds to stockpile weapons and build terroristic infrastructure instead of helping its people.

While the authors admit to Gaza's large stockpile of rockets in the article's beginning, their biased frame continues by stating that a tiny fraction was fired toward Israel. The nearly 700 rockets were not just fired "toward" Israel. The rockets fired by Hamas and Islamic Jihad targeted and devastated civilian, not military, areas across southern Israel, resulting in the tragic deaths of four Israeli civilians (briefly mentioned later) in addition to injuring hundreds of Israeli civilians, including children (who are never acknowledged).

Why has the Post neglected the real story?
As a journalist who worked on a weekly newspaper in Columbine during the shooting in 1999 and covered every aspect of it for the immediate community for a year, I notice some aspects unique to the latest shooting at the STEM school in Highlands Ranch, Colorado on May 7, 2019.

Here are a couple of my observations, and some questions, to make us think and help us to stop more school shootings like this one.

Stated plainly, narratives of the Left and the mainstream media, which are not necessarily true, may have contributed to the shooting. In other words, memes appear to have been picked up by the shooters and drove them to attack.

Look at the perpetrators and their thinking, and consider whether the narratives they were laboring under were true or false.

One shooter, a senior at the school and over eighteen, said he was motivated in part by his hatred of "Christians who hate gays." So it seems that the narrative that drove him is that Christians hate gays. We all hear that a lot these days, especially from gay activists, but is it true?

Well, many Christians disagree in private with the homosexual lifestyle  not all Christians think alike  because their religion teaches that it is sinful. However, Christianity also teaches that followers of Jesus are to love those involved in sin, not hate them. Why? Because they themselves are sinners.

Some Christians have been hateful to gays over the centuries  there are bad apples in every barrel  but so have secular people and people of other religions, especially Muslims. The majority of Christians do not actively hate and persecute gay people. Conclusion: This is a false narrative, and the shooter seems to have been driven by it.

The second shooter was a child, a sixteen-year-old girl, whom we are asked to take as transgender. Why? Because she said she wanted to be referred to as "he" in court proceedings. An important narrative to this child seems to have been that she could be any sex she wanted to be.

Is this true? Not objectively.

According to Dale O'Leary, writing for Univorm, "[t]he transgendered and their supporters claim that people are merely assigned a sex at birth, their gender identity (how they feel) may or may not match their assigned sex. The goal is to force everyone to accept that gender identity should take precedence over the biological reality of sexual identity and men who claim to be women should be treated as though they were women."

Was this child damaged by the false narrative that O'Leary says is being forced on everyone?

Reports after the shooting indicated that the child was living in a family situation where there was domestic abuse. One can imagine a child who is confused and in need of help grabbing on to the gender fluidity narrative pushed by the Left and finding an identity that is cool in today's society.

In the aftermath of the shooting, the mainstream media say nothing about these potential contributing narratives. Giving them the benefit of the doubt, maybe it's because media people don't notice them. Could it also be that the mainstream media are part of the monolithic Left, so they're not liable to go there, to expose narratives as false, and to report on damage they do?

So far, mainstream media have focused on guns, along with the politicians, and on possible failings of the Sheriff's Department, instead of thinking outside the box and looking at other factors.

Colorado's Governor Jared Polis hasn't said anything about the driving narratives, either, since the shooting, even though he is gay. He could urge people in the gay community to be careful about their rhetoric. But then, he could have urged the gay community to leave the Colorado baker Jack Phillips alone after the Supreme Court decided for him. Haven't heard from him on that topic, either.

Anyway, you can bet if there were a tie to ideologies on the American right as factors in this shooting, all on the Left would be outraged.

Maybe it's worth it for other non-politicians and citizen-journalists to ask this question: did the Left's false narratives, propagated by the media, that gays are hated and persecuted by Christians, and that biological sex is just one more "choice" to be taught to our young people, contribute to this latest violence in our schools?

C.S. Boddie is partner at Meadowlark Press, LLC. She works out of her home in Littleton, Colorado.
Uighurs are a Turkic-speaking Muslim minority community residing mostly in the Xinjaing Province, Kashgar Prefecture of Northwestern China (see figure 1). Beijing has attributed the escalating oppression of this group as a strategic requirement in their fight against terrorism. As is the case with many authoritarian regimes, the terrorism label is an expedient distraction from the brutal suppression of largely internal dissent. Various reports indicate that the PRC has incarcerated up to 1 million Uighurs in detention camps in Xinjiang for what they disingenuously describe as transformation through education. What the PRC wants these detained Uighurs to transform into is open to debate.

Xinjiangs location (VOA map)

The answer to why we should care has two basic elements. First, the issue of the internment camps has unsurprisingly caused debate on the world stage. The Trump Administration was considering targeted sanctions as late as December 2018 but has recently declined to consider such a move in an effort to preserve some level of equanimity in the high stakes tariff negotiations between the two economic superpowers. From a geopolitical standpoint, we arrive at the if not the United States, then who? quandary, in which it is highly doubtful that any other world body (including the United Nations) has anywhere near the leverage necessary to force the PRCs hand on the issue.

The second concern is orders of magnitude more complicated and far less understood than the detention camps. Afghanistans Badakhshan Province is the furthest Northeastern Province in the beleaguered country and shares a 56 mile (91 km) border with China by way of the Wakhan Corridor, a thin strip of land that borders Pakistan on its southern length, Tajikistan along the northern corridor, and stops at the small border with China at its eastern terminus.

Wakhan Corridor between Afghanistan and China (via Google Maps)

As you may have already surmised, the PRC province that borders Afghanistan is the aforementioned Xinjiang. This border serves as one of the most often travelled migrant egress routes from the PRC for Uighurs fleeing persecution. As part of the PRCs Belt and Road initiative, China has vastly increased economic and security activity in Central Asia and a component of that activity concerns arrangements with Afghanistan. Of particular concern is the widely reported negotiation for the PRC to build a military base in Badakhshan. If known, the intended location of this base is most certainly classified despite the ubiquitousness of open source imagery.

The Trump administration has made no secret of its desire to extricate the United States from the 17-year saga of United States presence in Afghanistan. The Taliban has inexplicably morphed into a malignant caricature of a legitimate political entity and are currently engaging in peace talks with the United States in Qatar while simultaneously openly killing international aid workers in Kabul. All this points to a deteriorating security environment and a resultant power vacuum. The PRC certainly has legitimate concerns about promoting stability to its western neighbor in the increasingly likely scenario of CENTCOM downshifting to a Security Force Assistance Brigade function. However, an increasing military presence in Afghanistan, naval base in Djibouti, various security arrangements in Africa and its understated, but consistent presence in Yemen all point to long term strategic concerns.
Trend:

US President Donald Trump said on Saturday that companies should produce goods "in the good old" United States in order to avoid impacts of increased tariffs, Trendreports citing Sputnik.

"Such an easy way to avoid Tariffs? Make or produce your goods and products in the good old USA. Its very simple!" the president tweeted.

On Friday, Trump increased the level of tariffs from 10 percent to 25 percent on about $200 billion worth of Chinese imports. He also ordered tariffs to be raised on all remaining US imports from China, which are valued at around $300 billion.

Earlier this week, Trump stated that the possibility of removing the sanctions depended on the outcome of future negotiations between Washington and Beijing. He added that the latest tariffs, which went into effect on Friday, would produce "massive payments" that would go directly to the US Treasury Department.

The trade dispute between the United States and China, the worlds two biggest economies, has been escalating for over a year now. Both nations repeatedly slapped billions of dollars worth of retaliatory tariffs on one another as rivalry between them soared.
After Brahmastra, my next release is Shamshera and hence Luv Ranjans film will need to go ahead.

Not much of a talker, Ranbir Kapoor is an actor who lets his work speak for him. However, at a recent event, the Sanju actor shed all inhibitions and spoke candidly to the media, answering queries the media and fans have had for a long time.

When the actor was asked about the postponement of Ayaan Mukherji directorial Brahmastra, he revealed that they havent set a deadline for the film and finds it unfortunate that the film could not make it to the December date.

Ayaan has worked very hard and he has really given his life to this film. We have been working on Brahmastra for the last six years, and everyone involved Alia, Mr. Bachchan, Pritam and Karan have given it their best. The December date couldnt work out because of the computer graphics, as the CG would not have been ready, he says.

Ranbir believes that film delays do not reflect well on an actors career graph. My last film Sanju released last year and my next will come after two years. So, it is not good for an actor to have such a long gap. But it is not really in my hands. As long as the film is made well, as long as you work really hard, that is what is important. We are not giving the film any deadline, but it has to be made and released well, says Ranbir adding that the postponement of Brahmastra will affect his other films too.

After Brahmastra, my next release is Shamshera and hence Luv Ranjans film will need to go ahead. Because the audience too will get bored if they see three of my films in one year so that will also be pushed ahead. But yes, Brahmastra should be out next summer, says the actor, who will resume shooting for the fantasy film this week.

Work is important, but so are breaks and Ranbir spoke about his recent trip to Europe. I went to Berlin for some work on Brahmastra and then went to Europe to chill under the sun because some vitamin D is good for health. And now I am back to Brahmastra, says the actor with a smile.

The actor also mentioned how action movies come as a bit of a challenge as he is more acquainted with romantic comedies. I am shooting simultaneously for both Brahmastra and Shamshera which is very difficult and both of them have a lot of action. But I am having fun, Ranbir avers.

At the event, when he was asked about the suggestion to convert RK Studios into a museum, the actor echoes his sister Kareena Kapoor Khans views that it is not a structure, but their work that will take the RK legacy forward. RK Studios became what it is because of my grandfather. You feel sad that the studio will not be there, but I would like to take the legacy forward in producing and making movies, he assures.

Talking about his father Rishi Kapoor, who was declared cancer free and will be back to the bay in a month or two, Ranbir informs us that he is doing much better. His spirits are up and there is a lot of positivity from a lot of people. It has been a hard one-year for him. His only desire and endeavour is to come back to the movies and act in them. This one-year sabbatical has been a setback for him, but he is really doing well for himself, he says.

Finally, the actor also responded to Kangana Ranauts charge of him being irresponsible for dodging a political question in an interview. He says, Whatever anyone asks me, I do reply. But I am not interested in answering some questions. Let people say what they want. I know who I am and what I am.

 Sanskriti Media
'We condemn the incident of rape of a Dalit woman recently and other cases of violence,' Prakash Javadekar said.

The BJP leader alleged that the Alwar gangrape incident was 'kept a secret' in the wake of voting in Rajasthan on May 6. (Photo: File)

New Delhi: The BJP on Sunday alleged "failure" of law and order in Rajasthan in the wake of the Alwar gangrape incident and demanded the resignation of Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot.

"We condemn the incident of rape of a Dalit woman recently and other cases of violence," Union minister Prakash Javadekar told reporters at a press conference.

However, there was no immediate reaction from the Congress. The BJP leader alleged that the Alwar gangrape incident was "kept a secret" in the wake of voting in Rajasthan on May 6.

Javadekar also alleged that besides the gangrape incident in Alwar, other cases of rape were also reported elsewhere in Rajasthan, which saw polling in two phases on April 29 and May 6.

The minister claimed that in the last four months of the Congress government in Rajasthan "46 cases of rape have occurred and 27 cases of atrocities against Dalits, rape or otherwise".

We therefore demand resignation of Gehlot, he said alleging "failure" of law and order in the state.

"We are condemning the Rajasthan rape incident of a Dalit woman, which was first kept a secret just because there was voting on May 6," he alleged.

The rape had provoked protests across Rajasthan after the victim's husband alleged that the police did not act quickly because of the elections.

He claimed the woman was raped on April 26 and the police informed on April 30, but the FIR was filed only May 7.
Patna Sahib is seen as a traditional Kayastha seat where the caste has around 25 percent voter base.

Patna: After a tough contest in six phases, it appears that NDA and grand alliance are locked in a neck to neck fight in the remaining last two phases of polls. Stakes are high for the BJP in the seventh phase as the partys veteran leader Ravi Shankar Prasad has been pitted against his former colleague and Congress leader Shatrughan Sinha in Patna Sahib Constituency.

On Saturday BJP Chief Amit Shah flanked by the partys nominee for the Patna Sahib constituency held a massive roadshow and urged people to vote for the NDA.

Be sure that the NDA will be in a better position this time and Narendra Modi will return as Prime Minister after the polls. As far as Patna Sahib is concerned our partys candidate Ravi Shankar Prasad is going to win this time, BJP Chief Amit Shah said.

Shatrughan Sinha had quit the BJP and joined the Congress earlier this year after he was sidelined in the party. Patna Sahib is considered a BJPs fort as it has five out of six MLAs in the constituency. Howe-ver, political analysts are of the opinion that caste factor may also play a decisive role in the constituency as both the leaders belong to upper caste Kayastha community.

Patna Sahib is seen as a traditional Kayastha seat where the caste has around 25 percent voter base. According to political analysts here, the Patna Sahib constituency has traditionally seen a fight between BJP and Congress. In 2014 Shatrughan Sinha had won elections by defeating Congress nominee Kunal Singh, a veteran Bhojpuri film actor by a record margin of 2,65,805 votes.

He had bagged 4, 85,905 votes while Kunal Singh, a Congress nominee had secured 2, 20,100 votes.

BJP leaders said that people were upset with Shatrughan Sinha due to his absence from Patna Sahib Constituency after winning 2009 elections. He, however, managed to overcome public anger and won 2014 Lok Sabha elections by a record margin due to massive Modi wave in the country.

Keep yourself updated on Lok Sabha Elections 2019 with our round-the-clock coverage -- breaking news, updates, analyses etc all. Happy reading.
Commenting on Mr Modis remarks on him and his family, Mr Gandhi said that the Prime Minister has personal hatred towards him.

New Delhi: A day before voting for 59 seats in the penultimate phase of general election, Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Saturday alleged that the BJP, RSS and Prime Minister Narendra Modi have hatred towards his family, but he does not harbour the same feelings for the Prime Minister. He also took a dig at Mr Modis style of governance, saying the Prime Minister has taught him how not to run a country.

With post-poll talks on his mind, the Congress president reached out to Bahujan Samaj Partys critical chief, Mayawati, and praised her saying, I love and respect her contribution to the nation.

While acknowledging that there is a political divide between the Congress and the BSP, Mr Gandhi said he regards Ms Mayawati as a symbol of the nation.

She has sent a message to the country. I respect her, I love her. For political fight, the Congress party will have to fight for ideology, Mr Gandhi said in an interview to a TV channel on the sidelines of a rally in Shujalpur in Madhya Pradesh.

Claiming that he always learns from people and his political rivals, Mr Gandhi said, I have learnt from Modiji, how not to run a country. If you govern the country without listening to anybody then the country cannot function properly.

Commenting on Mr Modis remarks on him and his family, Mr Gandhi said that the Prime Minister has personal hatred towards him.

The BJP, the RSS and Mr Modi have hatred for my family and our job is to remove it. Narendra Modi attacks me. He speaks with hatred about my father, my grandmother and my great grandfather. He speaks in anger, but I go and give him a jhappi (hug), Mr Gandhi said.

The Congress chiefs remarks came a week after Mr Modi said at a rally that former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi was termed Mr Clean by his courtiers, but his life ended as Bhrashtachari No. 1 (corrupt number 1).

Speaking about the recent allegations of corruption levelled against Rajiv Gandhi, the Congress president said, Narendra Modi talks about Rajiv ji, about Nehru ji, about Indira ji I know the truth. I know my grandmothers truth. I know its all lies that he is spreading. What difference does it make? It is okay if you say Naamdar. It will be clear on May 23 It is a country that is filled with love. Hes filled with personal hatred.

He challenged Mr Modi for an open debate on issues like corruption, demonetisation, Goods and Services Tax and farm crisis. Mr Gandhi said that there is an ideological fight between the BJP-RSS and the progressive forces in the country.

We are fighting against the ideology that is a threat to the Constitution. Mr Modi is ignoring the intelligence of the RBI and announcing demonetisation... Wherever I go, the people of the country are saying that there is a force that is trying to control the country, Mr Gandhi said.

Mr Gandhi also condemned party leader Sam Pitrodas hua toh hua remark on 1984 anti-Sikh riots. Whoever committed violence should be booked, punished, Mr Gandhi said.

Mr Pitroda had waded into a huge controversy in Himachal Pradesh recently when he said hua toh hua, roughly translated to so what on being questioned about the 1984 anti-Sikh riots.

Keep yourself updated on Lok Sabha Elections 2019 with our round-the-clock coverage -- breaking news, updates, analyses etc all. Happy reading.
IAF had signed a contract with US government and Boeing in September 2015 for 22 Apache helicopters.

Air Marshal A.S. Butola accepts the first Apache helicopter during a function in Arizona on Friday.

New Delhi: In a boost to Indian Air Forces firepower, the first Apache Guardian attack helicopter was formally handed over to it at Boeing production facility in Mesa, Arizona, on Friday.

Apache attack helicopter carry radar-guided Hellfire anti-tank missiles to destroy high value targets, air to air Stinger missiles and guns.

IAF had signed a contract with US government and Boeing in September 2015 for 22 Apache helicopters.

The first batch of these helicopters is scheduled to be shipped to India by July this year. Apaches will be based at the Pathankot and Jorhat airbases. Air Marshal A.S. Butola, represented the Indian Air Force and accepted the first Apache in a ceremony at Boeing production facility, representatives from the United States Government were also present. The selected air crew and ground crew have undergone training at the training facilities at US Army base Fort Rucker, Alabama.

These personnel will lead the operationalisation of the Apache fleet in the IAF.

The addition of AH-64 E (I) helicopter is a significant step towards modernisation of Indian Air Forces helicopter fleet.

The helicopter has been customised to suit IAFs future requirements and would have significant capability in mountainous terrain, said IAF spokesperson Group Captain Anupam Banerjee. He said that the helicopter has the capability to carry out precision attacks at stand-off ranges and operate in hostile airspace with threats from ground. The ability of these helicopters, to transmit and receive the battlefield picture, to and from the weapon systems through data networking makes it a lethal acquisition. These attack helicopters will provide significant edge in any future joint operations in support of land forces, added Group Captain Banerjee.

Apache attack helicopters first proved their mettle in Gulf war when they destroyed early-warning radar in western Iraq clearing the way for fighter jets to bomb their targets undetected.
The revelation unfolded after a tip-off from a South African woman passenger.

New Delhi: In country's biggest narcotics raid ever, the Narcotics Control Bureau of India (NCB) on Thursday recovered drug worth Rs 1,000 crore and above from a house in Greater Noida and arrested two Nigerian nationals and one South African national.

According to the officials, the house belongs to an Indian Police Service (IPS) officer and was used as a drug-manufacturing unit. The recovered pseudoephedrine drug weighs up to 1,818kg.

In the past three years, it is the seizure is Indias biggest-ever narcotics haul and the worlds largest pseudoephedrine seizure, said Madhav Singh, zonal director, NCB.

The revelation unfolded after a tip-off from a South African woman passenger.

On Thursday morning Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) intercepted the 31-year-old, Nomsa Lutalo at Delhis Indira Gandhi International airport.

On checking her bags, they found 24.7kg pseudoephedrine from her bags. On questioning, the woman said she had been handed the consignment in Greater Noida by two people from Nigeria. She said she was asked to carry the same to Johannesburg and was promised good money in exchange, Singh said.

The woman was set to board a flight to Johannesburg via Dubai.

The interrogation with the woman gave lead to NCB and the raid was conducted.
Heads of 6 regional parties, strong in 185 seats, to be game changers.

Hyderabad: Between them, regional party chiefs in six states  K. Chandrasekhar Rao, Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy, Naveen Patnaik, Mamata Banerjee, Mayawati and Akhilesh Yadav  are all set to call the shots in over 185 seats or one-third of the Lok Sabha and emerge as game changer in the post-poll scenario.

They want to hedge their bets till the Lok Sabha results are declared on May 23. Though it is unlikely that these six parties will support the BJP, they seem poised to drive a hard bargain with the Congress.

Sources close to Telangana Rashtra Samiti chief K. Chandrasekhar Rao said that he was confident that the Biju Janata Dal, the Bahujan Samaj Party, the YSR Congress Party, the Trinamul Congress and the Samajwadi Party, would join the TRS in making the maximum out of a deal with the Congress.

Sources said that as per the analysis of Mr Rao after his preliminary talks with Ms Banerjee and Mr Patnaik, the two leaders are not prepared to leave their native states nor are they keen on staking claim for the Prime Ministers post.

In public, however, Ms Banerjee and Ms Mayawati have adopted postures that suggest they are aiming for the top job.

As per the analysis of Mr Rao, the Congress prospects are bleak in Odisha where the BJP is emerging as the main Opposition party. Mr Patnaik will certainly not go with the BJP after the elections and would opt to support the Congress to weaken the BJP.

In Uttar Pradesh, despite the alliance with the Congress falling through, the SP-BSP grouping will move towards the party after the elections.

In Andhra Pradesh, it is worth mentioning that in a recent interview Mr Jagan Mohan Reddy had said that he had forgiven the Congress and claimed that he had no feeling of vengeance against the party.

Mr Rao explained to his party leaders that in such circumstances the six parties working together would emerge as game changer in the post-poll scenario, a source said.

Sources said that Mr Rao explained that Ms Banerjee is not so keen on Congress president Rahul Gandhi becoming the Prime Minister. That is why she very categorically told AP chief minister N. Chandrababu Naidu that they should wait for election results.

Andhra Pradesh has 25 Lok Sabha seats, Telangana 17, Uttar Pradesh 80, Odisha 21, and West Bengal 42, totalling 185. In the 2014 elections, the BJP had won 71 seats in UP but this time the SP-BSP alliance is likely to prevent a repeat.

Mr Rao visualises that if the Congress and its UPA partners look for a alternative leader for Prime Minister other than Mr Gandhi, the SP-BSP combine may project Ms Mayawati the for Prime Ministers post.

Keep yourself updated on Lok Sabha Elections 2019 with our round-the-clock coverage -- breaking news, updates, analyses etc all. Happy reading.
Sidhu had said that Mr Modi was like a bride who makes noise from her bangles to give an impression that she was working hard.

New Delhi: After Congress overseas department head, Sam Pitroda, it was Punjab minister Navjot Singh Sidhu who came under fire from the BJP on Saturday for his racist and sexist remarks against Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The ruling party claimed that the Congress leaders remarks shows its mindset.

Campigining against the BJP in Indore on Friday, the actor-turned politician, Mr Sidhu had called Mr Modi a bride who pretends to work and also asked the voters to free the country from the rule of kale angrez (black britishers).

Congress is the party of Mahatama Gandhi and Maulana Azad. This is the party that freed the country from the rule of Britishers...now free the country from the rule of black Britishers and chowkidars. Do not underestimate the power of your vote, Mr Sidhu said at a rally in Indore.

Slamming the Congress star campaigner, BJP national spokesperson Sambit Patra said while Mr Sidhu keeps making all sort of loose statements, he has not spoken a word against Mr Pitrodas so what if it happened remarks on the 1984 anti-sikh riots.

Mr Pitrodas remarks on Thursday had created a major political furore with the Congress president Rahul Gandhi himself asking him to apologise for his comment. Mr Patra also claimed that Mr Sidhu targeted the PM at Madhya Pradesh chief minister Kamal Naths behest alleging that he was also involved in the anti-Sinkh riots.

Taking on Mr Sidhu for his sexist remark, the BJP leader said Sidhu ji had earlier said that when Michelle Obama enters the kitchen of the White House to make bread, she will be surprised to note that some items are from Lucknow. He thinks even Michelle Obama is good enough just for making bread...This is new India. Here women dont just exist to make bread at home, but carry the country forward.

Mr Sidhu had said that Mr Modi was like a bride who makes noise from her bangles to give an impression that she was working hard.

Claimng that Mr Sidhu had exposed mindset of the Congress after he called Indians black Britishers, Mr Patra said, PM Modi may not be fair but has a heart of gold.

Keep yourself updated on Lok Sabha Elections 2019 with our round-the-clock coverage -- breaking news, updates, analyses etc all. Happy reading.
Leading UAE groups Tamdeed Projects and Etisalat Facilities Management (eFM) - both subsidiaries of Etisalat Services Holding - highlighted the latest trends and best practices for powering digital transformation in smart cities and smart buildings during the BICSI Middle East & Africa (MEA) Conference and Exhibition held in Dubai.



The conference was held at the Dubai World Trade Centre under the theme From AI to Zettabytes: A Connected Future! It featured keynotes, a panel discussion, and technical presentations by international experts sharing the latest advancements in the world of structured cabling infrastructures, extra low voltage (ELV) systems and Information and Communications Technology (ICT).



During the event, Tamdeed showcased its broad portfolio of integrated OSP (Outside Plant  outdoor fibre optic infrastructures), Telecom, ELV and ICT solutions and services in the UAE, while eFM presented innovative Smart Training Rooms, Smart Meeting Rooms, and the integration with various building management and automation systems.



The conference was organised by Building Industry Consulting Service International (BICSI), a professional association supporting the advancement of the information and communications technology (ICT) community covering the spectrum of voice, data, electronic safety & security, extra low voltage, audio & video technologies and project management.



The participation of both entities reinforces their commitment to support the ELV, ICT and communications network community and promoting innovation within all aspects of telecom network and smart city solutions.



Tareq Salman, general manager, Tamdeed Projects, delivered a presentation on Tamdeeds transformation journey from passive to active technologies. Tamdeeds vision is to be the leading strategic partner in value-added communications networks.



Salman shared insights into Tamdeeds journey from a fibre optic solution provider to an ELV and ICT player.



Ali Hassan Abdulla Al Harmoodi, general manager, eFM, presented eFM  The Future of FM, highlighting the companys skilled workforce, diversified industry knowledge, smart and integrated facilities management offerings, IoT, cloud, and AI-based solutions, and reliable technology ecosystems.

Tamdeed Projects and Etisalat Facilities Management (eFM) were the events exclusive diamond-level sponsors.-TradeArabia News Service
Polling in West Bengal in almost all the phases has been marred by violence, primarily due to clashes between BJP and TMC workers.

Ahead of the commencement of polling in the state, three BJP workers were attacked in separate incidents in the state, officials confirmed. (Representational Image)

East Medinipur/Jhargram: Ahead of the commencement of polling in the state, three BJP workers were attacked in separate incidents in the state, officials confirmed.

In East Medinipur, BJP workers Ananta Guchait and Ranjit Maity were shot at last night in Bhagabanpur area. The injured were admitted to a hospital soon after the incident and are undergoing treatment.

Meanwhile, BJP worker Raman Singh was found dead in Gopiballabpur area of Jhargram.

Polling in West Bengal in almost all the phases has been marred by violence, primarily due to clashes between BJP and TMC workers.

BJP is looking to make significant inroads into West Bengal while Mamata Banerjee-led TMC is seeking to defend its bastions.

Polling is underway for the sixth phase of elections in the country for 59 Lok Sabha seats, including 7 in Delhi, 8 in Bihar, 10 in Haryana, 8 in Madhya Pradesh, 14 in Uttar Pradesh, 8 in West Bengal and 4 in Jharkhand.

Results of the seven-phase elections will be declared on May 23.

Keep yourself updated on Lok Sabha Elections 2019 with our round-the-clock coverage -- breaking news, updates, analyses etc all. Happy reading.
He appealed people to work towards strengthening the institutions of the President and the Prime Minister.

Mr Singh's statements hold significance as the ruling BJP and Opposition Congress are engaged in a bitter war of words. (Photo:AP)

Rohtas: Amid the ongoing political slugfest over Prime Minister Narendra Modi's comments on former PM Rajiv Gandhi, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday said he never used foul language for any of India's premiers, irrespective of their political affiliations.

"I never use foul language for any Prime Minister irrespective of the political party they may belong to. Prime Minister, President are not individuals, they are institutions," Mr Singh said at an election rally in Bihar's Rohtas.

He appealed people to work towards strengthening the institutions of the President and the Prime Minister.

He said, "It is the duty of every party and citizen to strengthen these institutions because if these institutions start weakening, democracy will weaken, and if democracy is weak then no power in the world can save the country from a partition."

"I would not say that a party did nothing for the development of the country. Every party does something. It is just that their working styles are different," he further said.

Mr Singh's statements hold significance as the ruling BJP and Opposition Congress are engaged in a bitter war of words over PM Modi's comments against former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi.

PM Modi, over the past week, dubbed Rajiv Gandhi as ''corrupt no 1'' and accused him of using the Navy's warship INS Viraat for vacationing with his family and friends during his tenure as prime minister.
Ahead of the sixth phase, Modi tweeted, 'After all, their participation makes the polls even more special,' Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday appealed to youngsters to go out and vote in record numbers. (Photo: File)

New Delhi: Ahead of the sixth phase of Lok Sabha polls, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday appealed to youngsters to go out and vote in record numbers.

"Yet another phase of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections is here! Urging all those whose constituencies are polling in today's sixth phase to go out and vote. I hope youngsters are voting in record numbers," Prime Minister tweeted before voting for sixth phase of Lok Sabha polls began.

"After all, their participation makes the polls even more special," he added.

Yet another phase of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections is here!



Urging all those whose constituencies are polling in todays sixth phase to go out and vote. I hope youngsters are voting in record numbers. After all, their participation makes the polls even more special.  Chowkidar Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 12, 2019

Voting for the sixth phase of Lok Sabha polls began on Sunday morning. A total of 59 seats from six states and Union Territory of Delhi are going to polls in the sixth phase. The counting of votes will be done on May 23.

Keep yourself updated on Lok Sabha Elections 2019 with our round-the-clock coverage -- breaking news, updates, analyses etc all. Happy reading.
Daring the PM to harm her, she even declared that he would not be able to do anything beyond murdering her or sending her behind bars.

Kolkata: Launching a ferocious attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Trinamul Congress supremo Mamata Banerjee on Saturday claimed that his death knell has started tolling. She declared that her United India rally at the Brigade Parade Ground on January 19 paved the way for farewell bell to Mr Modi.

Daring the PM to harm her, she even declared that he would not be able to do anything beyond murdering her or sending her behind bars. The death knell remark by the West Bengal chief minister at Murarisha in Hasnabad of North 24 Parganas is bound to cause controversy at a time when the Lok Sabha elections are underway.

Addressing a poll campaign rally in support of actor turned TMC candidate Nusrat Jahan Ms Banerjee told the crowd, Remember, it is only me who speaks against Mr Modi Babu. Someone had to bell the cat, which we did in Bengal. That is why a farewell bell is ringing for him in the entire country.

She added,  Modibabur Mrityu Ghanta Bajchhe (Modi Babus death knell is tolling), which we have done at the Brigade Parade Ground. Lashing out at the PM, Ms Banerjee alleged, When the people of the country failed to speak up in fear, it was only Mamata Banerjee who spoke up. Mr Modi Babu, I challenge you. What (harm) can you do to me?

She argued, Maximum you can kill me or slit my throat or send me to jail. But you cannot do anything beyond that. The press would not utter a single word against Mr Modi Babu because he threatens them. Even a single leader cannot speak against him in fear. We have declared that the BJP would be finished in 2019.

Ms Banerjee, This is 1426 (Bengali New Year) and it will be 42 out of 42 in Bengal. That is why Mr Modi Babu has been scared. The saffron party is carrying Jhanda (flag) in one hand and Danda (stick) in another with boxes of money. She underlined that the people of Basirhat did not trigger riots a few years ago.

They did not give food, clothes and shelter to anyone. They have only offered riots. People of Basirhat did not incite riots. Opening the gates at the Indo-Bangla border, the BSF allowed the miscreants to cross over to trigger the riot, she complained.

Keep yourself updated on Lok Sabha Elections 2019 with our round-the-clock coverage -- breaking news, updates, analysis et al. Happy reading.
The Mumbai collectors office declared the updated list in January this year.

he Mumbai city collector has deleted more than 70,000 names from the voters list on grounds that they are either absent from their address, have shifted, or are dead. (Photo: Rajesh Jadhav)

Mumbai: The Mumbai city collector has deleted more than 70,000 names from the voters list on grounds that they are either absent from their address, have shifted, or are dead. South Mumbai has a greater number of deleted voters as compared to South central Mumbai.

The Mumbai collectors office had conducted a survey last year to update the voters list, which was updated this year before the Lok Sabha elections. The Mumbai collectors office declared the updated list in January this year.

A desk officer said, The number of ASD (absent, shifted and deleted) voters keeps changing. But the deletion process happens after the Election Commissions permission. According to the list, we had deleted 71,598 ASD voters from south Mumbai and south central Mumbai.

In urban areas, we found more voters have moved to other places than in rural areas. But the voters list has not been updated accordingly. The problem is more challenging in slums as it is difficult to carry out a survey there and distribute voter identity cards. In most places, there are no proper room numbers or there are multiple families living in a single unit, said Shivajirao Jondhale, Mumbai city collector.

More ASD voters were found in south central Mumbai. In south Mumbai, a total 43,514 ASD voters were found whereas in south central Mumbai, 28,084 ASD voters were listed. In south central Mumbai, the number of voters who had shifted was greater whereas in south Mumbai, the number of dead voters was greater. In south central Mumbai, 14,971 shifted voters were registered while 19,924 dead voters were found in south Mumbai. In South central Mumbai, Wadala had the highest number of ASD voters. Among a total 28,084 voters, 10,603 ASD voters were from Wadala.
Islamic State claimed for the first time that it has established a 'province' in India, after a clash between militants and security forces.

IS has stepped up hit-and-run raids and suicide attacks, including taking responsibility for the Easter Sunday bombing in Sri Lanka that killed at least 253 people. (Photo:AP)

New Delhi/Srinagar: Islamic State (IS) claimed for the first time that it has established a province in India, after a clash between militants and security forces in the contested Kashmir region killed a militant with alleged ties to the group.

ISs Amaq News Agency late on Friday announced the new province, that it called Wilayah of Hind, in a statement that also claimed IS inflicted casualties on Indian army soldiers in the town of Amshipora in the Shopian district of Kashmir.

The IS statement corresponds with an Indian police statement on Friday that a militant called Ishfaq Ahmad Sofi was killed in an encounter in Shopian.

ISs statement establishing the new province appears to be designed to bolster its standing after the group was driven from its self-styled caliphate in Iraq and Syria in April, where at one point it controlled thousands of miles of territory.

IS has stepped up hit-and-run raids and suicide attacks, including taking responsibility for the Easter Sunday bombing in Sri Lanka that killed at least 253 people.

The establishment of a province in a region where it has nothing resembling actual governance is absurd, but it should not be written off, said Rita Katz, director of the SITE Intel Group that tracks Islamic extremists.

The world may roll its eyes at these developments, but to jihadists in these vulnerable regions, these are significant gestures to help lay the groundwork in rebuilding the map of the IS caliphate.

Sofi had been involved in several militant groups in Kashmir for more than a decade before pledging allegiance to Islamic State, according to a military official on Saturday and an interview given by Sofi to a Srinagar-based magazine sympathetic to IS.

He was suspected of several grenade attacks on security forces in the region, police and military sources said.

It was a clean operation and no collateral damage took place during the exchange of fire, a police spokesman said in the statement on Fridays encounter.

The military official said it was possible that Sofi had been the only militant left in Kashmir associated with IS.

Separatists have for decades fought an armed conflict against Indian rule in Muslim-majority Kashmir. The majority of these groups want independence for Kashmir or to join Indias arch-rival Pakistan. They have not, like Islamic State, sought to establish an empire across the Muslim world.

Nuclear powers India and Pakistan have fought two wars over Kashmir, and came to the brink of a third earlier this year after a suicide attack by a Pakistan-based militant group killed at least 40 paramilitary police in the Indian-controlled portion of the region.

A spokesman for Indias home ministry, which is responsible for security in Kashmir, did not respond to a request for comment.
US President Donald Trump on Thursday urged Iran's leaders talk with him about giving up their nuclear program.

Iran has dismissed the US military build up as 'psychological warfare' designed to intimidate it. (Photo:AP)

Dubai: President Hassan Rouhani called on Saturday for unity among Iran's political factions to overcome conditions which he said may be harder than those during the 1980s war with Iraq, state media reported, as the country faces tightening US sanctions.

US President Donald Trump on Thursday urged Iran's leaders talk with him about giving up their nuclear program and said he could not rule out a military confrontation.

Trump made the offer as he increased economic and military pressure on Iran, moving to cut off all Iranian oil exports this month while beefing up the US Navy and Air Force presence in the Gulf. Washington also approved a new deployment of Patriot missiles to the Middle East, a US official said on Friday.

"Today, it cannot be said whether conditions are better or worse than the (1980-88) war period, but during the war we did not have a problem with our banks, oil sales or imports and exports, and there were only sanctions on arms purchases," Rouhani said, according to the state news agency IRNA.

"The pressures by enemies is a war unprecedented in the history of our Islamic revolution... but I do not despair and have great hope for the future and believe that we can move past these difficult conditions provided that we are united," Rouhani told activists from various factions.

Hardliners have criticized Rouhani after Trump withdrew from Iran's 2015 nuclear deal with world powers, which Rouhani supported, and reimposed sanctions last year. The pragmatic president has also been abandoned by some of his moderate allies.

Separately, a media court on Saturday suspended the weekly Seda (Voice), the semi-official news agency ISNA reported, after the reformist magazine published an issue that included articles warning about the possibility of war with the United States.

"At the Crossroads of War and Peace, have moderates lost or will they again save Iran from war?" the main headline on the front page read against a photograph of US Navy warships.

On social media, hardliners attacked the magazine as "Trump's voice", suggesting its warning about the danger of war amounted to a call for talks with the United States, the Islamic Republic's arch enemy.

"At the height of America's political, economic and media war against the Iranian nation, an Iranian publication supplements the enemy's media operations inside the country," the hardline-led news agency Fars wrote in a comment.

Iran has dismissed the US military build up as "psychological warfare" designed to intimidate it.
Netanyahu is not required to resign if indicted, only if convicted with all appeals exhausted.

Jerusalem: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Sunday he would ask President Reuven Rivlin for more time to form a new coalition government, citing recent holidays and the Gaza flare-up.

Netanyahu's Likud won 35 seats in the April 9 general election, with most party chiefs represented in the 120-seat parliament recommending that he forms the next governing coalition.

On April 17 Rivlin formally tasked him with the mission, which by law needs to be completed within 28 days -- although a 14-day extension is automatically granted upon request. "As in past instances of forming a government, I intend on asking an extension from the president," Netanyahu said in the opening remarks of the weekly cabinet meeting. "Such an extension is not only acceptable but also required due to scheduling problems," he said citing a busy holiday season, including Passover and Israeli Independence Day, as well as the Gaza flare-up.

On May 4, militants in the Hamas-ruled Gaza Strip fired hundreds of rockets at Israel, prompting the army to striked dozens of targets inside the blockaded coastal enclave in response.

Four Israeli civilians and 25 Palestinians, including at least nine militants, were killed in the two-day flare-up, which ended on Monday in a tentative truce. Netanyahu has been conducting low-intensity meetings with heads of the parties expected to join his coalition. It is expected to include the 16 members of the ultra-Orthodox Jewish parties, the far-right national religious union, Avigdor Lieberman's nationalistic Israel Beitenu and the centre-right Kulanu.

Netanyahu's lawyers were meanwhile negotiating with the justice ministry when the premier's pre-trial hearings would take place. The attorney general announced in February his intention to indict Netanyahu for bribery, fraud and breach of trust -- pending a hearing. Netanyahu is not required to resign if indicted, only if convicted with all appeals exhausted.
A rockslide Saturday morning at Nettle Creek outside Carbondale closed Highway 133 in both directions for about three hours. CDOT crews Saturday evening were prepping the boulder for blasting. One lane is expected to be closed until at least Monday.
Building on the success of its current daily service between the capitals of the UAE and Russia, Etihad Airways has announced a new second daily flight between Abu Dhabi and Moscows Domodedovo airport, which will operate seasonally between October 27, 2019, and May 10, 2020.



The additional flight, operated by an Airbus A320, will provide more convenient travel options between the two capital cities as passengers can now choose between a daytime and evening departure from both Abu Dhabi and Moscow. Together with the existing service, operated by an Airbus A321, travellers will also benefit from improved connectivity through Etihads Abu Dhabi hub to Australia, India, Sri Lanka, Seychelles, Maldives, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore and the Philippines.



Robin Kamark, Etihad Aviation Group chief commercial officer, said: Since launching our first scheduled flights to Moscow in 2008, the route has proved very popular, enjoying strong point-to-point business and leisure demand. The addition of the second flight underscores the importance we place on the Russian market, by providing our customers greater flexibility, convenience and easy transit through Abu Dhabi to key points across Asia and Australia.



Russia is the second largest source market for inbound tourism to the UAE with 820,000 Russian tourists visiting the country in 2018. The trade exchange between the UAE and Russia reached $3 billion last year. Etihad Airways, together with its partners, continues to promote the increase of tourism, and trade and investment opportunities between both countries.



Etihads Airbus A321 and A320 two-class aircraft feature modern Business and Economy cabins and the airlines award-winning service and hospitality. - TradeArabia News Service


Palmdale, CA (93550)

Today

Cloudy and windy with rain early...then becoming partly cloudy. Low 37F. Winds SW at 20 to 30 mph. Chance of rain 100%. Rainfall around a quarter of an inch. Winds could occasionally gust over 40 mph..

Tonight

Cloudy and windy with rain early...then becoming partly cloudy. Low 37F. Winds SW at 20 to 30 mph. Chance of rain 100%. Rainfall around a quarter of an inch. Winds could occasionally gust over 40 mph.
The largest free trade area in the world, both by area and by population, will formally come into effect on May 30, now that Gambia has become the 22nd country to ratify the Africa Continental Free Trade Area, or AfCFTA.

Expand chart Adapted from World Economic Forum; Map: Axios Visuals

The big picture: Africa has 1.2 billion people  more than double the EU or NAFTA. Almost every African country has signed the treaty; the one big exception is Nigeria. AfCFTA came together in record time, after first being proposed by Rwandan President Paul Kagame in March 2018. As a result, a lot of the implementation details are a bit fuzzy.

"Whats been really impressive is how quickly theyve agreed to and then ratified the deal," says Grant Harris, the CEO of Harris Africa Partners. "Now the real world begins in terms of how issues are worked through in practice."

Reality check: Africa's trade problems won't be solved overnight. The continent needs some $50 billion per year in infrastructure investment, and truckers are still likely to spend hours or days idling at international borders.

By the numbers: The World Bank's Paul Brenton calculated in 2012 that passenger traffic between Brazzaville and Kinshasa  on opposite sides of the Congo River  was just 20% of the amount of traffic between East and West Berlin before the wall came down.

Why it matters: Almost every African country exports more outside the continent than it does within it. African supply chains are extremely weak, and the amount of prosperity that could be generated by strengthening them is enormous. AfCFTA, on its own, is not sufficient to create a booming market in intra-African trade. Still, it's an extremely important milestone on the way there.
Presidential hopeful Pete Buttigieg criticized social conservatives and accused some Democrats of playing "identity politics," exacerbating a "crisis of belonging in this country," in a Las Vegas speech addressing claims of white privilege Saturday.

"What every gay person has in common with every excluded person of any kind is knowing what it's like to see a wall between you and the rest of the world and wonder what it's like on the other side."

Context: The South Bend, Indiana, mayor, has been criticized previously for being a privileged white man. April polling shows he has about 2% support among African-Americans. Buttigieg has said his "first serious mistake as mayor" was firing the citys first black police chief. Taped conversations between officers in the department contained racist comments. Buttigieg has said he's never listened to the tapes.

The big picture: Buttigieg asked supporters last month for help diversifying his mostly white base. On Saturday evening, he noted during his speech to the Human Rights Campaign, a major LGBTQ rights group, that his experience of discrimination was different than others in the community.

"I may be part of the LGBTQ community. But being a gay man doesnt even tell me what its like to be a trans woman of color in that same community, let alone an undocumented mother of four or a disabled veteran or a displaced autoworker."

On social conservatism, he said, "We have allowed conservatives to monopolize the language of freedom, but we know that freedom isn't just about freedom from, it's about freedom to. Not just freedom from regulation, but freedom to live a life of your choosing."

A tweet previously embedded here has been deleted or was tweeted from an account that has been suspended or deleted.

Go deeper:
North Korea fired missiles, a U.S. warship deployed to the Middle East and unrest continues in Venezuela, but two days after President Trump announced he would appoint him as Defense secretary, Patrick Shanahan spent his Saturday in McAllen, Texas, underscoring his focus on solving the crisis at the border.

1 key quote: "We're not going to leave until the border is secure," Shanahan told Customs and Border Protection (CBP) personnel during his visit.

Driving the news: The Department of Homeland Security submitted a new request for the military's help in providing housing for migrants at the border. Shanahan is leaning toward agreeing to the additional help, a Defense official told Axios. Meanwhile, border patrol stations in the Rio Grande Valley are dealing with more than double the number of migrants their facilities were designed for, a CBP spokesperson told reporters.

The scene: After landing in McAllen, Shanahan, along with top DHS officials, visited the Border Patrol McAllen Station for an update from border officials. Outside, about a dozen migrant women and children who had turned themselves in or been arrested by border patrol stood outside of a large, khaki Army tent being used as shelter due to overcrowding at the station.

They are waiting to be processed by immigration officials who will determine whether they can be quickly deported or  more likely  sent to an immigrant detention center, a Health and Human Services child migrant shelter or released into the U.S. until their immigration court date. The CBP spokesperson told reporters they've been trying to finish this process within 48 hours.

The tent and migrants are surrounded by a chain link fence. A row of portajohns, a table with snacks and orange water coolers have been set up inside the enclosure. One migrant man sat on the concrete, leaning back in a corner of the metal fencing away from the others. A woman stood at a water cooler making a bottle of baby formula. Children stared.

There are other tents just like it on the other side of the station, holding hundreds of migrants waiting to be processed, the CBP spokesperson said.

Troops on the border: Shanahan told reporters that defense officials are working on a long-term plan to help DHS end the crisis. "I can't keep playing this wack-a-mole," he said.

On Friday, the acting Pentagon chief signed off on transferring $1.5 billion to build a border wall, bringing DOD's total wall contributions to $2.5 billion. As much as $3.6 billion more could still be coming from the department's military construction budget. DOD is still looking at which construction projects the funds would come from, Defense officials told reporters.

Already, about 4,500 troops are helping CBP with transportation, barrier construction, surveillance and other tasks.

The big picture: For two months in a row, border patrol has arrested or turned away more than 100,000 migrants attempting to cross the southern border, according to CBP data. There are near record numbers of migrant children in government custody again, the San Francisco Chronicle recently reported.
The National Weather Service in New Orleans warned of "life threatening" flash flooding in the region on Saturday night and Sunday morning, as roads were closed and thousands were left without power amid heavy rain in southeast Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas.

Details: The NWS said there's a moderate risk of excessive rainfall on Sunday from southeastern Louisiana, including New Orleans, eastward to southern Georgia. In Mississippi, a train derailed north of Poplarville because of high water levels, WJTV reports. Flash flood warnings were also issued in southeastern Texas as the storm moved out of that waterlogged region.

Why it matters: It is rare that a "high risk" warning for heavy rain is issued, the NWS noted. The moderate risk for Sunday is a category lower, but heavy rains falling on already saturated ground are quickly causing flash flooding.

A tweet previously embedded here has been deleted or was tweeted from an account that has been suspended or deleted.

The big picture: Storms moving eastward across southeast Louisiana left more than 3,000 residents without power, WAFB9 reported. By 6 pm, about 1,200 customers were still without power, according to Entergy.

A flash flood warning was issued for New Orleans on Sunday morning, with numerous street closures reported.

The same storm system affecting the Gulf Coast has already resulted in severe flooding in Texas.

In Houston and Austin  where upward of 6 inches of rain fell late Thursday and early Friday after golf ball-sized hail pelted the region  areas were still experiencing high water conditions on Sunday.

The Neches River in east Texas was overflowing, according to the Houston Chronicle.

Roads were closed throughout Brazoria County, Texas, which is included in the Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land metropolitan statistical area.

A tweet previously embedded here has been deleted or was tweeted from an account that has been suspended or deleted.

The past 12 months have been the wettest such period on record in the Lower 48 states.

In general, extreme precipitation events such as heavy rainstorms are becoming more frequent and intense as the climate warms in response to human activities, according to Axios science editor Andrew Freedman.

Go deeper: NOAA warns of "unprecedented flood season" across U.S.
Shada Hospitality, a hotel company that provides a home-like service to its visitors, recently celebrated the inauguration of its latest hotel in Jeddah city.

Shada Executive Al Salama features 88 hotel rooms and specialises in being a destination that caters to both youth and businessmen.

Commenting on the inauguration, Shadas CEO, Reem Garash, stated that the new hotel reflects the groups commitment to extending its impact within the local hospitality sector.

Shada Executive Al Salama boasts smart, spacious areas and state-of-the-art services to ensure presenting the best experience for guests, especially in terms of food, health and leisure services, in addition to spaces dedicated for business. These include a spacious restaurant, a home theatre, a health club, a games room, a shared business space, and a terrace overlooking the city. The hotel provides a range of other services and facilities through special offer bundles.

The hotels design concept is inspired by various shades of marine blue, giving it a distinctive modern style. The hotel's aesthetics and innovative designs were implemented through cooperation with 12 Saudi artists in different details and dimensions of the place, across several aspects, including music, furniture design, accessories and wall art.

Shada currently owns and operates three hotels, in addition to several other properties, and has eight new properties in the pipeline to be completed over the next two years in several regions across the kingdom. - TradeArabia News Service
"Things I am grateful for" was one of the final diary entries of Barbara Bush, as reported by USA Today's Susan Page in her current bestseller, "The Matriarch."

"Dearest Children," Barbara Bush typed into her laptop: "I am most thankful for five men and one lady, she began, referring to George H.W. Bush; their four sons, George W., Jeb, Neil and Marvin; and their daughter, Doro.

"My dad was the finest brightest man. ... Although Neil and George got my dads hair (or growing lack of hair). ... Jeb and Marvin are true Bushes with height and hair."

was the finest brightest man. ... Although Neil and George got my dads hair (or growing lack of hair). ... Jeb and Marvin are true Bushes with height and hair." "I am so grateful that our children and grand children all finished school and promptly went to work. ... They did not feel entitled."

Barbara Bush then thanked a sewing group, the Saintly Stitchers, "who meet on Mondays at Saint Martins [Episcopal] Church. They treat me as a normal person although they do spoil me."

She concluded with "the 1925 Club, a group of Texas women of a certain age [born in 1925] who convened at the Bayou Club in Houston on the first Monday of the month for lunch and gossip."

Thank you for reading Axios on Mother's Day. Who's on your list?
1 big thing: Uber's IPO got caught in perfect storm

Uber's IPO stalled out yesterday, stunning both Silicon Valley and Wall Street, Axios' Dan Primack reports.

Uber lost nearly $6 billion in market capitalization (value of the companys outstanding stock) in its first five hours as a public company.

$6 billion in market capitalization (value of the companys outstanding stock) in its first five hours as a public company. No, this is not normal for a highly anticipated IPO.

Why it matters: Other money-losing unicorns will now watch to see if Uber can navigate into calmer waters, or if they need to begin scrambling for life vests.

Uber got hit by a confluence of negative events, some of which were outside of its control:

The Dow was already down more than 300 points before Uber's first trade, due largely to President Trump's imposition of higher tariffs on Chinese imports. Stocks recovered later, but investor sentiment was lousy during the time when an IPO would typically pop.

was already down more than 300 points before Uber's first trade, due largely to President Trump's imposition of higher tariffs on Chinese imports. Stocks recovered later, but investor sentiment was lousy during the time when an IPO would typically pop. The world is a vampire: North Korea. Iran. Venezuela. Pick your geopolitical poison.

North Korea. Iran. Venezuela. Pick your geopolitical poison. Uber went public at the end of the stock market's worst week of 2019.

at the end of the stock market's worst week of 2019. Lyft already had investors running scared , having earlier in the week reported disappointing Q1 results and warning of "peak losses" in 2019.

, having earlier in the week reported disappointing Q1 results and warning of "peak losses" in 2019. Ride-hail driver strikes on Wednesday didn't seem to have much impact on car availability, but raised awareness and prompted tweets from several presidential candidates.

The big picture: Uber loses more money than any other company to ever go public.

Uber has argued that it's the next Amazon, which also spent years in the red.

The statue of Fearless Girl stands in front of the New York Stock Exchange on Uber's first day of trading. (Photo: Mark Lennihan/AP)

The scene: Uber founder and ex-CEO Travis Kalanick wanted to help ring the bell, but was banished by current CEO Dara Khosrowshahi, Axios first reported.

Kalanick watched with his father from a side balcony before heading a block away to celebrate with early Uber colleagues at The Bailey Restaurant NYC.

Share this story.
Prosecutors for 44 U.S. states outlined Saturday why they filed a lawsuit accusing 20 drug firms of conspiring to inflate prices.

Details: The prosecutors alleged after filing the suit in the U.S. District Court in Connecticut Friday that Teva Pharmaceuticals USA orchestrated the scheme with 19 other drug firms to stifle competition for generic drugs and increase prices sometimes by more than 1,000%. Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd denied the claims to Reuters and said it would fight the lawsuit.

The big picture: The allegations concern treatments for health issues including cancer, diabetes, high cholesterol, epilepsy and high blood pressure, per Reuters. Connecticut Attorney General William Tong told AP that the states "have hard evidence that shows the generic drug industry perpetrated a multibillion dollar fraud on the American people."

"We have emails, text messages, telephone records and former company insiders that we believe will prove a multi-year conspiracy to fix prices and divide market share for huge numbers of generic drugs."

 Connecticut Attorney General William Tong statement to AP

Go deeper: New rule on drug prices is asking for lawsuits  literally
The U.S. still backs Saudi Arabia's fight in Yemen, even though Congress voted to end that support. Now, progressive Rep. Ro Khanna (D-Calif.) is pushing Democratic leaders to turn to the Supreme Court to help enforce Congress' will.

Why it matters: Congress' resolution seeking to end U.S. involvement in Yemen passed with support from diverse ideological factions  from moderates to Bernie Sanders to Rand Paul, only to meet a veto from President Trump.

That has united a similarly diverse group of law professors, who say Trump usurped Congress' authority over matters of war when he vetoed the resolution and that the House should sue him for it.

"I think the Speaker is seriously considering pursuing the lawsuit and will make the correct next step for the people of Yemen and our constitutional integrity," Khanna told Axios. "Yemen cant wait, and it is my hope that this legal challenge to Trumps veto moves forward."

"If Nancy Pelosi gets a majority behind her to bring suit, this is a moment of truth for the Supreme Court," said Yale law professor Bruce Ackerman, who's leading the charge on this legal theory.

The response: "We continue to consider all viable options to end this humanitarian crisis," Pelosi's office said.

The big picture: The Constitution gives Congress the power to declare war, and in the wake of Vietnam, Congress spelled out more detailed rules about presidential unilateral power. In Ackerman's view, the Yemen vote is a referendum on whether those rules still apply.

The big question: The Supreme Court has said presidential power is "at its lowest ebb" when exercised in a way that's "incompatible with the ... will of Congress." If the House sues over Trump's Yemen veto, the central question would be whether that's what happened here, said Scott Anderson, a Brookings fellow and former State Department lawyer.

Ackerman says it obviously is. Trump's veto "defied fundamental principles of constitutional law," he and 12 other law professors wrote in a letter to Pelosi.

Between the lines: The case is likely a long shot, given the Supreme Court's ideological balance as well as Chief Justice John Roberts' traditional reluctance to get in the middle of disputes between the other two branches.

The courts would have to toss aside a decades-old interpretation of certain parts of Congress' war powers, Anderson said, adopting a new standard for America's work with other countries' militaries.

"Courts have been really resistant and reluctant to take up these questions," he said.

What's next: If Congress wants to force the U.S. out of Yemen, its best bet might be to keep trying with different legislative vehicles, Anderson said.
By Trend

Over the past 24 hours, Armenian armed forces have violated the ceasefire along the line of contact between Azerbaijani and Armenian troops 23 times, the Azerbaijani Defense Ministry said on May 12, 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.

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By Trend

The aviation, as well as technical and flight personnel of the Air Force of Azerbaijan, flew to the airbase in Konya to participate in the Anatolian Phoenix-2019 international search and rescue exercises that will start on May 13, Trend reports citing Azerbaijans Defense Ministry.

Two Mi-35 and two Mi-17 helicopters will take part in the exercises that will last until May 24, said the ministry.

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By Trend

All injured as a result of the explosion in Israfil Huseynov vessel in the Caspian Sea were transferred to the specialized hospitals of Turkey, Italy, France and UK on May 11, Italys Saipem company told Trend.

Saipem company has organized medical evacuation for 11 personnel injured as a result of the incident on board the Israfil Huseynov vessel in Caspian Sea. All injured personnel on May 11, 2019 have been transferred to the specialized hospitals of Turkey, Italy, France and UK. Three other less injured persons who were able to travel independently have also safely reached their home countries with the passenger planes the same day, said the company.

Saipem deeply regrets to advise that one person who has been in most critical conditions has passed away in the hospital of France this morning.

Additionally Saipem informs that all other injured persons are not in the life threatening condition.

On May 8 in the evening, an explosion occurred on the vessel Israfil Huseynov operated by Saipem for pipelaying in the Caspian Sea in the framework of the Shah Deniz II project.

In the early hours of morning on May 9, the transportation to hospital of the fourteen people involved in the accident, all employees of the Saipem Group, was completed.

The company said the incident was related to maintenance operations on an item of equipment during pipe-laying activities.

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By Trend

Lithuanians started voting in a tightly contested presidential election on Sunday to replace outgoing Dalia Grybauskaite, the Baltic nations Iron Lady who was one of the European Unions most outspoken critics of Russia, Trend reports citing Reuters.

Still very popular, Grybauskaite, 63, is not eligible to run after two terms. But the top three candidates vying to replace her have pledged to maintain a tough stance against Vilnius former Soviet master as well as hefty military spending.

Five years after Moscows annexation of Crimea from Ukraine that sparked fears of further Russian aggression across eastern Europe, the election campaign in Lithuania was dominated by voter anger over economic inequality and corruption.

The race is led jointly by Ingrida Simonyte, 44, a former finance minister in a center-right government, and Gitanas Nauseda, 54, a former senior economist at a top bank, running neck-and-neck on 22% each, according to a Vilmorus/Lietuvos Rytas poll.

Polling third with 17% of voter support is prime minister Saulius Skvernelis, 48, a former police chief affiliated with the Farmers and Greens Union, the senior partner of the ruling coalition.

All three have vowed to advocate for increased state spending on social issues, a sore point for many in Lithuania where nearly a third of the population could be at risk of poverty or social exclusion.

Income inequality is among of the highest in the European Union, second only to Bulgaria.

Lithuanias president has a semi-executive role with a say in the appointment of key officials such as judges, the chief prosecutor and head of the central bank. The president can veto laws and, in tandem with the government, sets foreign and security policy.

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Help India!

By Meher Ali, TwoCircles.net

Rifat Bano (30) sits on the brick floor of her home in Marehra, Etah, chatting with her sister Sabina and their two nieces. Between them is a snow-white satin cloth stretched tautly on a rectangular wooden frame.

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Her hands move at a habitual pace: one places an index-finger-length hooked needle, filled with white and silver beads, on a specific point in the cloth panel. As the needle goes through the cloth, the hand underneath guides a plastic wire to latch onto the needles hooked tip, which pierces the cloth. As the needle withdraws, it stitches the bead onto the cloth.

This is Karchobi ka kaam or Karchobi work, a style of beaded embroidery that, according to noted historian Professor Irfan Habib, is an import from Iran that came to India around the 17th century.

A more commercialized form of this craft was introduced in Marehra about 20-25 years ago by a man named Ajmeri. Embroiderers says that Ajmeri had relatives in Sikandra Rao and learned the work there and then brought it to Marehra, where he was from.

He first trained his wife, who then trained women in her predominantly Muslim neighbourhood, which is the reason that even today the majority of embroiderers in Marehra are Muslim women.

About 700-800 women are now employed in the Karchobi industry in Marehra, says Matsyanath Trivedi, the Block Development Officer. It is now more widespread in Marehra than Sikandra Rao, so that Rifat Bano says, Marehra mein aisa koi ghar nahi milega aap ko jahaan Karchobi ka kaam nahi hota ho  You wont find a single house in Marehra where Karchobi work is not being done.

She herself started doing Karchobi embroidery when she was just 9 years old. Her family was against it, as it strains the eyes but she went ahead and learned it, in secret.

Three years later, when her father, a fruit seller, died, she had to continue this work to support her family, eventually becoming the primary breadwinner. Pehle shauq tha, phir shauq majboori ban gayee (At first it was my interest but then it became my necessity), she says.

Setting it up

All embroiderers have to go through a set of preparatory steps before starting on the embroidery process. First, they mount the fabric on the karchob.

Irfan Habib, in a 1973 paper titled Indian Textile Industry in the 17th Century, wrote that in Persian, kar-chob refers to the wooden frame that holds the fabric taut, when [it is] being embroidered.

The more popular Zardozi is also done on a karchob. However, while Zardozi exclusively uses silver or gold thread, Karchobi embroidery also makes use of cotton, wool, and silk threads points out Professor Ishrat Alam at the Department of History in Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), whose research focuses on the textile industry in medieval India.

Noor (21), who has been an embroiderer for the last 4-5 years, says that the quality of the embroidery improves if the cloth panel is stretched as tightly as possible across the frame.

Next, a paper stencil of the design is placed on top of the mounted fabric and a paste made of chalk powder and kerosene is rubbed on it with a cotton rag.

The design gets imprinted on the fabric as do the embroidery instructions. These are numbers that correspond to a beads colour and tell an embroiderer where to place a particular coloured bead.

For instance, Noor can be seen embroidering red beads where it says 3. This means that the number 3 corresponds to red-coloured beads; similarly where it says 2, she has to embroider golden beads, as in the image below.

A single design usually requires the use of beads of several different colours and an embroiderer has to be careful to use the right-coloured beads, says Khalida Begum. It is only then that the embroidery work begins.

Rifat Bano says that she is able to embroider about two pieces a day but it also depends on the design. A complex design can take longer, such as the Day of the Dead panel that took sisters Zehra Fatima (21) and Aisha Fatima (23) two days to complete.

The Day of the Dead or Dias de los Muertos is a two-day Mexican celebration of remembering deceased family members and is celebrated by people of Mexican heritage throughout the work, including the US.

Their panel used Day of the Dead motifs such as skulls and flowers that required the use of different shades of blue, orange and red beads, totalling 14 different coloured beads.

Wages and health

Considering the intricate nature of the work, Aisha said that they should be getting paid at least Rs. 200 for this panel, instead of Rs. 140 that they were going to earn: Kaam ko dekho to kaam ismein ek ek sui ka hai. Hame sasta lag raha hai ye, (If you look at the work, this requires the use of one needle per stitch. We think the wages are low.)

Its not just Aisha; all the embroiderers that I spoke to said that their wages were low and did not reflect the intensity of their labour.

The state government has not stipulated the minimum wages for Karchobi embroiderers. However, the minimum wage in Uttar Pradesh for the handloom industry, specifically for Zari embroidery is Rs. 5750 for unskilled, Rs. 6325 for semi-skilled, and Rs. 7085 for skilled workers.

All the embroiderers who this reporter spoke to had been doing this work for at least four years and some had been doing it for over a decade. They were all at least semi-skilled workers. But even in the best-case scenario, where they earned Rs 200 a day, their monthly income did not exceed Rs 6000, which is less than the stipulated monthly minimum wage.

Khalida Begum has been working as an embroiderer for more than 20 years. She says that in fact, her income has decreased from what she earned seven to eight years ago, as more women have taken up Karchobi work. With a large workforce and limited work, the embroiderers have lost their bargaining power.

Rifat Bano says, Agar ham karte hain to theek hain, nahin karte hain to theek hain. Ek hamare band karne se koi pharak bhee nahin padegaIf we do this work, its fine, if we dont do it, thats also fine. It wont make a difference if we decide not to do it).

Karchobi embroidery also takes a toll on the embroiderers health.

Back in Rifat Banos home, her and other embroiderers joke about gaining weight around the stomach from sitting all day. One person is especially called out and they burst out laughing.

They say that their eyes hurt from embroidering. And what about your fingers, I ask. Gosht laati hai saath mein(the needle) brings back flesh (when it comes out), says Noor. Rifat Bano points to deep red bloodstains on the floor next to her where she has shaken off blood from her index finger.

Noor, going back to the discussion about weight gain, says that if you leave Marehra, and therefore Karchobi, for 15 days, you can get back to your real size. Her elder sister, Farha, agrees and says that she only lost weight after she got married and moved out of Marehra.

Then Noor announces that she is only going to do Karchobi embroidery for 10 more years.

Phir kya karegee?Then what will you do? asks Rifat Bano.

Noor retorts: Kuch na karoongee. Kuch India mein dimagh lagaoongee main to. (Nothing Ill do. Ill give some of my attention to India.)

The names of all the embroiderers have been changed to protect their identities. Some of them specifically requested it. They said that talking about their wages and problems with their work could lead to them being singled out by their communities. This reporter decided to change all their names as a result. The companies too have not been named as she felt that it could pose a threat to these womens livelihoods.

All images by the author.

Meher Ali is an independent journalist based in Aligarh. She reports on refugee, human rights, and social justice issues. She also blogs about the cultural heritage of Aligarh and its surrounding areas.
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That Which is Haunting of An Oregon Coast Lighthouse: Cape Meares and Area

Published 05/11/2019 at 4:53 AM PDT

By Oregon Coast Beach Connection staff





(Oceanside, Oregon)  Surrounding the lighthouses of the Oregon coast are plenty of mysteries, and even swirling tales of the creepy and possibly paranormal. The Tillamook Rock Lighthouse by Seaside / Cannon Beach has its rumors of ghost dogs howling in the night, the two lighthouses in Newport have their eerie tales, and the Heceta Head Lighthouse near Florence is purportedly haunted by a pleasant spirit.

Cape Meares Lighthouse, near Oceanside, however has no spooky legends and rumors of manifestations. However, there are some morbid and dark histories in the area surrounding it.

To go back to the headlands beginnings is to visit a literal hell on Earth. About 18 million years ago or so, the promontory was formed by giant lava flows hundreds of miles long, destroying everything in their path and sometimes pooling into searing bodies of liquid Earth material perhaps hundreds of feet deep. All this happened over millions of years, perhaps thousands of times, and it all came from a gigantic hole in the Earths crust that was then by the Idaho border.

Spookier still: that massive weakness still exists and will likely someday create an extinction level event for the planet. The area under Yellowstone National Park is where it wound up, thanks to plate movement over all that time. Its been a super volcano before  and will be again. Hopefully thats thousands of years away, however.





Near the Cape Meares Light is the Octopus Tree  a strangely-shaped tree that looks a bit like a candelabra. Archaeologists say it was twisted into that shape because it was used as a burial place by local native tribes, who would place their dead in the tree in their canoes.

The practice is well documented. First, they flattened the direction the limbs were growing early in the trees life. Once a flat spot was attained, their natural growth direction took over, and the limbs grew upwards again, forming this unique shape.

Local tribes have lived on the Oregon coast for a good 3,000 years, if not ten thousand years. The Octopus Tree is said to be more than 2,000 years old.

Just below Cape Meares, unbeknownst to most tourists, sits one of Oregons most famous but hidden ghost towns. The Bayocean spit, which runs across Tillamook Bay, was once the briefly glittering resort town of Bayocean. Theres essentially nothing left of it now, except one public building in the tiny town of Cape Meares (directly below the cape). It was moved to its present location, however.

Bayocean started in 1912 and essentially died less than ten years later, although its final nail in the coffin occurred with the Great Depression. It boasted five miles of roads, a couple of large hotels, a theater, and various other attractions.

Changing tidal conditions essentially destroyed most of it in the 30s, and the rest was bulldozed by the U.S. government in the 70s.

To get a picture of what once existed there, head to the shoreline. That was where Third Street in Bayocean was. This means there were at least two other streets beyond where the shore is now. All that and some actual beachfront were swallowed by the tides decades ago.

You'll find Cape Meares at the very northern edge of the Three Capes Tour.

Lodgings in Oceanside - Where to eat -

















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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







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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













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The global war on single-use plastics is gaining pace, according to Barclays. Bans on single-use plastic bags and plastic straws in the U.S. are proliferating at the municipal and state level. The European Parliament passed a ban on 10 single-use plastic items, to take effect in 2021. Roughly 40 percent of plastics end up in landfills, and another 30 percent escapes collection systems, Barclays estimates. Only a small percentage is actually recycled. Single-use plastics account for 3 to 3.5 mb/d of global crude oil demand. Barclays says that figure could swell to 5.5 to 6 mb/d by 2040-2050. However, as Oil Price reports, as bans on these plastics multiply, the forecast is in doubt. Ultimately, 6 mb/d, or about 5 percent of global oil demand, could be erased by these policies.

Libya could lose 1 mb/d

Over the past year, Libya has been a bearish factor for oil prices, restoring long-disrupted output and reaching multi-year production highs at over 1.2 mb/d as recently as March. But the reignited civil war could put an end to all of those gains. The restoration of production hinged on a delicate but important division of the oil sector: The government in Tripoli controlled the legal authority to export oil, while the LNA provided the security. Now, at war, its much more likely a winner-take-all mentality will emerge, leading to disruptions. [W]e think it unlikely that the arrangement can survive a protracted stalemate and the associated weakening of the LNA. In our view there is a high risk that Libyan outages could add another 1mb/d loss to the 1.9mb/d y/y reduction from Iran and Venezuela, Standard Chartered said in a May 7 report.

Bitcoin prices fall on security

Binance, one of the worlds largest cryptocurrency exchanges, announced that hackers took and withdrew 7,000 Bitcoins, valued at about $40 million. It was a large scale security breach, the exchange said. Shortly after, Bitcoin fell about 3 percent, although recovered some of those losses. The broader Bloomberg Galaxy Crypto Index also declined. It was not the best of days, but we will stay transparent, Zhao Changpeng, Binances chief executive officer, said in a tweet. Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies have been plagued by fears of security and hacking.

Irans oil exports plunging

Irans oil exports are plunging, following the full implementation of U.S. sanctions and the expiration of waivers. Bloomberg reports that not a single ship has been seen leaving Irans oil terminals for foreign ports. Oil exports fell below 1 mb/d in April, but in early May, there is no sign of exports. However, Iran will likely manage to keep exporting through a variety of clandestine tactics, such as turning off transponders on tankers. Bloomberg said that there has been no sign of a tracking signal on 10 very large crude carriers for 16 days. Estimates on the impact on Iranian oil exports vary, but only differ on different magnitudes of decline. WoodMac says exports could fall to 0.7 mb/d by the summer.

Solar installations top 2 million in U.S.

U.S. cumulative solar installations surpassed 2 million only three years after reaching 1 million. California alone has just under 1 million installations. The next doubling of installations, to 4 million, will be reached by 2023, according to the Solar Energy Industries Association and Wood Mackenzie. We believe that the 2020s will be the decade that solar becomes the dominant new form of energy generation, SEIA CEO Abigail Ross-Hopper said in the statement. By 2024, there will be a solar system installed at a rate of one per minute in the U.S., according to WoodMac. Solar is now a $17 billion industry. Solar and wind together account for 11 percent of U.S. electricity generation.

Grain prices crash on Trumps trade war

Soybean and corn futures plunged after President Trump announced tariff hikes on China via twitter. The Bloomberg Grains Subindex Total Return fell to its lowest level since 1977. As Bloomberg noted, July soybean futures fell to a record low, falling to $8.1675 per bushel at the start of the week. Meanwhile, U.S. farmers are still drying out from record floods, which damaged crop land and infrastructure, and delayed plantings. The prospect of a major hike in tariffs on China, and the anticipated retaliatory trade actions on the U.S., could depress agricultural commodities further.
Fans of London rivals Arsenal and Chelsea face a more than 8,000 km round trip to attend the all-Premier League clash next to the Caspian Sea in the Azerbaijan capital on May 29. As Irish Examiner writes, flaming towers, carpet-mania and the worlds biggest Kentucky Fried Chicken: the delights of Baku await Arsenal and Chelsea supporters following their respective qualification for this years Europa League final. The Azerbaijani capital, with its swirling blend of neo-Stalinism and oligarch-chic, proved a fascinating host of the inaugural European Games in 2015. Here, are some of its many highlights.

The Flame Towers

Azerbaijanis revere fire, and their obsession is no better emphasised than in the form of three huge skyscrapers which literally light up the skyline each night with moving images of flames and other neon vagaries. The skyscrapers  which incorporate hotels and office space  are completely plated with LED screens and their effect is impressive, if slightly OTT.

National Carpet Museum

No trip to Baku would be complete without a visit to the National Carpet Museum: its even designed to look like a roll of carpet. You can try your hand at traditional carpet weaving and, well, look at carpets. Once youve had enough, its a quick walk to the coffee bars on the windy waterfront, an ideal place to reflect on your new-found knowledge.

The worlds biggest KFC

A chicken wings throw from all its flame-grilled architecture, Baku boasts the worlds biggest Kentucky Fried Chicken restaurant. Of course it does. The 1,600 square metre restaurant has taken over one of the citys old railway stations. The restaurant has 300 seats and sells approximately 1.5 million meals per year.

Old town markets

Bakus old town teems with fruit and vegetable markets, the best of which is the ancient Taza Bazaar, close to Nizami metro station. Its worth the trip alone if only to snap a photo or two of blokes selling pumpkins straight from the boots of battered old Soviet Ladas. But be warned: theyre wise to the appeal and will probably expect money in exchange for a photo.

The giant flag

A giant Azerbaijani flag, measuring 70 by 35 metres, flies in the appropriately-named National Flag Square, close to the waterfront. No longer, alas, is it the largest flag in the world, having been pipped by a UAE flag in Sharjah in 2017. Close by is a tower which proudly boasts the daily temperature. Locals claim it is permanently stuck on 39.5 degrees in summer, because of a law allowing locals to leave work if it hits 40.
Several heavy explosions occurred early on Sunday in the port of Fujairah in the United Arab Emirates, Sputnik informed citing a number of media reports. The reports, citing eyewitnesses, further suggested that American and French warplanes have been seen flying over the port at the time of the incident.

The government of Fujairah denied on Sunday media reports about several heavy explosions taking place at the emirate's port, insisting that the port is functioning as usual.

"The press service of the Fujairah government denied media reports about powerful explosions in the emirate's port earlier this day and confirmed that ship traffic is as usual," the state-run WAM news agency reports.

Earlier in the day, the Lebanon-based al-Mayadeen broadcaster said, citing local media that several heavy explosions occurred in the port of Fujairah.
Mr Brown (54) was killed in a single-vehicle crash on the Magherafelt Road

The Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) has paid tribute to their colleague David Brown, who tragically died after suffering a heart attack while riding his motorcycle on Friday.

Mr Brown (54) died on the Magherafelt Road in Moneymore.

A firefighter for 22 years, he served his community "with distinction", colleagues said.

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A NIFRS spokesperson said: "NIFRS is deeply saddened by the tragic loss of our colleague, Crew Commander David Brown.

"Our sincerest sympathies are with Davids wife Geraldine, his daughters Laura and Emma, his son Andrew and his colleagues and friends at Magherafelt Fire Station where he was based."

David Brown joined the Fire Service in 1997 and was promoted to the role of Crew Commander in 2012.

"David, aged 54, served the community in Magherafelt with distinction for 22 years where he responded to incidents night and day. He will be sadly missed by his colleagues at Magherafelt Station and across NIFRS," the spokesperson added.

"NIFRS is providing appropriate support to Davids family and colleagues at this difficult time."

Police in Magherafelt also paid tribute to the firefighter.

"Over the years we have regularly worked alongside David at many incidents, he was a big part of the Blue Light Family," a spokesperson said.

"Our thoughts are with Davids wife Geraldine, his daughters Laura and Emma, his son Andrew. His colleagues and friends at Magherafelt Fire Station are also in our thoughts."

Keith Buchanan, DUP MLA for Mid Ulster, offered his condolences to Mr Brown's family.

"He came from a very well known and respected family in the local area. His loss will be felt very deeply. It's a dreadful shock," he said.

DUP councillors on Mid Ulster council sent their sympathies to his family circle.

"So sorry to hear of a fatality at the accident this afternoon on the Moneymore Road, near the Carmean Road junction. Sincere sympathy to the family circle," they tweeted.

Police are appealing for anyone who witnessed the crash, or who may have dashcam footage, to contact them on 101 quoting reference number 630 10/5/19.
Pudsey Bear made a special appearance in Londonderry where he presided over a graduation ceremony for 120 school children who completed the Reading Rooms programme run by the Verbal Arts Centre.

The children from schools across the Derry and Strabane Council area completed a 12-week programme aimed at getting them to talk about their feelings using characters in carefully selected books and short stories.

Along with a special certificate the children also received a collection of books including the Gangsta Granny by David Walliams, pens, pencils, stickers, bookmarks and they even got to meet the Mayor of Derry and Strabane, Councillor John Boyle.

The award-winning choir from Thornhill College provided music while parents and teachers looked on.

Caitlin Deeney from Verbal who helped deliver the programme said: "Reading Rooms is funded by Children in Need which is why we have Pudsey Bear with us to make the presentation to all the children who have taken part over these past 12 weeks.

"The programme is primarily aimed at promoting good mental health and that is done through literature to get the children to talk about their feelings through the safety of the characters in a book. "We go out to all the participating schools with the books which have been carefully selected by the literary guides within Verbal.

"These books are chosen so as to get the best conversation from the children based on the overall theme of resilience.

"This resilience theme is broken down into smaller sub-themes such as risk taking, empathy, decision making, families or bullying or feeling sad."

She continued: "The subtleties of the programme mean that the children won't even be aware that they are being encouraged to talk about their feelings, which is why so many of them will say it helped them to read and to enjoy reading."

Among those who were presented with certificates were Ciara Bowen from St Anne's Primary School and James McElwee from The Fountain Primary School.

Ciara said: "I wasn't that good at reading and I didn't like reading but now I am a lot more interested in it.

"We read different chapters and one that I liked was about a man and his son who got lost on the beach and then they went looking for him.

"I like reading more and I can read in front of people now.

"We do reading in class and we have to go up to the teacher's desk and read in front of everybody. I didn't like that but now I do."

James has also come away from the programme with a new love of reading.

He said: "I enjoyed doing the reading programme because I wasn't so keen on reading but now I am.

"My favourite thing was learning about the Curing Fox. It was about an old lady who came to a wee girl who was sick and said she heard a fox who was weak and starving.

"She wanted the daddy to go out and find the fox but he wasn't too pleased but he still went and did it.

"When he came back the fox and the girl got better because they needed each other.

"I like books like that. I didn't read that much at home but from now on I want to read more at home and during the school holidays."
Police have issued a warning after reports of laser pens being pointed towards aircraft in Co Antrim.

A total of four such incidents have been reported in Newtownabbey in the last week, with the latest taking place in the Jordanstown area on Friday night.

PSNI Inspector McCarron said: Thankfully no one was injured or vision impaired as a result of this extremely dangerous and reckless behaviour.

Not only is it an offence under the Air Navigation Order to endanger aircraft but it is highly irresponsible and dangerous. Lasers can cause temporary blindness and where pilots are concerned, this could result in a catastrophe and possibly lead to significant loss of life.

"Those involved in this type of activity need to be mindful of the impact which their behaviour could have. Those involved could face charges of being in possession of a dangerous weapon.

"If you use lasers in this way, you must be prepared to face the consequences."

Earlier this year, a Ballymena man was charged after a laser pen was shone at a police helicopter as it hovered over the town.
A councillor has spoken of his gratitude to a Co Londonderry nurse who filmed singing Amazing Grace to his elderly grandmother in hospital.

Newly elected Derry City and Strabane District Council representative Jason Barr shared the heartwarming video on social media on Saturday.

His grandmother Nellie Barr has been cared for at Altnagelvin Hospital for the past week after suffering a leg injury.

The footage shows the young nurse - who was not aware she was being filmed - standing by Nellie's bedside singing Amazing Grace, one of her favourite songs. Nellie can also be heard singing along.

How amazing is this  A young nurse Brittany McArthur came into my Granny in Altnagelvin Hospital this morning and sang to her One of my Grannys favourite songs Thank you so much Also thanks to Colleen Willis for capturing the priceless video  #notallheroswearcapes Posted by Cllr Jason Barr on Saturday, May 11, 2019

Jason Barr said the moment was "absolutely incredible" and he was extremely grateful to the nurse for the compassion she showed his grandmother.

"When I first saw the video I cried to be honest," he said.

"My granny and I would be very close, I would see her every two days and we have a special bond, so when I saw the footage I just broke down really.

"That young girl (the nurse) is only 21 years of age and her to have such compassion and take a minute out of her day to do that for my granny is just unbelievable and incredible.

"Nurses get such a hard time and for her to do that I know would make me granny so happy."

Since the video was posted online, it has been shared more than 500 times and received 2,700 likes.

"The young nurse deserves every bit of praise and recognition she's getting on social media," Councillor Barr said.

"If I had one thing to say to her it is thank you very much for raising my granny's spirits, it really means the world to us. And one quote does come to mind: 'not all heroes wear capes'."
The US Secretary of State, while speaking on CNBC, said that the Islamic Republic of Iran is an active threat to American interests as it spreads chaos in the Middle East, however, the White House would "of course" welcome the opportunity to negotiate with Tehran, Sputnik reports.

Mike Pompeo noted that he sees increased threats from Iran and that President Donald Trump's administration is reinforcing its capacity to respond to any offensive action from Iran. And that was the reason why the US decided to deploy a carrier strike group and a bomber task force, according to Pompeo.

"We've done all the right things to increase our security posture to the best of our ability," Pompeo said, "but we also want to make sure that we had deterrent forces in place, so in the event that Iran decides to come after an American interest  whether that be in Iraq, or Afghanistan, or Yemen, or any place in the Middle East  we are prepared to respond to them in an appropriate way. "

At the same time, Pompeo argued that despite the greater military presence the US has in the Middle East, Washington isn't looking for a fight.

"We're not going to miscalculate: Our aim is not war, our aim is a change in the behaviour of the Iranian leadership. We hope the Iranian people will get what they finally want, and what they so richly deserve," he said. "The forces that we're putting in place, the forces that we've had in the region before  you know, we often have carriers in the Persian Gulf  but the president wanted to make sure that, in the event something took place, we were prepared to respond to it in an appropriate way."

Pompeo highlighted that he also prepared diplomatic approaches so that Trump had choices "in the event that the Iranians make a bad decision."
The divisions in the UK caused by Brexit are so deep and pervasive that they could take a generation to reconcile, former prime minister Gordon Brown has warned.

He told an audience in central London the vote to leave the EU had created a fundamental disagreement about the Britain people want  between being inward or outward looking.

At the launch of Christian Aid Week at Church House in Westminster on Sunday, Mr Brown said countries have to co-operate to solve the worlds problems such as climate change.

Expand Close Gordon Brown addressed the issues of Brexit, climate change and aid funding during his speech (Jonathan Brady/PA) PA Wire/PA Images / Facebook

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Whatsapp Gordon Brown addressed the issues of Brexit, climate change and aid funding during his speech (Jonathan Brady/PA)

He added: It raises the question of what it is to be British and this, I think, is at the heart of the debate thats Brexit.

It does now raise a fundamental issue and I will be honest, my worry is that the divisions in our country are now so deep and so pervasive that it could take a generation for us to reconcile these differences, bring people together and find a unified vision of our country and a sense of purpose and direction that takes us forward into the modern world.

It is not just that parliamentary deadlock. Theres a fundamental disagreement about what kind of Britain we are trying to be.

He said the inward vision misunderstands the Dunkirk spirit as meaning the UK is better when it stands alone, aloof and apart.

But he said: That of course is not what Dunkirk was about  Dunkirk was about us being alone out of necessity.

Expand Close Mr Brown said Britain must decide what sort of country it wants to be (Jonathan Brady/PA) PA Wire/PA Images / Facebook

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But there is a second vision of Britain, a Britain thats open, outward looking, engaged and not disengaged with the rest of the world. A Britain thats internationalist in its outlook, a Britain that says that it has responsibility not just for itself.

I believe this is a choice we have to make as a country, and I cannot see how the issue of our future can be solved unless we understand that in a more and more interdependent, more integrated world that to be outward looking and not inward looking, to be engaged and not disengaged, to be internationalist and not narrowly nationalist is the only way forward.

Mr Brown said this means showing how co-operating can solve the problems of the world and giving people the hope it can be done.

He said people must argue against claims there is a choice between helping people globally and helping them at home.

Mr Brown added: We must use this Christian Aid Week to send that message out to the communities that no matter what the criticisms of aid have been, it is not them against us.

It is not us putting the needs of people in this country against the needs of people in other countries, that there is indeed a circle of empathy that links us here to what is happening right across the world and the people who are here and the people who we can help in other parts of the world.

'We've got to argue back against those people who say that aid is ineffective, that aid is wasteful... when all the evidence is to the contrary.' #CrisisPoint  Christian Aid (@christian_aid) May 12, 2019

Christian Aid and all other organisations doing so much in the world need our support and should have our support.

He said international co-operation is vital to combating climate change.

But he stressed the problem is with the depth of international co-operation and he suggested a new central authority is needed to deliver international targets.

He added: We are one planet, we need to act together, pollution has no respect for borders.

Mr Brown refused to answer questions about politics and Brexit following his speech.

Christian Aid Week began in 1957 as a way of fundraising vital cash to combat poverty worldwide.

 10 mothers from die childbirth per day

 1 in 9 children die before 5th birthday



Sierra Leone is the #1 most dangerous place to give birth. All mums should live! This #CAWeek we're asking for change: https://t.co/QSkJX54MLq #StandUp4Mums pic.twitter.com/s0TJxeXfhN  Christian Aid (@christian_aid) May 12, 2019

This year the charity is focusing on maternity care in Sierra Leone, where women are 150 times more likely to die in childbirth than those in the UK due to a lack of access to healthcare facilities or health professionals.

The West African country is the most dangerous place to give birth in the world, with an estimated 15,000 mothers having died during childbirth since the Ebola crisis in 2014, the charity said.
The prospect of a Jeremy Corbyn-led government is leading Britains richest to move assets and businesses overseas, according to reports.

Theresa Mays Conservative Party would be on course for its lowest vote share in history at 19% according to a poll in a Sunday newspaper, while Labour would become the largest party by 137 seats.

One in 10 of those prepared to speak on the Sunday Times Rich List said they were planning for what they deemed Corbygeddon by protecting their wealth from tax increases on income and inheritance, including moving assets offshore.

Leading the Rich List are the Hinduja brothers Sri and Gopi, the magnates who were said to have amassed a 22 billion fortune, more than 3 billion ahead of David and Simon Reuben.

In third is Sir Jim Ratcliffe, the boss of petrochemicals firm Ineos, who fell from first place after a reported 2.9 billion drop to 18.15 billion.

Labour will reprogramme our economy, so it stops just supporting a tiny few at the top, and starts to reward the many, who do the work, create the wealth, and pay their taxesJeremy Corbyn

Mr Corbyn said the Rich List was a stark reminder of the grotesque inequality that scars our society.

He added: Labour will reprogramme our economy, so it stops just supporting a tiny few at the top, and starts to reward the many, who do the work, create the wealth, and pay their taxes.

Conservative: 179 (318)

Labour: 316 (262)

SNP: 55 (35)

Lib Dem: 28 (12)

Plaid Cymru 4 (4)

Green: 1 (1)

Brexit Party: 49 (0)

UKIP: 0

Change: 0 Totals for 2017 are in brackets, seats in Northern Ireland not included Totals for 2017 are in brackets, seats in Northern Ireland not included

The ComRes survey suggested 27% of people would vote for Labour at a general election which would garner the party 316 seats in Westminster, compared with 179 for the Conservatives.

The same poll, of 2,034 people, said Nigel Farages Brexit Party would get 20% of the vote and 49 seats, while the Liberal Democrats figures stand at 14% vote share and 28 seats, up from 12 at the 2017 general election.

The Sunday Times said one tax expert had helped 10 people worth more than 500 million or more leave the country, while millionaire Alfie Best told the paper he would move his 285 million fortune out of the UK were Mr Corbyn to become prime minister.

How could I run the risk of leaving money here? he added.

Expand Close Philip Green who is no longer a billionaire and his company Arcadia is worthless, says the Rich List (Ian West/PA) PA Wire/PA Images / Facebook

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Whatsapp Philip Green who is no longer a billionaire and his company Arcadia is worthless, says the Rich List (Ian West/PA)

Meanwhile, Sir Philip Green is estimated to have lost his billionaire status with the retail tycoons fortune believed to have halved in a year because of a pension black hole in his empire.

The Sunday Times Rich List has his fortune free-falling 1.05 billion in a year to 950 million.

But the plummet still places Sir Philip and wife Tina at 156th on the list, down from joint 66th some 12 months earlier.

The Arcadia Group  which includes Topshop, Burton and Dorothy Perkins  was valued as worthless in this years list, as the company copes with a pension debt which hit 565 million.

The couples stake in the company was last year valued at 750 million, while the compilers also removed 300 million from their worth to allow the shoring up of the deficit.

With his wealth peaking at almost 5 billion in 2007, it is the first time in 17 years that Sir Philip has not been listed as a billionaire.

Expand Close Topshop was among the Arcadia group which has been deemed worthless (Yui Mok/PA) PA Archive/PA Images / Facebook

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Robert Watts, who compiled the list, said he struggles to envisage the tycoon returning to the upper echelons.

Sir Philip Green may have clung on to his knighthood, but we can no longer justify his status as one of the UKs billionaires, Mr Watts said.

This is the first time since 2002 he has not been in that top tier of the UKs super-rich individuals.

The devaluation comes after sustained criticism against Sir Philip and calls for him to lose his knighthood.

He was lambasted over the collapse of BHS, affecting 11,000 jobs, 19,000 pension holders and leaving a 571 million in the pension scheme.

Expand Close Sir James Dyson is to relocate the Dyson head office from the UK to Singapore (Stefan Rousseau/PA) PA Wire/PA Images / Facebook

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Whatsapp Sir James Dyson is to relocate the Dyson head office from the UK to Singapore (Stefan Rousseau/PA)

The businessman, who sold the department store chain to Dominic Chappell for 1 before it plunged into administration, agreed to pay 363 million towards the deficit.

Sir Philip has also faced a slew of allegations, including of groping a female executive and making a racial slur at an employee.

The Croydon-born entrepreneur denied his behaviour was criminal or amounted to gross misconduct.

Elsewhere in the rich list, Sir James Dyson reached his highest ever position as he prepares to move Dysons head office from Wiltshire to Singapore.

The Brexit-backing businessman climbed seven places to become the fifth richest person in the UK, with his wealth estimated at 12.6 billion.

In our grossly unequal UK, we are seeing the fabric of society ripped to shreds as the gap between us grows ever widerWanda Wyporska

The Equality Trust pledged to write to the 1,000 individuals and families included in the list, calling for them to support higher taxes in a nation of Ferraris and food banks.

Executive director Dr Wanda Wyporska said: In our grossly unequal UK, we are seeing the fabric of society ripped to shreds as the gap between us grows ever wider.

The newspapers list features a record 151 billionaires with a combined wealth of nearly 525 billion, a 9.2% rise on last year.
Hundreds of mothers, fathers and families with babies and children took to the streets to demand urgent action on climate change.

Crowds of protesters carrying banners, flags and placards marched from Hyde Park Corner to Parliament Square as part of the Mothers Rise Up march in central London on Sunday.

The march was led by 11 11-year-olds to represent the 11-year window to act on the climate emergency and accompanied by three giant prams with large globes sitting inside them, two painted like the earth and another painted brown as if scorched.

Im too heartbroken to be angry, I need you to be angry on my behalf @RosamundFndn who lost her 9 year old #MothersRiseUp #mothersclimatemarch  Shaparak Khorsandi (@ShappiKhorsandi) May 12, 2019

Elliott Powell was one of the youngsters leading the march and told the crowds sitting in Parliament Square he did not believe he had a future right now.

He added: We need action now and its really distressing because the Government isnt helping.

We need to act now before its too late.

TV presenter Konnie Huq, comedian Shappi Khorsandi and lawyer and activist Farhana Yamin also addressed the crowds at the rally.

Ms Huq told the crowds that the march had been organised by mothers in between changing nappies and dropping children off.

She added: The reason we are here is because of the youth strikes  the young people have been putting us to shame and its time for us adults to take responsibility.

Rosamund Kissi-Debrah, whose daughter Ella suffered a fatal asthma attack believed to be linked to air pollution, told the crowds that her daughter had died a horrible death.

Ms Kissi-Debrah added: If you deal with air pollution it means you will also deal with climate change.

Everyone here needs to be bothered about the impact of air pollution.

My daughter died a very, very horrible death.

If you live near a man road you should be angry. Im too heartbroken to be angry.

Mothers Rise Up co-founder Catherine Webb told the crowds that after seeing the youth strikes she felt like parents were failing their children.

WE ARE RISING! Gathering outside the intercontinental hotel if you're arriving now. pic.twitter.com/mOKLtLPg1R  Mothers Rise Up  (@mothersriseup) May 12, 2019

The mother-of-two warned that people were sleepwalking towards a cliff with our babies in our arms.

She added: We want what every mother, what every parent, wants: we want whats best for our kids.

Similar marches were due to take place across the country and internationally, including Cyprus, the Netherlands, Spain, the Czech Republic and Australia.
Prayers are said during a holy mass held to bless victims of the Easter Sunday attacks in Colombo, Sri Lanka (Eranga Jayawardena/AP)

The Catholic Church in Sri Lanka has held the first regular Sunday Mass since the Easter suicide bombings of churches and hotels killed more than 250 people.

Military forces and police armed with assault rifles patrolled the streets leading to churches and stood guard outside the compounds.

Everyone entering was required to produce identity cards and be body searched.

Volunteers were stationed at the gates of churches to identify parishioners and look out for any suspicious individuals.

Parking was banned near the churches and officials urged worshippers to bring only minimum baggage.

Expand Close Police guard the entrance to St Lucias Cathedral in Colombo (Eranga Jayawardena/AP) AP/PA Images / Facebook

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Seven suicide bombers struck two Catholic and one Protestant church and three luxury hotels in the attacks last month.

The Islamic State group claimed responsibility for the bombings, which were carried out by a local radicalised Muslim group.

Sunday services were cancelled in the two subsequent weekends amid fears of more attacks, leaving the faithful to hear Mass via live TV transmission from the Colombo residence of Archbishop Malcolm Ranjith.

Church authorities are also considering the reopening of church-run schools on Tuesday if they can be satisfied with security.

Expand Close An armed soldier stands guard outside St Lucias Cathedral (Eranga Jayawardena/AP) AP/PA Images / Facebook

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Whatsapp An armed soldier stands guard outside St Lucias Cathedral (Eranga Jayawardena/AP)

President Maithripala Sirisena said last week that 99% of the remaining suspects in the Easter attacks have been arrested and their explosive materials seized, and it is safe for tourists to return to the Indian Ocean island nation.

Police say two previously little-known radical Islamist groups  National Towheed Jamaat and Jammiyathul Millathu Ibrahim  conspired in the attacks.

Officials say Zahran Hashim, a vitriolic preacher from the countrys east, may have led the attackers and was one of the bombers to die.
Antonio Guterres met New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern on his arrival in Auckland (Hannah Peters/AP)

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has warned the political will to fight climate change seems to be fading at the same time as things are getting worse for those on the front-line.

Mr Guterres made the comments after arriving in New Zealand, where he spoke alongside Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern in Auckland.

Mr Guterres plans to spend three days in New Zealand as part of a trip to the South Pacific to highlight the problems of climate change.

In New Zealand, I thanked @JacindaArdern for her efforts to curb violent extremism on social media and her visionary leadership on the global climate emergency  a model of urgent #ClimateAction for all countries to follow. pic.twitter.com/Sli9mfsRIY  Antonio Guterres (@antonioguterres) May 12, 2019

In Christchurch, he will also meet with Muslim leaders following the March 15 killing of 51 worshippers by a gunman who attacked two mosques during Friday prayers.

Mr Guterres said he usually visits a Muslim country during the holy month of Ramadan but this year decided to visit Muslims in New Zealand as a tribute to their courage and resilience after the attack.

On climate change, he said countries are not living up to their commitments under the 2016 Paris Agreement to keep the global temperature rise to below 2C above pre-industrial levels.

He said: We are not on track to achieve the objectives defined in the Paris Agreement.

And the paradox is that as things are getting worse on the ground, political will seems to be fading.

He commended Ms Ardern for last week introducing an ambitious Bill that aims to make New Zealand mostly carbon neutral by 2050.

Expand Close Mr Guterres said nations must meet commitments made in the Paris Agreement (Mary Altaffer/AP) AP/PA Images / Facebook

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Whatsapp Mr Guterres said nations must meet commitments made in the Paris Agreement (Mary Altaffer/AP)

Mr Guterres said Pacific Island nations are on the front-line of climate change.

We cannot allow for runaway climate change, he said. We need to protect the lives of our people and we need to protect our planet.

He will also visit Fiji, Tuvalu and Vanuatu during his visit, and meet leaders and senior government officials from the Pacific Islands Forum.

His trip comes ahead of the Climate Action Summit that he plans to convene in September in New York.
Death. The very word can trigger images of darkness, men and women in black, of grief, and for some, fear. But God doesnt want us to live in fear nor defeat. He wants us to live, and die, with the confidence that comes from knowing we belong to the victorious, risen King who defeated death when He died on the cross and rose from the grave.

More than that, the reality of death can point to incredible hope we have in Christ. Every heartache and struggle on earth can draw us closer to our Savior, center us deeper in His truths, and motivate us to engage in transformative conversations with others. May we all learn to say, To live is Christ and to die is gain (Phil. 1:21).

So what does the Bible really say about death? Here are 10 truths Scripture reveals regarding death:

1. Death Is Not the End

Some believe once we die, we simply cease existing. They assert that human consciousness arises gradually as the brain develops and will either slowly deteriorate or simply cease. The Bible, however, says differently. Scripture teaches that while our present physical bodies will decompose, our souls will live forever, either in Gods presence or eternally separated from Him.

In Matthew 25, after sharing two parables designed to reveal the realities regarding Gods kingdom, Jesus discussed a time when He will separate the sheep from the goats. Those declared righteous through His blood will receive eternal life, whereas those who rejected Him will go away to eternal punishment (Matt. 25:45).

In other words, eternity awaits all, though our ultimate destination may look vastly different.

2. We Dont Have to Fear Death

God never wants us, His beloved creations, to live in fear, uncertainty, or confusion. In Christ, He offers us a certain, glorious and joy-filled destination; a future free of pain, sorrow and sickness. This invitation is open to all who trust not in themselves or their good works but instead in Jesus and the price He paid.

When we believe Christ is who He says He isthe sinless Son of Godand did what He said He diddied for our sins and rose from the deadScripture says we receive entrance into heaven. Were granted unhindered, relational intimacy with our Savior. He who holds the universe in His hand holds our lives, now and forever more, as well. This means, when our bodies fail and illness invades, we can rest knowing were secure in Gods unshakable, unbreakable love.

3. Not Everyone Goes to the Same Place

According to Scripture, each of us will go to one of two places once we die. Those whove trusted in Christ for salvation will immediately be ushered into His presence, where they will remain for all of eternity. Those who have rejected Him and His offer of grace, however, will spend eternity in hell.

Hell isnt a place we like to talk or read about, but Jesus, the One offering eternal life, addressed this topic on more than one occasion. He told us its a place of darkness and of fire, populated by the wicked and rebellious. With each parable and statement, its as if Hes offering us a warning: Theres death and in this context, that means separation from God, and life. Choose life.

What if our inner angst regarding hell points to the heart of God? Scripture is clear: God is a loving Father who doesnt want anyone to perish. As I live, declares the Sovereign Lord, I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked (Ez. 33:11). To the contrary; God is loving toward all of His creation and heaven rejoices when a single sinner recognizes her need for Jesus and turns to Him.

4. Because Jesus Overcame Death, So Will We

God originally created the world free of sin and death. When mankind rebelled against Him (Gen. 3), we broke our relationship with God the Father and the curse of death and sin began to rule. When Jesus died on the cross for our sins, He broke the power of both, and since we have been united with Him in His death through faith, we will also be raised to life as He was (Rom. 6:5).

Jesus demonstrated this unchanging truth when He stepped out of the tomb, alive. This means, though our physical bodies will cease to function, our souls will immediately enter into Gods presence. Later, when Christ returns, our souls will be reunited with our physical, then glorified bodies, which will be raised from the dead.1

5. Spiritual Death Is Separation from God

Its easy to read modern definitions for words and situations into biblical text. This often occurs when someone thinks of death. To our way of thinking, death means the end of something and the complete cessation of life. In Scripture, however, death primarily means separationseparation of mans spirit from his body and of man from God.

For example, Scripture reveals our physical bodies will eventually cease to function and will begin to decay. Our souls, however, are eternal. Therefore, once brain death occurs, our bodies and souls separate. Similarly, spiritual death, caused by sin, separates man from His Creator. When we receive eternal life, our relationship with God is restored. Those who dont trust in God for salvation, however, remain in deatheternally separated from Him and therefore all the love and goodness and righteousness that stems from Him. This is hell.

6. We Dont Have to Die Alone

Once we trust in Christ for salvation, our relationship with Him is restored, never to be broken again. He makes His home within us, surrounds us, walks beside us, and we become one with Him. Therefore, from that moment on, we are never and will never be alone. In Christ, Gods presence surrounds us completely.

This was the message Jesus was trying to convey to His disciples on the night before He died. [The Father] will give you another advocate to help you and be with you foreverthe Spirit of truth which is the Holy Spirit. You know Him, for He lives with you and will be in you. I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you.  On that day, you will realize that I am in My Father, and you are in Me, and I am in you (John 14:17b-20).

Though others, perhaps even those closest to us, may abandon or reject us, Christ never will. When our time on earth ends, Hell usher us into paradise where well experience His love and presence at a depth unimaginable to our finite minds.

7. Death Was Never Gods Intent

Scripture tells us God designed humans to live eternally in deep relationship with Him. He created the rest of the universe by a mere command, speaking stars, planets, and oceans into being. But when it came to man, Gods involvement was much more direct and intimate.

Then the Lord God formed man from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and man became a living being (Gen. 2:7). Psalm 139 tells us He knit together our inmost being, that He knows us fully, and searches our depths. All of these passages speak of a loving Father and Creator deeply involved with His creation.

Though mankinds sin brought deathseparation from Godinto the world, this was never Gods intent. He created us for life. Life with Him.

8. Sin Wont Always Reign

When we view our world, with all the anger, hatred, political upheaval, and wars, it can feel as if evil is winning and always will. But Scripture promises this isnt true. One day Jesus will return, sin will be banished from His presence for good, and He will make all things right.

Revelation 21:4 promises, He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death, no mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away." May this truth give us hope and peace as we endure all the chaos in our broken world.

9. We Mourn with Hope

When we lose a loved one, it may feel as if a part of ourselves has been taken with them. We grieve the moments well no longer be able to share and the dreams or desires that may never be realized. Though this pain is real and deep, if our loved ones belong to Jesus, our sorrow is always tinged with the certainty that one day, we will see them again.

Scripture promises this and Jesus death and resurrection proved it. For we believe that Jesus died and rose again, and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in Him (1 Thes. 4:14). This means, for those in the family of faith, our goodbyes are never truly goodbyes but rather we look forward to seeing one another again.

10. Heaven Will Be Better Than Anything We Can Imagine

Ive experienced some amazing things. Ive visited the Grand Canyon, Hawaii, and Yosemite. Ive enjoyed Disney Land with my laughing, skipping daughter when she still dressed in princess gowns and tutus. Ive eaten enough ice cream of all varieties to fill numerous freezers, but all of these experiences pale compared to what awaits Christ-followers in heaven.

In fact, heaven will be better than all the earthly pleasures combined across the span of time. Regarding this, the Bible says, What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceivedthe things God has prepared for those who love Him (1 Cor. 2:9).

Physical death is inevitable this side of heaven, but this was never Gods intent for His beloved creation. Nor is this where He wishes for us to remain. In Christ, He offers us lifeto experience, through relationship with Him, all the good and lovely and amazing blessings He has planned for us. He wants to surround us in His love, from now into eternity, and in so doing, casts out all fear.

Because of Christs death and resurrection, we, His beloved, can confidently say, Where, o death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting? The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God! He gives us victory through our Lord Jesus Christ (1 Cor. 15:55-57).

Jennifer Slattery is a writer, editor, and speaker whos addressed womens groups, church groups, Bible studies, and writers across the nation. Shes a multi-published author with her eight novel, Restoring Her Faith, having just released, and maintains a devotional blog found at JenniferSlatteryLivesOutLoud.com. She has a passion for helping women discover, embrace, and live out who they are in Christ. As the founder of Wholly Loved Ministries, she and her team partner with churches to facilitate events designed to help women rest in their true worth and live with maximum impact. Visit her online to find out more about her speaking or to book her for your next womens event, and sign up for her free quarterly newsletter HEREto stay up to date with her future appearances, projects, and releases.
Turkish Defense Minister Hulusi Akar has said Syrian government forces need to halt attacks in northwestern Syria, Al-Masdar reported citing Anadolu Agency.

The Syrian Army, backed by the Russian Air Force, launched ground operations this week at the southern flank of the militant-held demilitarized zone, which consists of Hama and parts of adjacent provinces.

Akar said the Syrian forces should return to territories agreed in an international deal in Kazakhstan to reduce hostilities and casualties.

Humanitarian problems grow each day and it is increasingly showing a tendency to turn into a catastrophe, he said.

Akar also said the attacks pose a threat to the security of Turkeys observation posts in the northwest, where Turkey carries out patrols.

We expect Russia to take effective and determined measures to make Syrian forces stop their attacks on the south of Idlib and immediately return to the borders set by the Astana agreement, Akar said, referring to the Kazakh capital.
The presidential election and two referendums kicked off in Lithuania Sunday with nine candidates running for the country's top job, including incumbent Prime Minister Saulius Skvernelis.

A Lithuanian woman reads a ballot paper at a polling station during the first round of voting in presidential elections in Vilnius, Lithuania, Sunday, May 12, 2019. [Photo: AP/Mindaugas Kulbis]

Polling stations are open from 7 a.m. local time (0400 GMT) to 8 p.m. (1700 GMT), with about 2.47 million eligible voters to cast their ballots.

So far economist Gitanas Nauseda, former Finance Minister Ingrida Simonyte, and Skvernelis led the race.

According to the last poll conducted by Baltijos tyrimai before the election, 21.1 percent of Lithuanians were to vote for Nauseda, compared with 19.5 percent for Simonyte and 18.4 percent for Skvernelis.

Lithuania's European Commissioner for Health and Food Safety Vytenis Povilas Andriukaitis ranked fourth with 6.6 percent.

Nauseda, running as an independent candidate, cast his vote on Friday, saying he voted for one that could ensure Lithuania "chooses the right path."

"I feel responsible as regards Lithuania's efforts to regain dignity, respect, to ensure Lithuania's firm position whether in foreign or domestic policy," Nauseda told reporters after casting his advance vote at Vilnius city municipality.

Simonyte, supported by Lithuania's main opposition party Homeland Union-Christian Democrats, and Skvernelis, backed by the ruling Lithuanian Farmers and Greens Union, are to vote on Sunday.

If no candidate wins more than 50 percent of the votes, there will be a second round scheduled for May 26, alongside the country's elections to the European Parliament.

The incumbent President Dalia Grybauskaite is to leave the office after completing her second term.

On Sunday, Lithuanians also vote in two referendums, one on the number of members in the country's parliament and the other on dual citizenship. Both decisions would change the country's Constitution.
Turkeys trade with Israel increased by $133.770 million and totaled at $1,595.932 million during the first quarter of 2019, Trend reported citing Turkish Ministry of Trade.

"Turkish exports to Israel for the first quarter of 2019 amounted to $1,089.849 million, and imports from Israel amounted to $506.083 million," the ministry said.

It was noted that trade between Turkey and Israel increased by $76.975 million and amounted to $618.016 million in March 2019.

"In March 2019, Turkish exports to Israel amounted to $453.726 million, while imports from Israel amounted to $164.290 million," the ministry said.

The total turnover of Turkey in March 2019 amounted to $34.5 billion.
Two people are dead, two injured as a result of a domestic gas explosion in Kamensky Region early Sunday morning, TASS reports.

Seven apartments have been damaged, three of them completely. The regional administration said that it will provide financial assistance to the families of the victims, as well as to those who lost their home.

According to the Russian Emergency Ministry, the explosion took place half past midnight on Sunday in a two-storey building, which housed 16 apartments. The roofing collapsed on the area of 50 square meters. The regional information policy department reported that rescue teams were on the scene 5 minutes after the explosion. They evacuated 16 residents of the building, unable to save two of them - a nine-year old girl died in the ambulance on her way to the hospital, and a man was found dead underneath the rubble. Two people were injured in the blast - an elderly woman remains in the hospital, in critical condition, and a man in serious condition.

The building was in danger of collapsing, and has been disconnected from gas and electricity.

The regional administration said that the last gas equipment check was carried out in March, and according to the head of the administration, Vladimir Shevchenko did not reveal complaints or damage.

The local Investigative committee has opened a criminal case after the explosion, calling the death of two people a result of negligence.

Currently, all residents of the building are staying at the emergency shelter or with relatives. Emergency services crisis teams are providing psychological support on site.
Ukraine's President-elect Volodymyr Zelensky has urged the Verkhovna Rada, Ukraine's parliament, to set the inauguration date for May 19, UNIAN reported.

"I appeal to the Ukrainian parliament. Dear lawmakers, I hope that in three weeks, while you were resting, you have not forgotten the words of the parliamentary oath: to fulfill your duties in the interests of all compatriots. So far, you are acting solely in your own interests, you are afraid of the dissolution of the [Verkhovna] Rada and are delaying the appointment date of inauguration,"

Zelensky said in a video address posted on Facebook. Zelensky stressed [outgoing President Petro] Poroshenko "makes irreversible," carrying out active changes in the high command of the army, appointing familiar judges to the Supreme Court, awarding titles, etc.

"That is why I appeal to the Verkhovna Rada. You should set the inauguration date for May 19 at the next meeting. It is not I who demand this, the people of Ukraine demand this, in whose interests you swore to act. The country needs the normal work of all institutions, people should not wait until someone appoints everyone before a long vacation. Think, please, not about deputy cards, think about Ukraine. May 19. Vote," he said.
ST. JOHN'S, N.L. - A young woman who snapped a photo of a police officer walking through a St. John's mall with a carbine firearm at the ready says she wishes officers could tell citizens more when highly armed situations arise in public venues.

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This article was published 12/5/2019 (958 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

A police officer with his weapon drawn walks in a food court in a mall in St.John's, Friday, May 10, 2019. A young woman who witnessed a police officer walking through a St. John's mall with a carbine firearm at the ready says she wishes officers could tell citizens more when highly armed situations arise in public venues. THE CANADIAN PRESS/HO-Amanda Evans MANDATORY CREDIT

ST. JOHN'S, N.L. - A young woman who snapped a photo of a police officer walking through a St. John's mall with a carbine firearm at the ready says she wishes officers could tell citizens more when highly armed situations arise in public venues.

The Royal Newfoundland Constabulary explained Sunday evening, almost two days after the incident, that they were responding to a report of a shooting at the Avalon mall that turned out to be a false report.

Twenty-three-year-old Amanda Evans said in an interview on Sunday she was coming off her shift and was sitting in the closed food court at Avalon Mall late Friday, taking shelter from a cool evening as she waited for a bus.

She says when she asked a Royal Newfoundland Constabulary officer carrying a rifle what was occurring and whether she should leave, she was told the situation appeared to be under control.

"I went up to the police officer with a gun and said, 'I know you're carrying something and the laser is on, but is it safe for me to stay here?'" she said.

"He said, 'It should be all fine for now. I think we have it all under control,'" Evans recalled.

Evans said the response left her uncertain of what to do and whether to remain in the area. She said she also searched in vain for a news release or public information afterwards to explain what had occurred.

Speculation on what had happened piled up in her Facebook page for a day, as the public awaited an official comment on the incident.

Const. Colin Shaw, a spokesman for the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary, said in an interview Sunday evening that carbines have become part of police responses to shooting calls since officers who weren't equipped with the long guns were killed in Mayerthorpe, Alta., and in Moncton, N.B., incidents.

The RCMP was convicted on Labour Code charges related to the 2014 shooting in Moncton that left three officers dead and two injured, due to its failure to provide its members with the necessary equipment to deal with an active shooter event.

The judge in the Moncton case said high-powered carbine rifles could have made a difference for the officers targeted by the gunman.

Then-commissioner Bob Paulson testified during the trial that RCMP management had concerns over the potential militarization of the force. He told the court he worried that the carbines could "distance the public from the police."

Shaw said in the St. John's incident, police responded appropriately by having the guns on display when they arrived at 10 p.m.

"We have to respond to each of those calls as though true, until it's proven false," he said.

"When you have a report of anyone with a firearm in a public place where there's potential for multiple casualties. ... officers respond with carbines."

Following the event, police offered limited information to media, other than to state the public was not at risk. Shaw said that a public explanation could have been produced more quickly.

Evans says she posted a fuzzy photograph of the officer with the carbine on her social media, adding she did so in an effort to draw out information on the incident.

Shaw said one option would be for an officer to refer the public to a supervisor when they ask what's occurring, but sometimes they might not be able to take the time and answer a series of questions.

"It's tough when you're in the moment to have the appropriate response to those kinds of questions that are coming at you," he said.

Brendan Rozier, a law student in Winnipeg who has researched police militarization, said the visibility of weapons is an increasing reality in Canadian policing.

"Both the public and the police want an effective police service, though they may disagree about what that looks like," he said in an email.

"To what extent should the police be expected to inform the public of ongoing situations, or to limit the use of certain equipment? Those are questions with answers that may vary from one community to another."

- By Michael Tutton in Halifax.

- Follow (at)mtuttoncporg on Twitter.
MONTREAL - Every Sunday afternoon from spring through fall, hundreds of people gather on the slopes of Mount Royal for the tam-tams, a loosely organized weekly festival of drumming, dancing, and outdoor picnicking designed to soak up the most of Montreal's short outdoor season.

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This article was published 12/5/2019 (958 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

People play drums during the Tam-Tams festival in Montreal, Sunday, May 12, 2019. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Graham Hughes

MONTREAL - Every Sunday afternoon from spring through fall, hundreds of people gather on the slopes of Mount Royal for the tam-tams, a loosely organized weekly festival of drumming, dancing, and outdoor picnicking designed to soak up the most of Montreal's short outdoor season.

Named for the drum beats that characterize its soundtrack, the bohemian gathering has become a must-visit for tourists as well as locals, who dance, play or lie on picnic blankets to the sound of dozens of beating drums.

Nobody knows exactly how one of Montreal's signature cultural events got started, according to an ethnologist who has studied the festival and says it could be celebrating its 40th anniversary this year.

But while Monique Provost says there are several theories, she admits it's hard to know where the truth lies.

According to some who have spoken to Provost, the event began in 1979 when Don Hill, a now-deceased street musician, plastered signs around town looking for 100 people who played the djembe, a goblet-shaped West African hand drum, for a drum circle on Mount Royal.

Hill's ensuing "hundred drummers workshop" drew curious crowds and formed the basis of the signature Montreal event, according to Provost, who wrote her doctoral thesis on the history of djembe in Quebec. While Provost credits Hill, she notes that the mountain in the middle of Montreal had already been a site for "intercultural drum exchanges" before he arrived.

"At that time, there were already groups of musicians on Mount Royal," she said in an interview. "People like Don Hill and Michel Seguin  a founding member of the famous Ville Emard Blues Band  went to the mountain to exchange knowledge and to practice.

"But Don Hill had the fantasy of creating big drum gatherings like in the United States. Since he was an American, he wanted to reproduce that here."

Daniel Bellegarde, a professional musician, was among the first percussionists to attend the weekly party. He, too, credits Hill.

"It was Don Hill who was the first one to organize the drum circles on the mountain," he said. "He attracted a lot of people."

Bellegarde said the gatherings were orderly at first but eventually morphed into something "anarchic," creating a split between the professional and amateur musicians.

"Some saw the exercise as a way of letting loose, where you play for yourself and try to hit harder and faster than everyone else  whereas in the American tradition, a drum circle has to have unity," he said.

Despite the anarchy, he says "the playful side is still there, and the tam-tams simply transformed into something else, with both positive and negative sides," he said.

But another musician, David Thiaw, contradicts the origin story presented by Bellegarde and Provost.

Thiaw, who was born in Senegal and now lives in British Columbia's Okanagan Valley, claims he started the event in the 1970s while teaching drum workshops downtown. The percussion teacher said the gatherings originally took place in Notre-Dame-de-Grace, in the city's west end, but eventually moved to the mountain to be closer to where he was living.

"I started to meet with other musicians on Mount Royal on Sundays to practice, because I lived on Parc Avenue," he said in a phone interview. "It was less far for me than NDG."

Thiaw said he started putting up posters to recruit more musicians to meet on the mountain, "long before" Hill did.

"Don Hill wasn't a teacher, he didn't have the discipline," Thiaw said. "He was more of a crowd entertainer."

Yet another story emerges from Michel Seguin, who played with Thiaw and contests the Senegalese musician's claim.

"David Thiaw didn't invent the Mount Royal tam-tams, it was I who was the senior member of the group," Seguin said in a phone interview from California.

The 79-year-old says he travelled to Africa in the mid-1970s, where he learned from the "great masters" of percussion. When he returned, he began organizing playing sessions with groups of musicians, including Thiaw, he said.

"Me, I stayed in the woods of Mount Royal but him, sometimes he moved to play by the statue (the current location), because it was a way to check out the girls passing by," Seguin said.

Provost acknowledges Seguin is considered by his peers to be the first Quebec djembe player, while his brother, Paul, was the first to build the drums in the province.

But she said it's hard to nail down exactly which of the three musicians  who were all "poles of attraction" in their own right  started the tam-tams.

"Moreover, it seems that each person I talk to has lived their own story of the birth of the tam-tams, and it would be a mistake to consider one version to the detriment of another, since they may very well have historically taken place synchronously," she said.

Regardless of who started the event, Provost notes the political context of the era also contributed to its establishment on Mount Royal.

In the early 1980s, raucous parties and complaints from citizens led then-mayor Jean Drapeau to pass an anti-noise bylaw that effectively prevented musicians like Hill, Seguin and Thiaw from playing in public anywhere else.

That led them to make their way to the mountain, where they and their successors have been drumming away ever since.

Note to readers: This is a corrected version. A previous version suggested Monique Provost supported Don Hill's account of the tam-tams.
IQALUIT, Nunavut - An Inuit land-claim group is asking the federal government to permanently protect large sections of the Eastern Arctic from any industrial development.

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This article was published 12/5/2019 (958 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

People make their way through Iqaluit, Nunavut, on Wednesday, March 6, 2019. An Inuit land-claim group is asking the federal government to permanently protect large sections of the Eastern Arctic from any industrial development. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Sean Kilpatrick

IQALUIT, Nunavut - An Inuit land-claim group is asking the federal government to permanently protect large sections of the Eastern Arctic from any industrial development.

The request is part of a huge effort to map out how and where oil, gas and mining should go ahead on land and water around Baffin Island and how they can co-exist with traditional Inuit life. It comes in the final year of a five-year moratorium on Arctic offshore energy development, which is to be reconsidered in 2020.

"There's some very highly sensitive areas," said P.J. Akeeagok, president of the Qikiqtani Inuit Association. "There's no negotiations on certain points in terms of areas where we feel there's absolutely no way we see an opportunity for oil and gas."

A report, delivered to the federal Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs department, doesn't draw lines on a map. But the area in question is in the Baffin Bay-Davis Strait region, where three Norwegian companies attempted to do seismic tests for oil and gas in 2015.

It's not part of any marine protected area currently under federal consideration.

Communities along the Baffin coast, with the territorial government and environmental groups, opposed the seismic work. The issue eventually went to the Supreme Court, which ruled local people hadn't been adequately consulted, and the tests never went ahead.

The Inuit are also asking Ottawa for seasonal bans on marine transport when important animals such as narwhal, walrus and seals are calving.

"Inuit, being coastal people, we heavily rely on wildlife," said Akeeagok.

The association's report comes after extensive consultations in seven communities on Baffin and Ellesmere islands. They were held as part of a strategic environmental assessment led by the Nunavut Impact Review Board. The board is considering economic, environmental and social factors to create a blueprint for how development should proceed.

The Eastern Arctic is thought to hold large deposits of oil and gas. There are 20 significant discovery licences for the Arctic islands and one off the southern tip of Baffin Island.

There isn't enough known about the impacts of such development to allow any of it, said Akeeagok.

"It was very evident there has to be a lot more research."

The association has a list of demands before any moratorium is lifted.

It wants the federal government to create a dedicated research institute for Arctic oil and gas as well as a permanent advisory body to ensure traditional knowledge is taken into account in decision-making.

It also wants governments to look at alternative ways, such as fisheries and tourism, to develop the area's economy. Benefits and job opportunities must be part of any new projects, said Akeeagok.

A spokesman for Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada said in an email that the federal government will consider the recommendations, which will form part of the final report from the review board.

Inuit communities still rely heavily on hunting to keep food on their tables, and studies suggest that 70 per cent of Nunavut Inuit remain food insecure.

The report cites the experience of Inuit hunters who say that development and shipping traffic would displace important food animals and upset the food web.

His people have a lot at stake, Akeeagok said.

"Inuit are very integrated to the wildlife around us and the environment around us."

 By Bob Weber in Edmonton. Follow @row1960 on Twitter
OTTAWA - Politicians are increasingly concerned that social media giants have become so big, powerful and rich that they are effectively above the law  at least in a small country like Canada.

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This article was published 12/5/2019 (958 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Guest are welcomed by people in Facebook shirts as they arrive at a Facebook Canadian Summit in Toronto on Wednesday, March 28, 2018. Politicians are increasingly concerned that social media giants have become so big, powerful and rich that they are effectively above the law  at least in a small country like Canada. Chris Donovan The Canadian Press files

OTTAWA - Politicians are increasingly concerned that social media giants have become so big, powerful and rich that they are effectively above the law  at least in a small country like Canada.

Their concern was on display last week at a meeting of the House of Commons access to information, privacy and ethics committee, where Liberal MPs raked Google over the coals for its decision not to run any political ads during this fall's federal election campaign, rather than comply with a new law that requires them keep an online ad registry.

"Here's my frustration," Toronto Liberal MP Nathaniel Erskine-Smith told Google Canada representatives Jason Kee and Colin McKay.

"You have a company that makes billions of dollars and looks at ... a small jurisdiction in Canada and says, 'Your democracy doesn't matter enough to us, we're not going to participate.' But if a big player decided to change the rules, I guarantee that you would follow those rules.

"But we are too small for you. You are too big, you are too important and we are just not important enough for Google for you to take us seriously."

"I'd contest that observation," responded McKay.

He and Kee maintained the decision was strictly a technical one: Google engineers could not, in the short time frame required by the government, come up with a system that would reliably detect partisan and issue-oriented ads during the campaign and ensure they were all archived along with information identifying the source of the ads.

Following the last U.S. presidential election, when a spotlight was shone on the use of social media to spread fake news, sow dissension and manipulate the election outcome, Kee said Google created a template for political ad registries that it used in last fall's U.S. midterms and will deploy in India and the European Union. But he said it's not compatible with the specific requirements of the Canadian law, about which he said Google was not consulted.

Kee said Google will try to comply with the registry law by the next election in 2023.

It was clear Liberals on the committee weren't buying the explanation. It was equally clear their frustration with social media giants extends well beyond Google and the political ad registry.

Quebec MP David Graham accused Google and Facebook of ignoring Canadian copyright law. And another Quebec Liberal, Frank Baylis, linked the ad registry and copyright issues, arguing that Google makes billions by posting ads on content it obtains for free because copyright law doesn't apply to social media platforms.

"The minute you start controlling these ads, you move from being a platform to proof positive you're a publisher and once you're a publisher, you're subject to copyright and all that," Baylis said, maintaining that's the "real reason" Google has opted out of the political ad registry, not "this technical mumbo-jumbo" offered by the company.

Kee said that was "not remotely" the case.

Facebook has decided to comply with the ad registry law but the committee had another bone to pick with that company.

It adopted unanimous motions to summon Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg and COO Sheryl Sandberg to appear at the second meeting of the international grand committee on big data, privacy and democracy, which the Commons committee is hosting in Ottawa on May 28. The grand committee involves parliamentarians from Canada, the United Kingdom, Argentina, Belgium, Brazil, France, Ireland, Latvia and Singapore.

The summons came after the Facebook duo failed to respond to an invitation to appear. Zuckerberg has testified at a congressional committee in Washington following last year's Cambridge Analytica scandal, in which the personal data of some 87 million Facebook users was improperly shared with the political consultancy firm. But he refused to appear at the grand committee's first meeting in the U.K. and has repeatedly ignored invitations to appear before the Canadian committee to discuss Facebook's handling of Canadians' private information.

Federal privacy commissioner Daniel Therrien last month concluded that Facebook violated Canadian privacy laws by failing to ensure Cambridge Analytica got clear consent to use individuals' personal information. He is going to court to force Facebook  which maintains Canadians were not affected by the scandal and that it has since made "dramatic improvements" to protect users' privacy  to comply with privacy laws.

In an interview, Erskine-Smith noted that social media giants fought against the European Union's general data protection regulation, which imposed strict new rules for protecting individuals' privacy and stiff fines for companies that fail to do so. But once the law went into effect, they complied with it because the EU, unlike Canada, "is a substantial jurisdiction that they can't ignore."

More recently, he said the giants have professed to be in favour of stronger, government-imposed rules on privacy and the spread of hate and misinformation. And Karina Gould, Canada's minister of democratic institutions, has been signalling that regulations are coming because she's been disappointed by social media platforms' efforts to self-regulate.

But said Erskine-Smith: "The problem is, unless we have global co-operation in establishing those new rules, we're still going to open the door to companies saying, selectively, 'This jurisdiction is too small, the market isn't large enough to warrant changing our rules so we're just going to ignore it.'"

Digital media expert Taylor Owen said that's certainly true when it comes to regulation of political ads. But he said it will be more difficult to arrive at internationally co-ordinated regulations on harmful speech and competition, where laws are much more nationally specific.

Still, Owen said there's no reason why Canada alone could not beef up its laws, as other countries have done, to impose steep fines on social media giants that violate privacy laws or don't go far enough to constrain disinformation and hateful content. And, judging by the markedly hostile tone MPs in the governing party have adopted lately, he thinks that's coming soon.

Whereas politicians initially embraced social media as a positive means to engage with voters, most western governments, including Canada's, have come to a "radically different" view, said Owen, Beaverbrook chair in media ethics and communication at McGill University's Max Bell school of public policy.

"The tone and the attitude of government is fundamentally changing. There is no trust anymore," he said.
TORONTO - The case of an Ontario woman who was murdered by her husband days after she filed for divorce underscores that victims of domestic violence face even greater danger when they try to leave their abuser, experts say.

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This article was published 12/5/2019 (958 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

TORONTO - The case of an Ontario woman who was murdered by her husband days after she filed for divorce underscores that victims of domestic violence face even greater danger when they try to leave their abuser, experts say.

Elana Fric Shamji, 40, stayed with her abusive husband for more than a decade before serving him with divorce papers in November 2016, a court heard. Two days later, he killed her in their Toronto home, stuffed her body in a suitcase and dumped it in a ravine.

The recent slaying of a Calgary mother and toddler took place after the woman and her alleged killer halted their on-again-off-again relationship. Aliyah Sanderson, 22-months old, and her mother Jasmine Lovett, 25, are shown in this undated handout photo. THE CANADIAN PRESS/HO - Calgary Police Service, *MANDATORY CREDIT*

Mohammed Shamji, a renowned neurosurgeon, was sentenced this past week to life in prison with no chance of parole for 14 years after he pleaded guilty to second-degree murder in the death of Fric Shamji, who was a successful family doctor.

While some may think breaking off an abusive relationship puts an end to the violence, studies show that's not the case, said Deepa Mattoo, executive director of the Barbra Schlifer Commemorative Clinic, which provides counselling and legal support for women experiencing violence.

"A woman, when she decides to leave, she is usually at the highest possibility of fatality and highest possibility of harm, physical harm, coming her way," Mattoo said. "That's when ... (the abuser) is losing his control, he is possibly the most dangerous at that time."

The recent slaying of a Calgary mother and toddler also took place after the woman and her alleged killer halted their on-again-off-again relationship.

Police have said Jasmine Lovett, 25, was in a deteriorating relationship with Robert Leeming, a British citizen who has been charged with two counts of second-degree murder.

The remains of Lovett and her daughter, 22-month-old Aliyah Sanderson, were found in the Rocky Mountain wilderness on Monday, three weeks after they were last seen alive.

Leeming said in media interviews before he was charged that he and Lovett had been involved but were not together at that time.

In another high-profile case last year, a 22-year-old woman was stabbed 40 times by her ex, who then slashed her throat and shot her. Calgary police have said Adam Bettahar was shot dead by officers days after he killed Nadia El-Dib.

"Nadia really kept to herself. She didn't want to worry my family. So we didn't really know about any of the stalking or any of the threats or any of the abusive behaviours that Adam had," her sister, Racha El-Dib, said in an interview this week.

The family learned after the fact that Bettahar had a history of not taking rejection well in past relationships, she said.

Outside a Toronto court this week, Fric-Shamji's mother, Ana Fric, recalled begging her daughter to leave her husband, to no avail. Fric said she hopes her daughter's grim fate will convince others in a similar situation to act before it's too late.

It often takes more than five attempts at ending an abusive relationship before someone leaves for good, said Lise Martin, executive director of Women's Shelters Canada.

Aside from their own complicated emotions towards their abuser, people in violent relationships face a number of societal factors and pressures that make it extremely difficult to leave, even if they have the financial means to do so, she said.

Among other things, they may feel ashamed to admit what's happening to them, particularly if they believe it would tarnish their family or professional image, she said.

"The layperson will say, 'You're so well-educated, you're a strong woman, how could you put up with this?' So then you have that shame about this happening," Martin said.

When victims of domestic violence do decide to leave their abusive partners, it's important for them to thoroughly assess the threat to their safety, preferably with the help of a professional, said Mattoo, of the Barbra Schlifer Clinic.

The organization recommends coming up with an exit strategy that keeps the person leaving safe and ensures they have access to important documents such as their ID, social insurance card and their children's birth certificates, she said.

Mattoo also stressed the need for resources in the community such as Legal Aid, which has been hit by provincial funding cuts in recent months.

 with files from Lauren Krugel in Calgary.
By Jim Waters May. 11, 2019 | 09:54 AM | LEXINGTON

Kentucky's pension children shouldn't pay for the sins of their retirement-systems' fathers.



Mankind shouldn't break the Ten Commandments, either. But both scenarios have been occurring for a long time.





The primary reason the Kentucky Employees Retirement System's (KERS) funding level has dipped from nearly 140 percent to under 13 percent in less than 20 years is because previous politicians and actuaries  fathers of today's pension crisis  colluded to not only increase benefits without any actuarial justification but also to award those higher benefits to employees' previous years of service.





Our commonwealth is now paying the price for the political justification of this economically devastating policy.



The checks going out to most retirees in Kentucky's two large pension plans  Kentucky Retirement Systems (KRS) and Teachers' Retirement System (TRS)  are much fatter than the amount of grain stored up in the barn to support them.



In fact, the grain supply is dwindling as the number of people retiring grows more rotund with each passing year.



Perhaps no group has been penalized for this scenario more than quasi-governmental employers, which have taken center stage in the Commonwealth's pension crisis.



Kentucky's seven regional universities, local health departments, rape crisis centers, and other quasi agencies face bankruptcy and closure if action isn't taken before July 1 to relieve them of a requirement that their pension contribution to KERS for each employee dramatically increase from 49 percent to 83 percent.





Just freezing their contribution rates for another year may be politically palatable to some politicians and stakeholders in Frankfort, but it simply delays the inevitable while the KRS pension-liability hole grows deeper.



"The days of 'kicking the pension can down the road' are over," Gov. Matt Bevin wrote in a letter to lawmakers urging them to act.



But what happens when the kicking stops and the can quits rolling is key to solving  not just delaying  the crisis faced by these quasi agencies.



The plan being debated in Frankfort would allow the groups to leave KRS altogether, a move that would result in payroll contributions being diverted away from the ailing state retirement systems and into defined-contribution plans.



A caution flag, however, appears as this approach would likely result in a court battle over future benefits of longtime employees who serve in these agencies.



My organization, the Bluegrass Institute for Public Policy Solutions, offers a plan that stops the rolling can while also protecting future benefits of both long-time employees of these agencies and newer hires by creating a separate plan we've labeled the Quasi-governmental Employees Retirement System (QERS), which would be separated from the failing KERS, the state workers' system, but remain under the KRS umbrella.



Being lumped in with KERS has resulted in these quasi agencies  whose employees generally don't work in the system as long as full-fledged state workers and thus have much-different retirement patterns  making prohibitively higher payments than what they actually cost the fund.



This approach offers a long-term solution for the quasi agencies as it will immediately reduce their liabilities to the retirement system by hundreds of millions of dollars.



It also keeps the state out of court, gets reforms implemented this fiscal year, avoids the complex legislative and administrative changes that would accompany these groups leaving the system altogether and saves taxpayers the estimated $827 million their exit would cost.





Placing quasis in their own plan with Annual Required Contribution (ARC) payments based on their specific liabilities and actuarial assumptions rather than being forced to pay for the sins of the rest of the system will be their salvation.



Jim Waters is president and CEO of the Bluegrass Institute for Public Policy Solutions, Kentucky's free-market think tank. Read previous columns at www.bipps.org. He can be reached at jwaters@freedomkentucky.com and @bipps on Twitter.



COMMENTARY:
Thousands of children are being failed by health services across the country according to the Coeliac Society.

It also says that over 7,000 children are living with the condition without knowing.
Hairdressing chain Peter Mark has abolished a 2,000 'training fee' for young apprentices.

The practice had been implemented following the introduction of the Employment (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2018.

Under this legislation, age-based minimum pay rates for young employees had been introduced, meaning the much lower trainee rates were abolished.

Trade union Unite, which represents workers in the hairdressing sector, welcomed the decision.

Peter Mark confirmed yesterday that the training fee would no longer be levied on workers, and that those employees would be paid the proper rate backdated to March 4 when the new legislation came into force.

Unite Senior Officer Brendan Ogle said they been providing workers with advice and support since they approached the union with concerns last month.

Over the past two weeks, we have highlighted Peter Marks attempt to subvert the benefits of the new legislation by imposing a new training fee on workers," he said.

"We alerted Minister Regina Doherty to the situation, and the workers plight was raised in the Dail by Deputy Joan Collins.

Yesterday the company bowed to pressure, abolished the new fee and confirmed to workers that they will apply the proper payment rate backdated to March 4 when the new legislation took effect.

On the eve of Unites Irish Policy Conference starting tomorrow, this victory is a reminder of the power of solidarity," Mr Ogle said.

Regional Officer Patricia Rogers added: While this news is very welcome, workers should be under no illusion: only by continuing to act collectively can they maintain and improve their terms and conditions going forward."

A meeting will take place on Wednesday to ensure application of the steps announced by Peter Mark and to consider any other issues which may arise, Ms Rogers said.
Justice Minister Charlie Flanagan has bowed to public cries and has banned controversial US Pastor Steven Anderson from entering the country.

The fundamentalist preacher was due to speak in Dublin at an event on May 26 but Mr Flanagan has signed an exclusion order in the interests of public policy.
A pedestrian in his 80s has died after a hit-and-run in Co Roscommon last night.

Gardai are investigating after the man was struck by a car which failed to remain at the scene in Keadue at around 11pm.
A teenager is assisting gardai with inquiries into the fatal stabbing of an 18-year-old in Dublin.

The man presented himself at a garda station in south Dublin yesterday afternoon.

Azzam Raguragui died after being stabbed at Finsbury Park, in Dundrum at approximately 8.10pm on Friday night.

He was from the Dundrum area and had previously attended De La Salle College in Churchtown.

It is understood that a number of people were in the vicinity at the time of the incident.

Azzam was treated at the scene by emergency services and brought to St James's Hospital where he later died.

Investigating officers are now following a definite line of inquiry, and say they are currently not considering any racial motive.

A post-mortem examination was carried out by Deputy State Pathologist Dr Linda Mulligan yesterday afternoon, and gardai were continuing to examine the scene of the incident yesterday evening.

Azzam was remembered as a "kind, courteous and respectful" young man by the Irish Sufi Foundation.

The Muslim organisation expressed its condolences to Azzam's family after hearing the "devastating and heartbreaking news".

"Azzam was a kind, courteous, respectful and cheerful young man who always had a smile on his face," the group said.

He was bright, talented and ambitious with aspirations to become a successful entrepreneur. Such a tragic loss. A wonderful young life full of potential cut short.

A GoFundMe page has been set up in his memory, with over 10,000 raised so far.

Superintendent Martin McGonnell has requested privacy for the family of the deceased at this time and a family liaison officer has been appointed to help relatives.

He expressed his thanks to all the members of the public who have provided information in relation to this investigation and continues to appeal to anyone who may have witnessed this incident or who may have information to contact Dundrum Garda Station 01-666 5600, the Garda Confidential Line 1800 666 111 or any Garda Station.
Cork actress Fiona Shaw has won a BAFTA award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in BBC thriller Killing Eve.

In her acceptance speech, the Cobh native said playing the character Carolyn in Killing Eve "has been probably the greatest pleasure of my life".

She shared how the director told her she couldn't play the role with an Irish accent.

Fiona Shaw seems pretty pleased with her BAFTA for Supporting Actress  #BAFTATV @KillingEve pic.twitter.com/shAHVquNWc  BAFTA (@BAFTA) May 12, 2019

"People have begun to suspect I am a spy, and I just want to thank the director Harry Bradbeer for that because he said 'No, no, you can't play this part with an Irish accent'."

The actress thanked her agent, co-stars and wife Sonali Deraniyagala, who she said "inspires many more than me".

She also commended writer and developer of the series, Phoebe Waller-Bridge, for her "glass-shattering genius and wayward imagination".

Speaking to BAFTA, she said:

"I am utterly stunned and I just didn't have any words [on stage] because I thought my goodness, because the pleasure of being in Killing Eve has been astonishing, and everywhere I go people stop me and say 'Killing Eve! Killing Eve!' So it's had a huge effect in New York and in London. It's lovely. It's lovely to be here.

"[Sandra Oh and Jodie Comer] were completely normal actresses until Killing Eve and we meet now every morning when we're getting done up for the show and we just gas the same we always do.

"Jodie is a delightful person, Sandra's charming, we just all get on very, very well."

Shaw teased that fans of the show are in for a "very interesting time" as the show heads towards it's final episodes of Season 2.

Killing Eve was renewed for its third season less than just 24 hours after its season two debut in the US.
But now the Supreme Court of France (as I understand it) has ratified the decision of doctors to dehydrate Vincent to death. It's important to understand that the legal situation is somewhat different from that of Terri Schiavo. As I understand it, the matter is left in the hands of the doctors. This is why the Committee to Support Vincent Lambert has tried to get him transferred, but those attempts have been unsuccessful. (A transfer might also have resulted in Vincent's receiving some physical therapy in order to renew or maintain his ability to swallow and be fed by mouth. Expert opinions differ on whether he is in a minimally conscious state or a so-called "vegetative" state, but it is not implausible that he could have profited from some therapy which he has not received while his wife has been attempting to have him killed all these years.) In Terri's case, a court actually ordered the nursing home to withdraw Terri's food and water. The French court apparently has merely allowed this. Doctors could still quite legally make a different decision.

Things are looking grim again for Vincent Lambert, the Frenchman whose wife and some other relatives have been trying to have him dehydrated to death for approximately six years. Thanks to the persistence of Vincent's mother Viviane and her lawyers, Vincent has been rescued from more than one attempt at killing him and is still being fed and dehydrated years after others would have given up.

The lawyers trying to save Vincent have obtained an unenforceable ruling from the UN Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities that Vincent should continue to receive food and water while that committee carries out its own investigation of his case. The French health minister said that this ruling, though not legally binding, would be honored.

But the doctor presiding over Vincent's case is apparently of another mind. Dr. Sanchez of the hospital in Rheims has said that he will withdraw Vincent's food and water beginning on May 20. Perhaps he thinks that the UN committee investigation will be over by then and will favor his decision? Or perhaps he just intends to go ahead regardless.

Even if those who intend to kill Vincent succeed this time around, he has been saved for several years by the valiant efforts of his mother and her lawyers. They should never feel that their work has all been in vain or that we should regard Vincent as if he is already dead. The differences in the legal situation, too, make this a relevant case to follow. If the doctors were not so determined to kill him, or if these particular doctors did not have jurisdiction over him, matters would be far different. No court has actually decreed his death. And the very fact that his case is receiving this much publicity means that, if he is killed, this will be a turning point for France. Say what you will, the French do not appear to be entirely blase, yet, to dehydrating people to death. In this regard they may be somewhat less desensitized than Americans and very likely less hard-hearted than the Belgians and Dutch, who rather frequently engage in active euthanasia even against children.

Let us pray for Vincent and his mother and the lawyers fighting for him.

On a related note, readers of W4 will be interested in this debate between the pagan but sometimes insightful Douglas Murray and an advocate of fully legal active euthanasia in the UK. (My understanding of the euthanasia legal situation in the UK presently is this: Officially active euthanasia is illegal, though plenty of people are passively dehydrated to death, as in the U.S. However, the prosecutors have more or less officially stated that they don't consider it "in the public interest" to prosecute active euthanasia carried out by drug overdose if it is well-intentioned. Hence, in practice, active euthanasia is legal in the UK, because it is not prosecuted. Apparently that isn't enough for some, who want it formally legalized. Fun fact: If you are a big fan of Roger Scruton, you should know that Scruton advocated that the law turn a blind eye to active mercy killing/euthanasia in the UK well before it actually happened. He regarded people who live too long as living "without love.")

Murray strongly opposes the euthanasia advocate in this dialogue. One point that I found very interesting was this: Sam Leith, the euthanasia advocate, goes on and on about the rights and autonomy of the individual, as if this is what legal euthanasia is all about. But at the same time he seems not the least bit fazed by the fact that if euthanasia is legal according to the policy he advocates, people will be euthanized who do not want to die! And not by accident, either, but rather by the successful operation of the policy. This is because he apparently favors a policy in which you can order ahead of time that you be actively euthanized if you come to be in such-and-such a state and cannot then express your wishes. Leith, quite simply, doesn't care. He listens to Douglas Murray pointing out that people will be killed who don't want to die and calmly says, "There is a considerable philosophical discussion here, about how much your present self can bind your future self." Is there, now? How nice. One has to love Murray's icy little comment, "What a beautiful slogan" about "Making death easier to access." Here's part of the dialogue:

Sam: If people are going to do it anyway, they should be allowed to do it here in a way that Douglas: Makes death easier to access. Sam: Make death easier to access, exactly. Douglas: What a beautiful slogan. Sam: A consumer point. Douglas: Its not unwise to make these things harder than they need to be, rather than easier. I once spoke to a euthanasia doctor about his terminally ill patients. Many suffer from degenerative illnesses which mean that they cannot sign the form to die when they are at their worst. They sign it in advance which is not dissimilar to whats being suggested here. I asked this doctor, how can you be sure further down the line that you are definitely killing  or however one wants to euphemise that Sam: Euphemise, euthanise. Douglas: that you are killing them and they want to die? And he said, I cant be sure. I asked, do you think you have ever euthanised somebody who didnt actually want to die and he said yes, Im certain of it. Im sure we both know of elderly relatives and friends who are at the end of their lives. Quite often they will say I dont want to get to X stage and they are absolutely certain they will never get to X stage and if they ever got near X stage they would be flying off to Switzerland. But then they get to X stage and the stage beyond and they still want to live. Sam: These are hard cases. There is a considerable philosophical discussion here, about how much your present self can bind your future self. Douglas: Can you imagine lying in a bed, not wanting to die, but knowing that you will because you once signed a form, which the state is now enforcing?

Can you imagine, indeed. And so much for the rights of the individual. Sorry, person who doesn't want to die, I guess you fell on the wrong side of that "considerable philosophical debate" and are now bound by the decision of your past self.

Choice devours itself. This is just a hint, just a clue, that it was wrong in the first place to make death easier to access.


Three bodies have been found with crossbow bolts in them in a hotel room in Germany.

Police say the three victims, who were discovered yesterday in the town of Passau in Bavaria, were a 53-year-old man and two women aged 33 and 30.
The competition regulator's controversial decision to block a $15 billion merger between Vodafone and TPG has been defended by a leading commercial law firm that has warned critics not to rush to judge ACCC chairman Rod Sims.

After choosing on Wednesday to stop the merger from going ahead based on an eight-month analysis, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission was criticised by media commentators, the business community and investors. Vodafone Hutchison Australia and TPG Telecom plan to launch an appeal against the decision in Federal Court over the next few weeks.

The ACCC unexpectedly blocked the merger between Vodafone and TPG - with big consequences for the entire telco market.

But Arnold Bloch Leibler partner Zaven Mardirossian, who has represented telecommunications clients such as Telstra, said competition experts and investors who have "come out and said this is wrong ... may have missed the point".

"People have jumped to conclusions," Mr Mardirossian said.
Kraft started life as a door-to-door cheese business in Chicago, incorporating in 1909. The Kraft Heinz merger is regarded by many as a disaster. Credit:AP In theory, the merger should have been a match made in heaven. The two companies were complementary. Quite simply, the deal has been a disaster. "I was wrong in a couple of ways about Kraft Heinz," Buffett admitted on CNBC in February.

"It's still a wonderful business, in that it uses about $US7 billion of tangible assets and earns $US6 billion pre-tax on that. "But we, and certain predecessors, paid $US100 billion in tangible assets. So for us, it has to earn $US107 billion, not just the $US7 billion that the business employs." But the bald figures tell only part of the story. Buffett's gamble that ageing brands are undervalued by Wall Street does not appear to have paid off. Over the past two years, Kraft Heinz's shares have tanked, falling to $US32.50 last week and wiping nearly $US50 billion off the company's value. The last few months have been especially grim. In February, the company announced disappointing profits and its outlook was hardly encouraging.

Kraft Heinz also said it was writing down $US15 billion of its intangible assets - effectively admitting that it had overvalued two of its key brands: Kraft and Oscar Mayer. Loading The figures were well short of what Wall Street had been expecting. Then the company announced that it will restate its figures for 2016, 2017 and 2018 after a review into accounting and buying procedures revealed "misconduct" by employees - but not by members of the senior management team. The internal review had been triggered by a subpoena from the Securities and Exchange Commission after the US financial regulator launched an investigation in February.

Underpinning the conglomerate's woes is a belief among analysts that the company is tired. "I think the problem is they instituted a merger between two companies which were lacklustre in terms of their assets in consumer-packaged goods," says Neil Saunders, managing director and retail analyst at GlobalData Retail. "They focused very much on savings. While there were savings, they took their eye off the ball in terms of product innovation. "It left them with a large entity with a weak customer offering. "Their brands are old fashioned and have been very slow in growth. At the same time, new brands are taking up shelf space and attracting consumer interest.

"They now have a very large company with the same problems as the two businesses before they merged. Berkshire Hathaway owns 10 per cent of Coca Cola, which is underperforming as customers turn to healthier options. Credit:AP "I think it was something which was foreseeable and the merger never really made sense." The company's strategy was to slash costs in the hope of delivering greater returns to shareholders. Seven plants were shut: 20 per cent of the workforce was laid off. Some of the cuts were simply petty, such as removing fridges filled with Kraft snacks.

But it soon became apparent that the slash-and-burn approach was counterproductive and ducking the real challenge facing the company - changing consumer tastes. Take cheese slices, for example. Kraft Singles, a mainstay of sandwiches for decades, last year saw sales drop for the fourth year in succession. Millennials, if they are not turning to kale, are buying artisanal cheese or even a vegan alternative. According to one estimate, the US now has a 1.4 billion lb cheese (635 million kilograms) stockpile - a situation that is hardly good news for Kraft. Belatedly, Kraft Heinz has changed tack, bringing in Miguel Patricio - an Anheuser-Busch InBev veteran - to breathe some life into the company.

In one interview, he admitted that the company's brands left a lot to be desired. "Some are a little bit dusty and we have to rejuvenate them," he said. Heinz had already tried reinvigorating its range, unveiling a concoction called "Mayochup" - a melange of mayonnaise and ketchup. The rise of vegan food alternatives like Beyond Meat has hurt Kraft-Heinz. Credit:Bloomberg Sprucing up the product range is a strategy welcomed by analysts such as Lynn Dornblaser at Mintel, who has been critical of the merger. "You see companies getting bigger and bigger, buying even more things. Then, like the big bang theory, the universe explodes into smaller pieces again," she said.

"I think what is happening here is the company has tried and tried to cut costs and get more shareholder value, but has forgotten the fundamentals of what brought consumers to their brand. "Kraft has gotten defocused, and must get back to knowing what consumers want and delivering that." But others, like Dec Mullarkey, of fund manager Sun Life Investment Management, believes more work has to be done to win investors' confidence, especially after the last few months. "Kraft Heinz came out with three surprises," he says. "There was the $US15 billion write-down, the SEC investigation into their accounting and a cut in dividends that really shocked investors." Mullarkey is sceptical that the poor results are purely a result of changing consumer habits among millennials. "Don't tell me people aren't eating hot dogs," he says.

"I just don't think there has been such a radical change in the American palate. "The subtext is that the synergies they expected from the deal just didn't materialise. "I just don't think he did enough homework on the deal. Buffett normally does the analysis himself, and he is very rigorous." Customer loyalty to established brands is fading. Credit:Bloomberg During the Berkshire Hathaway annual meeting, Buffett admitted that he and 3G underestimated the challenge the conglomerate faced from supermarkets preferring to sell private label products under their own name, rather than established brands such as Kraft Heinz.

It is a misjudgement that could lead some to suggest that Buffett's Midas touch may be disappearing. Over the past decade he has underperformed Standard & Poor's, but Mullarkey believes this is more a reflection on the state of the market. "In reality, this has not been a great environment for value investors," he says. "There have not been any great dislocations, which means that there are not any bargains to be scooped up. "Berkshire Hathaway is sitting on a lot of cash. If anyone else was running the company apart from Buffett, investors would be demanding bigger dividends." Buffett's admission that the company paid too much for Kraft will give ammunition to his critics. His support for Hillary Clinton did not endear him to everybody on Wall Street.

Arguably, the problem underpinning Buffet's co-operation with 3G is a simple difference in philosophies. The Oracle of Omaha normally takes a long-term view of investment, while his partners in the Kraft Heinz deal were looking for as quick a return as possible. Loading David Buik, a veteran financial commentator, is reluctant to write Buffett off. "He is pretty left-field and doesn't care what the market thinks," says Buik. "I think if you are getting seven out of 10 decisions right, you are not doing badly." John Quelch, dean of Miami Business School, has some sympathy for Buffett, suggesting critics are enjoying the benefit of hindsight.
Every pair of jeans funds four weeks of education for a young child who has been rescued from the sexual slavery and illegal labour trade. "For us, ethical production is a commitment to a different way of doing business," says Schultz. The celebrity and television stylist decided to start Justice Denim after watching a documentary on child trafficking. It took her 12 months to set up the business, find pattern makers and perfect her samples and Schultz used around $30,000 in savings to launch Justice Denim in September last year.

"I started by reaching out to ethical clothing and factories. It is a little harder in Australia because the industry has died quite a lot over the last 20 years," she says. "Fit is very important and I am very fussy." Justice Denim is still a fledgling business but Schultz has sold more than 100 pairs of jeans so far and contributed money for 145 weeks of schooling. A pair of Justice Denim jeans. Fashion as a force for good While big fashion brands are waking up to the demand for ethical and environmentally responsible denim it is small businesses that are leading the way.

Queensland-based Outland Denim shot to prominence last year after Meghan Markle wore the brand's jeans several times during her visit to Australia with her husband Prince Harry. Outland Denim works with Cambodian women who have been rescued from trafficking to teach them new skills while also paying a fair wage and offering training and employment opportunities. The brand uses sustainable materials such as organic cotton and recycled fabric waste. Founder James Bartle spent eight years developing Outland Denim before launching the denim brand. Founder James Bartle spent eight years developing Outland Denim and estimates it has cost "millions of dollars" over six years to finally launch the business to market in 2016.

Bartle says there was "heaps of trial and error" and he "burned money" to develop Outland Denim's products and business model. I would say to brands and industry not moving to this, you will be left behind and people won't buy your product anymore. James Bartle Bartle had to bring investors in who are mainly family and friends, with "a few more sophisticated investors", but still retains just over half the business. "I didn't have a background in fashion and I think it has worked to my advantage as I can look at new ways of doing things," he says. "It is about using fashion to be a force for good and the opportunities for the people we work with, the women made vulnerable in communities around the world and poverty being the main thing." Meghan Markle stepped off the plane in Dubbo in September 2018 wearing Outland Denim and sparking worldwide sales for the brand. Credit:Reuters Pool

In Australia Outland Denim sells in David Jones, Myer, through independent boutiques and online. Its jeans are also sold in Canada and the United States with Bartle looking to the United Kingdom next. Outland Denim was given a major boost by Markle wearing the product, and the jeans she wore sold out within 24 hours. "It was a total surprise to me," says Bartle. "I didn't even know who she was. The biggest thing really was the media exposure. They would use Meghan Markle as the headline and then talk about our brand. You couldn't buy that exposure or that credibility. Hopefully one day we will get to thank her." Bartle says Outland Denim was able to hire 46 new seamstresses directly as a result of Markle wearing the brand. The business now employs 128 staff in Cambodia, 10 in Australia and turned over $1.2 million last year.

"We have been growing really quickly and now we are stabilising and trying to get all our ducks in a row before we grow again," he says. "We all get excited by the growth part. We have to be so careful because you risk a lot when you grow quickly." Loading Bartle hopes Outland Denim can work towards producing clothing for other fashion businesses. "We are very excited to offer this model to other brands as well. Our ultimate goal is to influence the industry to make changes," he says. "We want to use the fashion industry to influence people's lives." Tokenism
By the age of eight, Pash had developed what he calls a "weird cyclical vomiting thing": "I would wake up inexplicably nauseous and not be able to stop vomiting, and I'd end up on a drip. It was diagnosed by a specialist in Adelaide as 'abdominal migraine' but  in retrospect it was so obviously psychological. It would happen at certain points in time, over and over again. It was always at the first day of holidays: my body releasing unconscious tension." By his early 20s, he'd worked out that music solved the problem: "If I got up and put on this one video of Neil Young and Crazy Horse  it made me feel nurtured and safe." Thanks to Neil Young, the vomiting stopped. Pash, aged 17, at home in Adelaide. Credit:Courtesy of Dan Pash At about the time the nausea episodes began, Pash took up clarinet. When he started to ace his music exams, his parents realised their son had musical talent. A few years and one successful audition later, he was admitted to Brighton High, an Adelaide school which offered classes in music theory and sound technology. But it was when he heard Green Day's Longview for the first time as a tween that he discovered punk rock, a genre that "already sounded familiar" to him on some level. "I dunno," he says, "maybe I was a snotty-nosed Californian kid in a previous life." His parents gave him a cheap Japanese guitar, and by the time he was 15 he was playing in his first band, Spiny Norman, supporting Melbourne punk band Ricaine at a club on Adelaide's Rundle Street. Pash's high school friend and bandmate, Aidan Moyse, remembers how formative that gig was. "Ricaine were on a completely different level to what we were," recalls Moyse, "because we were just kids, and they were focused on Chicago-style punk rock." If clarinet was a comfort, and Neil Young a salve, punk became Pash's obsession. Even so, he says, "The whole question of the role of music in my life only achieved any immediate poignancy once it started to leave. Because then I realised, 'This is the one thing that I was meant to do.' It was the one thing that always made sense." In 1996, the same year Spiny Norman took to the stage for the first time, Pash's sound technology teacher played his class a "gizmo" which sounded a tone that ascended from about 16 to 16,000 hertz, the typical range humans can hear. After the tone stopped playing, Pash sat, wondering why the class remained so quiet. He looked around. Why was everyone still listening? Pash started to worry.

A test shortly afterwards revealed that his hearing at 15 was the same someone might experience after decades of working in a car factory: that is, his range was about half that of most people his age. Doctors told him he had genetic sensorineural hearing loss, which he hadn't noticed because it had been sneaking up on him since birth. At that time, Pash says he didn't feel the verdict "was all that dramatic"; he was prescribed specially made earplugs to minimise noise damage while playing in the school orchestra and told to "keep an eye on it". There wasn't much more they could say. He continued playing music, moving from school to the Elder Conservatorium in Adelaide, where he studied the clarinet, and threw himself into gigs with increasing abandon. "In the next band that we had, a band called Bad Girls of the Bible, we played a gig at a pub in Adelaide called the Exeter Hotel, and no one turned up, no one was there," recalls Moyse. "We got a bit ratty and Dan just kinda fired it up. That might have been the first time Dan took his T-shirt off and got all Iggy Pop on us. And from then on, I remember a series of shows that got pretty loose  the T-shirt would be off, he'd be jumping all over the place, finding things to climb up on. "We played a show at a venue called the Jade Monkey and Dan had this ridiculously long guitar lead. The stage wasn't that far from the door to the street  and I remember very clearly: he took his guitar off the stage, and out the door, and was out on the street, in a little lane, standing on a car, rocking out. It was actually the owner's car. He was really shitty." Dan Pash at a Leader Cheetah gig in 2008. Credit:Elleni Toumpas Despite their closeness, Moyse had no idea that Pash was going deaf. He only found out after a more sobering test, at 23, when Pash could only hear the bottom third of a piano keyboard. Pash was told that solutions such as hearing aids would be complicated by two factors: his hyperacusis, or an increased sensitivity to sound, and extreme tinnitus. In other words, such aids would only exacerbate the painful ringing he was hearing at multiple frequencies. Although it seemed counter-intuitive to someone who was facing profound hearing loss, he would have to wear earplugs almost all the time to protect his inner ear from too much noise.

Moyse's voice falters. "It seemed to be a total deal breaker for what he wanted to do. I found it quite emotional because  he was always so passionate about the quality of sound. We would talk about how one band's guitar sound is different to another's. And why they're innovative or awesome. And to then be struck with realising the ramifications of what he was saying about his hearing loss  I was just gutted." He asked Pash if playing rock music had contributed to it. "I remember him saying, 'Well no, not really, it's more a congenital condition and perhaps the rock music exacerbated it, but it was going to happen anyway.' It just seemed so ridiculously cruel." In 2008, when he toured with his feted indie band Leader Cheetah while already facing trials with his hearing. Credit:Elleni Toumpas Specialists began to impress the scale of the loss upon Pash. "Even though they didn't really know what was going on, that's when they started counselling me to stop playing loud music," he recalls. "There were never any guarantees, it was always just: '[Loud music] is potentially a factor, so you should consider mitigating that factor.' My response was like any 20-something's: 'Well, this is something I need to do!'" He made half-hearted attempts at protecting his ears  as well as wearing earplugs, he wouldn't say yes to playing in two bands at once, for instance  but considering the one band he was in rehearsed almost every night, these safeguards were gestures at best. Moyse and drummer Jared Schmidt built a soundproofed control booth for Pash in their rehearsal studio. Moyse laughs at the memory. "It wasn't very good," he says. "We tried. We had to put some speakers on the other side of the glass so that he could hear things, and we blew them up trying to make it work." By then, Pash would have to end rehearsals early, his head clanging with severe tinnitus. Conversations at dinner parties had become "extraordinarily mentally taxing", as he tried to tune out the background noise and tune in to someone's voice from across the table. By his late 20s, he was both touring the country as the lead guitarist in Leader Cheetah, and a candidate for a double cochlear implantation. It was at that point, Pash says, that he "started dropping below a functional level, socially, professionally. That's when it started to get difficult. That's when I started having to apologise for it, and include it as part of my introductory spiel, especially in the context of music."

At this time, Pash started dating film lawyer Eve Foreman. They'd been circling each other in the night haunts of Adelaide for a while  she'd seen him play in Bad Girls of the Bible, and remembered him jumping off stacks and tables. At turns she thought he was arrogant, enthralling, emotionally insecure, smart, and sharp. Foreman was obsessed with underground post-punk and new wave. Pash's taste in music seemed "more dorky" to her, but she came around. If she first found him arrogant and insecure, she soon found herself stuck in deep conversations and arguments: she jokes that he was brainwashing her into liking him. Foreman always knew about Pash's medical issue, but he seemed to function fine in a social setting. On an early date, she remembers him explaining to her as a warning: "In about 10 years' time, I'll be pretty deaf." Eleven years on, she's sitting next to Pash in my backyard, covered in mosquito welts. When a string of personal dramas caused Leader Cheetah to break up in 2013, Pash effectively quit music. "I didn't go to any gigs or play except at home, alone, quietly." He wanted to play live, but he'd never been good at starting projects on his own, and he didn't know any other musicians he'd want to trouble with the limits his hearing would impose on their playing. A drummer might have to play with brushes, a bass amp's volume might have to be dialled right back, a rehearsal might have to end early or be cancelled if his ears had been causing him particular discomfort that day. Foreman had moved to Sydney in 2009 to pursue her career, and Pash followed in 2011, shortly after recording Leader Cheetah's second (and final) album. They now share a flat in Ashfield, a car and a record collection. She works as a film lawyer in Kings Cross, while he splits his time between the last stages of his PhD, tutoring philosophy at Sydney University, and working in a bookshop. But rather than experiencing the silence deafness implies, white noise is almost all he can hear, night and day. Now, for Pash, the clamour inside a restaurant sounds like a semi-trailer roaring past his head "with added sheet metal being torn asunder". A party sounds like "a brass quintet put through a Marshall stack blaring over his head". Music "sounds like everything was recorded in a letterbox at the bottom of a lake". The couple don't really go out any more. "In a way it makes the relationship more intimate, but of course it is limiting socially," says Foreman. She's taller than Dan, with the elegant slouch of a 1930s film star. Her eyes are lined with kohl; her long fingers pinch the stem of a wineglass. "It's mainly been this last year that's gone downhill fast, and [hearing loss is] now affecting how we communicate as a couple at home. He is reading lips really, so needs to see my face. It's easier to have a conversation about topics he knows about so he can fill in the gaps, and it's easier for him to do more of the talking than listening." Foreman is open about the effects on not just Pash, but herself. "Every day is exhausting for him. The tinnitus keeps him up at night. A lot of the time, I think he comes home not wanting to try to listen [to anything] any more. I sometimes find this isolating, sometimes I find it controlling, as the way  and when  we communicate about certain things necessarily needs to be on his terms at times, but mostly I feel incredibly emotional and sad about it. I sometimes wonder if my role should be to encourage him to stop making music and get cochlear implants to make other elements in his life easier, but I know music is the main thing he cares about, and this feels like a mentally healthy thing to be doing with what little hearing he has left." Music 'sounds like everything was recorded in a letterbox at the bottom of a lake.'

Cochlear implants will enable Pash to understand speech again, bypassing the damaged part of his ears and directly triggering the auditory nerve with tiny electrical signals. "I fully expect that when I make the decision to get the implants, I will be able to get back to having a rewarding social and professional life," Pash says. So why wait? Because while implants are serviceable when emulating speech-like sounds, perfectly translating pitch and timbre is simply too complex for the device in its current incarnation. The technology has come a long way since it was invented in 1957, but it has far to go. Even with what little natural hearing he has left, Pash will have a better chance at detecting nuance in music without implants. "Once I got into my 30s the doctors, after looking at my charts, were much more confident in putting a timeline on how quickly the rest of my hearing would deteriorate," Pash says. "At my last ENT consultation, the guy looked at my current levels plus my history and said, 'If you have any other musical goals, you need to get them done in the next year.' And he was basically right." In a way, Foreman has been Pash's punk enabler: his new band Reality Instructors only began because she took up bass guitar. "Eve kind of threw herself under the bus so that this band could exist," he says. Now Pash writes songs between study during the week, and on Sundays, when he works at the bookshop, Foreman writes her own material for the band. She laughs about how the process began. "He would come home and I would stand up and present what I'd made. And it was always at that level where nothing was ever completely finished. I'd always stop and say, 'No, wait that's not right, I've got it wrong.' And maybe some songs stuck, and others were politely disregarded." The couple have developed an elastic songwriting routine, where they share lyrics and ideas. They both sing lead vocals, and tinker on each other's songs. Drummer and friend Nick Kennedy soon joined the bedroom sessions, armed with a snare drum and brushes, and something just "felt right". These were people Pash loved, and felt supported by. They understood the logistical acrobatics that a hearing impairment requires of a loud punk band. Pash's band problem was solved: Reality Instructors was born. In early 2017, the band hit a rehearsal studio where they could turn up the volume. "It felt like this was the way it was going to go," says Pash. "And then we just had to play a show, and just had to play another show." The live shows began in February last year at the Petersham Bowling Club in Sydney's inner west, and have since seen the couple return to The Exeter in Adelaide. Pash concedes that the 15 shows (and counting) have fast-tracked his hearing loss. His lyrics for the song Reality Instructor from Ritual Ignorant best answer the question of why he continues: They say give away whatever you've been doing

that made you blue, and did not improve your health



Oh hey but they don't know what we've been through.

'Cause if all that's left to do right now is take your place on the shelf

Recall that other place and time when you were somebody else

And if you ignore that glimpse of grace and how it felt I'll know you're making a mistake. Pash might have less than 3 per cent of his hearing left, but he also has the album he spent his life wanting to make.

His new band, Reality Instructors: (from left) Pash, Eve Foreman and Nick Kennedy. Credit:Miska Mandic Reality Instructors is speedily recording a follow-up EP to Ritual Ignorant, but as they play on, well past the point last drinks were called by Pashs specialists, things have had to change. While recording vocals for these latest tracks Pash sometimes over- or undershoots a note by a semitone. According to the EPs producer, Liam Judson, He has to deliberately sing flat or sharp on some notes, train himself to do that, just to hit them properly. That didnt happen on the album. Its much more of a challenge for him. His songwriting methods have had to shift, too. As Pash explains, Sometimes an idea comes about because youre sitting and playing and you do something unexpected, and you like it, so you do it again, and you keep repeating it until it turns into something. That mode of writing is now closed to me, because I cant hear what Im playing well enough to know if I like it enough to play it again. He can still use the guitar as a tool to test ideas, but only in a very rudimentary way. He can sort of hear the bottom two strings  enough to work out progressions. Luckily for Pash, a new way of writing has made itself available to him. While he used to think Paul McCartneys tales about waking up with a song in his head were horseshit, one of the songs on Ritual Ignorant, Coloured Blue, did come to Pash in a dream. Now he wishes he'd been more open to his own dreaming  or, at least, imaginatively instigated songwriting. Judson hopes it will be possible for Pash to keep writing, playing and recording after he's lost all his hearing. "I think he could do it," Judson says. "The guitar's super-resonant, particularly solid body electric [guitars]  Obviously it might be a little collaborative, with people like Eve going, "Yeah that's great," or "That's a bit strange," but I do think it is possible."
Opposition Leader Bill Shorten has warned that parts of Rupert Murdochs News Corp Australia should declare themselves as political parties if they continued to campaign against Labor ahead of the May 18 election.

Mr Shorten played down the prospect of retribution against the company after a controversial story about his mother last Wednesday but he said the report was a sign of the trouble facing the traditional media.

Speaking on the ABCs Insiders program on Sunday morning, he also urged Australians to reject the minor parties in the Senate and give Labor their support in the upper house to ensure the passage of his sweeping tax agenda.

Asked about whether he would act against News Corp if he took power at the election, Mr Shorten said The Daily Telegraphs report about his mother last Wednesday showed that it and other News Corp outlets were campaigning against Labor ahead of the election.
Scott Morrison will face an uphill battle to get his tax cuts through the Senate if he wins the election. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen

Media follow them around and give us snippets on the news. Theres a rough outline for the campaign in terms of which policies will be announced when but it gets tossed around by events. If a really big news story breaks, like a tsunami or a terrorist attack, an important policy announcement might be delayed. Why give out good news thats just going to be swamped by the bigger story? Its a movable feast of potential nightmares. Leaders have all this on their plate 24/7.

Morrison has done a great job. The government has delivered jobs. Thats most important to those who arent as economically lucky as those at the big end of town. Hes a grassroots campaigner. You could take him anywhere and hed be at ease. Hes got authenticity and plenty of it. Hes absolutely committed to the economy and jobs because thats where livelihoods are made or broken. From a good economy comes the money for all the good things we want done  health, education, welfare and defence. Hes not promising stuff that just cant be delivered. How he gets up and looks fresh as a daisy every day is lost on me. He stays calm and keeps at it. Determination, resilience, authenticity and civility are very important traits for leaders. Morrison is well equipped.

The two things he has that Shorten lacks are authenticity and likeability. Shortens wife, Chloe, is being used at every opportunity to try to smokescreen the problem with Bill. The problem is you get him, not her, as PM.

I cant find any people who say they like him. People say they dont trust him. They hear a shallowness in his voice and see him as a hollow man. And this is from my Labor mates!
Spare a thought for the hacks and flacks staffing Coalition HQ in Brisbane and the Labor office in Parramatta as they enter the most difficult week of the election, heading into polling day.

Carlton United Breweries offered to supply both major political parties with beer for the campaign. Credit:Shakespeare

At the very least, Saturdays election night knees-up  the Libs in Sydney and Labor in Melbourne  are promising to be memorable affairs no matter the result.

But Labors 180 operatives, under the watch of national secretary Noah Carroll, operations manager Sandy Rippingale and chief-of-staff Yvette Nash on secondment from Bill Shortens office, have been well-refreshed all campaign.

Liquor giant Carlton & United Breweries, owned by Belgian conglomerate Anheuser-Busch InBev, has stocked the office cooler gratis. The Australian Brewers Association has kicked in another couple of cases.
Scott Morrison promised his Liberal Party campaign launch would be free of hoopla, and by crikey, he delivered.

This was a campaign launch free of just about everything except Scott Morrison and family.

Scott Morrison with his wife Jenny, mother Marion and daughters Abbey and Lily. Credit:Dominic Lorrimer

Why, there was only one Australian flag on stage, as if more might detract from the presence of the current Prime Minister, a man alone with a microphone, bravely facing down the dire odds of the nations bookies.

What might Tony Abbott have thought? When he was prime minister, too many flags on stage were barely enough for any occasion of significance.
Assyrian Patriarch Meets With Former Kurdish Leader

Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) leader Masoud Barzani (right) in a meeting with Catholicos-Patriarch of the Assyrian Church of the East Mar Gewargis III, May 12, 2019. ( Masoud Barzani website) The religious coexistence and freedom in the Kurdistan Region led discussions on Sunday between the leader of the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP), Masoud Barzani, and a delegation of high religious representatives of the Assyrian church around the world.

Barzani, who is also the former president of the Kurdistan Region, met with Catholicos-Patriarch of the Assyrian Church of the East Mar Gewargis III and an accompanying religious delegation, including bishops representing the Assyrian church from different parts of the world.

In the meeting, Barzani and Gewargis III tackled the current political turmoil in Iraq and the Middle East, with a focus on religious acceptance in the world and emphasis on the necessity of brotherly respect between people despite their religion and ethnic background, a statement on the KDP leader's website.

The discussions also included the Kurdistan Region's practice of religious tolerance, the statement added. Both sides highlighted the autonomous Kurdish region as one of the few areas in the Middle East that has accepted religious equality throughout its history despite the various fundamentalist groups in the region.

Gewargis III and his delegation of bishops thanked Barzani for his efforts and role in maintaining the peace between the different ethnicities in the Kurdistan Region while promoting and working toward religious acceptance and tolerance.

Barzani currently holds no official governmental post but continues to remain a prominent political figure in the Kurdistan Region and Iraq.

Editing by Karzan Sulaivany.
In this election campaign, the major parties have together pledged more than $100 billion in new spending commitments, yet their policies targeted at addressing the extreme disadvantage faced by many of Australias First Peoples seem to amount to small change.

While Indigenous leaders have gratefully acknowledged these commitments, they are fairly modest when compared with the poverty, poor health and record levels of imprisonment of First Peoples.

Significantly, neither party has pledged to reverse the savage cuts of $534 million to Aboriginal programs made in the 2014 budget.

There been no response from either party to the proposal to invest $100 million to build the capacity of 140 Aboriginal medical services. Credit:SMH

For the record, Australias Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples are among the most poverty-stricken Indigenous peoples in the world, and the nations most disadvantaged group. In terms of health and economic status, our people are doing far worse than Indigenous peoples in countries with similar histories, such as New Zealand and the United States.
A delay of two to four minutes to Sydney Trains services risks causing platform crowding at Chatswood station during the morning peak as thousands of commuters switch from new driverless metro trains to get to the city, internal government documents reveal.

Internal modelling forecasts almost 4500 passengers to transfer from single-deck metro trains at Chatswood to Sydney Trains services on the North Shore Line between 8am and 9am  the busiest hour of the morning peak. The $7.3 billion metro line from Rouse Hill in Sydney's north to Chatswood will open to passengers on May 26.

Thousands of extra passengers will pass through Chatswood station every day after the metro line opens on May 26. Credit:Janie Barrett

The total number of passengers switching trains or exiting Chatswood station between 8 and 9am is set to more than double to 16,544 passengers  from 6913  after the line opens.

The documents obtained by the Herald under freedom of information laws lay bare the challenges integrating the privately operated Metro Northwest train line into the existing network. Chatswood will be the station most under pressure, followed by Epping.
A driver has unwittingly wound up behind bars on drugs and weapons charges after approaching police to tell them he knew another man whose vehicle they were searching.

Tri Huu Dao, 34, approached in his Nissan Cube to where officers had allegedly uncovered a full-face respirator, methamphetamine and cash after stopping a Toyota Yaris driven by Phong Le, 41, in Canley Vale, south-west of Sydney, at 8pm on Friday night.

After Mr Dao claimed to know Mr Le, police searched the second vehicle, allegedly finding methamphetamine, MDMA, cocaine, laser pointers, a flick knife, and 9 kilograms of caustic soda.

Mr Dao was also searched, with officers allegedly finding cash and a credit card knife.

Police arrested both men, leading them to execute search warrants for a storage facility at Wetherill Park, where chemicals were seized, and a home Fairfield West on Saturday.
Lance Rainey of Lanitza has the answer for the lantern jaw (C8) conundrum, having looked it up years ago. "The lantern refers to the 'bone lantern', an archaic artefact consisting of a candle enclosed in a high narrow case with concave thin bone windows  somewhat resembling a protruding jaw with hollow cheeks."

Mike Fogarty of Weston (ACT) was surprised to see a 1965 HD Holden tool through Kings Cross recently, with the chequered metal badge displaying its 179 cubic inch engine capacity still proudly affixed. "At Epping Boys High in 1965 some of my miscreant colleagues hunted them down to wear as belt buckles. This car must have been one that got away."

Having read a recent news report that US aircraft carriers were "steaming" to the Middle East, Phil Morey of Kalaru felt that the lexicon was in need of an update. "Considering that ships have not been steam powered for many decades, what should the new term for propulsion be? Bunker fuelled? Dieselled?"

Barry Harrod of Fig Tree Pocket (Qld) points out the similarities between Clive Palmers economic policies and those of the underpants gnomes from South Park. "Many readers will remember that the underpants gnomes had a foolproof three-step plan to get rich - step 1: collect underpants, step 2: ?, step 3: get rich. Clives policy is spookily similar - step 1: get elected, step 3: make Australia great."

Les Brennan of Newcastle East recalled an incident from his time presiding at the Local Court in Hornsby some 20 years ago. A man charged with a drink driving offence had his occupation listed as bookmaker (C8) on the charge sheet, however, as Les had "met the acquaintance of a few bookmakers in his time", he suspected differently. Upon questioning the man said he worked as a bookbinder - the policeman had written down what a bookbinder actually did. "Should a genealogist track down those court records in 80 years time they will waste many hours trying to work out why their ancestor's name doesn't show up on any list of licensed bookmakers in Australia."
A former NSW Police officer, who also served in the Army and worked on Manus Island, has been jailed for at least six years and two months for his role in a criminal group which engaged in drug supply and imported drugs from Thailand to Sydney.

David John Redshaw, 34, pleaded guilty last year to seven charges including knowingly participating in a criminal group, dealing in proceeds of crime of $260,000, knowingly taking part in the supply of a commercial quantity of prohibited drugs, and possessing a prohibited taser.

A former policeman has been sentenced over his role in a drug syndicate. Credit:Louise Douvis

This month, NSW District Court Judge Jennie Girdham sentenced Redshaw to a maximum of nine years and four months behind bars, saying he played an "integral role" in a "criminal scheme of substantial gravity" from June 2016 to March 2017.

A further seven charges of possessing a prohibited drug were taken into account.
More than 100 cannabis plants have been seized by police from a suburban home in Sydney's south-west after emergency services responded to reports the house was on fire.

Emergency services uncovered a cannabis crop in each of the five bedrooms of the home in Bankstown when they were called to the Percy Street property about 6.15pm on Saturday.

Firefighters contained the blaze to the front room of the single-storey house but discovered an enhanced cannabis set-up when they checked if anyone was inside the rest of the home.

They found 106 cannabis plants and a sophisticated hydro set-up.
A unit has been destroyed by a blaze that broke out in a unit complex and caused the evacuation of 50 people in Brisbane's northside.

Emergency services were called to Camborne Street at Alderley about 9pm on Saturday.

A Queensland Fire and Emergency Services spokesman said the fire was under control half an hour after the initial call to the Department of Housing building.

"Everyone was accounted for and three people were treated for smoke inhalation," he said.

"The fire seems to have been on the fourth floor of the complex and firefighters were assisting with the removal of several people."
A man who could hold the answers to the suspected slaying of a man found dead in a Gold Coast home is believed to have travelled to NSW.

Queensland police are searching for 26-year-old man Coskun Marius who might be able to help with the investigation into the death of a Gold Coast man found dead in a Gold Coast home.

Dre Nova, 38, was found dead in a lounge chair on Friday afternoon, having suffered significant injuries.

Police are searching for Coskun Marius, 26, who was believed to have been at the Surfers Paradise home when Mr Nova died.

"(Marius) will be able to contribute significantly to us developing a greater understanding as to the injuries which were sustained to Dre Nova," Detective Acting Inspector Matthew Ward said on Sunday.
A Melbourne woman has died after falling from a cliff in Japan.

The woman was walking the Kumano Kodo in Wakayama prefecture on May 10 with a friend when she fell, Japanese media has reported.

A section of the Kumano Kodo trail, a sacred trail in Nachi, Wakayama, Japan. Credit:Credit: Shutterstock

NHK news outlet reported that the fire brigade was called to the scene just after midday. The woman was found unconscious about 40 metres below the cliff and was taken to hospital, but died about four hours later.

The woman, whose name has been withheld at the request of her family, was in her 60s and retired earlier this year.
A Perth man has taken a fine for jaywalking in the Perth CBD all the way to the WA Supreme Court.

In 2017, Michael Nassib Said was convicted in the Perth Magistrates Court for jaywalking on Wellington Street in the Perth CBD.

He argued it wasn't clear if the light was red when he started to cross the road. Credit:James Alcock

Police officers had been patrolling on push bikes near the intersection of Wellington and William when they saw Mr Said enter the carriageway when the red light was showing solid red.

One of the officers yelled to Mr Said and another pedestrian to stop and go back off the carriageway.
Politicians and the public need to stop labelling meth users as drug addicts and recognise users have a medical condition if they want to effectively handle the ice crisis, an inquiry will be told this week.

The special commission of inquiry into crystal methamphetamine will travel to the Northern Rivers city of Lismore this week to hear from frontline police, paramedics and health workers about the devastating impact of the drug.

Crystal Methamphetamine, also known as ice. Credit:Courtesy Thorpe

Lismore councillor Eddie Lloyd will present the social justice and crime prevention committees new report, which says meth addiction is a health issue, specifically a "substance use disorder", and should be treated as such.

"The stigma is a significant barrier and one that is further entrenched by inflammatory and loaded labels given to individuals experiencing the disorder, such as 'ice addicts', 'drug addicts' and 'junkies'," the report says.
Labor has failed to deliver a massive environmental reserve on Melbournes western fringe to protect endangered species and ecosystems, which was promised to offset tens of thousands of hectares of farmland it rezoned for housing.

News of the failure to build the promised Western Grassland Reserve on the citys boundary follows last weeks warning from biodiversity experts that 1 million species around the world face extinction because of humans.

Grasslands expert Sarah Bekessy, on the badly degraded Western Grassland Reserve - which was meant to be 15,000 hectares of protected ecosystem. Little has been delivered, and the grasslands are badly neglected. Credit:Paul Jeffers

In 2009, Premier John Brumby enriched developers and landowners who had property just outside Melbournes western town boundary, re-zoning 41,000 hectares of grassland and farm properties for housing.

This land had been protected by previous governments as "green wedge" zones.
Now, even as the war winds down, the world's attention fades and countries start to normalise relations with Syria, the pace of new arrests, torture and execution is increasing. Detainees have recently smuggled out warnings that hundreds are being sent to an execution site, Saydnaya Prison, and newly released prisoners report that killings there are accelerating. The Syrian government has denied the existence of systematic abuse. However, newly discovered government memos show that Syrian officials who report directly to Assad ordered mass detentions and knew of atrocities. Mazen Darwish, a Syrian human rights lawyer, and his wife, Yara Bader, a Syrian journalist and human rights activist, were both imprisoned in Syria. Credit:Laura Boushnak/The New York Times War crimes investigators with the nonprofit Commission for International Justice and Accountability, or CIJA, have found government memos ordering crackdowns and discussing deaths in detention. The memos were signed by top security officials, including members of the Central Crisis Management Committee, which reports directly to Assad. A military intelligence memo acknowledges deaths from torture and filthy conditions. Other memos report deaths of detainees, some later identified among photos of corpses smuggled out by a military police defector. Two memos authorise "harsh" treatment of specific detainees. A memo from the head of military intelligence, Rafiq Shehadeh, orders officers to take steps to ensure "judicial immunity" for security officials.

In an interview in 2016, Assad cast doubt on the truthfulness of survivors and the families of the missing. Any abuses, he said, were isolated mistakes unavoidable in a war. Over seven years, The New York Times has interviewed dozens of survivors and relatives of dead and missing detainees, reviewed government documents and examined hundreds of pages of witness testimony. The survivors' accounts align with accounts from other prisoners held in the same jails, and are supported by the government memos and by photos smuggled out of Syrian prisons. Riyad Avlar, a Turkish citizen, was imprisoned in Syria for 20 years after being arrested as a 19-year-old student for interviewing Syrians about a prison massacre. Credit:Laura Boushnak/The New York Times There is little hope for holding top officials accountable anytime soon. But there is a growing movement to seek justice through European courts. French and German prosecutors have arrested three former security officials and issued international arrest warrants for Syria's national security chief, Ali Mamlouk; its air force intelligence director, Jamil Hassan; and others for torture and deaths in prison of citizens or residents of those countries. Yet Assad and his lieutenants remain in power, safe from arrest, protected by Russia with its military might and its veto in the UN Security Council. At the same time, Arab states are restoring relations with Damascus and European countries are considering following suit.

That impunity is not just a domestic Syrian problem. Without security reforms, the 5 million Syrian refugees in the Middle East and Europe are unlikely to return home to risk arbitrary arrest. "Justice is not a Syrian luxury," Mazen Darwish, a Syrian human rights lawyer, said in Berlin, where he has assisted prosecutors. "It's the world's problem." An Expanding Gulag It was the detention and torture of several teenagers in March 2011, for scrawling graffiti critical of Assad, that pushed Syrians to join the uprisings then sweeping Arab countries. Demonstrations protesting their treatment spread from their hometown, Daraa, leading to more arrests, which galvanised more protests. A flood of detainees from all over Syria joined the dissidents at Saydnaya Prison. The new detainees ranged "from the garbageman to the peasant to the engineer to the doctor, all classes of Syrians," said Riyad Avlar, a Turkish citizen who was held for 20 years after being arrested in 1996, as a 19-year-old student, for interviewing Syrians about a prison massacre.

Torture increased, he said; the newcomers were sexually assaulted, beaten on the genitals, and forced to beat or even kill one another. No one knows exactly how many Syrians have passed through the system since; rights groups estimate hundreds of thousands to a million. The Syrian Network's tally of 127,916 people currently caught in the system is probably an undercount. The number, a count of arrests reported by detainees' families and other witnesses, does not include people later released or confirmed dead. Mariam Khleif, a mother of five, said she was repeatedly raped during a month in prison in Syria. Credit:Laura Boushnak/The New York Times Because of government secrecy, no one knows how many have died in custody, but thousands of deaths were recorded in memos and photographs. A former military police officer, known only as Caesar to protect his safety, fled Syria with pictures of at least 6700 corpses, bone-thin and battered, which shocked the world when they emerged in 2014. A Tour of Torture

Ghabbash, the protest organiser from Aleppo, survived torture at at least 12 facilities, making him, he says, "a tour guide" to the system. His odyssey began in 2011, when he was 22. Ghabbash was hung up, beaten and whipped in a string of military and general intelligence facilities, he said. In March 2012, Ghabbash was flown to Mezze military air base, named for a well-off Damascus neighbourhood nearby. By then, he and numerous survivors said, there was an industrial-scale transportation system among prisons. Detainees were tortured on each leg of their journeys. Some recalled riding for hours in trucks normally used for animal carcasses, chained to meat hooks. Ghabbash's new cell was typical: 3.6 metres long, 2.7 metres wide, usually packed so tightly that prisoners had to sleep in shifts. Outside the cell, a man was blindfolded and handcuffed in the corridor. It was Darwish, the human rights lawyer. He had been singled out for lecturing a judge on Syrian laws guaranteeing fair trials.

He later ticked off his punishment: "Naked, no water, no sleep, forced to drink my pee." Prison torture grew more brutal and baroque as rebels outside made advances and government warplanes bombed restive neighbourhoods. Survivors describe sadistic treatment, rape, summary executions or detainees left to die of untreated wounds and illnesses. After weeks or months, many prisoners got so-called trials lasting minutes with no defense lawyers. Ghabbash's was typical. At a military "field court" in 2012, he heard a judge rattle off his conviction, "terrorism that destroyed public property," and his sentence: death. "The whole trial was 1 1/2 minutes," he said. He expected to go to Saydnaya Prison, which by then was a mass execution centre. Thousands have been hanged there after summary trials, according to an Amnesty International report.

"Good, it's finished," he recalled thinking. But it was not. He would endure another year of daily beatings. His last stint was in a makeshift prison deep underground near Damascus, a military bunker of the elite 4th Division, a fief of Assad's brother Maher. There were no more interrogations. "Torture just for torture," said Darwish, who was also transferred there. "For revenge, for killing, for breaking the people." Rape and Assault Women and girls have been raped and sexually assaulted in at least 20 intelligence branches, and men and boys in 15 of those, a UN human rights commission reported last year.

Sexual assault is a double-barrelled weapon in traditional Muslim communities, where survivors are often stigmatised. Relatives have killed female ex-detainees in honour killings, sometimes merely on the assumption they have been raped, rights reports and survivors say. Mariam Khleif, a 32-year-old mother of five from Hama, was repeatedly raped during her detention. Khleif said she had aided injured protesters and delivered medical supplies to rebels, acts that the government labelled terrorism. Khleif's family rejected her over what they considered her loss of honour and her politics, she said. Her pro-government brother texted death threats; her husband divorced her. For some conservative men, the conflict changed attitudes. Several survivors and male relatives say their families now honour sexual assault survivors as war wounded. Khleif hid nothing from her new husband, a former rebel. "You are a medal on my chest, you are the crown on my head," she recalled him telling her.

Names Written in Blood Detainees and defectors have risked their lives to tell their families, and the world, of their plight. In the 4th Division dungeon, several detainees decided to smuggle out the names of every prisoner they could identify. "Even though we are three stories underground, still we can continue our work," recalled one, Mansour Omari, who said he was imprisoned for human rights work. Another detainee, Nabil Shurbaji  a journalist who, by coincidence, was the first to inspire Ghabbash to activism in 2011 and later shared his cell in Mezze  tried to write on cloth scraps with tomato paste. Too faint. Shurbaji finally used the detainees' own blood, from their malnourished gums, mixed with rust. A detained tailor sewed the scraps into Omari's shirt. He made it out.

The message in blood reached Western capitals; the shirt scraps were displayed at the Holocaust Museum in Washington. Two years later, a released detainee reported that Shurbaji had been beaten to death. 'Don't Forget Us' Syria's war remains without a political solution. With peace talks stalled, Russia is urging the West to normalise and finance reconstruction anyway, deferring reforms. The millions of relatives of missing detainees float in a social and psychological limbo. Without death certificates, presumed widows cannot remarry. Children cannot inherit. In Syria, Lebanon, Turkey, Jordan, Germany, France, Sweden and beyond, families and survivors push on. After he was freed in 2013, Ghabbash landed in Gaziantep, Turkey, where he runs women's rights and aid programs for refugees in the last patch of rebel-held Syria. Darwish struggles with insomnia and claustrophobia, but continues his work for accountability. He recently testified about Mezze prison in a French court hearing in the case of a Syrian-French father and son who died there. That helped French prosecutors secure arrest warrants for Mamlouk, the top security official, Hassan, the air force intelligence chief, and the head of Mezze prison. Now, Mamlouk could be arrested if he travels to Europe.
Two banks have joined the rank of lenders reducing rates ahead of the Reserve Bank curve.

ANZ has lowered its fixed rates, while Macquarie Bank has made adjustments to both fixed and variable.

Canstar group executive of financial services Steve Mickenbecker explained, The banks are anticipating an official cut to the cash rate in the coming months and are not waiting on the Reserve Bank to move.

They are instead using this period to sharpen the pricing pencil to attract new business.

At Macquarie, variable home loans for new owner occupiers paying P&I and interest only have been decreased by up to 0.21%, and loans for investors paying P&I and interest only have decreased by between 0.11% and 0.51%.

Fixed rates across the board were reduced between 0.10% to 0.20%.

Unfortunately, existing borrowers looking for lower rates are going to have to wait for the RBA to make a move.

ANZ has instituted a discount on its Breakfree package, decreasing the three-year fixed rate by 0.30% and the five-year by 0.20% on owner occupier loans paying P&I. For interest only, the two-year fixed has been reduced by 0.20% and the three- and five-year by 0.60%.

For investors paying P&I, the three-year fixed rate has been taken down by 0.20% and the five-year has been reduced by 0.26%. The three-year interest only fixed rate has been cut by 0.30%

Times have changed, said Mickenbecker, referencing the cuts for investors paying interest only.

He added, A year ago lenders did not want to know this group of borrowers, responding to APRA's lending restrictions on investors paying interest only. Now, [Macquaries] rate cuts bring investors into line with owner occupiers, with interest only rates down to 4.19% for 70% LVR loans.
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Several dozen people threw stones at mosques and stores owned by Muslims and a local man was beaten in the town of Chilaw on Sri Lankas west coast on Sunday in a dispute that started on Facebook, sources told Reuters. Three weeks ago in Sri Lanka Islamist bombers had blew themselves up in four hotels and three churches, killing more than 250 people. Since then Muslim groups say they have received dozens of complaints from across the country about people being harassed. A police curfew has been imposed in Chilaw Police area with immediate effect until 6 am tomorrow to ...
US President Donald Trump and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping are likely to meet during a G20 summit in Japan at the end of June and discuss trade, White House economic adviser Larry Kudlow said on Sunday. "Let me repeat again the strong possibility that the two presidents will meet in Japan at G20," Kudlow told Fox News Sunday, adding that there were no other fresh talks scheduled between Beijing and Washington for now. ALSO READ: Trade war: China is armed with powerful market weapons in duel with Trump The United States escalated a tariff war with China on ...
Centenarian Suraj Kaur, 104-year-old, exercised her right to franchise on Sunday as all ten seats in Haryana underwent polling in the sixth round of General Elections in the country.

A resident of village Dhani Akbarpur of Loharu Sub Division in Bhiwani district, Kaur arrived at the polling booth accompanied by her family members.

Senior citizens and first-time voters stole the show with their enthusiasm as they arrived at different polling stations across the six states and capital of Delhi to cast their votes.

Earlier, oldest voter of the capital, 111-year-old Bachan Singh, cast his vote as all seven seats in Delhi went to polls in the sixth round of polls.

A total of 223 candidates are in the fray in Haryana for ten Lok Sabha seats. Haryana recorded a voter turnout of 61.77 per cent till 5 pm.

As many as 59 seats across seven states are voting today in the sixth round of Lok Sabha polling. The final phase of polling will be held on May 19. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Five people including four hotel employees and a navy soldier lost their lives in a terror attack that targeted the Pearl Continental here in Gwadar, the Pakistani army's media wing said on Sunday, as it announced the conclusion of its clearance operation of the hotel.

Apart from five killed, six people including two navy soldiers, two army captains and two hotel employees were injured as the gunmen barged in the hotel, reported Dawn.

The Pakistani army on Sunday said that the security forces had completed the operation at the hotel and killed three terrorists. The bodies of the terrorists were retained for identification.

The banned Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) had claimed responsibility for the attack.

Several gunshots were heard after three armed militants entered the private five-star hotel. The security guard was killed after he tried to stop the gunmen from entering the hotel's premises.

This is the sixth terror attack in Balochistan in one month.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
An estimated 63.3 per cent turnout was recorded on Sunday in the sixth phase of the Lok Sabha polls covering 59 seats spread over seven states, the Election Commission of India said.

The voting percentage may go up after details are received from the states, a Commission official said.

Polling was held on 14 seats in Uttar Pradesh, all 10 seats in Haryana, 8 seats each in Bihar, Madhya Pradesh and West Bengal, seven in Delhi and four in Jharkhand.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Over 63 per cent polling was recorded in the sixth phase of Lok Sabha voting on Sunday, with the highest turnout of 80.35 per cent in West Bengal and minimum of 59.74 per cent in the city-state of Delhi.

Barring stray incidents of violence in West Bengal, the election on 59 seats spread over eight states remained peaceful. The voting took place from 7 am to 6 pm.

"An estimated 63.43 per cent turnout was recorded on Sunday in the 6th phase of Lok Sabha polls on 59 seats," said Deputy Election Commissioner Umesh Sinha here on Sunday evening after the election was over.

Over 5 per cent drop in turnout was recorded in Delhi which logged only 59.74 per cent voting as compared to 65.1 per cent registered in the last General Elections, Sinha said.

Similarly, West Bengal and Haryana also saw a drop in the voting turnout in the sixth phase.

The voter turnout for 8 Lok Sabha seats in West Bengal was pegged at 80.35 per cent as compared to 84.98 per cent recorded in 2014. Haryana witnessed a drop of around three per cent as compared to the last Lok Sabha polls.

All 10 seats in Haryana had registered the poll turnout of 71.86 per cent in 2014 as compared to 68.17 per cent recorded on Sunday.

On the other hand, a spike in voter turnout was recorded in Madhya Pradesh, Bihar and Jharkhand. "In 8 out of 29 Lok Sabha seats in MP, the turnout was pegged at 64.55 per cent. In 2014, the corresponding seats had total polling of 56.81 per cent," said the ECI.

Bihar's 8 out of 40 Lok Sabha seats recorded the turnout of 59.29 per cent as compared to 57.25 per cent polling in the last general elections.

No change was seen in voting percentage in four out of 14 Lok Sabha seats in Jharkhand that went to polls on Sunday. "Jharkhand recorded 64.50 per cent turnout as compared to 64.53 per cent recorded in the last polls," said Sinha.

Polls were also held in 14 out of 80 Lok Sabha seats in Uttar Pradesh which recorded the turnout of 54.72 per cent. "Polling till 6 pm in UP is 54.72 per cent almost the same as 54.53 per cent recorded in 2014," said the EC.

Polling was held in 14 seats in Uttar Pradesh, all 10 seats in Haryana, 8 seats each in Bihar, Madhya Pradesh and West Bengal, seven in Delhi and four in Jharkhand.

Re-polling in Tripura West parliamentary constituency which had gone to polls on April 11, was also held on Sunday with a turnout of 72.2 per cent.

The prominent among those who were in the fray in the current round of polling included former chief ministers Akhilesh Yadav from Azamgarh in Uttar Pradesh, Digvijay Singh from Bhopal in Madhya Pradesh, Bhupinder Singh Hooda from Sonepat in Haryana, and Sheila Dikshit from North-East Delhi.

The other bigwigs whose fate were sealed in the electronic voting machines (EVMs) were Union Ministers Radha Mohan Singh from Purvi Champaran in Bihar, Dr Harsh Vardhan from Chandani Chowk in Delhi, and Narendra Singh Tomar from Morena in Madhya Pradesh.

Former Union Minister and RJD veteran Raghuvansh Prasad Singh was in the fray from Vaishali in Bihar, while Congress general secretary and also a former union minister Jyotiraditya Scindia was contesting from Guna in Madhya Pradesh.

The key candidates whose fate were sealed in EVMs in the capital apart from Union Minister Harsh Vardhan, included Meenakshi Lekhi from New Delhi, Gautam Gambhir, Atishi Marlena from East Delhi, Raghav Chadha, Vijender Singh and Ramesh Bidhuri from South Delhi.

With the sixth phase voting completed, polling in 483 out of 543 Lok Sabha constituencies in the country has been concluded. The seventh and the last phase of Lok Sabha polls will be held on May 19 for 59 seats.

The fifth phase of voting took place on May 6 for 51 Lok Sabha seats spread over seven states in which the fate of several key leaders including Congress president Rahul Gandhi, Home Minister Rajnath Singh, UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi and Union Minister Smriti Irani has been sealed in EVMs. Over 62 per cent polling had been recorded in the 5th phase of polling.

Fourteen seats in Uttar Pradesh including Amethi, Rae Bareli, and Lucknow, 12 in Rajasthan, seven each in West Bengal and Madhya Pradesh, five in Bihar and four in Jharkhand went to polls in addition to Ladakh and Anantnag constituencies in Jammu and Kashmir in the 5th phase of polling.

According to the ECI, over 8.75 crore voters were eligible to cast their ballots to decide the fate of 674 candidates across the country in the 5th phase of polling, which were held at 96,000 polling stations. According to data released by the EC, final voter turnout in the fourth phase of ongoing Lok Sabha elections held on April 29 stood at 65.51 per cent.

The polling percentage in the fourth phase of Lok Sabha elections was the highest in West Bengal - around 76.44 per cent till 5 pm. As many as eight seats of the state went to the polls in the fourth phase.

The first five phases of Lok Sabha polls were held on April 11, 18, 23, 29, and May 6.

The last phase of polling on May 19 will see 59 Lok Sabha seats going to polls in eight states and Union Territory - Bihar 8, Himachal Pradesh 4, Jharkhand 3, Madhya Pradesh 8, Punjab 13, Uttar Pradesh 13, West Bengal 9, and Chandigarh 1. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Ahead of the commencement of polling in the state, three BJP workers were attacked in separate incidents in the state, officials confirmed.

In East Medinipur, BJP workers Ananta Guchait and Ranjit Maity were shot at last night in Bhagabanpur area. The injured were admitted to a hospital soon after the incident and are undergoing treatment.

Meanwhile, BJP worker Raman Singh was found dead in Gopiballabpur area of Jhargram.

Polling in West Bengal in almost all the phases has been marred by violence, primarily due to clashes between BJP and TMC workers.

BJP is looking to make significant inroads into West Bengal while Mamata Banerjee-led TMC is seeking to defend its bastions.

Polling is underway for the sixth phase of elections in the country for 59 Lok Sabha seats, including 7 in Delhi, 8 in Bihar, 10 in Haryana, 8 in Madhya Pradesh, 14 in Uttar Pradesh, 8 in West Bengal and 4 in Jharkhand.

Results of the seven-phase elections will be declared on May 23.

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Multiple airstrikes across three provinces in Afghanistan left at least 24 Taliban terrorists dead on Sunday.

Airstrikes in Zurmat and Bermal districts of Paktika province left 20 terrorists dead, Khaama Press reported while quoting military sources.

Furthermore, two Taliban terrorists were killed in Andar district of Ghazni province, while another two were killed in Farsi district of Herat province.

The Afghan National Defense and Security Forces have beefed up operations against anti-establishment armed militants who have carried out terror activities across Afganistan.

So far, the Taliban has not released any statement regarding the airstrikes.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Alleging misconduct by a polling official at a booth here, Samajwadi Party (SP) has written a letter to the Election Commission of India complaining against the same.

The SP alleged that at booth number 57, set up at Primary School Mustafabad of Mehnagar Assembly constituency, the polling officer is casting votes on behalf of elder women and senior citizens.

Citing poll provisions, the letter further stated that in case of any difficulty, the family members must assist such people in voting.

The SP demanded that the polling officer of the concerned booth must be removed from the polling duty and a case must be registered in this regard.

Voting for the sixth phase of Lok Sabha polls began on Sunday morning. A total of 59 seats from six states and one Union Territory are polling today.

The final phase of polling will be held on May 19, and 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.)
A Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) worker was severely injured in a clash with Trinamool Congress (TMC) workers outside polling booth number 1 in Bankura on Sunday.

The victim was beaten severely with bricks leading to severe bleeding with multiple injuries on his head and body. He was taken to a nearby hospital for medical aid.

BJP candidate from Bankura, Dr Subhash Sarkar, accused TMC of carrying out the deadly attack on the opposition. He also said that the victim's chances of survival were really low considering the grave injuries inflicted on him.

"Trinamool has done this, who else? Violence, bloodshed and destroying democracy- this is TMC's job. Looking at how badly he is hurt, the chances of our worker's survival is low," Sarkar said talking to ANI.

Sarkar is pitted against TMC's Subrata Mukherjee in the Bankura Lok Sabha constituency.

Earlier, ahead of the commencement of polling in West Bengal on Sunday, three BJP workers were attacked in separate incidents, officials said.

In East Medinipur, BJP workers Ananta Guchait and Ranjit Maity were shot at last night in Bhagabanpur area. The injured were admitted to a hospital soon after the incident and are undergoing treatment.

BJP worker Raman Singh was also found dead in Gopiballabpur area of Jhargram.

(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 Sunday accused the central forces in the state of coercing voters to cast their vote in favour of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in several areas.

"I respect the central forces. But some of them are coercing voters to vote for BJP. I heard they opened fire on locals in one booth. How can they campaign in favour of Modi? Tomorrow when Modi will be ousted from power, where will they hide?" asked Mamata while addressing an election rally in support of Trinamool Congress (TMC) candidate Pratima Mondal, who she has fielded from Joynagar Lok Sabha constituency.

Continuing her attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, TMC supremo accused him of running a parallel government in the state. "Narendra Modi is running a parallel government in Bengal, in guise of elections. We are tolerating everything silently. Our decency shouldn't be mistaken as our weakness. You people have insulted me and Bengal, you don't even allow me to run the government," she said.

Accusing Modi of hindering her from running a government in the state, she said: "They are not allowing me to run the government. Law and order is a state subject. They do not have the power to interfere in our matters."

Equating the Prime Minister with the likes of Hitler and Mussolini, she accused the incumbent government of creating an atmosphere of terror and violence. "Narendra Modi is running a dictatorial regime. Nowhere in the world would you find such an oppressive government. The BJP has carried out atrocities on Dalits, minorities. In the name of gau-raksha, they carried out lynchings. They have created an atmosphere of terror and violence," she said.

Voting took place today in eight parliamentary constituencies in the state -- Tamluk, Kanthi, Ghatal, Jhargram, Medinipur, Purulia, Bankura and Bishnupur. Apart from this, the re-polling was held at booth number 116 in Barrackpore parliamentary constituency and booth number 110 in Arambag Lok Sabha seat in the state.As per the ECI, the overall voting in the sixth phase of Lok Sabha polls in all seven states till 3 pm was 46.52 per cent. Jharkhand has recorded 54.09 per cent voting till 3 pm.Earlier today, the BJP accused Trinamool Congress (TMC) workers of attacking BJPcandidate from Ghatal, Bharati Ghosh's convoy and obstructing her entry into a polling booth in Keshpur.

West Bengal unit BJP chief Dilip Ghosh alleged that TMC goons had been threatening BJP workers since Saturday, and today stopped his party workers from going inside a polling booth in West Medinipur's Rampura to cast their votes.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Bahujan Samaj Party chief Mayawati on Sunday alleged that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is doing "dirty politics" over the gang-rape of a Dalit girl in Alwar. The former chief minister also assured of action by her party in the matter. Modi countered by saying she is shedding "crocodile tears by only making statements".

"In the wake of this incident (Alwar gang-rape), Modi is doing dirty BSP for sure will take required political decision if strict action is not taken in the case," Mayawati said in a press note by her party.

Modi, at a rally in Kushinagar, urged Mayawati to withdraw support from the Rajasthan government- accused by both the prime minister and the BSP supremo of brushing the gang-rape case aside for political gains.

"Behenji you will have to answer, why didn't you withdraw support to Rajasthan's Congress government after a Dalit daughter was gang-raped in the state? You are shedding crocodile tears by only making statements," Modi said during the campaign.

Mayawati retorted with a list of incidents she thought the prime minister should take responsibility of."BSP will take a required political decision soon, but why is PM Modi not taking the responsibility of the incidents in the past, such as Una flogging incident, Rohit Vemulla case or other cases pertaining to Dalit atrocities. Why is he not resigning?," the BSP press note read.

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 of the incident was shot by perpetrators, who threatened to make the video public if they reported the matter. The couple had reported the matter to Police much later on May 2.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Congress leader Digvijay Singh on Sunday expressed regret over not being able to cast his ballot in Rajgarh district of Madhya Pradesh, which is over 130 km away from state capital Bhopal where he is locked in a key contest with BJP candidate Pragya Singh Thakur.

"I regret that I could not reach Rajgarh to cast my ballot. Next time, I will ensure that my vote is registered in Bhopal," Singh told ANI.

Throughout the day, he visited various polling stations in Bhopal to track the voting, sources said.

Earlier in the day, he was seen outside a temple. When asked whether he will go to cast his vote, he replied, "I will see. I will try to reach."

The former Madhya Pradesh chief minister also urged people to exercise their franchise in large numbers. "Go in large numbers and cast your vote. Vote without fear," he said.

The Congress leader is facing Thakur, a 2008 Malegaon blast case accused, among other candidates.

Fifty-nine Lok Sabha seats, including Bhopal, spread over seven states went to poll in the sixth and penultimate phase of the Lok Sabha election today.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Disgruntled with the abysmal state of roads and overall development, coupled with alleged apathy of successive governments and local administration, villagers of Gram Sangaldeep in Domariyaganj Lok Sabha constituency of Uttar Pradesh have decided not to cast their vote today.

With officials persuading villagers to make it to their polling booth, villagers are steadfast and all the attempts by the officials went in vain. The polling booth is located at the primary school in the village and gives a deserted look with only polling staff and police personnel manning it.

There are over 550 voters in the village which comes in district Siddharthnagar. The locals alleged that roads do not get developed, as a result of which the village gets flooded with excess water from the nearby river.

Villagers went on to claim that all they got were empty promises from officials in charge.

"Our village gets surrounded by river water and we get disconnected from rest of the world. Politicians only shout on the mike and do nothing when it comes to doing something for our village," said Kanu Yadav, a local.

"The river has destroyed everything. We will vote in 2022 but not in 2019," said Ram Murti Yadav, another villager.

"You must have seen the pathetic state of the road here. Officials are pressurising us to vote saying it is our right. We know that but we have decided not to vote," said another villager.

"There are no toilets, neither roads nor good houses. It seems that we are not living in India. If we are not living in India then why to vote?" asks Ram Milan Yadav, a local.

However, Assistant Returning officer (ARO) Umesh Chand Nigam said that attempts are being made to persuade villagers to vote.

"We are requesting them to cast their vote. We are making all attempts to persuade them," he said.

Polling is underway in 14 seats in Uttar Pradesh, and the remaining 13 seats will go to polls on May 19 in the final phase of elections. Results will be declared on May 23.

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
BJP President Amit Shah asserted at a public rally here that the Narendra Modi government not just ensured security but also brought in One Rank One Pension scheme for the armed forces after it came to power. For the Congress party, OROP only meant 'One Rahul, One Priyanka', he alleged.

"The Congress government never even thought of One Rank One Pension (OROP) scheme. For them, OROP meant - 'One Rahul, One Priyanka'. The Narendra Modi government agreed to the OROP plan in just over a year after coming to power. Apart from the development work, the biggest work the government has done is to ensure security for the country," Shah claimed.

"There is only one slogan everywhere - 'Modi, Modi'. And this is not just a slogan but people's blessings for the incumbent PM. In the five year period, a lot of work has been done in Himachal Pradesh and in the entire country," Shah added.

"Eight crore households have got toilets, 2.5 crore houses have been made for the poor and 2.35 crore people have got electricity for the first time in their houses. Under Ayushman Bharat Yojana, 50 crore people have got the facility of getting upto Rs 5 Lakh for treatment of serious diseases, free of cost," he said.

Speaking further on the achievements of the government in the healthcare sector, Shah said, "Congress always talks about the poor, but what was the state of poor people for 55 years? If any poor son had to get his father treated earlier, the bills used to be astronomically high. Due to this people didn't get treatment. Today there is Modi Ji's Ayushman Bharat Yojana which gives treatment for upto Rs 5 lakh free of cost to the poor. 25,20,000 people have got surgeries done under this scheme. This change has taken place under Narendra Modi."

Talking about the achievements of the state government, Shah said, "In Nahan, there is a Medical College built at the cost of Rs 300 crore. In Sirmour, IIM has been built by the BJP government. Nine new roads have been planned by the BJP government in Himachal Pradesh. The state government under Jairam Thakur has taken credible steps in the healthcare sector."

"Congress used to issue out grants under a 60:40 plan; BJP has started issuing grants under 90:10 plan to the state government. Rs 15,000 crore was given for the development of railways by the central government," Shah said.

Six phases of polling stand completed in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections in the country. The last phase of polling will be held on May 19. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Iran is facing 'unprecedented pressure' from international sanctions and the country could be under worse economic conditions than during the 1980-88 war with Iraq, said President Hassan Rouhani on Sunday.

Rouhani, who is facing domestic political pressure, has called for the unity among political factions to overcome the effect of sanctions.

"Today, it cannot be said whether conditions are better or worse than the (1980-88) war period, but during the war we did not have a problem with our banks, oil sales or imports and exports, and there were only sanctions on arms purchases," Iran's state news agency IRNA quoted Rouhani as saying.

"The pressure by enemies is a war unprecedented in the history of our Islamic revolution, but I do not despair and have great hope for the future and believe that we can move past these difficult conditions provided that we are united," he added.

Hardliners have criticised Rouhani after US President Donald Trump withdrew from Iran's 2015 nuclear deal with powers, which Rouhani supported, and reimposed sanctions last year, reported Al Jazeera.

The Iranian President has also been abandoned by some of his moderate allies.The diplomatic tensions between the US and Iran are at an all-time high, as the former has imposed numerous sanctions on the country.

In addition to this, the Pentagon on Friday approved the deployment of a Patriot missile defence battery and a Navy ship to the Middle-East.

Last year in November, the Trump Administration re-imposed sanctions on Iranian oil exports following the United States' withdrawal from the 2015 Iran nuclear deal.

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Israel on Saturday reopened its main border crossings with the Gaza Strip as part of a ceasefire agreement.

The developments came after a week that saw violent clashes along the Israel-Gaza border which remained closed for the Memorial Day and Independence Day holidays from May 7 to 9, The Times of Israel reported.

"Tomorrow (Sunday), the Erez and Kerem Shalom Crossings will be opened, according to regular operating hours," COGAT, the Israeli military body responsible for the Palestinian territories, said in a statement on Saturday night.

Erez, in northern Gaza, is the main terminal for civilian traffic, while Kerem Shalom in the south of the Strip mainly serves commercial goods.

The move came days after Israel on Friday removed restrictions on a 12-mile Palestinian fishing zone off the Gaza Strip, keeping to an Egypt-brokered ceasefire imposed during the deadly flare-up of violence earlier this week.

According to Al Jazeera, at least four Israelis and 25 Palestinians, including two pregnant women and three children, were killed during the violence.

Palestinians shot almost 700 projectiles into Israel on May 4 and 5, while Israel responded with hundreds of airstrikes.

On Friday, UN Middle East peace envoy Nickolay Mladenov spoke with Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh and discussed efforts to implement truce between Israel and Hamas to prevent renewed violence, the state media of Israel reported.

However, Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has repeatedly said that the fighting in Gaza has not yet ended.

Israeli authorities have further warned that the fighting could resume soon after in the absence of measures aimed at easing humanitarian assistance to those in the Gaza Strip.

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South Africa: IEC lauded for free and fair elections

Former Statistician General Pali Lehohla has affirmed the integrity of the Electoral Commission (IEC), saying it did a fantastic job during the sixth National and Provincial Elections.

One cannot doubt the integrity of the IEC, it has performed consistently and better with time. The voting process was fantastic, peaceful as usual, even the weather couldnt stop people from voting, Lehohla said.

Speaking to SAnews at the national Results Operation Centre in Pretoria on Saturday, he lauded the IEC for its professionalism in dealing with the allegations of double voting.

What is important is that [when they were] alerted they didnt deny the issue and promised to deal with it. They proposed the Statistician General to do an audit - which was the right thing to do, he said.

On Wednesday, a total of 17 671 616 of people cast their votes at a time when South Africa celebrates 25 years of democracy. The voter turnout stood at 65.99% when compared to the 26 779 025 people who were registered to vote.

Lehohla expressed concern at the low voter turnout which he attributed to the high levels of unemployment among young people.

He said young people were frustrated that they could not find jobs and this was one of the issues politicians needed to address going forward.

What is important is what happens afterwards. That is the key question that every politician and South Africa must answer afterwards in particular in the era of high levels of corruption and social degeneration, he said.

The 2019 elections were won by the African National Congress with 57.5% of the votes, followed by the Democratic Alliance with 20.77% of the votes and the Economic Freedom Fighters 10.79%.  SAnews.gov.za

This story has been published on: 2019-05-12. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said that the U.S. political pressures and economic sanctions are "all-out war" against the Islamic republic, Press TV reported on Sunday.

Iran's President Hassan Rouhani speaking during a government meeting in Tehran, Iran, 08 May 2019. [File photo: IC]

The United States has increased political and economic pressures against Iran which are unprecedented in the history of the country since the victory of the Islamic Revolution in 1979, Rouhani said.

He noted that the current wave of pressures on Iran is even more difficult than the pressures Iran experienced during the war with Iraq in 1980s.

"At the time of the Iran-Iraq war, we had no problem in (international) banking transactions, sales of oil, exports and imports," he said, adding that at that time, "the only ban imposed on us was the arms embargo."

However, "we should not accept submission (to U.S. pressures) and we should try to find a solution," said Rouhani.

The Iranian president urged unity and solidarity among political groups.
An encounter broke out between terrorists and security forces in Hind Sita Pora area of Shopian district of Jammu and Kashmir.

The gun battle between the two sides is underway.

On May 3, three terrorists were killed after a brief exchange of fire between terrorists and security forces in Shopian.

More details are awaited.

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A voter turnout of 44.40 per cent was recorded till 4

According to the Election Commission of India, of the eight Lok Sabha seats, voting percentage was the highest in Valmiki Nagar (51.94 per cent), followed by Paschim Champaran (48.08 per cent), Purvi Champaran (45.47 per cent), Vaishali (46.31 per cent), Sheohar (43.89 per cent), Gopalganj (43.13 per cent), Siwan (40.93 per cent) and Maharajganj (36.50 per cent).

The bigwigs whose fate will be decided in the election today are Union Ministers Radha Mohan Singh from Purvi Champaran and former Union Minister and RJD veteran Raghuvansh Prasad Singh from Vaishali parliamentary constituency.

Polling is currently underway in the sixth phase for 14 seats in Uttar Pradesh, all ten seats in Haryana, eight seats each in Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, and West Bengal, seven in Delhi and four in Jharkhand.

Over 10.17 crore voters are eligible to cast their votes in the sixth phase of polling. There are 979 candidates in the fray.

Polling began at 7 am across the eight constituencies and will continue till 6 pm.

The seventh and last phase of Lok Sabha election will take place on May 19 and the counting of votes will be held on May 23.

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As polling is underway in the 10 parliamentary constituencies in the state, Director General of Police (DGP) Manoj Yadava on Sunday cautioned the District Police Chiefs to remain more vigilant.

"Police personnel, Range Inspector General of Police (IGP) and district Superintendent of Police (SP) should ensure that no crowds, except voters, are allowed to assemble inside or near polling stations. The last two hours are extremely crucial as efforts are being made by mischievous elements to indulge in violence and booth capturing. Patrolling should be intensified and a robust posture of aggressive deterrence should be maintained. Do not hesitate to detain convoys of vehicles and groups of youth moving in four-wheelers, in violation of the law," Yadava stated in a press statement.

He also lauded the police forces for their energetic patrolling during the election season in the state.

"Due to excellent police arrangements, decisive intervention and energetic patrolling carried out since early morning, polling in Haryana has been peaceful for last about nine hours," he said.

All the 10 seats which are undergoing polls in the state are - Ambala (reserved for scheduled caste), Kurukshetra, Karnal, Sonipat, Hisar, Sirsa, Bhiwani-Mahendragarh, Rohtak, Gurgaon, and Faridabad.

A total of 223 candidates are in the fray here for these ten Lok Sabha seats. The seventh and last phase of elections will take place on May 19. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.

The state is witnessing multi-cornered contest on most of the seats. The first time player in the Lok Sabha election - Raj Kumar Saini led Loktantra Suraksha Party (LSP) in alliance with the BSP and Ajay Chautala led Jannayak Janata Party (JJP) - has added a new dimension to the ballot of ballots in the state.

Former Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda is in the fray from Sonipat, while his son Deepinder Singh Hooda is seeking re-election from Rohtak seat. Union Ministers Rao Inderjit Singh is seeking re-election from Gurgaon, while Krishan Pal Gurjar is in the fray from Faridabad Lok Sabha seat.

Bhavya Bishnoi, a grandchild of former Chief Minister Bhajan Lal, is in the fray from Hisar Lok Sabha seat on the Congress ticket against sitting MP Dushyant Chautala, also a grandchild of former Chief Minister Om Prakash Chautala. Former Union Minister Kumari Selja is trying her luck from Ambala seat.

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Sector assistant engineer, AK Shrivastav was suspended for allegedly carrying the reserve EVM to his residence here.

"The EVM has been seized and the officer has been suspended, further action will be taken on instructions of the higher-ups," SDM, Shivani Rakwar Garg told media on Saturday.

The Election Commission of India has been informed in this regard.

Polling for Guna Lok Sabha seat is scheduled to be held on Sunday during the sixth phase of the ongoing Lok Sabha polls.

Congress heavyweight Jyotiraditya Scindia is contesting from Guna. He is also the incumbent MP from this seat.

BJP has fielded KP Yadav from Guna.

The ongoing Lok Sabha polls were scheduled to be held in seven phases. The first five phases were held on April 11, 18, 23, 29 and May 6. The sixth and seventh phases of polling are scheduled to be held on May 12 and May 18. The counting of votes will be done on May 23.

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The Eastern Command of Indian Army has apprehended five cadres of People's Revolutionary Party of Kangleipak (PREPAK), and one each of Kanglei Yawol Kanna Lup (KYKL) and United Liberation Front (UNLF) at Kamjong in Manipur.

The said cadres were arrested on May 9 and a huge cache of arms and ammunition was seized from their possession.

"#NEOps. Security Forces #EasternCommand apprehended 5 cadres of PREPAK, one cadre each of KYKL & UNLF & recovered a huge cache of arms & ammunition in Kamjong, Manipur on 09th May," Eastern Command tweeted.

The arrested persons have been handed over to the police for further investigation.

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While social media is flooding with emotional pictures, gifting ideas and innovative ways to celebrate Mother's Day, Bollywood stars are not to be left behind.

From actors such as Jacqueline Fernandes, Ayushmann Khurrana, Jahnvi Kapoor, Sara Ali Khan, Shilpa Shetty to Sharman Joshi, Anupam Kher, Kriti Sanon -- the B-town is celebrating the day in its own way. In fact, they have some really special words for their moms.

Here's how these celebrities wished their mothers and celebrate the spirit of the day.

Katrina Kaif shared a picture of her mother from her young age, captioning it as, "Look how pretty ....my mom. roses are red, violets are blue, there is no one dearer than a mom like you her heart of gold Definitely the one who best fits that description."

Jacqueline shared a very adorable picture with her mother and wrote, "Missing my mam. happy mummy's day!"

Filmmaker Karan Johar compared moms with superheroes saying, "Mothers are superheroes that fight the infinite wars for their children and make sure there is never an end game in their lives! Happy Mother's Day to my superhero! Love you so much mom."

Ayushmann Khurrana also shared a picture on Twitter, captioning it as, "Mothers Day."

Bollywood newbie Jahnvi Kapoor shared a picture from her childhood and remembers her late mother Sridevi. She wrote, "Cherish them, listen to them, give them all the love in the world. Happy Mother's Day."

Bollywood veteran Anupam Kher shared a clip of his mother and captioned it as, "Mom says, 'Every day is a Mother's Day.' Then she goes on to elaborate, why? She is not funny here. In fact, my interruptions were not needed."

He added, "Give your mothers a grateful hug every day."

Calling her mother her 'strength and motivation', Sara Ali Khan shared a monochrome picture of Amrita Singh and captioned it as, "Happy Mother's Day to my Mommy Thank you for constantly being my strength, motivation and inspiration Ma. I hope I can be 10% of the woman you are."

Actor Huma Qureshi shared a selfie with her mom showing off their inked fingers and captioned it as, "Me and Mom went to vote today !! #HappyMothersDay to the woman who taught me the difference between right and wrong, good and bad, who shaped me into who I am .."

She added, "If only I can be half the woman she is .. Aminasaleemqureshi .. Delhi get inked Vote for a country that honours your mothers and fathers & paves the better for a better generation lovemycountry."

Shilpa Shetty Kundra, who loves Yoga, shared a video featuring her son and mother Sunanda Shetty. She wrote, "This is how our Mother's Day started... "Family that does yoga together stays healthy together."

"Happy Mother's Day to you MA Sunanda Shetty, for being the bestest mom evvvveeeerr.. Love is an understatement,I eulogise you," the caption further read.

"Happy Mother's Day to all those wonderful, strong , multitasking supermoms .. My wish and prayer is that you are in the pink of health.. always. Take care of yourself to be able to take care of your family," she added.

Actor Sharman Joshi also shared a cute picture and thanked his mother for being his first stylist. He wrote as a caption, "Took a trip down the memory lane with colorplusindia Styled By Mom campaign."

He added, "Thanks Ma for being my first stylist, and the best one ever! This mother's day share your most memorable moments with your First Stylist Ever. First Stylist style you once again."

Other actors such as Sonam Kapoor Ahuja, Randeep Hooda, Dia Mirza, Farhan Akhtar, Karishma Kapoor and Shraddha Kapoor also extended wishes to their mothers with affectionate messages.

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A day after the arrest of Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha (BJYM) youth wing convenor Priyanka Sharma, her mother alleged she was arrested at TMC's behest because she used to work for BJP.

"My daughter was arrested because she used to work for the BJP. This is all part of a big plot. This is the first time she is far away from us. Had she been a TMC worker nothing bad would have happened to her, this is all done by TMC. The fact that she is in jail has increased our worries," Priyanka's mother told ANI.

Priyanka was accused of sharing a morphed photo of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on social media. She was arrested on Friday and sent to jail for 14 days.

Her brother said, at first, he was not allowed to meet her. However, when he put pressure, the authorities let him in. He also alleged that his sister's security was at risk as her entry in jail was not recorded within 24 hours of her arrest. He also said BJP leader Poonam Mahajan called him to Delhi.

"I will take the matter to Supreme Court to save my sister", he said.

Om Prakash Singh, district president of BJYM, said there was nothing wrong with what Priyanka did, but her arrest was wrong. "Social media is a place where everybody wants the freedom to express. It is shameful that Mamata Banerjee is curbing freedom on that platform. Priyanka just shared an edited photo which was already viral on the platform. There is nothing vulgar or shameful in the photo. We have ideological differences with TMC, but we have never disrespected her."

"The police have not put a non-bailable warrant against her. She is not being allowed to meet her family or anyone. We will take the legal course of action and also carry out protests against this action taken by the police. We will not stay silent when TMC is trying to end the freedom of speech in West Bengal," Singh told reporters.

This is not the first time that Banerjee took action against someone who took a dig at her. In 2012, Professor Ambikesh Mahapatra of the Jadavpur University was arrested for forwarding a cartoon of the chief minister. In the same year, she had also termed a student "Maoist" for questioning her government's policies.

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Turkish authorities on Saturday detained at least 757 irregular migrants across the country, security sources said.

In northwestern Edirne province, a group of 534 migrants, who were planning to illegally cross Turkish border, were held by the military and sent them into custody, Anadolu News Agency quoted a source as saying.

The nationalities of the illegal migrants were -- Pakistani, Afghan, Bangladeshi, Iraqi, Iranian, Syrian Libyan, Somalian, Egyptian, Tunisian, Eritrean, Moroccan and Algerian.

Another source said that Turkish Coast Guard detained at least 223 irregular migrants off the coast of western Aydin and Izmir provinces in a separate raid.

The refugees were Afghan and Iranian nationals, the source was quoted as saying.

All the 757 migrants were later referred to provincial migration directorates for questioning.

Turkey has seen a major influx of illegal migrants who have been trying to reach Europe especially since the beginning of the Syrian civil war in 2011.

Last year, around 268,000 irregular migrants were detained in Turkey, according to the country's interior ministry.

The detained refugees were mostly Pakistani, Afghan, Syrian and Iraqi nationals.

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Pakistan government reached an agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for a bailout package of $6 billion, Adviser to Prime Minister on Finance, Revenue and Economic Affairs Dr Abdul Hafeez Shaikh said on Sunday.

According to Dawn, Dr Shaikh while speaking on state-run PTV News said: "After months of discussions and negotiations, a staff-level agreement has been reached between Pakistan and the IMF."

He disclosed that Pakistan, under the IMF programme, would receive assistance worth $6 billion over a period of three years.

IMF Mission Chief for Pakistan Ernesto Ramirez Rigo was quoted in an IMF press release as saying: "The Pakistani authorities and the IMF team have reached a staff-level agreement on economic policies that could be supported by a 39-month Extended Fund Arrangement (EFF) for about US $6 billion."

Dr Shaikh said IMF is an international institution who assists member countries in "economic difficulty". He further went on to say that Pakistan could not have bridged the financing gap of $12 billion, created by a weak economy, on its own.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Friday had rejected the first draft for a bailout package after which the talks with International Monetary Fund (IMF) were still underway.

Besides the assistance by IMF, Pakistan will receive additional funds worth nearly $2-3 billion from institutions like the Asian Development Bank and Bank, the adviser informed.

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The voting in Haryana remained peaceful and incident-free, said Director General of Police (DGP) Manoj Yadava on Sunday evening. The state recorded 62.91 pc polling.

"The polling for 10 Lok Sabha seats was conducted in a peaceful and incident-free manner thanks to excellent police arrangements, decisive intervention and energetic patrolling carried out since early morning across the state," he said.

The DGP said that round-the-clock monitoring of polling situation was conducted by senior officers through State Police Control Room at Police headquarter.

Police have taken all precautionary measures for ensuring peaceful polling due to which voters turned up in large numbers in their respective polling stations to exercise their franchise.

He said that not even a single incident of poll-related violence was reported from anywhere till completion of polling. However, two incidents of violence were reported from Sonipat and Fatehabad districts which are not related to elections.

More than 67,000 personnel from the State and Central Armed Police Forces were deployed for ensuring free, fair and peaceful conduct of general elections.

He also appreciated the personnel of police and other security forces who have played a significant role in smooth conduct of elections across the state.

Additional Director General of Police, Law and Order, Navdeep Singh Virk said that the police in Rohtak has arrested Ramesh Lohar, a history-sheeter of Bohar village, along with his accomplice Sunil, a resident of Makdoli from in front of Vishwarkarma School in Rohtak area.

Police recovered three fake number plates, 15 cartridges of 0.32 bore, and other materials from them. Three vehicles with temporary numbers have also been impounded. He also informed that two cases of electoral offenses were registered in Nuh district and one in Rohtak.

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Upset with an unstable career and lack of marriage prospects, a 35-yr-old man wrote to Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis' Office seeking permission for Euthanasia.

"This letter was sent around 15-20 days ago. The letter said he (35-year old man) felt he is not doing anything for his parents. He was upset with his career and lack of marriage prospects. He is okay now," Devidas Gheware, Senior Police Inspector, Dattawadi Police Station said while talking to ANI on Saturday.

According to the police officer, in the letter sent to CMO, the man had written about her ailing mother who is around 70-years old and his father who is 83-years old.

"He felt that he is not able to do anything for them. He was having problems regarding marriage too. We counselled him," the senior police officer said.

"The youth is well educated and is from a well to do family. He was not frustrated just because of marriage issues. He loves his parents," added Gheware.

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Several powerful explosions on Sunday hit the port of Fujairah in UAE following a huge fire that engulfed at least seven oil tankers, state media reported.

The blasts were heard between 4 am and 7 am local time (00:00 - 03:00 GMT), the Al-Mayadeen broadcaster reported, adding that from seven to 10 oil tankers were in flames.

However, according to local sources, the causes of the incident remains unknown, Sputnik reported.

Eyewitnesses reportedly saw several French and the US military planes flying over the port.

Further details are awaited.

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Sharpening his attack against the Samajwadi Party (SP) and Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday asked how parties that are incapable of handling "roadside goons" can combat terrorism.

Addressing a poll rally here, Modi claimed that 'vote-cutter' Congress' defence policy encourages terrorism.

"SP-BSP can't fight terrorism, these people can't even control roadside goons, how will they combat terrorism? Meanwhile, vote-cutter Congress' defence policy encourages terrorism and naxalism," said.

Modi went on to say that he has never utilised his public office for personal gains while taking a jibe at the 'bua-babua' duo (Mayawati and Akhilesh).

"I remained the chief minister of a prosperous state for more than the terms of 'bua' and 'babua' summed up together. I am also the Prime Minister of the country for the last 5 years. But I have never used my office for removing my poverty or poverty of my family," said Modi.

"I never dreamt of becoming wealthy by 'jod-tod' (corruption) nor let my family see such dream. Today I am fit and fine but imagine a time after 20-25 years when my body might not be so well and will weaken, I will have to take leave and will have to search for rented accommodation for my stay," he added.

Continuing his tirade against the Opposition, Modi said his opponents want to form a government at the Centre for 'looting' public money and wealth of the nation.

"They want to form government at the centre because they want to get back the license to loot for their families and known ones. Someone gulped down coal, someone did telecom scam, some even snatched bricks and cement, they have not left even the tap," said Modi

"I have studied whole night under kerosene oil lamp without any electricity. I have witnessed how hard it is for the families that have no toilet, no bank account, no health facilities. I have reached here braving such odds," he added.

Voting for the sixth phase of Lok Sabha polls began on Sunday morning. A total of 59 seats from six states and one Union Territory are going to polls in this phase.

Counting of votes will take place on May 23.

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A 47-year-old moulavi, an Islamic preacher, was arrested at the Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) in Colombo on charges of using social media platforms to air extremist views, the police said on Sunday.

The suspect, a resident of Vavuniya, was arrested on Saturday morning by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) upon his arrival from Mecca after performing Hajj, The Daily Mirror reported.

The police said that the suspect was organising pilgrimage tours to Mecca.

The moulavi has been remanded till May 14 after he was produced before the Negombo Magistrate's Court a day before.

The arrest comes after eight coordinated explosions jolted Sri Lankan cities of Colombo, Negombo, Kochchikede and Batticaloa on April 21 as the Christian community celebrated Easter. Islamic State or Daesh claimed responsibility for the deadly attacks that left 257 people dead and several hundred others injured.

In the wake of the attacks, Sri Lankan authorities, last month, banned two local Islamist groups, including the National Thowheeth Jama'ath (NTJ), and the splinter group Jamathei Millathu Ibrahim (JMI), affiliated to the Islamic State.

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An election official was injured after being hit by a bullet inadvertently fired from a home guard's rifle at a polling booth here on Sunday.

Shivendra Kishor, a government teacher, got injured at booth number 275 in Madhopur Sunder village which falls under Shyampur Bhataha police station of the district.

Sheohar Sub-Divisional Police Officer Rakesh Kumar said, "The official was hit after a bullet was mistakenly fired from the home guard's rifle while he was cleaning it before the voting started."

Kishor, a resident of Ratrava village in Sitamarhi, was immediately rushed to the District Government Hospital here. Later, he was referred to HKMC Hospital in neighbouring Muzaffarpur district.

Voting is underway for eight Lok Sabha seats in the sixth phase of the general elections in Bihar.

Polling is also being held on all ten seats in Haryana, eight in Madhya Pradesh, 14 in Uttar Pradesh, eight in West Bengal, seven in Delhi and four in Jharkhand.

Counting of votes will be held on May 23.

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Former US Defence Secretary Robert Gates said that there was a "real risk" that the Taliban could re-take control over Afghanistan if US troops were withdrawn from the country.

In an interview with CBS's 'Face the Nation', Gates, who served in the post between 2006 to 2011 in the Barack Obama administration, said that the Donald Trump administration should be completely assured that the Afghan government is stable before the US pulls out the 12,000 soldiers from the war-torn country.

"I think that the circumstances under which you bring them home matter. And I think trying to give the Afghan government the best possible shot at survival is really important for the future of Afghanistan," The Hill quoted Gates as saying, citing CBS.

He warned that a premature withdrawal of US troops could lead to potentially grave consequences, including risks to women's rights in Afghanistan.

The US has been leading efforts to pressurise the Taliban to lay down their arms and end the nearly two-decades-long civil war in Afghanistan. Both sides have participated in several rounds of meeting in Qatar in an effort to chalk out a peace agreement.

During his State of the Union address on February 5, Trump had advocated a "progress" in negotiations, saying that "it means we will be able to reduce our troop presence and focus on counter-terrorism."

However, the Taliban does not consider the withdrawal being dependent on the American conditions for a ceasefire or direct talks between the Taliban and the Afghan government, signalling that Washington's demands may be far-fetched.

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said that there was anti-incumbency during the 2014 general elections while there is a pro-incumbency wave in the ongoing elections.

Addressing a public rally here, Modi opined that the ongoing Lok Sabha elections are not only being contested by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) but by "Bharatiya Janata" (People of India).

"There was anti-incumbency during the 2014 general elections while there is pro-incumbency now. In 2014, there was aggression towards corruption, dynasty and policy paralysis. In 2014, the country only heard about Modi and his work. But in 2019, the country has identified the work done by Modi. The 2019 polls are not only being contested by BJP but by Bharatiya Janata," Modi said.

The Prime Minister also thanked Madhya Pradesh and its city Indore for making cleanliness drive ' Swacch Bharat Abhiyaan' a success.

"I am thankful to both Madhya Pradesh and Indore. You have made one of my initiatives a great success. If the initiative of Swacch Bharat Abhiyaan has reached to the common man it's because of my brother and sisters from Indore," Modi said while addressing a public rally here.

On October 2, 2014, on the occasion of Mahatma Gandhi's birth anniversary, Modi launched the campaign 'Swachh Bharat'.

The aim of this campaign is to make India one of the cleanest cities in the world.

The fourth phase in Madhya Pradesh for eight Lok Sabha seats will be held on May 19. Counting of votes will be held on May 23.

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BJP candidate from Ghatal Bharati Ghosh alleged that she was beaten up by TMC goons while she was trying to reach a polling booth here on Sunday.

Talking to media persons, Ghosh said: "From morning they are stopping me from going to a polling booth. Polls are being rigged. My polling agents have been beaten up and kidnapped. Even I was beaten up."

"There were bombings and stone pelting. But nobody has asked me for an FIR. They are asking me to go to Kotwali Police Station," she said.

The BJP leader further said: "Shots were also fired. Now, the police have to investigate where these ammunitions came from and who were indulged in the acts of firing."

Earlier today, Bharati was cornered allegedly by TMC women cadres and was stopped from visiting the polling booth after she alleged that BJP's polling agent was not being allowed to sit at the station.

The former cop's convoy was attacked and the vehicles were vandalised. Her party has blamed TMC for the assault.

West Bengal BJP unit president Dilip Ghosh said that the TMC workers were behind the attack and they must be brought to book. "The car of Bharti Ghosh and that of mine were attacked by TMC goons," he alleged.

In West Bengal, voting for the eight parliamentary constituencies took place today in the sixth phase of the Lok Sabha elections. The results of the polls will be declared on May 23.

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In what could spell serious trouble for the Congress party amidst the ongoing Lok Sabha polls, there are reports of Telangana Congress leaders being upset with the state Congress president Nalamada Uttam Kumar Reddy and general secretary Ramachandra Khuntia.

The grand old party is in a sorry state in Telangana with the situation becoming worse day-by-day due to the rift between senior and junior leadership. The rift came to fore on Saturday when a scuffle broke out between senior Congress leaders V Hanumantha Rao and Nagesh Mudhiraj during a protest held here by opposition parties, against the alleged goof-up of the state government in the intermediate results of Telangana state board.

Earlier Sarve Satyanarayana, former Union Minister was suspended by Uttam Kumar Reddy after he blamed him and Khuntia for party's defeat during a meeting held to analyse the election results in Malkajgiri parliamentary constituency. The former minister also allegedly hurled a water bottle at Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee (TPCC) Chief Secretary Bollu Krishna.

In the recently held Assembly Elections in the state, Marri Shashidar Reddy, a four-time MLA and former minister was not given ticket by the Congress party. Marri Reddy blamed Uttam Kumar for the same accusing the state Congress president of backstabbing him.

Congress won just 19 out of 119 seats in the Assembly Elections but many of its MLAs have already defected to the ruling Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) party.

Another Congress leader Danam Nagender had left the party even before Assembly Elections and joined TRS. He went on to win from Khairatabad seat.

Similarly, senior Congress leader D K Aruna also left the party and joined BJP.

Notably, most of the leaders who left Congress blamed Uttam Kumar's and Khuntia's leadership. According to party sources, several MLAs are planning to quit the party in the absence of leadership and conflict between the party leaders.

In fact, some Congress leaders are reportedly unhappy by former Telugu Desam Party (TDP) leader Reventh Reddy entry into the party.

The silver lining for Congress is that Lok Sabha polls for all the 17 seats of the state were held in the first phase on April 11 itself.

Nevertheless, any such "untoward" developments could strike a severe blow to the party's hopes of a revival in the state.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Two terrorists were gunned down on Sunday during an encounter with security forces in Shopian district, Jammu and Kashmir police said.

Arms and ammunition were found at the site in Hend-Sitapur area where the brief exchange of fire took place, they said. The identity and affiliation of the terrorists are being ascertained.

"It was a clean operation and no collateral damage took place," the police said.

People have been asked not to venture into the encounter site and cooperate with the authorities until the area is completely sanitised and cleared of any explosive material.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Union Minister Babul Supriyo on Sunday alleged that his security personnel's vehicles were attacked with stones by the Trinamool Congress (TMC) 'goons' near Basirhat.

Supriyo said that he had gone for a rally for BJP candidate Sayantan Basu and while returning the attack took place.

"Driving bk frm Bashirhat after a rwlly for fellow BJP candidate SayantanBasu*Stopped 2 hv some tea*People taking selfies, cordial chats but suddenly a bunch of #TMchhi goons arrive & start shouting dirty slogans!Resisted by my security, they break their car & try on me too #TMchhi," Supriyo tweeted about the incident.

The perpetrators of the attack have been taken to a detention place near Basirhat city, police said.

Supriyo is safe as his security personnel rescued him from the attackers.

The state leadership of BJP has filed a written complaint along with the video footage as proof with the Election Commission of India (ECI).

Supriyo spoke directly to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Minister Rajnath Singh about the incident.

BJP has demanded the removal of the head of the police of the district.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu on Sunday urged the leaders to work together to promote dialogue, harmony, and justice based on compassion and wisdom.

Delivering a keynote address at the 16th United Nations Day of Visek in Vietnam's Ha Nam province, Naidu called for enlightened global leadership to ensure a conflict-free order based on peace and sustainable development.

The Vice President also elaborated on the virtues of Buddhism and its relevance to the present times.

"Buddhist approach of righteous behaviour, wisdom, compassion, and camaraderie, and reduction of Trishna (greed) offers a set of building blocks for the architecture of a new order where violence and conflict are minimized and development takes place without degrading the natural resources," said Naidu.

The Vice President stressed that avoiding extreme positions and adopting a 'middle path' as taught by Buddha leads to realising the truth, which further leads to avoiding conflict, reconciliation of different viewpoints and achieving consensus.

Noting that the genesis of conflict has roots in the idea of hate violence originating from an individual's mind-space, Naidu said that the growing menace of terrorism is a manifestation of this destructive emotion.

"The proponents of ideologies of hate need to be constructively engaged to avoid mindless death and destruction and there is no higher bliss than peace as stated by Buddha'' said Naidu.

Naidu delivered his address in the presence of Myanmar President Win Myint and Nepal Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli among others on the final day of the four-day official visit to Vietnam.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu held talks with Vietnamese Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc in Hanoi on Saturday.

The two discussed a wide range of issues and underscored the importance of strengthening the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two nations to ensure peace and security in the region.

During his talks, Naidu reiterated that cordial and friendly relations between India and Vietnam have been strengthened by bonds of Buddhism and Hinduism.

Referring to the growing cooperation between two nations in different fields, Naidu informed Xuan Phuc that India was ready to partner with Vietnam in satellite construction, both for civilian and non-civilian uses. He also assured him that India remains committed to extending cooperation in training and capacity building of Vietnam's defence forces as that country's requirement.

Seeking Vietnam Prime Minister's personal intervention in facilitating the entry of Indian pharmaceutical products into their country, the Vice President assured him that the Indian companies can provide high tech health systems and medicines for public health in Vietnam at an affordable cost. This will make health services more affordable and reduce the insurance burden on the Government of Vietnam, he added.

The two leaders exchanged gifts at the end of the meeting.

Earlier in the day, Naidu, who is a four-day visit to the country, attended the inaugural ceremony of Jaipur Artificial Limb Fitment camp at the Indian Embassy in Hanoi. He also played floral tributes to the statue of Mahatma Gandhi situation within the premises of Indian Embassy.

The Vice Presiden also attended a Gala Dinner Reception hosted by the Chairperson of the National Assembly of Vietnam, Ms. Nguyen Thi Kim Ngan at the National Convention Centre.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
A scuffle broke out between TMC and BJP workers on Sunday at polling booth number 254 in Bankura after BJP alleged rigging by TMC workers.

Police had to interfere in order to disperse the two groups who were on the verge of clashing.

Elections in West Bengal have been marred with instances of violence, despite the presence of central security forces, with both BJP and TMC accusing each other of rigging, interfering in polling booths and threatening each other cadres.

Earlier, ahead of the commencement of polling in West Bengal on Sunday, three BJP workers were attacked in separate incidents, officials said.

In East Medinipur, BJP workers Ananta Guchait and Ranjit Maity were shot at last night in Bhagabanpur area. The injured were admitted to a hospital soon after the incident and are undergoing treatment.

Meanwhile, BJP worker Raman Singh was found dead in Gopiballabpur area of Jhargram.

BJP also accused Trinamool Congress (TMC) workers of attacking vehicles in the convoy of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP candidate from Ghatal, Bharati Ghosh, and of obstructing her entry at a polling booth in Keshpur.

Ghosh, a former IPS officer turned politician had arrived at the booth alleging that BJP polling agents were not being allowed to sit at the booth in Keshpur. She was however surrounded and heckled by female workers of TMC who tried to prevent her from entering the booth. The attack on her convoy resulted in severe injuries to one of her security personnel.

Ghosh is taking on sitting MP and Bengali actor-turned-lawmaker Deepak Adhikari from TMC.

Polling is underway for the sixth phase of elections in the country for 59 Lok Sabha seats, including 7 in Delhi, 8 in Bihar, 10 in Haryana, 8 in Madhya Pradesh, 14 in Uttar Pradesh, 8 in West Bengal and 4 in Jharkhand.

Results of the seven-phase elections will be declared on May 23.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
A BJP worker was killed in West Bengal's Jhargram district amid widespread violence in the sixth phase of polling on Sunday which saw the saffron party's candidate from Ghatal and former IPS officer Bharati Ghosh seek refuge inside a temple after being chased by Trinamool Congress supporters.

Reports of violence, clashes between political workers and intimidation of voters multiplied as voting progressed in the eight Lok Sabha seats spread across five districts in West Bengal which went to the polls on Sunday.

A BJP activist, identified as Ramen Singh (30) from Gopiballabpur in Jhargram constituency's, sustained grievous head injury after being hit with an iron rod. He was rushed to a hospital where he was declared dead, the police said. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) later accused that miscreants backed by the Trinamool Congress were behind the crime.

In West Midnapore district's Ghatal, BJP candidate Bharati Ghosh was forced to take shelter inside a temple beside the Keshpur police station after being heckled and chased by Trinamool supporters, who accused her of instigating disturbance in the area.

Rapid Action Force (RAF) and the police had to resort to lathi charge to dispurse the crowd. She was later rescued and given shelter in the Keshpur police station.

The mob led by Trinamool Congress supporters got infuriated after one of her security guards allegedly opened fire, reportedly injuring a Trinamool worker.

Ghosh, a former IPS officer and once a trusted lieutenant of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, was earlier stopped by the police from moving around in her vehicle without permission.

"I sought permission and it was given. Now, they are denying it. My car has been seized and it was a ploy to deter me from moving around the constituency," Ghosh said.

Later, bricks were pelted on her convoy near Keshpur, injuring one of her security guards as her car, along with some other vehicles belonging to the media, were vandalised.

Ghosh alleged that she was assaulted by the agitating Trinamool supporters.

Her security personnel claimed that they had to fire in the air in a bid to control the situation and to save their own lives. However, a Trinamool worker was allegedly injured in the firing.

Earlier in the day, Ghosh was also stopped from entering a polling station by a group of women, said to be Trinamool workers, who accused her of influencing the voters.

However, Ghosh accused the ruling Trinamool Congress of organised violence and demanded that the offenders be immediately arrested.

"I am a candidate. I can always enter a polling booth. Those who are trying to stop me should be arrested. They (Trinamool) are resorting to organised violence against me," Ghosh said before leaving the spot.

Refuting her allegations, Trinamool leader and state Minister Firhad Hakim said, "She was instigating violence in the area and was threatening our workers. She was trying to enter the booth with his agent who was an outsider. Usually, agents sitting in the booths are locals and an outsider is not allowed."

In another incident, bombs were allegedly hurled targeting her convoy in Jhetla area.

Incidents of sporadic violence were also reported from the Midnapore constituency where the saffron party's state unit chief Dilip Ghosh is engaged in a high-profile battle with Trinamool Congress' Rajya Sabha member Manas Bhunia.

At least four Trinamool activists had to be hospitalised after being attacked with sharp weapons allegedly by the BJP supporters. The condition of one person was critical.

Meanwhile, a number of BJP supporters got injured in the constituency's Datan area following a clash with the Trinamool workers.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Over 16 per cent people voted across eight Lok Sabha constituencies in West Bengal on Sunday where polling for the sixth phase of the Lok Sabha election was underway amid reports of violence that left a BJP activist dead.

Polling was highest in Tamluk (20.73 per cent), followed by Bishnupur (18.89), Ghatal (18.50), Jhargram (18.49), Purulia (16.92), Medinipur (16.05), Kanthi (12.05) and Bankura (11.62 per cent).

An electorate of around 1,33,56,964 is eligible to decide the fate of 83 candidates. The polling started at 7 a.m. and would continue till 6 p.m.

For the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which is aiming to make it big in Bengal this time, the sixth phase is perhaps the most crucial. It includes four constituencies with sizeable tribal population.

Violence was reported from parts of Bengal, even before the polling started, as a middle-aged BJP activist was killed in Jhargram, Bengal's tribal heartland.

Ramen Singh (30) from Jhargram constituency's Gopiballabpur sustained a grievous head injury after being hit with an iron rod. He was rushed to a hospital where he was declared dead, police said.

In East Midnapore district's Kanthi, shots were fired by unidentified assailants injuring at least two persons, who were rushed to a hospital in Kolkata.

Incidents of violence and clashes were reported from Midnapore constituency where the saffron party's state unit chief Dilip Ghosh is engaged in a high profile battle with Trinamool Congress' Rajya Sabha member Manas Bhunia.

At least four Trinamool Party activists had to be hospitalized after being attacked with sharp weapons allegedly by BJP supporters. The condition of one person was critical.

Meanwhile, a number of saffron party supporters got injured in the constituency's Datan area following a clash with Trinamool workers.

BJP candidate from West Midnapore district's Ghatal and former IPS officer Bharati Ghosh was stopped from entering a polling booth by a group of women Trinamool Congress workers who accused her of influencing the voters.

Ghosh accused the ruling party of organised violence and demanded that the offenders be immediately arrested.

Later, bricks were pelted on her convoy near Keshpur, injuring one of her security guards.

Ghosh alleged she was also assaulted by the agitating Trinamool supporters.

A total of 770 companies of central forces have been deployed in the state's tribal heartland as well as the seats in Junglemahal, once a hotbed of Maoists.

According to an analysis done by the West Bengal Election Watch and Association for Democratic Reforms, 16 candidates have assets worth over Rs 1 crore and 28 declared criminal cases against themselves.

The seventh and final phase of polling in the state will be held on May 19. The votes will be counted on May 23.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Uttar Pradesh recorded around 21.98 per cent polling till 11 a.m. on Sunday for 14 of the state's 80 constituencies in the sixth phase of the Lok Sabha elections. There was a steady stream of people to polling booths as polling began at 7 a.m.

Till 11 a.m., Sultanpur recorded 25.41 per cent voter turnout, Pratapgarh 23.13, Phulpur 18.20, Allahabad 20, Ambedkar Nagar 25, Shravasti 21.34, Dumariyaganj 19.20, Basti 26.39, Sant Kabir Nagar 22.90, Lalganj 23.66, Azamgarh 19.80, Jaunpur 22.40, Machhlishahr 18.40 and Bhadohi 21.90 per cent.

Violence broke out in Umri village in Bhadohi and several vehicles were torched after a Police Inspector slapped a villager, who complained about lack of shade for the voters in queue at a polling booth. District Election Officer Rajendra Prasad said officials were later instructed to improve the arrangements.

Dozens of voters in Bhadohi's Singhpur village could not vote as there names were missing from the electoral roles. Voting was delayed in some booths in Jaunpur and Machhlishahr due to technical glitches in EVMs.

In Pratapgarh district, Congress leader Pramod Tiwari and Kunda MLA Raja Bhaiya have been put under house arrest, along with 11 others, as a preventive measure. All of them will be able to leave their homes only to cast their votes.

Of the polling stations, 4,995 have been categorised as "sensitive", an official euphemism to mean they are prone to violence. Paramilitary troopers were deployed in these booths.

Umashankar Singh voted at polling booth no. 282 in Machhlishahr constituency after performing the last rites of his elder brother at Manikarnika Ghat in Varanasi.

Chief Electoral Officer L. Venkateshwarlu said that a total of 2.57 crore voters are eligible to decide the fate of 177 candidates in this phase.

Prominent candidates include former Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav, who is contesting from Azamgarh, Bharatiya Janata Party's Rita Bahuguna (Allahabad) and Union Minister Maneka Gandhi (Sultanpur).

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Bihar on Sunday witnessed 52.02 per cent polling till 3 p.m. for the eight Lok Sabha seats in the state's Bhojpuri-speaking northern belt, amid reports of an incident in Sheohar where a polling official was injured by a stray bullet accidentally fired by a home guard, an election official said.

More than 1.38 crore voters will decide the fate of 127 candidates in Gopalganj, Siwan, Maharajganj, East Champaran, West Champaran, Valmiki Nagar, Sheohar and Vaishali constituencies.

Despite the scorching heat, voters came out to vote in large numbers, the official added.

"In the initial polling, women in large numbers were seen standing outside polling booths. They aimed to escape the scorching sun and hot winds (loo) later in the day."

Voting was delayed in a few polling booths across the eight seats due to the malfunctioning of Electronic Voting Machines (EVM).

Union Minister Radha Mohan Singh cast his vote in Motihari and Hina Sahab, the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) candidate from Siwan, also exercised her franchise.

A Sheohar polling official was seriously injured when the bullet accidentally fired by the home guard hit him in the stomach, said a district police official. He was rushed to the hospital.

Heavy security arrangements were in place with three helicopters requisitioned to provide air cover to the security forces. The India-Nepal border has also been sealed.

The stakes are high for the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party-led NDA in this phase as it aims to retain all the eight seats it won in the 2014 elections.

For the opposition's Grand Alliance, its a win-win situation as it eyes to gain some seats with nothing to lose.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Soon after the polling ended for Delhi's seven Lok Sabha seats, alcohol shops across the city saw large number of customers even as some outlets declared they were out of stock and some only had limited varieties due to a stop of liquor sale a day ago.

The situation arose as liquor shops across Delhi, as per government and Election Commission orders, were asked to close their stores as campaigning ended at 6 p.m. on Friday and reopen only after the polling for the sixth phase ended at 6 p.m. on Sunday.

The demand was high in east, north, west and outer Delhi areas while south and New Delhi functioned as routine with little rush.

According to some alcohol shop managers, they went out of stock on Friday itself and whatever remained was not enough to fulfil the demands of consumers on Sunday.

"As Saturday was a dry day (no liquor sales), people had purchased more alcohol on Friday. Because of high demands, we went out of stock on Friday. The remaining bottles are not enough to fulfil the demands today (Sunday). As the shops were closed for more than 36 hours, beer bottles are not cold enough," a liquor shop owner in east Delhi's Shahdara said.

Asked if the demand was higher after the polls than normal days, another liquor shop owner in Mayur Vihar Phase II, said: "The demand is as usual like common days. As the liquor stock in my shop is not enough compared to other days, it seems the demand is more."

Arpit Srivastava (name changed), a customer at a liquor shop in Yamuna Vihar in east Delhi, said beer bottles are very cold and the liquor he preferred was not available at any of five outlets where he had visited after the polling ended.

Saket resident Kabir Pathak said: "I am not much bothered as I had purchased enough bottles on Friday. I was looking for some cold beer but it does not matter if I don't get it."

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Employees from e-commerce giant Amazon have been "mistakenly" taking down ads with religious content that has negatively affected the sale of products from some small sellers.

Multiple sellers have seen their product ads getting suspended in recent months for having religious content. These sellers were told through email that their ads were getting blocked due to a "new policy update" at Amazon which bans any ad that contains "religious content", CNBC reported on Saturday,

Explaining itself on the subject, Amazon said the company is now implementing "corrective training" to clarify what kind of religious material is acceptable.

"Products related to a specific religion are not allowed to be advertised. The email viewed contains inaccurate information and our long standing policies have not changed. Corrective training is being provided to the relevant teams," the report quoted an Amazon spokesperson as saying.

It remains unclear how so many workers collectively misunderstood what the company implied in its policies.

Amazon's ad policies bar ads that "advocate or demean" a religion, but that does not preclude selling religious material in the first place, Engadget reported.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
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In spite of the intense heat and day-long fasts observed during the ongoing holy month of Ramzan, a huge number of Muslims came out in Delhi's Chandni Chowk Lok Sabha constituency to exercise their franchise on Sunday.

Ramzan, when Muslims observe a total fast, coincided with the polling in Delhi but did not seem to deter voters in the Chandni Chowk area of the old city, save in the early hours. However, as the day progressed, people came out to cast their votes and numbers started increasing in the evening.

Around 20 per cent of people living in the area are Muslims.

Mohammad Sajjad, who came with his family to vote during the day time, said that he could not exercise his right earlier as he had slept early in the morning after 'Sehri' (the meal prior to the fast) and the morning namaaz.

As it was Sunday, he said he had decided to vote later.

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Afzal Ahmad told IANS that during Ramzan, "most of the people wake up for sehri, offer prayers, and go back to sleep again. This changes their routine. So less people have turned up to vote in the morning as they must be sleeping now".

He said that surge in the voting percentage was felt in the daytime as most of the Muslims came out then.

Workers of other political parties in the area also echoed this view and expressed hope that voting numbers will rise further in the evening.

Mohammad Islam, of the Bharatiya Janata Party, told IANS that in the morning, they have witnessed a lesser number of Muslim voters.

Chandni Chowk is one of the major markets in the city but it wore deserted look on Sunday, when it remains closed.

As the polling day fell of a Sunday, this could also account for the lesser numbers, said Mohammad Asif, a trader in Meena Bazar near the Jama Masjid.

"In addition to being Ramzan, today is Sunday, which a weekly-off for many. On Sunday, people here prefer to sleep late till noon," Asif told IANS.

"However, I am quite hopeful that there will a rise in number of voting percentage at the end of the day."

However, Asif and Mohammad Firoz, who works in a garage, were among those who did not go back to sleep after Sehri prayers, and went to vote.

"We would have woken up early anyway as we have our work commitments," Asif said.

Maqood and Islam, who are auto-drivers, said that they have to earn their livelihood, so both cast their vote in the morning before starting to ply their vehicles in search of passengers.

Mohammad Aneesh, who ran a ration shop in Chandni Chowk, however, said he and his family had decided to vote latter.

"This is one of the major festivals of this country where we decide our top leadership. I have prayed to God to bestow peace upon this country where people can live in harmony."

(Amiya Kumar Kushwaha can be reached at amiya.k@ians.in)

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Catholics in the Sri Lankan cities of Colombo and Negombo, where churches were targeted by suicide bombers on Easter Sunday, held their first Sunday masses since the attacks which brought the country to a standstill and claimed more than 250 lives.

The religious services were held under heavy security with armed guards and police officers standing outside every church. Separate security teams, comprising parish members and police, checked the identities of people.

Those attending masses underwent full-body searches and were banned from bringing bags. Roads were barricaded and guarded by soldiers, the Guardian reported.

The April 21 attacks targeted three luxury hotels, three churches and two other locations. The killings were blamed on local Islamist group National Thowheed Jamath, which is believed to have links with the Islamic State (IS) that claimed the bombings.

Archbishop of Colombo Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith had cancelled the mass for two weeks due to security concerns following the carnage.

Although the government assured the safety of people and promised action against those who had neglected their duties in taking the steps that could have prevented the last month's attack, Cardinal Ranjith said he was far from satisfied.

While addressing the memorial service in St. Lucia's Cathedral for victims of St. Anthony's Church in Colombo, Cardinal Ranjith said both officials and politicians responsible for the attack should be punished.

At Mother of Seven Sorrows Mater Dolorosa Church, two streets away from St. Anthony's, devotees trickled in until the building was full.

There were many who didn't feel safe enough to come to church.

"It was our safe place. During the times of insurrections in the past, during the time of war, we always ran to the church for protection, the terrorists then didn't attack churches. But this time they attacked the very place we run for safety," said a tearful Chani Salgado who experienced the horror of the Easter Sunday blasts.

Despite her fears, Salgado came to Dolarosa Church. But her 13-year-old son doesn't want to come to church yet. "He told me, 'ammi (mom) if something happens don't look for others, they will find their way, you come out, ok'. It broke my heart," Salgado told Efe news.

Father Fernando Marcelliar, who led the service at Dolarosa Church, said: "The parishioners were really upset that we didn't have a mass the last two weeks."

More than a dozen children in the congregation were having counselling. "One mother told me yesterday that her son of eight years gets excited even by the slightest noise and doesn't sleep well at night," he said.

The masses in the two cities -- services elsewhere in the country had restarted earlier -- were small steps towards the resumption of normal life.

A heavy police and army presence is still visible in major cities as security forces continue the hunt for accomplices of the terror cell that carried out the bombings.

Sri Lankan authorities say most of the 150 people suspected to have been linked to the plot have died or been arrested.

President Maithripala Sirisena had said 56 had been arrested on suspicion of direct involvement in the plot, of which 12 were hardcore terrorists.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Former Union Minister Shakeel Ahmad, suspended by the Congress for contesting the Lok Sabha elections as an Independent from Madhubani, has said the partys action against him was harsh and that he contested the polls as the candidate of the Grand Alliance was "weak" to defeat the BJP.

He also said that the Congress, which is contesting nine of the 40 seats in Bihar, should have contested at least 12 seats in the state as part of the alliance. "Congress got less seats. It should have got at least 12 seats. It led to demoralisation in Bihar Congress," Ahmad told IANS in an interview.

He also alleged that "people brought from outside" were given tickets on some seats.

Ahmad said the sole purpose of the alliance was to defeat the BJP, but in Madhubani the ticket was given to a weak candidate of a new party. "The candidate who was put up by a totally new party was too weak to contest against the BJP. So I decided to contest independently," he said.

Ahmad, a former MP from Madhubani, said that he had information that the state Congress leaders who were negotiating with the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) did not seek this seat "under the influence of an RJD leader". However, Congress President Rahul Gandhi tried at the eleventh hour to get the seat for the party but it was too late by then.

Ahmad also said that he was suspended, not expelled, from the party and that he had not left the Congress. "I was in Congress, I am in Congress and I will remain in Congress throughout my life," he said.

Ahmad also said that the RJD had put up a candidate in Chatra in Jharkhand against the common candidate of the alliance in the state.

He said he had requested the party that he should be given the party symbol or its support to fight as an Independent. "I did not get support and was suspended on the eve of the polling day," Ahmad said.

He also said the party had a right to take action. "But in these circumstances, when other partners of the alliance are openly going against the alliance ethos and putting up candidates directly and indirectly, it looks harsh. And that too on the eve of polling day," he said.

Asked if the suspension had damaged his prospects, he said there was a mixed response.

"It had a little bit of demoralising effect on my well-wishers, but it was reported in the media that it was done under pressure from (RJD leader) Tejashwi Yadav. So certain sections of the society became sympathetic towards me," he said.

Asked about his chances of winning, Ahmad said he was not in the habit of making tall claims. "All I can say at this juncture is that I am in the contest," he said.

The Congress is contesting the Lok Sabha polls in Bihar as part of the Grand Alliance which includes the RJD and the Vikassheel Insaan Party (VIP), among others.

In Madhubani, the Grand Alliance candidate is Badri Purve of the fledgling VIP.

--IANS

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(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The CPI-M on Sunday wrote to the Election Commission (EC) demanding action against Prime Minister Narendra Modi for making claims about his role in the Balakot air strike in a television interview and said that they violated the model code of conduct.

In the letter addressed to Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora, CPI-M leader Sitaram Yechury accused the Prime Minister of making "outrageous claims" on the Balakot air strike in a television channel.

"The interview wherein Modi gave out operational details of a sensitive military mission, with a purpose to influence the voters during the silent period of the campaign, needs to be recorded and acted upon by the Commission," Yechury said.

During a television interview aired on Saturday, Modi claimed that the Indian Air Force (IAF) was in two minds to carry out the air strike in Balakot in Pakistan due to adverse weather conditions.

The Prime Minister claimed that the experts were in favour of deferring the strike, but he overruled them. The cloudy sky, Modi said, could be advantageous as the IAF planes would then escape detection by Pakistani radars. Modi also said he relied on his "raw wisdom" to dispel the doubts of the experts.

Yechury said the statement and the behaviour of the Prime Minister were in clear violation of the model code of conduct. In his letter, Yechury also said there were reports that Modi had again used the armed forces to seek votes at a rally in Kushinagar in Uttar Pradesh on Sunday.

"We have raised similar incidents of the Prime Minister violating the EC norms in the past too, but the Commission seems to think that Shri Modi and Shri Amit Shah are above the electoral process and the model code of conduct does not apply to them," Yechury wrote.

"Modi's words are truly shameful. Most importantly, because they insult our Air Force as being ignorant and unprofessional. The fact that he is talking about all this is itself anti-national; no patriot would do this," Yechury had tweeted after the interview was aired.

In another tweet, Yechury said, "National security is not something to be trifled with. Such an irresponsible statement from Modi is highly damaging. Somebody like this can't remain India's PM."

--IANS

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Over 70 years after they became separate countries and have largely witnessed at best strained to downright hostile ties, India and Pakistan have been brought on common ground by a religious monument of faith - the Kartarpur Sahib gurdwara.

If the activity, as seen from this border town in north Punjab's Gurdaspur district, on both sides of the international border (IB) between the two countries is any indication, Sikh and Hindu pilgrims from secular India will be headed to Islamic Pakistan through a specially created corridor that will facilitate their visa-free travel to the Kartarpur Sahib gurdwara to offer prayers at the shrine that holds a lot of religious significance on both sides.

As one stands at the Viewers' Gallery at the border out post (BoP) manned by India's Border Security Force (BSF) troopers, the hectic activity to build the Kartarpur Corridor inside Pakistan can be partially scene beyond the "dhussi" (earthen embankment) with heavy machinery and men tasked to complete the task at hand.

The deadline, for both countries, to ensure that the corridor project is completed, is before November this year, when the 550th birth anniversary celebrations of Sikhism founder, Guru Nanak Dev (1469-1539) is going to be observed in both countries.

What makes the Kartarpur Sahib gurdwara, which is located around 4.5-km from the IB and is in Narowal district of Pakistan, significant for the Sikh community is that Guru Nanak spent the last 18 years of his life there and was it is his final resting place.

"It has been the cherished desire of every Sikh on this side of the border to visit Kartarpur Sahib. The prayers have been answered after over 70 years. We are all just waiting for the moment when going there will actually become a reality for people from India," Joginder Singh, a village elder distributing aprasad' outside the Gurdwara Saheed Baba Singh Sohn at the BoP, told IANS.

Scores of people arrive at the BoP, located 2 km ahead of Dera Baba Nanak (DBN) town, daily to have 'darshan' (glimpse) of the Kartarpur Sahib gurdwara from the viewers' gallery under the watchful eye of the BSF troopers and the recently stationed Punjab Police personnel.

"This pilgrimage is important. It will be great when people will be able to actually go and offer prayers at the gurdwara in Pakistan," Manjeet Singh, a farmer from Karnal district in Haryana, over 360 km from here, told IANS.

The white-coloured gurdwara building is visible on clear days from the elevated Viewers' Gallery.

"People come here and offer prayers. On weekends and holidays, hundreds of people come here," a BSF official from its 10th battalion posted here told IANS.

On the Indian side, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has put up red flags to mark the area where a highway is proposed from DBN till the IB. The Punjab government has initiated the land acquisition process for the highway and other facilities for pilgrims. The work in Punjab side is not as much as it is in the Pakistan side where the actual corridor, with a proper security fencing, is coming up.

The importance of the Kartarpur Corridor can be gauged from the fact that governments in both countries are dealing with this matter of faith with utmost sensitivity.

The project's ground-breaking ceremony in Pakistan saw the country's Prime Minister Imran Khan and Army Chief Qamar Javed Bajwa in attendance (on November 28) while the foundation stone on the India side had Vice President M. Venkaiah Naidu and Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh present (on November 26).

As per the draft shared by the Pakistan government with India, it has been proposed that 500 pilgrims will be allowed to move through the Corridor from India daily. However, Pakistan has proposed entry of only Sikh devotees which is being objected to Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh has protested against Pakistan's proposal to allow only Sikh pilgrims to visit Kartarpur Sahib gurdwara.

Pointing out that Guru Nanak Dev, who was born in a Hindu family and is revered by followers of all religions, especially Hindus, the Chief Minister has urged the Indian government to get this move rectified.

"The Sikh ethos prescribes non-discrimination, with even the concept of langar being caste-less service for all. Gurdwaras are open to all, without religious bias. A large number of Hindus in India were ardent followers of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji, and it was their cherished dream to visit the Kartarpur Sahib Gurdwara, which was closely associated with the first Sikh Guru," he said.

"For years, there was a tradition of Hindu families in north India converting their eldest sons to Sikhism," Rupinder Singh, a Sikh researcher, pointed out.

For both the nuclear-armed nations that have fought three wars and talk only about cross-border terrorism not trade, the leap through faith to have cross-border pilgrimage going through the Kartarpur Corridor could be a significant milestone in the rocky ties between the neighbours.

(The weekly feature series is part of a positive-journalism project of IANS and the Frank Islam Foundation.)

--IANS

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Protesters blocked a highway in the Shadipora area of Bandipora district in Jammu and Kashmir on Sunday demanding death penalty for a man accused of raping a three-year-old girl of Trehgam village on Thursday.

The accused, Tahir Ahmad Mir, has been arrested. According to the police, Mir had produced a certificate showing him as a minor, which authorities said was fake since he is 20 years old.

Shahbaz Mir, Bandipora District Magistrate assured protesters of a fast-track trial, which would be completed within 14 days. After the assurance, protesters dispersed peacefully.

--IANS

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Actress Deepika Padukone, who was in New York for the Met Gala earlier this week, ensured she took out time to meet veteran actors Rishi Kapoor and Neetu Kapoor, parents of her former beau Ranbir Kapoor.

Neetu called Deepika "adorable", and took to her Instagram page to share three photographs from their meeting. They are all smiles and huddled up in the pictures.

"Such a fun evening with adorable Deepika Padukone. Gave lot of love and warmth," Neetu wrote.

Her daughter Riddhima Kapoor Sahni commented with heart emojis in the comments section.

Rishi has been in New York for several months for treatment. Just last month, his brother Randhir Kapoor said Rishi will be back in the India in a few months, amid reports that he is now "cancer free".

Neetu has been by Rishi's side, and keeps fans updated with photographs of some of their special moments. Various Bollywood stars, including Aamir Khan, Priyanka Chopra Jonas and Anupam Kher have met Rishi in New York.

--IANS

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If you have missed to track the ongoing Lok Sabha election, and on May 12 you are trying to understand how it is going and overall what is the mood of India -- just look at Delhi's seven Lok Sabha seats. Delhi is a smaller version of political India, often called mini India. It has always mirrored the larger India in the Lok Sabha elections.

Look at the historic Lok Sabha election results of Delhi and India, and you will know that Delhi has always precisely reflected the national results. Pick any Lok Sabha election, enlarge the Delhi numbers to map it to the national level, and you will have an idea how the larger India has polled in that election.

Starting from the 1977 Lok Sabha election, when the first ever non-Congress government was formed, to the 2014 Lok Sabha election, when for the first time a non-Congress party had got majority of its own - Delhi has always mirrored the overall mood of India.

The 1977 Lok Sabha election, which was the first to be held after the Emergency imposed by the Indira Gandhi government in June 1975, reflected a clear anti-Congress sentiment throughout the country. This had resulted in an unprecedented win of 345 out of 542 Lok Sabha seats for the Janata Party, and Delhi had truly reflected the mood in the country by electing seven out of seven candidates of the Janata Party.

For the first time in the history of independent India, a non-Congress government was formed in the country at the centre. But this government didn't last for long, and the next Lok Sabha election was held in 1980. In this election, the Delhi election results were completely the reverse of the 1977 mandate - all seven MPs elected were from the Congress party, and again Delhi was in complete sync with India. The Congress party with 353 Lok Sabha seats was back in power.

After the unfortunate assassination of Indira Gandhi in 1984, the next Lok Sabha election was held a year prior to the schedule. There was a sympathy wave throughout the country in support of Rajiv Gandhi and the Congress party, and the Congress party had swept the entire country by winning 402 out of 514 Lok Sabha seats, and Delhi was once again very clear and in sync with India with its mandate of seven out of seven for the Congress party. The government of Rajiv Gandhi completed five years of its term.

Then there was 1989 Lok Sabha election - Congress was once again unpopular due to various facts known to everyone. In the election, the Congress party had won the highest number of seats (197), but the Janata Dal (143) with an alliance with the BJP (85) and support of the Communist parties had formed the government.

The numbers in Delhi were -- BJP-4, Congress-2, Janata Dal-1, which was not in proportion to the numbers at the national level. But if we mistake it to think that the Delhi results did not reflect India, we got it wrong. We must remember the fact that in this election, the BJP had grown from two MPs to 85 MPs, and that was unprecedented growth for a party, and Delhi didn't miss to read it and reflect this massive change in the of the country with its results.

Like the 1977 Janata Party government, the 1989 Janata Dal-led government as well did not last for long - at first the V.P. Singh government fell due to the split in the Janata Dal, and later the minority government of Chandra Shekhar fell when the Congress party withdrew support.

The country was forced to face another general election in 1991. In an unfortunate suicide attack, Rajiv Gandhi was assassinated during the campaign of the second phase of the election. This once again had created a sympathy for the Gandhi family and the Congress party. Though it did not create a wave like in 1984, the Congress party won 244 seats and was able to form the government. The Delhi numbers were -- BJP-5, Congress-2. This once again truly reflected the fact that the BJP was not only able to hold its increased support base, but was able to grow further to 120 Lok Sabha seats.

Five years later, in the 1996 Lok Sabha election, the BJP continued to grow further by winning 160 seats and become the single largest party for the first time. The Delhi results with five Lok Sabha seats for the BJP and two seats for the Congress party were in sync with the national results. The BJP-led NDA had formed the government under the leadership of Atal Bihari Vajpayee, but it lasted just for 13 days. Later H.D. Deve Gowda and Inder Kumar Gujral became prime minister with outside support from the Congress party.

Like the 1989 Lok Sabha, this Lok Sabha did not last for long either, and another general election was necessitated in 1998. In this election, the BJP won 182 seats and the Delhi contribution to it was six out of seven seats. An NDA government was formed under the leadership of Vajpayee which later lost a trust vote by one vote causing the government to fall. No other alliance had the numbers, and so, there was another general election in 1999, in which the NDA further increased its tally and Delhi elected seven out of seven candidates for the BJP.

In the next two Lok Sabha elections held in 2004 and 2009, it was the Congress party which had formed the government and had run the government successfully for the two terms. The Delhi numbers in the two elections were BJP-1, Congress-5 and BJP-0, Congress -7 respectively. Once again Delhi had correctly reflected the mood of the country.

In the 2014 Lok Sabha election, the BJP got a majority of its own, and to no surprise of anyone, Delhi, like always, was in sync with the national tally. The numbers were -- BJP-7, Congress-0 and AAP-0.

Now it's the 2019 Lok Sabha elections -- five phases of the election are done -- in the sixth phase all the seven Lok Sabha seats of Delhi went to the polls on Sunday.

The big question is: Will Delhi continue to reflect the mood of the country in 2019? Historic results suggest that it has never differed with the overall mandate for the country. So, with that assumption, will it give a mixed mandate or will it make it decisive in favour of one of the three political forces in the fray in Delhi and in India -- the BJP-led NDA, the Congress-led UPA and the regional parties, and AAP in Delhi.

As per many surveys and analysis, the BJP is ahead of its opponents in Delhi, but it does not have a definite edge like in 2014. But like in many other parts of the country, in Delhi as well the opposition is not united, even after discussing it till the end. And this is making the contest less difficult for the BJP in Delhi and everywhere else in the country.

(Rahul Vatsa is a researcher, the opinion expressed is personal)

--IANS

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Representatives of 20 election bodies from across the world witnessed the ongoing Lok Sabha elections in Delhi and around, the Election Commission said on Sunday.

"Heads and representatives of 20 Election Management Bodies (EMBs) from across the world, namely Australia, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Fiji, Georgia, Kenya, Republic of Korea (South Korea), Kyrgyzstan, Malaysia, Mexico, Myanmar, Romania, Russia, Sri Lanka, Suriname, United Arab Emirates, Uzbekistan and Zimbabwe and International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (IDEA) have arrived in New Delhi to witness the ongoing General Elections," the poll panel said.

"More than 65 such delegates have been invited by Election Commission of India to join the Election Visitors Programme," the poll panel said.

The delegates visited various polling stations in North West Delhi, East Delhi, Chandni Chowk, South Delhi as well as Gurugram in neighbouring Haryana through the day to see the polling in action and the festive air that surrounds polling.

They visited some polling stations which are managed entirely by women polling staff as also some model polling stations with the best of facilities for the voters.

On May 11, the eve of elections to the sixth phase, the delegates visited South Delhi, East Delhi, Chandni Chowk, West Delhi and Gurgaon Parliamentary constituencies to get a glimpse of the poll preparedness activities, dispatch of polling parties and the massive logistic arrangements put in place to ensure a free, fair and festive elections.

Thereafter, the delegation visited the India International Institute of Democracy and Election Management (IIIDEM), the new training and research campus of the EC located at Dwarka which has the capacity to train close to 900 personnel at one go.

They interacted with the polling officials and understood the procedures and processes that make our elections so credible and transparent, the EC said.

--IANS

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A former journalist and cultural adviser to the lower house of Parliament has been shot dead by unknown gunmen in Kabul, just days after she shared on social media that her life was in danger.

Mena Mangal made her name as a presenter on the Pashto-language channel Tolo TV, Afghanistan's largest private broadcaster, and later with local TV networks such as LEMAR TV, Shamshad News and Ariana TV.

She came under attack in Kart-e-Naw area in Kabul's PD8 in broad daylight on Saturday, the Ministry of Interior Affairs said in a statement.

The police have started an investigation into the incident, Ministry's spokesman Nasrat Rahimi was cited as saying by Tolo News.

The attack prompted an outpouring of grief and anger from women's rights activists, directed at "authorities who had left her unprotected in the face of threats".

"This woman had already shared that her life was in danger; why did nothing happen? We need answers," said Afghan human rights lawyer and women's rights campaigner Wazhma Frogh.

"Why is it so easy in this society (for men) to keep killing women they disagree with?"

Mangal had shared her fears in a Facebook post on May 3. She said she was being sent threatening messages but declared that a "strong woman wasn't afraid of death" and that she loved her country.

In a tearful video posted to Twitter, Mangal's mother named a group of men as suspected killers, claiming they had previously kidnapped her daughter. The group were arrested for that abduction, she said, but later bribed their way out of detention.

Mangal was also an advocate of women's rights to education and work and had recently become a cultural adviser to the lower chamber of Afghanistan's Parliament.

A few days before Mangal's murder, the Taliban attacked the headquarters of an international aid group in Kabul, citing its work on women's rights as one reason it was targeted.

Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid had said that Counterpart International had carried out "harmful western activities" in Afghanistan and was "promoting open inter-mixing between men and women".

--IANS

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Actor Rajkummar Rao is looking forward to collaborate with Janhvi Kapoor for the first time in "Rooh-Afza", a horror comedy.

Rajkummar spoke on the sidelines of a shoot for Bhamla Foundation's anti-air pollution song "Hawa aane de" here on Saturday.

Janhvi has expressed her admiration for Rajkummar's work many times.

Asked if he is excited to work with Janhvi in the film, he said: "Yes, of course... I am also very excited to work with her. I think Janhvi is a great girl, a wonderful actress and a good friend. So, I think we will have a lot fun while shooting for the film. It is a very quirky script and I am looking forward to be with her."

Rajkummar will also be seen in Ekta Kapoor's "Mental Hai Kya", which also stars Kangana Ranaut. The film will release on July 26 and it was going to clash with Hrithik Roshan-starrer "Super 30". But Hrithik urged the producers to change his movie's release date to avoid a 'media circus' due to his public feud with Kangana.

Commenting on the development, Rajkummar said: "The decision of releasing the film is not in my hand as it is in the makers' hands, so they have decided release date of the film."

Rajkummar said that he didn't have any knowledge about the issue as he was shooting for a film in Haryana.

"I have just returned from Haryana where I was shooting under 44 degree Celsius and there was no mobile network connectivity and time for me to read the news. So, I don't have any idea what has happened. Ekta madam has given an official statement and Hrithik Sir has given an official statement, so what can I say about it? It's their decision."

Produced by Dinesh Vijan and Mrighdeep Singh Lamba, "Rooh-Afza" will be directed by debutant Hardik Mehta.

The shooting will start in Uttar Pradesh in June and the film is slated to release on March 20, 2020. This will be Rajkummar's third collaboration with Vijan after "Stree" and "Made in China".

--IANS

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A woman pilgrim was killed in Kedarnath after being struck by a rock during the ongoing Chardham Yatra in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, authorities said on Sunday.

According to the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), the victim, Ojaswi (28), a resident of Malerkotla, Punjab, was hit by the rock on Saturday between the Rambara and Lincholi areas. She succumbed to her grievous head injuries later in the day.

With intermittent snowfall continuing to lash Kedarnath since Saturday, SDRF personnel have been put on alert to provide medical and other assistance to pilgrims.

"We have asked our SDRF personnel to remain alert and provide all sorts of help to pilgrims," said Ashok Kumar, Director General (DG) Law and Order.

Despite the snowfall, the pilgrimage to the four shrines of Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri and Yamunotri that began last week, has gained momentum, said Badrinath Kedarnath Temple Committee Chairman Mohan Prasad Thapliyal.

On an average, nearly 15,000 pilgrims are visiting the Badrinath and Kedarnath temples daily.

"Till Saturday, 31,801 pilgrims had already visited Badrinath temple," said Thapliyal.

Similarly, nearly 6,000 pilgrims were visiting the two shrines of Gangotri and Yamunotri in Uttarkashi district every day.

--IANS

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activists here on Sunday symbolically poured glucose and milk into the "dying and sick" Yamuna river to raise awareness about the chronic pollution plaguing the river.

Several members of the River Connect Campaign gathered by the Yamuna to express their concern for the sacred river, considered to be almost "dead" due to pollutants and effluents.

As a token of gesture, they offered boxes of glucose and milk to "Yamuna Maiyya" (mother Yamuna) on the occasion of Mothers' Day. It was also aimed at showing their affinity and bonding with the lifeline of the historic city.

"Unfortunately, the river has been reduced to a vast sewage canal," social activist Shravan Kumar Singh said.

Said Devashish Bhattacharya, "We have been demanding continuous discharge of water from upstream barrages for the survival of the river and its aquatic life. But so far nothing has been done."

Activists Ranjan Sharma and Shailendra Singh Narwaar said a barrage downstream of the Taj Mahal was the need of the hour, but despite promises by the Yogi Adityanath government, no concrete action had been taken till now.

On pouring of glucose and milk into water, said activists Rahul Raj and Deepak Rajput they were symbolic gestures to highlight the problem that the dying of the river would endanger historical edifices, like the Taj Mahal and the Agra Fort.

Two days ago, Union Minister for Shipping and Transport Nitin Gadkari had said at an election rally in Delhi that within two years tourists would be able to travel to Agra from Delhi on the river in steamers.

A similar promise was made by him in 2015, but no follow-up action had been taken, said Goswami Nandan Shrotriya who performs the daily Yamuna 'aarti' ritual.

--IANS

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With more and more Indians going online and generating never-heard-before kind of data, hackers have turned their focus on a country with over 450 million smartphone users and more than 550 million Internet users.

The country has 366 million Internet subscribers in urban locations and 194 million in rural areas, says the latest report by Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI).

According to Sophos Senior Security Advisor John Shier, organisations are struggling with phishing and other user-focused attacks in India.

"Most people don't believe that computer-based training (CBT) is effective and are looking for ways to improve their defenses against users being tricked into inviting malicious attackers into their network," Shier said in a statement.

A KPMG report in April revealed that nearly 86 per cent of the consumers in India are concerned about eavesdropping of their conversations or theft or misuse of their messages through their devices.

"The proliferation of connected and IoT devices will have a cross-sector impact on areas around data security and privacy. In response to this, regulators will need to establish mandatory data security requirements," said Atul Gupta, Leader-IT Advisory and Cyber Security Leader, KPMG in India.

Around 87 per cent of the consumers are concerned that retailers will misuse or improperly distribute their information.

According to Gauri Bajaj, Director, Cybersecurity (APAC), Tata Communications, the adoption of cyber security remains a key challenge.

"The recent spate of cyber attacks only highlight the security risk that takes place both within and without the organisation. It is imperative that employees are sensitised to the risk of security breaches and trained to respond in such a scenario," Bajaj said.

Not just phones, wearable devices like smartwatches are the next frontier for cyber security.

"The future of wearable tech in the world of AI and predictive technology will be highly individualized, data driven and analytics intensive. One of the bigger applications of this will continue to be in the healthcare and fitness sector.

"However, what is key to make this happen is also building a holistic ecosystem that tracks, guides and designs individualized plans for each individual, at a low cost," said Vishal Gondal, CEO and founder GOQii.

It isn't enough to have an IT security team and having a strong culture around security is the next step in maturity for security awareness programmes, say experts.

"Use a unique, complex password for banking and other financial online accounts. For others, use a password manager to keep them organised and readily available. Use Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) when available to provide an extra layer of security on accounts," Shier said.

Be wary of clicking on emails from unknown sources or deals that look too good to be true.

Cyber criminals use look-alike spam to lure in victims with links to bogus websites. Businesses should train employees on how to "spot a phish".

"Use a layered business security strategy to provide protection at multiple levels to avoid attacks from different angles. Be wary of IoT devices on any network. Change factory default passwords immediately out of the box," the Sophos executive added.

--IANS

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The Harvard University has announced that a law professor who is representing disgraced Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein will not continue as faculty dean of an undergraduate house after his term ends on June 30, bowing to months of pressure from students.

The professor, Ronald S. Sullivan Jr., and his wife, Stephanie Robinson, who is a lecturer at the law school, have been the faculty deans of Winthrop House, one of Harvard's residential houses for undergraduate students, since 2009, The New York Times reported.

They were the first African-American faculty deans in Harvard's history.

On Saturday, the dean of Harvard College, Rakesh Khurana, sent an email to students and staff members at Winthrop House, informing them that he would not renew the appointments of Sullivan and Robinson as faculty deans after their terms end on June 30.

Khurana said in his email that the decision was taken due to "a number of considerations".

"Over the last few weeks, students and staff have continued to communicate concerns about the climate in Winthrop House to the college," he wrote.

"The concerns expressed have been serious and numerous. The actions that have been taken to improve the climate have been ineffective, and the noticeable lack of faculty dean presence during critical moments has further deteriorated the climate in the house. I have concluded that the situation in the house is untenable."

In response, the couple said in a statement: "We are surprised and dismayed by the action Harvard announced. We believed the discussions we were having with high-level university representatives were progressing in a positive manner but Harvard unilaterally ended those talks."

When Sullivan joined Weinstein's defence team in January, many students expressed dismay, saying that his decision to represent a person accused of abusing women disqualified the professor from serving in a role of support and mentorship to students.

Weinstein is scheduled to go to trial in June in Manhattan on rape and related charges.

As the protests continued, with graffiti aimed at Sullivan appearing on a university building, Harvard administrators said they would conduct what they called a climate review of Winthrop House.

In recent weeks, tensions have escalated, with a student sit-in and a lawsuit sparked by a clash between one of the protest leaders and two Winthrop House staff members who were seen as supporting Sullivan.

The decision not to renew the appointments of Sullivan and Robinson as faculty deans does not affect their positions at the law school where the former is the Jesse Climenko Clinical Professor of Law and the director of the Criminal Justice Institute.

--IANS

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Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar early on Sunday travelled by Shatabdi express from Chandigarh to his hometown Karnal to cast his vote.

"Departing from Chandigarh to Karnal for the sixth phase of Lok Sabha elections today," Khattar tweeted.

"I am quite excited about the vote and all of you should go to your respective polling booth with full enthusiasm and ensure your participation," he said.

All the 10 Lok Sabha seats of Haryana went to the polls on the day amid tight security in the penultimate phase of the general elections.

--IANS

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Haryana Minister Kavita Jain and her husband were among the first to cast their ballots at a polling booth in Sonipat on Sunday as voting for the 10 Lok Sabha seats in the state was underway.

The state minister and her husband Rajiv Jain, who is the media adviser to Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, reached the polling booth much ahead of the start of polling at 7 a.m.

After casting the vote, she appealed to the people to come out of their houses and exercise their franchise.

Kavita Jain is a legislator from Sonipat.

--IANS

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The billionaire Hinduja brothers have been named as the wealthiest people in the UK for a third time, according to the Sunday Times Rich List.

Sri and Gopi Hinduja saw their fortune increase by 1.356 billion pounds ($1.7 billion) in the last year to 22 billion pounds, the BBC quoted the list as saying.

The Hinduja Group, a family business, was founded in Mumbai in 1914, and now it has interests around the world including in oil and gas, banking, IT and property.

British citizens Sri, 83, and Gopi, 79, who are based in London, are two of the four brothers controlling the empire. The two moved to London in 1979 to develop the export business.

The third brother Prakash manages the group's finances in Geneva, Switzerland while the youngest, Ashok, oversees the Indian interests.

Among the properties they own is the Old War Office in Whitehall, which they plan to reopen as a luxury hotel.

The two brothers topped the newspaper list in 2014 and in 2017.

The list, which estimates the 1,000 richest people in the UK, is based on identifiable wealth including land, property, other assets such as art, and shares in companies, according to the Sunday Times.

It does not include the amount contained in people's bank accounts.

Meanwhile, chemicals firm founder Jim Ratcliffe, who topped last year's list, has slipped to third place. His net worth dropped by 2.9 billion pounds since last year, the paper says.

For the sixth year in a row, Scotland's richest person was named as Glenn Gordon and his family, the Jersey-based tycoon behind distillers William Grant & Sons. The group produces whiskey including Grant's, Glenfiddich and The Balvenie, as well as Hendrick's gin.

Cardiff-born venture capitalist Sir Michael Moritz remained Wales' richest person with a 3 billion pounds fortune.

Top of the Music Rich List in the UK - which includes writers and performers - was Andrew Lloyd Webber with a fortune of 820 million pounds.

--IANS

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Actress Huma Qureshi will attend the forthcoming 72nd Cannes Film Festival as part of a brand association. She is excited to celebrate the moment.

Huma will be at the gala for the second time. Last year, she wore a unique pantsuit at the event's red carpet.

The actress will be in the French Riviera on behalf of vodka brand Grey Goose, which celebrates cinematic excellence with the launch of its new global platform 'Live Victoriously'.

"It was a pleasure to be associated with the brand at the Cannes Film Festival last year. Over the years, we all have witnessed the recognition that the Indian film Industry has received at this prestigious platform and I am thrilled to accompany the brand once again this year," Huma said in a statement.

The "Gangs Of Wasseypur" and "Dedh Ishqiya" actress said she resonates with the 'Live Victoriously' philosophy, which translates to celebrating every moment, "however big or small".

According to Anshuman Goenka, Marketing Head of Bacardi India, Huma is a "fast-rising star" who has cemented her space as an artiste known to take on challenging roles and deliver them with aplomb.

The festival is scheduled to be held from May 14-25.

--IANS

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Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) could be a game changer for India, but the country is lagging far behind China in its adoption, a top Accenture official has said.

According to the consultancy giant, IIoT refers to a universe of intelligent products, processes and services that communicate with each other and with people over the Internet and promises to be the most transformative industrial revolution yet for manufacturers.

While countries like Germany, France and China have made significant progress in terms of IIoT adoption, India has not yet moved much ahead in its IIoT journey, according to Saurabh Bhatnagar, Managing Director - Manufacturing, Accenture Strategy.

"In terms of IIoT adoption, in a scale of 10, if China would score 7, India's would be about 3.5," Bhatnagar told IANS, adding that according to an estimate, IIoT could be adding $14.2 trillion to the global economy by 2030.

"Indian manufacturers have been struggling to achieve globally competitive scale and productivity. While the industrial sector in India grew at a rate of six per cent annually since 2011 to more than $700 billion in 2016, the value addition per employee continued to be one of the lowest in the world, at only $6,000," he added.

Having the right infrastructure which includes high-speed Internet connectivity and skilled workers to capture data and capability to analyse that data with Machine Learning is key to IIoT adoption, the benefits of which are many.

For example, IIoT can help predict machine breakdown and help businesses take informed decisions, while also increasing operational efficiency through automation and enhanced worker productivity.

"A connected factory can yield a 5-12.5 per cent cost reduction in operations optimisation, 10-40 per cent cost savings in predictive maintenance and 20- 50 per cent cost reduction in inventory optimisation," Bhatnagar said.

At the same time, increased efficiency and productivity threaten reductions in the rate of job creation. However, Bhatnagar believes that widespread deployment of IIoT might make some jobs redundant, while the overall economic growth brought about by its adoption would also create new jobs.

"IIoT is a combination of various intelligent technologies, and its adoption will help improve employee productivity and outcomes. In some cases, machine will automate tasks that humans have been doing, but in most instances, they will augment human capabilities," he said.

"With machines taking over low value, repetitive tasks, some jobs will become redundant, but new jobs will also be created that leverage human skills. The overall economic growth will also create new jobs. It is crucial that people are skilled to realise these new opportunities," Bhatnagar said, adding that there needs to be a significant shift in the way engineering education is imparted in the country.

While China also has a "conflict of interest" in terms of IIoT adoption because of its large population, the country is focusing on driving economic growth to create more jobs, he said.

However, it is not just the manufacturing sector that IIoT could change.

"IoT could improve productivity and competitiveness of Indian businesses across sectors including manufacturing, finance, banking and media," Bhatnagar said.

"There needs to be more awareness around IIoT. More emphasis needs to be on infrastructure. The speed at which organisations are embracing, embarking, absorbing and internalizing can be much faster. There is also the mindset hindrance for many organisations," he added.

(Gokul Bhagabati can be contacted at gokul.b@ians.in)

--IANS

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A 47-year-old preacher has been arrested at the Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) in the Sri Lankan capital on charges of using social media platform to air extremist views, the police said.

The preacher, a resident of Vavuniya, was arrested at the airport on Saturday by the Criminal Investigation Department on his arrival from Mecca after performing Haj.

According to the police, the preacher had been organising pilgrimage tours to Mecca. He was remanded till May 14 after being produced in the Negombo Magistrate's Court, the Daily Mirror reported.

Sri Lankan authorities had temporarily banned all forms of social media after the Easter Sunday bombings because it was being used to circulate fake news and create enmity between communities.

The April 21 killings at three luxury hotels, three churches and two other locations claimed over 250 lives and were blamed on local Islamist group National Thowheed Jamath, which is believed to have links with the Islamic State (IS).

The IS claimed the killings which also injured hundreds.

--IANS

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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday announced the establishment of a new Jewish settlement in the occupied Syrian territory of Golan Heights, honouring US President Donald Trump.

In March, Trump had officially recognized Israel's annexation of the Golan Heights, a part of Syria that has been under Israeli military occupation since the Six-Day War of 1967.

"I promised that we would establish a community named after President Donald Trump. I would like to inform you that we have already selected a site on the Golan Heights where this new community will be established and we have started the process," Netanyahu said at the beginning of the weekly Cabinet meeting via a Twitter post.

He said he was going to ask President Reuven Rivlin for an extension of the period to form a coalition after winning April's general elections, Efe news reported.

Netanyahu's request came due to a busy holiday season following the Israeli election that delayed negotiations with the parties to make up the ruling coalition government.

In addition, he said that Israel will commemorate the first anniversary of the opening of the US Embassy in Jerusalem, which will be completed soon with the transfer of the official residence of the Ambassador David Friedman.

"This week we will mark one year since the opening of the US Embassy in Jerusalem. The official residence of the US Ambassador to Israel is also moving to Jerusalem. Thus, in effect, the Congressional decision will be implemented," Netanyahu added.

Trump's recognition of Israeli sovereignty over the Golan has been controversial since the UN Security Council on December 17, 1981, unanimously adopted Resolution No. 497, which rejected the Israeli annexation of the Golan Heights, considering it as "null and void and without international legal effect".

Even before Trump's recognition of Israeli annexation of the Golan Heights, his support for Netanyahu was seen as connected to the US administration's Middle East peace plan.

Most of the 26,000 members of the Druze religious community in the Golan Heights have refused assimilation into the Israeli state and nearly all of them boycotted Israel's first-ever attempt to hold municipal elections in the territory in October 2018.

International media outlets reported that around 20,000 Israeli settlers currently live in the Golan Heights.

--IANS

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The resolution process of Jaypee Infratech Ltd (JIL) seems to be heading towards yet another period of stalemate as the lenders want withdrawn the conditions mentioned by NBCC in its bid, while the state-run construction major is unlikely to remove these clauses.

According to sources here, NBCC will not withdraw the conditions mentioned in its bid as asked by the lenders since the company would need to get its board's approval, which will, however, not meet by May 13.

The CoC has sought NBCC's reply May 13.

Although NBCC may make few changes in the "wordings" of its bid, but it will not change the "theme and principles" of the plan, the sources said.

Lenders of JIL asked NBCC in its meeting on Friday to withdraw some of its clauses, including that of exemption from a tax liability.

NBCC's bid seeks the cancellation of an estimated income tax liability of Rs 33,000 crore due over a period of 30 years under the concession agreement for the transfer of land from the Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority (YEIDA) to Jaypee Infratech.

The PSU also sought relief from taking consent of the YEIDA for any business transfer between JIL and Yamuna Expressway SPV for transfer of assets as well as land parcels from JIL to the land bank "special purpose vehicle" (SPV).

The lenders want these clauses to be removed as it makes the bid conditional, which goes against that CoC's process note, according to which the resolution plan should be binding and non-conditional. Earlier, the Insolvency Resolution Professional (IRP) Anuj Jain also raised a red flag about the bid being conditional in a letter to the CoC on May 2.

The CoC will meet on Tuesday, May 14, to discuss NBCC's reply to the clarifications it had sought.

The standoff between the lenders and NBCC is unlikely to die down and sources say even if the latter's bid is put to vote, it may not make it through and would fail. The CoC is likely to decide on May 14 on whether the bid should be voted upon.

If the bid fails, the IRP may move for liquidation as the 270 day deadline to resolve the insolvency case has already ended on May 6. The bid was taken up for consideration after the Ahmedabad bench of the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) directed the CoC to consider the bid and continue the corporate insolvency resolution process (CIRP) till its next hearing on May 21.

It is the only bid to be considered by the CoC after the lenders rejected Mumbai-based Suraksha Realty's bid.

NBCC's earlier revised bid to acquire the insolvent realty firm was not accepted as it needed approvals from ministries and government departments. The NBCC subsequently received all the necessary clearances by May 1 and filed an application to the IRP for consideration of its bid.

--IANS

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Kerala Public Service Commission (KPSC) Chairman M.K. Sakeer has asked the government to foot the travel expenses of his wife whenever she accompanies him on official trips.

The letter, made available to public on Sunday, says Kerala should follow the practice of other states in this regard.

With Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on a trip to Europe, any decision is expected only after his return later this month.

The KPSC, recruitment agency for all government jobs, also advises the government on matters related to civil services.

--IANS

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Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg has rejected the call for breaking up his company, saying the size of Facebook is actually a benefit to its users and the security of the democratic process.

In an interview with French broadcaster France 2, Zuckerberg dismissed the claim made by his long-time friend and Facebook Co-founder Chris Hughes that it is time to break up Facebook as Zuckerberg has yielded "unchecked power and influence" far beyond that of anyone else in the private sector or in government".

"When I read what he wrote, my main reaction was that what he's proposing that we do isn't going to do anything to help solve those issues.

"So I think that if what you care about is democracy and elections, then you want a company like us to be able to invest billions of dollars per year like we are in building up really advanced tools to fight election interference," Zuckerberg told France 2 while in Paris to meet with French President Emmanuel Macron.

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," wrote Hughes, who during his freshman year at Harvard University in 2002, was recruited by Zuckerberg for Facebook.

Zuckerberg said that Facebook's budget for safety this year is bigger than the whole revenue of the company when it went public earlier this decade.

"A lot of that is because we've been able to build a successful business that can now support that. You know, we invest more in safety than anyone in social media," reports TechCrunch, quoting Zuckerberg.

Hughes has written that Zuckerberg has surrounded himself with a team that reinforces his beliefs instead of challenging them.

"Mark is a good, kind person. But I'm angry that his focus on growth led him to sacrifice security and civility for clicks," he wrote.

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.

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.

The Facebook case is being looked at as a measure of the Donald Trump administration's willingness to regulate US tech companies.

--IANS

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UK Prime Minister Theresa May's Brexit talks with the opposition Labour Party were a "grave mistake", according to a former Minister.

"Even if Labour do a deal, break bread with the Prime Minister and announce that both parties have reached an agreement, it can only ever end in tears," the BBC quoted former Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson, who was sacked by May earlier this month, as saying.

Williamson was sacked following an inquiry into a leak from a top-level National Security Council meeting. He has "strenuously" denied leaking the information.

"The Labour Party does not exist to help the Conservative Party. Jeremy Corbyn will do all he can to divide, disrupt and frustrate the Conservatives in the hope of bringing down the government.

"His goal, and he has made no secret of it, is to bring about a general election," he added.

Williamson's remark on Saturday comes as May is hoping to reach a cross-party consensus on her withdrawal agreement after failing to get it through Parliament three times.

He added that the Prime Minister seemed oblivious to the fact many Conservatives believe that she was "negotiating with the enemy".

"Even if we get to a point where Jeremy Corbyn agrees a deal with the Prime Minister, when it comes to detailed scrutiny of the votes, Labour will revert to form.

"Even if it passes the first few votes, it will fail later," he said.

The UK had been due to leave the European Union on March 29, but the deadline was pushed to October 31 after Parliament was unable to agree a way forward.

--IANS

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As the government sets out to counter views of its agency raising eligibility of MCA-21 data as one of the tools to arrive at GDP numbers, the Corporate Affairs Ministry has dismissed any bogus data within the database saying MCA-21 is on real time basis and if a company after entering the database is non-functional, it gets removed at the time of KYC drive.

"MCA 21 is on real time basis. Shell, bogus companies are being eradicated If a company is incorporating, it will enter the list of MCA-21. And once the company becomes non-performing or non-functional, then in the first or second drive, it gets removed. The KYC of company is this only. Self updation is happening", an MCA source said, dismissing the concerns of NSSO.

The NSSO in a recent report said that 36 per cent of companies that were part of the MCA-21 database were either untraceable or were wrongly classified. The stirred a controversy over the authenticity of the new series of GDP numbers that takes corporate numbers using the MCA-21 database.

MCA sources said that know your customer or KYCs details have already been verified for about 5 lakh corporates featuring on the MCA- 21 list. They added that the system is working and the versatility of MCA-21 is among the best in the world.

A government statistical organisation NSSO had cast fresh doubts on India's economic growth figures when it brought about new facts about the corporate data. NSSO had carried a big survey of services companies in 2016-17 and had contacted 35,000 companies drawn from the list of registered enterprises that file accounts online with MCA's portal based initiative-MCA-21. NSSO had selected 35,456 companies from the 3.49 lakh firms of MCA-21

"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 4000 units)", the NSSO had said in its report.

In another reference, the report had said that out of total 63,420 service sector enterprises (excluding construction sector enterprises) selected for the survey, 42,262 enterprises (67 per cent of allocated sample) were found to be in operation at the time of canvassing of schedules of enquiry.

In all, NSSO had said 39 per cent of the companies included in a key database used to estimate India's economy activity and GDP growth were closed, untraceable. The NSSO found that 21 per cent of companies included in a database, contributing to GDP numbers, were "out of coverage" as they were no longer operating. Another 12 per cent could not be traced.

The NSSO, which is part of India's ministry of statistics, carries out household surveys to gather data from social economic indicators on health, education and also indirectly lets its survey results to be used for official GDP figures carried by its Central Statistical Organisation (CSO).

On Friday Finance Ministry came out in support of MCA-21 and said GDP overestimation due to MCA data a 'misconception' and added the chances of GDP numbers of the government may be over-estimated due to untraceable 'shell' companies in all likelihood is 'marginal'.

--IANS

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi seemed quite popular among first-time voters in Delhi as most of them hailed his foreign policies, nationalism and reforms in education, besides his "love for the youth".

Among the capital's new voters IANS spoke to, the Prime Minister was no less than a hero.

First-time voters Dinesh and Sanjay voted for Modi due to the way foreign countries have started "respecting" India.

"We have voted looking at the respect India is getting in foreign countries. Modi has travelled to several countries and he has brought investment, which will start yielding results in coming days," said the residents of Motilal Nehru Marg.

For 21-year-old Akarti, no politician loves the youth as much as Modi. "Where in the world do you see a Prime Minister addressing the students before the board examinations? Modi is the one. No politician can love the youth as much as he does. He takes out time from his busy schedule to talk to students, to meet them so that he can address their issues," said the B. Com student living in Burari.

Priyanshu Rai, a first-time voter from Mayur Vihar, was impressed with the Modi government as it focused on skill development. "I voted on the issue of education and development. The (central) government is not just focusing on education but skills as well. They have prepared the ground for students to develop skills. I have voted for Modi," said the 21-year-old B. Tech student.

On being asked if unemployment is not an issue for him, 22-year-old Naman Gupta said jobs were available, but "those lacking skills will not get it and cry about it".

"My parents always say hard work is the key. Without studying or doing hard work if people cry there is no job, it's their issue. The government will only let the hardworking people in the system. Look how much hard work Modi is doing at this age. He is an icon. We should learn from him and support him," said the resident of Bhajanpura.

However, there were also a few who said "blind faith" in any political party can be "scary".

"You don't hire a person without checking his or her background or just because he or she is from a certain city, community, religion or caste. How can we vote and appoint someone as the area's head and in turn the country's head on this basis? I am voting for the candidate having a good track record not just on the name of one man. The blind faith in one party or man can be scary. At least look at the track record," said 19-year-old Vaibhav.

For 12th pass Varun, lack of jobs were an issue. "I have two siblings. I am the youngest. My father is the only earning member in the house. Both my siblings graduated three-four years ago. They are preparing for government jobs. If there were jobs, my father could have got some help. I am voting for change this time," said the resident of Shahdara.

All seven constituencies in Delhi went to the polls on Sunday with counting set for May 23.

--IANS

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi appealed to voters to exercise their electoral right as polling for the sixth phase of Lok Sabha elections began on Sunday.

"Yet another phase of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections is here! Urging all those whose constituencies are polling in today's sixth phase to go out and vote," he said in a tweet.

He said he hoped youngsters would vote in record numbers.

"After all, their participation makes the polls even more special," he said.

Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia also extended his greetings to all seven candidates of Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), who are contesting from Delhi.

Voting began on Sunday across 59 Lok Sabha constituencies spread over seven states, largely in the Hindi heartland, as the sixth and penultimate round of the mega seven-phase electoral exercise kicked off.

--IANS

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Ignoring the scorching summer heat, 59.38 per cent of the 1.38 crore electorate in eight of Bihar's 40 Lok Sabha seats, which went to the polls in the sixth phase of polling on Sunday, had cast their vote till 6 p.m., officials here said.

Voting in the state's Bhojpuri-speaking northern belt was held amidst tight security and passed off without any violence, except for some clashes between supporters of rival parties, as per officials at the police headquarters here.

A polling official in the Sheohar constituency was seriously injured when a bullet accidentally fired by a home guard hit him in the stomach, a police official said. The injured official was rushed to hospital.

Voters will decide the fate of 127 candidates in the Gopalganj, Siwan, Maharajganj, East Champaran, West Champaran, Valmiki Nagar, Sheohar and Vaishali constituencies.

Long queues were seen at polling booths in rural as well as urban pockets of these constituencies despite heat wave-like conditions. Women were seen in large numbers outside polling booths in the initial three hours of voting.

"In the initial polling, women in large numbers were seen standing outside polling booths. They aimed to escape the scorching sun and hot winds later in the day," an official said.

Voting was delayed in a few polling booths across the eight seats due to malfunctioning of the Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs).

Union Minister Radha Mohan Singh cast his vote in Motihari, while Hina Sahab, the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) candidate from Siwan, also exercised her franchise.

Heavy security arrangements were in place with three helicopters requisitioned to provide air cover to the security forces. The India-Nepal border has also been sealed.

The stakes are high in this phase for the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party-led NDA as it aims to retain all these eight seats it had won in the 2014 elections.

For the opposition Grand Alliance, its a win-win situation as it eyes to gain some seats with nothing to lose.

--IANS

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From a BJP worker getting killed in Jhargram to party workers sustaining bullet injuries and candidates getting heckled -- widespread violence again marred the sixth phase of Lok Sabha elections in West Bengal on Sunday.

But despite the clashes, 79.93 per cent of the 1,33,56,964 voters exercised their franchise till 5 p.m. in the eight constituencies spread across five districts which went to the polls in sixth phase, the Election Commission said.

Tamluk recorded the highest polling percentage at 82.99 per cent, followed by Bishnupur (81.90 per cent), Jhargram (81.68 per cent), Ghatal (80.35 per cent), Kanthi (80.06 per cent), Purulia (78.64 per cent), Midnapore (78.17 per cent) and Bankura (75.68 per cent).

There are 83 candidates in the fray in the penultimate phase of polling in the state which is voting in all the seven phases of the staggered Lok Sabha elections. For the BJP, which is aiming to make it big in the state, the sixth phase is perhaps the most crucial one as its includes four constituencies with sizeable tribal population, a section the party has been wooing.

Violence was reported from various parts of the state even before polling began and a middle-aged BJP activist was killed in Jhargram district in the tribal heartland of the state.

Ramen Singh (30) from Gopiballavpur sustained grievous head injury after being hit with an iron rod. Singh was rushed to a hospital where he was declared dead, the police said. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) later accused that miscreants backed by the Trinamool Congress were behind the crime.

In West Midnapore district's Ghatal, BJP candidate and former IPS officer Bharati Ghosh was forced to take shelter inside a temple beside the Keshpur police station after being heckled and chased by Trinamool supporters, who accused her of instigating disturbance in the area. Ghosh was rescued by the security personnel after nearly two hours.

The mob led by Trinamool Congress supporters got infuriated after one of her security guards allegedly opened fire, injuring a Trinamool worker in the arm.

Locals alleged that Ghosh herself had directed her security guards to fire at the mob near a polling station after her convoy was stopped by a group of agitators.

"Voting was going on peacefully. But Ghosh came in a convoy of nearly 15 cars and tried to intimidate the voters. When the locals tried to stop her, she asked her security personnel to fire at them. One Trinamool supporter received bullet injury in his hand," a local said.

Denying the allegations, Ghosh accused the state administration of deliberately stopping her convoy to heckle her and impede her from visiting the polling booths.

"If my security guard has opened fire, the police should lodge an FIR against him, check his gun and match the bullet that has been fired. But why are they stopping me? As a candidate, I am entitled to travel across the constituency and visit the polling stations. It is a conspiracy by the state administration as I am trying stop the Trinamool from rigging," Ghosh said, adding that she was not happy with the role played the Election Commission.

Ghosh was earlier stopped from entering a polling booth in Ghatal by a group of women, said to be Trinamool Congress workers, who accused her of influencing the voters.

Later, bricks were pelted on her convoy near Keshpur, injuring one of her security guards, as her car, along with some other vehicles belonging to the media, were vandalised.

Her security personnel claimed that they had to fire in the air in a bid to control the situation and to save their own lives.

Ghosh also alleged she was assaulted by the agitating Trinamool supporters.

Meanwhile, Deepak (Dev) Adhikari, the actor-turned-politician and the sitting Trinamool MP from Ghatal, visited to the house of party worker injured in the firing and accused his rival Ghosh of trying to trigger unrest in the area.

"She (Ghosh) has been trying to cause unrest in the area by intimidating the locals for the last few days. But not a single Trinamool activist said anything to her. Today she did the same, but the villagers in Keshpur resisted. I do not want this. Polling should happen in a peaceful manner," Adhikari said.

In East Midnapore's Kanthi, shots were fired by unidentified assailants which injured two BJP activists -- Ananta Guchit and Ranjit Maiti -- who were rushed to a hospital in Kolkata. The saffron party has blamed the Trinamool-backed miscreants for the incident.

Incidents of violence and clashes were also reported from Midnapore, where BJP's state unit chief Dilip Ghosh is engaged in a high-profile battle with Trinamool Congress Rajya Sabha member Manas Bhunia.

At least four Trinamool workers had to be hospitalised after being attacked with sharp objects allegedly by the BJP supporters. The condition of one person was said to be critical, Bhunia said.

The Trinamool workers also staged a protest demonstration against Dilip Ghosh, who was denied entry into some polling booths in Rampura area where alleged proxy voting by Trinamool supporters was reported.

In other incidents, a Trinamool camp office in Belda in West Midnapore district was ransacked allegedly by BJP workers, leaving four Trinamool workers injured.

Meanwhile, a number of BJP supporters received injuries in Datan in East Midnapore following a clash with some Trinamool workers.

In Kanthi, the body of a Trinamool worker, Sudhakar Maity (40), having serious injury marks on the head was recovered hours before the voting started on Sunday.

While Trinamool leader and state Minister Suvendu Adhikari said that it was a case of accident, the party's local leaders accused BJP supporters of killing Maity.

"The body of Sudhakar Maity was found with injury marks on the back of his head. The cause of death would be ascertained after the post-mortem," the police said.

A total of 770 companies of central forces have been deployed in the state's tribal heartland, as well as for the seats in Junglemahal, once a hotbed of Maoist activities.

The remaining nine of the 42 Lok Sabha constituencies in the state will vote in the seventh and final phase on May 19. The votes will be counted on May 23.

--IANS

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Years after his epic embodiment of Lord Krishna in B.R. Chopra's "Mahabharata" in the late 1980s, veteran actor Nitish Bharadwaj has found his peace in working on his journey as a film director, indulging in organic farming, supporting causes and no politics.

May 2019, he says, marks a "completely new phase" in his life, where unless something sparks the fire in his belly, he is happy chasing the goals he has set for himself.

An offer to play 'guru' to Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a web series wasn't a pull enough for the actor, who is confident -- as a citizen over a former Member of Parliament -- that Modi will return to power.

"It's nice to play Narendra Modi's guru, but it was a very small role. If people can't think beyond that, it doesn't fire me," Nitish told IANS here, adding that the "infinite" nature of television soaps also does not excite him.

On the big screen, he was seen in "Kedarnath" last year and before that, he featured in the 2016 film "Mohenjo Daro".

Theatre is one passion which he continues to pursue through the stage production "Chakravyuh". What else keeps him busy now?

"I have started directing films. Four years ago, I directed Marathi film 'Pitruroon' with Tanujaji. It was encouraging that the film won several awards. Cinema fires me. It is finite. You put in your best and you try to reach near perfection. Whereas in a soap, after one month, the makers themselves question its repeat value.

"Television is becoming drab and artistes like me are not enthused to be a part of that space, whereas that space has made me what I am. I am unable to go back to the space," said the Mumbai-based veteran.

His small screen career is dotted with mythological tales, and he has worked in the cinema medium too. But then he shifted to London for a bit.

"I went away from the industry. Then when I came back, I went back to television rather than going into cinema. I produced and directed a mega show called 'Gita Rahasya' on the Bhagavad Gita, with Irrfan Khan playing Kans.

"My own decisions probably pushed me back into mythology and took me away from commercial cinema which I was already doing. I can only blame it on myself. It's not industry's fault at all," he said, explaining of being image trapped in the industry.

Now, he talks of his future with a focus as sharp as that of Arjuna of "Mahabharata".

"My life has been diverse, and fortunately I have a landmark in politics, a landmark in TV and in cinema as a director. I want to create further landmarks. I don't want to come to the same position where I am today after five years.

"I should have another two landmarks in five years, otherwise I will feel it's a waste of time," added the actor, who quipped about his age saying he was "5,000 years old" and that "in the industry, your age is what you look".

On the directorial front, Nitish has completed the screenplay of his next project, a Hindi period film, which he was unwilling to talk more about.

But another exciting aspect of life he is working on is developing a small organic farm in Khadakwasla, on the outskirts of Pune.

"It is fully organic, and not even a spoon of inorganic chemical fertilizers would go into that area. I want to eat and breathe healthy. It's a beautiful location overlooking the backwaters of a dam. I want to meditate over there, want to spend some time there writing my scripts. It's like actually going to my childhood.

"Haath mitti mein daalna chahta hun (I want to put my hands in the soil). I want to create my own heaven there. I want to see those plants growing," he said as he spoke passionately about growing fruits and flowers and eventually making it into a "commercially viable farm".

"I am a nature person," he asserted, recounting how when he was in Madhya Pradesh as a politician, he used to rush to the forests off and on.

Politics is not on his radar again for now.

"Not at the moment," he said when asked if he was ready to return.

"It is my Guru Aadesh that I should pursue my film career," added Nitish, who was elected to the Lok Sabha from Jamshedpur in 1996, and then lost in the 1999 Lok Sabha elections from Rajgarh in Madhya Pradesh.

"Though there was a little ripple in the waters that this time I was asked to contest from a particular constituency in Madhya Pradesh, but not really. It didn't fire me. I had that fire in my belly once. But now I have a different goal ahead of me. I want to make wonderful cinema. 'Pitruroon' has given me a lot of confidence... Let me do that for a while."

Having said that, as a citizen, he is confident Modi will come back in power with majority.

"Besides his ability to connect with people, his strengths are many. A) He has the guts to think out of box. B) He has the guts to implement those ideas and policies. When you think out of the box, out of 10 ideas, two may misfire, fair enough. But eight are good.

"Israel, Japan and (modern) India were founded around the same time. Where is Israel? Where is Japan? Where are we? We need to be in fast track, and this man has the guts to take our nation fast track... We can't afford slow track anymore. So I want him to come back."

Talking of the ongoing election season, Nitish said: "I think his (Modi's) biggest marketing tool is Mr. Rahul Gandhi. I think Mr Modi should stop campaigning... Why is he campaigning? Let Mr. Rahul Gandhi campaign all the way... Modi will come."

(Radhika Bhirani can be contacted at radhika.b@ians.in)

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
A BJP activist was killed in West Bengal's Jhargram district early on Sunday as a number of violent incidents and clashes rocked the state in the sixth phase of the Lok Sabha polls.

Eight parliamentary constituencies spread across five districts in West Bengal voted on Sunday.

A BJP activist, Ramen Singh (30) from Jhargram constituency's Gopiballabpur, sustained a grievous head injury after allegedly being hit with an iron rod. He was rushed to a hospital where he was declared dead, police said.

The BJP accused miscreants backed by the Trinamool Congress for the crime.

Incidents of sporadic violence were reported from Midnapore constituency where the saffron party's state unit chief Dilip Ghosh is engaged in a high profile battle with Trinamool Congress' Rajya Sabha member Manas Bhunia.

At least four Trinamool Party activists had to be hospitalized after being attacked with sharp weapons allegedly by BJP supporters. The condition of one person was critical.

Meanwhile, a number of saffron party supporters got injured in the constituency's Datan area following a clash with Trinamool workers.

Former IPS officer and BJP candidate from West Midnapore district's Ghatal, Bharati Ghosh, was stopped from entering a polling booth by a group of women Trinamool Congress workers who accused her of influencing the voters.

Ghosh accused the ruling party of organised violence and demanded that the offenders be immediately arrested.

"I am a candidate. I can always enter a polling booth. Those who are trying to stop me should be arrested. They (Trinamool) is resorting to organised violence against me," Ghosh said before leaving the spot.

Later, bricks were pelted on her convoy near Keshpur, injuring one of her security guards.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Jana Sena Party (JSP) chief and actor Pawan Kalyan on Sunday held a meeting with the party leaders to review the party's prospects in Andhra Pradesh Assembly and Lok Sabha elections held last month.

At the meeting held at Jana Sena Party (JSP) office at Mangalagiri in Guntur district, Pawan assessed the poll prospects with the party candidates and senior leaders.

He gathered feedback from the candidates about the polling trend, the public response to the party's campaign and the prospects in their respective constituencies.

The actor asked the party candidates and leaders to be vigilant during the counting of votes on May 23. He directed them to keep a close watch on the entire counting process and also on counting of VVPAT slips.

Pawan also urged the party leaders to continue working for strengthening the organisation, irrespective of the poll results.

Party leader Madasu Gangadharam said the party would focus on strengthening the organisation in all the villages for the local body elections. He asked the party functionaries to focus on the village level issues.

Elections to 175-member state Assembly and 25 Lok Sabha constituencies were held in the first phase on April 11.

The JSP contested 140 Assembly seats, leaving 35 for its allies -- Bahujan Samaj Party (21), Communist Party of India (7) and the Communist Party of India-Marxist (7).

The JSP fielded candidates in 18 Lok Sabha constituencies while BSP contested three seats and CPI and the CPI-M two seats each.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Sunday voted in the sixth phase of the Lok Sabha polls and claimed that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) would be ousted from power this time.

The Congress leader and her husband Robert Vadra exercised their franchise at a polling booth in the Sardar Patel Vidyalaya in Lodhi Estate area of Central Delhi.

Speaking to the media later, Gandhi that the citizens of the country were not happy with the BJP government, especially in Uttar Pradesh.

"It's clear that the BJP is losing the elections. I am hopeful that the results in Delhi will also be good," she said.

Slamming Prime Minister Narendra Modi for not speaking on the poll promises made during the 2014 Lok Sabha polls, she said her party's campaign was not negative as it was of the BJP.

"We raked up real issues which were affecting the common people and spoke on their solutions while Modiji kept talking about things that were of no importance."

Gandhi also hit out at Modi for not responding to the questions posed by the opposition.

"The Prime Minister does not reply to the questions posed at him. He should have answered on promises of giving Rs 15 lakh, providing two crore employments every year and also on the income of farmers. He also remaied silent on the challenge thrown by Rahulji (Gandhi) to debate on issues," she added.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh on Sunday ridiculed Akali leader and Union Minister Harsimrat Kaur Badal's allegations of the Congress government in the state disrupting her poll rallies.

In a statement, he said it was the wrath of the people that they were venting against the sufferings meted out by the Shriomani Akali Dal on them for 10 years.

Expressing surprise that the Akali leader was facing protests only in some villages and not all over the state, Amarinder Singh said the anger of the people who had been victimised for 10 years by the Badals and their cronies were now finding voice.

The fact that Harsimrat Kaur was prevented from entering a village in her own constituency only showed that harsh reality was catching up fast with the Badals, who had made the people of Punjab shed tears of blood over their decade-long misrule, he said.

Trashing her charges of misuse of official machinery by the Congress government to sabotage her campaign, Amarinder Singh said the Akalis had sabotaged their own prospects with their misdeeds, including their attempts to polarise the people with sacrilege cases.

They had put the entire official machinery in motion prior to the Assembly elections but had been routed in the polls by the wrath of the people, he said, adding that the people had not forgotten or forgiven the Badals for the devastation wreaked on them for over a decade.

Meanwhile, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), an alliance partner with the Akali Dal, filed a complaint with the Election Commission against the Chief Minister for violating the Model Code of Conduct.

The complaint said the Chief Minister made several announcements of projects at an election rally in Gurdaspur constituency on Saturday.

While campaigning for Congress candidate Sunil Jakhar, the Chief Minister announced to enhance the capacity of a sugar mill to 10,000 tonne.

He also announced to establish an ethanol plant for production of electricity and to prepone the paddy sowing dates, which the BJP alleged was violation of the election code.

All 10 Lok Sabha seats in Punjab will vote on May 19.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Online classifieds marketplace Quikr on Sunday announced a partnership with Rocking Deals for offering offline services to its customers.

As per the tie-up, Quikr will sell its products at the Rocking Deals' retail store at Mathura Road in Delhi-NCR. Rocking Deals plans to open two to three more such stores in the country.

"This will be Quikr's first 'experience zone' in a metro which will offer customers a touch-and-feel experience for Quikr Assured products in Rocking Deals retail store at Mathura Road in Delhi-NCR.

"As a part of the tie-up, Quikr will initially offer Quikr Assured refurbished products in two categories including furniture and large appliances," a joint-statement by Quikr and Rocking Deals said.

Commenting on the partnership, Yuvraj Singh, founder and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) at Rocking Deals, said: "Rocking Deals will provide an exclusive space to Quikr at our largest upcoming retail store in Delhi-NCR where it will cater to the growing demand seen on the platform and to offer touch-and-feel experience to its consumers."

Quikr has already launched QuikrBazaar franchisee stores for categories including furniture, electronics and appliances in the Tier-II towns of Karnataka and Telangana.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Making a jibe at the Congress, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) chief Amit Shah on Sunday said for the Congress, OROP (one rank, one pension) meant 'One Rahul, One Priyanka'. But the Narendra Modi government not only ensured national security but also implemented 'one rank, one pension' scheme for the armed forces.

Shah addressed a series of election meetings in Chamba, Bilaspur and Nahan towns of Himachal Pradesh on Sunday.

Seeking vote for the party candidates, Shah said if you did not want to vote for development done by the BJP government, vote for the party for strengthening the country's security. "The country needs a strong leader and a strong government under the leadership of Modi," he said.

"The country needs a government to safeguard borders. When the Modi government took strong action against Pakistan and terrorists, leaders of opposition parties, including Rahul Gandhi, are raising fingers," he said.

Remarking that Modi had special attachment with Himachal Pradesh, the BJP chief said he was striving to speed up development of the state. "The Modi government has accorded special status to Himachal. Now the central government pays 90 per cent for the state's development and the state government has to pool only 10 per cent," he said.

In Bilaspur, the BJP chief urged people to ensure victory of BJP candidate Anurag Thakur with a huge margin and praised the state government's achievements as well as efforts of Thakur in this constituency.

At Nahan, Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur said with the return of the Modi government again at the Centre, the state would get more assistance for development and welfare.

--IANS

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Militants killed six people and razed a church during mass at Dablo, a northern town, in Burkina Faso, on Sunday, officials said.

"Armed individuals burst into the Catholic church. They started firing as the congregation tried to flee," Ousmane Zongo, mayor of Dablo, said.

He said a priest was among the killed in the attack which happened at 9 a.m. local time (10:00 GMT), the BBC reported.

The militants also set on fire nearby shops and a health centre, a government official said.

It is the third attack on churches in Burkina Faso in the past five weeks.

--IANS

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Former US Defence Secretary Robert Gates has said that there is a "real risk" that if American troops are pulled out of Afghanistan, the Taliban might retake control of the country.

The Donald Trump administration should ensure that the Afghan government is stable before bringing American forces home, Gates told CBS News. There are currently 12,000 US service members stationed in the war-torn country.

"I think that the circumstances under which you bring them home matter. And I think trying to give the Afghan government the best possible shot at survival is really important for the future of Afghanistan," said Gates, who served as the Defence Secretary under former US President Barack Obama between 2006 to 2011.

Gates outlined potential consequences of the Taliban retaking control of the country, particularly the reduction of women's rights, CBS News reported on Saturday.

Under the Taliban regime before 2001, strict rules were imposed on women as it is against women attending school or holding jobs.

"So the question is, can you negotiate an arrangement whereby the Taliban agrees to operate under the Afghan Constitution, becomes a part of the political process?" Gates asked.

Asked if the Taliban has interest in joining the government or if it just wants to rule the country itself, Gates said that the Taliban wants to "take over Afghanistan".

"If they agree to any kind of a compromise deal, it's really up to the other Afghans at the end of the day to resist any moves, to get rid of those changes, to go backward, if you will."

His remarks came as the US administration announced it would move $1.5 billion designated for the war in Afghanistan to build a border wall.

The US is currently involved in negotiations with the Taliban to end the 17-year war in Afghanistan, although it has not included the current Afghan government in those talks.

That exclusion from direct talks has caused a rift in relations between President Ashraf Ghani and US special envoy Zalmay Khalilzad. The US recently reached an agreement with the Taliban that in exchange for them agreeing not to again harbour terrorists like Al Qaeda, Washington would withdraw its troops from the South Asian country.

It led to accusations that US President Donald Trump administration is rushing into a "bad deal" that could leave the US-backed Ghani government vulnerable.

Khalilzad wrapped up the sixth round of talks with the Taliban last week and said they made "steady but slow progress".

Gates was asked it was reasonable to compare the US involvement in Afghanistan to the war in Vietnam, which ended with the American troops withdrawal and a subsequent communist takeover of the country.

"I think there's a very real risk of that... a repeat of the government that we have supported being unable to sustain itself," he said.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
US President Donald Trump and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping are likely to meet in Japan next month during the G20 economic summit amid rising trade tensions between the world's two largest economies, a senior White House official has said.

There is a "strong possibility" that the two presidents will hold talks on the sidelines of the conference in Osaka, Efe news quoted White House chief economic advisor Larry Kudlow as saying during a TV programme on Fox News on Sunday.

Negotiators failed last week to reach an agreement to end the trade war that began in 2018 with Trump's decision to impose a 10 percent tariff on $200 billion worth of goods from China, which retaliated with levies on $60 billion worth of US products.

"There were constructive conversations," US Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin told reporters last Friday as his bid farewell to Chinese Vice Premier Liu He, the leader of the delegation that traveled from Beijing to Washington for the two-day round.

At 12.01 am last Friday, between the first and second sessions of those talks, the US raised the tariffs on affected Chinese imports from 10 per cent to 25 per cent.

"China deeply regrets that it will have to take necessary countermeasures," the Chinese government said in a statement after the higher tariffs took effect.

Though both sides spoke of their readiness to continue the negotiations, Mnuchin acknowledged Friday that no further talks were scheduled.

Hours after Liu left Washington, Trump announced that he had ordered US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer to draw up plans to extend tariffs to an additional $300 million worth of Chinese imports.

Kudlow said Sunday that while there were "no concrete, definite plans" for the resumption of discussions, the Chinese have invited Mnuchin and Lighthizer to Beijing.

"The talks will continue," Kudlow told Fox's Chris Wallace. "I will say this: There is a G20 meeting in Japan toward the end of June next month and the chances that President Trump and President Xi will get together at that meeting are pretty good."

"We were moving well, constructive talks - and I still think that's the case," Kudlow said. "But the problem is, two weeks ago in China, there was backtracking by the Chinese."

The Trump administration increased the tariffs because Beijing was resisting the idea of enshrining in Chinese law some of the concessions Beijing has offered, such as measures to respect the intellectual property of US firms operating in China, the White House adviser said.

"Things seemed to be taking too long, and we can't accept any backtracking," Kudlow said on Fox. "We don't think the Chinese have come far enough, we will wait and see."

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
In an embarrassing goof-up, Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's husband Robert Vadra on Sunday used the flag of Paraguay instead of the Tricolour to spread awareness about the Lok Sabha elections on social media, inviting ridicule from netizens.

"Our right our strength !! Everyone must step out n vote...we need all support, to create a combined future for our loved ones, n for a secular, safe productive future of our country," Vadra tweeted with a joined hands emoji, the Indian Parliament and a Paraguayan flag, along with a photo of his inked finger after casting his vote.

The tweet, which became the butt of jokes on social media, remained for over four hours on his Twitter page.

Soon after the goof-up, Vadra was mercilessly trolled on social media, following which he deleted the tweet.

A user said, "Robert Vadra Declared Himself A Paraguayan Citizen On 12th May, 2019".

Another sarcastically asked, "Voted for BJP right?"

Though Vadra posted a correct caption on his Facebook page, he however failed to check the offending flag while posting it on Twitter.

Hours later he deleted the tweet and posted the screenshot of his Facebook post which had the Indian flag in the caption.

--IANS

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Celebrity chef-turned-filmmaker Vikas Khanna will join a masterclass 'Life through a Different Lens' with Academy Award-winning actress Julianne Moore and others at the 72nd Cannes Film Festival.

Khanna will walk the red carpet of the gala on its opening night on May 14, and he will take part in the masterclass a day later with Moore, German film director Werner Herzog, actor Xavier Dolan and others.

This will be followed by a special screening of his directorial debut movie "The Last Color" at Marche Du Film Section at the film jamboree on May 16. Khanna will also be a part of 'Power of Imagination - In Conversation with Vikas Khanna' at the India Pavilion.

Talking about his itinerary at the gala this year, Khanna said in a statement: "I am looking forward to walking the red carpet at the opening night of the 72nd Festival De Cannes. I feel honoured to be a part of 'Life through a Different Lens' along with Julianne Moore and other eclectic filmmakers and artists inspite of just being one film old.

"I feel humbled to see the love and appreciation that the film 'The Last Color' has been receiving on international platforms. Cannes Film Festival holds a special place as the journey of 'The Last Color' began in Cannes with its first look being launched last season, and here I am back for the special screening of the movie."

"The Last Color", featuring veteran actress Neena Gupta, was a part of the opening night of the Atlanta India International Film Festival, and will also be showcased at the closing night at New York Indian Film Festival (NYIFF) on Sunday. A special pink carpet has been created celebrating Mother's Day at NYIFF with pink scarves for all attendees and everyone to wear a touch of pink celebrating motherhood.

"Mothers Day is the perfect occasion and resonates with our movie 'The Last Color'," Khanna said.

--IANS

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Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg has rejected the call for breaking up his company, saying the size of Facebook was actually a benefit to its users and for the security of the democratic process.

In an interview with French broadcaster France 2, Zuckerberg dismissed the claim made by his long-time friend and Facebook co-founder Chris Hughes that it is time to break up Facebook as Zuckerberg has yielded "unchecked power and influence" far beyond that of anyone else in the private sector or in the government.

"When I read what he wrote, my main reaction was that what he's proposing that we do isn't going to do anything to help solve those issues.

"So I think that if what you care about is democracy and elections, then you want a company like us to be able to invest billions of dollars per year like we are in building up really advanced tools to fight election interference," Zuckerberg told France 2 while in Paris to meet with French President Emmanuel Macron.

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," wrote Hughes, who during his freshman year at Harvard University in 2002 was recruited by Zuckerberg for Facebook.

Zuckerberg said that Facebook's budget for safety this year is bigger than the whole revenue of the company when it went public earlier this decade.

"A lot of that is because we've been able to build a successful business that can now support that. You know, we invest more in safety than anyone in social media," reported TechCrunch, quoting Zuckerberg.

Hughes wrote that Zuckerberg has surrounded himself with a team that reinforces his beliefs instead of challenging them.

"Mark is a good, kind person. But I'm angry that his focus on growth led him to sacrifice security and civility for clicks," he wrote.

In a separate opinion piece in the NYT on Sunday, Nick Clegg, who is the Vice President for global affairs and communications in Facebook, said that success should not be penalised.

"Facebook shouldn't be broken up but it does need to be held to account," Clegg wrote.

"Hughes maintains that lawmakers merely marvel at Facebook's explosive growth and have overlooked their own responsibility to protect the public through more competition.

"This argument holds dangerous implications for the American technology sector, the strongest pillar of the economy. And it reveals misunderstandings of Facebook and the central purpose of antitrust law," Clegg argued.

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.

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 which involved 87 million users.

The Facebook case is being looked at as a measure of the Donald Trump administration's willingness to regulate US tech companies.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
This refers to the editorial Justice denied (May 9). According to the editorial, the judiciary has faltered on transparency and fairness test. I completely disagree with this view.

This is a procedural matter that is liable to be interpreted liberally and strictly by all judgments of the Supreme Court unanimously. That being the principle of interpretation, one cannot go on picking holes in the procedure all the time. Substantial justice has been done to the complainant by letting her appear before a set of three judges, two of whom were women. Even her complaint about ...
Much has been written in recent weeks about the International Fleet Review hosted by the Chinese Navy (PLAN) at the port of Qing Dao in which two Indian naval ships also participated. Similarly, the next few days will see joint naval exercises between the Indian and French navies, termed Varuna, on the west coast of India with aircraft carriers and nuclear submarine participating.

Many think of such interfaces as mere spectacles; others ascribe to them a somewhat larger dimension. The truth lies somewhere in between. There is, of course, ceremony and spectacle including parades, but at ...
Yogesh Chander Deveshwar, who died in Gurugram on Saturday at the age of 72, was the epitome of a company man. Educated at the Indian Institute of Technology and Harvard Business School, he joined ITC in 1968 and was still serving the organisation, as non-executive chairman, when he passed away, although he had stepped down from being chief executive in 2017  a job he first took on more than two decades earlier.

The only time he left the company briefly was in the 1990s, when he served as chairman of Air India. He rose meteorically through the ranks at ITC  running a factory ...
Age is just a number, says a family member of 111-year-old Bachan Singh, the oldest voter in who carried a youthful enthusiasm into the polling station in Tilak Vihar in

Till the last assembly elections in 2015, the centenarian cycled to the polling booth to cast his vote. This time, he reached the booth in a car along with poll officers in full media glare.

He was later wheeled into the polling both using a chair.

A paralysis attack around three months ago had rendered the centenarian bedridden. Though Bachan Singh cannot talk like the way he did before, but he knows how important his vote is.

"I will vote for those who worked for us," he said.

Interestingly, Singh doesn't know there's a party called the AAP and that Arvind Kejriwal is the chief minister of

"He doesn't even know that the Aam Aadmi Party exists. For him, every election has been a contest between the BJP and the Congress," his youngest son, Jasbeer Singh, 63, says.

Jasbeer Singh claims his father has never missed out on an election since 1951.

"Till a few years ago, he would cycle to the polling booth and cast his vote. He never needed any help. He cooked for himself and spent most of time doing seva in gurdwara," Jasbeer says.

The family says they have traditionally voted for the Congress because former prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru "supported Namdhari Sikhs at the time of partition".

But they think the Aam Aadmi party should be given another chance in Delhi.
Twelve Indian nationals have been arrested for allegedly running an illegal networking business and duping several people in the Himalayan nation, according to media reports.

All the 12 accused, belonging to Uttar Pradesh, were arrested from a hotel in Kathmandu on Friday while organising an orientation and training programme to run the illegal networking business for around 300 Nepalis, the Himalayan Times reported.

Networking business, under which money is sent to foreign countries without any legal channel, has been banned by Nepal Rastra Bank.

Metropolitan Crime Range said all the suspects have been taken into custody.

"They were asking the people participating in the orientation to invest USD 1,250 promising them attractive return, a spokesperson for the Metropolitan Crime Range DSP Hobindra Bogati was quoted as saying.

He further said the arrested Indian nationals had opened an unregistered marketing company in Nepal named Shine Group International.

"The arrestees have already swindled many Nepalis in the name of the company," the official said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
An average 28.01 per cent voter turnout was recorded till Sunday noon in eight Lok Sabha seats of Madhya Pradesh, an election official said.

Voting was underway since 7 am in a peaceful manner in Bhopal, Morena, Bhind, Gwalior, Guna, Sagar, Vidisha and Rajgarh constituencies in the third phase of elections in the state, state Chief Electoral Officer V L Kantha Rao said.

"During mock poll conducted before the actual voting began, 30 to 40 electronic voting machines (EVMs) were changed because of some technical problems," he said.

The voting figures till noon were: Morena 24.29 per cent, Bhind 21.99 per cent, Gwalior 22.96 per cent, Guna 34.11 per cent, Sagar 30.3 per cent, Vidisha 33.8 per cent, Bhopal 26.15 per cent and Rajgarh 32.39 per cent, he said.

Long queues were seen at several booths across the eight constituencies, he said.

In Bhopal, Congress veteran Digvijay Singh is locked in a battle with BJP candidate and 2008 Malegaon blast accused Pragya Singh Thakur.

Congress general secretary Jyotiraditya Scindia is seeking a re-election from Guna seat, where he cast his vote at a booth early in the morning.

His opponent is BJP's K P Yadav, who is contesting his first parliamentary election.

Union minister Narendra Singh Tomar, who is the sitting MP from Gwalior, is contesting from Morena seat this time.

Altogether 138 candidates, including 14 women, are in the fray for these eight Lok Sabha seats, of which seven were won by the BJP in 2014.

Total 18,141 polling booths have been set up where over 1.44 crore people, including 32,909 service voters, are eligible to exercise their franchise, the official said.

Lok Sabha elections to 29 seats in the state are being held in four phases. The first (in six seats) and second phases (seven seats) were held on April 29 and May 6.

Voting for the last phase in eight seats will be held on May 19 and 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.)
Over 34 per cent polling was reported till 1 pm Sunday in 14 Lok Sabha constituencies of the state, where SP chief Akhilesh Yadav and Union minister Maneka Gandhi are among the key contestants.

A state election office spokesperson said the average poll percentage was 34.92 per cent.

While Sultanpur parliamentary constituency recorded the highest turnout of 38.87 per cent, enthusiasm among voters was the least in Phulpur, where 29.20 per cent cast their ballots.

Altogether, 177 candidates are contesting in these 14 constituencies, where 2.53 crore people are eligible to vote at 16,998 polling centres.

In Sultanpur, Union minister Maneka Gandhi and her rival BSP candidate Chandra Bhadra Singh alias Sonu had a face-off. Gandhi warned him that hooliganism wouldn't work, but Singh dismissed her charge.

"In Azamgarh, a presiding officer was removed following complaints by SP workers, A report has been sought from the district magistrate," UP's Chief Electoral Officer L Venkateshwar Lu said.

He also said there have been complaints about EVMs and VVPAT machines, and the machines have been replaced.

Polling was underway in Sultanpur, Pratapgarh, Phulpur, Allahabad, Ambedkararnagar, Shrawasti, Domariyaganj, Basti, Sant Kabirnagar, Lalganj, Jaunpur, Machchlishahr, Bhadohi and Azamgarh constituencies in Purvanchal region of the state.

The Bharatiya Janata Party had won 13 of these 14 constituencies in the 2014 Lok Sabha election. The only exception was Azamgarh, which was won by SP founder Mulayam Singh Yadav.

However, the BJP had to bite the dust in the bypolls in Phulpur and Gorakhpur constituencies last year.

While the anti-BJP alliance would like to retain its grip over both the seats, the saffron party is looking to take a sweet revenge from the opposition in this round.

In Azamgarh, Akhilesh Yadav is trying to retain his father's seat against Bhojpuri film star Dinesh Lal Yadav 'Nirahua' of the Indian Janata Party.

The SP president's decision to contest from his father's bastion is being touted as a move to consolidate the Yadav, Dalit and Muslim voters in the Purvanchal region of Uttar Pradesh.

Sultanpur too is seeing an interesting contest as the BJP has fielded Union minister Maneka Gandhi for the seat won by her son Varun Gandhi in 2014.

The seat appears tricky for Maneka Gandhi as BJP strategists are relying on a division of Congress and gathbandhan votes, besides possible counter-polarisation of non-Yadav and non-Jatav Dalit and OBC votes.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
At least eight persons, including four civilians, a Pakistan Navy soldier and three militants, were killed in Saturday's deadly attack on a luxury hotel in the port city of Gwadar in the restive Balochistan province, as the security forces cleared the building and defused explosive devices left behind by the attackers, the Pakistan Army said Sunday.

Three militants of the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), armed with automatic weapons, stormed the Pearl Continental (PC) Hotel in Gwadar and opened random firing, killing a guard on Saturday. All three attackers were killed by the security forces.

China has built a deep-sea port in Gwadar, which is one of the focal points of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Beijing has invested over USD 50 billion to link the port city with the China's far-western Xinjiang region. Many Chinese and workers from other provinces of Pakistan are also employed at the port.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Sunday condemned a deadly attack on the PC hotel, saying the terror strike was an effort to "sabotage" the country's economic projects and prosperity.

Pakistan Army spokesperson, in a statement, said the security forces have completed the clearance operation at the PC Gwadar, in which five persons and three attackers were killed.

"All three terrorists killed. Terrorists' bodies are held for identification. During operation five individuals, including four hotel employees and a Pakistan Navy soldier, died," the statement said.

Six individuals got injured which include two Army officials, two Pakistan Navy soldiers and two hotel employee.

Army said the terrorists had attempted entry into the hotel with an aim to target or take hostage the guests present there, but security guard at the entry challenged them and foiled the attempt of the militants to enter into the hotel's main hall. The terrorists went to the upper floors of the hotel through the staircase.

"Terrorists opened fire, resulting into martyrdom of security guard Zahoor while enroute to stairs, terrorists kept firing indiscriminately resulting into martyrdom of three more hotel employees - Farhad, Bilawal and Awais - while two others got injured," the Army said.

It further said that the Quick Reaction Forces of the Army, the Navy and the Police immediately reached the hotel and secured guests and staff present, and restricted the attackers within corridor of the fourth floor of the hotel.

After ensuring safe evacuation of guests and staff, the security forces launched a clearance operation against the terrorists, who made the CCTV cameras dysfunctional and planted improvised explosive devices (IEDs) at all the entry points leading to fourth floor, it said.

"The security forces made special entry points to get into the fourth floor, shot down all the terrorists and cleared planted IEDs, the statement said, adding in exchange of fire a Pakistan Navy soldier, Abbas Khan, was killed while two Army Captains, two Pakistan Navy soldiers also got injured.

The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) has claimed the responsibility of the attack saying, the attack was carried out by four attackers.

The BLA said that the attackers were linked with the group's 'Majeed Brigade'. It said Chinese and other investors were in the hotel at the time of attack.

However, Balochistan Home Minister Ziaullah Langov told media that no foreigner was in the hotel when the rebels launched the attack.

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Around 50.3 per cent of 1.44 crore voters exercised their franchise till 3 pm on Sunday in eight Lok Sabha seats of Madhya Pradesh, an official said.

Voting was underway since 7 am in Bhopal, Morena, Bhind, Gwalior, Guna, Sagar, Vidisha and Rajgarh constituencies in the third phase of elections in the state, Chief Electoral Officer V L Kantha Rao said.

"During mock poll conducted before the actual voting began, 30 to 40 electronic voting machines (EVMs) were changed because of some technical problems," he said.

Till 3 pm, Rajgarh seat recorded the highest 59 per cent polling, followed by Guna-57.4 per cent, Vidisha-54.72 per cent, Bhopal-51.06 per cent, Sagar-50.28 per cent, Gwalior 46.66 per cent, Bhind 44.12 per cent and Morena-40.56 per cent, he said.

Long queues were seen at several polling booths across the eight constituencies, he added.

In Bhopal, Congress veteran Digvijay Singh is contesting against BJP candidate and 2008 Malegaon blast accused Pragya Thakur.

Singh is a registered voter of his hometown Raghogarh in Rajgarh Lok Sabha seat.

Thakur exercised her franchise in the morning at a polling booth in Rivera Town area in the state capital.

Congress general secretary Jyotiraditya Scindia, who is seeking a re-election from Guna seat, cast his vote at a booth early in the morning in Gwalior, a party spokesman said.

Former state chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan and his family members exercised their franchise at their native village Jait, which falls under the Vidisha Lok Sabha seat.

Altogether 138 candidates are in the fray for these eight seats, of which seven were won by the BJP in 2014.

Total 18,141 polling booths have been set up where over 1.44 crore people, including 32,909 service voters, are eligible to exercise their franchise, he said.

Lok Sabha elections for 29 seats in the state are being held in four phases.

The first (in six seats) and second phases (seven seats) were held on April 29 and May 6.

Voting for the last phase in eight seats of the state will be held on May 19 and counting of votes will take place on May 23.

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An estimated 60 per cent of the over 66.85 lakh electorate exercised their franchise till 4 pm in four Lok Sabha constituencies of Jharkhand on Sunday, during the third phase of polls in the state, an election official said.

No untoward incident incident was reported from any part of the state, he said.

An estimated 60 per cent turnout has been recorded, and it will increase. The final figure will be available around 6 PM," the official said here.

The polling, which ended at 4 pm, was held in Singhbhum (ST), Jamshedpur, Dhanbad and Giridih parliamentary seats.

Jharkhand Chief Minister Raghubar Das and his family members cast their votes in Jamshedpur constituency.

Policemen were seen helping the sick and the differently abled voters cast their votes in Jamshedpur.

A 106-year-old woman, Pupalata Pal, voted at a booth in Rajkiya Kanya Uchh Vidyala in Chaibasa under Singhbhum constitutency.

Pal has been voting in Chaibasa since the first general elections, an official release said.

Jharkhand Water Resources Minister and Ajsu party leader Chandraprakash Choudhary, three sitting BJP MPs-P N Singh from Dhanbad, B B Mahato from Jamshedpur and Laxman Gilua from Singhbhum constituencies, were among the 67 candidates.

The JMM and the Congress are part of the "Mahagathbandhan" (grand alliance) in Jharkhand.

The first two phases of the Lok Sabha polls were held in Jharkhand on April 29 and May 6.

The fourth and last phase polling will be held on May 19.

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Eight members of a "terrorist" cell were killed on Saturday in a police raid in Saudi Arabia's eastern Qatif region, a Shiite minority stronghold, state media reported.

The recently-formed cell was preparing to carry out "terrorist" activities against the security of the country, the official Saudi Press Agency reported citing a state security spokesman.

He said the men were killed after they fired shots at security forces, who had surrounded a residential apartment in the Sanabis neighbourhood.

"They were called on to surrender, but they did not respond and opened fire at the security forces... which resulted in their killing," said the spokesman.

No civilians or security forces were injured in the operation, he added.

Saudi Arabia's Eastern Province -- which includes Qatif -- has seen bouts of unrest since 2011 when protesters emboldened by the Arab Spring uprisings took to the streets.

The demonstrators have demanded an end to what they say is discrimination by the Sunni-dominated government, a charge Riyadh denies.

One of the leaders of the protest movement, prominent Shiite cleric Nimr al-Nimr, was executed in 2016 for "terrorism".

Nimr's execution exacerbated sectarian tension both across the Gulf and with Saudi Arabia's main regional rival, Shiite Iran.

The Shiite community is estimated to make up between 10 and 15 percent of the kingdom's population of 32 million, but the government has released no official statistics.

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AAP's South Delhi candidate Raghav Chadha Sunday accused workers of casting bogus votes in Sangam Vihar.

No immediate reaction was available from the or police.

Chadha alleged that the workers have collided with the police and are casting their ballots again and again after removing the ink.



"BJP workers are moving around in a polling booth in Sangam Vihar in BJP scarves, a person voted four times. We identified 8-10 such people and caught one red-handed," he said.

He claimed that these tactics are being used by his BJP rival Ramesh Bidhuri.
An Afghan official says unidentified gunmen killed a deputy intelligence director for northern Baghlan province.

The provincial official says Abdul Ghafour Mahmoud was shot Sunday while travelling to the capital, Kabul, and another intelligence agent was wounded.

The official spoke anonymously because he was not authorised to speak to the media.

He says the attack took place on the outskirts of Baghlan's provincial capital, Puli Khumri, and an investigation is underway.

He says it's still unclear if one or more gunmen carried out the attack before fleeing the scene.

No one immediately claimed responsibility for the shooting, but provincial officials blamed Taliban insurgents who are active in the province and have repeatedly targeted government officials and Afghan security forces.

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The BJP on Sunday alleged "failure" of law and order in Rajasthan in the wake of the Alwar gangrape incident and demanded the resignation of Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot.

"We condemn the incident of rape of a Dalit woman recently and other cases of violence," Union minister Prakash Javadekar told reporters at a press conference.

However, there was no immediate reaction from the Congress.

The BJP leader alleged that the Alwar gangrape incident was "kept a secret" in the wake of voting in Rajasthan on May 6.

Javadekar also alleged that besides the gangrape incident in Alwar, other cases of rape were also reported elsewhere in Rajasthan, which saw polling in two phases on April 29 and May 6.

The minister claimed that in the last four months of the Congress government in Rajasthan "46 cases of rape have occurred and 27 cases of atrocities against Dalits, rape or otherwise".

We therefore demand resignation of Gehlot, he said alleging "failure" of law and order in the state.

"We are condemning the Rajasthan rape incident of a Dalit woman, which was first kept a secret just because there was voting on May 6," he alleged.

The rape had provoked protests across Rajasthan after the victim's husband alleged that the police did not act quickly because of the elections.

He claimed the woman was raped on April 26 and the police informed on April 30, but the FIR was filed only May 7.

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Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh on Sunday rejected Union minister Harsimrat Kaur Badal's accusations of the Congress disrupting her poll rallies.

"The anger of the people who had been victimised for 10 years by the Badals and their cronies are now finding voice," Singh said, expressing surprise that Badal, the Shiromani Akali Dal candidate from Bathinda, was facing protests only in some villages and not all over the states.

Badal had on Saturday accused the police of playing into the hands of the ruling Congress, alleging that it refused to take action against some miscreants who tried to disrupt her poll rally in Bathinda.

Singh said it was the "wrath of the people that they were venting against the sufferings meted out by the SAD on them for 10 years".

The fact that Badal was prevented from entering a village in her own constituency only showed that "karma" was catching up fast with the Badals, who had made the people of Punjab shed "tears of blood over their decade-long misrule", the chief minister alleged.

The Congress leader said the Akalis had "sabotaged" their own prospects with their "misdeeds", including their alleged attempts to polarise the people with sacrilege cases.

Singh accused Badal of failing to do anything for any section of the state's people despite being a Union minister in the Modi government, saying she had the "audacity" now to seek votes from those very people whose lives she and her family had "ruined".

The protest by a farmers' union, the 'Bargari Morcha and others who had prevented Badal from entering a village to address an election rally was clearly a "sign of the anger" of the people, he said.

"Did she really expect the people to welcome her with open arms after what the Badals did to them?" Singh asked, adding that both the Bargari desecration and the farmer suicides were extremely grave issues, for which he said Punjab and its people could never forgive the Badals.

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BJP President Amit Shah Sunday attacked the Congress party over its leader Sam Pitroda's 'hua to hua' remark on 1984 anti-Sikh riots.

Shah asked Congress chief Rahul Gandhi whether the matter had ended with Pitroda tendering an apology for "justifying" the Sikh killings.

Shah asserted that the Narendra Modi government had ensured justice to the families of the 1984 riot victims.

"It was the Modi government which ensured sending those involved in anti-Sikh riots behind bars," said Shah, adding that compensation was also given to the families of the victims.

Addressing a poll rally in favour of BJP nominee and Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri from Amritsar Lok Sabha seat, Shah said, "Recently a question was asked to Rahul Gandhi's guru (Pitroda) on 1984 riots, to which he said 'hua to hua' (what happened, happened). What was inside Congress party's heart was uttered by Pitroda.

"The Congress president is asking Pitroda to apologise (for the remark). I want to ask the Congress president whether the matter has ended with an apology by your leader who justified the Sikh genocide.

"Had there been any intention of the Congress to give justice in 1984 riots, the accused would have been behind the bars and compensation would have been given to the families of victims. But congress party had always ignored the 1984 riots," said Shah.

Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday in Rohtak had hit out at the Congress for the remarks made by Pitroda, who is the Congress' Indian Overseas chief, saying it reflected the "character and arrogance" of the opposition.

Shah urged the people to vote for the BJP candidate. "All the voters want their MP to become a minister.I want to tell the people of Amritsar that we have sent you a readymade minister to become a Parliamentarian. First, a constituency elects an MP and thereafter the prime minister makes him a minister. We have sent you a minister for electing him as MP," said Shah.

The BJP chief praised former chief minister Parkash Singh Badal for carrying out development works in Punjab and lauded him for the heritage street in Amritsar.

He lashed out at the Amarinder Singh-led state government, accusing it of not extending support to development projects initiated by the Centre.

Puri, a former diplomat, is pitted against sitting MP and Congress nominee Gurjit Singh Aujla.

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Barring reports of sporadic violence mainly from Paschim Medinipore district, polling at eight Lok Sabha constituencies in West Bengal was peaceful as 37.97 per cent of 1,33,69,749 voters exercised their franchise in the first four hours of voting on Sunday.

Jhargram (ST) seat recorded the highest 41.87 per cent voter turnout till 11 am followed by 41.20 per cent in Tamluk, 39.41 per cent in Ghatal, 37.53 per cent in Kanthi, 37.50 per cent in Bishunupur (SC), 37.42 per cent in Medinipur, 35.78 per cent in Purulia and 33.07 per cent in Bankura, an election official said.

The eight constituencies are spread across five districts of the state.

"Polling is moslty peaceful except some incidents of disturbances from one or two places in Keshpur. We have sought reports from election officials who are posted there," a senior official of the state CEO's office told PTI.

There were reports of attack on BJP's Ghatal candidate, former IPS officer Bharati Ghosh, when she tried to enter a polling booth in Keshpur.

Following it, bombs were hurled at and stones were pelted towards her convoy when she tried to visit another booth in Keshpur after receiving complaints of rigging there.

One of her security gurards was injured and a vehicle of her convoy was damaged in the stone pelting following which the security officers restored to lathicharge.

It was also alleged a Trinamool Congress worker was injured in firing by the central force personnel who were with the BJP candidate who, however, denied the charge.

The official said, "So far we have not received reports of any firing. We are looking into it. Our officials in the districts have been asked to send details of the incidents of attacks on Bharati Ghosh quickly."



The CEO also sought a report after Ghosh was seen videographying inside a polling booth at Pikurda in Keshpur.

Ghosh's vehicle was again blocked by locals when she tried to enter Keshpur market area. The state police posted in the area intervened and her vehicle was seized.

"Her vehicle has no valid pass to move through the area on the polling day. We cannot allow her to move around like this. This is a matter of security," the police officer said.

After the seizure, a large number of protestors gathered there and she took shelter inside a temple in Keshpur market area with her security officers guarding her.

The mob also pelted stones to the policemen who resorted to lathicharge to disperse them. Owners of shops in the market downed the shutters.

Ghosh was then taken to Keshpur police station to protect her from the wrath of the protestors.

BJPs candidate and state party president Dilip Ghosh also faced protests from locals when he tried to visit a polling booth in his constituency, Midnapore.

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The BJP Sunday termed the attack on its candidate Bharati Ghosh an "act of frustration" by the ruling Trinamool Congress in West Bengal, and said it would complain to the Election Commission for action in the matter.

BJP leader and Union minister Prakash Javadekar said a delegation of his party will meet the EC over the alleged incidents of violence in Ghatal constituency.

Ghosh was allegedly attacked twice when the former IPS officer tried to visit polling stations in the constituency when the sixth phase of polling was under way.

Officials said in Kolkata Ghosh suffered minor injuries when a group of women allegedly attacked her as she tried to take a BJP agent inside a polling booth in Keshpur. One of her security guards was injured when locals pelted stones at another booth.

"It clearly shows the sheer desperation by Mamata Banerjee and her TMC," Javadekar said at a press conference in New Delhi.

"Stones were pelted on her car and she was also injured. Instead of taking action against the goons, Ghosh's movements have been restricted and her car, which was vandalised, has been seized by the local administration. This is unacceptable. The TMC goons are engaged in unabated violence against the BJP. This is an act of frustration," he said.

The state CEO has sought reports from the West Midnapore district magistrate about the incidents of violence in Ghatal.

Javadekar claimed in Jhargam Lok Sabha constituency, the body of a BJP booth president has been found.

Demanding that poll observers ensure proper deployment of central forces for smooth voting, the Union minister said, "Mamata says there is an expiry date for the prime minister. But the way they are conducting elections, the amount of frustration, and with the imminent defeat of the TMC, there is an expiry date of the Mamata government."



"At 6 pm, we will go to EC over this incident," he told reporters at the party office here.

Javadekar also attacked the Congress government in Rajasthan, alleging the law and order in the state has failed, and demanded the resignation of state Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot.

"We condemn the incident of rape of a Dalit woman recently and other cases of violence," he said.

On April 26, the woman was allegedly raped in front of her husband in Alwar. Her husband has claimed he had approached the Rajasthan police on April 30, alleging that police officials did not act quickly because of elections and eventually filed an FIR on May 7.

Rajasthan voted in two phases on April 29 and May 6.

Javadekar alleged that in the last four months of the Congress government in Rajasthan, "46 cases of rape have occurred and 27 cases of atrocities against Dalits, rape or otherwise."



"We, therefore, demand resignation of Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot," he told reporters.

Javadekar also said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi "did not reveal anything he was not supposed to reveal" on the Balakot strike during an interview with a channel.

The opposition has alleged that the prime minister divulged sensitive details of the operation against terrorists inside Pakistan.

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The BJP Sunday termed the attack on its candidate Bharati Ghosh in West Bengal an "act of frustration" by the ruling Trinamool Congress in the state and claimed that the days of the Mamata Banerjee government are numbered.

The party also demanded that the Election Commission take suo motu cognisance of matter.

Ghosh was allegedly attacked twice by locals on Sunday when the former IPS officer tried to visit polling stations in Ghatal Lok Sabha constituency, where she is the BJP candidate, when polling was underway there.

One of her security guards was injured in stone pelting while Ghosh herself suffered minor injuries when a group of women allegedly attacked her when she tried to take a BJP agent inside a polling booth at Keshpur area in the morning.

Union minister and BJP leader Prakash Javadekar said, "Stones were pelted on her car and she was also injured. Instead of taking action against the goons, Ghosh's movements have been restricted and her car, which was vandalised, has been seized by the local administration. This is unacceptable. The TMC goons are engaged in unabated violence against the BJP. This is an act of frustration."



The state CEO has sought reports from the West Midnapore district magistrate about the incidents.

Javadekar also claimed that in Jhargam Lok Sabha constituency, the body of a BJP booth president has been recovered.

Demanding that poll observers should ensure proper deployment of central forces for smooth voting, the Union minister said, "Mamata (Banerjee) says there is an expiry date for the prime minister. But the way they are conducting elections, the amount of frustration, and with the imminent defeat of the TMC, there is an expiry date of the Mamata government.

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A case has been registered against a sitting BJP MLA for holding an election meeting here and distributing t-shirts to voters without any permission, officials said Sunday.

Sub-divisional Magistrate Vipin Kumar Jain said, "In a video which went viral late yesterday night, it came to light that BJP's Bairia MLA Surendra Singh had held an election meeting on May 9 without permission. When the matter was probed, it was found to be a case of Model Code of Conduct violation."



Based on a complaint of the magistrate's flying squad, a case was registered against the Bairia MLA and four others under various sections of the IPC.

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BJP candidate Bharati Ghosh was allegedly attacked twice by local people when the former IPS officer tried to visit polling stations in her Ghatal Lok Sabha constituency on Sunday when the sixth phase of polling was underway there.

One of her security guards was injured in stone pelting in one of the two incidents of attack.

The state CEO has sought reports from the West Midnapore district magistrate about the incidents.

Ghosh suffered minor injuries when a group of women allegedly attacked her when she tried to take one BJP agent inside a polling booth at Keshpur area in the morning, officials said.

Following this, bombs were hurled and stones were pelted towards the former IPS officer's convoy when she was going to visit another booth at Dogachia in Keshpur after receiving complaints of rigging there.

One of her security guards was injured and a vehicle was damaged in the stone pelting following which the security officers restored to lathicharge, the officials said.

It was also alleged a Trinamool worker was injured in firing by central forces who were with the BJP candidate who, however, denied the charge.

"This is a deliberate attempt by the Trinamool to stop me. They attacked me and I am injured. That my security guards have fired is an absolute lie," Ghosh told when contacted.

A senior election official said, "We have sought a report from the district magistrate over the alleged attacks on the BJP candidate. Once the report arrives, we will take the necessary step."



The state CEO also sought a report after Ghosh was seen videographying inside a polling booth at Pikurda in Keshpur.

State minister and TMC leader Firhad Hakim claimed that the BJP restored to violence when the polling was going on in a peaceful manner.

"This is nothing but a ploy to disturb the peaceful polling process. When the BJP is losing its ground in it is trying to create an atmosphere of violence. Both the candidates of BJP, Bharati Ghosh and Dilip Ghosh, are trying to disrupt peace on the polling day. They have nothing to do. Both know that people have rejected them," Hakim told

Ghatal's sitting MP Deepak Adhikary of the Trinamool claimed that local people resisted because of Ghosh's bad attitude towards them.

"She is a former IPS officer and knows what to do and what not to. She is trying to break the law. I will ask her and every other candidate as well as the voters to stay calm. Polling should happen peacefully," Dev told

BJP state president said this is not for the first time that Bharati Ghosh was attacked.

"Since the TMC failed to stop her politically, it is trying to physically harm her," he said.

The has deployed a total of 770 companies of central forces in the eight Lok Sabha seats, including Ghatal, where polling is underway.
The BJP Sunday staged a demonstration and handed over a representation to Governor Kalyan Singh here against rising incidents of crime against Dalits and women in the state.

A delegation of the party led by its state president, Madan Lal Saini, handed over a representation to the governor and requested him to forward a detailed report of the state government's "failure in maintaining law and order".

The delegation also handed over two lists of crime against women and Dalits reported recently.

In the representation, the BJP cited the example of the recent gan-grape of a Dalit woman in Alwar and said that the government failed to maintain law and order and the crime against women and Dalits have increased.

Earlier in the day, scores of the party workers demonstrated at the civil lines railway crossing here.

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BJP President Amit Shah Sunday said



Article 370 that gives special powers to Kashmir will be scrapped if Narendra Modi is elected as prime minister again.

Addressing his first rally at Chogan Maidan in Chamba district, Shah said former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah said there should be another prime minister for the state whereas Congress in its manifesto declared it will review AFSPA in Kashmir and amend provisions of sedition law.

All this indicated their mindset but if the BJP comes to power again and Modi becomes prime minister, Article 370 will be removed for sure, he added.

The BJP chief is campaigning in support of Kangra BJP candidate Kishan Kapoor.

Targeting the Congress on the issue of national security, he said the Manmohan Singh led previous Congress government did nothing when Pakistan beheaded five India soldiers but under Modi rule airstrikes were carried out in Balakot.

Shah pointed out that Congress leader Sam Pitroda said instead of airstrikes, "we should talk to militants".

Targeting Pitroda further, the BJP chief said, "If you ask a question regarding the 1984 anti-Sikh riots, the Congress says 'hua to hua'. If you ask a question regarding the 26/11 attacks in Mumbai and migration of Kashmiri Pandits, Congress says 'hua to hua.'



Shah also noted that it was for the first time that the opposition has not made corruption an issue as it has been "wiped out" during the Modi government.

Counting various development works done in HP under the Modi government, Shah said, "Process is on to set up an international airport at Mandi. It will be done after Modi government comes to power again at the Centre."



HP CM Jai Ram Thakur and veteran BJP leader Shanta Kumar were present in the rally.

Congress has pitted sitting MLA Pawan Kajal against HP minister Kishan Kapoor from Kangra.

The BJP chief is scheduled to address two more rallies later in the day in HP's Bilaspur and Nahan in support of BJP candidates Anurag Thakur and Suresh Kashyap from Hamirpur and Shimla Lok Sabha seats respectively.

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BJP president Amit Shah Sunday said the Article 370 that gives special powers to Kashmir will be scrapped if Narendra Modi is elected as prime minister again.

Targeting the Congress on the issue of national security, he said the Manmohan Singh-led Congress government did nothing when Pakistan beheaded five Indian soldiers but under Modi rule air strikes were carried out in Balakot.

Addressing a rally at Chogan Maidan in Himachal Pradesh's Chamba district, Shah pointed out that Congress leader Sam Pitroda said instead of air strikes, "we should talk to militants".

"If Pakistan will fire a bullet, we will reply with shell," the BJP chief said.

He addressed two rallies in Himachal Pradesh on Sunday. Shah was campaigning in support of Kangra BJP candidate Kishan Kapoor and Hamirpur sitting MP Anurag Thakur.

Citing former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah's comment that there should be another prime minister for the state, Shah said, "All this indicated their mindset but if the BJP comes to power again and Modi becomes prime minister, Article 370 will be removed for sure."



Targeting Pitroda further, the BJP chief said, "If you ask a question regarding the 1984 anti-Sikh riots, the Congress says 'hua to hua'. If you ask a question regarding the 26/11 attacks in Mumbai and migration of Kashmiri Pandits, Congress says 'hua to hua'."



He claimed that Congress president Rahul Gandhi's face turned pale when the Modi government had put those behind bars who had raised "Bharat tere tukde honge, inshallah inshallah" slogan at JNU, and now he declared to amend provisions of sedition law in his party manifesto.

Shah also noted that it was for the first time that the opposition has not made corruption an issue as it has been "wiped out" during the Modi government.

Counting various development works done in Himachal Pradesh under the Modi government, he said, "Process is on to set up an international airport at Mandi. It will be done after Modi government comes to power again at the Centre."



While addressing another rally in Bilaspur in support of Anurag Thakur, he said, "You elect Anurag with a record margin, I will ensure making him a big leader."



Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur and veteran BJP leader Shanta Kumar were present in the Chamba rally, whereas Union minister Jai Prakash Nadda and former CM and Anurag Thakur's father P K Dhumal attended the Bilaspur rally.

The Congress has pitted sitting MLA Pawan Kajal against HP minister Kishan Kapoor from Kangra, whereas Sri Naina Deviji MLA Ram Lal Thakur of the Congress is trying his luck against three-time Hamirpur MP Anurag Thakur.

The BJP chief is scheduled to address one more rally later in the day in Nahan in support of BJP candidate Suresh Kashyap from the Shimla Lok Sabha seat.

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Claiming that the BJP would emerge victorious in all the seven Lok Sabha seats in Delhi, the party's city unit chief Manoj Tiwari Sunday evening claimed that Aam Aadmi Party(AAP) will trail at the third place in the contest.

The Congress will do "only slightly better" than the ruling party in Delhi, said Tiwari who is contesting the polls from North East Delhi parliamentary seat.

"The feedback of party leaders and workers as well as people shows the results of polls will be encouraging for the BJP. We will win all the seven seats in Delhi with huge margins while the AAP will trail at third place and the Congress doing slightly better than it," Tiwari claimed.

Citing allegations of "bogus" voting by the AAP's South Delhi candidate Raghav Chadha, the Delhi BJP chief said, "He is levelling the bogus voting charge as he is scared of defeat."



He said people had expectations from Narendra Modi in 2014 which now has changed into their "strong faith" in him.

Tiwari, who cast his vote in Yamuna Vihar in North East Delhi, said he felt "ecstatic" after exercising his franchise after a gap of some years and was "nervous" while pressing the button on EVM, fearing he would goof up and end up voting for a rival.

Tiwari alleged a BJP worker was "slapped" by an AAP MLA in Mayur Vihar Phase III and said it reflected the "decline" in political ethics on the part of the ruling party in Delhi.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The newly-formed Brexit Party, which wants a clean break from the EU, has doubled its lead over other British parties in an opinion poll out Sunday on the European Parliament elections.

The Opinium survey in The Observer newspaper put the Brexit Party of eurosceptic figurehead Nigel Farage on 34 percent, doubling its lead over the main opposition Labour Party to 13 points in a fortnight -- and on course to get more votes than Britain's two main parties put together.

Labour, on 21 percent, has dropped seven points while the anti-Brexit Liberal Democrats are in third place on 12 percent, up five points, on the corresponding poll from two weeks ago.

Prime Minister Theresa May's governing Conservatives are in fourth place on 11 percent.

Had Britain left the European Union as planned on March 29, it would not be taking part in the European Parliament elections, which will be held in the UK on May 23.

In the 2016 referendum on Britain's EU membership, 52 percent voted to leave while 48 percent voted to remain.

Adam Drummond, head of political polling at Opinium, said Remain voters were scattered among several parties.

"While 63 percent of Leavers say they will vote for the Brexit Party in the European elections, the most popular party among Remainers (Labour) only has 31 percent, versus 22 percent for the Lib Dems and 14 percent for the Greens," he said.

Brexit voters have deserted the Conservatives to such an extent that they now have a higher share of Remainers (12 percent) backing them than of Leavers (11 percent), he added.

In voting intentions for the next general election -- which must be held by May 2022 -- left-wing Labour is on 28 percent, the centre-right Conservatives on 22 percent, the Brexit Party on 21 percent and the centrist Liberal Democrats on 11 percent.

Opinium Research conducted an online survey of 2,004 British adults between Wednesday and Friday. The results were weighted.

A ComRes general election poll, which appears in The Sunday Telegraph newspaper, puts Labour on 27 percent, the Brexit Party on 20 percent and the Conservatives on 19 percent.

The poll of 2,034 adults conducted on Thursday was commissioned by Brexit Express, a campaign group run by the Brexit Party's biggest donor.

May has pledged to step down once a Brexit divorce deal has been agreed upon by parliament.

ComRes chairman Andrew Hawkins said of those bidding to replace May: "If the Conservative leadership contenders are not careful, there will be no party for them to lead.

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Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 13)  The host of Netflix series "Patriotic Act with Hasan Minhaj" raised concerns on the possible result of the Philippine midterm elections that will be held on Monday as President Rodrigo Duterte continues to enjoy a high rating.

Indian-American comedian and political commentator Hasan Minhaj released an episode on May 12, a day before the Philippines votes for 18,071 elective posts. He put the spotlight on the policies of Duterte, whom he referred to as an autocrat.

"Midterms act as a check on the President's power, but there is nothing normal about President Rodrigo Duterte," he said in the show.

Minhaj cited Duterte's "extreme" and "ineffective" war against drugs that has killed thousands of drug personalities and civilians. He also mentioned Duterte's questionable pronouncements, citing the time the President ordered his troops to shoot female rebels in the vagina.

"Here's what's more shocking, as the body count rises, so does Duterte's popularity," he said.

He mentioned the President's record-high satisfaction rating in the first quarter of 2019, saying this likely means candidates like Duterte are poised to win.

"According to a recent poll, Duterte's approval rating is as high as 81 percent  probably because he killed the other 19 percent... 12 Senate seats are up for grabs. Seven of the most popular candidates are backed by Duterte," he said.

Minhaj specifically mentioned three senatorial candidates endorsed by Duterte: Ilocos Norte Governor Imee Marcos, former Philippine National Police Chief Ronald "Bato" dela Rosa, and ex-Presidential aide Bong Go.

He highlighted the fact that Imee is the daughter of former dictator Ferdinand Marcos, noting the death of student activist Archimedes Trajano who was tortured in 1977 after speaking up against Imee.

"Imee Marcos has dad's dictator DNA," Minhaj said.

He referred to dela Rosa as the "'brilliant' architect behind the drug war." He talked about Go simply as the "photobomber and presidential sidekick."

"These are the candidates expected to gain power, which would mean voters are co-signing Duterte's bloody drug war through 2022," Minhaj reminded Filipino voters.

The midterm elections is seen as a referendum on the performance of Duterte over his three years in office.

Aside from the Philippine midterm elections, he also talked about Brazil's far-right President Jair Bolsonaro, who is likened to Duterte for his misogynistic, racist, and homophobic remarks.
Age is just a number, says a family member of 111-year-old Bachan Singh, the oldest voter in Delhi who carried a youthful enthusiasm into the polling station in Tilak Nagar here.

Centenarian Bachan Singh and 110-year-old Ram Pyari Sankhwar were the oldest man and woman respectively to cast their vote for the Lok Sabha elections in the national capital Sunday.

However, this time, it was a pleasant experience for Bachan Singh and Shankwar, who have been voting since India's first general election following Independence, as they were taken to the polling booth in a car by polling staff and also dropped back.

Overwhelmed by this gesture of the Delhi's Chief Electoral Office, they claimed it was a "VIP experience" for them as they felt "important".

Till the last assembly elections in 2015, Singh cycled to the polling booth to cast his vote. This time, he reached the booth in a car along with poll officers in full media glare.

He was later wheeled into the polling both using a chair.

A paralysis attack around three months ago had rendered the centenarian bedridden. Though Bachan Singh cannot talk like the way he did before, but he knows how important his vote is.

"I will vote for those who worked for us," he said.

Interestingly, Singh doesn't know there's a party called the Aam Aadmi Party and that Arvind Kejriwal is the chief minister of Delhi.

"He doesn't even know that the Aam Aadmi Party exists. For him, every election has been a contest between the BJP and the Congress," his youngest son, Jasbeer Singh, 63, says.

Jasbeer Singh claims his father has never missed out on an election since 1951.

The family says they have traditionally voted for the Congress because former prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru "supported Namdhari Sikhs at the time of partition".

But they think the Aam Aadmi party should be given another chance in Delhi.

Sankhwar, who is suffering from age-related ailments for the last one decade, exercised her franchise in Kondli.

Her son Ram Dhani said his mother was overwhelmed as she was taken to the polling station in a car which had the mark of the Government of India with a Delhi constable escorting her.

"They treated me like a VIP," she said.

"Four days back, the district magistrate and the SDM had come to our house to invite my mother to cast her vote. They also honoured her with bouquets and a shawl," her son said.

Tilak Raj, 106, a resident of Adarsh Nagar, also received a message and a call from the polling staff for a pick up early in the morning.

"But we told them that we do not need a pick up. We went on our own and he was received with a bouquet at the booth," Deepak Kukreja, Raj's grandson, said.

Ganga Devi, 107-year-old resident of Kewal Park was also picked up from home and felicitated at the polling station.

According to data shared by the Delhi CEO Office, there are a total of 96 centenarians who were eligible to vote in Lok Sabha polls here -- 42 male and 54 female.

Besides centenarians, several senior citizens, aged above 80, braved the heat and old-age ailments and turned up at the polling booths to exercise their franchise.

Sitting on a sofa made available for voters at a model polling station, Major General (Retired) R N Kapoor, a resident of Janakpuri, said it took him no time to cast his vote.

"It was the best voting experience I have had so far. It was very convenient and hassle-free," he said.

Ninety-two year-old H S Bhatia, a former govt employee, too, was satisfied with the arrangements at the polling booth at Kalkaji Extension even as he expressed unhappiness over the current political scenario.

"It is a sad state of affair. Politicians only indulge in mud-slinging. They do not care about the people and their issues," he said, adding he is not bothered about petty issues like water and power and has voted keeping in mind the bigger picture for the country.

"We need a strong prime minister who can give a befitting response to enemy countries and also brings in discipline in the political arena. Politics, otherwise, has now been reduced to a cesspool," he said.

At several polling booths, policemen were seen assisting elderly persons boarding and de-boarding their vehicles and arranging wheelchairs for them so that they do not face any inconvenience and have a smooth experience.

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A nine-member central team reached Odisha on Sunday to assess the damage caused by Cyclone Fani that ravaged the state's coastal districts on May 3 and left 64 dead.

The inter-ministerial team is being led by Additional Secretary in the Ministry of Home Affairs Vivek Bharadwaj.

Before beginning the on-the-spot assessment in the affected areas on Monday, the team members will be briefed by Special Relief Commissioner B P Sethi.

The team will be split into two groups. They will visit Puri and Khurda districts, the worst affected by the cyclone, on May 13 and 14.

They will visit some of the affected areas in the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation area on May 15 before holding a meeting with senior state government officials, including Chief Secretary A P Padhi.

After completing the visit, the team will submit its report to the Centre, an official said.

About 14 lakh trees, including thousands of coconut and mango trees, were uprooted by cyclone Fani.

The cyclone has also destroyed agricultural land in the the coastal areas.

According to the state government's preliminary assessment, more than 30 per cent crop has been damaged in Odisha due the cyclone.

More than 1,00,000 hectares of agricultural land was badly affected in 14 districts of the state.

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Chemical leak at an industrial unit in Palghar district resulted in the death of three workers on Sunday, police said.

The incident took place around 4 pm at the unit, a chemical company, in Boisar MIDC of Tarapur, when work of filling the chemical was on, an official said.

After being alerted about the leak, the fire brigade personnel rushed to the spot and launched a rescue operation and the unit was vacated, he said.

"The workers apparently died due to the reaction of the chemical," Janardan Prabhkar, senior inspector of Boisar police station told PTI.

The deceased were identified as Prabhakar Khadse (59), Dattatraya Ghule (25), and Raghunath Gorai (25), an official said.

The exact cause of the deaths will be ascertained after the post-mortem, he said.

"The chemical that had got leaked is being identified," the official said.

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Supporters of two rival political parties clashed at Jugsalai here on Sunday in which a jawan of the Rapid Action Force was injured, police said.

Four persons were arrested in this connection, the police said.

The polling agents of the two political parties clashed, leading to lathi-charge and bursting of tear-gas by the police as the two groups hurled stones at each other, the sources said.

East Singhbhum Senior Superintendent of Police Anoop Birtharay along with adequate security forces rushed to the booth no 170 where the polling agents of the two political parties indulged in a dispute during the polling, said the Returning Officer-cum-Deputy Commissioner of the district, Amit Kumar.

Addressing a post-polling press conference here, Kumar said the two groups made an abortive attempt to give it a communal colour but the police took preventive measures and arrested four persons.

The polling was held uninterrupted as the police drove the anti-social elements involved in the clash, he said.

Kumar said stringent action would be taken against anyone found disturbing the communal harmony in the area.

"We will register an FIR against the culprits, he said, adding adequate forces were deployed in the area to maintain law and order and the SSP was camping in the area.

Barring this incident, he said, the polling in the district was peaceful and the turnout was impressive with the estimated voting percentage recorded at 66.44 per cent.

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Police had to resort to a baton charge on Sunday after members of the Patidar community allegedly stopped a Dalit man's wedding procession in Gujarat's Aravalli district and the two sides pelted stones at each other.

The incident occurred in the evening in Khambiasr village and officials said a posse of cops had been rushed to the spot to maintain peace. Several people and policemen were injured in the stone pelting.

The wedding procession, which was held up for over five hours, could not proceed to the marriage venue due to the ruckus and family members of the groom blamed the police for the situation.

Patidar community members had stalled the procession by crowding the main road and singing bhajans and performing a yagna, the police said.

"Police have been deployed in large numbers. The situation is peaceful. The groom's family has been provided protection and we will give them cover on Monday as well," Gandhinagar Range Inspector General of Police Mayank Chavda said.

Chavda said members of both the communities had been called to sort out matters and bring about peace in the area.

One of the family members of the groom, however, alleged that they had sought protection, but the police failed in getting the procession to move forward.

"We got no police protection and were forced to come back. The members of Patidar community had blocked both the roads, making it impossible for us to move. We hope police give us protection on Monday so that the wedding ceremony passes off peacefully," the family member said.

In another incident on Sunday, the wedding procession of a Dalit bridegroom at a village in Sabarkantha district had to be provided police cover after members of the Thakor community objected to the groom offering prayers at a local temple. The procession, however, passed off peacefully, police said.

Anil Rathod's family had sought police protection after elders of Sitvada village, belonging to the Thakor community, had objected to the procession passing through the village and his plans to offer prayers at the Bhikhabhai Vaniya temple, a villager said.

The Thakor community members had also objected to a wedding procession as the bridegroom was riding a horse on way to the wedding venue.

"The family of the Anil Rathod submitted an application to the police seeking protection for the wedding procession. In their application, the Dalit members of the village had raised apprehension that members of another community might create trouble," district Deputy Superintendent of Police Meenakshi Patel said.

"We offered police protection to the marriage procession and it passed off peacefully. The groom also visited the village temple before he left for a nearby village for the marriage ceremony," the DSP said.

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday accused the Congress of hatching the 'Hindu terror' conspiracy to defame the country's religious heritage.

Modi also referred to Congress leader Sam Pitroda's "hua to hua" (whatever happened, has happened) remark on the anti-Sikh riots in 1984, saying it showed the Opposition party's mentality.

"The Congress has hatched the 'Hindu atankwad' (terrorism) conspiracy to defame our religious heritage," Modi said at an election meeting in Khandwa, Madhya Pradesh. "No matter how many 'janeu' (sacred thread) they will show, the Congress and its 'mahamilavat' (highly-adulterated) allies will never escape from the sin of putting blot of terrorism on the saffron colour of Hindu religion."



The prime minister hit out the Congress by pointing out to Pitroda's "hua to hua" remarks.

"The Congress even ensured the escape of Bhopal gas tragedy accused (Warren Anderson) as they believe in 'hua to hua'," Modi said.

"Kishore Kumar's songs were banned during the Emergency. But now, if the Congress is asked about it, it will say 'hua to hua'," he said. Kumar was born in Khandwa.

Modi claimed that he was campaigning with his good work, whereas the Congress and its allies were contesting the election with "falsehood and misdeeds".

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A curfew plan mock drill was conducted on Sunday in Rajouri district of Jammu and Kashmir, a senior police officer said.

The mock drill was conducted with an objective to carry out internal security audit, to put in place a well devised security plan to deal with any untoward incident and to tighten the security grid to thwart any nefarious designs of unlawful elements, he said.

Police, along with the Army, central paramilitary forces and the civil administration, conducted the drill jointly in and around Rajouri town, Senior Superintendent of Police, Rajouri, Yougal Manhas said.

During the mock drill, columns of police, Army and central paramilitary forces were deployed in and around the border town, especially at 22 vulnerable points which have been identified during a week-long secret exercise conducted by the authorities, he said.

Manhas said magistrates from the civil administration under the supervision of District Magistrate, Rajouri, Mohammad Aijaz Asad were also deployed along with security force columns during the drill.

All the entry and exit routes to the town were sealed while checking of vehicles and frisking of pedestrians was also conducted, he said.

Senior police officers, Army officers from Ace of Spades Division and central paramilitary force officers remained stationed at identified locations which were marked as zones and sectors, he added.

Manhas said the curfew plan mock drill is a routine exercise of forces which ensures preparedness of all agencies and their swift response to law and order problem vis-a-vis studying of loopholes, if any, for corrective nature.

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National security, unemployment and demonetisation were among the various issues on which Delhiites exercised their franchise on Sunday.

Anuj Agarwal, a 65-year-old retired Professor of Delhi School of Economics, said he voted for the stability of the country.

"The country needs a strong prime minister who can capably lead it on all fronts," Agarwal said after casting his vote at a polling station in the Nizamuddin East area of the East Delhi Lok Sabha constituency.

Sandip, a medical representative, criticised the heavy expenditure on campaigning by political parties, saying they should focus on real issues like public transport, employment and water supply.

Muhammad Waseem, 21, a resident of Nangloi, said he voted for those who can give him a "real job and not someone who asks people to sell pakodas".

National security is important but people are also dying due to distress over crop failure, Waseem, a first-time voter, added.

Meena Jasotani, 47, a resident of Chandni Chowk, said she voted for the development by the Centre.

Communal discord also weighed on the mind of several voters.

Aijaz Ulhaq, 53, a resident of Chandni Chowk, said he needs a government which will keep all the communities united.

Sanjog Singh, 47, a resident of Hari Nagar, said his vote is to defeat the divisive

Mohammad Rafi, 66, a resident of Nai Sadak in Chandni Chowk, also shared the Singh's view.

"In the last five years, there has been a growing atmosphere of fear. So, many cases of mob lynching were reported. We never felt so unsafe in the past. When the Modi government came to power, we hoped that all communities will live in harmony with each other. But things turned out the other way," he said.

A garment shop owner, Deepak, said he voted keeping in mind those long queues outside the ATM counters.

"As a responsible citizen, I did cast my vote but as a small trader I cannot forget how my business suffered due to noteban. Also, the lack of uniformity in implementing the GST", Deepak, 43, said.

There were also some like Rubal Sedhra, an engineer by profession, who opted for NOTA because he felt that none of the candidates contesting from his North East Delhi constituency were worthy enough.

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South Africa will use a two-day informal WTO Ministers' meeting in New Delhi starting Monday to push for recognising the necessity of policy space for developing countries, especially African countries, to pursue their development objectives, a senior minister said.

The meeting will be attended by six least developed countries and 16 developing countries, including China, Brazil, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Bangladesh, Malaysia and Nigeria. The Director General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO) Roberto Azevedo would also attend the meet.

The meeting is taking place at a time when global trade is going through a period of uncertainty, with an increase in protectionism in some countries and a backlash against trade agreements and globalisation due to lack of inclusive growth, South Africa's Minister of Trade and Industry Rob Davies said ahead of his departure to India.

"We need to shape a multilateral trade environment that is conducive and supportive of industrialisation, and supports structural transformation and economic diversification. This includes recognising the necessity of policy space for developing countries, especially African countries to pursue our development objectives and promote regional integration," Davies said.

The aim of the meeting is to exchange views and ideas on how to best address the challenges facing the Multilateral Trading System (MTS), as well as discuss issues of concern to developing countries.

There are different diagnoses of problems facing the MTS depending on which side of the spectrum a country is. The meeting will provide an opportunity for the exchange of views among participating nations on current developments in the MTS with a view to promote inclusive growth.

It comes in the wake of interactions between Commerce and Industry Minister Suresh Prabhu and a dozen African nations via video link over the past fortnight. Prabhu told the participants that India wanted to ensure that Africa progresses and becomes the most developed part of the world.

The meeting will also provide an opportunity to developing and least developed countries to build consensus on how to move forward on the WTO reforms, while preserving the fundamentals of the multilateral trading system enshrined in the WTO.

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Kareena Kapoor Khan will be sharing screen space with Irrfan Khan for the first time in "Angrezi Medium" and she says she came on board the project to work with the critically-acclaimed actor.

It may be a small part, but Kareena believes it will be great a learning experience.

"It is a small part and I did not want to miss the opportunity to be working with Irrfan Khan. That box needed to be ticked in my career that I had the pleasure of working with him whether it is two scenes or three or more. As an artiste one gets to learn so much when you are part of a good film," the 38-year-old actor told PTI.

"I grabbed the opportunity and I don't know if I will get this again. We are dramatically different actors. We don't do same kind of movies. When this role came, Homi told me do it as it is a cool part even though if it is small as I will get to work with Irrfan," she added.

Irrfan, 52, is back to work after undergoing treatment for neuroendocrine tumour in London. He had revealed his diagnosis last year in March and was away from films since then.

Kareena will be essaying the role of a cop in "Angrezi Medium". The makers have started shooting and she will join the cast soon.

"It is a cop role and I am excited about it. I can't talk in any further about the role," she added.

The film, directed by Homi Adajania, went on floors recently and also stars Radhika Madan and Deepak Dobriyal, among others.

It is a sequel to Irrfan's 2017 superhit comedy drama "Hindi Medium".

"Angrezi Medium" is slated to be released on April 25 next year.

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Beating the odds, differently abled voters turned up at polling stations across the city on Sunday to cast their votes for the Lok Sabha election with a sense of duty towards the nation.

Twenty-three-year-old Shivank Shukla, who cast his vote at a polling station in Aurangzeb Lane in the New Delhi parliamentary constituency, said, "If I can go to a shopping mall on a wheelchair, I can come here too because it's very important."



Shukla, who met with an accident at the age of 17 making his lower limbs dysfunctional, happily posed for shutterbugs flashing his inked finger after casting his vote.

"I could not cast vote in 2014 despite being eligible for it, but this time I decided that I have to do it," he said.

Badri, 30, who has paralysis in his legs, was accompanied by a neighbour who offered him a ride on his motorcycle to a polling station in Laxmi Nagar of the East Delhi constituency.

He claimed that his pension from the municipal corporation was pending for more than one month and lashed out at political parties for being "insensitive" towards the needs of the differently abled people.

"Still I have come to vote because it's my duty and it is the only way you can make a change," Badri said.

Polling staff, police personnel and volunteers deployed at polling stations offered help to differently abled persons and ensured they cast their votes with least discomfort.

Three visually challenged youths - Kuldeep Singh, Adesh Kumar and Manoj Kumar Thakur - cast their votes at Kalkaji Extension polling station.

"It is our duty towards the society to participate in the government making process," Singh said.

"Physical disability cannot be a barrier in ones' duty towards the nation as each vote counts," he said.

The three friends, who study at a special school for visually challenged persons, appreciated the arrangements at the polling station and volunteers who helped them in casting their votes.

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi Sunday mounted a scathing attack on BSP supremo Mayawati accusing her of "shedding crocodile tears" over the gang-rape incident in Rajasthan's Alwar and demanded that her party withdraw support from the Congress government in that state if she is "serious".

On April 26, the victim was travelling with her husband on a motorcycle when the accused stopped them 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.

Her husband claimed that he had approached Rajasthan police on April 26 after the incident, but an FIR was filed on May 2. He had alleged that the police did not take action saying that they were busy with elections.

Addressing election meetings in Kushinagar and Deoria in eastern Uttar Pradesh, Modi said, "Please do not shed crocodile tears. If you are serious, why don't you withdraw support from the Congress government in Rajasthan."



BSP has given support to the Congress government in the state.

Expressing concern over the gang-rape of the Dalit woman, Mayawati had Saturday alleged that the Congress government in Rajasthan did not let the matter come to anyone's notice by "terrorising" the victim's family until the completion of the polling process there.

"Under these circumstances, the victim and her family will not be able to get proper justice. The BSP appeals to the Supreme Court to take notice for ensuring prompt justice and strict punishment to the accused," she had said.

Hitting out at the BSP chief Modi said, "Even the Congress government wanted to suppress the incident involving a Dalit woman as the party thought 'hua toh hua' (So what, it happened)."



ALSO READ: The next election

His reference was to Congress leader Sam Pitroda's "hua to hua" remark about the in 1984 anti-Sikh riots, which raised a political storm over the weekend.

Continuing his tirade at the opposition, the prime minister said, "The biggest example of how the 'mahamilawat' (highly adulterated) SP-BSP-Congress alliance actually works is Rajasthan."



"When the (Lucknow) guest house incident happened, the entire country was pained. What is the reason that you are not feeling pained now. If you are so honest about the dignity of the daughters, then you should immediately write a letter to the Rajasthan Governor and withdraw your support from the Congress government," he said.

"A Dalit daughter is gangraped and there is a government of the Congress and 'naamdaar' (dynast). And the Rajasthan government is not a dispensation which enjoys full majority. It is working with the support of BSP. It is busy in hushing up the matter," Modi said.

In the infamous Lucknow guest house incident in 1995, armed Samajwadi Party cadre had assaulted the BSP supremo when she was having a meeting there.



Attacking the Congress, the prime minister said, "The Congress which chants nyay, nyay, nyay, its naamdaar (dynast) has been silenced by the rapists. Today, the daughters of Uttar Pradesh are asking Behenji (Mayawati), and Behenji you have to answer why you have not withdrawn your support to the Congress government (in Rajasthan). You are shedding crocodile tears by only indulging in issuing statements."



"To punish those who commit crime against women, this chowkidaar of yours had made provisions for the capital punishment. If the intention of the Congress government was right, it would not have suppressed the Alwar incident, but they have only one answer 'hua toh hua'. Be it corruption, price rise or the 1984 anti-Sikh genocide, their answer is 'hua toh hua'," he said.

Polling for the Lok Sabha seats in Rajasthan took place in two phases on April 29 and May 6.
An alleged drug peddler was arrested Sunday and 4 gram of heroin was seized from his possession in Kathua district of Jammu and Kashmir, police said.

Jagdish Kumar, a resident of Jandi village in Hiranagar, was arrested by a patrolling party on Link Road near Jandi Fort, a police spokesman said.

He said Kumar was booked under Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act and is presently being questioned.

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A report by the Meghalaya High Court has suggested that illicit drugs were openly being sold in Shillong, as the peddlers connive with the state police to keep the business thriving.

It also stated that students of prominent schools and colleges in the city were involved in the trade, some as traffickers and others consumers.

The court had taken up the case based on a PIL filed by chairperson of Meghalaya State Commission for Protection of Child Right Meena Kharkongor.

Some of the schoolchildren, as young as 11 or 12, get involved in the trade despite knowing the antecedents, said the report, which has not been made public, but a copy of which was available with PTI.

"Police are not taking any action at all and they are in connivance hand-in-hand with the peddlers," it asserted.

The narcotics are openly procured from Kalain area in Assam's Silchar district, and sold in around 30 places in the city, including high-security areas near the gates of the Assam Rifles, and police beat house besides the city's police bazaar area, the court said in the report.

"The places where drugs are easily available usually go unchecked, with the peddlers moving at liberty," it said.

The high court has also sought improved coordination among the opioid substitution centres, narcotic cell of police, customs and the intelligence agencies to curb the growing menace.

It directed the state government to set up separate jails for drug users to prevent them from mingling and influencing other inmates into becoming addicts.

According to sources in the government, Additional Senior Government Advocate S Sengupta has forwarded the report of the high court to the administration.

They also said the court has directed the state government to submit documents, detailing the ways adopted to stop the sale of illicit drugs in the state.

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The initiative of the Election Commission to facilitate the 'Divyang' or voter with disabilities to enable them to cast their vote without any hassle in all 10 Lok Sabha seats in Haryana received appreciation by those who availed this facility Sunday.

Several of these voters were provided with a wheelchair at polling stations and vehicles were provided to them to exercise their franchise.

Names of 1,04,534 physically challenged voters out of a total voter strength of over 1.80 crore were registered in the electoral rolls across the state, Haryana Joint Chief Electoral Officer Inder Jeet said.

Polling remained peaceful on all the 10 LS seats on Sunday.

The 'Divyang' voters were contacted at the district level so as to provide them the vehicles to bring them to the polling booth and later drop them back at their homes.

"Apart from this, arrangement of wheelchair was made at the polling stations where more than 20 Divyang voters were registered. In this way, 2,631 wheelchairs were provided across the state to encourage the Divyang voters to cast their vote," Inder Jeet said.

As many as 9,911 volunteers, who were below 18 years of age, especially school students and NCC cadets were deployed across the state. After voting, arrangements were made to drop back the Divyang voters at their homes, he said.

For the first time, Braille script language was written on ballot paper to facilitate 237 visually challenged voters in the state so that they could exercise their franchise by reading the names of the candidates of their choice without any help.

An elderly physically challenged voter, who exercised his franchise in Sirsa, appreciated the efforts of the Election Commission to facilitate voters like him.

"It is a noble step which they have taken and it deserves appreciation," he said.

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Enthused to take part in the festival of democracy, first-time voters queued up at polling booths in the national capital and came out showing their inked fingers with joy.

Gleamed in their new responsibility in the electoral process, many were seen clicking selfies with their inked index fingers.

Issues like national security, development, women's security, employment opportunities, better health and education policies were the top factors which concerned the youth especially the first-time voters.

"I feel responsible and empowered by becoming a part of the government-making process. Everybody should vote. I voted keeping in mind issues like terrorism, national security and India's economy," Prerna Kapoor (20), a resident of Kalkaji, said with a smile.

Urvashi, a first-time voter who flew to Delhi all the way from the USA to cast her vote at Nirman Bhawan, said, "Nowadays, social media plays a vital role and people will judge you if you do not vote. Your one vote can make a difference. For me, corruption, education and terrorism are the main issues."



Muhammad Waseem, 21, a resident of Nangloi, said employment issue has decided his ballot.

"I voted for one who can give me a real job opportunity not for one who tells me to sell pakodas. National security is important but people are also dying due to farm distress," he said.

Visually impaired Adesh Kumar (19), who was escorted to the booth at Kalkaji extension by a volunteer, said he wants a government at the centre which will work for the physically challenged and create more employment opportunities for the youth.

Ayesha Rehman (18) a college student and a resident of Chandni Chowk, said she voted for a stable government.

"I am excited to vote for the first time. All I want is a stable government at the Centre and not a party with misplaced agendas," she said flashing her voter ID card.

For many, local issues were the deciding factor.

Sisters, Mamata (21), Hemlata (22) and Babli (19) from Govindpuri, flagged the issue of poor civic amenities in their locality.

"There is shortage of water in our area. Often the water supplied gets mixed with sewage. Condition of roads are pathetic and sanitation is also a big issue here. Law and order is a major issue as street lights in several areas do not function and women do not feel safe outside their home after sunset," Mamata said.

Echoing similar concerns, 22-year-old Poonam from Tughlakabad said she has cast her vote with the hope that the situation of her neighbourhood will improve.

Issues apart, posting photos on social media and sharing with their friends the joy of having their finger inked upon fulfilling their democratic duty was an added stimulus for many.

The first thing that 20-year-old Suhasi Rathore did after casting her ballot was to click a selfie and upload it on social media. Showing her marked finger, she said the joy of voting brought her to the polling station.

Then there were some who pressed the EVM button for the party their elders told them to vote.

Twenty-one-year-old Suraj, an employee at a garment export company, cast his vote in East Delhi's Patparganj and said, "I votes on the basis of my father's advice.

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France has released Belhassen Trabelsi, brother-in-law of ousted Tunisian president Zine El-Abidine Ben Ali, on bail while it mulls a extradition request from Tunisia, sources said Sunday.

Lawyers Xavier Nogueras and Marcel Ceccaldi said they had obtained Trabelsi's conditional release "owing to procedural problems", confirming initially announced by the Tunisian justice ministry.

Trabelsi, 56, who faced charges of organised money laundering and has paid 100,000 euros (USD 112,000) in bail, must remain in France and report regularly to a local police station, they added.

It was the second time that an appeals court in Aix-en-Provence, southeastern France, had ordered his release from a jail in Marseille.

The first time was on March 28, but before Trabelsi walked free, the Aix-en-Provence prosecutor arrested him again based on a February 2017 warrant issued by a Tunisian magistrate.

Tunisia's extradition request refers to a series of convictions in absentia and three 10-year sentences handed down between February 2017 and June 2018 for financial crimes.

A Tunisian prosecutor has accused Trabelsi of "pillaging Tunisian businesses" alongside Ben Ali.

Trabelsi, whose holdings included hotels and an airline, has denied the allegations against him, saying he accumulated his wealth legally.

A leaked US diplomatic cable in 2008 described Trabelsi and his family as a "quasi-mafia" involved in a series of suspect businesses and deals.

The millionaire businessman and brother of Ben Ali's wife Leila Trabelsi left Tunisia in January 2011 when the Arab Spring uprising forced the veteran leader to flee to Saudi Arabia.

Trabelsi and his family flew in a private jet to Montreal to seek Canadian political asylum, a request that was denied twice.

He disappeared in June 2016 just days before he was to be expelled from Canada, and was arrested in southern France in March 2019.

France's hearing of the Tunisian extradition request is expected to be held in June.

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Quirky as it may sound, but a groom on Sunday went to cast his vote in Delhi along with 'band, baaja and baraat', riding a horse to boot.

The sight in East Delhi grabbed eyeballs as not only the groom, Rishabh Jain, but also his parents and sister exercised their franchise before moving on to Palwal in Haryana for the wedding, a family friend said.

"Rishabh is getting married today to a woman in neighbouring Palwal, but he decided to cast his vote before exchanging the wedding vows with the bride. And we all came to the polling station for his big day and what a memorable day it became," the groom's cousin Gaurav Jain told PTI.

He said the 'dulha', who has a jewellery business in Delhi, reached the polling booth in Shahdara, with all the fanfare and the family too enjoyed the moment.

"The bride is waiting in Paliwal and we are on our way right now to the wedding venue," Gaurav Jain said.

The groom said he was delighted to participate in this festival of democracy ahead of getting married.

"Yes, I came to cast my vote first before going to my marriage. I am an Indian, I felt I must do my duty also," he said.

Gaurav Jain said the distance from the house to the booth is very close and we took out the procession as one would do in a wedding.

"Not just the groom, his father, mother and sister also voted there and everyone was very happy," he said.

In the North East Delhi constituency too a groom arrived in his 'dulha' avatar much to everyone's amusement.

"Yes, a groom came to a polling booth in Jahangirpur area. He was dressed as if he had just stepped out of a mandap. He was wearing a suit and a 'pagdi' and sporting a garland of notes in a typical 'dulha' style," a senior official said.

Voting was held for all the seven constituencies in Delhi on Sunday between 7 am to 6 pm, young and old, first-timers and centenarians queued up to exercise their franchise throughout the day.

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Gunmen killed a priest and five other people during mass Sunday in an attack on a Catholic Church in Dablo, northern Burkina Faso, security sources and local official said.

"Towards 9.00 am, during mass, armed individuals burst into the Catholic Church," the mayor of Dablo, Ousmane Zongo, told AFP. "They started firing as the congregation tried to flee.

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Local authorities have discovered the remains of 35 people in mass graves in violent Jalisco state, on Mexico's central Pacific coast, officials said Saturday.

Prosecutor Gerardo Octavio Solis said most of the bodies were located at a ranch in the town of Zapopan.

Among the dead, "27 of the bodies had been tied up when killed. And we have two people identified at this time," Solis told a conference.

The number of dead could still rise as the forensics team wraps up processing of the site, he warned.

"We are digging more than three meters deep. We are also using heavy machinery, with engineers to do structural calculations as we don't want to weaken some of the perimeter walls," he added.

Solis said the skulls of seven other people and other human remains were discovered on the premises of a house located in Guadalajara, Mexico's second most populous city.

Families with missing kin have rushed to authorities in Jalisco asking for details on the exhumations.

More than 40,000 people have gone missing and are presumed dead since Mexico's war on drugs was militarized with federal troops in late 2006.

More than 250,000 people have been killed in violent crime in Mexico since then, according to government data. The data does not say how many cases were linked to organized crime.

Last year in Jalisco state alone there were 2,418 homicides.

From January to March this year there were 720 murders in the state, official data show.

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India and Vietnam agreed to further strengthen cooperation in defence and security, peaceful uses of atomic energy and outer space, oil and gas and renewable energy as Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu Sunday concluded his four-day visit to the Southeast Asian country.

During his visit, Vice President Naidu held talks with his Vietnamese counterpart Dang Thi Ngoc Thinh, Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc and Chairperson of the National Assembly Nguyen Thi Kim Ngan.

"Vice President's talks with his Vietnamese interlocutors were extensive and productive and covered whole range of bilateral and multilateral cooperation," said a statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs.

Both sides agreed to further strengthen cooperation in defence and security, peaceful uses of atomic energy and outer space, oil and gas, renewable energy, agriculture and innovation-based sectors, it said.

Vietnam is an important trade partner of India and their bilateral trade stood at nearly USD 14 billion last year having nearly doubled from USD 7.8 billion three years ago.

Vice President Naidu and Prime Minister Phuc expressed commitment to enhancing trade and investments and agreed to facilitate direct air connectivity to promote tourism, trade and people-to-people relations.

Both sides reiterated the importance of building a peaceful and prosperous Indo-Pacific region on the basis of respect for national sovereignty and international law, and expressed full commitment to an open, transparent, inclusive and rules-based regional architecture based on freedom of navigation and overflight, unimpeded economic activities and peaceful settlement of disputes in accordance with international law, the statement said.

Vietnam's leaders appreciated India's long-standing development partnership engagement, especially scholarships and training programmes. They also thanked India for extending concessional Lines of Credit for defence industry cooperation and implementing other socio-cultural infrastructure projects in Vietnam under Indian grants-in-aid.

Naidu also invited Vice President Thinh to undertake a visit to India.

"Vice President Naidu's visit has imparted momentum to the bilateral relationship and provided an opportunity to review various areas of collaboration and cooperation of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, with Vietnam's leadership," the statement said.

Naidu also delivered a keynote address at the 16th UN Day of Vesak at the Tam Chuc Pagoda in Hanam Province in Vietnam.

Vesak, also known as Buddha Jayanti, is traditionally observed by Buddhists as 'Buddha's Birthday'.

He also paid respects at the Monument of National Heroes and Martyrs and at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum at Hanoi.

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A 44-year-old Indian national has been arrested from Tribhuvan International Airport here for carrying foreign currency beyond the permitted limit, police said on Sunday.

Vandana Soni was carrying USD 100,000 against the permitted limit of USD 5,000 for a flyer.

She was arrested on Saturday after security personnel found the curreny notes hidden inside her hand bag when she going to board the Mumbai-bound Nepal Airlines, the Nepal Police said in a statement.

The police have initiated investigation into the matter, it added.

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Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra Sunday said it is "very clear" that the BJP will face defeat in Lok Sabha polls as people are "angry and distressed" and they will convey their sentiments through voting.

Interacting with reporters after exercising her franchise, the senior party leader said it was "very clear that the BJP government is going".

"There is anger among people, and they are under distress. Modiji, instead of talking about real issues, has been talking about random things. And, now, they will express their anger against this government through voting," the Congress general secretary said.

She said this will be witnessed especially in Uttar Pradesh.

Priyanka again hit out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and said, "He doesnt reply to any of the issues that our party raised, and just talks about random things."



Congress campaigns on real issues and the prime minister has "not even responded to the challenge thrown by our party president (Rahul Gandhi) to debate on real issues," she said.

He and his party had in 2014 promised to deposit Rs 15 lakh in every Indian's bank account and create two crore jobs, but Prime Minister Modi "doesn't talk about that", she said.

Asked about the constant criticism the Nehru-Gandhi family faces from the BJP, she recounted an anecdote about her guru telling her the calmness that Lord Buddha had in face of detractors.

Priyanka was accompanied by her husband Robert Vadra who also cast his vote.

The seven constituencies in Delhi are voting on Sunday alongside 14 seats in Uttar Pradesh, 10 in Haryana, eight each in Bihar, Madhya Pradesh and West Bengal, and four in Jharkhand as part of the sixth phase of the 2019 poll which ends on May 19. Counting of vote will take place on May 23.

The Congress chief said that so far it has been a "good fight" in the elections.

Asked how many seats the Congress is winning, he said, "I won't comment on that. It will be decided by the people."



"People are the master. Whatever people say, we will accept. How many seats we will win, people will decide that... Jai Hind," he said.

In Delhi, it is largely a three-way contest among the BJP, the Congress and the AAP.

In the 2014 Lok Sabha poll, all the seven seats in the national capital were won by the BJP. While the Congress is hoping to bounce back in Delhi, the AAP is keen to give a good fight.

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Two suspected bovine smugglers were arrested and 55 animals rescued Sunday in Udhampur district of Jammu and Kashmir, police said.

Two Kashmir-bound trucks, loaded with bovine animals without permission, were intercepted at Chenani on the Jammu-Srinagar national highway, a police official said.

During search of the vehicles, 55 bovine animals were rescued and two smugglers, Parvez Ahmed and Nayaz Ahmed, were arrested, he said.

Both the accused were booked under relevant sections of the law and further investigation is on, the official said.

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Amidst protests by a group of unsuccessful candidates over alleged discrimination in the selection of probationary officers, the Jammu and Kashmir Bank Sunday said its recruitment process is completely transparent.

A group of candidates staged a protest here alleging discrimination with Jammu in the selection process. Several political parties including the Congress and the BJP extended support to the protesting youth and demanded an inquiry into the entire recruitment process.

"Post declaration of the results of the bank's online recruitment test for the preliminary examination conducted by institute of banking personnel selection (IBPS), Mumbai for the selection of probationary officers in the bank, it has come to the notice of the bank that there is a parochial attempt by some vested interests to misguide the applicants with baseless misinformation on the selection process being skewed to a particular district on the basis of merit cut off," the bank said in an advertisement to local dailies.

It said the bank has a board approved policy for the recruitment of officers (probationary officers) and clerks (banking associates) wherein the process is kick-started by forecasting the vacancies district wise to quantify the number of posts, followed by issuing of notification for soliciting applications clearly notifying that the vacancies are as per district-wise requirement followed by declaration of district-wise merit list and putting it in public domain.

"The bank has religiously adhered to the board approved policy and process with absolute transparency.The cut off has been decided by the bank on the basis of merit list provided by the IBPS and as per the geographic distribution of vacancies in each district of the state which has been communicated ab initio by the bank at the time of issuance of first notification," the bank said.

It said the bank reiterates that its recruitment process is completely transparent and public in general and applicants in particular, should not fall prey to the misinformation campaign by some mischievous elements on social media by making assertions which are hypothetical, libellous and aimed at tarnishing the image of J&K bank branch.

Reacting to the resentment by aspirants questioning the criteria followed and adopted by the bank, chief spokesperson of state Congress Ravinder Sharma urged the Governor Satya Pal Malik to immediately look into the matter.

"Apparently, there appears justification in their protests as why merit alone is not the criteria when the selected candidates are transferable to any branch of the bank in the country," he said.

BJP state spokesperson Anil Gupta said his party understands the disappointment of the candidates and stands solidly with them.

"The Governor and the concerned advisor have already been approached for their kind intervention to undo the injustice meted out to meritorious candidates of Jammu," Gupta said.

He said the bank earlier never resorted to making the selection list public and used to intimate the selected candidates directly.

This time the bank was under pressure to maintain transparency. However, it resorted to a unique and arbitrary method of recruiting a state cadre post on district-basis without informing the district wise vacancies beforehandto the aspirant candidates along with the original notification for the written exam, Gupta claimed.

"If the district wise requirement was known, why was it kept hidden from the aspirants? Also the bank needs to justify as to how a state-cadre post can be managed through a district-wise cadre?



"If the selected candidates are required to serve anywhere in the State or the country, how can district wise selection be justified? The decision is not only arbitrary but smacks of bias and discrimination against a particular region of the state," he alleged.

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Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao Sunday left for Tamil Nadu, where he is likely to meet DMK Chief M K Stalin and hold discussions on emerging political developments in the country.

He would first visit Tiruchirappalli, official sources said.

Rao would also possibly meet Stalin in Chennai Monday,they said.

The TRS supremo had stepped up efforts to forge a non-Congress, non-BJP federal front of regional parties and recently met his Kerala counterpart Pinarayi Vijayan in Thiruvananthapuram.

The Chief Minister's Office (CMO) had earlier said that KCR would call on Stalin at his residence in Chennai on May 13.

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Sri Lanka's Catholic Church held its first Sunday mass amid tight security, three weeks after devastating suicide attacks on three churches and luxury hotels that killed over 250 people on the Easter Sunday.

Regular services were cancelled across all churches after the deadly suicide attacks claimed by the Islamic State.

However, the Archbishop of Colombo Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith conducted private Sunday services in the past two weeks, which were broadcast live on national television.

Cardinal Ranjith announced Thursday that mass would be held in his diocese from Sunday.

It was just this morning (Sunday) that churches resumed their normal Sunday services since the attack, residents said.

Security has been beefed up across Sri Lanka after the April 21 attacks on three churches, two of them Catholic, and three luxury hotels.

Authorities did not allow any vehicles into the compound of the churches and worshippers were asked to bring only minimum baggage.

The security forces are conducting round the clock security operations since the attack in the crackdown on radical Muslims with links to the bombings.

Three main churches which were conducting Easter Sunday mass were attacked by suicide bombers.

Armed guards have been stationed outside hotels, churches, Buddhist temples and mosques across the country since the attacks.

On April 30, Cardinal Ranjith said that public mass in Sri Lanka would resume from May 5 and no bags will be allowed inside as part of the tight security measures.

However, Sri Lanka's Catholic church announced on May 2 that it has cancelled all Sunday mass in churches across the island nation until further notice after warning of more possible attacks.

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 on the Easter Sunday.

The Islamic State claimed responsibility for the attack, but the government has blamed local Islamist extremist group, the National Thawheed Jama'ath (NTJ), for the bombings.

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.

President Maithripala Sirisena has vowed to eliminate the militants and restore normality in the country.

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European logistics major D B Schenker aims to nearly double warehousing space to 7 million square feet in India in three years as it sees growing demand from corporates for such facilities, especially after the GST implementation, a top official has said.

The company expects its top-line from the logistics businesses comprising of contract logistics for companies and other land-based activities to grow at a faster pace of 20 per cent.

We are at 4 million square feet of space under management and will take it to 7 million square feet in three years, its country chief executive Vishal Sharma told PTI in an interaction.

From an investments perspective, it will not be a large tab as much of this space will be owned by other developers and will be contracted on a longer term basis, he said.

It can be noted that in the last few months, there have been a slew of announcements by realty developers about creating warehousing space. Sharma expressed happiness about getting the necessary space as required.

He said, the next three years will see a doubling up of space per centre to 1.50 lakh sq ft as the warehousing activities have become more concentrated aided by GST.

In the pre-GST era, it was necessary to have warehousing at multiple locations. The same is now shifting to hubs, he said.

The company will have about 25 warehouses, with 10-12 of them being bigger warehouses, he said, adding that the NCR, West and southern market comprising the Bengaluru-Chennai belt are the clusters which will see a bulk of development of this space.

The company had posted a revenue of above Rs 1,400 crore in 2017-18 and, has been growing at an average of 18 per cent in the last three years, he said.

He said it is not looking at any particular asset in India from mergers and acquisitions (M&A) perspective, even though as a group it is not averse to such an idea. It is expanding its trucking business in the country which is again done as an asset-light model by having tie-ups with trucking companies.

Nearly, half of the company's revenue comes from the air logistics business where it has contracts with airliners to fly cargo to destinations.

It had to activate business continuity plans in the wake of the grounding of Jet Airways, Sharma said, adding the gradual grounding helped the logistics sector.

The company is impressed with the last mile delivery companies in the country and will be crystallising its terms of engagement with such innovative start-ups by the end of the year, he said.

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BJP candidate Bharati Ghosh was attacked in West Bengal and a poll officer was allegedly beaten up by an MLA of the saffron party in Uttar Pradesh during the Lok Sabha poll's sixth and penultimate phase on Sunday in which over 63 per cent turnout was recorded in 59 seats across six states and the national capital.

Elections were held in 14 seats in Uttar Pradesh, 10 seats in Haryana, eight constituencies each in Bihar, Madhya Pradesh and West Bengal, four in Jharkhand and seven seats in Delhi where votes were cast by a number of public figures, including President Ram Nath Kovind, Congress chief Rahul Gandhi, UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj.

With today's polling, votes have already been cast in nearly 89 per cent of the 543 constituencies, while the last phase of voting will take place on May 19 for the remaining 59 seats.

The Election Commission (EC) said 63.48 per cent turnout across the states and Delhi, with West Bengal recording over 80 per cent polling and Delhi registering just 60 per cent. In 2014, it was 63.37 per cent, it said.

The EC said the polling percentage was recorded at 9 pm.The figure is provisional and the figure may rise, it said.

Union ministers Radha Mohan Singh, Harsh Vardhan and Maneka Gandhi, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav and Congress leaders Digvijay Singh, Jyotiraditya Scindia and Sheila Dikshit as also celebrity contestants Gautam Gambhir, Vijender Singh, Dinesh Lal Yadav 'Nirahua', Ravi Kishan and Hans Raj Hans were among several prominent faces in the fray.

Delhi's saw a dip in its turnout from 65 per cent in 2014, despite a three-cornered contest among the BJP, Congress and AAP with several high profile candidates, while the EC also appeared disappointed at the low polling figure even after its enhanced efforts to draw the voters to polling booths.

Glitches in EVMs were reported in Delhi, and the other places where polling took place. However, poll officials said the voting machines were replaced. Over 1,200 VVPAT machines were changed across the city delaying the polling process.

Compared to 84.95 per cent in 2014, this time 80.35 per cent polling was recorded in eight seats in West Bengal, where BJP's Ghatal candidate and former IPS officer Bharati Ghosh was attacked twice by local people when she tried to visit polling stations in her constituency.

Ghosh suffered minor injuries when a group of women allegedly attacked her when she tried to take a BJP agent inside a polling booth at Keshpur area, officials said.

Following this, bombs and stones were hurled towards her convoy when she was going to visit another booth at Dogachia in Keshpur. One of her security guards was injured and a vehicle was damaged, they said.

It is alleged that a TMC worker was injured in firing by Ghosh's security officers at Dugachia, following which an FIR was registered against her and her security personnel.

BJP candidate Dilip Ghosh also faces an FIR for allegedly causing law and order issues.

At least 26 people were injured in incidents of violence.Central forces also opened fire to control the situation at two places, they said.

In Uttar Pradesh, 54 per cent polling was reported in 14 constituencies. SP president Akhilesh Yadav and Maneka Gandhi are in the fray in the state that sends 80 members to Lok Sabha.

Maneka Gandhi and her rival BSP candidate Chandra Bhadra Singh had a face-off in Sultanpur, with the BJP leader warning him that hooliganism will not work. Singh dismissed her charge.

BJP MLA Dinanath Bhaskar and four others allegedly beat up a presiding officer in Badohi, accusing the official of deliberately slowing the polling process.Poll officials have sought a report on the matter.

Akhilesh is trying to retain his father and SP founder Mulayam Singh Yadav's seat against Bhojpuri film star 'Nirahua' of the BJP in Azamgarh.

In Bihar, around 59.38 per cent turnout was recorded for the eight seats.

A polling officer was killed at a booth in a freak incident of firing by a home guard before polling started in Sheohar constituency.

Haryana recorded 69.50 per cent turnout in 10 Lok Sabha seats and officials said no untoward incident was reported and polling remained peaceful in the state.

However, Congress' Rohtak candidate Deepender Singh Hooda, who is seeking re-election for a fourth term, accused Haryana Minister and Rohtak MLA Manish Grover of "intimidating" voters by forcibly entering some polling booths.

Grover, however, rejected the charge claiming that Deepender, who is the son of former CM Bhupinder Singh Hooda, made baseless allegations in the face of "imminent defeat".

Union ministers Rao Inderjit Singh and Krishan Pal Gurjar are among the 223 candidates in fray in Haryana.

In Jharkhand, an estimated 65.17 per cent turnout was recorded for four Lok Sabha seat.Officials said no untoward incident was reported.

Madhya Pradesh, which recorded 64.01 per cent turnout, saw several heavyweights contesting the polls.Eight constituencies went to polls Sunday.

In Bhopal, Congress veteran Digvijay Singh was locked in a battle with BJP candidate and 2008 Malegaon blast accused Pragya Singh Thakur.

Scindia, who is seeking re-election from Guna seat, is locked in a battle with BJP's K P Yadav.Union minister Narendra Singh Tomar, sitting MP from Gwalior, is contesting from Morena.

Over 10.17 crore people were eligible to decide the fate of 979 candidates.

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A man in the UK has been sentenced to life imprisonment for stabbing to death his Indian-origin wife following a row on the Christmas day last year.

Laurens Brand, 47, who was charged with murder, used two kitchen knives to repeatedly stab his 41-year-old wife Angela Mittal in 2018.

He was sentenced to life with a minimum term of 16 years and eight months' imprisonment at a sentencing hearing at Reading Crown Court on Friday.

Angela had suffered 59 stab wounds to her neck and chest and died at the scene at their home in Shinfield, Berkshire.

Sentencing Brand, Judge Heather Norton said: "You stabbed your wife in the bedroom of the family home. Your attack on her was ferocious. You stabbed your wife no fewer than 59 times.

"At some point in the course of that attack, one knife broke. You left the room, you went to the kitchen, you fetched another knife and then returned".

The court heard that the forensic evidence suggests that the victim was alive and struggling to defend herself through much of that attack. The judge noted that she would undoubtedly have suffered fear and pain.

"This was a brutal assault carried out by Laurens Brand on his wife, Angela Mittal, during which she suffered 59 separate injuries," said Senior Investigating Officer, Detective Inspector Mike Roddy, of the Thames Valley Police Major Crime Unit.

"Brand subjected Angela to this vicious attack in her own home, a place where she should have felt safe and secure. Instead of helping Angela, he tried to clean up before calling (emergency) 999. When he did call, he didn't ask for an ambulance, he asked directly for the police already in the knowledge it was too late for Angela," he said.

The court heard how Brand had physically and emotionally abused his "formerly bubbly and outgoing wife". The police expressed their sympathy with the victim's family during an "extremely difficult" time.

"I'd also like to commend them on the courage they have shown, especially today when having to explain what the loss of Angela means to them. It is never easy time to lose anyone, but in such violent circumstances, in her own home, it is unimaginable," said Roddy.

Her family, including father Bharat and mother Kamla Mittal, paid tribute to Angela, describing her as a popular young lady known for her "sweet and enduring wit".

They said in a statement: "Her life was tragically cut short due to a senseless crime.

"Angela truly lived life to the fullest through the simple pleasures; chatting with friends, spending time and enriching the life of her family and always seeing the brighter side to life. She had this beautiful talent to bring people together from all walks of life and touch them in a deep and positive way".

They said that Angela was known for her creativity, kindness and big heart and the friendships, generosity and enthusiasm she displayed throughout her life is an "inspiration".

"Angela will be missed beyond words, her love, warmth and beauty will remain alive in her family and friends hearts," the family statement said.

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As hordes of voters flocked to polling booths in the city Sunday, many complained of deficient measures and laxity on the part of the Election Commission in the conduct of polls, while red carpets were rolled out for a lucky few.

While model polling stations in the city greeted voters with flowers, had waiting areas with sofas, wheel chairs and ramps for the specially-abled, in far-off corners of the national capital people lined up at water taps of schools to quench their thirst.

Owais, a 19-year-old first-time voter who frantically scoured the premises of a government school in Nangloi trying to find his name on the electoral list, said, "No one helped me. It's been over half an hour and I am thirsty now.They should have at least made some arrangements for drinking water."



As plumes of dust blew into their face, block level officers at a school complained they were asked to sit under a tree.

"No tents or coolers for us. We have had nothing since morning, barring a cup of tea. This is how we are being treated... the condition of voters is even worse," one of them said.

Volunteers at another polling station complained they were not provided lunch. "We were told that lunch will be provided at the booth itself. We did not bring food from home and cannot even leave this place to have lunch during voting hours."



At a model polling station in Janakpuri, volunteers welcomed voters with flowers, offered them water and helped the differently-abled cast their vote.

"They have decked up the premises with balloons and paper frills. It's so appealing to the eyes. There is water, sofas and volunteers... everything that you need," Avinash Agarwal, 73, said.

Samvit, 26, said it was first time he had come to a model polling station and it took him only five minutes to cast his vote.

"A volunteer guided me to the polling room... completely hassle free. I was amazed when I saw the red carpet, sofas and coolers for voters. This shows were are moving forward as a nation," he said.

Polling was held for all seven Lok Sabha seats on Sunday in the national capital, which witnessed a triangular contest between the BJP, the Congress and the ruling Aam Aadmi Party in Delhi.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The maximum number of VVPAT machines which faced glitches were changed in the South Delhi Lok Sabha constituency while the minimum were replaced in the Northeast segment which delayed the poll process Sunday, EC officials said.

An Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) comprises of three parts - the Control Unit (CU), the Ballot Unit (BU) and the Voter Verified Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) machine.

Officials said the VVPAT machines are extremely sensitive to light and heat and being a new technology, glitches arose which delayed voting at some places.

At the Nirman Bhawan polling booth, where several VVIPs including Vice President Venkaiah Naidu cast their votes, technical snags in the EVM arose thrice before it was changed.

Officials said there was a connection error between the EVM's BU and CU.

Sources in the poll panel said the problem with the EVM first arose at 7.30 am, then at 9.30 am and again at 10.30 am which delayed voting.

The Election Commission officials said that overall, 61 BUs, 35 CUs and 286 VVPAT machines were changed in the national capital due till 3 pm due to technical snags.

In the Chandni Chowk parliamentary segment, 21 VVPATs, 2 BUs and a CU was changed, while in East Delhi, 81 VVPATs, 10 BUs, 6 CUs were replaced.

In Northeast Delhi, 3 VVPATs, 2 BUs and a CU were replaced while in the New Delhi constituency, 28 VVPATs, 12 BUs and 6 CUs were changed.

Similarly, in the Northwest segment, 72 VVPATs, 9 BUs and an equal number of CUs were changed, while in West Delhi, 18 VVPATs, 12 BUs and 6 CUs were replaced. In South Delhi, 87 VVPATs, 18 BUs and 8 CUs were replaced.

According to Chief Electoral Officer, Delhi, Ranbir Singh, mock polls were held in the morning and defective machines were replaced.

A total of 5.5 per cent of the EVMs were replaced in the morning and that might have caused delay in start of the polling process, he said.

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Accusing both the BJP and the Congress of failing to solve the problems facing the nation, BSP chief Mayawati Sunday appealed to the people to defeat both the parties in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections.

Addressing an election rally here, she hit out at the Congress for "failing" to implement reservation policy to the poor and Dalits in the proper manner.

"The Congress, which ruled the country for a major period after Independence, could not solve the main problems of poverty and unemployment. Besides, it failed to implement the reservation policy to the poor and Dalits in the proper manner which resulted in denial of benefits to these sections," Mayawati said.

She also targeted the the Narendra Modi government and accused it of using the Dalits "merely as a vote bank".

"The BJP government did not fulfill even a single promise it made in the 2014 elections. Besides, its decision of demonetisation, GST implementation in a half-baked manner have adversely affected the live of common people," Mayawati said while urging people to vote for ally Punjab Democratic Alliance (PDA) candidate from Anandpur Sahib seat Sodhi Bikram Singh.

Interestingly, BSP supremo did not talk about AAP which was her party's main target during the Punjab Assembly polls.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
A full-scale war of words broke out Sunday between Narendra Modi and over the Alwar gang rape incident with the prime minister accusing the supremo of "shedding crocodile tears", a charge trashed by her as his "dirty politics".

Addressing election rallies in Kushinagar and Deoria in eastern Uttar Pradesh, Modi mounted a scathing attack on the supremo and dared her to withdraw support to the government in Rajasthan if she was really serious about the incident.

Hours after his remark, charged the prime minister with doing "dirty politics" over the gang rape of a Dalit girl in Alwar and demanded his resignation for incidents of Dalit atrocities in the past.

"In the wake of this (Alwar) incident, Modi is doing dirty politics. The will for sure take an appropriate political decision in the absence of stringent and proper legal action in the case," said in a press note responding to the prime minister's challenge to her to withdraw support to the government in Rajasthan.

The government in Rajasthan has been accused by both the prime minister and the BSP supremo of brushing the case aside for political gains.

After Modi's barb, Mayawati retorted with a list of incidents on which she said the prime minister should take moral responsibility and resign from his post.

"The BSP will take a required political decision soon, but why is PM Modi not taking moral responsibility for the incidents in the past, such as Una flogging incident, Rohit Vemulla case or other cases pertaining to Dalit atrocities? Why is he not resigning?" the BSP press note issued in Lucknow said.

On April 26, the gang rape victim was travelling with her husband on a motorcycle when the accused stopped them and took them to an isolated place off the road. They allegedly beat the husband and raped her in front of him, threatening them of dire consequences.

Her husband claimed that he had approached Rajasthan police on April 26 after the incident, but an FIR was filed on May 2. He had alleged that the police did not take action saying that they were busy with elections.

Addressing election meetings in Kushinagar and Deoria in eastern Uttar Pradesh, Modi said, "Please do not shed crocodile tears. If you are serious, why don't you withdraw support to the Congress government in Rajasthan."



BSP has given support to the Congress government in the state.

Expressing concern over the gang rape of the Dalit woman, Mayawati had Saturday alleged that the Congress government in Rajasthan did not let the matter come to anyone's notice by "terrorising" the victim's family until the completion of the polling process there.

"Under these circumstances, the victim and her family will not be able to get proper justice. The BSP appeals to the Supreme Court to take notice for ensuring prompt justice and strict punishment to the accused," she had said.

Hitting out at the BSP chief, Modi said, "Even the Congress government wanted to suppress the incident involving a Dalit woman as the party thought 'hua toh hua' (So what, it happened)."



His reference was to Congress leader Sam Pitroda's "hua toh hua" remark about the in 1984 anti-Sikh riots, which raised a political storm over the weekend.

Continuing his tirade at the opposition, the prime minister said, "The biggest example of how the 'mahamilawat' (highly adulterated) SP-BSP-Congress alliance actually works is Rajasthan."



"When the (Lucknow) guest house incident happened, the entire country was pained. What is the reason that you are not feeling pain now. If you are so honest about the dignity of the daughters, then you should immediately write a letter to the Rajasthan Governor and withdraw your support to the Congress government," he said.

"A Dalit daughter is gang-raped and there is a government of the Congress and 'naamdaar' (dynast). And the Rajasthan government is not a dispensation which enjoys full majority. It is working with the support of BSP. It is busy in hushing up the matter," Modi said.

In the infamous Lucknow guest house incident in 1995, armed Samajwadi Party cadre had assaulted the BSP supremo when she was having a meeting there.

Attacking the Congress, the prime minister said, "The Congress which chants nyay, nyay, nyay, its naamdaar (dynast) has been silenced by the rapists. Today, the daughters of Uttar Pradesh are asking Behenji (Mayawati), and Behenji you have to answer why you have not withdrawn your support to the Congress government (in Rajasthan). You are shedding crocodile tears by only indulging in issuing statements."



"To punish those who commit crime against women, this chowkidaar of yours had made provisions for the capital punishment. If the intention of the Congress government was right, it would not have suppressed the Alwar incident, but they have only one answer 'hua toh hua'. Be it corruption, price rise or the 1984 anti-Sikh genocide, their answer is 'hua toh hua'," he said.

Polling for the Lok Sabha seats in Rajasthan took place in two phases on April 29 and May 6.
Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Mehbooba Mufti on Sunday described Prime Minister Narendra Modi's reported remarks about clouds helping the Indian Air Force jets escape Pakistani radars during Balakot airstrikes as "painfully embarrassing".

Mehbooba wondered whether the prime minister authorising the operation in bad weather by overruling the advice of the IAF led to the strikes "failing" to hit the intended target.

"No secret that Balakot strikes failed to hit the intended target. Was it because PM overruled the advice of IAF & authorised airstrikes in bad weather?" Mehbooba asked in a tweet. "Cloud cover logic is painfully embarrassing. Remind me again, why is RG (Congress president Rahul Gandhi) derided as Pappu? #cloudonradargone".

The Peoples Democratic Party president said the Bharatiya Janata Party's ability to "suspend logic" in its quest to win another term is "mind numbingly fatuous", adding that the armed forces do not deserve this.

"I was raked over the coals for questioning veracity of Balakot strikes. But seeing Pak media & journos troll PM on cloud gaffe is awfully embarrassing," Mehbooba added.

National Conference vice-president Omar Abdullah also took a sarcastic dig at Modi over the comments. "Pakistani radar doesn't penetrate clouds. This is an important piece of tactical information that will be critical when planning future air strikes," he tweeted.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
A 47-year old Muslim cleric wanted by the Sri Lankan security forces for using social media platform to air extremist views has been arrested at the Bandaranaike International Airport, a media report said.

The cleric, whose identity has not been disclosed, was wanted for releasing videos in a manner that harms reconciliation in the country and has been remanded till May 14, the Daily Mirror reported.

The suspect, a resident of Vavuniya, was arrested on Saturday at the airport after his arrival from Mecca after performing Hajj.

The suspect had been organising pilgrimage tours to Mecca, the paper reported.

The arrest of the cleric came days after the Sri Lankan government said the trustees of all the mosques in the country should not engage in or allow any gathering to promote or propagate hatred and also directed them to send the audio recordings of the sermons to authorities.

The government's order was after security forces recovered swords and other weapons from mosques during search operations following the April 21 bomb blasts in which over 250 people, including 44 foreigners 10 of whom were Indians, were killed and 500 others injured.

Security has been beefed up across Sri Lanka after the Easter Sunday attacks on three churches, two of them Catholic, and three luxury hotels.

The Islamic State claimed responsibility for the attack, but the government has blamed local Islamist extremist group, the National Thawheed Jama'ath (NTJ), for the bombings.

The security forces are conducting round the clock security operations since the attack in the crackdown on radical Muslims with links to the bombings.

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The National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT) has dismissed a plea for initiation of insolvency proceedings against by Systems Ltd, an operational creditor of the low-cost carrier.

A two-member bench headed by Chairman Justice S J Mokhopadhaya upheld the orders passed by the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) in this matter saying that it has rightly rejected Ramco's plea by observing that such petition requires strict proof of debt and default, which was absent in this case.

The appellate tribunal said there was nothing on record to suggest that the demand notice relating to invoices issued by System was forwarded or received by

"For the reasons aforesaid, no relief can be granted," said NCLAT.

Systems had entered into agreement with to provide 'Aviation Software Solutions' in May, 2013.



ALSO READ: SpiceJet says will offer business class on select routes from May 11

Later in July 2014, 'Change Order Demand' was executed between the parties.

The earlier 'Software Licence Agreement' for 180 number of authorised users were amended to 55 aircraft tails and unlimited users with other amendment and modification which also followed various modification and alteration.

Ramco Systems counsel claimed before the NCLAT that a huge amount is payable by Spicejet and invoice for Rs 62.89 lakh was intimated to them and sent by email on January 2016.

Rejecting it, Spicejet claimed before the NCLAT that all claims depended on invoices for the financial year 2013-14, including the invoice dated July 23, 2014. This was due and payable by August 22, 2014 and said that it was barred by limitation.

Moreover, the demand notice was issued by Ramco Systems on April 24, 2017, without attaching the invoices relating to debt which are payable. It further contended that two demand notices dated July 23, 2014 for amount Rs 59.83 lakh and Rs 33.70 was never issued by Ramco Systems.



ALSO READ: SpiceJet set to launch 19 more flights from Mumbai starting May 4

Consenting to it, the NCLAT said: "There is nothing on the record to suggest that the invoices dated July 23, 2014 were forwarded or received by Spicejet."



"... in absence of specific evidence relating to invoices actually forwarded by the Appellant and there being a doubt, we hold that the Adjudicating Authority (NCLT) has rightly refused to entertain application under Section 9 which requires strict proof of debt and default," said the

Ramco Systems has moved the NCLAT after the National Company Law Tribunal has dismissed its insolvency plea on December 14, 2017.

The had dismissed Ramco System's application on the ground of inconsistency in the overall payments and the non-compliance with the provisions by the operational creditor, in the absence of a certificate from the financial institution maintaining its accounts.
The National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) has rejected ICICI Bank's plea to initiate insolvency proceedings against Era Infrastructure (India) Ltd on the grounds of "duplicacy" of claims.

A two-member bench headed by President Justice M M Kumar observed that has already raised similar claims against its parent company Era Infra Engineering, which is currently undergoing resolution process.

The tribunal held that "on account of duplicacy" of the claims, the petition filed by "can not be entertained".

"This is again raised for admission in the present proceeding. Such a course obviously is not permissible in law...," it said.

The tribunal observed that the application filed by to initiate insolvency proceedings against Era Infrastructure was based on the same sets of facts and documents which the resolution professional (RP) of Era Infra Engineering had earlier rejected.

Later, had on December 6, 2018 directed the RP of Era Infra Engineering to admit the said claims as financial debt of the company.

Era Infra Engineering was in the first list of 12 defaulting which was issued by Reserve Bank of India, directing banks to recover debts through the Insolvency and Bankruptcy (IBC) Code.

ICICI Bank had given a loan of Rs 240 crore to Era Infrastructure India. For the loan, its parent firm Era Infra Engineering had guaranteed the payments, which were later defaulted on.

Meanwhile, corporate insolvency was initiated against the parent firm Era Infra Engineering by and its RP had invited claims.

ICICI Bank had lodged its claim before the RP placing reliance on securities and contractual comfort provided by Era Infra Engineering towards the entities and group related to it.

However, the RP had rejected its claims on September 13, following which ICIC Bank approached the NCLT. The tribunal had admitted ICICI Bank's plea on December 6, 2018 and had directed RP to admit the claims.
BJP's Ratlam-Jhabua Lok Sabha candidate Guman Singh Damor stoked a controversy, claiming that Partition could have been avoided if Jawaharlal Nehru had allowed Mohammad Ali Jinnah to be prime minister.

Reacting to the BJP leader's comment, the Congress said Damor does not know history and asked him to contest polls in Pakistan.

Damor, in an election rally on Saturday in Ranapur town said, "If (India's first prime minister) Nehru was not obstinate during the time of Independence, then this nation would not have been divided into two."



"Jinnah (the founder of Pakistan) was an advocate and a learned man. If a decision was taken to make Jinnah PM at the time, then India would not have been partitioned," he claimed.

Ranapur is a town in the Ratlam-Jhabua Lok Sabha constituency.

Earlier, several BJP leaders have held Jinnah responsible for Partition and Nehru of coming in the way of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel from becoming prime minister.

Damor alleged that the Congress created the problems that Jammu and Kashmir is facing at present.

The BJP leader, a retired engineer-in-chief of the state government's Public Health Engineering department, was elected as MLA from the Jhabua assembly seat in the November 2018 elections.

Damor is pitted against Congress leader and former Union minister Kantilal Bhuria from the Lok Sabha seat, which goes to polls on May 19.

The Congress hit back at Damor with the party's Jhabua district president Nirmal Mehta asking the former to contest polls from Pakistan.

"Damor doesn't know the country's history. Pakistan was created because Jinnah was obstinate. Why doesn't he go and contest polls in Pakistan," Mehta said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Praising Lok Sabha Speaker for her "dedication" towards work, Prime Minister Sunday said that she was the only leader who could admonish him.

Addressing an election rally here, Modi said, "As the Lok Sabha speaker, 'Tai' (as Mahajan is popularly known in the constituency) has carried out her duties in a skilful and controlled way. It is because of this, she has left an indelible impression on the minds of people."



"All of you know me as prime minister. But perhaps very few people know that in our party (BJP), if there is anybody who can admonish me, it is Tai," Modi said in the presence of Mahajan, who was seated on the dais.

"Tai and I have worked in the together. The kind of dedication she has towards work, I assure the people of Indore that in terms of development of the city, none of Tai's wishes will be left unfulfilled," the prime minister said.

Mahajan, an eight-time MP, had last month opted out of contesting the general elections saying she had freed the party to make its choice.

The veteran Bharatiya Janata Party leader, who turned 76 last month, had said that there had been speculations whether the party would field someone who has crossed the 75-year age bar.

She had, however, maintained that she would continue to work for the and campaign for it.

She is the first woman MP to win a record eight consecutive elections. In 2014, she had defeated her nearest rival, Satyanarayan Patel of the Congress, by a staggering margin of 4,66,901 votes.

The BJP had later announced the candidature of Shankar Lalwani for the Indore Lok Sabha seat.

Lalwani, who was earlier the chairman of the Indore Development Authority (IDA) chairman and president of the Indore Municipal Corporation (IMC), is from the Sindhi community and is making his Lok Sabha poll debut.

He will be fighting against Congress's Pankaj Sanghvi.

Polling for the Indore seat will be held on May 19, in the last phase of parliamentary polls.
Opposition parties, including the Congress, took a swipe at Prime Minister Narendra on Sunday over his remarks that cloud cover "helped" IAF planes evade Pakistani radars during the strikes, with some leaders terming the statement as "ridiculous and false".

The CPI(M) has also moved the Election Commission. alleging that had revealed "operational details of a sensitive military mission" in a television interview with a purpose to influence voters.

Rejecting the charge, senior BJP leader and Union minister Prakash Javadekar said, "PM did not reveal anything (about the strike) he was not supposed to reveal."



In the interview aired on Saturday, Modi said he used his "raw wisdom" to dispel doubts of defence experts who wanted the air strike to be deferred due to bad weather.

"The weather was not good on the day of air strike. There was a thought that crept in the minds of the experts that the day of strike should be changed. However, I suggested that the clouds could actually help our planes escape the radars," Modi said while talking about the cross-border strike on terror camps in response to the Pulwama attack that claimed the lives of 40 CRPF personnel.

The prime minister comment drew widespread ridicule and condemnation from various quarters, including a large number of memes on social media.

In response to a tweet by the BJP on Modi's comment, the Congress tweeted a couplet, "Jumla hi fekta raha paanch saal ki sarkar mein, Socha tha cloudy hai mausam, Nahi aaunga radar mein. (He resorted to rhetoric during his five-year tenure hoping cloudy weather would keep him out of radar)."



A number of Congress leader also hit out at Modi over his remarks.

Congress spokesperson Rajeev Satav said, "Modi Ji, I totally understand that you are an expert in planning 'escape' operations including that of Nirav Modi, Mehul Bhai and Vijay Mallya as they were never on your radar. Your #EntireCloudCover remarks speak volumes about your understanding and knowledge of security."



Another Congress spokesperson, Sanjay Jha, said, "Now (Finance Minister Arun) Jaitley will write a blog explaining the atmospheric decomposition of air particles that accentuates chemical metabolism resulting in a diabolical cloudburst that can conceal large aircraft's from being spotted by Tata Sky radars across the LoC."



Congress social media head Divya Spandana said, "?We also have this amazing new and improvised 'radar' since 2014 to detect stupidity, lies, corruption, fudged data...how else do you think we detected a stealth one like you...Narendra Modi the radar to detect planes, cloud or no cloud has been there for decades. Even for the stealth ones. If not, other the country's planes would be crisscrossing the skies firing away at will... This is what happens when you're stuck in the past."



Conference leader Omar Abdullah took to Twitter and said, "Pakistani radar doesn't penetrate clouds. This is an important piece of tactical information that will be critical when planning future air strikes."



Taking a swipe at Modi, former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister tweeted, "I was raked over the coals for questioning veracity of strikes. But seeing Pak media & journos troll PM on cloud gaffe is awfully embarrassing. BJP's ability to suspend logic in its quest to win another term is mind numbingly fatuous. Our armed forces don't deserve this."



CPI(M leader Sitaram Yechury termed the remarks as "shameful" and moved the Election Commission, demanding action against Modi for violating the model code of conduct.

Yechury said Modi's words are "truly shameful".

"Most importantly, because they insult our Air Force as being ignorant and unprofessional. The fact that he is talking about all this is itself anti-national; no patriot would do this.

" security is not something to be trifled with. Such an irresponsible statement from Modi is highly damaging. Somebody like this can't remain India's PM," he tweeted.

"Modi's ridiculous comments on radars, clouds and fighter jets have been deservedly mocked but the EC needs to act against him for invoking armed forces hours before the sixth phase of voting. Letter to EC asking for prompt and strict action on this flagrant violation," he said.

In his letter to the EC, Yechury has alleged Modi's statements were in clear and deliberate violation of the guidelines which were re-issued and reiterated by the Election Commission before the first round of polling, making it clear that the armed forces, which belong to all of India, cannot be a subject for hyperbolic and false claims by any party.
More than 300 calls to report poll-related complaints were received by the Delhi Police Control Room on Sunday.

The nature of calls primarily ranged from putting more tables, canvassing inside restricted area, quarrel among party workers and EVM glitches, etc. However, no serious complaint was reported throughout the day, police said.

"In total, 337 PCR calls were received till 6 pm regarding election-related complaints and they were promptly attended to," police said in a statement.

Around 63,000 personnel of the Delhi Police and 47 companies of the Central Armed Police Forces were deployed for election duty, the statement said.

The Delhi Police had made elaborate security arrangements for the smooth conduct of general elections held in the national capital.

"Special attention was given to the area dominance, sensitive polling booths and border areas. All senior officers remained present in their respective areas to closely monitor the security arrangements on ground," the statement added.

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Fifty-two African migrants forced their way into Spain's North African enclave of Melilla from Morocco Sunday by climbing over a towering border fence, Spanish authorities said.

About 100 migrants tried to storm the barbed wire fence at dawn but Spanish and Moroccan security force prevented "around half" from entering Melilla, Spain interior ministry in Melilla said in a statement.

One migrant was taken to a medical centre to treat cuts he suffered scaling the fence while four Spanish police officers sustained bruises, it added.

Police arrested one of the migrants for assaulting an officer.

Video images published by local newspaper El Faro de Ceuta showed sweaters and jackets stuck to the razor wire that tops the border fence, left behind by the migrants.

The 52 who managed to enter Melilla were taken to a temporary migrant accommodation centre where they were given new clothes.

It was the biggest assault on the border between Melilla and Morocco since October 2018, when some 300 migrants stormed the fence. About 200 migrants manged to get into Melilla that time and one died of a suspected heart attack in the attempt.

Spain's two North African enclaves, Melilla and Ceuta, have the European Union's only land borders with Africa.

They are often used as entry points into Europe for African migrants, who either climb over their border fences or try to swim along the coast.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Over 50 per cent polling was reported till 5 pm in 14 Lok Sabha constituencies of Uttar Pradesh on Sunday, an official said.

Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav and Union minister Maneka Gandhi are among the key contestants in the state in the sixth phase of the Lok Sabha polls.

While Ambedkar Nagar Lok Sabha constituency recorded the highest turnout of 55.24 per cent, enthusiasm among voters was least in Phulpur, where 46 per cent exercised their franchise.

The average poll percentage is 50.63 per cent, a state election office spokesperson said.

In total, 177 candidates are contesting in these 14 constituencies, where 2.53 crore people are eligible to vote at 16,998 polling centres.

In Sultanpur, BJP leader Maneka Gandhi and BSP candidate Chandra Bhadra Singh had a face-off.

Gandhi warned him that hooliganism wouldn't work, but Singh dismissed her charge.

"In Azamgarh, a presiding officer was removed following complaints by SP workers, and a report has been sought from the district magistrate," state Chief Electoral Officer L Venkateshwar Lu said.

The officer said there were complaints about electronic voting machines (EVMs) and VVPAT devices, and the machines have been replaced.

In Bhadohi, BJP MLA Dinanath Bhaskar allegedly beat up a presiding officer in the Aurai assembly segment, accusing the official of deliberately slowing the polling process.

District election officer Rajendra Prasad and Superintendent of Police Rajesh S said the incident took place at a primary school in Lakshmana village, where the BJP MLA and four other people started arguing with the presiding officer (Radheyshyam Tiwari).

"Subsequently, the BJP MLA and the people accompanying him beat up the presiding officer, injuring him.The injured presiding officer was sent to hospital, and another presiding officer was posted there," district election officer Rajendra Prasad said.

The SP said that a case is being registered against the BJP MLA and the four others.

Polling was underway in Sultanpur, Pratapgarh, Phulpur, Allahabad, Ambedkarar Nagar, Shrawasti, Domariyaganj, Basti, Sant Kabirnagar, Lalganj, Jaunpur, Machhlishahr, Bhadohi and Azamgarh constituencies in Purvanchal region of the state.

The Bharatiya Janata Party had won 13 of these 14 constituencies in the 2014 Lok Sabha election.

The only exception was Azamgarh, which was won by SP founder Mulayam Singh Yadav.

The BJP, however, had to bite the dust in the bypolls in Phulpur and Gorakhpur constituencies last year.

While the anti-BJP alliance would like to retain its grip over both the seats, the saffron party is looking to take sweet revenge from the Opposition in this round.

In Azamgarh, Akhilesh Yadav is trying to retain his father's seat and he is up against Bhojpuri film star and BJP candidate Dinesh Lal Yadav 'Nirahua'.

The SP president's decision to contest from his father's bastion is being touted as a move to consolidate the Yadav, Dalit and Muslim voters in the state's Purvanchal region.

Sultanpur, too, is seeing an interesting contest as the BJP has fielded Maneka Gandhi for the seat, which was won by her son, Varun Gandhi, in 2014.

The seat appears tricky for Gandhi as BJP strategists are relying on a division of the Congress and the SP-BSP-RLD alliance votes, besides possible counter polarisation of non-Yadav and non-Jatav Dalit and OBC votes.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
A voter turnout of 64.01 per cent was recorded till 6 pm in the eight Lok Sabha seats in Madhya Pradesh that went to polls on Sunday, an official said, adding that the final figure would be released later.

Of the 29 Lok Sabha seats in the state, six went to polls in the fourth phase on April 29 and seven in the fifth phase on May 6. After the polling on Sunday, the rest eight seats in Madhya Pradesh will be held in the final phase on May 19.

Voting on Sunday started at 7 am in Bhopal, Morena, Bhind, Gwalior, Guna, Sagar, Vidisha and Rajgarh constituencies in the sixth phase of the general elections.

The official said voting was peaceful across the state.

Constituency-wise polling percentage at the end of official polling time, which was 6 pm, was Morena 60.67 per cent, Bhind 53.09 per cent, Gwalior 59.60 per cent, Guna 66.82 per cent, Sagar 65.27 per cent, Vidisha 69.87 per cent, Bhopal 65.33 per cent and Rajgarh 72.47 per cent, he said.

These figures were released at 8 pm, and an official said final figures will be released later.

Long queues were witnessed at several polling booths throughout the day, Chief Electoral Officer V L Kantha Rao said.

At 4 pm, he told reporters said that voters in three villages in Morena and one in Rajgarh had initially boycotted the polls and till 3 pm, only four people had voted in Semlikankad village which falls under Rajgarh Lok Sabha seat.

Election Commission officials said the final voting percentage in the four villages would be updated later as reports from there were still coming in late Sunday evening.

Rao had said that during the polling, EVMs were changed at 102 booths across eight parliamentary seats.

In Bhopal, Congress veteran Digvijay Singh is locked in a battle with BJP candidate and 2008 Malegaon blast accused Pragya Singh Thakur.

Congress general secretary Jyotiraditya Scindia, who is seeking re-election from Guna seat, cast his vote at a booth early in the morning in Gwalior, a party spokesperson said. Scindia is locked in a battle with BJP's K P Yadav, who is contesting his first Lok Sabha election.

Former chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan and his family members cast their vote at their native village Jait, which falls under the Vidisha Lok Sabha seat. Union minister Narendra Singh Tomar, who is the sitting MP from Gwalior, is in the fray from Morena seat this time.

Altogether 138 candidates are in the fray for the eight Lok Sabha seats. Of these eight seats, seven were won by the BJP in 2014.

There are 30 nominees in Bhopal, 25 in Morena, 18 each in Bhind and Gwalior, 13 each in Guna and Vidisha, 11 in Rajgarh and 10 in Sagar, Rao said.

"In total, 18,141 polling booths were set up, where over 1.44 crore people, including 32,909 service voters, were eligible to exercise their franchise," he said.

Over 45,000 security personnel were deployed for the smooth conduct of the polls.

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Over 80 per cent turnout was recorded in eight Lok Sabha constituencies in West Bengal Sunday, according to the Election Commission.

There was a decline in poll percentage in West Bengal, from 84.95 per cent in the previous election to 80.35 per cent, the poll panel said.

However, the EC stated that the figure was provisional and a final tally will be released later.

Till 5 pm, Tamluk seat recorded the highest voter turnout at 82.99 per cent, followed by Bishnupur (SC) at 81.90 per cent and Jhargram (ST) at 81.68 per cent, a senior official of the state CEO's office told PTI.

Ghatal recorded 80.35 per cent, Kanthi 80.06 per cent, Purulia 78.64 per cent, Medinipore 78.17 per cent and Bankura 75.68 per cent, he said



"Except some incidents of disturbances in Keshpur, polling was mostly peaceful. We have sought reports from district officials about the incidents," the official said.

The eight constituencies are spread across five districts.

BJP's Ghatal candidate and former IPS officer Bharati Ghosh was attacked when she tried to enter a polling booth in Keshpur.

Ghosh's convoy was also targeted when locals started throwing stones and hurling bombs after she tried to enter another polling station in Keshpur.

One of her security guards was injured and a vehicle was damaged.

It was also alleged that a TMC worker was injured in the firing by Ghosh's security officers within 100 metres of a booth at Dugachia in Keshpur.

West Bengal ADG (Law and Order) S N Gupta said an FIR was lodged against Ghosh and her security personnel for their alleged involvement in the firing of four rounds.

He said another FIR was lodged against BJP state president and Medinipur candidate Dilip Ghosh for creating disturbances, causing law and order issues.

The officer said another suo-motu FIR was lodged against some people for creating violence and disturbances at two booths in Keshpur.

Central forces also allegedly opened fire during a clash at Bhagabanpore in Sabang area in which two persons were injured, Gupta said.

The forces also opened fired in incidents at Mayna, Jhargram's Gopiballavpur and Kalabagan in Bishnupur in order to control the situation, Gupta added.

Sixteen persons were arrested in connection with different incidents of violence in which at least 26 people were injured. Three suffered bullet injuries, he said, adding that 16 vehicles were damaged.

The CEO's office sought a report after Ghosh was seen making a video inside a polling booth at Pikurda in Keshpur.

Ghosh's vehicle was again blocked by locals when she tried to enter Keshpur market.

The state police personnel, posted in the area, intervened and her vehicle was seized.

"Her vehicle has no valid pass to move around the area on polling day. We cannot allow her to move around like this. It is a matter of security," a police officer said.

After the seizure of her vehicle, a large number of protestors gathered there and she took shelter inside a temple in Keshpur market along with her security officers guarding her.

The mob also threw stones at the policemen who resorted to lathicharge to disperse them.

Owners of shops in the market downed shutters.

Ghosh was then taken to Keshpur police station for protection.

BJP's candidate and state party president Dilip Ghosh also faced protests from locals when he tried to visit a polling booth in his constituency, Medinipore.

Hours after the polling was over, the Election Commission late Sunday night transferred Bankura district magistrate Dr Uma Sankar S and brought in Mukta Arya.

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will review re-opening of its for Indian flights on May 15 amid heightened Indo-Pak military tensions, a civil aviation official said Sunday, but a senior minister indicated that the status quo will remain till the elections are over in India.

fully closed its after an Indian Air Force strike on a terror camp in Balakot on February 26. However, on March 27, opened its for all flights except for New Delhi, Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur.

"The Pakistani government will decide whether to lift or not its airspace ban for the Indian flights on May 15," Pakistan's Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) spokesperson Mujtaba Baig told PTI on Sunday.

He said that in the May 15 meeting the officials and ministers of all ministries concerned will participate and a decision will be taken about lifting of ban or not on the Pakistani airspace 'operational and overflying' for India.

"The decision will be notified any time on May 15," Baig said.

However, Prime Minister Imran Khan's close aide and federal science and technology minister Fawad Chaudhry doesn't see any change in the status quo till conclusion of Lok Sabha polls in India.

"Status quo will remain till the elections are over in India. I don't see any improvement in relations between Pakistan and India till the elections are over and a new government is installed. The ban on airspace by each other I think will also continue till Indian polls," Chaudhry told PTI.

Pakistan and India had closed their airspace for each other on February 26 after rise in tension between the two nuclear countries.

When asked had not the CAA written to Prime Minister Khan about huge financial losses the Pakistan International Airlines, other private airlines and CAA were facing because of closure of its profitable routes because of ban of Indian airspace, Baig said: "It is a bilateral matter to be resolved by the both governments."



Owing to ban on its airspace by India, Pakistan has suspended its operation for Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur which is causing a loss of millions of rupees per day. PIA used to operate four flights to Kuala Lumpur, two to Bangkok and two to New Delhi.

A senior PIA official told PTI that the flag carrier's loss is running into billions of rupees because of suspension of our flights especially to Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur.

"We are not only facing the huge financial loss but also losing our passengers to other airlines," he said, adding that this matter should now be resolved. "If land and rail routes are operational between Pakistan and India, what's wrong with the air route," the official questioned.

The airlines and civil aviation authorities of both the countries are enduring massive losses. The flights between Europe to Far-East are not only facing massive financial losses, but the flight duration has also increased, while the airlines have also increased their ticket prices.

Pakistan in mid-April had opened one of its 11 air routes for west-bound flights from India and airlines such as Air India and Turkish Airlines have started using it. The operating cost for Air India, which flies to destinations in Europe and the US, reportedly has increased significantly as it had to take longer routes due to closure of Pakistan airspace.
Pakistan has reached an agreement with the IMF on a bailout package under which the cash-strapped country will receive USD 6 billion over three years, according to a top official on Sunday.

The agreement now awaits a formal approval by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) board, Dawn quoted Adviser to Prime Minister on Finance, Revenue and Economic Affairs Dr Abdul Hafeez Shaikh as saying.

Pakistani technical teams have reached an agreement with the IMF on a bailout package, he said.

Pakistan would receive USD 6 billion worth of assistance under the IMF programme over a period of three years, Shaikh told the state-run PTV

"The Pakistani authorities and the IMF team have reached a staff level agreement on economic policies that could be supported by a 39-month Extended Fund Arrangement (EFF) for about USD 6 billion," IMF Mission Chief for Pakistan Ernesto Ramirez Rigo said in a statement.

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Union minister and BJP ally Ram Vilas Paswan Sunday demanded a CBI probe into the rape of a Dalit woman in Rajasthan's Alwar and accused the Congress government in the state of hiding the crime for several days for electoral benefit.

The Lok Sabha polls in the state are now over.

The Lok Janshakti Party chief said in a statement the state government is responsible for such a "condemnable" development. He alleged it did not allow a case to be filed until the election concluded in the state.

The crime had happened on April 26 but a case was registered on May 7 after the polls were over in the state on May 6, Paswan said.

"We demand a CBI probe and stringent action against the culprits," he said.

He also took a swipe at BSP supremo Mayawati over her criticism of the Rajasthan government, accusing her of shedding crocodile tears.

She supports the Congress after elections everywhere, he said.

Mayawati's BSP has given support to the Congress government in the state.

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Peggy Lipton, who shot to fame with 1960s ground-breaking TV series "Mod Squad" and featured in the 1990s series "Twin Peaks," has passed away at the age of 72.

She was suffering from cancer.

According to USA Today, the of her death was confirmed on Saturday by her two daughters, actors Kidada and Rashida Jones, from Lipton's marriage to music producer Quincy Jones.

"We are heartbroken that our beloved mother passed away from cancer today. She made her journey peacefully with her daughters and nieces by her side. We feel so lucky for every moment we spent with her," the statement read.

The family requested for privacy, adding "we can't put all of our feelings into words right now but we will say: Peggy was, and will always be our beacon of light, both in this world and beyond. She will always be a part of us."



Lipton played Julie Barnes, one of a trio of Los Angeles undercover "hippie cops" on the counter-culture "The Mod Squad" with Michael Cole and Clarence Williams III. The ABC show ran from 1968-1973.

The actor was nominated for Emmys and won a Golden Globe in 1971 for her performance in the series that addressed issues such as the Vietnam War, drugs and domestic violence.

Lipton married music producer Quincy Jones in 1974, and focused on her family and two daughters. They divorced in 1989.

In the 1990s, she played the role of Norma Jennings in the TV series "Twin Peaks." She reprised her role in the show's 2017 revival.

She also appeared for a "Mod Squad" reunion in 1979 and made a cameo 20 years later in a movie version of the same that starred Claire Danes (as Julie Barnes), Omar Epps and Giovanni Ribisi.

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Hitting back at Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his charge that she was "shedding crocodile tears" over the Alwar gang rape incident, BSP supremo Mayawati on Sunday accused him of indulging in "dirty politics" and demanded his resignation for incidents of Dalit atrocities in the past.

Hours after the prime minister's remarks at election rallies in Kushinagar and Deoria earlier in the day, Mayawati said, "In the wake of this incident, Modi is doing dirty "



On the prime minister's challenge to her to withdraw support to the Congress government in Rajasthan, she said, "The BSP will for sure take an appropriate political decision in the absence of stringent and proper legal action in the case."



In a press note issued here, Mayawati also demanded Modi's resignation over cases pertaining to Dalit atrocities such as the Una flogging incident and the Rohit Vemulla case taking moral responsibility.

On April 26, the woman was travelling with her husband on a motorcycle when the accused stopped them and took them to an isolated place off the road. They allegedly beat the husband and raped her in front of him, threatening them of dire consequences.

Her husband claimed that he had approached Rajasthan police on April 26 after the incident, but an FIR was filed on May 2. He had alleged that the police did not take action saying that they were busy with elections.

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Congress president Rahul Gandhi Sunday cast his vote in Lok Sabha polls here and hit out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying he "used hatred" during the elections but the Congress "used love".

Asserting that this elections saw a "good fight" between the two rival parties, Gandhi said he thought that "love is going to win".

"Prime Minister Narendra Modi used hatred, we used love. And, I think love is going to win," Gandhi told reporters, soon after exercising his franchise.

Clad in his trademark kurta-pyjama, he was accompanied by party's New Delhi candidate Ajay Maken on way to the polling booth, a walking distance from his Tughlaq Lane residence.

"This election is being fought basically on three-four issues, and these are people's issues and not of the Congress party. And most important among these is of unemployment. Then, plight of farmers, and demonetisation and Gabbar Singh Tax (mocking GST), which have destroyed the power of India and its economy," Gandhi said.

The seven constituencies in Delhi are voting on Sunday alongside 14 seats in Uttar Pradesh, 10 in Haryana, eight each in Bihar, Madhya Pradesh and West Bengal, and four in Jharkhand as part of the sixth phase of the 2019 poll which ends on May 19. Counting of vote will take place on May 23.

The Congress chief said that so far it has been a "good fight" in the elections.

Asked how many seats the Congress is winning, he said, "I won't comment on that. It will be decided by the people".

"People are the master. Whatever people say, we will accept. How many seats we will win, people will decide that... Jai Hind," he said.

In Delhi, it is largely a three-way contest among the BJP, the Congress and the AAP.

In the 2014 Lok Sabha poll, all the seven seats in the national capital were won by the BJP. While Congress is hoping to bounce back in Delhi, the AAP is keen to give a good fight.

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CPI(M) general secretary Sitaram Yechury has written to the Election Commission against Prime Minister Narendra Modi for allegedly violating the poll code by sharing operational details of a "sensitive" defence mission in a television interview to influence voters.

In his letter to the EC, Yechury has alleged Modi's statements were in clear and deliberate violation of the guidelines which were re-issued and reiterated by the Election Commission before the first round of polling, making it clear that the armed forces, which belong to all of India, cannot be a subject for hyperbolic and false claims by any party.

In an interview on Saturday, Modi had said he approved the Indian Air Force's cross-border mission in Balakot, Pakistan, despite inclement weather and against the advise of experts as he felt cloud cover would hide the Indian fighter jets from Pakistani radar.

Modi said he relied on his "raw wisdom" to dispel the doubts of the defence experts who had planned the mission.

"I am surprised that the country's pundits who abuse me never figured this out," he said, referring to rain on the night of the air strike.

The CPI(M) general secretary said, "This interview wherein Modi gave out operational details of a sensitive military mission, with a purpose to influence the voters during the silent period of the campaign needs to be recorded and acted upon by the Commission.

"It appears that Modi is mocking the Election Commission by violating all rules, codes and guidelines with impunity with damaging consequences for our democracy, of which the Election Commission is the custodian. We hope that you will uphold the prestige, honour and credibility of the Election Commission and initiate action against Modi," he said.

Yechury further said based on the poll body's recent decisions on BJP leaders and Prime Minister Narendra Modi making alleged poll code violations earlier, it was "widely perceived" that Modi was being treated as though he was outside the purview of the Model Code of Conduct.

Yechury further lashed out at Modi for continuing to use the armed forces in his speech.

In an election rally in Kushinagar in Uttar Pradesh on Sunday, the prime minister is reported to have said, "Today terrorists were killed by our Army in Kashmir. Now some people are worried as to why did Modi kill the terrorists when voting is underway? An armed terrorist is attacking, do my jawans go to the Election Commission to seek permission to kill him?"



"Note: He (Modi) claims that he killed the terrorists not our armed forces!" Yechury said.

The Left leader pointed out that similar "violations" have been brought to the notice of the EC earlier too.

"The commission, however, seems to think that Modi and Shri Amit Shah are above the electoral process and the Model code of Conduct does not apply to them. This has been noted by myriad cartoonists, newspaper editorials and commentators. I hope that the Election Commission will now prove them wrong and initiate prompt and suitable action against Modi," he said.

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'Nari Shakti' was on display in the all-women staffed booths in Delhi Sunday which drew more women voters, especially from the Muslim community, officials said.

In a first for the city, as many as 17 all-woman staffed booths have been established for the Lok Sabha elections in the seven constituencies of Delhi, where from presiding officers to ground staff, all are women.

Incidentally, four of the seven district election officer-cum-returning officer are also women, and they too felt quite enthused to see the impact of the initiative.

Chandni Chowk Returning Officer Tanvi Garg said the Delhi CEO Office had envisioned this with a larger aim of engendering a sense of women empowerment and the "message has been sent".

"We have set up two such booths, one each Matia Mahal and Model Town Assembly segments. All our polling staff have worked very hard, and these women staffed here they are also quite happy to be part of an all-woman team. While women voters were pleased, male voters were also pleasantly surprised," Garg told PTI.

Out of the 17 booths, 10 have been set up in East Delhi constituency, two in Chandni Chowk and one each in rest of the constituencies -- North East Delhi, West Delhi, South Delhi, New Delhi and North West Delhi.

North East Delhi Returning Officer Shashi Kaushal said the initiative was "very successful" and would "definitely contribute" to push voting percentage of women in this election.

"We have set up a pink booth in Zeenat School in an area which is a very Muslim-dominated one. And, in the morning a large number of 'pardanasheen' (in veil) women came to vote. It was so enthusing to see the women in 'burqa' queuing up to be exercise their franchise and celebrating the democratic exercise," she told PTI.

The women voters were also welcomed with a flower each, she said, adding that girl volunteers were also part of the team.

But, more than individual empowerment, it is the large social message of "nari shakti" that has been conveyed to the society, and "aptly showcased".

Besides Garg and Kaushal, ROs of New Delhi (Pooja Joshi) an South Delhi (Needhi Shrivastav) are also women.

They both said that during the training process, they would see a lot of women polling staff and it was a nice coincidence that four of the seven ROs were women.

Voting is underway in all seven constituencies of Delhi to decide the fate of 164 candidates, of which 18 are women.

A total of 13,816 polling stations have been established at 2,700 locations in Delhi, with a model polling station in each of the 70 assembly constituencies.

There are over 1.43 crore voters on Delhi's electoral roll. Out of the total electorate size of 1,43,16,453, as many as 78,73,022 are male and 64,43,431 female, while 669 belong to third gender.

Such booths are aimed at empowering women and increasing their participation in the electoral process, officials said.

However, some women voters said they were not fully aware about such a facility.

"It's is good to have an all-woman polling station, but what's the use of it when one doesn't know what is it for," said Ritu Bahl, 46, a resident of Janakpuri.

One polling booth (in north-east district) is completely staffed by persons with disabilities, while the Leprosy Home Complex at Tahirpur in north-east district has a booth for persons with disabilities only, Kaushal said.

A pink booth has been set up by poll authorities at a school in Janakpuri which falls under the West Delhi constituency.

Devinder Anand, 43, said the words 'women empowerment' came to her mind when she first read about all-woman booths in newspapers, but she didn't know the polling booth she visited was such a facility.

Presiding officer, Manju, 50, said the responsibility of creating awareness about all-woman booths lie with the Election Commission and the media.

"We have done our best to highlight it. This is the first time such booths have been set up in Delhi. More people will become aware of such facilities with time," she said.

Sita, 23, a B.Ed. student, and resident of Nizamuddin East, said, "I voted with the issue of improvement in education sector on my mind. Education can bring about all-round changes in the lives of people.

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Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has demanded special category status from Centre for his disaster-prone state, saying it faces natural calamities almost every year.

In his first interview since Cyclone Fani that ravaged the coastal districts killing 41 people, he said special category status is the need of the hour due to the massive loss to infrastructure which may stall growth of the state.

"In fact, this is one of the our main demands before the Union government. Odisha faces natural calamities almost every year. The assistance we get from the Centre is mostly for temporary restoration of infrastructure. We have to spend a lot from state's own funds to work for the long-term," Patnaik told PTI in an interview.

"This puts too much stress on our finances. Precisely for this reason, Odisha should be considered for special category status. In the last five years we had Phailin, Hudhud, Titli and now Fani. In addition to this, we has massive floods," he added.

Patnaik, who was sworn in as the chief minister for the first time in 2000 and is now seeking the consecutive fifth term, said it was necessary to accelerate the growth rate of the state.

"We are maintaining a growth rate higher than that of the country. We are doing so well in all our socio-economic indicators. Proving special category status will help us accelerate growth," he said.

When asked about if Cyclone Fani should have been declared a national calamity considering the magnitude of the damage, he said special category status will solve the purpose.

"If the Centre declares the special category status , everything will be taken care of," Patnaik said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced Rs 1000 crore assistance for Odisha and he also did an ariel survey of cyclone ravaged area.

He praised the people for cooperating with the administration before the calamity hit the state and applauded Patnaik for timely relocation work to minimise the causalities. He also promised to provide all possible help from the Centre.

"It is the teamwork coupled with technology that helped in this mammoth exercise. I am grateful to everyone involved, especially to our people," Patnaik said on the praise received from the prime minister.

He also admitted that considering the storm coincided with the general and assembly elections , it was an even more difficult task for his government. "And also summer cyclones are a rarity," said the 72-year-old Biju Janta Dal president.

Fani is unlike the other storms that Odisha is accustomed to, as most of them occurred between October and December.

Asked how challenging it would be now to bring Odisha back to normalcy, he said his government is leaving no stone unturned to do it quickly.

"We are putting our best efforts in bringing back normalcy. Power infrastructure has been completely destroyed, especially in Puri and parts of Khurda districts where we have to re-electrify completely. Also lakhs of houses have been destroyed in addition to serious damage to tree cover and plantation crops," he said.

"We could restore piped water supply to Puri town in 48 hours and Bhubaneshwar in 72 hours. By 12th i.e. nine days from landfall only Puri district will have electricity issues. Electricity in all the other places would have been restored," the chief minister.

He also said that rural housing was one of the state government's strengths, they were hopeful of completing all the five lakh houses in six months time.

"We will also take up huge plantation drives in the coming monsoon season," he said.

On the question of seeking help from international agencies like World Bank or ADB, he said that it could be a possibility.

"For cyclone proof energy infrastructure, we would definitely explore all possibilities, including international support," said Patnaik.

According to an assessment by a public general insurance company, losses to crops, property and vehicles amount to nearly Rs 3500 crore in wake of Cyclone Fani, but the chief minister refused to comment on it.

"We are waiting for our own assessment to be complete," he said.

Asked what was the biggest lesson he learnt as the head of the state from this calamity, he said that preparedness helps save lives.

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With the Supreme Court upholding the high court verdict that quota for Marathas will not be applicable in post-graduate medical in 2019-20, some affected students tried meeting Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis at his official residence here, but were stopped by the police.

They were asked to hold to hold a protest at the Azad Maidan in South Mumbai to highlight their demands.

Around 250 students, who had got admission to post- graduate medical courses under the Socially & Economically Backward Class (SEBC) quota. However, the SC recently upheld the verdict of Nagpur Bench of Bombay High Court that the SEBC quota for Marathas will not be applicable for post-graduation (PG) medical and dental courses.

These students say that as the other ways of seeking admission, such as entrance exams- have already got over, these students are afrid of losing their academic year.

The Maharashtra government has announced that it would bear the entire educational cost of one year, if these students adjust admissions, but it is not covering all the affected students.

"We will have to intensify our agitation if solution is not found at the earliest. It was not our mistake to seek admissions under the quota, but we are now suffering from it," said Abhay Patil, one of the affected students.

Another student said when they tried to meet the CM at his official residence in Malabar Hill area, they were stopped by the police.

Admissions for the first year of post-graduate courses had started in October and November last year for various courses.

On November 30, 2018 the Bill was cleared by the Maharashtra legislature and a notification was issued on March 8 allowing 16 per cent reservation in

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Mohammad Shokeen and twelve members of his family could not cast their votes on Sunday as their names were missing from voter's list despite the fact they have been living at same address in Delhi for 32 years.

The 68-year-old, who lives with his family in South Delhi's Sangam Vihar D Block, is not alone, but there are many people like them who could not exercise their franchise in this Lok Sabha election.

"This is not acceptable. We are the original residents of this area. We have not changed residence and have all documents. Nobody came to our house to gave us slips. We have been voting for so many years," said a furious Shokeen.

Delhi Chief Electoral Officer Ranbir Singh said he and his office had been telling people to check their names in voter lists from the last six months.

"Several awareness campaigns were there. They should have checked names before going to vote. If their names were not there they should have filled form 6. We were accepting forms till April 13," Singh said.

Sanjay Kumar, 39, a resident of Tughlaqabad Extension who works in a private company, also rued that he could not vote.

"This is disgusting. I have my own house here and have been living since my birth, I have an Aadhar card, ration card, pan card and other all documents. I have been waiting for the last three hours, but my name is not there. I don't know whom to approach now," Kumar said.

The ruling Aam Aadmi Party has been alleging that lakhs of names of voters have been deleted, even as poll body rejected its allegations.

"I came to vote early morning and waited for two hours while they tried to locate my name. I have been voting here for four decades and despite that my name was missing from the list," said 66-year-old Ranbir Anand, who is a retired government employee living in New Delhi.

Firoz Ahmad, a resident of Chandni Chowk faced a similar situation.

"Three of my family members could not vote as their names were not there. They had to go back," the 32-year-old cloth trader said.

Hardik Sharma, a first-time voter, was disappointed that he could not take a selfie with his inked finger as his name was missing the voter's list despite appearing in the voters' list online.

"I do not know what happened. I do not know if I will be allowed to vote. The prime minister stresses that first-timers should vote in large numbers, but you have seen the situation yourself," Sharma, a resident of Janakpuri, said.

Taking to Twitter, Delhi Transport Minister Kailash Gahlot said, "Voters unable to find their votes at polling booths. It is true that on large scale votes have been deleted. All these are resident of Jai Vihar I, Najafgarh."



He asked what the ECI had to say about this and sought to know who was responsible for the voters' constitutional right to be taken away like this.

"Vote deleted this time. All are regularly voting in the past." Delhi Home Minister Satyendar Jain tweeted with images of voter identity cards of people whose names were not in the list.

Over 1.43 crore people in Delhi are eligible to vote in this election which will decide the fate of 164 candidates, of which 18 are women. There are 43 independent candidates.

While 2,54,723 voters are in the age group of 18 and 19, there are 40,532 electorate with disability who would be provided pick up and drop facility.

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Delhi Congress chief Sheila Dikshit Sunday evening exuded confidence that the "love and affection" of the people will translate into votes for her party's candidates and claimed that the grand old party will win all the seven Lok Sabha seats in the national capital.

Dikshit, who is contesting the polls from North East Delhi Lok Sabha seat, cast her vote in the morning at DAV school in East Nizamuddin which falls under East Delhi constituency.

Later, she toured her own constituency and met party workers in Ghonda, Seemapuri, Gokalpur, Timarpur, Babarpur, Seelampur and Karwal Nagar.

"We are hopeful that Delhiites' love and affection will turn into votes for the Congress candidates," Dikshit said.

She claimed that the Congress will sweep all the Lok Sabha seats in Delhi and her party will form government at the centre.

The former three-time Delhi chief minister also thanked the Election Commission, voters and the police for "peaceful" polling in the city.

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Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal Sunday expressed "dissatisfaction" over the quality of work done by Brahmaputra Board to prevent erosion during flood season in Majuli island, an official said.

Holding a meeting with senior officials, Sonowal directed them to take stern action against erring officials for the poor quality of works in Majuli, the world's largest river island, which is prone to severe flood every year.

Sonowal visited the erosion hit Bhakat Chapori village in Majuli to inspect the protection work done with geo bags by the Brahmaputra Board and expressed "displeasure" over the quality of the project work, a release from the Chief Minister's Office (CMO) said.

The Chief Minister said that the safety and security of the people are of paramount importance and under no circumstances, his government will tolerate any deviation of that.

He informed that the Brahmaputra Board will again undertake restoration work of the affected areas within two weeks after water level recedes and no slackness will be tolerated, while the government will fix responsibilities.

As the people of Majuli wholeheartedly want to get rid of the scourge of erosion, the government will never shy of taking any steps to serve the people, he added.

Sonowal said that the engineers responsible for negligence of protection work of the erosion hit Bhakat Chapori village will be dealt with sternly and asked the Brahmaputra Board to initiate actions against the erring officials.

He later held a meeting with the functionaries of the Brahmaputra Board and had a threadbare discussion on the project work.

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Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Sunday accused the Samajwadi Party, Bahujan Samaj Party and the Congress of looting public resources and building big bungalows for themselves using government funds.

Addressing election rallies in Kushinagar, Ghosi and Gorakhpur, Adityanath claimed that the SP-BSP-RLD alliance was worried after seeing India "growing and developing" each passing day.

"The SP, BSP and the Congress have looted the resources of the public. They never built houses for the poor, but made sure to build their big bungalows using government funds," Adityanath said. "These parties have never done any work in public interest. They kept the public in dark because thieves do not like full-moon night."



The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader took a jibe at SP chief Akhilesh Yadav and said: "When the Supreme Court had ordered (Akhilesh) to vacate the bungalow, 'babua' stole the government tap (from the vacated house). He had misused the government funds during his tenure too."



Without taking any name, Adityanath said a broker was already locked in jail. "In the same way, many other brokers will be behind the bars soon. Terrorists will also be eliminated from the country in the future," he said.

The chief minister appealed to the people to reject those who play the "politics" of caste and creed. "We made sure to free 54,000 hectares from the land mafia who were nurtured during the tenures of the SP and the BSP. We took initiatives to construct schools, hospitals and cow shelters."



Adityanath said the slogans of "Modi hai to mumkin hai" (If there's Modi, its possible) and "phir ek baar, Modi sarkar (once again, Modi government) were "echoing" across India.

The BJP leader claimed that for the first time since Independence, the Musahar and Vantangiya community got "honour" because of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

"Modi ji helped the Musahar community of Kushinagar to get benefits of housing and other several welfare schemes of the government," Adityanath said.

The Vantangiya community have also been linked to the mainstream and got the benefits of house, electricity and all other facilities, he added.

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Sri Lankan police on Sunday imposed curfew with immediate effect in the country's western coastal town of Chilaw after a mosque and few shops owned by Muslims were attacked by a mob, authorities said.

The curfew has been imposed till 6 am Monday as a precaution, the police said.

Additional troops have been deployed in the city to bring the situation under control, they said.

Tension was brewing since Saturday between the Catholics and Muslims in the Christian dominated town. This is a fallout from the Easter Sunday attacks in which over 250 people were killed.

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 on the Easter Sunday.

The Islamic State claimed responsibility for the attack, but the government has blamed local Islamist extremist group, the National Thawheed Jama'ath (NTJ), for the bombings.

Some inflammatory exchanges happened between the two communities in the town since Saturday, the residents said.

A Catholic woman claimed that she was threatened inside a Muslim-owned shop.

Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith, the Archbishop of Colombo, cancelled all masses since the Easter Sunday until the security situation could improve.

It was just this morning that churches resumed their normal Sunday services since the attack.

Early this month, several people were injured in clashes between Muslims and Christians in Negombo, a majority Christian town where St. Sebastian's Church was targeted during the Easter attacks.

After clashes in Negombo, Cardinal Ranjith appealed to Christians and other communities to show restraint.

"I appeal to all Catholic and Christian brothers and sisters not to hurt even a single Muslim person because they are our brothers, because they are part of our religious culture," said Ranjith.

"Therefore please avoid hurting them and try to create a better spirit of understanding and good relations between all the communities of Sri Lanka."



In his address to the nation after the Easter Sunday blasts, President Maithripala Sirisena called on the public to refrain from looking at the Muslim community with a suspicious eye following the attacks.

"It was only a small group which had engaged in such acts of terror," he added.

Sri Lanka has a population of 21 million which is a patchwork of ethnicities and religions, dominated by the Sinhalese Buddhist majority.

Muslims account for 10 per cent of the population and are the second-largest minority after Hindus. Around seven per cent of Sri Lankans are Christians.

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Actor Storm Reid is set to star alongside Elisabeth Moss in Universal Pictures and Blumhouse Productions' "Invisible Man" remake.

Leigh Whannell is set to direct the film, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

"The Invisible Man" is based on H G Wells' novel that was adapted into the 1933 classic starring Claude Rains.

Reid will play character named Sydney in the film.

She is also set to feature in Netflix limited series "When They See Us" and the HBO's "Euphoria".

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For students of Delhi government schools, it was a Sunday well spent at polling booths in the national capital where they volunteered to help disabled and elderly voters to cast their ballot.

From giving flowers to first-time voters and candies to children accompanying their parents to rushing wheelchairs for the disabled voters, the student volunteers were on their toes to make voting a happy experience for one and all.

"We can't vote right now but we are very happy to be part of the electoral process. I have been helping disabled people and centenarians," said Shanita Chaudhary, a class 8 student, who was volunteering at a school in Chandni Chowk's Zeenat Mahal area.

Dishita Rajput, another student volunteer, said, "I am too excited about this. I got to see Rahul Gandhi who had come to vote here. We cannot go inside where votes are being cast but we can be around the polling booth. If somebody needs any help, we are here".

Similar excitement was shared by Sarthak Chaudhary, another class 8 student, at a polling booth in Gujranwala town.

"If anybody wants to check their names in the voter list before getting inside, I have been helping them out. Fulfilling any requests for wheelchair and facilitating early entry of pregnant women are part of my duties," he said.

Polling in seven Lok Sabha constituencies in the national capital was held on Sunday.

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Clashes between members of two Sudanese tribes in an eastern town have left seven people dead and 22 wounded over the past two days, a local official said Sunday.

The violence erupted on Saturday between members of the Nuba and Bani Amer tribes in the town of Gadaref, said Mohieddine Ahmed, governor of Gadaref province.

"It all started when a woman from the Nuba tribe and a water vendor from the Bani Amer tribe quarrelled over the price of water" on Saturday, Ahmed told AFP.

"The verbal dispute ended with the vendor killing the woman, which triggered anger among her tribe members." Members of the two groups then set fire to homes and shops belonging to each other's kin, Ahmed added.

"In the ensuing clashes seven people have been killed and 22 wounded," Ahmed said, adding that the two groups have clashed in the past.

The wounded included seven policemen, he said, as officers sought to separate the groups with tear gas and by firing shots in the air.

Ahmed said the fighting that erupted on Saturday continued until Sunday morning.

Tribal clashes are often reported in several regions of Sudan, especially in the war-torn western Darfur provinces.

Sudan, an ethnically diverse country, has been rocked by nationwide protests since December that led to the ouster of longtime leader Omar al-Bashir on April 11.

Thousands of protesters still remain camped outside the military headquarters in central Khartoum, calling on the army generals who deposed Bashir to hand power over to civilians.

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Insurgents fired rockets into a government-held Christian town in northwestern Syria on Sunday, killing six people, including five children who were playing near a monastery and wounding several others, state media and a local priest said.

State TV said the shelling just before noon caused widespread material damage to the town of Suqailabiyah. It said the dead also included a 35-year-old woman.

State agency SANA said Syrian troops had retaliated by firing shells toward insurgents' positions on the southern edge of Idlib province, the last major rebel stronghold in the country.

Al-Qaida-linked Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, or HTS, is the main insurgent group in the area.

Priest Maher Haddad told The Associated Press by telephone from Suqailabiyah that a rocket struck near a group of children, instantly killing five and wounding others.

He said the woman was killed in a nearby street by a separate rocket.

"The kids went out to play after some days of calm," Haddad said, since the town had not targeted for days by insurgents who were pushed further north by the Syrian army.

The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, an opposition war monitor, also reported that six people were killed, adding that eight others, including six children were wounded.

The Observatory said government shelling of a rebel-held village to the north killed one person and wounded others.

The insurgent enclave has been rocked by a wave of violence since April 30, killing and wounding dozens while forcing some 150,000 people to flee their homes in rebel-held areas.

Idlib is home to some 3 million people, many of them displaced from other parts of the country.

Syrian troops have been on the offensive under the cover of airstrikes for days, capturing several strategic locations and villages.

Sunday's deaths are another blow to a cease-fire reached in September between Russia and Turkey.

The truce avoided a government offensive on Idlib.

Turkey's official Anadolu agency on Sunday reported Turkish military deployments in southeastern Kilis province and southern Hatay province, both bordering Syria.

The fresh commando and armoured vehicle deployments were to reinforce border units, according to the agency.

The Observatory said that since the latest wave of violence began late last month 297 people have been killed.

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The Indian Army's bravehearts made their presence felt in the 2019 Desert Storm in a big way, winning the team trophies in two out of the three categories that they competed in.

The Team Army Adventure Wing's Lt. Col. Aman Katoch and co-driver Capt. Siddhartha Nandal surpassed expectations, claiming the second runners' up trophy in the Ndure category late on Saturday.

The duo even elicited the biggest applause as they stepped forward to take their reward, dressed up in their uniforms, at the glittering prize distribution ceremony.

Their most experienced driver Lt. Col. Shakti Bajaj too was given a heroic welcome as he and co-driver Aditya Chand annexed the tenth position in the Xtreme Category.

The Army's women participants Major Euthica and navigator Tejal Parashare (Extreme category), Manisha Gaind and Major K Renuka (Mott) were without doubt the cynosure of all eyes on all four days as they faced the heat of the desert with courage and composure.

Indeed, Team Army evoked awe and admiration when it arrived for the ceremonial start in New Delhi on May 7, with each of their decorated men and women turning up in their army outfits and shining vehicles. They fielded as many as 10 teams in the Xtreme Category and three in the Moto, making it the largest contingent in the Desert Storm.

"The Army denotes strength, integrity and activeness," Major Euthica, a mother of a two-year-old, said.

"All of us are here on official duty. It is a great endeavour by the Army Adventure Wing to send its soldiers to try out new avenues and to push their limits.

"I got into rallying just last 11 months back, about a year after my baby was born. And I must say I am rediscovering myself. As an Army officer, I feel pleased to be part of any physical activity and give out my best."



Lt. Col. Shakti Bajaj has been rallying for over a decade now and is a great example of a true soldier. He reckoned that the Army was proud of competing in endurance sport that can double up as training and also help build camaraderie.

Major K. Renuka of Army Service Corps recently became the first woman biker from the Army to scale the 18,176 ft Karakoram Pass.

"We feel proud. As women, we want to send out the message that nothing is impossible. To all the women out there, I would say come out and compete," Major Euthica declared.

"Do not stop, get out of self-imposed restrictions. Embrace the world and its challenges. It's waiting to accept the new you."



Added Major Renuka, also a mother of a two-year-old, "As Army people, we do not know how to give up. I think we carry such similarities on to the field of sport and competition and that stands out for us.

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Iran's move to stop respecting some of the agreed limits on its nuclear activities showed it is "not in a position of weakness", a deputy speaker of the Islamic republic's parliament said Sunday.

"The timely decision of the Islamic republic regarding its commitments in the (nuclear deal) showed that Iran is not in a position of weakness," said Ali Mottahari, according to the official IRNA agency.

Tehran announced Wednesday that it would stop respecting some of the curbs on its nuclear activities imposed under the landmark 2015 deal with world powers.

The announcement came exactly a year after the US withdrew from the deal, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), with further measures threatened if the agreement's other signatories fail to mitigate the impact of renewed American sanctions within 60 days.

The sweeping sanctions have dealt a severe blow to the Iranian economy. Mottahari's comments came a day after President Hassan Rouhani called for unity among Iranian political factions during a time of heightened tensions with the United States.

Rouhani said Iran was facing "an all-out war unprecedented in the history of the Islamic republic".

Iran's situation could be worse than during the 1980-1988 Iran-Iraq war, he said according to the government's official website.

"In the war we didn't have any banking, sales of oil and import-export problems and the only sanctions against us were arms embargoes," he said, during what was billed as an informal meeting with members of different political groups and parties.

The administration of US President Donald Trump has ratcheted up pressure on Iran in recent days over alleged threats from Tehran.

Washington said on Saturday it was deploying an amphibious assault ship and a Patriot missile battery to bolster an aircraft carrier and B-52 bombers already sent to the Gulf.

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Once again triggering speculation about the longevity of the Congress-JD(S) coalition, Karnataka BJP chief B S Yeddyurappa said Sunday there is an "atmosphere" for his party to form government in the state.

Stating that his party workers are fighting the by-polls for Kundgol and Chincholi assembly constituencies unitedly, the former state chief minister predicted BJP's victory on both the seats.

"I'm confident we will win this election easily with bigger margins. No BJP leader from any community despite they (Congress) trying to lure them, has switched sides. Whether Venugopal (AICC general secretary) or any one else comes, they cannot shake any of our karyakartas or leaders," Yeddyurappa said.

Speaking to reporters in Hubballi, he said, "Our people are together and are united. At a time when there is an atmosphere for us to form government, at a time when we are confident of winning both the assembly segments, our karyakartas will not fall prey to any confusion. They (Congress) will fail if they make any attempt."



Yeddyurappa was responding to a question from reports that Congress leaders were trying to lure local BJP leaders in Kundgol, ahead of the by-polls.

He said, "Congress may be under the illusion of doing something with money power, but I'm confident we will win this election by earning the affection and trust of people."



Yeddyurappa's statement about the BJP forming government in the state gains significance following his comments of Friday that the longevity of the Congress-JD(S) coalition in the state would depend on the stand taken by about 20 "disgruntled" Congress legislators after the Lok Sabha election results are announced on May 23.

He has predicted changes favouring the BJP in the state, saying its tally in the assembly would increase with the win in the bypolls. He has also claimed to have the support of three independent and smaller party legislators.

The Karnataka assembly has 224 members, in which BJP has 104 MLAs, Congress-77, JD(S)-37, BSP 1, independent (1) (both currently supporting the ruling alliance), one KPJP, and the Speaker.

Two seats Chincholi and Kundgol are vacant, for which bypolls will be held on May 19.

There are already discussions within political circles that any adverse results for the ruling coalition in Lok Sabha polls, which they fought in alliance, would have implications on the state government.

Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy and JD(S) leaders are upset over some Congress legislators, including ministers, clamouring for CLP leader Siddaramaiah to become chief minister again.

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: Tamil Nadu Governor Banwarilal Purohit extended his birthday greetings to Chief Minister K Palaniswami who turned 65 on Sunday.

Purohit sent a bouquet and a message to Palaniswami on the occasion, an official release said.

"Please accept my heartiest greetings and best wishes on the happy occasion of your birthday. May God the Almighty bless you with happiness, good health and many more years of dedicated service to the nation," he said in his message.

Responding to the Governor's greetings, Palaniswami extended his gratitude saying, "I thank you for the kind greetings and flowers sent by you on the occasion of my birthday."



Union Minister Pon Radhakrishnan and BJP Tamil Nadu unit President Tamilisai Soundararajan also greeted the chief minister on the occasion.

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Excited about casting their votes under their chosen gender identity for the first time in general elections, the transgender voters in the national capital flaunted their inked fingers and expressed hope for a government which ensures them a better future.

This is the first time that transgenders are casting their votes under the category after Supreme Court had declared them as the "third gender" in 2014. Earlier they had to cast their votes as male or female.

For 32-year-old Janasheen, it was an incredible experience.

"I have voted before but this is the first time I am voting as a transgender, an identity which I am proud of now. I have also posted a selfie on my WhatsApp status with my inked finger," Janasheen said.

Sapna Bai, a transgender who cast her vote in Matia Mahal said, "I am very happy that I can cast my vote as what I really am. I want a new government which thinks about us and also consider us equally on their agenda".

18-year-old Dummy wanted her chosen government to ensure special toilets for transgenders.

"It is a progressive move that we have been identified as a third gender. While lot needs to be done for us, to begin with special toilets are a must for us," she said.

A Tughlakabad resident, a transgender who did not wish to be identified, was happy to be exercising her franchise for the first time saying the society and the government has acknowledged their community as the third gender.

"We have been neglected repeatedly by consecutive governments for quite a long time. Our condition in the society is pathetic. We are still an outcast. People ridicule us and we are not even acknowledged. We have managed to secure this right after a long battle and will vote for the party which will work for out rights and for improving our condition," the transgender said.

Another transgender said on the condition of anonymity, "political parties promise us lot of things -- be it offering shelter homes or employment opportunities -- but it is only for elections. We are part of the community. But as a responsible citizen, it is my right to vote which I have irrespective of the outcome."



Voting is underway in all seven constituencies of Delhi Sunday.

According to Delhi Chief Electoral officer, a total of 660 transgenders were eligible to cast their vote besides 78,49,947 male and 64,21,283 female voters.

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warned on Saturday that it should strike a trade deal with the now, otherwise an agreement would be "far worse for them if it has to be negotiated in my second term".

and are locked in a trade battle that has seen mounting tariffs, sparking fears the dispute will damage the global

Two days of talks ended Friday with no deal. China's top negotiator said the two sides would meet again in at an unspecified date, but warned that would make no concessions on "important principles."



"I think that felt they were being beaten so badly in the recent negotiation that they may as well wait around for the next election, 2020, to see if they could get lucky & have a Democrat win -- in which case they would continue to rip-off the USA for $500 Billion a year," Trump said in a tweet Saturday.

"The only problem is that they know I am going to win (best & employment numbers in U.S. history, & much more), and the deal will become far worse for them if it has to be negotiated in my second term. Would be wise for them to act now, but love collecting BIG TARIFFS!" Trump had accused of reneging on its commitments in trade talks and ordered new punitive duties, which took effect Friday, on $200 billion worth of Chinese imports, raising them to 25 percent from 10 percent.

He then cranked up the heat further, ordering a hike on almost all remaining imports -- $300 billion worth, according to Trade Representative -- from the world's second-biggest

Those tariffs would not take effect for months, after a period of public comment.

Trump also said Saturday that firms could easily avoid additional costs by producing goods in the

"Such an easy way to avoid Tariffs? Make or produce your goods and products in the good old USA. It's very simple!" he tweeted, echoing a similar message he sent Friday -- and even retweeted.

Only a week earlier, the and China had seemed poised to complete a sweeping agreement.

wants Beijing to tighten its intellectual property protections, cut its subsidies to state-owned firms and reduce the yawning trade deficit; China wants an end to tariffs as part of a "balanced" deal.

While supporters laud Trump as a tough negotiator, free-trade-minded Republicans have warned that the tariffs could do real damage to the economy, and many farmers -- including Trump supporters -- say the tariffs have hit their bottom line.

As the trade war spread, China imposed $110 billion in duties on farm exports and other goods.

Republican Senator Chuck Grassley, from the farm state of Iowa, cautiously welcomed the new tariffs but urged negotiators to reach a quick solution "so we can avoid prolonged tariffs, which we know have an impact on the economy.
Two members of a gang, allegedly supplying drugs for intoxication to jail inmates, have been arrested in Uttar Pradesh's Muzaffarnagar district, police said on Sunday.

One of the accused, Manish Kumar, was arrested after 1,000 tablets were recovered from his possession during frisking at the district jail on Saturday, Superintendent of Police Satpal Antil said.

Kumar came to the jail to meet an inmate and give him the drugs, he said.

During interrogation, Kumar revealed the whereabouts of his accomplice, Raj Singh, the officer said.

Singh was later arrested from Muzaffarnagar city, he added.

A case has been registered against the accused under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and a search is underway to nab the other members of the gang, the officer said.

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UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres launched a brief South Pacific tour in New Zealand Sunday, warning the world was "not on track" to limiting global temperature rises.

In a strong message for action on climate change, Guterres said international political resolve was fading and it was the small island nations that were "really in the front line" and would suffer most.

His visit, ahead of the Climate Action Summit in September in New York will also take him to Fiji, Tuvalu and Vanuatu which are under threat from rising sea levels.

"We are seeing everywhere a clear demonstration that we are not on track to achieve the objectives defined in the Paris agreement," Guterres said on the failure to limit rises to 1.5 degrees Celsius (2.7 degrees Fahrenheit) above pre-industrial revolution levels.

"And the paradox is, that as things are getting worse on the ground, political moves seem to be fading," he added in the joint press conference in Auckland with New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern.

However, he did excuse New Zealand from his accusation, describing Wellington's leadership as "extremely important" after it introduced legislation to become carbon neutral by 2050, although greenhouse gas emissions from its economically vital agricultural sector will not have to meet the commitment.

Ardern called climate change "the biggest challenge" facing the international community and said it would be "gross negligence" to avoid the issue.

During his three days in New Zealand, Guterres will also meet with Muslim leaders in Christchurch to show solidarity following the March 15 massacre in which 51 people were killed by a lone gunman who attacked two mosques during Friday prayers.

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The is "banding together" with nations like India, Australia, Japan and South Korea to ensure that the sovereignty of Indo-Pacific nations are protected and that they are not subjected to any coercion, Secretary of State has said.

His comments came days after the Indian Navy 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.

Pompeo, in his address to the Claremont Institute's 40th Anniversary Gala in Beverly Hills, California, said: "We are banding together with the like-minded nations like Australia, India, Japan and South Korea to make sure that each Indo-Pacific nation can protect its sovereignty from coercion".

"It's part of a greater commitment to a free and open order. You all know this: The distinctive mark of western civilization is the belief in the inherent worth of human beings, with the attendant respect for god-authored rights and liberties. Indeed, the declaration says that 'all men are created equal'. And we ought to help nations protect these first things and human rights as well," he said.

Trump administration's policies, he said, has been a real pivot to Asia.

"The President has taken action to stop China from stealing our stuff. No longer will American companies be forced to hand over their technological crown jewels as the price of doing business in China. When a deal doesn't work for the United States, no deal shall be done, Pompeo said.

The United States, he said, has bolstered its military presence in the South China Sea, and have put nations on notice around the world that the sale of key infrastructure and technology companies to China threatens their national security.

"We have strengthened the group, the entity, that screens Chinese and other foreign investments here in the United States. We are also fighting the battle to make sure that the Chinese Communist Party cannot burrow into the data of billions of internet users through companies like Huawei and ZTE," he said.

The internet of tomorrow must have buried within its Western values and must not belong to China, Pompeo asserted amidst applause from the audience.

Pompeo said putting 'America First' means proudly associating with nations that share its principles and are willing to defend them.

"It's true; we had some earlier comments from Washington's Farewell Address. He warned against permanent alliances, but that same speech praised connections with nations based on policy, humanity and interest. We have reaffirmed America's historic alliance with the only free nation in the Middle East: Israel," Pompeo added.

The combined show of naval might by the US, the Philippines and Japan on Thursday came at a time of heightened tensions in the trade war between China and the - 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 do not have any territorial claims there.
The is transferring $ 1.5 billion originally meant for the Afghan security forces and the Pakistan military to a fund to help pay for construction of the US-Mexican border wall, according to acting Defence Secretary Patrick Shanahan.

"We reprogrammed $ 1.5 billion toward the construction of more than 120 miles of border barrier without impacting readiness," Shanahan said in a statement late Friday.

"The funds were culled from a variety of sources, to include unexecuted prior year funds, the suspension of reimbursements to Pakistan, and costs reductions in a series of contracts," he said.

More than $ 600 million of these funds come from an Afghan security forces account. The is also taking $ 78 million from the Coalition Support Fund, which is money used to reimburse Pakistan for logistical and military support for American military operations in Afghanistan.

The funds have been reprogrammed despite an increase in attacks inside Afghanistan and a complaint by the chief negotiator that peace talks with the Taliban are not moving at a sufficient pace, Dawn said.

The US and the Taliban have held six rounds of direct talks since October in Doha, Qatar, to end America's longest war in which the US has lost over 2,400 soldiers. The latest round of negotiations ended on Thursday.

The Taliban control nearly half of Afghanistan, and are more powerful than at any time since the 2001 US-led invasion.
The wedding procession of a Dalit bridegroom at a village in Sabarkantha district of Gujarat had to be provided police cover Sunday after members of the Thakor community objected to him offering prayers at a local temple.

The procession, however, passed off peacefully, police said.

Anil Rathod's family had sought police protection after elders of Sitvada village, belonging to the Thakor community, had objected on Saturday to the procession passing through the village and his plans to offer prayers at the temple, Bhikhabhai Vaniya, a villager, said.

According to Deputy Superintendent of Police Meenakshi Patel, "The family of the Anil Rathod submitted an application to the police seeking protection for the wedding procession. In their application, the Dalit members of the village had raised apprehension that members of another community might create trouble".

"We offered police protection to the marriage procession and it passed off peacefully. The groom also visited the village temple before he left for a nearby village for the marriage ceremony," the DSP said.

In a separate incident in Khambisar village in the state's Aravalli district, members of the Patidar community organised bhajan and yagna on the main road to stall a Dalit wedding procession, the groom's family alleged.

The procession was delayed despite police presence as the Patidar community members refused to leave, they said.

On Friday, the Thakor community members had also objected to a wedding procession as the bridegroom was riding a horse on way to the wedding venue.

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Film actor and BJP's Gorakhpur Lok Sabha candidate Ravi Kishan Sunday said he will make a biopic on Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Bhojpuri so that the speakers of that language can know more about the leader.

Kishan said he also plans to make Bhojpuri films on the lives of Swami Vivekanada and former premier late Atal Bihari Vajpayee.

"I have several projects in mind, including Modiji's biopic in Bhojpuri, so that people get to know more about him. Apart from this I am also planning to make biopics of Swami Vivekananda and Atal Bihari Vajpayee," the Bhojpuri film star told PTI in an interview.

Regarding his career prospects in the film industry after entering politics, Kishan said he will continue to work in cinema.

"I will not stop working as an actor and film maker. I plan to make a studio here in Gorakhpur after the elections. Both, social service and film making will go hand in hand," Ravi Kishan said.

The actor said he is inspired by Modi's life story and wants to share it with Bhojpuri-speaking people.

"I am very much inspired by the life of Modi ji. In 2014, I heard Modi ji speak about toilets. For the first time, I saw a prime minister with such an outlook. I was impressed," said the actor who joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in February 2017.

Kishan further said he will start working on these films once the general elections get over.

He, however, made no comments about Modi's biopic 'PM Narendra Modi' which was to hit the screens on April 11 but the Election Commission ordered a ban on its release till May 19.

The Supreme Court also refused to interfere with the Election Commission's order banning release of the biopic.

The film is now slated for release on May 24, a day after the election results are announced.

Kishan said actor-turned-politicians like N T Rama Rao and Vinod Khanna inspire him and he wants to project himself as a serious politician just like them.

"I want to become a serious politician like N T Rama Rao and Vinod Khanna who were from the film industry but joined politics and worked with utmost seriousness," Kishan said.

"If I was not serious about politics, I would not have left behind my successful career to become a politician," the actor said.

"Prime Minister Modi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath have given me their blessings because they understand my seriousness," he said further.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Stoking a controversy, senior Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge Sunday asked whether Prime Minister Narendra Modi would hang himself at Vijay Chowk in Delhi if his prediction of the opposition party getting less than 40 seats in Lok Sabha polls is proven wrong.

Addressing a rally in support of Subash Rathod, the Congress candidate for the Chincholi Assembly bypoll in Karnataka, Kharge said, "It is you the people sitting here who are going to write the future and fate of this country, it is in your hands to write the fate of Subash and ours, not it their (BJP/Modi) hands."



"Wherever (Modi) goes, (he) says Congress will not get 40 seats (in Lok Sabha polls). Does any of you agree with this? If we get 40 seats, will Modi hang himself at Vijay Chowk in Delhi?" the senior Congress leader said.

The Congress had won 44 seats in the 2014 parliamentary election.

Senior BJP leader and MP Shobha Karandlaje has demanded Kharge's apology, saying that she never expected such low remarks from a senior leader like him.

"Blatant lies, fake allegations, derogatory remarks have become common with hollow Congress, nothing progressive! He should apologise!" Karandlaje tweeted.

Stating that Modi was not even born when India got freedom, Kharge told the rally, "He keeps speaking against Congress and claims the party did not do anything."



He said Modi claims himself to be from backward community, but he is helping only the super rich.

Chincholi, along with Kundgol Assembly constituency, is going to bypoll on May 19.

The by-poll to Chincholi has been necessitated by the resignation of sitting member Umesh Jadhav, who quit Congress and joined the BJP to contest the recent Lok Sabha polls from Gulbarga, while the Kundgol seat fell vacant following the death of Minister C S Shivalli.

The main contest in this bypoll will be between the nominees of the Congress, which held the seats, and the BJP.

The Congress candidates are Subash Rathod in Chincholi and Kusumavathi, Shivalli's wife, in Kundgol.

BJP has fielded S I Chikkanagowdar and Avinash Jadhav from Kundgol and Chincholi Assembly seats respectively.

Seventeen candidates are in the fray from Chincholi and eight from Kundgol.

The results will be declared on May 23, along with that of Lok Sabha poll.

The outcome of the bypolls, along with that of the elections to 28 Lok Sabha constituencies in Karnataka, held in two phases on April 18 and 23, is crucial for the ruling Congress-JD(S) alliance, facing a fresh bout of dissidence.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
In a setback to ICICI Bank, the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) has rejected the private lender's plea to initiate insolvency proceedings against Era Infrastructure (India), on account of "duplicacy" of claims.

A two-member bench headed by NCLT President Justice M M Kumar dismissed the lender's plea against Era Infrastructure India for a default of Rs 240 crore, stating that the bank has already raised similar claims against its parent company Era Infra Engineering, news agency PTI reported.

The tribunal said that the petition filed by ICICI Bank "cannot be entertained on account of duplicacy" of the claims.

"This is again raised for admission in the present proceeding. Such a course obviously is not permissible in law...," it reportedly said.

The NCLT observed that the insolvency petition filed by ICICI Bank against infrastructure company was based on the similar facts and documents which the resolution professional (RP) of Era Infra Engineering had rejected in the past, the news agency said.

Also Read: Imminent crisis in NBFC sector, says corporate affairs secretary

Earlier on December 6, 2018, the tribunal had asked RP of Era Infrastructure India to admit the said claims, which had been earlier denied by him. ICICI Bank had given a loan of Rs 240 crore to Era Infrastructure India to which its parent firm Era Infra Engineering had guaranteed the payments, which is currently undergoing resolution process.

The tribunal had in May last year admitted an insolvency plea against the Era Infrastructure filed by Union Bank of India, which had sought to recover Rs 680 crore, along with an overdue external commercial borrowing of USD 11.97 million. In total, the infrastructure company owes nearly Rs 10,000 crore to its lenders.

In March this year, the NCLT admitted the ICICI Bank's insolvency plea against engineering and construction firm Punj Lloyd for a default of Rs 853.83 crore.

Reserve Bank of India had in June 2017 identified 12 large defaulters, including Era Infrastructure, and asked their lenders to recover debts through the Insolvency and Bankruptcy (IBC) Code.

Edited by Chitranjan Kumar

Also Read: Reliance Jio MPoS devices to help digitise 5 million kirana stores by 2023: report
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has hit back at Congress President Rahul Gandhi for his statement that the Congress had dismantled Modi's image over allegations of corruption in the Rafale deal.

"Modi's image has not been created by the Khan Market gang, or Lutyens Delhi, but 45 years of his toil," Modi told The Indian Express.

The PM was referring to Congress President Rahul Gandhi's statement to a TV channel in which Gandhi said the Congress had dismantled PM Modi's image over allegations of corruption in the Rafale deal. Modi also clarified why he had highlighted late Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi's holiday at a naval ship in an election rally and made it a poll issue.

Lok Sabha Election 2019 Phase 6: Priyanka Gandhi, Sushma Swaraj, Arvind Kejriwal, others cast their votes

"When the Congress president, at a press conference, says that the Army isn't a personal jaagir (property) of Modi - all of you missed this -then I have to say what's it like to have a personal fiefdom. Rajiv Gandhi is not my issue," the prime minister said.

"Then I have to say what's it like to have a personal fiefdom," Modi said.

Talking about the charges made by the Opposition for failure of his government on the jobs front, Modi said Congress and its allies tried to create a 'data-free mahaul' around unemployment and lack of jobs.

Eventually, it turned out that Atalji's one-term government created many times the number of jobs the UPA's two terms did. The same 'data-free mahaul' tactic on jobs is now being employed against our government.

Mentioning the achievements of his government in the infra sector, Modi said, "Just like Atalji's government did, we have put the economy on a high-growth path and made it the fastest growing major economy in the world. Our government too, even our most vehement detractors concede, has done very good work in the infrastructure sector. We built rural roads at double the pace we inherited and highways at more than double the pace we inherited. India is, in fact, the world's fastest builder of highways today."

'Cloud, Rain, Radar': Twitterati poke fun at PM Modi's retelling of Balakot airstrikes

On being questioned about the feeling among Muslims to prove their nationalism, the PM said this question must be asked to the opposition. "This situation was created by those who played the politics of votebank. Used them as a vote bank and did not bring them into the mainstream. Why do they not consider them (former president A P J) Abdul Kalam as their own? This question should be asked to them. Why do they not consider Sania Mirza as their own? Why do they not consider Abdul Hamid (1965 war hero) as their own? This question should be asked to them."

Modi added that BJP had requested for a second term for Abdul Kalam. "What was wrong in Abdul Kalam? We believed he should have been given another term with consensus. But it was not done."

When asked about demonetisation, Modi said, "There is no question of shifting goalposts here. Right from day one, have we not spoken of demonetisation as a measure against corruption, as a way to identify and crack down on black money? Through our initiatives against black money, have we not brought undisclosed income of Rs 1.30 lakh crore to tax? Have 3.38 lakh shell companies not been detected and de-registered? Have their directors not been disqualified? This apart, as I keep saying, now every rupee in the system has a name tag attached to it, something we did not have earlier."

"Demonetisation was also a good means to boost formalisation, curb tax evasion and ensure a cleaner economy through digital payments. These too have happened. The number of returns filed increased from 3.8 crore in 2013-14 to 6.8 crore in 2017-18, showing 80% growth in tax base. The rise of digital payments is there for all to see, both in terms of statistics and as a way of life," PM Modi told the Indian Express.
Lok Sabha election 2019 Phase 6: The state of Haryana logged 68.17% voting till 9:00pm in phase 6 of Lok Sabha election 2019. A total of 223 candidates are in the fray in Haryana for 10 Lok Sabha seats, where polling will be conducted in a single phase. As per the Election Commission of India (ECI) data, the state has a total of 1.80 crore voters out of which 0.97 crore are male, 0.83 crore are female and 207 are from the third gender.

Campaigning for ten parliamentary constituencies namely Ambala, Hisar, Karnal, Sonipat, Faridabad, Sirsa, Gurgaon, Kurukshetra, Rohtak and Bhiwani-Mahendragarh ended on Friday. Out of the 10 seats, 8 are for General Category while 2 constituencies - Sirsa and Ambala are reserved for scheduled castes.

Also Read: Lok Sabha Election 2019 Phase 6: Haryana votes today for 10 Lok Sabha

Also Read: Lok Sabha Election 2019 Phase 6 LIVE updates: 22.01% voting percentage till 11am; Sonia Gandhi, Kapil Dev cast votes

In 2014 Lok Sabha elections, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) had won seven out of ten seats in the state in a strong pro-Modi and anti-Congress wave. Indian National Congress has secured one seat from Rohtak, while Om Prakash Chautala's Indian National Lok Dal (INLD) had won the remaining two seats of Sirsa and Hisar.

While several smaller parties are also in the running this time around - including Arvind Kejriwal's Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), Dushyant Chautala-led Jannayak Janta Party (JJP), Sarvhit Party, Haryana Vikas Party (HVP), Haryana Janhit Congress led by Pawan Pandit - the big fight, true to the pattern will boil down between the BJP, the Congress and INLD.

Also Read: Lok Sabha election 2019 Phase 6: Delhi records 19.49% voter percentage till 11 am

The AAP is facing 2019 Lok Sabha elections in Haryana in alliance with the JJP, which was formed by former chief minister Om Prakash Chautala's grandson Dushyant Chautala last year. The alliance is likely to divide non-BJP votes in the state, which would hurt the Congress where it is in close contest with the BJP in these polls.

Also Read: Lok Sabha Election 2019 Phase 6 LIVE updates: Voting begins; 7 seats in Delhi up for grabs

The BJP faces an uphill task of repeating its 2014 performance in the state due to double anti-incumbency, as Manohar Lal Khattar government completes its tenure later this year. The politically dominant Jats, which constitute 27 per cent of the population in Haryana, seems to be not happy with the BJP government on the quota issue, which remains the top issue in the election in the state.

Also Read: Lok Sabha Election 2019: Poll dates, full schedule, voting FAQs, election results, constituencies' details
The second-last phase of the ongoing general elections is being held today in 59 parliamentary constituencies across six states and one Union Territory, namely Delhi-NCR, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal and Jharkhand.

As many as 979 candidates are in the fray, of which 174 belong to national parties and 65 are from state parties. Significantly, a whopping 430 candidates have been fielded by registered unrecognised parties while 310 are independents.

The National Election Watch and non-profit election research group Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) analysed the self-sworn affidavits of 967 contestants out of total - affidavits of 12 candidates could not be analysed due to the unavailability of complete information - and found that close to one-third of the candidates, or 311 politicians, are crorepatis. And 11% of the contestants boast assets of Rs 5 crore or more. The average asset per candidate contesting in Phase 6 is Rs 3.41 crore.

Also read: Lok Sabha Election 2019 Phase 6 LIVE updates: Voting begins; 7 seats in Delhi up for grabs

Congress Party's Jyotiraditya Madhavrao Scindia, who is vying for the Guna seat in Madhya Pradesh, is the richest candidate with total assets of over Rs 374 crore, followed by BJP's East Delhi Lok Sabha candidate Gautam Gambhir (Rs 147 crore). At the other end of the spectrum, Rajib Mahato, a Shiv Sena candidate from West Bengal's Purulia constituency, has declared zero assets.

Here's the party-wise break-up: 85% of the candidates fielded by the BJP and 80% of the Congress candidates have declared assets worth more than Rs 1 crore. The respective figures for the Bahujan Samajwadi Party and AAP stand at 63% and 50%.

The analysis further found that at least 189 contestants (20%) have declared criminal cases against themselves. This is the third highest among all the rounds held so far - Phase 4 had the highest number of contestants with a criminal background at 23%. In fact, more than half of the constituencies (34 seats) that will see polling tomorrow are reportedly red alert constituencies, where three or more contestants have some sort of a criminal record.

"Among the major parties, 18 (33%) out of 54 candidates from BJP, 12 (26%) out of 46 candidates from INC, 17 (35%) out of 49 candidates from BSP, 5 (31%) out of 16 candidates analysed from SHS [Shiv Sena], and 27 (9%) out of 307 independent candidates have declared serious criminal cases against themselves," the ADR report stated. This includes cases related to murder, kidnapping and crimes against women, including rape.

Which constituencies will vote on Phase 6 of Lok Sabha Elections 2019?

Uttar Pradesh (14 seats): Sultanpur, Pratapgarh, Phulpur, Allahabad, Ambedkar Nagar, Shrawasti, Domariyaganj, Basti, Sant Kabir Nagar, Lalganj, Azamgarh, Jaunpur, Machhlishahr and Bhadohi

Haryana (10): Ambala, Kurukshetra, Sirsa, Hisar, Karnal, Sonipat, Rohtak, Bhiwani-Mahendragarh, Gurgaon and Faridabad

Madhya Pradesh (8): Morena, Bhind, Gwalior, Guna, Sagar, Vidisha, Bhopal and Rajgarh

Bihar (8): Valmiki Nagar, Paschim Champaran, Purvi Champaran, Sheohar, Vaishali, Gopalganj, Siwan and Maharajganj

West Bengal (8): Tamluk, Kanthi, Ghatal, Jhargram, Medinipur, Purulia, Bankura and Bishnupur

Delhi-NCR (7): Chandni Chowk, North East Delhi, East Delhi, New Delhi, North West Delhi, West Delhi and South Delhi

Jharkhand (4): Giridih, Dhanbad, Jamshedpur and Singhbhum

What are the major parties in the states voting in Phase 6?

In 2014, the ruling party had won 44 of the 59 Lok Sabha seats up for polling on Sunday, 46 along with its allies. The ground situation has changed considerably since then, as regional parties have emerged a force to reckon with. To begin with, Akhilesh Yadav's Samajwadi Party, which has tied up with Mayawati's Bahujan Samaj Party in Uttar Pradesh, will prove to be a forceful third front in the state while in West Bengal, there's Mamata Banerjee's formidable All India Trinamool Congress (AITC) to contend with. The latter had won all the eight seats that will vote in the sixth phase of the Lok Sabha election.

In Bihar, the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) had surprised many a political pundit in the 2015 assembly election by emerging as the single largest party and it grabbed two of three Lok Sabha seats when bypolls were held in 2018. So it's entirely debatable whether the BJP can repeat its 2014 feat when it had won seven of the eight constituencies voting on May 12 - its ally, the Lok Janshakti Party won the remaining seat.

Arvind Kejriwal's Aam Aadmi Party has similarly changed the political dynamics in the national capital. In 2015, the AAP won 67 of 70 assembly seats in Delhi election while the BJP could win only three.

In Jharkhand, the Opposition parties, the Congress, the JMM, the Jharkhand Vikas Morcha Pragatisheel (JVMP) of the former CM Babulal Marandi and the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) have formed a grand-alliance to put up a united fight against the BJP. The latter had won all four seats going to polls in the last general elections.

In Madhya Pradesh, the BJP is locked in a direct fight with the Congress. Of the eight Lok Sabha seats up for grabs in the next phase, the BJP had won seven while the Congress got one in 2014. But farmer distress and other factors tipped the balance in favour of the Congress in the recent assembly elections in the state so the party will be looking to snatch a few seats from the BJP this time round.

How to check the name on voters' list for Phase 4 of Lok Sabha Elections 2019?

Log on to the National Voter Services Portal's Electoral Search page (nvsp.in) and check your name on the voter's list by entering your details. You can alternatively put in your Electoral Photo ID Card (EPIC) number.

What to do if you don't have a Voter ID card?

Log on to the NSVP Electoral Search page and click on search by details.

Put in your details, such as name, gender, age, assembly constituency etc.

Based on your details, a result will pop up, which means that your name is in the voter's list. In case, there is no pop-up, it means your name is probably missing from the voter's list.

How can you report any violation of Model Code of Conduct?

Through the ECI's mobile app, cVIGIL, people report about any violation of Model Code of Conduct, any incident of intimidation or inducement within minutes of having witnessed. cVIGIL is an Android-based mobile app, which is user-friendly. "All that one has to do is to simply click a picture or to take a video and briefly describe the activity before uploading it on the cVIGIL mobile application. If the complainant desires to remain anonymous he has the option to do so," says the EC. The district control room allocates cVIGIL cases to the flying squads, which further investigate the matter. The status of the complaint is also with the cVIGIL complainant in 100 minutes.

Also read: Lok Sabha Election 2019: Phase 6 voting, poll dates, full schedule, voting FAQs, election results, constituencies' details

With PTI inputs
Polling in 7 states across 59 constituencies is underway in phase 6 of Lok Sabha elections 2019. The voting percentage recorded till 3 pm is 50.65% with West Bengal logging the highest 38.08% turnout in the state.

According to the Election Commission's (EC) official app, the state-wise voting percentage is going up by the minute. Where, Bihar witnessed 44.40% polling till 3 pm, Haryana logged 51.68%, Madhya Pradesh (MP)-52.54%, Uttar Pradesh-43.26%, West Bengal-the highest 70.32%, Jharkhand-58.08% and National Capital Territory of Delhi-44.92%.

Also Read: Lok Sabha Election 2019: Poll dates, full schedule, voting FAQs, election results, constituencies' details

The polling percentage saw a considerable jump from 25.06% at 12 pm to 50.65% at 3 pm.

The elections are being held in 14 seats in UP, 10 in Haryana, 8 in Bihar, MP, West Bengal, 7 in Delhi and 4 in Jharkhand.

Also Read: Lok Sabha Election 2019 Phase 6 LIVE updates: Voting begins; 7 seats in Delhi up for grabs

Over 10.17 crore voters will cast their votes to choose amongst 979 candidates fighting the Lok Sabha election 2019. The EC has set up over 1.13 lakh polling stations to ensure smooth conduct of polls.

The 6th phase of general elections is the second last leg in the largest democratic exercise in the world and also the most expensive one.

Also Read: Lok Sabha election 2019 Phase 6: Delhi votes today for 7 Lok Sabha seats

Also Read: Lok Sabha election 2019 Phase 6: West Bengal to vote for 8 Lok Sabha seats

Also Read: Lok Sabha Election 2019 Phase 6: UP votes today; BJP, Cong, SP-BSP to fight for 14 Lok Sabha seats

Also Read: Lok Sabha Election 2019 Phase 6: Madhya Pradesh votes for 8 Lok Sabha seats today; BJP, Congress in fray

Also Read: Lok Sabha Election 2019 Phase 6: Here's how to vote without voter ID, check polling booth details
Amid ongoing military tensions between New Delhi and Islamabad, Pakistan will reconsider opening its airspace for Indian flights on May 15, a Pakistani civil aviation authority official reportedly said on Sunday. However, a senior minister hinted that the status quo will stay till the Lok Sabha elections are over in India.

Pakistan had closed its airspace completely for commercial flights after Indian Air Force (IAF) carried pre-emptive aerial strikes on a terror camp in Pakistan's Balakot on February 26. However, Pakistan opened its air routes for all flights, barring New Delhi, Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur, on March 27.

"The Pakistani government will decide whether to lift or not its airspace ban for the Indian flights on May 15," Pakistan's Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) spokesperson Mujtaba Baig said on Sunday, reported news agency PTI.

The decision on lifting of ban or not on the Pakistani airspace 'operational and overflying' for India will be taken at a high level meeting on May 15, he said.

"The decision will be notified any time on May 15," Baig was quoted as saying.

Also Read: Air India loses Rs 300 crore in 2 months due to Pakistan's airspace restrictions

However, Pakistan's Science and Technology Minister Fawad Chaudhry does not see opening of its airspace for India till conclusion of elections in India, the agency reported.

"Status quo will remain till the elections are over in India. I don't see any improvement in relations between Pakistan and India till the elections are over and a new government is installed. The ban on airspace by each other I think will also continue till Indian polls," Chaudhry said.

Last month, Pakistan partially reopened its airspace enabling west-bound flights from India to make use of its airspace. Airlines such as Air India and Turkish Airlines have reportedly started using it.

Also Read: Pakistan opens airspace for west-bound flights from India: Officials

As per reports, the closure of Pakistan's airspace has caused massive losses to airlines as they have to take costly and time-consuming detours which result in higher fuel costs. Air India has suffered losses of around Rs 300 crore in the past two months as its long-haul flights from New Delhi had to be diverted around the Pakistani airspace and, hence took longer to reach destinations in Europe, the Gulf and the US, IANS reported.

(With PTI inputs)

Edited by Chitranjan Kumar
Indian-born industrialist brother, Sri and Gopichand Hinduja, reclaimed the title of Britain's wealthiest by posting fortunes of 22 billion pounds to their name. The industrialist brothers posted a 1.35 billion jump in their fortunes to rank at the top of The Sunday Times Rich List 2019. The second spot went to Mumbai-born Reuben brothers with 18.66 billion pounds.

The Sunday Times Rich List estimates the 1,000 richest people in the United Kingdom based on identifiable wealth including land, property, other assets such as art, and shares in companies. It does not include the amount contained in people's bank accounts, though.

Sri and Gopichand Hinduja, who run the Hinduja Group of companies, posted a hike of 1.35 billion pounds in their fortunes over the previous year to grab the top spot on The Sunday Times' list. They had secured the number one rank back in 2014 and 2017.

The London-based industrialist, along with UK-based brother Sri, 83, and their brothers Prakash, 73, and Ashok, 68, who live in Geneva and Mumbai respectively, control more than 50 companies with a total turnover of nearly 40 billion pounds worldwide in 2018, the Rich List said.

ALSO READ: Ashok Leyland sales rise 7% to 13,626 units in April

"Whether or not Britain leaves the EU, Gopi Hinduja is convinced it can forge a closer relationship with his family's homeland," said The Sunday Times' profile on the Co-Chair of the Hinduja Group.

As for assets, the Hinduja family owns four interconnected London homes in Carlton House Terrace, bought from Queen Elizabeth II in 2006. London-based Gopinath Hinduja, 79, along with UK-based brother Sri, 83, and their brothers Prakash, 73, and Ashok, 68, who live in Geneva and Mumbai respectively, control more than 50 companies with a total turnover of nearly 40 billion pounds worldwide in 2018, the Rich List said.

The Hindujas have stakes in oil and gas, IT, energy, media, banking, property and healthcare. Some of the biggest hike in profits last year came from London-registered Hinduja Automotive, which includes North Yorkshire bus maker Optare and saw profits rise by 50 per cent to 337 million pounds on 3.5 billion pounds sales in 2017-18.

The second spot on the Rich List, David and Simon Reuben have interests across property and internet. The brothers, who reached the fourth rank in 2018, also saw a massive 3.56 billion pounds jump in their fortunes over the previous year.

ALSO READ: ArcelorMittal Q1 net income shrinks 66% to $400 million

The Reuben brothers took hold of 1 billion pounds of London property only last year. During this buying spree, the Reuben brothers snapped up Mayfair's 300-million pounds Burlington Arcade, Shoreditch's Curtain hotel and a block in Piccadilly worth 132 million pounds.

"The pair could be excused for feeling flush after selling another stake in their Global Switch data centres for 2.1 billion pounds last July, two years after banking 2.4 billion pounds for a separate chunk of the business," The Sunday Times' noted.

Meanwhile, Lakshmi N Mittal slipped six spots to rank 11 from rank 5 in the latest Rich List. The renowned steel magnate suffered losses to the tune of 3.99 billion pounds during 2018, which caused his fortunes to take a hit. The Rajasthan-born billionaire logged a business worth 10.66 billion pounds last year as he gets set to take control of his first steel plant in India with a purchase from Essar Steel.
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.

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You are our people. You Care. We Care2.
Airline Allied Services Limited (AASL), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Air India Limited, has called for applications in a prescribed proforma from qualified Indian nationals and expatriates for filling 67 vacancies to the post of Commanders and Sr. Trainee Pilots through direct selection on contract for a period of five years to be posted in the regions comprising Delhi, Kolkata, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Mumbai, Chennai, Visakhapatnam and Jaipur. The offline application process towards the same closes on November 13, 2019

CRITERIA DETAILS Name Of The Posts Commanders and Sr. Trainee Pilots Organisation Airline Allied Services Limited (AASL) Educational Qualification 10+2/HSC or its equivalent Experience As detailed in the notification Skills Required Medical and Physical Fitness as per DGCA norms Job Location Delhi, Kolkata, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Mumbai, Chennai, Visakhapatnam, Jaipur Salary Scale As per the Company policy. Industry Aviation Application End Date November 13, 2019

Age Criteria And Fees

Candidates interested in applying for Commanders and Sr. Trainee Pilots through AASL Recruitment 2019 must not be more than 55 years of age (Commanders post) and 53 years of age (Sr. Trainee Pilots) respectively, with relaxation (upper age limit) up to 3 years for OBC categories and 5 years for SC/ST candidates as specified in the notification.

Candidates must pay a prescribed amount of Rs. 1,000 (Gen/OBC) as application processing fee in the from of a Demand Draft (DD) favoring Airline Allied Services Limited payable at Delhi. SC/ST/Ex-Pats candidates exempted from paying application fee.

RITES Recruitment 2019 For Assistant Resident Engineers; Register Online Before May 28

Educational And Technical Eligibility

Desirous candidates applying for the post of Commanders and Sr. Trainee Pilots through AASL Recruitment 2019 must have passed 10+2/HSC or its equivalent with Physics and Mathematics from a recognized Board/University.

Candidates must be holding a valid ATPL/CPL issued DGCA (India) from an approved institute. For more details, refer to the official notification here http://www.airindia.in/writereaddata/Portal/career/640_1_Commanders-Sr-TP-Adv-Extension.pdf

Selection And Pay Scale

The selection of candidates as Commanders and Sr. Trainee Pilots through AASL Recruitment 2019 will be done through Shortlisting, Simulator Proficiency Assessment Check (SPAC) Test and Personal Interview

Candidates selected as Commanders and Sr. Trainee Pilots will be paid an emolument as per the Company policy.

NHM UP Recruitment 2019 For 6000 Community Health Officers; Earn Up To 35,000 Per Month

How To Apply

Candidates applying for the post of Commanders and Sr. Trainee Pilots through AASL Recruitment 2019 must must fill the application form in a prescribed format attached with advertisement, and send the same along with copies of relevant supporting documents, recent passport photograph and DD to the, "Alliance Air (A wholly-owned subsidiary of Air India Limited), Alliance Bhawan, Personnel Department, Domestic Terminal -1, I.G.I Airport, New Delhi -110037," on or before November 13, 2019 by Post/Speed post/Courier

The envelope containing Application Form and other documents must be superscribed as, "Application for the Post of___________".

Download Application Form and read the detailed notification about AASL Recruitment 2019 for Commanders and Sr. Trainee Pilots here http://www.airindia.in/writereaddata/Portal/career/640_1_Commanders-Sr-TP-Adv-Extension.pdf
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 12)  The Philippine National Police (PNP) deployed over 2,800 police officers ready to step in to perform election duties if there are no available teachers in the precincts during election day.

The Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) said Sunday 2,838 police officers are prepared to be deputized by the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) to become Board of Elections Inspectors (BEIs).

Our men and women of the PNP are ready to do their duty under the law. They have already undergone training by the [Commission on Elections] for this contingency and they are on stand-by should their service be required, said Eduardo Ano, DILG chief.

COMELEC requires public school teachers to serve as BEIs, but in cases where the peace and order situation so requires as determined by the Commission and where there are no qualified voters willing to serve," the police may be authorized to take the role as a last resort, according to the Election Service Reform Act.

Earlier, a COMELEC official reprimanded the police for allowing one of their officials to inspect vote-counting machines in a COMELEC warehouse in Baguio City without permission.

Of the deployed BEIs from the police, 1,032 will be in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region, in case of possible violence in the area.

Here is the deployment of possible police election board inspectors in the country:

NCR - 24

Cordillera - 17

Region 1 - 50

Region 2 - 20

Region 3 - 96

Region IV-A -363

Region 5 - 201

Region 6 - 35,

Region 9 - 136

Region 10 - 415

Region 11 - 175

Region 12 - 43

Region 13 - 231

The PNP is also on full alert status with around 149,830 officers deployed nationwide to ensure security on May 13, it said.
The Meigs County Mayor's Office and Department of finance have been recognized for a clean audit by the Tennessee Comptroller's Office.

District 22 State Rep. Dan Howell (R Cleveland) presented the certificate to Meigs County Mayor Bill James recently at the County Courthouse.

Howell said. "This is a significant achievement and Meigs County residents should be pleased with the way their elected leaders are taking care of their tax dollars" Rep.Howell said.

State Senator Mike Bell,(R Riceville) who also represents Meigs County, noted that "a clean audit indicates that county leaders and elected officials have committed to strong internal controls and accountability."

Tennessee Comptroller Justin Wilson commended the two state lawmakers for supporting the General Assembly's strong operational environment for local governments. "It's one reason why the S&P global rating has named Tennessee as one of just three states with an overall rating of "very strong" on its institutional framework for local governments" Wilson said. "I believe

your policy decisions are having a significant impact on improving audit results across the state."

Rep. Howell represents Meigs, Polk and part of Bradley Counties and is chairman of the House Transportation Committee. He is also a member of the Judiciary and Government operations Committees.

Senator Bell represents Senate District 9 which includes Meigs, Polk, part of Bradley, as well as McMinn and Monroe Counties. He is chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee and is also a member of the Senate Government Operations and Senate Education Committies.
Youre never too old (or too young) to save the universe. The actors of the Marvel Cinematic Universe prove that  some Avengers now over 50-years-old and some barely 20-years-old. From Iron Mans Robert Downey Jr. to Spider-Man: Homecomings Tom Holland, find out the age of your favorite cast members from Avengers: Endgame.

Tom Holland | VCG/VCG via Getty Images

Tom Holland, who plays Spider-Man, is only 22-years-old

There are a few child and teenage actors in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, including young Gamora in Avengers: Infinity War. The most prominent young characters, like Spider-Man, are protrayed by actors over 20-years-old. Tom Holland, now 22-years-old, was 21-years-old when Spider-Man: Homecoming premiered.

Tom Hollands Spider-Man: Homecoming costars are all around the same age, including Zendaya, who is also 22-years-old. Letitia Wright, who plays Shuri, TChallas younger sister, is 25-years-old.

Brie Larson | Paul Bruinooge/Patrick McMullan via Getty Images

Brie Larson is 29-years-old

Even though her character is one of the most powerful in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Brie Larson, who plays Captain Marvel is only 29-years-old. Elizabeth Olsen, also known as Scarlet Witch, is 30-years-old.

The recent addition to the Avengers and the Guardians of the Galaxy gang, Nebula, is played by 31-year-old Karen Gillan. Scarlett Johansson, who plays former Russian spy, Black Widow, is 34-years-old. Chris Hemsworth, who plays Thor, the God of Thunder, is 35-years-old.

Chris Evans | Mike Marsland/Mike Marsland/WireImage

Chris Evans is 37-years-old

American war hero, Captain America, is played by now-37-year-old Chris Evans, who was about 29-years-old at the release of Captain America: The First Avenger. Bucky Barnes, one of Captain Americas best friends, is played by Sebastian Stan, is 36 years old.

Chris Pratt plays the music-loving Peter Quinn from Guardians of the Galaxy and is 39 years old. Gamora, the daughter of Thanos and the sword-wielding Guardians of the Galaxy character is played by 40-year-old Zoe Saldana.

Fierce Wakandan warrior, Okoye, is played by 41-years-old Danai Gurira. Chadwick Boseman, also known as the Black Panther, is also 41-years-old.

Dr. Strange, is played by 42-year-old Benedict Cumberbatch. Bradley Cooper, 44-years-old, voices Guardians of the Galaxys spunky raccoon, named Rocket. 47-year-old Benedict Wong plays Wong, Dr. Stranges friend. Arrow-wielding Hawkeye is played by 48-year-old Jeremy Renner.

Paul Rudd | Keith Tsuji/Getty Images for Hong Kong Tourism Board

The always ageless Paul Rudd is 50-years-old

Though he may be tiny, he has a huge heart. Antman is portrayed by Paul Rudd, who just turned 50-years-old in April 2019. The Chicago Tribune finally asked the actor whats his secret to staying youthful. Paul Rudd responded that he only looks young on the outside.

Im 80-years-old on the inside, said Rudd during an interview. In here, pure darkness. And a little moisturizer.

With his green skin its harder to tell, but Mark Ruffalo, who portrays Hulk, is 51-years old. The release of his first Marvel movie, The Incredible Hulk, was over 10 years ago.

Robert Downey Jr | Mike Marsland/Getty Images

Believe it or not, Robert Downey Jr. is 54-years-old

The first Iron Man movie, released in 2008, starred the 43-year-old actor and just snowballed from there. Now 54-years-old, Robert Downey Jr. starred in his last Marvel movie, with Avengers: Endgame.

Don Cheadle, who plays Iron Mans friend and a soldier named War Machine, is also 54-years-old.

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Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor is five days old and hes already been introduced to the world but when will he meet his cousins, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis, Kate Middleton and Prince Williams children?



Archies birth



Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, gave birth to her baby boy, Archie, in the early morning hours of Monday, May 6, 2019. Markle and Prince Harry welcomed Archie to the world at 5:26 a.m. with Prince Harry announcing the birth later in the day.



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 British Royal Family | Twitter

All smiles, the new father told reporters, Its been the most amazing experience I could ever possibly imagine.

He added, How any woman does what they do is beyond comprehension. Prince Harry also said how proud he was of Markle.

Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, pose with their newborn son Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor during a photocall in St Georges Hall at Windsor Castle on May 8, 2019, in Windsor, England. | Dominic Lipinski  WPA Pool/Getty Images

It was amazing. Absolutely incredible. And, as I said, I am so incredibly proud of my wife and as every father and parent would ever say your baby is absolutely amazing. But this little thing is absolutely to die for so Im just over the moon.



Prince William makes dad joke to Prince Harry following Archies birth



At the launch of Kings Cup regatta at the Cutty Sark one day after Archies birth, Prince William commented on the birth of his nephew with a dad joke.

Im very pleased and glad to welcome my own brother into the sleep deprivation society that is parenting, Prince William told reporters at the event.



When will Archie and his cousins meet?



When Prince William made a statement about his brothers new baby, he said when he would meet Archie.



Obviously thrilled, absolutely thrilled, and obviously looking forward to seeing them in the next few days when things have quieted down, Prince William said.

"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 Kensington Palace | Twitter

We can assume that when Prince William said hed be meeting Archie in the next few days that he meant his kids would also be meeting their new baby cousin.

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, Kate Middleton added.



Queen Elizabeth II already met her newest great-grandchild



After the photocall Archie had with his parents on Wednesday, May 8, 2019, at St. Georges Hall in Windsor Castle, the royal family revealed on their social media accounts that Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip had already met their new great-grandson. They also revealed the royal babys name.



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 British Royal Family | Twitter

The Queen and The Duke of Edinburgh were today introduced to the newborn son of The Duke and Duchess of Sussex at Windsor Castle, the tweet said. The Duchesss mother, Ms. Doria Ragland was also present. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are delighted to announce that they have named their son Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor.



We can assume that Prince Harry introduced his son to Prince Williams children after Queen Elizabeth II met her newest great-grandson.
Hannah Browns season of The Bachelorette is just about upon us and many viewers are still nervous as to whether Miss Alabama Hannah can pull it off or not. Bachelor Nation has been speaking its mind, unfiltered, since ABC first made the announcement.

As it turns out, in addition to Bachelorette fans as well as franchise alums, the shows producers (most notably, Chris Harrison) were also nervous about the networks choice.

During Colton Underwoods season of The Bachelor, we knew her as the quirky southern pageant queen who had a heck of a time making toasts. She didnt exactly scream Bachelorette. But when ABC brought a handful of women in to interview for the position, she must have really shone.

Hannah Brown and Chris Harrison | John Fleenor/ABC via Getty Images

During her Women Tell All episode on Coltons season, she was incredibly poisedwe saw a side of her we hadnt really seen before. But then came her Bachelorette tidbit during Coltons finale, and she was back to being Awkward Hannah.

From the moment Harrison brought Hannah B. out on stage in front of the live audience, she was painfully awkward. So awkward, its as if the shows producers told her to lean into her awkward tendencies, as if they believe them to be charming, weve previously reported on The Cheat Sheet. Hopefully, the show will see how viewers at home responded to the absolutely brutal interactions between her and some of her eligible bachelors and realize wed all like the Women Tell All version of Hannah B. back, not this cringe-worthy adorkable one. Because when the bachelorette is uncomfortable, the audience is uncomfortable. We want to feel like shes in control and running the show. We dont want to be squirming in our seats rooting for her to just get through simple interactions.

Chris Harrison was worried after Hannah Browns first Bachelorette appearance

Just like the rest of us watching along at home, Chris Harrison felt worried after Hannah Browns first stint as The Bachelorette during Coltons finale.

I left that special thinking, Oh, dear Lord, did we just make a huge mistake?' Chris told The Hollywood Reporter.

He continued: Whoever was skeptical after the After the Final Rose special and was scared: I was in that boat. I was scared to death!

Chris Harrison now thinks Hannah Browns season will be well-received

There isnt a world where the host/producer of the show tells America that Hannah Browns season of The Bachelorette is going to be a bad season. But it seems he really has had a change of heart.

After night one  actually, about an hour into filming that first night  I realized: this was the woman. This was Hannah. She came in firing on all cylinders, controlled the situation, was funny, sweet, powerful and all the things that we knew she was. Thats when I thought, Ok, this is Hannah. So if youre scared to death, just give it a second. Youll be OK, just as I was, he said.

Read more: The Bachelorette: A Look At Hannah Browns Ex-Boyfriends

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After taking a break away from the spotlight, Kenya Moore is ready to come back to her Real Housewives of Atlanta family.

The reality star appeared on the hit Bravo show for six seasons before stepping away in order to raise her newborn daughter.

Kenya Moore | imeh Akpanudosen/Getty Images

Though many thought she wouldnt return for future seasons, Moore recently revealed that she is in the talks of making her comeback to Season 12 of RHOA.

Kenya has been talking to producers about the possibility of her return

The last time fans saw Kenya Moore was during The Real Housewives of Atlanta Season 10 finale that aired back in April 2018.

Six months later, the reality star announced that she would be leaving the hit Bravo show in order to focus on her pregnancy.

I have decided to take this season off to focus on my high-risk pregnancy in a healthy and drama free environment, Moores statement on Bravos The Daily Dish read. I thank Bravo for this amazing platform that has allowed me to grow, flourish and appreciate the value of what is truly important in life.

Though she was sad to leave her television family, Kenya knew that once her baby was born, most of her time would be catered to her daughter.

It broke my heart, but with all the stress I went through with this baby, I dont know how I could have done it, Kenya shared with PEOPLE. Even now, breastfeeding every three hours, changing diapers, being up at all hours  I just dont think I could have been present.

Now that her daughter, Brooklyn Doris, is six-months-old, Kenya Moore is ready to return to The Real Housewives and has been discussing her return with the shows producers.

During May 10s episode of The Real, Moore shared that there is a great possibility she will be returning to RHOA for the upcoming season.

Though she was a little hesitant at first, the reality star eventually confirmed the news.

I would say theres some truth to that, Kenya admitted. Conversations yes, conversations.

She negotiated her contract

Though many of us are happy Kenya Moore is returning to RHOA, her journey to negotiate a contract she was happy with was a challenge.

Following Season 10 of the hit reality show, it was revealed that Moore and network executives were part of a lengthy contract negotiation.

It has been reported that both production and Moore agreed that shed return as a full-time Housewives, but Kenya wanted more than what they were offering.

The production team also wanted Moore to film all parts of her life, including personal time spent with her husband, which the reality star has repeatedly said was off limits.

A source close to Kenya Moore revealed that she refused to negotiate and wasnt interested in bending to producers insulting offers.

It has not been confirmed if Bravo has now agreed to Kenya Moores demands, but we are pretty sure she and producers were able to work out a contract that works for both of them.
Happy Mothers Day from the Duke and Duchess of Sussex! Prince Harry and Meghan Markle shared a special message for moms  and a sweet new photo of baby Archie. Well, his toes, anyway! They also included a small but meaningful tribute to Princess Diana.

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle with baby Archie | Dominic Lipinski  WPA Pool/Getty Images

A Mothers Day greeting

Prince Harry and Markle posted the photo on Instagram this morning, showing off their newborns feet with moms hand, and the message: Paying tribute to all mothers today  past, present, mothers-to-be, and those lost but forever remembered.

The caption continued: We honor and celebrate each and every one of you. Today is Mothers Day in the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Kenya, Japan, and several countries across Europe. This is the first Mothers Day for The Duchess of Sussex.



The Instagram post included the following quote from lands:

my

mother

was

my first country;

the first place i ever lived.

A special Mothers Day tribute to Princess Diana

The couple also included a small but significant tribute to Prince Harrys mother, Princess Diana, not only in the caption but also in the photo. The caption noted that they were paying tribute to all mothers today  past, present, mothers-to-be, and those lost but forever remembered.

The photo of baby Archies feet included vibrant flowers in the background: Forget Me Nots, Princess Dianas favorite flower.

The detail wasnt lost on fans, with comments left including: Are those Forget Me Nots in the background? Dianas favourite flower? Touching. Happy Mothers Day.

Another royal fan wrote: Wait! Just realised those are Princess Dianas favourite flowers in the background. Forget Me Nots.

Other fans passed along their well wishes to the new mom, with notes including: Happy Mothers Day Meghan! Hope youre enjoying your time with Archie and Happiest of Mothers Day to you Meghan enjoy a day of rest, amazing food and love from your family and your lovely mother Doria.

The Duchess of Sussex is no doubt enjoying the day with her newborn and husband, as she noted of the two during their photocall last week: I have the two best guys in the world so Im really happy.

Is Prince Harry missing Princess Diana on Mothers Day?

The tribute to Princess Diana is definitely emotional, as it was recently revealed that, since the birth of his son, Prince Harry is missing his mother.

Royal correspondent Imogen Lloyd Webber noted that, during his trip to The Netherlands last week, During a bike ride around the park Harry opened up to Dennis van der Stroon, who is a former soldier who hopes to compete in the Netherlands Invictus team. Dennis said that Harry spoke to him about how becoming a father reminded him of his late mother.

E! News also reported that van der Stroon shared: He said missing a mother is like missing some kind of security, how you need that as a son and it falls away when you lose your mother.

Prince Harry also talked about fatherhood, as van der Stroon said the Duke of Sussex talked about how having a small child was his new focus and new goal and that Prince Harry said he was just amazed by the miracles in the world, and how his child has made a lot of people happy.
The Big Bang Theorys series finale is right around the corner and the cast of the popular sitcom is having a hard time saying farewell, but maybe their final paychecks can help them rest easier. It is no secret that the TBBT cast rakes in the dough every year, but their earnings for Season 12 are out of this world.

The Big Bang Theory cast Kaley Cuoco, Johnny Galecki, Jim Parsons, Melissa Rauch, Kunal Nayyar, Mayim Bialik and Simon Helberg | Photo by Smallz & Raskind/Getty Images for The Peoples Choice Awards

How much did TBBT cast members make for their final season?

The cast salaries for the final season of TBBT were just released and the numbers are about as exorbitant as they get. According to Yahoo, all members of the principal cast earned $1 million for every episode.

With 24 installments in the final season, that makes upwards of $24 million for each of the main cast members, including Jim Parsons, Kaley Cuoco, Johnny Galecki, Simon Helberg, and Kunal Nayyar.

First THE BIG BANG THEORY Series Finale Preview Is Hug-Worthy https://t.co/Kfx0QZg4Mr pic.twitter.com/UboAVZu1e5  ComicBook NOW! (@ComicBookNOW) May 10, 2019

Outside of the main cast, Melissa Rauch and Mayim Bialik pulled down around $425,000 for every episode. In total, the two will make a little over $10 million for the final season. The series may have its critics, but there is no denying that it pays well. It also explains why each of the cast members has stuck with the show for all these years, though they are admittedly a close-knit group.

How does The Big Bang Theory stack up to the competition?

For comparison, the cast of TBBT makes around double that of the competition. The leading stars of Game of Thrones  including Kit Harington, Peter Dinklage, Emilia Clarke, Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, and Lena Headey  made around $500,000 per episode in Season 7 and were paid around the same in Season 8.

For a historical comparison, the cast of Friends made upwards of $700,000 per episode and $1 million in the last two seasons. But the highest earners were Charlie Sheen (Two and a Half Men), Tim Allen (Home Improvement), Kelsey Grammer (Frasier), and Ray Romano (Everybody Loves Raymond), each of whom pulled down over $2 million per episode of their respective shows.

The Big Bang Theory cast films final episode

At the end of April, the cast of the TBBT filmed the final episode of Season 12. Fans lined up outside of the studio in Burbank, California, for a chance to purchase tickets for the final filming.

After the last scene, Galecki reportedly talked with the audience and gave a tearful farewell on behalf of the rest of the cast. Several cast members shared photos from their final day on set on social media, including Bialik, who captioned her image of the series logo, Goodnight from stage 25.

Kaley Cuoco on the ending of #BigBangTheory: "It's one the the sweetest finales I've ever seen."  https://t.co/rwduSzHrmN pic.twitter.com/vIV4VgIBea  ExtraTV (@extratv) May 5, 2019

Parsons, meanwhile, shared a photo of the outside of Sheldon Coopers apartment door, where a good portion of the show took place. The actor added a lengthy note with the photo, expressing gratitude for all of the good times he has had.

Kunal Nayyar, who portrayed Rajesh Koothrappali on the show, meanwhile shared a heartfelt note on Instagram for fans, thanking them for their loyalty over the years. Fans can watch the final episode of The Big Bang Theory May 16 on CBS.

Galecki and Cuoco host TBBT special

Right after the series finale of The Big Bang Theory, Galecki and Cuoco are set to host a special that will take fans behind the scenes of the final season. The special, titled Unraveling the Mystery: A Big Bang Farewell, will be half an hour in length and feature some personal memories from cast members.

The special also promises to reveal some of the shows best held secrets while revisiting some of the most memorial scenes in the series.

"Are you saying you're just a boy standing in front of another boy, saying you don't want him to leave?" #BigBangTheory pic.twitter.com/NAIPTOQ2AI  The Big Bang Theory (@bigbangtheory) May 10, 2019

In addition to the special, fans can also catch the entire cast of TBBT theory on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert. The stars are expected to appear in full force on the late-night talk show to discuss the final season.

The Big Bang Theory called it quits after 270 episodes, largely because Parsons did not want to return for another season. Parsons released a statement about how he felt it was time to leave the series behind and pursue other projects. The actor assured fans that he was not leaving because of anything negative about the show and that he feels as if he gave it everything.
As challenges for an actor and director go, adapting Joseph Hellers Catch-22 for the screen has to somewhere near the top. But that didnt stop George Clooney from tackling the classic novel in his new Hulu show. (It debuts May 17 on the streaming service.)

Once he got to work, Clooney had more than creative challenges to worry about shooting the limited series in Sardinia, Italy. Driving a motorbike on his way to work last summer, the Oscar-winner collided head-on with a station wagon at high speeds.

The resulting crash looked like it would be serious for Clooney. (He launched high into the air upon impact.) However, due to the fact he was wearing a helmet and landed smoothly enough, he escaped with some trauma to the pelvis and bruising to his arms and legs.

Seeing the video of the crash that aired later on The Today Show, Clooney appears to have (as previously reported) all the luck. But his wife Amal isnt going to let him test it again.

A driver veered into Clooneys lane, shattering his helmet upon impact.

Actor/director George Clooney is seen on set filming Catch 22 on July 20, 2018 in Sutri, Viterbo, Italy. Hed crashed his bike just 10 days earlier. | Ernesto Ruscio/GC Images

If anyone needed another reason to wear a helmet on a scooter or motorcycle, Clooneys crash ought to provide it. According to reports from the scene, his helmet shattered when he slammed into the oncoming cars windshield.

Clooney then flipped off the bike and landed onto the asphalt. The 67-year-old Italian man driving the car said he veered into the wrong lane due to some sun in his eyes. The video of the crash is alarming.

Somehow, Clooney made it out of that wreck with just minor injuries. After being treated in a local hospital, he went home after a few hours, cleared to recover on his own.

Later, he admitted he was going 70 miles per hour at the moment of impact. While that was as lucky a break as one can get, Amal Clooney told her husband it would be the last time he can try it.

Clooney said hes not allowed to ride motorcycles anymore on Amals order.

Clooney plays Lt. Scheisskopf in his Catch-22 adaptation. | Philipe Antonello/Hulu

While promoting Catch-22 at a recent event, Clooney discussed how his freewheeling days on motorbikes came to an end with that wreck. Im not allowed to ride motorcycles, he said, according to a People report.

I got into a really bad accident, got launched, Clooney continued. And so thats it, Im off of bikes. Grant [Heslov] is [also] off. We screwed up and our wives were like, You can never get on a bike again.'

Heslov, who collaborated with Clooney on projects such as Argo and Ides of March, served as an executive producer and directed two episodes of Catch-22. (Clooney and Ellen Kuras also directed two apiece.)

While he originally planned to have a large acting role, Clooney scaled back his screen time to focus on directing and producing the six-part series. He appears in three episodes as the loony Lieutenant Scheisskopf.

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New dad Prince Harry is definitely excited about the birth of his first child with Meghan Markle. Hes also missing his mom, Princess Diana, a little more since the birth of the baby. During his recent trip to the Netherlands, he shared the reason why.

Princess Diana, Prince William, and Prince Harry | Jayne Fincher/Princess Diana Archive/Getty Images

Prince Harry traveled in the days following the babys birth

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle welcomed their baby on Monday, then introduced their newborn and announced his name, Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor, two days later. The next day, Prince Harry had a trip to the Netherlands to help raise awareness for the upcoming Invictus Games.

Prince Harry was all smiles during the visit, where he was gifted a sweet baby onesie and wore a jacket with Invictus Family Daddy embroidered on it, with the yellow letters spelling I Am Daddy.

During the visit, Prince Harry gave a speech, noting: I had seen first-hand the transformative power of sport in helping people physically and psychologically recover and knew that the Invictus Games would change lives, capture hearts and inspire a generation, the Invictus generation. Now, here we are, launching the countdown to the fifth Invictus Games and I am absolutely thrilled that many more wounded, injured, and sick Servicemen and women will have the opportunity to continue their journey to recovery.

Fatherhood is the best thing he will ever do

Leaving a newborn at home was likely not easy, as Prince Harry told a friend at the event that fatherhood is the best thing he will ever do.

His friend, JJ Chalmers, a former Invictus star and broadcaster, noted, however, If anything I suppose it shows the importance of this competition to him. The [Invictus] is his first baby.

Chalmers added, Im sure Meghan would love to be here too. This event has families at the absolutely heart of it.

As for the type of father hell be, Chalmers said that Prince Harry will be hands on, adding, Im sure he will be walking through the door tonight and be handed the baby and told its his turn now,. I think naturally hes obviously going to have a hard time with the sleep for a little while.

He added, But I said it [fatherhood] is the best thing hell ever do, and he agreed.

Becoming a father reminds Prince Harry of his mother

Prince Harry had a conversation with a former soldier during the visit, as royal correspondent Imogen Lloyd Webber discussed during People magazines People Now show. Webber noted: During a bike ride around the park Harry opened up to Dennis van der Stroon, who is a former soldier who hopes to compete in the Netherlands Invictus team. Dennis said that Harry spoke to him about how becoming a father reminded him of his late mother.

She continued, explaining, Actually William talked about these milestone moments especially with weddings and so forth, thats when they miss Diana the most.

Michelle Tauber, Peoples senior editor, added: One of the things he said on that bike ride, he said I realized a mother is security and I realized that when I lost my mum, I lost that security and a son needs that.

Tauber noted: I thought that was really quite heartbreaking because its true. Now seeing his vulnerable newborn baby being brought into the world I think he is reminded of what he is missing growing up.
Since the announcement that Prince William and Prince Harry were splitting the royal household, people have been wondering if there was tension between the royal brothers.

For a while, it seemed like new reports of rifts between William and Harry were coming out every day.

They have always been different, they are very different characters, a source told People of the royal brothers. They drew great comfort from each other when their mother died, and as theyve grown up together. But they need to be separate. Now Meghan has arrived it is the right time to make that break.

Though the brothers have successfully split their households, they are coming together for a good cause.

What new project are Prince William and Prince Harry working on?

This week, the royal family announced that William, Harry, Kate Middleton, and Meghan Markle would be launching Shout. The program will help people who are in need of mental health assistance.

I am proud to announce the launch of @GiveUsAShout, a new 24-7 text line that supports people who need advice in a tough moment, the Kensington Palace account announced.

I am proud to announce the launch of @GiveUsAShout, a new 24-7 textline that supports people who need advice in a tough moment.



At the heart of Shout will be an incredible national volunteer community  I hope you will join us, and be part of something very special #GiveUsAShout pic.twitter.com/SgeCGtie1q  Kensington Palace (@KensingtonRoyal) May 10, 2019

At the heart of Shout will be an incredible national volunteer community  I hope you will join us, and be part of something very special #GiveUsAShout.

The program will be affiliated with the Crisis Text Line which has been in the United States for over five years. Throughout its time in use, the line has received over 100 million messages.

When did the royals join the project?

Launching Shout has been in the works for years and the Duke and Duchess of Sussex joined the cause last year.

Earlier last year, The Duke and Duchess of Sussex began supporting this vital program behind the scenes by hosting a meeting at Kensington Palace with contributors and partners, the announcement on the couples Instagram page read.

Last November, Their Royal Highnesses also made a surprise visit to meet with a group of Shout volunteers, and participated in a panel with mental health activist @bryonygordon hearing firsthand how the volunteers have found making the connection with vulnerable texters, a majority of whom are under 25, so rewarding  helping to get them through a moment of crisis to a calmer place, and giving them courage to find longer-term support.

The team now has over 1,000 volunteers and has helped over 60,000 people.



Why is the royal family working with Shout?

The royal family has been advocates of mental health for years.

Theyre really the first celebrities around the world to really take on mental health, Nancy Lublin, the CEO and founder of Crisis Text Line, told People. Its been so personal and theyve done such a fantastic job elevating the issue and reducing stigma.

And the royals arent just the faces of the program. They actually have a hand in making sure it runs smoothly.

Theyve visited our offices multiple times in the U.K., theyve met with volunteers  which is so special, Lublin continued. Theyve really been very hands-on.

I think its so powerful, she said. We really couldnt ask for better spokespeople and champions. Mental health is the epidemic of this generation.

Read more: First Glimpse at Baby Sussex: Everything We Know About the Baby So Far

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After The Beatles breakup, everyone had a chance to see how each member would react. With the debut Paul McCartney album, most saw an isolated man trying to work his way through it via music. (Paul said he was quite depressed during that period.)

For his part, John Lennon underwent primal scream therapy for close to four months. While that experience had to be unpleasant, he came out of it with a briliant solo album.

Following years of working in their shadow, George Harrisons No. 1 album (late 1970) launched his successful solo career. The next year, he organized a benefit concert for Bangladesh. George was quietly going about his business  and doing so in style.

But by comparison, Ringo Starr was having an absolute blast. After getting his feet wet in the movies during the Beatles last years, he knocked off two other films in 1971. Meanwhile, he was making recordings of his own, directed a T. Rex concert film, and started a design company.

Ringo made the most of his Hollywood and music biz connections.

Actors Agneta Eckemyr and Ringo Starr in a scene from the film Blindman, 1971. | Stanley Bielecki Movie Collection/Getty Images

By April 70, that fateful month of the Beatles demise, Ringo already knew his way around a film set. In 68, hed appeared in Candy with an all-star cast (including Richard Burton and Marlon Brando). The following year, he had a bigger role in The Magic Christian alongside Peter Sellers.

Whoever met him seemed to think Ringo was a cool guy. When he walked out on the Beatles during the recording of The White Album, it was Sellers who loaned Ringo his yacht to take out around Sardinia. So it was no surprise he kept rolling with more acting gigs in 71.

First came Frank Zappas 200 Motels, followed by a spaghetti western called Blindman. Meanwhile, he took the time to start a design company and record with old bandmates John and George.

By 1972, he was ready to take some available Apple money and use it to shoot a film about T. Rex. If youve caught any of that picture, you know how much fun everyone had making it.

Ringos directorial debut with Born to Boogie

Elton John, Marc Bolan, Ringo Starr, and Mickey Finn attend the UK premiere of the concert film Born To Boogie in London, 14th December 1972. | Michael Putland/Getty Images

While the thread has been lost over the years, the biggest band in England circa 1971 was T. Rex, the vehicle for Marc Bolan, yet another pal of Ringos. Somehow, the two of them decided to shoot a film of the band in concert with some oddball scenes thrown in the middle.

The result, Born to Boogie, is pure joy for any fan of glam rock. At one point, you have Bolan jamming in a studio with Ringo on a second drum kit and Elton John himself wailing on piano.

The scenes Ringo shot with Bolan revealed someone very comfortable in front of the camera (and with himself). As Bolan flubs lines and breaks up laughing, Ringo patiently  and professionally  tries to keep it together.

When it came time for his own full solo album, Ringo called on Bolan, Lennon, and George Harrison to help out. Guess what? They all came and pitched in (as did McCartney).

John Lennon even kicked in a great tune for Ringo (Im the Greatest). It showed the star of the show having as much fun as he appeared to be.

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Robert Downey Jr. is the beloved face behind Iron Man and the actor responsible for catalyzing the Avengers saga and helping to transform the Marvel Cinematic Universe into the far-reaching enterprise it is today. Robert Downey Jr. may be best known today for his work as the slick-tongued, billionaire superhero; however, his life (on and off the screen) hasnt always been so glamorous.

Robert Downey Jr. | Photo by Anthony Harvey/Getty Images

Back in the 1980s and 1990s, Robert Downey Jr. was one of Hollywoods hottest newcomers. He snagged an Oscar nomination for portraying Charlie Chaplin in 1992s Chaplin, appeared alongside Marisa Tomei in 1994sOnly You, co-starred with Molly Ringwald in The Pick-up Artist in 1987, and more. While his acting career was just beginning to thrive, RDJ felt victim to drugs and alcohol.



When his addiction began interfering with his work, RDJ lost his reputation in Tinseltown, wound up in rehab for drug addiction, and spent some time in jail. Today, he boasts one of the most remarkable success stories and career turnarounds in Hollywood history. However, if youre wondering why all of this is relevant, his time in jail sculpted the political views he went on to develop.

Way before Avengers: Endgame, Robert Downey Jr. discussed his really interesting political point of view



During an interview in 2008, Robert Downey Jr. spoke about his time in prison, and how those years molded his world view. He told The New York Times:



I have a really interesting political point of view, and its not always something I say too loud at dinner tables here, but you cant go from a $2,000-a-night suite at La Mirage to a penitentiary and really understand it and come out a liberal. You cant. I wouldnt wish that experience on anyone else, but it was very, very, very educational for me and has informed my proclivities and politics every since.



To summarize, it seems that Robert Downey Jr. emerged from prison as a more conservative-leaning individual. Based on his explanation though, the actor seems to solely be referencing the fiscal side of the political spectrum. Meaning, how he feels about social issues cannot be assumed from this blanket statement alone.

Robert Downey Jr. is not a Trump supporter

Robert Downey Jr. starred in an Anti-Trump video back in 2016, during which he and Avengers co-stars Scarlett Johansson, Mark Ruffalo, and more urged people to get out and vote against a racist, abusive coward who could permanently damage the fabric of our society, according to Don Cheadle. So, its clear that the man behind the Iron mask is not a Trump supporter.

To the left-winged voters out there: RDJ may not precisely align with your political beliefs and societal outlook. However, find solace in knowing that he didnt vote for Trump. In this political climate, it no longer suffices to categorize individuals as Republican or Democrat (not that it ever should have), for there are many Republicans who do not support Trump, and there are many Democrats who were not in favor of Hillary Clinton.



While Robert Downey Jr. may identify as a conservative (or at least seemed to back in 2008), its clear that the man responsible for bringing the Avengers saga to life does not agree with the Republican partys current figurehead. However, as the New York Times put it, he is not one of the Hollywood types who weeps over innocents trapped behind bars.




American churchgoers good at relationships but bad at discipling, poll finds

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Most American churchgoers have no problem developing relationships at church but they are less likely to use their time to help fellow Christians grow in their faith, a new LifeWay Research poll suggests.

This week, LifeWay Released released data from its 2019 Discipleship Pathway Assessment study, a project that seeks to identify traits of Christian discipleship. Over 2,500 Protestant churchgoers participated in an online survey completed between January 14 and January 29.

Respondents were asked whether or not they agree with the statement: I have developed significant relationships with people at my church.

A total of 78 percent of respondents said that they strongly or somewhat agree with that statement while only 8 percent said they strongly or somewhat disagree and 14 percent said they neither agree nor disagree.

Although over three-quarters of churchgoers surveyed agree that they have developed significant relationships at church, only 47 percent of respondents strongly agree or somewhat agree that they intentionally spend time with other believers in order to help them grow in their faith.

Thirty-four percent of respondents said they neither agree nor disagree that they have spent their time to help other believers grow spiritually while 19 percent said they strongly or somewhat disagree with the statement.

There is a different element to relationships at church that the majority of churchgoers havent prioritized, LifeWay Research Executive Director Scott McConnell said in a statement. One of the ways a believer shows they have love for God is by investing in other believers. The relationship isnt just about mutual interests; it is about proactively being interested in the faith of others.

LifeWay Research found that black Protestants (24 percent) and evangelical Protestants (21 percent) are more likely than mainline Protestants (12 percent) to strongly agree that they intentionally spend time with other Christians to help them grow spiritually.

When broken down by ethnicity, Hispanics (32 percent) are most likely to strongly agree that they spend intentional time to help build up the faith of fellow Christians. By comparison, only 22 percent of African-Americans, 17 percent of whites and 17 percent people of other ethnicities said the same.

In an American culture in which significant relationships are hard to form, most churchgoers have had at least some success at making friends at church. But the majority arent as confident as they could be about the significance of those relationships, McConnell added.

The survey also found that a strong minority of churchgoers in the U.S. do not attend typical small groups or classes that their churches offer throughout the week, such as Bible study, young adult groups or adult Bible fellowships.

Thirty-eight percent of respondents said they dont usually attend small groups at all during a typical month, while 22 percent of respondents said they attend small group sessions or classes four times in a typical month.

Twenty-eight percent of churchgoers said they attend small group classes or sessions anywhere between one to three times in a typical month, while 13 percent of respondents said they attend small group sessions five times or more in a typical month.

The data shows that mainline Protestants (48 percent) are more likely to say they dont attend church small groups at all in a typical month than black Protestants (36 percent) and evangelical Protestants (35 percent).

For much of church history, small groups or classes have been one of the most effective ways churches offer for attendees to connect with others, study the Bible and serve together, McConnell explained. This avenue of seeking God together is both relational and devotional.

LifeWay Research is a division of LifeWay Christian Resources, the publishing arm of the Southern Baptist Convention.



The release of the 2019 Discipleship Pathway Assessment study comes after LifeWay Research found earlier this year that over half of Protestant churchgoers failed to share to engage in evangelism in the last 6 months.

The task of making disciples of all nations has not been fully embraced in the American church  especially by the majority culture, McConnell said in a statement at the time.
100 million women missing worldwide trapped in sex slavery, killed by abortions or domestic violence

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As many as 100 million women and girls are estimated to be missing and unaccounted for  mostly in Asia and Africa  as the quantitative impact of sex-selective abortions, sex slavery and horrific abuses against women is shown in available data, a new report claims.

Christian humanitarian agency Gospel for Asia released the report One Hundred Million Missing Women this week to provide an overview of the population crisis arising worldwide.

The new report cites experts who have used data available dating back to the 1980s to determine that between 90 to 100 million women and girls who should be alive today simply do not exist.

According to GFA, census studies on gender ratios in Asia show that there are 106 males to every 100 females. GFA founder K.P. Yohannan contends that while such a discrepancy might not seem like much, it actually speaks to the inequality and neglect that has led to the excessive mortality of women.

As we in America celebrate Mothers Day, the devaluation and horrendous treatment and abuse of women and girls is a global crisis, Yohannan said in a statement. In the poorest regions of the world, and especially in Asia, womens lives are threatened from the womb to widowhood  and millions of these precious girls will not survive to become mothers.

Author Karen Mains, who wrote the GFA report, said the devaluation of women and societal discrimination frequently faced by women is creating the global crisis.

The irony of the missing-women demographics  enabled by entrenched cultural attitudes and systemic discrimination against the female sex  is that many places in the world with a skewed sex ratio are now experiencing such high female shortages that there are no longer enough women to mate in marriage with the existing male population, she wrote.

There are a number of different factors that play into the wild imbalance in sex ratio for certain countries.

According to Mains, there is a general consensus that the factors that are at play include female infanticide, sex-selective abortions, domestic violence, inadequate health care, lack of pregnancy and childbirth training as well as the booming sex-slave industry.

Mains estimates that about 34 million women and girls are caught in the sex trafficking trade globally, including 16 million in India.

Prostitution is legal in some parts of South Asia so the chances of victimization are drastically increased, Yohannan said in his statement.

Many of the poorest families are manipulated into selling their daughters to opportunists who promise a better life for them. But many of these girls  some as young as 10  are never heard from or seen again. In this century, more women and girls are enslaved in brothels each year than were shipped to slave plantations at the height of the slave trade in the 18th and 19th centuries.

Mains also highlighted the struggles with childbirth, stressing that 99 percent of women who die in childbirth live in impoverished nations.

The highest maternal mortality risk in the world is in the African country of Niger. There the lifetime risk of death is 1 in 7, Mains wrote, adding that ratio is 1 in 4,800 in the United States.

In India, that ratio is 1 in 70.

Other factors leading to the disproportionate sex ratio include failed abortions and parents under-feeding girls.

The estimate of 100 million women missing is not a new one. The estimate appears to first have been made in 1990 by Harvard University professor Amartya Sen.

It is often said that women make up a majority of the worlds population. They do not, Sen wrote in the 1990 article More Than 100 Million Women Are Missing published by the New York Review of Books.

This mistaken belief is based on generalizing from the contemporary situation in Europe and North America, where the ratio of women to men is typically around 1.05 or 1.06, or higher. In South Asia, West Asia, and China, the ratio of women to men can be as low as 0.94, or even lower, and it varies widely elsewhere in Asia, in Africa, and in Latin America.

The United Nations Population Fund estimates that 126 million women are believed to be missing around the world as a result of son preference and gender-biased sex selection, a form of discrimination.

Since the 1990s, some areas have seen up to 25 percent more male births than female births, the UNFPA explains online. The rise in sex selection is alarming as it reflects the persistent low status of women and girls. The resulting gender imbalance also has a damaging effect on societies. Instances of increased sexual violence and trafficking have already been linked to the phenomenon.
Americas forgotten French history awaits you in Illinois

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PRAIRIE DU ROCHER, Illinois  Getting from this rural farm town to nearby Fort de Chartres required driving atop a levee.

It was an experience straight out of Don McLeans song American Pie. Except the levee wasnt dry.

My visit to southwestern Illinois came as the waters of the Mississippi River continued to rise, surpassing the previous record from the Great Flood of 1993.

Fort de Chartres, despite being protected by a massive levee, is no stranger to floods. The present-day structure is a partial reconstruction of a French colonial fort built in the 1750s to replace an even earlier wooden fort. That wooden fort was itself the third fort constructed by the French during their rule over the Mississippi River Valley in a region once known as the Illinois Country.

What you see today is a little different than what the British found when they arrived in 1765 to occupy the fort after the Seven Years War, when France lost its colonial possessions in what is today Canada and the United States.

Partially rebuilt on original foundations, Fort de Chartres State Historic Site with its prominent gate and bastions is no longer oriented toward the river, where most visitors would have arrived. Today, the levee stands just beyond where the original main entrance was located. Inside the fort some of the buildings have been rebuilt in keeping with how it would have looked. Only the power magazine, which is said to be the oldest building in all of Illinois, is original. The foundations of other buildings, as well as remnants of forts walls, are marked out, which should make it easy if the Illinois state government ever comes up with the funds for a much-needed full reconstruction.

Despite the forts citadel-like appearance the Seven Years War  better known in North America as the French & Indian War  was never directly fought in the Illinois Country, though French marines garrisoned here did travel more than 800 miles for an engagement at Fort Niagara, north of Buffalo, New York. Another interesting footnote involves the brother of the forts commandant, who was killed after George Washington ambushed a party of French soldiers and their Indian allies in 1754.

Prairie du Rocher (population 604, as of the last census) has survived, but seasonal flooding long ago engulfed other villages founded by the French. In fact, a flood in 1881 was so great that the Mighty Mississippi changed its course and washed away Kaskaskia, the first capital of Illinois under the American flag. What survived became an exclave only reachable by land from Missouri.

The French colonial chapter of U.S. history is basically forgotten outside this part of the country, where reminders are everywhere. Just look at a local map. Many of the streets and place names are either their original French name or an Anglicized version.

Prairie du Rocher literally translates into English as Prairie of the Rock, as in the magnificent limestone cliff that towers above town and has since time immemorial corralled the Mississippi River. In the case of Fort de Chartres, my ears heard Chartres pronounced as shart, although Jennifer Duensing of the Friends of Fort de Chartres told me some old-timers call it Fort Charters. (The 18th century pronunciation was almost certainly the same as Chartres Street in New Orleans, another French colonial settlement.)

The rich French heritage is even more evident at several local Roman Catholic churches, all of which were established before the United States.

St. Josephs Church, the parish in Prairie du Rocher, where priests with French surnames served until well into the 19th century, has communion vessels from an even earlier church.

Flooding kept me from visiting Immaculate Conception, a chapel-of-ease in Kaskaskia since area parishes were consolidated in the 1990s. However, the treasures here include a bronze bell gifted by King Louis XV in 1741 and an even earlier altar carved from walnut and cottonwood. The bell has been dubbed the Liberty Bell of the West because it was rung in 1778 after Virginian frontiersman George Rogers Clark liberated the Illinois Country from British rule during the American Revolution.

Directly across from St. Louis in Cahokia is the Church of the Holy Family. The log cabin-style church, built in 1799 using traditional French colonial construction methods, was erected as a replacement for an even earlier edifice. As with Immaculate Conception, the bell came from Louis XV. It also has altar candlesticks from King Louis XIV.

If you go

I flew into St. Louis, the closest major airport. Crossing the Mississippi River into Illinois, I followed the KaskaskiaCahokia Trail through farmlands and small towns on what is regularly ranked as one of the best drives in all of America.

The grounds of Fort de Chartres State Historic Site are open year-round, but buildings are only open Thursday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is free. Reenactments and other special events are held throughout the year, including the annual Fort de Chartres Rendezvous. This years event takes place June 1 and 2.

French is no longer the lingua franca, but an Old World tradition that dates locally to the 1720s is still maintained every New Years Eve in Prairie du Rocher. Known as La Guiannee, locals go door-to-door singing songs and partaking in drink.

Other relics of Frances influence in the Illinois Country include the ruins of the unfinished Fort Kaskaskia, the Pierre Menard Home and the old house-turned-courthouse in Cahokia.

I recommend staying at the Corner George Inn Bed & Breakfast in Maeystown, a charming village founded by German immigrants. If you want a nationally branded hotel you will have to drive about an hour to Fairview Heights.

Spires and Crosses, a travel column exclusive to The Christian Post, is published every week. Follow @dennislennox on Twitter and Instagram.
Erwin Lutzer lays out 5 false gospels within evangelical churches

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There are five false gospels found in evangelicalism today, says former senior pastor of The Moody Church in Chicago, Illinois, and current Pastor Emeritus Erwin W. Lutzer.

Lutzer talked with Darrell Bock, executive director for cultural engagement at Dallas Theological Seminary, on an episode of The Table podcast posted online Monday.

During their conversation, Lutzer listed five false gospels, the first being that of permissive grace, which involves churches saying that people can have grace without personal transformation.

We have to preach about sin and do so compassionately so people know that they need the abundant, undeserved grace of God, said Lutzer.

But today what you find is that there are many people who preach grace even before people really know that they need it.

Bock agreed, adding that he felt that was an issue for Western culture in particular, saying that many westerners have a sense of entitlement, as if God owes them something just by their mere presence on the planet.

I think that entitlement eats away an appreciation for what grace really means, because, you know, you dont come to God with a sense of, Have mercy on me; Im a sinner; you come to God with an attitude of saying, Well, I can bargain with You about this, and You really owe me in one way or another, replied Bock.

The second false gospel Lutzer described was social justice gospel, which he believed often led to the gospel of personal conversion being left behind.

Social justice, no matter how well done, at its best is not the gospel. It may be the result of the gospel, depending on how its defined. I mean, you can go to Africa and all of the various hospitals were built by missionaries, Lutzer explained. So weve always had a social conscience, but social justice is not the gospel. The gospel is not what we can do for Jesus; its what Jesus has done for us.

Lutzer also listed new age ideas as a false gospel that can enter an evangelical church, and also the gospel of my sexuality, which involved evangelical churches not denouncing sexual sins.

The last one Lutzer described as a threat to evangelical churches was interfaith dialogue, specifically certain kinds of dialogue. Lutzer cited dialogues with Muslims as an example.

Now, Im not opposed to debates. And, of course, I argue also that we need to befriend Muslims; we could talk about that even when it comes to other issues, explained Lutzer.

As an example of a harmful interfaith dialogue, Lutzer told Bock that he has an Islamic apologetics book by Muslims that includes statements like Islam has always defended the righteousness of women. And Islam has always been on the forefront of civil rights. And Muhammad was a man of peace who tried to bring Jews and pagans and everyone together.

It deals with how do you take Islam to an audience that probably has never even seen a Quran, much less read it, or the Hadith, and how do you sell them on a version of Islam that will be acceptable? And many people are falling for this, and I warn against it, Lutzer added.

Lutzers talk about the five false gospels was drawn from a book he published in August 2018 titled The Church in Babylon: Heeding the Call to Be a Light in the Darkness.

The book sought to answer how Christians can live in a pagan culture through two questions, How did we get here? and How do we prepare for the dark and difficult days ahead?

Lutzer answers both of these questions. He will walk you through the many parallels between the Church in America and Gods people in Babylon, and embolden you to be a gospel witness, notes the books description.

Youll be encouraged not to compromise your faith even when under constant pressure from all corners of society. And more than all this you will have a fresh encounter with Jesus Christ, as you consider the biblical role of those in exile.
JRR Tolkien's Son Part of UK Inquiry Into Catholic Church Mishandling Child Sex Abuse Allegations

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The top Roman Catholic archbishop in the U.K. is set to face pressing questions over the way the church has handled child sex abuse allegations, including over the clergy son of JRR Tolkien.

Cardinal Vincent Nichols, the Archbishop of Westminster, is set to be questioned this week by the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse, The Telegraph reported.

The investigation will look into how major British institutions tackled sex abuse claims, with the Catholic Church attracting major controversy for relocating abusing priests in dioceses around the world.

Nichols' former Archdiocese of Birmingham is set to be examined, including how it handled allegations of abuse against Father John Tolkien, the son of famous author JRR Tolkien, who wrote The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit fantasy novels.

Senior church officials are being blamed for allowing Fr. Tolkien, who died in 2003, to continue working as a priest despite an alleged victim coming forward against him years earlier.

The man, Christopher Carrie, accused the priest of sexually abusing him twice in November 1956, when he was 11-years-old.

As BBC News reported back in 2003, the Archdiocese of Birmingham awarded Carrie 15,000, or nearly $20,000 USD, in an out-of-court settlement.

Fr. Tolkien had denied the allegations, and a police investigation launched against him in 2001 was discontinued, as the Crown Prosecution Service found him to be too ill to be charged. The priest died two years later at the age of 85.

Carrie, a father of two, said at the time that the church needs to answer for protecting Fr Tolkein.

"Although Father John Tolkien is now dead, and cannot harm any more children, that does not exempt the church from responsibility or liability.

"I am satisfied that the settlement is substantial enough to recompense me for some of the wrongs committed," he continued.

"More importantly, I hope the coverage given to the case may encourage other victims of sexual abuse to come forward."

Carrie further revealed that church officials had promised him in 1993 that Fr. Tolkien was set to shortly retire as a priest, but he continued actively officiating in church services at least until the mid 1990s.

The scandals rocking the Catholic Church have been felt worldwide, including in the U.S. A Pennsylvania grand jury report detailed in August how 301 priests abused over 1,000 children over the past several decades, with church hierarchy shielding the perpetrators.

"Priests were raping little boys and girls, and the men of God who were responsible for them not only did nothing. They hid it all," said at a press conference Attorney General Josh Shapiro.

Pope Francis has scheduled a major four-day conference on the clerical sexual abuse crisis with his top bishops in Rome for February 2018. The meeting, believed to be the first of its kind, comes following the pontiff's condemnation of the clergy who have been committing abuse, and vow that the Catholic Church will do better.
Mars Hill Church On Course to Dissolve by End of Year; Local Congregations Make Decisions on Future

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While plans for the Seattle-based Mars Hill Church name and brand to completely dissolve by the end of the year are moving forward, transformation of its 13 locations are well underway.

"Everything is closing down at the end of the year, including our central offices," Mars Hill communications director Justin Dean told The Christian Post. "Mars Hill will cease to exist after Dec. 31, 2014."

Dean said that after selling or transferring all property and assets that belong to the church, it will use the money to satisfy its remaining debt and will take care of the remaining staff that will be laid off at the end of the year.

The remaining locations that are not being sold will be under new leadership and will no longer be affiliated with the Mars Hill brand. Some elders for local congregations, such as for Mars Hill Huntington Beach in California, have chosen not to continue.

"Each location will be independently managed by their own lead pastor and/or elder team as they see fit," stated Dean via email to CP. "Since Mars Hill will cease to exist, each church is welcome to use whatever technology, applications, etc. that they feel necessary."

The decision to dissolve Mars Hill Church was sparked by the resignation of lead pastor Mark Driscoll who stepped down from leadership last month.

"When pastor Mark resigned we enacted a pre-established succession plan that detailed several options for the church. Those options have always included the independence of our local churches, who already had in place local leaders," said Dean.

The decision was made by the Mars Hill board and lead pastors who agreed that it was the best option for the continued health of their remaining churches that they be released to operate however they choose.

Dean also shot down recent rumors of bankruptcy saying there was no truth to any of them.

Mars Hill also released a blog on Wednesday that details the directions for the remaining 13 parishes. The post, released Wednesday night details the pastors who will take over these locations and if some will combine. The church's headquarters in Seattle will close down by Dec. 31.

The Mars Hill downward spiral began when its founder Mark Driscoll stepped down from leadership last month. He issued a letter of resignation where he detailed the reasoning behind this decision. He wrote that he was encouraged by other elders and leaders within the church. Its decision to dissolve its 13 regional congregations came later on in the month and was announced in a letter by Dave Bruskas, the church's teaching pastor while in transition.

"Following much prayer and lengthy discussion with Mars Hill's leadership, the board of Mars Hill has concluded that rather than remaining a centralized multi-site church with video-led teaching distributed to multiple locations, the best future for each of our existing local churches if for them to become autonomous self-governed entities," wrote Bruskas in the letter.

"This means that each of our locations has an opportunity to become a new church, rooted in the best of what Mars Hill has been in the past, and independently led and run by its own local elder teams."

Bruskas also laid out several principals for moving Mars Hill forward throughout the rest of the letter. The updated blog states that Bruskas will take over as lead pastor of the Albuquerque location.

For full Mars Hill update on church locations go online here.
Why many multisite churches are now moving toward autonomous congregations

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Pastor David Chadwick was torn when he raised the question as he stepped down from Forest Hill Church in Charlotte, North Carolina, in the final weeks of winter.

Churches all over the country are doing it with videos shown on the screen in other places, he said in March. Elevation (Church) is probably the primary example here in Charlotte. You know, I just began to wonder more and more  how effective is that?

For nearly 40 years, Chadwick had led the 4,000-member, six-campus ministry which he had built from a 180-member congregation. As he ended his tenure at the church, however, Chadwick revealed he had started to have doubts about Forest Hills multisite model where lead pastors mainly connect with the congregation through video.

I know Im a good communicator  I can have people come and listen. But doesnt a pastor need to speak to his people? I began to struggle with that, he admitted.

At the time, said Chadwick, Forest Hill had already begun considering making each of the churchs campus pastors more autonomous.

As of 2012, multisite churches  congregations that host worship services at more than one physical location  numbered more than 5,000 in the U.S.

While Chadwick and several leaders of multisite congregations contacted by The Christian Post have declined to publicly comment on a growing discussion among the cohort on transitioning to autonomous churches, experts with knowledge of the industry say it is happening.

The popular multisite NewSpring Church in South Carolina, which struggled after founder Perry Noble was fired in 2016 for alcoholism and other failures, declined to speak about their own experience with the model.

The churchs chief communications officer, Suzanne Swift, said, however, that she is aware that many [multisite] churches are considering transitioning to autonomous congregations.

Concerns

Paul Marzahn, senior pastor of Crossroads Church, a multisite operation in Lakeville, Minnesota, told CP that he and other ministers have been studying the phenomenon for a while. He highlighted several reasons why he believes many multisite churches are looking at transitioning to autonomous churches.

Its a valid concern on a couple fronts. One is, some fairly large churches have had moral failures, and if you have your whole system based on one person primarily,  if that person fails then the whole system goes down, he said, acknowledging ongoing turmoil at Willow Creek Community Church and more recently Harvest Bible Chapel in Illinois.

Theres an economic and just kind of a practical aspect. The system is set up pretty much on a personality of one pastor who is highly effective, but if that highly effective pastor has any moral issues or even dysfunction  depression, alcoholism  it can really shut down all the campuses, he said.

While some multisite churches, like Rick Warrens global Saddleback Church based in California, have systems in place to deal with stressors that can affect leadership, some dont, said Marzahn.

I think there has been some exceptions to that. For example, Rick Warren, I know him personally. When his son committed suicide, he almost took a whole year off but he had a system in place to handle that. Not every multisite does, Marzahn explained.

He noted too that the typical multisite church model may not always serve young church leaders well.

At the doctoral study level, were talking about how do you train, raise up and even disciple the next generation of teaching pastors and effective pastors? And this kind of sidesteps that approach. Its sort of like saying were not going to take the time to mentor and train and raise up other really effective communicators. Were going to take our best communicators and just multiply that by campuses [aided] by video screens, he said.

Personally, Ive tackled that one where I started with some video screen campuses and now through internship programs, mentoring and teaching, Ive seen the value in raising up the next generation of teachers. I think Andy Stanley has been doing that too; its a great example of kind of having a common theme or element that all the campuses are doing but allowing the live preaching to take the major tenets of that message, Marzahn explained.

The Minnesota leader said he believes many multisite church leaders are avoiding discussing the issue publicly because they do not want to be seen as having a problem.

I think there is a fear factor. Organizations like that, if youre breaking up, somethings wrong because there have been ones that have had moral failures, there have been ones who are breaking up because of a problem that they dont want that association maybe. I think they should just be bold and say, 'Hey, were thinking were changing our model,' he said.

Willow Creek came out with a survey several years ago called Reveal. They realized that their  approach wasnt producing disciples and they finally said, 'You know what? Youre right. Were a shallow church; we need change.' And they just owned up to it and said,'Our model isnt working and so because this model isnt producing disciples were going to change our model.' And I think there are some campuses that arent producing disciples."

Speaking from his own experience with the multisite church model, Marzahn said he wouldnt classify trying, then moving on from it as a failure.

I wouldnt say they failed. I think it was a bold experiment. I think they still produced some disciples but its not as effective as it could be, so theyre re-evaluating that. But there are some churches who are afraid to say, 'Hey, maybe we made a mistake in planting a multisite the way we did it,' he said.

He said he personally made a number of mistakes in how he implemented the model but has learned from them.

I can just say, 'Hey, I did it with the best intentions but Im learning as I go. Ive never done it before.' I think the way were moving now is more healthy and I think it produces more disciples and it produces more leaders. Thats how I discussed it, he said.

It doesnt mean in 2011 I was a bad pastor and egotistical and thought everybody should watch my videos. I just thought I want to start new churches, these churches are dying, Im an effective teacher, a lot of these churches that I got complained they didnt have effective teaching. As I got these churches going I thought well, I dont need to be the only teacher. We can train up others and we can do this differently."

The Village Church transition

In 2017, The Village Church in Texas, led by Matt Chandler, pledged to transition all their campuses into autonomous churches by 2022 under a new initiative called Multiply.

Chandler said he had come to realize that the multisite model comes with an expiration date.

In the years in which we felt the most stress, the most pressure at The Village Church, we were out of space. We didnt know what else to do except enter into a season of prayer and fasting and just ask the Lord to do something that we had not been able to figure out by ourselves, he said. That started multisite for us in which we believe God was saying, Hey, in this season, the life of the church, this is how youre going to make disciples, this is how Im going to move and bless The Village Church.'  We ended up with five campuses and all of them doing really well in regards to reaching their local contexts. Its just really been a rich beautiful season.

Beau Hughes, pastor of The Village Church Denton, the first campus of The Village Church to become autonomous, said that from the outset of their multisite journey, Chandler did not settle on the model as a long-term plan.

I remember Matt even saying in one of the first meetings that we werent even sure where this was heading and eventually it might even head toward the campus becoming a local church. So as that moved on in terms of just our life together, that conversation was always there at least on Matts heart in so many different ways, about what to do with the campus long term, he said.

After much prayer and eight years after starting as a campus, The Village Church Denton transitioned into a local church.

The success of the Denton church, watching them really in a contextual place be freed up to engage where they were was really a beautiful thing and it shone light on how we were doing ministry and it shone some light on weaknesses that this thing that were doing, as beautiful as it is, its got an expiration date, Chandler said.

He said they continued to pray about what was happening until all the elders of the church came to a unanimous decision to work toward making all five campuses of The Village Church autonomous by 2022. This would allow for increased localized and global missions and those churches could also move on to plant more churches as well.

In recent responses to questions from CP, David Roark, communications and resources director at The Village Church, said two more campuses will make the transition to autonomous churches this year.

"On the whole, it's been going well," he said of the process.

"Two of our campuses, Plano and Dallas, will be transitioning off this year, and the staff and members of those churches are eager and excited about the future; in fact, the votes in favor to transition those campuses from members were both above 95 percent. The rest of the campuses are planning and putting the pieces in place to do the same in the next few years," he explained.

And while the transition has not been easy, Roark said, the transition team continues to move forward with grace.

"On the one hand, there is much momentum and excitement around Multiply, yet it's come with challenges. The general reality of saying 'goodbye' to people you've worked closely with for years and years is no small thing (we call these 'gospel goodbyes' because they're both extremely good and extremely hard), and there's just been a continued learning curve for each campus to start thinking more locally and individually in light of Multiply while also trying to remain connected and unified," he said. "That's not always easy and we've made mistakes, pushing too hard one way or the other, but I think we've all acknowledged the need to extend an extensive amount of grace to one another during this season."

The Village Church has been careful to note that their transition from the multisite model should not be interpreted as a critique but a capitalization on an opportunity.

When asked if the model would have been sustainable for The Village Church in the long term, Roark said he wasnt sure. He was sure, however, that it wouldnt have been as effective or healthy.

I'm not sure if we can say whether or not it would have been sustainable (I'm sure we could make it work since we have for more than a decade), but I think we can say that it wouldn't be as effective and healthy, he said. That's not a broad statement about multisite, but it's a specific statement for us here. I can't speak for other multisite models, and it's good to recognize how they're all different with various strategies and contexts, but we believe releasing campuses to be local, autonomous churches gives everyone the best shot at local contextual ministry in the long term.

Roark also shot down speculation that economics may have been part of the driving force behind the decision to transition away from the multisite model.

That hasn't been a factor. In some ways, going in the direction of Multiply has caused some new financial challenges that we've not historically faced because giving and budgeting has always been centralized, and we're having to look at things differently in light of campus transitions, he told CP.

After seeing the success of the Denton transition and driven by the Holy Spirit though, they remain inspired by the initial outcomes.

"We believe the Holy Spirit has been working through all these things, but it all started with the first campus that rolled off in Denton. They led by example, really stepping out in conviction and courage, and we quickly saw the fruit of that initial transition. There were some challenges for them no longer being a campus of The Village, but we saw the body of Christ, the members, stepping up in a way they never had, taking ownership, and we saw the flexibility and opportunity it gave the Denton church to be a city on a hill in their community that simply wasn't able to happen while they were a part of our multisite model," Roark said.

Even though the Southlake campus of The Village Church was the last one to be launched in 2016, the church has continued to expand in other ways.

"Beyond campus transitions, we planted four separate churches last year: three in Dallas Fort Worth [and] one in Rancho Cucamonga, California; we have two new church plants in the pipeline this year," he said. "Our focus now is to transition the rest of our campuses, with the timeline of 2022, while continuing to plant churches locally and globally and to train and send missionaries globally."

And while it's still early to draw hard conclusions, Roark explained that The Village Church's experience with the multisite model so far presents it as an effective "church planting strategy."

"We're right in the middle of things, still learning as we go. Yet with the fruit we've seen so far and even with the state of the broader culture, it seems as if the multisite model could be leveraged more and more as a church planting strategy, and that could be a really good thing for those local bodies and for their communities," he said.

Growing pains?

Marzahn likens the issues some churches have had with the multisite model as growing pains and believes it will endure as a viable model for churches into the future.

I still think multisite has great potential if they can figure out a way to harness that side of the affiliation without it being so controlling from the top down, he said.

I really think they are [growing pains]. But what I hope doesnt happen, because Ive seen this happen, is the flipside backlash where the mother church [says], Oh theyre going to take off on their own so good luck with that.' And they just cut them loose. I did that to one campus once a long time ago because I think I was immature and Im just like 'my youth pastor wants to start a church' and Im just like good luck with that versus being mature and saying, 'How can I help you? How can I support you in this transition?'
Colorado school shooter criticized Christians 'who hate gays,' Trump

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One of the two suspects in the STEM school shooting in Highlands Ranch, Colorado, was known to make social media posts criticizing Christians who hate gays and President Donald Trump.

Devon Erickson, 18, was arrested by authorities soon after he and another student, 16-year-old Maya McKinney who identifies as a transgender male, allegedly shot up the STEM school, resulting in one death and several injuries.

In his now-deleted Facebook account, Erickson once posted about his dislike for these Christians who hate gays.

You know what I hate? All these Christians who hate gays, yet in the bible, it says in Deuteronomy 17:12-13, if someone doesnt do what their priest tells them to do, they are supposed to die. It has plenty of crazy stuff like that. But all they get out of it is ewwwwww gays, posted Erickson, as reported by the Washington Examiner.

Erickson also once shared a video in 2016 of late-night host Seth Meyers criticizing President Trump and also in 2015 shared an Occupy Democrats post praising then President Barack Obama, noted the Examiner.

Erickson appeared in court on Wednesday with long hair that was partially dyed purple. He did not reveal a motive to the judge but only gave short responses to questions.

McKinney, who prefers to go by the name Alec, also appeared in court earlier this week.

Lawyers for McKinney asked the judge to refer to the teenager with masculine pronouns, according to the New York Post.

An unnamed friend of the two suspects took to social media and stated that she did not believe the political views of either individual led them to perform the shooting.

'Devon did not do what he did because he's a liberal, or to make a statement, stated the friend, as reported by the UK Daily Mail. 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.

Both Erickson and McKinney are due in court again on Friday for a hearing.
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Following the series of deadly attacks on houses of worship over the past few months, including last months San Diego synagogue attack, Christians around the world are struggling to understand how we combat this kind of hatred.

There were more anti-Semitic attacks last year than most people realize. In fact, the number of violent attacks against the Jewish community in the United States doubled from 2017 to 2018. Overall, the New York-based Anti-Defamation League counted 1,879 anti-Semitic incidents  either harassment, vandalism or physical assault  in 2018. And a report by Tel Aviv Universitys Kantor Center for the Study of Contemporary European Jewry found that the U.S. had more anti-Semitic attacks than any other country.

Attacks against Christians have risen as well. Today, Christians are the most persecuted religious community in the world. A recent report by the bishop of Truro noted that the persecution of Christians in parts of the world is at near "genocide" levels, and that Christianity faces being "wiped out" from parts of the Middle East.

In the face of this kind of hatred and violence, some American students are still making light of the suffering of other faiths. In March, a photo surfaced showing high school students at a party making a Nazi salute over a swastika made of Solo cups. Last month, student senators at the University of California, Berkeley, made anti-Semitic comments at a student government meeting, referring to Zionist tears.

If we want to combat bigotry, we must start by educating our youngest generations, who will be our future leaders and set the course for tolerance. One way we can start is by exposing Christian students to Jewish people, culture and traditions, and vice versa.

It is easy to draw closer, in times like these, with people of our own faith. But we need to start instilling acceptance and tolerance in our younger generations by encouraging them to step outside their comfort zones and engage with people outside their own faith groups.

Jesus taught us to love your neighbor as yourself  other than loving God, there is no greater commandment in the Bible. As Christians, we need to use what we have learned from this teaching to lead a movement to develop and strengthen our relationships, in this case, with people of the Jewish faith.

We need to teach Christian students that there is a lot they can learn from people whose beliefs differ from their own, and that is possible to maintain their own beliefs while also admiring the rich teachings, brave history and compassionate leaders of Judaism. The Jewish Sabbath, for example, is a beautiful example of bringing holiness into everyday acts. In turn, many people of Jewish faith respect the Christian teaching of embracing those whom others condemn. After all, Christianity has deep roots within Judaism, which makes the relationship between Christians and Jews quite unique.

We need to encourage collaboration between Jewish and Christian student groups on college campuses. And we need to make travel to Israel more accessible for Christian students. When students have an opportunity to experience a culture or people firsthand, it has a profound effect on broadening their horizons and view of the world.

As the executive director of Passages, a program that takes American Christian college students on tours of the Holy Land, I have seen the transformation that occurs in students after their trip. Some dont have close relationships with people of Jewish faith; all they know about Judaism may come from outside perceptions. It is important that these young Christians most of all see the region for themselves, in order to understand the religious and political narrative beyond platforms like social media or what they may hear on campus. The trip encourages them to think thoughtfully about the complex issues facing modern Israel and the Middle East. When they return, we encourage them to engage with the Jewish communities on their campuses and in their local areas, such as orchestrating social events or collaborating on writing, volunteer or other projects.

Not only do these trips lead students to ask questions that strengthen their own faith, but the trips teach them to approach other faiths, including Judaism, with acceptance and curiosity, instead of fear or misperceptions. In turn, one day they will teach their own children these lessons.

I encourage all Christians to stand up in the face of bigotry and intolerance by signing our sister organization, the Philos Projects #WeResolve petition against anti-Semitism. This week, and in the coming months, let us come together with our friends in the Jewish community in prayer for the lives lost to violence. And let us believe that the future can, and will, be different.

Scott Phillips is the executive director of Passages, a non-profit organization offering Christian college students a fresh and innovative approach to experiencing the Holy Land.
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Democrats and their abortion industry allies have shown in 2019 how absolutely they have devoted themselves to their abortion agenda. They have pushed into overdrive their efforts to expand the right to an abortion in law. They even oppose requiring health care professionals to provide infants born alive after surviving a botched abortion with the same care as any other infant at the same stage of development.

Just look at whats transpired in the last three months in states like New York and Virginia. Lawmakers in New York cheered as they passed a law that removed explicit legal protections for infants born-alive following an attempted abortion, while Virginias governor defended letting newborns die after surviving an abortion.

Pro-lifers never would have guessed wed have to fight for equal protection for infants born alive after a failed abortion, but here we are.

In Washington, Congress has failed to reach a consensus on the Born Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act, sponsored by Sen. Ben Sasse (R-Neb.) and Rep. Ann Wagner (R-Mo.). In the Senate, 44 Democrats banded together to prevent the measure to stop infanticide from reaching a floor vote. In the House, Speaker Pelosi has blocked a vote on the bill 36 times. As frustrating as this is, Americans opposed to infanticide and late-term abortion (which are really the same thing) have reason for optimism.

The politics of late-term abortion are changing, and recent polling confirms this. After the New York late-term abortion bill became law and Virginia Governor Ralph Northams comments on infanticide made headlines, pollsters measured a 17-percentage point shift toward the pro-life position among Americans. For the first time since 2009 the percentage of Americans who call themselves pro-life polled even with those who call themselves pro-choice. According to the same poll, more than a third of Democrats now identify as pro-life (two-thirds of Republicans identify as pro-life).

Another poll examined the views on abortion of another key demographic to the Democratic electoral coalition: millennials. Surprisingly, 70 percent of millennials support limits on abortion; only 7 percent of millennials share the Democratic partys position on abortion (abortion without exceptions and on the taxpayer dime). For the other 93 percent, I think its safe to say they oppose letting newborn infants die suffering from lack of nourishment, medical treatment, or worse.

Changing public perceptions about the issue of life is important; changing the legal landscape is critical.

At the state level, more than 85 Democratic state legislators have voted for legislation to protect life this year alone. These Democrats have voted in favor of measures to protect infants born alive following an attempted abortion, prohibit abortion once a baby in the womb has a detectable heartbeat, prohibit abortion when sound medical and scientific evidence has shown a baby in the womb can feel pain, ban the gruesome dismemberment abortion procedure, or amend a state constitution to clarify there is no right to an abortion or taxpayer funding of abortion.

Despite immense pressure from the abortion industry and party leadership, these Democrats voted their consciences  and should be commended for doing so. Recently, North Carolina State Sen. Don Davis (D) voted with his Republican colleagues to override Governor Roy Coopers veto the Born-Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act (Senate Bill 359). Davis was the lone Democrat to cross the aisle to oppose infanticide; his vote was the deciding vote to override the governors veto. The bill now awaits an override vote in the North Carolina House.

In New Mexico, eight Democratic State Senators crossed the aisle to vote against House Bill 51, a bill which would have kept abortion legal in that state in the event Roe v. Wade is overturned. In Louisiana, five Democrat State Representatives are co-sponsors of House Bill 425, a bill which would amend the state constitution to make clear that nothing therein guarantees the right to an abortion, or requires the state to fund abortion, including Democratic Rep. Katrina Jackson, who spoke at the 2019 March for Life.

Sudden shifts in public attitudes on abortion and bipartisan votes on pro-life legislation are sure to send ripple effects through American politics. If national Democrats continue to tow the pro-late-term-abortion line and oppose bills like the Born Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act, they are sure to continue to alienate their own voters who can clearly see these truths: life is precious, life begins in the womb, and all newborn babies are worthy of equal protection.

Matt Carpenter is Deputy Director of State and Local Affairs at Family Research Council.
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On Mothers Day, most of us take intentional time and effort to show our moms how much we love and appreciate them, and how much were thankful for their love and sacrifice. Im not always as intentional as I should be about honoring the moms in my life, especially the one who gave me life and the one whos currently doing the really heavy lifting caring for our kids.

But especially in this cultural moment, Christians should be the first, not only to honor current mothers, but also to celebrate and encourage future mothers.

Andrea Burke, writing at For the Church, suggests that were not always very good at this. As a result, for too many young Christians, cultural attitudes toward motherhood are setting the tone. And its not a positive tone.

Burke calls motherhood the one life dream that makes a girl blush. In her work directing her churchs womens ministry, Burke regularly sits down with single, young women to talk about the future. They often confess that although they could pursue further education or a successful career in any number of fields, what many of them want is to get married and raise a family.

By Burkes account, these young women are smart and accomplished. They dont have to prove anything to anyone. Still, they regularly talk as if choosing to be a wife and mom is a silly cop-out  somehow a waste of their lives. When a 21-year-old sits across the table from me and tells me that she wants to be a mother, Burke writes, she blushes and gives a thousand caveats as to why she knows its not the optimal choice.

Where do young women get this low view of motherhood? Well, look around. According to a New York Times article last year, the average age at which women become mothers is now at a record high  30 or older in some parts of the country. The Times reported this as if it were a good thing, talking up the wonders of a fulfilling career and all-but-openly suggesting that the only reason any woman would have children young is because she couldnt achieve the ideal professional life, and needs a substitute rite of passage to adulthood.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that the average birth rate failed to rebound after the Great Recession, and now sits at a rock-bottom 1.77 children per woman on average  thats down over 16 percent from a decade ago.

So now theres a gap in our culture between the number of children women want to have, and the number they end up having.

The Times explains, its unlikely any future baby boom will be able to fully offset the baby bust of the last 10 years. This means that millennial women are likely to experience the largest shortfall in achieved fertility verses their stated family desires of any generation in a long time 

What does all this have to do with young women embarrassed about wanting to become mothers? Well, they need honesty from us  specifically from their parents, that whatever society says about the wonders of a successful career, theyre statistically likely to regret prioritizing promotions over parenthood.

At BreakPoint.org, my colleague Shane Morris recently wrote a beautiful letter to his six-year-old daughter, in which he encouraged her to think of marriage and motherhood as callings worth pursuing, not as afterthoughts. Shane described how his daughter already is in the habit of tucking her little brothers trucks to bed. Shane is right in seeing in those nurturing instincts things worth celebrating and cultivating.

His letter reminded me of Martin Luthers praise for nurturing tendencies in his commentary on Genesis: How becomingly even little girls carry infants in their arms, he wrote. And how appropriate are the gestures with which mothers dandle the little ones when they hush a crying infant or lay it in the cradle  Elsewhere he says: In all the world this is the noblest and most precious work.

If youve got daughters (like I do) or granddaughters or even nieces, proudly tell these young women that if motherhood is their dream, theyve got nothing to be ashamed of.

Download an audio mp3 here.

Resources

The One Life Dream That Makes a Girl Blush, Andrea Burke | For the Church | March 22, 2019

A Letter to My Daughter: Dont Make Motherhood an Afterthought, Shane Morris | BreakPoint.org | March 4, 2019

Originally posted at Breakpoint.
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Have you noticed that, for many in our culture, motherhood is not something to celebrate but something to avoid at all costs?

For some, motherhood means the end of womens careers, hopes, and dreams. Motherhood, they believe, does nothing to advance their lives or secure their futures; it is not part of being the modern empowered woman. Accordingly, they support abortion on demand as being a necessity for the advancement of women.

The irony is that these folks are in agreement with a fundamental belief of the patriarchal societies they reject: women can either be mothers or they can be successful in their careers  but they cannot be both.

Interestingly, Susan B. Anthony, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, and the other great women who fought for equal rights for women did not view pregnancy and motherhood as a lesser calling than working in a factory or office. Rather they fought to ensure that women would not have to choose between the two.

Ironically, those who argue that pregnancy and motherhood are obstacles to womens empowerment accept the basic premise of this flawed logic. They say in effect, A woman cant be a mother and be successful in her career, so we need abortion in order for women to achieve their dreams. Instead of motherhood, now a womans social value, much like a mans, is often determined exclusively by her career goals and achievements. We have swapped one logical fallacy for another.

The foremothers who fought so that women could have the freedom to choose a career and/or family, workplace and/or home; now many leaders who say they are carrying the womens rights banner say you can pick only one.

So motherhood has become a lesser calling, a relic of our past. No longer is it cool for a young woman to say she longs to be a mom. Think bigger! Dont limit yourself, shes told, as if deciding to sustain life, give birth, and then raise a child is a limiting experience.

I know this is perspective is wrong from my own life experience. When my wife, Yvette, and I were in college at Princeton University, we faced an unplanned pregnancy. Against the advice of many people  including the colleges nurse who gave her the pregnancy news  we decided to move forward with our plan to get married and have our baby.

Yvette was told: This will ruin your future! Youll never be able to graduate from Princeton and become a doctor with a baby in tow. In fact, you might not even graduate. However, Yvette did graduate from Princeton  after wed had our second baby, I should add  and went on to become a medical doctor. She is a fantastic mother  and a brilliant and accomplished doctor.

Now, I understand that motherhood is not for everyone. Some cannot experience being a mom for relational or physical reasons or simply choose not to be a mother. But, as a culture, on Mothers Day, we need a rebirth of the sacredness and importance of motherhood. This sacredness should be even more apparent to those of us who call ourselves Christians.

Indeed, even though God the Father could have brought His Son into the world through any means He wished, Jesus was born of a woman. So even Jesus could celebrate Mothers Day!

Moreover, Mary, like millions of women throughout history, chose life in the midst of a difficult, unplanned (from her perspective) pregnancy. She brought the Christ child into a world where powerful leaders schemed to end His life. Yet, despite it all and through it all, she remained His mother. Indeed, then and now, she is an endearing and sacred role model for all mothers.

Accordingly, lets give Mothers Day some well-deserved love. It remains one of the most important days of the year and should always be.

Roland C. Warren is president and CEO of Care Net (www.care-net.org). He grew up in a single-parent home, was the first member of his family to attend college, and graduated from Princeton University. Roland worked 20 years in the corporate world (IBM, Pepsi, and Goldman Sachs) and served 11 years as president of the National Fatherhood Initiative before joining Care Net as CEO in 2012. Care Net is a national, nonprofit ministry with 1,100 affiliated life-affirming pregnancy centers across North America, promoting a Pro Abundant Life vision for women, men, children, and families.
Britain needs to be 'engaged and not disengaged with the rest of the world,' says Gordon Brown

Former Prime Minister Gordon Brown helped to launch Christian Aid Week 2019 with an address in Westminster at which he said Britain needed to be "internationalist" instead of isolated in its outlook.

Mr Brown said that the deadlock over Brexit came down to two competing views of the kind of country Britain should be, one nationalist and one globalist.

Warning that divisions over Brexit could take at least a generation to heal, he said the deadlock would not be resolved until people and politicians were able to agree on their vision for Britain.

"There is one vision of Britain that derives from people's misunderstanding of the Dunkirk spirit - this idea that we are better off when we stand alone, aloof and apart, sufficient unto ourselves, isolated if necessary, supposedly this independent spirit that means we are better off when we are disengaged from the world," he said.

"There is a second vision of Britain - a Britain that is open, outward-looking, engaged and not disengaged with the rest of the world, a Britain that is internationalist in its outlook, a Britain that sees it has responsibilities not just to itself."

He admitted he was worried that the divisions over Brexit were "now so deep and so pervasive that it could take a generation for us to reconcile these differences, bring people together and find a unifying vision of our country and a sense of purpose and direction that takes us forward into the modern world".

Mr Brown continued: "Let us be honest, there are two visions of Britain that are competing with each other.... It's not just that parliament is deadlocked and can't agree - it's more than that: it's that there is a fundamental disagreement about what kind of Britain we are trying to be. And unless that is resolved it's going to be difficult to move forward."

He argued persuasively against nationalism and isolation, saying that Britain - and other countries - should be ready to engage with the rest of the world.

"If you have America first, India first, Japan first, Russia first, Turkey first, Britain first, then you have a world where it's impossible to get agreements to do the things we need to do," he said.

"We have to find a way of defeating the argument that the best way of running the world is every nation for themselves."

Turning his attention to critics of the government's aid spending, Mr Brown said the money was being well spent.

"We've got to argue back against people who say that aid is unproductive, aid is wasteful, aid is money going to the wrong people, aid is somehow inefficient - when all the evidence is that aid is well-used and even more necessary if we're going to deal with fundamental problems that no decent citizen in Britain would tolerate if they saw what was happening first hand," he said.

Elsewhere in his speech, Mr Brown, the son of a Church of Scotland minister, recalled his own connections with Christian Aid Week as his mother used to be one of its volunteer fundraisers.

He described the aid agency as one of Britain's "great national institutions" that showed "social movements that bring about change are built on moral foundations".

"I've got a very personal interest in Christian Aid because I will always remember the mountain of red envelopes that my mother was responsible for," he said.

Referring to the theme of Christian Aid Week  maternal health in Sierra Leone  Mr Brown said: "Hope is found in the ten thousand churches involved with Christian Aid Week, the fifty thousand collecting red envelopes, in the many doctors and nurses in Sierra Leone saving lives. One circle of empathy binds us all."
Sri Lanka churches hold Sunday service for the first time since Easter bombings

Sri Lanka's Catholic churches opened for Sunday worship again for the first time since suicide bombings killed hundreds over Easter.

St Sebastian Church in Negombo, where as many as 100 people were killed in the blasts, opened its doors to the public on Thursday.

"It's been nearly three weeks. We lost our loved ones and our church was destroyed but our faith didn't die," the church said.

Churches were closed in the aftermath of the suicide bombings out of fear of more attacks.

More than 250 people, including scores of children, were killed when suicide bombers attacked churches and luxury hotels on Easter Sunday.

Authorities have put the blame on local radical Islamist groups, National Towheed Jamaat and Jammiyathul Millathu Ibrahim.

The Sri Lankan government says all of the suspects have either been apprehended or killed.

Sri Lankan Catholic officials told the Associated Press that church-run schools closed since the attacks were due to be re-opened on Tuesday.

Archbishop of Colombo Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith said it would be down to individual priests to determine whether it was safe to go ahead with mass on Sunday.

Security was tight outside Catholic churches that did hold mass, with armed police and military personnel patrolling the surrounding streets.

Until now, worshippers have been meeting elsewhere or listening to mass livestreamed from a chapel at the residence of Archbishop Malcolm Ranjith.

Zion Church and St Anthony's Church, which were also targeted, continue to meet in other venues as repairs are carried out on their buildings.
UK Government accused of doing too little to help Asia Bibi

Days after Asia Bibi arrived in Canada, the UK Government has faced further scrutiny over its failure to offer the Christian mother asylum.

Documents obtained through a freedom of information request by UK charity, the Arise Foundation, reveal that the plight of mother-of-five was not raised in diplomatic telegrams between Whitehall and the High Commission in Pakistan until her acquittal on blasphemy charges last October, after eight years on death row, The Sunday Times reports.

Arise Foundation director Luke de Pulford was critical of the revelations.

"Since Asia's acquittal hit the headlines the UK government has been falling over itself to claim credit," he told The Sunday Times.

"The truth is they have resisted pressure to help her for the better part of a decade.

"Ministers were being asked in parliament about the case as early as 2010 but Asia didn't warrant a mention in dispatches until her case had become a global issue."

Responding to the telegrams in The Sunday Times, the Foreign and Commonwealth Office said: "We have raised the Asia Bibi case with the Pakistan government for a number of years."

It added: "All those who have campaigned on Asia Bibi's behalf, including in the UK, will be delighted at the news she has travelled freely and has been reunited with her family. The UK strongly supports global respect for freedom of religious belief."

Mrs Bibi was first accused of blasphemy in 2009 after sharing a cup of water with Muslim colleagues who were offended that she had made the vessel unclean. During a heated exchange, she was accused of insulting the Prophet Muhammad, a crime punishable by death in Pakistan under its strict blasphemy laws.

In 2010, she was sentenced to death and was only acquitted last October after an appeals process that lasted years. In that time, two Pakistani government ministers who spoke up for her, Salman Taseer and Shahbaz Bhatti, were assassinated.

Despite being freed from prison, Bibi was forced to stay in the country until last week for reasons that remain unclear. Prime Minister Imran Khan said it was due to a "minor complication".

There were also concerns for her safety as radicals continued to call for her original death sentence to be reinstated, and she was moved from one secret location to another.

Following her acquittal, the UK Government came under pressure to grant her asylum, with Rehman Chishti resigning as Vice Chairman of the Conservative Party over its failure to do so.

Rumours abounded that the UK Government was afraid of repercussions against British diplomats in Pakistan.

Prime Minister Theresa May and Home Secretary Sajid Javid repeatedly insisted that Bibi's safety was the UK Government's "primary concern" and that they were working with international partners on the best solution for her.

Following Bibi's arrival in Canada last week, Chishti again questioned the Government's failure to offer her asylum in the Commons.

"Why is it that Canada offered sanctuary to her and that the United Kingdom did not offer her sanctuary in the United Kingdom?" he said.

"And will future such cases on religious freedom be looked at differently by the United Kingdom?"

Answering the question, Mrs May said: "Our concern was always the safety and security of Asia Bibi. We were in close contact with the government of Pakistan but [also] a range of international partners who were considering the offers that would be available to Asia Bibi.

"Canada made this offer and we felt it was right and appropriate that we supported the offer that Canada had made. I think that's important."

She continued: "We have a proud record of welcoming people here who have been persecuted because of their faith and we will continue with that record, but in individual cases like this I think it's important for international partners to work together with the key aim constantly of ensuring that the safety and security and best interests of the individual are what is put first and foremost."

My Question to the PM today at Prime Ministers Questions on Religious Freedom welcoming news that Asia Bibi is on route to Canada who have offered her sanctuary- Why did uk not offer her sanctuary & will future such cases on religious freedom be looked at differently by UK Gov? pic.twitter.com/1pz5SB5ktj  Rehman Chishti (@Rehman_Chishti) May 8, 2019

Mrs Bibi arrived in Canada the same week as Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt affirmed that the UK Government was committed to improving its support for persecuted Christians.

Following a meeting of faith leaders with US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo at Lambeth Palace, the official residence of the Archbishop of Canterbury, Mr Hunt said the persecution of Christians was an issue "close to both our hearts".

"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."

Mr Hunt launched a review into the persecution of Christians in January and admitted at the time that he wanted to "banish any hesitation to look into this issue without fear or favour that may exist because of our imperial history, because of the concerns that some people might have in linking the activities of missionaries in the nineteenth century to misguided imperialism".

"And all those concerns may have led to a hesitation to really look at this issue properly, and we don't want that to happen," he added.

An interim report from the review was released earlier this month and said that levels of persecution against Christians were reaching the level of "genocide".
3 1 of 3 ANDREW BUCKLEY Show More Show Less 2 of 3 Courtesy Show More Show Less 3 of 3





Lake Houston law enforcement officials are seeking the support from the community to help them welcome veterans from all over the nation to the Humble Civic Center on May 16 to honor and thank them for their service.

As part of the Wounded Warriors Week, which will be celebrated May 17-19, officers from several departments will be escorting veterans through The Groves, Summerwood, Lakeshore, Atascocita, Atascocita Forest, Atasca Woods, Walden, Eagle Springs and Humble to see the Lake Houston area.
1. Where the

Crawdads Sing

by Delia Owens. A woman who survived alone in the marsh becomes a murder suspect.

2. Neon Prey

by John Sandford. The 29th book in the Prey series. Lucas Davenport goes after a serial killer.

3. Redemption

by David Baldacci. The fifth book in the Memory Man series. The first man Amos Decker put behind bars asks to have his name cleared.

4. Lost Roses

by Martha Hall Kelly. In 1914, New York socialite Eliza Ferriday works to help White Russian families escape from the revolution.

5. War of the Spark:

Ravnica

by Greg Weisman. The first book in the Magic: The Gathering: War of the Spark series. Nicol Bolas, the elder dragon, attacks the city of Ravnica.

6. Normal People

by Sally Rooney. The connection between a high school star athlete and a loner ebbs and flows when they go to Trinity College in Dublin.

7. Someone Knows

by Lisa Scottoline. A dark secret emerges when Allie Garvey returns home to attend a childhood friends funeral.

8. The Silent Patient

by Alex Michaelides. Theo Faber looks into the mystery of a famous painter who stops speaking after shooting her husband.

9. Fire and Blood

by George R.R. Martin. The first volume of the two-part history of the Targaryens in Westeros.

10. Machines Like Me

by Ian McEwan. In an alternative 1980s London, a love triangle develops between a couple and a synthetic human.

Nonfiction

1. Becoming

by Michelle Obama. The former first lady describes how she balanced work, family and her husbands political ascent.

2. Educated

by Tara Westover. The daughter of survivalists leaves home for university.

3. The Moment of Lift

by Melinda Gates. The philanthropist shares stories of empowering women to improve society.

4. The Second Mountain

by David Brooks. A New York Times op-ed columnist espouses having an outward focus to attain a meaningful life.

5. Life Will Be

the Death of Me

by Chelsea Handler. The comedian chronicles going into therapy and becoming an advocate for change.

6. America Before

by Graham Hancock. The author of Magicians of the Gods makes his case about the origins of civilizations.

7. Maybe You Should Talk to Someone

by Lori Gottlieb. A psychotherapist gains unexpected insights when she becomes another therapists patient.

8. The Matriarch

by Susan Page. A biography of former first lady Barbara Bush, based on interviews and her private diaries.

9. Nanaville

by Anna Quindlen. The Pulitzer Prize-winning columnist observes the joys of being a grandmother.

10. Shortest

Way Home

by Pete Buttigieg. A memoir by the mayor of South Bend, Indiana, and the first openly gay Democratic candidate to run for president of the United States.

New York Times
A couple of new faces are scheduled to be official new members of the Katy Independent School District when board trustees canvass the May 4 election.

The board is scheduled to meet in a special meeting at noon Monday, May 13, in the board room of the Katy ISD Education Support Complex, 6301 S. Stadium Lane.

Newcomer Duke Keller was elected to the Katy ISD school board  Position 1  with an unofficial tally of 4,093 total votes. Rebecca Fox, who left her Position 2 seat to run for Postion 1, finished second with 3,320 votes. Sean Dolan collected 1,062 votes, according to unofficial results.

Lance Redmon, who was previously not on the board, ran unopposed for position 2.

Katy City Council

The Katy City Council will meet on Monday, May 13, for its only meeting of the month. The May 27 meeting was canceled because of Memorial Day.

Mondays meeting will begin at 6:30 p.m. at Katy City Hall, 901 Ave. C in Katy. The council will honor the Katy Senior Citizen of the Year and it will be the first meeting after the May 4 election. Visit https://tinyurl.com/yy3huc2w to check the agenda.

It will be the last scheduled meeting for the council before new members are sworn in on Tuesday.

New council members and Mayor Bill Hastings are expected to be sworn in following the canvassing of the May 4 election on Tuesday, May 14.

Hastings, the former city police chief, was elected as Katy mayor with 59.5 percent of the vote, unseating incumbent mayor Chuck Brawner, who was elected in 2017. Jenifer Jordan Stockdick beat out Steve Pierson for the Ward B seat with 53 percent of the vote, according to unofficial voting results. Ward A councilman Frank O. Carroll III retains his seat after running unopposed.

Katy Area Chamber

Katy Area Chamber of Commerce will hold a ribbon-cutting ceremony from 4-6 p.m. Thursday, May 16, for the re-grand opening of Cinco Ranch Alzheimers Special Care Center at 3206 S. Fry Road in Katy. The ribbon will be cut at 4:30 p.m. Visit https://tinyurl.com/yy5e646d to register.

Members of the Katy Area Chamber of Commerce will attend a ground-breaking ceremony from 11 a.m.-noon Friday, May 17, for Frost Bank at 307 S. Mason Road, just south of Interstate 10. Visit www.frostbank.com for information or call Joshua Black at 832-306-8715.

Rope cuttings

Rather than the usual ribbon cuttings held by chambers of commerce, the Fulshear-Katy Chamber of Commerce holds rope cuttings. This week, the chamber will be busy welcoming new businesses into the fold with slew of rope cuttings. The schedule includes:

Hotworx-Katy Fulshear, 5215 FM 1463, Suite No. 100 in Katy. The event is scheduled for 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Thursday, May 16.

Woof Gang Bakery and Grooming, 1510 W. Grand Parkway S. in Katy. The event is scheduled for 4-6 p.m. Thursday, May 16.

Elevate Vision Care, 6630 FM 1463 Road, Suite A400 in Katy. The event is scheduled for 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Friday, May 17.

Allstate Aquila Insurance Agency, 25920 Westheimer Parkway, Suite 350 in Katy. The event is scheduled for 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, May 18.

For more information, go to www.fulshearkaty.com.

Crawfish Boil

Jordan Ranch is hosting an all-you-can-eat crawfish boil from noon to 3 p.m. Saturday, May 18, at The Shed at Jordan Ranch, 30757 Jordan Crossing Boulevard in Fulshear. Tickets are $5. There will be fresh crawfish, childrens activities, crawfish eating contests with prizes and music. Proceeds will benefit Brookwood Community, which provides education leading to jobs, building a sense of belonging, and providing meaning and purpose for adults with disabilities.

For more information or to purchase tickets, go to https://tinyurl.com/y5pzntzr.

rkent@hcnonline.com
From "Bayou City" to "Celeb City," Houston hosted Beyonce and Jay-Z, Emilia Clarke and Wilmer Valderrama over the weekend.

Beyonce and Jay-Z were front row at the Rockets-Warriors game at Toyota Center Friday, while Wilmer Valderrama was in town for pop culture event, Comicpalooza, at the George R. Brown Convention Center.

"Game of Thrones" star, Emilia Clarke, attended both.

Houston Rockets Game 6: Beyonce, Jay Z, Game of Thrones star among celebrities at Rockets-Warriors game

Even a celebrity has to eat. While Emilia Clarke stayed under the radar during her Houston stay, Beyonce, Jay-Z and Wilmer Valderrama all turned to the same Houston hotspot, B&B Butchers & Restaurant, for their steakhouse fix.

Friday, an assistant for Bey and Jay picked up a an order to go for the power couple to enjoy on their private jet out of town, according to a spokesperson for the restaurant.

ON HOUSTONCHRONICLE.COM: Robert Duvall gets his Mexican food fill at Molina's Cantina in Houston

Queen B and Jay-Z feasted on crab cakes, King crab, calamari, brisket ravioli and lamb bacon.

They also order sides of creamed spinach, onion rings, mac 'n' cheese and corn souffle.

For a sweet treat, the famous duo splurged for banana pudding, reportedly Jay-Z's favorite dessert.

Wilmer Valderrama dined at posh B&B Butchers & Restaurant Friday evening, a spokesperson for the restaurant said.

The former "That '70s Show" actor, who was reportedly with his girlfriend, requested a private room.

However, the private dining rooms at the popular restaurant were already booked, leaving the pair to dine in the first-floor main dining area, according to a spokesperson for the restaurant.

The two lingered for an hour and a half, with Valderrama enjoying a 28-day in-house dry-aged A5 ribeye.

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
The stepfather of 4-year-old Maleah Davis, the last person to see her before her disappearance a week ago, was taken into custody Saturday and charged with tampering with evidence  the first major break in a case that has confounded both the public and authorities.

Derion Vence, 26, was arrested by the Gulf Coast Violent Offenders and Fugitives Task Force at a relative's home in Sugar Land without incident. He is charged with "tampering with evidence-human corpse," but police said no remains had been recovered as of Saturday evening. A Houston Police Department spokesman said blood evidence obtained from Vence's apartment has been linked to Maleah.

Vence made his first court appearance Saturday evening before Judge DaSean Jones in the 180th District Court. His bail was set at $1 million, according to Harris County court records.

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Vence had been missing since he reported Maleah's disappearance and police were "actively searching" for him. As recently as five days ago, investigators did not consider Vence a suspect or a person of interest in Maleah's disappearance, though Houston police Sgt. Mark Holbrook told reporters Monday that there were "a lot of blanks" in his story.

Vence told police that he pulled over to check a flat tire around 9 p.m. last Friday while driving to Bush Intercontinental Airport to pick up Bowens, who had been out of state for funeral. He said he was with Maleah and his 1-year-old son when three men approached him and knocked him unconscious, near Interstate 69 and Greens Road. He claimed he blacked out until 6 p.m. Saturday.

When he awoke, he was in Sugar Land with the boy, but Maleah was gone, he told police. He said he walked to Houston Methodist Hospital four hours later and reported the girl missing and the Nissan Altima he was driving stolen.

Police revealed Saturday surveillance video shows someone in that Nissan Altima dropped Vence off at the Methodist Sugar Land Hospital on May 5.

That car was recovered in a Missouri City parking lot Thursday morning, police said. A laundry basket was found in the trunk, along with a gas can, confirming information released by Brittany Bowens, Maleah's mother, on Friday.

Community activist Quanell X, speaking on behalf of Bowens on Friday, said Bowens saw a surveillance video that showed Vence walking out of his apartment with bleach, a laundry basket and a black bag that she believes contained the girl's body.

Bowens believes that Maleah's disappearance was triggered by a confrontation she had with Vence the day before her trip, Quanell X said. She asked Vence about nude photos he allegedly sent to another person, and he "snapped."

NEW CLUES IN CASE: Car involved in missing 4-year-old Maleah Davis case has been found

Bowens also described severe bruising on the little girl's leg on at least one occasion, as well as suspicions she had been molested by Vence.

Court documents show that the girl's grandmother, Brenda Bowens, tried having Maleah and her two siblings placed in her home  rather than in foster care  during a Child Protective Services investigation that began last August.

Maleah was taken into state custody after suffering an unexplained head injury, which was reported as an allegation of physical abuse and neglectful supervision.

Brittany Bowens told her mother that Maleah had "fallen from a tall chair to a marble table" but was fine. During a second hospital visit after the fall, she had a procedure that required half of her skull to be removed.

She had also been hospitalized on July 10, 2018, after vomiting with small amounts of blood, according to court records.

Authorities are still searching for Maleah, though the heavy rains in the Houston area the last two days have delayed the efforts.

Staff writer Samantha Ketterer contributed reporting.

Correction: An earlier version of this article misspelled the suspect's first name. Houston police initially spelled it Darion but now say it is Derion.

nick.powell@chron.com
The Houston Ship Channel reopened Sunday as crews continued to clean up the scene of a collision Friday between two vessels, which spilled an estimated 9,000 barrels of gasoline blend into the busy waterway.

Deep draft ships can now enter and exit the channel, although only while under tow so as to minimize their wakes as salvage operations are conducted, Unified Command officials said at a news conference.

The channel was closed after the 755-foot tanker Genesis River, which was carrying liquefied natural gas, collided Friday afternoon with a tug boat pushing two barges. One barge capsized and the other was damaged, leaking a gasoline product called reformate, a highly flammable chemical that's mixed with gasoline and is dangerous to marine life.

The man-made, 50-mile channel is one of the busiest ports in the world, and even short closures can carry a hefty price tag for companies that have to delay or re-route shipments.

Cleanup efforts continued over the weekend. Officials estimated it will take up to two days to remove the fuel from the cargo tanks of the vessels involved in the collision. The removal has been complicated by the fact that the capsized barge is floating upside down.

Because normal cargo access is underwater, a crew will have to cut through the barge's steel hull to remove its hazardous cargo.

Jim Guidry, executive vice president of Kirby Inland Marine, which owns the barges, said they currently have almost 400 people working to mitigate impacts and clean up the spill.

The Texas Department of State Health Services has halted oyster harvesting in Galveston Bay and advises against eating fish caught north of the line between Texas City Dike and Smith Point.

Already, there have been reported wildlife deaths in the vicinity.

"We have received some reports of wildlife impacts," said Craig Kartye of the Texas General Land Office's oil spill prevention program. "Specifically two dead seagulls located near the source of the incident, one dead raccoon in the city of Kemah and some dead fish at one spot along the west shoreline of Galveston Bay." He said wildlife rehabilitation teams were responding to the reports.

Despite that, he said, the water is not dangerous for humans, which is why they've opted to re-open the channel. Crews deployed 3,800 feet of boom around the barges to contain the spill; more than 12,000 feet of additional boom was being deployed to protect sensitive areas around the bay.

"We've collected 2,700 samples, none of which exceeded the established action levels," he said.

Officials are still investigating the cause of the collision. Capt. Kevin Oditt of the Coast Guard said a team had retrieved voice recordings and data from the vessels and was in the process of collecting statements.

He declined to offer specifics on what he said is an ongoing investigation into the spill, but said that the National Transportation Safety Board will also investigate.

It's not the first investigation into crashes on the 530-foot-wide channel.

In March 2014, a collision closed the channel and caused a spill of 168,000 gallons of bunker fuel oil.

In March 2015, roughly 88,000 gallons of a hazardous additive to gasoline spilled into the channel after another collision.

It was the fifth accident investigated by NTSB in as many years, and prompted the agency's chairman to urge officials to adopt better safety procedures along the channel.

Authorities monitoring the air reported finding one detectable concentration of a volatile organic compound, but said it did not show up in subsequent tests, the Associated Press reported. Residents near the scene had reported a strong smell of gasoline.

Chambers County officials said in a statement Sunday morning that "environmental monitoring stations are in place, and at this time impacts are not being detected within the county."

Guidry said he hopes his company will learn from the spill.

"We're always concerned about incidents like this, and I think the whole industry works together to prevent them," he said. "We'll all learn from this incident and make the Ship Channel safer."

The closure was the first since March, when a massive chemical storage tank fire broke out at Intercontinental Terminals Co. in Deer Park. Petroleum products spilled into nearby waterways during that environmental disaster. That three-day closure cost the energy industry about $1 billion, experts estimated.

The Harris County District Attorney's Office has since filed five environmental charges against ITC, accusing the company of "criminal levels" of contamination.

ITC responded initially that although it had not seen the charges, "there is no question that there was a large fire and an enormous effort to extinguish it which resulted in a discharge into Tucker Bayou."

Maria Burns, director of the University of Houston's logistics and transportation program, estimated at the time that closing the channel for a few days typically costs about $500 million in delayed shipments and lost materials for the thousands of companies that use the channel. She said it could cost another $500 million in indirect costs.

rebecca.schuetz@chron.com

robert.downen@chron.com
The moment Anna Lee Fisher had been waiting for came on a hot summer afternoon in 1983. Five years had passed since Fisher and five other women were chosen to become America's first female astronauts. But she hadn't yet been to space.

Her boss asked to see her in his office. He requested that her husband, who was also in the astronaut training program, come along, too. They sat down at his desk together.

"I'm thinking," her boss said, "of sending Anna."

This was what Fisher, then 33 years old, had wanted. There was only one little thing to consider - and it was currently growing inside her. On the day she was asked to climb into a shuttle and be blasted into the solar system, Fisher was eight and a half months pregnant.

She still didn't hesitate.

"I wasn't about to say no," she said last month in an interview with The Washington Post. "You don't say no to that offer."

And that was how Anna Fisher became the world's first mother to go to space. A few weeks after being chosen for a flight, Fisher gave birth to a daughter, Kristin.

She will soon mark the 35th anniversary of her flight, the day she became an inspirational figure to working moms everywhere - including to her daughter. Kristin is now a District of Columbia-based correspondent for Fox News and the mother of a 16-month old girl.

"I always grew up thinking I could have a demanding full-time job and be a mom," Kristin said. "The example that she set for me, it was never a question. It wasn't until I got pregnant and started thinking about the logistics that I started thinking, 'How did she do this?' "

The answer is something Anna Fisher had to figure out fast. She gave birth to Kristin on a Friday. By Monday, she was back at NASA, carrying the doughnut-shaped pillow that would make it possible to sit down for the team meeting.

She wanted to send a message to her male co-workers and bosses: She might have had a baby, but she was still on the job.

"It was worth it just to see the looks on their faces," she recalled.

Fisher had always planned to have a family and even told the selection committee for the astronaut training program of that plan during her interview. She and her husband, Bill, were emergency room doctors in California in 1977 when they applied to NASA's open call for potential astronauts. Bill wouldn't get in for another two years. But Fisher, at 28 years old, made the cut and moved to Houston.

There were six women in the class of 35 new astronauts - all of whom were determined to ensure their male colleagues treated them as equally qualified. Sally Ride, who would become the first American woman in space, went shopping with Fisher for baggy khaki pants so they would be wearing outfits similar to NASA's men. Fisher never wore makeup at work. She attended the astronauts' spouses' club, so that her colleagues' wives wouldn't feel uneasy about a woman working so closely with them.

For 14 months before her flight, Fisher juggled her training and NASA obligations with caring for her new daughter. She and Bill asked her mom for help and hired a nanny. She started pointing out to reporters that the men on her flight were leaving their children behind, too.

At work, she learned how to serve as "Capcom," the person in mission control who communicates with the astronauts already in orbit. It was an important role, requiring long, intense shifts - one her commander suggested she might want to give up. "You've got Kristin, you're training, it's too much," he said.

Fisher begged him to reconsider, and won. Only when mission control lost the connection with the flight in orbit did Fisher run into the bathroom and pump her breast milk.

"They never had pumping rooms or anything like that," Fisher remembered. " It never even occurred to me to ask for one. It never occurred to any of us to ask for special accommodations for anything."

Soon she was assigned the job of designing the crew patch that would represent her team's flight, STS-51-A. She put six stars on it: one for each astronaut aboard, and one for baby Kristin.

In the weeks before her launch in November 1984, she recorded dozens of videos of herself with Kristin. In the days before, she wrote her daughter a letter:

"If anything happens to me, just know that I love you so much," it said. "Your dad and your grandma will take care of you. And I'll be watching over you."

Her flight was only NASA's second trip using the space shuttle Discovery. She understood the risk she was taking.

On the day she walked out to the launchpad in Florida, her husband used his NASA access to make sure that he, Kristin and Fisher's mom could be there to wave goodbye. Then Fisher climbed aboard Discovery and shot into the sky.

Her flight was a seven-day, 23-hour mission, focused on retrieving and dispatching satellites. Unlike today's astronauts, who can call and videoconference their children, Fisher had no way of communicating with her family while on board. Instead, she would sit at the window of the spacecraft, looking down at Earth while playing a tape she'd brought in her Walkman. It was a recording of Kristin saying, "I luh, I luh." I love you.

After traveling 3.3 million miles, Fisher returned safely home. She slipped the letter she had written to Kristin in her jewelry box, grateful her daughter would never have to read it - but prepared to write another the next time she went to space.

Within a month, she was assigned to another flight. Six weeks before it was set to occur, the Challenger space shuttle exploded. One of the six people who lost their lives that day was Fisher's friend Judy Resnik, who'd joined the astronaut program alongside her.

After the Challenger, the shuttle program ground to a halt, and Fisher took a seven-year leave of absence to raise Kristin and have her second child, Kara.

She returned to NASA in 1996 and went on to become chief of the space station branch and one of the longest-serving astronauts in the agency's history.

Today, 50 American women have been to space, plenty of them moms. Many told Fisher that when they were kids, they wrote to her, and she mailed them a photo and an autograph.

She loved hearing them chatting to each other in NASA's halls, switching effortlessly from talk of spacewalks and mission controls to pediatricians and play dates.

In 2017, Fisher retired from NASA at age 67. The same year, she became a grandmother, and soon found herself helping her daughter navigate the same worries she had when she was a new mom. Kristin's job as a Fox News correspondent means she is often asked to go on reporting trips around the country and the world.

"She calls me and asks about traveling," Fisher said. "I say, 'Do you remember when I was gone when you were that age?' "

Kristin doesn't. She said her mom always asks, "Are you glad that I did it? That I took the time away from you, took that risk and went into space?' "

"And the answer," Kristin said, "is unequivocally, 'Yes.' "

"I told Kristin to not feel guilty for being away," Fisher said. "If you're doing something you love, or you're bringing the money in, you're doing something important for your child."

And when she can, Grandma, or "Nana Anna" as Clara calls her, comes to babysit while Kristin works. In April, Fisher came to Washington to watch Clara on the evening Kristin and her husband attended the White House correspondents' dinner.

They spent the weekend reading some of the books Fisher bought for her granddaughter: "Organic Chemistry for Babies" and "Astrophysics for Babies." Then they went outside for their favorite activity. Fisher plopped Clara into a baby-size swing. She lifted her backward and began to count.

"Five, four, three, two, one," she said. "Blastoff."

Then she let go and watched her granddaughter swing toward the sky.
The 2017 edition of the Wall High School yearbook had something missing - the slogan "TRUMP Make America Great Again!" was edited out of at least one student's T-shirt. Grant Berardo wore the Trump shirt on photo day for his junior class picture. But when the yearbook came out, the slogan wasn't there. Berardo's dark-colored T-shirt was blank.

The former yearbook adviser, Susan Parsons, was blamed for the change and was put on paid leave when Berardo and his family accused her of censoring him.

Now, Parsons is saying it was the school that asked her to do so, and that she opposed the change. In fact, she said, she voted for Donald Trump in the 2016 election.

A secretary at Wall High School in central New Jersey told Parsons, the yearbook adviser, that the student's shirt "has to go," Parsons says in a lawsuit filed Monday, and that the district forbade Parsons from telling news reporters she had opposed the edit.

"The motivating reason for this lawsuit is so that she has the ability to get her story out to the world," Parsons' attorney, Christopher Eibeler, told The Washington Post.

Parsons, a technology teacher who has been with Wall High School since 2003, says she received a death threat, got other harassing messages and heard people outside her home soon after the incident became public. She was denied her annual raise after the district's investigation into the incident and, though she still teaches at the school, no longer oversees the yearbook staff, the lawsuit says.

"This is 'hate mail,' " read an anonymous letter to Parsons, according to the lawsuit. "You deserve it. Deal with it."

Parsons' legal action, first reported by NJ.com, is the latest update to one of many recent incidents in which school districts have drawn public ire for allegedly censoring political or controversial messages.

An Oregon high school student got a $25,000 settlement last year after he said he was punished for wearing a shirt that supported Trump's proposed border wall. In Minnesota, a student said the words "Deport racists" were removed from a photo of his shirt before his high school tweeted it.

Berardo's father previously told The Post that the 2016 presidential contest was the first election his son had shown interest in.

"His question was, 'Is it OK? Did someone do something here that they shouldn't have done?' " Joseph Berardo said in 2017. "That's why I'm pursuing it."

District Superintendent Cheryl Dyer said Tuesday that she investigated the photo's censorship soon after it happened and that the district was considering its legal options.

"I'm confident that when the full facts come to light, all of the actions of this office and the Board of Education will be found to be wholly appropriate," Dyer said in an emailed statement.

Two other students, Wyatt and Montana Dobrovich-Fago, had also complained that their references to Trump were removed from the yearbook. A student on the yearbook staff had mistakenly left out a quote attributed to Trump, the lawsuit says, and the district's outside photographer had cropped a Trump logo out of a photo.

Trump waded into the controversy in 2017 to thank Wyatt and Montana for publicizing the omissions.

"Thank you Wyatt and Montana - two young Americans who aren't afraid to stand up for what they believe in. Our movement to #MAGA is working because of great people like you!" read a post on the president's Facebook page. His campaign sent the students a letter and "Make America Great Again" memorabilia.

Wall High School's administration signs off on all pages of the yearbook every year, the lawsuit says, and it directed Parsons to make several changes in 2017. Parsons says she pushed back on several edit requests and told the administration that the "yearbook should reflect reality."

Dyer told the public that the district's dress code does not ban political speech, the lawsuit says, and that the school had been unaware of the edits. Dyer said the district does not condone censorship, according to the lawsuit.

The district's media policy bans teachers from talking to reporters without the superintendent's consent. Parsons says in the lawsuit that she was reprimanded when she was quoted by the New York Post as saying "We have never made any action against any political party."

Dyer wrote in a letter to parents in 2017 that the yearbooks would be corrected and reissued.

Parsons' lawsuit says the school district's media policy violates her First Amendment rights, and she asks that it be found unconstitutional so she can speak publicly.

"If and when she's able to speak to the media," Eibeler said, "she intends to."
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Investigators found drops of what may be Maleah Davis' blood in her family's Houston apartment and evidence that someone tried to clean it up, according to court documents.

The blood was found in the bathroom and a hallway leading to it at the apartment in the 9800 block of South Kirkwood Drive where Maleah lived with her mother, Brittany Bowens, and her fiance, Derion Vence, who was charged Saturday with tampering with evidence, in this case a human corpse, records show.

A chemical spray revealed more traces of blood that had been cleaned up at some point in the apartment, police said.

Vence, 26, told investigators that "there should be no blood in the home and that no one was recently bleeding," authorities said in the sworn statement.

Police used DNA samples from Maleah's toothbrush to match the blood to a "maternal offspring of Brittany Bowens."

Adding to the grim prospect that Maleah may have been killed is that two police dogs sniffed out "the scent of decomposition" in the silver Nissan Altima that Vence was driving the night of the girl's reported disappearance, documents state. The car was found in a Missouri City parking lot with a gas can and a laundry basket in the trunk.

Houston Police Department officials have not publicly said whether they believe the child is still alive. A body has not been found, and Texas EquuSearch crews have spent days combing near Vence's apartment.

His arrest Saturday at a relative's home  after a week of ignoring calls from police puts investigators at odds with Vence's narrative. He first told police on May 4 at the Houston Methodist Hospital in Sugar Land that while checking on a possible flat tire near Bush Intercontinental Airport, three men knocked him in-and-out of consciousness for nearly 24 hours and that little Maleah had been abducted.

A murder charge may soon be added to Vence's rap sheet, Harris County Assistant District Attorney Chris Handley said while requesting that the suspect be held at the Harris County Jail on a $1 million bond. A magistrate approved his motion.

Vence, who lacks a criminal arrest history in Harris County, is slated to return to court Monday morning.

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A memorial for Maleah

Maleah was on the mind of several women  many of them mothers and grandmothers  who spent their Mother's Day afternoon building a memorial of stuffed animals and toys at the missing girl's front door.

Amber Warner was on the verge of tears as she stood alongside her 4- and- 6-year-old sons.

"I don't see how anyone can do this to her. She's so pretty," Warner said. "I pray that they find her and whoever was involved gets everything they deserve."

Police blocked traffic as Warner, her boys and dozens others marched across Kingwood Drive to pay tribute to Maleah at the apartment where she was last seen alive.

Amber Stanhop was among the mass of people after driving up from Webster so her 5-year-old son, Lyrik, could add a teddy bear to the pile.

Edward Buford, pastor of north Houston's SonRise Community Church, offered up a prayer that Maleah be found.

Buford called on attendees to "look in every ditch, look in every construction site, every neighbor's yard until, God, we locate where this child is."

Maleah's relatives were not among the attendees and a family spokesman could not be reached.

Vence caught on video

A camera that was looming over the Mother's Day crowd had helped investigators fill the holes in Vence's story and track his whereabouts in the days before Maleah's reported disappearance.

The camera attached to an upstairs neighbor's porch spied Vence going in-and-out of the apartment twice on May 3, once while carrying a heavy laundry basket packed with a large black trash bag, according to a probable cause document.

"The basket appears heavy due to the stance (Vence) uses when walking," the investigators wrote.

On the second trip, police believe Vence left the home with cleaning supplies, including a bottle of bleach.

The same camera outside Maleah's apartment may have recorded the last time she was seen alive, according to additional footage reviewed by ABC 13. On April 30, after Bowens left to attend her father's funeral in Massachusetts, the child could be seen trailing Vence into the home while wearing a pink tutu, the TV station reported.

Court documents do not suggest when Maleah may have actually disappeared.

Several hours later, and before Vence says he left to pick up Bowens at the airport, Maleah's biological father, Craig Davis Jr., stopped by the Alief area apartment to pick up his 5-year-old son who was also in Vence's care. During the visit, Vence refused to let Davis see Maleah.

Vence then left for the airport with only his biological 1-year-old son around 6:40 p.m., according to the footage, despite having told police Maleah was with him.

A camera at the hospital's emergency department also disputed Vence's version of what happened.

He told police that after blacking out for nearly 24 hours, he regained consciousness along Highway 6 and hitched a ride with "an unknown female" to the hospital. His son was still with him, but Maleah was gone, he said.

Investigators later found footage of Vence arriving at the hospital in Bowens' Nissan Altima after he claimed to not know where the vehicle went after the alleged abduction, according to documents. It was not known if another adult was in the car had dropped him off.

Traffic cameras in Sugar Land also spotted someone driving the car that afternoon.

As details of Maleah's disappearance emerged during a May 5 news conference, police Sgt. Mark Holbrook acknowledged that there were "a lot of blanks" in Vence's story.

"We're hoping to learn what story is true. What really happened," Holbrook said at the time.

nicole.hensley@chron.com

robert.downen@chron.com
In route news, El Al kicks off new San Francisco service on Monday and Frontier adds an SFO route; Norwegian will increase SFO-London frequencies next winter; Air Italy eyes new U.S. routes; Level adds a U.S. gateway; United begins a transatlantic route from Denver; American announces new routes for next fall/winter and starts flying in more regional domestic markets; Spirit launches several new flights from Raleigh-Durham; and international routes are delayed or dropped by Delta, China's Hainan Airlines and Mexico's Interjet.

United will get some competition on its San Francisco-Tel Aviv non-stop route starting May 13 when Israel's El Al enters the market with a 787, offering business, premium economy and economy seating. While United operates daily B777 flights, El Al plans to offer three departures a week. The eastbound flight, which takes almost 14 hours, will depart SFO at 8 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays and 10:45 p.m. Saturdays. The Israeli carrier also plans to add weekly Las Vegas-Tel Aviv flights starting in June.

In other SFO route news, Frontier launched new service this week from San Francisco to Austin, flying the route four days a week  Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays. And in a schedule update filed by Norwegian, the low-cost transatlantic carrier said it plans to fly from SFO to London Gatwick four times a week when its winter schedule kicks in on October 27. Last winter, when Norwegian's Gatwick flight departed from Oakland, it offered three departures a week. (British Airways, which had been flying Oakland-Gatwick to match Norwegian's service, dropped that route last year as Norwegian moved it across the bay to SFO. Norwegian also moved its Ft. Lauderdale-London Gatwick flights to Miami recently. British Airways had been operating competing seasonal FLL-Gatwick service, and now it plans to drop that route after the current schedule ends September 7.)

Fiji Airways is getting a couple of new Airbus A350-900s this fall, and it plans to start flying one of them from Nadi to Los Angeles next January. The other will go onto the Nadi-Sydney route. The airline currently has a fleet of six Airbus A330s; no word yet on whether the airline's San Francisco route will see the new plane. Fiji's A350s will have 33 lie-flat business class seats configured 1-2-1 along with 301 economy seats. Fiji Airways is a member of the American/British Airways etc. Oneworld alliance.

Air Italy, which recently launched seasonal summer service from both San Francisco and Los Angeles to Milan, now plans to convert one of those routes to year-round status in 2020, chief operating officer Rossen Dimitrov said in an interview with the airline journal FlightGlobal  but he didn't say which one. Air Italy currently serves New York JFK and Miami with year-round schedules. Dimitrov also said the airline expects to add two more North American gateways by next summer, one of them seasonal and one year-round, but he gave no hints as to where they might be. That long feud between United, Delta and American vs. the Big Three Middle Eastern carriers is flaring up again around Air Italy, which is 49 percent owned by Qatar Airways; the U.S. airlines argue that Qatar is using Air Italy as a back door strategy to gain access to more U.S. markets.

Level, the low-cost affiliate of the British Airways/Iberia/Aer Lingus International Airlines Group, plans to add a new U.S. route later this year when it introduces the only non-stop service between Las Vegas and Paris. Level will use an Airbus A330 to fly the route two days a week, operating to Paris Orly rather than CDG. The airline is getting a third A330-200 in September and will use it for the LAS flights starting October 30, offering premium economy and regular economy seating. Flights are already on sale, reportedly with one-way fares as low as $99.

United Airlines last week kicked off the third intercontinental route from its Denver hub, inaugurating daily year-round 787 service to Frankfurt -- a route also served by its Star Alliance partner Lufthansa. The eastbound United flight leaves Denver at 3:45 p.m. and arrives at FRA at 9:20 a.m. United also flies from DEN to Tokyo Narita and London Heathrow, and it offers Frankfurt flights from five other U.S. hubs including San Francisco, Washington Dulles, Newark, Chicago and Houston.

American Airlines this week announced plans to add a number of new routes next fall and winter, including several in Latin America and the Caribbean. The carrier will introduce two new destinations in Mexico, starting twice-weekly E175 flights from Dallas/Ft. Worth to the resort town of Huatulco on December 21 and daily CRJ700 service from Phoenix to Chuhuahua beginning December 18. Also on December 21, American will add twice-weekly DFW-Acapulco service with an E175.

December 21 is American's launch date for new weekly Saturday service from Charlotte to Grenada, DFW to St. Thomas, and LaGuardia-Bermuda (all year-round) as well as Chicago O'Hare-St. Lucia and Chicago-St. Thomas (winter only). Subject to government approvals, American plans to start flying once a day beginning December 18 from New York JFK to Georgetown, Guyana, on the northern coast of South America.

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On the domestic side, American said it will begin year-round daily CRJ200 flights on September 4 from O'Hare to Charleston, West Virginia and from Phoenix to Rapid City, South Dakota, and on September 26 from DFW to St. George, Utah. November 21 is the launch date for AA's New York JFK-Richmond, Virginia service, with three daily E140 flights operating year-round. And on December 21, the airline begins daily year-round service from Miami to both Oklahoma City and Northwest Arkansas Regional Airport with E175s, and from Miami to Columbia, South Carolina with an E145. American will also launch Saturday-only winter flights from Philadelphia to Vail/Eagle, Colorado on December 21 with a 757.

Last week, American started new daily service from Philadelphia to Chattanooga, Tennessee. On August 14, it plans to add service five days a week from DFW to Tri-Cities Regional Airport in northeast Tennessee with an ERJ140, followed on September 4 by new daily E175 service from Philadelphia to Northwest Arkansas Regional Airport in Bentonville.

The latest expansion for low-cost Spirit Airlines is at Raleigh-Durham, where last week it started flying seven new routes, including twice-daily flights to Baltimore/Washington International and daily service to Boston, Detroit, Orlando, Ft. Lauderdale, New Orleans and Chicago O'Hare.

International route changes reported recently by Routesonline.com include plans by Delta to discontinue its seasonal winter service from New York JFK to Rio de Janeiro, which was supposed to resume December 19; a delay in the launch of new twice-weekly 787 non-stop service from Chicago O'Hare to Chengdu, China by Hainan Airlines from June 28 to September 16; and the cancellation of four U.S. routes by Mexico's Interjet, including Los Angeles-Los Cabos effective May 30, LAX-Leon/Guanajuato as of May 31, LAX-Puerto Vallarta on June 1, and New York JFK-Cancun after June 16.

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Chris McGinnis is the founder of TravelSkills.com. The author is solely responsible for the content above, and it is used here by permission. You can reach Chris at chris@travelskills.com or on Twitter @cjmcginnis.
CLEVELAND, Ohio  Several hospitals in Northeast Ohio rated above average for safety and quality in a federal program that assigns star ratings to more than 4,700 hospitals nationally.

Of the 146 Ohio hospitals rated in 2019, 14% were awarded five stars  the highest possible score  from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. Of those, 40% were in Northeast Ohio, including the Cleveland Clinic main campus and three of the systems other hospitals, as well as four of University Hospitals satellite hospitals.

At the national level, only 6% of all hospitals earn a five-star rating.

The Clinic received a five-star rating, UH got a four-star rating and MetroHealth was at a two-star level in 2019. These ratings were unchanged from the last rankings in December 2017.

The ratings look at timeliness and effectiveness of care, re-admissions, mortality and safety, among other quality measures.

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services released new data this year assessing the quality of more than 4,700 hospitals throughout the country. Blue markers here indicate five-star hospitals, green are four-star, yellow are three-star, orange is two-star and red shows one-star hospitals. Hospitals for which no information is available are shown in gray.

CMS Administrator Seema Verma said the ratings and their associated website  Hospital Compare  provide helpful and important information on the safety and quality of our nations hospitals.

But hospital executives and those in the industry say the rating systems methodology is problematic because it doesnt adequately factor in socioeconomic concerns or the complexity of patients, separate hospitals by peer group or accurately weight certain quality measures. They also say the data is too unwieldy to be accessible to patients.

CMSs approach to star ratings has been flawed from the outset, Tom Nickels, executive vice president of the American Hospital Association, said in a prepared statement.

The star ratings program, which was established in 2005, is part of an ongoing push by CMS to encourage transparency in healthcare and empower patients to make more informed choices about their care. Yet finding a way to condense complicated healthcare measures into a single score is difficult, hospital officials say.

Theres not a rating system that Im aware of thats perfect, said Dr. Cynthia Deyling, chief quality officer for the Clinic.

The ratings dont reflect the clinical picture of the patient or how complex the patient is, which can affect the score of a system that cares for high-acuity patients, she said. The star ratings also use old data and vary how certain measures are weighted.

Likewise, hospitals that operate in low-income areas can be hurt in the ratings because theres a lack of resources in the community to assist patients with recovery once they leave the hospital, said Akin Demehin, director of quality policy for the American Hospital Association. Patients in those areas may not have access to a pharmacy or transportation to get to follow-up medical visits.

Thats why safety-net hospitals have often struggled with things like readmissions. The communities they treat face a number of factors that are often beyond the controls of the hospitals, Demehin said.

The ratings also are too complex for most patients to use, hospital officials say.

Unfortunately, the current CMS star rating system is confusing for patients and families, as it does not reflect the aspects of care most relevant to a particular patients needs, Dr. Brook Watts, chief quality officer of MetroHealth, said.

Despite the perceived shortcomings, hospital officials say they do rely on the ratings to find ways to improve internally and to gauge trends in hospital care and performance.

Dr. William Brien, chief medical and chief quality officer for UH, said he keeps an eye on the star ratings because what CMS is measuring tends to be important. But he said the data is hard to use to improve performance because its often old by the time the ratings come out.

You have to always strive to improve outcomes for every individual patient. Thats the way you drive change, not by trying to push the star ratings, Brien said.

CMS in February shared potential changes it may make to the star ratings methodology and invited feedback through the end of March.

CMS will determine what potential changes will be implemented based on the comments, CMS said in an emailed statement. Our top priorities are transparency and responsiveness to stakeholder concerns while meeting consumers need for practical, simple-to-use information to make the best healthcare decisions.

Seeing CMS making changes to improve the system is a positive, Brien said.

This is the government really pushing transparency in healthcare, he said.
CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Clevelands got a quiet crisis: Persistent failure to help young people learn the skills they need to find rewarding work. The mis-match harms the future of our children, hurts local businesses, and hobbles the regions economy. It doesnt have to be this way. Elsewhere, schools and businesses solve this problem together. Children get deeply exposed to career options starting in seventh grade. Before they graduate from high school, theyve got the skills local businesses need.

How can Northeast Ohio do this better? We traveled to Germany, Switzerland and the Netherlands to find out. Well share those stories starting next Sunday, May, 19, in a nine-part series were calling Pathways to Prosperity.
INDEPENDENCE, OhioA decades-old settlement agreement between the city of Independence and developer Perrico Properties is coming closer to completion after the citys approval of work on the final plat of land.

Phase 5 of the development of a 34-home subdivision on what will be Bradford Circle and Linden Lane was recently approved by the city council. This development was part of a Settlement Agreement between the city and Perrico Properties in the late 90s and was amended in the 2010s. The agreement stated the conditions of residential land development for the entire property.

Independence City Engineer Don Ramm said, In general, as long as property owners propose development that is consistent with our Zoning and Building Codes for that property, the City must accept and allow the development to occur, in adherence to the Codes and Ordinances that regulate construction.

The property is a subdivision of Chestnut Woods and is found at the end of Great Oaks Pkwy. The settlement agreement only covers this area and no plans have been made for further development at this time. While the agreement was made several years ago, it was agreed upon before the decline of the residential housing market, so it was not feasible to build at the time of acceptance. Since then, Perrico has developed the property in sections and phases as the market dictated.

The land was pure wooded property until a collaborative effort between Perrico Properties, Pulte Homes, and the City of Independence resulted in the development of new homes. The previous state of the land made it difficult to configure the lots.

City Councilman and Chair of the Streets and Sidewalks Committee, Dale Veverka, explained that there were many creeks and waterways that are considered protected areas and the builders had to work around these natural features. In order to provide the same number of homes per the agreement, the developers created the homes on smaller lots.

Veverka said that a typical home in Independence is on a half-acre and the houses have a standard setback from the road. In this case, the size of each lot is different in dimension. Phase 5 includes lots that range in size from .21 acres to .71 acres.

According to Ramm, the preliminary plans for Phase 5 were approved on December 5, 2017. The final acceptance and dedication plat for Phase 5 is currently being recorded with the County Recorders Office and some new homes have been sold and are ready to be built. While Perrico Properties is the owner and initial developer, after all approvals were received from the city to move forward with construction, Pulte Homes became the builder on record of new homes.

The work in Phase 5 is identical to the work that was completed in Phases 1-4, it is just in another area of the property. Veverka said, It is the most sensible way to develop each piece.

This work includes concrete road pavements, storm sewers and storm water management basins, sanitary sewers, water mains, gas mains, underground electric lines, phone and cable utilities, and single-family residential home construction.

To date, there have been three separate builders who have constructed homes; Perry Homes, Pulte Homes, and Ryan Homes. Veverka said that Ryan Homes was involved for a short time by building a few model homes but has not taken on a larger role in the building since.

Some homes are already built while the rest will be constructed after the lots are purchased. Right now, the homes are builder controlled, so when someone buys a lot, Pulte Homes will be the builder as a part of a packaged deal.

Ramm said, We think Pulte expects the development to be completely built-out in approximately 18 to 24 months.
NORTH RIDGEVILLE, Ohio  Luke Lengel is 20 years old and graduated from North Ridgeville High School in 2017. Soon he will be receiving an associates degree from Lorain County Community College (LCCC) as well as a bachelors degree from the University of Toledo. The confluence of the two is due to the College Credit Plus program at LCCC.

The program is a partnership LCCC has with various universities that allows recommended students to take advanced placement classes for college credits to apply to the two degrees either in high school or at LCCC. Though Lengel will receive a bachelors degree from the University of Toledo, he may not even step foot on the campus, which certainly has its advantages he said.

The price is great, said Lengel. I only pay for books, no tuition and yet I can partake in all the LCCC events and clubs. Lengel said it outweighs the fact that he wont have the traditional four-year college campus experience. I think its worth the path I have taken, he said.

To participate, Lengel said, You have to be recommended by a teacher from the previous year. In scheduling advanced placement (AP) classes, you have to designate that you want an AP, then the school obtains whatever approvals are needed, usually from the last teachers recommendation.

Lengel is working towards his Bachelors degree in computer science and computer engineering and recommends the program to others.

If you have the opportunity to take classes in the College Credit Plus program, he said, you should for sure take advantage of it. I have found the college credit that I have gotten from participating in this program has helped me skip what I would call unnecessary classes and allowed me to focus on my major with specific classes. They were more challenging than regular classes, but I think anyone can be successful in these classes if they simply put in the work.

Lengel also reflected on unexpected opportunities he was afforded at LCCC.

Despite it being a community college and not having the resources that bigger colleges have, he said, I have made lots of friends and gotten to do a lot of things. For one thing, I got to run cross country for LCCC last fall, where I got to travel to places like New York, Massachusetts and Michigan. Also, I got to do a co-op at Crown Equipment during the spring semester, where I got to get work experience in my field and even live in a house with other college students during my time at the company.

Lengel feels solid in his academic choices and emphasizes his enthusiasm in his choice of LCCC. I am more than happy that I chose to attend LCCC and I feel like going this route will set me up for my future, both financially and academically.
NORTH OLMSTED, Ohio  Possession of marijuana, Country Club Boulevard: Officers responded at 9:13 p.m. May 3 to Hampton Inn regarding guests who refused to leave.

A hotel employee told police that three individuals refused to leave after they were kicked out because of a strong odor of marijuana coming from their room.

Police learned the suspects were now in a car in the parking lot, but still had not left. Officers talked with one of the suspects, and they noted smelling marijuana. After first denying possessing any marijuana, the woman turned over a single joint. Police in the womans purse found a small plastic bag of marijuana and another marijuana cigarette.

Police charged the woman with possession of marijuana, a minor misdemeanor. The woman did not have a drivers license or state identification card and said she did not have a passport.

A man who also was in the car was arrested on a warrant from Parma Heights police for failure to appear.

Petty theft, Brookpark Road: Police went at 1:23 p.m. May 3 to Walmart regarding a suspected female shoplifter who was in custody.

A loss prevention officer told officers he has seen the suspect walking through the store picking up toys and clothing. The woman then went through a self-checkout register, where she scanned and paid for some items and didnt scan others.

The loss prevention officer confronted the woman as she left the store. He recovered $182 in items. Police charged the woman with petty theft.

Criminal damaging, Great Northern Plaza: Best Buy employees called police about 3:45 p.m. May 4 to report they had a man in custody who attempted to take some merchandise.

A store loss prevention officer said he watched the suspect start to tear open a PlayStation 4 box, but he dropped the box and tried to leave the store once he noticed he was being watched. The man was stopped as he tried to leave the store. The box was damaged.

The PS 4 is valued at $399.99. The man told police he only wanted the controllers, according to a police report. Police charged the man with criminal damaging.

If you would like to comment on this story, please visit the crime and courts comments section.
WILLOUGHBY HILLS, Ohio  A woman was killed and several others were hurt early Sunday when two vehicles crashed on a highway interchange.

The crash happened about 3:15 a.m. on the highway interchange bridge where Interstate 271 north merges onto Interstate 90 west, Willoughby Hills police said in a news release. Officials believe a 2013 dark gray Nissan Altima was driving the wrong way and crashed into a 2016 white Mazda CX-5 SUV.

Willoughby Hills police, among other local police agencies, had received several calls regarding a car driving the wrong way on the highway, police told cleveland.com Sunday morning. The crash happened while authorities were trying to locate the car.

The driver of the Altima, a 23-year-old Cleveland man, was taken to Cleveland Clinic Hillcrest Hospital for treatment, a news release states.

The SUV was carrying three women and two children, all from Euclid, police say. A 32-year-old passenger of the SUV was pronounced dead at the crash scene.

The other women - ages 56 and 39 - and the children, ages 9 and 11, were also taken to Hillcrest Hospital for treatment. Officials did not say how seriously the four SUV occupants were injured.

The crash closed that stretch of the highway for several hours Sunday morning.

No additional information, including whether the 23-year-old car driver will be charged in connection with the crash, was immediately released. This post will be update if more details on the incident are provided Sunday.

If youd like to comment on this post, please visit the cleveland.com crime and courts comments section.
A pernicious bill seeking to curtail Ohioans protest rights that died at the end of the last General Assembly session is back. And this time, Senate Bill 33 -- part of a nationwide effort to limit protest rights at natural gas pipelines -- appears to be headed for passage. Republican legislators in Ohio who treasure constitutional rights and the rule of law should push back.

SB 33 would make certain types of protest at critical infrastructure facilities like pipelines or telecommunications facilities a third-degree felony, which can carry a prison sentence of nine months to five years. It would also subject organizations supporting such protests to fines ten times the maximum now provided in Ohio law -- that is, up to $100,000 per violation. And whistle-blowers who warn of safety concerns at infrastructure projects could be subject to similar sanctions.

The intent is obvious: to suppress protests or any impediments to such projects, curtailing Ohioans free-speech rights in the process, along with the right to peaceable assembly guaranteed in the state constitution.

In Ohio Senate testimony last month, Jen Miller, executive director of the League of Women Voters of Ohio, warned that the bills vague language could make something as innocuous as posting notice of a legal protest on a telephone poll subject to the bills criminal charges and fines. SB 33s harsh penalties also could intimidate whistleblowers into remaining silent on safety hazards, Miller warned.

As our editorial board noted in opposing a version of this bill that died at the end of last year, SB 33 is unneeded. Ohio already has perfectly adequate laws on criminal trespass, criminal mischief and aggravated trespass. Nor can backers of the law point to a single incident in Ohio that merits such legislation.

Yet earlier this month, SB 33 flew out of the Ohio Senate on a largely party-line 24-8 vote, with the support of a number of usually level-headed local Republican lawmakers. They included Sens. John Eklund of Geauga County, Kristina Roegner of Summit County and Kirk Schuring of Stark County.

The bill is now pending in the Ohio House Public Utilities Committee, led by Rep. Jamie Callender of Lake County.

It should be shelved, for the good of all Ohioans and to preserve the free-speech rights that all of us treasure.

About our editorials: Editorials express the view of the editorial board of cleveland.com and The Plain Dealer -- the senior leadership and editorial-writing staff. As is traditional, editorials are unsigned and intended to be seen as the voice of the news organization.

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You don't have to go to med school, earn a doctorate, complete a residency halfway across the country, and rack up thousands in student debt to land a top-paying job within the health care field. While physicians and surgeons continue to earn some of the highest salaries in the nation, and top the payroll for medical institutions, plenty of other positions require less education while paying salaries as high as $167,000 a year. CNBC Make It analyzed occupational data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics to discover which health-care jobs pay the most without requiring a doctorate. The resulting 14 roles range from helping care for newborn babies to treating communication disorders to designing artificial limbs, and some can be landed with an associate's degree. The best part? Not only are all these jobs offering median wages of at least $69,000, they are all poised to dramatically grow over the next seven years, some by as much as 37%. That means workers in these high-demand health-care fields can look forward to keeping their well-paying gigs for a long time to come and likely expect a nice salary increase as their skills become more sought after. Below are 14 high-paying jobs you should consider if you're interested in helping people, but aren't keen on the idea of becoming a doctor:

Nurse anesthetists

Nurse anesthetist asiseeit | Getty Images

Median annual wage: $167,950

Projected job growth through 2026: 16% These nurses provide anesthesia and related care during surgical, therapeutic, diagnostic, and obstetrical procedures. Before a procedure begins, they are responsible for reviewing a patient's current medication as well as any allergies or illnesses they might have to ensure anesthesia can be safely administered. They then give the patient anesthesia or apply a local anesthesia to numb a certain area of the body. They will remain with a patient throughout a procedure to check their health and adjust the anesthesia as necessary. To become one of these advanced practice registered nurses, workers must earn at least a master's degree from an accredited medical program. To qualify, they'll need to have a registered nursing license before pursuing such education. Prospective nurse anesthetists must also have one year of clinical experience as a prerequisite for admission to an accredited nurse anesthetist program. Candidates typically have experience working as a registered nurse in an acute care or critical care setting.

Physician assistants

FatCamera | E+ | Getty Images

Median annual wage: $108,610

Projected job growth through 2026: 37% Commonly called PAs, these workers assist physicians and surgeons examine, diagnose and treat patients. They may be called upon to review a patient's medical history, examine a patient, order and interpret diagnostic tests, diagnose a patient's injury or illness, provide treatment, prescribe medication, and counsel patients about their health.The extent to which a PA must be supervised by physicians or surgeons differs from state to state, but in rural and medically underserved communities, PAs commonly function as primary care providers at clinics where a physician is present only one or two days per week. To become a PA, you'll need a master's degree from an accredited program. It typically takes two years of full-time study to complete. All states require physician assistants to be licensed, meaning they must pass the Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination. In addition, state licensure laws mandate that a physician assistant must hold an agreement with a supervising physician since collaboration between physicians and physician assistants is required for practice.

Nurse practitioners

Hero Images | Hero Images | Getty Images

Median annual wage: $107,030

Projected job growth through 2026: 36% These nurses serve as primary and specialty care providers. They often work independently or in collaboration with physicians. They assess patients to determine the best way to treat or manage a person's health issue. Many nurse practitioners specializing in caring for certain needs, such as geriatric health, pediatric health, or psychiatric and mental health. To become one of these advanced practice registered nurses, workers must earn at least a master's degree from an accredited medical program. They must also have a registered nursing licenses before pursuing education in one of these advanced practice roles such as nurse practitioner.

Nuclear medicine technologist

Monty Rakusen | Getty Images

Median annual wage: $76,820

Projected job growth through 2026: 10% These health-care workers prepare radioactive drugs for patients to assist with imaging or therapeutic purposes. They operate the imaging equipment used to diagnosis and treat patients. They may also help physicians in researching the uses of radioactive drugs. Nuclear medicine technologists typically need an associate's degree from an accredited nuclear medicine technology program. Although, some technologists become qualified if they have a degree in a related health field and complete a 12-month certificate program. They commonly need a certification in the field and some states may require a license to practice.

Speech-language pathologists

KatarzynaBialasiewicz | iStock | Getty Images

Median annual wage: $77,510

Projected job growth through 2026: 18% Sometimes called speech therapists, these workers diagnose and treat communication and swallowing disorders in children and adults. Most speech-language pathologists working today hold a master's degree from an accredited program. All states regulate this role, and most, require a license. In states that do mandate licensure, pathologists need at least a master's degree from an accredited program, supervised clinical experience, and to pass an exam.

Genetic counselors

Pregnant woman on counseling appointment, talking about pregnancy. NoSystem images | E+ | Getty Images

Median annual wage: $80,370

Projected job growth through 2026: 29% Genetic counselors assess individual or family risk for a variety of inherited conditions, such as genetic disorders and birth defects by studying patients' genes through DNA testing. They provide information to other health-care providers as well as to patients concerned with developing or passing down inheritable medical conditions. Genetic counselors typically need a master's degree in genetic counseling or genetics, as well as certification through the American Board of Genetic Counseling.

Radiation therapists

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Median annual wage: $82,330

Projected job growth through 2026: 13% Part of the health-care team called in to treat cancer, these therapists operate the machines that deliver concentrated radiation therapy to a patient's tumor. They are also responsible for explaining treatment plans to patients, determining the region of the body receiving treatment, and checking for unusual reactions. Employers usually prefer to hire applicants with at least an associate's degree in radiation therapy, though some companies accept those who've completed a certificate program. In most states, radiation therapists must be licensed or certified. Requirements vary depending on the state but typically include passing a national certification exam.

Occupational therapists

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Median annual wage: $84,270

Projected job growth through 2026: 24% These workers help people regain or develop the skills necessary for daily living. They work with patients to complete therapeutic exercises and stretches, engage children with developmental disabilities in play activities to help with coordination or socialization, and teach patients how to use special equipment that will make tasks, such as eating, easier. They work with occupational therapists to create and implement each patient's treatment plan. Most occupational therapists enter the occupation with a master's degree in occupational therapy.

Nurse midwives

Jose Luis Pelaez Inc | DigitalVision | Getty Images

Median annual wage: $103,770

Projected job growth through 2026: 21% These nurses specialize in caring for women. They perform gynecological exams and provide family planning services and prenatal care. They also deliver babies; manage emergency situations during labor, such as hemorrhaging; repair lacerations; and may provide surgical assistance to physicians during cesarean births. Nurse midwives can act as primary care providers for women and newborns. To become one of these advanced practice registered nurses, workers must earn at least a master's degree from an accredited medical program. They must also have a registered nursing licenses before pursuing education to become a midwife nurse.

Registered nurses

Median annual wage: $71,730

Projected job growth through 2026: 15% These workers provide and coordinate a patient's care. They assess a patient's condition and record their observations, administer medicines and treatments, assist doctors and other health-care professionals, operate and monitor medical equipment, help perform diagnostic testing, and teach patients how to manage their illness or injuries. There are three common paths to becoming a registered nurse: earn a bachelor's degree in nursing, earn an associate's degree in nursing, or a earn a diploma from an approved nursing program. Regardless of the education path, all registered nurses must be licensed, meaning they've graduated from an approved program and passed the National Council Licensure Examination. Some states also require that applicants pass a criminal background check to obtain their license.

Orthotists and prosthetists

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Median annual wage: $69,120

Projected job growth through 2026: 22% Orthotists and prosthetists design and fabricate medical devices, such as artificial limbs and braces, as well as and measure and fit patients for them. To become one, workers must earn a master's degree in orthotics and prosthetics. Such programs typically take two years to complete and are followed by a residency that has been accredited by the National Commission on Orthotic and Prosthetic Education. Some states require orthotists and prosthetists to be licensed.

Magnetic resonance imaging technologists

Mature radiologist communicating with a senior male patient who is about to receive an MRI Scan. skynesher | E+ | Getty Images

Median annual wage: $71,670

Projected job growth through 2026: 14%



As their title suggests, these technologists operate magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanners to create diagnostic images used for determining medical diagnoses and the staging of diseases. Many MRI technologists start out as radiologic technologists. An associate's degree is a common education requirement for this post but a few states also require a license.

Diagnostic medical sonographers

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Median annual wage: $72,510

Projected job growth through 2026: 23%



These health-care workers specialize in creating sonograms or ultrasounds of the body's organs and tissues using special imaging equipment. Their images help physicians assess and diagnose medical conditions as sonograms are often the first imaging tests performed when disease is suspected. Sonographers can specialize in scanning certain parts of the body such as breast tissue, the heart or the female reproductive system to track a developing baby's health. Becoming a diagnostic medial sonographer requires at least an associate's degree in sonography. Employers prefer candidates that have a professional certification, have graduated from programs accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Program, and have a basic life support certification.

Dental hygienists

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With his perpetual deep tan and coiffed white hair, Angelo Mozilo, for many, was one of the enduring faces of the financial crisis.

Too enduring, in fact, for his taste.

Looking back more than a decade later, the former head of Countrywide Financial, whose sprawling subprime loan business symbolized the financial recklessness of the real estate bubble, said he's become a convenient scapegoat without justification.

"Everybody blames the subprime. To me, it's nonsense," he said this week at the SALT 2019 conference in Las Vegas. "If you take the totality of the subprime assets, the value of the subprime business that existed at the time ... it was a puddle in an ocean. But it's an easy target for the politicians and media to attack, to rile people up about. But it was not the cause at all."

"Real estate values became very, very inflated; asset values throughout the financial industry became very, very inflated; and a bubble was created, and it didn't take much to penetrate that bubble," he added.

Most historical accounts remember things differently.

Loans to unqualified buyers are generally seen as the flame that lit the financial crisis's fuse. When housing prices began to deteriorate, borrowers defaulted in droves. That set off a panic on Wall Street, which had underwritten and securitized those loans using exotic, opaque financial instruments that lost value due to the defaults. A liquidity crisis erupted when the overnight lending business between big banks fell apart, leading to the seminal Sept. 15, 2008 collapse of investment bank Lehman Brothers.

Financiers became the villains of the crisis. Mozilo was among those marched in front of Congress to explain their actions. The huge amounts of money made by industry executives became an easy target for politicians, as information came to light that Mozilo made more than $400 million during a seven-year stretch leading to 2006, when the market began to come apart.

Mozilo remembers the time as a horrible personal period for himself and his family, which he said was unwarranted for a company that he said merely wanted to make financing available to constituents, primarily minorities, who couldn't go to traditional banks.

"We did what we felt was right for the industry, for the company, for our shareholders," he said. "I hated to see my family go through this. I hated to see my poor wife go through this. Constant banging on our door, breaking of windows  the things that went on were unbelievable."

Ultimately, Bank of America absorbed Countrywide as the company lost astounding amounts of money and its shares plunged. Although the company faced accusations that it duped borrowers into mortgages they didn't understand, Mozilo was never charged with a crime.

Looking back now, he said his reputation was sullied unduly, but he does not seek revenge.

"Of course it bothers me. It affected my reputation, it affected my family, it had a profound impact on my entire life. So I cared," he said. "Then a lot of years went by, and my wife passed away, and I turned 80 years old, and now I don't care. There other things more important in life."

The audience at SALT, made up mostly of hedge-fund managers and other wealth management pros, applauded.
"The average American voter sympathizes with the idea that we're getting taken to the cleaner by the Chinese," said Robert Kuttner, co-editor of The American Prospect and a professor at Brandeis University's Heller School.

But despite steady pushback from mainstream economists, many of whom claim that the U.S. economy's recent gains have come in spite of tariffs, Trump's populist rhetoric on trade represent perhaps his most consistent political stance and may be one of his strongest assets in what is expected to be a long and bitter reelection fight in 2020.

No deal emerged from the two days of negotiations in Washington, D.C. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said there were no further trade talks planned as of Friday afternoon.

Stock indexes see-sawed throughout the week as the drama unfolded. Hours after the tariffs were imposed, the self-described " tariff man " president reaffirmed his belief that the taxes on imports "will make our Country MUCH STRONGER, not weaker."

Most recently, the president threw into doubt ongoing trade negotiations with China by hiking tariffs on $200 billion in Chinese goods from 10% to 25%  a threat he issued last Sunday , even as a Chinese delegation prepared to travel to the U.S. for high-level trade talks that week.

Fueled by a deep-rooted nationalism and pride in his own skills as a dealmaker, Trump has wielded the threat of tariffs during his presidency as a key weapon for retaliation against countries he accuses of taking advantage of the U.S. But long before he took office, Trump was railing against what he deemed unfair trade through "globalist" deals like the North American Free Trade Agreement or the Trans-Pacific Partnership.

President Donald Trump 's decision to slap China with additional tariffs , after hinting for weeks that a groundbreaking trade deal was near complete, shocked the markets  but it shouldn't have.

Trump's views on trade, tariffs and multinational trade deals were set in stone long before he became president.

In the 1980s, Trump lambasted Japan for "taking advantage of" the U.S., along with other countries. He railed against the trade deficits the U.S. had amassed with Japan and other trade partners. "It's time for us to end our vast deficits by making Japan, and others who can afford it, pay," Trump wrote in an open letter "To The American People" that ran as a full-page newspaper ad in 1987.

During Japan's economic boom in the '80s, the U.S. became a major importer of the island nation's cars and electronics, giving rise to a populist backlash.

Trump capitalized on that environment, watering the seeds of a fiercely competitive view of international relations that would later resonate with millions of working-class Americans who saw their industries and jobs dwindle amid globalization.

Trump's depiction of the U.S. being ravaged by trade wasn't all wrong. "Previous administrations had a kind of willfully naive view of protectionism that was being engaged in by other countries ... and how it harms U.S. industry," Kuttner said. "In that respect, Trump used trade as part of his general story about economic nationalism."

As president, Trump has boasted about the advantages of protectionism. "Trade wars are good, and easy to win," Trump tweeted in March 2018, as his administration dangled steel and aluminum tariffs. "When we are down $100 billion with a certain country and they get cute, don't trade anymore  we win big. It's easy!"

He had entertained the idea of a trade war with Japan, in nearly identical terms, in 1999. "Perhaps there has to be a trade war. It's not going to last very long because Japan, if they don't sell to this country, they go out of business, OK?" Trump said, The Wall Street Journal reported.

His song on trade remained largely the same through the next two decades, even as his other political views began to shift.

Years before he entered the race for the White House in 2016, Trump had been a registered Democrat who was pro-choice and had advocated for universal health care. By the time he became a presidential candidate, Trump had reversed all of that, re-branding himself as a Republican culture warrior while continuing to tout his business acumen.

That transformation never extended to trade, however  putting him at odds with Republicans on one of the sturdiest planks in its platform. But while Trump's was one of the few Republican voices espousing protectionism, it was also the loudest.

"The Trans-Pacific Partnership is another disaster done and pushed by special interests who want to rape our country, just a continuing rape of our country," Trump said of the 12-member trade pact in June 2016. The Trump administration later withdrew the U.S.' signature from that deal.

NAFTA, which Trump had called "the worst trade deal ever," has been renegotiated into a new trilateral deal with Canada and Mexico, known as the USMCA. With a few key distinctions, it leaves the original deal largely intact. The USMCA has not yet been approved by Congress with both parties calling for changes.

Trump has been accused of economic isolationism by critics who see his most radical comments as being altogether anti-trade.

At a rally in Florida on Wednesday, Trump tore into China, saying "We won't back down until China stops cheating our workers and stealing our jobs."

In "Fear," the tell-all book about the Trump White House, author Bob Woodward reports that Trump edited a speech by writing, "Trade is Bad."

"Though he never said it in a speech," Woodward wrote, "he had finally found the summarizing phrase and truest expression of his protectionism, isolationism and fervent American nationalism."

Trump, who now enjoys support from the vast majority of Republicans, appears to have catalyzed a huge shift away from the free-trade position that had been championed by the GOP for decades.

A March 2016 Pew Research poll, for instance, found that 53% of Republicans viewed free trade agreements as a "bad thing" for the U.S., compared with 34% of Democrats. Two-thirds of those Republican respondents who supported Trump agreed.

But some experts argue that, despite some tariffs and his relentlessly incendiary rhetoric, Trump hasn't actually governed like that much of a protectionist.

Kuttner said Trump has shown his administration is not serious about some of the policies he's previously touted, such as so-called Buy American and Hire American laws.

While his tariffs have "really managed to piss off the EU," Kuttner argued that they are not large enough to significantly affect the overall economy or domestic politics. "It's just not that big a deal" in those areas, he said.

Robert Scott, trade expert at the Economic Policy Institute, summed up Trump's governance on trade more bluntly: "Smoke and mirrors," he said, "and trade policy by press release."
Even if your company offers flexibility and support, balancing a career and kids is an enormous challenge. And what about having a baby and juggling it all when you're your own boss and employer? According to the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development, the U.S. is the only industrialized country that does not require employers to provide paid maternity leave. Under the Family Medical Leave Act of 1993, anyone who works for a company with 50 or more employees is allowed up to 12 weeks of leave without pay. Those who work for small businesses have no legal protection at all. Companies like Facebook, Twitter, Google and Amazon have garnered attention in recent years for going beyond government requirements to offer an extended amount of paid leave for new mothers. Netflix offers up to a full year of paid time off for new parents after a child's birth or adoption. But policies like these still aren't the norm, and even with generous measures in place at some companies, many mothers still feel unsupported. Studies show that 34% of women do not return to their job after having a baby. Of those who do return, 73% said they made their choice strictly for financial reasons and 23% said they felt like their employer could have provided better postpartum flexibility. Bestselling management author and CNBC contributor Suzy Welch has said that the challenges women face at work could be a leading factor in more women pursuing entrepreneurship. "What is happening now is there is an off-ramp of women who want to be in business and have more control and run their own thing," Welch said on CNBC's "Power Lunch" in 2018. CNBC Make It spoke to four women entrepreneurs about their own challenges with taking maternity leave (or, in some cases, not taking it) while running a company, how it affected their businesses and the advice they have for other entrepreneurs considering motherhood today.

Leila Lewis, CEO, Be Inspired PR and Inspired By This

Be Inspired PR CEO Leila Lewis Photo credit: McKenzie Coyle Photography

Leila Lewis is the CEO and founder of public relations agency Be Inspired PR. She's also the founder of the lifestyle site Inspired By This which offers inspirational content on motherhood, marriage, career, weddings and home decor. Lewis also has four young children, ages 6, 4, 2 1/2 and 6 months. As an entrepreneur, did you have any initial concerns about taking maternity leave? Absolutely! With my first child six years ago, I was anxious about both being a new mom and the impact it would have on my company. I took two months off and then eased back in the third month. I wasn't prepared for what the transition would be like. It was really hard. What steps did you take to prepare for your maternity leave? I was not very prepared the first time, which is understandable since I had no idea what to expect. When I had baby number two I was more accessible and was back on email with staff and clients two weeks later and working from home a lot during the time that was supposed to be my "maternity leave." With baby number three, I was on email with my staff and advising on client accounts within a week. What I discovered for my business when I had my first child was that my maternity leave auto-reply was deterring media, new clients and opportunities. So I didn't put one on for my second, third or fourth maternity leaves and I forwarded incoming emails to my team, which allowed me to still be accessible as needed. I will also share that I had a long-time client abruptly end their contract with me in the middle of my first maternity leave for no real reason other than they just didn't hear from me as much. It shook me and it left an extremely significant impact on how I managed my maternity leaves moving forward. Looking back, what do you wish you had known ahead of time? You can read up on what to do during this time and prepare as much as possible, but until you're in the throes of surviving the juggle of motherhood and entrepreneurship, I don't think there is any advice that will help. For me, I needed to go through it. I do wish with my first baby I wouldn't have felt the pressure to go back to work so quickly and leave her at home. I didn't feel that my clients would be okay with a baby at a meeting or be flexible on conference calls around the baby's eating and sleeping schedule. However, with each baby I got more comfortable and I found ways to blend mommy life and work life in a way that worked for me. Now I travel with my kids, bring them to meetings, and I'm unapologetic about how I integrate my babies into my work life. What challenges did you encounter when you returned to work? The biggest challenge when I didn't bring my daughter back to work with me was I wasn't able to continue to breastfeed any longer. She quickly became exclusively bottle-fed by three months since I was pumping when I wasn't with her. It was okay with me at the time, but I would have done that differently looking back. After each subsequent maternity leave, I proceeded to bring babies to work with me, and I event set up a full nursery in my office. It was a game-changer and so special to get to be with my baby full-time and be back at work doing what I love. The biggest challenge was working meetings and calls around the babies' schedule and stepping out to feed them. I cut back to one meeting and one call per day while my babies were with me at work because it was too stressful to do more than that.

I had a long-time client abruptly end their contract with me in the middle of my first maternity leave for no real reason other than they just didn't hear from me as much. Leila Lewis

What advice do you have for entrepreneurs preparing for motherhood? Take that time off  at least eight weeks  and also don't stress about leaving the business completely. It's okay to check in with your team or clients while the baby is napping and you've already fed yourself and possibly even showered. However, be sure that there are boundaries in place so you are making your new life as a mom your number one priority during this precious time. It will go super fast and you'll never regret spending that time with your baby. When you look back at this time you will not remember what you were working on or what meeting you didn't take, but you will remember that time with your child. Also, don't be afraid to bring your baby to work. We need more acceptance of little babies in the workplace, and as mompreneurs, we need to give ourselves the permission to do so.

Mattie James, lifestyle blogger and influencer

Lifestyle blogger, podcaster and Youtuber Mattie James Photo Credit: Erica Simmons

Mattie James is an Atlanta-based lifestyle blogger, podcaster and YouTuber who creates style, beauty and branding content. She's also the mother two young girls, ages 4 and 16 months. As an entrepreneur, did you have any initial concerns about taking maternity leave? During my first maternity leave, I was still at my 9-5 so of course my leave was very fixed. For my second maternity leave, it was the first time I had taken maternity leave as an entrepreneur and I really didn't know how to approach it because I was like, "OK, I'll take three months off. That's what I got in the corporate world. Or, I'll take eight weeks, you know?" So I ended up saying I'll take 12 weeks off. In that time-frame, I knew that my team would still be working and that we'd still have payroll and stuff like that. But I really do love what I do and I think that sometimes I can teeter on the line of being a workaholic, especially since not having a safety net can make you nervous about not doing anything for three full months. Also, since I work from home and create a lot of content on my phone or on my laptop, it wasn't that much of a stretch for me to say yes to a couple of things during the time that was supposed to be my maternity leave. So I guess, in the end, I never really took the full [12 weeks] of absence. What steps did you take to prepare for your maternity leave? I definitely had a few meetings with my team to just say, "This is what I would like done," and "This is what I would like for you to handle." We had about three separate meeting on how to handle things, whether it was about potential business opportunities or how to run the business on a day-to-day basis. Looking back, what do you wish you had known ahead of time? I wish I knew to really plan ahead and to think about every little thing. I think sometimes we are like, "Oh, while I have the time off I will be able to do that." But you're so exhausted and you're so tired and the eight to 12 weeks that you said you would take off really goes by in a blink. What challenges did you encounter when you returned to work? With my first daughter, I just went back to my 9-5 and my grandmother was watching her at the time. But, my grandmother no longer lives in Atlanta and so I didn't have the luxury of her helping to take care of my second baby. So for a second I was like, "Maybe I can just balance doing my work and watching the baby." But, that's just not my personality type. I need to be completely focused on one or the other, and if my baby is in the room, then my baby will be my focus. And so that was hard and by the time she was six months I made the decision to send her to daycare. What advice do you have for entrepreneurs preparing for motherhood? I say just plan ahead and then whatever you think you need financially, try to double it or triple it, because things happen all the time. Like, you may have said that you wanted three months off, but now you realize you need four months off. So again, I say plan ahead and if you're in a position where you work with a team then really be transparent and vocal about what needs to be done and how you would like things handled. I think it's definitely not the time to sit on your hands because when you have a newborn who is hungry and who needs to be fed, or changed, or bathed or held, you're not going to necessarily have the mental capacity to want to answer questions from your team that could have been answered ahead of time.

Cara Clark, CEO and founder, Cara Clark Nutrition

Certified nutritionist Cara Clark Photo credit: Cara Clark

Cara Clark is a California-based certified nutritionist who works with individuals and groups to promote healthy eating through her company Cara Clark Nutrition. Clark has four daughters, ages 9, 7, 6 and 3. As an entrepreneur, did you have any initial concerns about taking maternity leave? What's maternity leave? Just kidding! But seriously, I didn't actually take any time off so to speak. I somewhat loosened my workload by taking on fewer clients and opportunities, but I never even put up an auto-response on email. During the birth of my last two children, my business was growing like wildfire and I was just doing my best to keep my head above water. So my concerns were less about taking leave and more about managing my home, my work and somewhat keeping my sanity. Although you didn't take any maternity leave, about how many weeks would you say you scaled back on your workload? I wasn't able to take any time off. But, I did feel like I had a smaller workload for at least four weeks. Looking back, what do you wish you had known ahead of time? I wish I had been better about delegating then. I remember having fires to put out from the hospital bed, and wished I had someone to take care of them. I do now though, because I learned from how hard that season was. What challenges did you encounter when you returned to work? It felt like a never-ending game of catch- up. I guess you can say that challenge never really goes away, because if it's not new babies, then it's sports, and school schedules, or sick kids or traveling. It is always something when you run your own business and household. What advice do you have for entrepreneurs preparing for motherhood? Hire help for the work you don't love. Whether it's in the home: laundry, cleaning, meal prep. Or if it's for work: admin, emails, etc. During life after baby, all I really wanted to do was be with all my babies, sitting on the floor, making memories or just being. I suggest utilizing help for all the other things that need to be done.

Makini Regal Martin, lifestyle blogger, owner, Makini Regal Designs

Event designer and lifestyle blogger Makini Regal Martin Photo credit: Makini Regal Martin

Makini Regal Martin is a lifestyle blogger and event planner who owns the Brooklyn-based events company Makini Regal Designs. She's also the mother of a 16-month-old daughter. As an entrepreneur, did you have any initial concerns about taking maternity leave? Oh yes, absolutely. I think once I got married and knew that I would be embarking on trying to become a parent, the first thing I thought to myself was, "Okay, how does this work with being self employed? Am I going to give myself a certain time off? What's going to happen with my clients?" It was a huge concern, but I just decided that I would focus on getting through a healthy pregnancy and just sort of go with the flow. That was obviously not the smartest plan, because I did not really have a good plan for entering motherhood and then balancing my business. What steps did you take to prepare for your maternity leave? I think the only real preparation that I did was try to transition someone else who works on my team into my role so that person could handle all of the events that we had on our calendar. I thought that would be a good way to sort of give me a little bit of time to focus on being a new mom while still running my business. But I ended up not making the best choice. I think everyone thinks that they can run a business until they're in that position where they have to be everything from the marketing person to the PR person.

We see a lot of people, especially on social media, doing everything and they're juggling all these roles and looking fabulous while doing it. But for me, the reality was that it was very difficult to manage. Makini Regal Martin
"She was always reminding me that I mattered," Saldana recently told CNBC Make It during a conversation about her work with the Chivas Venture Global Final , a competition in which social entrepreneurs vie for a piece of a $1 million fund.

Such is the case for actress Zoe Saldana, who says the advice that's helped her thrive in the entertainment industry came from her mother.

Many powerful women  including Michelle Obama  credit their mothers for giving them good life advice that later helped their careers.

"She was like, 'don't forget about you,'" Saldana says. "Don't forget about your happiness. Don't forget about your beauty. Don't forget about your opinion."

The actress says that she "didn't know how powerful that [advice] was going to be" until she faced challenges as a woman and a Latina in Hollywood.

Saldana has starred in hit movies like "Guardians of the Galaxy," "Avatar" and "Star Trek," and has racked up a number of awards for her work. Now, as the founder of BESE  a digital media brand that aims to combat the lack of diversity in mainstream media  she says she feels the pressure to prove herself "twice as hard, because I'm a woman and I'm the CEO of my own company."

No matter how far she's come, Saldana says that when she's faced with situations in in which she feels she's being underestimated, she returns to the advice she got from her mom, and manages challenges "with kindness and respect and patience, because my mother repeatedly reminded me that I mattered."

Don't miss: Kevin O'Leary on college admissions scandal: 'I'll tell you who you really screwed: Your kid'

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A shop owner sells a pack of cigarettes to a customer in San Francisco. Getty Images

A movement to raise the smoking age across the U.S. to 21 has an unlikely supporter: Big Tobacco. A dozen states and more than 450 local governments have already increased the minimum age to 21 from 18. Congress will soon consider a federal ban, with Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell planning to introduce a bill and a number of lawmakers already submitting their own legislation. Altria, Juul and British American Tobacco  the largest U.S. cigarette and e-cigarette manufacturers  are supporting the efforts. Lawmakers and regulators are pressuring the companies to fix a teen vaping "epidemic" that has vexed parents, teachers and public health advocates.

PR move?

"This is a public relations maneuver in order to deflect attention from pressure the [Food and Drug Administration] has put on them," said Rob Crane president of the Preventing Tobacco Addiction Foundation. Sales, measured by the volume of cigarettes shipped, are already declining by about 4% every year. If the minimum age to buy tobacco products increased to 21 in all 50 states, that rate would bump up to about 4.6%, Cowen analyst Vivien Azer estimates. That figure does not include e-cigarettes, which could be at greater risk given federal data show more teenagers are vaping than smoking. Still, companies wouldn't be giving up much, especially compared to more onerous restrictions like banning flavors or pulling some products off the market altogether. Lawmakers and regulators are already debating both possibilities. "Do we worry the marketplace could be restricted for smokers who benefit from the products because of the youth issue? That's part of it, but frankly it's the right thing to do," Juul CEO Kevin Burns said in an interview.

Smoking starts young

Most smokers start before they turn 18, making youth prevention a top priority for health groups. Crane has been advocating to raise the tobacco buying age since 1996. He hardly got anywhere until 2005, when Needham, Massachusetts became the first town in the U.S. to raise the age to buy cigarettes and other tobacco products to 21. Hawaii became the first state to hike the age to 21 in 2015. The issue still wasn't a top priority for lawmakers. Then came Juul. After decades of successfully convincing teens not to smoke cigarettes, teen tobacco use soared last year thanks to e-cigarettes. Then-FDA Commissioner Scott Gottlieb told the country's top e-cigarette manufacturers to come up with solutions.

Changing position

Raising the age to buy tobacco emerged as one. Altria, which sells best-selling cigarette brand Marlboro and owns a 35% stake in Juul, announced in October it supports raising the tobacco buying age to 21 after years of opposing the move. "We changed our position, quite frankly," said Jennifer Hunter, senior vice president of corporate citizenship at Altria Client Services. "When you have a regulator that has characterized the rise in youth vapor as an epidemic and has called for the industry to do more, we stepped up and said that was one of the things we should support." British American Tobacco also reversed its opposition in October. The company thought it was a "reasonable approach" to preventing teens from accessing tobacco products, said Michael Shannon, Vice President Communications and Policy at Reynolds American, a unit of BAT. Juul started supporting the campaign, called T21, in April of 2018.

Moving fast

Juul has spent more than $2 million running ads supporting T21. Altria said it's early in the campaign, but it estimates it's spent "in the seven figures." Their efforts are working. Of the 12 states that have passed T21 laws since 2015, eight did so this year. Yet public health groups say that might not necessarily be a good thing. "I can certainly say [the tobacco industry's involvement] has moved things forward on this policy and we won't know the positive or negative until we see how effective these policies have been," said Ashley Bell, vice president of field advocacy for the American Heart Association. Critics also say companies are stuffing legislation with industry-friendly measures like preventing local governments from banning fruity flavors, which regulators say appeal to kids and companies say help adults switch from conventional cigarettes.

'Clean' T21
President Donald Trump waves during joint statements with China's President Xi Jinping at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, China, November 9, 2017.

Trump has repeatedly  and inaccurately  claimed that China will pay for tariffs imposed by the U.S.

The bank said in a note that consumer prices are higher partly because Chinese exporters have not lowered their prices to better compete in the US market.

Goldman Sachs said the cost of tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump last year against Chinese goods has fallen "entirely" on American businesses and households, with a greater impact on consumer prices than previously expected.

"One might have expected that Chinese exporters of tariff-affected goods would have to lower their prices somewhat to compete in the US market, sharing in the cost of the tariffs," Goldman said.



"However, analysis at the extremely detailed item level in the two new studies shows no decline in the prices (exclusive of tariffs) of imported goods from China that faced tariffs."

In addition, US producers have "opportunistically" hiked prices in response to protection from Chinese competitors, the bank said.

Goldman also said the risk of a final round of tariffs on the roughly $300 billion of remaining imports from China has now risen to 30%.

Further escalation of the trade war could also result in a 0.4% hit to GDP, and if trade tensions instigated a sell-off in the equity market, the growth impact could worsen, Goldman said.

"Our baseline expectation is that the U.S. and China will strike a deal later this year. We think this would come in the form of a gradual, staggered reduction in tariffs on a last-in, first-out schedule," the bank said.

"There is, however, a risk of further escalation," Goldman said.

Investors have been grappling with whether the trading relationship between the U.S. and China will actually worsen.

The most recent round of trade talks, which ended on Friday with no final agreement, was overshadowed by President Donald Trump's decision to more than double tariffs on $200 billion of Chinese goods, from 10% to 25%.

White House Economic Adviser Larry Kudlow on Sunday said that Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping will likely meet at the June G-20 summit in Japan. He said that he expects China to retaliate against the U.S., and acknowledged that the U.S. will pay for China tariffs.

Some traders are hoping that there's still time to strike a deal, citing the notion that new tariffs are not applied to Chinese exports that were already in transit before the deadline, which provides more time before tariffs are applied to goods entering the U.S.

WATCH: Stocks sink as China retaliates with new tariffs
President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping are likely to meet at the June G-20 summit in Japan, White House Economic Advisor Larry Kudlow said in a Fox News interview on Sunday.



Kudlow said the chances of such as meeting "were pretty good," but he said there are "no concrete, definite plans" for when U.S. and Chinese negotiators will meet again.

Trade talks between U.S. and Chinese negotiators broke up on Friday without a trade agreement. The talks took place under the shadow of Trump's decision to more than double the tariff rate to 25% on $200 billion of Chinese goods.



"The talks will continue," Kudlow said. "I will say this: There is a G-20 meeting in Japan toward the end of June next month and the chances that President Trump and President Xi will get together at that meeting are pretty good."

Trump called Friday's negotiations "constructive" and said talks will continue while U.S. tariffs remain in place, though they could be lifted depending on how the situation progresses.

Kudlow said in a Fox News interview on Sunday that he expects China to retaliate against the U.S. Beijing threatened to take "countermeasures" against the U.S. last week, but so far it has not done so.



The White House economic advisor said China had backtracked on its commitments, which precipitated Trump's decision to increase tariffs. He pointed to intellectual property theft and forced technology transfers as sticking points.

"Things seemed to be taking too long, and we can't accept any backtracking," Kudlow said. "We don't think the Chinese have come far enough, we will wait and see."

On Saturday, Trump warned China to "act now" on trade or risk facing a "far worse" deal during a possible second term after the 2020 presidential election.




Kudlow said that "both sides will suffer on this," but argued that China will suffer significant GDP losses as export markets are hit. The blow to U.S. GDP, on the other hand, won't be substantial since the economy is "in terrific shape," he said.

White House economic adviser Larry Kudlow on Sunday acknowledged that the Chinese do not directly pay tariffs on goods coming into the U.S., contradicting President Donald Trump 's claims that China will pay for tariffs imposed by the U.S.

"It's not China that pays tariffs," Wallace said. "It's the American importers, the American companies that pay what, in effect, is a tax increase and oftentimes passes it on to U.S. consumers."

"Fair enough," Kudlow replied. "In fact, both sides will pay. Both sides will pay in these things."

Kudlow added, however, that China doesn't actually pay the tariffs, but that their GDP will suffer "with respect to a diminishing export market."

"This is a risk we should and can take without damaging our economy in any appreciable way," Kudlow said.

TWEET

The most recent round of trade talks, which ended on Friday with no final agreement, followed Trump's decision to more than double tariffs on $200 billion of Chinese goods.

Trump said on Saturday that China should "act now" to wrap up a trade deal with the U.S, warning that "far worse" terms would be offered to them in what he predicted would be his second term as president.

Trump also suggested that the U.S. was "collecting" big tariffs from China.

"Would be wise for them to act now, but love collecting BIG TARIFFS!" he tweeted.

Kudlow said that Trump will likely meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping at the June G-20 summit in Japan.

WATCH: Larry Kudlow on Q1 GDP report
Social media company Life360 went public on Friday, the same day that fellow San Franciscan Uber debuted and amid a wave of Bay Area IPOs from names like Lyft, Pinterest and Zoom. But unlike its neighbors, which trade on the Nasdaq or New York Stock Exchange, Life360 rang an opening bell on the other side of the world  in Australia.

Life360, an app that lets family members stay connected, joined the Australian Securities Exchange, whose largest members include Commonwealth Bank of Australia and BHP Group, the world's biggest miner. It's the latest tech company to opt for an IPO down under, in lieu of raising another private round or testing the waters on Wall Street. Credible, a consumer finance marketplace, took the same route in 2017.

"People think of Australia as a small little country, but in terms of investable capital, it's massively disproportionate to their population," Life360 CEO Chris Hulls said in a recent interview with CNBC.

Life360 raised about $145 million Australian dollars (close to $102 million) on Friday. The stock rose a little over 5%, giving the company a market value of $764 million Australian ($535 million.).

With revenue of $32.1 million last year and a forecast to reach $58.6 million in 2019, Life360 isn't big enough to attract public market capital in the U.S., where companies these days are typically well past $100 million by the time they debut. Uber, the largest tech company to go public this year, generated over $11 billion in sales last year. Beyond Meat, which is less of a tech company than a food company but with Silicon Valley investors, is the smallest at $87.9 million.

"We could go public here, but we don't want to be in this swirl of noise," said Hulls, who rang the bell of the ASX in Sydney on Friday. Instead, Life360 is the biggest tech IPO on the ASX in three years, he said.
An undated image provided in a U.S. Department of Justice complaint for forfeiture released May 9, 2019 shows the North Korean vessel Wise Honest.

A North Korean cargo ship seized by the U.S. because of suspicion it was used to violate international sanctions arrived Saturday at the capital of this American territory.

The Wise Honest was slowly towed to the port of Pago Pago during a cloudy Saturday morning and docked at the main docking section of the port that afternoon.

The trip from Indonesia took about three weeks and American Samoa, in the South Pacific, was chosen because of "its central strategic location," U.S. Coast Guard public affairs officer Amanda Wyrick said.

"We also have a good strong relationship and partnership with the American Samoan government," Wyrick said. "With that being said, we also already have the resources that are able to ensure the security of the vessel but most importantly the Port of Pago Pago."

The ship was detained in April 2018 as it traveled toward Indonesia. Justice Department officials announced Thursday that the U.S. had seized the ship.

Asked as to how long the ship will be in the territory, Wyrick said the U.S. Department of Justice is "leading the investigation so they will be conducting that. Upon the conclusion of the investigation, the ship will be moved." But the next destination is unknown, she said.

"I do know that Justice Department is going to do the investigation as fast as they can," Wyrick added.

She said she didn't have the exact number of U.S. Coast Guard personnel or people from other federal agencies who have traveled to American Samoa for the investigation.

"I do know that, we have a marine and safety security team here from Honolulu," Wyrick said. "We're conducting random patrols, also conducting inspection of the vessel and the Port of Pago Pago, keep an eye on things such as security breaches or vandalization of the ship itself."

Officials are also making sure the port is protected, she said.

"We especially in the Coast Guard, we understand the importance of the port. It's a lifeline in getting goods to the islands," Wyrick said. "So we want to make sure that we're doing everything we can, to make sure that there's absolutely no disruption to the flow of commerce coming in and out."

The U.S. government dispatched to the territory an inspection team to the ship before it docked in Pago Pago, she said. Wyrick noted there was an inspection conducted before leaving Indonesia and, because the ship has been at sea for three weeks, "it's subject to the elements."

"The inspection of the ship before entering the harbor is to make sure the structure integrity of the boat is still intact. In that way, once we get the thumps up, and the green light, and the inspectors deem it safe, then it will enter the port," Wyrick said.

U.S. officials made the announcement of the ship's seizure 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 first step in a long-delayed plan for a withdrawal of rebel forces from Yemen's embattled Hodeida port has gone to plan, according to U.N. officials.

Day one of the process seen as vital to maintaining a tenuous cease-fire, during which Yemen's Houthi forces have started withdrawing from three of Yemen's Red Sea ports, went "in accordance with established plans," the head of a UN monitoring mission said on Sunday.

The development marks the first concrete step since a fragile U.N. cease-fire agreement was brokered between the war-ravaged nation's rival parties last December.

"All three ports were monitored simultaneously by United Nations teams as the military forces left the ports and the Coast Guard took over responsibility for security," Lt. Gen. Michael Lollesgaard, head of the U.N.'s Redeployment Coordination Committee, said in a statement.

The withdrawal process is crucial in allowing desperately needed humanitarian aid through the strategic port of Hodeida, which serves about 70% of Yemen's population.

Hodeida city has been under the control of the Iranian-backed Houthi rebels, who overran Yemen's internationally-recognized government in early 2015. The city was the target of a major Saudi and Emirati assault in mid-2018, an escalation of which the cease-fire agreement aimed to prevent.

Many Yemeni government officials remain skeptical about the Houthis' sincerity, accusing the rebels of staging a ploy, while the Houthis have claimed commitment to the Hodeida deal and urged all parties to abide by it. The agreement mandates a mutual withdrawal from the port by both rebel and government forces, though is vague on who will run it beyond that.

The UN's Lollesgaard stressed that the rebel forces must fully carry out their withdrawal, which expects to be completed over three days. Fighting has continued in other parts of the country, in particular the southern province of Dhale.

The conflict in Yemen, which saw a Saudi Arabian-led coalition launch a prolonged bombing offensive against the country's Houthi rebel movement, has created what the U.N. deems the worst humanitarian disaster in the world, marked by tens of thousands of deaths and millions more facing starvation. Rights groups have pointed to both sides as responsible for war crimes.

The U.S. currently supports the Saudi-led coalition through intelligence, training and, up until recently, air refueling support, though both houses of Congress have now voted to end support for the Saudis in Yemen. The U.N. points to the Saudi air campaign as responsible for the vast majority of Yemeni civilian deaths.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 13)  Thousands of polling precincts open nationwide for the highly-anticipated midterm elections today.

Voting period is from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. as scheduled.

President Rodrigo Duterte declared it a special non-working holiday to allow millions of Filipinos to exercise their right to vote.

There are 61,843,750 registered voters nationwide. Over 18,000 government posts are up for grabs, from senators down to councilors. Sixty-two candidates are vying for 12 Senate posts, while 614 aspirants are eyeing a seat in the 245-member House of Representatives.

How to vote

To know which precinct to go, voters can check the precinct finder on the website of the Commission on Elections (COMELEC). The list of precinct numbers are also available in the voting centers.

Members of the Board of Election Inspectors (BEI) will give the ballot, ballot secrecy folder and marking pen. Voters need to fully shade the circles next to the names of their chosen candidates  a maximum of 12 senators, and only one each for district representative, mayor, vice mayor and party-list group. The number of councilors a voter can choose depends on his or her legislative district.

The ballot will then be inserted in the vote counting machines, which will print a receipt for the voter to check if the votes were correctly scanned.

Voters can also reject a ballot if it has any other marking aside from the signature of the election inspector and if it is crumpled, COMELEC Spokesperson James Jimenez earlier said.

WATCH: How to cast your vote in the elections http://cnnphilippines.com/news/2019/3/19/2019-elections-how-to-vote.html

After April's rotational brownouts, the Department of Energy has promised there will be sufficient supply of power throughout the country to ensure the success of the automated elections.

Tight security

The Philippine National Police (PNP) is deploying 160,000 officers and personnel to guard the elections. PNP Chief Oscar Albayalde said all 36,000 polling centers will have at least two uniformed police officers each.

The police identified over 900 election hotspots or areas of concern due to possible escalation of violence, political rivalry and threats from armed groups. The towns of Daraga in Albay and Moises Padilla in Negros Occidental, as well as Cotabato City, have been placed under COMELEC control after violent events in these areas marred the election season.

The police noted 43 election-related incidents as of May 11, with 20 killed and 24 injured. PNP Spokesperson Bernard Banac told CNN Philippines the number of violent incidents is considerably lower than the 106 incidents recorded during the 2016 presidential elections.

The Philippine Coast Guard said it has deployed personnel all over the country who will assist the military and the police on security measures.

Meanwhile, the Department of Interior and Local Government said 2,838 police officers are prepared to be deputized by the COMELEC to become BEIs.

COMELEC requires public school teachers to serve as BEIs, but in cases where the peace and order situation so requires as determined by the Commission and where there are no qualified voters willing to serve," the police may be authorized to take the role as a last resort, according to the Election Service Reform Act.

Voter turnout

The government is hoping more Filipinos will cast their votes this year, following an upward trend in the voter turnout.

Around 74 percent of registered voters turned up in the 2010 elections. In 2013, the number went up to 77 percent. Three years later, voter turnout had reached 82 percent. These three polls had an average turnout of 78 percent.

The top 10 most vote-rich provinces are Cebu, Cavite, Pangasinan, Laguna, Negros Occidental, Bulacan, Batangas, Rizal, Iloilo and Nueva Ecija, comprising of more than 30 percent of voters nationwide.

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) will be suspending number coding for all vehicles for the midterm elections on Monday. The MMDA said that the suspension of the scheme is to ensure that there will be enough public utility vehicles to ferry commuters who are going to vote in the provinces.

Number coding for provincial buses are also suspended from May 10 to May 14.
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Endgame for May? Double poll blow for her as the 22 Executive moves to force her out.

Blow 1) For the first time, a poll shows that the Conservatives would win fewer votes than the Brexit Party in a general election  and come third

A ComRes survey found that if a general election campaign led by Theresa May took place now, it would put the Tories on course for their worst result in history  apparently confirming the fears of Conservative MPs and activists in uproar over the Prime Ministers handling of Brexit. Labour would become the largest party by a margin of 137 seats, allowing Jeremy Corbyn to lead a minority government as the Tories fell to third place in terms of vote share.  Sunday Telegraph

Blow 2) As another shows the Party on 11 per cent for the European elections  below the Liberal Democrats

The Opinium survey for the Observer places the Brexit party on 34%, when people were asked how they intended to vote on 23 May, with Labour slipping to 21% and the Conservatives collapsing to just 11%. Ominously for Theresa May, support for the Tories at the European elections is now less than a third of that for Farages party, and below that for the Liberal Democrats, who are on 12%.  Observer

> Today: Dr Dan Boucher on Comment  Im a committed Leaver. But the Brexit Party offers only protest. Heres why Im standing in the Euro-elections as a Tory.

Meanwhile, the last Cabinet loyalists give up on the Prime Minister

Fox now leads the Pizza Group, Hunt is on suicide watchand Philip May now believes that his wife must make a dignified exit  Sunday Times

Leadsom and Grayling also see Customs Union membership as crossing a red line and would resign too  Mail on Sunday

Cabinet poised for row over no deal planning. Barclay wants it stepped up. He warns that we risk sleepwalking into staying in the EU  Sun on Sunday

Brokenshire has two ovens  Sunday Times

Loyalists  including Karen Bradley, James Brokenshire, Julian Smith, Chris Grayling and her deputy, David Lidington  think she has next to no chance of having a Brexit deal approved by parliament and will have to step aside in the next few weeks. Liam Fox, who has also stood by May, has privately revealed he is prepared to resign and lead a cabinet walkout if she agrees a deal with Labour to keep Britain in a customs union with Brussels.  Sunday Times

> Yesterday: Lockwood Smith on Comment: To be, or not to be, in a customs union? Lessons from New Zealand.

As Williamson puts the boot in. He calls for Brexit talks with Labour to end and says that May must keep her promises

The Conservative Party needs to be the party that delivers on its promises. If it is able to do this, it will flourish and be the party that voters know they can trust. We need to accept that these talks with Labour are fruitless and that not only will they not deliver the Brexit that people voted for, they are a betrayal of the direct instructions the people gave us in 2016 and 2017. We are now at a crossroads and it is imperative the Prime Minister makes the right choice.  Mail on Sunday

May keeps surrendering  Bernard Jenkin, Sunday Telegraph

Voters are powerless  Janet Daley, Sunday Telegraph

She must go  Daniel Hannan, Sunday Telegraph

Huawei could switch off your car and fridge under the Governments agreement  Sunday Telegraph

While the 22 Executive moves to force a leadership election before the summer.

Dominic Lawson: The Conservative leadership void is being filled by egomaniacs, no hopers and buffoons

Senior Tories want the final two in place at the start of the summer recess at the end of July to allow a nationwide hustings for members. The message will be relayed to the PM if she doesnt give a clear answer when meeting the 1922 Committee this week. Sir Graham Brady said she would be meeting the group to offer clarity on her exit from Downing Street. MPs fear that without offering a clear date ahead of her Brexit deal being approved could see her in position for months. The expected field stands could eventually be more than a dozen and could take time to reduce  before going to the Tory membership.  Sun on Sunday

Usually when someone at the top of an organisation is fatally wounded, there is either an obvious replacement or a small cadre of highly experienced, battle-hardened successors-in-waiting. Not in this case: the queue of those looking in the mirror and fancying themselves as the next prime minister of Great Britain and Northern Ireland has grown to such an absurd length that the slightest sense of hierarchy is lost.  Sunday Times

> Today: ToryDiary  There are too many Conservative leadership candidates

> Yesterday: Columnist Nick Hargrave  Modernisers may not trust Johnson, but they should learn from him

Davis, McVey and Taxpayers Alliance will call together this week for HS2 to be scrapped

German rail giant launches second attack on Grayling  Sunday Telegraph

Its a wasteful vanity project  David Davis, Sunday Telegraph

Scrapping the controversial HS2 project would free-up enough cash to bankroll 28 critical transport projects across Britain, a report will claim this week. A decision to abandon the 56 billion rail scheme would allow cash to be diverted to fund the reopening of disused lines, the construction of new stations and the upgrade of roads currently clogged with congestion. Vital projects that could be funded include turning about 30 miles of the A1 trunk road between Newcastle and Edinburgh to dual carriageway and a new rail link between London and Eastbourne on the East Sussex coast.  Mail on Sunday

> Yesterday: John Penrose on Comment: Why railways should be more like airlines  and how passengers would gain if they were

And in other Brexit news, Corbyn watches his back as Watson goes on manoeuvres

Sources close to the Labour leader have become increasingly alarmed by Watsons behaviour after he began recruiting colleagues to join his Future Britain group following the defection of eight Labour MPs for the Independent Group  now Change UK  in February. There are fears in Labours high command that Watson is establishing a party within a party that could eventually take control of its finances and MPs. The fears have been fuelled by claims that more than 100 Labour MPs will demand a firm guarantee that any Brexit deal is put to a confirmatory referendum before endorsing a Westminster stitch-up.  Sunday Times

LibDems plan to kill Change UK with kindness

Cable claims that the Government is secretly planning a second referendum  Sun on Sunday

Who should Remainers choose?  Deborah Mattinson, Observer

Internal polling has revealed that voters are turned off by factional feuding so the best way of seeing off the new party is by being as nice as possible to their remain rivals. With the Lib Dems and Change UK vying for the support of the same group of voters, the two remain-supporting parties were expected to clash openly as they go head-to-head in the forthcoming European elections. Both are targeting seats in London, Wales, the West Midlands and the north  with the Lib Dems hoping to increase their representation in the European parliament from one seat to four.  Sunday Times

> Yesterday: ToryDiary  Where does the Liberal Democrat revival leave Change UKs cursed campaign?

Dia Chakravarty: Well be stuck with professional politicians if MPs dont have second jobs

There comes a stage in every dysfunctional relationship  and the British publics current relationship with its elected representatives is nothing if not dysfunctional  where one asks oneself: is it me? Do I attract the wrong kind of people by sending out mixed messages? As an electorate, we may well be guilty of this when it comes to our attitude to MPs second jobs. We complain that we have too many out-of-touch career politicians, but we can also be quick to condemn those who retain a link with the world outside the Westminster bubble by taking on employment beyond their role as an MP.  Sunday Telegraph
Dr Dan Boucher is the lead Conservative Candidate for Wales in the European Elections. He lives in Swansea and contested Swansea East at the 2017 general election, and the 2014 European election.

Given that I campaigned vigorously for Brexit, some have questioned why I have not sought to join the Brexit Party and why, instead, I am standing in the European elections for the Conservative Party, which has so far failed to deliver Brexit.

My response to this includes, among other things, the following considerations:

First, in the context of minority government, the failure to deliver Brexit is really the failure of Parliament rather than a failure of the Conservative Party (although division in the ranks has not helped), something I wrote about in a recent ConservativeHome article. Parliament has had the option of delivering Brexit but, to date, has chosen not to.

Second, delivering Brexit is only the beginning. In some ways the bigger question for me is what will we do with it? How will we make it deliver for the people of the United Kingdom? This is not just a question of how we get free, but of how we use our new found freedom.

My difficulty with the Farage vision is that it seems to be very much a short-term vision of protest, of wanting to leave the EU (which is important)  but what then?

Some time ago, I sat next to a former UKIP MEP at a dinner who explained that he had spent a great deal of time trying to persuade r Farage of the need to develop a compelling positive vision for government. In the end it was the failure of Farage to engage with, and take seriously, the idea that UKIP needed a vision for government that went beyond simply leaving the EU, that resulted in the MEP in question leaving UKIP for the Conservative Party.

This experience was entirely consistent with Farages actions after the referendum when he resigned as the leader of UKIP. In explaining this decision, he said that his motivation for political engagement was simply to leave the EU. With the referendum won and  he assumed  our leaving the EU secure, Farage said: I feel I have done my bit. I couldnt possibly achieve more than we did in that referendum. I stand aside. I wont be changing my mind again, I promise you.

Now he is back with his new party, the Brexit Party, but with basically the same modus operandi as before.

Those who might be attracted by this party are being tempted to protest but, while I can certainly see its appeal after the frustrations of the last two years, I suggest we need MEPs from a party whose commitment is not just informed by the desire to leave but also by a vision of what we should do when we have left (which will, of course, impact our leaving).

This requires a party of government rather than a party of protest.

That is why it is so very important that Conservatives, committed to delivering a credible Brexit that really honours the 2016 referendum, giving it every chance to succeed, are elected in significant numbers as MEPs in the new Parliament.

To this end, if elected, (in addition to promoting Wales and Britains interests generally within the European Parliament, something UKIPs policy of voting against everything or abstaining, and of not bothering with Committee work, has spectacularly failed to deliver) my goal will be to do everything in my power to help deliver Brexit for the people of Wales and the United Kingdom. I will fight for this both in the sense of our departure from the EU and also in the sense of having an active focus on what should take its place and specifically on how we should engage with our neighbours on the continent post Brexit.

Having a strong Conservative delegation in Brussels will also be important because, in a context where leaving can only be given legal effect by the British Parliament, close co-operation between Brexit supporting MEPs and MPs will be vital. This, however, will be hampered and frustrated to the extent that Brexit supporting MEPs are from a party or parties that have no seats at Westminster.

In some ways, however, the most important consideration is that if the Conservative Party does not fair well in these elections, the chief beneficiary in terms of the political dynamics of Westminster  where Brexit needs to be authorised  will be Jeremy Corbyn. This is not the kind of risk we can afford to take.

For all these reasons, while I regret that it has been necessary to secure candidates, and hope that these elections will not be necessary, I am very pleased to be standing as the lead Conservative Party Candidate in Wales.
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FALLS TOWNSHIP >> The Falls Township Board of Supervisors took steps to create more than 500 new jobs on Dec. 20. The board approved a minor subdivision and lot line change for Stalwart Equities, the developer of a large-scale warehouse planned for more than 95 acres along the Delaware River. The companys sketch plan, which the board reviewed last year, called...
BRIDGEPORT  The citys police union is turning to federal court in an attempt to allow 11 of the 19 officers named in an Office of Internal Affairs report to face discipline by the police chief instead of Bridgeports Police Commission.

The commission, which oversees hearings for any officer found to have violated department policy through an internal affairs investigation, has already denied the request. Sgt. Chuck Paris, president of the union for the Bridgeport Police Department, said the union filed an injunction in federal court to have a judge decide who should discipline the officers.

Paris said the union would appear in court in an upcoming open session to give its position, and that the citys legal representatives could rebut the unions standpoint on behalf of the commission.

Paris said he has been president for nine years and involved with the union for 22 years, said has never seen a ruling like this go to federal court before.

We havent done this before  not with a Barros complaint, he said.

A Barros complaint is any civilian complaint against officers. The term, known formally as the Barros Decree, began in 1973 with an established policy for the public to file complaints against police. The decree requires an Office of Internal Affairs investigation into the incident in question.

There were two Barros complaints in this case, filed on Oct. 23, 2017 by two men arrested at a party on Colorado Avenue two days earlier.

Their complaints, later supplemented by video footage, detailed what the men said was was excessive force by officers who responded to the party after a noise complaint. The excessive force continued, the two claimed, in the police departments booking area, after eight people were arrested.

Police Chief Armando Perez requested the Office of Internal Affairs investigation into the actions of the officers involved, with an initial specific focus on Officer Thomas Lattanzio and Sgt. Paul Scillia.

It took more than a year for investigators to compile the 405-page report into the actions of 17 police officers and two civilian detention officers at the scene of the party and in booking at police headquarters, where eight partygoers were taken after their arrests to be processed and formally charged.

The Police Commission is expecting all available officers  two committed suicide before the investigation report was released to the public and another has since retired  to have hearings in front of the panel. Daniel Roach, chairman of the Police Commission, said the union wanted the officers to be subject only to discipline by Perez.

Basically, (the union is) claiming that theyre not subject to discipline hearings from the board because these officers werent the subject of the citizens complaints, Roach said.

But the commission and Bridgeports city attorney ruled that even though those officers werent specifically named in the citizens complaints, they still had to be present for a hearing.

If the investigation leads to other aspects that bring in other officers, they are subject to hearings in front of the board as a result of those investigations stemming from a citizens complaint, Roach said.

Paris said the union sees it differently.

Their position is they still believe it should still be held in front of the Board of Police Commissioners, and we respectfully disagree, he said.

Perez said in a previous interview he could not comment on the actions of the union.

Hearings for the other officers named in the investigation are set to begin in early May, Roach said.

He said the proceedings would be similar to what goes on in a courtroom: opening statements, witness statements, rebuttals and closing arguments. Each hearing could last up to three days, Roach said; some might take just one or two.

Officers have the chance to appeal any decision the board makes to the state, Roach said, but discipline would start immediately, even during such an appeal.

The internal affairs report details the night of Oct. 21, 2017, in various ways, providing a timeline and reports from the officers involved  including some who were not cited for misconduct. The report illustrates department policy violations, including excessive force, inaccurate reporting of the events of that evening and, for those higher-ranking officers involved, failure to supervise.

While the probe was ongoing, Lattanzio and Sgt. Mark Belinkie died by suicide. Lattanzio took his own life on Dec. 4, 2017, and Belinkie on March 2 of this year. There has been no link established between their deaths and the investigation.

Lattanzio was found by the internal affairs investigation to have used excessive force and to have been untruthful in reporting the events of that evening. Belinkie was found to not have provided medical attention to an injured person in booking, and to have failed to supervise.

Lt. Robert Sapiro, found to have failed to supervise officers that night, retired in March after being promoted to captain.

The internal affairs officer in charge of the investigation, Lt. Brian Dickerson, was transferred to a position with less stress in March.
It's going to be a special Mothers Day for a New Hampshire woman whose 5-year-old son is credited with helping save her life.



In late March, Nicole Phung went into cardiac arrest after having an asthma attack.

Her sons, 9-year-old Braxton and 5-year-old Mitchell, had just gotten home from school. Phung dialed 911 but couldn't speak, so Mitchell took the phone and gave their address to the dispatcher.

Minutes later, Frisbie Memorial Hospital paramedics Joshua Berk, John McLain and Kevin Monte arrived and brought her back.

You never know. One day you're fine, the next your heart stops and you have to relearn how to walk again, Phung said.

Paramedics say asthma patients are very difficult to resuscitate.

Its really important for asthma victims to call early to get that help as soon as possible, said Gary Brock, director of emergency medical services at Frisbie.

Phung was sedated for five days and then went to rehab to relearn basic skills. She's grateful for everyone who helped but especially her two boys, who are looking forward to doing all their favorite things with their mom.

Mostly just cuddle up with her, Mitchell said.
It finally happened. An entire company swore off meat. Citing environmental concerns, WeWork banned meat in a bold attempt to save the planet. In a nod to Elon Musk, co-founder Miguel McKelvey said that vegetarian efforts can reduce their personal environmental impact even more than switching to a hybrid car.

It sounds extreme, but heres the thing: Enlightened business goals like sustainability and social responsibility dont have to turn your business upside down. Theyre actually good for your companys bottom line. Take Starbucks ban on plastic straws, for example. Its a good move for the environment, but its also likely to boost coffee purchases. Starbucks made its move in response to consumer demand. While its true that the company has always leaned left economically and environmentally, its safe to say that business hasnt suffered from taking such stances.

Related: 5 Reasons Why Sustainability and Social Issues Attract Customers

The coffee giant isnt alone. As company leaders consider adopting a more compassionate capitalism, they're finding strength in pursuing sustainable choices. Brands such as Walmart, Mars and Disney are all profiting from environmentally friendly policies.

Profits and ethics are not at odds -- at least, they dont have to be, says Peter Seligmann, founding CEO and chairman of the board at Conservation International. When you cultivate a mindset of enlightened self-interest, you can help your company thrive while also helping people. And isnt that the Holy Grail?

Much of the bad rap surrounding capitalism today stems from pitting self-interest against the good of people and the planet. But its a false dichotomy -- and one youd do well to eschew if you want to reap the greatest rewards. Here are just a few reasons why doing good is good for business.

1. You will attract top talent.

If you want to bolster your company with input from the best and brightest for many years to come, youre going to need to attract millennials and post-millennials. These younger employees, some of whom are now leading organizations, wont wait long for their employers to catch up to their values.

Those values are increasingly clear. According to Deloitte, 87 percent of millennials believe financial metrics are insufficient measures of success. They and younger post-millennials continue to look for brands whose ethics align with their concern for the environment, income inequality and other societal issues.

Related: Why All Businesses Can Benefit from a Guiding Social or Environmental Purpose

2. You can satisfy consumer demands.

Employees arent the only ones putting pressure on companies to pursue ethical profits. Consumer demand has influenced corporate policies and products in a number of ways, whether its pressure to go green or to give back to a good cause.

When you see organizations the size of Fruit of the Loom or Walmart trumpeting sustainability initiatives, its clear that demand has reached a tipping point. As more cause-oriented companies respond to this demand and saturate the marketplace, you have no choice but to demonstrate your own commitment to a cause (or causes) as well.

3. You reduce costs.

Its nearsighted to believe that committing to sustainability is unsustainable, which is only the case if you equate success with short-term profits. In the long run, environmentally sound business practices are actually more cost-efficient; they reduce energy use and direct resources into more profitable endeavors.

Many of these practices require very few, if any, up-front costs. Employees can turn off unused lights or reuse paper, for example. True, you will garner more significant savings by spending money on a geothermal heating and cooling system, to name one example, but that step may be more attainable after youve first reaped savings from less costly initiatives.

Related: Why Environmental Responsibility Is Good for Your Bottom Line

4. You enhance your brand image.

Ultimately, your brand image -- a critical driver of profitability -- is at stake. At a time when social media backlash can quickly deface a company, its critical for organizations to demonstrate that they connect with the concerns of their customers.

A survey by the Natural Marketing Institute found that 58 percent of consumers polled considered a companys environmental impact when making a purchase. Other customers looked for businesses that are involved in social causes or invested in their local community in some way. The examples are myriad. What matters is that consumers are watching.

If anything is certain in business, its that the path to profit is fraught with ethical tangles. But the high ground is clearly marked, and its not as difficult to walk as you may think. You may not even have to give up meat to get there.

Related:

You Don't Have to Be Elon Musk to Make a Difference

Rheem Manufacturing Sets Aggressive Sustainability Goals for 2025

This Global Tea Company Is Infused With Sustainability Practices, Allowing It to Win Huge Tech Companies as Customers



Copyright 2019 Entrepreneur.com Inc., All rights reserved
John Fru Ndi (Left) and PM Dion Ngute Facebook

Prime Minister, Head of Government Dion Ngute Joseph has left Bamenda with a message from armed men fighting for the independence of a country they call Ambazonia.

The message was handed to the PM for onward transmission to the Head of State President Paul Biya by Ni John Fru Ndi, National Chairman of the opposition Social Democratic Front (SDF) party.

The fiery opposition leader had been kidnapped by separatist fighters in Kumbo on Saturday, April 27, 2019 and spent about seven hours with them. During his stay, the armed men gave a memo to Fru Ndi for the high attention of the Head of State, President Paul Biya.

When the opposition figure met PM Dion Ngute Friday, he handed the message from the fighters.

Fru Ndi said the fighters say they'll only drop their arms when government calls back her soldiers to the barracks, release all those detained because of the crisis and as well as free their leaders, Sisiku Julius Ayuk Tabe et al.

"Mr. Biya and your CPDM government has shown a lot of bad faith and these boys in the bushes cannot trust you because they are very skeptical. Just about a month and some weeks ago the few boys that attempted coming out of the bushes in Mamfe were killed by military forces because they refused to act as spies. How do you expect them to drop their weapons? Fru Ndi asked the Head of Government.

Responding to the demands, PM Dion Ngute said: "The day there will be no problem in the North West Region, President Biya will decree military third category forces out and they will leave immediately. If government withdraws its forces, there will be chaos on the ground. And the same people who were asking for that will say government has failed woefully and that government has given the people up to be slaughtered.

"President Biya has sent me to reassure them to leave the bushes, drop their arms and come to the centres that he has created to receive them, give them free food, free clothing, so that they can go through the process of reintegrating into normal life."

The PM visited and shared a meal with the SDF National Chairman at his Ntarinkon residence on Saturday. Touched by Fru Ndi's act of generosity, PM Dion Ngute said the Head of State wishes that this problem goes away. "And that is why I came here to meet with all the different people who can influence the outcome of this situation," Dion Ngute said before proposing a toss for the very speedy return of peace.

Before leaving the region Sunday, he paid a visit to wounded soldiers in hospital and also communed with some ex-separatist fighters.
There are six vacancies on the U.S. Court of Appeals, with two more vacancies certain to occur and many more likely to happen before January 2021 as older members of the courts eager to be replaced by center-right judges take "senior status." Each is nearly as important to preserving liberty, individual rights and the rule of law as a Supreme Court vacancy, though many outside the legal community don't understand this.

There are 48 nominees for district-court positions awaiting action by the Senate Judiciary Committee or the Senate as a whole. Another 12 nominees are waiting offstage. Increasingly, judges at this level of the judiciary are claiming the right to dictate national policy by way of injunctions binding the entire country, rather than only the district to which they were appointed.

Most pressing are the vacancies on the often-overruled U.S. Court of Appeals for the 9th Circuit, and the 2nd Circuit has two vacancies that, when nominees are selected and confirmed, will flip that circuit's composition to a majority of Republican presidents' nominees.

It is a measure of President Donald Trump's disdain for the long-rumored assault on his companies or family from the U.S. attorney's office for the Southern District of New York that he allowed the process of filling other vacancies on the 2nd Circuit to drag on for months, decisive as that court might be for appeals for politicized rulings against his interests. A fair conclusion is that the president doesn't think he's in legal peril. He never believed it about what he called "the Russia hoax," and if he believed he was vulnerable in a jurisdiction answering to the 2nd Circuit, he would have put a spark under his judge-picking team long ago. But his confidence ought not to delay filling the vacancies.

These judicial nominees are the Senate's most important task, and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., and Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., have patiently and persistently worked to address the backlog and change rules to allow the federal bench to be as populated as quickly as the White House allows, given the glacial pace of new nominees.

The Senate has other urgent business. The Finance Committee is about to take up crucial retirement-savings reforms that could impact tens of millions of Americans annually. That effort could creatively address the housing needs of seniors by allowing them to use tax-sheltered savings to pay off mortgages or secure senior living arrangements without triggering taxable events. That same committee and others have work to do on the soaring costs of some prescription drugs and on infrastructure, as well as the annual battle to adequately fund the military. The Senate Intelligence Committee must work with the executive branch to persuasively educate our allies - Britain, primarily - and the American public on the threats that Chinese telecommunications giants Huawei and ZTE pose to security global networks.

Yet that committee, charged with oversight of the intelligence community and thus with countless urgent issues and tasks, deemed it necessary to subpoena Donald Trump Jr. as a sort of final ritual in the opera of collusion delusion that has gripped the country since the 2016 presidential election. We need to know if this latest subpoena is simply a flexing of muscles by staff frustrated by years of fruitless digging that was rendered obviously irrelevant by the work of special counsel Robert Mueller and his conclusion that no conspiracy occurred between Russia and Donald Trump, his family or his campaign team.

The subpoena is a maddening coda especially for those who urged that the administration cooperate with the special counsel and that Mueller not be fired or in any way impeded. (Mueller wasn't. In fact, all the dense blocks of innuendo-filled prose in Part II of the Mueller report could not obscure that the president cooperated to an unparalleled degree with the special counsel.)

With all this real work to be done and military and national security matters to be superintended, Intelligence Committee Chairman Richard Burr, R-N.C., and a majority of his committee colleagues still felt that one more whack at Donald Trump Jr. was necessary.

It isn't. No matter what the committee tells itself. Outside of #resistance cable television pundits and Bizarro Twitter, "no collusion/no obstruction" is the verdict that was rendered by the attorney general and accepted by the public, a verdict that the Senate GOP especially should know it ignores at the peril of its majority in 2021.
There is no reason to arrest a journalist in the course of doing her job. Freedom of the press is enshrined in the First Amendment to the Constitution to ensure that the people will always know what their government is doing in their name. Detaining a member of the press for lawfully covering a protest against police actions is chilling, and unacceptable.

Tara ONeill, a Hearst Connecticut Media reporter who frequently covers law enforcement issues and especially Bridgeport police, was briefly taken into custody Thursday night. City police were breaking up a demonstration to mark the anniversary of a young persons death at the hands of that same police department, an understandably fraught situation but one that is without question in the public interest to know about.

ONeill clearly identified herself as a member of the media. She told an officer who approached her, This is a public sidewalk and Im the press. Just the same, she was handcuffed and taken into custody.

It was a confusing scene, including many officers and an unhappy though by all accounts peaceful crowd. But there was no mistaking what ONeill said, and no question at all as to her right to be where she was. The police erred badly in taking her into custody.

As ONeill told it, the officer who arrested her profusely apologized and said he didnt know I was the media. Even so, the First Amendment also protects the rights of people to assemble peacefully, which was also abridged, and not only in her case.

If police are not trained to know not to arrest someone who is reporting on the scene, then its frightening to think what else their training has missed. This is basic knowledge for anyone in law enforcement.

Free press advocates called the arrest disturbing, chilling and extremely troubling, all of which is true. What was not helpful was Bridgeport Mayor Joe Ganim calling the protest a very difficult situation. It is not difficult, and is in fact to be expected, that police dont arrest members of the media.

Police departments around the state are facing incidents that are undermining the public trust and the willingness of people to work with law enforcement toward common goals. These include the recent fatal shooting by police of a driver in Wethersfield, the wounding of a woman sitting in her car in New Haven and an incident in Bridgeport where 17 officers faced discipline over misconduct allegations including using excessive force and lying to investigators.

The incident under protest Thursday night, the killing by Bridgeport police of a city teenager two years ago, angered many in the community, not least because the officer responsible was cleared of wrongdoing and continues to serve.

As police across the state look to rebuild the publics trust, they cannot ignore the rights of the public to know what their government is doing. Full understanding of the rights and duties of the media is not something to hope for  its a demand.
Hon. Monjowa Lifaka Emilia cutting her birthday cake Atia Azohnwi

Born on April 11, 1959, the Vice President of Cameroon's National Assembly, Hon Monjowa Emilia Lifaka turned 60 on April 11, 2019. The star of Bonjongo, a village in the outskirts of Buea celebrated her diamond birthday May 11, 2019 during a solemn mass at the Notre Dame de la Paix Parish in Yaounde.

The Thanksgiving Mass had as Chief Celebrant, the Bishop of Mamfe, His Lordship Andrew Nkea in the company of the Archbishop of the Metropolitan Archdiocese of Yaounde, His Grace Jean Mbarga, His Lordship Victor Tonye Bakot, His Lordship Yaouda Hourgo and some 29 priests.

During the service in honour of the Fako Divisional Coordinator of the Cameroon People's Democratic Movement (CPDM) party, the clergy thanked God for the exceptional life of a pious woman.

Drawing inspiration from Ecclesiastes 3:1-11, His Lordship Andrew Nkea, Bishop of Mamfe Diocese reminded Christians, well wishers, colleagues and friends of Hon Monjowa Emilia Lifaka that there is time for everything, time for every event under Heaven, thus, the need for humanity to respect the planning of God in ones life.

+Nkea used chapter 5 verses 16 to 24 of Apostle Paul's epistle to the Thessalonians to remind people that they should never forget to rejoice always at all circumstances, pray continually and always give thanks to God - the Creator of Heaven and Earth.

Bishop Nkea said it is very important to pray with confidence to God our Father who has poured out his love on mankind and is always ready to receive the prayers of His children, reading from the gospel according to John 6: 60-69.

In his homily, Bishop Nkea revealed that: Each time Emilia Lifaka is travelling, she will call me on phone and we will pray together but one day, she was travelling to Kenya and I dont know what happened she hurriedly left the country without praying and behold, she only remembered that she had not prayed when something strange happened. Due to bad weather in that country, the pilot after noticing that their plane had some difficulties asked them not to panic and it is at this time that Emilia realized she had not prayed. Knowing that she cannot call my number for us to pray together as usual because she was in a plane, she closed her eyes placed her hands as if we were praying together and pleaded for Gods mercies. And miraculously, the aircraft gained stability and landed. Once out of the plane, Lifaka called me first and said it is the last time she is travelling without calling my number for us to pray together.

Bishop Andrew Nkea declared in his homily that Hon Emilia Lifaka has achieved so much within a very short time that one can easily give her 100 years and nobody will dare to argue.

Drawing inspiration from Psalms 100, he said for 60 years that Lifakas heart has been beating nonstop all by the grace of God, rising from grass to grace, she did not want to be like some people who take their lives for granted but decided to celebrate her 60th birthday via thanksgiving to God, reason why she turned to God in thankfulness.

Lifaka joined parliament in 2002 and was elected deputy speaker in 2009. She is the current Chairperson of the Executive Committee of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) since 2017 for a three-year mandate that runs from to 2020. She is the first African to be elected Chairperson of the Association 106 years since its birth.






Our own Bruce Siwy and Eric Kieta talk about their true-crime cases in Return To View: The Roundtable
WASHINGTON  Conventional wisdom in my inner circle of sorcerers and sources has been that the first female president will be a Republican. This is because America is still mostly a center-right country, and voters would feel more comfortable with a conservative-leaning woman. So goes the thinking.

Republican Nikki Haley, former South Carolina governor and U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, no doubt concurs.

While she waits out President Trumps possible second term (because life is strange), Democrats have filled their bench with enough declared women  six at last count  that one wonders why were always talking about men. Given the bulk of media coverage, one would think the only candidates were Joe, Bernie, Beto and Pete.

The fact that those four are known by their first names is helpful if youre a politician or a simpleton, not that theyre mutually exclusive. Joe Biden and Bernie Sanders need no introduction because theyve been around since the Gold Rush. One looks like he just stepped off a yacht, the other like he just lost a fight with a bulldog. Beto ORourke is famous for being newly famous  and also for mastering the distant gaze in profile that reminds people how much they dislike him. And, Mayor Pete Buttigieg (South Bend, Indiana) is just so darned likable, we cant get enough of him and his multilingual-ness, despite his reportedly lugging around a copy of James Joyces gloriously indecipherable Ulysses.

But, what about Amy, Elizabeth, Kamala, Kirsten, Marianne and Tulsi?

Until recently, being a woman meant a presidential candidate could count on special attention, if only for her rarity. But that was in the era known as HRC  Hillary Rodham Clinton  which occupied most of the past three decades. In the post-HRC era, more Democratic women finally feel free to go for the prize. Perhaps for the first time in history, Americans will fully understand that women are not all the same.

The challenge for these six female candidates is how to stand out. Fortunately, or not, some have already made headlines with their uniqueness. Minnesota Sen. Amy Klobuchar reportedly ate a salad with her comb when an aide delivered her lunch without plastic utensils. Call her utilitarian, or a mother of invention, but never call her hungry.

Another tactic might be to claim Native American heritage, as the history-haunted Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren has done. Even though DNA testing indicated that she does, indeed, carry a teensy-tiny fraction of Native American blood, shes forever saddled with Trumps nickname for her, Pocahontas. This is a shame given Warrens considerable intellect, her passion and her professorial grasp of complex policies.

In politics, you only have to do one monumental- or minuscule-but-memorable thing, and that thing becomes your persona, identity and legacy. A single impression can catapult a candidate to instant popularity or condemn her to infamy.

Similarly, Klobuchar has been characterized as an unholy boss. Again, a shame. For Klobuchar is a levelheaded, centrist pragmatist and surely capable of handling Trump in a fair debate. But comb-cuisine is an unappetizing image, to say the least, and other Draconian tales abound.

Now lets turn to New York Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, who will be most remembered for pushing the ouster of former Minnesota Sen. Al Franken following sexual misconduct allegations. Democrats may have manned the #MeToo battlements, but they sure didnt like losing one of their favorite senators, and may be unforgiving.

Another candidate cursed with controversy is Hawaii Rep. Tulsi Gabbard, who two years ago met with Syrian genocidal dictator Bashar Assad and called the U.S.-backed opposition terrorists. Marianne Williamson is a New Age self-help specialist beloved by Hollywood. Say no more. Kamala Harris, a former California attorney general and now U.S. senator, is perhaps best known for her prosecutorial zeal during Justice Brett Kavanaughs Supreme Court nomination hearings. Great for the primary, disastrous in the general.

These pithy summaries arent meant to be disparaging or dismissive, but reductive identity is the bumper sticker of fate. This time around, there will be no female nominee or president  but not because of their being women. They will lose like men  because they werent right for this job at this moment  a feminist feat in itself.

Be not dismayed, for a female president is coming soon, likely in 2024. Shell be a woman of color, a real Indian (with parents from Punjab), a Christian, a Republican, a wife and mother with Southern manners, statewide governing experience and an international profile. Wouldnt that beat all?

Kathleen Parker is syndicated by the Washington Post Writers Group. Her email address is kathleenparker@washpost.com.
Thursday, May 9, 2019 at 2:48AM

When Google launched the Pixel 3a and 3a XL at Google I/O 2019, one of the new features the phones got was a Time Lapse mode in the Camera app. The said feature is now making its way to other Pixel phones. As its name suggests, itll let you record long segments of video at a few frames per second so you can speed up said footage by 5x, 10x, 30x, or 120x. The interface for video recording in Time Lapse will have a slider that shows the different recording speeds. Google Photos will support these videos natively. If you own a Pixel phone and head to the Play Store now, you can get Google Camera 6.2 with Time Lapse included. You can access the feature in the More section of the app.

Source: 9to5Google
When I was growing up in the 1970s, the future was not merely bright, it was thrilling.

The dawn of computers, real spaceships and previously unimagined inventions such as the microwave oven suggested the coming years would be a dazzling time of freedom and liberation.

None of us felt in any doubt at all.

Every week, some ten million viewers tuned into BBC science show Tomorrows World to learn about the miraculous new devices heading our way.

Back in 1971, we were introduced to pocket calculators, for example, and in 1979, the mobile phone.

Today, all this optimism has vanished.

The dawn of computers, real spaceships and previously unimagined inventions such as the microwave oven suggested the coming years would be a dazzling time of freedom and liberation. Pictured is Michael Rodd presenting an episode of Tomorrow's World from 1979 about mobile phones

Somehow we have forgotten to believe in the future. Once a place we could hardly wait to reach, now we see the future as a dystopia, a source of constant, corrosive pessimism.

Our civilisation has started to feel like a crime novel with the last page ripped out. We still dont know the identity of the murderer  it could be anything from a global pandemic to a killer robot uprising  but we are certain the ending is bad.

Yet it doesnt have to be this way. As I argue in my new book, there are overwhelming grounds for believing in a better world ahead of us. The future hasnt happened yet. The idea that our civilisation is doomed is not established fact; it is merely what we tell ourselves.

A new, more positive story is already starting to emerge  and it is one we must embrace, not least because our fear of the future is damaging our present, too.

Somehow we have forgotten to believe in the future. Once a place we could hardly wait to reach, now we see the future as a dystopia. Pictured is another episode of Tomorrow's World

How can we take decisions about the way we lead our lives if we believe, quite literally, there is no future worth having?

All this pessimism is in stark contrast with even the recent past. Belief in technological advancement was common throughout the 20th Century and we had seen the revolution in our domestic lives.

For the first time, there were machines which washed our clothes and dishes, cleaned our floors and heated food in an instant. A generation which started with horses and carts had lived to see jumbo jets.

But all that changed in the early 1980s when, with the prospect of nuclear conflagration ever more likely, we began to question the idea of progress itself.

This was when climate change and that ominous hole in the ozone layer were discussed for the first time. We forget, but it was Margaret Thatcher who first called for international co-operation to prevent global warming at the 1989 UN General Assembly. Thatcher, a trained chemist, understood the science better than most other politicians.

It is as if our dreams crash-landed with the disastrous 1986 launch of Nasas Space Shuttle Challenger.

As a cultural historian, I do not believe we are doomed  certainly not if we keep the same optimistic, open minds as our forbears.

As a cultural historian, I do not believe we are doomed  certainly not if we keep the same optimistic, open minds as our forbears

Take, for example, the biggest problem we face at present: the environment. Exploiting the modern world at the current rate is not sustainable. One million species are now at risk of extinction, and in 2015 the UN claimed the world has only 60 harvests left if soil depletion continues at its current rate.

Yet when Elon Musk, billionaire founder of SpaceX and Tesla, says we need a human base on Mars to counter the threat of mass extinction, I think hes wrong. The terrifying idea that mankind must leave Earth altogether doesnt add up.

In fact, there is no disaster scenario which could not also be solved by living in tunnels underneath the Pacific, or beneath the unspoiled continent of Antarctica. The air would be breathable, the temperature warmer, water would be plentiful and, unlike Mars, the ground would not be poisonous.

It sounds far-fetched, certainly but compared to the perils of Mars, it would be a life of luxury.

Humans evolved alongside a symphony of flora and fauna in the thin damp band of atmosphere that clings to this planet and Earth is still the only known place in the universe where we can survive.

Musk is not wrong to believe in extended space travel, however.

I believe we will almost certainly land a man on Mars at some point. I also think we will build a base on the moon and mine nearby asteroids for raw minerals and rare Earth materials. But we will use robots for the task because theyre cheaper than astronauts  and dont need to breathe or eat.

Artificial intelligence, or AI, will continue to evolve and alter society in ways we cant yet imagine, including by revolutionising the workforce. True, some people will attempt to subvert it for criminal or anti-social purposes. Mainly, though, robotic minds will undertake tasks we find boring as Hell  assessing insurance forms or interpreting legal contracts, for example. AI is only a tool, and will remain so, although there is justifiable concern about the economic problems it could bring.

If robots replace millions of jobs, who will pay for the goods and services that maintain our standard of living? Radical economic theories might be part of the answer.

The idea of a Basic Income, for example, would give everyone a guaranteed wage sufficient to feed and house them. Citizens would be free to earn what they could on top. Some say wed be happier, and the system would pay for itself. Not every solution need be technological, after all.

Augmented reality, which allows the digital world to enter the real world using high-tech glasses or contact lenses, is another radical innovation set to become a part of domestic lives. This has the potential to be even more significant than the arrival of smartphones.

The future hasnt happened yet. The idea that our civilisation is doomed is not established fact; it is merely what we tell ourselves

Digital assistants such as Alexa and Siri could take a visual form. You could have virtual pets which dont need walking and wont leave hairs on the sofa.

As for the environment, there is no shortage of workable solutions, even if they mostly involve dramatic changes in our way of life. American biologist E O Wilson has a proposal called Half-Earth, for example, the idea being that half of the world is used and exploited by humans, while the other half is given back to nature. This, he argues, could save the vast majority of the planets species, and allow Earth to heal itself.

Of course, I accept that this sort of vision is highly speculative  and Im in no doubt about the scale of the obstacles facing us on our journey to the future. But the point is this: human ingenuity is already finding ways through, just as it brought us here today.

In 2016, President Obama said if you could choose any point in history to be born, you would choose now  and with good reason. Around the world, there have been previously unimaginable improvements in our access to education, clean water, nutrition and health care.

The Tomorrow's World team in 1997 - Peter Snow and Philippa Forrester (left) and Craig Doyle and Anya Sitaram (right)

Two hundred years ago, 90 per cent of the worlds population lived in extreme poverty. That figure is now just ten per cent. In Kenya, life expectancy increased by more than ten years in a decade, from 53.4 in 2003 to 65.6 in 2013.

These are astonishing achievements, and if were willing to recognise them honestly for what they are, the idea of further progress no longer seems unlikely.

Much, then, now rests on the shoulders of the so-called snowflake generation, or Generation Z. At first glance they appear to revel in extended adolescence, but we disregard them at our peril.

Having grown up online, they view themselves as part of networks, not just as individuals. They are empathetic, and embrace collective responsibility, particularly when it comes to climate activism.

If millennials were notorious for not bothering to vote, Generation Z cannot wait to get to the ballot box.

They are the ones truly engaged with the problems of tomorrow, and they are the ones open-minded enough to find the answers; to imagine the future, then build it.

Thats why I believe the idea that we are hurtling for disaster may yet turn out to be a poor guide to the years ahead. The cloud of corrosive doom-mongering is already starting to drift away.

Brace yourselves. The future is bright after all.

The Future Starts Here, by John Higgs, is published by W&N on Thursday, priced 20. Offer price 16 (20 per cent discount, with free p&p) until May 19.

Order at mailshop.co.uk/books or call 0844 571 0640. Spend 30 on books and get free premium delivery.
The stand-out star of the photographs introducing Archie to the world was Meghans mother. Doria Ragland looked so tender and calm, even in the surely daunting position of standing next to the Queen in a global photocall.

She always seems to strike the perfect note; shes beautiful but not vain, quietly supportive, smart but unshowy, composed but not arrogant. Her paisley shawl was gently and neatly draped around her shoulders, her lips shimmered with a slick of pale lipstick, her multi-pierced ears twinkled with their studs and she wore her specs.

I know what its like to be the daughter of a mother with star quality who can outshine you. At 92, mine still inspires admiration and awe in all who meet her. She started her journalistic career as a cub reporter in the 1940s and still writes, brought up three children with a full-time job and a wonderful but domestically illiterate and uncompromising husband, had a career as a TV panellist and cooked dinner for us all every night.

Doria Ragland looked so tender and calm, even in the surely daunting position of standing next to the Queen in a global photocall

I know what its like to be the daughter of a mother with star quality who can outshine you. At 92, mine still inspires admiration and awe in all who meet her

Only the other day a young woman met her for the first time and reported back that she had been put to shame by my mothers energy and engagement in everything that goes on in the world around her. And she hasnt given up on style. I hope Ill still be turning up in a Gucci shirt and Prada trainers if I ever make it to her age.

Pictured: Drusilla Beyfus, mother of Alexandra Shulman, who at 26 was one of Britain's youngest female columnists

As well as formidable matriarchs, Meghan and I now have something else in common: were both mothers of single sons. When I was pregnant and people asked what sex I wanted my baby to be I said, as many of us do, that I didnt care, the only thing that mattered was that it was hopefully healthy. But the truth was I had always wanted a daughter.

I had my only child quite late and knew there was a chance that there might not be another. It seemed likely that I would understand a daughter more easily, we could have fun with clothes and as she grew up and I grew old, we would share interests.

Instead I had a son and I love, as Meghan will do, being granted a riveting insight into male worlds. Without my son I would never have known that the ref is always to blame or understood the joy in calculating odds and placing a bet on almost anything. And Id never have been able to appreciate how, from an early age, the easy camaraderie of male friendship appears less fraught and judgmental than womens. One of the joys of having a son lies in the differences between us rather than the comparisons.

My mother is my greatest cheerleader and I hers. She never undermines. But while I really do treasure every compliment I receive from others on her behalf, simultaneously as a daughter its hard not to occasionally read into them the implication that one has not quite lived up to her example. I wonder if Meghan ever feels the same way?

On reflection... we dont need mirrors

You dont appreciate how much you need certain things until they arent there. Take mirrors. We spent a couple of nights in a house without any the other day. The architect who had designed the house, his wife told us, had a thing about mirrors and so the only one available was a tiny hand-held offering in the bathroom.

To begin with it was unnerving to not be able to check ones full-length appearance, especially for someone like me who is always neglecting to do up zips. But by the end of the weekend it seemed perfectly normal and even quite liberating to be able to forget about how one looked.

Why have we given up on sex? Its dull!

What did we blame for all the wrongs of the world before the internet came along? Now its being held responsible for the death of sex, as figures show declining sexual activity across the world.

But maybe this is less due to an addiction to the latest streaming series and more due to the fact that, post the sexual revolution, sex has suffered a bit of reputational damage. No longer is it viewed as a semi-illicit, daringly wild activity that any free-spirit worth their Himalayan salt would indulge in and talk about, at every possible opportunity. Now sex is even included in NHS guidelines for healthy living  it has become so mundane that its simply dropped off the must-have list.

Ill die before I give up my joss sticks

I only need the slightest whiff of patchouli to become an instant time traveller. Any old Indian joss stick does the trick and takes me right back to the days of my teens. But now it emerges that burning incense sticks is just as bad as scented candles for increasing air pollution (yup, that tuberose jar is as harmful to you as walking alongside a ten-ton truck). I dont care. Incense is the most ancient method of perfuming our world and if it was good enough for the Egyptians, its good enough for me. I refuse to put it on the constantly increasing list of enjoyable things weve discovered we shouldnt indulge in.

Britain is great  if youre from Chicago

A man called Brian arrives to clean up our terrace with his power hose. He moved here three years ago from Chicago, where he lived with his wife and young daughter. He thinks hes landed in Xanadu.

As his jets clear off 12 years of accumulated algae, he rhapsodises about this land of excellent state education and the NHS, the safety of the streets, no Trump and even the weather.

I scarcely recognised the place he was describing but it was incredibly heartening to spend a few minutes seeing it through his eyes. Someone should snap him up for a post-Brexit advert.

Love shines bright from amid the terror

The most moving words of the week have come from the inquest into the victims of the London Bridge terror attacks.

As the survivors and relatives relive that dreadful evening and paint portraits of those slaughtered, their stories have highlighted the random fragility of life.

But thankfully among this darkness, their powerful tributes and recollections have also demonstrated how strong the concept of love remains (between them and the dead or between those who died), undiminished by being caught up in such awful violence and evil.
The Peoples Vote campaign can stop pretending now. For months theyve peddled the fiction that their role was to secure a second referendum. But last week the charade was finally exposed. Their aim is not to deliver a Peoples Vote. Its to shore up Jeremy Corbyns vote, and deliver him the keys to Downing Street.

Theyve been hijacked by Labour, a senior Remain-supporting MP explained to me. The campaign is now being used as a tool to save the Labour Party.

A very blunt tool. Last Thursday, agreement had been reached between the main English Remain parties  Change UK, the Liberal Democrats and the Greens  to run a joint candidate in the Peterborough by-election. The person selected was prominent Peoples Vote activist Femi Oluwole.

Like everything to do with Brexit, the reasons for this appeasement are complex. Part of it is base tribalism. Campbell (centre) and Baldwin have huge influence over the campaign, and are proud members of the Labour till I die camp

Then, a couple of hours before the pact was due to be announced, Oluwole pulled out. Femi was put under relentless pressure by senior Labour supporters in the campaign, an MP explained. He was told he risked letting in Nigel Farage, undermining the chances of delivering a second referendum and even that there would be legal problems.

Asked specifically if he had been placed under heavy manners by former Labour spin doctors Alastair Campbell and Tom Baldwin to withdraw, Oluwole gave the rather oblique reply not really. Labour responded by calling the allegation bizarre.

There is certainly something bizarre about the Peterborough debacle. Those who claim to be campaigning for a second referendum stepped in to block a second referendum candidate from winning the seat.

They did so to protect the seat for Labour, a party that steadfastly refuses to support a second referendum. And they did it under the pretext of stopping Farages divisive Brexit Party.

Can Boris cast a by-election spell? Boris Johnson has been facing criticism for his proposed boycott of the Tories Euro election campaign. But I understand hes going to make up for it with a series of high-profile appearances in the Peterborough by-election. It would have been ridiculous for him to be out there banging the drum in the Euros when even the PM is keeping her head down, a Johnson ally tells me, but hes going to be doing a lot of work up in Peterborough. Because of May, its an uphill struggle, but that wont stop him getting out there and fighting for the party. Could the old Bojo magic produce an upset? Advertisement

Even though the beneficiaries would be a party facing investigation by the Equality and Human Rights Commission and the Metropolitan Police, and defending a seat left vacant when its sitting MP was jailed and recalled by her electors for perverting the course of justice.

Peoples Vote has protested its innocence. A potential candidate for the Peterborough by-election has decided not to stand for their own reasons, said a spokesman.

But the evidence of collaboration with Corbyn is abundant. Take the mysterious Peoples Vote Test website  that lets voters check which parties support a second referendum  launched two weeks ago. According to the campaign, its purpose was to increase pressure on Labour ahead of its crunch NEC meeting on Tuesday to match pledges made by the SNP, the Liberal Democrats, Change UK, the Green Party and Plaid Cymru to back a Peoples Vote.

Corbyn refused to match those pledges. At which point Peoples Vote opted to pretend Labour had passed its test anyway. Type your postcode in the search engine, and youll be encouraged to vote Labour alongside the real Remain parties. Like everything to do with Brexit, the reasons for this appeasement are complex. Part of it is base tribalism. Campbell and Baldwin have huge influence over the campaign, and are proud members of the Labour till I die camp.

There are those who still naively believe Corbyn can be nudged, coddled and cajoled into backing a second referendum and that lines of communication need to be kept open to him. There are even some members of Peoples Vote who cling to the hope it can ultimately be used to dethrone Corbyn. The Peoples Vote database has been described to me as the flint that will spark the revolution that ends his leadership.

Westminster whisper Are splits already starting to appear in Change UK? Im told there are growing divisions within its leadership about how to deal with the resurgent Lib Dems. Heidi Allen is arguing they should bite the bullet and properly merge with the Lib Dems, a Change UK source explains, but Chuka and Soubry think the Libs brand is too damaged and they need to fold into the new party, keeping the Change UK name. I also understand there have been personality clashes among Change MPs. Theyre fighting among themselves, the atmospheres toxic, an insider confides. What happened to the new politics? Advertisement

And then there is the real reason. Which is that the Peoples Vote campaigners are cowards. For all their bravado and bombastic pledges they are as scared of Corbyn as everyone else. When it comes to beating on a battered and broken Theresa May, the Peoples Vote macho men are happy to flex and preen. But when confronted by Labours leader  and his stubborn refusal to concede a single substantive inch to their second referendum demands  they vacillate and cower.

That is why they are now using Farage as their human shield. We need to beat Farage, they whisper, and the only way to do that is to vote Labour.

Think of the logic that lies behind this argument; that an outcome in which Labour defeats the Brexit Party in the European elections will convince Corbyn he urgently needs to change his Brexit policy.

It is lunacy, and the Peoples Vote campaigners know it. They are well aware the only thing that will convince Corbyn to alter his stance on Brexit is if Labour are smashed on May 23. A haemorrhaging of votes to parties that actually support a second referendum would create an explosion even he and his Momentum acolytes couldnt contain.

But an explosion is not what the Peoples Vote leaders  or at least those with close links to Labour  want. They are terrified they will be caught by the shrapnel. As one Shadow Minister told me: Corbyns got them where he wants them. He has. Over the days to come lip service will be paid to the idea of making a statement in the European elections.

There will be guarded warnings about the price Corbyn might pay if he doesnt throw a few more crumbs to Remain voters. And then the Peoples Vote campaign will fall back into line. May will be replaced. A more Eurosceptic PM will enter Downing Street. And the second referendum campaigners will return to telling everyone: Its either Labour or a No Deal Brexit. What choice do we have?

They can stop pretending now. The Peoples Vote is really Jeremy Corbyns vote. And it always was.
Cabinet Secretary Sir Mark Sedwills Bond villain-style battle with Gavin Williamson has made it even harder to recruit staff to his team.

With ex-Defence Secretary Williamson licking his wounds over furiously denied claims of leaking, Whitehall has drawn a blank trying to find a deputy for Sedwills other role as National Security Adviser.

A source says: No one any good wants to be his bag-carrier.

Cabinet Secretary Sir Mark Sedwills (pictured) Bond villain-style battle with Gavin Williamson has made it even harder to recruit staff to his team

Philip Hammond is not even bothering to try to replace key staff in his Treasury team. Theres no point as we are going soon, the ever-optimistic Chancellor is said to have quipped.

MPs, a thirsty bunch at the best of times, have consumed 1.5 million of alcohol in Commons bars since the 2016 referendum, according to figures seen by Dog. The surge in late-night Brexit votes pushed the monthly bill from 50,231 in January to 68,785 in March, with favoured tipples including pinot grigio, prosecco treviso and the House champagne. Hic!

Chukas secret link to new Royal arrival

Former Labour MP Ummuna was revealed by Dog six years ago to be using the pseudonym Harrison on social media

The arrival of Royal baby Archie Harrison has led to much water-cooler debate about Harry and Meghans choice of name for their first-born. But Change UKs Chuka Umunna, right, should welcome it at least.

The former Labour MP was revealed by Dog six years ago to be using the pseudonym Harrison on social media  posing as a glamorous London solicitor who spent his weekends trying to avoid trash and wannabes in Londons West End

Ambitious Tory backbench boss Sir Graham Brady has overshot by demanding the Prime Minister address his 1922 Committee on Wednesday about when she is going to resign.

Not going to happen, says a No 10 official, shes going to Paris that day, which we would have happily told Sir Graham if hed bothered to check.

A Redwood replay

Vulcan-like Tory MP John Redwood, who mounted a doomed attempt to challenge Sir John Majors leadership in the 1990s, has revived his old campaign slogan as he now plots against Theresa May.

No change, No chance, he told fellow Brexiteers agitating for Mrs May to quit. I meant it then and I mean it now.

Hapless Cabinet Minister Chris Grayling is so toxic that having ruined dozens of Government projects, he is now trashing the brand of a lobbying firm that shares his name. Richard Jukes, chair of Grayling Public Affairs, declared at an event last week that his firm is no relation to the Secretary of State for Transport.

Remainers waving EU flags has become a Proms tradition since the EU referendum. And Dog suspects the bosses of the annual Royal Albert Hall festival are enjoying the row  theyve scheduled a rousing performance of Beethovens Ninth Symphony this year, also known as the EUs anthem.
A fashion designer, whose brand is worn by celebrities including Holly Willoughby and Pippa Middleton, has revealed her heartbreak after her beloved younger brother took his own life after a struggle with depression.

Katie Lightfoot, 35, from Essex, was close to her 'hugely-popular' brother Sam, who was just 33 when he took his own life in the summer of 2018.

Speaking out at the beginning of Mental Health Awareness Week, she revealed that her brother's death was so unexpected because he was the 'life and soul of everything'.

Now, in a bid to raise awareness on male suicide, her fashion brand Mercy Delta have collaborated with artist Dan Baldwin to create a range of silk shirts, with money going to a male suicide charity.

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Katie says that she wants to tell people about Sam's life and how incredible he was to show there is no 'type' of person who could suddenly find themselves suffering from depression and there is no shame in asking for help

Katie said that Sam had always been a magnetic personality and that he was 'hugely popular, the life and soul of everything'

Talking about Sam's suicide she said: 'Sam had never shown any signs of depression. He was successful, had many friends and came from a close family.

'He was always the joker sporting a cheeky grin, friends often described him as the life and soul of any party.

'Depression didn't present itself to us in the way we would have expected it to, we've learnt the hard way it can come in many forms and at any pace - literally in just a couple of months.'

In the UK, 84 men are said to end their lives by suicide every week. And for men under 45, suicide is the biggest killer.

In many instances, men are not seeking help through friends, family or established channels.

Katie's fashion brand Mercy Delta have also collobroated with artist Dan Baldwin (right) on a collection of limited edition, ethically made silk shirts with swallow patterns on

A UK British Medical Journal also found that general primary care consultation rates for depression were 32 per cent lower in men than women.

Katie went on to say: 'I had no idea that suicide is so rife among young men who felt they were unable to talk, who felt pressured.

I want to tell people about Sam's life and how incredible he was to show there is no 'type' of person who could suddenly find themselves suffering from depression and there is no shame in asking for help... Katie Lightfoot

'It made me realise how many young men who have so much in front of them can find themselves lost, and in a moment of desperation can end their lives so suddenly.'

'At Sam's funeral I heard about the artist Dan Baldwin and his swallow print that was becoming well known in relation to male suicide, and I wanted to do something to help  while also raising awareness and funds for Calm, the male suicide charity.

'So together with Dan we've started the Life and Soul campaign, to get the word out there, as I just never expected to lose my brother this way.

'I feel that depression or mental health has previously been too much of a taboo subject and perhaps Sam did too. Too many people, they may feel there is a stigma and they can't ask for help.'

In the UK, 84 men are said to end their lives by suicide every week. And for men under 45, suicide is the biggest killer (Pictured: Sam riding a motorcycle)

'I worry that men in particular may not know how to open up. Sam was one of the many people I'd go to for advice if I needed it, he was always very wise and had time for everyone.

'It made me ask myself whether some young men, especially ones like Sam who are seen by everyone as the life and soul of the party, the ones 'holding it together', to say actually things are a bit rubbish at the moment.

'I want to tell people about Sam's life and how incredible he was to show there is no 'type' of person who could suddenly find themselves suffering from depression and there is no shame in asking for help.'

Mercy Delta have collaborated with artist Dan Baldwin on a collection of limited edition, ethically made silk shirts with swallow patterns on - called #LifeAndSoul for male suicide awareness and support

'If I can stop just one life from ending so needlessly and their family and friends suffering this way, then that would provide huge comfort to all of us mourning Sam.

'I know the pain of losing Sam will last a lifetime to all of us who loved him. If only we knew more, this tragic loss and others could be prevented with the right help and the ability to recognise those early signs.'

Katie says that signs include withdrawing from their usual activities and social network, lots of excuses, weight loss and insomnia.

The shirts which come in different colours including pink, yellow and navy feature swallows. The swallows represents positivity, the change in seasons and optimism from Dan Baldwin's original art series 'Love and Light'

'By launching #LifeAndSoul, we're hoping to shift any preconceived notions of what depression and suicidal thoughts might look like, and how they may manifest,' added Katie. 'There should be no stigma in asking for help.

'If we can change behaviour when it comes to seeking or accepting help, and get more people opening up a conversation, then we can save lives.'

The shirts which come in different colours including pink, yellow and navy feature swallows. The swallows represents positivity, the change in seasons and optimism from Dan Baldwin's original art series 'Love and Light'.

Each shirt from Mercy Delta is printed by hand in India and created and retails at 190, with 20% from each sale going to male suicide prevention charity CALM.

If you have been affected by any of the issues raised in this article then you can call the Samaritans on 116 123, alternatively you can visit the website at by clicking here.
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Bohemian Byron Bay-based couple Mitch Gobel and Sally Mustang have tied the knot in a 'fairy tale pixie forest wedding' complete with flower blessings, hand-stitched outfits and pagan prayers.

Mitch and Sally married before their close circle of friends and family in the Byron Bay hinterland, New South Wales, in a stunning ceremony that included flower blessings, their own handwritten vows and bespoke handmade outfits.

'Heart is so full,' Mitch captioned a recent Instagram post. 'Still processing the absolute beauty and bliss of our wedding.'

The couple - who are known for their racy sex posts online - included many personal elements in their day - and said they felt 'airborne' at pulling off their dream wedding.

Bohemian Byron Bay-based couple Mitch Gobel and Sally Mustang (pictured) have tied the knot in a 'fairy tale pixie forest wedding' complete with flower blessings, hand-stitched outfits and pagan prayers

Mitch and Sally (pictured) married before their close circle of friends and family in the Byron Bay hinterland, New South Wales, in a stunning ceremony that included flower blessings, their own handwritten vows and bespoke handmade outfits

'Heart is so full,' Mitch captioned a recent Instagram post . 'Still processing the absolute beauty and bliss of our wedding' (pictured with Sally on his wedding day)

The pair chose the Byron hinterland where they live as the dream setting for their forest wedding (pictured: on their wedding day)

When it came to venue, the pair were never going to go anywhere other than Byron Bay.

Opting for the small hillside town of Bangalow, the couple set about creating their dream canopy forest setting in the hinterland - and decorated a marquee tent with 'earthy colours and cross-cultural textures'.

'We wanted our love ceremony to represent us and a new way of marriage for this coming generation,' Sally told FEMAIL.

'We focused on the aspect of nature, spirituality, cultures from around the world and celebration. As you can see the set up was quite like a fairy tale and filled with magic.'

Everything they used on the day - from bouquets to decorations - was created from local and sustainable businesses.

Even Mitch and Sally's wedding outfits were painstakingly hand-stitched, with Sally's 'fairy bridal dress of dreams' being created by the Byron-Bay-based designer, Kate Willa.

The couple created a 'flower mandala' for their guests to take part in and enjoy, with every guest taking a flower and making a wish (pictured)

'I had my dress hand made by Kate Willa and I sourced the beautiful beaded fabric from Pakistan,' Sally said (left). 'Mitch's jacket was from a place in London and his jewellery, hat, scarf and adornments were from his personal collection,' she said (right: Mitch)

'I had my dress hand made by Kate Willa and I sourced the beautiful beaded fabric from Pakistan,' Sally said.

'I actually had to get sewn into the dress on the day and it was the very first time I had tried it on.

'My jewels were all handmade 24kt gold by Blue Lotus Designs. Mitch's jacket was from a place in London and his jewellery, hat, scarf and adornments were from his personal collection.'

The 29-year-old bride chose to complete her wedding look by going barefoot for the ceremony, which took place outside where she and Mitch exchanged vows.

'We were married by a shaman so the ceremony was very different, we had shamanic rituals and prayers throughout,' Mitch said.

'Our spoken vows were taken from a contract we wrote about what we were actually promising one another in marriage.

'It basically came down to this: You are now family to me, and that means I will practise unconditional love with you for the rest of this lifetime.'

Everything they used on the day - from bouquets to decorations - was created from local and sustainable businesses (pictured: Mitch and Sally on their wedding day)

'Our spoken vows were taken from a contract we wrote about what we were actually promising one another in marriage,' Mitch said (pictured: the couple)

Sally said Mitch has also taken her surname now, so the couple are now Mitch and Sally Mustang (pictured: the couple at sunset)

'We were married by a shaman so the ceremony was very different, we had shamanic rituals and prayers throughout,' Mitch said (pictured)

Sally said Mitch has also taken her surname now, so the couple are now Mitch and Sally Mustang.

'We are all about leading a new way and living outside society's norms,' she said.

While traditional brides and grooms might have confetti and cake, Sally and Mitch opted for an altogether more bohemian approach.

The couple created a 'flower mandala' for their guests to take part in and enjoy.

'A flower blessing and a wish,' Sally said.

'Everyone shared a blessing and gave us a wish while creating this beautiful flower mandala - creating beauty and working with nature together as a community is something I always try to encourage and something I'm really passionate about.'

Sally, Mitch and their friends and family also exchanged pagan prayers, alongside their own handwritten vows.

The couple had a plant-based and vegan menu (pictured) and said the menu was sourced locally and cooked from scratch by Cade McConnell - it had an Indian and Sri Lankana flavour

'Actually flying. Heart full of gold. Love is the greatest thing in life! Married my soul mate,' Sally posted onlline after the event (pictured at the flower blessing)

Mitch (pictured with Sally) said he will never forget the day and how 'beautiful Sal looked coming down the aisle... [she] completely took my breath away,' he said

Their bohemian set-up was lit with fairy lights and lanterns (pictured)

When it came to the reception, the couple had a 'completely plant-based and vegan menu' for their 80 guests.

They said the menu was sourced locally and cooked from scratch by Cade McConnell, and it had an Indian and Sri Lankana flavour.

'We had a vegan carrot cake decorated with wild flowers by our beautiful friends,' Sally said.

'I still get a little choked up thinking about how beautiful Sal looked coming down the aisle... completely took my breath away,' Mitch said.

Later in the evening, the happy couple sliced their wedding cake (pictured)

Sally Mustang and Mitch Gobel first set the Internet alight when they started sharing the intimate details of what goes on between their sheets to their Instagram followers in 2016 (pictured on their wedding day)

Their bohemian adventures quickly earned them a collective half a million Instagram followers, and the couple started to document their love as a way to inspire others to be more open about their sex lives (pictured on their wedding day)

Sally Mustang and Mitch Gobel first set the Internet alight when they started sharing the intimate details of what goes on between their sheets to their Instagram followers in 2016.

Their bohemian adventures quickly earned them a collective half a million Instagram followers.

The couple started to document their love as a way to inspire others to be more open about their sex lives.

Photo shoots, Instagram fans and online fame followed, before Sally took to her personal profile in May 2017 to reveal that they had broken up.

An open relationship followed, before the pair ended up back together, with Mitch proposing to Sally last year.

To follow Mitch Gobel on Instagram, please click here. To follow Sally Mustang on Instagram, please click here.
Meghan and Kate are known for creating a fashion frenzy with everything they wear... but apparently it's another royal who has caught the eye of the fashion press with her style.

Secrets of the Royal Dressmaker, which aired last night on Channel 5, claimed that Vogue editor Edward Enninful is a huge fan of the Duchess of Cornwall's style, and even wants to secure her as his next royal cover-star.

If it comes to pass, Camilla would be following in the footsteps of her daughter-in-law, the Duchess of Cambridge, who was British Vogue's centenary cover star in April 2016.

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Style icon? Edward Enninful, editor of Vogue, pictured sat next to the Duchess of Cornwall at London Fashion Week in February. The style guru is apparently desperate to get Camilla on the cover of the fashion bible, according to a new Channel 5 documentary

The hour-long documentary, Secrets of the Royal Dressmaker, which aired on Channel 5 on Saturday saw Camilla praised for her sartorial choices, with one expert saying Kate often followed the Duchess of Cornwall's lead when it came to fashion

The Duchess of Cambridge and Duchess of Sussex create a fashion frenzy every time they step out in a new outfit and are said to boost fashion industry sales by around 300,000 a year. Pictured: Kate and Meghan attending the Christmas Day service at Sandringham in December 2018

Let's talk fashion: Kate chatting with Enninful at the National Portrait Gallery in March this year

Royal correspondent Emily Andrews said: 'Edward Enninful, who's the new editor of Vogue, adores Camilla, he thinks she's the best-dressed royal,' she said.

Andrews, who starred along with other royal experts in the Channel 5 documentary Secrets of the Royal Dressmaker, revealed that Enninful admired Camilla's sense of style.

She went on: 'He thinks she's gorgeous and he wants to put her on the cover of Vogue.'

Camilla wouldn't be the first royal to grace the cover of Vogue, as both Kate Middleton and Princess Diana have taken on the iconic magazine.

New Vogue editor Edward Ennifel is said to admire Camilla's style, and wants her to be the next royal to grace the cover of the iconic magazine

Camilla is said to be much happier in jeans and wellies than she is dressing up for royal events, and tends to opt for similar style outfits

The Duchess of Cambridge graced the cover of Vogue in June 2016 to celebrate the 100th anniversary of British Vogue.

Vogue and the National Portrait Gallery collaborated on the series of striking photographic portraits which show a dressed-down and casual Kate relaxing in the countryside.

Shot in the Norfolk countryside and styled by Vogue Fashion Director Lucinda Chambers, the photographs captured the Duchess relaxed and happy, dressed down in casual clothes.

Kate followed in the footsteps of Princess Diana, who graced the cover of Vogue four times, shot by Patrick Demarchelier in July 1994 and December 1991 and in August 1981 when she was photographed by Lord Snowdon.

Claudia Joseph suggested that Camilla, like Kate, was 'much happier in jeans and wellies' than in a posh frock. Pictured: The Duchess of Cambridge during a visit to Newborough Beach in North Wales

For the 1981 issue, the cover featured a then Lady Diana Spencer, with the magazine entitled, 'The Day of the Wedding', published before Charles and Diana's wedding.

She also appeared on the cover posthumously in October 1997, when a photograph taken from 1994 was used for a special tribute issue to mark her death two months earlier.

Valentino, Mario Testino, Manolo Blahnik and John Galliano were among the fashion figures who used the magazine to pay tribute to the Princess.

At the time, a spokesperson for the Duchess of Cambridge said: 'Since 1916, Vogue has been a leading champion of British portraiture.

'The Duchess was delighted to play a part in celebrating the centenary of an institution that has given a platform to some of the most renowned photographers in this country's history.'

Camilla was described as a 'classic plain dresser', who knows what suits her and tends to stick with it. Pictured: Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall attends The Olivier Awards 2019 at The Royal Albert Hall

Calling Camilla's style 'classic, royal expert Ingrid Stewart said: 'She is a classic good plain dresser.'

Whilst she opts for fairly classic outfits for royal occasions, she suggested Camilla and Kate had similar attitudes towards style.

Kate Middleton, who grew up in the English countryside of Berkshire, shares Camilla's love for a classic informal outfit.

Royal author Claudia Joseph explained: 'Camilla, like Kate, is much happier in jeans and wellies playing with her grandchildren and dogs than she is in posh frocks.'

It is said that Camilla and Kate share similarities in the way they approach dressing, and would rather dress down in practical jeans than opt for fancy frocks

She went on that say that when Camilla does dress up, she likes to keep it traditional with tailored dresses that she knows will suit her shape.

'She wears quite traditional clothing, elegant, tailored, not showing too much flesh. '

Roy Allen has been dressing Camilla for the past 14 years, and revealed he always sticks to the same shape in order to accentuate her waist.

He said the Duchess of Cornwall knows what made he feel and look good, and tends to opt for similar options for a variety of royal events.


A policewoman who has 'been pregnant six times with no baby to hold' has revealed what it's like to feel like a mum but not physically be one on Mother's Day.

Rachael Casella, 34, from Sydney, lost her first baby last year at just seven months old after she was diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) Type 1; a devastating terminal neuromuscular disorder, at just ten weeks old.

She has since had five miscarriages and continues to struggle to have a child with her husband, Jonny.

'Which day is mine? Do I no longer belong to Mother's Day? I still feel like a mum in my heart but in my physical being I am not a mum anymore. Where do I belong?,' Rachael told FEMAIL.

A policewoman (pictured) who has 'been pregnant six times with no baby to hold' has revealed what it's like to feel like a mum but not physically be one on Mother's Day

Rachael Casella, 34, from Sydney, lost her first baby last year at just seven months old after she was diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) Type 1; a devastating terminal neuromuscular disorder, at just ten weeks old (pictured with her partner)

WHAT IS SMA? * Spinal Muscular Atrophy is a rare inherited genetic muscle wasting disease that is characterised by a loss of nerve cells called motor neurons. * The affected muscles not only include the muscles you see like your arms and legs, but all your internal muscles like breathing, coughing and swallowing. * The loss of motor neurons leads to the progressive muscle weakness and wasting. * Spinal Muscular Atrophy is passed on by what is known as autosomal recessive inheritance and for an individual to be affected with SMA; they need to have inherited an altered gene from their parents. * One person in thirty-five unknowingly carries this gene. Source: SMA Australia. Advertisement

Rachael gave birth to her darling daughter, Mackenzie, on 11 March, 2017, but within ten weeks, she was told she had a terminal genetic disorder.

'On 22 October 2017, Mackenzie died in our arms, at just seven months and 11 days old,' Rachael recalled to FEMAIL.

'I cannot explain the pain that losing a child creates - but what I can tell you is every single day I think about Mackenzie. There have been so many days to recognise.

'Her birthdays, the anniversary of her death, our first flight without her, the first Christmas, Easter, Father's Day, the first day we went to the shops without her and yes, Mother's Day.

'Every day, big and small I don't know how to "celebrate" these days.'

This year, the couple have escaped Sydney and gone to visit Monument Valley on the Arizona and Utah border in America.

'On the day itself we will be flying back into Sydney from the USA,' Rachael said.

'I doubt we will even recognise the day for me. We took the trip overseas as a way to cope.'

Since the death of her daughter Mackenzie last year at seven months old (pictured), Rachael has had five miscarriages and continues to struggle to have a child with her husband, Jonny

'Which day is mine? Do I no longer belong to Mother's Day? I still feel like a mum in my heart but in my physical being I am not a mum anymore. Where do I belong?,' Rachael (pictured with Mackenzie) said

WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF SMA? * There are four types of SMA, categorised by the disease's severity and the age at which symptoms begin. * Type I, sometimes called Werdnig-Hoffmann disease, begins to affect infants from birth up to 6 months of age, with most babies showing signs of the disease by 3 months. Some develop the disorder before birth. This is the most severe form of SMA. * Type II, also called chronic infantile SMA, begins to affect children between 6 and 18 months old. This form can be moderate to more severe. * Type III, also called Kugelberg-Welander disease or juvenile spinal muscular atrophy, begins to affect kids as early as 18 months of age or as late as adolescence. This is the mildest form of SMA in children. * Type IV, is the adult form of the disorder. Most people affected by this type start having symptoms after age 35, and these symptoms slowly get worse over time. Because it develops slowly, many people with Type IV SMA don't know that they have it until years after symptoms begin. Source: Kids Health Advertisement

Rachael said that usually she find platforms like Instagram - where she shares beautiful photos of her Mackenzie at My Life of Love - a supportive space for her to upload photos and keep her daughter's memory alive.

But not on Mother's Day.

'I usually turn to Instagram for support in hard times,' she said. 'I have such a beautiful community of followers who lift me up every single day.

'Without them I would be lost. But it is also hard to be open some days. By the very nature of my age and my interest, nearly everyone I follow is a mum so my Instagram feed is constantly filled with families and babies.

'Most days this makes me smile. I know that I am still a part of the secret mum's club that Kenzie made me part of.

'But Mother's day is a hard day to look at Instagram. I will always be a mother but I feel like I am stuck in limbo being a mother without a child to hold. I am not a childless person but I have no child in the physical world. So what am I?'.

The 34-year-old said she is not religious or overly spiritual, but often thinks about life after death - and what there will be 'after we go'.

'Will I be surrounded by my babies when I die? Do they know how much I love them?,' she asked.

'My little baby girl should be in my arms. She should be safe and warm nestled near my heart. I should have been able to protect her from this world and its harshness.

'I should have been able to give up my life so she could have lived. I should have been able to do so much more.'

'I cannot explain the pain that losing a child creates - but what I can tell you is every single day I think about Mackenzie. There have been so many days to recognise,' Rachael (pictured pregnant with Jonny) said

Rachael said 'Mother's day is a hard day to look at Instagram' as she 'will always be a mother but I feel like I am stuck in limbo being a mother without a child to hold' (pictured: Mackenzie)

'I should never have watched Mackenzie take her last breath or heard those words from the doctor that she was gone

Rachael 'celebrated' International Bereaved Mother's Day last Sunday - a 'club' she has been forced into but doesn't 'want to be a part of'.

'I should never have watched Mackenzie take her last breath or heard those words from the doctor that she was gone,' she said.

'I should not have had to clean her body after she died. To have to learn to live without her.'

Rachael 'celebrated' International Bereaved Mother's Day last Sunday - a 'club' she has been forced into but doesn't 'want to be a part of' (pictured with Jonny)

'I should never have watched Mackenzie take her last breath or heard those words from the doctor that she was gone,' the mother said (pictured: baby Mackenzie)

While she has been somewhat coping, Rachael said that recently she has felt 'lost' without her baby girl.

'I feel empty and disconnected,' she said. 'I think about her every day but I haven't felt her with me for a while.

'It is a whole new level of grief.'

I feel empty and disconnected,' she said. 'I think about her every day but I haven't felt her with me for a while.

Since Mackenzie's death, Rachael and Jonny have endured six gruelling rounds of IVF in a bid to give Mackenzie siblings.

As well as miscarriages, they have had to say goodbye to another little girl at four months pregnant who had the same genetic disorder as Mackenzie.

'In some ways Mother's Day is just another day. I don't miss her any more or less on this day but what I lost is rubbed in my face through no fault of anyone's,' Rachael said.

Last Mother's Day, Rachael recalled her 'beautiful' husband Jonny 'organised a simple card from Mackenzie'.

'He used his left hand and a red colouring in pencil to write the card as though it was from her. He told me he sat in front of one of Mackenzie's favourite spots and tried to write what she told him.'

Speaking about her grief, she said: 'I feel empty and disconnected,' she said. 'I think about her every day but I haven't felt her with me for a while' (pictured with Jonny)

Rachael (pictured) concluded by saying she 'hopes everyone has a beautiful Mother's Day, really I do'

Rachael concluded by saying she 'hopes everyone has a beautiful Mother's Day, really I do'.

'Amongst our pain we still want to recognise the beautiful mums out there, including our own. But I will find it hard.

'I wish so many things but only one of my wishes matters and it is the one I can never have or fulfill... I love you my sweet princess. Always have, always will.'

To follow Rachael Casella on Instagram, please click here.
Prince Harry is rapidly losing his hair, with his bald patch 'doubling in size' in the past year, according to a leading trichologist.

Transplant surgeon, Dr Asim Shahmalak, has claimed that the thinning hair on his crown has dramatically increased since his wedding as the Duke of Sussex juggles royal duties and fatherhood.

Dr Shahmalak, from Manchester's Crown Clinic, claimed Harry, 34, has been experiencing the same acceleration of hair loss as Prince William, 37.

The Harley Street consultant told The Sun: 'Fatherhood has definitely not been kind to Prince Harry's hair.'

May 2018: Prince Harry's bald patch was barely visible at his wedding to Meghan Markle last year. He has long teased his brother William for his loss of hair...but now looks to be following in his brother's footsteps

May 2019: An expert has claimed Harry's bald patch has doubled in size, and pointed to the stress of the past year as a potential trigger. Pictured: Prince Harry earlier this week during the official launch of the one year countdown to the Invictus Games The Hague 2020

Prince Harry, 34, and Meghan Markle, 37, welcomed their first child, Archie Harrison on May 6th.

The expert went on to explain that there has been a definite acceleration in his male pattern baldness in the last few months, and said stress around fatherhood could be to blame.

He said: 'Stress is a factor in hair loss so the struggles of combining his royal duties with marriage and becoming a father for the first time maybe a reason why his hair is thinning noticeably across the top of his scalp.'

He also gestured to the strong baldness gene that runs through the whole Windsor family.

Prince Harry's thinner hair is visible in the photograph released earlier this week of the Queen meeting his son, Archie Harrison

Prince Harry alongside his brother William at his wedding last May. The baldness gene is strong in the Windsor family, with Philip, Charles, William and now Harry battling hair loss

Harry's ginger locks were looking a little thinner during his visit to The Hague on Thursday, where he officially launched the Invictus Games

Though Prince Charles is still hanging on to his hair, Harry's brother Prince William has long battled against baldness, and began losing his hair in his twenties.

The royal famously shaved his head in January last year in order to hide the worst impact of the hair loss.

Harry always loved mocking his brother for his hair loss, once quipping: 'I think he definitely is brainier than I am, but we established that at school, along with his baldness.'

And it's believed while on the royal's recent tour of New Zealand a fan told him, 'you look just like your father' to which quick-witted Harry quipped, 'I'm losing my hair like him too'.

Meanwhile Prince Philip, 97, is also bald.

Dr Asim Shahmalak also suggested that Meghan may put pressure on Prince Harry to do something about his hair loss, such as getting a hair transplant

Prince Harry's bald patch is also visible in this photograph from the Duke and Duchess' wedding, which they shared as a Christmas card this year

Prince William started balding in his twenties, and famously shaved his head in an effort to counteract his hair loss. Pictured: Prince William chats to guests at a reception after delivering a speech to celebrate the national rollout of the 'Step into Health' programme, at Chandos House in London, Thursday, Jan. 18, 2018

The expert went on: 'Harry's baldness was slower to take off but now, aged 34, he is catching up his brother fast, particularly in the crown area.'

The hair professional explained that around 30 per cent of men have experienced some form of hair loss by Harry's age.

Dr Shahmalak also revealed that Prince Harry could have come under pressure from his bride Meghan to tackle his hair loss, saying: 'She was a Hollywood actress in her former career so she knows very well the value of looking good.'

Prince William and Harry both share the 'baldness gene' which could lead to the royals choosing certain hair styles

Baldness runs in the family: Prince Philip is also bald, while Prince Harry's uncle, Prince Andrew, has also struggled wit hair loss

He also suggested that Harry may have grown his beard to compensate for his thinning hair, pointing out that it's very common for men who are thinning on top to grow a beard to detract from the hair loss on the scalp.

Prince Harry has had an exceptionally busy year, marrying Meghan Markle, and facing a delayed move into newly-renovated Frogmore Cottage, as well as welcoming his first child, a son called Archie.

Prince Harry, pictured here in 2005, previously had a full head of ginger hair. His baldness is said to have accelerated in the past year

Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor was born at 5.26am on Monday and weighed 7lbs 3oz.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex also set up their own staff, separating from Kate Middleton and Prince William earlier this year.

Strains are said to have existed between the two families, with rumours that Prince Harry and his brother had fallen out.
A pregnant model has slammed the fashion industry for using women with prosthetic bumps to sell their maternity ranges, saying it's 'depressing' to see 'skinny models with fake bumps'.

Norwegian-born Syvlia Flote, 36, says brands such as Asos and Boohoo 'take power away' from pregnant women with their 'dishonest' advertising.

'They want slimline faces and women who are slimmer everywhere else in the body' she told the Sunday Times.

Norwegian-born Syvlia Flote, 36, says brands such as Asos and Boohoo 'take power away' from pregnant women with their 'dishonest' advertising

The model, who's engaged to Sigmund Oakeshott, son of Lord Oakeshott, and previously dated David Wailliams, added that she has friends who are 'too scared' to try for a family, out of fear of not getting work while pregnant

'Your whole body changed and maybe you try to feel better about that by getting new clothes.

So it's depressing to be presented with a woman who's never had a baby in her belly, a size 6 or 8, someone with a perfect round bum, still skinny as ever, but with a bump stuck on' she continued.

She added that retailers stuff models bras, to make them look as if they're preparing for milk.

'It makes it harder for women to tell how a garment will actually fit them' she continued.

'I don't see why they're taking power away from pregnant women. Pregnancy is not a disease.'

The model, who's engaged to Sigmund Oakeshott, son of Lord Oakeshott, and previously dated David Wailliams added that she has friends who are 'too scared' to try for a family, out of fear of not getting work while pregnant.

Sylvia's comments come after fashion giant Boohoo came under fire for using what resembled a pillow strapped to a non-pregnant woman to model their maternity range.

Angry Twitter users called out the online fashion retailer, after noticing pictures of 'pregnant' models with noticeably misshapen bellies.

The pictures show 'bumps' on the models featuring strange square angles and creases below the chest area.

A number of people took to social media to point out the unusual shape of the bumps, tagging Boohoo to clear up their questions.

User Georgia Hallgalley said: 'Really Boohoo, you really expect us to believe that this is a 'pregnant belly' you can literally see the pillow stuffed up her dress'

Sylvia's comments come after fashion giant Boohoo came under fire for using what resembled a pillow strapped to a non-pregnant woman to model their maternity range

User Georgia Hallgalley said: 'Really Boohoo, you really expect us to believe that this is a 'pregnant belly' you can literally see the pillow stuffed up her dress'

Jodess added: 'Looking at maternity dresses on Boohoo and I bet none of the girls are actually pregnant.'

'Your whole body changed and maybe you try to feel better about that by getting new clothes. So it's depressing to be presented with a woman who's never had a baby in her belly, a size 6 or 8, someone with a perfect round bum, still skinny as ever, but with a bump stuck on' Sylvia says

Another customer by the name of Realizt Dee added: 'Boohoo you lot couldn't find a pregnant model? Lol. That belly ain't fooling anyone. I'm actually dying of laughter'.

Elsewhere Courto said: 'I feel like Boohoo didn't even try to make this model look like she was actually pregnant'.

And Jodess added: 'Looking at maternity dresses on Boohoo and I bet none of the girls are actually pregnant'.

Both Asos and Boohoo told the Sunday Times that having pregnant women on set is a welfare concern as they need to be on their feet 'all day'

One customer pointed out that model Camilla Moraes, who was used to showcase the maternity line, has no bump on her Instagram feed.

Both Asos and Boohoo told the Sunday Times that having pregnant women on set is a welfare concern as they need to be on their feet 'all day'.

While they currently opt for fake bumps made of foam or silicone, that cost up to 430 a piece, Sylvia hopes the brands will introduce a disclaimer to show that the models aren't actually pregnant.
Lady Louise Windsor joined her mother Sophie, Countess of Wessex today as they both drove carriages at the Royal Windsor Horse Show in Berkshire.

Proud father Prince Edward, 55, watched from the stands with his youngest son, James, Viscount Severn, 11, as Louise, 15, and Sophie, 54, showed off their equestrian prowess.

Louise, the Queen's youngest granddaughter, opted for traditional riding gear of a tweed top hat with a matching jacket as she rode with a chaperone.

Lady Louise Windsor joined her mother Sophie, Countess of Wessex today as they both drove carriages at the Royal Windsor Horse Show in Berkshire.

Sophie, Countess of Wessex donned a navy ensemble with a fetching headpiece as she rode solo through the Windsor grounds

Proud father Prince Edward, 55, (second left) watched from the stands with his youngest son, James, Viscount Severn, 11, (second right) as Louise, 15, and Sophie, 54, showed off their equestrian prowess

The Earl of Wessex with son James talks to participants in the Champagne Laurent-Perrier Meet of the British Driving Society during the Royal Windsor Horse Show, that his wife and daughter were competing in

Meanwhile her mother Sophie, who was competing in the Champagne Laurent-Perrier Meet of the British Driving Society, donned a navy ensemble with a fetching headpiece as she rode solo through the Windsor grounds.

James matched his father in light brown chinos and a smart tie and jacket.

While, the pre-teen opted for a navy jacket and polka dot tie, a style often spotted on his uncle Prince Charles, Edward sported a green and blue striped tie and navy jacket.

Elsewhere, Prince Michael of Kent, the Queen's paternal first cousin, 76, looked delighted to join his extended family for a carriage drive.

Delighted! Lady Louise, who like her mother was taking part in The Champagne Laurent-Perrier Meet of the British Driving Society, looked over the moon to be joining the race

Louise showed off her braces while competing in the event. The young royal shares a passion for all things equestrian with her grandparents

Proud Dad! Prince Edward took photos of his daughter Lady Louise and wife Sophie, Countess of Wessex as they showed off their equestrian prowess in Windsor

All smiles! Sophie couldn't hide her joy as she joined her family for a day at the races

Prince Michael of Kent, the Queen's paternal first cousin, 76, looked delighted to join his extended family for a carriage drive

Prince Micheal of Kent looked in deep concentration as he drove his carriage, while Lady Louise, a keen equestrian who has recently started taking Polo lessons, seemed in her element

The Countess of Wessex take off her glove as she partakes in the Champagne Laurent-Perrier Meet of the British Driving Society in Windsor

Keeping true to her royal routes, Louise spotted a green tweed look with a crisp white shirt for a day of riding

Sophie looked in her element to be enjoying fresh spring air as she rode through Windsor, which she knows well

Showing off her warm nature, Sophie smiled at crowds as she met passersby and horse racing enthusiasts

Like mother, like daughter! Louise looked at ease with the doting crowd as the teenager finished off the carriage drive

Always one to look stylish, Sophie kept warm under a blue and white checked blanket while riding today

Ready, set: Louise sat in a carriage next to her mother as the pair got ready to ride around Windsor

Lady Louise is an avid rider who was taught at a young age, and has inherited a love of carriage driving from her grandfather, Prince Philip.

In May 2017, she was responsible for leading the carriages of the Champagne Laurent-Perrier Meet of the British Driving Society at the Windsor Horse Show.

The Duke of Edinburgh himself, 97, made his way to the show earlier this week in a two-horse carriage, accompanied by two aides.

Lady Louise is an avid rider who was taught at a young age, and has inherited a love of carriage driving from her grandfather, Prince Philip.

Sophie looked at ease while she was driving in a carriage solo, while her daughter Louise had an aid

Louise sported a tweed top hat and tied her blonde hair back into a fishnet as she sported a flower broach at the

The annual show, which is just a short distance from Windsor Castle finishes today, and is one of the Queen's favourite equestrian events of the year - and has seen most of her family compete or watch the show

Royal Windsor has been a family affair for the royals, who this week welcomed a new member Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor, the son of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. Archie is the Wessexes (pictured, Sophie Wessex) great-nephew

Sophie is a keen rider, and along with her children is often spotted outdoors walking dogs or riding horses

In May 2017, Lady Louise was responsible for leading the carriages of the Champagne Laurent-Perrier Meet of the British Driving Society at the Windsor Horse Show - which she today also took part in

Sophie sported a silky floral neckerchief and kept warm from the chilly spring morning in a thick navy coat while she rode the carriage through Windsor

A family affair! Michael was spotted riding behind Sophie at the event, which saw dozens of Royals descend over the week

Prince Michael accompanied Sophie and Louise around the track, as all three royals took part in the Champagne Laurent-Perrier Meet of the British Driving Society

As well as carriage driving, Lady Louise is being taught Polo at Westcroft Park Polo Club, in Surrey, the Daily Mail recently revealed. She's been described as 'a very gutsy little player' and 'a star'

Despite being just 15, it's Louise's third year in taking part in the Champagne Laurent-Perrier Meet of the British Driving Society, as she has been horse riding from a young age

While Louise opted for four horses, her mother Sophie chose to drive just one

The annual show, which is just a short distance from Windsor Castle finishes today, and is one of the Queen's favourite equestrian events of the year.

The Monarch herself was in attendance throughout the week, but has not been spotted watching her granddaughter today.

Royal Windsor has been a family affair for the royals, who this week welcomed a new member Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor, the son of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex.

The Queen's great granddaughter Mia Tindall was spotted hauling herself up a climbing wall, at the show yesterday.

Not letting the races stop her from being stylish, Sophie sported sleek leather gloves and earrings for the horse ride

Keeping in the royal tradition of clashing patterns, Prince Michael wore and striped tie check shirt and tweed jacket for his ride

Prince Michael, who father was Prince George, Duke of Kent, the Queen's Uncle, clearly shared the royal family's passion for all things equestrian

Prince Michael shares a residence with Prince William and Kate at Kensington Palace, which until recently was also shared with The Duke and Duchess of Sussex

Sophie, who will be celebrating her 20 year marriage anniversary with Prince Edward next month, is often spotted outside and around the grounds of Windsor Castle

Lady Louise led the procession at the 76th Royal Windsor Horse Show, driving a carriage of four horses

Louise (left) is 13th in line to her the throne behind her brother James. The 15-year-old is a member of Girlguiding, of which her grandmother the Queen is patron and her mother (right) is president

Mia, five, put her rock climbing ability to the test as the annual show got underway for its fourth day on Saturday, just a short distance from Windsor Castle

The Queen's great-granddaughter Mia Tindall makes the most of the sunshine today while at the Royal Windsor Horse Show

Savannah enjoys a Calippo ice lolly (pictured left) and takes part in rock climbing (pictured right). Mia could also be seen frolicking in the sun with her cousins Savannah and Isla - the daughters of Peter Phillips and Autumn Kelly

Queen Elizabeth, pictured with the King of Bahrain, changed into a dark coat with pearl buttons for Friday afternoon's events

Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of York and the King of Bahrain, Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, carefully watched the endurance phase at the Royal Windsor Horse Show on Friday afternoon

The annual show runs until May 12 and is one of the Queen's favourite equestrian events of the year, with the monarch herself in attendance today to present the best turn out trooper awards

Dressed in navy leggings and green wellington boots, she confidently grasped the climbing holds as she made her way up. She even dared to sneak a quick glance down to check on her cousin Isla Phillips who was also on the wall.

And just when it seemed she was being overtaken by Isla, Mia redoubled her effort to get back in front  and even took a swing on the rope.

The action girl was enjoying the sunshine on a day out with Isla, seven, and her eight-year-old sister Savannah - the daughters of Peter Phillips and Autumn Kelly - at the equestrian event taking place minutes from Windsor Castle.

The monarch wisely brought along a pair of patterned gloves to keep warm on the chilly spring afternoon (left). The Queen could not hold back her smiles as she enjoyed the third day of the Royal Windsor Horse Show this wweek

Princess Anne, left, was looking smart for the occasion in a grey two-piece skirt suit, teamed with a turquoise shirt and sunglasses, left, while her mother the Queen, right, wore a long khaki coat and welly boots

He was driven down to join the Queen mid-morning. In January, he overturned his Range Rover after crashing into another car near the Sandringham estate

Its perhaps no surprise that little Mia took so easily to her daring challenge  given that her father, Mike Tindall, is a former England rugby captain and her mother Zara, Princess Annes daughter, is an Olympic silver medallist in eventing.

The Queen, Prince Philip, Prince Andrew and Princess Anne have all been spotted at the event during the week, with the monarch hosting the King of Bahrain on Friday.

Last year, the event ran exactly one week before the same space hosted the wedding of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex.
The Prince of Wales cut a dashing figure as he arrived suited and booted at the Combined Cavalry Old Comrades Association parade in Hyde Park today.

The event, which honours soldiers lost in conflict since the First World War, has a strict dress code - Twenties city attire including a bowler hat - because that's the decade in which the parade first began.

Charles donned a blue pin-stripe suit and black bowler hat, alongside an adornment of nine medals on his lapel as he arrived at the London parade.

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The Prince strictly adhered to the dress code for the Combined Cavalry Old Comrades Association parade in Hyde Park, which sees fallen soldiers remembered

The 70-year-old royal, who became a grandfather for the fourth time last week, looked in high spirits as he arrived in a bowler hat and pin-stripe blue suit, with nine medals adorning his lapel

Hats off: Nearly 2,000 cavalrymen take part in the annual tribute to those who've lost their lives in conflict since the First World War, solemnly tipping their bowler hats at the Cavalry Memorial in Hyde Park

The Prince, 70, who became a grandfather for the fourth time last week after the birth of Meghan and Harry's son Archie Harrison, looked in fine spirits as he joined a sea of bowler hats.

The 94th annual parade saw nearly 2,000 cavalrymen take part in the tribute, which honours servicemen and women who've lost their lives fighting for their country since the First World War.

The soldiers march to the Cavalry memorial, which is made from melted down metal used in enemy guns captured in the First World War. The statue shows patron saint of the Cavalry, St George.

Wearing smart black shoes and an umbrella, the Prince joined thousands gathered in a sunny Hyde Park this morning

It's been a busy week for the royal, who jetted off to Berlin and also made a brief visit to Devon on Friday

It's been a busy week for Prince Charles and it's believed he still hasn't had time to meet his new grandchild, jetting off to Germany shortly after Archie Harrison arrived.

Prince Charles thrilled audiences in Berlin when he spoke German to reveal his joy at becoming a grandfather for the fourth time.

The heir to the throne delivered a speech at the British Ambassador's residence in the country's capital, speaking part of the address in their native tongue.

Charles made reference to his new grandson Archie as he spoke of how he hopes the bond between Britain and Germany will remain close in a clear nod to Britain's departure from the EU.

The seventh-in-line to the throne was born at 5.26am last Monday, and it had been hinted that grandfather Charles and wife Camilla would call in on Meghan and Harry today, after returning from their trip to Germany.

However. the couple are now set to visit next week, with the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge not far behind.

Bowler-hat wearing serving and former cavalrymen take part in the annual Combined Cavalry Old Comrades Association parade

The servicemen all wear the same suit and tie, which has a navy and claret diagonal pattern

Taking off their hats in remembrance: a royal family member joins the parade every year with the Princess Royal attending in 2018

Speaking to The Sun, Clarence House said Charles and Camilla would visit in the coming days, while a spokesperson for the Sussex's said William and Kate were in the diary to stop by at Frogmore Cottage.

The Queen was the first member of the royal family to be introduced to the baby, along with Prince Philip and Meghan Markle's mother, Doria Ragland.

Harry and Meghan 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.
WHAT TO DO

Nadya Fairweather suggested doing high plank with alternating toe touches to tone arms

As the weather gets warmer your sleeves get shorter  so tone your arms with a high plank with alternating toe touches, recommends celebrity personal trainer Nadya Fairweather (u-shape.co.uk).

Start on your hands and feet; legs do not need to be super straight. Keep your bottom high so more weight is on the shoulders.

Touch your left hand to your right foot. Alternate left hand to right toes, then right to left. Go for reps of 20, 18, 16, 14, 12, 10  with a small break in between each.

WHAT TO EAT

Nutritionist Shona Wilkinson said spinach can boost production of proteins that help with muscle strength and tone

For show-off upper arms, nutritionist Shona Wilkinson (shonawilkinson.com) suggests the following foods.

With all the talk about being vegan, its possible to forget the health benefits of beef. It is loaded with amino acids, which help build muscle as well as prevent muscle breakdown. Always opt for grass-fed beef, though.

Compounds in spinach can boost production of proteins that help with muscle strength and tone. Add it wilted to meals, or uncooked in salads. Its also perfect to use in smoothies.

Quinoa contains all of the essential amino acids (the building blocks of protein). And it has the bonus of being gluten-free. Add herbs and spices for flavour.

WHAT TO WEAR
TUESDAY, APRIL 30

A few weeks ago, ITV asked if Id compete in a Good Morning Britain special edition of The Chase.

I was keen but Susanna Reid cautioned: I hate these quiz shows. The potential to look very stupid is exceptionally high.

Relax, I replied, we won Pointless Celebrities; this will be a breeze.

Eventually, after my persistent persuasion, Susanna reluctantly agreed to do it, along with our GMB colleagues Kate Garraway and Richard Arnold.

Presenter of The Chase, Bradley Walsh. 'There is no escaping the cold, hard fact that I briefly showed the intellectual firepower of a Love Island contestant,' writes Piers Morgan

My optimism levels soared when The Chase producers told us wed scored the highest-ever celebrity team average in the 20-question tester they give upcoming contestants to assess their intelligence.

Were expecting great things from you guys! they exclaimed, excitedly.

The Chase is filmed at the same studios as GMB, so we opted to hang around and tape it a few hours after coming off air.

That, it transpired, was a big mistake.

Waking at 4am, and then presenting two-and-a-half hours of live TV, is not the best preparation for a quiz show, especially if, like me, youre still horribly jet-lagged from three weeks in America.

Susanna and I extravagantly yawned our way through the production meeting.

Im exhausted, I said, as we stumbled zombie-like back to our dressing rooms.

Me too, she replied. This was SUCH a bad idea  why did you make me do it? Especially after the week Ive had

(Susannas been all over the papers after splitting from boyfriend Steve Parish.)

But the show must go on, so we pumped ourselves full of caffeine and traipsed to the studio like condemned murderers on Death Row marching to their execution chamber  fearing it was going to be very painful, and nobody would have a scintilla of sympathy for us.

My uneasy feeling of impending doom wasnt helped by the audience greeting my arrival with a chorus of pantomime-villain-style boos and jeers, after roaring their ecstatic approval at my co-workers.

Ive never seen that happen in over 1,400 episodes, cackled host Bradley Walsh. Shall we do it again?

The crowd duly booed even louder.

I cant say exactly what happened next because the episode doesnt air until November. But I can disclose that I suffered the single worst moment of my entire 15-year career in live television at the start of my Cash Builder round (where contestants get 1,000 for every correct answer to rapid-fire questions) when my brain froze so badly I felt sweat bursting through every pore and my innards start to self-combust with terror.

And at that point, I turned desperately to Susanna for some kind of reassurance, only to see her face contorted into a cocktail of shock, horror, bemusement and hilarity that I was exposing myself to the world as a complete halfwit.

She actually mouthed the words OH. MY. GOD WHAT. IS. HAPPENING. TO. YOU?

Suffice it to say, The Chase is a lot harder than it seems from the sofa at home, when youre standing alone under the bright lights, with a ruthless Chaser staring reputation-slaying daggers, Bradley Walsh chortling away at your discomfort, and the audience roaring with glee at seeing the gigantic balloon of a massive ego pricked before their eyes.

Fortunately, evoking my inner Rocky its not how hard you hit, its how hard you get hit and keep moving forward Balboa spirit, I dragged myself back off the canvas and fought on.

But there is no escaping the cold, hard fact that I briefly showed the intellectual firepower of a Love Island contestant. It will be interesting, though, to see how many people know the answer to my supposedly simple first question (ironically, the soft ball they toss you to calm your nerves) that threw me into a temporary but horribly violent three-question tailspin like the one my other movie role model Maverick plunged into during Top Gun, which killed Goose.

Ive never seen you so scared, said Susanna afterwards, still stunned by what she had witnessed. It was actually quite endearing

Sadly, that is not the emotion I fear most people will be experiencing when my humiliation is broadcast.

Tonight, pouring salt into my wounds, I received a dreaded message of sympathy from the Chaser with whom Id cockily locked horns: Its scary when that happens, especially when you pride yourself on being a good competitor.

It was bloody terrifying, I admitted.

Its happened to us all, the Chaser replied, but it was worth it for the shock on peoples faces when your bravado cracked

SUNDAY, MAY 5

In an act of inexplicable self-flagellation, I found myself back tonight in the same ITV studio, with the same host, Bradley Walsh, for his big new show Late Night Guestlist, which aired last night.

It cant possibly go any worse than The Chase, he chortled when he saw me.

It did. At the start of the show, as I comfort-drank in Bradleys party bar with Holly Willoughby and Spice Girl Emma Bunton, he asked me if I remembered whom I had once dubbed brain-dead zombies.

Yes, Love Island contestants, I replied. And they are.

Later, I was standing on stage, butt-to-butt with Bradley, both blindfolded, as someone was propelled along a conveyor belt to smother me in kisses. The hysterical audience reaction suggested this was not someone I would enjoy being kissed by.

It wasnt. I pulled off my blindfold to find Love Islands Jack Fincham gurning at me, having smeared lipstick all over my face while sporting underpants with my head covering his genital region.

All right, Piers? he chuckled.

Afterwards, Fincham asked if it was true Id called him a brain-dead zombie.

Yes, I replied.

To be fair, youre not wrong, he chuckled again.

Well dont worry, I replied, because when The Chase airs, people will think Im one too.
As a portrait of a mans mental collapse, Trevor Eves debut novel is brutal. Its central character, Ever Millen, has a mind that fragments despite the pharmacopoeia of uppers, downers and sleeping pills he snatches at to halt his decline. Its fiction, but you have to wonder just how familiar Eve is, personally, with the subject.

The actor, one of Britains most bankable TV stars and an award-winning thespian, has no known history of black-dog depressions or breakdowns during his 45 years in the public eye. But I have to ask because I dont see how he could have imagined the character of Millen if he had not at some point lost his own mind.

This was not a slide into depression. If you can imagine driving into a brick wall at 100mph, thats what I did,' says Trevor Eve

And it turns out that yes, in his early 40s  Eve is now 67  his life stopped, literally stopped with a collapse so catastrophic he had to have daily psychotherapy. Twenty years later he was still seeing a therapist regularly, if not so intensively.

This was not a slide into depression. If you can imagine driving into a brick wall at 100mph, thats what I did. Im very private in my life and Ive never exposed this part of it. What I will say is that I have had my dark moments, I understand the concept of depression and emotional collapse. Mine was acute, but with levels of superb help I have managed to get through it and be OK.

I feel uncomfortable talking about it because no one knows anything about that period, but when you read a book which has such intricate detail then he says, admitting hes outed himself in his writing. It happened a long time ago, but it was sufficient to inform my imagination about the extremes that mental breakdown can go to. I researched Lomita [the female protagonist] but I understood Ever. I am very aware of psychiatrists and psychotherapists and doctors and what they want to do to you, what is effective and what is a blanket over it all. I understand all those drugs. As for therapy, I needed it to function.

Was he ever an in-patient? I feel like I am digging my own grave here, he says, moving on without answering. Nor does he want to reveal what caused his breakdown.

Is he still in therapy today? He smiles, saying: You may not think so, but it worked. I need it, maybe less, but I am always open to going back. Interestingly, he has not felt the need for a session on the couch since he started writing Lomita For Ever. It gave me time to explore things, to think, to sort them out. He doesnt take antidepressants any more either, though he praises the work of comedian Ruby Wax, who suffers from depression and bipolar disorder, for destigmatising those who do.

Like anyone struggling with mental health issues, external measures of success  a happy family life, an illustrious career, wealth  are no defence against inner bleakness. Trevor Eve enjoys all three. He has been a dominant name on TV since he found fame as troubled detective Eddie Shoestring in the eponymous 1979-1980 BBC series. Since then there have been Hollywood movies (Troy with Brad Pitt), costume dramas (Death Comes To Pemberley with Jenna Coleman), the cold-case police procedural Waking The Dead, which ran for 92 episodes, as well as acclaimed stage performances of Shakespeare and Chekhov.

His 39-year marriage to actress Sharon Maughan (best known for the iconic Gold Blend adverts of the Eighties) has founded a mini showbusiness dynasty. Both of their sons  Jack, 33, and George, 25  work in the industry and their daughter is Hollywood actress Alice Eve, 37.

Trevor Eve with wife Sharon and children Jack and Alice in 1986

The star himself is still knockout handsome, elegantly dressed in a black jacket and dark jeans, his silvery plumage of a quiff and neat beard set off by a Los Angeles tan.

His literary debut is a novel from the LA noir tradition, exploring the broken dreams of Tinseltown. Its an off-kilter love story between Ever, who is 30, and Lomita, 76, and, since someone meets an unfortunate end with a Beretta fired at close range from inside a leopard-skin handbag, its a crime thriller too.

Thats already enough to separate it from the family dramas and feelgood romances celebrities habitually write when theyre hoping to breeze to No 1 in the bestseller charts. But where the book really parts company from Eves mainstream, prime-time acting appeal, is his decision to make Ever, at the age of 13, guilty of a sin so repugnant, so sexually transgressive, it will appal readers.

Eve explains: I often think of those stories of a single incident, a brief moment that determines a persons life for ever. What if you make a mistake there is no coming back from and that leads to mental disintegration?

He is very, very clear that although he has borrowed bits of his own childhood and mined his own experience of a breakdown to create Ever, the sin is wholly imagined. Im an actor. You dont have to kill someone to play a murderer, he points out.

Anyway, be warned its a challenging read rather than a book to toss into the beach bag this summer. Too dark? Eve wonders aloud. Hes very anxious about his novels likely reception: When you are acting you are rarely alone, whereas I am fully responsible for this.

Eve was born in Sutton Coldfield to parents who hoped he wouldnt be a painter or an actor but would get a job with prospects instead. To satisfy them he spent three years studying to become an architect before dropping out to enrol at Rada. Lomita For Ever speaks about the flight from small-town life, the ticket to escape all provincial dreamers believe will fall into their laps. Eves own was a one-way fare, his big break being tucked under the wing of Sir Laurence Olivier when he was only 24.

It was me and him reading in a room in Golden Square in Soho. I got the part and did a play with his wife and acted alongside him in a movie, then he got me my Green Card and wrote me some letters [of introduction]. He always said, Success, dear boy, is 90 per cent lucky break and ten per cent talent, and in terms of catching a lucky break it doesnt get much better than Olivier.

Shoestring, broadcast at a time when Britain only had three TV channels, followed. It won Eve 23 million weekly viewers and heart-throb status, but by then he was already spoken for, having met Maughan on a touring theatre show in 1977. Their marriage has been dogged by rumours of infidelity, notably in 2011 when Eve was spotted enjoying the company of his dresser on location in South Africa. Maughan, however, was his first reader when the novels manuscript was finished and the book is dedicated to her.

Its been hard over the years, yes, he admits. You have to decide whether it is worth it, to put in the effort and energy required, and we think it is. Without question she is the best thing that could have happened to me. I never gave marriage a second thought, which is odd for me because I give everything about a hundred thoughts. It is my life, it defines my life, along with my family. Husband. Father. Gravestones dont have your CV on them, do they?

I query what hed have on his and he says Rage Rage Rage because hed be so cross about dying, although he is coming to terms with getting older in an industry that adores youth. Right now hes too grizzled to be the guy running down the alley chasing the villain and not old enough to play King Lear. Everyone keeps asking when I am going to do King Lear and I think, Lear! Doesnt he have Alzheimers or something?

It never hit me until I was 63 and I was being sent these roles and Id think, Yeah, thats a great part and theyd go No, No, No we want you for this one! It was like they realised, Whoa! He was born in 1951. 

Eve has indeed been around for a long time. The breakdown now revealed by his authorial debut happened when he was already famous and we all thought we knew him. I am strangely private, he says, not an extrovert. If you are recognised it means people have watched your work, which is great. You cant just act in the kitchen, can you? But everyone has their own mental story, so I have always kept quiet about mine.

Lomita For Ever by Trevor Eve is published by Unbound, priced 9.99
The Hustle Cert: 12A, 1hr 34mins

Rating:

In this new era of gender equality in the film industry, it is of course quite right that there should be a female remake of the popular 1988 comedy Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, which starred Michael Caine and Steve Martin as two conmen working their smooth-talking charms on the wealthy women who lounge on the French Riviera.

After all, that in itself was a remake  of the 1964 comedy Bedtime Story, again an all-bloke affair starring David Niven and Marlon Brando. So it was high time the gender tables were turned and the girls got a go.

Whats a shame it is that the end result  The Hustle, starring Anne Hathaway and Rebel Wilson  should be quite so unambitious and disappointing. This is a film that aims low and misses.

The Hustle , starring Anne Hathaway and Rebel Wilson is so unambitious and disappointing. This is a film that aims low and misses

Quite how low becomes clear early on when Rebel Wilsons character is clumsily joining the Mile High Club in an aeroplane toilet with a Danish playboy.

As the shot switches  thankfully  from the rhythmically jolting toilet door to external footage of the plane flying through the sky, we overhear a cabin announcement: We are experiencing some unexpected turbulence

If you laugh at that, you might find something to enjoy here, particularly if youre a fan of the boisterous Australian actress Wilson.

Despite the A-list presence of Hathaway, who presumably only did this to remind us of her comedy chops and aptitude for accents, this is very much a vehicle for Wilson

But if, like me, youre stifling a groan, succumbing to despair and always incline to the view that a little Wilson goes a very long way, all I can do is tell you that it doesnt get a lot better and only makes it over 90 minutes with the help of some add-on scenes that Im sure are meant to send us out on to the street with a smile on our face and looking forward to the sequel.

They dont.

Despite the A-list presence of Hathaway, who presumably only did this to remind us of her comedy chops and aptitude for accents, this is very much a vehicle for Wilson, who co-produces as well as stars, and in the process seems to have magically ensured that comedian turned actor turned debut movie director Chris Addison seems in no rush to shout Cut!

At least when Wilson is on the screen  ie, most of the time.

Whoever can relieve a young Silicon Valley billionaire of $500,000 first will make the town and its dumb-male rich-pickings her own (Hathaway pictured above with Casper Christensen)

The films lack of ambition begins with the casting. Neither of the male versions, Bedtime Story and Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, is heralded as a work of genius, but Niven and Brando is an interesting mix of contrasting talents, while Caine and Martin is out-and-out commercial.

But here the contrast is too obvious, too crude, pitching the tall, elegant and refined Hathaway  here adopting a plummy English accent in the Niven/Caine role  against the shorter, broader potty-mouth that is Wilson.

Jac Schaeffer has been brought in to give the screenplay a modern, female-empowered makeover, but the benefits are hard to discern. Once again, we are back in the Riviera town of Beaumont-sur-Mer, only this time its two feuding female con-artists who engage in a turf war.

IT'S A FACT Rebel Wilson is allergic to dogs. Beagles abounded in the house she grew up in: it was only when she left that she discovered the allergy. Advertisement

Whoever can relieve a young Silicon Valley billionaire of $500,000 first will make the town and its dumb-male rich-pickings her own. The loser has to leave.

There are one or two funny moments, and one or two telling ones too. No man will ever believe a woman is smarter than he is, says Josephine (Hathaway). Thats why we are underestimated.

But too often this is a film that falls back on the lowest comedy denominator  twerking, bodily functions, dated gay stereotypes oh, and Wilsons machine-gun banter.

This wont be the last old classic to be given a female-empowered makeover but The Hustle does at least make one thing clear  the women can definitely do a lot better than this!

ALSO OUT THIS WEEK

Pokemon: Detective Pikachu (PG)

Rating:

The Pokemon  or Pocket Monster  universe has been around since 1996, and since its inception in the Japanese video games industry its endlessly diverse population of colourful creatures has moved into television cartoons and feature films too.

But there has never been a Pokemon movie like Pokemon: Detective Pikachu.

Pikachu hitherto best known for being small, sweet and yellow  oh, and able to discharge bolts of electricity from its tail  is now a film-noir detective, working in a Blade Runner-like metropolis and voiced by a rather knowing Ryan Reynolds.

Pikachu hitherto best known for being small, sweet and yellow  oh, and able to discharge bolts of electricity from its tail  is now a film-noir detective

Yes, the creature who until now could only squeak variations of its own name can now speak English.

Which is a big help as a troubled young man, Tim (Justice Smith), comes to Ryme City to find out what happened to his detective father, who, as the live-action film begins, is killed in a car crash as he flees from a research facility.

Its a massive shift in style for the franchise and it takes a while to get used to, but its huge fun once you do. Look out for Bill Nighy, Ken Watanabe and Kathryn Newton among the supporting cast in a conspiracy-packed film that will go straight over the heads of  and perhaps even alarm  Pokemons traditionally very young audience.

But it should delight teens and young adults looking for a blast of impressively well-crafted and, at times, very funny nostalgia.

The Corrupted (18)

Rating:

Having previously co-written the rather sweet screenplays for Fishermens Friends and Finding Your Feet, screenwriter Nick Moorcroft gives full vent to his dark side with this gritty  and very violent  urban thriller that feels likes a cross between The Long Good Friday, Line Of Duty and early Guy Ritchie.

Set against the background of the regeneration of east London, and starring Sam Claflin as an ex-con, its a familiar tale of murder, menace and corrupt property deals

Set against the background of the regeneration of east London, and starring Sam Claflin as an ex-con, its a familiar tale of murder, menace and corrupt property deals.

The excessive violence will be too much for many but Timothy Spall is terrific in a central role, and theres a strong last lap.

Destination Wedding (15)

Rating:

Written and directed by experienced TV writer Victor Levin, this is one of those odd couple comedies in which you know whats going to happen as soon as Frank (Keanu Reeves) and Lindsay (Winona Ryder) bump into each other on the way to a wedding and take an instant dislike to one another.

You know whats going to happen as soon as Frank (Keanu Reeves) and Lindsay (Winona Ryder) bump into each other on the way to a wedding and take an instant dislike to one another

What predictably ensues is wordy (this is very much a conversation piece) and relatively static, but its also witty and clever, and Reeves and Ryder are unexpectedly good together. Look out for one of the funniest sex scenes youll see all year.

High Life (18)

Rating:

Its not often one feels sorry for actors but you do here as the likes of Robert Pattinson and Juliette Binoche gamely sign up to work with respected French film-maker Claire Denis and end up in silly and derivative sci-fi nonsense.

Pattinson plays the last surviving convict on a spaceship taking a one-way trip to a black hole with a noisily unhappy baby, while Binoche  courtesy of the films extensive use of flashbacks  is the unscrupulous medic conducting unethical experiments into human reproduction.

Dark Star, Solaris and bits of 2001: A Space Odyssey all spring to mind  but not in a good way.
The Professor & The Parson: A Story Of Desire, Deceit And Defrocking

Adam Sisman

Profile Books 12.99

Rating:

Vicars have long walked hand in hand with scandal. In the old days, no Sunday newspaper was complete without a story of a vicar caught in the wrong bed, or in the right bed, but with the wrong woman.

These tales of clerical wrongdoing still pop up pretty regularly. Headlines Ive culled from the past year or two include: Vicar Filmed Snorting Drugs; Philandering Vicar Banned Over Affair with Parishioner; Vicar Dubbed Randy Rupe and Female Curates Secret Affair Exposed; and Sacked Sex Scandal Vicar Back in the Pulpit.

Robert Parkin Peters in 1955. Virtually everything he ever said about his life was a lie

Peters at his wedding to Marie Baillie in 1958 (left); In 1955 Peters was he was the subject of this headline (right)

We still take an interest in the juxtaposition of virtue and vice, and, in the public imagination, vicars still represent old-fashioned rectitude in a way that, say, bank managers or mayors or members of the Royal Family no longer do. But one senses that, with the dwindling of Sunday worship, and the proliferation of the revered celebrity, the golden age of the scandalous vicar is now over.

All of which brings me to Robert Parkin Peters, who often called himself the Rev Robert Parkin Peters, or, when he wanted to avoid detection, the Rev Robert Parkins, which, to further complicate matters, turned out to be his real name.

Virtually everything he ever said about his life was a lie. He was born in 1918, but often claimed to be ten years younger. Within two years of becoming a priest, he had his licence withdrawn. He went on to achieve an amazing variety of clerical and academic posts  Principal of the Anglican Divinity School in Ceylon, Rector of the Anglican church of Virginia in the Orange Free State, Head of Religious Education at Aylestone School, Hereford, Bishop in the Old Polish Catholic Church, to name but a few  virtually all of them by forging letters of recommendation, and boasting of degrees he never had.

He somehow managed to continue these frauds up to his death in 2005, despite the fact that he had been unmasked on countless occasions, and was no stranger to prison. Nor was he a slouch on the sex front: even his meticulous biographer finds it hard to keep up with his marriages  many were simultaneous, and thus bigamous  but they numbered at least seven or eight.

Romeo of the Church Swept 7 Women Off Their Feet ran one newspaper headline in 1955, after he had been sent to prison for a year for stealing a car, and obtaining an engagement ring by passing a false cheque. Last night, seven women whose hearts he stole were regretting, no doubt, that they had ever met the amazing, smooth-talking, magnetic charmer, the story continued.

You might have thought that this publicity would have put an end to Peters disgraceful ways, but far from it. On his release from prison, he was immediately employed as a secretary by the trusting Bishop of Birmingham. Peters repaid this kindness by tricking him into putting his signature to a letter he had written himself, saying what an excellent employee he was.

Around this time, Peters contacted Hugh Trevor-Roper, the illustrious Regius Professor of Modern History at Oxford University, to complain that he was being persecuted by the Bishop of Oxford.

For a brief time, Trevor-Roper was convinced that Peters was a victim of injustice, and took up his cause. But he soon discovered that Peters was a fantasist and a fraud who didnt have the first-class degree from Oxford that he claimed to have, and who, furthermore, had failed the equivalent of A-levels in all three of his chosen subjects.

Modern history professor Hugh Trevor-Roper, who kept a file detailing the many hoaxes of Peters

On top of all this, Peters was ten years older than he claimed to be, had been defrocked, and had forged all sorts of letters of recommendation, among them one describing him as a young man of considerable academic brilliance, who should have a most interesting and successful career.

It took very little digging for Trevor-Roper to find that, as Adam Sisman puts it, Peters was such an inveterate liar that it was impossible to believe a single word that he wrote or said. From then on, for the next 25 years, he started keeping a dossier, detailing every fresh hoax perpetrated by Peters, assisted by clerics and academics the world over.

IT'S A FACT One of the most infamous conmen, Victor Lustig, in 1925 convinced a merchant that the Eiffel Tower was to be sold off for scrap. Advertisement

Trevor-Roper vaguely planned to write a book about Peters, but never got round to it, perhaps deterred by the possibility of Peters taking out a lawsuit against him. He may also have been put off by the terrible humiliation he suffered in 1983 after he had mistakenly verified another, more famous, fraud  the fake Hitler diaries.

He died in 2003. Adam Sisman was in the process of writing his biography when he came across the Peters files. He then discovered fresh material, gathered by other distinguished academics, and decided to write this weirdly compelling, and often very funny, little book about the Professors pursuit of the Parson as he skipped from one post to another, fooling hapless institutions, and even more hapless women, the world over.

The two mens paths crossed only once after their initial meeting. In 1965, Professor Trevor-Roper was attending an international historical congress in Vienna, half-listening to academics droning on about heresy in the 17th century, when, says Sisman, he was startled into wakefulness when the French president of the session called upon Monsieur le Professeur Peters de lUniversite de Manchester to speak, and looked up, to see his old friend, on his feet, ready to commence a learned intervention.

At this point, the two men exchanged glances: Peters exited the moment the session came to an end. At a reception later, the 47-year-old Peters was in the middle of propositioning Trevor-Ropers 21-year-old daughter, when he suddenly realised who she was, and nipped away.

Sisman has been a diligent detective, somehow managing to chart Peters never-ending trail of frauds from one country to the other. One minute, he is applying for the Chair of Social and Cultural History at the University of Malaya in Kuala Lumpur, the next he is digging out his old dog collar to transform himself into the Principal of St Aidans College in Shropshire, telling his students to address him as Father. After a time, I gave up trying to keep track of all his various wacky posts: Sisman provides a neat summary at the back for readers who feel similarly exhausted.

Even though the Bishop of Bloemfontein called him the wickedest man I have ever met, I found it hard not to warm to the old rogue as he cons his way around the world. He had chutzpah, particularly where women were concerned. Being found out never seemed to deter him: he simply played the same trick again, this time on somebody else. There is something rather engaging about the way he pursues his career of fraud and deceit without the slightest regard for occasional setbacks, observed Professor Boxer of Yale University.

His story also has a period charm about it: nowadays, frauds like Peters would be uncovered by a few minutes of Googling. Sisman disagrees, saying that fraudsters seem to be as active today as they have ever been. This may be so, but they are a different type of fraudster, often concentrating their operations on the internet itself. These days, frauds must find it much trickier to falsify jobs and qualifications, to change their identities or to bury criminal convictions.

In 1983, Peters popped up on TVs Mastermind, once again wearing a dog collar. He was introduced as the Director of Religious Studies at a college of Lancaster University, an institution with which he had no connection whatsoever. His chosen subject was The Life of William Temple, the former Archbishop of Canterbury. He didnt do too badly on the General Knowledge, but he still came joint last.

What motivated him? He was in pursuit of status, not money, and in particular the peculiar status conferred by preaching from the pulpit. Sisman suggests he suffered from Narcissistic Personality Disorder, though it was always those around him who suffered, rather than Peters himself.

Like many frauds, he created such a hall of mirrors around himself that the real Robert Peters remains elusive, however entertaining the pursuit.
Jeow Jeow

The Sun & 13 Cantons

21 Great Pulteney Street, London

Rating:

Im not sure why Im quite so mad about the Mekong. Its not the longest river on Earth, nor the widest. Not even the most dramatic. But this south-east Asian waterway had a hold on me way before I ever actually saw it. Perhaps it was the surfeit of Vietnam films devoured as a teenager. Even though the two most famous, Platoon and Apocalypse Now, were actually filmed in the Philippines. Still, it seemed impossibly exotic, with its palm-fringed banks, vast freshwater stingrays and catfish the size of cows.

I first gazed upon its muddy, sinuous curves as it flowed languidly through Luang Prabang in Laos. Its the lifeblood of that great and ancient Buddhist city. And it was on its sultry shores that I fell in love with Laos, one of my favourite countries on Earth. The people. The landscape. The food. Buffalo larp and sticky rice; dried, cured river algae called kaipen; the char of coals; herbs of every hue and tang; padaek (fermented fish sauce), fiery, sour tams (a sort of pounded salad), herb-flecked sai ua sausages and the ubiquitous jaew or jeow, dipping sauces made in a mortar and pestle.

Jeow Jeow in London's Soho. Flavours here shout and holler, jostling boisterously around the mouth

And Jeow Jeow is the name of a pop-up, open until September, in The Sun and 13 Cantons, that Soho pub where I first tasted Asma Khans cooking. Lucky me. Anyway, chef Tania Knott makes no spurious claims to pure authenticity, instead describing the food as Mostly Mekong, based on a love of Thai Isan and Lao food. Now in the interests of transparency and all that, Tania is a friend. So if the food was dire, I probably wouldnt review the place. But its not.

Shes a damned fine cook, last seen shaking the pans at Snaps and Rye in Notting Hill. But she skips merrily from Scandinavian food to something altogether more fragrant, sharp and spicy. Flavours here shout and holler, jostling boisterously around the mouth. Theres a stir-fried pork and pineapple dish with just the right amount of acidity, and a discreet grumble of chilli. The jeow is made with pork floss (the buffalo skin used in jaew bong proving rather difficult to get hold of in Soho) and has all the deep, rich umami grunt you could ever crave. Hot as hell too. Edges are kept very much rough. Thank God. Scoop up sticky rice, roll, dip, eat.

Theres a glorious larb with pork and brown crab meat, fistfuls of herbs and that discreet, toasted crunch of roasted rice powder. An English take on a Laotian classic. The version with Arctic char is clean, lithe and bracingly sour, the fish farmed in Dorset by a Dane. Trout is very lightly battered, fried and served with fennel and celery. Theres a whisper of sweetness, and a sly chilli jab. Again, not what youd call authentic but then thats not the point. She captures the spirit of Laotian food in every bite. With a bit of Isan in there too.

Jeow Jeow is a bracing blast of brow-beading, lip-smacking, palate-cheering delight

Home-made sausage is magnificent, tart, stained yellow with turmeric, and studded with chilli and lemongrass. Wrap in lettuce leaves, pile on more herbs and chillies, slather on the sour peanut jeow and devour in one glorious, umami-packed bite.

A mild sweet-and-sour cucumber salad soothes any throbbing taste buds, and a properly hot and stinky som tum comes with a surfeit of chewy dried prawns. Best of all is a devilled lamb faggot, made with liver and kidney and chicken livers, in a tamarind broth of delirious brilliance. Hot, sour, sweet, salty, all in one slurp.

In a country where Thai food is so often so bland (and Laotian food near non-existent, save the lovely Lao Cafe), Jeow Jeow is a bracing blast of brow-beading, lip-smacking, palate-cheering delight.

A little Mekong magic, in this most British of Soho pubs.

About 25 per head
The coals have already fired up at Smith Towers and the hunt for summery reds is upon us. Ive tasted some real beauties under a tenner this week that seem to share the same canny trick of finding freshness off the beaten track.

Portuguese red blends are mind-blowing in their value for money and, thanks to their mellow spice, are spot on for barbecues. Spain continues to thrill, with Mencia from northwestern Bierzo offering some serious kit for the cash, and eastern regions such as Almansa are also worth noting with smart blending.

Frances Rhone had an intriguing 2017 vintage with pockets of fruity freshness if you know where to look  or stick to Beaujolais for light reds to chill. And amazingly Ive found an Aussie Merlot with drinkable decency for under a fiver. Light those coals: summers come early.
Debby was the wife of ITNs charismatic foreign correspondent Brent Sadler. Tess Stimson was the other woman he left her for. Cue a sensational feud played out in the national press. You wont believe what happened next, as Tess reveals here

Debby with Brent at the christening of their daughter Brooke in 1988 (left), Tess with Brent on their wedding day in 1993. Both women admit that he clearly has a type

The first time I set eyes on Debby  the woman who was at that point married to my new fiance  Id just stepped out of the shower of a five-star London hotel.

I remember towelling my hair dry, feeling happier than Id ever been. My boyfriend, ITN reporter Brent Sadler, had gone down to reception to pick up an urgent fax from work. I was admiring the sapphire and diamond ring hed just put on my finger when I heard a knock at the bedroom door. Assuming Brent had forgotten his room key, I opened it, still dressed in my fluffy bathrobe.

But it wasnt Brent standing there  it was his wife Debby. Id never met her before, but I recognised her instantly from photos. My husbands come to pick up his things, she said, coolly pushing past me. I was too shocked to say a word. I watched in humiliation as Brent scurried in behind her, his tail between his legs. By the way, whatever hes told you, we have a fantastic sex life, Debby said, and swept out of the room.

I felt as if the breath had been knocked out of me. I had no idea Debby was still in the picture. Brent, then 41, and I had met just six weeks earlier, on my 21st birthday, in July 1991. Hed told me he was legally separated from Debby, then 31, a former air stewardess, and asked me to marry him just four days after we met. I quit my job as a TV producer on News at Ten, and moved with Brent to Cyprus, where he was ITNs Middle East bureau chief.

Tess and Debby today

We returned a month later to London to make wedding plans, as hed reassured me his divorce would come through any day, and checked into Le Meridien hotel in Londons Piccadilly. But someone at ITN told Debby where we were, and she got a taxi straight to the hotel to reclaim her husband. Brent couldnt even look at me as she threw his clothes into a suitcase. Its a moment Debby and I laugh about now, nearly 28 years later, during our regular girlie get-togethers for champagne and cocktails. Both now long divorced from Brent, who is 69, we are  astonishingly  the best of friends, despite our very rocky start.

Its impossible not to giggle when Debby does an uncannily accurate imitation of Brents face when his shabby double life was exposed during that hotel encounter.

Id almost feel guilty about making fun of him  except he treated us both very badly, and we deserve to congratulate ourselves for making something good come out of the wreckage.

So how on earth did the two of us end up friends? After all, I was the other woman, even if I didnt know it at first. But instead of dumping Brent, as I should have done after that hotel encounter, I believed him when he said he loved me and agreed to carry on seeing him behind Debbys back while he finished negotiating a new contract with CNN. Once that was done, he left her and his daughter without a backward glance, and we returned to Cyprus, where Brent was CNNs new Middle East correspondent, to start our life together.

Brent and I had a huge wedding in July 1993, covered by Hello! magazine, and Brents daughter from his first marriage, Nicola, was my bridesmaid. Brooke, his daughter with Debby, wasnt even invited. I should have been alerted by his callousness, especially as this was Brents second divorce, but he swore Debby only wanted him back because of the huge salary CNN was now paying him, and it was best to make a clean break.

How on earth did the two of us end up friends? After all, I was the other woman

Brents first marriage in 1972, to his childhood sweetheart Janis, a petite brunette, lasted only a few years. She still lived in their old home in Bristol with their daughter Nicola, then 17. On the few occasions we met, we got on. But his second marriage, in 1985, to Debby was different, because she and Brent had had a fiery, passionate relationship from the start. Brent travelled extensively for ITN, and Debby had no choice but to build a life that didnt include him, which often made him jealous. Their marriage was in trouble long before Brent and I met, but Debby was determined to make it work because of Brooke.

In June 1991, while Brent was away on an assignment, she went to Canada to visit friends and think things through, but by the time she came home a month later, Brent had met me. She was hurt and furious, and naturally fought back, coming to the hotel to reclaim him.

When he left her, she branded him a love-rat in the newspapers, and I cruelly dismissed her as an irrelevance, just one more bill on our list. Unsurprisingly, she retaliated in kind, saying I had a bad reputation for stealing husbands  which was totally untrue  and a laugh like a hyena, which stung. I hated her for tarnishing my fairytale romance and making me look like a home-wrecker.

In 1994, six months after our marriage, I became pregnant with our first baby, Henry, now 24. I was elated but deep down I kept wondering if Brent would leave me, too. When he threw out all his photos and videos of Debby, determined to erase her from his life, I secretly saved them, poring over them and studying whether he looked happier with her compared to me.

Tess and Brent on the cover of YOU, April 1993

Then, in 1997, when I was pregnant with our second son Matt, now 21, I discovered Brent was having an affair with his 25-year-old Serbian translator Jelena. In July 1999 we finally separated on my 29th birthday, eight years to the day since wed met. Now I understood how Debby had felt. I knew I owed her an apology for not leaving Brent once Id found out that he was married, and for retaliating in the newspapers when she was going through a painful break-up and was naturally angry. But I didnt think shed want to hear from me. We had never spoken again after that day in the hotel, but I was sure she hated me as much as ever.

Then, in 2014, I was cleaning out my attic when I found the box containing all those old photos of Debby and their daughter that Brent had wanted to get rid of. I was about to throw them out when something stopped me. I knew Brooke, now 30, didnt have a single picture of herself with her dad. For 22 years, hed never even bothered to contact her. Those photos were all she had of him. Nervously, I contacted Debby on Facebook and to my astonishment she sent me a warm reply thanking me profusely for saving the photos. For several months, we messaged each other, before arranging to meet.

With wry humour, Debby suggested Langans Brasserie in Mayfair, where she and Brent had celebrated their wedding reception and where shed later hosted her divorce party. Despite our friendly emails, I was secretly scared she might chuck a glass of wine in my face, or worse.

But the moment we saw each other, it felt as though we were old friends. We were both hugely curious to know the other side of the story. As soon as we compared notes, we realised how much wed both been deceived by Brent. I apologised for my role in the break-up of her marriage, and Debby reassured me it was all in the past. Shed resented me when Brent and I got together, but her main concern was always for her daughter. The fact Id saved those photographs meant the world to her. As a mother myself, I found Brents treatment of Brooke unforgivable. Whatever his issues with Debby, his little girl had done nothing wrong.

Debby and Tess vented their anger against each other in print

Talking to each other was a unique kind of therapy. No one else understood what it was like to be married to a man like Brent. In common with many TV personalities, he required a massive support system, needing to be the centre of the domestic universe. Everyone elses life had to be put on hold when he was around. Debby gave up her job as an air stewardess, and I quit work for ITN to pursue a writing career that fitted around Brents schedule.

But as soon as wed each had a baby, and couldnt spend all our time catering to his whims, he looked for someone younger who would. He travelled for ten months a year, but got jealous when we created a life that didnt include him. We both shared instances where hed raged because wed thrown parties while he was away. He had difficulty with Debby and me keeping in touch with friends from before our marriages, and seemed to try to drive a wedge between us and our parents. Living in a foreign country, cut off from everyone while he travelled all the time, was incredibly isolating. It made us vulnerable to his moods, and dependent on staying in his good books.

For years, despite Brents affair, Id blamed myself for the breakdown of my marriage, thinking if Id been more attentive and hadnt focused on the boys so much, maybe he wouldnt have left. But talking to Debby, I realised theres nothing I could have done. Brent couldnt bear sharing the limelight with anyone, including his own children. Our marriage was doomed the moment I had our boys and he stopped being the centre of my world. Debby and I also traded stories about his annoying habits, such as taking off his trousers as soon as he came home and sitting on the sofa in just his shirt, socks and underpants. And of course we talked about what hes like in bed!

We traded stories about his annoying habits. And, of course, what hes like in bed!

Ive long since forgiven Brent for his behaviour, but for Debby the wounds run deeper because of the way hes treated Brooke. My short marriage to Brent matters now only because it gave me my boys. For the past 18 years, Ive been happily married to my second husband, Erik Oliver, 48, with whom I have a daughter, Lily, 16. Debbys never remarried; she says once was enough for her, but she has no shortage of admirers if she ever changes her mind.

By the end of that first lunch, we felt like wed known each other for years, rolling out of Langans after five hours and four bottles of champagne. Since then weve met up whenever we can, and are in regular contact. Our bond is deeper than an ordinary friendship because of our shared history, and having children with the same man makes us family in a way  I call Debby my wife-in-law. Were similar in other ways, too  we both love travelling, taking chances and living life to the full. Brent clearly has a type, since we even look similar. I know from mutual friends it drives Brent crazy that Debby and I get on so well, which we both find hilarious. His ears must burn every time we get together!

Best of all, Ive learnt an important lesson. Forget waging war on any wives who went before  or after  you. Trust, loyalty, fun and friendship are far more important than revenge, and can be found in the unlikeliest of places.
For me, and surely most women, there are no two words more possessed with the promise of glamour than red lipstick. Perhaps its all the Saturdays I spent watching old movies  that double matinee slot on BBC Two, several hours worth of classic Hollywood  that set me up big time. For no celluloid siren was without her red lippy: Marilyn Monroe, Jane Russell, Rita Hayworth. But it wasnt just the screen goddesses  even women who played the perfect wife or the cool and discreet type would rouge up their lips: Myrna Loy, Grace Kelly, Irene Dunne. Theyd have no more been seen (at least on screen) without their lipstick than their clothes. It was a part of dressing, a part of being well turned out, part of being A Woman.

My mother  always impeccably turned out and my own personal style touchstone  wears it, too. When I was a child she prized her lipstick, which was not quite as disposable and plentiful an asset as it is now. I recall her horror one day when she came home to find that one of us youngsters had smeared some of her coloured wax all over the suede lining of her favourite handbag. It was a red alert, serious distress signal moment.

The Queen (left); Rita Hayworth (right)

Grace Kelly (left); Liza Minnelli (right)

A 1955 Elizabeth Arden ad (left); Marilyn Monroe (right)

Coco Chanel

So I pretty much grew up assuming that I, too, would wear red lipstick. As soon as I was old enough, I would adopt this womanly ritual. And then, somehow, I didnt. Perhaps it was because I really came of fashion age in the early 1990s grunge era, when Macs brick-coloured Spice lip liner was all the rage  every supermodel worthy of a magazine cover seemed to use it, so I did, too. It wasnt that no one ever wore red any more, but the nudes felt more in kilter with the time. (I also repeat-bought a Chanel lip gloss palette that was all about shades of nudey-brown beige. I think I still have one somewhere.)

Things moved on, as they do. Then, in one of my all-time ultimate style icon moments in 1997, Kate Moss walked the Cannes red carpet with then beau Johnny Depp wearing a grey Narciso Rodriguez dress, loose hair and almost no make-up bar a luscious coating of red lipstick. It was the nth degree of chic. Pared down yet bold, understated yet that small shot of vibrancy made it seem all dressed up with every place to go. Red lipstick was back and it hasnt gone away since.

Red lipstick is the make-up equivalent of shoulder pads

So, finally, I too dabbled with the look. But somehow, despite those years of ingrained beauty beliefs that red lipstick was my womanly destiny, it looked wrong. Instead of sophisticated, it made me appear juvenile  like a child who had played with her mothers make-up bag. I felt it made my small mouth seem even smaller. I felt self-conscious  the opposite to how Id always thought it would make me feel  transformed into some kind of Lauren Bacall.

The search is over: Yous beauty director Edwina wearing her shade: Giorgio Armani Lip Maestro in Chinese lacquer

So, instead of embracing red, I became more of a natural-look girl, finding my beauty power in simply being me  putting my own, but not necessarily best or overly groomed, face forward. Because thats the thing about red lipstick, its generally seen as a power tool for women: it is strength delivered via a shot of pigment. Its the make-up equivalent of shoulder pads. Its Margaret Thatchers handbag. Its the Queens crown jewels (she did actually wear a special custom-made shade of red lipstick for her coronation). Its emboldening because it draws attention to a womans mouth and, ergo, what shes saying from it. And, given that for the majority of womens history we havent had much of a voice at all, this factor cannot be understated or underestimated.

Some say red-painted lips are all about sexual connotations (you know, arousal down there), but Im not so sure. Red in general is a colour we all rely on to grab attention and impart urgency: the stop of the traffic lights, the no-entry of a road sign, a no-smoking warning. Its the colour of fire and blood. And its the shade of lipstick that in 1912 Elizabeth Arden handed out to women marching in New York for the womens vote  when red lipstick was still considered not the done thing (the brand still celebrates this with a limited-edition March On lipstick each year  ten per cent of proceeds go to UN Women). Red on a womans mouth is about amplification. Sure, seduction comes into it. But for the most part youll find women talking about it as a form of armour, an emboldening way to face the day.

Though heres my take on it: the real power of wearing red lipstick is in the reaction it elicits from others  they seem to stand that little bit straighter; stop that little bit longer; listen that little bit harder.

Known for her love of a bold red pout, when designer Paloma Picasso created her look-at-me Mon Rouge lipstick it became an 80s icon overnight (left); Pucker up  a 1934 Guerlain ad boasting serious red smackers (right)

Hot lips have the power to seduce a la Catwoman

The colour of choice for off-duty supermodels: Claudia Schiffer rocking radiant red (left); Crimson kisses were a runway hit at Saint Laurents spring/summer 2014 show (right)

And yes, I did eventually find my red lipstick. But it was only really when technology improved the formula. Traditional lipsticks always dried my lips, which didnt help matters when the bold shade was already feeling a bit too much. Then Giorgio Armani Lip Maestro entered my life. For a period I became all about red lipstick  my shade was an orangey red (no 402, Chinese Lacquer), a lightweight liquid matt that glides on smoothly and lasts for hours without dehydrating. For months I wore it Kate Moss-like, with little other make-up. And I felt like a woman  a grown-up, in-control-of-my-life, first-rate woman. Funny how deep these things can run, but when you find your red it really is a trusty style stalwart. You can get away with wearing anything  even jeans and a T-shirt  but look instantly pulled together if you add some red lippy.

French ads from the 1950s became as iconic as the products they promoted

A 1950s Elizabeth Taylor with her trademark come-to-bed scarlet lips (left); Dark hair, pale skin and, of course, lips as red as a rose  even Snow White isnt immune to the power of a crimson mouth (right)

If you still feel unsure about red lipstick, heres what Ive learnt: apply it but dont dwell on it as you look in the mirror. Thats the major stumbling block  focusing on it too much, like staring at your outfit in a mirror but only seeing your hips and deciding that theyre huge because youve lost sight of proportion. Put it on, then leave the house (even if inside your head youre telling yourself you look like a clown). And remember, it doesnt have to be about full-on coverage. You can go for a stain. Or take a lipstick you love and press it into the lips so it gives an impression but isnt quite the whole shebang. Then think no more about it and go forth. Youve done your bit, now its time for the lipstick to do the work.

Find your perfect red

Theres a shade for everyone. Top make-up artist Justine Jenkins reveals how to find the one for you

Best for pale skin

Pale complexions generally look more radiant with blue-toned reds and more beautiful with pinky reds. Try Marc Jacobs Le Marc Lip Creme in Oh Miley (1, 27, harveynichols.com); Kat Von D Everlasting Liquid Lipstick in Outlaw (2, 17, debenhams.com) and Charlotte Tilburys Kissing Lipstick in Love Bite (3, 24, charlottetilbury.com).

If your skin is medium

Warm shades are perfect for medium skin tones. I recommend: RMS Beauty Wild With Desire Lipstick in RMS Red (4, 30, spacenk.com); Delilah Colour Intense Cream Lipstick in Floozy (5, 24, delilahcosmetics.com) and Charlotte Tilbury Hot Lips in Tell Laura (6, 24, charlottetilbury.com).

For dark complexions

These rock most reds. However, true reds such as Too Faced Melted Matte Lipstick in Lady Balls (7, 19, johnlewis.com) and deep reds such as Hourglass Girl Lip Stylo in Visionary (8, 29, spacenk.com) or Burts Bees Liquid Lipstick in Drenched Dahlia (9, 9.99, superdrug.com) look exquisite.

Are you cool or warm?

To help choose the right red for you, you need to know what undertone your skin has: cool undertones suit bluey reds, while for warm undertones, an orange red will look fabulous. If youre not sure which undertone you have, simply look at the veins on the inside of your arms. If they are blue, you have cool undertones. If they are green, you have warm undertones, and if you cant really tell, you have neutral undertones, which means  lucky you  all reds suit you.

Know your reds

We think of red as a hot colour but to nail the right shade for you, like your skin, you need to work out whether it has cool or warm undertones. Trying the red on the underside of your arm is a great way to see its undertone, and how the shade works with your colouring. If the red looks blue- or purple-toned, it is a cool shade; if it has an orange feel to it, it is warm.

How to apply

 Always apply your lip colour first. If your lipstick tends to bleed, stick to very matt textures. Apply one layer, blot, powder the lips with translucent powder through one ply of tissue, then apply a second coat.

 Next apply your lip liner.

 To lock in colour and create a no-budge texture, finish by running an ice cube over your lips. Im not a fan of lipstick sealing products as they can make the lips feel a bit tacky, and I find this traditional method just as effective.

 Another great old-school trick for post application is to suck your thumb after the final coat of colour to blot the inside of your lips and help prevent the lipstick transferring to your teeth.

 Finally, when you have that glass of champagne, lick your lips before taking a sip. Your saliva creates a barrier so your lipstick stays on your lips, not on the glass.
The quality of water in a small Australian town has become so filthy from the drought that people are breaking out in rashes just from taking a shower.

The water in Collarenebri, in north western New South Wales, has been getting worse over the past year, and the Barwon River - which residents depend on - has completely stopped flowing.

Now the town is without any clean water, and with the nearest supermarket more than a two-hour drive away, the 650 people who live there are banking their survival on volunteers bringing in deliveries of bottled water.

Just taking a shower in the water at Collarenebri can be damaging to the skin of residents and visitors (pictured is a volunteer who arrived in town to deliver water. The man claims he had only a five-minute shower before he was covered in an itchy rash)

Collarenebri is an eight-and-a-half hour drive north-west of Sydney

Dead fish are seen decomposing where the Barwon River once flowed (pictured)

The donated bottled water is being brought in by volunteers working with social justice groups FIRE and Dignity Water, with people coming from as far away as Sydney, more than an eight-hour drive to the south.

As well as the sustained drought, locals blame their water woes on large-scale cotton farmers pumping too much water from the river to use on their properties.

The river is the only viable water source for locals because there is no bore in the town, and as levels have dropped, it has become sludgy and tainted with the bodies of dead birds and fish.

It's got green algae in it, and it smells when it comes out of the taps.

And while there is a filtration system available for tap water, locals say it is largely ineffective.

Those who drink it can become violently ill, and showering in the water for just a few minutes can leave a person covered in tiny, itchy bite marks.

Residents Jake and Louise Flick said in a video there were a 'whole list of problems' that would affect people drinking the local water.

'You cant even drink the water at home,' Louise said.

'You get kidney infections, or bladder infections. [There are] a lot of bugs, you'll start to get little lumps on the skin.'

Jake and Louise Flick (pictured) say people have contracted kidney and bladder infections from drinking the tap water

Townspeople are devastated at the loss of the river (pictured is a rotting fish where the river once was) which sustained their lifestyle

One of the volunteers delivering bottled water to Collarenebri lifted his shirt to reveal red welts and a rash across his chest and back that broke out after a five-minute shower.

Raymond Weatherall, who grew up in Collarenebri and visits regularly, says he doesn't shower in town, nor does he allow his young daughters, aged one to seven, to.

'We had a shower when we got to Walgett [on the weekend] and you could smell [the water] - it left a weird feeling on your skin when you rubbed it. You could taste the metals,' he said.

'When we go to Collarenebri, I'll have a shower in Moree before I leave, and I'll stop there again to shower [on the way back].'

The Barwon River, which the town of Collarenebri depends on for drinking water, stopped flowing about eight weeks ago and has nearly completely dried up (pictured)

The Barwon River (pictured in 2013) is part of the Murray Darling river system. It has dried out due to drought conditions and commercial cotton farming

Alison Hinch (left) says the dried up river is having a devastating effect on the elders of the community

With residents entirely dependent on bottled water to drink, volunteers have been arriving in town every two weeks carrying thousands of litres of water.

Each person is given 20 litres, and this must last them until the next visit.

Photographs show the Barwon River once overflowing with fresh, clean water cascading down from one level to another.

Now, in the same place, there is only rocks and dry dirt, surrounding a puddle of water, which makes up the entire drinking supply.

Barwon MP Roy Butler said the water crisis was 'created by government mismanagement and exacerbated by drought'.

'Government is responsible for managing and regulating our river system to look after all stakeholders; communities, agriculture and environment,' he said.

'Its distressing for residents in Collarenebri to see a Cayman Islands-based company make a $50 million profit from the sale of water when theyve got no water to drink.

'Weve also seen generous residents of other towns donate bottled water to Collarenebri, which is something the state government should have been funding and facilitating since this started last year.'

Local MP Roy Butler says he has asked Water Minister Melinda Pavey to visit the town and see what she can do to help, but his invitation is yet to be accepted

Local resident, Kevin Charity, said that when the water started to drop, employment prospects and the standard of living fell significantly in the area, prompting many to leave town.

Mr Charity says the main street of Collarenebri is becoming a ghost town, with shops boarded up everywhere. All that remains are basic necessities like a post office, food market, butcher, service station, a mechanic and a rural supplies company.

Two shopfronts remain, both used for government services, and there is a hotel and a takeaway.

On one side of the street, only three stores are open - the rest have been boarded up.

WHAT IS THE PROBLEM? Collarenebri is dependent on the Barwon River, which is connected to the Murray-Darling. Drought conditions and commercial cotton farming in the area has used up a great deal of the water, and the river has stopped flowing. As a result, the remaining water has grown stagnant and is beginning to grow algae, which makes it unsafe for consumption. The government is not funding any extra filtering or water deliveries so townspeople rely on volunteers to bring bottled water in. Advertisement

Mr Charity believes for anything to change, the cotton crops, which require excessive amounts of water to grow, need to be moved to an area where there is more rainfall.

'What happens if Collarenebri runs out of water completely,' he said. 'All we have is what is left in the river and it is decreasing alarmingly.

'The thing I do not understand is why cotton is grown in what is a very arid country.

'Cotton fields need to be flooded with water. There is not enough water available for this practice. Wheat would be OK because it is predominately a dry country crop.'

Collarenebri is currently at level five water restrictions, meaning no land can be watered, and cleaning of car windows, windscreens, number plates and mirrors can be done for safety, but only using a bucket.

The drying of the river has forced some to move out of town and many others face the same fate if something is not done (pictured is the river flowing in June 2013)

The only water left is stagnant and tainted with algae and dead fish. Locals are reliant on fortnightly donations of bottled water just to survive

Mr Weatherall, who is an Aboriginal man, said watching his family battle to stay on the land they've always called home is heartwrenching.

'At Easter I went home and I couldn't get any fish to bring back down to eat on Good Friday,' he said.

'My family who live there are really disheartened, They don't know what to do. You don't want people to move off their land.

'There's nothing to look forward to. They're thinking about moving away from where their ancestors have been since the first sunrise.'

Most of the townspeople are unemployed, and live below the poverty line. Mr Weatherall says that is usually fine because the people of Collarenebri typically live off the land and don't need much money - but without the river flowing, their food sources are drying up.

The area used to host big ceremonies for the Indigenous people, though they are few and far between now.

The father-of-five says he, and his relatives find hope in the groups that accompany him home to deliver bottled water to his community.

Local MP Roy Butler said the crisis had been created by government mismanagement (pictured is the Barwon River)

And despite everything that is happening, the local community stop and chat with the volunteers, and believe things will get better.

'That's the one thing we have to be, is hopeful things will turn around,' he said. 'Otherwise people would just give up and probably die.'

As well as water problems, residents have been affected by dehydration as temperatures soared over summer, exceeding 45 degrees. The local hospital says they had more cases of dehydration over this summer than any other.

Mr Butler said he has reached out to Water Minister Melinda Pavey to ask her to visit Collarenebri and help fix the problem, but she is yet to accept his invitation.

Chris, who works for Walgett Shire Council, says there is nothing wrong with the water, and he is able to drink and shower in it with no troubles.

'There's nothing wrong with our water,' he said. 'I've been drinking water out of our taps for two years.

'It's clear, it's good water, there's nothing wrong with it.

'The only time we get bad water is after like a week of rain.'

Daily Mail Australia has contacted the Walgett Shire Council, who look after Collarenebri, for further comment.
Socialist poet Dame Mary Gilmore was Prime Minister Scott Morrison's great great aunt

Prime Minister Scott Morrison's relative Dame Mary Gilmore was a socialist crusader and poet who wrote for the Communist Party newspaper Tribune.

She was the first female member of the Australian Workers' Union (AWU), which Labor leader Bill Shorten later headed, and campaigned for the welfare of the disadvantaged all her life.

Mr Morrison knows his great great aunt would not have agreed with his political views but is proud of the family connection to the woman on the $10 note.

Dame Mary (1865-1962) was a bush teacher who became heavily involved in the labour movement and other social causes in Sydney in the 1890s.

She championed nationalism, worker's rights, feminism, Aboriginal welfare, pensions and health care. Her views eventually became too radical for the AWU of her time.

Dame Mary's image has appeared on $10 bills since 1993 and her most famous poem, No Foe Shall Gather Our Harvest, is printed in micro form on the note.

Before taking leadership of the Liberal Party, Mr Morrison was best known for 'stopping the boats' as Immigration Minister and cracking down on welfare cheats in the Social Services portfolio.

Mr Morrison told Daily Mail Australia a Queensland man recently wrote a poem (published below) about him called 'Billy Gilmore's Ringer', referring to his uncle, Dame Mary's grandson.

'It's a nice poem,' he said. 'I got quite misty when I read it. I got all sentimental.'

Prime Minister Scott Morrison is proud of his great great aunt Dame Mary Gilmore, a famous socialist poet who championed workers, women and the disadvantaged all her long life

Dame Mary Gilmore has featured on the $10 note since 1993. Prime Minister Scott Morrison says of daughters Abbey and Lily: 'Even to this day they look on the $10 note with great pride'

Mr Morrison, whose political beliefs seem far removed from some of his aunt's, spoke proudly of her achievements in Parliament before the 50th anniversary of her death.

'In a society that still searches for role models for our young women, there are few ladies of greater inspiration than my great great Aunt Mary, of whom my two daughters should be very proud to call their aunt,' he said.

'Even to this day they look on the $10 note with great pride.

'She was an immensely talented and compassionate woman of fierce conviction and heart.

'She may well not agree with everything I agree with today, but she was a woman of great conviction and a great Australian.'

In the same 2012 speech Mr Morrison spoke of how 'Aunt Mary' asked for a transfer from teaching in rural New South Wales to the city, where 'her interest in social reform burgeoned.'

'She seized her pen and began to write of the injustices she saw in the world around her,' Mr Morrison said.

'She was a prolific writer, a poet, a journalist and a trail-blazer in the fields that were strictly patriarchal.

'She brazenly carved her own path and stood toe to toe with anyone who dared stand in her way.

'She may well not agree with everything I agree with today, but she was a woman of great conviction and a great Australian,' Prime Minister Scott Morrison says of his 'Aunt Mary'

'She was a passionate nationalist, a zealous activist, an advocate for workers' rights rather than union largesse and a champion of the oppressed.

'But, above all of that, she was a wife, a mother and, maybe to the surprise of those on the other side of the chamber, my great great aunt.'

In the 1890s, Dame Mary met Henry Lawson and they became extremely close, leading to an 'unofficial engagement' between the two poets.

She later supported William Lane's 'utopian socialism' and in 1896 joined his New Australia colony in Paraguay where she married Victorian shearer William 'Bill' Gilmore.

DAME MARY GILMORE Mary Jean Cameron was born in 1865 and grew up in the Riverina district of New South Wales. She qualified as a school teacher aged just 16 and in 1890 was posted to Sydney where she became involved in the labour movement. Gilmore was a devotee of the 'utopian socialist' William Lane and in 1896 joined him in Paraguay as part of the short-lived New Australia colony. She married Victorian shearer William Gilmore in Paraguay in 1897. Back in Sydney Gilmore became women's editor of The Australian Worker and wrote for other publications including The Bulletin. Her first volume of poetry was published in 1910 and she wrote for the rest of her life. Her most famous work is No Foe Shall Gather Our Harvest. In later life Gilmore wrote for Tribune, the Communist Party newspaper. She was made a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire in 1937 and died aged 97 in 1962. Dame Mary featured on a postage stamp in 1973 and has been on the $10 notes since 1993. Advertisement

The couple had a son called Bill before they abandoned the South American social experiment and returned to Australia where Dame Mary continued writing.

[Bill's son - also called Bill - was Mr Morrison's uncle and died last year].

She contributed to the The Bulletin and was on staff at The Australian Worker for many years, as well as publishing books of poetry, becoming a significant figure in the nation's literary scene.

Dame Mary, who in later years wrote columns for Tribune, was given a state funeral after her death aged 97 in 1962.

Her ashes are buried in her husband's grave at Cloncurry in north-west Queensland, where the family worked cattle stations.

Mr Morrison spent time as a boy with his uncle Bill Gilmore on those properties and has credited that experience with learning about life in the bush.

'People come up here and learn what Australia is all about,' Mr Morrison told Daily Mail Australia.

'They spend time on stations, and they learn the values of Australia and what the land is like here and our life is like and people go away having learnt a few things.'

Local grazier Keith Douglas wrote a poem about Mr Morrison when he visited the area during the north Queensland floods in February.

'Someone from up Cloncurry way I think it was has written a poem about me,' Mr Morrison said. 'It's great. It's called Billy Gilmore's Ringer.'

'Ringer' refers to a stockman or station hand and the poem, which also references local father and son politicians Bob and Robbie Katter, lauds Mr Morrison as a man who understands the land and its people.

'This bloke wrote this really nice poem... and it basically said, "He gets it and he's going to stand with us, thank goodness for that",' Mr Morrison said.

The federal electorate of Gilmore on the NSW south coast is named in Dame Mary's honour.

Gilmore is the most marginal NSW seat held by the Liberal Party, which has put up Warren Mundine - a former national president of the Labor Party - to contest the May 18 election.

'BILLY GILMORE'S RINGER': A BUSH POEM ABOUT SCOTT MORRISON Well the country's in a sorry state These floods have hurt us bad Killed our stock, wrecked our blocks The sight depressing and so sad It gives us hope to see this bloke Of light he brings a glimmer An ordinary man who understands Is Billy Gilmore's Ringer With all that's happening 'cross the world And an election truly on us We could be forgotten in the bush There's not many votes among us But this bloke leaves the city smoke He knows our future couldn't be dimmer He's come to have a look first hand Ol' Billy Gilmore's Ringer We've got Bob and his boy Rob Who for the bush will bat But we'll need some dough to fix this show A lot of dough in fact Down in that place where decisions are made Bush mates are thin and getting thinner He knows this land and understands Does Billy Gilmore's Ringer As a lad Scott's smart old Dad Sent him out to Gilmore's station Nobody knew one day this boy Would lead our mighty nation I don't care how you vote Be it a lefty or a real right winger But the bush needs a man who understands Like Billy Gilmore's Ringer By Keith Douglas (Jnr), February, 2019 Advertisement
A Nepalese tourist allegedly plied his friend's flatmate with tequila then repeatedly raped her as she slept before fleeing Australia hours later.

Balram Shiv, 35, now languishes in a Sydney jail cell after being extradited from the U.S., charged with raping and molesting the 21-year-old woman in June 2017.

Early the next morning he caught an Uber to Sydney Airport and flew home to New York where he simply resumed his life as an aviation engineer.

But his self-indulgent social media posts bragging about his decadent lifestyle led to his arrest when the woman identified him to NSW police as her alleged rapist.

Balram Shiv, 35, allegedly plied his friend's flatmate with tequila then repeatedly raped her as she slept before feeling Australia hours later

The Nepalese citizen, living in the U.S. on a green card, arrived in Australia on June 9, 2017, and stayed with two female friends at an apartment in Carlton.

On the night of June 13 he brought home a bottle of tequila, an affidavit filed to the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of New York alleged.

Shiv convinced the alleged victim, who had never drunk tequila before, to take four or five shots as they and one of his friends quickly finished the whole bottle.

The victim claimed in the affidavit that she blacked out and later woke up on a mattress on the floor of her room as Shiv was molesting her.

Shiv allegedly pulled her legs apart and performed several sex acts on her despite her telling him not to - and she wasn't strong enough to stop him.

He now languishes in a Sydney jail cell after being extradited from the U.S., charged with raping and molesting the 21-year-old woman in June 2017

Social media photos like this one of him celebrating the Hindu Diwali festival led to his arrest when the woman identified him to NSW police as her alleged rapist

The woman passed out again and allegedly woke up to Shiv raping her as she drifted in and out of consciousness.

'The victim continued to plead with Shiv to stop, but felt very sick and passed out again. When she awoke, she vomited four times on her pillow,' the affidavit read.

'Because of her state of intoxication, the victim was unable to raise her head from the pillow before passing out again.'

The affidavit claims about 9.50pm the other woman heard the allegedly victim yelling 'I don't want, I don't want'.

Another woman later arrived at the flat and when she opened the door, saw Shiv get up from the mattress and heard the alleged victim crying.

She left and returned with her uncle and they asked her what happened.

'I didn't want to do that, he forced me... I know I have a boyfriend. I didn't want to do that. He forced me,' the alleged victim told them, according to the affidavit.

'I cannot fulfill my father and mother's dreams now.'

Shiv made numerous self-indulgent social media posts bragging about his decadent lifestyle, including posing with this flash car

Shiv organised a fundraiser for the National Kidney Foundation for his 35th birthday in November, and later posted photos of him celebrating the milestone with a rich cake, bottle of red wine, and balloons

Among Shiv's numerous travel photos was this one of him lounging in a pool. Each of his photos is accompanied with a pithy, often cringeworthy, line

Shiv's other friend, who also lived at the flat, arrived home about 11pm and asked the alleged victim if Shiv raped her and was told 'yes he did'.

The alleged victim claimed she then fell asleep on her bed before waking up to Shiv molesting her again until someone opened the door.

Shiv ordered an Uber to Sydney Airport about 8.30 the next morning and flew back to New York on a 9.39am flight.

The woman reported the alleged rape later that morning and DNA samples taken in hospital matched Shiv's, court documents alleged.

Once home, Shiv continued to live his life in New York, where he worked as an aviation engineer and lived in Lynbrook, NY, just east of JFK Airport.

Photos posted to a Facebook profile under the name Pratham Shiv, as friends call him, documented his travels and life in the U.S.

He visited Nepal and India in 2018 where he was pictured meeting family and old friends, riding an elephant, and lounging in a pool.

Shiv convinced the alleged victim, who had never drunk tequila before, to take four or five shots after he brought a bottle back to the Sydney apartment

Shiv pictured riding an elephant on one of his holidays last year, on a trip where he also visited family and old friends in Nepal

Other photos show him in New York posing with his car, hitting the gym, visiting temples, and celebrating the Hindu Diwali festival.

Shiv organised a fundraiser for the National Kidney Foundation for his 35th birthday in November, attracting $102 in donations.

He later posted photos of him celebrating the milestone with a rich cake, bottle of red wine, and balloons.

Each of his photos is accompanied with a pithy, often cringeworthy, line such as 'don't be scared to fly alone, find a path that is your own'.

'Always be a first rate version of yourself. Instead of a second rate version of someone else,' another read.

These posts caught the attention of NSW Police and in June 2018 the Sydney woman identified Shiv as her alleged rapist from his posts.

He was charged with two counts of sexual intercourse without consent and five counts of assault with act with indecency

A federal warrant was signed on January 17, hours before Shiv was due to board a flight from JFK Airport to Nepal via Doha, Qatar.

New York cops arrested him as he tried to get on the plane. He did not oppose the extradition request.

U.S. marshals escorted him on a flight to Los Angeles where he was met by NSW police detectives last Thursday.

He arrived in Sydney on Saturday morning and was charged with two counts of rape and five counts of indecent assault.

Shiv faced court on both Sunday and Monday and was refused bail both times. He will near appear at Sutherland Local Court on June 28.
Attorney Generals from 44 states have filed a lawsuit accusing America's largest drug manufacturers of conspiring to artificially inflate prices for more than 100 different generic medications by up to 1,000 per cent.

The suit filed in federal court in Connecticut on Friday implicates 20 pharmaceutical firms, including Teva, Pfizer, Novartis and Mylan, as well as 15 individual senior executives responsible for sales, marketing and pricing.

'We have hard evidence that shows the generic drug industry perpetrated a multibillion dollar fraud on the American people,' Connecticut Attorney General William Tong told the Associated Press.

'We have emails, text messages, telephone records and former company insiders that we believe will prove a multi-year conspiracy to fix prices and divide market share for huge numbers of generic drugs.'

Tong said the investigation had uncovered a primary reason why the cost of health care - and specifically generic prescription drugs - has been so high in this country.

The surging prices of prescription drugs have drawn the attention of a number of politicians across the political spectrum from President Donald Trump to liberal Democratic presidential candidate Sen Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts.

Investigators said the drugs covered in the suit, which are used to treat an array of conditions including diabetes, cancer, arthritis, HIV and asthma, account for billions of dollars of sales in the US.

'We all know that prescription drugs can be expensive,' New Jersey Attorney General Gurbir S Grewal said in a statement. 'Now we know that high drug prices have been driven in part by an illegal conspiracy among generic drug companies to inflate their prices.'

Attorneys general from 44 states filed a federal lawsuit on Friday in Connecticut accusing America's largest drug manufacturers of conspiring to artificially inflate prices for more than 100 different generic medications by up to 1,000 percent (file photo)

The suit was filed by 43 states and Puerto Rico with Connecticut taking the lead in the probe.

It alleges that for many years these makers of generic drugs had operated under an agreement not to compete with each other and to settle instead for what these companies referred to as a 'fair share' of the market to avoid pushing prices down through competition.

The suit says that in 2012, companies decided to 'take this understanding to the next level', embarking on 'one of the most egregious and damaging price-fixing conspiracies in the history of the United States'.

The companies allegedly sought not only to maintain their 'fair share' of the generic drug market but also to 'significantly raise prices on as many drugs as possible'.

Teva Pharmaceuticals USA Inc, a wholly owned subsidiary of Israeli-based Teva Pharmaceuticals Industries Ltd, is named as the leading firm behind the conspiracy.

To accomplish this goal, the suit says Teva selected a core group of competitors with which it already had 'very profitable collusive relationships', and developed understandings to lead and follow each other's price increases.

The suit contends that this resulted in 'many billions of dollars of harm to the national economy over a period of several years'.

During a 19-month period beginning in July 2013, the suit says Teva significantly raised prices on approximately 112 different generic drugs and on at least 86 of those drugs colluded with a group it referred to as 'high quality' competitors.

The suit says that the size of the price increases varied but was over 1,000 percent for a number of the drugs.

It claims the defendants knew their conduct was unlawful and usually chose to communicate in person or by cell phone 'in an attempt to avoid creating a written record of their illegal conduct'.

'When communications were reduced to writing or text messages, defendants often took overt and calculated steps to destroy evidence of those communications,' the suit states.

Officials are asking for the court to find that the defendants' actions violated federal and state antitrust and consumer protection laws.

The suit seeks a permanent injunction preventing the companies from continuing the conduct as well as reimbursement of profits from the actions and damages to be paid to the state agencies and consumers who were harmed by the drug company practices.

Teva Pharmaceuticals USA Inc is named as the leading firm behind the conspiracy to inflate and manipulate drug prices. The Israel-based company's New Jersey headquarters is pictured

A spokesman for Teva said the firm hasn't engaged in any conduct that would lead to civil or criminal liability.

'The allegations in this new complaint, and in the litigation more generally, are just that - allegations,' Kelley Dougherty, a Teva vice president, said in a statement Saturday.

'The company delivers high-quality medicines to patients around the world and is committed to complying with all applicable laws and regulations in doing so.'

Teva came under fire last year for charging $18,375 for a bottle of 100 pills used to treat a rare medical condition known as Wilson disease.

Mylan received similar backlash when it raised the price of a two-injection EpiPen set from $100 to $600.

Pfizer also denied any wrongdoing in a statement on Saturday, saying that Greenstone, a Pfizer subsidiary that produces generic drugs, 'has been a reliable and trusted supplier of affordable generic medicines for decades and intends to vigorously defend against these claims'.

This is the second lawsuit to be filed in connection with the investigation launched in 2014. The first suit filed in 2016 named 18 corporate defendants and two individual defendants.

Two former drug company executives entered into settlement agreements in that case and are now cooperating with investigators.
A Harvard professor has been dropped from his role as dean of a residential house after joining Harvey Weinstein's legal defense team.

Ronald Sullivan Jr signed on to become of the Hollywood mogul's lawyers back in January, sparking backlash from many students at Winthrop House - the Harvard residential college where he has worked since 2009.

Sullivan and his law school lecturer wife, Stephanie Robinson, became the first African-American faculty deans in Harvard history when they took their positions at Winthrop a decade ago.

However, in a statement on Saturday, a university spokesperson said neither of their roles would be renewed after June 30.

Ronald Sullivan Jr (center left) and his wife Stephanie Robinson (right) have been dropped as faculty deans at Harvard's Winthrop House. They are pictured at the Ivy League university in 2017

Sullivan (right) signed on to the legal defense team of disgraced movie producer Harvey Weinstein (left) in January of this year

'Over the last few weeks, students and staff have continued to communicate concerns about the climate in Winthrop House to the college,' College Dean Rakesh Khurana stated.

'The concerns expressed have been serious and numerous. The actions that have been taken to improve the climate have been ineffective, and the noticeable lack of faculty dean presence during critical moments has further deteriorated the climate in the house'.

Graffiti calling for Sullivan's resignation was discovered on a Harvard building back in March.

In recent weeks there has been a sit-in organized by Winthrop residents troubled that Sullivan will defend Weinstein at his rape trial, which is scheduled for next month.

In recent weeks there has been a sit-in organized by Winthrop residents troubled that Sullivan will defend Weinstein at his rape trial, which is scheduled for next month

Harvard had previously defended Sullivan's decision to join Weinstein's legal team, stating that it was a matter of academic freedom and that everyone is entitled to a vigorous legal defense.

In a retaliatory statement on Saturday, Sullivan and Robinson said that they were 'surprised and dismayed' by the decision to be dropped from their roles as residential deans.

'We believed the discussions we were having with high level university representatives were progressing in a positive manner, but Harvard unilaterally ended those talks,' they said.

However, the couple will continue to hold their respective positions at Harvard Law School.

In January, a judge approved Weinstein's request to have Sullivan join his legal team.

Prosecutors in New York accuse Weinstein of forcibly performing oral sex on a woman in 2006 and raping another woman in 2013. Weinstein faces five criminal charges, including rape, and could be sentenced to life in prison if convicted.

He has pleaded not guilty to the charges.
National Rifle Association chief Wayne LaPierre is said to have splashed the cash on shopping sprees in Beverly Hills, luxury trips to Italy and Budapest and a private jet

National Rifle Association chief Wayne LaPierre spent half a million dollars on shopping sprees in Beverly Hills, luxury trips to Italy and Budapest and a private jet, according a series of newly leaked letters.

LaPierre, the public face of the gun lobbying group for decades, is coming under increasing scrutiny after he fended off a backlash to be reinstated as the NRA's CEO.

LaPierre was challenged by former NRA President Oliver North, who stepped down after threatening to reveal allegations that NRA leaders engaged in financial improprieties.

And now documents, posted anonymously online, appear to show further details on how he billed Ackerman McQueen Inc, the group's ad agency, $39,000 for a day of shopping at a luxury Beverly Hills shop.

They also appear to show how the NRA racked up $24 million in legal bills - something senior NRA officials dispute.

In late 2012 and early 2013 LaPierre allegedly spent more than $200,000 in 'Air Transportation' costs over a one-month period, which included a two-week trip to the Bahamas over Christmas.

The NRA's new president, Carolyn Meadows, told The Wall Street Journal: 'The entire board is fully aware of these issues. We have full confidence in Wayne LaPierre.

'It is troubling and pathetic that some people would resort to leaking information to advance their agendas.'

The leaked letters, which appear to be genuine, were sent last month by the organization's then-President Oliver North to the NRA's board. They were first reported Saturday.

LaPierre is said to have expensed $2,400 for a stay at Castadiva Resort on Italy's Lake Como

LaPierre is said to have spent $274,695.03 between 2004 and 2017 at the Zegna store in Beverly Hills. On two dates, Mr. LaPierres purchases were said to have exceeded $39,000

The NRA has previously said travel expenses were for 'donor outreach, fundraising and stakeholder engagement' with clothing expenses down to his public appearances.

A letter said to be from Ackerman McQueen to LaPierre said: 'We need to address your wardrobe you required us to provide, specifically purchases at the Zegna store in Beverly Hills, CA.'

Between 2004 and 2017 the bill totaled $274,695.03 with two visits hitting $39,000 alone, the documents say.

LaPierres disclosed compensation in 2017, the most recently reported year, was $1.4 million for his role with the NRA, which he has headed since 1991.

Luxury hotel stays are said to have included $6,500 at the Four Seasons, $2,400 at a resort on Italy's Lake Como and $17,550 for 'Air Charter' between Budapest and Italy.

It also shows nearly $18,300 for a car and driver in both countries and requests for the agency to cover $13,800 in rent for a summer intern.

And LaPierre is said to have also claimed almost $40,000 in air transportation charges from Washington to the Bahamas in December 2012. The following month the letter lists a charge of $29,000 from the Bahamas to Dallas.

LaPierre survived a power struggle for the role of CEO in which he was challenged by former NRA President Oliver North, (pictured), who stepped down at the end of last month

For the past two decades, the NRA has faced criticism from among its ranks that its leaders had become corrupted by the millions of dollars flowing into its coffers.

The criticism has included allegations of self-dealing and excessive personal spending.

Now the pressure has increased with New York's attorney general opening an investigation that could threaten the group's tax-exempt status. The NRA's charter was originally filed in New York, giving authorities there broad latitude to investigate its operations.

The NRA has faced some financial struggles in recent years, losing a combined $64million in 2016 and 2017, and that has prompted some to question whether the large sums spent on public relations and NRATV are worth the money.

With more than 5 million members it is by far the most powerful and well-connected gun lobby in the United States. It has worked closely with legislators to protect firearms manufacturers from liability for gun violence and pushed a ban on U.S. health officials from promoting gun control.

DailyMail.com has contacted the NRA, LaPierre, North for comment.
Hollywood legend Alvin Sargent, one of the film industry's most reliable screenwriters for more than 50 years, died of natural causes inside his Seattle home Thursday. He was 92.

Hollywood legend Alvin Sargent, one of the film industry's most reliable screenwriters for more than 50 years, died of natural causes inside his Seattle home on Thursday. He was 92.

Sargent's friend, producer Pam Williams (Lee Daniels' The Butler), broke the news of his death three days ago, according to the Hollywood Reporter, which called Sargent 'the master of the adapted screenplay.'

In recent years, he was best known for writing for the Spider-Man film franchise, including the acclaimed 'Spider-Man 2' (2004), 'Spider-Man 3' (2007) and 'The Amazing Spider-Man' (2012).

But Sargent's star began burning brightly in the late 1970s when he was thrice nominated for Academy Awards, taking home two golden statues for screenplays he wrote for the Holocaust period film 'Julia' (1977) and the acclaimed drama 'Ordinary People' (1980), an adaptation of Judith Guests 1976 novel about a family whose revered eldest son drowned in a boating accident.

Sargent's screenplay for 'Paper Moon' (1973) also earned a nomination from the Academy.

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Sargent is known for screenwriting for three Spider-Man movies, including the critically-acclaimed 'Spider-Man 2' (2004)

Sargent also wrote the screenplay for 'The Amazing Spider-Man' (2012), starring British actor Andrew Garfield

Born Alvin Supowitz on April 27, 1927, Sargent came from humble beginnings in Philadelphia during the Depression era. His father, Isaac Supowitz, committed suicide at the age of 43 during Alvin's childhood.

Sargent never finished high school, instead opting to join the Navy where he served three years towards the end of World War II to earn his high school diploma.

'It wasn't about heroism. It was really about getting out of school with a diploma, which is exactly what I did,' Sargent told the Writer's Guild Foundation in 2016.

During his time in the Navy, Sargent learned to type Morse code.

Sargent was nominated for three Oscars over his decades-long career, winning twice for best adapted screenplay for 'Julia' (1977) and 'Ordinary People' (1980)

'My one passion was typing, not writing,' he said with a laugh. 'I used to practice typing. And I started writing dialogue, writing people talking to each other ... It never occurred to me to be a screenwriter, or any kind of a writer, or anything actually, I never had a plan. I never really had a dream. Things just sort of came to me.'

His mother moved to California to be closer to her sister during the war and Sargent followed her after he was discharged from the military.

He attended college at UCLA because he couldn't get into USC and got a job delivering clothes to Hollywood insiders living in the elite hills of southern California.

He dreamed of being an actor, but settled for being one of the industry's go-to screenwriters for three decades.

Screenwriter Alvin Sargent (left) and Producer Laura Ziskin

A scene from 'What About Bob?', a 1991 comedy written by Alvin Sargent and produced by Laura Ziskin

Sargent had three children with his first wife, stage actress Joan Creears, aka Joan Camden, before meeting and falling in love with film producer Laura Ziskin during the 1980s, according to the New York Times.

He and Ziskin married in 2010 a year before she died. The duo together created classics like 'What About Bob?' (1991), 'Hero' (1992) and the Spider-Man sequels starring Tobey Maguire in the early 2000s.

'Spider-Man 2' still ranks as the highest rated live action film in the Spider-Man franchise on Rotten Tomatoes with a 'Certified Fresh' tomato score of 93 percent from critics.

Sargent's 43 film and TV writing credits also include underrated classics like 'The Sterile Cuckoo,' (1969) and 'Bobby Deerfield' (1977).
A first-time home buyer with seven children has snapped up a seven-bedroom house for less than $400,000 in Sydney's west as property prices continue to fall across the city.

The buyer bought the sprawling 607 square metre block in Tregear, a suburb 46 kilometres west of the CBD, at auction on Saturday.

The new owner plans to completely renovate the run-down and boarded-up house, which has a private backyard and was pitched as having 'immense potential'.

A first-time home buyer with seven children has snapped up a seven-bedroom house (pictured) for less than $400,000 in Sydney's west

The auction started with an opening bid of $300,000, before eventually selling for $395,000 - only $15,000 above its reserve price.

'I find it's quite good but it's rare. If you put it on the market you don't have too many seven-bedroom houses. It's going to be popular,' selling agent Basel Nahas of Laing and Simmons Mount Druitt told Domain.

'You see some now sell under $400,000.

'It's a popular price range and if the market improves you won't see that anymore.'

The buyer bought the sprawling 607 square metre block in Tregear at auction on Saturday

Tregear is among the 50 suburbs in Sydney where house prices are most likely to decline if Labor wins the May 18 federal election and bans negative gearing

Tregear is among the 50 suburbs in Sydney where house prices are most likely to decline if Labor wins the May 18 federal election and bans negative gearing, according to recent research.

Suburbs like Liverpool, Wiley Park, North Parramatta, and Fairfield are considered the most vulnerable to further falls if negative gearing is abolished.

An analysis by the Real Estate Institute of NSW also indicated inner-city areas like Bondi, Glebe, Redfern, Camperdown, and Newtown would be hard hit.

All these suburbs have at least half their homes occupied by renters - many at more than 60 per cent - making their prices vulnerable if investors pull out.

The new owner plans to completely renovate the run-down and boarded-up house

'The data identifies those suburbs that have a high proportion of rental properties and which have already suffered double digit falls in property values,' REINSW chief executive Tim McKibbin said.

'New policies that cause investors to exit will reduce the number of buyers in the market further. This in turn will escalate the losses in value even further.'

Median house prices in Sydney are currently around $780,000, sitting 14.5 per cent lower than in July 2017.

Property prices are expected to reach 18 to 20 per cent lower than their peaks this year, according to experts.
Tara Coleman-Starr, 22, says she may not go to her father Freddie Starr's funeral

Freddie Starr's daughter claims her father punched her pregnant mother and walked out before their wedding.

Tara Coleman-Starr, 22, says she may not go to Freddie Starr's funeral as she is ashamed of having him for a father.

The TV icon's daughter made a series of claims in an interview with the Mirror, alleging that Freddie had punched her pregnant mother in the stomach and demanded she have an abortion before walking out on her when she was just six months old.

Ms Coleman-Starr also claimed her father later returned, only to call her a spiteful girl who deserved 'the world's biggest slap'.

She also alleges that Freddie Starr left her so traumatised she needed therapy from the age of 14, and on one occasion frightened her so much she had lock herself in a bathroom - as he said: 'You can run but you can't hide'.

Ms Coleman-Starr, a dog groomer who lives with her mother in Solihul, West Midlands, told the Sunday Mirror: 'No one wants to believe their dad is an evil, manipulative man. He never gave me a birthday present or Christmas card. He never tried to be a father.

'I don't think he's capable of love. I'm embarrassed to be his daughter.'

It comes after the last known footage of Freddie Starr, looking tired and fragile outside his Spanish apartment before his death, was unveiled by MailOnline.

Taken seven months ago, the 76-year-old is seen speaking slowly, his speech almost slurred because of serious asthma problems.

But despite his obvious ill health, Starr manages to crack a joke about his neighbours Steve and Sue Taylor being cup thieves.

She claims that after playfully telling him to shut up in a phone call, her father slammed the phone down before calling her back, shouting that had he been with her he would have given her 'the world's biggest slap'

The Liverpool-born comic was found dead at his Costa Del Sol apartment on Thursday by his live-in carer and close friend Nelly Georgieva.

He had a heart attack as he sat watching the news.

Freddie Starr had suffered with coronary artery disease and had a quadruple bypass following a heart attack in 2010. He also suffered from asthma.

He was also said to be in thousands of pounds of debt and had received threats from lawyers over unpaid water bills at his Spanish bolthole.

Ms Coleman-Starr admitted her father was an excellent performer, and said she understood why people loved him, but said that was just a 'persona' - claiming that away from the stage he had been 'selfish and violent'.

Freddie Starr had met Tara's mother Trudy Coleman in 1994 and proposed to her while in the process of divorcing his second wife Sandy - who was mother to three of his children.

Ms Coleman became pregnant in 1998, but Tara says he punched her in the stomach and threatened to leave if she did not have an abortion - claiming Freddie did not 'want competition' for her mother's affection.

December 1993: Trudy Coleman and Freddie Starr at his house in Marbella, Spain

Freddie Starr filmed outside his Costa Del Sol apartment in Spain before his death

Pictured: Freddie Starr's house in Mijas, near Fuengirola, southern Spain

Freddie Starr would later cheat with shop assistant Donna Smith - who was 27 years younger than him - and quickly became 'bored' with Tara, she claims.

Ms Coleman-Starr says her mother and father then separated after Freddie said he wanted nothing to do with her - something she says she blamed herself for, never understanding why he rejected her.

But eight years later, having married and divorced Donna, Freddie reappeared, apologising and saying how much he had missed his daughter, but Ms Coleman-Starr says he was just 'using' her to reunite with her mother.

When her mother made it apparent that would not be happening, Ms Coleman-Starr says he became nasty and said her mother had been a bad parent and that if he had been around she would have turned out better - before driving off.

Ms Coleman-Starr says she did not see her father for another six years until, aged 13, she was taken to a Burger King by the comedy icon, who then stayed in the picture for six weeks.

Starrs failing health since Christmas when he was hospitalised meant that he would usually stay in his apartment and not venture out (pictured: Freddie Starr)

She claims that after playfully telling him to shut up in a phone call, her father slammed the phone down before calling her back, shouting that had he been with her he would have given her 'the world's biggest slap'.

Ms Coleman-Starr also recalls having to lock herself in the bathroom when it was just the two of them in the house.

She claimed her father was mad about something, and she was scared because she knew what he was 'capable' of - so she hid away before he told her 'you can run but you can't hide' and drove away.

The last time she saw her father was when she was 15, while Freddie was married to Sophie Lea.

Ms Coleman-Starr says she visited Freddie at Sophie Lea's house and her father was watching the Jeremy Kyle show and would not look at her.

The teenager then got a text message, looked at her phone, and Freddie started berating her for looking at her phone and told her to leave, she says.

Ms Coleman-Starr says she still suffers from the alleged abuse, saying that she felt numb when finding out about her father's death through a text from a friend.

She still feels pity for her father, but says she now wishes his death will help bring her and her half-siblings together.
Dr Barry Hounsome, 54, was violently killed in his own home on October 29 last year

Dont the authorities want to prevent crime? See what you think about this case. Once, the terrible, lonely death of college lecturer Barry Hounsome, like something out of an obscene horror film, would have been so shocking and unusual that it would have occupied national newspaper front pages for days.

But you probably have not heard of it, since such things are far too common in civilised modern Britain.

Dr Hounsome, then 54, was at his modest home in the Hampshire town of Gosport (where I once lived, in another, gentler age) on October 29 last year. He had worked for Southampton and Bangor universities and carried out research into dementia and Parkinsons disease. He was the sort of person who might have expected to be safe, in the sort of place where he might have expected to be secure.

As far as can be told from the published evidence, he was disturbed by an intruder breaking in through his patio door. But this was no ordinary burglar. The 16-year-old who entered his home was wearing a stab vest and goggles.

His assailant had also equipped himself with electric drills, hammers and knives. An account of the trial describes what happened:

The teenager, who was 16 at the time, told police he first hit his victim on the side of the head with a hammer before trying to stab him and spraying him with ammonia.

Dr Hounsome tried to fight off his assailant on the stairs and continued to do so down the stairs and in the hallway, where he collapsed as he tried to reach the front door.

In stark words, which do not bear much thinking about, the account goes on: The defendant told police he then went on to use the drills. Dr Hounsome died from multiple injuries to his head and torso after a prolonged struggle.

The killer, who has not been named, messaged a friend that day saying he had done something terrible after being pressured by a voice which adopted the accent of an Eastern European man.

By all accounts he was filled with remorse for the ghastly thing he had done. He turned himself in to the police, saying voices had made him kill the lecturer. He pleaded guilty to manslaughter and was sent to a secure hospital without limitation of time.

Police at the scene of Dr Hounsome's death in Gosport, Hampshire. Dr Hounsome died from multiple injuries to his head and torso after a prolonged struggle

A psychiatrist, using the cloudy jargon of his profession, concluded that the killer suffered from psychosis and/or schizophrenia and had been suffering from command auditory hallucinations, a grandiose way of saying he heard voices in his head.

Did anyone ask why? I can find no record of it. Yet in an extraordinary number of cases reported in the courts, crazy violence such as this is associated with mind-altering drugs, above all the supposedly soft marijuana that so many irresponsible, deluded or greedy morons want to legalise. This may not be the case in this crime. But if it is, we surely need to know.

A website compiled and updated by Ross Grainger, Attacker Smoked Cannabis, catalogues the astonishing number of violent crimes, over many years, mostly reported only locally, in which the drug is mentioned.

In an extraordinary number of cases reported in the courts, crazy violence such as this is associated with mind-altering drugs

So when I heard of the Hounsome case, I contacted Hampshire Police. First I asked if there was any evidence that the killer had used any drugs. My question was initially treated with chilly scorn, as if I were a nuisance for asking it. Eventually, after a bit of argy-bargy, they disgorged the fact that there had been no such evidence.

Was this because they had not looked for it? Our police forces long ago quietly decided, without asking Parliament, to stop bothering to enforce the drug possession laws. They naturally do not welcome any implied suggestion that this decision might be having evil results.

But when I asked if they had investigated his drug use at all, the shutters slammed down, as they have slammed down with other police forces when I have asked the same question about similar cases.

So I submitted a Freedom of Information inquiry. I stressed that I had absolutely no wish to discover the identity of the killer, which I do not. I asked very specifically two things: Had the police investigated the killers use of legal or illegal mind-altering drugs? If so, what had they established?

A Freedom of Information inquiry asking if police had investigated potential drug use by the 16-year-old was denied

With amazing speed, the fastest I have ever seen, my request was rejected on the grounds that it would breach the right to privacy afforded to persons under the Data Protection Act 2018.

So here we are. What may well be an important piece of information about a major, appalling case of homicide cannot even be discussed, must be treated as if it were a nuclear missile secret, in case it breaches the privacy of a person who drilled holes in the head of a dying man.

And this was even though that person would not be named.

Well, does anyone else know the answer to this question? I absolutely dont want to know the killers name. But someone out there must know if he took drugs. This country is slowly being choked to death by the rights of wrongdoers and the arrogant refusal of authority to protect the innocent. For the sake of self-respect, we might at least struggle a bit before we die.

Putting a pretty face on betrayal

Sophie Cookson (pictured) stars as Soviet spy Melita Norwood in the new film Red Joan

The inability of our cultural classes to recognise the evil of Stalins communist state is still astonishing after all these years.

Two years ago they treated this blood-soaked monster as a tittering joke in the terrible movie The Death Of Stalin.

Now they have made a sympathetic film about Melita Norwood, a steel-hard communist fanatic who for many years fed the most vital nuclear secrets of this country to the Kremlin. The movie, Red Joan, is a pack of lies. The horrible, deluded fanatic and traitor is played in her supposedly glamorous youth by the beautiful Sophie Cookson, and in her old age by the grande dame of the stage, Judi Dench.

The real Norwood was let off her crimes because she was so old that it would have been barbaric to send her to prison for as long as she deserved. She was not, in reality, the vague, good-hearted peacenik idealist of the film.

Mrs Norwood (pictured) was a British civil servant and KGB spy. She supplied state secrets to the Soviet Union for 40 years

She joined the Communist Party in 1936, more than ten years after reliable, first-hand accounts of Bolshevik savagery had reached the West. She stayed in it during Stalins mass-murdering purges of 1937 and later, and when he joined together with Hitler to invade and destroy Poland in 1939, celebrating the triumph with a joint Nazi-Soviet victory parade.

Nobody would ever make such a film about a Nazi spy, however pretty she was. Why, then, does the other devilish movement of the 20th Century get such kind treatment?

A scene from a wiser world

When the Household Cavalry ride through London these days, they have to have a police escort, with flashing blue lights and high-vis vests  an absurdity when you think about it.

It makes me cross every time I see it. So my heart leaped last Thursday when I saw a lone trooper riding a great drum horse, a giant among horses, through the capitals murderous traffic. Soldier and horse remained utterly calm as they made their stately way, as if they were in another world, slower and wiser than ours.

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A quick-thinking child who saved a woman's life after she suffered an asthma attack while her dog was mauled admitted she was also scared of the off-leash bull terrier.

Dianne Isgar was walking her two dogs, a silky terrier cross named Bonny and chihuahua named Lilly at Coodanup park in Mandurah, Perth, on April 30 when a bull terrier approached and attacked Bonny.

'It was a killer dog. I just started screaming for help,' the 75-year-old told Mandurah Mail.

She said the incident caused a severe asthma attack, and without her puffer she was unable to breathe or move.

Dianne Isgar (pictured) suffered an asthma attack after her dog was mauled by a bull terrier at a local park

But a group of four girls who were playing in the park at the time noticed her distress and came to help.

The eldest of the group, later identified as nine-year-old Shalia, managed to get Ms Isgar's keys and found her asthma puffer in the car.

While Shalia told Yahoo News she was 'scared of the big dog', Ms Isgar said 'she was so clever and calm, she even locked the door and offered to organise a lift.'

Her three younger friends stayed behind to help Ms Isgar and Bonny while Shalia searched for the life-saving medication.

Ms Isgar's silky terrier cross named Bonny (pictured) was attacked by a bull terrier and required a $660 surgery after

'I think I would have died without them, I wouldn't have got back to the car,' Ms Isgar said at the time.

The owner of the bull terrier, who was off-leash at the time and was not wearing a collar, approached during the attack on Bonny and ripped his dog off her.

Ms Isgar said he started beating his dog as punishment right in front of her.

'He threw the dog to the ground and started kicking and punching it,' she said.

'I know what the dog did was wrong, but you can't do that.'

The man, who appeared to be in his 20s, then fled the park with his dog when Ms Isgar was distracted.

Bonny required a $660 surgery for her injuries after the attack, and is struggling to eat, Ms Isgar said.
Bill Shorten has revealed that he would like his blended family to live at The Lodge.

The Opposition Leader would be the first Prime Minister to move his family to the Canberra mansion in over a decade, and the first step-family in history.

Mr Shorten married second wife Chloe Bryce, the daughter of then Governor-General Quentin Bryce, back in 2009.

The pair live with their nine-year-old daughter Clementine, as well as teenagers Georgette (Gigi), 16, and Rupert, 17, from Chloe's first marriage.

The Opposition Leader married Chloe Bryce, the daughter of then Governor-General Quentin Bryce, back in 2009

The pair have three kids Georgette and Rupert, from her first marriage, and Clementine

The Lodge is the primary official residence of the Prime Minister of Australia, in Canberra

The Lodge is the primary official residence of the Prime Minister of Australia, in Canberra.

With the Federal Election less than a week away on May 18, Mr Shorten told The Sunday Telegraph that he would like The Lodge to be his family's new home.

'The Libs are always out there saying I'm measuring up the curtains. I'm not, I'm thinking about May 18,' the 52-year-old said.

'But I do think the Prime Minister should live in The Lodge or Kirribilli.

'We are a partnership so I will have to speak with Chloe. The transition is not automatic or easy.'

'We are a partnership so I will have to speak with Chloe. The transition is not automatic or easy'

The Opposition Leader poses for a photo with his wife and kids and his in-laws

Prime Minister Scott Morrison is currently living in Sydney's Kirribilli House with his family, and only stays at The Lodge during sitting weeks.

Kirribilli House is the secondary official residence of the Prime Minister of Australia.

John Howard had the same arrangement when he was Prime Minister.

Kevin Rudd lived in The Lodge with his wife and kids only during his first stint as Prime Minister.

Julia Gillard lived there with her partner Tim Mathieson during her time as Prime Minister but the pair never had children.

Tony Abbott never lived in the house due to ongoing renovations.
President Trump on Saturday denied asking former White House Counsel Don McGahn to begin the process of firing Robert Mueller, contradicting the lawyers testimony to the special counsel.

I was NOT going to fire Bob Mueller, and did not fire Bob Mueller, the president tweeted.

In fact, he was allowed to finish his Report with unprecedented help from the Trump Administration.

Actually, lawyer Don McGahn had a much better chance of being fired than Mueller. Never a big fan!

President Trump (left) on Saturday hit out at former White House Counsel Don McGahn (right) while denying that he ordered McGahn to fire Special Counsel Robert Mueller

I was NOT going to fire Bob Mueller, and did not fire Bob Mueller, the president tweeted on Saturday. In fact, he was allowed to finish his Report with unprecedented help from the Trump Administration'

Mueller concluded a two-year investigation into alleged Russian meddling in the 2016 elections. The report did not recommend criminal charges against Trump for conspiring with Russia.

This is the second time in recent weeks that Trump tweeted a denial that he instructed McGahn to fire Mueller.

On April 25, the president tweeted: 'As has been incorrectly reported by the Fake News Media, I never told then White House Counsel Don McGahn to fire Robert Mueller, even though I had the legal right to do so. If I wanted to fire Mueller, I didnt need McGahn to do it, I could have done it myself.'

According to the Mueller report, McGahn says Trump told him 'Mueller has to go' and dispatched him to deliver the message to the deputy attorney general, Rod Rosenstein.

McGahn told Mueller's investigators that he believed that Trump was ordering him to fire the special counsel and disobeyed his orders.

'McGahn recalled that the President was more direct, saying something like, ' "Call Rod, tell Rod that Mueller has conflicts and can't be the Special Counsel."

'McGahn recalled the President telling him "Mueller has to go" and "Call me back when you do it."'

Mueller writes that 'McGahn understood the President to be saying that the Special Counsel had to be removed by Rosenstein. To end the conversation with the President, McGahn left the President with the impression that McGahn would call Rosenstein. McGahn recalled that he had already said no to the President's request and he was worn down, so he just wanted to get off the phone.'

The special counsel said that 'McGahn recalled feeling trapped because he did not plan to follow the President's directive but did not know what he would say the next time the President called.'

This is the second time in recent weeks that Trump tweeted a denial that he instructed McGahn to fire Mueller

Trump was suddenly anxious to get his side of the story out, after refusing to respond to the special counsel's questions about the matter, now that Democrats have subpoenaed McGahn

McGahn contemplated resigning as a result, the report states. That he did not is a point of fact that has been used by Trump's personal attorney to undermine the testimony.

Trump on Saturday was likely reacting to news reports from Friday night which indicated that the White House asked McGahn to publicly declare that the president never obstructed justice.

McGahn refused to do so.

After the release of the Mueller report last month, Attorney General William Barr said he and Rosenstein came to the conclusion that there was not enough evidence to charge the president with obstruction of justice.

In his report, Mueller declined to reach a conclusion as to whether Trump's alleged attempts to impede his investigation constituted obstruction of justice.

Barr told Congress that 'the evidence developed during the special counsel's investigation is not sufficient to establish that the President committed an obstruction-of-justice offense.'

Mueller's report found there was not enough evidence to charge the president with conspiring with Russia. The special counsel (seen right last Monday in Washington, DC) declined to reach a conclusion as to whether Trump obstructed justice

Attorney General William Barr (left) and Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein (right) concluded there was not enough evidence to charge Trump with obstruction of justice

But Democrats believe Barr and the Justice Department are politicizing Mueller's findings, which is why they want the special counsel and McGahn to testify before Congress.

McGahn twice declined to publicly state that he believed President Trump did not obstruct justice, according to The New York Times.

McGahns refusal to publicly back Trump reportedly angered the president, who has long considered the former White House counsels cooperation with Mueller as an act of disloyalty, according to the Times.

Trump reportedly asked his aides to reach out to McGahns lawyer, William Burck, before the Mueller report was released publicly on April 18.

The White House obtained a copy before the Justice Department released it to the public.

White House lawyers noticed that the report did not mention the fact that McGahn told investigators that he did not believe the president obstructed justice.

McGahns lawyer, Burck, told White House lawyers earlier this year that his client told Muellers investigators that he didnt think Trump ever obstructed justice.

We did not perceive it as any kind of threat or something sinister, Burck told the Times.

McGahn (above) declined to publicly issue a statement supporting Trump's assertion that he did not obstruct justice

It was a request, professionally and cordially made.

But after the report was released, the public learned of steps that Trump took to impede the Mueller investigation.

That was when McGahn decided not to release a statement backing the president.

After the Times reported on Trumps attempts to fire Mueller in January 2018, the president asked McGahn to release a statement denying the story, but he refused.

Trump also pressured McGahn to talk to then-Attorney General Jeff Sessions in the hope he would un-recuse himself from overseeing the Mueller probe.

The president has long been angered by McGahn's extensive cooperation with Mueller and his investigators looking into alleged collusion between the Trump campaign and Russia

But McGahn refused.

McGahns actions in standing up to the president led Trump to believe that the then-White House counsel was leaking to the press in order to make himself look good.

The White House believes that a statement from McGahn in support of the presidents contention that he did not obstruct justice would help Trump politically as he is coming under increasing pressure from Democrats on the Hill.

Congressional Democrats, faced with blanket opposition to their oversight probes by Trump, are considering more contempt citations against administration officials who defy their subpoenas, a leading Democrat said on Friday.

U.S. House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerrold Nadler said lawmakers may bundle numerous contempt citations from different committees into a single resolution that the full House of Representatives could then vote on.

There obviously are going to have to be, perhaps from our committee and certainly from other committees, other contempt citations to enforce subpoenas, Nadler told reporters.

Asked about bundling citations together, the New York Democrat replied: Its a great idea. In fact, I suggested it ... It just makes sense, to spend as little floor time as possible, to group them together.

McGahn testified before Mueller's (above) investigators for some 30 hours and provided key bits of information about Trump's alleged attempts to impede the investigation

A consolidated contempt vote is among options Democrats are considering in response to Trumps stonewalling of congressional investigations into his presidency and business investments.

Another option is reviving Congresss inherent contempt authority.

Some Democrats say that would allow lawmakers to fine uncooperative officials up to $25,000 per day.

Some Democrats are also calling for impeachment proceedings against recalcitrant Trump Cabinet members.

Nadler said Congress faces the unprecedented situation in which the administration is essentially stonewalling all subpoenas  weve never had this before in American history, so far as I know.

His committee on Wednesday voted to recommend that the full House bring a contempt of Congress citation against Barr for defying a committee subpoena that seeks the unredacted Mueller report and underlying material.

The vote came just hours after the White House blocked the reports disclosure by invoking the legal principle of executive privilege.

But the judiciary committee chairman also sent a letter to Barr on Friday, offering to resume negotiations for the Mueller material while the contempt citation awaits a vote by the full House.

My staff is ready, willing and able to meet with your staff in an effort to achieve a suitable compromise, the letter said.

Nadler told reporters that the House Intelligence Committee would soon hold a contempt vote.

Other Democratic lawmakers have suggested action against Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin for refusing to turn over Trumps tax returns.

House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerrold Nadler, the New York Democrat, plans to hold McGahn in contempt if he does not appear before the panel under subpoena on May 21

He also reiterated plans to hold McGahn in contempt if he does not show up to testify before the panel under subpoena on May 21.

He knows that if he doesnt testify on the 21st without a court order, which he wont get, hell be subject to a contempt citation, the chairman said.

Nadlers committee is continuing to negotiate for Mueller, author of the report on Trump and Russian meddling in the 2016 U.S. election, to testify before he leaves the Justice Department in coming weeks.

Hopefully he will come in. It wont be next week, Nadler said.

If necessary, we will subpoena him and he will come.

The House Judiciary panel has not set a date for Mueller to testify, but lawmakers had spoken tentatively about May 15.

The panel is still negotiating with Mueller and the Justice Department. It was unclear where negotiations stood on Friday.

Barr has said he has no objection to Mueller testifying. But Trump has tweeted that Mueller should not testify.

The Justice Department told the House committee that Mueller is expected to leave his post in a matter of weeks, according to Nadler, who rejected the idea that there might a benefit to the special counsel testifying as a private citizen.

Is there a benefit? No! He may prefer to do that because hes then more free from the instructions of the Department of Justice, the chairman said.
Britain's worst woman paedophile Vanessa George, from Plymouth, Devon, could be freed at a parole hearing 'within days'

Britain's worst woman paedophile Vanessa George could be freed at a parole hearing 'within days'.

The child abuser, from Plymouth, Devon, was jailed for a minimum of seven years in 2009 after taking 64 pictures of herself harming babies and toddlers at the Little Teds nursery.

George, a qualified special needs coordinator, only ever gave scant details about her crimes to police, meaning her victims may never be identified.

The 49 year old is currently housed at HMP Send near Guildford, Surrey, where she will make a bid for release at an oral hearing before a parole panel this month.

In 2009, Mr Justice Royce handed George an indeterminate sentence with a minimum term of seven years - something parents branded a 'joke'.

Although he argued he was handing her 'in effect a life sentence', several disgusted parents stormed out of court and one even lunged towards the dock and threatened to kill her.

Mr Justice Royce said at the time: 'You gave parents who entrusted their children to your care everyreason to believe they would be safe.

'How grossly did you abuse theirtrust. What you did plumbed new depths of depravity.'

He added that the trading in abuse images was 'wicked, cold,calculated, repeated offending which for any decent person defiesbelief'.

Mr Justice Royce ruled that she would be released only if she no longer posed a threat.

George, Colin Blanchard (right), and Angela Allen (left), who were all members of a paedophile ring, have received 133,990 in legal aid so far

George, Blanchard, and Angela Allen, another member of the paedophile ring, have received 133,990 in legal aid so far, reports the Sun on Sunday.

Earlier this year, her ex-husband Andrew told friends he fears that the mother-of-two will 'manipulate' the panel which decides her fate.

Her two daughters have publicly disowned her.

A spokeswoman for the Parole Board told the Sun: 'An oral hearing has been listed for the parole review of Vanessa George and is scheduled to take place in May 2019.

'A panel of the Parole Board will consider a range of evidence before making its decision. This will be done with great care and with public safety the number one priority.'
Sir Philip Green has lost his billionaire status after his fortune is believed to have halved in a year because of a pension black hole in his empire.

The Sunday Times Rich List has his fortune free-falling 1.05 billion in a year to 950 million.

But the plummet still places Sir Philip and wife Tina at 156th on the list, down from joint 66th some 12 months earlier.

Sir Philip Green's fortune has plummeted after a torrid year of pension black holes and sexual harassment allegations

Sir Philip and his wife Tina (pictured) have fallen to 156th on The Sunday Times Rich List, the first time in 17 years the retail mogul has not been listed as a billionaire

The Arcadia Group - which includes Topshop, Burton and Dorothy Perkins - was valued as worthless in this year's list, as the company copes with a pension debt which hit 565 million.

The couple's stake in the company was last year valued at 750 million, while the compilers also removed 300 million from their worth to allow the shoring up of the deficit.

With his wealth peaking at almost 5 billion in 2007, it is the first time in 17 years that Sir Philip has not been listed as a billionaire.

Robert Watts, who compiled the list, said he struggles to envisage the tycoon returning to the 'upper echelons'.

'Sir Philip Green may have clung on to his knighthood, but we can no longer justify his status as one of the UK's billionaires,' Mr Watts said.

'This is the first time since 2002 he has not been in that top tier of the UK's super rich individuals.'

The devaluation comes after sustained criticism against Sir Philip and calls for him to lose his knighthood.

Sir Philip has faced a slew of allegations in the past year, including of groping a female executive and making a racial slur at an employee

He was lambasted over the collapse of BHS, affecting 11,000 jobs, 19,000 pension holders and leaving a 571 million in the pension scheme.

The businessman, who sold the department store chain to Dominic Chappell for 1 before it plunged into administration, agreed to pay 363 million towards the deficit.

Sir Philip has also faced a slew of allegations, including of groping a female executive and making a racial slur at an employee.

The Croydon-born entrepreneur denied his behaviour was criminal or amounted to gross misconduct.

Elsewhere in the rich list compiled by The Sunday Times, Sir James Dyson reached his highest ever position as he prepares to move Dyson's head office from Wiltshire to Singapore.

Hoovering up the billions: Sir James Dyson has moved up to fifth, his highest ever position on the Rich List as he prepares to move his headquarters to Singapore

Sir Jim Ratcliffe, the boss of petrochemicals firm Ineos, has fallen from first place to third after a reported 2.9 billion drop to 18.15 billion

The Brexit-backing businessman climbed seven places to become the fifth richest person in the UK, with his wealth estimated at 12.6 billion.

Leading the way are the Hinduja brothers Sri and Gopi, the magnates who were said to have amassed a 22 billion fortune, more than 3 billion ahead of David and Simon Reuben.

In third is Sir Jim Ratcliffe, the boss of petrochemicals firm Ineos who fell from first place after a reported 2.9 billion drop to 18.15 billion.

The Equality Trust pledged to write to the 1,000 individuals and families included in the list calling for them to support higher taxes in 'a nation of Ferraris and food banks'.

Executive director Dr Wanda Wyporska said: 'In our grossly unequal UK, we are seeing the fabric of society ripped to shreds as the gap between us grows ever wider.'

The newspaper's list features a record 151 billionaires with a combined wealth of nearly 525 billion, a 9.2% rise on last year.
Meghan Markle's estranged half-sister says that their father was left saddened when he saw the first photographs of his new grandson, Archie Harrison Windsor-Mountbatten.

In an interview with The Mirror, published on Saturday, Samantha Markle, 54, claims she called her dad Thomas, 74, in Mexico on Wednesday to discuss the iconic images, which were being beamed around the world.

'He was sat in traffic. It was a sad moment for him,' she revealed, adding that: 'Being excluded is like a dagger through his heart.'

One of the pictures showed Meghan and her husband Prince Harry introducing baby Archie to Queen Elizabeth and Prince Phillip, while Meghan's mom Doria Ragland proudly looked on.

Samantha Markle (left) has spoken with The Mirror about the 'sad moment' her father Thomas (right) saw the first photos of his royal grandson Archie Harrison Windsor-Mountbatten

One of the pictures showed Meghan and her husband Prince Harry introducing baby Archie to the Queen and Prince Phillip, while Meghan's mom Doria Ragland proudly looks on

Samantha told The Mirror that she believes Doria - who was married to Thomas from 1979 until 1987 - could have made more effort in helping to include the Markle family in the special occasion.

'Doria could have said [to Meghan] 'Get your dad out here'. But sadly there seemed to be a lack of effort,' she declared.

Samantha also stated that she hopes motherhood helps 'soften Meghan's feelings', so that Archie can get to know his grandfather.

'He [Thomas] is a doting granddad ... He buys toys, plays creative games, he's funny and nurturing and communicative,' she proclaimed.

Samantha's interview with The Mirror comes after she spoke about Archie's birth with DailyMailTV (pictured) earlier in the week

Meanwhile, Samantha says she's still planning on sending a Christening present to Archie, despite a long estrangement from her half-sister.

She revealed she'll be compiling a photo album full of images of the Markle family.

'He needs to get a wider sense of family  because he isn't just a Mountbatten-Windsor child, he's a Markle too,' she asserted, adding that she believes Archie has inherited 'the Markle nose'.

Samantha's interview with The Mirror comes after she spoke about her new nephew's birth with DailyMailTV earlier in the week.

Despite having not spoken to Meghan since 2008, she told DailyMailTV she hopes to be a part of Archie's life and pointed out that the little boy is as much a Markle as he is a Windsor.

Despite having not spoken to Meghan since 2008, Samntha told DailyMailTV she hopes to be a part of her new nephew's life and pointed out that the little boy is as much a Markle as he is a Windsor. She is pictured with Meghan in 2008

'We're all welcoming the baby  Markles, Raglands, Sussexes, Windsors. In terms of the gene pool, we've all made a contribution to this wonderful little boy who will probably grow up to be an exceptional man and we'd like to treat this as if we're all a big family.

'It would be nice not to react to what we've heard in the news but to personally meet him and let him judge us for himself.

'We're excited for Meg and Harry - I am really excited for her. I love her, she's my baby sister and it doesn't matter what we've all said back and forth but she's got to do the right thing.

'I just want to say Meg, you've got a world here and a family here [in the US] that's excited for you.'
You might have thought that the emojis phone users send to say how they feel were a bit of fun and not the least controversial.

But even these plain little round faces have caught the attention of the politically correct brigade, and internet giant Google has responded by launching a small army of gender-neutral emojis.

Their features and particularly haircuts have been carefully designed to ensure they are seen as neither male nor female.

The gender-neutral faces have been created after accusations of sexism because emojis have usually appeared to be male since they were invented in Japan in 1997.

Among the 53 new icons are several in occupations or situations that are traditionally the reserve of men, such as construction workers and wrestlers

Among the 53 new icons are several in occupations or situations that are traditionally the reserve of men, such as construction workers and wrestlers.

Others would ordinarily be expected to be female, but instead of a mermaid, for example, the emoji is of a merperson.

Most of the new emojis have mid-length hair that could conventionally be sported by people of either sex.

The new range goes far beyond the original smiley face, and now includes genie, zombie, person in steamy room and people with bunny ears.

Google designer Jennifer Daniel told US business magazine Fast Company: Gender is complicated. It is an impossible task to communicate gender in a single image. Its a construct.

Google designer Jennifer Daniel told US business magazine Fast Company: Gender is complicated. It is an impossible task to communicate gender in a single image. Its a construct

Criticising previous gendered icons such as the age-old symbol for a mens toilet, Miss Daniel added: That person could be a man, woman, anyone.

But they had to add a little detail, that dress, and suddenly that person symbol doesnt mean person any more; it means man. And that culture means a man- centred culture.

But Frank Furedi, emeritus professor of sociology at the University of Kent, said Googles launch was just the latest example of the politically correct campaign against men. He added: Delegitimating maleness is now a central feature of woke corporate culture. According to this ethos you can never be too gender-neutral.

Social media users also criticised the gender-neutral icons, with one tweeting: Unbelievable. Googles lost their mind.

The new emojis will be available on all Android Q mobile phones later this year.

Building 44, which houses employees working on the Android mobile phone operating system, at the Googleplex, headquarters of Google Inc in the Silicon Valley town of Mountain View, California

It comes after Microsoft announced last week that it will launch new software which will change words to be gender-inclusive in its latest version of Microsoft Word. The programme will encourage users to avoid sexism, for example by offering to change policeman to police officer.

Miss Daniel sparked controversy last year after announcing the company had removed the egg from its salad symbol emoji in a bid to be more inclusive towards vegans.

She wrote on Twitter: Theres big talk about inclusion and diversity at Google so if you need any evidence of Google making this a priority, may I direct your attention to the salad emoji  weve removed the egg making this a more inclusive vegan salad.

Google was also embroiled in controversy in 2017 after it fired a software engineer who wrote a memo accusing the internet giant of Left-wing bias.

Harvard graduate James Damore also blamed biological causes for the shortage of women in senior technology jobs and leadership positions.

In a ten-page document, Mr Damore blasted Google for trying to boost race and gender diversity, saying it should place more value on ideological differences.

We always ask why we dont see women in top leadership positions, but we never ask why we see so many men in these jobs, Mr Damore said.
The Sydney Roosters are considering taking legal action against the NRL for its treatment of their star player Mitchell Pearce.

Pearce was suspended for eight weeks, fined $125,000 and sent to rehab in 2016 after footage emerged of him drunkenly simulating sex with a dog on Australia Day.

Now playing for the Newcastle Knights, Pearce was back in the headlines during the week when NRL CEO Todd Greenberg conceded the punishment was 'overcooked'.

The Roosters are now considering seeking compensation from the NRL, claiming Pearce's suspension ruined their 2016 season and cost the club more than $60,000 in legal fees, according to the Daily Telegraph.

'We are looking at all our options. We said at the time it was wrong and now they are saying it was wrong,' said Sydney Roosters chairman Nick Politis.

Pearce (left with girlfriend Zoe Grant) was suspended for eight games after he simulated sex with a pooch named Bella and became a viral sensation in 2016

Confronting mobile footage heard the 30-year-old slur: 'I wanna f*** your dog, I don't even care anymore'

Not in the role at the time, Greenberg is now hopeful of establishing a framework to bring consistency to sanctions for off-field indiscretions.

Pearce was hardly fussed by the admission as he orchestrated a 22-10 defeat of Canterbury that gave the Knights their third-straight win and put them on the path to the top eight.

'I didn't even read it. I'm just looking forward, I don't have any regrets from the past and I've learnt a lot in my life in all different scenarios,' the 30-year-old said.

The penalties were handed down by former ARL Commission chairman John Grant.

NRL chief executive Todd Greenberg admitted Pearce's punishments were 'overcooked' to Rooster officials at a meeting two weeks ago

The NRL integrity unit is now under review after chief operating officer Nick Weeks addressed plans to have fixed penalties for off-field offences.

The scandal began in March 2016 when Pearce was filmed pretending to have sex with the poodle-cross at a female's apartment in Bondi and made international headlines.

The 30-year-old, who played for the Roosters at the time, left the club at the end of the next season and joined the Knights.

The Roosters and Pearce have since been furious about the heavy punishments.

Pearce was never charged by police for his act and fans said other players were punished less for worse behaviour.

Australia captain Greg Inglis was stood down for just two matches after he was caught driving drunk and speeding on October 1.

'Unfortunately, during the off-season we have had a number of players charged with serious offences,' Weeks said.

'In short, the Commission has asked us to consider all options that will assist the League to manage integrity matters and enhance public confidence in the sport.'
Has shaved her head in style of the 1997 Demi Moore film like male officers

Hopes to be on path to Green Beret at the Commando Training Centre, Devon

The first woman to qualify for the Royal Marines training programme in its 350-year history has shaved her head to better blend in with her male comrades, The Mail on Sunday can reveal.

Philippa Birch, a former international rower, has completed the first fortnight of what she hopes will be a 32-week journey to a Green Beret at the Commando Training Centre Royal Marines (CTCRM) at Lympstone, Devon.

The science graduate had the choice of tying back her long hair but, in a move that has impressed instructors and fellow trainees, instead chose to emulate the actress Demi Moore, who shaved her head in the film GI Jane.

Philippa Birch, a former international rower, has completed the first fortnight of what she hopes will be a 32-week journey to a Green Beret at the Commando Training Centre Royal Marines

The 1997 movie tells the story of Jordan ONeil, who defies the odds to complete a tough selection program for entry to the US Navy Special Warfare Group.

Last night a source at the base said: Pippa has impressed everyone so far. She doesnt want any more attention inside the base than any other recruit. She just wants to blend in. After cutting her hair off, you cant tell the difference between her and the blokes unless youre really close up. When theyre marching across camp or doing weapons training she could be any one of them.

She was already called GI Pippa, but now shes got the haircut to match.

Ms Birch was allowed to apply to the Royal Marines as a result of a decision by the former Prime Minister David Cameron in 2016 to lift the ban on women serving in close combat regiments.

Following her historic achievement, The Mail on Sunday can reveal that two more female recruits are scheduled to start training at CTCRM in the coming months after passing an exhausting three-day course for potential trainees.

The science graduate had the choice of tying back her long hair but, in a move that has impressed instructors and fellow trainees, instead chose to emulate the actress Demi Moore (pictured), who shaved her head in the film GI Jane

Ms Birch is currently in the foundation phase of her training and the most physically demanding aspects, including a 30-mile march across Dartmoor that must be completed in less than eight hours and a nine-mile speed march carrying heavy kit, still lie ahead.

But instructors are confident that Ms Birch, who has her own room separate from male recruits, can complete the course given the fitness and motivation she developed rowing for her country.

Before embarking on her training, Ms Birch used social media to highlight the achievements of Hannah Snell, who served in the Royal Marines in the 18th Century by pretending to be a man.

She is earning 18,000 a year as a recruit, which will rise to 22,600 on completion of basic training. According to her profile on the employment website LinkedIn, she passed A-levels in psychology, biology and chemistry at Godalming College, Surrey, and studied mechanical engineering at Oregon State University in the US and then at Loughborough University.

The Royal Marines last night declined to comment.
A karaoke hostess bar in Auckland has come under fire for a sign on its door which states 'No Japanese customers allowed'.

Karaoke Bar Vansan II on Pitt Street found itself in the spotlight after a Japanese tourist spotted the sign and demanded an answer from staff.

The woman, who is in New Zealand on a working holiday visa, was reportedly told by management the sign was a parody to 'no foreigners allowed' signs found in Japan.

A karaoke hostess bar in Auckland has come under fire for having a signboard prohibiting entry of Japanese nationals. Photo: DEAN PURCELL, NEW ZEALAND HERALD

'The staff said it was just a parody and that as a Japanese, I should understand because some places in Japan also didn't allow foreigners,' she told the NZ Herald.

'But I don't understand. Two wrongs don't make a right, and I feel disgusted and offended.'

The light-hearted signboard says the bar is open for 'those who believe in spirits and ghouls, those who still wet their pants, those who believe aliens are real and those who like sparrows more than cats and dogs'.

The final line reads: 'no Japanese customers allowed'.

Some Japanese food outlets and establishments don't allow entry to foreign customers, typically due to language problems.

Karaoke Bar Vansan II on Pitt Street found itself in the spotlight after a Japanese tourist spotted the sign and demanded an answer from staff Photo: DEAN PURCELL, NEW ZEALAND HERALD

Shin Ito, manager of the Vansan II, defended his bar's position saying a previous owner had put up the sign 'for fun'

Shin Ito, manager of the Vansan II, defended his bar's position saying a previous owner had put up the sign 'for fun.'

'The sign means nothing now...and our customers are mostly male Japanese.'

The current owner bought the place in October last year and is currently running it as hostess bar, which are common in a number of Asian countries.

Female staff inside the hostess bars work like restaurant waiters, mixing customers drinks and earning commission from drinks bought by customers.

The New Zealand Human Rights Commission said it is illegal to discriminate on the basis of ethnicity and encouraged the 29-year-old woman to lodge a complaint.
Darion Vence, 26, was taken into custody Saturday under a charge of 'tampering with evidence, namely a corpse'

The stepfather of missing four-year-old Maleah Davis has been arrested and charged with 'tampering with a corpse' in connection with her disappearance, eight days after he told police she was 'abducted by three men'.

Darion Vence, 26, was taken into custody Saturday under a charge of 'tampering with evidence, namely a corpse'.

Police have not confirmed whether the little girl has died but investigators do not think Maleah is still alive, ABC13 reports.

She was last seen on April 30 on security footage in her family's apartment complex, where blood evidence linked to Maleah was reportedly found.

The girl's mother has also accused her ex-fiance Vence, the last person to see the girl, of being abusive and said he was suspiciously cleaning the family's apartment with bleach on the morning of her disappearance.

A surveillance photo shows a man identified as Vence leaving the family's apartment with a laundry basket and black garbage bag inside.

Police now say that laundry basket and a gas can were found in the trunk of a vehicle reported stolen by Vence.

Community activist Quanell X made an 'urgent statement' on behalf of Maleah's mom Brittany Bowens at a press conference on Friday in Houston.

Bowens' former fiance Vence told police the youngster was abducted by three men who attacked him on the side of the highway on May 3.

Quanell revealed that Vence and Bowens had recently gotten into a fight and broken off their engagement.

'On the day that Brittany left to be with her sick father - her dying father - to be with family, there was a huge fight between her and him,' Quanell said, according to ABC7.

'She confronted him about being gay. He was hurt, he was angry, he was upset. She told him she was giving back his ring and that she was not going to marry him.

'I believe that caused him to snap in anger.'

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Maleah has been missing since May 3 when her stepfather, Vence, claimed they were attacked in his car by three men who abducted the four-year-old

Community activist Quanell X made an 'urgent statement' on behalf of Brittany Bowens at a press conference on Friday in Houston as the desperate search for her daughter Maleah Davis continues. He alleged that Bowens' former fiance Darion Vence, the last person to see Maleah alive, may have been abusing her

Quanell added: 'There were times where (Vence) would say (Maleah) was at day care, but he would bring her back, not drop her off at day care, but bring her back home with him. There is reason to believe, based on what I know now, there's issues of him possibly molesting young Maleah.'

He said Bowens had never reported any suspicions about abuse to authorities.

Quanell also mentioned that Vence had told Bowens he was cleaning the apartment on the morning of the alleged kidnapping.

'She didn't understand why he would be cleaning up the apartment,' Quanell said. 'But he went and bought an extra bottle of Clorox and came back.'

Vence is seen leaving the family's apartment with a black trash bag on the day Maleah went missing. He allegedly told Bowens that he was cleaning

Another surveillance photo shows Vence entering the hospital with his one-year-old son the day after the alleged kidnapping

Both Bowens and Vence were banned from having contact with their children under a court order issued Thursday, just as the car used in the alleged abduction was recovered from a shopping center in Missouri City.

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 allegedly told investigators that he pulled over to check if the car had a flat tire when three men in a pickup truck pulled up, knocked him out and took the girl.

Vence is seen above with a head wound he claimed to have suffered at the hand's of Maleah's kidnappers

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 he reported stolen during the alleged attack on May 3 was seen in that same hospital parking lot on May 5, police say.

Investigators said a woman then spotted the gray Nissan Altima in the parking lot of a a shopping center 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'.

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.

Surveillance video showed Vence arriving at Sugar Land Methodist Hospital with his son in his arms.

Doug Adolph, a spokesman for the Sugar Land Police Department, told DailyMail.com on Wednesday: 'During our initial interview that he provided, his story changed several times, some of what he described didn't add up.'

He had visible injuries and officers say 'something clearly happened to him'.

The silver Nissan Vence was driving when the alleged attack took place was found on Thursday at a shopping center in Missouri City, Texas, off Highway 6

Vence is pictured with Maleah (left) and two of his other children

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

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.

On Thursday, Vences silver Nissan Altima was recovered in Missouri City, Texas. The laundry basket was found in the trunk of the Nissan along with this gas can

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.

Anyone with information on Maleah's whereabouts is urged to contact HPD at 713-308-3600 or Crime Stoppers at 713-222-TIPS.
The Court of Appeal is to hear new evidence that five men jailed over a 54 million cocaine smuggling plot believe will finally prove their innocence.

Lawyers for Jonathan Beere and Dan Payne have unearthed surveillance records from the UK Border Agency patrol boat Vigilant, which uses radar, satellite and sonar data to plot the position of other vessels.

Prosecutors told jurors in 2011 that Beere, Payne and their co-defendants  Jamie Green, Scott Birtwistle and Zoran Dresic  took the Galwad-y-Mor fishing boat out from the Isle of Wight in a Force Eight gale in May 2010 and retrieved 12 rucksacks containing 560 lb of cocaine that had been hurled into the sea from the Oriane, a container ship coming from Brazil.

The crew on the Galwad were found guilty of picking up the bags of cocaine that were supposedly dropped from Oriane before tying them together to a buoy and dropping them back into the ocean

Behind bars: Crewmen Daniel Payne and Zoran Dresic, pictured with wife Marina and one of their two children, were sentenced to 16 and 24 years each

They said the five, who were jailed for a total of 104 years, anchored the bags in shallow water which were found the next day by the authorities.

Now a file submitted to the Appeal Court says data from the Vigilant shows the closest the Galwad-y-Mor came to the Oriane was 486 yards and that currents would have taken any bags well away from it. The data also reveals the presence of an unidentified vessel.

Lawyers are confident the convictions will be quashed. Beeres wife Susan said: At last for once, we have hope.
President Donald Trump warned China on Saturday that it should strike a trade deal with the United States now, otherwise an agreement would be 'far worse for them if it has to be negotiated in my second term.'

Washington and Beijing are locked in a trade battle that has seen mounting tariffs, sparking fears the dispute will damage the global economy.

Two days of talks ended on Friday with no deal.

China's top negotiator said the two sides would meet again in Beijing at an unspecified date, but warned that China would make no concessions on 'important principles.'

President Trump escalated his rhetoric on the trade war with China a day after talks between administration officials and Vice Premier Liu He (right) ended with no agreement

Trump warned China on Saturday that it should strike a trade deal with the United States now, otherwise an agreement would be 'far worse for them if it has to be negotiated in my second term'

'I think that China felt they were being beaten so badly in the recent negotiation that they may as well wait around for the next election, 2020, to see if they could get lucky & have a Democrat win - in which case they would continue to rip-off the USA for $500 Billion a year,' Trump said in a tweet on Saturday

'Such an easy way to avoid Tariffs? Make or produce your goods and products in the good old USA. It's very simple!' he tweeted, echoing a similar message he sent Friday - and even retweeted

'I think that China felt they were being beaten so badly in the recent negotiation that they may as well wait around for the next election, 2020, to see if they could get lucky & have a Democrat win - in which case they would continue to rip-off the USA for $500 Billion a year,' Trump said in a tweet Saturday.

'The only problem is that they know I am going to win (best economy & employment numbers in U.S. history, & much more), and the deal will become far worse for them if it has to be negotiated in my second term. Would be wise for them to act now, but love collecting BIG TARIFFS!'

Trump had accused Beijing of reneging on its commitments in trade talks and ordered new punitive duties, which took effect Friday, on $200billion worth of Chinese imports, raising them to 25 percent from 10 percent.

He then increased the heat by ordering a tariff hike on almost all remaining imports - $300billion worth, according to U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer - from the world's second-biggest economy.

Those tariffs would not take effect for months, after a period of public comment.

Trump also said on Saturday that firms could easily avoid additional costs by producing goods in the United States.

'Such an easy way to avoid Tariffs? Make or produce your goods and products in the good old USA. It's very simple!' he tweeted, echoing a similar message he sent Friday - and even retweeted.

Trump also retweeted a tweet by Republican National Committee Chairwoman Ronna McDaniel. McDaniel tweeted a video clip of an MSNBC interview with a business owner from Ohio who says that the tariffs on China has helped him

Trump also retweeted a tweet by Republican National Committee Chairwoman Ronna McDaniel.

McDaniel tweeted a video clip of an MSNBC interview with a business owner from Ohio who says that the tariffs on China has helped him.

Only a week earlier, the United States and China had seemed poised to complete a sweeping agreement.

Washington wants Beijing to tighten its intellectual property protections, cut its subsidies to state-owned firms and reduce the yawning trade deficit; China wants an end to tariffs as part of a 'balanced' deal.

While supporters laud Trump as a tough negotiator, free-trade-minded Republicans have warned that the tariffs could do real damage to the economy, and many farmers - including Trump supporters - say the tariffs have hit their bottom line.

As the trade war spread, China imposed $110billion in duties on farm exports and other U.S. goods.

Republican Senator Chuck Grassley, from the farm state of Iowa, cautiously welcomed the new tariffs but urged negotiators to reach a quick solution 'so we can avoid prolonged tariffs, which we know have an impact on the US economy.'

Chinese Vice Premier Liu He said on Friday he was optimistic on reaching an agreement, but said there were 'issues of principle' on which China would not back down.

'Negotiations have not broken down,' Liu, Chinas chief negotiator in the talks, said, according to state television.

Chinese Vice Premier Liu He (left) bids farewell to U.S. Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin (center) and U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer (right) in Washington, DC, on Friday

'Quite the opposite, I think small setbacks are normal and inevitable during the negotiations of both countries. Looking forward, we are still cautiously optimistic,' Liu said.

China strongly opposes the latest U.S. tariff hike, and as a nation, has to respond to that, Liu told a small group of Chinese reporters in the video clip.

'Right now, both sides have reached mutual understanding in many things, but frankly speaking, there are also differences. We think these differences are significant issues of principle,' Liu said.

'We absolutely cannot make concessions on such issues of principle.'

He added that talks would continue in Beijing, but gave no details.

Three differences remain between the two countries, according to Chinas account of the latest talks.

One of those is over tariffs, Liu said, according to a transcript of the Q&A published by Phoenix, a Hong Kong-based television station that is close to Beijing.

China believes that tariffs were the genesis of the trade dispute, and that if both sides wanted to reach an agreement, then all tariffs must be eliminated, Liu said.

The second is about procurement, on which an initial consensus was reached between the leaders of the two countries in Argentina late last year.

The two sides now have differing views on the volumes, Liu said.

The third is over how balanced the text of the draft agreement should be, he said.

'Every nation has its dignity, so the text ought to be balanced,' Liu said.

President Trump ordered his trade chief to begin the process of imposing tariffs on all remaining imports from China after talks on a new trade deal ended with no agreement

Sources told Reuters this week that China had deleted its commitments in the draft agreement that said it would change laws to resolve core complaints of the United States: theft of U.S. intellectual property and trade secrets; forced technology transfers; competition policy; access to financial services; and currency manipulation.

Liu denied the accusations of Chinas reneging on promises, saying China thought it was normal to make changes before a final deal.

Both sides had differing views on how to phrase it, he said.

Liu said he hoped this issue would be resolved, so it was unnecessary to 'over react' to that point.

Similar to Liu, Chinese state media said China would not give in on its core interests.

'China clearly requires that the trade procurement figures should be realistic; the text must be balanced and expressed in terms that are acceptable to the Chinese people and do not undermine the sovereignty and dignity of the country,' the ruling Communist Partys official Peoples Daily said in a commentary on Saturday.

The trade war has weighed on the Chinese economy.

When asked about domestic concerns on how the latest tariffs could further pressure the economy, Liu said he was optimistic about Chinas economy in the longer term, adding that it had entered an up-cycle after bottoming out somewhat last year.

He said he believed the Chinese economy would maintain a stable and healthy trend despite some downward pressure, and that China had ample room for fiscal and monetary policy maneuvers.

On Monday, hours after Trump said he intended to raise tariffs, the Chinese central bank cut the amount of reserves that some small and medium-sized banks need to hold, freeing up more funds for lending to cash-strapped firms.
The new International Development Secretary, Rory Stewart

The new International Development Secretary has admitted that not a great deal has been achieved with foreign aid, The Mail on Sunday can reveal  despite rich countries such as Britain spending an enormous amount of money in poor places over the past half-century.

Rory Stewart has condemned as mistaken the liberal imperialist idea of using development cash to impose stability in conflict-torn states  even though the Government is spending half of its ballooning 14billion aid budget on fragile nations.

The Penrith MP, a diplomat and charity chief before entering Parliament, also dismissed the idea that British cash can create millions of jobs in poor countries, a cornerstone of Government policy since the Tories took office in 2010 and ramped up aid budgets.

We dont know how to do it, he argued. We cant, Im afraid, create jobs for those people.

Stewart, who has said he will stand for the Tory Party leadership when Theresa May steps down, delivered his scathing concerns on aid in a lecture at Yale University last year, three months after moving from a more junior ministerial post at the Department for International Development (Dfid).

In a devastating critique of the core ideas behind Britains controversial global aid programme, he highlighted instances of the astonishing waste of taxpayers money in Africa  including 4.5 billion frittered away on failure in Malawi over half a century.

He has also admitted it is very curious that Britain, alone among the worlds richest nations, hits the global aid target of giving away 0.7 per cent of national income  a policy The Mail on Sunday has campaigned against  adding that he was deliberately avoiding the question of whether this should really be enshrined in law.

Stewart joined the Cabinet at the start of this month when Penny Mordaunt was moved from Dfid to be Defence Secretary following the dismissal of Gavin Williamson. Since then, Stewart has stressed support for the aid target and the departments work.

Yet in his Yale University talk, discussing his experiences on the ground and then as Africa Minister at both Dfid and the Foreign Office, he savaged the development sector and its blundering arrogance, accusing it of viewing recipients as ignorant, unskilled and idle.

His lecture expanded on earlier criticisms made in 2011 to an all-party House of Lords inquiry into aid, which concluded the spending target was flawed since it prioritised spending over results, and should be dropped. Instead, the measure was voted into law four years later.

Stewart told his audience last year about visiting a rural health clinic in Africa given 27 million in aid where he found human excrement on the floor, theres no medicines on the shelves, there are no patient records. Theres a fan but theres no electricity to power it and, of course, there are no patients insane enough to go anywhere near that clinic.

He also pointed to Zambia, where we have just wasted a prodigious 55 million on trying to reform agricultural subsidies  and weve been trying to do this for over 20 years.

This was, he said, a classic international development situation.

Stewart, who famously walked across Afghanistan in the winter of 2002, said only about 100 foreigners out of almost 220,000 on the ground at one point in that country could speak an Afghan language fluently

Stewart admitted politicians misled voters to justify spending so much money on aid. We tend to over-emphasise the threats that could be posed, he said. Often the things we say are existential threats to global security may not be existential threats to global security.

Three days after Stewarts lecture, Penny Mordaunt claimed in a speech that aid was a shield against economic migration, pandemic disease, organised crime, poverty and terrorism.

Yet critics argue aid can feed crime and terrorism: Professor Angus Deaton, the British Nobel Prize-winning economist, is just one of the experts who argue that misjudged spending by foreign donors can undermine good governance by assisting corrupt and incompetent regimes.

Stewart has, unusually for someone in his job, worked in such conflict zones. He is co-author of a well-received book called Can Intervention Work? based on his experiences as a diplomat in the Balkans and Iraq, and then running a charity in Afghanistan for three years.

His lecture at Yale last April was called Failed States  And How Not To Fix Them. It began by describing how, as a Dfid Minister, he was asked daily to sign off major projects since his job involved spending $6.5 billion (5 billion) a year.

So every day on my desk: would you like to spend $220 million on an education programme in Ethiopia, would you like to spend $42 million on training political parties in Bangladesh, would you like to spend $15 million on a healthcare project in Upper Tanzania?

We gave 4.5bn to Malawi... and now its even poorer Rory Stewart pointed to Malawi, the sixth-poorest country in the world, as an example of the failure of our foreign aid policy. The British Government has spent something in the region of 4.5 billion over the past 50 years and Malawi is, if anything, poorer than it was when we started, he told Yale University. This struggling Southern African nation has one of the highest population densities on the planet and was for years a darling of the aid industry, with aid accounting for almost half of its budget. Even the Scottish government has chipped in 11 million. Yet it has been plagued by bad governance and corruption. Western donors froze aid six years ago after bureaucrats and politicians stole millions in a so-called cashgate scandal, which looted one-third of the nations budget and led to 70 arrests. One man investigating the scandal was shot, while documents were stolen from a German official helping to probe the theft. The International Monetary Fund said the fraud helped stymie the countrys development. Last year Saulos Chilima, Malawis vice-president, accused the president, Peter Mutharika, of corruption. His claims included allegations of kickbacks over a 3 million police contract. The claims, which he outlined to me later in London, were denied. Dfid spends about 65 million a year on Malawis 19 million people, claiming British aid has a demonstrable impact and is highly cost-effective. Yet the departments confidential 2016-2020 business plan for Malawi, leaked to The Mail on Sunday, admits the political climate is not conducive to supporting sustained poverty reduction. It adds that corruption is widespread and accepts there is serious risk of instability, declining human rights, deteriorating government, poor or no delivery of our programmes, and loss of Dfid funds due to fraudulent or corrupt activities. Despite this, officials pledged that Dfid would help deliver a stable Malawi with more accountable institutions by next year, along with increased job opportunities. In recent days there have been reports of attacks on albinos ahead of an election this month, with one man dismembered in front of his son. Albino body parts are sold for huge sums to politicians, who believe they boost their chances of winning. Advertisement

Then he asked his audience why such aid had failed to solve the problems in poor places despite spending many, many billions of dollars over the past 40, 50 years?

He argued the key problem was that generic solutions from outsiders failed to take account of local realities, compounded by lack of language skills and  in many fragile states  security fears keeping foreigners behind walls.

Stewart, who famously walked across Afghanistan in the winter of 2002, said only about 100 foreigners out of almost 220,000 on the ground at one point in that country could speak an Afghan language fluently.

The scale of this problem is inconceivable, he said.

We are experts on gender in the abstract. We are experts on education in the abstract, on economics in the abstract. What we are not experts on is gender in Afghanistan, the economics of Afghanistan, because we dont know anything about Afghanistan.

The fundamental problem is that in many, many, many cases we are dedicating ourselves to impossible projects  and projects which we cannot acknowledge as impossible.

Stewart highlighted the difficulties of trying to turn around a country such as Somalia, which is getting 158 million from his new department this year, when civil war is going on, theres no electricity on the ground and where you dont begin to understand the local structures.

He also raised the problems in such places of engaging with women, a priority for Dfid in recent years as poverty declines around the planet, by highlighting an incident during his service in Iraq when setting up a provincial council.

All the women sat at one end of the room in total silence with their headscarves on, didnt contribute to the political conversation at all  and then when one of them spoke up, she was dragged out of her car and executed the next day.

Stewart concluded that foreign intervention could help with banking, communications and some aspects of healthcare, while saying he supported humanitarian relief, but root problems of rule of law, governance, corruption would be solved by local people.

I dont think you can do this stuff, generally, he said, despite the Government taking billions from taxpayers to tackle such concerns in developing nations and conflict zones.

People within these countries can themselves sort out those problems.

It is also understood Stewart approved a blog published about a similar lecture he gave to the London School of Economics that described him as sceptical (to say the least) about the efficiency of international aid in fragile/conflict states.

In his evidence to the Lords inquiry, Stewart said the reason for failure to make progress in Afghanistan on governance and civil society objectives was not due to lack of resources. The problem was that we are not capable of doing these things, he said.

The liberal imperialist idea  the fashion of creating governance and stability in a post-conflict zone through the application of development aid  is mistaken.

He said Dfid should differentiate between what it believes is necessary and what is possible.

Stewart said yesterday he is deeply proud to have been appointed to his new post after spending much of his life working in development, adding: Dfid can be a real force for good in the world.

But he added: Too often there is a gap between rhetoric and reality. The main drivers of this are abstract jargon, isolation of foreign lives  particularly in war zones  and unrealistic statements about what can be achieved.

The solution is making sure we have more genuine experts on the ground. This is a traditional British strength and one we can build on. We need to do less than we pretend, then we can do more than we fear.

Finally, Dfid has a boss who has seen the flaws of the aid industry in the field.

So can Stewart intervene and impose sense at last in our most profligate department?
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 12)  A police corporal was shot dead while on his way to inspect security preparations at polling precincts in Kapatagan town, Lanao del Norte Saturday afternoon.

Police report said Corporal Richard Garcia Gordiones, 31, was traversing along Barangay Panoloon, Sapad town on board his motorcycle at around 3:50 pm when two motorcycle-riding gunmen fired at him from behind.

Gordiones was brought to the nearest hospital, but was declared dead on arrival.

The report said a bullet entered the left upper portion of the victim's back and exited in his chest, causing his death.

Several items were recovered from the crime scene, including the victim's personal belongings, two fired cartridge cases of caliber .45, one live ammunition of caliber .45, three live ammunition of caliber 9mm, and a deformed slug, among others. An ATM card and 10,000 cash were also found and turned over to Gordiones' relatives.

Authorities have yet to identify the suspects and the motive behind the killing.

Gordiones was assigned at the Kapatagan police to provide security to the towns voting centers.

CNN Philippines stringer Marlon Panares contributed to this report.
Investigations continue into the sexual assault of a young woman after she got off a Melbourne tram four months ago.

Police have released images of a male they believe may be able to assist with their inquiries in the incident which happened in Preston in the city's north on January 15.

Investigators were told a 20-year-old woman got off a number 45 tram on route 86 on Plenty Road at about 10.44pm.

CCTV images have been released of a man police would like to speak to in relation to the sexual assault of a woman after she got off a tram in Preston on January 15

A man got off at the same stop and approached the woman on nearby Bell Street.

He sexually assaulted her before fleeing the scene.

Police on Saturday released CCTV of a man on the tram they would like to speak to.

The sexual assault happened on the same night Israeli student Aiia Maasarwe (pictured) was allegedly murdered after travelling on the same tram line

The male is described as having an olive complexion, thin build, aged in his 20s, short black hair, 165cm tall and was wearing black shirt and pants.

The incident happened two hours before a young Israeli student was allegedly murdered in the nearby suburb of Bundoora after she got off the same tram line.

Aiia Maasarwe, 21, was allegedly followed off the 86 route tram five kilometres further up the tram line from Preston.

Her partially naked body was found dumped in scrub near the Polaris shopping centre the following morning.

The January 15 sexual assault occurred in Bell Street, Preston (pictured) in Melbourne's north

A 20-year-old man was arrested three days later and charged with murder and remains in custody.

Victoria Police wouldn't comment on whether any connection between the two incidents is being investigated.

'The incident where Aiia Maasarwe was killed is before the courts therefore no comment would be provided that could impact on the court case,' a spokeswoman told Daily Mail Australia.

Anyone with information in relation to the January 15 sexual assault is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Rory Stewart pointed to Malawi, the sixth-poorest country in the world, as an example of the failure of our foreign aid policy.

The British Government has spent something in the region of 4.5 billion over the past 50 years and Malawi is, if anything, poorer than it was when we started, he told Yale University.

This struggling Southern African nation has one of the highest population densities on the planet and was for years a darling of the aid industry, with aid accounting for almost half of its budget.

Even the Scottish government has chipped in 11 million.

Rory Stewart pointed to Malawi, the sixth-poorest country in the world, as an example of the failure of our foreign aid policy

Yet it has been plagued by bad governance and corruption.

Western donors froze aid six years ago after bureaucrats and politicians stole millions in a so-called cashgate scandal, which looted one-third of the nations budget and led to 70 arrests.

One man investigating the scandal was shot, while documents were stolen from a German official helping to probe the theft.

The International Monetary Fund said the fraud helped stymie the countrys development.

Last year Saulos Chilima, Malawis vice-president, accused the president, Peter Mutharika, of corruption.

His claims included allegations of kickbacks over a 3 million police contract. The claims, which he outlined to me later in London, were denied.

This struggling Southern African nation (pictured) has one of the highest population densities on the planet and was for years a darling of the aid industry, with aid accounting for almost half of its budget

Dfid spends about 65 million a year on Malawis 19 million people, claiming British aid has a demonstrable impact and is highly cost-effective.

Yet the departments confidential 2016-2020 business plan for Malawi, leaked to The Mail on Sunday, admits the political climate is not conducive to supporting sustained poverty reduction.

It adds that corruption is widespread and accepts there is serious risk of instability, declining human rights, deteriorating government, poor or no delivery of our programmes, and loss of Dfid funds due to fraudulent or corrupt activities.

Despite this, officials pledged that Dfid would help deliver a stable Malawi with more accountable institutions by next year, along with increased job opportunities.

In recent days there have been reports of attacks on albinos ahead of an election this month, with one man dismembered in front of his son.

Albino body parts are sold for huge sums to politicians, who believe they boost their chances of winning.
Mexican investigators have unearthed 35 bodies buried around the metropolitan area of Guadalajara, the country's second city, state prosecutors revealed Saturday.

The discovery of the bodies was another reminder of the task facing Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, who took office in December vowing to reduce the gang-fueled violence that produced nearly 29,000 murders in the country last year - a record.

Gerardo Octavio Solis, attorney general of Jalisco, Guadalajara's home state, said 27 bodies were found buried at a property in the Zapopan area of the city during investigations undertaken over the past week. Work was continuing, he added.

'We're digging more than three meters (10 ft) down,' Solis told a news conference with state governor Enrique Alfaro and others.

Mexican investigators have unearthed 35 bodies buried around the metropolitan area of Guadalajara, the country's second-largest city. Officials are seen near one clandestine grave site at a farm in Zapopan where 27 of the corpses were discovered over the past week

Another seven human skulls were found in a separate clandestine grave in the city, where investigations were also ongoing.

An additional body was recovered from the Tlajomulco municipality in the southwest of Guadalajara, Solis added.

Solis described the discovery of the graves as a blow to local organized crime, and said four suspects had been arrested.

It was unclear how long the bodies had been buried.

The state is home to one of Mexico's most powerful drug gangs, the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, and has suffered from the turf wars that have convulsed much of the country.

Enrique Alfaro, Governor of the State of Jalisco, is seen at a press conference on Saturday. The state in western Mexico has been plagued by drug violence over the past decade

Lopez Obrador says he is containing the problem, but homicides in the first four months of his government exceeded the levels registered a year earlier, official data showed.

Just last month, a suspect with ties to a criminal organization led Mexican authorities to another gang's secret grave site where dozens of their victims were discovered.

JALISCO NEW GENERATION DRUG CARTEL The Jalisco New Generation Drug Cartel - Cartel de Jalisco Nueva Generacion in Spanish - is considered to be the most powerful drug cartel in Mexico. The criminal group has been active since 2009 and is based in the western state of Jalisco, also operating in the states of Nayarit, Colima and Guanajuato. It is headed by Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, aka 'El Mencho, one of Mexico's most-wanted drug lords. Advertisement

The cartel member, who has not been identified, tipped off police to the desolate area in Veracruz - a Mexican state which has been ravaged by gang violence in recent years.

The site has at least 36 different 'graves' - each of which can contain multiple people.

None of the bodies have been identified yet. But there are over 40,180 missing persons reported in Mexico, according to a January report released by the National Commission for the Search of Missing Persons.

Another mass grave was discovered in the northwestern state of Sonora in April.

The news came on the same day that government officials said Red Cross ambulances will get armed escorts as authorities struggle to stop contain escalating gang violence.

The volunteer group called 'Guerreras Buscadoras (Warrior Searchers) came across 27 sets of body parts with the assistance of forensics experts that canvassed the grounds of the Yaqui Valley, a rural city where two criminal gangs have been embroiled in an ongoing turf war.
A mother-of-two who was left paralysed on a Magaluf hen do has begun proceedings on a 9 million compensation law suit.

Bonnie Lackey, 41, was at her cousin's Mallorca hen do in 2017 when her life was changed forever.

The mother from Crawley, West Sussex, was sitting in a rubber ring at her hotel's pool when the staff turned on a wave pool machine.

Bonnie was flipped upside down during the incident and suffered three broken bones in her neck, while also damaging her spinal cord.

Bonnie Lackey, 41, was left paralysed by a hotel wave pool in Magaluf, Spain. She is suing the hotel for 9 million

Soon she was brought back to the UK with a private air ambulance, however it was found that she had been made a quadriplegic by the incident.

She told The Sun that she wish she'd 'never got in the wave pool'.

'I landed face down in the water and couldnt understand why my arms and legs werent doing what I wanted them to,' she said.

'It felt like an eternity, but it must have been less than a minute when I was pulled out of the water.'

The High Court has now given permission to Bonnie and her family to sue the hotel she was staying at - BH Mallorca Hotel - in UK courts.

She is also receiving monetary support through a JustGiving crowdfunding page set up by her sister Faye Wright.

The High Court has given permission for Bonnie to begin court proceedings against BH Mallorca Hotel

Currently the page has raised 20,976, which has helped fund the purchase of an electric wheelchair.

Faye said she wanted to raise enough money to also install an electric lift in Bonnie's house.

'My sister is truly amazing, always laughing and joking and never moans about her injuries,' she said.

'Unfortunately, Bonnie has been told her injuries are permanent and she is working hard to learn how to adapt to this new life, but needs the house adjusted to make this possible to return home.

'We...thank you all so much for your support for such an amazing and beautiful person that would do anything for anyone without a question.'
Nigel Farage has been banned from his local pub after he allegedly made a swift exit when he was involved in a head-on crash with the landlord and his son.

Patrick Tranter, 38, was driving home with his one-year-old son when his Jaguar was hit by Farage's Range Rover in Titsey, Kent, he claims.

But instead of checking on Mr Tranter and his son, the Eurosceptic MEP is said to have fled the scene.

Patrick Tranter, 38, was driving home with his one-year-old son when his Jaguar was hit by Farage's Range Rover in Titsey, Kent, he claims

Father-of-one Mr Tranter was driving his classic 1986 Series 3 Sovereign Jaguar (pictured after the crash) along Clacket Lane, Kent, around 9:30am on Thursday May 9 when he collided with a Land Rover

Mr Tranter and his shaken baby son George were taken to hospital in an ambulance, and he claims his car has been written off.

Speaking from hospital, Mr Tranter said police who attended the crash were forced to launch a 'manhunt' for the MEP who was on his way to Thursday's Question Time.

Mr Tranter, who suffered neck and shoulder injuries, has now banned Farage from his George and Dragon pub, four miles from the politician's home.

He said he's served him 'countless pints' - but won't have him in the pub ever again.

Mr Tranter, from Westerham, Kent said: 'Man of the people my arse.

'He didn't even bother to see if me and my little boy were OK.

'He just upped and left.

'Had he had done so he would have recognised me as I've served him countless pints and I worked with his daughter just over a year ago.

The Brexit Party leader allegedly 'upped and left' after his chauffeur-driven Range Rover crashed into a Jaguar carrying Mr Tranter and his 13-month-old son

'There's no way he'll be welcome back in my pub - which has the most British sounding name going.

'I used to serve him pints and I worked with his daughter Victoria at a wedding about a year and a half ago.

'I run the local pub and by no means will he be welcome in my pub for a pint.

'He's a terrible, terrible human being.'

Father-of-one Mr Tranter was driving his classic 1986 Series 3 Sovereign Jaguar along Clacket Lane, Kent, around 9:30am on Thursday May 9 when he collided with a Land Rover.

George and Dragon pub landlord Patrick Tranter, 38, and his son George both went to hospital to receive treatment. The 38-year-old said Mr Farage is now 'barred' for his lack of 'common decency'

Mr Tranter said: 'I ran out to see if my little boy was OK but Farage just got out of the car. Farage just walked out of the car. God knows where as it was a country lane'

He said Farage's driver stopped at the scene, but the MEP made off.

Mr Tranter said: 'I had just dropped my wife off at the station for work.

'We were driving the opposite side of the road but their car was growing at great speed.

'There was so much force that my car was pushed back into the bushes on the other side of the road.

'I ran out to see if my little boy was OK but Farage just got out of the car.

'Farage just walked out of the car. God knows where as it was a country lane.

'I turned around and asked one of his people, 'Is that Farage?' and she said yes.

He added: 'I turned around and asked one of his people, "Is that Farage?" and she said yes. I don't think she was meant to say that'

Farage, 55, last night denied the allegations and claiming he checked nobody was hurt, before adding: 'If I'm banned, then it's not too terrible is it?'

'I don't think she was meant to say that.

'Police told me that the car would have been going at least 45mph but that is after both of us severely breaking.

'It would be pure speculation to guess how fast he was going but it's his response which has really pissed me off.

'My car is a complete write off.

'It was a classic British car. It couldn't have been more iconic.

'His driver was really courteous and waited by our car. He called the police and ambulance too.

Mr Tranter (left) said: 'I run the local pub and by no means will he be welcome in my pub for a pint. He's a terrible, terrible human being.' He added: 'I used to serve him pints and I worked with his daughter Victoria at a wedding about a year and a half ago'

'The police even launched a small manhunt for Farage. It was for his safety more so for any criminality.

'If he bothered to stop and see if we were OK he'd have recognised me.

'That man shouldn't be anywhere near power.'

Mr Tranter and George were rushed to Princess Royal University Hospital, Kent, where they were treated for neck and shoulder injuries, he claims.

Farage, 55, last night denied the allegations and claiming he checked nobody was hurt, before adding: 'If I'm banned, then it's not too terrible is it?

'The driver of the other car was abusive. He was swearing very loudly and after accidents people do all sorts of things. It was a pretty full-on smash and I understand why people can be a bit shocked.

Mr Tranter, who has been visited by Farage at the George and Dragon pub in Westerham, Kent, in the past, had just been to drop his wife at the station and was driving home

The collision happened on Thursday morning, hours before Farage's 34th Question Time appearance in Northampton

'Once I had ascertained that everyone was OK I made a discreet withdrawal from the situation.

'Had anybody been hurt I would have stayed and waited for the ambulance. I didn't hear his child screaming so I walked up the road.'

A police spokeswoman refused to comment on whether Farage was being hunted.

She said: 'We were called following a two-vehicle collision in Clacket Lane, Titsey, around 9.55am.

'No one was injured as a result of the incident.

'The road was closed in both directions while the vehicles were recovered.

'We are not investigating.'
With a dozen candidates jostling to become Prime Minister, Westminster is awash with dinner invitations for MPs as warring camps try to butter up supporters.

But an invitation from Michael Gove's team has left a bitter taste in the mouths of some Tories.

Treasury Minister Mel Stride, a key lieutenant on the Gove campaign, has been hosting 'cocktails, three courses and wine' bashes at his home in Pimlico for Conservative MPs, where Mr Gove has pitched for their support.

Guests at a dinner party for Michael Gove have been asked to stump up 43 each to pay for the events

However, Mr Stride texted attendees his bank account details and asked them to stump up 43 each to pay for the events.

'It's not the world's greatest charm offensive,' one rival camp pointed out, 'but then he is a bean-counter by day.'

However, a source hit back: 'MPs have always been asked in advance to contribute if they come.'

Last night, Mr Gove's allies insisted that the dinners were actually for a Tory dining club called Deep Blue, set up by Mr Stride in 2011, rather than part of a campaign, and that leadership rival Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt had even attended one such event.

Mel Stride, a key lieutenant on the Gove campaign, has been hosting 'cocktails, three courses and wine' bashes at his home in Pimlico

However, one MP claimed that 'Deep Blue has been a Gove front for months'.

Mr Gove is currently locked in a battle with Health Secretary Matt Hancock to win over the backing of moderate Tories.

Last night, Mr Hancock received a surprising endorsement from former Labour frontbencher Michael Dugher, who took to Twitter to claim: 'I defy anyone in Labour not to fear a Matt Hancock led Conservative Party.'
Dressed in a hooded coat, the shaven-headed monk stands stock-still and stares at wildlife park owner Melanie Meigh for more than half an hour.

It is part of a campaign of intimidation, alleges Miss Meigh, by Benedictine monks because they want her off their land.

Now police have warned the monk at Prinknash Abbey in the Cotswolds about the incident which left Miss Meigh, 58, fearing for her safety.

Any repeat of his stalking may result in his arrest.

Shaven-headed monks have apparently been 'stalking' Melanie Meigh in a campaign of intimidation to make her close wildlife sanctuary in the grounds of the Prinknash Abbey in the Cotswolds

It is a bizarre chapter in the history of an order founded almost 1,500 years ago by St Benedict on the principles of seeking out peace and loving ones neighbour.

Last night, Miss Meigh said she believes the monks want her to close her wildlife sanctuary, The Bird Park, which is on the abbeys 300-acre property.

She first fell out with them in 2016 when she opposed their 3.5 million plan to build luxury houses on the wildlife parks car park. Since then the monks have allegedly refused to carry out vital repairs to the park, tried to stop her opening a tea room, and objected to her hosting a childrens event at Halloween because of the festivals pagan roots.

By law, Miss Meigh cannot be forced to leave because she has protected tenancy status under the 1977 Rent Act.

During the incident on April 18, she went over to confront the monk who had been staring at the parks visitor centre.

Police have now had to warn the monks about the incident which left Miss Meigh, 58, fearing for her safety

She says he told her: Im watching you, and insisted he could stay where he was because he was on monastery property. Last night, Miss Meigh told The Mail on Sunday: I felt genuinely threatened by his creepy behaviour. He was stood still, just silently staring at me as I was opening the park.

A few women with children were there too and they felt equally unsettled. He didnt seem to care even when I photographed him or asked him to leave.

Ive had a long-running legal battle with the monks and I know they want me out, hence why they let sewage flood the park and ignore my requests for them, as my landlords, to carry out basic repairs. But now theyre resorting to psychological warfare tactics. Its almost too much to bear.

She contacted Gloucestershire Police and showed the photo of the monk to Police Community Support Officer Debbie Collicott and another officer.

Miss Meigh said: They thought the incident warranted them visiting the monastery to speak to the monk. So they set off up there before coming back about half an hour later to report back to me.

Last night, Father Martin McLaughlin, the Abbot of Prinknash Abbey, said: The police came and talked to a monk but there was nothing in that from our point of view'

PCSO Collicott told me she warned him he would be taken into custody if he did it again.

I hope a visit by the police makes these monks realise they cant go around trying to intimidate women with their horrid, passive-aggressive behaviour.

The park was founded in 1974 by Miss Meighs father Philip on land leased from the monastery.

Since taking over the site in 2008, Miss Meigh has invested more than 1 million and boosted visitor numbers to 40,000 a year.

Today the park is known for its stunning aviaries and rare species of birds, such as coscoroba swans.

But the monks have complained to the local council, saying it resembles a theme park incompatible with a working monastery.

Last night, Father Martin McLaughlin, the Abbot of Prinknash Abbey, said: The police came and talked to a monk but there was nothing in that from our point of view.

Anything I say, its really difficult at the moment as we have a legal dispute [with Miss Meigh]. Were in an impossible position.

The three-year dispute between Miss Meigh and Prinknash Abbey is being heard by the Competition Appeal Tribunal.
The two Georgia teenagers who plotted a Columbine-style massacre at their high school wanted to set a record for mass murder and prepared a kill list that included all of the schools black and disabled students, prosecutors said in court on Friday.

Alfred Dupree, 19, and Victoria McCurley, 18, pleaded guilty in Cherokee County Superior Court in Canton, Georgia.

The pair are due to be sentenced on Monday for a plot to launch a violent attack at Etowah High School in 2017, the Cherokee Tribune & Ledger News reported.

According to Cherokee County Assistant District Attorney Rachelle Carnesale, the two students planned to deploy smoke bombs so as to corral students and faculty into a section of the school.

Alfred Dupree (left), 19, and Victoria McCurley (right), 18, pleaded guilty on Friday in Cherokee County Superior Court in Canton, Georgia

Dupree and McCurley were arrested in October 2017 for plotting to attack their high school with napalm and guns

Authorities believe that if they waited to act, the pair would have carried out their plan to massacre students and teachers at Etowah High School in Cherokee County, Georgia (above)

They then planned to use napalm and firearms in order to kill as many people as they could, Carnesale said.

Dupree and McCurley were arrested in October 2017 by police in Woodstock, Georgia.

Since their arrest, they have been detained at a local jail, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

They were charged as adults with six counts of conspiracy to commit murder, one count of conspiracy to commit arson, and one count of unlawful possession of a destructive device.

Eric Harris (left) and Dylan Klebold (right) on tape during their shooting spree at Columbine High School in Littleton, Colorado in April 1999. Dupree and McCurley told authorities that they were inspired by the Columbine massacre which killed 15 people, including the gunmen

Under the pseudonym 'Box of Anger' McCurley made a number of disturbing posts on Instagram, which referenced a high school massacre 'starring' the Columbine killers

She also posted several pictures of what appears to be the Columbine High School killers Eric Harris and Dylan Klebold. In this post she wrote the threatening message: 'Fear the nobodies'

In another post seemingly about the Columbine massacre, McCurley shared a surveillance footage still with the caption: 'Outrun my gun'

They were arrested after police received a tip off they were planning to bomb Etowah High School.

In court, McCurley admitted on Friday that he told investigators: Wed like to get our numbers up higher than Las Vegas.

Las Vegas is a reference to the October 1, 2017 mass shooting in the city, which left 58 people dead and more than 400 wounded.

Dupree testified in the morning and entered a guilty plea before noon.

McCurley entered his guilty plea after the lunch break.

During the writing [of the attack plan], it wasnt serious, but then it escalated to being serious, McCurley said in her testimony.

In court, Dupree said he was fascinated with the Columbine High School massacre of 1999.

Two students from the school in Littleton, Colorado, used bombs and guns to kill 13 students and faculty before they killed themselves.

The attacks left 21 people injured.

Dupree said he first began to take an interest in the Columbine incident when he was 13-years-old.

He said he began reading extensively about the massacre and looked at photographs.

Both Dupree and McCurley were 17 when they were arrested.

Investigators later learned the pair made a number of unsettling posts on social media under secret pseudonyms about mass shootings and suicide.

Dupree and McCurley had a container of flammable and combustible material with the intent that it would be used to kill, injure and intimidate students and staff at Etowah High School and to destroy Etowah High School,' according to court documents

One post, by McCurley, showed a picture of the High School Musical movie poster, which had been altered to read 'High School Massacre' - with photo-shopped photos of students being gunned down.

According to the indictment, Dupree and McCurley were arrested for collecting and preparing flammable and explosive materials  writing a kill list  (and) creating a map of a portion of Etowah High School.

According to court documents, the kill list included the names of five students and one teacher - all of whom were in a special education class with Dupree and McCurley.

The list included nicknames and slurs, which referenced specific disabilities.

Authorities believe that if they waited to arrest the pair, they would have followed through on their plans.

Dupree and McCurley had 'a container of flammable and combustible material with the intent that it would be used to kill, injure and intimidate students and staff at Etowah High School and to destroy Etowah High School.'
Recording and watching people's dreams has been the subject of mind-bending films like 'Until the End of the World,' 'Total Recall,' 'Strange Days', 'Minority Report' and more recent hits like 'Inception' and 'Captain Marvel'.

But the concept is no longer just far-fetched science fiction. It's something sleep scientists have worked toward in recent years - and it now appears they are fine-tuning the process.

Independent dream researcher Daniel Oldis recently composed a 'dream team' of sleep and dream researchers from across the nation.

He told freelance tech writer Tessa Love that the team will run human test trials for developing dream-recording tech inside a Burbank, California, recording studio next summer.

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A a 'dream team' of sleep and dream researchers from across the nation are set to run human test trials for developing dream-recording tech inside a Burbank, California, recording studio next summer

Independent dream researcher Daniel Oldis (pictured) said the team plans to use a mobile MRI to try recording the movement, speech and images from the full dreams of up to four sleeping subjects

'This is like the early years of the space race. But in this case, we're going into the dream space,' Oldis said.

The team plans to use a mobile MRI to try recording the movement, speech and images from the full dreams of up to four sleeping subjects.

In 2017, Oldis teamed up with the University of Texas at Austin's Cognitive Neuroscience Lab to track dreamers' motor behavior.

They succeeded in recording the movements of a subject's dreams by using an electromyogram (EGM) to gauge nerve impulses to the muscles.

In 2017, Oldis teamed up with the University of Texas at Austin's Cognitive Neuroscience Lab to track dreamers' motor behavior. They succeeded in recording the movements of a subject's dreams by using an electromyogram (EGM) to gauge nerve impulses to the muscles. Oldis presented an animated demo of the experiment at the International Association for the Study of Dreams' 34th Annual International Conference in Anaheim, California in June of 2017

Those recordings allowed Oldis to turn himself into a walking avatar. He presented an animated demo of the experiment at the International Association for the Study of Dreams' 34th Annual International Conference in Anaheim, California, in June of 2017.

Recording movement is one thing, but transmitting and recording images from a person's sleeping subconscious mind is something else entirely.

Oldis estimates it could take another 10 to 20 years for people to actually record a full dream movie, but a group of Japanese sleep researchers recently crossed a significant milestone.

In 2017, neuroscientist Yukiyasu Kamitani led a team of Kyoto University researchers who used human functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) patterns to reconstruct low-level 'deep images' from a waking person's mind.

'When they think of an owl, for example, the vague shape of an owl can be seen,' Love explained in a Wednesday Medium post on the topic.

In the 1991 apocalyptic sci-fi film 'Until the End of the World', a virtual reality (VR) headset-like device is developed that gives blind people a form of sight, but the device is transformed into a tool that records dreams, bringing a darker side of humanity to light,

A set photo from the movie 'Inception' (2010), one of many science fiction movies that have explored the concept of controlling people's dreams over the years

Dr. Rubin Naiman, a sleep and dream expert with the University of Arizona's Center for Integrative Medicine, has expressed concerns about Oldis' dream recording experiments

Incredibly, the Kyoto team managed to build a brain-simulating computer called a deep neural network (DNN) that can pull data from different levels of the brain's visual system, from simple light visuals to more detailed images such as human faces.

Their DNN reconstructed those layers to remake images from the brain, according to Love.

Oldis' team hasn't worked with Kamitani's yet, but they plan to use a comparable technique to reproduce lucid dream visuals, dreams in which the dreamer is aware and can control their dream.

Oldis has focused on the how of dream recording so far. Other dream researchers are concerned about the why as well as the potential ethical ramifications of creating such technology.

'There's something demonic in what he's doing,' Dr. Rubin Naiman, a sleep and dream expert with the University of Arizona's Center for Integrative Medicine, told Love.

'I don't mean that literally  I respect what he's doing  But the downside to it is there are so many attempts to represent the dream in waking life rather than to enter the dream directly. The way we approach dreaming is we pull the fish out of water. But eventually we want to learn to breathe underwater, don't we?'
A mother has rushed her five-year-old son to hospital after his skin turned yellow from eating a popular children's snack.

The horrified Sydney mother shared her terrifying ordeal on Facebook, warning other parents after her son's skin went yellow and his urine dark after snacking on fava beans.

'Ever eaten or given your kids fava beans?', the mother wrote.

'Just something to be aware of .... my 5 year old is currently in hospital and very sick after eating 3 packets of these this week.

The five-year-old boy's skin turned yellow and his urine darker after snacking on fava beans (stock)

'He's had a pack or so every now and then but not as much as he did this week.

'We thought he just had a cold but yesterday we noticed he was actually yellow in colour, his urine was dark, he could barely wake up. Took him to doctor and they said straight to emergency.'

The mother rushed her son to hospital where they found he was deficient in G6PD, an enzyme which is important in protecting the red blood cells.

Signs and symptoms of G6PD deficiency pale skin (pallor)

persistent and/or severe tiredness

dark coloured urine (wee)

jaundice (yellow skin or eyes) Advertisement

According to The Royal Children's Hospital, favism is the occurrence of a severe reaction to fava beans (broad beans).

There is a risk of acute haemolysis, where red blood cells break down faster than the body can replace them, which can be life-threatening.

The break down of the red cells can lead to anaemia, which can cause pale skin and lethargy.

This condition is believed to affect 400 million people worldwide.

The condition is more common in males and is usually passed on to male children from their mother (stock)

The condition is more common in males and is usually passed on to male children from their mother.

The young boy is now doing fine.

'Our son will be fine but just thought it was something that was useful to know as we certainly had no idea!'
A former U.S. Air Force pilot famous for dropping candy to starving children during the Berlin Airlift of 1948 and 1949 has returned to the German capital as a guest of honor 70 years after the end of the crisis.

Gail Halvorsen, 98, received a hero's welcome as he donned his military uniform, signed autographs, and posed for photos with city residents on Saturday.

Halvorsen became known as the 'Candy Bomber' after inventing the idea to airdrop small bags of sweets to children in West Berlin, who were going hungry after the Soviet Union blocked railway, road and canal access to the city.

The blockade lasted from June 1948 until May 1949 and became known as the first crisis in the Cold War.

Gail Halvorsen, better known as the 'Candy Bomber,' returned to Germany 70 years after his involvement in the Berlin Airlift of 1948 and 1949

Halvorsen became famous after airdropping candy to starving children in West Germany. He is pictured in the late 1940s

Western allies - including the U.S. - responded by launching the Berlin Airlift, in which pilots flew food and other supplies to the 2.5 million residents in the city.

The operation lasted non-stop through the harsh German winter, with more than two million tonnes of supplies dropped over the course of 277,000 flights.

As an act of kindness, Halvorsen began to drop bundles of chocolate with handkerchief parachutes to children waiting below.

To signal that he was about to release the treats from the air, the Air Force commander would dip his plane's wings.

Speaking with AFP on Friday, one elderly woman - who was a child during the time of the Airlift - recalled the special deliveries dropped out of the sky by Halvorsen.

For almost a year, pilots flew in food and other supplies to the 2.5 million residents in West Berlin who were left starving at the hands of a Soviet Blockade

Halvorsen began to drop bundles of chocolate with handkerchief parachutes to children waiting below (pictured)

Halvorsen posed for photos with children in Berlin on Saturday

She told the publication that she wrote to Halvorsen to complain that the candy drops were stopping chickens from laying eggs, and she was surprised to find that he subsequently replied with a nice note.

'It wasn't the sweets that impressed me, it was the letter,' the woman explained, revealing that she and Halvorsen went on to have a long-lasting friendship.

She added: 'I grew up fatherless, like a lot of [German] children at that time, so knowing that someone outside of Berlin was thinking of me gave me hope.'

However, Halvorsen was far more modest about his efforts during the the crisis, saying on Friday: 'The heroes of the Berlin Airlift were not the pilots, the heroes were the Germans - the parents and children on the ground'.

Halvorsen has been modest about his efforts during the the Berlin Airlift. He is pictured meeting German children on Saturday

Halvorsen has returned to Germany as a guest of honor, 70 years after the end of the Berlin Airlift

He later warned young people to be vigilant about the current political landscape in order to ensure continued freedoms.

'I would exhort the young people to keep an open mind to know that some leaders will lead free people in the wrong direction,' he stated.

'They need to use their judgement about what they believe in the news, that they need to make their own decision on who rules them.

'Freedom is important and sometimes you have to fight for it.'
Prime Minister Scott Morrison used his Mother's Day party launch to gush over the sacrifices his mother made for he and his brother.

The tribute comes just days after Opposition Leader Bill Shorten was accused of hiding the truth about his own mother's esteemed career to score political points ahead of the May 18 federal election.

Mr Morrison brought his mother up on stage during Sunday's launch alongside his wife, Jenny, and daughters Abby and Lily.

He presented both women bouquets of flowers for Mother's Day and thanked them for their constant love and support, before singling out his mother, Marion.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison gives flowers to his mother Marion Morrison before thanking her for the sacrifices she made during his childhood

Mr Morrison also paid tribute to his mum on Instagram, sharing a photo of the two during his childhood

'Mum and dad both had to work hard to give Alan and I the choices they wanted for us in life,' he said.

'They saved. They planned. They sacrificed. And they also served.

'Mum ran the local girls' brigade at our local church every Thursday and Friday school nights for 45 years.

'By the way, dad did the same thing... at boys' brigade the same Thursday and Friday night for 45 years.'

Mr Shorten has been forced to defend his own mother in recent days after speaking about her plight as a young woman wanting to become a lawyer.

The Opposition Leader praised his beloved mother Ann, who died of breast cancer aged 79 five years ago, during the final minutes of the ABC show on Monday night.

Bill Shorten (left), pictured with his late mum Ann and twin brother Robert, came under a fire because he omitted one vital fact about his mother's career as a teacher and lawyer

Federal Opposition Leader Bill Shorten (pictured right while national secretary of the Australian Workers Union) still regards his late mother Ann (left) as his biggest inspiration

He spoke about her dashed dreams to study law, instead becoming a teacher to help care for her siblings.

But he failed to mention that she progressed to the bar later in life, and went on to become a successful lawyer.

Mrs Shorten was able to send her sons to Melbourne's exclusive Xavier College, which has annual fees in excess of $28,000.

But the Labor party leader insists he was not raised in a rich household, and relates to the everyday Australian.

'My parents sent me to a rich school. But we were not rich,' Mr Shorten said.

'We were not poor. We were not rich. We were like hundreds of thousands of other families. My family spent all their spare cash educating Robert and I.'

Dr Ann Shorten (pictured) became a barrister later in life when she was in her late 50s

Bill Shorten hit back on Twitter after a newspaper pointed out that his mother did finally follow her dreams to become a lawyer later in life

During Mr Morrison's own Mother's Day speech, he also touched on his upbringing and schooling.

'Life's about what you contribute, not what you accumulate. That's what mum and dad have taught me,' the PM said.

'It's about serving others, because in life, it's people that matter. My family story is not uncommon in our country.

'We went to public schools, like Jenny and her older sister and her brother did.

'Not long after I turned one mum went back to work, juggling all her commitments, with a lot of help from family, particularly our grandparents.'

Mr Morrison brought his mother up on stage during Sunday's launch alongside his wife, Jenny, and daughters Abby and Lily

He presented both women bouquets of flowers for Mother's Day and thanked them for their constant love and support, before singling out his mother, Marion

Mr Morrison's parents were both active members of the Presbyterian Church, and his father also worked as a police officer for 16 years.

Mr Morrison and Mr Shorten are both in the final stages of campaigning ahead of Saturday's election.

The Prime Minister promised to make it easier for first home buyers to enter the market through a new loan scheme, slashing the amount people have to save for a deposit, with the government underwriting the rest.

'This will make a big difference,' Mr Morrison told those present.

'Cutting the time taken to save for a deposit at least half and more.'

The Coalition leader finished his speech by discussing Labor's 'reckless spending' and future tax increases.

'Australians know that the Liberals and Nationals can always be trusted to keep them safe and our borders secure,' he said.
A hairdresser to the stars is suing his heiress ex for $2million, claiming she tricked him into believing they married with a fake $1million, star-studded four-day wedding, which she used as a PR stunt to get attention amid prenup concerns from her dad.

William Jordan Blackmore says he was duped by Andi Potamkin into thinking the pair were wed in 2015 at the $3,000-per-night Amangiri resort in Utah in a ceremony featured as part of a magazine deal.

Guests, including Elizabeth Olsen, designer Recho Omondi and actress Alexis Nichole Smith, flew in by private jet to the wedding after save-the-dates arrived complete with rocks filled with colorful crystals and a hammer to open them.

Those in attendance were told 'frequent outfit changes encouraged' as they took part in zip-lining, hiking and poker among other activities at the extravaganza dubbed 'the dreamiest desert wedding you've ever seen'.

The invitations were accompanied by a folded card titled, 'Wedding Color Story,' which encouraged guests to match their clothes to colors such as 'parchment,' 'eucalyptus,' 'desert rose,' and 'dune ecru.'

But the long-term couple were not really getting hitched and Blackmore, 35, now calls the spectacular affair a 'sham', a lawsuit claims.

Stylist Blackmore, whose clients include Marc Jacobs, Olsen and Selena Gomez, says Potamkin, 30, made him believe they had wed.

William Jordan Blackmore says he was duped by then girlfriend Andi Potamkin, both pictured

He says he thought the pair were wed in 2015 at the Amangiri resort in Utah after celebrity guests flew in by private jet to the lavish four day event covered by a magazine

Blackmore, 35, now calls the wedding a 'sham' because their officiator was not ordained. Andi is seen left with Blackmore in January 2017 and right trying on wedding dresses in 2015

The groom alleges Andi formed the plan with her millionaire dad Alan Potamkin (pictured)

Blackmore and Potamkin met at a Miami nightclub in 2006, the year she turned 17 and he turned 22.

They fell in love and got engaged four years later when Blackmore proposed with a $90,000 ring.

Blackmore now alleges that his wife hatched a plan with her millionaire father Alan Potamkin, 70, to trick him into believing they were married.

He claims that the doting dad was worried when Blackmore hesitated to sign a prenuptial agreement, which he ultimately did.

The lawsuit claims: 'The truth was that Andi never wanted to marry Jordan; she just wanted a lavish wedding experience, a public-relations stunt and the attention that came with it'.

Alan wanted 'to give his daughter the fantasy experience and attention she so desired, with no lasting consequences under law' the suit adds.

It goes on: 'Alan also did not want his daughter to be legally married to Jordan because he was afraid that Jordan would not sign a prenuptial agreement before the wedding. So Alan and Andi fraudulently induced Jordan unwittingly to participate in a wedding that was a sham.'

According to court documents, Andi is said to have told the couple's friend, Dana Rizer, in secret that she did not need to become ordained to officiate their ceremony as they would make it official in New York.

But Blackmore says that did not happen. And so when they went on their $25,000 honeymoon the couple were not married, he claims.

Andi told her friend that she did not need to become ordained, the lawsuit claims

Blackmore learned they were never legally married when legal documents sent by Andi referred to their 'symbolic' ceremony, his lawsuit claims

Guests, including Elizabeth Olsen, designer Recho Omondi and actress Alexis Nichole Smith, flew in by private jet to the wedding. Those in attendance were told 'frequent outfit changes encouraged' as they took part in ziplining, hiking and poker. Andi is seen left and right in 2016

The long-term couple - who met in a Miami nightclub in 2006 and even got matching tattoos - were not really getting hitched and split in 2018

Stylist Blackmore, whose clients include Marc Jacobs, Olsen and Selena Gomez, says Potamkin, 30, made him believe they had wed and he now wants $2 million in damages

Andi told The New York Post the lawsuit 'includes tons of untrue and irrelevant information about my family, included for no purpose other than to attempt to publicly embarrass us'.

A legal filing by the Potamkin and shared with the DailyMail.com argues 'an email from Jordan Blackmore that establishes that Blackmore unequivocally knew that in order for their marriage to be official, he and Andi would need to go to the courthouse and file [their] marriage with the state of New York"

It adds there is 'an email from Jordan Blackmore that makes clear that Blackmore thought the decision to separate was for the best and acknowledge Andis bravery in making the difficult decision to end the marriage".'

Alan, whose family founded the Potamkin Auto Group, is said to have referred to Blackmore as son and Andi repeatedly called him her husband across social media, the lawsuit states.

The relationship ended in 2018 at Andi's request and after she allegedly had an affair, the lawsuit says. Blackmore later learned they were never legally married when documents sent by Andi referred to their 'symbolic' ceremony.

The lawsuit states: 'Over the ensuing weeks, Jordan was devastated to learn that the last three years of his life had been based on a fraud, orchestrated by Andi and Alan Potamkin, who duped Jordan into believing that he was married to Andi.

'She quickly decided that she no longer wanted to play the role of Jordan's wife. So, as was her practice, she turned to her wealthy and powerful father to bail her out.'

Andi Potamkin is pictured with her father on her wedding night in 2015. Blackmore's lawsuit alleges that Alan Potamkin, 70, wanted 'to give his daughter the fantasy experience and attention she so desired, with no lasting consequences under law'

Blackmore and Potamkin's wedding was held at the Amangiri resort in Canyon Point, Utah
An affectionate Bill Shorten wasn't shy about showing his love for wife Chloe after addressing the party faithful at a Labor rally in Melbourne on Sunday.

The federal opposition leader packed on the PDA with a passionate smooch for his stunning wife on stage in front of their nine-year-old daughter Clementine and Chloe's older children Georgette (Gigi), 16, and Rupert, 17, from her first marriage.

The man who could become Australia's next prime minister was greeted with a rock star welcome from the party faithful chanting 'time for change' when introduced to the crowd.

Bill Shorten kisses wife Chloe on stage after addressing the party faithful on Sunday

The rally kicked off the final week of campaigning for Mr Shorten before voters go to the polls on May 18.

The event coincided with not only Mother's Day but also Mr Shorten's 52nd birthday as he promised better schools and hospitals and infrastructure, a fairer tax system for the working class and bigger budget surpluses.

'On behalf of millions of Australians who are counting upon a Labor plan, a Labor vision, who are counting upon a government who is working for the people, who stands alongside the people, we are very clear. Our country deserves better than the government weve currently got,' Mr Shorten told the party faithful.

The blissful couple were joined on stage by their three children and deputy opposition leader Tanya Plibersek (right) at a final week rally in Melbourne on Sunday

He also promised cheaper and better quality childcare and help with dental care for Australia's three million pensioners and Commonwealth seniors card holders.

Mr Shorten also vowed a fair go on infrastructure for his home state Victoria if elected, vowing to inject funding into a proposed Suburban Rail Loop, a 90 kilometre rail ring around Melbourne with 12 new underground stations.

Mr Shorten hailed his election announcement was the single biggest federal investment in a public transport project in history.

Mr Shorten packs on the PDA for wife Chloe as their young daughter Clementine (far left) and Chloe's older children Georgette (second left), and Rupert (second right) watch on

He also launched a scathing attack on current Prime Minister Scott Morrison, who was also in Melbourne launching his party's campaign at the same time.

'Scott Morrison has nothing positive to say. He's got no policies for families. No plan for wages. No vision for our nation. And he has no faith in the Australian people  a respect for people's intelligence,' Mr Shorten said.

He also took a swipe at the Home Affairs Minister, saying tens of thousands of Melburnians were 'too scared to go out to dinner last night in case they ran into Peter Dutton'.

Earlier on Sunday, Mr Shorten publicly paid tribute to his wife of ten years.

'She's just the best. Happy Mother's Day Chloe,' he tweeted.
The face of Brand Power commercials for 25 years chose to end her contract with the company in favour of supporting environmentally-friendly brands.

Sally Williams became a regular face on Australian television screens in the 1990s, promoting a diverse range of products from batteries to milk and pasta.

The commercials all aired alongside Brand Power's famous 'helping you buy better' slogan, but Ms Williams told news.com.au since exiting her contract she has 'upcycled' and now wants to help consumers 'buy even better'.

The Melbourne based mother-of-two admitted a family holiday in Indonesia led her to leave her role in favour of supporting more sustainable brands.

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Sally Williams became a regular face on Australian television screens in the 1990s, promoting a diverse range of products from batteries to milk and pasta

The Melbourne based mother-of-two admitted a family holiday in Indonesia led her to leave her role in favour of supporting more sustainable brands

'I was gobsmacked by the rubbish piling up on the beaches. It was so bad I couldn't find somewhere to put my feet without stepping on rubbish  it was horrific, and it made me feel ill.

She said she felt responsible to help create change, knowing she had a substantial following that often made choices during their grocery shops based on her advertisements.

'They had so much trust in me for all those years.'

The 57-year-old will still work with Brand Power in the future, but no longer exclusively, and she now has the power to pick and choose which brands within the umbrella she supports and wants to endorse.

Despite not always agreeing with the ethos of certain companies, Ms Williams was contractually obliged to appear in the commercials prior to her departure from her role.

Despite not always agreeing with the ethos of certain companies, Ms Williams was contractually obliged to appear in the commercials prior to her departure from her role

She said she lived a relatively sustainable lifestyle and often didn't use the products she was encouraging people to buy.

Ms Williams said she no longer wants to be known as the 'Brand Power Lady' and instead has adopted the moniker 'Sustainable Sally'.

But she hopes to encourage people to make more selective choices when shopping, as well as encourage big businesses to change their practices in support of a more environmentally friendly approach.

'The trick is to make sure people are informed. My slogan used to be 'buy better', but now it's 'buy even better'.'
Christian Martin (pictured), 51, who has been accused of murdering three people in 2015 was arrested in Kentucky on Saturday

A commercial airline pilot accused of murdering three people and burning their bodies beyond recognition in 2015 was arrested at a Kentucky airport on Saturday.

Christian Richard Martin, 51, of Apex, North Carolina, who reportedly flies planes for an American Airlines subsidiary company, was taken into custody at Louisville International Airport early Saturday morning, authorities said.

Investigators said Martin is the man who shot 59-year-old Calvin Phillips to death in the cellar of his Pembroke, Kentucky home in November 2015.

Calvin's wife, Pamela Phillips, 58, and their neighbor, Edward Dansereau, 63, were found a few miles away in a cornfield inside her burned out car.

The victims' bodies were burned beyond recognition, their family members said.

Attorney General Andy Beshear claimed that Martin shot his victims and used a car to transport the bodies of Pamela and Dansereau to a nearby cornfield where he set the vehicle on fire with the corpses inside.

While there has been no official motive given, Martin faced charges of child rape and mishandling classified information just before the murders. Martin, who is a former Fort Campbell Army Major, had also been accused of beating his stepson.

In that case, Calvin Phillips was listed as a potential witness for the prosecution.

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In November 2015, authorities found Calvin Phillips (left), 59, shot to death in the cellar of his home. His wife, Pamela Phillips (right), 58, was found a few miles away in a cornfield inside her burned out car

The couple's neighbor, Edward Dansereau (pictured), 63, was also found in the burning vehicle alongside Pamela

At the time, Calvin Phillips, Martin's next door neighbor, discovered that information on CDs and laptops, according to Fox 17.

But Calvin was killed before he could testify against Martin and later went about his life working as a commercial airline pilot.

The child rape charges were later dropped against Martin, who has three children, and he was convicted of two counts of mishandling of classified material and two counts of assault of a child.

Martin was sentenced to three months in jail and was discharged from the military.

One one of the witnesses in the trial, and his wife, and Dansereau, were murdered he was named as a person of interest but was not charged with murder at the time.

According to the news station, Martin's defense team argued that the allegations against him were the product of a high-conflict marital situation.

American Airlines said that Martin has been a Bombardier CRJ First Officer for PSA Airlines since January 2018. American Airlines wholly-owns PSA Airlines, which operates an all-jet American Eagle fleet, the company told WDRB.

'All of us at American Airlines and PSA Airlines are deeply saddened to have learned about these allegations from 2015.

'Our team was made aware of the indictment this morning after his arrest at Louisville International Airport,' an American Airlines spokesperson said.

'We have an unwavering commitment to the safety and security of our customers and team members, and we will provide any investigative assistance possible to law enforcement throughout their investigation.'

The company said Martin has been placed on administrative suspension pending the outcome of the investigation.

A criminal background check conducted on Martin found no 'criminal history that would disqualify him from being a commercial pilot,' the airline said.

His arrest happened in front of airport staffers and patrons. Martin was still wearing his pilot's uniform in a Christian County Jail mugshot photo released by officials.

'It was like something you would totally see in a movie,' witness Ashley Martin of Elizabethtown, Kentucky told WDRB.

'It was very tense,' added fellow witness Frances Wise who was waiting to board an American Airlines flight when the arrest happened. 'You could tell the employees knew something was going on,' she continued.

Martin faced charges of child rape and mishandling classified information before the murders. In that case, Calvin (left) was a potential witness. The case was assigned a special investigator after the couple's son, Matt Phillips (pictured as a boy), was worried the case had stalled

Officers from multiple law enforcement agencies arrested Martin at Louisville International Airport (pictured) in the Bluegrass State's largest city early Saturday morning

The case was brought to Beshear's attention two years ago by the couple's son, Matt Phillips, who was worried the case had stalled.

Beshear accepted a request from the local commonwealth attorney to appoint a special prosecutor to handle the case.

Relatives of Calvin and Pamela Phillips had offered a $100,000 reward to help solve the case.

On Friday, he was indicted on three counts of first degree murder, arson, attempted arson, burglary and three counts of tampering with evidence.

Martin moved from Christian County after the slayings and was living in North Carolina at the time of the indictment.

The victims' family members released a joint statement following Martin's arrest.

'Every day, we are haunted by what was done to them and haunted further that someone was still free to do as they wish, beyond the civility of mankind or laws of our nation,' the statement reads.

'We are overwhelmed with this positive step towards resolution for people we love dearly... We look forward to justice in court, and we look forward to a verdict to bring an end to this terror, and a fresh start at healing.'

During a press conference, Bashear said he hopes the suspect's arrest 'brings some justice' to the victims' families.

'There are many steps from here, but we hope this is one example of when you never stop seeking justice, when you never give up, that we can truly get important results for these families,' he added.

Martin is being held without bond at the Christian County Detention Center.
There are grave fears for a young teenager who has now been missing for three days.

Queensland Police renewed their public appeal for information about the 13-year-old girl who left a Goodna home west of Brisbane at around 10pm on Thursday night.

She was last seen at the intersection of Stanley Street and Albert Street and was later captured on CCTV near Goodna train station just before midnight.

The 13-yeer-old teen (pictured) from Goodna has been missing since Thursday night

Police publicly released the CCTV of the teen's last known movements as the desperate search for the teen continues.

'Police hold grave concerns for her safety as this behaviour is out of character and she has not contacted family or friends,' a police statement read.

Detectives have spent the last three days doorknocking homes in the area.

Police have released CCTV of the teen's last known movements at Goodna train station

'She is a young girl  13 years of age,' Senior Sergeant Paul Andrews told reporters on Sunday.

'We seek anyone's assistance to help identify this girl or help locate her whereabouts.'

Police have urged residents to check their properties, yards and sheds for any sign of the teen.

This CCTV is of the girl's last known movements on Thursday night as the search continues

The girl is of Pacific Islander Pacific appearance, 160cm tall, proportionate build, olive complexion, dark brown hair and brown eyes.

She was last seen wearing dark blue school shorts, a light blue T-shirt and a blue jersey with white writing on the front.

Anyone with information regarding the teen's whereabouts is urged to contact Policelink on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Speedboat killer Jack Shepherd has been moved to a different high-security jail after being bullied by other inmates.

Shepherd, 31, who is serving six years for the manslaughter of Charlotte Brown, 24, was transferred for his own safety to HMP Woodhill, near Milton Keynes.

He was being held at Wandsworth jail in South London but was moved after being spat at and is now locked up with murderers and terrorists at the Category A jail.

Speedboat killer Jack Shepherd has been moved to a different high-security jail after being bullied by other inmates

Shepherd, 31, who is serving six years for the manslaughter of Charlotte Brown, 24, was transferred for his own safety to HMP Woodhill, near Milton Keynes

A prison source told The Sun that despite Woodhill being full of the 'worst types' it has more prison officers relative to the number of inmates.

'Shepherd actually feels safer there than at Wandsworth where he claimed inmates were bullying him and he felt threatened.

'When someone high-profile goes into prison, they will obviously become a target unless they can prove themselves.'

He was being held at Wandsworth jail in South London but was moved to Woodhill after being spat at and is now locked up with murderers and terrorists at the Category A jail

Ms Brown, from Clacton, Essex, died on her first date with Shepherd in 2015 when he took her for a drunken ride onto the Thames in his defective speedboat and it flipped.

They were both were thrown into the icy water and Charlotte was found dead of dying when she was finally pulled out.

He fled to Georgia ahead for ten months ahead of his trial last July and was convicted in his absence before he returned in April.

The convicted killer tried to fight his extradition, claiming that his life would be in danger if he returned to the UK to face justice.

And speaking after Shepherd was moved, his lawyer Mariam Kublashvili said yesterday: 'We said he faced threats and danger in a UK jail, not to mention a toxic and unfair attitude in and out of the prison system.

He fled to Georgia ahead for ten months ahead of his trial last July and was convicted in his absence before he returned in April. Shepherd, pictured on his flight from Georgia to the UK last month

'And now look what happened to him in a "safe" and "secure" British prison,' she added.

On his return to the UK, Shepherd was handed an extra six months in jail on top of his six-year sentence.

The father-of-one stood in the dock of Court No.8 at the Old Bailey looking sullen as he pleaded guilty to breaching bail and absconding before his trial.

While in Georgian capital Tblisi awaiting his extradition, Shepherd had claimed that Ms Brown's actions had 'led to the fatal accident'.

While agreeing that he bore 'some of the moral responsibility', he claimed it was 'ultimately Charlottes action to accelerate in the manner that she did, even though I failed to prevent her.'

The 14ft Fletcher Arrowflyte struck a submerged log near Wandsworth Bridge and overturned.

Speaking after Shepherd was moved, his lawyer Mariam Kublashvili, pictured said yesterday: 'We said he faced threats and danger in a UK jail, not to mention a toxic and unfair attitude in and out of the prison system

Speaking after he was finally sent to prison in the UK Miss Brown's sister Katie struggled to hold back tears as she spoke of the agony the ordeal had caused the family.

She said: 'As a family we are relieved that Jack Shepherd is now back in the country and commencing his prison sentence. It's a step closer to justice for Charli.

'Shepherd claims that Charli took control of his boat and was driving when it crashed on the Thames, this is based solely on his word, and is contradictory to eyewitness testimony.

Miss Brown's father Graham, right, comforted his daughter Katie, left, as she broke down in tears while talking about how Shepherd has shown them no 'decency or respect'

'During his time on the run in Georgia, both he and his legal team have stated various versions of events and accusations that are simply untrue, and due to the reckless and negligent actions of Shepherd, Charli isn't here to defend herself.

'Charli will never be returned to us, whereas Shepherd can continue his life with his family once he serves his sentence.

'He has not shown any real remorse or accountability for his actions, accusing Charli of being responsible for her own death as recently as this week. His lack of respect and decency continues to astound us,' she added.
Passengers have revealed the moment they heard a tremendous 'bang' and saw 'orange sparks fly' while on board a Qantas plane bound for Sydney.

Flight QF26, from Tokyo, had been in the air for five hours when an issue with one of the aircraft's port jet engines caused the terrifying noise and a flash of flames in the early hours of Sunday morning.

Fretful passengers were forced to sit-tight for a further two hours while the plane continued on its flight, using three out of the four engines, before safely landing at Cairns International Airport at about 5am.

One Qantas customer, who had been on board the wide-bodied jet when the alarming incident occurred, claimed almost instantly after the engine malfunctioned the plane started shaking before lurching downwards at a rapid pace.

(File picture) Flight QF26, from Tokyo, had been in the air for five hours when an issue with one of the aircraft's port jet engines caused the terrifying noise and flash of flames

'I was sitting at the window and there was an incredibly loud bang and when I looked out there was an orange flame and then sparks, it was like white,' Desmon Du Plessis told The Cairns Post.

Mr Du Plessis added the plane started 'shaking' and passengers could hear the engine had died almost immediately.

He said he said he found the whole ordeal 'scary' and was 'deeply relieved' when the plane touched down on the ground.

Another passenger described the captains decision to divert to the nearest Australian airport as 'very sensible' as the plane had previously plummeted very quickly.

(File picture) A third passenger travelling on the aircraft Andrew Mak described the moment he felt a 'bit of an explosion' and then saw sparks flying out of one of the engines

'We went from 10,000m to 7000m quite quickly and then we continued for a while,' Mr Jonas said.

While a third passenger travelling on the aircraft, Andrew Mak, described the moment he felt a 'bit of an explosion' and then saw sparks flying out of one of the engines.

He added not many passengers were startled by the occurrence as most were asleep.

Mr Mak said after the initial explosion quite a few vibrations which left him 'quite concerned'.

'We didn't quite know what was happening. There were quite a few vibrations occurring from that initial explosion,' he said.

(File picture) A spokesperson for Qantas said the diversion to Cairns was not an emergency landing and the engine had not 'exploded' but had been shutdown by the pilot as part of standard procedure

Around 10 minutes after passengers heard the 'bang' the pilot announced they had successfully shutdown the engine.

A spokesperson for Qantas said the diversion to Cairns was not an emergency landing and the engine had not 'exploded' but had been shutdown by the pilot as part of standard procedure.

'Our Tokyo to Sydney flight diverted to Cairns this morning due to an issue with one of the engines,' Debbie Slade, Qantas Fleet Safety Captain, told Daily Mail Australia.

'In line with standard procedures, the pilots shut down the engine and the flight diverted to Cairns.

'While customers may have heard a loud bang, there was never a safety risk with the flight. These aircraft are designed to safely operate on three of the four engines.

'The aircraft had a normal landing and engineers are inspecting the aircraft,' Ms Slade concluded.

Customers were transferred to other flights out of Cairns to reach their final destinations.
A man's body has been found in a wheelie bin behind a Waitrose in Islington, north London - less than half a mile away from Arsenal's football stadium.

Police have launched an investigation after the discovery near the supermarket's car park at 4pm last night.

A forensic tent was set up on Tollington Road while officers tried to identify the man.

A man's body was found in a wheelie bin behind a Waitrose in Islington, north London, last night

A forensic tent (pictured) was set up while police tried to identify the dead man. Detectives are treating the death as unexplained

The Metropolitan Police wrote on Twitter last night: 'Officers are at a scene in Tollington Road #Islington where a mans body was found in a wheelie bin at approx 4pm on Saturday.

'Central North officers working to establish identity. Death being treated as unexplained at this stage and no arrest. Post-mortem to be arranged.'

A spokesman for the Met added: 'Police were called to Tollington Road, Islington, shortly before 4pm on Saturday, May 11, to reports of a man's body found in a wheelie bin.

Police have launched an investigation after the discovery near the supermarket's car park at 4pm

'Officers attended. Road closures have been put in place at the scene.

'Detectives are working to establish the man's identity. At this stage, the death is being treated as unexplained.'

It comes after a reported spike in drug dealing in the supermarket car park, with one resident claiming people 'smoking crack' and 'screaming' had become a common feature on Shelburne Road, according to the Islington Gazette.

There is no suggestion the death is drug related.
An innocent man has been left traumatised and faces losing feeling in his arm after police arrested him in a bungled home invasion in a case of mistaken identity.

Police raided an apartment which is adjoined to an LGBTQ bookshop in Fiztroy, in Melbourne, at about 2am on Sunday, thinking that an armed member of a 'Lebanese gang' was inside.

Hares & Hyenas bookshop co-owners Rowland Thomson and Crusader Hillis took to Facebook to share their ordeal, saying police broke in through their garage in the dead of night.

'At no stage did they identify themselves as police. They just stormed into a dark room shining torches and it was impossible to identify them as police,' Mr Hillis said.

Nik Dimopoulos has been left traumatised and faces losing the feeling in his left arm after police allegedly used excessive force in a bungled home invasion in Melbourne's Fitzroy at 2am on Sunday

Another man, Nik Dimopoulos, thought it was an anti-gay home invasion and rushed out the door, downstairs and onto the street.

Mr Hillis wrote that Mr Dimopoulos thought he was going to be bashed or shot dead as he could only see boots and rifles.

'At no time did the police when they were chasing him say 'stop, Police' as you would expect'.

Police raided an apartment which adjoins to an LGBTQ bookshop Hares & Hyenas on Johnston Street, thinking that an armed member of a 'Lebanese gang' was inside

Mr Hillis claimed police then allegedly used excessive force to detain the innocent man, and tethered Mr Dimopoulos' hands behind his back in what was 'way beyond what can be endured'.

While the commotion downstairs was unfolding, Mr Hillis was bailed up and Mr Thompson tried to find his phone to call the police - unaware that the home invaders were in fact law enforcement.

'When Crusader tried to act as a witness to Nik's detention in the gutter he was threatened with being detained himself but refused to move,' Mr Thompson wrote.

He said Mr Dimopoulos is now in hospital and faces the likelihood he could lose the use of his left arm, which is broken in several places from the shoulder down.

'The surgeon described the injury as 12 on a scale of 1 to 10.'

Mr Dimopoulos also has serious bruising on his head from being thrown onto the pavement.

Mr Thompson and Mr Hillis were badly shaken from the traumatising incident, but were otherwise physically unharmed.

'Once again I say AT NO TIME DID THE POLICE IDENTIFY THEMSELVES,' the two men wrote.

Police allegedly used excessive force to detain Nik Dimopoulos, and tethered his hands behind his back in what was 'way beyond what can be endured,' after he fled the apartment thinking he was about to get shot or killed in an anti-gay home invasion

Victoria Police have since confirmed Mr Dimopoulos was wrongly identified, after tracking a stolen car led them to the Book store on Johnston Street.

Police said they saw a man who fitted the description of their suspect, and admitted that he sustained serious injuries as a result of the arrest.

'The man police arrested was mistakenly identified as the suspect police were searching for that had fled the stolen vehicle nearby,' they said in a statement.

'Victoria Police acknowledge the distress this situation has caused the victim and the incident will be thoroughly investigated by Professional Standards Command.'

Mr Dimopoulos' lawyer, Jeremy King, said his client was 'deeply traumatised'.

While the commotion downstairs was unfolding, Crusader Hillis (right) was bailed up and Rowland Thompson (left) tried to find his phone to call the police - unaware that the home invaders were in fact law enforcement

'All involved are considering their legal options and have instructed us to take all steps to ensure the police officers involved are held to account for their actions,' the ABC reported.

Other Facebook users have shared their disgust for the way the three innocent men were treated.

'Absolutely horrid. Thinking of you all,' one wrote.

Hundreds of users commented on Crusader Hillis' Facebook post, sharing their disgust in the police's alleged use of excessive force

Another called out the police on their inability to thwart Melbourne's Bourke Street massacre driver.

'So they don't stop James Gargasoulas doing donut wheel spins at the busiest intersection in Melbourne. Four or five police cars just sat there. That ended in absolute tragedy.

But the police beat up and injure scared people who flee a violent entry at their venue'.

'Sue the police for huge damages and life long injury. Utterly reprehensible. Nothing can justify this,' another user wrote.
Scientists have branded plans for octopus farms 'ethically unjustifiable' and have called on companies to block funding for the new factories.

The team of researchers have responded to news that some seafood companies hope to be shipping mass-produced octopus to restaurants by 2020.

They say the plans could be fatal for the 'highly intelligent' creatures and will put yet more pressure on the ocean's livestock.

Scientists have warned plans for octopus farms are 'ethically unjustifiable'

The leader of the group Professor Jennifer Jacquet of New York University, says that octopus farming is 'ethically and ecologically unjustified.'

She says many of the octopuses could die from stress.

Professor Jacquet told the Observer: 'We can see no reason why, in the 21st century, a sophisticated, complex animal should become the source of mass-produced food.'

'Octopuses eat fish and shellfish, and supplying enough to feed large numbers of them puts further pressure on the food chain. It is unsustainable.'

Seafood company Nissui hope to be shipping farmed octopus to restaurants by 2020

To feed the octopuses, the companies will need to catch huge quantities of fish, which will further threaten marine livestock.

The international group have called on private companies, academic institutions and governments to block funding for the factories.

There are more than 300 species of octopus around the world and 350,000 tonnes of the seafood are already caught and served in restaurants every year.

Scientists say octopuses are 'highly intelligent' and have been known to use tools and even navigate simple mazes and protect the entrance to their dens.

In one experiment, the cephalopod had managed to build a shelter from coconut shells.

In June 2017, Japanese seafood company Nissui announced they had successfully hatched eggs of fully-farmed octopus using artificial incubation.

In the past, farming octopuses has been hindered because they only eat live food, making it expensive.

But it was discovered the younger creatures are less fussy eaters, making them an easy and cheap breeding stock.

Nissui is not alone, with companies in Mexico and Australia also announcing plans for mass-produced octopus in the near future.

The plans are only in the development stage but researchers hope to halt any proposals to fund the farms.

They say that octopus is a delicacy and should be not be the subject of intensive mass production.
The Brexit Party will 'replace' the Conservative Party if the government backs a second referendum, a bullish Nigel Farage has predicted as he boasted his party will soon have more members than the Tories.

Mr Farage even said the 200-year-old Tory Party could 'disappear', pointing to a tide of fury over Brexit betrayals and a widespread sense among voters that politicians are not representing the public's interests.

It comes as two polls showed support for the new party mushrooming as backing for the Conservatives craters.

An Opinium poll in the Observer predicted the Brexit Party would score 34 per cent in this month's European elections - with Labour on 21 and the Tories just 11.

And a poll published in the Telegraph, commissioned by a Brexit Party donor, said the new party would beat the Tories in a General Election to the Westminister Parliament, getting 21 per cent to the Conservatives' 20 and winning 49 seats.

Nigel Farage has said his membership could outnumber the Tories' by the time of the elections

Speaking to the Sunday Telegraph the former leader of UKIP - which he said was now unrecognisable because of a 'fixation' with anti-Muslim policies - said: 'What I'm hearing is that they're coming pretty close, the Cabinet, to agreeing some form of second referendum.

'I'll tell you what, if that's really what they decide to do, then the Brexit Party will replace the Conservative Party. And I mean it.'

He added: 'They've been going 200 years and people could say, 'Nigel you're just talking moonshine here', but I genuinely think if ever there was a moment, like 1921, where the liberals... just disappear, we are at a moment in which that could happen to the Conservative Party as we currently know it.'

The Tory Party currently has around 124,000 members, but people have been signing up to the Brexit Party n their thousands since its launch.

Mr Farage said: 'I would think by the end of this campaign we'll be a lot bigger than the Conservative Party.'

He also warned that if the Tories backed a second referendum his party could 'replace' them

New data, from Opinium, predicts the Brexit Party will earn more votes than the Labour Party and the Tories combined in the European elections

A separate poll put Labour on 27% for a General Election, followed by the Brexit Party on 20% - ahead of the Tories by 1%

Turning to a possible General Election, he said his would focus its efforts on seats like Pontefract, the West Yorkshire constituency of Remainer Yvette Cooper.

He said: 'Yvette Cooper... 70% leave... [She] made all these proclamations in 2017 that we should honour the result and has spent the last two and a bit years years doing everything she can to contradict her own statement. So I think there are areas like that, that are very obvious target seats for us.'

Tory Work and Pensions Secretary Amber Rudd's seat in Hastings, which she won by under 400 votes, is another target.

He said: 'Hastings, again, very interesting, very interesting. Where you get seats where the divide is Conservative-Labour, and there's not much Liberal, they are the kind of seats that we can win.'

Mr Farage said his party, which has assembled candidates from a wide range of backgrounds and with a wide range of beliefs, is in 'broad agreement' around 'a few points' of domestic policy.

These include the need for 'major political reform' aimed at increasing voter turnout in elections.

He said there was 'very positive thinking' about 'the small scale entrepreneur,' pointing to the 5.4 million people in the UK who run their own businesses or are sole traders.

He said: '[They] just feel that all parties and government are their enemy. And particularly the regulatory authorities that feed off EU law and UK law.'

He added: 'Our assessment is that your Brexit-type voter, now wants a lot more than Brexit. They want a complete fundamental shift and change.

'The frustration now isn't even about Brexit. It's about the way the establishment has behaved. It's about the duplicity, the deception, the failure to deliver, and the abject, total lack of leadership that appears to exist in our political system.'
The headteacher of one of the country's most prestigious public schools has been blasted for making an 'insulting and outrageous' comparison between criticism of private schools and anti-Semitism.

Anthony Wallersteiner, of the 12,697-a-term Stowe school in Buckinghamshire, made the comments in an interview published yesterday.

Dr Wallersteiner, who is of Jewish descent, said the rise of 'populists and polemicists' created a micro-industry in 'bashing private schools'.

Anthony Wallersteiner (pictured) has faced a backlash after he said criticism of private schools was similar to anti-Semitism

He told the Times: 'Some of the criticisms echo the conspiratorial language of The Protocols of the Elders of Zion.

'It was relatively easy for Hitler and his henchmen to suggest that the Jewish minority was over-represented in key professions: medicine, law, teaching and the creative industries.'

He added: 'Privately educated pupils in the UK are also being accused of dominating the top jobs and stifling social mobility  it is all too facile to stereotype groups and ignore the fact that lawyers, doctors, writers and politicians are individuals.'

Dr Wallersteiner, who is head at Stowe, a co-educational boarding school in Buckinghamshire (pictured), was lambasted by Dame Margaret Hodge, who said his comments were 'insulting and outrageous'

But the academic faced a backlash, with Dame Margaret Hodge branding his comments 'insulting and outrageous'.

The Labour MP said: 'It's insulting to all the young people who have secured places at Oxford and Cambridge on the basis of hard work and potential.

'And it's insulting to the victims of anti-Semitism to compare the two.'

Labour MP Dame Margaret Hodge (pictured), who has often spoken out against anti-Semitism in the Labour Party, said 'it's insulting to the victims of anti-Semitism to compare the two'

A spokesman for the Campaign Against Antisemitism added: 'Tasteless Holocaust analogies do not belong in the debate about education in this country.

'Nazi propaganda against Jews was used to generate public support not only for exclusion from education but also for brutal beatings, boycotts, degradation and eventually the mass murder of six million Jewish men, women and children.'

The comments also caused uproar on social media, with editor of the Jewish Chronicle Stephen Pollard tweeting: 'Clearly the headmaster of Stowe is not an idiot.

Boarding fees at Stowe School in Buckinghamshire (pictured) cost around 12,697-a-term, with its website describing the school as 'unique' and in 'the most sublime setting'

'But he is doing his best to convince people that he is. And his words are so appalling that I doubt he can stay.'

Andrew Adonis, a Labour peer, added: 'If the headmaster of Stowe believes his students are treated by university admission in the way Hitler treated the Jews, why does he think their parents pay 39,000 a year for the privilege?'

Boarding fees at Stowe School in Buckinghamshire cost around 12,697-a-term, with its website describing the school as 'unique' and in 'the most sublime setting'.

Dr Wallersteiner also said private school parents fear their children are being edged out of places at Oxford and Cambridge by 'social engineering' - as the universities drive to take on more state pupils.

The headmaster said the plans to improve opportunities for underrepresented groups had caused a fall in Oxbridge places for private school pupils.

Private school parents have claimed their children are being phased out of Oxford and Cambridge (pictured) by 'social engineering'

He said these children's parents are arguing it is social engineering and positive discrimination.

'There's a much more concerted effort by admissions tutors to drive down the number of places given to independent schools and redress the balance and to put in contextual details,' he claimed.

Barnaby Lenon, who was the headteacher at Harrow, north London, until 2011, and is currently chairman of the Independent Schools Council, added: 'Independent schools report that their marginal candidates no longer tend to get in to Cambridge but their good candidates are as successful as ever.'

He said it should not be assumed a child is from a wealthy background based on what school they went to.

Education Secretary Damian Hinds weighed into the debate this morning, telling the BBC's Andrew Marr Show: 'Well I don't think that's [social engineering] an appropriate phrase and I do celebrate more state school children having the opportunity to go to top universities like Oxford and Cambridge.

'I think that's a great thing, it's the heart of my philosophy.'

He said private schools in Britain are world famous and 'do a great job' but said he wants the opportunities to be widely spread.

He added: 'I don't want the fact someone hasn't had a private education, which of course is the overwhelming majority of children in this country, 93 per cent have not, they need to have an absolutely fair crack of the whip and I'm really pleased that they do.'

Dr Wallersteiner's comments marked the first time a leading headteacher has revealed parents' concerns.

Dr Wallersteiner said private school parents have raised concerns of positive discrimination from Oxford and Cambridge (pictured) universities. His comments are the first time a leading headteacher has revealed parents' concerns

When assessing candidates, universities look into a person's background - including what school they went to, their gender and ethnicity.

Oxford and Cambridge have accepted fewer privately educated British pupils over the past few years following a drive by the government to promote state education.

Cambridge saw a rise in British state-educated pupils between 2013 and 2017, up from 61.4 per cent to 64.1 per cent, with Oxford seeing numbers rise from 56.8 per cent to 58.2 per cent.

Analysis by social mobility charity The Sutton Trust published in December showed eight private schools sent 1,310 pupils to Oxbridge over three years, while over the same period, 2,894 other schools sent just 1,220 students between them.

A Cambridge University spokesman said the university was 'committed to playing its part in facilitating social mobility'.

An Oxford University spokesman added: 'We are committed to broadening participation in higher education and building an inclusive, vibrant Oxford.'

And Labour MP David Lammy tweeted: 'A 1.4 per cent rise in five years in state school kids getting into Oxbridge and the parents of private school kids fear social engineering! Is the Times having a laugh? That's 40 kids per one college.'
Prince Harry named his newborn son after the man pivotal in allowing him to fulfill his life-long dream of serving his country on the front line, according to reports.

Major Tom Archer-Burton, commonly known as 'Archie' among friends, was the prince's commanding officer during his highly secretive tour of Afghanistan in 2008.

He convinced top brass to allow the prince to become the first royal since Andrew during the Falklands war in 1982 to be deployed, having missed out on the Iraq war because of fears he would be a prime target for the enemy.

Prince Harry and Major Tom Archer- Burton of the Burnaby Blue Household Cavalry working at the Thuso Centre for disabled children in Lesotho in 2008

He also brokered a deal that kept Harry's deployment out of the media, commenting afterwards that the prince was 'desperate to join his men.'

The prince was so disgruntled with not being sent to Iraq that he almost quit the army, with Archer-Burton then credited with saving his career.

The bond between the two became so strong, with the 41-year-old having now met most of Harry's family including Meghan, that the couple decided to name the newest royal after the Surrey-born officer, reports suggest.

Last night a source told The Sun on Sunday: 'It's well known in Army circles, and Archie's inner circle, that baby Archie is a nod to him.'

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex with their baby son who was born on Monday morning

Prince Harry and 26 soldiers, including Archer-Burton, from the Household Cavalry were in Lesotho working to rebuild a school for children with chronic physical and mental disabilities

The source added that despite the huge honour, the 'incredibly modest chap' wont be 'making a bid deal' out of it.

Major Archer-Burton's bond with the royals runs deep, having attended last May's wedding between Harry and Meghan as well as William's marriage to Kate Middleton in 2011.

The devout Christian will be an example to young Archie, having cycled 120 km through Africa to raise money for charity and rebuilding a school for disabled children in Lesotho with the child's father, Prince Harry, in 2011.

Prince Harry and Major Tom Archer- Burton of the Burnaby Blue Household Cavalry working at the Thuso Centre

HRH Prince Harry smiles as he helps rebuild a school on July 8, 2008 in Buthe Buthe, Lesotho

A journalist who accompanied the men on that trip through Africa commented at the time that Archer-Burton 'is the only man capable of telling Lt Wales (as Harry was known in the army) to do press-ups or stand on one leg for as long as he feels necessary.'

'It's good to be with the boys, and not being shot at,' grinned Harry at the time according to the journalist.

Earlier this week Harry and Meghan, 37, confirmed that the young royal will not be given a title - echoing the no airs and graces sentiment of Harry's time in the military which started at Sandhurst Academy in 2005.

Archer-Burton convinced top brass to allow Harry to become the first royal since Andrew during the Falklands war to be deployed, having missed out on the Iraq war. Harry is pictured during service in the Helmand Province of Afghanistan in 2008

One theory swirling around the child's naming earlier this week was that he may have been named after a cat that the Duchess of Sussex had as a child.

A former close friend of Meghan revealed that the ex-Suits actress and her mother Doria Ragland, 62, had shared a cat named Archie, himself named after the Archie comic the Duchess had once collected as a child.

The Sun also revealed that Meghan may have also agreed the name  which means 'brave'  in memory of her mother Doria's beloved rescue cat.
The Honourable Mr Justice Williams of the High Court, assigned to the Family Division

A boy of three was dressed in a girls uniform for school after living with foster parents whose own son transitioned to being female at the age of seven.

The younger child was taken to school dressed as a girl despite teachers expressly asking the foster couple to put him in boys clothing.

The parents at the centre of the case, which came to light in a court judgment released last week, also had a third child in their care who had gender identity issues.

The couple, known only as CP and TP, were investigated by Lancashire County Councils social services amid accusations they had manipulated their childrens gender and risked causing them significant emotional harm.

The council initially wanted five children who were living with the couple taken into care. But last Friday the couple were exonerated by a High Court judge who praised them as good parents, and attuned and careful.

Mr Justice Williams said: The evidence from almost all sources of how the children are prospering in the care of CP and TP provides very powerful support to the contention that CP and TP are good parents.

The judgment provides further insight into the couple who had been foster carers for 16 years. Two of the five children who were the subjects of the court proceedings were their natural children and three were fostered.

The Tavistock Centre, Hampstead, London. The Gender Identity Development Service (GIDS) is for children and young people, and their families, who experience difficulties in the development of their gender identity. The only service of its kind in Great Britain

Their youngest natural child, known only as R, now 13, transitioned from male to female at the age of seven. The foster parents took immediate steps to legally firm up her new identity and changed her name by deed poll and got a new passport.

But R remained unhappy and told a member of staff at her school a few months later that she did not think life was worth living, the judgment reveals.

Shortly after R transitioned, a boy, known as H, was fostered by the family. By January 2016, at the age of three, he was being dressed in girls clothes, it said.

Foster mother TP reportedly told a teacher: Heres another one for the Tavistock (clinic), the court papers disclose.

The following year when H was four he started school and the judgment stated: The school requested H attend in a boys uniform. However in September H came in a girls uniform.

Last July Lancashire council began proceedings to remove all five children from the couple over concerns they had acted in a precipitate manner in relation to perceived gender dysphoria.

Dr Bernadette Wren, Clinical Psychologist who works at The Tavistock Centre, London (left) and Harley Street gender expert Vickie Pasterski (right)

However the council withdrew its attempts for reasons that remain unclear. Last Friday Mr Justice Williams, based in the Family Division of the High Court in London, permitted the council to abandon the litigation it had initiated.

He said: The lives of the family should now proceed on the basis that those concerns were comprehensively dispelled as a result of the inquisitorial process that has been undertaken.

I observed during the course of the hearing that issues relating to gender identity and the medical understanding of such issues is complex and developing.
Since his father died in 2017 a former Chinese citizen has not heard from his family - and fears they could have been detained in a camp for taking his calls.

Aziz Isa Elkun, 48, last spoke to his 76-year-old mother Hepizem Nizamidin over the phone from his north London flat in 2017.

He had just heard his 78-year-old father had passed away but the call quickly ended when his mother said 'Its a bit difficult to talk at the moment'.

Aziz Isa Elkun, 48, last spoke to his 76-year-old mother Hepizem Nizamidin over the phone from his north London flat in 2017

Since then all further calls have gone unanswered, according to the Telegraph.

Mr Isa Elkun and his family are Uighurs, an ethnic Muslim minority targeted by authorities in the western province of Xinjiang.

Travelling, having family who live abroad or even using western apps can see people detained in camps known as 'vocational skills training centres' and 'boarding schools'.

'Two years, I have no information about my mother, my relatives,' he told The Telegraph. 'Where are they?'

As a student in the 1980s Mr Isa Elkun had joined protests in Xinjiang over the communist government's treatment of ethnic minorities.

Later he protested in Tiananmen Square before being marked as a dissident and fleeing to the UK in 2001.

Now a British citizen Mr Isa Elkun says the Government should be doing more to protect the human rights of Uighurs in China.

'The UK government legally also has responsibility to prioritise their citizens rights to be able to speak to their family,' he added.

His wife Rachel Harris, an expert in Uighur culture at London's School of Oriental and African studies, says the overall response from the Government has been lacking.

Now a British citizen Mr Isa Elkun says the Government should be doing more to protect the human rights of Uighurs in China

She says they should put pressure on Beijing to stop the detentions.

But the UK benefits from a 40billion trade deal with China and despite UK diplomats, including Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt, confirming reports of the camps are 'broadly accurate', Mr Isa Elkun says not much has been done.

Mr Hunt and Mark Field, the Asia minister, have raised the issue with China saying: 'We have serious concerns about the human rights situation in Xinjiang,' according to a spokesman for the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

Due to Britain's close ties with the region - in the 1890s Britain was one of a just a few foreign powers with a consulate in Kashgar, southern Xinjiang - experts and rights groups say more could be done.

Charles Parton, a former British diplomat in China, said: 'There is a wider debate between prosperity  trading and investment with China  but on the other hand, the need to maintain our own security interests and values.'

Xinjiang has a long history of clashes between 11 million Uighurs, Sunni Muslims of Turkic descent and the Han Chinese majority.
Tony Blair has told Labour voters they should vote against his party in the European elections if they cannot bring themselves to back Jeremy Corbyn's stance on Brexit.

The party's most electorally successful leader in history said he had met many Labour voters who 'can't vote Labour at the moment'.

Warning there would be a post-election analysis of the result with a 'totting up' of the votes, he told Sky's Sophie Ridge this morning: 'It's important the anti-Brexit side of the ledger is stronger than the pro-Farage side.'

Mr Blair said: 'I do come across Labour people who can't vote Labour at the moment, so I say to them "don't stay home. go out and vote for an avowedly Remain party".

Saying 'it's not so much the seats it's the percentage of the vote,' he said Remain voters should be working to show they opposed the type of hard or no-deal Brexit backed by Nigel Farage.

He said: 'I understand there are a lot of people who say "Labour has been hopeless on the question of Brexit and I'm not prepared to do that."

'And what I say to them is: "Don't stay at home, because if you do, then that pro-Farage hard or no-deal Brexit ... that would do enormous damage to our country, if you care about stopping that, get on the other side of the ledger".'

He acknowledge Labour is not unequivocally Remain but said it 'just about gets there' to qualify as a Remain party and that he would be voting Labour on that basis.

Tony Blair told Sophie Ridge that Labour voters who thought Labour had been 'hopeless' on Brexit should vote for 'avowedly Remain' parties instead

As a new poll puts the Brexit Party on 34 per cent, he said: 'Nigel Farage and the people associated with him, they're not the people to drain the swamp of British politics they're the people who created the swamp.

He said they promised that Brexit was the answer to 'everything' while in fact, he said, it was the 'answer to nothing' and that decisions that would affect people's lives were taken in the UK.

He said the Brexit debate was based on a 'myth' that the UK is not in control of its own policies.

Delays to the Withdrawal Agreement mean that the country will go to the polls on May 23 to elect 73 MEPs for the United Kingdom to sit in Brussels.

This morning Mr Blair called on Theresa May to 'force' MPs to decide between hard, soft and no deal Brexit and then attach a confirmatory second referendum to the vote - which he said would be a 'healing process'.

Theresa May walking to church this morning: Today Tony Blair called on his successor to 'force' MPs to decide between hard, soft and no deal Brexit and then launch a second referendum

Taking another shot at the Labour Party under Jeremy Corbyn, he said 'any Opposition party ca win local elections' adding that in his 40 years in politics it had been posisble 'no matter how difficult' the circumstances - but pointed out Labour had lost councillors in the votes earlier this month.

It comes after he wrote in the Observer today of 'destructive indecision' in the party.

He wrote: 'The local elections were terrible for the Conservatives but, on any rational analysis, devastating for Labour.

'We are almost 10 years into austerity, with the public realm - Labour's political sweet spot - in disrepair. Yet Labour could not even win the local elections.'
There have been some exceptionally weird moments to this Federal Election campaign.

But Independent candidate Alex Dyson, who is running in Wannon in Victoria, has trumped them all in a very bizarre promotional video.

In the clip the former Triple J radio breakfast host explains his policies through interpretive dance before throwing himself into a river.

The short video, which has a repetitive backing beat playing throughout, the 30-year-old MP starts by introducing himself.

'Hello, my name is Alex Dyson and I am running as the independent candidate for the seat of Wannon in the Federal Election,' he says.

'And here are my policies by the medium of interpretive dance,' Mr Dyson announces.

Mr Dyson suddenly launches into a rather peculiar dance routine, in which he stares strangely at the camera, and kneels on one knee before lifting his hands above his head.

He then slowly starts to stand up as he pretends to be a tree sprouting from the ground.

As he moves upwards his first policy flashes up on the screen: 'Forward thinking environmental policies. From Seed to Tree,' it read.

Alex Dyson (pictured) who is running in Wannon in Victoria, has made a very bizarre bid to win a seat by promoting his policies through interpretive dance

The MP ran through a series of his policies while symbolising them through a series of dance moves

As Mr Dyson starts to dance his first policy flashes up on the screen: 'Forward thinking environmental policies. From Seed to Tree'

The wannabe MP, and former radio presenter, then begins thrashing his arms around in a circular motion as he gallops towards the camera.

His second policy is then revealed: 'Investment in renewable energy. From Wind to Solar'.

He proceeds to do a stirring gesture with one hand, which is thought to resemble driving a vehicle, as his third policy is: 'Upgraded transport options. From Rail to Road'.

For his next policy, which is: 'Greater focus on mental health. From awareness to treatment', Mr Dyson swishes his head from side to side before leaping into the air in a joyous way.

For his next policy, which is: 'Greater focus on mental health. From awareness to treatment', Mr Dyson (pictured) swishes his head from side to side before leaping into the air in a joyous way

Mr Dyson (pictured)  who is wearing a full suit and tie for his interpretive dance routine  throws himself into a nearby river as he took 'the political plunge'

Mr Dyson then begins wiggling around as if he's trying to escape from an invisible trap as his final policy is seen on the screen: 'Independent from the Canberra bubble. Freedom to move our own way'.

A message thanking viewers for their support suddenly shows up on screen, which adds: 'Time to take the political plunge!'

And with that, Mr Dyson  who is fully dressed in a smart suit and tie  throws himself into a nearby river.

The clip has since been circulated on social media and has been met with a mainly positive reaction from viewers.

'He seems so credible and honest. Why don't more candidates jump into harbours like that?' wrote one social media user.

'Not the hero we deserved, but the one we needed,' another said.

'Wannon is one of the safest Liberal seats in the country. Good luck kid,' a third said.

'Wish he was running in my division,' another supporter commented.
A restaurant in Perth has started offering customers a free glass of bubbly to put their phones away and reengage in conversation.

The Loft Lounge & Bar is offering punters the bizarre incentive in a bid to make people more sociable.

The global #diningmode challenge has seen several Perth restaurants encouraging patrons to put their phones away while eating with others on Mother's Day.

The trend was started by restaurant reservation app Open Table who carried out a survey which revealed that 85 per cent of people use their phones while out to dinner.

Some restaurants such as Gusti Restaurant & Bar have also started offering conversation starter coasters to help those who struggle with conversation, according to 7 News.

'If you could move to a new country, where would you go?' one read.

'What's a day you wish you could relieve?' says another.

The global #diningmode challenge has seen Perth restaurants such as Gusti Restaurant & Bar encouraging patrons to put their phones away while eating with others on Mother's Day

Many thought the idea of offering people incentives to speak to each other was ridiculous.

'The reasons for going out to dinner with company is to have a great night out with great company, if you want to be on the mobile while dining out, people might as well stay home and enjoy their mobile,' one person said.

'Sure hope it works, well done if it does,' another said.

Others thought the idea was over the top and not something the restaurant should be concerned with.

The trend was started by restaurant reservation app Open Table who conducted a survey that found 85 per cent of people use their phones while out to dinner

'It's their lives that are so empty, just let them live with that sadness. Not your problem as long as they pay,' a person commented.

'I am not a fan of the mobile phone and how intrusive it can be however how people spend their time surely is their business, why do others feel they have the right to judge and manipulate?' Another person said.

'People often use it as a form of trying to escape social anxiety,' another person added.
Nigel Farage clashed angrily with the BBC's Andrew Marr, accusing him of being 'in denial' of a 'sea change' in British politics, for focusing on his previous statements.

It made for uncomfortable viewing as the two men talked across each other, the interviewer refusing to stop asking questions and the politician angrily denouncing the exchange as 'ludicrous'.

Arguing that examining its leader was the 'only way to look at the Brexit Party in the round at the moment', Mr Marr asked: 'Do you still want to replace the NHS with a private insurance system?'

Mr Farage replied: 'I never did, I would like to take the burden off the NHS.'

He added quickly: 'But if you want to go back, this is really very boring isn't it.

'All you want to do is go back to stuff from years ago. Why don't we talk about now in British politics.

'Why don't we talk about the sea-change that is going on out there', said Mr Farage, precipitating a tense several minutes as broadcaster and politician spoke across each other and both refused to back down.

Mr Marr put a string of Mr Farage's previous statements to him, on bringing in health insurance to the NHS; saying that worrying about global warming was the 'stupidest thing in human history'; on relaxing laws on gun control; being uncomfortable hearing foreign languages on the Tube; stopping people with HIV coming into the country; and admiring Vladimir Putin.

Throughout, the Brexit Party leader said: 'Here we are talking about one of the biggest changes that's ever occurred in politics and you're not even interested.

'What's wrong with the BBC?

'I've been going round the country speaking at packed rallies every night and do you know who's not there? The BBC. and from this line of questioning I can see why. You're just not interested are you?

'Let's talk about democracy, let't talk about trust, let's talk about competence in British politics.

'This is ludicrous. This is absolutely ludicrous.

'I've never in my life seen a more ridiculous interview than this.

'You are not prepared to talk about what is gong on in this country today. you're in denial, the BBC's in denial, the Tory and Labour parties are in denial.

'I think you're all in for a bigger surprise on Thursday week than you can even imagine.'

Mr Marr insisted it was reasonable to ask Mr Farage about previous statements but the Brexit Party boss hit back angrily saying it as the most ludicrous interview he had ever seen

Nigel Farage was in combative mood, answering some of Andrew Marr's questions but accusing the BBC of missing the story of the moment

Marr V Farage: Brexit Party leader answered questions but asked why they were being asked In a tense exchange full of interruptions, Nigel Farage gave Andrew Marr some of the answers he was asking for, but angrily slammed the BBC for 'trawling back through a series of quotes from years ago'. Andrew Marr: The only way that we can really judge the Brexit Party in the round at the moment is by looking at its leader, looking at you. So let's look at you for a moment. Nigel Farage: Well On the NHS, Mr Farage said he would 'gleefully' opt out of the NHS and pay into a private scheme if encouraged to do so Marr: Do you still want to replace the NHS with a private insurance based system? Farage: I never did. I would like to take the burden off the NHS. I mean, if you want to go back Marr: Yes I do want to go back Farage: This is really very boring isn't it Marr: No it's not boring Farage: All you want to do is go back to stuff from years ago, why don't we talk about now, in British politics. Why don't we talk about the sea-change that is going on out there. Marr: You are trying to lead an insurgent party to replace the main parties. Therefore you are an important figure, in this. [Quoting] 'I think we're going to have to move to an insurance-based system of healthcare, I would feel more comfortable, my money would return value if I was able to do that through the marketplace of an insurance company than just trusting giving a hundred billion pounds a year to central government.' Do you still hold that view? Farage: If I was encouraged to opt-out of the system, to relieve the burden off the National Health Service, I would do so gleefully/. Do you want to discuss these european elections or not? Marr: Yes I certainly do but Farage: Go on then. Go on then, lets' try. Marr: Do you still believe that worrying about global warming is 'the stupidest thing in human history'? Farage: I believe that if we decided, this country, to tax ourselves to the hilt, to put hundreds of thousands of people out of work in the manufacturing industries, given that we produce less than two per cent of global CO2, that isn't terribly intelligent. But as I say: here we are, with one of the biggest changes in politics that has ever occurred On climate change, he said it would be 'not terribly intelligent' to raise taxes and risk jobs 'given we produce less than 2% of CO2'. Pic: Climate protests in London Marr: Okay Farage:  and you're not even interested? Marr: Do you still Farage: What's wrong with the BBC? Marr: Do you still want to Farage: What is wrong with the BBC? Marr: Do you still want to roll back gun controls and reintroduce hand guns in this country? Farage: What is wrong  This sums it up. Do you know, I've been going around the country, speaking at packed rallies every night, and do you know who's not there? The BBC. And from this line of questioning now I can see why. Marr: Do you still Farage: You're just not interested are you? Marr: Do you still feel uncomfortable with... Farage: You are just Marr:  foreign languages being spoken on the train? Farage: ...not interested are you. Let's talk about democracy, let's talk about trust, let's talk about competence in politics. This. Is. Ludicrous. Marr: Do you still feel that people with HIV shouldn't be allowed into this country? Farage: Do I think the National Health Service is there for British people? Yes I absolutely do. Marr: So you still do. Do you Farage: This is absolutely ludicrous. I've never in my life seen a more ridiculous interview than this. You are not prepared to talk about what is going on in this country today. You're in denial, the BBC's in denial, the Tory and Labour Parties are in denial. I think you're all in for a bigger surprise on Thursday week Marr: We have talked about it Farage:  than you can imagine. Marr: We have talked about it. Do you still admire Vladimir Putin? He said he didn't 'admire' Russian President Vladimir Putin as a person Farage: No. I've never admired Vladimir Putin. Marr: You, Well you asked which current... Farage: I said I wouldn't like to live in his country Marr: Asked which world leader you most admired you told GQ.. Farage: This is absolute nonsense. Marr:  magazine 'as an operator but not as a human being, I would say Putin' Farage: Well there you are Marr: 'The way he played the whole'  Farage: Well there you are Marr:  'Syria thing' Farage: Well there you are. Not as a human being. I don't like him as a human being. What is your question? What is the relevance of this? Marr: I'm trying to work out where you are and where the Brexit Party which wants to destroy the political system is going. Farage: You haven't asked about a single other member of the Brexit Party, you haven't commented on the fact we have the most diverse list of candidates of any party fighting in this election. Marr: From the Revolutionary Communist Party right through to the Right Farage: Well that's worth discussing isn't it. How have we managed to get Left and Right together. These things are really interesting to your viewers. Not trawling back through a series of quotes from years ago. Marr: Do you still want to slash the size of the state? Farage: Absolutely. I want people to have more freedom. Absolutely, and particularly, 5.4 million people out there, acting as sole traders, running small businesses, and there's nobody in government on their side. Let's make their lives easier. They'll create more jobs, pay more taxes, and it'll be good for our country. Advertisement

The ill-tempered interview came as two polls showed the Brexit Party on course for a thumping win at the European elections on May 23 - and one even put Farage's team ahead of the Tories in a theoretical General Election.

Mr Farage said this morning the country had been 'betrayed' by both Tory and Labour politicians.

Arguing the only way now to deliver the 'democratic will of the people' was to leave on WTO terms - a no deal Brexit - he claimed the EU leaders would soon be 'banging our door down to have a sensible tariff free deal' afterwards, and dismissed potential economic fallout as 'short term disruption' akin to moving house.

For several minutes the two men talked across each other as Mr Marr asked Mr Farage whether he stood by past statement and Mr Farage accused the BBC of being in denial

Mr Farage said: 'This is our chance to break free of failing political project, to open ourselves up to the rest of the world, to get some self-confidence back in who we are as a country.

'And the problem is this: the country very clearly wants us to stand up and be who we are.

'Our political class do not believe in Britain. they simply don't think we're good enough to run our own affairs.'

He also insisted that should the Brexit Party win the European elections as they are widely predicted to do, he would insist on its new MEPs being included in the government's Brexit negotiating team, to 'knock some sense into them'.

New data from Opinium predicts the Brexit Party will earn more votes than the Labour Party and the Tories combined in the European elections

Asked why in 2016 he did not advocate no deal, Brexit Party leader Nigel Farage said it was 'because it was obvious that we could do a free trade deal'.

He told Andrew Marr: 'The problem is the Prime Minister never asked for it so we finished up in the mess that we're in.'

He added: 'She chose to go for this close and special partnership. Basically right from the start she was happy for us to be kept very close to the customs union. So where we are now, the only way the democratic will of the people can be delivered is to leave on a WTO deal.'

He went on: 'In the referendum itself, I was the one that coined the phrase no deal is better than a bad deal.'

The Prime Minister, he argued, 'has wilfully deceived us', adding: 'What she's put to Parliament three times isn't a deal, it's a new European Treaty. I didn't spend 25 years campaigning to leave the EU to sign up to a new treaty.'

'I didn't spend 25 years campaigning to leave the EU to sign up to a new treaty', Mr Farage said

An Opinium poll in the Observer today found the Brexit Party will hoover up 34 per cent of the vote in the European elections, and put Labour on 21 per cent and the Tories in a miserable fourth place with 11 per cent

An even more extraordinary poll in the Sunday Telegraph said for the first time the Brexit Party would beat the Tories in a General Election.

The ComRes survey of voting intentions put Brexit on 21 per cent to the Conservatives' 20, which would see Farage's team win 49 seats, becoming the UK's second biggest party.

The polls follow calamitous council elections, where Mrs May oversaw the loss of nearly 1,300 Tory councillors, and comes ahead of a predicted wipeout in the European elections in the next fortnight.

A separate poll put Labour on 27% for a General Election, followed by the Brexit Party on 20% - ahead of the Tories by 1%

The poll shows the Conservatives would lose 46 seats to the Brexit Party, dethroning Defence Secretary Penny Mordaunt, Health Secretary Matt Hancock and party chairman Brandon Lewis.

And Labour would take the scalps of Boris Johnson, Iain Duncan Smith and Sir Graham Brady, the chairman of the 1922 committee, with the Tories retaining support from less than half of those who voted for them in 2017.

Jeremy Corbyn would be able to lead a minority government with 27% support, leaving the Brexit Party with 20% and the Conservatives 19% support, according to the poll commissioned by Brexit Express.

Andrew Hawkins, the chairman of ComRes, described the poll as a 'disaster', adding: 'If the Conservative leadership contenders are not careful, there will be no party for them to lead.'

The shocking figures will further heighten the panic spreading among Tory members staring electoral annihilation in the face.

More than 600 Tory association chairmen, councillors, donors and activists wrote to the Telegraph to warn that if Mrs May cannot deliver a clean exit, MPs must replace her urgently or 'risk disaster'.

They wrote: 'Voters could not be clearer in saying how angry and betrayed they feel  Conservative voters most of all.

'The damage that this is doing to party and country is incalculable.'

This morning in the Sunday Telegraph Nigel Farage suggested the party might even sink without trace, to be replaced by the Brexit Party.

He said: 'What I'm hearing is that they're coming pretty close, the Cabinet, to agreeing some form of second referendum.

'I'll tell you what, if that's really what they decide to do, then the Brexit Party will replace the Conservative Party. And I mean it.'

He added: 'They've been going 200 years and people could say, 'Nigel you're just talking moonshine here', but I genuinely think if ever there was a moment, like 1921, where the liberals... just disappear, we are at a moment in which that could happen to the Conservative Party as we currently know it.'

The Tory Party currently has around 124,000 members, but people have been signing up to the Brexit Party in their thousands since its launch and membership had reached 85,000 a week ago according to Mr Farage.

Mr Farage told the paper: 'I would think by the end of this campaign we'll be a lot bigger than the Conservative Party.'

Brexit Secretary Stephen Barclay has warned unless UK politicians reach a deal before October, the EU could decide not to grant a further extension leaving a choice between no deal and no Brexit

Earlier Brexit Secretary Stephen Barclay warned the country is in danger of 'sleepwalking' into staying in the EU, and called on fellow politicians to 'roll up their sleeves' and deliver Brexit - or risk the EU not granting another extension in October if a deal is not done.

Mr Barclay told The Sun: 'The message from Brussels is clear  if Britain has not left the EU by 31 October we will be faced with a stark choice: a no deal Brexit or no Brexit at all.

'We are at real risk of sleepwalking into remaining in the EU.

'And the reality is - it won't be in Parliament's gift to extend the time further.

'The EU will decide it for us. If we don't roll up our shirt sleeves and get on and pass the deal we risk the EU understandably losing patience and refusing any further time.'
Line of Duty's creators have been criticised for not hiring any black, asian or mixed crew after a photo of the entirely white team was posted on Twitter.

A photo thanking the cast and crew of BBC's Line of Duty, which racked up nine million viewers for Sunday's finale, was slammed by diversity campaigners.

Despite 56 members of the cast and crew posing for a photo on the show's set in Northern Ireland, no one appears to be from an ethnic minority background.

This photo thanking the cast and crew of BBC's Line of Duty, which racked up nine million viewers on last Sunday's finale, has been criticised by diversity campaigners

Marverine Cole, a TV producer and Channel 5 newsreader, led the shocked reaction as those who saw the picture realised the crew were all white.

She tweeted: 'I love this show. I truly do. But is this really the entire crew for this show?! If so why weren't you able to source any black or Asian or mixed crew World Production [the show's maker]?

'There are swathes of trained BAME [black, Asian, minority ethnic] production crew in this country.'

Marverine Cole, a TV producer and Channel 5 newsreader, led the shocked reaction as those who saw the picture quickly realised the lack of diversity

DandI, which campaigns for greater diversity, said it was 'great to see the crew behind Line of Duty but not the best example of diversity and inclusion.'

Novelist Bernardine Evaristo said on Twitter: 'Good to see diversity in the BBC is alive and well with a crew that's 85 per male and 100 per cent white.'

And lawyer and activist Dr Shola Mos-Shogbamimu said: 'Why are there only white people & no BAME in the cast/crew pic? In age of diversity and inclusion equality in opportunities and outcomes, this line up of Line Of Duty is disappointing.'

The BBC prides itself on its diversity and has been criticised in the past for advertising positions within the organisation to solely black, Asian, mixed ethnicity, or lower socio-economic applicants.

Lawyer and activist Dr Shola Mos-Shogbamimu said: 'Why are there only white people & no BAME in the cast/crew pic? In age of diversity and inclusion equality in opportunities and outcomes, this line up of Line Of Duty is disappointing'

In Line of Duty, out of a cast list of 23 key characters, five are from BAME backgrounds.

And a TV producer said filming in Northern Ireland could have 'something to do' with the absence of diversity.

They defended the show's creator Jed Mercurio saying: 'I think it's unfair and Jed has done a lot to promote minorities in different ways.

'The onscreen use of minorities is good. Furthermore it may have something to do with the fact that they shoot it in Northern Ireland.'

Detective Chief Inspector Roz Huntley played by Thandie Newton in series four

Lennie James as DCI Tony Gates appeared in episode one of Line of Duty. Gates led serious crime unit TO-20

Maya Sondhi as Maneet Bindra appeared in series three until five. ut of a cast list of 23 key characters, five are from BAME backgrounds

The picture was posted to the Line of Duty Twitter page to thank the cast and crew for their work 'ahead of Sunday's final episode'

Deborah Williams, chief executive of the Creative Diversity Network, told the Express diversity was about more than hiring BAME crew but admitted there was a problem.

She said: 'Diversity isn't just about race: being gay, disabled, trans or religious might not be obvious from just looking at a photograph.

'Our monitoring shows while on-screen roles by-and-large represent the diversity of the UK population, there is a lot more work to do to ensure people who make programmes are equally representative.'

Novelist Bernardine Evaristo Tweeted: 'Good to see diversity in the BBC is alive and well with a crew that's 85 per male and 100 per cent white'

The Creative Diversity Network are funded by the UK's major broadcasters, including the BBC, to promote and celebrate diversity.

A BBC spokesman said: 'The BBC is committed to improving diversity both on and off screen.

'This includes reflecting the diversity of the UK and its nations and regions. Line of Duty is filmed in Northern Ireland.'
The astounding moment a group of militant vegans stormed the streets and ranted about animal cruelty in front of bewildered restaurant-goers has been captured on camera.

Around 22 animal rights activists from the group Direct Action Everywhere took to the streets of Leederville, a suburb of Perth, on Saturday evening and confronted bemused diners with disturbing animal cruelty footage and placards.

While some of the group stood silently with signs about animal slaughter other activists began preaching at groups of people enjoying dinner.

One female activist (pictured) began preaching at restaurant-goers as they tried to continue eating their food

'Male calves are slaughtered as young as six weeks old simply because they don't produce milk,' one female activist said.

'Chicks are blended alive in a macerator or gassed to death simply because they don't produce eggs.

'Animals don't want better lives they want freedom. We have a choice the animals don't,' she concluded.

The group, who were also armed with televisions, were led by self-professed activist James Warden who said the group planned to use the televisions to screen the film Dominion.

They previously stormed a McDonald's in Perth in September and left a dead piglet on the counter.

Around 22 animal rights activists (pictured) from the group Direct Action Everywhere took to the streets of Leederville on Saturday evening and confronted bemused diners with disturbing animal cruelty footage and placards

'On the screens we'll be playing the Dominion documentary that highlights the inherent cruelty of the industry, speciesism. So that's all we're trying to project,' Mr Warden told 9News.

Dominion is a documentary film which examines the exploitation of animals and mainly focuses on how humans use animals for food.

The group, who are renowned for live-streaming protests, caught the attention of influential people in the state - but not necessarily for the right reasons.

Premier of Western Australia Mark McGowan said by holding such public protests, the activists were actually driving people away from their cause.

'It's just stupid. I'd encourage them, I'd tell them don't do it, all you do is drive people away from your cause in the first place. If they want to make a stand go and run for public office,' he said.

The group's latest public outing comes shortly after a number of its members appeared in court.

Some members of the group are alleged to trespassed in a farm in Brunswick allegedly to film the animals.

The vegan activist group has also recently held a similar protest in nearby Northbridge.
NRL star Cody Walker has broken down while remembering his late mother.

The Rabbitohs' five-eight received the devastating call in May 2018 that his mother, Linda May Stewart, had suffered a heart attack.

He told Nine's Sunday Kick-Off that he was cooking dinner for his children while his partner Nellie was upstairs when he got a call and he knew 'something wasn't right'.

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NRL star Cody Walker (pictured left with his mother) has broken down while remembering his late mother

He accidentally hung-up on the person because he was so distressed.

'Nellie ran downstairs and she was sort of screaming "what?" and I just couldn't talk. So, Nellie rang back and it was sort of said that mum was having some sort of heart attack and that we needed to get down there straight away,' he told the program.

After dropping their children off at Nellie's mother's home they started to drive down to where his mother was.

They got a second phone call when they were driving through Brighton, in Sydney's south, to let them know that Lindy had passed away.

He said growing up his mother had been the biggest influence in his life and was always there to provide support for him - even if that meant showing up at his home before a physio appointment.

'Just anything that was ever needed I could count on her, she was my counsellor, my everything. Whatever needed to be done it was always, ring her, she was the first person Id always ring,' he said.

The Rabbitohs' five-eight received the devastating call in May 2018 that his mother, Linda May Stewart (right), had suffered a heart attack. Pictured, left, paying tribute to her

He told Sunday Kick-Off that his partner Nellie (pictured) had rushed down the stairs and had to take over the call because he was so distressed

After his mother's death the Origin hopeful played in the team's next game against the Newcastle Knights where he scored a try and dedicated it to her, kissing his wrist in her honour.

He wrote in an Instagram post at the time that he wouldn't have been able to take the field if it wasn't for his partner, two sons, family and the club.

'It definitely means a lot,' he wrote in the social media post.

He said he is now passing on the messages she taught him onto his sons so that his mother's legacy lives on

'Without you all I would not have been able to take the field in honour of my angel.

'I hope you were smiling over everyone last night I love you so much mum may you rest in peace.'

He said he is now passing on the messages she taught him onto his sons so that his mother's legacy lives on.

The Rabbitohs played the North Queensland Cowboys on Mothers' Day, where the team triumphed by 16 points.
Having previously been identified to be in one of four locations, a security expert has claimed that the world's most wanted man is in a remote region of Eastern Afghanistan.

ISIS leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi's location was narrowed down to just four locations after the terrorist group released a propaganda video featuring him for the first time in five years.

Believed to have fled his hide-out in either, Syria or Iraq - both former ISIS strongholds - Zaid Hamid, a founding member of the BrassTacks threat analysis think tank said he could already be in Afghanistan.

ISIS leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi's location has been narrowed down to just four locations after the terrorist group released a propaganda video featuring him (pictured)

The veteran of the Afghan-Soviet war tweeted questioning the decor of the room the terrorist was sitting in: 'This is a grab from the latest video of ISIS leader Baghdadi.

'Note the style of the bedding & the pillows....Is he already in Afghanistan?'

Iraqi prime minister Adel Abdel Mahdi, speaking earlier this month, said the purported appearance by the jihadist group's elusive supremo showed him in what appeared to be a 'very simple and isolated' location.

Mahdi did not confirm which country al-Baghdadi was in, but Iraqi security adviser Hisham al-Hashemi said officials had narrowed his whereabouts from 17 to a possible four locations.

al-Baghdadi's last known shown in northern Iraq with his possible location in Afghanistan shown on the right. He would have faced a perilous journey through Iran

Iraqi prime minister Adel Abdel Mahdi cautioned that IS 'will try to rebuild trust among its fighters, will try to launch further operations' like the Sri Lanka April 21 attacks which killed more than 250 people

Neither Mahdi or al-Hashemi specified a location but Hamid thinks he has chosen the destination favoured by terrorists fleeing the destroyed caliphate in Syria and Iraq - a region known as Islamic State- Khorasan Province, or simply IS-KP.

However, Hamid's observation is weakened by the factor of the route the terror leader would have to take to Afghanistan, a perilous traipse through the breadth of Shiite-dominated Iran.

Husham al-Hashmi also believes al-Baghdadi is still Syria or Iraq having tracked him for almost a year alongside a special cell formed with US Special Operations Command.

al-Baghdadi, delivering a sermon at a mosque in Iraq during his first public appearance, in 2014

Speaking with the Rudaw news outlet, Hashmi said: 'They have up to now succeeded in eliminating 13 out of 17 possible locations.'

The possible locations are the deserts of Iraqs western Anbar, Iraqs Wadi Houran  a riverbed in Anbar or in Syrias mid-east Homs desert.

The group lost its remaining territory in the Syrian town of Baghouz in March, but Mahdi warned the so-called Islamic State 'has not completely disappeared but suffered painful blows'.

He cautioned that IS 'will try to rebuild trust among its fighters, will try to launch further operations' like the Sri Lanka April 21 attacks which killed more than 250 people.

Zaid Hamid, a founding member of the BrassTacks threat analysis think tank said al-Baghdadi could already be in Afghanistan

'Daesh was broken, but if little cells are left, it could reactivate and resurface and commit painful attacks,' he added, according to interpreted remarks.

Similarly, German chancellor Angela Merkel said the video was a sign that 'we will remain occupied for some time to come with the question of how IS can finally be defeated'.

The speaker in the 18-minute video, a man with a long grey beard that appeared dyed with henna, sat in a room with a Kalashnikov assault rifle leaning against the wall behind him.

He was identified as Baghdadi by both SITE, which tracks IS activity, and Hisham al-Hashemi.

Meanwhile, a French IT expert said Baghdadi took a risk in broadcasting the video, but added that IS probably has specialists able to cover any tracks.

'Daesh has a specialist cyber brigade, they're being tracked by security services. They know how to use multiple filters before distributing something,' said Gregoire Pouget of cybersecurity NGO Nothing2Hide.

'They are not idiots, these masking tools are easy to use.'
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TV presenter Konnie Huq has warned of the 'impending Armageddon' of climate change at a rally that brought hundreds of protest to central London today.

Ms Huq told the crowds that 'climate change that is going to get us all, according to climate scientists, in 11 years', and that is was time for adults to take responsibility.

She had joined in a march by Mothers Rise Up and Extinction Rebellion that went from Hyde Park Corner to Parliament Square outside Westminster.

Extinction Rebellion activists today also hit the streets of Paris by pouring fake blood across the steps of the Trocadero palace and then lying on the floor.

The protesters bathed in the fake red blood and threw flowers on the ground around them. Protesters later held up banners in front of the Eiffel Tower during the demonstrations in central Paris today.

Climate campaigners Extinction Rebellion march alongside organisers Mothers Rise Up from Hyde Park to Parliament Square demanding the Government take immediate, drastic action for a just transition to sustainable way of life on International Mother's Day

It is the first large rally in the capital since groups of protestors brought several London landmarks to a standstill for weeks, including Waterloo Bridge, Oxford Circus, Parliament Square and Marble Arch

Former Blue Peter presenter Konnie Huq addressed protestors at the rally, warning of the threat of an 'impending Armageddon' by climate change and slamming adults for not taking responsibility

Activists bring large model globes on the route between Hyde Park Corner and Parliament. A sign held by a protestor on the march reads: 'Mother earth needs you'

In London Ms Huq was joined by comedian Shappi Khorsandi and lawyer and activist Farhana Yamin to address the crowds.

She told the crowds that the march had been organised by mothers in between 'changing nappies and dropping children off'.

In a blunt speech she criticised adults and said young protestors - who took control of several London landmarks last month - had put them 'to shame'.

'The reason we are here is because of the youth strikes - the young people have been putting us to shame and it's time for us adults to take responsibility.'

She told a Sky News reporter: 'It's just to make a stand against the impending Armageddon that is climate change that is going to get us all, according to climate scientists, in 11 years'

Protestors in Paris poured fake blood on the Palais du Trocadero esplanade, which sits near the banks of the River Seine, opposite the Eiffel Tower, during the protest to highlight the decline of biodiversity.

Members of the action group Extinction Rebellion (XR) gather after spilling fake blood on the Trocadero esplanade during a demonstration today

A member of the action group Extinction Rebellion lying on the ground in fake blood surrounded by flowers

Extinction Rebellion held banners in front of the Eiffel Tower after pouring fake blood on the nearby Palais du Trocadero

A member of the action group Extinction Rebellion lying on the ground in fake blood surrounded by flowers during the protest outside the Trocadero

Dressed in black, the protesters, mostly young people, had around 65 gallons (300 litres) of red liquid, made from a mixture of food colouring and cornflour.

They dumped their cans in front of many onlookers at the popular tourist spot with police present in the area.

Holding large green banners saying 'Extinction Rebellion' and a black banner saying 'Stop the 6th mass extinction of species', they gathered for several minutes in silence.

On activist told French media: 'It's the blood of humans, animals that die today and will die tomorrow.'

After half-an-hour the protest was over and the demonstrators began cleaning the dye off the steps.

Elsewhere in France six climate activists were arrested by police after putting up a banner reading 'Chirac [former French president Jacques Chirac] come back' on scaffolding covering a building on Place de Bourse in Bordeaux.

After tipping the around 65 gallons (300 litres) of red liquid, made from a mixture of food colouring and cornflour, the demonstrators cleaned the dye off the stone steps

Climate change activists spilling fake blood on the steps of the Trocadero esplanade during a demonstration to alert on the state of decline of biodiversity

Extinction Rebellion took to the streets of Paris after two weeks after shutting down areas of central London last month

Climate protesters at the Trocadero palace holding a banner that says 'Stop the 6th mass extinction of species'

After protesting at the Trocadero palace (pictured) for around half-an-hour the demonstrators went to the Eiffel Tower on the other side the of the River Seine

The banner on the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, which is a popular tourist site, is thought to be a reference to Chirac's famous speech at the 2002 Earth Summit Johannesburg, South Africa, in which he said: 'Our house burns and we look elsewhere.'

Similar previous Extinction Rebellion protests brought two week's of chaos to the streets of London with their direct action, which included shutting down major roads, chaining themselves to vehicles and buildings.

The Met had to deploy more than 10,000 officers last month as protesters caused carnage in Oxford Street, on Waterloo Bridge, in Parliament Square, outside the Bank of England and at Canary Wharf tube station.

In a landmark report last week, the United Nations warned that a million of Earth's estimated eight million species are at risk of extinction.

The XR campaign group was set up in Britain last year by academics and has become one of the world's fastest-growing environmental movements.

It advocates the use of non-violent acts of civil disobedience to force governments to declare a climate and ecological emergency, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and halt biodiversity loss.

Fire fighters are at work on a fire truck ladder to remove a banner reading '[Jacques] Chirac come back', put up by the climate activists on the Place de Bourse in Bordeaux in southwestern France today
The Brexit Secretary has warned the country is in danger of 'sleepwalking' into staying in the EU.

Stephen Barclay called on fellow politicians to 'roll up their sleeves' and deliver Brexit - or risk the EU not granting another extension in October if a deal is not done.

He is ready for a backlash from Remainer Cabinet colleagues when he presents proposals in the coming days for ramping up No Deal exit planning, as Nigel Farage threatened he would insist on Brexit Party MEPs joining the UK's negotiating team.

Mr Barclay told The Sun: 'The message from Brussels is clear  if Britain has not left the EU by 31 October we will be faced with a stark choice: a no deal Brexit or no Brexit at all.

'We are at real risk of sleepwalking into remaining in the EU.

Secretary of State for Exiting the European Union Stephen Barclay arrives at Downing Street

And the reality is - it wont be in Parliaments gift to extend the time further.

'The EU will decide it for us. If we don't roll up our shirt sleeves and get on and pass the deal we risk the EU understandably losing patience and refusing any further time.'

He went on: 'That is why I believe it would be inexcusable for the Government to not use the coming months to continue to prepare for No Deal.'

He said the Prime Minister has been advised to accelerate No Deal planning as a key negotiating tactic ahead of the October deadline.

It comes as Nigel Farage - whose Brexit Party is on course to win this month's European elections said he would insist Brexit Party MEPs join the government's negotiating team to knock heads together'.

Mr Farage has argued a No Deal Brexit is the only way to respect the will of the people as expressed in the 2016 referendum.

Nigel Farage clashed with Andrew Marr on the BBC this morning, in an interview in which he warned he would insist on Brexit Party MEPs, who are in favour of a No Deal Brexit, joining government negotiators

But Mr Barclay told the paper the Commons might revoke Britain's departure from the EU altogether rather than vote to leave on WTO terms.

He said: 'Every MP is now faced with a tough choice  vote for a deal or head towards a showdown in October where we may lose Brexit together.'

Brexit Secretary Stephen Barclay said the decision might be taken out of the UK's hands

Senior Tory and Labour politicians are set to meet again tomorrow to discuss the customs arrangement, workers' rights and environment protections, in hopes of finding a deal which they believe can pass the House of Commons.

If they can strike a compromise Mrs May and Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn will then meet.

But former PM Tony Blair warned in a Sky interview this morning there was 'no point' in reaching a Brexit compromise that was unacceptable to Brexiteers.

He called for a deal to be put to a 'confirmatory' second referendum, going so far as to advise Labour voters to consider voting for an 'avowedly' Remain party if they could not back Labour.
Google's bias towards left-wing media outlets has been laid bare by an algorithm which detected that it favors sites including CNN and The New York Times over others.

According to data compiled by researchers from Northwestern University, the search engine promoted those sites over others repeatedly in November 2017.

Of the 6,302 articles that appeared in Google's 'top stories' page that month after a term was searched, more than 10 percent were by CNN.

The New York Times was the second most favored and accounted for 6.5 percent of articles. The Washington Post was third with 5.6 percent.

By contrast, Fox News, the most right-wing outlet in mainstream media, was the source of just three percent of the stories which appeared.

Of the 6,302 articles that appeared in Google's 'top stories' page that month after a term was searched, more than 10 percent were by CNN

Nearly all (86 percent) of the stories came from just 20 sources and of them, 62 percent were considered to be left-leaning.

The research sheds new light on the unprecedented power the search engine has in influencing the external traffic to news sites, a hot topic in the worlds of media and politics given Facebook's recently reduced output.

For example, the researchers found that CNN got a 24 percent bump in traffic as a result of having its stories featured in the 'Top Stories' box.

The most featured sources, in order, were CNN, The New York Times, The Washington Post, Fox News, BBC, USA Today, LA Times, The Guardian, Politico, ABC News, CBS News, NPR, NBC News, CNBC, Reuters, Huffington Post, The Verge, Al Jazeera, The Hill and People.

For some stories there was a shortage of sources but a search for Rex Tillerson, the former Secretary of State, turfed up stories from 38 sources.

Despite the plethora of sources, 75 percent of the promoted stories about Tillerson came from The New York Times and CNN, the researchers found.

Newer articles that were only a few hours old or even less than an hour old were promoted over older ones

The data also revealed that while left-leaning sites produced more articles on any given subject (2.2 times as many as those on the right), Google's Top Stories selection seemed to inflate the difference.

'In Google Top Stories, that ratio was 3.2, indicating that the curation algorithm was slightly magnifying the left-leaning skew,' Nicholas Diakopoulos, one of the two researchers, writes in The Columbia Journalism Review.

The issue of search engine and social media bias towards media has long been a source of contention in the news industry but it became a mainstream point of concern during the 2016 election when Facebook banned right-wing media outlets that were favored by Trump supporters.

Google decides what goes into its Top Stories slot by using an algorithm which it insists is not bias

Since then, amid a crisis of allowing fake and nefarious news sites perpetuated largely by Russian bots, Facebook has announced that it will focus less on news articles and more on its users personal interactions.

The decision sent shockwaves through media outlets which had relied on the traffic Facebook sent its way and it afforded even more power to Google.

The search engine has always denied that it operates under any political bias and insists that its Top Stories are chosen by an algorithm which detects popularity.

At a congressional hearing in December last year, CEO Sundar Pichai denied that it was and sought to explain how the alogrithm works.

'I understand the frustration at seeing at negative news. What is important here is we use a robust methodology to reflect what is being said about any given topic and we try to do it objectively using a set of rubrics.

'It is in our interest to reflect what is happening out there,' he said.

While it may not deliberately manipulate results to favor left-wing outlets, the result is that it undoubtedly promotes more left-of-center content to its millions of users.

A spokesman for the company said: 'We have no insight into the methodology these researchers used. Other researchers have found exactly the opposite.

'The fact is that like Google search and Google News, our top stories feature has absolutely no signal for a story's political point of view and simply reflects the overall corpus of news and information on the web.'
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Soaring temperatures will see the UK bask in glorious heat this week, with spring sunshine bringing in fewer showers and highs of 66F today.

Following a cold and wet start to the month, the country can expect to be gifted with five days of sun, with areas such as Aviemore and the Moray Firth in Scotland on course to record its hottest day of the year so far.

As sun bathers break out their sunglasses and head to the parks and beaches, much of Britain will see highs of 66F (19C) today as a high pressure system from the Atlantic sweeps across the country.

The rising temperatures will continue to climb as the week progresses, with highs of 73F to 75F expected to arrive to the country by Wednesday.

Following a dry start to Sunday, Britain will see long spells of sunshine across Northern Ireland, Scotland and England, with only a few pockets of frost in northern areas of the country and possible high cloud.

The theme will continue for the rest of the week, with Northern England and Scotland expected to see the highest temperatures in the country.

People gather on the beach at Lyme Regis in West Dorset as temperatures continue to soar following a wet and cold start to the month

A man water skiis on the Wake Park Lake in Peterborough today as the UK waves goodbye to the recent cold weather and welcomes in the sunshine

RNLI lifeguards take to the sea in Bridlington and soak up the sun today as a high pressure system from the Atlantic sweeps across the country

Siblings Kai, 9, and Evie Kelly, 11, run along the sand at Blackpool beach today as the country braces itself for five days of glorious sunshine

Following a cold start to the month, runners take to the street to take part in the 2019 Blackpool 10k along Blackpool promenade

Two people sit on a bench and soak up the sun at Sudeley Castle, in the Cotswolds during a day of heat and sunshine

Craig Snell of the Met Office said:'If you are lucky enough to have the week off, Scotland is going to be warm and very sunny this week.

'It's a huge improvement on what we have had in May so far and will make places in England seem distinctly chilly.'

While Scotland will enjoy temperatures sizzling in the mid-70's Fahrenheit, London and the Home Counties will have to get by in the low 60's.

The pleasant weather has been caused after spectacular storms in the United States forced a kink in the jetsteam- the ribbon of air high in the atmosphere which effectively determines our weather.

This change has allowed an area of high pressure to become anchored over Scotland, drawing warm weather up from Iberia.

Mr Snell of the Met Office added:'It is looking like a good chunk of Scotland will see temperatures increase day-on-day this week.

Sam Kelly, 3, dips his feet in the water and cools off on Blackpool beach today as the UK braces itself for five days of sunshine and fewer showers

An RNLI Lifeguard in Bridlington lies on her surf board and basks in the glorious sun as warm weather arrives to the country

A sailing boat and jet skiers enjoy the hot weather near Bridlington, as temperatures continue to soar across the country

Canoeists paddle on the River Thames as London wakes up to a bright and sunny day today. The pleasant weather is expected to last for the next five days

Canoeists paddle on the River Thames today as Britain gears up to experience long spells of sunshine across Northern Ireland, Scotland and England

A tourist boat displaying a pirate flag sails along the sea at a beach in Bridlington as temperatures rise throughout the country

The first osprey chick of the season hatches at the Scottish Wildlife Trust's Loch of the Lowes Wildlife Reserve on Saturday

'The sunshine we are seeing today is what we can expect through to the latter part of the week.

'Even eastern coastal spots which would normally feel a bit cooler will share in the higher temperatures.

'It's going to be a nice spell of weather, typical of what May normally produces in Scotland.

'Of course, it always comes with its hazards. We expect pollen levels to be high to moderate, which is bad news for sufferers of hay fever.

'And UV levels are going to be high as well, so people should take sensible precautions in the sunshine.'

The Moray Firth and Aviemore are forecast to produce the country's highest temperatures, 73-75F (23C or 24C) possible by Wednesday.

Cities like Glasgow and Edinburgh could still bask in 70F (21C), which should be enough to tempt office workers into parks and squares for their lunch time sandwich.

However by Friday, the weather is expected to change once again bringing in the risk of showers.

Signalling the arrival of spring, yesterday, the first osprey chick of the season was seen hatching by staff at the Scottish Wildlife Trust's Loch of the Lowes Wildlife Reserve.
Parents of a seven-year-old boy who lost part of his pinky finger in a toilet door have slammed his school after it was revealed they had no first aider.

Rhys Pringles lost the tip of his finger, including the nail, when he got it caught in a toilet door at Harestanes Primary School in Kirkintilloch, East Dunbartonshire.

And despite profuse bleeding staff asked another pupil to take him to the office before it was wrapped in a gauze, his father Steve Stenhouse-don says.

Rhys Pringles lost the tip of his finger, including the nail, when he got it caught in a toilet door at Harestanes Primary School in Kirkintilloch, East Dunbartonshire

The 45-year-old was then kept waiting for ten minutes while the tip of his son's finger was found on the toilet floor and put in tissue in a fridge instead of on ice.

This failure to move quickly to put the finger in ice meant it could not be reattached when his father rushed him to Stobhill Hospital, Glasgow, before surgery at the Royal Hospital for Children.

Steve said: 'I could hear him crying. I then went in and noticed he was chalk white, he was shocked.

Rhys' furious mum, Arlene Stenhouse-don, 36, says her son's finger might have been saved had staff been first aid trained

'They had a stupid gauze wrapped around the side of his fingers. They didn't even put a plaster on it or put his finger in ice.'

Rhys' furious mum, Arlene Stenhouse-don, 36, says her son's finger might have been saved had staff been first aid trained.

Mrs Stenhouse-don, who works as a carer, said: 'His dad went straight to the school and he was kept waiting for ten minutes until he could see Rhys.

'We had to ask the school about the severed digit. The teachers had to look for it and found it on the floor in the toilet.

'We went back to the school and my father, who is a retired policeman, asked if they had put it on ice but they had just wrapped it in tissue and put it in the fridge.

This failure to move quickly to put the finger in ice meant it could not be reattached when his father rushed him to Stobhill Hospital, Glasgow, before surgery at the Royal Hospital for Children

'We are left wondering if the severed part had got to the hospital on time they might have been able to save it.'

Mrs Stenhouse-don says she has since had a meeting with the headteacher and claims she was told no one in the school, which has around 200 children, has first aid knowledge.

She added: 'The school say they never noticed Rhys' finger was severed. I don't how they can say this.'

The accident happened during the lunch period on Monday, April 29.

Arlene added: 'Rhys ran to a member of staff in the playground after the accident.

Despite losing the entire tip of his pinky finger staff sent him to the office and called his parents instead of an ambulance

'I was horrified when I found out a P7 pupil was asked to take him to the office. An ambulance should have been called. There must have been blood everywhere.

'Instead, they sat him down and put a tissue on it. The school then called us.'

Depute Chief Executive, Education, People & Business, Ann Davie, said: 'We are very sorry that this injury occurred and for the distress caused to Rhys and his family.

'We are currently carrying out an investigation into the circumstances of the accident and the concerns raised by the family and will take the appropriate action once the investigation is complete.'
An Australian woman flew to Zimbabwe to meet what she thought were her biological parents for the first time - but her new family were not what they seemed.

Abigail Prangs, 36, was adopted by an Australian couple after being dumped by the side of a road in the capital city Harare as a newborn.

After an emotional and draining search for her birth family, Ms Prangs was led to believe that she was snatched by a midwife who told her mother she was stillborn.

Initial DNA test results showed Ms Prangs was the daughter of Edna and Stanford Kamonere, from near Harare, who have 12 other children.

Edna said that she had given birth to twins but one of the babies mysteriously vanished and she was told by a nurse that the infant had died.

An emotional reunion was filmed for Sunday Night True Stories and Ms Prangs was thrilled to be finally meeting her birth parents.

But in a bizarre twist two further DNA tests showed that Edna and Stanford were not actually Ms Prangs' mother and father but revealed instead that she was their niece.

Scroll down for video.

Zimbabwe-born Abigail Prangs, who was adopted by an Australian couple when she was ditched as a baby, met who she thought were her biological parents on a trip to Zimbabwe

Noticing a strong family resemblance, Ms Prangs approached an aunt called Elizabeth only for her to be whisked away in a van.

Ms Prangs suspects she uncovered a dark family secret after learning Elizabeth would have given birth aged just 14, if she was in fact her biological mother.

It was an unsettling turn of events for the mother-of-four, from the Sunshine Coast, who has been searching for her birth family for years.

Although she was adopted as a baby by Australians Mike and Kathy Prangs she never stopped wondering about her African roots.

She started her journey to reconnect with her long lost blood family, and spent countless nights researching adoption sites, newspapers and social media.

She even managed to find the policeman who found her crying, wrapped in a blanket on the side of the road and he took her back to the local hospital all those years ago.

After getting her hands on the birth registry from Harare Hospital from the day she was born, Ms Prangs tracks down Edna Kamonere.

Ms Kamonere said she gave birth to twins on the same day Ms Prangs was born but one of them was a stillborn and the baby's 'body' was immediately taken from her by a midwife.

The timing and details of Edna's story matched what Ms Prangs knows about her own start to life.

DNA tests taken by a local Zimbabwean company showed that of one of Edna's daughters, Lorraine, is in fact Ms Prangs' sister.

Ms Prangs relief that she was not dumped as a baby after all is clear.

'I'm complete now, I had this hole of not knowing who or where I was from,' she said.

After initial DNA results proved to be false Ms Prangs still does not know who her birth mother is

The TV footage showed Ms Prangs taking her husband Ty Hill and four children Ama'rhi, Ziah, Koko and Jeriah to Zimbabwe to meet her new family.

As they arrived in the small village and walked towards Edna and Standford, hundreds of local villagers watched on and cheered.

However, as Ms Prangs connected with her new family there came some shocking news.

Just days after her emotional return to Zimbabwe, fresh DNA results from follow-up testing shows that Edna was not her mother.

Ms Prangs broke down in tears as she is shown the latest results which reveal there was a zero per cent chance Edna was her mother.

She became increasingly distraught, and asked how Lorraine could be her sister if Edna wasn't her biological mother.

Ms Prang's next step was to confront the man behind the Zimbabwe-based Global DNA, Tinashe Mugabe.

However the meeting turned out to be futile, as Mugabe denied getting the initial DNA test results wrong, and avoided taking the blame for the heartbreaking mistake.

Ms Prangs then commissioned her own independent DNA tests which confirmed that Edna was not her mother, but that Lorraine was actually her cousin.

Devastated, Ms Prangs was then faced with the likely prospect that one of Edna's four sisters was actually her mother.

Despite being unsure of who her biological parents are, DNA results prove the Kamonere family are her blood relatives

'I'm devastated and confused and worried and... I had always wanted that family, and I thought that I had found them. So how does that work? That... That Mum isn't my mum and Lorraine is family?' she said.

Ms Prangs then confroned Edna's sister, Elizabeth, telling her that she believed she was her long lost mother.

Elizabeth would have been just 14-year-old at the time Ms Prangs was born in 1983.

Ms Prangs told her that they look very similar, and demanded answers from her in an emotional and uncomfortable confrontation.

She told Elizabeth that she understood she may be sworn to secrecy but begged her for the truth.

But just moments later, in another bizarre twist, Elizabeth was suddenly ushered onto the back of a ute that pulled up and quickly drove away - leaving Ms Prangs with no closure.

Despite the mystery remaining around her birth mother, Ms Prangs can be certain that she has found her biological family with the Kamoneres.

'I've had such a connection with them that they are family, that will never change, that relationship won't change. Not once have these guys said that I'm not family,' she said.

The Kamoneres shared her sentiments, saying nothing will take her away from them now that they had found her.
A 29-year-old man has been charged with attempted murder after allegedly stabbing a police officer in the neck with scissors at a shopping centre.

Police allege two officers were attempting to speak with a man in Inala in Brisbane's south at about 2.10pm on Sunday when he picked up a pair of scissors from a shop bench nearby.

The man swung at the officers and a male acting senior constable was struck and stabbed in the neck and shoulder area, police say.

A 29-year-old man has been charged with attempted murder after allegedly stabbing a police officer in the neck with scissors at a shopping centre in Inala in Brisbane's south

The second constable tasered the man who was momentarily incapacitated before running off.

She provided first aid to her colleague before he was treated by Queensland Ambulance Service and taken to hospital in a serious but stable condition.

Police used helicopters and the dog squad to track the 29-year-old down.

It's alleged the man threatened officers and was taken into custody after a Taser was deployed.

Two officers were attempting to speak with a man at the shopping centre at about 2.10pm on Sunday when he allegedly attacked them

Shortly after a call was made to triple zero alleging the man had demanded car keys and threatened the occupants of a house nearby at about 3.15pm.

The occupants of the house on Clipper Street in Inala were uninjured.

Police said the man wasn't known to them but they were wishing to speaking to him over another matter at the time.

Police used helicopters and the dog squad to track the 29-year-old down before they received a triple zero call from a nearby house who said the man had tried to steal their car and threatened them with a shovel

The man has been charged with one count of attempted murder, trespass, enter dwelling with intent, armed robbery, attempted armed robbery and two counts of obstruct police.

The 29-year-old is due to appear at Richlands Magistrates Court on May 13.

Police are still investigating and anyone with information on the event is encouraged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
The stepdaughter of Snowtown bodies-in-the-barrels serial killer Robert Joe Wagner has broken her silence for the first time in 20 years.

Kay Mills' mother was engaged to the convicted killer when he was arrested and found guilty of ten counts of murder in 1999.

Ms Mills, who was nine at the time, told Nine News it was confusing to watch police 'kick in the door' as she was getting ready for school.

The stepdaughter of Snowtown bodies-in-the-barrels serial killer Robert Joe Wagner (pictured) has broken her silence for the first time in 20 years

Kay Mills' (pictured) mother was engaged to the convicted killer when he was arrested and found guilty of ten counts of murder in 1999

'He was my dad and he took himself out of my life and I'm angry at him for that,' she told the program.

Wagner recently applied for a parole date to be set on his life sentence so that he could spend his last years with his 21-year-old son, who was 18 months old when he was arrested.

However that was dismissed by Justice Greg Parker on Thursday.

In his ruling, Justice Parker said the bodies-in-the-barrels murders were 'the worst crimes ever to be detected in South Australia'.

Wagner said that he would like to spend time with his now-adult son and that is why he would like a date for parole set.

He said at the time that having even having a long non-parole date period would help with his mental wellbeing.

Wagner recently applied for a parole date to be set on his life sentence so that he could spend his last years with his 21-year-old son, who was 18 months old when he was arrested

Ms Mills said that she knew that her stepfather's plea for a parole release was about her brother.

She said that while Wagner's plea for a parole date was rejected now maybe in the future he can prove himself to have changed.

'He's learnt from what he did and he now knows the impact that it had on him and his son and the lives of us and his family. He probably had changed,' she said.

Wagner is serving ten consecutive life sentences without parole for his role in the 1999 murders (pictured are three of his victims)

'I think he knows what he has done - and most people see him as a monster I just grew up with a different side of him.'

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.

She said that while Wagner's plea for a parole date was rejected now maybe in the future he can prove himself to have changed

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 ten 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.
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Ever wanted to see the prison cell where 'Joliet Jake' Blues from the 1980 classic The Blues Brothers was kept?

This might be your big chance.

For the first time since the Joliet Correctional Center opened in 1858, and closed in 2002, The Old Joliet Prison - what it's called by locals - is now open for tours.

The Washington Post went behind the scenes to show what it's included for the $20 visit and explains how Joliet went from the second-largest prison to disrepair.

The Joliet Correctional Center opened in 1858, and closed in 2002, but it is now open for 90-minute tours, which cost $20. Pictured: A cell block at the Old Joliet Prison

The Old Joliet Prison, formerly known as Joliet Correctional Center, in November 2011

The prison is famous for being one filming location of the 1980 comedy The Blues Brothers, starring Dan Akroyd (left) and John Belushi (right)

The opening scene of The Blues Brothers shows John Belushi's character 'Joliet Jake' walking out of the gate to meet his brother Elwood, played by Dan Aykroyd (pictured)

The prison was designed in a Gothic style and built by convict labor with limestone quarried on site.

By 1872, the building housed 1,239 inmates, a record number for one prison at the time.

'It literally looks like someone just got up and walked away' from the prison, Greg Peerbolte, executive director of the museum that is arranging the tours, told The Washington Post.

'The forbiddenness is definitely an asset. There's a voyeuristic aspect.'

Photographs show paint peeling from the walls and ceilings and bunk bed frames still in tact.

In fact, in one cell, a pair of shorts lies on the floor, either left behind by a former prisoner or one of the actors.

The tour, which lasts 90 minutes, begins where John Belushi's character 'Joliet Jake' walks out of the gate to meet his brother Elwood, played by Dan Aykroyd.

Peerbolte says the film, along with the Fox TV series Prison Break - which also filmed at the prison - have helped drive the majority of tourists.

The prison was designed in a Gothic style and built by convict labor with limestone quarried on site. Pictured: A scene from The Blues Brothers

By 1872, the building housed 1,239 inmates, a record number for one prison at the time. Pictured: This motif is stamped in the floor of the building that once held solitary confinement cells

Cells were four feet wide, seven feet high and seven feet long, and held an iron bunk bed frame. Pictured: One of the early cells that housed prisoners until the 1950s

Tour workers say that 200 tickets have already been booked over the summer from China, where Prison Break is a popular show. Prison Break was partially filmed here

He told The Post that 200 tickets have already been booked over the summer from China, where Prison Break is a popular show.

Peerbolte even recounted the story of a man from Italy who spoke no English, but was able to ask where Belushi's cell was.

After seeing it, the man began crying.

'[He] talked about how he'd waited his whole life to see it,' Peerbolte told the Post. 'I'm like: "You're from Rome, the cradle of civilization!"'

The Old Joliet was not quick to adapt to the times and did not have running water or toilets in the cells in 1910.

According to the Post, which refers historical Robert Sterling's book Joliet Prisons: Images in Time, showers were introduced into the cells until the 1920s.

The Old Joliet was not quick to adapt to the times and did not have running water or toilets in the cells in 1910. Pictured: A scene from The Blues Brothers

Following stops on the tour include the cells used for solitary confinement and the prison chapel (pictured)

Some areas remain closed off to tourists - including the warden's quarters - but once restored, they could be added. Pictured: The Old Joliet Prison

In the summer, prisoners bathed once a week in iron tubs and, in the winter, they bathed every two weeks.

In the summer, prisoners bathed once a week in iron tubs and, in the winter, they bathed every two weeks.

The tour takes visitors around the yard, which evens holds a preserved cell.

The cell is four feet wide, seven feet high and seven feet long, and holds an iron bunk bed frame. Next to the cell, a plaque refers to Joliet as the 'last of the Illinois medieval prisons', the Post reports.

Following stops on the tour include the cells used for solitary confinement and the prison chapel.

Some areas remain closed off to tourists - including the warden's quarters - but once restored, they could be added.

There are many other sections of the prison, such as the former warden's quarters, that remain off limits but could be a big draw for tours once they're restored.

'People lived and died here. This is a house of pain,' Steve Jones, deputy city manager and economic development manager for the City of Joliet, told the Post.

But he believe it's also an important preserver of history. 'People need to see this place.'
A woman who worked a full shift at a cafe only to be told it was an unpaid trial has been awarded an extra $3,000 to cover her legal fees.

Helen Mawhinney took a cafe in Wellington to New Zealand's Employment Relations Authority challenging her dismissal in August, 2017, after she worked an eight-hour shift only to be told afterward it was unpaid.

She was given $9,000 in compensation back in February, 2019, by Employment Relations Authority member Michele Ryan.

Helen Mawhinney (pictured) took a cafe in Wellington to New Zealand's Employment Relations Authority challenging her dismissal in August, 2017, after she worked an eight-hour shift only to be told afterward it was unpaid

Now Ms Ryan has told the company to cover Ms Mawhinney's legal costs and a reimbursement of the filing fee, according to the New Zealand Herald.

Sfizio Limited, the owner of Wadestown Kitchen near Wellington Harbour, disputed her claim, arguing the woman had agreed to participate in an an unpaid competency assessment with the aim of getting a job.

However Employment Relations Authority member Michele Ryan disagreed, finding her employer had dismissed her unfairly and failed to properly explain the situation.

She awarded Miss Mawhinney $7,000 compensation plus another $1,890 for the four-week notice period and another $119 for the work she performed on August 4, 2017.

The practice of having staff work an unpaid trial shift is widespread throughout the hospitality industry in both Australia and New Zealand.

United Voice Queensland union secretary Gary Bullock told the Gold Coast Bulletin the industry was riddled with employers willing to take advantage of job-seekers.

She was given $9,000 in compensation back in February, 2019, by Employment Relations Authority member Michele Ryan

'Hospitality workers often fall prey to unscrupulous employers.'

He said trail periods had been a longstanding practice but staff needed to be compensated fairly for the work they do.

In 2015 there was a crackdown on hospitality businesses throughout Canberra using unpaid trail shifts.

University of Adelaide Law School Professor and author of Law at Work, Rosemary Owens, told ABC at the time trailing staff for more than a few hours was unfair.

'For work in a cafe, we would say this sort of work could be assessed perhaps in a couple of hours. A period of six hours is too long.'
Brian Walden, 86, who started his career as a Labour politician, died at home in St Peter Port, Guernsey on Thursday

TV presenter Brian Walden has died at the age of 86 following complications from emphysema.

The veteran broadcaster, who started his career as a Labour politician, died at home in St Peter Port, Guernsey on Thursday.

Walden began his career as a Labour politician, representing Birmingham Ladywood between 1964 and 1977.

He was known politically for an impassioned speech calling for capital punishment to be abolished before resigning from the House of Commons to work in television.

Walden was scouted by ITV where he worked on Weekend World among other programmes.

He was best known for his tenacious interviews with high-profile politicians and was considered Margaret Thatcher's 'favourite' interviewer.

During one famous grilling when her own Conservative cabinet were turning against her in 1989, Walden asked Mrs Thatcher whether she was 'off her trolley'.

He was best known for his tenacious interviews with high-profile politicians and was considered Margaret Thatcher's 'favourite' interviewer. The pair are pictured together in 1977

He asked her: 'You come over as being someone who one of your backbenchers said is slightly off her trolley, authoritarian, domineering, refusing to listen to anybody else  why?

'Why cannot you publicly project what you have just told me is your private character?'

Mrs Thatcher replied: 'Brian, if anyone's coming over as domineering in this interview, it's you.'

His amiable style frequently beguiled his subjects, very often cabinet ministers, into straying into areas which they would rather not have discussed in public.

His wife Hazel said she was 'happily married' for 43 years and her late husband was 'very cheerful, always happy and got on well with people'.

She said: 'The biggest regret that he would have is that he didn't live to see Brexit, because he was a passionate Brexiteer.

'Margaret Thatcher would never have let things get as far as Theresa May has.

'He agreed with Nigel Farage that the only way is out, unless we wish to give up our British rights and tradition to be held in a superstate.

'To be dominated by a capricious and undemocratic Brussels-Berlin axis is not something he would have wanted.'

Walden presented ITV's Weekend World programme

His friend John Wakefield, who worked with Mr Walden at ITV as his producer and editor, said they had 'a terrific time'.

'Brian was an immensely lively and entertaining person to work with,' he said.

Born Alastair Brian Walden on July 8, 1932, he was educated at West Bromwich Grammar School and won a major open scholarship to study at Queen's College, Oxford.

In 1957, he was elected president of the Oxford Union. He completed a postgraduate course at Nuffield College, Oxford, before becoming a university lecturer.

During his parliamentary career he campaigned energetically for the liberalisation of cannabis and of the gambling laws.

He became known at Westminster as 'the bookies' MP', and it was rumoured he received more money from the National Association of Bookmakers than his parliamentary salary. It was a rumour he did not deny.

After switching careers he presented various television programmes over the next decade or so, such as Weekend World, The Walden Interview and Walden.

Between 1981 and 1984 he was a member of the board of Central Television.

Walden won several awards, including the Shell International Award, the Bafta Richard Dimbleby award, and the TV Times favourite current affairs personality award. He was ITV personality of the year in 1991.

He continued to broadcast, and in March 2005 he began presenting a 10-minute programme on Fridays called A Point Of View on BBC Radio 4, in a spot formerly occupied by Alistair Cooke's Letter From America.

Walden had by then moved to Guernsey, but he maintained his strong libertarian instincts and campaigned vigorously against the ban on fox-hunting.

He leaves behind his widow and four sons.
The Home Office was yesterday accused of losing control in the Channel after 42 people made the hazardous crossing from France in three incidents over the weekend.

A small boat carrying 16 men, women and children was stopped on Saturday on the 22-mile journey.

Two more vessels  one with six adults and eight children as young as two, and another with 12 adults  were intercepted yesterday. The 42 arrivals  mainly Iranians or Iraqis  are believed to be the highest number in one weekend this year. It means around 200 migrants have been picked up so far this year.

It raises questions about a 6million action plan announced by Britain and France earlier this year to combat a surge in migrants.

Up to twenty five suspected migrants, including eight children, have been detained after being rescued off the Kent coast by Border Force officers (file photo)

Last night there were also fears it might herald the start of a surge in arrivals as people-smugglers take advantage of improving weather to test Britains leaky borders.

Charlie Elphicke, Tory MP for Dover and Deal, said: The situation is incredibly serious. The Home Office and French authorities do not look in control. There is a real risk of a tragedy in the English Channel if action is not taken.

We risk more arrivals and a return to the bad old days of the Calais Jungle as the weather improves. He called for a cross-Channel security zone with round-the-clock aerial surveillance to spot migrants and return them immediately to France.

He also insisted efforts should be stepped up to catch people-traffickers fuelling the crisis. Twelve men, two women and two children are understood to have been crammed into a dangerously overloaded small boat when they were found on Saturday.

It comes after sixteen migrants, including two children, were intercepted by the Border Force as they made their way across the Channel in a small boat yesterday (file photo)

In April, 21 migrants, including a one-year-old child, were rescued from the Channel after leaving France in two boats

French authorities alerted the Border Force, which deployed a cutter to intercept the vessel. The group were brought to Dover where they were handed to immigration officials. The following day a lifeboat in Dover rescued 14 migrants, including eight children, from a tiny dinghy.

In scenes filmed by Sky News, the crew could be seen lifting aboard one child who looked to be no older than five. Border Force officers also intercepted a vessel with a dozen adults heading towards Folkestone the same day.

Home Secretary Sajid Javid declared the soaring number of migrants arriving in Kent a major incident in December.

Seven of them, including the children, were suffering from hypothermia and were taken to hospital

A total of 539 migrants tried to travel to the UK on small vessels last year. Among the attempts this year, packed boats made the crossing four days running in February.

A Home Office spokesman said: Anyone crossing the Channel in a small boat is taking a huge risk with their life and the lives of their children.

Iranians living in a camp in Calais have said warmer weather encourages desperate migrants to save cash by cutting out people-smugglers.

Mohsen, 33, a teacher from Tehran, said: When it is warmer they feel safer.

It can be 10,000/11,000 each to pay a smuggler but it is 5,000 for a boat which can take ten or 12 people.
Public defender Jeff Adachi was found dead in February aged 59. He had alcohol and cocaine in his system and died as a result of heart failure

Police in San Francisco have been accused of leaking details surrounding the death of a public defender who died at his apartment with a woman who was not his wife, surrounded by alcohol and marijuana gummies, in revenge for him targeting cops throughout his career.

Jeff Adachi, 59, was found dead in February at the age of 59 after a woman who called herself Caterina called police.

His autopsy found that he had a mixture of cocaine and alcohol in his system which, combined with a heart condition he was suffering, caused his death.

In the days that followed, more details of the scene where he was found emerged from a leaked police report that was given to the media.

It revealed that he was in an apartment where there was an 'unmade bed, empty bottles of alcohol, cannabis gummies, and two syringes that may have been left by paramedics'.

The publication of those details prompted questions over who leaked them and why.

Adachi and the woman had been out to dinner, she told the 911 operator, and returned to the apartment.

This is the unmade bed that was described in the police report. It is not known where exactly he was found when police got to the apartment. They were published by ABC in addition to other outlets

The woman who called 911 said she told Adachi to take an Advil when he complained about feeling ill after returning from dinner. Shown above is a syringe that was found next to some medication bottles. They could have been from paramedics who tried to revive him and were not necessarily his but they were included in the photos leaked to the media

The woman who owns the apartment said Adachi was a years-long friend who had asked to use it

Empty alcohol bottles were found near a trash can in the apartment

Some cannabis infused gummies were also discovered inside the apartment

He had only had two glasses of champagne but complained about feeling ill once they got back to the property.

He asked her for an antacid but she gave him an Advil, she said.

When he collapsed, she called 911 then fled and has never been publicly named.

Bryan Carmody, the freelance reporter who obtained the report and who sold it to publications including The San Francisco Chronicle, has refused to say who gave it to him.

Even when federal agents appeared at his apartment to raid it this week, he stayed mum and asked for a lawyer.

When the police report was leaked, there was criticism from local sites who called it 'salacious' and 'repugnant'.

Adachi is shown with his widow Mutsuko, and his daughter. Mutsuko slammed the 'despicable' release of the report

'It's curious that we're reading leaked details about another 'woman,' the renting of an apartment, and entirely unnecessary mentions of alcohol, cannabis, and syringe.

'Certainly the incident ought to be investigated, as any death should, but the information coming out makes it seem like Adachi's decades-old battles with law enforcement - on behalf of defendants and otherwise - may continue even after his passing,' read an opinion piece in the Chronicle.

Adachi's widow, Mutsuko Adachi condemned the police department for leaking the information so soon after his death.

'It was despicable what the police department did to myself and my daughter by releasing the police report.

'It was less than 12 hours and they released a police report with pictures, and it was all over the news. We had no privacy.

'It was an ongoing investigation and I don't believe they should have released it.

'To say that it doesn't affect the family is an understatement. It's incredibly painful to have the police department do this to you,' she said.

The police department officially apologized before launching an internal investigation.
Christopher (pictured) and his colleague Khaled Wehbe had been working through the lunch break when the tragic incident happened

A tradie who was crushed after scaffolding fell on him at work was screaming for 20 minutes before he suffocated to death.

Christopher Cassaniti had celebrated his 18th birthday just days before he died on a construction site in Macquarie Park in northwest Sydney around midday on April 1.

Christopher and his colleague Khaled Wehbe had been working through their lunch break, and were the only two tradesmen underneath the scaffolding, when the huge pile of metal collapsed.

Mr Wehbe, 39, who survived the ordeal although he was seriously injured, had been trapped under the scaffolding just metres away from Christopher and had been clutching on to the teenager's hand until the very end.

Darren Greenfield, the NSW state secretary of Construction, Forestry, Maritime, Mining and Energy Union (CFMEU), said Christopher was yelling for help.

'Asking for help, asking for him mum. It's very hard,' he told 60minutes.

Christopher's shattered parents Patrizia and Rob Cassaniti bravely relived the harrowing day in an interview with the programme on Sunday night.

Mrs Cassaniti, who served coffee at a mobile truck down the road, was on the site within minutes after the disaster and was told her son was trapped.

'I just dropped everything. As I'm getting closer to the job site, I couldn't breathe. I'm alone in the car and I'm screaming,' Mrs Cassaniti said.

Not long after Mrs Cassaniti arrived at the building site she was approached by a police officer who delivered the devastating news.

Christopher's shattered parents Patrizia (pictured right) and Rob Cassaniti (pictured left) have now reminisced about the tragic day

Christopher Cassaniti (pictured alongside his parents) had celebrated his 18th birthday just days before he died while working as an apprentice on a construction site in Macquarie Park in northwest Sydney

'He knelt in front of me and his words, which I can't get out of my head, were, "Mrs Cassaniti unfortunately we couldn't do anything for your son. And he has passed away." And those words just keep ringing in my head constantly. And I was in total denial. I just screamed,' Mrs Cassaniti said.

Mrs Cassaniti later found out that Christopher had been in pain in his final moments.

She said his lungs had been crushed, meaning he wasn't able to breathe and he eventually passed away from 'asphyxiation'.

The coroner said that because Christopher 'had so much adrenaline' he may have felt some pain but he would've been intermittently in and out of consciousness because 'he wasn't able to breathe'.

But Mrs Cassaniti is convinced her son suffered in his dying moments regardless of whether or not he had adrenaline.

Christopher's parents are now campaigning for a new industrial manslaughter law to be introduced in the country which they want to aptly be titled 'Christopher's Law'.

Christopher Cassaniti (pictured), 18, died at Macquarie Park in north-west Sydney on April 1 when a 15-metre tower of scaffolding fell on top of him

Tragic: Christopher Cassaniti, 18, died in the collapse at Macquarie Park, north-west Sydney on Monday. He is pictured on holiday in Hawaii

Mr Greenfield described the aftermath of the scene as similar to a 'war zone'.

'I mean you see grown men crying, and you just think not again, not another one, not another person not going home tonight,' he said.

A harrowing video emerged from the scene showing frantic tradesmen trying to save their two trapped colleagues.

Amid the carnage a policeman (right) took a megaphone and said: 'Oi everybody, we need you guys to help us'

Blood-curdling screams echoed around the building site as tradesmen in hard hats and high-vis jackets rushed to free the men.

They were desperate to help but police held them back, fearing that dislodging just one piece of steel would cause tonnes of twisted metal and concrete to collapse further and crush the men to death.

'You're wasting time. We need access,' a tradesman can be heard shrieking in mobile phone footage which showed a policewoman ushering the workers back.

Amid the screaming and shouting a policeman said into a megaphone: 'Oi everybody, we need you guys to help us,' before he lowered the device because his radio interfered.

The construction site at Macquarie Park is now empty while an investigation into the incident is underway.

A policeman (pictured) approached the agitated men and said: 'If you move one piece the whole thing may collapse. It's like a jigsaw puzzle'

Union bosses believe that human error was the most likely cause.

CFMEU national secretary Dave Noonan hinted that the scaffolding was either not put up properly or overloaded.

He told Daily Mail Australia: 'When scaffolding is used and erected correctly according to specifications, properly maintained and the ties are left in, and it's loaded only in accordance with the safe working loads that are appropriate to its design, then it doesn't fall down.

'Somewhere in that chain, something has gone wrong.'

Last year the safety watchdog issued 100 notices for breaches of scaffold safety rules amid fears developers were riding roughshod over regulations in order to meet tight deadlines during Sydney's building boom.

During visits to 1,000 construction sites in the year to November 2018, regulators issued $265,000 worth of fines for various safety breaches.

The firm which erected the scaffolding at Macquaire Park, Synergy Scaffolding Services, said safety of workers is paramount.

'We adhere to all safety regulations, ensure all staff are suitably qualified and undergo specific training and inductions,' it said in a statement.
The U.S. is awaiting retaliation from China over increased tariffs, after talks in Washington ended without a deal on trade, the president's chief economic adviser said on Sunday.

'The expected countermeasures have not yet materialized. We may know more today or even this evening or tomorrow,' Larry Kudlow told 'Fox News Sunday.'

Kudlow also said that President Donald Trump's plan to raise US tariffs on Chinese goods across the board could take months to take effect.

White House economic adviser Larry Kudlow said the White House expects retaliation from China over increased tariffs

President Trump escalated his rhetoric on the trade war with China a day after talks between administration officials and Vice Premier Liu He (right) ended with no agreement

'Call it a couple of months. Call it three months. I don't know. That will take some time and then of course the president's going to have to make the final decision on that,' Kudlow said.

He also said there was a 'strong possibility' that Trump will meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping at a G20 summit in Japan in late June.

Until last week, there were expectations Trump and Xi would sign a trade deal at the summit.

Kudlow, in a striking exchange wit 'Fox News Sunday' host Chris Wallace, contradicted Trump's assertion that China is paying for the tariffs.

Trump has claimed that China is paying for the tariffs but it is importers - usually U.S. companies or the U.S.-registered units of foreign companies - that have to pay.

And U.S. farmers, a key constituency of Trump, have been among the hardest hit in the trade war, with soybean shipments to China dropping to a 16-year low in 2018.

Asked who was paying, Kudlow said on Sunday that 'both sides will suffer on this,' although he added that the U.S. economy should be able to cope.

'We're in terrific shape in order to correct 20 years plus of unfair trading practices with China ... I think this is a risk we should and can take without damaging our economy in any appreciable way,' he said.

But Wallace pressed him on the issue.

'It's not China that pays tariffs. It's the American importers, the American companies that pay what in effect is a tax increase and oftentimes passes it on to U.S. consumers,' Wallace said.

'Fair enough. In fact, both sides will pay in these things, and of course it depends,' Kudlow responded.

The United States began raising tariffs on $200 billion in Chinese imports from 10 per cent to 25 per cent on Friday after American officials accused Beijing of backtracking on commitments made in earlier rounds of negotiations.

Talks in Washington broke off on Friday without a deal on trade, but both sides have indicated that future talks are likely.

Trump warned China on Saturday that it should strike a trade deal with the United States now, otherwise an agreement would be 'far worse for them if it has to be negotiated in my second term.'

'I think that China felt they were being beaten so badly in the recent negotiation that they may as well wait around for the next election, 2020, to see if they could get lucky & have a Democrat win,' Trump tweeted.

'The only problem is that they know I am going to win (best economy & employment numbers in U.S. history, & much more), and the deal will become far worse for them if it has to be negotiated in my second term. Would be wise for them to act now, but love collecting BIG TARIFFS!' he added.

Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin, second from left, and United States Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer, right, speak with Chinese Vice Premier Liu He, left, in Washington DC on Friday

'I think that China felt they were being beaten so badly in the recent negotiation that they may as well wait around for the next election, 2020, to see if they could get lucky & have a Democrat win - in which case they would continue to rip-off the USA for $500 Billion a year,' Trump said in a tweet on Saturday

Trump warned China on Saturday that it should strike a trade deal with the United States now, otherwise an agreement would be 'far worse for them if it has to be negotiated in my second term'

Vice Premier Liu He, China's top economic adviser, sought to defend the changes in talks with senior U.S. officials in Washington on Thursday and Friday, arguing that China could accomplish the policy changes through decrees issued by its State Council, or cabinet, sources familiar with the talks said.

But U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer rejected that, telling Liu that the United States was insisting on restoration of the previous text.

'We would like to see these corrections in an agreement which is codified by law in China, not just a State Council announcement. We need to see something much clearer. And until we do we have to keep our tariffs on,' Kudlow said.

China strongly opposes the latest U.S. tariff hike, and has to respond to that, Liu told reporters on Saturday.

Beijing retaliated for previous tariff hikes by raising duties on $110 billion of American imports. And officials have targeted American companies operating in China by slowing customs clearance and stepping up regulatory scrutiny.

Republican Sen. Rand Paul told ABC's 'This Week' on Sunday that he advised the president to finalize a trade deal with China soon, 'because the longer we're involved in a tariff battle or a trade war, the better chance there is that we could actually enter into a recession because of it.'

The two 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 pregnant partner of a man who was seriously injured in a motorcycle accident has told of her anxious wait for information after his horrific crash.

Shelly Manser's boyfriend Nathan Foote came off his bike while riding in the sand dunes of Canunda National Park, in South Australia, with his friends.

The 27-year-old broke his ribs, collarbone, nose and femur as well as having punctured his lungs and a severe spinal injury - he was told he may never walk again.

Shelly Manser's partner Nathan Foote (pictured together) came off his bike from a great height while riding in the sand dunes of Canunda National Park, in South Australia, with a couple of his friends

'His dad rang and told me he's [Nathan] had an accident and he's fine,' Ms Manser told The Advertiser.

'I assumed it was a broken leg but as the hours ticked by I remembered saying to my stepmum that he has to be here for the baby.'

The horrific accident happened on March 30, 2019, and Nathan was forced to lay in the sand dunes for six hours surrounded by his friends and ambulance until he could be taken to hospital.

Mr Foote was in a coma as Royal Adelaide Hospital surgeons began a spinal operation.

'After surgery, my parents were notified that the outcome of Nathan walking again was slim due to the damage sustained to the nerves in his spine,' Mr Foote's sister Jessie said on a Go Fund Me page.

'The next day, they then set out to repair the other damage, adding plates to support other breaks.'

The horrific accident happened on March 30, 2019, and Nathan was forced to lay in the sand dunes for six hours surrounded by his friends and ambulance until he could be taken to hospital. Pictured: Canunda National Park

Mr Foote eventually woke up from his coma and is now getting ready to be moved to Hampstead Hospital for a three-month stay, which is where he'll begin physical therapy.

Ms Manser said in the month that has passed since his accident he has come far and everyone is impressed with the 'larrikin's' progress.

Ms Manser, who is due to give birth in August, has temporarily moved to Adelaide to be with Mr Foote, who is currently unable to work.
A mother-of-two has found a loophole which allows her to buy $500 worth of groceries and petrol without spending any money upfront  but a financial expert has called it a 'dangerous' shopping strategy.

The savvy shopper from Melbourne took to social media to share the 'potentially lifesaving' hack in which a person can purchase an e-gift card for up to the value of $500 using her Zip Pay account without spending a dollar upfront.

The online voucher allows an internet shopper to buy items from shops including Woolworths, Caltex and Coles  with no money being owed until the end of every month.

(File picture) A mother-of-two has found a loophole that allows her to buy $500 of groceries and petrol without spending any money upfront

'Most people know of Zip Pay and know that while fashion shops do have [Zip Pay options] in store, some places like Coles, Woolworths and Caltex don't  or so we thought,' the woman wrote.

'I recently found there is a loophole around that. If you go to the Zip Pay website, you can purchase e-gift cards for Coles, Woolworths and Caltex that go immediately to your email to use as real cash.

'Personally this week financially has been a hard one and I am so glad that I've found this loophole to help get me through this week until I can get paid again.

'So, if you are ever short for food or petrol or anything else, you only need a Zip Pay account and you can buy these things without having to have the cash right then and there,' she concluded.

(File picture) Financial Counselling Australia chief executive Fiona Guthrie cautioned shoppers should not get 'caught in a cycle'

Although the loophole could provide a quick fix for someone who is a little short for cash, Financial Counselling Australia chief executive Fiona Guthrie cautioned shoppers should try not to get 'caught in a cycle'.

'The trap of course is that when you borrow money to pay for something today, you start to get yourself caught in a cycle,' Ms Guthrie told The Daily Telegraph.

'When you pay the money back at the end of the month, you're still going to have the same financial issues that you had at the start.

'These apps confirm not enough people in Australia have enough money to get by  you would have to be an amazingly good money user to only use these apps as a one-off,' she warned.

Zip Pay allows users to repay money in the amount they want and when they want.

The company does however charge a $5 fee for any balance left over in the account at the end of the month.
Support is growing in Germany for a 'mosque tax' to make Islamic institutions less dependent on potentially anti-democratic or 'radical' foreign funding sources.

The federal government sees it as 'a possible path', according to an answer to a parliamentary query.

Several of Germany's 16 states had also signalled support in principle for the idea which would mirror Germany's 'church tax', in which Christians and members of Jewish denominations are taxed to fund church activities.

Support is growing in Germany for a 'mosque tax' to make Islamic institutions less dependent on potentially anti-democratic or 'radical' foreign funding sources. Some 900 mosques in Germany are run by the Turkish-Islamic Union of the Institute for Religion (Ditib), under the authority of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's government. Above: Cologne central mosque, which is run by Ditib

Concern has grown in Germany about the influence of foreign funding sources on mosques for the country's estimated five million Muslims, who hail mostly from Turkey and Arab countries, the Welt am Sonntag newspaper reported.

Some 900 mosques in Germany are run by the Turkish-Islamic Union of the Institute for Religion (Ditib), under the authority of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's government.

Its imams are paid by the Turkish state, and the group has come under scrutiny with some of its members suspected of spying on Turkish dissidents living in Germany.

At the height of a bitter row between Germany and Turkey in mid-2017, two German ministers warned in a Spiegel Online commentary that Erdogan's 'dangerous ideologies must not be imported to Germany via certain mosques.'

In other cases, some mosques have come under police scrutiny or been closed for preaching radical and militant Islamist ideas.

An islamic version of the 'Church tax' would see money collected from Muslims to fund the activities of their mosques.

At the height of a bitter row between Germany and Turkey in mid-2017, two German ministers warned in a Spiegel Online commentary that Erdogan's 'dangerous ideologies must not be imported to Germany via certain mosques'

The current tax on Christians, in which churches are legally empowered to collect taxes from their members, has been in place since the nineteenth century.

It is administered by the German tax office and church members have money taken out of their monthly salary to fund church activities.

The tax rate varies from state to state, but is a percentage of income tax paid.

Welt am Sonntag said that, in the newspaper's own survey, several states had affirmed that mosque communities in Germany should be able to finance themselves.

The current tax on Christians, in which churches are legally empowered to collect taxes from their members, has been in place since the nineteenth century. It is administered by the German tax office and church members have money taken out of their monthly salary to fund church activities

The interior ministry of the regional state of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania had said it was open to 'mosque financing based on the church model' to reduce foreign influence, including 'the danger of possible radicalisation'.

A spokesman for the interior ministry of Baden-Wuerttemberg state had also pointed to the threat of outside influence 'on theological content and political opinion'.

'In the worst case', the spokesman had told the newspaper, this included 'radical Islamist or anti-democratic content or aspirations'.
A murder investigation has been launched after Gerald Corrigan, 74, (pictured) was shot 22 days ago outside his bungalow in North Wales. He died in hospital

Police have launched a murder probe after a pensioner who was shot with a crossbow bolt died from his 'truly horrific injuries'.

Gerald Corrigan, 74, was injured outside his home in a remote part of Holyhead, Anglesey, Wales, at around 12.35am on April 19 as he adjusted his satellite dish.

Despite the best efforts of medical staff, the pensioner succumbed to his injuries on Saturday and died with his family by his side.

Detective chief inspector Brian Kearney said Mr Corrigan had 'shown tremendous courage and determination whilst being treated at the Royal Stoke Hospital'.

He said: 'North Wales Police have now launched a murder investigation.

'However, we continue to keep an open mind in relation to the sequence of events that led to Gerald's death.'

Mr Kearney also expressed his 'sincere condolences' to Mr Corrigan's partner Marie, his two children Neale and Fiona and the wider family.

The 74-year-old was outside his bungalow-style home (pictured) trying to fix a faulty satellite dish in the early hours of April 19

Police have now launched a murder probe and are appealing for anyone who might have footage of the incident

The satellite dish Gerald Corrigan was adjusting when he was shot with the crossbow bolt near South Stack Road Holyhead

The bolt which Mr Corrigan had been shot with travelled through a significant part of the pensioner's upper body, narrowly missing his heart before passing through his right arm.

The pensioner suffered 'horrendous injuries' but was able to stagger into his house and phone for an ambulance just after midnight.

Police were then called at 2.45am on April 19 after doctors at Ysbyty Gwynedd hospital in Bangor, Wales, discovered the projectile.

Hospital staff told officers their patient had sustained injuries consistent with being shot with a crossbow.

Mr Corrigan's family issued a statement following what they called a 'shocking incident' saying they could not think of anyone who would have wanted to harm him.

Police have previously said one line of inquiry is Mr Corrigan may have been accidentally shot by a lamper - rogue night-time hunters who use bright lights to target animals.

The pensioner was rushed to Ysbyty Gwynedd hospital in Bangor after calling for an ambulance. Staff phoned the police to say he had injuries consistent with a crossbow shooting

Police appealed for information about the 'highly unusual' incident in the remote location last month

Mr Corrigan worked as a lecturer in photography and video in Lancashire before retiring to Anglesey more than 20 years ago. He had a keen interest in nature.

Anyone with information relating to the investigation is asked to contact detectives at Llangefni CID on 101, via the live web chat quoting reference number X052857 or by calling Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Gunmen killed six people including a priest outside a Catholic church in Burkina Faso on Sunday, a local official said, the second attack on Christians in two weeks in a nation increasingly overrun by jihadists.

Congregants were leaving church around 9 a.m. (0900 GMT) when about twenty men encircled them and shot six dead, Boucary Zongo, mayor of the northern town of Dablo where the attack took place, and a witness, told Reuters.

The attackers then burned the church, looted a pharmacy and some others stores, and left in vehicles, they said.

Burkina Faso historically known for its religious tolerance has been beset by a rise in attacks in 2018 as the attack comes as jihadist groups seek to destabilise Burkina and the wider Sahel region.

A map showing where the two attacks took place. The first attack on April 28 took place in Silgadji Burkina Faso with the attackers reportedly fled north to Mali after opening fire at a church on Sunday. The second took place in Dablo town on Sunday

Groups with links to Islamic State and al Qaeda, based in neighbouring Mali, are violently attempting to extend their influence over the porous borers of the Sahel, the arid scrubland south of the Sahara.

The government declared a state of emergency in several northern provinces bordering Mali in December because of deadly Islamist attacks.

But violence has only worsened since. Two French soldiers were killed in an operation to rescue four people taken hostage in Burkina last week, France said.

Roughly 55% to 60% of Burkina Faso's population is Muslim, with up to a quarter Christian. The two groups generally live in peace and frequently intermarry.

People ride bicycles and motorbikes around the United Nations roundabout in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, which has experienced a series of attacks (file photo)

Then in late April unidentified gunmen killed a pastor and five congregants at a Protestant church, also in the north, suggesting the violence was taking a religious turn.

Gunmen on motorbikes entered the church in the town of Silgadji near Djibo, the capital of Soum province, and opened fire near the end of a Sunday service.

Following the first church attack on the region a security source told AFP: 'Unidentified armed individuals have attacked the Protestant church in Silgadji killing four members of the congregation and the pastor. At least two other people are missing.'

Burkina Faso has seen a surge in killings blamed on jihadists.

The attacks started in the north of the country before targeting the capital Ouagadougou and other regions, notably the east of the country.

Former colonial ruler France has deployed some 4,500 troops in Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger and Chad in a mission codenamed Barkhane to help local forces try to flush out jihadist groups.

In February, a Spanish priest, Father Cesar Fernandez, was killed in a raid attributed to jihadists in Nohao in the centre of the country.

Five people including a priest were killed in an attack on a church Burkina Faso, which has seen a surge in killings blamed on jihadists (file photo, a woman cycles in Ouahigouya)

Violent organisations include the Ansarul Islam group, the Group to Support Islam and Muslims (GSIM) and Islamic State in the Greater Sahara.

Burkina Faso is part of the vast Sahel region, which has turned into a hotbed of violent extremism and lawlessness since chaos engulfed Libya in 2011.

Despite international efforts to create a transnational anti-jihadist military operation, named the G5 Sahel force, the situation is getting worse.

A report submitted to the UN Security Council last year warned that security had 'deteriorated rapidly over the last six months' in the area between Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger, with attacks spreading to eastern Burkina Faso.

According to an official report in September, 229 people had been killed in Islamist attacks in Burkina Faso since 2015, and the number has increased since then.

The growing boldness of jihadist fighters in the former French colony reflects the government's apparent inability to protect its citizens.
The European Parliament's chief Brexit negotiator has told British voters it would be 'insane' to re-elect Nigel Farage as an MEP, as the Brexit Party stormed to a commanding lead in the polls.

Former Belgian PM Guy Verhofstadt tweeted that the Brexit Party leader 'would rather go to the pub than fight for British interests in Europe' in his latest interjection in the UK's European election campaign.

It comes after Mr Verhofstadt said he didn't know whether Brexit would happen, and on the campaign trail with the Lib Dems said the coming vote was a chance to send message 'to the continent to say never repeat Brexit again.'

Mr Verhofstadt, the European Parliament's Brexit co-ordinator told voters it would be 'insane' to re-elect Mr Farage at the forthcoming European elections

Last month he slammed British MPs for taking an Easter recess in a speech in the Parliament

In response to today's news that Mr Farage's party is currently predicted to romp home in first place in the forthcoming elections to the European Parliament, he tweeted: 'Farage is a long sitting, career MEP in Brussels, with one of the lowest attendance rates.

'He would rather sign in & go to the pub than fight for British interests in Europe. Sending him back would be insane!'

Last week a fly-on-the-wall documentary revealed Mr Verhofstadt's senior aides mocking Theresa May, screaming 'oh f*** off' at at a TV screen showing Mrs May telling the Tory conference she wants a deal.

One told Mr Verhofstadt she was 'most proud of you when you take on a Tory', adding that the Conservative politician was 'a f***er'.

Mr Verhofstadt, the European Parliament's Brexit co-ordinator, joined the Liberal Democrats on the campaign trail on Friday saying they offer an 'alternative to nationalism'.

Canvassing with leader Sir Vince Cable in London on Friday he predicted a Remain surge

Canvassing with leader Sir Vince Cable in London on Friday he predicted a Remain surge in the European Parliament elections.

Mr Verhofstadt insisted his presence was not foreign interference in the UK's elections as he was 'a Lib Dem' and backing the party because it opposed Brexit.

Mr Verhofstadt said: 'I think it's important to show that the European liberals and democrats support Vince Cable.

'Support the Lib Dems in this difficult fight in Britain, in these European elections.

'Secondly, we want to show by coming here a message to the continent to say never repeat Brexit again.

'I'm a Lib Dem. It's natural that people are looking to the Lib Dems when it comes to European elections.

'We want to be the alternative for nationalism and popularism. What I think is there will be a huge support for Remain.

'I'm not here as a Brexit negotiator, I'm here as the leader of the liberals and democrats for Europe.'

Mr Verhofstadt had a history of telling British voters and MPs what he thinks they 'must' do

He promised the UK would 'face the abyss' if it didn't vote through Theresa May's deal

When European council president Donald Tusk sent his infamous 'special place in hell' tweet, Mr Verhofstadt was quick to add his own sarcastic reply - complete with smiling emoji. Mr Verhofstadt is 66 years old

He said the UK had 'spiralled out of control' since the EU referendum vote in June of 2016

Asked if his presence could be seen as foreign interference, Mr Verhofstadt said: 'This is Europe. Europe, it's all Europe.'

Asked whether the UK would leave the EU, Mr Verhofstadt, who is also leader of the Alliance for Liberals and Democrats in Europe, replied: 'I don't know. It's a question to ask Mrs May at Westminster.'

He also said the Brexit process so far 'had done more damage than has ever been predicted' and that 'people can change their opinion'.

Guy Verhofstadt, 66, was first elected to the European Parliament in 2009 - ten years after Nigel Farage first took his seat.

Today in angry exchanges Nigel Farage branded Andrew Marr's interview 'ludicrous' as the journalist tried to ask him about past statements on the NHS, immigration and Vladimir Putin

Today polls predicted that not only was the Brexit Party on course to win the European elections, it could even overtake the Tories in a general election.

In an Opinium poll in the Observer, focused on this month's European elections, Nigel Farage's new party is predicted to hoover up 34 per cent of the vote. The same poll gave Labour 21 per cent and put the Tories in a miserable fourth place with 11 per cent

But an even more extraordinary poll, commissioned by a Brexit Party donor and published in the Sunday Telegraph, said for the first time the Brexit Party would beat the Tories in a General Election.

The ComRes survey of voting intentions put Brexit on 21 per cent to the Conservatives' 20, which would see Farage's team win 49 seats, becoming the UK's second biggest party after Labour, with 137.

Mr Farage has predicted his party membership will soon overtake the Tories' 124,000, and told Andrew Marr that he would insist that Brexit Party MEPs join the UK's Brexit negotiating team if the party does as well as expected on May 23.
One of the three gunmen who were killed after storming the Continental Pearl hotel in Gwadar, Pakistan. The gunmen killed five people

Pakistan's Army says the death toll has risen to five people in the attack by insurgents on a luxury hotel in the country's Southwestern coast.

Three gunmen stormed the Pearl Continental hotel in the city of Gwadar on Saturday, killing three staff members, a hotel security guard and a special forces soldier.

A further six people, including two soldiers, suffered injuries.

All three gunmen were killed after an eight-hour shootout with Pakistan security forces.

Forces also completed a widescale military operation to defuse explosive devices left behind by the attackers.

The country's military forces released a statement on Sunday clarifying that there were only three gunmen involved and not four as previously thought.

A Baloch separatist group, the Baloch Liberation Army, claimed responsibility Saturday for the attack, releasing photos of the insurgents who it said took part.

Prime Minister Imran Khan called the attack an act of terrorism and praised the 'initial response by security guards and security forces' for preventing greater loss of life.

The country's army undertook a widescale operation to clear the hotel and defuse explosive devices

The Baloch Liberation Army have been waging armed struggle against the state of Pakistan since 2004 in a bid for self-determination for the Baloch people.

The Baloch are an ethnic minority group in Pakistan, with historical links to Persia, whose population is mostly located in the province of Balochistan.

An inside shot of the Continental Pearl hotel in the aftermath of the terrorist attack on Saturday

Residents of Balochistan and other areas accuse the central government of favouring the country's Punjab province, home to some 60 percent of the country's 200 million people and most of the political elite.

Gwadar, where the attack took place, is within Balochistan.

The Pearl Continental hotel in Gwadar is located in Balochistan - the province where the separatist group is based

Armed Baloch separatists carried out a dozen attacks last year against Chinese-linked projects in the past year.

Beijing is financing tens of billions of dollars' worth of megaprojects in Pakistan and is currently helping build a modern port in Gwadar, 600 kilometers (373 miles) west of Karachi.
Dr Noah Carl's writings linking IQ and genetics prompted 586 academics to sign a letter to the prestigious institution, saying his work was 'ethically suspect' and 'methodologically flawed.'

Academics have launched a counter-petition to defend a controversial Cambridge don accused of publishing 'racist pseudoscience' in an escalating row over freedom of speech.

Social scientist Noah Carl had his fellowship withdrawn from St Edmund's College last week, on the grounds that he allegedly collaborated with people who hold 'extremist views'.

His writings linking IQ and genetics prompted 586 academics to sign a letter to the prestigious institution, saying his work was 'ethically suspect' and 'methodologically flawed.'

But now, 606 academics have signed an open letter in support of the the young scholar in online magazine Quillette.

Penned by Editor-in-Chief Claire Lehmann, she said: 'We live at a time where academic freedom is under threat from ideologues and activists of all persuasions.

'The latest threat comes from St Edmund's College, Cambridge, where administrators appear to have capitulated to a mob of activists (students and academics) who mounted a campaign to have a young scholar fired for 'problematic' research.'

She went on to say the magazine 'steadfastly supports the foundational principles of open inquiry and free-thought' and that 'academic freedom is buckling under political pressure.'

Underneath the letter are signatories from academics supporting Dr Carl, from prestigious institutions such as Stanford, Harvard, the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge.

Dr Carl (pictured above) had been speaking in Oxford last week at an event discussing free speech

It comes after Dr Carl, defended his stance last week and classed himself as a 'victim' after stating that studies he had uncovered from the 1960s and 2015 had a number of adverse effects on campus.

Setting out evidence on over-representation of left-wing views in British academia he said: 'Four studies found that in 1960 about a third of academics supported Conservatives and 45 per cent Labour. By 2015, 11 per cent supported the Conservatives and about 70 per cent Labour.

'There is denial and mischaracterisation of research believed to threaten certain left-wing sacred values.

How Dr Noah Carl, 28, has been criticised for 'racist' views - but is a big free speech backer Dr Noah Gilpin Carl was born in 1990 in Cambridge and was a research fellow at St Edumund's College in the city. He has a BA in human sciences, an MSc in sociology and a DPhil in sociology from Oxford. For his doctorate, he looked at how cognitive ability and socio-political beliefs can be related. He also focuses on social identity and immigration. But he has faced criticism for his views on how opposition to immigration can be based on 'rational beliefs'. Critics say his work has been used by far-Right outlets to aid xenophobic and anti-immigrant rhetoric. His research has been backed by various far right US media groups, including Info Wars, which is headed by conspiracy theorist Alex Jones. However, Dr Carl is a passionate free speech advocate and has previously stated that 'stifling of debate around taboo topics can itself do active harm'. He also writes for The UK in a Changing Europe, a Brexit research website funded by the Economic and Social Research Council. In pictures on his Facebook profile, Dr Carl is seen practising yoga in stone circles with his nephew. Advertisement

'I would argue I've been a victim of that myself, and many other people in controversial fields such as IQ research and other fields where some content appears to threaten left-wing values.'

Prior to his talk on free speech in Oxford, he posted a blog defending his work, where he said that exploring a possible link between genes and intelligence was 'a perfectly defensible scientific position'.

He said: 'It may turn out that genes make zero contribution, or it may turn out that they make a contribution greater than zero. Deciding in advance that they make zero contribution is not science. It is proof by assertion.'

Mr Carl had been one of several speakers at the event last week who had been threatened with 'no platforming', lost jobs, or had invitations revoked due to views on issues ranging from free speech, race and gender, The Times reported.

In 2016 Among he wrote a paper in which he claimed that 'the higher the percentage of Muslims in the population, the greater the share of citizens susceptible to Islamist radicalisation'.

The event had been organised by 64-year-old Nigel Biggar, the regius professor or moral and pastoral theology at Oxford.

He highlighted he wanted to generate a 'counter spiral' to the dominance of 'cultural left extremism' which he said had been determining views across the campus.

It comes one month after Cambridge rescinded its offer of a visiting fellowship to the so-called 'professor against political correctness' Jordan Peterson, after he was pictured next to a man wearing a t-shirt which had 'I'm a proud Islamophobe', printed on it.

In February, a meeting had been held by the International Youth and Students for Social Equality, group at Cambridge to 'oppose the promotion of eugenics and pseudo-science' at the university.

What has Noah Carl written about Brexit, immigration and Muslims in recent years?

'It cannot simply be taken for granted that, when in doubt, stifling debate around taboo topics is the ethical thing to do. (This study) makes three main claims: first, that equating particular scientific statements with racism effectively holds our morals hostage to the facts; second, that the 'blank slate' view of human nature also has pernicious moral implications; and third, that there are clear examples of where stifling debate has done material harm to both individuals and societal institutions.'

Evolutionary Psychological Science, December 2018

'Examining the relationship between the presence of Muslims and the incidence of Islamist terrorism is now a lively area of scholarly research... Of course, it goes without saying that only a small minority of Muslims are terrorists, and not all terrorist are Muslims.'

Medium, September 2018

'Remain voters overestimate the importance that Leave voters attach to both regaining control over EU immigration and teaching British politicians a lesson. 52 per cent of Remain voters rank 'Leavers wanted the UK to regain control over EU immigration' first, whereas only 39 per cent of Leave voters rank 'to regain control over EU immigration' first. And 12 per cent of Remain voters rank 'Leavers wanted to teach British politicians a lesson' first, whereas only 3 per cent of Leave voters rank 'to teach British politicians a lesson' first.'

London School of Economics blog, May 2018

'Britain's vote to leave the EU is decidedly not without precedent. The country has left the mainland of Europe on precisely three prior occasions, each time carefully weighing up the costs and benefits before doing so. In the Brexit of spring 1940, Britain politely declined to participate in a German-led effort toward European political union. In King Henry's Brexit of 1534, the country sought to regain competitiveness by unshackling itself from the yoke of papal regulation. And in the original Brexit of 10,0006,500 BC, the country prudently chose to increase border security, while at the same time putting its long-suffering fishermen back to work.'

Medium, March 2018

'The magnitude of inward migratory flows increased during the 20th century, and did so dramatically from the 1990s onwards. Between 1900 and 1950, the foreign-born fraction of the population rose, but never exceeded 5%. By the early 1990s, it was well above 5%. In 2011, it was around 13%. And today, it is probably above 15%. Thus, contemporary levels of immigration into Britain are historically unprecedented. Britain had arguably assumed its nationhood by at least the late 19th century. At this point in time, the make up of the British population was largely as it had been more than 1000 years earlier. There is therefore little justification for saying that Britain is an 'immigrant nation'.'

Medium, March 2017

'The present study shows that, in the UK, net opposition to immigrants of different nationalities correlates strongly with the log of immigrant arrests rates and with the log of their arrest rates for violent crime. This is particularly noteworthy given that Britons reportedly think that an immigrant's criminal history should be one of the most important characteristics when considering whether he or she should be allowed into the country.'

Open Quantitative Sociology & Political Science, November 2016

'It seems plausible that the higher the percentage of Muslims in the population, the greater the share of citizens susceptible to Islamist radicalisation, and therefore the larger the fraction of the population that the security services should need to monitor. For example, ISIS has been actively attempting to radicalise young Muslims living in Western countries by disseminating Jihadist propaganda through social media. Regarding the latter, it stands to reason that Islamist terrorist organisations such as Al Qaeda and ISIS might selectively target countries that have intervened militarily in Muslim countries particularly those in the Middle East, where the most sacred Islamic holy sites are located.'

Open Quantitative Sociology & Political Science, June 2016

'The fact that the correlation between verbal intelligence and economically liberal beliefs persists after controlling for characteristics like race, education and income suggests it cannot simply be attributed to selfishness on the parts of people with higher verbal intelligence. In particular, it contradicts the hypothesis that such people only have economically liberal beliefs because they believe they have personally benefitted from economically liberal policies. On the other hand, if conditional on current income, verbal intelligence is correlated with a tendency to believe one's future income will be higher under economically liberal policies, the correlation between verbal intelligence and economically liberal beliefs could be explained by selfishness, at least in part.'

Intelligence, March 2014
The Sackler family is being shunned by high society over their alleged role in the opioid crisis.

The powerful pharmaceutical family owns Purdue Pharma, which makes the addictive narcotic OxyContin.

The company, its executives and members of the Sackler family are now accused of deceiving patients and doctors about the risks of opioids and pushing prescribers to keep patients on the drug longer.

Until the scandal broke, the Sacklers were a highly respected family who mingled with the cream of New York society.

Over the years, the Sacklers have gifted various institutions with generous detonation and, in turn, have had their names stamped on buildings.

There's the Sackler Institute at Columbia University, the Sackler Center for Arts Education at the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum and the Sackler Wing at the Metropolitan Museum of Art - and that's just in New York.

But the New York Post reports that as Purdue Pharma and the Sacklers getting dragged into more and more lawsuits, a growing number of institutions are refusing further donations - or cutting ties with the family altogether.

A growing number of institutions are refusing further donations or cutting ties with the Sackler family altogether due to their link to the opioid crisis. Pictured: Dr Mortimer Sackler (left) and his wife Jacqueline Sackler attend The Winter Dance 2006 Desert Oasis in New York

The Sackler family owns Purdue Pharma, which makes the addictive narcotic OxyContin. The powerful narcotic has been directly tied to the opioid crisis. Pictured: Richard Sackler left, and Jonathan Sackler, right, children of the late Purdue Pharma co-founder Raymond Sackler

OxyContin was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1995 and made available in 1996.

Drug manufacturer Edwin Thompson told CBS's 60 Minutes that when the FDA approved the drug, it was based on research that showed it was effective for 'short-term' use.

But, in July 2001, the FDA changed the label and broadened OxyContin use for those with more moderate and long-term pain such as arthritis.

According to a 2005 study from the Washington University School of Medicine, by 2004, OxyContin became the most prevalent abused prescription opioid.

More than 47,000 people died from overdoses involving opioids in 2017.

Thousands of lawsuits have been brought against Purdue Pharma, particularly in New York and Massachusetts.

'They unfortunately symbolize all that is wrong with the epidemic. Their reputations are in the cesspool,' said a 'social insider' allegedly told The New York Post.

'There is a reluctance to hobnob and socialize [with] and openly stand next to the Sacklers. They aren't being invited to small dinners on Fifth Avenue.'

According to a 2005 study from the Washington University School of Medicine, by 2004, OxyContin became the most prevalent abused prescription opioid (file picture)

So far, eight members of the Sackler family have been named in lawsuits brought in several states. Insiders say many family members view themselves as disconnected from the opioid crisis. Pictured: Mortimer Sackler and Jacqueline Sackler in September 2006, and Joss Sackler and Alison Bruhn in September 2017

So far, eight members of the Sackler family have been named including Richard and Jonathan Sackler, sons of the late Raymond Sackler.

His widow Beverly and his grandson David have also been named.

Three children of the other founding brother Mortimer Sackler - Ilene, Kathe and Mortimer David Alfons - are all named as is his widow, Theresa.

Insiders reportedly told the Post that many Sackler family members view themselves as disconnected from the opioid crisis.

Yet, just earlier this year, it was revealed that Richard Sackler, then senior vice president of sales, told people when the prescription launched that it would be 'followed by a blizzard of prescriptions that will bury the competition'.

Author Michael Gross, told the Post that Sacklers are bound to face even further backlash,

'What you are seeing now is a much less forgiving environment for bad behavior,' said Gross, author of Rogues' Gallery: The Secret Story of the Lust, Lies, Greed, and Betrayals That Made the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

'The laundering of reputations through philanthropy used to be a frictionless process. Now it's a bumpy road and sometimes even detours lead to dead ends.'

In March, the National Portrait Gallery refused a grant of $1.3 million from the Sacklers.

And the Guggenheim, which has a wing with the family name on it, said it would no longer accept monetary gifts from the Sacklers.

The Solomon R Guggenheim Museum, which has a wing with the family name on it, said it would no longer accept monetary gifts from the Sacklers

In February, protesters descended on the museum and rained hundreds of scraps of paper designed to look like 80mg prescriptions down the Guggenheim's central spiral

In February, protesters descended on the museum and rained hundreds of scraps of paper designed to look like 80mg prescriptions down the Guggenheim's central spiral.

The Tate Museum in London also said it would not longer be accepting contributions from the Sacklers.

'I wouldn't accept donations from them,' an anonymous member of 'multiple museum boards' told the Post. 'The name is definitely sullied. And deservedly so.'

Even some family members have been trying to get out from under the shadow that the lawsuits have cast on the Sacklers.

Elizabeth Sackler, whose father Arthur held a one-third option in Purdue said in a statement in January 2019 that the role her family's company played in the opioid crisis is 'morally abhorrent' in a January 2019 statement.

She also argued that her father died in 1987, before OxyContin was produced, and that his option was sold to his younger brothers, the principal owners of Purdue Pharma a few months after his death.

'None of [Arthur's] descendants have ever owned a share of Purdue stock nor benefited in any way from it or the sale of OxyContin,' Elizabeth said.
Photo: UBCO

Researchers from UBC Okanagan, Thompson Rivers University and the University of Northern British Columbia are teaming up to protect B.C.'s forests and watersheds.

A new initiative by the Interior University Research Coalition is helping explore the impacts of wildfires, floods, landslides and pine beetles.

Faculty and students are collaborating on three research projects that will examine natural disturbances and their impacts on various watershed processes in forests, hillside slopes and Crown land.

Climate change and increased land development have emerged as influential factors in the occurrence of wildfires, floods and other natural disasters. The ... research will allow us to better plan for, respond to, and recover from natural disasters," says spokesperson Janice Larson.

UBC Okanagan Professor Adam Wei is working with UNBC's Stephen Dery and TRUs Tom Pypker to examine the long-term effect of such disturbances on the hydrological systems of forests.

As far as we know, there are currently no identified thresholds for large forest landscapes or watersheds in B.C. or elsewhere, says Wei. In addition, there are no studies on forest disturbance thresholds for peak or low flows.

A related project will examine how wildfires and climate change have increased the risk of landslides.

Rsearchers will use drones to perform 3-D mapping of landslide areas in co-operation with Vernon-based lumber company Tolko.

Images will then be used to visualize geomorphic features and measure the landslide geometry and movement.
Metro Bank has assured customers their money is safe despite unsubstantiated rumours circulating on Whatsapp telling people to withdraw their money as soon as possible.

After suffering a difficult few months, the bank has recently seen a rise in the number of customers trying to take out money at their branches.

Metro Bank has issued a statement assuring customers of its financial health and said plans to raise 350million from investors are 'well advanced'.

Metro Bank, Britain's first new High Street bank for over 100 years, has assured customers their money is safe despite rumours circulating on Whatsapp

In west London, many customers responded to the rumours by trying to withdraw cash from the branches

The bank told The Guardian: 'We're aware there were increased queries in some stores about safe deposit boxes following false rumours about Metro Bank on social media and messaging apps.

'There is no truth to these rumours and we want to reassure our customers that there is no reason to be concerned.

'We're a profitable bank, rated No 1 for personal current account service by the CMA and committed to serving our 1.7 million customer accounts.'

Metro Bank also made customers aware it did not take ownership of items held in safe deposit boxes and deposits are protected up to 85,000.

The statement came after a high volume of people tried to withdraw money from its west London branches.

Photographs on social media show concerned customers wanting to secure their money before facing a repeat of Northern Rock from 2007.

Customers have taken to social media to complain about the branch queues and shared their fears about another Northern Rock

One shared a photo with the caption: 'Metro Bank branch in Harrow packed with people trying to withdraw funds.'

Another said: 'Long queues in the Metro Bank today to take out their money. Seems a lot of people are spooked about having another Northern Rock on their hands.'

Metro Bank's shares have plummeted 75 per cent since January after announcing it needed to plug a funding gap.

Despite reports the lender was struggling to raise the cash, they have insisted plans to raise the 350million are well on their way.

Metro Bank, which complies with the liquidity requirements introduced after the banking crisis, hopes the amount will be raised by the end of June.

The bank is expected to reveal the details of its equity fundraising from existing shareholders and new investors this week.

Metro Bank was founded in 2010 by Vernon Hill and has become one of the UK's main challenger banks.

It became Britain's first new High Street bank for over 100 years.
Wendy Brilowski has been placed on administrative leave

A Minnesota teacher has been caught on camera calling a group of black students 'f*****g n*****s' in a shocking video.

Wendy Brilowski has been placed on administrative leave pending an investigation into the footage that emerged on Facebook last week.

She was videoed yelling 'I just walk around the room just pick on them. Theyre black. And theyre the only f*****g n*****s doing any work,' at Highland Park Middle School.

It is unclear who she was talking to but she appeared to be standing in a group of other teachers.

The video was filmed covertly and was posted online by the parent of a black student who was rightfully shocked and horrified by the language she used.

It remains unclear what the context for her outburst was but the school district said it is investigating.

She claimed that she was repeating what had been said by someone else but it is not clear who that person is.

The students in the classroom were stunned.

'No matter the situation, the racist and foul language used by a staff member in the video has no place in St. Paul Public Schools.

This is a screen grab of the video that shows her using the N-word in front of a group of other teachers. It was filmed without her knowledge then shared on Facebook and Snapchat

'We will work to understand what happened and take immediate, aggressive action to address this situation.

'Following this incident, we have a lot of work to do to repair harm and rebuild trust with our students and our community. We take that responsibility seriously.

'We offer a sincere apology for the actions that took place in our building on Wednesday,' the school district superintendent said.

Brilowski is a Spanish teacher.
President Donald Trump called the Republican-led subpoena of his son Donald Trump Jr. 'really sad' on Sunday.

The president tweeted an article from the conservative outlet Breitbart about Republicans in North Carolina who are angry with Sen. Richard Burr, who subpoenaed the president's son under his power as chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee.

'Really sad,' the president wrote.

President Trump called the Republican-led subpoena of his son Donald Trump Jr. 'really sad'

Burr has come under criticism from fellow party members for the move.

'The people of North Carolina are very upset about this,' Wayne King, the deputy chief of staff to GOP Rep. Mark Meadows and former vice chairman of the North Carolina GOP, said on Breitbart News Saturday on SiriusXM.

'They're very upset about the attack on the president's family and the attack on the president, and you can't call it anything else but thatit's an attack on the president and the first family. I've spent a good bit of time with Donald Trump, Jr., and he's such a nice manand for his family and him to have to go through this once again is just unbelievable to me. As a private citizen, he should be just thata private citizen.'

King added: 'Sen. Burr's not running again, and his seat will be up in 2022, so there's not any electoral repercussions [for him], but certainly people are talking about it and they're very upset about it.'

And Republican Sen. Rand Paul on Sunday slammed Burr's move as a possible perjury trap for the president's son.

'I think it's a real travesty of justice. I think it's very unfair to the president and the president's family on this. Mueller spend $35 million and two years, and the president was cleared. For the Senate to be calling up the president's son and putting him in jeopardy by bringing him in and grilling him I think it's really a tragedy,' Paul said on John Catsimatidis' radio show.

'This is not a friendly maneuver. This is an adversarial maneuver to bring him in under oath. And the Democrats will try to trip him up and get him to make some kind of mistake. From a Democrat perspective this is a chance to go after the Trump family and try to trick them into some kind of misstatement that then [Trump Jr.] is prosecuted for,' he added.

Last week, Trump said the subpoena 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 there's no collusion, we found no collusion.' But I was very surprised to see my son  my son's 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.

'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,' 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.

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

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.

'Two years of exhaustive investigation, and nothing to establish the fanciful conspiracy theory that Democratic politicians and TV talking heads had treated like a foregone conclusion. They told everyone there'd been a conspiracy between Russia and the Trump campaign. Yet on this central question, the special counsel's finding is clear: Case closed. Case closed,' McConnell said.

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.
Sadiq Khan has not been invited to the state banquet for Donald Trump when the U.S. President visits Britain next month.

The Mayor of London, who has feuded with Mr Trump since before either of them took office, is not on the guest list for the white-die dinner hosted by the Queen at Buckingham Palace.

The snub for Mr Khan is a break with recent precedent, as his predecessor Boris Johnson did attend the state banquet for then-President Barack Obama in 2011.

But Mr Khan has insisted he did not want to go anyway, echoing the stance of Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn who is boycotting the dinner.

Feud: London mayor Sadiq Khan (pictured right today) has not been invited to the state banquet for Donald Trump (left) when the U.S. President visits Britain next month

Speaking yesterday, Mr Khan said: 'History tells us only two presidents have had a state visit. I think President Trump is certainly not in the same class as those two.'

Only Mr Trump's two immediate predecessors, George W. Bush and Barack Obama, have been granted a state visit to the UK.

He also blasted the American leader for his treatment of women, saying it gives a 'green light' to sex pests, and added he would not attend a banquet.

The mayor's spokesman told Newsweek last week that Mr Khan had not been invited.

The President has yet to respond to the latest broadside in a furious war of words which began in 2015 when Mr Trump was running for the Republican nomination.

The business mogul had called for Muslims to be banned from entering the U.S. and claimed that parts of London were 'so radicalised the police are afraid for their lives'.

Mr Khan fired back, saying the Republican 'doesn't have a clue about London' and calling him 'divisive and dangerous'.

Protest: The London mayor permitted this mocking effigy of Donald Trump to fly over Parliament Square last year

In May 2016, Mr Khan won the London mayoral election just days after Mr Trump had effectively secured the Republican nomination.

The Labour candidate's victory made him the first Muslim mayor of a major capital in Western Europe - prompting speculation over whether Mr Trump would allow him into America.

The Republican said there would 'always be exceptions' to his proposed ban but a furious Mr Khan dismissed his offer, slamming his 'ignorant view of Islam'.

The row flared up again in 2017 when the President slammed Mr Khan's response to the London Bridge terror attack which killed seven people.

Mr Khan called his comments 'ill-informed'.

Last year the London mayor allowed a giant blimp depicting Mr Trump as a baby to fly in Parliament Square during the President's working visit.

Shortly before his visit Trump attacked the Labour politician again in a newspaper interview, saying he had done a 'very bad job on terrorism'.

Anti-Trump protesters have vowed to revive the baby blimp during this year's three-day visit.

Labour leader Mr Corbyn has said he will not attend the banquet either.

History: Mr Trump's trip next month will be the third state visit to Britain by a U.S. President, after George W. Bush and Barack Obama (pictured with the Queen in 2011) were both invited

He said last month that 'maintaining an important relationship with the United States does not require the pomp and ceremony of a state visit'.

Liberal Democrat leader Vince Cable also turned down a place at the dinner, saying the invitation to Mr Trump was 'inappropriate'.

In 2011, then-London mayor Boris Johnson attended the banquet for Mr Obama with his now estranged wife, Marina.

Then-Labour leader Ed Miliband also attended, along with Liberal Democrat leader Nick Clegg, who was in government at the time.

Ken Livingstone, who was London mayor when George W. Bush visited in 2003, said said on the eve of the President's visit that Mr Bush was the 'greatest threat to life on this planet'.

Mr Trump will hold bilateral talks with Mrs May at Downing Street during the visit from June 3-5.

He will also take part in commemorations in Portsmouth marking the 75th anniversary of the D-Day landings.
A widow who wanted access to her late husbands photographs has won a three-year legal battle against tech giant Apple.

Rachel Thompson, 44, spent thousands of pounds forcing Apple to open the account so she could help her daughter Matilda, ten, remember her father through images he stored online.

Mrs Thompsons initial attempts to access her husband Matts account after he took his own life in July 2015 were rebuffed by the American company.

Apple said that it would only release the 4,500 photos and 900 videos under a court order as Mr Thompson had not specified what access others should have to his account after his death aged 39.

Rachel Thompson spent years fighting the tech behemoth to obtain the 4,500 photos and 900 videos of Matt Thompson, who died in July 2015, and left no will

Mrs Thompson, a property adviser from Chiswick, west London, said this contrasted with the easy transfer of all her husbands other assets and dragged out the grieving process. Under UK law, the loved ones of people who pass away have no legal right to access information held in the deceaseds online accounts.

Mrs Thompson met her husband when she was 19 and he was 18 and they married ten years later. Mr Thompson, an estate agent, took thousands of photos on his iPhone charting their relationship and Matildas early childhood.

His Apple account also contained photos of Mrs Thompsons father, who died 18 months after her husband.

After his death, Mrs Thompson, pictured below with Matilda, said she was more concerned about the photos and videos than other assets.

She said images are valuable and videos are really nice because its amazing how quickly you forget what somebody sounds like.

Mrs Thompson last week won a court order to force Apple to give her access to the account and images.

In a ruling on the case at Central London County Court, Judge Jan Luba called for a change in the law and a simpler way to settle these cases in the future. Legal experts supported this, and said companies should owe a digital duty of care to grieving families.

Barrister Matt Himsworth said: Photos used to be kept in physical photo albums but now theyre kept online. Now, instead of looking through a photo album, our loved ones need a username and password to access this material. But what happens when they dont have this information?

The UK needs to deal with this issue as more and more of us use cloud-based accounts and social media.

There should be a universal process in order for heirs of estates to access the data held in these accounts.

For confidential support call the Samaritans on 116123 or visit a local Samaritans branch, or see samaritans.org for details.
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United 93 passenger Jeremy Glick and his wife Lyz. Jeremy rang Lyz and told her passengers would try to fight back against the hijackers

On Saturday, in a heart-stopping adaptation of a new book by a US journalist who reported on 9/11, we revealed the final moments of the innocent passengers on board the two hijacked planes that crashed into the World Trade Center in 2001. In this final, electrifying extract, we return to the last hijacker airliner - and the heroic passengers determined not to let the terrorists achieve their barbaric aim...

UNITED AIRLINES FLIGHT 93

The 37 passengers were already strapped in their seats when they heard that take-off would be delayed.

As United Flight 93 waited in the queue for the runway at Newark International Airport, the minutes crawled past. Flight attendants busied themselves serving juice to the passengers in first class. Those in economy went thirsty.

Among those offered juice were three men from Saudi Arabia and one from Lebanon. At least one of them had brought on board an instruction sheet for would-be martyrs.

Handwritten and titled 'The Last Night', it said: 'Pray that you and all your brothers will conquer, win and hit the target without fear.' Another section promised: 'And know that paradise has been adorned for you with the sweetest things. The nymphs, wearing their finest, are calling out to you.'

But already, the men's mission was going awry. Their leader, Mohamed Atta  personally selected by Osama bin Laden  had ensured that he and 18 collaborators had seats booked on four U.S. planes that departed within minutes of each other. That way, once the hijackings of all four were under way, no one on the ground would have time to warn other pilots, let alone track them down with armed fighter jets. It was a fiendish calculation that had worked perfectly  until then.

8.42am: Flight 93 takes off 42 minutes late. At that very moment, the first plane was just four minutes away from crashing into the North Tower of the World Trade Center.

The second plane would slam into the South Tower 17 minutes later. And in a further 34 minutes, the third plane would explode on impact with the Pentagon in Washington DC.

A plume of smoke from the crash sight of United Flight 93 in a field in Shanksville, Pennsylvania

Cruising above New Jersey, the passengers had no idea that their delay  as well as the 46 minutes it took the terrorists to launch their attack  would potentially save hundreds of lives.

As a result, in their final conversation with loved-ones, the passengers and crew would be told about the burning Twin Towers, leaving no one in doubt about their likely fate . . .

9.15am: Flight attendants began serving breakfast. Routine messages pinged back and forth between the cockpit and air traffic control. All seemed normal. The pilots' biggest worry was that a light headwind might stop them making up for the delay and reaching San Francisco on time.

No one had told them two planes had flown into the Twin Towers. No one mentioned what phone calls from the doomed flights had revealed: that hijackers had forced their way into the cockpits, killing or injuring the pilots. No one said a third plane had vanished 20 minutes before from radar screens.

But a 62-year-old mid-level employee at United Airlines HQ in Chicago was concerned about the prospect of further hijackings. Without consulting anyone, Ed Ballinger started sending digital messages to United pilots still in the air, cautioning them to beware of a violent 'cockpit intrusion'.

Flight United 93 was hijacked on 9/11 but never hit its target in Washington DC thanks to passengers. This was depicted in the film United 93 (pictured)

He knew every cockpit contained a fire axe, behind the first officer's seat. So he expected pilots to use the hammer-sized weapon to defend their planes, their lives and the innocents on board.

9.23am: Ballinger's message about the earlier hijackings arrived in Flight 93's cockpit.

9.26am: Three minutes later, a bewildered Captain Jason Dahl from Flight 93 replied: 'Ed cofirm [sic] latest mssg plz  Jason.'

Ballinger, who was busy contacting other planes, didn't immediately reply. Later, he'd torture himself with questions: should he have phrased his message more strongly? What if he'd sent it a few minutes earlier?

9.28am: The terrorists burst into the cockpit. The plane dropped 685ft. Eleven seconds later, one of the pilots yelled into the radio: 'Mayday! Mayday! Mayday!'

Investigators searching the debris left by the doomed flight. All 33 passengers, seven crew and four hijackers died

Then there was a second raspy shout: 'Hey  get out of here!'

One of the pilots must have kept his hand pressed on the talk button of the radio microphone: sounds of the struggle were heard by Federal Aviation Administration [FAA] ground controllers and by pilots of planes on the same radio frequency.

Thirty-five seconds after the distress call, one of the pilots screamed again: 'Hey, get out of here  get out of here!' Listening in was Flight 93's ground controller, John Werth, in Cleveland, Ohio. 'I think we've got one!' he called out to his supervisor. Another suicide hijacking was clearly under way, and he feared that the terrorists' target might be a nuclear plant, 40 miles from the plane's current position.

The four terrorists on Flight 93 were following nearly the same script as the hijackers of the first three planes. As some attacked the pilots, others stabbed at least one passenger or flight attendant and moved the rest to the rear of the plane.

9.31am: Controller John Werth heard a new male voice with a Middle Eastern accent. The man was breathing heavily, possibly because he'd helped drag at least one of the pilots from the cockpit.

'Ladies and gentlemen, here the captain,' he said. 'Please sit down, keep remaining sitting. We have a bomb on board. So, sit.' The voice almost certainly belonged to 33-year-old Ziad Jarrah, the only hijacker with pilot training. Not that it amounted to much: just 100 hours at a flight school in the U.S.

For the next 31 minutes, the Boeing 757's cockpit recorder picked up various exchanges. Two voices belonged to Jarrah and a sidekick; another two were native English-speakers.

It wasn't always clear who was speaking. One thing, however, was beyond doubt: the hijackers were brutalising at least one of their captives. First, Jarrah  once a regular at Beirut discos  issued a stream of commands: 'Don't move. Shut up. Come on, come. Shut up! Don't move! Stop! Sit, sit, sit down! Sit down!'

'No more,' someone pleaded. Then: 'No!'  this was repeated nine times.

A hijacker started shouting over and over again for the person to 'lie down, down, down'.

Sandy Waugh, 38, was a flight attendant on flight 93. She had been working as a flight attendant for 11 years

Then the recorder captured the voice of a woman, possibly one of the first-class flight attendants. She beseeched her abusers: 'Please, please, don't hurt me.'

Almost four minutes into the assault, she started pleading for her life: 'I don't want to die!' As she struggled for her life, the woman wept. Finally, Jarrah told another hijacker in Arabic: 'Go back.'

9.37am: A man reported in Arabic that they wouldn't have any more problems from their hostage: 'Everything is fine. I finished.' The woman's voice wasn't heard again.

Jarrah took the plane into a sharp U-turn, pointing towards Washington DC. On the ground, controller John Werth saw the turn on his radar screen. It was so abrupt, he thought, that anyone standing at the back would have been tossed like a rag doll.

Yet even at this point, no one at FAA headquarters had yet informed the military that a fourth passenger jet had been hijacked.

9.42am: The cockpit voice recorder captured another voice, possibly one of the pilots. It was a low-pitched moan: 'Oh, man!'

As THE chaos unfolded, passengers and crew began making phone calls, mostly from Airfones built into seatbacks. The technology allowed only eight outgoing calls at a time, and poor reception caused 20 calls to drop.

Flight attendant Sandy Bradshaw used a three-digit speed-dial number to reach the United maintenance centre in San Francisco. Composed and professional, she told a maintenance manager that hijackers were in the cockpit, that they had a knife and had killed a flight attendant.

Ziad Jarrah, 33, was the trained pilot on United Flight 93 and was the one to take the controls

Mark Bingham, a 31-year-old former San Francisco rugby union star who'd once wrestled a gun from a mugger, got through to his mother, Alice Hoagland.

'Mom, this is Mark . . .' he said. 'I want to let you know I love you. I love you all.'

He told her that 'three men' had hijacked his flight. 'You've got to believe me. It's true.'

The line went dead. Alice called the FBI, then rang Mark's mobile. There was no reply, so she left a message, telling him: 'I would say, go ahead and do everything you can to overpower them, because they're hell-bent.'

Mark never retrieved his mother's voicemail. But others were having the same thoughts.

Jeremy Glick, a 30-year-old former national judo champion, called his wife Lyz, who was staying at her parents' farmhouse in upstate New York with their infant daughter.

'Listen, there are some bad men on this plane,' he told her. Lyz began to cry. They repeatedly told each other: 'I love you.'

A few minutes later, with her eyes on a TV set, she broke the devastating news to him that a plane had just flown into the Pentagon. Jeremy remained calm, but she could hear confusion in his voice.

His mother-in-law now turned to his wife. 'Make him, make him brave,' she said. 'Make him brave.' Lyz turned back to the phone. Jeremy told her some guys were rallying together and wanted to attack the hijackers. Was that a good idea? Lyz said she didn't know, and asked if the hijackers had guns.

United Airlines Flight 175 hit the south tower of the World Trade Center just 21 minutes after United Flight 93 took off

No, said Jeremy, adding in a joking tone he and four other men were 'going to get butter knives'. Then he grew serious. He and the other men had voted, he said, and they'd reached a decision. 'I think you need to do it,' said Lyz. 'You're strong, you're brave. I love you.'

9:43am: Computer software salesman Todd Beamer tried to call his wife, but couldn't get a connection. Frustrated, he dialled '0' on an Airfone and reached an operator.

The operator became upset and called over her supervisor. 'I'll finish the call,' said supervisor Lisa Jefferson, who coincidentally had the same Christian name as his wife.

Lisa and Todd, aged 32, established an immediate rapport. He told her that two people were on the floor of the first-class cabin, injured or dead. Lisa overheard a flight attendant tell Todd they were the two pilots.

As he was talking, the plane dived sharply. 'Oh my God, we're going down!' Todd yelled. 'We're going down. Jesus help us.'

The plane levelled off and Todd regained his composure. He asked Lisa if she'd say the Lord's Prayer with him. They wouldn't be the last to recite those words.

Lisa offered to connect Todd to his wife, but he declined. 'I don't want to upset her unnecessarily,' he said. 'She's expecting our third child in January, and if I don't have to upset her with any bad news, then I'd rather not.'

9:48am: Todd informed Lisa: 'A few of us passengers are getting together. I think we're going to jump the guy with the bomb.' Lisa asked if Todd was sure. He said he didn't have much choice, so he'd rely on faith.

Tom Burnett  the 37-year-old vice-president of a heart-pump company  phoned his wife, Deena. 'A group of us are getting ready to do something,' he said. He warned her that he might not be able to call back.

The call between 38-year-old flight attendant Sandy Bradshaw and her husband, Phil  a pilot for U.S. Airways  was notably practical. He made her look for the sun and concluded that the plane was flying east.

She told him passengers were getting hot water from the galley as they prepared to take action. Phil asked Sandy to call him when they'd seized the cockpit. He knew how to fly a 757, and he'd talk someone through it.

They expressed their love for each other. Sandy told him to raise their kids right.

9.45am: Talking in Arabic, Jarrah asked a hijacker to bring 'the pilot' back to the cockpit.

This suggested one pilot might still be alive and the inexperienced Jarrah wanted help.

But nothing further was said about a pilot. And the man who'd moaned 'Oh, man!' was never heard from again.

American Airlines Flight 11 hit the north tower of the World Trade Center just 4 minutes after United Flight 93 took off

9.46am: Apparently worried at losing altitude too quickly, Jarrah jerked the nose upward, then put Flight 93 into another dive. There were muffled screams outside the cockpit.

9:53am: The terrorists sensed a revolt brewing. In Arabic, one hijacker suggested using the fire axe to hold off the passengers.

Several minutes before 10am, Todd Beamer  still talking to supervisor Lisa Jefferson on the phone  turned to some passengers. 'Are you guys ready?' she heard him ask.

She didn't catch the reply. But she heard his last three words: 'OK. Let's roll.'

To get to the cockpit, about 100ft away, the rebels had to run single-file down an aisle 20in wide. Fearsome yells accompanied their charge.

The hijackers heard the racket from inside the cockpit. 'Is there something?' asked one. 'A fight?' said another.

From the first-class section, a stranded hijacker banged on the cockpit door, seeking refuge. Next came sounds of a fight and a man's screams.

To throw the rebels off balance, Jarrah turned the controller to rock the plane, left and right, left and right.

The struggle outside the cockpit continued. A hijacker yelled: 'Stay back!'  perhaps while threatening the fighters with a knife or the fire axe.

Still they kept coming. 'In the cockpit!' yelled a passenger. 'In the cockpit!'

9.59am: Jarrah said in Arabic: 'They want to get in there. Hold [the door]. Hold from the inside. Hold from the inside. Hold.'

Outside, a passenger yelled: 'Let's get them!' A sound of metal snapping, then a hijacker yelling 'ah!' and glasses or plates smashing.

10am: It was dawning on the terrorists they couldn't hold the cockpit indefinitely. One, probably Jarrah, asked: 'Is that it? Shall we finish it off?'

Former leader of Al Qaeda Osama Bin Laden took credit for the attacks on 9/11 shortly after

'No. Not yet,' said another.

Jarrah said: 'When they all come, we finish it off!'

Outside the door, a passenger or crew member said: 'Ah! I'm injured.' Then the sound of metal striking metal. The rebels geared up for another push. 'In the cockpit. If we don't, we'll die!' a man yelled.

Jarrah tried a new tactic, making the plane rise, then dive, then rise again.

More thumps, shouts and breaking glass. The passengers were apparently using a trolley as a battering ram. 'Roll it!' shouted a male passenger.

The cockpit recorder captured a large crashing sound  presumably the trolley smashing into the door. 'Allah is the greatest!' Jarrah yelled. 'Allah is the greatest!'

10:01am: Still 125 miles from Washington DC, the hijackers realised they couldn't hold the cockpit long enough to finish their murderous mission.

Flying near Johnstown in Pennsylvania  67 miles east of Pittsburgh  Jarrah defaulted to a fallback option Mohamed Atta had created: any hijacker who couldn't reach his target should crash the plane into the ground.

'Is that it?' Jarrah asked another hijacker in Arabic. 'I mean, shall we pull it down?' The answer was yes.

10:02am: 'Go! Go! Move! Move!' one of the passengers exhorted. Another shouted: 'Turn it up!'

A command in Arabic: 'Down, down . . . Pull it down!' Flight 93 nosedived toward the hills and streams of rural southwestern Pennsylvania.

As the earth rushed closer, passengers and crew apparently made a final effort to reach the hijackers.

Did they get through the door? The cockpit recorder reveals a last-second struggle. One possibility is a passenger grabbed the pilot's controls in a desperate effort to pull the plane out of its dive.

A hijacker shouted in Arabic: 'Hey! Hey!' Then: 'Give it to me,' repeated seven times.

Ringleader Mohamed Atta (right) told other hijackers to crash the planes if they were unsuccessful in reaching their targets. Pictured left: the cover of Mitchell Zuckoff's book

Someone turned the controls hard to the right. The plane flew sideways, then turned upside down, its belly to the blue sky. A male passenger shouted: 'No!' The final sounds were screams, loud noises and prayers to Allah.

10.03am: At more than 550mph, Flight 93 crashed in a field next to a reclaimed coal mine near Indian Lake and Shanksville, Pennsylvania.

The impact left a crater around 15ft deep and 30ft wide. All 33 passengers, seven crew and four hijackers died  but no one on the ground was injured. One Pittsburgh-based FBI agent would later describe the plane crash as 'like a knife through hot butter'.

10.05am: A cargo plane sees black smoke from the last known position of Flight 93 and alerts the military Northeast Air Defence Sector.

10.17am: The local command centre finally advises the military's HQ that Flight 93 had indeed crashed.

The heroes of Flight 93 hadn't been able to save themselves. They would never return home to their loved ones. But with great courage, they had not only stopped terrorists from destroying the Capitol or the White House, but saved many lives.
A Connecticut man has been indicted on charges that he threatened to kill Donald Trump and sent others bomb threats and mail containing suspicious white powder.

Gary Gravelle, 51, of New Haven, was indicted on 16 counts, including threats against the president and conveying false information about an explosive.

In the indictment, he was named a member of the white supremacist group American Knights of Anarchy (AKA), reported the New Haven Register.

According to court documents, Gravelle sent Trump an envelope containing white powder and a letter that read: 'I, Gary Gravelle,... as a faithful soldier of the AKA, am coming to KILLDonald [sic] Trump.'

He sent similar envelopes to a synagogue, a mosque and a chapter of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), according to the indictment.

Gary Gravelle, 51 (pictured), of New Haven, Connecticut, was indicted on 16 counts, including threats against the president and conveying false information about an explosive

In September 2018, he sent a letter to President Donald Trump (pictured, May 2019) containing a white powder and threatening to kill him

The note to President Trump claimed the power was a biotoxin, but it was found to be harmless, officials said.

Gravelle, also known as Roland Prejean, sent the letters to judges, post officers, and other government officials across the country, reported NBC Connecticut.

He allegedly addressed a letter to the Thomaston Post Office in which he threatened to kill a postman everyone in the post office, according to the station.

Prosecutors say Gravelle also threatened a probation officer in Connecticut , a Connecticut Superior Court Judge, several Connecticut Valley Hospital workers and a former roommate.

Gravelle also threatened that he had hidden a bomb inside the Thomaston Post Office, forcing an evacuation.

Additionally, he sent emails and made phone calls threatening to detonate bombs in Vermont and Washington.

Gravelle (left and right) sent similar letters to a synagogue, a mosque a Connecticut Superior Court Judge and Thomaston Post Office. He was previously sentenced to 70 months in September 2013 but was released in November 2015

If convicted of all 16 counts, Gravelle could face a maximum prison sentence of 140 years. Pictured: Donald Trump, left, and First Lady Melania Trump, May 2019

Between the anthrax, bomb and death letters, prosecutors estimate that he wrote more than 50.

No injuries were reported as a result of the packages he sent and, in some cases, the white powder was identified as baby powder.

If convicted of all 16 counts, Gravelle could face a maximum prison sentence of 140 years.

It was not immediately clear if he had a lawyer.

Gravelle was previously sentenced in 2013 to 70 months in prison, according to US Attorney John Durham's statement on Friday.

He was released in November 2015 under federal supervision until his arrest on the new charges last year.
A 27-year-old Michigan man out on parole has been accused of killing two women after police say he showed deputies photos of the victim's bodies and say he was on the way to kill even more.

The suspect, Kiernan Brown, was pulled over on a Michigan highway about 108 miles northwest of Detroit on Friday after his ex-girlfriend reported receiving disturbing text messages from him to police.

'There is no doubt the suspect was on a killing spree,' Ingham County Sheriff Scott Wriggelsworth said at a Friday press conference, noting that the deputies who performed the traffic stop 'saved many more lives'.

'The investigation has identified two additional potential victims that the suspect had planned to kill,' the sheriff said. 'They have all been contacted and are all safe.'

Kaylee Ann Brock, 26, (left) and Julie Ann Mooney, 32, (right) were allegedly killed by a man who police say was 'on a killing spree' in Michigan on Friday

Kiernan Brown, 27, has been identified as the suspect. At the time of his arrest, he was on parole for larceny and assault

Brown was pulled over on a Michigan highway about 108 miles northwest of Detroit on Friday after his ex-girlfriend reported receiving disturbing text messages from him to police

Brown allegedly told police he needed to show them photos on his phone, at which point he produced images of the two victims, identified as 26-year-old Kaylee Ann Brock and 32-year-old Julie Ann Mooney.

Both women died of multiple blunt force trauma, according to investigators. Brock's body was found at her home in Holt and Mooney's was found in Williamston.

Police began searching for Brown at about 2.40am Friday after the suspect's ex-girlfriend reported that he was violating a personal protection order by knocking on her door and sending her disturbing text messages.

In the texts, Brown said that 'he loved her so he spared her, and she would know what that meant soon,' Wriggelsworth said.

Another text said Brown 'had been ridding the demons of some dear friends of his.'

The ex-girlfriend was not one of the intended victims, Wriggelsworth said.

Brown is being held in the Eaton County Jail on unrelated warrants as charges in the murders of Brock and Mooney are pending.

According to Michigan authorities, Brown has a lengthy criminal background.

He was on parole after he pleaded guilty to larceny from a motor vehicle and assault by strangulation.

Brown has also been arrested for resisting arrest and a home invasion.
Defective tumble dryers which have been fixed to supposedly make them safe remain a 'massive fire hazard', a former Whirlpool engineer claimed yesterday.

The modification  being carried out on millions of machines under the company's Hotpoint, Creda and Indesit brands  still leaves some appliances at risk of potentially lethal blazes, he alleged.

More than five million machines had a design fault that has caused at least 750 household fires since 2004, many driving families out of their homes.

An engineer for home appliances giant Whirlpool has alleged their modification programme, designed to reduce the fire risk with some brands of tumble dryer, still leaves some appliances at risk of potentially lethal blazes

They start when fluff from the cycle comes into contact with the heating element. Whirlpool began a huge drive to modify them four years ago and claims there have been no reported incidents where the fix has failed.

But dozens of customers with modified tumble dryers have reported fires or the strong smell of smoke.

Now an engineer who worked on the modification has told the Mail he believes the 'fix' is not completely effective on all machines.

He said Whirlpool almost always tried to blame customers for fires, saying they had not removed fluff from the machine  even though many fires were caused by design faults. The man, an electrical engineer, was hired by Whirlpool as a 'retrofit service engineer' in August 2016.

After a week's training at the firm's UK headquarters in Peterborough, he worked six days a week for the next four months, usually performing seven 'fixes' a day in Buckinghamshire.

The engineer, who wishes to remain anonymous, said: 'I couldn't believe they were getting away with it. I told my wife I would never have one of those machines.'

More than five million tumble dryers had a design fault that has caused at least 750 fires since 2004

He said the retrofit involved cleaning and replacing a few parts but the only new bit added was a rivet fitted in the rear of the drum, which is supposed to stop large amounts of lint from building up near the heating element.

'But this only slows it down, it doesn't stop it,' said the technician.

He believes that there are likely to be more and more fires in modified machines.

'Whether you clean it or not, that thing is always a massive fire hazard,' he added. 'If things carry on, it's only a matter of time before somebody dies.'

Last night MPs and campaigners described the allegations as 'shocking' and called on the Government to recall all the machines, whether they had been modified or not, to save lives.

On May 4, the Mail reported that Jemma Spurr, 35, who fled her home in Sarisbury Green, Hampshire, with her children after a modified Hotpoint dryer caught fire, had broken a gagging order to attack the manufacturer.

Whirlpool denied ever using legal mechanisms to prevent public discussion of alleged incidents.

Commenting on the engineer's claims, Whirlpool said: 'We dispute these allegations. They bear no resemblance to the standards we expect of our engineers, their working practices, or the training process.

'We are concerned that misinformed and misleading criticism of the modification programme risks discouraging consumers from registering for this important safety upgrade.

'UK product safety regulators have repeatedly concluded that the modification is the most effective way of resolving this issue. There have been no reported incidents where the modification has proven to be ineffective.'
Internet giants should pay a new sales tax to fund support for struggling high street shops, the boss of Tesco demands today.

Dave Lewis warned that the unsustainable business rates system was pushing bricks-and-mortar retailers across the country to breaking point.

Many shops are hit with crippling bills on their properties while battling competition from online rivals who pay much less.

Writing in the Mail, Mr Lewis called for these high street stores to get a 20 per cent reduction on their business rates, to be paid for with a 2 per cent levy on online retail sales. His demand comes as a report today finds the level of vacant shop units has hit a four-year high.

The Mails Save Our High Streets campaign has called for business rates to be replaced with a fairer system. It has also called for large overseas companies to pay their fair share of tax, and for cuts to car parking charges in town centres.

Tesco boss Dave Lewis has called for high street retail stores to get a 20 per cent reduction on their business rates, to be paid for with a 2 per cent levy on online retail sales

Businesses pay rates based on an estimate of what their property would cost to rent for a year. Mr Lewis said a 2 per cent levy on internet sales  which Tesco and other big brands would also pay on their online businesses  could raise 1.5 billion, funding a rates cut at no extra cost to the Treasury. He dismissed concerns the new tax could cause prices to go up and insisted Tesco  which employs more than 300,000 staff in the UK  would not pass a penny of it on to its customers.

He said reform of business rates would reduce pressure on small shops and mean the taxes they face are fairer.

Billions of pounds have shifted online, but the rates system was never devised to account for this. Because the bill is linked to property  not profit  shops struggling to keep the doors open have to pay up, while larger online businesses pay just a fraction, he said.

We face an active policy choice  act now... or do nothing and face the inevitable consequences.

About 7,500 shops closed their doors last year, and Mr Lewis warned another 10,000 could go unless they receive help from the Government. His intervention comes amid a chorus of calls for reform of business rates.

Last week the Confederation of British Industry (CBI) said the system was broken. The bosses of Marks & Spencer, John Lewis and Debenhams have also backed calls for sweeping changes.

Thousands of stores closed last year and more than 175,000 jobs are predicted to disappear from the high street this year if the turmoil continues. M&S, Debenhams and Sir Philip Greens Arcadia, which includes Top Shop, are all preparing to shut stores.

Sir Philip Greens Arcadia, which includes Top Shop, is preparing to shut stores amidst wider retail sales turmoil

Amazon paid just 63 million in business rates in Britain last year, despite reporting sales of 8.8 billion.

By comparison, M&S pays about 184 million in rates on annual sales of 10.7 billion, while Tesco pays 700 million on sales of 63.9billion.

The level of empty shops in town centres across Britain has already hit a four-year high, according to figures published today.

Retail research firm Springboard said the vacancy rate rose to 10.2 per cent in the first three months of 2019, compared to 9.9 per cent at the end of last year.

Footfall on high streets also continued to decline last month.

Helen Dickinson, chief executive of the British Retail Consortium, said streets full of empty shops threatened to put off even more consumers.

She said having to pay rising business rates and the Governments apprenticeship levy had made it tougher for bricks-and-mortar retailers to survive.

For many retailers, business rates remain the single biggest tax. If the Government is serious about reversing the decline on our high streets, then reforming the broken business rates system would be an essential first step.

But local growth minister Jake Berry suggested that offering free parking  for perhaps up to two hours  was a better way to help the high street.

Local growth minister Jake Berry suggested that offering free parking was a better way to help high street than Mr Lewis' idea

No one would mind about business rates if their shop was full of customers spending lots of money, he said. So we need to get more people back on the high street. We need action to reverse the decline in footfall.

Mr Berry added: There are enough challenges getting people away from major shopping centres and getting them offline without them needing to scrape around for 50p or 1 for parking and worrying about a fine if their shopping trip over-runs.

He said the high street was undergoing a period of rapid change, probably the most rapid in its history as shoppers flock online. But Mr Berry urged families to return to their local town centres, adding: The high street was the first social network. You cant get a hug on Amazon, but you can on your high street.

The Treasury said: We recognise this is a difficult time for high streets, with many retailers struggling with high rents and changing shopping habits. That is why at last years Budget we outlined a comprehensive 1.6 billion plan to help. And were introducing reforms that will lower business rates bills by 13 billion over the next five years.

We must back our nation of shopkeepers (by Dave Lewis)

It doesn't matter whether you are a large retailer such as Tesco, or run an independent corner shop  business rates have a huge impact on every bricks-and-mortar retailer. This is unsustainable.

Shops are at the heart of every town across the UK. From high streets to retail parks, the retail sector employs 3 million people, and contributes 5 per cent of GDP. But it also accounts for more than 10 per cent of corporate tax  and a staggering 25 per cent of the nations business rates bill.

Thats a wildly different picture to other European countries. Research shows that for a typical supermarket, a UK retailer pays twice as much in property taxes as it would in France, and 20 times more than in Germany. Its been 30 years since business rates were introduced. The system is outdated, not fit for purpose, and doesnt reflect the way people shop today.

It is impossible not to notice the increasing stresses in the retail sector, with a long list of household names going out of business in recent years.

Mr Lewis wrote that retail shoulders a business rates bill amounting to 7.5 billion every year

Last year, there were 7,500 net store closures in the UK, and as the Mail has reported, we could lose another 10,000 stores this year, as well as the jobs and investment that come with them.

Yet against that challenging backdrop, retail shoulders a business rates bill amounting to 7.5 billion every year.

Asking a decreasing number of retailers to pay ever-increasing amounts in business rates is simply not sustainable. As the Treasury looks to recover the revenue from a shrinking pool, it creates a downward spiral and the burden becomes ever greater on the retailers that remain.

Now more than ever, we should be at the top of our game  but instead we discourage would-be investors with what is effectively a 50 per cent tax on investment in property, the highest in Europe and the second highest in the OECD. Our business rates system has barely evolved since 1988, yet the way people shop has changed profoundly. Online retail has grown dramatically, while sales in shops have fallen.

Healthy competition between shops and online is good for customers, and drives innovation. But the ability to compete is undermined when the playing field between shops and online is not level. The rates bill for shops is ever increasing, despite their share of sales falling. Billions of pounds have shifted online, but the rates system was never devised to fairly account for this.

Because the bill is linked to property  not profit  shops struggling to keep the doors open have to pay up, while larger online businesses pay just a fraction.

At Tesco, our headline business rates bill is 700 million, nearly double what it was just ten years ago. Across the country, I hear about shops that are paying more rates than rents; that have seen their rates bill only rise, but not fall; and that have to hold back on investments and upgrades because they cant afford a higher rates burden. We now face an active policy choice  act now to back one of the UKs most important sectors, or do nothing and face the inevitable consequences.

So what is the answer? There are three things that any solution must achieve.

It has to be fair and address the non-level playing field between shops and online, so that taxation reflects sales. It must be politically and economically sound  meaning the same amount of money ultimately flowing into Treasury coffers, funding essential services. And, crucially, it must reduce business rates on shops to more sustainable levels.

Mr Lewis says Tesco's headline business rates bill is 700 million, nearly double what it was just ten years ago

There is one solution which addresses all three of these points: a targeted levy of 2 per cent on the sale of physical goods online, so the tax burden follows where sales take place. This would fund a 20 per cent cut in the business rates bill for all retailers.

Of course, as a major online retailer, Tesco would have a large bill to pay from an online sales levy  more so than competitors who have smaller online businesses, or no online business at all.

There are some who worry that the cost of the levy would be passed to customers. A targeted and limited levy would reduce a substantial tax  which already impacts consumers -and reduce pressure on shop prices. And because it applies to online revenues, not transactions, retailers could decide whether to pass the cost on. Given the level of competition in retail, there will be healthy market pressure to remain competitive on price. I can speak only for Tesco  but if a levy is introduced as we propose, we would commit to not pass a penny of it on to our customers.

There are others who have argued that introducing the levy would somehow be backwards-looking, and stifle innovation. But this misses the point. There is no reason why fair sustainable taxes should act as a brake on inventiveness.

Existing rates exemptions and revenue thresholds would be in place to ensure those least able to pay, including small online businesses, are protected. An online sales levy could be quickly introduced, and the 1.5 billion that retailers would gain could be invested in their people, prices and stores.

If we dont act now, we are in danger of missing our chance. The warning signs are stacking up, with another big retail name lost almost every month.

As I see it, there are only two choices.

We can prolong the status quo, losing jobs and business and impacting communities.

Or we can put our tax system back in step with sales. That would level the playing field, reduce the unsustainable burden of rates and increase investment  for the good of retail, and our great nation of shopkeepers.
Photo: The Canadian Press House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Richard Neal, D-Mass., is joined at right by Rep. Tom Reed, R-N.Y., at a hearing on taxpayer noncompliance on Capitol Hill in Washington, Thursday, May 9, 2019. Neal issued subpoenas for six years of President Donald Trump's tax returns on Friday.

President Donald Trump is scoffing at Democrats' attempts to pry loose his tax returns, saying his refusal to release the records as a candidate didn't hurt him in 2016 and voters "didn't care" about the issue.

A leading House Democrat has issued subpoenas for six years of Trump's tax documents and given Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin and IRS Commissioner Charles Rettig a deadline of this coming Friday to deliver them.

Trump has privately made clear he has no intention of turning over the much-coveted material. He is the first president since Watergate to decline to make his returns public, often claiming that he would release them if he were not under audit.

The subpoenas came from Rep. Richard Neal, chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee, on Friday, days after Mnuchin refused to comply with demands to turn over Trump's returns. Mnuchin said the committee's request "lacks a legitimate legislative purpose," as Supreme Court precedent requires.

Neal, D-Mass., reminded the two Trump appointees in a letter that federal law states that the IRS "shall furnish" the tax returns of any individual upon the request of the chairmen of Congress' tax-writing committees and that his committee "has never been denied" a request.

Trump tweeted on Saturday that he won in 2016 "partially based on no Tax Returns while I am under audit (which I still am), and the voters didn't care. Now the Radical Left Democrats want to again relitigate this matter. Make it a part of the 2020 Election!"

The White House and the Democratic-controlled House are battling over investigations into Trump, and the administration has refused to comply with subpoenas for the unredacted report by special counsel Robert Mueller and documents related to the testimony by former White House counsel Donald McGahn.

If Mnuchin and Rettig fail to heed the latest demand from Neal, he is likely to sue in federal court.

Neal, who first demanded access to Trump's tax returns in early April, 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 committee has a potential legislative purpose. Democrats are confident in their legal justification and say Trump is stalling in an attempt to delay the issue beyond the 2020 election.

In rejecting Neal's request, 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." Mnuchin has also said that Neal's request had the potential to make private tax returns a political matter.

Republicans say Neal is using the arcane 1924 law that empowers him to obtain any individual's tax filing to play politics with Trump. Democrats also want to probe into Trump's business dealings, particularly his business relationships with foreigners and to see who he owes money to.
Robert Mueller will testify before Congress, Democratic Rep. Adam Schiff vowed on Sunday after Democrats said the special counsel would not be making appearance on Capitol Hill in this coming week.

'I am convinced it's going to happen,' Schiff, the chairman of the House Intelligence Committee, told ABC's 'This Week.'

'The American people have every right to hear what the man who did the investigation has to say and we now know we certainly can't rely on the attorney general who misrepresented his conclusions. So he is going to testify,' he added.

Robert Mueller will testify before Congress, Democratic Rep. Adam Schiff (above) vowed

Negotiations are ongoing between the Justice Department and House Democrats on when special counsel Robert Mueller will appear on Capitol Hill

Schiff argued it was important to hear from Mueller about his findings after reports Mueller's team was unhappy with the way Attorney General Bill Barr presented their investigation's results to Congress.

'We have the Mueller report, although we still haven't heard from the man himself. And I think the first priority has to be get Mueller before the Congress and the American people,' he said.

But Schiff was reluctant to indulge in any talk on impeachment proceedings against President Donald Trump, saying such a move would divide the country.

'And yes, it's certainly true that these additional acts of obstruction, a president having obstructed the Justice Department investigation, now obstructing Congress, does add weight to impeachment. But you know, part of our reluctance is we are already a bitterly divided country and an impeachment process will divide us further,' he said.

House Democrats are eager to hear from the special counsel and the House Judiciary Committee is in talks with the Justice Department as to when that will occur.

But Judiciary Committee chairman Rep. Jerry Nadler announced Friday that Mueller will not testify in the coming week despite the original call for the special counsel to appear by May 15.

'It won't be next week. We're negotiating now,' Nadler said.

The chairman's revelation came after the committee voted to hold Barr in contempt of Congress over his refusal to comply with their subpoena over the full, unredacted version of Mueller's report.

Trump exerted executive privilege over the unredacted Mueller 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.

President Trump has both said Mueller should not testify and it should be up to Barr if the special counsel testifies.

Mueller's report found no evidence of collusion between the Trump campaign and Russia, 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.

Judiciary Committee chairman Rep. Jerry Nadler announced Friday that Mueller will not testify in the coming week

President Trump has both said Mueller should not testify and that it would be the attorney general's decision

'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.

The Justice Department slammed the contempt 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.

Democrats voted last week to hold Attorney General Bill Barr in contempt of Congress

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.

The full House must still vote on the contempt citation against Mueller. After that, the matter is likely to end up in the courts.
Michelle Obama paid tribute to the mother that raised her and the daughters she is raising in a touching social media post on Sunday.

'Verified Growing up, every time I'd come home from school with a story to share, my mother was there with a snack and a listening ear to hear about what was on my mind,' wrote the former first lady.

'When I came home with a tale about my disastrous second-grade classroom, she marched into the school to figure out what was going on.'

She added: 'And as I grew older, including up through my years as First Lady, she was always there for me as a guiding light through whatever fog was clouding my path.'

Scroll down for video

Praised: Michelle Obama praised her mother for helping her become the woman she is today on Sunday (L to R: Malia, Michelle Maryan Robinson and Sasha Obama)

Fan: She later received some words of love of from her own biggest fan, Barack Obama (Obma's post of his girls in China above)

Obama then thanked her mother for keeping the fire burning inside her, and allowing her to discover who she was and what she thought on her own.

'She's always listened more than she lectured; observed more than she demonstrated. In doing so, she allowed me to think for myself and develop my own voice.'

Those same attributes that served her so well are no befitting another generation as well said Obama.

'Mom, thank you for kindling that fire within me, and for your example as a mother and a grandmother to our girls,' wrote Obama.

Obama's message to her mother on Sunday

'We would never be who we are today without you.'

Her husband also paid tribute to his remarkable wife in a post on Thursday.

'Happy Mother's Day to the most caring, brilliant, funny, and grounded woman I know - a perfect role model not just for our daughters, but so many others. Love you,' wrote former president Barack Obama.

He could not be with his wife on her big day as she was in Atlanta promoting her memoir Becoming at a talk moderated by Gayle King.

Earlier in the weekend she surprised a group of students from Spelman and Morehouse colleges who've been studying her memoir.

Obama went to Spelman to talk with the students Saturday about the best-selling book ahead of her sold-out appearance Saturday night at State Farm Arena in downtown Atlanta.

Girls: On Saturday, Obama appeared with Gayle King at a town hall in Atlanta

Obama encouraged the 18 students to have faith in themselves, saying she learned through her eight years in the White House and elsewhere that she is as smart and capable as the well-educated and famous leaders she encountered, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported. Obama used a phrase made famous by Atlanta civil rights icon the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. to emphasize her point. 'I've been to the mountaintop and I've seen it. You're deserving and worthy,' she said.

She later added, 'The biggest challenge to overcome now is believing in yourself.'

The students spent this past semester studying 'Becoming' as a foundational text for their political science class 'Black Women: Developing Public Leadership Skills.' The students occasionally take courses on each other's campus. Spelman and Morehouse, located near downtown Atlanta, are two of Georgia's nine accredited historically black colleges and universities.

The former first lady asked jokingly when she arrived if the students fell asleep reading her book.
Criminals are recruiting schoolchildren as young as 11 to launder their dirty money.

Ruthless gangs have been targeting children on their way to school to enlist them as mules, police say.

Although gangs have long used others bank accounts to hide their activity, a Daily Mail investigation can reveal the scale of the threat to young people.

Many are lured with promises of quick, easy cash if they let strangers use their accounts to deposit and move funds. In return, they keep a cut  sometimes as little as 60  or are given prizes such as a pair of trainers.

Money launderers promote their 'businesses' on Instagram in order to lure youngsters

Some 10,686 under-21s were caught acting as mules last year  a rise of 26 per cent on 2017, according to the fraud prevention service Cifas.

The trend follows the spread of county lines gangs recruiting youngsters as drug-runners. A Mail investigation found that:

Police are to send warning letters about the phenomenon to every parent in the country;

Middle-class youngsters have become prime targets as criminals seek clean accounts that are less likely to raise suspicions;

Some victims are forced into becoming mules  including a 15-year-old boy in London who handed over his account details after being threatened at knifepoint;

Students from elite universities, including Oxford, are reportedly being recruited on campus by gangs who groom them with days out and designer clothes;

Thousands more are being enlisted over social media by fraudsters using secret code words;

Police say they are locked in a cat and mouse game with recruiters who open new social media accounts as soon as one is blocked;

Gangs are even boarding buses packed with children travelling to school and using Bluetooth technology to send adverts directly to their smartphones.

In February conman Alexander Ogun-Moweta, 27, was jailed at Londons Southwark Crown Court for using young mules bank accounts in a 200,000 fraud racket

In a sign of the scale of the problem, Lloyds Bank said cases involving under-16s acting as mules jumped five-fold from January to March this year, compared with the same period last year.

Barclays has logged a 137 per cent year-on-year increase  and a ten-fold leap since 2016.

Lloyds says it has blocked more than 13,000 mule accounts  and 3million getting to fraudsters  while Santander has closed 11,000.

Warnings have already appeared in school newsletters, including at Wilmington Grammar in Dartford, Kent, which took action after pupils were targeted while travelling to school. Police believe those responsible are county lines criminals smuggling heroin and crack cocaine from London to Kent.

Detective Constable Dawn Wood, who leads Scotland Yards mule-hunting squad, said: Where crime is committed for financial gain, organised criminal networks will endeavour to obtain bank accounts to launder funds.

Some 10,686 under-21s were caught acting as mules last year  a rise of 26 per cent on 2017, according to the fraud prevention service Cifas

Initially there was a conception this happened in areas where gangs and poverty are prevalent, but there are organised crime groups now targeting richer kids because theyve got more money. They think banks are less likely to identify them as mules.

DC Wood warned social media sites such as Facebook are making rich pickings for criminals as they post recruitment ads to unsuspecting young users.

Most victims are unaware they are working for organised crime groups and laundering profits from crimes as serious as people trafficking and terrorism.

Anyone caught acting as a mule faces up to 14 years in prison  and a ruined credit score  if caught. In February conman Alexander Ogun-Moweta, 27, was jailed at Londons Southwark Crown Court for using young mules bank accounts in a 200,000 fraud racket. One teenage recruit from Bristol was handed a 12-month community order.

Last night Anne Longfield, the Childrens Commissioner, said: These shocking examples of criminal exploitation show how thousands of children... are at risk of serious harm. Ruthless criminal organisations are increasingly using sophisticated techniques to groom vulnerable children, and it is too easy for them to succeed.

Anneliese Dodds, Labour MP for Oxford East, added: This is a heartbreaking trend. In my constituency, vulnerable young people are being exploited by gangs.

In one case a student at Oxford was approached on campus and recruited as a mule.
A New Jersey school district has filed paperwork to remove a tenured teacher who allegedly uttered a racial slur to seventh grade students.

The Penns Grove-Carneys Point Regional School District brought tenure charges against Bruce Bassetti, a science teacher who taught at Penns Grove Middle School.

The district alleges that on February 27, Bassetti was teaching a seventh-grade science class.

As he was walking away from a group of disruptive students in class, he allegedly said: Im not trying to deal with these n*****s.

Four students who were in the classroom complained to the assistant principal, according to NJ Advance Media.

Bruce Bassetti, a science teacher who taught at Penns Grove Middle School, has been suspended with pay over an alleged racial slur he is said to have uttered in class

Three of the students said they heard Bassetti say the n-word, while the other said the teacher uttered a bad word.

After speaking to the students, the assistant principal and the principal met with Bassetti to discuss the incident.

During the meeting, Bassetti allegedly asked who the students were that were accusing him.

When he was told the names of the students, Bassetti allegedly said that he couldnt have called him that because he is white.

Bassetti was apparently referencing one of the complaining students.

The assistant principal said that Bassettis comment was offensive in its own merits.

Bassetti was then asked to write a statement.

The teacher claimed that he asked a student to bring a laptop to a desk, to which the student replied: Are you lazy come get it yourself.

Since Bassetti is a tenured teacher, his dismissal needs to be voted on by the board of education before the case is brought before an arbitrator, who must decide if there are grounds for dismissal. Penns Grove Middle School is seen above

Bassetti said he did not respond to the comment.

The day after the interview, Bassetti was suspended with pay pending the results of an investigation.

A district official concluded that Bassetti was in violation of affirmative action policies due to his alleged use of the n-word.

Bassetti is a teacher who reached tenure, meaning he taught for at least four years.

In New Jersey, firing a teacher with tenure is a lengthy bureaucratic process.

A teacher who is the subject of tenure charges could respond to the allegations in writing.

In April, the school districts board of education voted by a majority to suspend Bassetti without pay and recommended his dismissal.

Racial slurs have no place in the workplace, and it is even more abhorrent to engage in such conduct around the student with whom you are charged with teaching, the district said.

After the board vote, the case will be left up to an arbitrator, who must decide if the board amassed enough evidence so as to warrant a teachers firing.

The arbitrators decision is expected later this year.
President Donald Trump on Sunday blamed China for the increased tariffs that are causing a trade war between the two countries and claimed negotiations are 'right where we want to be.'

His confidence comes after his economic adviser Larry Kudlow said the White House expects retaliation from Beijing and talks ended Friday with no deal in sight.

'We are right where we want to be with China,' Trump tweeted.

President Donald Trump blamed China for the increased tariffs that are causing a trade war between the two countries

'Remember, they broke the deal with us & tried to renegotiate. We will be taking in Tens of Billions of Dollars in Tariffs from China. Buyers of product can make it themselves in the USA (ideal), or buy it from non-Tariffed countries,' he added.

Trump also vowed to get more money to farmers.

U.S. farmers, a key constituency of the president's, have been among the hardest hit in the trade war, with soybean shipments to China dropping to a 16-year low in 2018.

'We will then spend (match or better) the money that China may no longer be spending with our Great Patriot Farmers (Agriculture), which is a small percentage of total Tariffs received, and distribute the food to starving people in nations around the world! GREAT! #MAGA,' he wrote.

Trump has claimed repeatedly it is China who will pay for any price increases but Kudlow, in a striking exchange wit 'Fox News Sunday' host Chris Wallace, contradicted that assertion.

It is importers - usually U.S. companies or the U.S.-registered units of foreign companies - that have to pay for the increased tariffs.

Asked who was paying, Kudlow said on Sunday that 'both sides will suffer on this,' although he added that the U.S. economy should be able to cope.

'We're in terrific shape in order to correct 20 years plus of unfair trading practices with China ... I think this is a risk we should and can take without damaging our economy in any appreciable way,' he said.

But Wallace pressed him on the issue.

'It's not China that pays tariffs. It's the American importers, the American companies that pay what in effect is a tax increase and oftentimes passes it on to U.S. consumers,' Wallace said.

'Fair enough. In fact, both sides will pay in these things,' Kudlow responded.

The U.S. is awaiting retaliation from China over increased tariffs, the president's chief economic adviser also said on Sunday.

'The expected countermeasures have not yet materialized. We may know more today or even this evening or tomorrow,' Kudlow told 'Fox News Sunday.'

Kudlow also said that Trump's plan to raise US tariffs on Chinese goods across the board could take months to take effect.

White House economic adviser Larry Kudlow said the White House expects retaliation from China over increased tariffs

President Trump escalated his rhetoric on the trade war with China a day after talks between administration officials and Vice Premier Liu He (right) ended with no agreement

'Call it a couple of months. Call it three months. I don't know. That will take some time and then of course the president's going to have to make the final decision on that,' Kudlow said.

He also said there was a 'strong possibility' that Trump will meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping at a G20 summit in Japan in late June.

Until last week, there were expectations Trump and Xi would sign a trade deal at the summit.

The United States began raising tariffs on $200 billion in Chinese imports from 10 per cent to 25 per cent on Friday after American officials accused Beijing of backtracking on commitments made in earlier rounds of negotiations.

Talks in Washington broke off on Friday without a deal on trade, but both sides have indicated that future talks are likely.

Trump warned China on Saturday that it should strike a trade deal with the United States now, otherwise an agreement would be 'far worse for them if it has to be negotiated in my second term.'

'I think that China felt they were being beaten so badly in the recent negotiation that they may as well wait around for the next election, 2020, to see if they could get lucky & have a Democrat win,' Trump tweeted.

'The only problem is that they know I am going to win (best economy & employment numbers in U.S. history, & much more), and the deal will become far worse for them if it has to be negotiated in my second term. Would be wise for them to act now, but love collecting BIG TARIFFS!' he added.

Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin, second from left, and United States Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer, right, speak with Chinese Vice Premier Liu He, left, in Washington DC on Friday

'I think that China felt they were being beaten so badly in the recent negotiation that they may as well wait around for the next election, 2020, to see if they could get lucky & have a Democrat win - in which case they would continue to rip-off the USA for $500 Billion a year,' Trump said in a tweet on Saturday

Trump warned China on Saturday that it should strike a trade deal with the United States now, otherwise an agreement would be 'far worse for them if it has to be negotiated in my second term'

Vice Premier Liu He, China's top economic adviser, sought to defend the changes in talks with senior U.S. officials in Washington on Thursday and Friday, arguing that China could accomplish the policy changes through decrees issued by its State Council, or cabinet, sources familiar with the talks said.

But U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer rejected that, telling Liu that the United States was insisting on restoration of the previous text.

'We would like to see these corrections in an agreement which is codified by law in China, not just a State Council announcement. We need to see something much clearer. And until we do we have to keep our tariffs on,' Kudlow said.

China strongly opposes the latest U.S. tariff hike, and has to respond to that, Liu told reporters on Saturday.

Beijing retaliated for previous tariff hikes by raising duties on $110 billion of American imports. And officials have targeted American companies operating in China by slowing customs clearance and stepping up regulatory scrutiny.

Republican Sen. Rand Paul told ABC's 'This Week' on Sunday that he advised the president to finalize a trade deal with China soon, 'because the longer we're involved in a tariff battle or a trade war, the better chance there is that we could actually enter into a recession because of it.'

The two 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.
Labor remains in the box seat to win the Federal Election in five days' time, with Bill Shorten receiving a boost to his personal rating on Monday.

The latest Newspoll shows the campaign race remains tight, with the Coalition lifting its primary vote to 39 per cent.

But Labor still leads by 51 to 49 per cent on a two-party preferred basis, with its primary vote also up slightly to 37 per cent.

The poll comes one day after Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced a new deposit scheme to help first-home buyers crack into the property market.

The plan, which Labor quickly matched, means home buyers will only have to save for a five per cent deposit instead of the 20 per cent most banks require.

The scheme will allow struggling singles, couples and families to break into the property market, even if they can only stump up a quarter of the deposit typically needed for a house.

The Labor Party have come out on top in the latest Newspoll, just five days away from the election. The party currently lead the Coalition 51 to 49, with Bill Shorten gaining three points as preferred PM - narrowing the gap between him and Scott Morrison to just seven points

Mr Shorten has also closed the gap on Mr Morrison in the 'better prime minister' stakes, The Australian reported.

Just seven points now separate the pair, with the Opposition Leader lifting three points to 38 per cent and Mr Morrison falling back one point to 45 per cent.

Some 17 per cent of voters remain undecided.

Both leaders will campaign in Sydney on Monday morning.

The Prime Minister, who is celebrating his 51st birthday, will be focused on his first-home buyers' scheme when he steps out to talk to voters.

FIRST HOME LOAN SCHEME EXPLAINED The First Home Loan Deposit Scheme is a government initiative to help first-home buyers First-home buyers will no longer need to save a 20% deposit They will instead need just 5%, with the Commonwealth stumping up the difference The scheme will be available for single people earning under $125,000 and couples earning a combined salary under $200,000 The Coalition vowed to spend up to $500M on home loan deposits for first-home buyers. Labor matched that commitment on Sunday Advertisement

Mr Morrison is also expected to attack Labor's plans to limit negative gearing to new properties and curb capital gains tax relief, warning they will decimate the housing market.

Mr Shorten is harnessing lingering anger with cuts in the Coalition's 2014 budget as he heads into the home stretch.

Five years after that budget went down like a lead balloon, the Opposition Leader is honing in on its 'savage' cuts, five days from Saturday's federal election.

He said the budget locked in two terms of cuts to schools, hospitals, pensions and essential services.

Labor is also launching a national campaign with new material for candidates to hand out, an advertising blitz and social media attacks.

Current Prime Minister Scott Morrison (pictured) made a shock promise that first home buyers will get government support to get to a 20 per cent house deposit

Shadow Treasurer Chris Bowen has also claimed the Coalition is hiding a range of budget cuts it plans to make after the election.

So far the Coalition hasn't explained how it will pay for more than 40 election commitments worth $6 billion, he argued, including funding it has offered for the East West Link in Victoria and Perth Freight Link.

The Government's budget rules dictate it can't introduce new spending measures without offsetting them elsewhere in the budget.

'If Scott Morrison can't tell you what he will cut, then he doesn't deserve your vote,' Mr Bowen said.
President Donald Trump on Sunday called Democrats pathetic for claiming the country is in a 'constitutional crisis' and said the real problem is the 'witch hunt' against him.

'The Democrats new and pathetically untrue sound bite is that we are in a Constitutional Crisis. They and their partner, the Fake News Media, are all told to say this as loud and as often as possible. They are a sad JOKE!,' he wrote on Twitter.

Several Democrats have used the term 'constitutional crisis' in recent days as Congress and the White House have clashed over the legislative branch's investigations into the administration.

President Donald Trump called Democrats pathetic for claiming the country is in a 'constitutional crisis'

Trump also railed against the 'witch hunt' against him, which he claims 'is the constitutional crisis.'

'We may have the strongest Economy in our history, best employment numbers ever, low taxes & regulations, a rebuilt military & V.A., many great new judges, & so much more. But we have had a giant SCAM perpetrated upon our nation, a Witch Hunt, a Treasonous Hoax. That is the Constitutional Crisis & hopefully guilty people will pay!,' he wrote.

'Witch hunt' is the president's favorite term for special counsel Robert Mueller's probe into whether Trump's campaign colluded with Russia in the 2016 election and whether the president obstructed justice.

Mueller found no evidence of collusion but left it up to Attorney General Bill Barr on whether or not to bring obstruction charges. Barr, in conjunction with then-Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein, did not charge the president.

The special counsel's report made it clear, however, that Congress did have the oversight authority to pursue an investigation against the president.

Six committees in the House, led by Democrats, are doing just that, examining the president's business dealings, requesting his tax returns and probing any ties to Russia.

Trump has complained bitterly about the probes against him. And Barr has vowed to investigate one of the president's favorite accusations: that his campaign was spied upon by the U.S. government in the 2016 election.

The latest battle between the two ends of Pennsylvania Avenue was prompted after the House Judiciary Committee voted last week to hold Barr in contempt of Congress for not responding to a congressional subpoena demanding the full, unredacted Mueller report.

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.

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 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.

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.

Speaker Nancy Pelosi said Thursday the country is in a constitutional crisis

House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerry Nadler also said the country is in a constitutional crisis after his panel voted to find the attorney general in contempt of Congress

House Democrats have six committees investigating President Trump

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.

The president also fought back by exerting executive privilege over the unredacted Mueller report.

'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 Justice Department slammed the vote, saying Congress could not force them to break the law.

The full House must still vote on the contempt citation against Attorney General Bill Barr

The citation against Barr came when he refused to comply with a congressional subpoena demanding the full, unredacted version of Special Counsel Robert Mueller's report

'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.
A shrewd investor has made a $1.2million profit by selling a three-bedroom riverfront home less than 18 months after he bought it.

The post-war house in Bulimba, Brisbane, was snapped up for $4.2million, but has since sold for $5.4million.

The property, on a 1012sqm block of land on Quay Street, rocketed in value after the seller gained permission for its new owner to knock down the home and start from scratch.

It only took four weeks to sell, making the owner a profit of $1,175,000 in 17 months - or $70,588 per month he owned the home.

A three-bedroom riverfront home has sold for $5.4 million, less than 18 months after the owner purchased the property for $4,225,000

It sold within four weeks, making the owner a profit of $1,175,000 in 17 months - or $70,588 per month he owned the home

Belle Property Bulimba sold the home.

Marketing agent Tony O'Doherty told Domain there was never a concern over whether or not the property would sell, or reach the asking price.

'I always say "what's expensive today is cheap tomorrow",' he said.

'This property is not expensive  it's a premium product  but the fact is, with these kinds of commodities it's irrelevant what you pay, you just have to pay to get in. I wholeheartedly believe that.

'There's certain commodities that aren't governed by market conditions and what the the bank is doing; this kind of real estate in certain suburbs is bulletproof.'

The post-war home sits on a 1012 square metre block on Quay Street, Bulimba, and was described by the selling agent as 'one of a kind'

He went on to say even if the sale with the eventual buyer had fallen through, there were others who were serious about purchasing the property.

While the sale has smashed previous suburb records, Mr O'Doherty said if the new owner wanted to sell during the peak of the next property cycle, they would double their money.

The new owner is now left with the choice of taking advantage of the demolition approval and rebuilding on the land, dividing the land into two different properties or simply moving into the home.

'If a property like this is a viable purchase for you, you can't afford not to buy it. In the next property cycle, when they are selling for $9 million or $10 million, that will be the reality, it's just the way it is,' he said.
A middle-aged man has been jailed for shining a laser pen at a police helicopter.

David Gill, 50, repeatedly aimed the green light at the pilot, forcing them to abandon a search for a car which failed to stop for police in the early hours of March 9.

The helicopter's crew were, however, able to pinpoint the source of light  guiding West Yorkshire Police colleagues straight to Gill.

David Gill shone a green laser pen at police helicopter, forcing officers to abandon search for motorist

Gill, from Leeds, had pleaded not guilty to endangering the safety of an aircraft.

He was convicted and sentenced to nine months in prison at Leeds Crown Court.

Recent figures reveal there were 50 laser attacks on police helicopter crews in 2018.

Ian Vause, assistant operations director for the National Police Air Service, said following the sentencing last month: 'Shining a laser at an aircraft can have catastrophic consequences, endangering the crew on board and people on the ground.

'We are pleased this individual has been brought to justice, and the nine-month sentence should serve as a deterrent to anyone thinking of doing the same.'
Restaurants will serve smaller portions of chips and offer diners 'doggy bags' as part of a radical bid to cut food waste.

Details of Government-backed plans to save billions of meals from the bin emerged as the hospitality industry, alongside some of Britain's biggest supermarkets, manufacturers and suppliers, will today sign up to a landmark pledge to halve food waste by 2030.

The UK wastes 10.2million tons of food a year  with 1.8million tons from factories in the form of processed products, one million tons from the hospitality sector, 260,000 tons from retail and the rest from households.

Some of Britain's biggest supermarkets, manufacturers and suppliers, will today sign up to a landmark pledge to halve food waste by 2030

The hospitality and food service industry alone throws out the equivalent of 1.3billion meals a year, or one in six of the 8billion served.

But the Government's waste reduction advisory body, Waste and Resources Action Programme (Wrap), has created a radical action plan to slash the roughly 3billion worth of food wasted by restaurants, cafes, hotels and canteens every year  75 per cent of which could have been eaten.

Its Guardians Of Grub campaign, backed by Environment Secretary Michael Gove, will encourage the use of doggy bags  which are common in American eateries  arguing they could help slash the 34 per cent of waste related to customer left-overs.

A Wrap spokesman said: 'Offering the customer the option of smaller portion sizes for commonly wasted foods such as chips or rice before they are cooked might help reduce waste.'

Michael Gove is expected to tell delegates that throwing away millions of tons of food is an 'environmental, economic and moral scandal'

Around 300 organisations and individuals will attend a major symposium  Step Up To The Plate  at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London today to adopt the pledges.

Mr Gove is expected to tell delegates that throwing away millions of tons of food is an 'environmental, economic and moral scandal', adding: 'I urge businesses to join me in signing the pledge to deliver real change to stop good food going to waste.'

The Government's food surplus and waste champion Ben Elliot, who is hosting the event, will say: 'Climate change is no longer a buzzword. We must all stand up and be counted.

'We squander ten million tons of food and drink every year. Businesses throw away food worth around 5billion and 15billion is wasted from our homes. We simply must put an end to this.'
Photo: Police de Longueuil

Police say a murder investigation is underway after a young man was shot to death at a restaurant in Brossard, Que.

Longueuil police say a man opened fire in a restaurant in the city's Dix30 shopping district Friday night, and the 25-year-old victim died of his injuries in hospital Saturday morning.

He was not known to police, and the motive of the shooting is unknown.

The incident occurred around 10:30 p.m. Friday inside a restaurant on Leduc Boulevard, across the St. Lawrence River from Montreal, according to Longueuil police spokeswoman Melanie Mercille.

Officers found a gun near the scene, and Mercille says "some minutes later" they received a call of a burning car nearby.

She says the torched vehicle was found several blocks away on Chemin des Prairies, and police believe the incidents are related.

The suspect, who fled on foot toward Highway 10, had not been located as of Saturday afternoon .

Police erected a security perimeter around the crime scene and the investigation is ongoing.

The Montreal area has seen two fatal shootings in crowded public places in a week.

Last Saturday night, a man linked to organized crime was shot dead in a hotel in Laval, Que., on the Highway 15 service road.

The victim, Salvatore Scoppa, 49, was shot at around 10 p.m.

Police have not caught the suspect in that shooting.
Universities must not give ethnic minority students special treatment and instead allow them to compete on merit, the man hoping to become Londons first black mayor has said.

Shaun Bailey said quotas for black students would be ultimately debilitating because they would lead to youngsters feeling they did not have peoples respect.

Instead black children need to be supported more at school and in their communities to address the attainment gap at A-level, he said.

Shaun Bailey said quotas for black students would be ultimately debilitating because they would lead to youngsters feeling they did not have peoples respect

His remarks are likely to spark a row as campaigners say it is only fair to give black students extra help to counter the disadvantages many face.

Mr Bailey, 48, who is the Tory candidate in next years London Mayor election, said the problems black communities face will only be solved if politicians stop seeing them as victims to be rescued.

Speaking to the Mail, he said: Many black teenagers are doing very well in school and in life, but we dont often get spoken about in that way.

People like to portray us as victims, because then they can say that theyre going to rescue us. But actually all you want is just the same opportunities.

There is growing pressure on universities to admit students from such underrepresented groups with lower grades so that they can hit diversity targets.

At some elite institutions such as Oxford and Cambridge, the number of black students is disproportionately low.

Statistics show only around 5 per cent of black students get AAA at A-level, compared with 11 per cent of white students.

At some elite institutions such as Oxford and Cambridge (pictured), the number of black students is disproportionately low

But Mr Bailey, who attended London South Bank University as a mature student, said: If youre a black person you dont want to be part of someones quota. You want to be there on merit.

If youre going to say more black people should go to Oxford and Cambridge, Im up for that. But you need to create a culture of excellence in those communities. And that means dealing with situations long before university.

Theres nothing more debilitating than people thinking youre part of a quota. No-one will respect you... Do we have special things to overcome? Of course we do. But we need support. Were not asking for special treatment.

But Chris Millward, from the Office for Students, hit out at Mr Baileys remarks, saying: Merit is about more than grades, and taking context into account to identify potential... is something universities can do to make higher education fairer.

Meanwhile the head of a top public school is under fire for likening criticism of privately-educated pupils to anti-Semitism.

Anthony Wallersteiner, head of Stowe school in Buckinghamshire, said parents were complaining their children were falling victim to positive discrimination. Labour MP Dame Margaret Hodge said his remarks were insulting.
Arsenal midfielder Granit Xhaka believes all of the Premier League's top six should be in the Champions League.

Premier League clubs have dominated continental competitions this seasons, with both the Europa League and Champions League finals contested by English clubs for the first time.

Liverpool and Tottenham pulled off sensational comebacks against Barcelona and Ajax during the week to reach Europe's showpiece event, while Arsenal and Chelsea will play out a London derby in Baku in the Europa League final.

Granit Xhaka believes the Premier League's top six are all good enough for Champions League

Xhaka's Arsenal can only qualify for next year's tournament by winning the Europa League

The Gunners need to win the Europa League should they hope to be in the Champions League next season, but Xhaka believes all of the current top six are good enough to be in Europe's premier competition.

'Every team that can get to a final is strong enough so, we know Chelsea, we play a lot against them,' he said.

'Four teams in the final shows everyone what a league the Premier League is and we hope we are ready for the final.

'You should have to go for the first six from the Premier League into the Champions League, so strong is the league.

'It is only four teams, four teams in the final now and so we can be proud.'

Arsenal and Chelsea fans were left feeling short-changed by the decision to allocate both clubs fewer than 12,000 tickets for the Europa League final.

Arsenal face Chelsea in a London derby in Baku on May 29 and Xhaka hopes to make history

Gunners fans were left short changed for the final with only 6,000 tickets allocated per club

Supporters face costs spiraling towards a 1,000 to make the trip 2,500-mile trip to Azerbaijan, but Xhaka says Arsenal's players can only focus on what they can influence, which would be making history in a European final.

'We can't change anything' added the Swiss midfielder.

'It is not our job to say something about this  it is one game, it is a final and the better team win.

'I don't know when we (will) go to Baku but it is one game. It is not about Baku, or we play in Europe or somewhere else.

'You have to be ready in this 90 minutes and you have to be ready in this moment.

'I think history is nice  if you can be in the history of this amazing club it is something to make you proud but first we have to win.'
He has been wowing crowds Down Under over the past month while supporting American rapper Post Malone during his sold-out Australian tour.

And Jaden Smith, 20, was in his element once again as the duo crossed the ditch to play their one date in New Zealand on Saturday night.

The Karate Kid star donned a typically eclectic ensemble, consisting of a military-style vest and black trousers for the Auckland gig.

Going out with a bang! Jaden Smith, 20, was in his element as he performed his last Australasian gig in Auckland, New Zleand on Saturday night

His outfit was decorated with a patchwork of different phrases, including a reference to his first album Syre.

The actor-turned- rapper also sported his latest unique hairstyle - a short blonde cut shaped into a dogleg.

At one point, the son of Hollywood great Will Smith lifted his hoodie over his head to give himself a different look as he bounded across the stage.

Eye-catching: The Karate Kid star donned a typically eclectic ensemble, consisting of a military-style vest and black trousers for the Auckland gig

Crowd pleaser: Jaden owned the city's Spark Arena with an energetic performance as he teased his upcoming album Erys

Change-up: At one point, the son of Hollywood great Will Smith lifted his hoodie over his head to give himself a different look as he bounded across the stage

Jaden has appeared at all of Post Malone's Australia dates, but last week sparked concern after he appeared on stage in Melbourne with a bandaged left hand.

His injury didn't stop him from putting on a stellar performance, though, and he ditched the bandage for his final two shows in Sydney.

The famous youngster has also been enjoying himself when taking time out from the tour - surfing in Perth before crusing around Sydney harbour in a luxury yacht.

Unique: Jaden sported a new short blonde 'do shaped into a dogleg

Logo look: His bottom half was decorated with a patchwork of different phrases and symbols, including a reference to his first album Syre

Down time: The famous youngster has been enjoying himself when taking time out from the tour - surfing in Perth before crusing around Sydney harbour in a luxury yacht

Business trip: Post Malone and Jaden kicked off the tour at the end of April in Perth before taking in Adelaide, Melbourne, Brisbane and Sydney and finally New Zealand's largest city

Post Malone and Jaden kicked off the tour at the end of April in Perth before taking in Adelaide, Melbourne, Brisbane and Sydney and finally New Zealand's largest city.

Meanwhile, Jaden will soon be teaming up with rap superstar Kanye West on a new television series.

The Yeezy founder is executive producing Omniverse for Showtime and the program will star Jaden as 'an alternate reality Kanye West'.

Omniverse will also be co-executive produced by Jaden and talent agent Scooter Braun through their production companies.
They welcomed their fourth baby - and second son - on Thursday.

And Kim Kardashian revealed on Saturday that the two-day-old is 'the most calm and chill'.

The 38-year-old reality television star shared pictures of her baby shower, which was held a week ago, and shared her love for her new son - whose name remains a secret.

Photo opportunity: She was joined by her close family, including momager Kris Jenner, grandmother MJ, sisters Khloe, Kourtney and Kylie, niblings Stormi and Penelope and daughters North and Chicago

The Keeping Up With The Kardashians star flashed her cleavage and waist in a sheer paneled stone outfit, which reached the ground.

She was joined by her close family, including momager Kris Jenner, grandmother MJ, sisters Khloe, Kourtney and Kylie, niblings Stormi and Penelope and daughters North and Chicago.

Plenty of friends were also on hand to celebrate the imminent birth of her baby son - who arrived via surrogate.

Cute: Kim looked stunning as she walked with daughter North West

Lucky momma: Kim Kardashian revealed on Saturday that the two-day-old is 'the most calm and chill' as she posed with pals at the baby shower

Glam: The Keeping Up With The Kardashians star flashed her cleavage and waist in a sheer paneled stone outfit

Celebrations: Plenty of friends were also on hand to celebrate the imminent birth of her baby son - who arrived via surrogate

Kim captioned the pictures: 'We celebrated our baby boy about a week ago and now hes here! Hes so perfect!

'Here are some pics of my CBD baby shower. I was freaking out for nothing because he is the most calm and chill of all of my babies so far and everyone loves him so much.'

She didn't explain whether the CBD was intended to directly help with her anxiety about becoming a mother-of-four.

Peace: North and Penelope were practising yoga outside

Kim captioned the pictures: 'We celebrated our baby boy about a week ago and now hes here! Hes so perfect!'

Never off duty: Paris Hilton kept her heels on while the others wore spa slippers

Paris Hilton - Kim's former boss and now friend, looked glamorous is a powder blue mid-length broderie anglaise dress.

Larsa Pippen was also at the bash, which took place on April 27.

Chrissy Teigen, Jen Atkin and E! stars Olivia Pierson and Natalie Halcro also joined her at the baby shower.

The law-student announced on Friday that the boy was born, via surrogate like his sister Chicago West, 1.

Kim tweeted on Friday the boy is 'perfect' and looks like Chicago's twin.

'All baby showers should be like Kim's!' Larsa Pippen Insta-storied glimpses of the baby bash which featured CBD and sound baths

Mat time: Other privileged guests included Nicole Williams, Olivia Pierson, Natalie Halcro

Celeb pals: Kardashian's former boss Paris Hilton donned blue while Chrissy Teigen donned a sophisticated teal blouse

It's a boy! Sara Foster shared a snap of baby girl clothing she mistakenly bought for Kim
She's one of the primary architects of contemporary rap and hip hop.

And Missy Elliott was recognized as such on Saturday when Berklee College of Music awarded her with an honorary doctoral degree.

The 47-year-old icon became the first woman hip hop artist to receive the honor from the prestigious private college.

GOAT: Missy Elliott, 47, was recognized was recognized for her contributions to popular music on Saturday when Berklee College of Music awarded her with an honorary doctoral degree

Missy was grinning ear to ear at the packed graduation ceremony in front of graduating seniors and family.

Though her outfit was obscured behind the slate gray robe, she was unmissable with her long, tightly-curled locks and yellow eyeshadow.

The Get Ur Freak On rapper received her degree and the university's pink hood.

She was one of three honorary recipients, along with pop superstar and former NSYNC member Justin Timberlake and Alex Lacamoire, a Berklee alumnus and an arranger and orchestrator for hit Broadway shows like Dear Evan Hansen.

Breaking barriers: She became the first woman hip hop artist to receive the honor from the prestigious private college

Loving it: Missy was grinning ear to ear at the packed graduation ceremony in front of graduating seniors and family

Low key: Though her outfit was obscured behind the slate gray robe, she was unmissable with her long, tightly-curled locks and yellow eyeshadow

As part of her degree conferral, Missy (born Melissa Arnette Elliott) gave a speech in front of the assembled students.

The five-time Grammy winner became noticeably emotional during her address, even shedding a few tears.

In a statement from March announcing the honorary degree recipients, the college cited the Under Construction artists still unmatched run of six studio albums, all of which have been certified Platinum or better by the Recording Industry Association of America.

The prestigious distinction requires sales of at least one million units for each album.

Leading the pack: In a March statement announcing the honorary degree recipients, the college cited Missy's still unmatched run of six studio albums, all of which have been certified Platinum or better

Impressive: The prestigious distinction requires sales of at least one million units for each album

Prior to commencement, the Work It rapper was treated to a performance of her own music (along with that of her co-honorees).

Music students from the college performed her music, as well as tunes associated with Justin Timberlake and Alex Lacamoire during a Friday show at Boston's Agganis Arena that was closed to the public.

During the show, an overjoyed Missy danced on stage with Justin in a multicolored striped Versace track suit.

Perhaps the feting will spur on the release of new music.

The Cookbook mastermind announced on social media in April that she'd completed work on a large project, presumably an album she'd mentioned back in April of 2018.

Having her say: As part of her degree conferral, Missy (born Melissa Arnette Elliott) gave a speech in front of the assembled students

Overcome: The five-time Grammy winner became noticeably emotional during her address, even shedding a few tears

Big moment: Justin Timberlake was also acknowledged at the commencement ceremony

Good spirit: Missy and Justin seemed to have a blast together

What an honor: He was given an honorary degree by two professors

Playing her tunes: Prior to commencement, the Work It rapper was treated to a performance of her own music (along with that of her co-honorees) on Friday; pictured May 10
Rosario Dawson is embracing her milestone 40th birthday with grace and beauty.

The actress, who turned the big 4-0 on May 9, took to her Instagram on Saturday and shared a selfie snap and video of herself topless while soaking up the sun.

'Heres lookin at you 4D. Cheers...!' she captioned the quick clip with the hashtag '#BlissMore.'

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Sultry: Rosario Dawson shared a selfie video and snap of herself topless; the gorgeous display comes two days after she celebrated her 40th birthday

The video kicks off with a close up of Dawson showcasing her gorgeous complexion as she stared directly into the camera.

Even more apparent: the big beaming smile on her face and the gorgeous sunny blue skies and palm trees in the background.

With the sounds of birds chirping in the background, the Sin City star slowly turns around with her right arm covering her ample assets to reveal the back of her toned and naked upper-body.

By the end of the quick clip, she used both hands to brush back her long and flowing dark tresses behind her shoulders.

Her boyfriend, Democratic 2020 hopeful Cory Booker, was in North Carolina on Saturday for a campaign event and not with the actress.

Upclose and personal: The video kicks off with close up of Dawson showcasing her gorgeous complexion as she stared directly into the camera

Revealing: The Sin City star slowly turns around with her right arm covering her ample assets to reveal the back of her toned and naked upper-body

Risque: The actress was careful not to reveal too much during her exhibition

Nature's best: By the end of the quick clip, Dawson used both hands to brush back her long and flowing dark tresses behind her shoulders

2019 is poised to be a busy year for the New York City native.

Last month she hit the red carpet for the premiere of Power On, a series of short films encouraging young girls to learn to code and be involved in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) fields.

Along with Julie Bowen, Ana Brenda Contreras, Lisa Edelstein and Nikki Reed, Dawson was one of five directors to shoot films for the series, which was produced by Straight Up Films with support from YouTube.

Milestone: The Rent star turned 40 on Thursday, May 9

Her film, titled Boundless, follows three friends who come up with a revolutionary invention, only to see it stolen just before a tech competition. The friends then have to prevent their new technology from falling into the wrong hands.

She also scored a role in the romantic comedy Someone Great that was released by Netflix April 19.

That's on top of her has roles in the upcoming films Zombieland: Double Tap, Jay and Silent Bob Reboot and the documentary The Deported.

Yor wear it well: Seeveral of Dawson's friends and followers shared some sweet birthday snaps
James Charles, 19, was forced to apologise to fans on the Gold Coast on Saturday after he delayed his Australian meet-and-greet by almost two hours.

Taking to the stage at Pacific Fair Shopping Centre, the embattled YouTube beauty guru said: 'I'm sorry for being a little bit late, I had lots of personal stuff this morning.'

Since landing Down Under on Thursday for a press trip, the 19-year-old has lost over 1.5 million subscribers amid his online feud with Tati Westbrook, 37.

'Sorry for being late... I had lots of personal stuff': YouTube guru James Charles apologised to Gold Coast fans on Saturday after arriving almost two hours late for a meet-and-greet

The social media sensation kept fans waiting on Saturday while filming a video from his nearby hotel room in which he addressed his fall out with the American beauty influencer.

'I owe everybody an explanation and I owe two people an apology,' said James in his video, while becoming emotional.

'I'm sorry for everything that is going on everything and I've put you through over the past three weeks.'

Brave face! Taking to the stage at Pacific Fair Shopping Centre, the 'personal stuff' James mentioned in his apology was likely his feud with YouTuber Tati Westbrook which was unfolding online

He still has some fans! As James greeted fans on the Gold Coast, over 1.5 million people unsubscribed from his YouTube channel amid the fall out with Tati

The video was a direct response to one posted by Tati on Friday, where she claimed James made up lies about her and takes advantage of others.

Tati also claimed James once made inappropriate comments about wanting to hook up with a straight waiter while disregarding the waiter's sexual orientation.

'Fame, power, and a fat bank account will change almost anyone. And if you don't have people that will tell you to your face that you're doing the wrong things, you will change,' admitted Tati.

'I owe everybody an explanation': The 19-year-old kept fans waiting on Saturday while filming a video from his nearby hotel room, addressing his fall out with the American beauty influencer

Not a friend! The video was a direct response to one posted by Tati on Friday, where she claimed James made up lies about her and takes advantage of others among other things

'There's so much going on with James Charles right now that I do not support. I do not agree with.'

Despite addressing the situation directly with his own video, James has since lost over 1.5 million subscribers on his channel - with the number continuing to drop.

It has also been claimed that stars such as 'Kylie Jenner, Miley Cyrus and Demi Lovato have also unfollowed James' over the weekend.

The drama has unfortunately coincided with James' Australian press trip, where he has had several public appearances scheduled promoting his pop-up store.

Going down! Despite addressing the situation directly with his own video, James has since lost over 1.5 million subscribers on his channel - with the number continuing to drop by the day

Oh no! It has also been claimed that stars such as Kylie Jenner (pictured) have 'unfollowed him'. The pair famously collaborated on a video together earlier this year

On Friday, thousands of fans flocked to Sydney's Martin Place for a glimpse of the teen during an appearance on Seven's Sunrise with Samantha Armytage.

Since establishing himself on YouTube in 2015 while filming videos from his parents' basement, James has amassed an estimated $11 million fortune.

He made his Met Gala debut among some of the world's biggest stars last week.
She shares a close bond with her mom, Linda Graham.

So it was no surprise Ashley Graham wanted a little bit of one-on-one time with her mom ahead of Mother's Day on Sunday.

Taking to social media, the 31-year-old stripped down to her bikini with her mother during their girl's weekend in Tulum, Mexico.

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Gorgeous: Ashley Graham stripped down to her bikini on Saturday, as she enjoyed a beach day with her mom Linda Graham for their Mother's Day trip to Tulum, Mexico

Ashley opted for a floral bikini top that efficiently held up her ample cleavage and kept her modest.

She teamed the look with a simple black string bikini that featured ties at the side.

The beauty accessorised with some gold chains and opted for a pair of trendy rectangular shaped glasses.

Vacation mode: During the day, Ashley was seen lounging by the beach

Stunner: Ashley opted for a floral bikini top that efficiently held up her ample cleavage and kept her modest

Ashley styled her brunette hair out into natural waves during the day and went makeup free.

Mom Linda also stripped down to her swimsuit for the sunny beach day with her daughter.

She opted for a black and white checkered suit that featured a triangular style top and high-waisted bottoms.

Absolute stunner! Mom Linda also stripped down to her swimsuit for the sunny beach day with her daughter

Love: Ashley and Linda share a close bond, frequently appearing on each other's social media feeds

Not paying her attention! Linda also took to her large social media following to take a snap by the beach, in which Ashley appeared hard at work

Linda also took to her large social media following to take a snap by the beach, in which Ashley appeared hard at work.

'She works I play,' she captioned.

Speaking at the Create & Cultivate last weekend, Ashley credited her mom for always encouraging her to love the skin she was in from an early age.

Her inspiration! Speaking at the Create & Cultivate last weekend, Ashley credited her mom for always encouraging her to love the skin she was in from an early age (pictured 2017)

'My mom told me my body was going to change someone's life,' she said.

'And here we are, with so many different saying, "I am represented".'

However, Ashley added that sometimes there are days when she doesn't feel her best, taking to the mirror to recite powerful affirmations during those testing times.

'I'll have moments when I leave the bathroom and look in the mirror and say to myself, 'You are fine, you are beautiful, you are brilliant, and you are bold',' she revealed on the panel.
Sarah Jessica Parker has left her British fans baffled after she shared a gushing post about key-cutters Timpson on her Instagram.

The Sex and the City star, 54, revealed the retailer is her 'new favourite shop' when she posted a series of snaps from her latest trip to London to visit husband Matthew Broderick, 57, who is currently starring in West End play The Starry Messenger.

Alongside snaps from the Van Gogh exhibit at the Tate and dramatic photographs of rainy streets was a very unexpected image - the Timpson inside High Street Kensington tube station.

New favourite: Sarah Jessica Parker has left her British fans baffled after she shared a gushing post about key-cutters Timpson on her Instagram

In the caption, she wrote: 'Scenes from a rendezvous with a London working husband. Included among them my new favorite wee shop at Kensington High St tube station, the fantastic Van Gogh exhibit at the @tate_Britain, discovering the British painter @lynetteyiadomboakye and my hands free brolly holder.

'Best of all, time with Matthew. Oh London, there is never enough time'.

The Hocus Pocus star later revealed she had stopped by the classic British shoe repair firm to purchase an umbrella in a reply to a fan.

Visit: The Sex and the City star, 54, revealed the retailer is her 'new favourite shop' when she posted a series of snaps detailing her latest trip to London to visit husband Matthew Broderick

Unexpected: Alongside snaps from the Van Gogh exhibit at the Tate and photographs of rainy streets was a very unexpected image - the Timpson inside High Street Kensington tube station

The mother-of-three wrote: 'I got a great umbrella! Better than the one I brought from home! X'

Baffled fans have since taken to the comments of Sarah's post to question 'why the shoe repair shop made it into your photographs'.

One user said: 'Isn't Timpsons a wonderful place... the smell is full of old fashioned let's mend ya shoes...'

Another replied: 'Timpsons? Youre easily pleased! Theres one of those on every high street in the UK.

In the caption, she wrote: 'Scenes from a rendezvous with a London working husband. Included among them my new favorite wee shop at Kensington High St tube station'

Rainy day: The Hocus Pocus star later revealed she had stopped by the classic British shoe repair firm to purchase an umbrella in a reply to a fan

'Got to love a Timpsons!... Im intrigued to know why the shoe repair shop made it into your photographs, great repair shop that it is! Im sure your beautiful heels dont need re-heeling'.

And a third commented: 'I love that your favourite little shop is a Timpsons (shoe repairs, key cutting, engraving, etc.). They are everywhere in the UK and have a brilliant employment scheme.

'Ex-servicemen and ex-cons and they always seem to be ethically run Ive never had bad service from any of them.'

The mother-of-three wrote: 'I got a great umbrella! Better than the one I brought from home! X'

Another fan joked she would have 'died from shock' if she had seen the actress in her local branch.

She said: 'If I had seen you in my local Timpsons at High St Ken - of all the shops in London - SJP I think I would have died from shock.'

It comes after Sarah missed out on this year's glamorous Met Gala in New York City, after explaining she was jetting out of the country the night it was held.

It would have marked her 11th year at the event, however after sharing a snap of herself eating pizza in New York, the actress revealed that she was giving it a miss.
Sunday night's finale of Victoria cost a rumoured 1million pounds to make.

According to the Sunday Mirror, the episode notched up the hefty bill to ensure that the lavish sets were as authentic as possible.

The finale sees the Queen's husband Prince Albert open his 1851 Great Exhibition, with a team of 30 artists and set designers working on creating the sets for the episode.

Expensive: Sunday night's finale of Victoria cost a rumoured 1million pounds to make

Prince Albert's Great Exhibition, also known as the Crystal Palace exhibition, took place in Hyde Park from May to October and was a much anticipated event.

The show's art director Stephen Daly described the finale as the most expensive episode of the series ever produced.

He said: 'This is the most expensive Victoria episode we have done...

'We spend weeks in a blank location and its my job to convince everyone it will work  but when you see the actors come on in costume and everything is set up and the cameras are rolling, its perfect.'

Life like: According to the Sunday Mirror, the episode notched up the hefty bill to ensure that the programme's lavish sets were as authentic as possible

He added that he knew the crew had gotten the set right when he saw the smiles on real life couple Jenna Coleman and Tom Hughes, who play Victoria and Prince Albert.

The crew spent months sourcing and creating 2,000 props for the episode, some of which have been kept by the cast and crew now that filming has ended.

Sunday night's episode will see the Queen join her husband at the opening of the exhibition that was attended by six million people, a third of Britain's population at the time.

Authentic: The finale sees Prince Albert open his 1851 Great Exhibition, with a team of 30 artists and set designers working on creating the sets for the episode

THE CRYSTAL PALACE: A TIMELINE 1851: The Crystal Palace is erected in Hyde Park, London, to house The Great Exhibition of 1851, a showcase of products from around the world, at a cost of 150,000 - or 13.1m in today's money. 1854: Crystal Palace was rebuilt in an enlarged form on Penge Common, next to Sydenham Hill, an affluent south-east London suburb full of large villas 1866: A fire causes damage to the north transept. 1871: The world's first cat show, organised by Harrison Weir, was held at The Crystal Palace 1890s: The popularity of Crystal Palace began to decline and the building was beginning to deteriorate into disrepair. 1909: Robert Baden-Powell first noticed the interest of girls in his Scouting movement while attending a Boy Scout meeting at Crystal Palace. This lead to the formation of Girl Guides and later, Girl Scouts. 1911: The Festival of Empire was held to mark the coronation of George V and Queen Mary. Following the festival, the burden of maintenance costs became too large and bankruptcy was declared. 1913: The Earl of Plymouth purchased Crystal Palace to save it from developers. It was later bought by a public subscription for the nation. 1914-1918: The building was used as a naval training establishment under the name of HMS Victory VI, or HMS Crystal Palace. 1918: Reopened as the first Imperial War Museum, but it was unpopular. 1920s: A board of trustees under Sir Henry Buckland set about restoring the building and making it profitable again. October 1934: The Pageant of Labour, a musical celebration of the British Labour Movement, was held at Crystal Palace. 30 November 1936: Crystal Palace destroyed by fire. It was so great that the glow from the flames could be seen across eight counties. 89 fire engines and 400 firemen fought the blaze but were unable to bring the fire under control. 100,000 people came to Sydenham Hill to watch the blaze, including Winston Churchill, with the former prime minister dubbing it 'the end of an age.' 1953 to 1973: An auto racing circuit operated at the site, supported by the Greater London Council, but the noise was unpopular with nearby residents. Numerous proposals for the site have been put forward over the years, but none as yet have come to fruition. These include plans by the London Development Agency (LDA) approved in 2010 for a 67.5m redevelopment, including new homes and a regional sports centre. But LDA withdrew from the project. 2008: A private consortium announced plans to rebuilt Crystal Palace to house galleries, a snow slope, a music auditorium, leisure facilities and a hotel. 2011: Crystal Palace Football Club proposed a 40,000 capacity stadium on the site of the athletics stadium and a new athletics track north of the National Sports Centre. Advertisement

Serving as a showcase for British inventors and manufacturers, the exhibition made a profit of 186,000 which was used to found the Victoria and Albert Museum, the Science Museum and the Natural History Museum.

Jenna recalled filming the episode, noting how Victoria herself loved being adored by her public.

She told the publication: 'She wrote about the joy on peoples faces and the tears in their eyes. Being loved is incredibly important to her.'

No expense spared: The show's art director Stephen Daly described the finale as the most expensive episode of the series ever produced

As the show heads further into Victoria's 63-year reign, Jenna admitted she will have to pass the 'regal baton on', comparing it to when Olivia Colman replaced Claire Foy in period drama The Crown.

Speaking to Zoe Ball on BBC Radio 2, she said: 'I think there will be a point where we have to recast Victoria because, you know, I have seven children now, number eight is on its way.

'When else do I get to take a character to her mid 40s? But practically speaking there's definitely going to be a cut-off point.

'Yes there are great prosthetics but I'm lowering my voice so much at the moment, there's going to be a point where it's no longer feasible so I'm going to have to pass on the regal baton on.'

The final episode of series three of Victoria airs on Sunday night on ITV at 9pm.
Vicky Pattison has reportedly been diagnosed with a rare sleep-related eating disorder which has caused her pile on the pounds.

The Sun report that the former Geordie Shore star, 31, has a condition called nocturnal sleep-related eating disorder (NS-RED) - which sees her eat in the middle of the night with no recollection of doing so.

It comes after Vicky recently revealed that recent weight-gain is 'getting her down' after she had binged on Doritos during her sleep.

Revealed: Vicky Pattison has been diagnosed with a rare sleep-related eating disorder which has caused her pile on the pounds

A source revealed to The Sun: 'Vicky goes to bootcamps about three times a year, regularly exercises and watches what she eats  in the daytime. So to discover her body is betraying her at night has come as such a blow.

'She would put on about half a stone and couldnt figure out why. Then one morning she saw the detritus of a 3am blowout and worked it out, and has now been diagnosed with NS-RED.

'But she has overcome greater obstacles than this and is determined to beat it.'

The condition is defined by sleepeducation.org as a parasomnia consisting of repeated episodes of compulsive binge eating and drinking after waking up in the night, which occur when you are only partially awake.

Secret eating: It comes after Vicky recently revealed that recent weight-gain is getting her down after she had binged on Doritos during her sleep

Earlier this week, Vicky opened up to her fans about her weight gain, saying it is 'getting her down'.

The star also admitted her insecurities amid Sunday's Bafta Awards which she is attending, with the I'm A Celebrity beauty having had a facial to 'boost her confidence.'

As part of a lengthy Instagram post, she wrote: 'So barring that in mind- this is me: I have a chest infection that I havent been able to shake and its making me cranky, Im lonely, Ive gained weight recently and its getting me down no matter how much I pretend Im ok with it.

'Im going to the baftas for the first time on Sunday and Im so nervous that I wont fit in or look as good as everyone else Im losing sleep over it, and I went and had this facial to boost my confidence and now my face is sore and red.'

Candid: Vicky recently revealed on Instagram that she is 'sad, lonely' and 'misses her mam' and admitted that her recent 'weight-gain' is getting her down

The brunette beauty also touched on her condition as she shared that she was lonely and 'overwhelmed by the world she is in.'

Vicky explained: 'Im overwhelmed in the world Im in, i ate Doritos last night in my sleep (yes I sleep eat) I miss my mam, Im drowning in these thoughts and I dont feel inspirational.

'My point is, maybe if were more honest, we all wont feel so alone. THANKYOU for listening and I hope youre a little less hard on yourselves today for it.'

After opening up and sharing her true feelings on Instagram, Vicky was flooded with messages of support from fellow reality stars, including former flame Mario Falcone, Myleene Klass and Louise Redknapp.

Fabulous curves: Lamenting her recent weight-gain, Vicky revealed in the post's lengthy caption that she has been sleep-eating Doritos

After opening up and sharing her true feelings on Instagram, Vicky was flooded with messages of support from fellow reality stars

Body-confidence advocate Alexandra Cane commented: 'Good at giving advice, bad at taking it ourselves. You are and will look beautiful regardless, youve got your head screwed on, the strength and honesty you show on a regular basis really is to be admired. Dont be so hard on yourself too gorgeous girl.'

Former Made In Chelsea star Ashley James added: Love this and love you. I feel it very strongly. You're going to look just perfect at the baftas. You're a natural beauty, red face or not. And hey, being a little bigger is not the worst thing.'

Rykard Jenkins praised Vicky as an inspiration, writing: 'Vicky. Honestly you are one of the real ones. Keep being you! Definitely an inspiration to everyone in this game & I cant think of anyone that has given as much time & effort lifting other people in this industry!'

Tyla Carr followed suit, gushing: 'You are an inspiration! You dealt with all you did so publicly and like such a strong lady. I wish I had half the confidence you do x.'

Vicky's honest post follows her recent reunited with her on-off beau Ercan in Dubai, a romance which came after her fiance John Noble was unfaithful during a lads' trip to Dubai in November.
It is the family-friendly show that is a world away from the romantic trials and tribulations of Married At First Sight.

But Lego Masters contestants Kaitlyn and Miller have proved that Cupid's arrow knows no bounds in reality TV after revealing they are now a couple.

Speaking to 9Honey on Sunday, Miller spoke about how their unexpected relationship bloomed behind-the-scenes, admitting that he initially had no idea Kaitlyn was interested in him.

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Lego Masters romance: Contestants Kaitlyn and Miller (right and left) have proved that Cupid's arrow knows no bounds in reality TV after revealing they are now a couple

'We were friends from when we first met and we'd hang out during free time in filming,' he recalled.

'But I was completely oblivious to Kaitlyn's flirtations.'

Miller, who is currently channeling his Lego-building skills into a Bachelor of Industrial Design degree, said their fellow contestants did a lot of the legwork.

Romance: Speaking to 9Honey on Sunday, Miller (far left) spoke about how their unexpected relationship bloomed behind-the-scenes, admitting that he initially had no idea Kaitlyn (second left) was interested in him

It was only when Lego Masters participant Cade told him that Kaitlyn was interested in him that ball started rolling on their relationship, Miller revealed.

The pair went on a few dates together as friends, before the university student made the final move over a breakfast date.

'I leaned over the table and said, 'Kaitlyn, I've got to get something out the way. I want to make sure -is this a date?' and she said 'I guess it is now!'' Miller said.

Into the final week: Lego fans Miller (right) and his friend Jordan, 19, (left) are still going strong in the highly-rated Channel Nine offering

Miller and his friend Jordan, 19, are still going strong in the highly-rated Channel Nine offering but Kaitlyn and her friend Marielle, 28, have been eliminated.

They were sent packing after disappointing Lego expert Ryan McNaught with their under the sea TV build.

'The scale's all out of whack - I don't think you know what scale you're working with,' Ryan said before sending the design duo packing at the first opportunity.
Sophie Monk put on a show for boyfriend Joshua Gross on Saturday.

As the couple continued their loved-up trip to the Maldives, the former Bachelorette modeled a staggering four bikinis throughout the single day.

Taking to Instagram, the 39-year-old later shared the breathtaking pictures to her 526,000 followers following the impromptu photo shoot.

Always looking her bust! Sophie Monk, 39, flaunted her sensational figure in a skimpy bikini on the beach during her Maldives holiday with boyfriend Joshua Gross on Saturday... after laughing off boob job rumours

In her first image, Sophie slipped into a single-strap yellow bikini by Seafolly.

While frolicking in the sea, the blonde styled the summery piece with an oversized straw sunhat from Avenue.

In other pictures, Sophie is seen flaunting her incredible physique in a blue bandeau bikini by Bond Eye, and striped knotted-bikini top by Seafolly.

Hot stuff! Taking to Instagram, the blonde shared the stunning pictures to her followers, after recently hitting back at rumours she was 'showing off her new boobs' on holiday

In her next post, Sophie sent pulses racing in a barely-there two piece by Suboo.

The fashionable pieces each highlighted the star's bust, after jokingly hitting back at rumours last week she has recently had a secret boob job.

With fans left gobsmacked by earlier bikini shots from her current trip, the former Bardot star denied she was 'showing off her new boobs'.

'They're 39 years old and going south!' responded Sophie in good humour, later joking her 'boobs have a mind of their own'

'They're 39 years old and going south!' responded Sophie in good humour.

Speaking about the rumours with The Kyle & Jackie O Show on Monday, Sophie continued: 'They've got a mind of their own my boobs.

'Trust me, they're not great. Sometimes they're half-way down my back! 'I'll have to sticky tape them [on TV] because networks don't love boobs. They're out of control!'

During her photoshoot on Saturday, Sophie also shared a cosy selfie with Joshua.

The pair met on an international flight last August, with the beauty since hinting she'd one day like to marry the handsome gentleman.

'I've just said we're getting married but he hasn't asked, so that's the only problem with this scenario,' she recently laughed on KIIS FM.
She took to Instagram on Saturday saying she had been unfairly 'shadow-banned' by the social media platform for her revealing posts.

And after claiming the platform had made it harder to find her account, The World's Hottest Grandma, Gina Stewart, has defiantly said she is not too sexy for the social media giant.

'I hope this is not too sexually suggestive after all I do have my clothes on,' she captioned a busty selfie.

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'I have my clothes on': After claiming the platform had made it harder to find her account, The World's Hottest Grandma has defiantly stated she is not too sexy for the social media giant

'I am a woman and you see way more down the beach. As a creator I just have to guess what I can and can't post and hope for the best.'

Gina wrote in a post earlier on Saturday the content she published on her account was 'artistic' and 'glamorous' and claimed she was being targeted by Instagram.

In her latest missive to the website, the 48-year-old said they need to better categorise what is 'inappropriate' or 'sexually suggestive' content.

'The rules are not black and white. Instagram needs to define "appropriate" and "sexually suggestive",' she wrote.

The model and social media influencer has amassed more than 140,000 fans on Instagram thanks to her raunchy photos.

'It's a form of censorship!' Gina wrote in a post earlier on Saturday the content she published on her account was 'artistic' and 'glamorous' and claimed she was being targeted by Instagram

Instagram has in the past denied the existence of shadow-bans - which is claimed to involve making their content harder to find.

It is also believed a shadow-banned account on Instagram won't appear in any searches unless the entire username is typed in, nor will the account appear in any hashtag searches.

'Instagram has targeted my account': Believing she's been the victim of a shadow-ban, Gina has taken to Instagram to share a fiery post defending herself

Believing that she is the victim of a shadow-ban, Gina originally took to Instagram to share a fiery post defending herself against what she sees as unjust censorship.

'This is something that not many people know about but it's a form of censorship,' she wrote.

'Instagram has targeted my account, my account has followed the guidelines and the Instagram rules,' she continued.

'My account is tasteful and artistic, glamorous and reflects that older woman can be beautiful. Life is not over once you turn 40.'

Free the nan: 'My account is tasteful and artistic, glamorous and reflects that older woman can be beautiful,' Gina told her fans. ' Life is not over once you turn 40'

The mother-of-four then pointed out that she's generated traffic for the social media site thanks to her celebrity profile in the mainstream media, on top of raising money and awareness for charitable causes.

'I have generated a lot of traffic for Instagram over the past year throughout world press. I have raised money for cancer research, raised thousands and helped Jared Allen's Home For Wounded Warriors.'

She continued: 'I have also personally raised money for my sick friend who suffered a stroke and couldn't cover the bills or look after her young teenage boys.'

Doing good? 'I have generated a lot of traffic for Instagram over the past year throughout world press,' the blonde boasted

Gina entered the modelling world early last year by taking part in a competition for Maxim magazine in a bid to win a cash prize to help her best friend.

'I'm just hoping to raise awareness for stroke victims,' she told Daily Mail Australia at the time.

Shadow-banning has been a hot topic in the media since last year, when U.S. President Donald Trump claimed that Twitter was shadow-banning prominent Republicans.
She's the 2013 Bachelor winner, who went on to appear on I'm A Celebrity, Get Me Out Of Here! and Trial By Kyle.

And now that she is a TV star, Anna Heinrich says the red carpet lifestyle that comes with her fame can be 'exhausting'.

The 32-year-old reality star told Sydney Confidential a lot of time and energy goes into the arduous task of getting ready for VIP events.

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Tiring: Anna Heinrich has revealed the red carpet lifestyle that comes with her TV fame can be 'exhausting'

No mean feat: 'Getting ready for a big event can be an exhausting process and it can sometimes take an entire day to get ready,' she said

'Getting ready for a big event can be an exhausting process and it can sometimes take an entire day to get ready,' she said.

Anna said it was particularly important to make sure her look is on point in a world where woman are so easily criticised for their appearance.

Her comments came as she talked about her appearance at the InStyle Woman of the Year Awards on Wednesday night in a stunning black floral dress.

The beauty stunned at the annual ceremony in a quirky floral print number with an intricate lace-up back.

Accomplished: Anna, who is a lawyer, has followed up her starring role on The Bachelor in 2013 by featuring in I'm A Celebrity, Get Me Out Of Here and Trial By Kyle

While often photographed at red carpet events in Sydney, the star keeps her career as a criminal lawyer out of the media.

In April 2018, Anna acted as the defence lawyer for a British tourist charged with punching Australian rugby star James Stannard outside a kebab shop in Sydney.

Several months later, she combined both sides of her life by appearing in Channel Ten's fictional court room on reality show Trial By Kyle.

Celebrity couple: Anna married her Bachelor co-star Tim Robards (pictured together) in June 2018, before the pair purchased a $1.9million harbour-side pad in Sydney's affluent Rose Bay

Anna acted as host Kyle Sandilands' right hand woman in a pilot that aired in August 2018, and is set to reprise her role when the show returns for a full series.

The lawyer married former Bachelor Tim Robards in June of that year, before the pair purchased a $1.9million harbour-side pad in Sydney's affluent Rose Bay.

In what was a busy 2018 for the couple, Tim was also cast into the role of wealthy investor Pierce Greyson in 2018.
Angelina Jolie enjoyed an outing with Beverly Hills with three of her six children - Pax, 15, Zahara, 14, and Knox, 10 - this Saturday.

The 43-year-old film star went for a head-to-toe black ensemble that included a skintight tank top and leather pants.

Balancing on a sky-high pair of black leather stiletto boots, she gathered her hair up into a bun and accessorized with aviators.

Doting mother: Angelina Jolie enjoyed an outing with Beverly Hills with three of her six children - Pax, 15, Zahara, 14, and Knox, 10 - this Saturday

Angelina shares her six children with her estranged husband Brad Pitt, who left his first wife Jennifer Aniston for her in 2005.

Brad and Angelina biologically conceived Knox and his twin sister Vivienne together, as well as their 12-year-old daughter Shiloh.

The couple known as 'Brangelina' also have three adopted children, namely Pax, Zahara and a 17-year-old son named Maddox.

Angelina and Brad got married at their Chateau Miraval in the South of France in 2014 - but in September 2016, she filed for divorce.

Hollywood glamour: The 43-year-old film star went for a head-to-toe black ensemble that included a skintight tank top and leather pants

She looks amazing: Balancing on a sky-high pair of black leather stiletto boots, she gathered her hair up into a bun and accessorized with aviators

Brad attended Jennifer's 50th birthday party in February, but this month he laughed off a photographer's suggestion that they might restart their romance.

In the decade and a half since she and Brad broke up, Jennifer has dated Vince Vaughn and spent two years married to Justin Theroux.

Angelina's upcoming movie releases include Maleficent: Mistress Of Evil, the sequel to her smash hit live-action 2014 Disney feature Maleficent.

Matters of the heart: Angelina shares her six children with her estranged husband Brad Pitt, who left his first wife Jennifer Aniston for her in 2005

With a cast that includes Michelle Pfeiffer, Elle Fanning, Chiwetel Ejiofor and Juno Temple, the new film is slated for theatrical release on October 18.

Angelina, the daughter of Midnight Cowboy star Jon Voight, will reportedly join Game Of Thrones hunk Richard Madden in Marvel's The Eternals.

It emerged this week that Richard was negotiating a potential role in the superhero movie, by way of a report in The Wrap.

Family matters: Brad and Angelina biologically conceived Knox and his twin sister Vivienne together, as well as their 12-year-old daughter Shiloh
He is said to be embarking on a new romance with Russian go-go dancer Polina Glen.

And Johnny Depp, 55, looked like he was having the time of his life as he once again took to the stage to perform with his rock group Hollywood Vampires at the The Greek Theatre in Las Vegas on Saturday.

The actor ensured he looked every inch the rock star by donning a monochrome bandanna across his forehead and adorning his neck with a plethora of chains and pendants.

Rock and roll: Johnny Depp , 55, once again took to the stage to perform with his rock group Hollywood Vampires at the The Greek Theatre in Las Vegas on Saturday

Johnny continued his front man look in a black blazer embroidered with skulls and added a heart warming touch of having his daughters name - Lily Rose - stitched across his chest.

The star gave it his all as he sauntered across the stage strumming his electric guitair alongside his band mates - Alice Cooper, 71, and Joe Perry, 68.

The trio had played a concert the night before at the Joint at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Vegas ahead of the release of their new album Rise - which is set to be released June 21.

Where the actor-turned-musician, once again flaunted his inner rock star with his selection of an all-black ensemble.

Rock on! The actor ensured he looked every inch the rock star by donning a monochrome bandanna across his forehead and adorning his neck with a plethora of chains and pendant

Style: Johnny continued his front man look in a black blazer embroidered with skulls and added a heart warming touch of having his daughters name - Lily Rose - stitched on his chest

The Pirates of the Caribbean star also wore a collection of silver rings across both hands as he played his off-white instrument.

He donned a pair of white-framed aviator sunglasses and a multitude of layered necklaces for his set on Friday.

It comes after Johnny was pictured in a steamy embrace with a 'mystery woman' earlier this year at a hotel in Belgrade, Serbia - but she was recently identified as Polina Glen

Music man: The star gave it his all as he sauntered across the stage strumming his electric guitar alongside his band mates - Alice Cooper, 71, and Joe Perry, 68

Strum: Johnny played his guitar at the front of the stage

Band mates: The trio ensured they all co-ordinated in head to toe black

Rock God: He got into the zone as he played out to the crowd

The bombshell was also pictured walking alongside him in May 2018 while he was on tour in Moscow with his band, The Hollywood Vampires.

Polina, 23, is a trained dancer and choreographer, and is said to have been living with the multimillionaire actor at his Sunset Boulevard mansion.

A friend close to Polina recently said: 'Polina met Johnny at a party in LA. She gets invited to a lot of stuff and ran into him. She's a dancer and a hot girl.

Jam: The actor-turned-musician had played a concert the night before at the Joint at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Vegas

Edgy: Johnny wore the same black jacket the night before(Pictured with Joe Perry)

She was just chilling at the party and didn't know who he was when he came over to introduce himself. They hit it off.

'He's got legal issues with his ex-wife and then here's this beautiful young Russian dancer, that doesn't want anything and doesn't even know who he is. The Russian girls don't know him. They have no clue about actors and people always look different in person.

'When she found out who he was, she was happy.'

New beau: It comes after Johnny was linked to Russian go-go dancer Polina Glen, 23, last year

Dancer: Polina is a trained dancer and choreographer, and is said to have been living with the multimillionaire actor at his Sunset Boulevard mansion

Johnny's relationship with the go-go dancer is said to be his first since the breakdown of his turbulent marriage to American actress Amber Heard.

At the age of 17, Polina worked as a bar top dancer at a St Petersburg nightclub called Nebar, revealed The Mail on Sunday.

In 2012, she was awarded the title Miss Nebar in a beauty contest with a prize of 100,000 roubles (1200), and has since opened her own dance school in the city.
She recently confirmed that she has officially taken her husband Karl Stefanovic's surname.

And Jasmine Stefanovic seemed to be enjoying her new moniker as she hung out at the front row of Aje resort 'Bloomscape' collection during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in Sydney on Sunday.

The shoe designer, 34, dazzled in a sheer crop top as she shared a laugh with her Mara & Mine business partner Tamara Ingham and Christian Wilkins and his boyfriend Andrew Kelly.

Loving life: Jasmine Stefanovic seemed to be in great spirits as she hung out at the front row of Aje resort 'Bloomscape' collection during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in Sydney

The blonde beauty accessorised her chic look with a stylish leather jacket and a Louis Vuitton monogrammed crossbody bag.

Sweeping her golden tresses back into a simple chignon, Jasmine framed her features with taupe eyeshadow and nude lipstick.

Tamara looked equally chic, donning a silky blue trouser suit teamed with a studded leather clutch.

Christian went for a typically eclectic vibe in a blue and pink lace shirt, while Andrew donned a feather-trimmed silky pink kimono.

On the FROW: The shoe designer, 34, dazzled in a sheer crop top as she shared a laugh with her Mara & Mine business partner Tamara Ingham and Christian Wilkins and his boyfriend Andrew Kelly

Looking good: The blonde beauty accessorised her chic look with a stylish leather jacket and a Louis Vuitton monogrammed crossbody bag

Jasmine's outing comes after she revealed she has taken the final step in her commitment to Karl by officially changing her surname to Stefanovic.

The blonde beauty excitedly told the Daily Telegraph: 'I'm changing everything over at the moment.'

She added: 'I'm getting there slowly. There's a lot to do.'

It comes amid claims that Karl and Jasmine are hoping his second vasectomy reversal surgery worked as they're keen to have a child as soon as possible, according to friends of the power couple.

Glam: Sweeping her golden tresses back into a simple chignon, Jasmine framed her features with taupe eyeshadow and nude lipstick

Karl is believed to have undergone the procedure fairly recently but the results are not immediate.

A well-placed source told Woman's Day on Monday: 'They are both so clucky right now. They don't know if the reversal has worked this time and it can take months sometimes [for fertility to resume].'

The news comes after the magazine reported last month that Queensland-born Jasmine is ready to have a child.

Jasmine tied the knot with Karl - who was previously married to journalist Cassandra Thorburn - Mexico in December last year.

Bold look: Christian Wilkins went for a typically eclectic vibe in a blue and pink lace shirt and pink latex leggings
She's the veteran Australian actress who has worked on long-running soap Home and Away for two decades.

But on Sunday, Ada Nicodemou took a break from filming to celebrate Mother's Day with her family.

The 41-year-old shared family photos to Instagram, while spending the day with her six-year-old son Johnas, her mother and partner, Adam Rigby.

'Feeling very loved today': Home and Away's Ada Nicodemou celebrateed Mother's Day on Sunday with her mum (left) and adorable son Johnas (right)

The first photos showed makeup-free Ada in bed with her six-year-old son.

The pair looked adorable as they flashed the peace sign and pulled funny expressions in their pyjamas.

Ada appears to have been spoiled by Johnas as she also captured balloons spelling out her name and a delicious looking breakfast.

Bonding: The first photos showed makeup-free Ada in bed with her six-year-old son.

Relaxed! Ada flashes the peace sign as she indulges in a sleep-in on Mother's Day

Spoiled! Ada appears to have been spoiled by Johnas as she also captured balloons spelling out her name and a delicious looking breakfast

In another snap, Ada posed with her mother and Johnas as they enjoyed lunch out at Hazelhurst Arts Centre in Sydney.

Ada's businessman partner, Adam, and little Johnas posed together in matching grey shirts.

'Feel very loved this morning - Happy Mother's Day to all the mums out there and to my own mum who I couldn't live with out,' Ada wrote in the caption.

Twinning: Ada's businessman partner, Adam, and little Johnas posed in matching grey shirts

Ada's day off is very much well-deserved after being recently spotted filming some risque scenes for Home and Away in Palm Beach last week, with on-screen beau James Stewart.

In photos taken on November 14, the actors rolled around on the sand, giggled and held hands like a pair of lovesick teenagers.

James, who is engaged to Home and Away co-star Sarah Roberts, recently spoke to Woman's Day about what it's like filming steamy scenes with Ada.

Steamy: On-screen flame James Stewart ,who is engaged to Home and Away co-star Sarah Roberts, recently spoke to Woman's Day about what it's like filming steamy scenes with Ada

'It's good to be doing it with Ada because I've known her for 20 years,' he said.

'There are 20 people standing over you, it is hot and sweaty... you're doing your very best to look as charming and debonair as possible.'

Ada added: 'You need to make sure the other person is comfortable. The more comfortable the easier it becomes.'
She announced her new relationship with rapper Surf School Rico last month after splitting from husband Geoffrey Edelsten, 75.

And on Sunday, Gabi Grecko, 29, stunned followers with a new cross tattoo on her face.

Taking to Instagram, the former escort shared a moody selfie of the new inking which sits on her cheekbone below her right eye.

Tatt's an interesting look! Gabi Grecko (pictured), 29, debuts new cross tattoo on her face after split from husband Geoffrey Edelsten, 75

Captioning the image, she simply wrote, 'did it' with the hashtag '#facetat'.

It comes after the 29-year-old told Daily Mail Australia last month that she broke up with Geoffrey because she wants to date someone closer to her own age.

Gabi first met Surf School Rico, born Eddie Lee, in December while trying to launch a rap career of her own.

It's over! Gabi 29 confirmed her split with 75-year-old husband Geoffrey Edelsten last month. Pictured together on September 5, 2015 in Melbourne

'I met him at the studio and there was just something about him that stayed with me, his smile,' she said.

'We ended up exchanging numbers and the rest, as they say, is history.'

In addition to being lovers, Gabi and Surf School Rico have also been collaborating in the studio.

Moving on: Gabi is now dating U.S. rapper 'Surf School Rico', whose real name is Eddie Lee

'We hang out and make music every day. We're like the same person,' she said.

Geoffrey and Gabi, who performs under the name 'GLittA FoxX', married in Melbourne back in 2015, before splitting just a few months later.

But they reunited in January 2018 and were planning on renewing their vows before calling it quits again..

When Daily Mail Australia contacted Geoffrey for comment at the time of the split announcement, he refused to answer questions and hung up the phone.
(CNN)  The Syrian army is launching "intensive strikes on dens of Jabhat al-Nusra," a group formerly affiliated with al Qaeda, in a village in southwestern Idlib province Sunday, Syrian state media is reporting.

SANA, the country's state-run news agency, also stated Saturday that the army's operations had destroyed multiple sites purportedly belonging to Jabhat al-Nusra in the southern Idlib countryside.

The army killed and injured "a number of terrorists who had breached the de-escalation zone agreement through repeated attacks on military points and safe towns," SANA reported.

Syrian government forces, which are loyal to the Syrian dictator Bashar al-Assad, are also tracking "terrorist" movements between the Idlib province in the north of the country and the Hama province directly to the south.

According to UK-based monitoring group the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR), there has been a heavy escalation of shelling and barrel bombs targeting Hama and Idlib in the last few days.

SOHR also reports that against the backdrop of the heavy bombing, Jabhat al-Nusra are worsening the situation for displaced civilians by preventing them from putting up tents.

The UN announced Friday that since April 28 fighting has escalated between government forces and non-state armed groups (NSAGs) in northwest Syria.

The organization noted that on May 8, Syrian forces began ground operations against NSAGs "impacting on civilian populations, infrastructure and service provision in northern Hama and southern Idleb governorates."

The White Helmets volunteer rescue group, known as the Syria Civil Defense, has since stated that escalating attacks have led to numerous deaths and injuries among civilians.

"Another 12 civilians were killed today; more stories and hopes were left behind," the group tweeted Saturday. "More than 40 people were injured in brutal bombing by Russian and regime jets for the 14th day in a row on #Idlib and #Hama."

The United Nations Security Council was briefed Friday on the worsening situation in northwest Syria. 11 out of its 15 members -- including the U.S., France and Britain -- jointly condemned the killing of civilians in the region and warned of a potential humanitarian disaster.

"We are alarmed by the displacement of over 150,000 persons as well as the targeting of population centers and civilian infrastructure, including hospitals and schools," Marc Pecsteen de Buytswerve, Belgium's ambassador to the UN, said following the meeting.

The bombardment on Idlib, which is being supported by Russia, was also condemned by Turkey, which previously signed an agreement with Russia to create a demilitarized zone in the province.

"Humanitarian problems grow each day and it is increasingly showing a tendency to turn into a catastrophe," said Hulusi Akar, the Turkish defense minister, according to the state-owned Anadolu Agency.

"We expect Russia to take effective and determined measures to make regime forces stop their attacks on the south of Idlib and immediately return to the borders set by the Astana agreement."

This story was first published on CNN.com, "Syrian army 'kills terrorists' in Idlib countryside."
He works long hours as a radio host for Nova FM.

But on Sunday Michael 'Wippa' Wipfli was enjoying a day off with his wife Lisa and their sons in Sydney's Bondi.

The 39-year-old looked jovial in a dark blue shirt with long sleeves as he held onto his little boys, Ted, four, and Jack, two.

Family day out! Radio host Michael 'Wippa' Wipfli enjoyed the sunshine as he headed out to lunch with wife Lisa and their children in Bondi on Sunday

The radio star wore dark blue jeans to match his shirt and skipped a coat despite the autumn chill.

He completed his look with a a pair of brown leather dress shoes and wore sunglasses in the bright weather.

Lisa looked chic in navy pants and a striped blue and white shirt, with a light Burberry mac coat over the top.

So sweet: The 39-year-old looked jovial in a dark blue shirt with long sleeves as he held onto his little boys, Ted, four, and Jack, two

Her brunette hair down around her shoulders, the mother-of-two wore gold earrings and light makeup.

She added a large hat and sunglasses and carried a brown scaled tote, with a pair of white sneakers to finish the look.

The pair's toddlers were rugged up in puffer jackets and jeans, along with matching caps and identical pairs of runners.

Cool mum! Wippa's wife Lisa looked chic in navy pants and a striped blue and white shirt, with a light Burberry mac coat over the top, as she carried one of the pair's sons down the stairs

The family looked happy and relaxed as they headed to a lunch date at the famous North Bondi Fish eatery.

The couple, who have been married since 2013, met at the Nova studios in Sydney and Michael said that it was love at first sight for the pair.

Speaking to New Idea, he recalled: 'I was ordering a chicken wrap downstairs and she was getting a sandwich and our eyes connected.'
Her beloved father Chris tragically died of cancer last Wednesday.

And Robyn Lawley has now revealed how 'painful' it was to witness her dad, 67, take his last breaths after battling the disease for eight years.

The devastated model, 29, explained that Chris - who was a firefighter for 33 years - felt so guilty about being in pain that he would apologise to the family.

Tragedy: Robyn Lawley has revealed how 'painful' it was to witness her dad Chris, 67, taking his last breaths after battling cancer for eight years

'He was such a good man, he would say sorry to me, my sister and mother for being in pain,' she told The Daily Telegraph.

The model, who will walk in Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week on Monday, went on: 'Witnessing dad's battle with cancer and watching him take his last breath was painful.'

Chris died from acinic cell carcinoma, one of 12 cancers linked to fighting fires and caused by exposure to carcinogens and foam.

Robyn said Chris, who was also a jet refueller, was regularly exposed to chemicals and asbestos and she called for there to be better masks and more awareness about toxic materials.

Loss: 'He was such a good man, he would say sorry to me, my sister and mother for being in pain,' she told The Daily Telegraph. Pictured, Robyn as a young girl with Chris

Nightmare: Robyn said Chris, who was also a jet refueller, was regularly exposed to chemicals and asbestos and she called for there to be better masks and more awareness about toxic materials

'He was so healthy. His cancer was so obviously caused by the industries. I'm heart broken,' she said.

Last Friday, Robyn took to Instagram to pay tribute to Chris, calling life a 'bittersweet symphony.'

Sharing a portrait of the Lawley patriarch, she penned: 'Dad I love you and miss you so much, I'm glad I was by your side. If I could be as half as good as you I would be proud.'

Robyn was born in the Sydney suburb of Girraween and came from a close-knit family.

Devastated: 'He was so healthy. His cancer was so obviously caused by the industries. I'm heart broken,' she said

The New York-based model is believed to have jetted into her hometown of Sydney earlier this week.

Robyn shares a daughter Ripley, four, with her lawyer partner, Everest Schmidt. In the past, Robyn has spoken about her battle with autoimmune disease, Lupus.

She suffered a horrific lupus-induced seizure while in her New York home last year, which left her with facial scars.
A host of famous faces such as Sylvester Stalone, Peter Kay and The Muppets have fronted the British bakeries adverts over the years.

And now Robert DeNiro is appearing on the small screen as he takes up his latest role in Goodbagels - the new commercial for the largest bread making company in the UK.

The Hollywood actor, 75, plays the part of a New York mafia boss who is not impressed to discover that Warbutons is rising to the top of the bagel making business.

The upper crust: Robert DeNiro is appearing on the small screen as he takes up his latest role in Goodbagels - the new commercial for the largest bread making company in the UK

In order to confront head of the Warbutons brand - Jonathon Warbuton - the Academy Award winning star heads to Bolton, UK, alongside his loyal gang of mafioso to confront the businessman.

In the advert, set to make its premier on ITV, May 17, during Gogglebox, De Niro and his made men bust into Jonathon's office where they inform the baker that they plan to pass off the new doughy bagels as their own.

In a montage of clips viewers are treated to scenes of the Heat actor and his gangland members causing mayhem as they go to all lengths necessary - including taping up a security guard - in order to empty supermarket shelves of the bagels to replaces them with their own brand of bread donuts, named GoodBagels.

Latest roll: The Hollywood actor plays the part of a New York mafia boss who is not impressed to discover that Warbutons is rising to the top of the bagel making business

You're toast! In order to confront head of the Warbutons brand - Jonathon Warbuton - the Academy Award winning star heads to Bolton, UK, to confront the businessman

The advert then returns to Jonathan's office who mistakes the gangsters threat as the script to a new film as he quizzes De Niro: How does it end?'

With the silver fox replying a sinister style: 'Not well.'

Speaking on his latest role, that marks the launch of Warburtons new bagels which come in plain and a fruity cinnamon and raisin flavour, the American Hustle star said: 'It was a pleasure to fly to the UK to film this ad with the Warburtons family, and star alongside Jonathan.'

Made men: DeNiro appears in the commercial with his loyal gang of mafioso

He added: 'Getting into the bagel business has been great fun, and I hope everyone enjoys the final cut.'

Jonathan Warburton, Chairman of Warburtons, said of the collaboration with one of Hollywood's biggest names: 'As an iconic New Yorker, Robert De Niro knows his way around a bagel so its great to have his seal of approval.

'Weve spent months perfecting the recipe and process to ensure we delight families up and down the country with the best thing since sliced bread!'

Breadwinners: Viewers are treated to scenes of the mobsters emptying supermarket shelves of the bagels to replaces them with their own brand of bread donuts, named GoodBagels

The Sun newspaper previously reported last year that the A-lister will be paid a rumoured six figure salary to star in the commercial for Warburtons bread.

A source told The Sun: 'Warburtons absolutely love getting big names to front their adverts and they don't come much bigger than De Niro. They've set the bar higher than ever.'

Warburtons has 142 years of baking know-how and was founded in in 1876 with a grocery shop in Bolton by Thomas and Ellen Warburton, today Warburtons is run by the fifth generation of the family.
She celebrated Easter in Dubai with all the family three weeks ago.

But Sam Faiers was chasing the sun again as she headed to Gatwick Airport with her boyfriend Paul Knightley, son Paul, three, and daughter Rosie, 18 months, on Sunday.

The former TOWIE star, 28, took to Instagram to tell her fans she was jetting off on 'another adventure' as they checked in for their flight.

Jet-setter: Sam Faiers was chasing the sun again as she headed to Gatwick Airport with boyfriend Paul Knightley, son Paul, three, and daughter Rosie, 18 months, on Sunday

With comfort in mind, Sam cut a casual figure in a tight blush pink tracksuit and chunky white trainers.

Carrying a baby bag in one hand and Rosie in the other, the Mummy Diaries star certainly had her hands full as she pushed her trolley, which was laden with suitcases, through the terminal.

Sam decided to forego make-up for the flight and slicked her brunette tresses up off her face and in a neat ponytail.

Family trip: The former TOWIE star, 28, took to Instagram to tell her fans she was jetting off on 'another adventure' as they checked in for their flight

Airport chic: With comfort in mind, Sam cut a casual figure in a tight blush pink tracksuit and chunky white trainers

Off on holiday: The reality star followed Paul into the airport as they prepared to head through to security

Radiant: Sam decided to forego make-up for the flight and slicked her brunette tresses up off her face and in a neat ponytail

Leading the way was Sam's boyfriend of four years, Paul, who was also casually-clad in a grey Nike tracksuit.

Carrying a rucksack, the father-of-two pushed a sleepy Paul in a pushchair, while also lugging two heavy suitcases on a trolley.

Their latest trip comes just three weeks after the family jetted to the sunny climes of Dubai to ring in Easter.

Hands full: Carrying a baby bag in one hand and Rosie in the other, the Mummy Diaries star certainly had her hands full

Hard work: She pushed her trolley, laden with suitcases through the terminal

The family spared no expense for the trip, staying at the luxury hotel the One & Only Royal Mirage.

Sam has just finished wrapping up the last series on the Mummy Diaries, which aired earlier this month.

The Faiers family watched Sam's sister Billie marry Greg Shepherd in a breathtakingly beautiful Maldives beach ceremony.

Holiday of a lifetime: Sam certainly wasn't travelling light for her sun-soaked trip

Fans saw the ins and outs, ups and downs and excitement ahead of their wedding, including Billie's dad Dave nearly missing the big day after he was too inebriated to fly and was escorted off his plane to the Maldives.

In the 90-minute special the couple finally said 'I do' in front of 95 guests, after five years together and over a year of planning to reach the big moment.

Viewers took to Twitter to share their delight at finally seeing the couple exchange their vows, after the build-up was fraught with drama and chaos.

Only three weeks ago: Their latest trip comes just three weeks after the family jetted to the sunny climes of Dubai to ring in Easter

Glamorous lifestyle: The family spared no expense for the trip, staying at the luxury hotel the One & Only Royal Mirage

Tough: Paul had to take a break as he struggled to push his son, two suitcases and another pushchair

Despite a frantic day which saw Greg waiting in the sunshine, the groom was left stunned as Billie finally made her way down the aisle in a lace wedding gown.

Sam also paid a touching tribute to her sister in an incredibly moving speech that the mother-of-two close to tears.

She said: 'It feels like yesterday when we were all standing in the sea in Ibiza, and I said to Greg ''you fancy my sister don't you?'' and he said ''yes.'' I told Billie straight away.

Bonding time: Sam looked every inch the doting mum as she beamed at Rosie, who looked sweet in a baby pink Gilet

Cute: Baby Paul even had his own Thomas the Tank Engine suitcase

Low-key: Leading the way was Sam's boyfriend of four years, Paul, who was also casually-clad in a grey Nike tracksuit

'I'm so happy that my big sister is marrying the man of her dreams, she may not tell you that Greg, thank you for making me an auntie to Nelly and Arthur.

'Being here in the Maldives with all your family and friends is going to be an unforgettable celebration, I love you both with all your heart, and welcome officially to the family Greg.'

And while Billie has tied the knot, there seems to be no plans for Paul to propose to Sam anytime soon.

Doting dad: Carrying a rucksack, the father-of-two pushed a sleepy Paul in a pushchair, while also lugging two heavy suitcases on a trolley

On the hit ITVBe show, the All Bits London creator told the reality star he was glad she failed to catch the bouquet, as it would have only increased the pressure on him to pop the question.

He said: 'I was celebrating ''yes she didn't catch it.'''

Inevitably the response leaves Sam unimpressed, as she dramatically turned to him and screamed 'What?'
Her firstborn son was tragically delivered stillborn last August.

And Belinda Sloane paid an emotional tribute to her son Leo on Instagram for Mother's Day on Sunday.

She shared a black and white photo of herself and husband, AFL star Rory Sloane, cradling Leo and wrote alongside it: 'Not were, or almost, or could have been.'

'I am and always will be your mummy': AFL WAG Belinda Sloane shared an emotional tribute to her stillborn son Leo for Mother's Day

Belinda went on: 'I am and always will be your mummy Leo, thank you my angel.

'Happy Mother's Day to every single amazing mum out there, whether you hold your child in your arms or in your heart.'

Her Adelaide Crows star husband, 32, also paid tribute to her for Mother's Day, writing on social media: 'Happy Mother's Day to my beautiful wife.

'You're an incredible woman and Leo is so lucky to have you as his mother. Also to my mum and all the other amazing mothers out there.'

Devastating: She wrote in the caption: 'Happy Mother's Day to every single amazing mum out there, whether you hold your child in your arms or in your heart'. Pictured with husband Rory

Tragic: Her Adelaide Crows star husband, 32, also paid tribute to her for Mother's Day, writing on social media: 'Happy Mother's Day to my beautiful wife. 'You're an incredible woman and Leo is so lucky to have you as his mother. Also to my mum and all the other amazing mothers out there'

The couple announced the tragic news of Leo's stillbirth in August 2018 with a photo of their hands holding Leo's in hospital.

'Last week we said goodbye to our beautiful little man. Leo Rory Sloane was born into the world still, but perfect,' Rory wrote alongside it.

'Thanks for making us the proudest parents and filling our hearts with love beyond measure, the moments we had with you are now beautiful memories that will last a lifetime.'

'Last week we said goodbye to our little man': The couple announced the tragic news of Leo's stillbirth in August 2018 with a photo of their hands holding Leo's in hospital

The couple announced their pregnancy in April last year after Crows captain Taylor Walker accidentally blurted out the exciting news on radio.

'Obviously the great news for him and Belinda is they're pregnant as well, so they're expecting a child. So that's something they'll weigh up in due course,' he said.

Belinda had reportedly been due to give birth in October, two years after the couple tied the knot in Byron Bay in October, 2016.
She cut an incredibly glamorous figure when she attended the Met Gala in New York City earlier this week.

And Jourdan Dunn relished in some time off from her busy schedule as she soaked up the sun on Miami Beach, Florida, on Saturday afternoon.

The former Victoria's Secret Angel, 28, turned up the heat as she slipped her gym-honed frame into a pale yellow two-piece, fresh from Leigh-Anne Pinnock's new swimwear brand INASEASHELL.

Idyllic break: Jourdan Dunn relished in some time off from her busy schedule as she soaked up the sun on Miami Beach, Florida, on Saturday afternoon

Ensuring attention remained on her killer physique, the supermodel opted for minimal accessories as she quenched her thirst with a bottle of water.

The catwalk queen kept in theme with the relaxed environment when it came to her hairstyle, as she let her tightly-curled tresses loose, grazing her toned shoulder.

Displaying her naturally radiant complexion, the TV personality accentuated her beauty with minimal make-up during her time on the beach.

All eyes on her: The former Victoria's Secret Angel, 28, turned up the heat as she slipped her gym-honed frame into a pale yellow two-piece, fresh from Leigh-Anne Pinnock's new swimwear brand INASEASHELL

Ensuring attention remained on her killer physique, the supermodel opted for minimal accessories as she quenched her thirst with a bottle of water

Catching the eye: The catwalk queen kept in theme with the relaxed environment when it came to her hairstyle, as she let her tightly-curled tresses loose, grazing her toned shoulder

Jourdan treated fans to a glimpse at her beachy getaway as she took to Instagram to share a series of hilarious snaps of herself dancing with pals.

The brunette bombshell recently spoke of the 'dangerous' pressure placed on young girls to look picture perfect as they are confronted with photoshopped images on social media.

She told The Telegraph: 'Some young girls don't know how to separate reality from Instagram. They're comparing themselves to a photoshopped image, but how can you compare yourself to something that's not real? It can be very dangerous.'

Jourdan was scouted at the age of 15 by Storm Model Management and has gone on to find fame across the globe.

Look at her glow: Displaying her naturally radiant complexion, the TV personality accentuated her beauty with minimal make-up during her time on the beach

Having fun: Jourdan treated fans to a glimpse at her beachy getaway as she took to Instagram to share a series of hilarious snaps of herself dancing with pals

Speaking exclusively to MailOnline last year, the mother-of-one admitted that being in the spotlight means she finds it hard to form friendships - and she trusts her instincts to filter out the disingenuous people.

She said: 'I've made strong friendships in the spotlight and you're meeting new people all the time.

'But you soon become wary and realise that some people just want to get near you for your name.

'I have developed good judgement and go off vibes now. Anyone with bad energy is cut off straight away.'

Striking: Continuing to show off her enviable figure, the London native posed up a storm in her hotel bathroom
Z-list celebrities have reportedly been banned from attending Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week.

The shows - which have previously been flooded with Bachelor In Paradise and MAFS cast members - have reportedly vetoed any 'wannabe social climber nobodies' from the guest list.

'If you haven't supported the brand or the PR all year and think you are getting onto the front row - think again,' a fashion publicist told The Sydney Morning Herald on Sunday.

Rumour has it: Z-list celebrities have reportedly been banned from attending Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week. Pictured, Imogen Anthony at Fashion Week in 2017

The insider added: 'Editors, buyers, digital influencers and content creators are in and C-list reality wannabe social climber nobodies are out.'

The source also claimed that any opportunists who try to snag a seat on the front row that wasn't assigned to them will be swiftly turned away.

'We have people dedicated to finding individuals not in their assigned seat and politely returning them to their allocated position,' they said.

Last year, Bachelor In Paradise stars Elora Murger and Megan Marx as well as Married At First Sight's Nasser Sultan were seen attending shows.

Claims: The insider said: 'Editors, buyers, digital influencers and content creators are in and C-list reality wannabe social climber nobodies are out.' Pictured, Bachelor In Paradise star Lisa Hyde at last year's Fashion Week

In 2017 Imogen Anthony reportedly sat in Fashion Week co-founder Lorraine Lock's place on the FROW and stormed out shouting 'f**k this' after being told to switch seats.

One notable critic is gossip columnist Andrew Hornery, who last year described her as a 'nobody who ambushed Australia's most prestigious fashion event.'

The Fairfax journalist even claimed that Imogen had smelled of 'cigarette smoke and... freshly sprayed Impulse' when she walked past him.

Hmm: Despite the alleged ban, Bachelor In Paradise stars Elora Murger and Megan Marx made an appearance at this year's Opening Showcase

Stars like Elsa Pataky, The Veronicas, Jennifer Hawkins and models Tahnee Atkinson, Victoria Lee and Jessica Gomes attended Fashion Week last year.

Fashion Week launched on Friday night with an opening showcase from Aje and will close on Saturday May 18 with a show by P.E. Nation.

Designers who will show their Resort 2020 collections include Bec & Bridge, Anna Quan, bassike and Alice McCall to name just a few.
It's her second Mother's Day since welcoming daughter Stormi Webster into the world in February 2018.

And Kylie Jenner took to social media on Sunday to gush over her daughter and her role as a mom.

The 21-year-old beauty shared some sweet shots from a shoot with her little one and called it her 'greatest role'.

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Her favorite job: Kylie Jenner took to social media on Sunday to gush over her daughter and her role as a mom

'the best thing I've ever done, my greatest role in this life #HappyMothersDay,' she captioned.

Kylie also shared a series of monochrome shots while swinging on a swing with Stormi.

She captioned the series with one single black love heart.

Love: 'the best thing I've ever done, my greatest role in this life #HappyMothersDay,' she captioned

Mama: Kylie also shared a series of monochrome shots while swinging on a swing with Stormi

Bonding: One shot saw Kylie and Stomi enjoy some cuddle time together

Her baby daddy, Travis Scott, also shared his thanks to Kylie as well as his mom.

'Happy Mother's Day to the amazing Moms of the world,' he wrote.

And for eldest sister, Kourtney Kardashian, she received quite the surprise on Sunday, when she woke up to a beautiful display of love from children Mason, nine, Penelope, six, and Reign, four, for Mother's Day.

The 40-year-old took to social media to share the sweet gesture of rose petals and a cookie for breakfast with her 78 million followers.

Sending this thanks: Her baby daddy, Travis Scott, also shared his thanks to Kylie as well as his mom (pictured)

Happy Mother's Day! To Kourtney Kardashian's surprise on Sunday, she woke up to quite the beautiful display of love from children Mason, nine, Penelope, six, and Reign, four, for Mother's Day

As Kourtney walked down the stairs to get her day started, she was greeted by a slew of pink and white rose petals along the staircase with stuffed unicorns neatly lined up to lead her to the final spot.

When she reached the landing, she was greeted with various love notes, roses in mason jars and some breakfast.

The morning meal was laid out on a napkin and consisted of a cup of tea, fresh raspberries and a cookie.

Surprise! As Kourtney walked down the stairs to get her day started, she was greeted by a slew of pink and white rose petals along the staircase with stuffed unicorns neatly lined up to lead her to the final spot

Family: Kourtney is the mom to Mason, nine, Penelope, six, and Reign, four, with her ex Scott Disick

Sweet: All of Kourtney's kids wrote her a message, with her sons keeping it simple to: 'Love you mom'

As French music played in the background, the Poosh founder panned to each of the notes which read: 'I love you mom because you snuggle me,' from Penelope, while the boys kept it at a simple: 'love you mom.'

But Kourtney wasn't the only Kardashian to share messages about Mother's Day, with sister Khloe posting Inspirational quotes on her Instagram Story.

'Here's to the mums, the stepmums, the not mums yet, the should be mums, and those without mums,' she shared.

Another image saw Khloe send out a PSA to those to who post loved up messages on social media, despite their mother's not being on the platform.

Mama! Sister Khloe Kardashian shared a sweet shot with her daughter True on Sunday

Happy days: She also shared a video with her daughter as they enjoyed their Cheerios breakfast together

Inspiring: But Kourtney wasn't the only Kardashian to share messages about Mother's Day, with sister Khloe posting Inspirational quotes on her Instagram Story

Don't do it: Another image saw Khloe send out a PSA to those to who post loved up messages on social media, despite their mother's not being on the platform

To all the moms! Khloe sent many messages to the mothers on Sunday

Mama and True! Khloe's Good American brand also wished her well on their social media account

Simple: Sister Kendall Jenner kept her tribute short and sweet, sharing a photo of grandmother MJ holding a cocktail. The Vogue model captioned the shot, 'happy mother's day,' and opted to keep her comments off

'please don't be the one writing a tribute to you mom on social media for mother's day - when she's not even on social media. call her. visit her. what a concept, right?'

And Khloe celebrated herself and all the mother's later on, posting a smiling photo with baby True, one.

'Its Mothers Day!!! Happy Mothers Day,' she captioned.

She also shared a video with her daughter as they enjoyed their Cheerios breakfast together.

Sister Kendall Jenner kept her tribute short and sweet, sharing a photo of grandmother MJ holding a cocktail.

The Vogue model captioned the shot, 'happy mother's day,' and opted to keep her comments off.

And while Ariana Grande is currently on her Sweetner/Thank U, Next world tour, she sure she still found time for her mom, Joan.

Taking time out! And while Ariana Grande is currently on her Sweetner/Thank U, Next world tour, she sure she still found time for her mom, Joan

The best surprise! Taking to her Instagram account, she shared screenshots of a FaceTime call she was having with her mom, where she surprised her by revealing she was coming home

Taking to her Instagram account, she shared screenshots of a FaceTime call she was having with her mom, where she surprised her by revealing she was coming home.

'i love you mommy happy mother's day to the greatest human being in the world you are everything and i celebrate you every day @joangrande. wish i could hug you,' she captioned.

However, the next shot saw Joan in awe after the popstar revealed she was on her way to her for Mother's Day.

'JK SURPRISE MAMA WENT FROM THE STAGE TO THE PLANE SEE U SOON MOMMY !!!!!'

Spoilt! Cardi B was showered with gifts on her first Mother's Day

Best hubby! After receiving matching his and her watches with her man Offset on Saturday, she woke up on Sunday to two Birkin bags

Thrilled: 'I'm not saying I got the best husband ever, but I really got the best husband ever. Thank you babe, I love you,' she gushed

Baby girl: 'Look at my baby and my Birkins,' she shared, before catching Kulture with something in her mouth and going straight into mom mode

Cardi B was showered with gifts on her first Mother's Day.

After receiving matching his and her watches with her man Offset on Saturday, she woke up on Sunday to two Birkin bags.

'I'm not saying I got the best husband ever, but I really got the best husband ever. Thank you babe, I love you,' she gushed.

'Look at my baby and my Birkins,' she shared, before catching Kulture with something in her mouth and going straight into mom mode.

'Take that out of your mouth,' she sternly said.

She loves it! Cardi received one pink and one red Birkin bag for Mother's Day

Keep your head up! 'Enjoy your day everyone. If you having a bad day keep your chin up and pray to God to see brighter days! Even if you feel like bad sh*t keep happening back to back. Keep on having faith in your prayers'

The gifting continues: Cardi also showcased the his and her watches she got on Saturday night

Over on Instagram Stories, she was also heard singing 'Happy Mother's Day To Me' while showcasing her new accessories.

'Soooo happy. I feel like the luckiest person in the world,' she wrote.

'Enjoy your day everyone. If you having a bad day keep your chin up and pray to God to see brighter days! Even if you feel like bad sh*t keep happening back to back. Keep on having faith in your prayers.'

As a mother-of-six and officially a grandmother-of-ten, Mother's Day is a special on for Kris Jenner.

Yet to see her family, the momager shared a gorgeous array of fresh flowers from her friends and pals.

Proud mom! Kris Jenner was praised on daughter Kylie's Kylie Cosmetics page

Special! Kris Jenner was gifted a $3000 box of roses for Mother's Day

She's loved: Kris was also treated to other displays of flowers for the special day

Tender shots: Yolanda Hadid shared a series of candid and unearthed shots as the mom to Gigi, Bella and Anwar Hadid (pictured with Gigi)

To all the mothers: 'Happy mothers day to not only mothers but to all the woman out there who are nurturing, loving and guiding the children of our world,' she began

One box from Venus ET Fleur saw a display of lilac blooms with the word 'Lovey' written and a love heart.

According to the company's site, 150 roses retails for over $1500 - and with approximately 300 gifted to Kris Jenner, the average shopper would have to shell out $3000 for the box.

Yolanda Hadid shared a series of candid and unearthed shots as the mom to Gigi, Bella and Anwar Hadid.

'Happy mothers day to not only mothers but to all the woman out there who are nurturing, loving and guiding the children of our world,' she began.

Love: 'Motherhood is a privilege and the greatest blessing in my life'

Her true loves: She continued: 'Thank you Gigi, Bella and Anwar for teaching me the true meaning of unconditional love and for igniting the deepest part of my soul'

Opening up: 'We dont always have it all together but together we have it all and for that my heart is filled with gratitude not only today but everyday....'

'Motherhood is a privilege and the greatest blessing in my life.'

She continued: 'Thank you Gigi, Bella and Anwar for teaching me the true meaning of unconditional love and for igniting the deepest part of my soul.'

'We dont always have it all together but together we have it all and for that my heart is filled with gratitude not only today but everyday....'

John Legend was a doting husband on Sunday.

He took to social media to share a series of photo frames in their home that had Chrissy and the kids inside.

'Happy Mother's Day to my Queen! Luna, Miles and I love you so much and we're so grateful for you everyday!' he captioned.

Family: John Legend was a doting husband on Sunday. He took to social media to share a series of photo frames in their home that had Chrissy and the kids inside

Queen of his heart! 'Happy Mother's Day to my Queen! Luna, Miles and I love you so much and we're so grateful for you everyday!' he captioned

Baby Paris! Paris Hilton shared a sweet tribute to her mom on Sunday. 'Happy Mother's Day to my beautiful mom @KathyHilton. Love you so much,' she captioned

Paris Hilton shared a sweet tribute to her mom on Sunday.

'Happy Mother's Day to my beautiful mom @KathyHilton. Love you so much,' she captioned.

The shot saw Kathy sitting with daughters Paris and Nicky when they were just young kids.

Kathy replied to her sweet daughter with: 'I am up when can I hear the dam song???? Upload, download , Spotify????? Come on girl????' - however, fans were quick to point out the song was already on Spotify.

Serena Williams couldn't help but share a sweet shot with her family.

Keeping the post captionless, she sat in bed with husband Alexis Ohanian and their daughter Olympia, one.

Baby makes three! Serena Williams couldn't help but share a sweet shot with her family

Alexis: 'Four years ago today, I overslept here in Rome and met the mother of this amazing little person. Now there's three of us to go on adventures together. And feed leaves to lions,' he penned. 'Can't help but appreciate & celebrate all the mothers out there today'

Family love! Hailey Bieber had two reasons to celebrate on Sunday - her dad Stephen's birthday and Mother's Day

Alexis took to his social media to reveal that today also marked four years since they'd met.

'Four years ago today, I overslept here in Rome and met the mother of this amazing little person. Now there's three of us to go on adventures together. And feed leaves to lions,' he penned.

'Can't help but appreciate & celebrate all the mothers out there today.'

Hailey Bieber had two reasons to celebrate on Sunday - her dad Stephen's birthday and Mother's Day.

The wife of Justin Bieber shared a tender baby shot with her mom of herself sporting quite the bob cut.

Mom and daughter: Heidi proved on Sunday that she really did get it from her mama, Oma. Taking to Instagram, she shared a shot with her mom, to which the pair looked like sisters

And while she's frequently seen out with boyfriend Scott Disick and his three children, Sofia Richie kept her Mother's Day praise to her own mother, Diane.

Time to relax: As a busy mom-of-three, actress and CEO of Honest Beauty, it was no surprise that all Jessica Alba wanted for Mother's Day was a little alone time

Presents: The beauty also shared a box she had put together for mother's from her range

Heidi Klum proved on Sunday that she really did get it from her mama, Oma.

Taking to Instagram, she shared a shot with her mom, to which the pair looked like sisters.

'I got it from my Mama  Loving ...strong ... resilient...goofy....kind... gentle .. happy ...openminded...curious ...........ICH LIEBE DICH Happy #mothersday.'

And while she's frequently seen out with boyfriend Scott Disick and his three children, Sofia Richie kept her Mother's Day praise to her own mother, Diane.

As a busy mom-of-three, actress and CEO of Honest Beauty, it was no surprise that all Jessica Alba wanted for Mother's Day was a little alone time.

Taking to social media, she shared a shot of herself and her sister sporting face and eye masks.

'Mother's Day spa at home w my sis,' she captioned.

The beauty also shared a box she had put together for mother's from her range.

Memories: Gabrielle Union, who experienced various miscarriages, welcomed her first child, daughter Kaavia into the world last year via a surrogate. Celebrating her first Mother's Day, she shared a candid shot of the moment she saw her daughter for the first time

Blessed: 'I've cried so many times today for so many reasons, mainly because I'd gotten accustomed to heartbreak and disappointment,' she began the lengthy post. 'I think alot of us live in that space. I set up shop there. This moment reminded me that miracles do happen. You cant age out of joy. You are worthy. You are worthy. You are worthy'

She's a mommy! Gabrielle was seen enjoying a glass of wine as she celebrated her first Mother's Day

And Jessica's TV co-star Gabrielle Union couldn't help but share her candid feelings on social media today.

The beauty, who experienced various miscarriages, welcomed her first child, daughter Kaavia into the world last year via a surrogate.

Celebrating her first Mother's Day, she shared a candid shot of the moment she saw her daughter for the first time.

'I've cried so many times today for so many reasons, mainly because I'd gotten accustomed to heartbreak and disappointment,' she began the lengthy post.

'I think alot of us live in that space. I set up shop there. This moment reminded me that miracles do happen. You cant age out of joy. You are worthy. You are worthy. You are worthy.'

'Sending so much love today to all the mamas, stepmamas, grandmas, aunties real and play, daddies, friends and anyone who has taken the time to nurture another living soul.'

She continued: 'I see you, I gotchu. And to those who have lost their mamas, grandmas, mother figures, sending extra love and light and hugs your way.'

She's not a regular mom, she's a cool mom! Ryan Reynolds proved he was the world's best son on Sunday, sharing a photo of his mom riding a motorbike

Ryan's girls! The actor also took to Instagram Stories to share photos of his pregnant wife Blake Lively with his mom

Mom, mom, mom! 'Happy Mother's Day to these AMAZING women,' he captioned

First-time mom: Kate Upton was also celebrating her first Mother's Day on Sunday

Still learning: 'Happy Mothers Day to all the amazing moms out there! Especially my mom and sister who have taught (and are teaching) that we can achieve anything that we put our hearts and minds to.

Kate Upton was also celebrating her first Mother's Day on Sunday.

She posed holding her daughter as well as shared a family group shot before penning how she felt women can achieve anything.

'Happy Mothers Day to all the amazing moms out there! Especially my mom and sister who have taught (and are teaching) that we can achieve anything that we put our hearts and minds to.'

'I hope to teach my daughter the same! Vivi thank you for making me a mom. You have taught me there is no deeper love! I am so blessed to be surrounded by all of these amazing strong women.'

Ryan Reynolds proved he was the world's best son on Sunday, sharing a photo of his mom riding a motorbike.

'I love my mom. I love her willingness to try anything,' he began.

'About 4 months ago she took off on this motorcycle with one of my dear friends from high school. Happy Mothers Day, Mom... Wherever you are.'

Still a softy at heart! He may one of the world's strongest superheros, but that didn't stop Chris Hemsworth from showcasing his more sensitive side on Sunday

True love: 'Happy Mothers Day to all the legendary mums out there!! Especially my two favorites here! We owe you the world,' he wrote

He found the one! Chris progressed to share a series of shots with his mom and wife Elsa Pataky (pictured)

Mommy's boy! And there was much love from the Hemsworth boys, with youngest son Liam also gushing over his mom

The actor also took to Instagram Stories to share photos of his pregnant wife Blake Lively with his mom.

'Happy Mother's Day to these AMAZING women,' he captioned.

He may one of the world's strongest superheros, but that didn't stop Chris Hemsworth from showcasing his more sensitive side on Sunday.

'Happy Mothers Day to all the legendary mums out there!! Especially my two favorites here! We owe you the world,' he wrote.

Chris progressed to share a series of shots with his mom and wife Elsa Pataky.

And there was much love from the Hemsworth boys, with youngest son Liam also gushing over his mom.

'love you Mum! Happy Mother's Day! You're truly one of a kind.'

Jessica Simpson welcomed her third child, daughter Birdie into the world earlier in the year.

And between the hormones and the love, the beauty was left in tears when she was showered with gifts and flowers from her family on Sunday morning.

Big day! Jessica Simpson welcomed her third child, daughter Birdie into the world earlier in the year. And between the hormones and the love, the beauty was left in tears when she was showered with gifts and flowers from her family on Sunday morning

Touching: Jessica's husband Eric wrote: 'Dear Jess, You have literally taken motherhood to the next level. You have given us three kids and I could not be more grateful or in awe of you.' 'You make everyone of my days special. I love you with all my heart'

Superhero mom! Mother-of-six, Madonna, couldn't help but gush over her gorgeous children

All around the world: 'Madame X. Celebrates Mothers Everywhere,' she captioned

How times fly! Anna Faris hilariously wished moms a Happy Mother's Day with an unearthed photo of son Jack punching her in the throat

'Mother's Day 2019: Fresh milk and hormonally crying reading my Mother's Day cards,' she captioned.

Jessica's husband Eric wrote: 'Dear Jess, You have literally taken motherhood to the next level. You have given us three kids and I could not be more grateful or in awe of you.'

'You make everyone of my days special. I love you with all my heart.'

Another card from her kids read: 'Dear Mom, You could not be more beautiful, more funny, more loving and more fun.'

'We love you to infinity and beyond and tie a couple loops around the moon on the way back and then back to your heart. That's how much we love you. You are the greatest mom in the universe.'

Her rock: Reese Witherspoon couldn't help but gush over her mom this Mother's Day, calling her the most 'creative, curious and joyful person'

Great love: Tom Brady was also one to share the love with wife Gisele Bundchen and his mom too. 'Happy Mothers Day and thank you for loving us the way that you do! This picture sums it up!' wrote Tom

Mommy's boy: 'And Happy Mothers Day to MY mom, the most loving and selfless person I have ever met, and who has been there for me for every step of the way! I love you Mom! Have a great day!!'

She does it all! Kesha thanked her mom for acting as not only her mom but as her dad and best friend too

Feeling blessed: Mother-of-five Tori Spelling, thanked her off-spring for choosing her to be their mom. So blessed to have been made a mommy 5 times thanks to these gorgeous creatures! I adore you Liam, Stella, Hattie, Finn, and Beau. And, thank you @imdeanmcdermott for creating this magical family with me. And, to my bonus babe @thejackmonthy I love you,' she captioned

Mother-of-six, Madonna, couldn't help but gush over her gorgeous children.

'Madame X. Celebrates Mothers Everywhere,' she captioned.

Reese Witherspoon couldn't help but gush over her mom this Mother's Day, calling her the most 'creative, curious and joyful person'.

'To my mother on this Mothers Day. You are the BEST Mom I could ever dream of. The most creative, curious, joyful person I know,' she penned.

'I love the way you laugh and sing and find happiness in little things like squirrels on your porch and birds outside your window. I love the way you love dogwood blossoms and the first tulips in the spring.'

'You always laugh at my stupid jokes and tell me Im doing a good job as a mother, as a working woman, as a citizen of the world trying to make meaningful change. Youre my biggest inspiration and my best friend. I love you, MOM.'

Her light: Diane Kruger welcomed her first child in November 2018. And while she keeps her daughter off Instagram, she shared a tender shot with her overlooking the sunrise

'My beautiful parents': Katie Holmes kept it short and sweet, sharing a photo of her mom and dad

Learning mom: Hilary Duff welcomed her second child, daughter Banks, into the world last October. She told her social media followers on Sunday that she's realized with motherhood that 'nothing is perfect' and she's learned to 'embrace her imperfections and challenges' before her man praised her

Hilary's day! 'You are unbelievably badass and deserve 365 calendar days of celebration'

Tom Brady was also one to share the love with wife Gisele Bundchen and his mom too.

'Happy Mothers Day and thank you for loving us the way that you do! This picture sums it up!' wrote Tom.

'Your family loves being with you cuddling and laughing! We rely on you to hold us up when we are down! You are the rock that holds our family together. And we thank you for being so positive and optimistic....ALWAYS...even when we dont always want to be that! We love you so much!'

Another shot saw Tom give his mom a kiss.

'And Happy Mothers Day to MY mom, the most loving and selfless person I have ever met, and who has been there for me for every step of the way! I love you Mom! Have a great day!!'

Family: Ryan Seacrest wished his mom and sister Mere a Happy Mother's Day

Girl power: Ryan gushed over his sister and mom and and said his niece Flora had two of the best role models

Ryan Seacrest wished his mom and sister Mere a Happy Mother's Day.

He gushed over the pair and said his niece Flora had two of the best role models.

Kesha thanked her mom for acting as not only her mom but as her dad and best friend too.

'Happy Mothers Day to all the moms. Cat and dog moms, single moms, every mom out there. You all are fucking warrior badasses - my mom is my mom and my dad and best friends and all the things. Love u and thanks for making me,' she captioned.

Courteney Cox praised daughter Coco, 14, for 'knowing her so well' after gifting her a book about farts.

Justin Timberlake and Jessica Biel were together for Mother's Day on Sunday.

Jessica shared a photo with her mom and Justin while the trio FaceTimed Justin's mom to keep her in on the action.

Her mother's daughter! Courteney Cox praised daughter Coco, 14, for 'knowing her so well' after gifting her a book about farts

Love of his life: 'Happy Mothers Day to my beautiful wife @jessicabiel and all the Moms out there CRUSHING this thing called life,' he began. 'Jess, you are the glue that holds our family together and Im so grateful to be your Huz... I LOVE YOU! Every day should be Mothers Day!'

Throwback! Justin also shared a throwback photo with his mom

'Were so lucky to get to spend Mothers Day two years in a row with at least one half of the dynamic duo who have been the heroes of our lives,' she captioned.

'Thank you for always teaching us important shit and sorry that we didnt understand it until 20 years later. But seriously, Mom- you are right, you were right and you have always been right. Lol. I love you and Im so grateful for you both.'

Justin also took to his feed to gush over his wife and mom.

'Happy Mothers Day to my beautiful wife @jessicabiel and all the Moms out there CRUSHING this thing called life,' he began.

'Jess, you are the glue that holds our family together and Im so grateful to be your Huz... I LOVE YOU! Every day should be Mothers Day!!

Mother-of-five Tori Spelling, thanked her off-spring for choosing her to be their mom.

So blessed to have been made a mommy 5 times thanks to these gorgeous creatures! I adore you Liam, Stella, Hattie, Finn, and Beau. And, thank you @imdeanmcdermott for creating this magical family with me. And, to my bonus babe @thejackmonthy I love you,' she captioned.

'And, a special love shout out to my mommy @candyspelling I love you! Happy Mothers Day to all mothers everywhere! Best job and honor in the entire world!

Family love: Barbra Steisand proved that her love for her stepson Josh Brolin was stronger than ever

Mother and daughter: Cindy Crawford gushed over her mom and kids Presley and Kaia Gerber

'Mama': Julia Roberts opted for a monochrome shot of her mother

Morning beauty: Will Smith proved he loved and appreciated Jada Pinkett-Smith even when she was not at her best. 'Happy Mothers Day to All the Mothers of the World! And Im sorry that you have a Sty,... but I'm not sure that the Hot Teacup is the best therapy,' he joked

Diane Kruger welcomed her first child in November 2018.

And while she keeps her daughter off Instagram, she shared a tender shot with her overlooking the sunrise.

'I love you forever Ill like you for always As long as Im living My baby you will be ,' she captioned.

Barbra Steisand proved that her love for her stepson Josh Brolin was stronger than ever.

Giving him an air kiss, she wrote: 'Thank you for the wonderful Mother's Day note honey. From my younger son... Josh.'

Will Smith proved he loved and appreciated Jada Pinkett-Smith even when she was not at her best.

'Happy Mothers Day to All the Mothers of the World! And Im sorry that you have a Sty,... but I'm not sure that the Hot Teacup is the best therapy,' he joked.

Hilary Duff welcomed her second child, daughter Banks, into the world last October.

She told her social media followers on Sunday that she's realized with motherhood that 'nothing is perfect' and she's learned to 'embrace her imperfections and challenges.'

Just a joke! Naomi Watts joked on Sunday that she wanted to not be able to see or hear her kids on Mother's Day

Missing her mom: Diane Keaton, couldn't help but praise and remember her late mother on Mother's Day

Memories: 'I WISH MY MOTHER, DOROTHY, WAS HERE TO CELEBRATE MOTHER'S DAY. I MISS HER SO MUCH'

Over on her new fiance, Mathew Koma's page, he couldn't help but praise Hilary.

'Blown away by you everyday and so grateful you're the leader of our pack,' he wrote.

'You are unbelievably badass and deserve 365 calendar days of celebration.'

Cindy Crawford gushed over her mom and kids Presley and Kaia Gerber.

'Mom, thanks for being such a great role model and example of unconditional love. Happy Mothers Day  I love you!' she began.

Cindy added: '@presleygerber and @kaiagerber... I love you both so so much. Im so proud to be your mom and humbled by the lessons you continue to teach me.'

Julia Roberts opted for a monochrome shot of her mother.

Loved her: Diane shared a variety of shots of her late mother

Candice Swanepoel: 'Happy Mothers Day to mine and all the beautiful people out there providing love and stability for our future generations,' she captioned'

Surprise! She also shared some individual shots including a letter she had gotten from Anacan, two

Naomi Watts gave herself a present of peace and quiet on Sunday.

The actress shared a photo of sons Sasha, 11, and Samuel, 10, with tape over their mouths.

'Mothers Day gift to myself ... #seenandnotheard Happy Mothers Day,' she joked.

But on a serious note, Naomi shared another photo and wrote: 'Happy Mothers Day... Im so grateful to have these two wonderfully spirited people in my life. They are brilliant and unique, they keep me laughing and growing every day. Blessed beyond words to be on this journey together.'

Diane Keaton, couldn't help but praise and remember her late mother on Mother's Day.

'I WISH MY MOTHER, DOROTHY, WAS HERE TO CELEBRATE MOTHER'S DAY. I MISS HER SO MUCH,' she captioned.

Baby boys: Candice Swanepoel, the mom the two little ones, spoke about her love on Sunday

Mother and daughter: Ashley Graham has been spending the past few days in Mexico with her mom, posting bikini shots and keeping fans updated on their food and activities

Ashley: Mother's of all kinds

Unconditional love: Alessandra Ambrosio shared tender candid shots of her kids on Sunday, wishing all a Happy Mother's Day

Candice Swanepoel, the mom the two little ones, spoke about her love on Sunday.

'Happy Mothers Day to mine and all the beautiful people out there providing love and stability for our future generations,' she captioned a collage of shots.

She also shared some individual shots including a letter she had gotten from Anacan, two.

Ashley Graham has been spending the past few days in Mexico with her mom, posting bikini shots and keeping fans updated on their food and activities.

'Celebrating @themamagraham this weekend,' she captioned.

The best! 'Cheers to the best feeling ever... #unconditionallove. Happy Mother's Day to all the moms out there!!!'

Double love: Chance The Rapper praised his love for being a mother not only to their daughter, but to him too. 'Marriage is dope cause I get to live with a mama forever. Not my mama, but it damn near feels like it sometimes,' he wrote. 'Thank you bringing Kensli into this world but also for occasionally being a mommy to me'

He owes it to his mama: Chance also opened up about how he credited his mom to teaching him about 'kindness'

Alessandra Ambrosio shared tender candid shots of her kids on Sunday, wishing all a Happy Mother's Day.

'Cheers to the best feeling ever... #unconditionallove. Happy Mother's Day to all the moms out there!!!'

She also dedicated a post to her own mom, calling her her 'Queen'.

Chance The Rapper praised his love for being a mother not only to their daughter, but to him too.

'Marriage is dope cause I get to live with a mama forever. Not my mama, but it damn near feels like it sometimes,' he wrote.

'Thank you bringing Kensli into this world but also for occasionally being a mommy to me.'

Chance also opened up about how he credited his mom to teaching him about 'kindness.'

Sending everyone love: Jameela Jamil shared an alternate perspective on Mother's Day, sending love to those who didn't have a mother

Surprise! Christina Anstead was treated to the best on Sunday, a breakfast in bed spectacular

Family love: Robin Thicke gushed over all the ladies in his life, including his mom, fiance April Love Geary and ex wife Paula Patton

Back in the day: Robin also shared a vintage shot with his mama

Jameela Jamil shared an alternate perspective on Mother's Day, sending love to those who didn't have a mother.

'Not everyone has a mother. Not everyone has a good relationship with the mother they do have. Not everyone is close to their family,' she began.

'If that's you. I see you. And I send you love. It's completely fine to make a family out of your friends.'

She captioned the post with: 'Treat yourself to some ice cream, and chill today. You are not the only one. There is nothing wrong with you.'

Christina Anstead was treated to the best on Sunday, a breakfast in bed spectacular.

Two little loves: 'Being a mother to my girls is my greatest gift. Thank you for choosing me'

Nothing but love: Padma Lakshmi dedicated a post to her daughter Krishna. She penned a lengthy post to her love, adding: 'I look forward every day to seeing that person develop before my eyes. It is the greatest joy of my life and the most compelling thing to behold'

'Happy Mother's Day - we have the most challenging/most rewarding job!' she captioned.

Robin Thicke gushed over all the ladies in his life, including his mom, fiance April Love Geary and ex wife Paula Patton.

'Happy Mothers Day! Thank you God for all the incredible Moms in my life! Thank you April Love for everything you do everyday! I love you!' he wrote on a shot of April, him and their daughter Mia.

April sent the love back to her daughters Mia and Lola.

'Being a mother to my girls is my greatest gift. Thank you for choosing me.'

Padma Lakshmi dedicated a post to her daughter Krishna.

She penned a lengthy post to her love, adding: 'I look forward every day to seeing that person develop before my eyes. It is the greatest joy of my life and the most compelling thing to behold.'

Amber Tamblyn shared a candid poem around females and being a mother.

Accompanying the post, she shared a naked shot of herself.

'#HappyMothersDay to anyone and everyone who has been a parent to someone who needed it, whether thats a child, a friend, or to themselves,' she added.

The human body is amazing: Amber Tamblyn shared a candid poem around females and being a mother. Accompanying the post, she shared a naked shot of herself

Grateful: Jennifer Lopez shared a Mother's Day post with her son Max

Blessed: She also posted a picture with his twin Emme

Best days: Chrissy Teigen posed a throwback of her baby bump and thanked her children for changing her life

Dream big: Lucy Hale thanked her own mom for supporting her in her dreams
She usually cuts a glamorous figure on many a red carpet.

And Elle Fanning proved she can nail off-duty chic just as well in a stylish trouser suit as she arrived at Nice airport in Sunday ahead of the Cannes Film Festival.

The actress, who is on the jury of the festival, oozed sophistication in the cream two-piece which featured a tailored blazer and matching wide-leg trousers.

Style Queen: Elle Fanning proved she can nail off-duty chic just as well in a stylish trouser suit as she arrived at Nice airport in Sunday ahead of the Cannes Film Festival

The star teamed the smart ensemble with a pale blue shirt and a pair of gold-chained sandals.

Showcasing her flair for fashion, Elle added some chic accessories including a red leather bum bag and a pair of trendy rounded sunglasses.

The Maleficent actress looked happy and relaxed as she pushed her designer luggage through the terminal.

The actress even flashed a smile at waiting photographers as she arrived in time for the festival, which kicks off on May 14.

Airport chic: The actress, who is on the jury of the festival, oozed sophistication in the cream two-piece which featured a tailored blazer and matching wide-leg trousers

Fashionista: The star teamed the smart ensemble with a pale blue shirt and a pair of gold-chained sandals

Glam: Showcasing her flair for fashion, Elle added some chic accessories including a red leather bum bag and a pair of trendy rounded sunglasses

Ready to work: The Maleficent actress looked happy and relaxed as she pushed her designer luggage through the terminal

Just days ago, Elle channeled Barbarella as she put on a dazzling display at the Met Gala on Monday.

She echoed the look of the famous 1960's Jane Fonda character as she stepped out at the fashion world's Oscar's, accompanied by boyfriend Max Minghella, 33.

The Mary Shelley star flaunted her very flat tummy in a coral Miu Miu crop top and matching wide-legged pants.

She showcased the billowing pleated sleeves as she posed up a storm at the celebrity-packed event.

Day cheese: The actress even flashed a smile at waiting photographers as she arrived in time for the festival, which kicks off on May 14

Suited and booted: Despite just exiting a flight, Elle still looked utterly flawless as she headed through the terminal

Loved-up: Elle has been dating her beau Max Minghella for nearly one year after first meeting on the set of Teen Spirit, which he directed

Perfect: Elle cut a relaxed figure as she made her way through the airport after touching down in France for the Cannes Film Festival

Sartorial chic: The actress also displayed her alabaster complexion in the pale ensemble

Best foot forward: Just days ago, Elle channelled Barbarella as she put on a dazzling display at the Met Gala on Monday

Being playful with the camp theme, the beauty sported a custom oversized charm necklace which featured the words 'camp' and 'The Met'

Elle had brought impressive attention to detail - as she flaunted a brightly colored manicure with individual charms hanging from each rose-painted nail.

The charms ranged from a serving of fries to candy wrappers, as she flashed her hands to waiting photographers.

Max looked dapper in a navy suit with black lapels.

Jovial: Despite her lengthy flight, the blonde beauty was in high spirits as she touched down in Nice

Strutting her stuff: The beauty echoed the look of the famous 1960's Jane Fonda character as she stepped out at the fashion world's Oscar's, accompanied by boyfriend Max Minghella, 33

Later in the evening, Elle was seen heading to one of the after parties at the Boom Boom Room, changing into a navy puffball midi with a feathered bodice.

Elle has been dating her beau for nearly one year after first meeting on the set of Teen Spirit, which Max directed.

When asked by ET what she thought of dating rumours between herself and the British actor-turned-director, she referred to him as a 'good friend.'

'I mean, we just really love working together. That was, like, very special, and he's such a good friend,' she said.

Questions: When asked by ET what she thought of dating rumours between herself and Max, she referred to him as a 'good friend.'
She had double reason to celebrate this weekend.

And Jessica Alba was getting started early, as she stepped out for dinner in West Hollywood, California, on Saturday night with her husband Cash Warren by her side.

As well as Mother's day, the 38-year-old actress and businesswoman was also celebrating her 11-year wedding anniversary with the 40-year-old film producer.

Anniversary plans: Jessica Alba stepped out for dinner on Saturday night with her husband Cash Warren by her side

The Honest company founder looked exceptionally leggy in high-waisted bright red bell-bottom trousers as they arrived at Petite Taqueria.

She teamed them with a striped shirt which showcased her slender physique and impeccable sense of style.

The beauty wore her glossy chestnut locks loose and kept her make-up light and fresh.

Stylish: The Honest company founder looked exceptionally leggy in high-waisted bright red bell-bottom trousers as they arrived at Petite Taqueria

Cash kept it classic with a navy sweater and dark pants, with a black bomber jacket.

Jessica, meanwhile, did a girlie Mother's Day spa at home on Saturday daytime.

She shared a picture, in which she tagged Koa Jones, calling her 'sis' as the pair wore facemasks.

Natural beauty: Jessica wore her glossy chestnut locks loose and kept her make-up light and fresh

The couple share daughters Honor, 10, and Haven, seven, and son Hayes, one, together.

The sex icon gave birth to Hayes in December 2017 and worked hard post pregnancy to get her famous figure back.

She currently runs her baby and beauty safe company, The Honest Company and can be seen in Killers Anonymous and L.A.'s Finest.

Cute: Jessica, meanwhile, did a girlie Mother's Day spa at home on Saturday daytime
Ashley Graham knows how to celebrate Mother's Day in style.

The model and her mom, Linda, spent some quality time together while enjoying the spoils of the Caribbean coastline of Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula.

From gallivanting along the scenic beaches in bikinis in the scenic town of Tulum, to luscious local cuisine, the pair spared no expense for their holiday trip to paradise.

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Quality time: Ashley Graham hit the scenic beach of Tulum, Mexico in a floral bikini during her Mother's day weekend with her mom Linda

Ashley showed off her figure in the two-piece that included a flattering floral top that held up her cleavage and a black string bottom that featured ties at the side.

At times she covered up with a long, colorful beach shawl and styled her brunette hair out into natural waves during the day and went makeup free.

The beauty accessorized with some gold chains, a pair of trendy rectangular shaped sunglasses and, in certain situations, in a brown bolero hat.

Revealing: Ashley showed off her figure in the two-piece that included a flattering floral top that held up her ample cleavage and a black string bottom that featured ties at the side

Baby got back! Ashley covered up at times with a colorful beach shawl

The model also gave her 8.4 million Instagram followers a glimpse into their holiday weekend.

In some snaps Mama Linda was stripped down to her swimsuit for the sunny beach day with her daughter.

She opted for a black and white checkered suit that featured a triangular style top and high-waisted bottoms.

Social media butterfly: The model, 31, has also been giving a glimpse into her holiday trip to her 8.4 million Instagram followers

Vacation mode: During the day, Ashley was seen lounging by the beach

Shining star: Ashley also rocked a pair of trendy rectangular shaped sunglasses

Loving it! Mom Linda wore a checkered swimsuit for the sunny beach day with her daughter

Ashley, 31, also donned a emerald green spaghetti strap dress when she and her mother decided to head out to take in some of the scenic sights and enjoy some local cuisine.

The eye-catching number came down to about her ankles as it also showcased her ample assets.

Keeping it the casual chic, she wore a pair of flip-flop and flung a matching purse over her shoulder.

Gorgeous: Ashley also stunned in a emerald green spaghetti strap dress

Stylin': The number came down to about her ankles as it also showcased her ample assets

Linda also took to her large social media following to take a snap by the beach, in which Ashley appeared hard at work.

'She works I play,' she captioned.

Speaking at the Create & Cultivate last weekend, Ashley credited her mom for always encouraging her to love the skin she was in from an early age.

Love: Ashley and Linda frequently appear on each other's social media feeds

Not paying her attention! Linda also took to her large social media following to take a snap by the beach, in which Ashley appeared hard at work

'My mom told me my body was going to change someone's life,' she said.

'And here we are, with so many different saying, "I am represented".'

However, Ashley added that sometimes there are days when she doesn't feel her best, taking to the mirror to recite powerful affirmations during those testing times.

'I'll have moments when I leave the bathroom and look in the mirror and say to myself, 'You are fine, you are beautiful, you are brilliant, and you are bold',' she revealed on the panel.

Her inspiration! Speaking at the Create & Cultivate last weekend, Ashley credited her mom for always encouraging her to love the skin she was in from an early age (pictured 2017)
The Greatest Showman put his great big heart on display once again.

One day after kicking off his new retrospective musical -- The Man. The Music. The Show -- Hugh Jackman was spotted performing a random act of kindness on the streets of Glasgow.

Last Thursday, the seemingly eternal optimist gave a homeless man 100 and then invited him to the opening of a new swanky restaurant inside the Blythswood Square Hotel.

The Greatest Showman: Hugh Jackman was accused of performing a random act of kindness the day after his new retrospective musical world tour kicked off in Glasgow, Scotland; he is pictured around the time of his kind gesture last Thursday

One woman, who saw it all go down, said she couldn't stop smiling after witnessing the kind gesture.

'At first I didnt even notice it was him as he was wearing a cap but I stopped and saw him [Jackman] put all these notes in this homeless guy's hands,' the anonymous woman told The Evening Times.

'The guy asked him why he was giving him the money but he didnt even know who Hugh was. It wasn't until I heard his accent and looked closer that I recognized him.'

Big heart: The Australian actor, 50, gave a homeless man 100 and then invited him to the opening of a new swanky restaurant inside the Blythswood Square Hotel

Turns out the Australian actor, 50, had an in-depth conversation with the man about his life before asking him to go with him for a meal.

'The guy was laughing saying he wasn't well-dressed enough,' the witness recalled.

Once Jackman shook the homeless man's hand and headed on his way, the woman went over to the man to inform him who he had been talking with.

Sweet story: A witness said Jackman had an in-depth conversation with the man about his life before asking him to go with him for a meal, which the man turned down

'He looked really shocked but happy and said hed invited him for dinner at the Blythswood and that he wished he had gone.'

The woman said the grateful man looked like he was ready to cry when he revealed that Jackman put five 20 notes in his hand.

'I felt like crying after it as well and I have huge respect for Hugh,' she added.

Spreading humanity: The witness said Jackman's gesture nearly brought her and the man to tears; the showman is pictured before his show in Belgium this weekend

Jackman began what will be a mammoth 92 date world tour in the Scottish city, where a packed SSE Hyrdo was entertained with songs from The Greatest Showman, Les Miserables and The Boy From Oz.

The musical also included an appearance from Greatest Showman Bearded Lady Keala Settle, who surprised concert goers with a rendition of hit This Is Me.

The tour winds through Europe, the US, Australia and New Zealand before wrapping up back in the States October 15 in San Antonio, Texas.
They've been going strong since 2017.

And Liev Schreiber and girlfriend Taylor Neisen looked like they were going strong on Saturday, as they enjoyed a bike ride through New York with one of the actor's beloved rescue dog.

The San Francisco-born thespian, 51, rolled the sleeves of his dusty grey jacket up as he cruised around with his 26-year-old love.

Cruise control: Liev Shreiber and girlfriend Taylor Neisen enjoyed a weekend bike ride together Saturday

Making sure he didn't get a pant leg caught up in his spokes, Liev pushed his trousers up towards his knees.

Taylor was also dressed down, rocking black jeans and a matching tee shirt.

Adding a fashionable touch, the former beauty queen put on black sneakers, clear sunglasses and a delicate necklace.

Arms out: The San Francisco-born thespian, 51, rolled the sleeves of his dusty grey jacket up as he cruised around with his 26-year-old love

Simple: Taylor was also dressed down, rocking black jeans and a matching tee shirt

Liev and Taylor have been romantically linked since late 2017. And since then she's become part of the family, often seen during the actor's outing with his two sons.

The star and former partner Naomi Watts, who he split from in September 2016 after 11 years together, share sons Sasha, 10, and nine-year-old Kai.

Naomi and Liev have kept things amicable since ending their romance and are often photographed enjoying a walk in New York City with his dog and their children.
Real Housewives of Miami stand-out Elsa Patton, who appeared alongside her daughter Marysol Patton passed away over Mothers Day weekend after a long illness.

She was 84.

Her family asked fans to 'raise a glass of champagne' to the favourite, who appeared on the show numerous times, as the sad news was confirmed by Page Six on Sunday.

Sad news: Real Housewives of Miami stand-out Elsa Patton, who appeared alongside her daughter Marysol Patton passed away over Mothers Day weekend after a long illness

'In lieu of tears the family asks you to raise a glass of good champagne in honor of Elsas memory,' the family Patton family said in a statement on Sunday.

They explained: 'Our beloved Elsa Patton (AKA Mama Elsa) passed away over Mothers Day weekend after a long illness.

'She was surrounded by her family and close friends. Elsa was predeceased by her husband of 50 years Donald Patton who passed away last February of 2018.

They added: 'She is survived by her two children, Marysol Patton and Thomas Anthony Jones, her daughter in law Svetlana, and her grandson Hunter.

Family ties: Daughter Marysol, 52, appeared on all three seasons of The Real Housewives of Miami, which ran from 2011 to 2013 (pictured February 2011)

'The family is so very grateful to the many fans and friends who have continued to ask for her and offer their prayers and best wishes. They thank the community, her caretakers, and the many friends who have continued to check in on Elsa from all over the world. Their support has meant the world to the family.'

They continued: 'They thank the community, her caretakers, and the many friends who have continued to check in on Elsa from all over the world.

'Their support has meant the world to the family. A private ceremony will take place in Miami. In lieu of tears the family asks you to raise a glass of good champagne in honor of Elsas memory.'

Daughter, Marysol, 52, appeared on all three seasons of The Real Housewives of Miami, which ran from 2011 to 2013.

The service takes place on Friday in Miami.
Mothers On The Edge

Rating:

Victoria

Rating:

Louis Theroux is feeling broody. The father-of-three couldn't stop cooing over the babies he met during his investigation into maternity and mental illness, Mothers On The Edge (BBC2).

He certainly has the baby knack. Whenever an infant grizzled or wriggled, he broke off from his interviews to demand: 'Shall I hold him?'  reaching out like an eager grandpa. He even proved himself a dab hand at changing a nappy.

The babies liked him, too. He coaxed grins from all of them. His gentle questioning technique, honed on drug-addicts and murderers, turned out to be ideal for soothing a six-month-old.

Louis Theroux investigated maternity and mental illness in his latest documentary. He is pictured above with a mother named Catherine and her baby son Jake

'Are you tired? What's the matter?' he said, in just the tone of voice he might use to ask an inmate in a maximum security prison: 'What is it you enjoy about arson?'

There was only so much he could discover, though, from the women in two specialist psychiatric units. None of them could explain why they had been overwhelmed with suicidal feelings following the birth of their children.

One mother, articulate and apparently relaxed, admitted she was hiding feelings of intense anxiety and self-loathing  but she did it with such a disarming smile that even the hospital staff found this hard to fully believe. Just hours after one interview on camera, the distressed woman slipped away to a hotel room and took an overdose. Fortunately, police found her in time.

The woman who seemed at first to be the most badly affected by mental illness turned out to have the best chances of a quick recovery. Post-partum psychosis had left her so confused she thought her husband was her son. But within a few weeks, she was on the mend: this sort of delusional condition, the psychiatrist explained, is often short-lived.

Other cases were rooted in much more lasting trauma, such as the woman whose difficult delivery had reawakened horrific memories of a sexual assault.

Aware of the need to tread gently, nothing Theroux could ask was able to uncover very much about the underlying causes of the mental illnesses. In contrast to many of his documentaries, you didn't emerge feeling that the subject had been fully explored.

The real value of the programme will be as a reassurance to thousands of troubled young mums, perhaps afraid that no one else has ever experienced such a turmoil of feelings.

Theroux has at least dented the taboo that prevents new mothers from admitting they feel desperate.

Tight squeeze of the weekend: Viewers of a claustrophobic disposition were safer avoiding Undiscovered Worlds (BBC2) as Steve Backshall went diving in Mexican caves. The tunnels were tiny... and that was before he bumped into crocodiles. Advertisement

Victoria (ITV) has skated round the same issue, despite the historical evidence. One letter from her husband, Prince Albert, accuses her of taking little pleasure in motherhood: 'It is a pity you find no consolation in the company of your children,' he wrote.

As historian Helen Rappaport has put it: 'She hated being pregnant. She had prenatal and postnatal depression. She didn't breastfeed her children, who she thought were horrible, dribbling little things. She was not in the least bit maternal.'

What perfect subjects Vicky and Bert would have been for one of Louis's Weird Weekend specials.

The final episode of this drama series was a full-blown costume spectacle, interwoven with romantic and political intrigues, as Albert's Great Exhibition was unveiled at the Crystal Palace.

It ended on a proper cliffhanger  the Queen and her Prince gazed into each other's eyes at the fireside, before he keeled over and lay as if dead.

Viewing figures have been shaky, but thankfully the show will return next year. We can't just leave the poor man conked out on the carpet.
She's a comic genius, who's never shied away from an over-the-top character.

And all eyes were on Jane Krakowski as she stepped onto the red carpet of British Academy Television Awards at London's Royal Festival Hall Sunday.

The 30 Rock talent, 50, dazzled in emerald green during the event.

It's not easy being green! Jane Krakowski was dazzling in emerald green during the British Academy Television Awards in London Sunday

Jane looked elegant as she playfully flipped up the skirt of her sparkling frock.

Featuring long sleeves and plenty of pleats, her frock also showcased a skirt which fell down right above the ankles. Things were tied together with a stylish sash.

Black heels made sure not to distract from the Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt star's look while drop earrings by Yael Sonia and a small clutch completed the ensemble.

Playful spirit: The Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt actor looked elegant as she playfully flipped up the skirt of her sparkling frock

For beauty, she matched her eye makeup to her look with a touch of shimmering green around her baby blues.

She brushed her hair out of her face and into a simple chignon.

The Virgin Media British Academy Television Awards are being hosted by Graham Norton.

Host with the most! The Virgin Media British Academy Television Awards are being hosted by Graham Norton

The BAFTA TV Awards is an annual celebration of the best British and international viewing offered to UK audiences.

This year, BBC America's Killing Eve has swept the board with a whopping 14 nominations, with the hit thriller series' leading stars Jodie and Sandra Oh both up for the Leading Actress gong.

Hot on Killing Eve's heels, A Very English Scandal has an impressive 12 nominations for the BAFTA Television Awards 2019.

In it to win it! This year, BBC America's Killing Eve (above )has swept the board with a whopping 14 nominations

Shimmering: Featuring long sleeves and plenty of pleats, her frock also showcased a skirt which fell down right above the ankles. Things were tied together with a stylish sash
Diane Kruger is celebrating her first Mother's Day as a mom.

To mark the holiday, the German-American actress, 42, shared a gorgeous photo of herself with her baby daughter in her lap while sitting on a beach watching a stunning sunset.

'I love you forever, I'll like you for always, As long as I'm living, My baby you will be,' Kruger captioned the Instagram photo.

Adorable: Diane Kruger shared the first image of her baby daughter on Mother's Day

The post was the first time Kruger shared an image of her six-month-old daughter since she and partner Norman Reedus, 50, went public with the arrival of their bundle of joy.

The Troy star also took to social media to spread the love to her own mother.

'Happy Mother's Day to these awesome ladies,' she captioned two snaps, one of which showed her snuggling up next to an unidentified woman.

'Mom, you'll never know how much I appreciate all you have done for me and even though I don't say it enough I LOVE YOU.'

Growing family: The 6-month-old girl with partner Norman Reedus, is Kruger's first child; the couple are pictured at the Versace fall 2019 fashion show in New York City in December 2018

Spreading the love: The German-American actress also paid tribute to her mother, Maria-Theresa Heidkruger (left), on Instagram Sunday; 'Mom, you'll never know how much I appreciate all you have done for me and even though I don't say it enough I LOVE YOU'

Reedus also used Instagram to honor his ladylove with a photo of Kruger posing next to the shirtless actor who was wearing tiger mascot headdress.

'Happy Mothers Day to this one. You n me angel,' Reedus wrote in the caption.

The couple welcomed their first child last November.

Reedus also has a son Mingus Lucien, 19, from his five-plus-year relationship with supermodel Helena Christensen that ended in 2003.

Honoriing Mother's Day: Reedus (left) honored his ladylove on Mother's Day with a photo of Kruger posing next to the shirtless actor who was wearing tiger mascot headdress

The couple first met back on the movie set in December 2015, while portraying lovers in their film Sky. They announced they were dating in March 2017

At the time, the Welcome to Marwen stunner was still in a decade-long relationship with The Affair's Joshua Jackson.

Kruger currently plays Eva in Universal Pictures' critically-acclaimed hoax drama JT LeRoy, which finally hits UK theaters August 12.

Reedus is best known to fans for his popular role as Daryl Dixon in the post-apocalyptic zombie series The Walking Dead since 2010.
Her mother, Carrie Fisher, passed away a little over two years ago.

But Billie Lourd had her mom on her mind on Mother's Day as she took the Star Wars actress' beloved dog Tina for a walk.

The 26-year-old actress enjoyed a romantic Sunday walk in West Hollywood with her boyfriend Austen Rydell, 27.

Connection: Billie Lourd had her mom on her mind on Mother's Day as she took her beloved dog Tina for a walk

Billie cut a fierce figure as she made her way down the sidewalk with a leash in one hand and her boyfriend's hand in the other.

She sported a matching tiger stripes ensemble made up of short shorts and a button down shirt.

The Scream Queens star pulled her brunette tresses into a relaxed ponytail and accessorized with gold hoop earrings.

Out or a stroll: The 26-year-old actress enjoyed a romantic Sunday walk in West Hollywood with her boyfriend Austen Rydell, 27

Back in November 2017, Billie revealed she had been taking comfort in the company of her mom's beloved French Bulldog Tina, who helps her feel 'close to' her late relative 10 months on from her passing.

'Shes a dreamboat. She literally sleeps on top of me and we have a real love affair going on,' Billie told Us Weekly in an interview.

The American Horror Story actress was speaking at the unveiling of clothing brand American Eagle's Studio in New York City.

Fierce: Billie cut a fierce figure as she made her way down the sidewalk with a leash in one hand and her boyfriend's hand in the other

Carrie passed away on December 27 2016 at the age of 60, four days after suffering a heart attack on a flight from London to Los Angeles.

The day after the star's death, her mother Debbie Reynolds suffered a stroke at the home of her son Todd, as the family was in the middle of planning Carrie's funeral.

Reynolds was rushed to hospital but died later that afternoon at the age of 84.

Todd later recalled his mother said 'I just really want to be with Carrie' just moments before she passed away.

Carrie raised only child Billie with talent agent Bryan Lourd, 56, who she was with from 1991 to 1994.
Rhyce Power has thrown shade at his former flame, Vanessa Sierra, after photos surfaced of her kissing his sister Jessika's ex-boyfriend, Daniel Webb.

The Perth-based tradesman, 28, shared a meme to Instagram on Sunday that read: 'Happiness is seeing your ex with someone uglier than you'.

Rhyce was responding to Daily Mail Australia's exclusive photos of Vanessa, 24, and Dan, 35, canoodling on a boat in Queensland last week.

'Happiness is seeing your ex with someone uglier than you': MAFS' Rhyce Power (left) has taken a swipe at former flame Vanessa Sierra (right) after she moved on with Daniel Webb

In the photos, Dan passionately kissed Vanessa as she flaunted her gym-honed physique in a skimpy G-string bikini.

While the pair have yet to confirm their relationship, the pictures all but confirmed they are dating.

Their public display of affection came after Dan split from Rhyce's sister Jessika in April, shortly after the MAFS finale.

Meanwhile, Vanessa alleged following her break-up with Rhyce that he assaulted her at a fitness camp in Thailand in March.

Not very subtle! The Perth-based tradesman, 28, shared a meme (above) to Instagram on Sunday that read: 'Happiness is seeing your ex with someone uglier than you'

Steamy! Rhyce was responding to Daily Mail Australia's exclusive photos of Vanessa, 24, and Dan, 35, canoodling on a boat in Queensland last week

As previously reported, Vanessa cut the trip short and headed back to Australia to file for an intervention order.

Under the Victorian intervention order, which is similar to an apprehended violence order (AVO), the heavily-tattooed carpenter is banned from contacting Vanessa.

Rhyce became an Instagram star and was dubbed the 'hot brother' after appearing on Married At First Sight for his sister's 'wedding' to farmer Mick Gould.

He started dating Vanessa just days before his TV debut. The pair 'organised a mutual break up' before the assault allegations were made, Rhyce claims.

It's over! Dan split from Rhyce's sister Jessika Power (left) in April, shortly after the MAFS finale

Claims: Meanwhile, Vanessa alleged following her break-up with Rhyce that he assaulted her at a fitness camp in Thailand in March

He claims Vanessa aired the allegations 'on the day we did a mutual and approved break-up post', which has since been deleted.

Vanessa confirmed to Daily Mail Australia the incident did occur on the day of the post, but says the split was 'staged' and the pair were still together.

'We were still together, and he thought we were still together until I left [Thailand] too,' she said.

'There's always two sides to every story': In a lengthy statement shared to Instagram in April, Rhyce said there was more to the story

In a lengthy statement shared to Instagram in April upon his return to Sydney, Rhyce said there was more to the story.

'There's always two sides to every story, and everyone needs to believe that,' he said.

'Everyone's jumped on the bandwagon without even hearing my side of the story - which I understand - if a girl makes an allegation about a claim [sic], whether it's an attractive girl or any girl, everyone's going to jump on the bandwagon, and I fully understand that.'
Kendall Jenner is the only one of Kris Jenner's kids that doesn't have children herself.

And when Kris, 63, took to Instagram to share her happy Mother's Day wishes for her mom MJ and all of her daughters who are moms, the model was less than thrilled.

Noticing she and brother Rob's absence, the 23-year-old beauty left a playfully sarcastic comment on the post.

'Love you too mom!' Kris Jenner took to Instagram Sunday to share her happy Mother's Day wishes for her mom, MJ, and all of her daughters who are moms

'Happy Mothers Day to all of the beautiful Moms out there, and to the women who are mentors and mother figures to someone special,' the photo's caption begins.

In the post, Kris recognized her mom Mary Jo Campbell, saying: 'To my amazing Mom MJ, I love you more than you will ever know. Thank you for raising me to be strong and independent and for loving me the way you do.'

And then she honored her daughters, or rather, most of them.

'To my beautiful daughters who are moms, I am so proud of you girls and the mothers you have become.. my grandchildren are so blessed that God chose YOU to be their mommies,' Kris writes.

Happy Mother's Day! Kendall Jenner took to Instagram to share her Mother's Day wishes with ONLY her grandma Mary Jo Campbell, 84

The Keeping Up With The Kardashians star then tagged everyone but Kendall with an affectionate, 'I love you,' and finishing off her message with, 'you are my heart #happymothersday.'

Kendall noticed she and Rob were missing and left a playful 'Love you too mom!' comment on the post.

And the 23-year-old model and fashion designer had a 'happy mothers day' post of her own to share of her grandma MJ, and only MJ, turning off the ability to comment in the process.

'I'm a cool mom': Jenner can take a joke, she played the 'cool mom' in Ariana Grande's Thank U, Next music video

Momager: The reality star even has a Kylie Cosmetics line branded with the nickname

But Kris is anything but an absentee mother.

The reality star is such a 'momager,' she even has a Kylie Cosmetics line branded with the nickname.

And her love for her kids is all over her gram, often taking to the social media app to share her kid's accomplishments.

'My beauty! Beyond stunning at #Cannes @kendalljenner #ProudMama.'

Kris' eldest four children - Kourtney, Kim, Khloe and Rob - are from her marriage to the late Robert Kardashian Sr. She shares her youngest - Kendall and Kylie - with ex Caitlyn Jenner.
Gunmen stormed the five-star Zaver Pearl Continental hotel known as the Pearl Continental in the southwestern city of Gwadar

An attack on a luxury hotel in the southwestern city of Gwadar was a bid to "sabotage prosperity", Pakistani prime minister Imran Khan said Sunday, as police confirmed all the attackers had been killed.

At least one person was shot dead Saturday after gunmen stormed a luxury hotel in the southwestern Pakistani city of Gwadar, the centrepiece of a multi-billion dollar Chinese infrastructure project.

A Baloch separatist group, the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), claimed responsibility for the attack via Twitter.

"Such attempts especially in Balochistan are an effort to sabotage our economic projects and prosperity. We shall not allow these agendas to succeed," Khan said in a statement issued by his office.

The Chinese embassy in Islamabad also strongly condemned the incident.

Local police said four gunmen who had stormed the hotel, shooting dead a security guard, had been killed overnight by security forces.

"All four terrorists were killed and security forces had taken complete control of the hotel building," a local police official in Gwadar told AFP via telephone.

His account was confirmed by a security source in Islamabad. The military had said on Saturday that there were three gunmen.

Mohammad Aslam, a police official in Gwadar, told AFP Saturday that only staff were present in the building at the time of the attack.

The BLA is one of a myriad of insurgent groups fighting in tightly-guarded Balochistan province, which has been rocked by separatist, Islamist and sectarian violence for years.

- 'The next Dubai' -

The Pearl Continental, part of Pakistan's largest five-star hotel chain, is the only luxury hotel in Gwadar, frequented by foreign and Pakistani business delegations as well as diplomats.

It sits isolated on a ridge overlooking the Arabian Sea port city that was formerly a small fishing village, but now touted by officials as "the next Dubai" thanks to the multi-billion dollar China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

Gwadar will provide China with safer and more direct access to the oil-rich Middle East than the waterway trade route it currently uses, but has drawn criticism

Part of China's Belt and Road initiative, CPEC seeks to connect the western Chinese province of Xinjiang with Gwadar, with the development of the port as the plan's flagship project.

Gwadar will provide China with safer and more direct access to the oil-rich Middle East than the waterway trade route it currently uses through the narrow Malacca Straits.

But it has also drawn its share of attacks -- particularly from separatists who have long complained that residents of Pakistan's poorest and largest province do not receive a fair share of profits from its resources.

The BLA has targeted Chinese workers in Pakistan multiple times, including during a brazen daylight attack on the Chinese consulate in Karachi which killed four people in November last year.

At the time, the BLA branded Beijing "an oppressor".

Balochistan is tightly guarded by the Pakistani military, who have been targeting insurgents there since 2004. The army has been repeatedly accused by international rights groups of abuses there, but denies all allegations.

The attack was the second deadly attack in a prominent Pakistan city this week, after a suicide blast claimed by the Pakistani Taliban at one of the country's oldest and most popular Sufi shrines killed at least 12 people in the eastern city of Lahore.
Activist Xulhaz Mannan, publisher of Bangladesh's first magazine for the gay and lesbian community, was killed in April 2016

Eight Islamist extremists from a banned group were charged by Bangladesh police Sunday for the 2016 murders of two prominent gay rights activists.

Dhaka police's counter terrorism unit filed the charge-sheet against the eight men, saying they were members of Ansar al Islam, deputy commissioner of police Mohibul Islam Khan told AFP.

"Among them four have been arrested and the rest are still at large," he said, adding the group was led by Syed Ziaul Haque, a sacked Bangladesh army major who was leading the extremist group.

Xulhaz Mannan, publisher of Bangladesh's first magazine for the gay and lesbian community, and fellow activist Mahbub Tonoy were hacked to death in a Dhaka apartment in April 2016 by unidentified men carrying machetes and guns.

Al-Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS) said it was behind the killings of the men, both aged 35, who it said had worked to "promote homosexuality" in Bangladesh.

But Bangladesh police chiefs have said their murders bear the hallmarks of local Islamists, denying that international jihadist networks have a presence in the world's third largest Muslim-majority country.

Ansar al Islam -- also known as Ansarullah Bangla Team -- has been blamed for a series of murders since 2013, including of atheist writers, publishers, members of religious minorities, social activists and foreign aid workers.

Washington had condemned the killings of Tonoy and Mannan, who worked for US government aid organisation USAID. Both men had received threats from Islamists over their championing of gay rights.

Bangladesh launched a crackdown on Islamist extremism after attacks in July 2016, when IS-inspired militants stormed a Dhaka cafe killing 22 people, including 18 foreigners.

Since the 2016 attacks, security forces have staged nationwide raids in which, they say, nearly 100 members of two extremist Islamist groups have been killed. Hundreds of suspects have been detained.

The South Asian nation has also boosted security since April 21 Easter Sunday bombings in Sri Lanka, which killed 258 and were carried out by jihadists affiliated to the Islamic State group.
Belhassen Trabelsi, pictured in 2010, has been released on bail after agreeing not to leave France

France has released Belhassen Trabelsi, brother-in-law of ousted Tunisian president Zine El-Abidine Ben Ali, on bail while it mulls a extradition request from Tunisia, sources said Sunday.

Lawyers Xavier Nogueras and Marcel Ceccaldi said they had obtained Trabelsi's conditional release "owing to procedural problems", confirming news initially announced by the Tunisian justice ministry.

Trabelsi, 56, who faced charges of organised money laundering and has paid 100,000 euros ($112,000) in bail, must remain in France and report regularly to a local police station, they added.

It was the second time that an appeals court in Aix-en-Provence, southeastern France, had ordered his release from a jail in Marseille.

The first time was on March 28, but before Trabelsi walked free, the Aix-en-Provence prosecutor arrested him again based on a February 2017 warrant issued by a Tunisian magistrate.

Tunisia's extradition request refers to a series of convictions in absentia and three 10-year sentences handed down between February 2017 and June 2018 for financial crimes.

A Tunisian prosecutor has accused Trabelsi of "pillaging Tunisian businesses" alongside Ben Ali.

Trabelsi, whose holdings included hotels and an airline, has denied the allegations against him, saying he accumulated his wealth legally.

A leaked US diplomatic cable in 2008 described Trabelsi and his family as a "quasi-mafia" involved in a series of suspect businesses and deals.

The millionaire businessman and brother of Ben Ali's wife Leila Trabelsi left Tunisia in January 2011 when the Arab Spring uprising forced the veteran leader to flee to Saudi Arabia.

Trabelsi and his family flew in a private jet to Montreal to seek Canadian political asylum, a request that was denied twice.

He disappeared in June 2016 just days before he was to be expelled from Canada, and was arrested in southern France in March 2019.

France's hearing of the Tunisian extradition request is expected to be held in June.
JERUSALEM (AP) - American author Joyce Carol Oates says her family's denial of its Jewish roots haunted her for decades and has shaped her into the famously prolific writer she is today.

Oates, who is making her first-ever trip to Israel to receive the prestigious Jerusalem Prize, said that her Jewish grandmother fled persecution in her native Germany to rural upstate New York in the late 19th century. But she repressed her trauma and Jewish heritage for the rest of her life.

Oates, who was raised nominally Catholic yet disconnected from religion, said she learned of her grandmother's secret only after her death in 1970, when a biographer began digging into her ancestry.

"I felt an immense loss and sympathy because I never really knew that my grandmother was Jewish, so my whole cultural inheritance was lost," Oates told The Associated Press in an interview at the Jerusalem International Book Fair on Sunday. "But it's the Jewish respect for culture and art that I inherited from my grandmother ... so that's actually beautiful."

Oates said her grandmother played an instrumental role in her career choice, giving her a copy of "Alice and Wonderland," a library card and a typewriter when she was a teenager, inspiring her to pursue writing.

"No one else in my Hungarian and Irish family had any interest in books," she said. "There's a tragedy at the loss of my grandmother's history but then a joy in this connection."

American author Joyce Carol Oates poses for a photo in Jerusalem, Sunday, May 12, 2019. Oates says her family's denial of its Jewish roots haunted her for decades and has shaped her into the famously prolific writer she is today. Oates, who is making her first-ever trip to Israel to receive the prestigious Jerusalem Prize, said that her Jewish grandmother fled persecution in her native Germany to rural upstate New York in the late 19th century. (AP Photo/Oded Balilty)

At 80, Oates is still writing novels, expanding a vast and varied oeuvre that has brought her wide acclaim.

Her political thriller "Hazards of Time Travel," published last winter, represented her first real foray into dystopia, imagining America's grim future as a totalitarian surveillance state. Reviewers called it reflective of the Trump presidency, but Oates said it was more about how the "future looks like global control through enormously wealthy corporations."

Her upcoming novel, "My Life as a Rat," which comes out next month, grapples with the personal repercussions of a racist hate crime. Oates described the new book as familiar territory for her, dealing with her trademark theme of painful family dynamics and set in rural New York, where she grew up in a working-class family with a severely autistic sister.

Oates says her writing is "motivated by social justice," and she often tackles timely topics such as the abortion debate and sexual violence, in addition to criticizing President Donald Trump's policies on Twitter. But she rejects the label of political writer.

"I'm not writing political novels. I'm writing about people," she said. "You can be concerned with a society in which you live without being aware of a larger political structure."

Oates also steered clear of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, saying that Jerusalem was "obviously a city of great diversity" but that she "can't make any judgment."

She said that being in Jerusalem would likely influence her next project. "I'm excited to be here, listening to the Hebrew language," she said. "I'm very interested in that culture and identity... and trying to see how I could write about it."

The most recent upheaval in her life was the death last month of her second husband, professor of neuroscience Charles Gross. She said it was too soon to discuss her grief.

The death of her first husband, the editor and literary publisher Raymond Smith, motivated her to memorialize him in her celebrated 2011 memoir, "A Widow's Story."

Oates has written nearly 60 novels, won the National Book Award and received five Pulitzer nominations, among other honors. But she called the Jerusalem Prize "the high point" in her career.

The prize is awarded every two years to an author who expresses the ideal of human freedom in society. It has gone to some of the world's most revered writers, including Bertrand Russell, Octavio Paz, V. S. Naipaul, Susan Sontag and J. M. Coetzee.
Akalees or Immortals wild in appearance and turbulent characters remarkable for acts of desperate courage the profusion and variety of their arms make them very picturesque objects, is how author-artist Emily Eden, who visited India in the mid-1830s along with her brother Lord Auckland, the governor general, described the Sikhs under Maharaja Ranjit Singh. Eden painted the Sikhs and also wrote about them. Her observations, in both paintings and writings, offer valuable details about 19th century Punjab, particularly the royal court. For instance, she was curious about the way Ranjit Singh was simply dressed while his courtiers wore expensive clothes.

August Schoefft, an Astro-Hungarian artist, too, came to India during Ranjit Singhs reign. He painted the Sikh ruler in the backdrop of the Golden temple, as well as Sher Singh, who became the maharaja two years after Ranjit Singhs death. In both the paintings the king is shown as wearing the famous Kohinoor diamond.

Maharaja Ranjit Singhs portrait painted by Alfred de Dreux. (Photograph of the original painting on display in Delhi)

Alfred de Dreux was best known for his scenes with horses. In 1838, he was asked by Ranjit Singhs Italian general Ventura to paint the king on a horse. The painting was to be later gifted to Louis Philippe of France as a mark of friendship between the two rulers.

80 such artworks by 19th and early 20th painters from England, France, Germany, Hungary, Austria, Russia, Japan, America and other countries were recently displayed at Delhis All India Fine Arts and Crafts Society (AIFACS). Titled Sikhs  An Occidental Romance, the show was put together by Hubris Foundation.

On display were masterpieces by William Carpenter, Rudolf Swoboda, Edwin Lord Weeks, Charles William Bartlett and others  all of whom seem to be captivated by the Sikh community, its tales of courage and the wealth of its nobility. Queen Victorias journal, dated July 10, 1854, for instance, records that German artist Franz Winterhalter, the principal portraiture at her court, was in ecstasies at the beauty and nobility of bearing of the young Maharaja Duleep Singh, who, in turn, was very amiable and patient giving a sitting of more than two hours.

Winterhalters portrait of very amiable and patient" Duleep Singh is one of his most notable works. (Photograph of the original painting on display in Delhi)

Winterhalters portrait of Duleep Singh is certainly one of his most notable works. Charles Hardinge also painted Duleep Singh, particularly his return to the Lahore Fort in 1846; the work shows Lahore as a bustling city.

Many of these artists, like Eden, wrote books on their travels across India, particularly Punjab. American artist Edwin Lord Weekss 1895 illustrated book, From the Black Sea through Persia and India, is one such work.

It wasnt only royalty  the artworks in the Hubris show also had common people, soldiers, peasants and scenes from the Anglo-Sikh war. Rudolf Swobodas A Peek at The Train, perhaps the artists most famous work on India that was displayed at the Royal Academy in 1892, shows a family waiting at a railway crossing on the Multan-Lahore-Amritsar line that opened in 1861. Swobodas two portraits of Abdul Karim, Victorias favourite Indian servant, was much appreciated and the queen commissioned him to paint her Indian subjects.

The Golden Temple, its reflection in the lake around it with a play of light and shade, stands out in the work of Hiroshi Yoshida. (Photograph of the original painting on display in Delhi)

If Swoboda painted ordinary men and women, William Carpenter, a watercolour artist who travelled to India in the 1850s, painted the Indian landscape. Though his most famous painting in India is a portrait of Fakhr-ud Din Mirza  the eldest son of last Mughal ruler Bahadur Shah, in 1856, barely five months before the prince died  the one community that seems to have captured his imagination was the Sikhs. Carpenters paintings at the show depicted Tej Singh and Gulab Singh, both of whom had abandoned the Sikh army to become British allies in the Anglo-Sikh war of 1845-46. He also painted the Golden Temple complex.

The Golden Temple, its reflection in the lake around it with a play of light and shade, stands out in the work of Hiroshi Yoshida, a 20th-century Japanese painter and woodblock printmaker. Yoshida was the rare Japanese travelling across the Indian subcontinent that was already teeming with Western artists.

The show transported one to the world of the brave Sikhs of the 19th century. The original artworks are all scattered across the world. This show is made up of replicas. The process of creating a perfect replica is a complex one  the ink is from Japan, the printing is done in Germany and the best replicas can be done in only three places in the world, said Gautam Srivastava of Hubris Foundation. The exhibition was the coming together of modern technology and past glory  romantic indeed!

After Delhi, the show will move to Chandigarhs Punjab Art Council Gallery in the third week of May.

Also read: Why Maski, a sleepy village in north Karnataka, has much to offer archaeologically
Bigfoot. Yeti. Sasquatch. Abominable Snowman.

Ancient dwellers of the high mountain reaches, they are seen only very rarely  and that too, just a distant glimpse. They are feared, and yet explorers seek out signs of these strange beasts. Mountain dwellers dread attacks by them  and yet, mountaineers often hike large distances for a sighting of these otherworldly beings.

They are the stuff myths and mysteries are made of.

These beasts  half animal, half human  have intrigued mountaineers and writers for ages. Barely sighted, much written about, they are shrouded in magic and mystery. In most cases, the only indication is an enormous footprint in the snow. Past explorers who have tried to track these beasts in the Himalayan ranges spanning Nepal, Bhutan, Sikkim and India have even found strands of hair  which have proved to be a DNA puzzle  as well as scraps of skin.

Recently, the Indian Army spotted mysterious footprints in the snow which they believed belong to a Yeti. (Photo: Twitter)

These strange beasts go by many names. Most commonly, they are called Yeti  or 'magical beast.' In Nepal, they call it a demon or 'rakshasa.' Tibetans tell of a large 8-foot-tall Yeti, called Dzuh-teh, which is violent and eats cattle and livestock. Another Yeti, Mehteh, is shorter, like an ape, and resembles humans. European travellers called the snowman abominable because of the fear with which the Sherpas regarded it.

The first photographs of an alleged Yeti footprint were taken at the base of Mount Everest by mountaineer Eric Shipton in 1951.

Sir Edmund Hillary subsequently led a Yeti hunting expedition to Nepal  and found strange footprints in the snow believed to belong to the Yeti.

The Yeti is a mountain beast  and yet almost human. Sightings over the years have talked of how it walks on two legs and is covered with reddish-brown hair. Sherpa legends speak of how its average lifespan is believed to be more than a hundred years, and how it lives in high altitude caves in small clusters of families.

Sir Edmund Hillary led a Yeti hunting expedition to Nepal  and found strange footprints in the snow. (Photo: Wikimedia Commons)

Strangely, the female of the species is believed to have supernatural powers and is feared by Sherpas because they say that to sight one even from afar is sure to bring ill luck. On the other hand, if they find any bone or hair believed to come from a Yeti, it is preserved as a sacred relic  said to bestow protection upon the people.

However, if one goes further back, the old settlers who dwelt in the Himalayas were said to worship a Glacier Being who had magical abilities. His blood and skin were said to be especially potent in certain pagan rituals and were believed to have miraculous healing properties.

High in the reaches of Nepal, the Pangboche Monastery holds a strange treasure  part of a skull and a skeletal hand, believed to be of a Yeti.

Edmund Hillary heard of this and went to Nepal in 1960, seeking the truth (or untruth) regarding this mythical animal. The scalp was in the safekeeping of an elderly woman of the village who held it for the community because they believed it brought them good luck and protection. After many attempts, Hillary managed to persuade her to part with the skull for purposes of zoological examination on the condition that he would return it soon after. While Hillarys findings showed it to be moulded from the hide of an antelope, the locals as well as the monk in the monastery who looks after it believe it to belong to a Yeti.

Pop culture has often made references to the Yeti. The most significant was in the comic book Tintin In Tibet. (Photo: Twitter)

Stories speak of how the Yeti are actually guardians of the mountains. That they watch, with glittering eyes, the intruders who scale the higher peaks, and wait for them to make a false move. When they desecrate that which is sacred to the snowy peaks, they then swoop down with anger. At other times, they have been known to appear out of raging blizzards and help mountaineers find their way. Perhaps, like a very intelligent animal, they can sense the inner person, and so, follow their own wild code as they deem fit.

A report was filed in 1938 by a Captain d'Auvergue, curator of Calcutta's Victoria Memorial, who had temporarily been blinded by a snowstorm that had swept over the Himalayas. He would have died of hypothermia in the blizzard, he said, if a 9-foot-tall figure hadn't suddenly appeared out of the raging winds and snow and sheltered him from the worst of it.

When he recovered and could see his surroundings, the creature had disappeared.

Gods. Demons. Or prehistoric beasts. The magic of the Yeti shall always endure.

Also read: Run away, Yeti: Why the Indian Army sighting 'Yeti footprints' is not good news at all
Boyd Group Income Fund operates as an unincorporated open-ended mutual fund trust. The company, through its operating company, The Boyd Group Inc., operates non-franchised collision repair centers. Its collision repair centers offer automotive collision and glass repair, and related services. The company operates its autobody/autoglass repair and related services facilities, as well as auto glass retail facilities under the Boyd Autobody & Glass, Assured Automotive, Gerber Collision & Glass, Glass America, Auto Glass Service, Auto Glass Authority, and Autoglassonly.com trade names in the United States and Canada. Further, it provides Gerber National Claim Services, a claim administrator service, which offer glass, emergency roadside, and first notice of loss services with approximately 5,500 glass provider locations and 4,600 emergency roadside services providers. The company is headquartered in Winnipeg, Canada.

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Aareal Bank AG, together with its subsidiaries, provides financing, software products, digital solutions, and payment transaction applications for the property sector and related industries in Germany and internationally. The company operates through three segments: Structured Property Financing, Banking & Digital solutions, and Aareon. The Structured Property Financing segment offers property financing and refinancing solutions for office buildings, hotels, and shopping centers, as well as retail, logistics, residential properties, and student apartments. This segment also provides deposits, registered and bearer Pfandbriefe, promissory note loans, medium-term notes, debt securities, private placements, other bonds and subordinated issues, mortgage Pfandbriefe, and public sector Pfandbriefe. The Banking & Digital solutions segment offers various services and products for the housing, commercial property, and energy and waste disposal industries. Its services include specialized banking, payment systems, and optimized business processes. The Aareon segment provides IT systems consultancy and related advisory services, enterprise resource planning systems, software solutions, hosting and software as a service, and in-house services. Aareal Bank AG was founded in 1923 and is headquartered in Wiesbaden, Germany.

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American Water Works Co., Inc. engages in the provision of complementary water and wastewater services. It operates through the following segments: Regulated Businesses; Market-Based Businesses; and Other. The Regulated Businesses segment provides water and wastewater services to customers. The Market-Based Businesses segment is responsible for Military Services Group, Contract Operations Group, Homeowner Services Group, and Keystone Operations. The Other segment includes corporate costs that are not allocated to the Company's operating segments, eliminations of inter-segment transactions, fair value adjustments and associated income and deductions related to the acquisitions that have not been allocated to the operating segments for evaluation of performance and allocation of resource purposes. The company was founded in 1886 and is headquartered in Camden, NJ.

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There once was a time when it seemed as if you had to make your career choice early. Entering your late teens or early 20s came hand-in-hand with at least an attempt to pursue the profession you envisioned yourself in for the rest of your life. While that scenario in and of itself is probably best recalled with rose-colored glasses, today's workers know they can not only switch jobs a few times during the course of their life but they can also switch careers. It is no longer uncommon for sales representatives to become teachers, paralegals to become graphic designers and accountants to become wedding photographers. Careers in nursing -- thanks to a variety of specialties, workplace settings and shifts -- has always been a strong option for not only high school graduates but also seasoned veterans in other professions.

"I majored in business in college and never imagined I would become a nurse," says Michelle Orlando, 34. "But I hated my job and decided to attend an open house at a nursing school in Arlington, Texas, where I was living at the time. I talked to a few people, took a look at the requirements and gave my two-week notice the next day."

Orlando admits it was kind of a brash move but with the semester only three weeks away, she says she felt like it was time to make an immediate change. "I just needed to do something I cared about," she says. "Nursing gave me that chance."

On maternity leave after the birth of twin daughters in March, Orlando says she plans on going back to work in September in Arlington, Virginia, where she and her husband moved in January. "There are jobs everywhere out here," she says. "I love staying home with my babies but I can't wait to get back to work."

We asked Orlando and several other nurses if they had any advice for people considering a job in nursing. Here's what they had to say:

"It's a people-centric job so you have to like people. Sounds simple but it's really important. I hated being in a cubicle all day but some people love that isolation. Nurses aren't isolated. They're in the middle of it all the time. If you can't handle that type of proximity to others, nursing's probably not the job for you."

-- Michelle Orlando, RN, Arlington, Virginia

"Nursing is not for everyone. You have to have empathy, be very flexible with your schedule, work holidays and weekends and have thick skin. Surgery is brutal at times because of the stress level but on the flip side, it can be very rewarding. I love it!"

-- Zoe Smith, surgical nurse, Swedish Covenant, Chicago

"You have got to love what you do. Long shifts, weekend and holiday shifts and you can't always get requested time off. Today, it's best to have a four-year degree. Administration tends to think BSN is better than a two-year degree. You will advance your career with a four-year degree."

-- Patricia Seeger, retired, Crouse-Irving Hospital School of Nursing, Syracuse, New York

"Do it! It is not for the faint of heart. Talk with other nurses. Go watch nurses in action. Investigate your options. Get a bachelor's degree, unless you have one already, then do an accelerated BSN or Master's entry program. ... I would not do anything else. I am 50 years old and became a nurse when I was 21; a nurse-midwife when I was 26 and I just finished my doctoral degree. This is my life's work. I have done so many different things in nursing. I've never been jobless, or at least not for very long."

-- Darryn Dunbar, Director of Online Nursing Programs, Stratford University, Falls Church, Virginia

"Being a nurse gives you a lot of job options and flexibility in your career. You can work in a hospital, clinic, teacher, nursing leadership, case management, school nurse, for pharmaceutical companies, as a legal nurse consultant, etc. You can find a job working full or part time with flexible hours, which can be great for spending time with family and friends. It's hard work, and in a hospital, we work nights, weekends and holidays. Expect to pay your dues as a new nurse. ... You can experience a wide range of emotions as you witness new life come into the world or another life pass away. We work hard to help patients and families be healthy, and sometimes our efforts seem futile. Not everyone gets better but, hopefully, we can help bring peace and grace to those who die and help the family start the healing process. Although nursing is challenging, it's a rewarding career that helps me to appreciate and celebrate the numerous gifts of life. In the NICU, it feels like we are caring for God's most precious angels."

-- Vicki Pierson, neonatal ICU, Rush University Medical Center , Chicago

"It is a great profession with many different specialties. It is very tough and it is not for everyone. You will see patients at some of their best times -- delivering babies -- and at their worst and most vulnerable times. You need to be a good critical thinker who will be an advocate for your patients. At the end of the day, your feet will hurt but your heart will be full, for you have made a difference in someone else's life. I've never regretted my decision to become a nurse."

-- Kathleen Muglia, professor, nurse practitioner, College of Nursing, Marquette University , Milwaukee, Wisconsin

"Get experience. Work the crappy medical-surgical floor, work nights, work all kinds of specialties to get experience. Never forget to be human. Charting, rounding, meds, IV site checks, wound care, pooping and puking. Do it all. Learn it all."

-- Jean McDougall, RN, Kimball Health Services, Pine Bluffs, Wyoming

"It's hard work but so rewarding. You should really realize you're going to work long hours and become physically and emotionally drained at times."

-- Aubrey Bascue, LPN charge nurse, Tutera Senior Living, Overland Park, Kansas

"If you're interested, go for it! But only get a bachelor's degree or higher. And be prepared to work nights, weekends and holidays. And be prepared to buy new sneakers several times a year."

-- Kristi Elliott, family nurse practitioner, Diabetes and Endocrinology Specialists, Concord, California

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KG, Eaton Holding (Austria) G.m.b.H., Eaton Holding (Netherlands) B.V., Eaton Holding (UK) II Limited, Eaton Holding G.m.b.H., Eaton Holding I B.V., Eaton Holding I Limited, Eaton Holding II LLC, Eaton Holding II Limited, Eaton Holding II S.a.r.l., Eaton Holding III B.V., Eaton Holding III Limited, Eaton Holding III S.a.r.l., Eaton Holding IV S.a.r.l., Eaton Holding IX S.a.r.l., Eaton Holding International LLC, Eaton Holding LLC, Eaton Holding Limited, Eaton Holding S.a.r.l., Eaton Holding SE & Co. KG, Eaton Holding SRL, Eaton Holding V B.V., Eaton Holding V S.a.r.l., Eaton Holding VI B.V., Eaton Holding VI S.a.r.l., Eaton Holding VII B.V., Eaton Holding VIII S.a.r.l., Eaton Holding X S.a.r.l., Eaton Holding XII B.V./S.a.r.l., Eaton Holec AB, Eaton Holec OY, Eaton Hydraulics (Luzhou) Co. Ltd., Eaton Hydraulics (Ningbo) Co. Ltd., Eaton Hydraulics (Proprietary) Limited, Eaton Hydraulics LLC, Eaton Hydraulics Systems (Jining) Co. Ltd., Eaton I Spolka z.o.o., Eaton II LP, Eaton III LP, Eaton IV LP, Eaton India Innovation Center LLP, Eaton Industrial Clutches and Brakes (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Eaton Industrial Corporation, Eaton Industrial IP G.m.b.H. & Co. KG, Eaton Industrial Systems Private Limited, Eaton Industries (Argentina) S.A., Eaton Industries (Austria) G.m.b.H., Eaton Industries (Belgium) BVBA, Eaton Industries (Canada) Company, Eaton Industries (Chile) S.p.A., Eaton Industries (Colombia) S.A.S., Eaton Industries (Egypt) LLC, Eaton Industries (England) Limited, Eaton Industries (France) S.A.S., Eaton Industries (Ireland) Ltimited, Eaton Industries (Israel) Ltd., Eaton Industries (Italy) S.r.l., Eaton Industries (Japan) Ltd., Eaton Industries (Jining) Co. Ltd, Eaton Industries (Korea) Limited, Eaton Industries (Luxembourg) B.V./S.a.r.l., Eaton Industries (Morocco) LLC, Eaton Industries (Netherlands) B.V., Eaton Industries (Philippines) LLC, Eaton Industries (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Eaton Industries (Spain) S.L., Eaton Industries (Thailand) Ltd., Eaton Industries (U.K.) Limited, Eaton Industries (Wuxi) Co. Ltd., Eaton Industries Company, Eaton Industries EOOD, Eaton Industries G.m.b.H., Eaton Industries Holding G.m.b.H., Eaton Industries Holdings Ltd., Eaton Industries II G.m.b.H., Eaton Industries KFT, Eaton Industries LP, Eaton Industries Manufacturing G.m.b.H., Eaton Industries Panama S.A., Eaton Industries Pte. Ltd., Eaton Industries Pty. Ltd., Eaton Industries S. de R.L. de C.V., Eaton Industries SAC, Eaton Industries Sdn. Bhd., Eaton Industries s.r.o., Eaton International B.V., Eaton International Corporation, Eaton International Industries Nigeria Limited, Eaton Japan Co. Ltd., Eaton LLC, Eaton LP, Eaton Leasing Corporation, Eaton Ltda., Eaton MEDC Limited, Eaton Madeira SGPS Lda., Eaton Manufacturing G.m.b.H., Eaton Manufacturing II G.m.b.H., Eaton Manufacturing III G.m.b.H., Eaton Manufacturing LP, Eaton Middle East LLC, Eaton Moeller B.V., Eaton Moeller S.a.r.l., Eaton Phoenixtec MMPL Co. Ltd., Eaton Power Quality (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Eaton Power Quality AB, Eaton Power Quality Limited, Eaton Power Quality OY (Finland), Eaton Power Quality Private Limited, Eaton Power Quality S.A.S., Eaton Power Solution Ltda., Eaton Production International G.m.b.H., Eaton Protection Systems IP G.m.b.H. & Co. KG, Eaton S.A.S., Eaton S.r.l., Eaton SAMC (Shanghai) Aircraft Conveyance System, Eaton SE, Eaton Safety IP G.m.b.H. & Co. KG, Eaton Safety Limited, Eaton Senstar Automotive Fluid Connector (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Eaton Services S.a.r.l., Eaton Solutions S. de R.L. de C.V., Eaton Switzerland Holding I GmbH, Eaton Switzerland Holding II GmbH, Eaton Technologies (Luxembourg) S.a.r.l., Eaton Technologies G.m.b.H., Eaton Technologies IP G.m.b.H. & Co. KG, Eaton Technologies Private Limited, Eaton Technologies S. de R.L. de C.V., Eaton Technologies S.A., Eaton Trading Company S. de R.L. de C.V., Eaton Truck Components (Proprietary) Ltd., Eaton Truck Components S. de R.L. de C.V., Eaton Truck Components Spolka z.o.o., Eaton Truck and Bus Components (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Eaton US Holdings Inc., Eaton Worldwide LLC, Eaton-Powerware, Electromanufacturas S de R.L. de C.V., Electrum Group Ltd., Elpro Technologies Pty. Limited, Ephesus Lighting, Ephesus Lighting Inc., FHF Bergbautechnik GmbH & Co. KG, FHF Funke+Huster Fernsig GmbH, FHF New World GmbH, Fast Eaton (Xi'an) Drivetrain Company Ltd., Fifth Light Technology Ltd., Funke+Huster (Tianjin) Electronics Co. Ltd., Funke+Huster GmbH, GeCma Components electronic GmbH, Georgetown Financial Services Ltd., Gitiesse Asia Pte. Ltd., Gitiesse S.r.l., Green Holding Company, Green Motion, Guangzhou Nittan Valve Co. Ltd., Hein Moeller Stiftung G.m.b.H., Hernis Scan System do Brasil Comercio E Servicos LTDA, Hernis Scan Systems - Asia Pte. Ltd., Hernis Scan Systems A/S, HuanYu High Tech, IE Power, Illumination Management Solutions Inc., Iluminacion Cooper de las Californias S de R.L. de C.V., Innovative Switchgear Solutions Inc, Institute for International Product Safety G.m.b.H., Integrated Hydraulics, Integrated Partial Discharge Diagnostics, Intelligent Switchgear Organization LLC, Internormen Filters Private Limited, Internormen Technology, Jeil Hydraulics, Kaicheng Funke+Huster (Tangshan) Mining Electrical Co. Ltd., Lian Zheng Electronics (Shenzhen) Co. Ltd., MP Group SAS, MTL Instruments (Shanghai) Co. Ltd, MTL Instruments B.V., MTL Instruments GmbH, MTL Instruments LLC, MTL Instruments Private Limited, MTL Instruments SARL, MTL Italia Srl, MTL Partners II Inc., MTL Partners Inc., Marina Power and Lighting, Martek Power F SAS, Martek Power GmbH, Martek Power Limited, Martek Power Limited (UK), Martek Power S.A. de C.V., Martek Power SA, McGraw-Edison Development Corporation, Measurement Technology Limited, Menvier Overseas Holdings Limited, Micro Innovation Holding, Moeller Electric (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Moeller Electric Ltda., Moeller Electrical Equipment (Suzhou) Co. Ltd., Moeller Holding Gmbh & Co. KG, Moeller Industria de electro-electronicos do Amazonas Ltda., Morestana, Nittan BVI Co. Ltd., Nittan Euro Tech Spolka z o.o., Nittan Global Tech Co. Ltd., Nittan Valve Co. Ltd., Norex AS, Ocean Technical Systems Limited, Oxalis Asia Pacific Pte Ltd, Oxalis Group, Oxalis Group Limited, PKL LLC, PT. Eaton Industries, PT. Fluid Sciences Batam, PerkinElmer - aerospace division, Phoenixtec Electronics (Shenzhen) Co. Ltd., Phoenixtec International Corp., Phoenixtec Power, Pigozzi, Polaron Components Limited, Polimer Hortum Teknolojileri Ticaret Limited Sirketi, Polimer Kaucuk Sanayi Ve Pazarlama, Polimer Kaucuk Sanayi ve Pazarlama A.S., Power Distribution, Pringle Electrical Manufacturing, Productos Eaton Livia S.L., Pulizzi Engineering, RTE Far East Corporation, RTK Instruments Limited, Riseson International Limited, Rizhao Yoosung Shinhwa Automobile Parts Co. Ltd., Rolec Comercial e Industrial, SOURIAU, Santak Electronics (Shenzhen) Co. Ltd., Santak Electronics Company Limited, Saturn Insurance Company Ltd., Scantronic Benelux B.V., Schreder-Hazemeyer, Scoremax Limited, Sefelec GmbH, Sefelec SAS, Semelec SAS, Senyuan International Holdings Limited, Senyuan International Investments Limited, Shinhwa Precision Co. Ltd., Shinhwa Takahashi Precision Co. Ltd., Silver Light International Limited, Silver Victory Hong Kong Limited, Standard Automation & Control LP, Sure Power Inc., TGM Automotiva, TT (Ireland) Acquisition Limited, Tai Ah Electrical Ltd., Taiwan Nittan Industrial Co. Ltd., Telkom Kenya, The MTL Instruments Group Limited, The Oxalis Protection Technology India Private Limited, Tractech, Tractech (Ireland) Limited, Tractech Industries (Ireland) Limted, Tripp Lite, Turlock B.V., Tuthill Coupling Group, U.S. Engine Valve Company, UPE Electronics (Shenzhen) Co. Ltd., Ultronics, Ultronics Nordic Sales AB, Ulusoy, Vickers International Inc., Vickers Systems Limited, Viking Electronics Inc., WPI-Boston Division Inc., Winner Hydraulics Ltd., Wireless Power and Communications AS, Wright Line, Wright Line Holding Inc., Wright Line LLC, and Zhenjiang Daqo Eaton Electrical Systems Co. Ltd..
Industrial and Commercial Bank of China Limited provides various banking products and services in China and internationally. It operates through Corporate Banking, Personal Banking, and Treasury Operations segments. The Corporate Banking segment offers financial products and services to corporations, government agencies, and financial institutions. This segment's products and services include corporate loans, trade financing, deposit-taking activities, corporate wealth management services, custody activities, various corporate intermediary services, etc. The Personal Banking segment provides personal loans and cards, deposits, personal wealth management, and personal intermediary services to individual customers. The Treasury Operations segment is involved in the money market transactions, investment securities, and foreign exchange transactions, as well as holding of derivative positions. The company also offers e-banking services, including Internet, telephone, and mobile banking services; and investment banking, fund and asset management, trust, financial leasing, broker dealer, insurance, and other financial services. It operates approximately 16,197 domestic institutions and 426 overseas institutions. Industrial and Commercial Bank of China Limited was founded in 1984 and is headquartered in Beijing, the People's Republic of China.

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The following companies are subsidiares of CVS Health: @Credentials Inc., ACS ACQCO CORP., ADMINCO Inc., AE Fourteen Incorporated, AHP Holdings Inc., AMC - Tennessee LLC, APS Acquisition LLC, ASCO HealthCare LLC, ASI Wings LLC, AUSHC Holdings Inc., Accendo Insurance Company, Accordant Health Services L.L.C., Active Health Management Inc., Administrative Enterprises Inc., AdvancePCS SpecialtyRx LLC, AdvanceRx.com L.L.C., Advanced Care Scripts Inc., Aetna, Aetna (Beijing) Enterprise Management Services Co. Ltd., Aetna (Shanghai) Enterprise Services Co. Ltd., Aetna ACO Holdings Inc., Aetna Asset Advisors LLC, Aetna Behavioral Health LLC, Aetna Better Health Inc., Aetna Better Health Inc., Aetna Better Health of California Inc., Aetna Better Health of Florida Inc., Aetna Better Health of Kansas Inc., Aetna Better Health of Michigan Inc., Aetna Better Health of Missouri LLC, Aetna Better Health of Nevada Inc., Aetna Better Health of North Carolina Inc., Aetna Better Health of Oklahoma Inc., Aetna Better Health of Texas Inc., Aetna Better Health of Washington Inc., Aetna Capital Management LLC, Aetna Card Solutions LLC, Aetna Corporate Services LLC, Aetna Dental Inc., Aetna Dental of California Inc., Aetna Financial Holdings LLC, Aetna Florida Inc., Aetna Global Benefits (Asia Pacific) Limited, Aetna Global Benefits (Bahamas) Limited, Aetna Global Benefits (Bermuda) Limited, Aetna Global Benefits (Europe) Limited, Aetna Global Benefits (Middle East) LLC, Aetna Global Benefits (Singapore) PTE. LTD., Aetna Global Benefits (UK) Limited, Aetna Global Benefits Limited (DIFC UAE), Aetna Global Holdings Limited, Aetna Health Holdings LLC, Aetna Health Inc., Aetna Health Insurance (Thailand) Public Company Limited, Aetna Health Insurance Company, Aetna Health Insurance Company of Europe DAC, Aetna Health Management LLC, Aetna Health and Life Insurance Company, Aetna Health of California Inc., Aetna Health of Iowa Inc., Aetna Health of Michigan Inc., Aetna Health of Ohio Inc., Aetna Health of Utah Inc., Aetna HealthAssurance Pennsylvania Inc., Aetna Holdco (UK) Limited, Aetna Holdings (Thailand) Limited, Aetna Inc., Aetna Insurance (Hong Kong) Limite, Aetna Insurance (Singapore) Pte. Ltd., Aetna Insurance Company Limited, Aetna Integrated Informatics Inc., Aetna International Inc., Aetna Ireland Inc., Aetna Korea Ltd., Aetna Life & Casualty (Bermuda) Ltd., Aetna Life Assignment Company, Aetna Life Insurance Company, Aetna Medicaid Administrators LLC, Aetna Multi-Strategy 1099 Fund LLC, Aetna Network Services LLC, Aetna Partners Diversified Fund LLC, Aetna Pharmacy Management Services LLC, Aetna Resources LLC, Aetna Risk Assurance Company of Connecticut Inc., Aetna Rx Home Delivery LLC, Aetna Services (Thailand) Limited, Aetna Specialty Pharmacy LLC, Aetna Student Health Agency Inc., Aetna Ventures LLC, Aetna Workers Comp Access LLC, Alabama CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., Alaska CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., Allina Health and Aetna Insurance Company, Allina Health and Aetna Insurance Holding Company LLC, American Continental Insurance Company, American Drug Stores Delaware L.L.C., American Health Holding Inc., Arbor Drugs, Arizona CVS Stores L.L.C., Arkansas CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., Badger Acquisition LLC, Badger Acquisition of Kentucky LLC, Badger Acquisition of Minnesota LLC, Badger Acquisition of Ohio LLC, Banner Health and Aetna Health Insurance Company, Banner Health and Aetna Health Insurance Holding Company LLC, Banner Health and Aetna Health Plan Inc., Beauty Holdings L.L.C., Best Care LTC Acquisition Company LLC, Busse CVS L.L.C., CCI Foreign S.a R.L. (R.C.S. Luxembourg), CCRx Holdings LLC, CCRx of North Carolina LLC, CHP Acquisition LLC, CP Acquisition LLC, CVS 2948 Henderson L.L.C., CVS 3268 Gilbert L.L.C., CVS 3745 Peoria L.L.C., CVS AL Distribution L.L.C., CVS AOC Corporation, CVS AOC Services L.L.C., CVS Albany L.L.C., CVS Bellmore Avenue L.L.C., CVS Care Concierge LLC, CVS Caremark Advanced Technology Pharmacy L.L.C., CVS Caremark Indemnity Ltd., CVS Caremark Part D Services L.L.C., CVS Caremark TN SUTA LLC, CVS Foreign Inc., CVS Gilbert 3272 L.L.C., CVS Health Solutions LLC, CVS Indiana L.L.C., CVS International L.L.C., CVS Kidney Care Advanced Technologies LLC, CVS Kidney Care Health Services LLC, CVS Kidney Care Home Dialysis LLC, CVS Kidney Care LLC, CVS Manchester NH L.L.C., CVS Media Exchange LLC, CVS Michigan L.L.C., CVS Orlando FL Distribution L.L.C., CVS PA Distribution L.L.C., CVS PR Center Inc., CVS Pharmacy Inc., CVS RS Arizona L.L.C., CVS Rx Services Inc., CVS SC Distribution L.L.C., CVS State Capital L.L.C., CVS TN Distribution L.L.C., CVS Transportation L.L.C., CVS Vero FL Distribution L.L.C., Campos Medical Pharmacy LLC, Canal Place LLC, Care Pharmaceutical Services LP, CareCenter Pharmacy L.L.C., Carefree Insurance Services Inc., Caremark Arizona Mail Pharmacy LLC, Caremark Arizona Specialty Pharmacy L.L.C., Caremark California Specialty Pharmacy L.L.C., Caremark Florida Mail Pharmacy LLC, Caremark Florida Specialty Pharmacy LLC, Caremark Hawaii Mail Pharmacy L.L.C., Caremark Hawaii Specialty Pharmacy LLC, Caremark IPA L.L.C., Caremark Illinois Mail Pharmacy LLC, Caremark Illinois Specialty Pharmacy LLC, Caremark Irving Resource Center LLC, Caremark Kansas Specialty Pharmacy LLC, Caremark L.L.C., Caremark Logistics LLC, Caremark Louisiana Specialty Pharmacy LLC, Caremark Maryland Specialty Pharmacy LLC, Caremark Massachusetts Specialty Pharmacy L.L.C., Caremark Michigan Specialty Pharmacy LLC, Caremark Minnesota Specialty Pharmacy LLC, Caremark New Jersey Specialty Pharmacy LLC, Caremark North Carolina Specialty Pharmacy LLC, Caremark Ohio Specialty Pharmacy L.L.C., Caremark Pennsylvania Specialty Pharmacy LLC, Caremark PhC L.L.C., Caremark Puerto Rico L.L.C., Caremark Puerto Rico Specialty Pharmacy L.L.C., Caremark Redlands Pharmacy L.L.C., Caremark Repack LLC, Caremark Rx L.L.C., Caremark Tennessee Specialty Pharmacy LLC, Caremark Texas Mail Pharmacy LLC, Caremark Texas Specialty Pharmacy LLC, Caremark Ulysses Holding Corp., Caremark Washington Specialty Pharmacy LLC, CaremarkPCS Alabama Mail Pharmacy LLC, CaremarkPCS Health L.L.C., CaremarkPCS L.L.C., Central Rx Services LLC, Claims Administration Corp., Cofinity Inc., Compscript LLC, Connecticut CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., Continental Life Insurance Company of Brentwood Tennessee, Continuing Care Rx LLC, Coram Alternate Site Services Inc., Coram Clinical Trials Inc., Coram Healthcare Corporation of Alabama, Coram Healthcare Corporation of Florida, Coram Healthcare Corporation of Greater D.C., Coram Healthcare Corporation of Greater New York, Coram Healthcare Corporation of Indiana, Coram Healthcare Corporation of Massachusetts, Coram Healthcare Corporation of Mississippi, Coram Healthcare Corporation of Nevada, Coram Healthcare Corporation of North Texas, Coram Healthcare Corporation of Northern California, Coram Healthcare Corporation of Southern California, Coram Healthcare Corporation of Southern Florida, Coram Healthcare Corporation of Utah, Coram LLC, Coram Rx LLC, Coram Specialty Infusion, Coram Specialty Infusion Services L.L.C., Coventry Consumer Advantage Inc., Coventry Health Care National Accounts Inc., Coventry Health Care National Network Inc., Coventry Health Care Workers Compensation Inc., Coventry Health Care of Illinois Inc., Coventry Health Care of Kansas Inc., Coventry Health Care of Missouri Inc., Coventry Health Care of Nebraska Inc., Coventry Health Care of Virginia Inc., Coventry Health Care of West Virginia Inc., Coventry Health Plan of Florida Inc., Coventry Health and Life Insurance Company, Coventry HealthCare Management Corporation, Coventry Prescription Management Services Inc., Coventry Rehabilitation Services Inc., Coventry Transplant Network Inc., D & R Pharmaceutical Services LLC, D.A.W. LLC, Delaware CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., Delaware Physicians Care Incorporated, Digital eHealth LLC, District of Columbia CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., E.T.B. INC., Echo Merger Sub Inc., Eckerd Corporation of Florida Inc., Employee Assistance Services LLC, Enloe Drugs LLC, Enterprise Patient Safety Organization LLC, EntrustRX, Evergreen Pharmaceutical LLC, Evergreen Pharmaceutical of California Inc., Express Pharmacy Services of PA L.L.C., FOCUS HealthCare Management Inc., First Health Group Corp., First Health Life & Health Insurance Company, First Script Network Services Inc., Florida Health Plan Administrators LLC, Garfield Beach CVS L.L.C., Generation Health L.L.C., Geneva Woods Health Services LLC, Geneva Woods LTC Pharmacy LLC, Geneva Woods Management LLC, Geneva Woods Pharmacy Alaska LLC, Geneva Woods Pharmacy LLC, Geneva Woods Pharmacy Washington LLC, Geneva Woods Pharmacy Wyoming LLC, Geneva Woods Retail Pharmacy LLC, Georgia CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., German Dobson CVS L.L.C., Goodhealth Worldwide (Asia) Limited, Goodhealth Worldwide (Global) Limited, Goodyear CVS L.L.C., Grand St. Paul CVS L.L.C., Grandview Pharmacy LLC, Group Dental Service Inc., Group Dental Service of Maryland Inc., Health Care Management Co. Ltd., Health Data & Management Solutions Inc., Health Re Inc., Health and Human Resource Center Inc., HealthAssuance Pennsylvania Inc., Healthagen LLC, Highland Park CVS L.L.C., Holiday CVS L.L.C., Home Care Pharmacy LLC, Home Pharmacy Services LLC, Hook-SupeRx L.L.C., Horizon Behavioral Services LLC, Idaho CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., IlliniCare Health, Indian Health Organisation Private Limited, Innovation Health Holdings LLC, Innovation Health Insurance Company, Innovation Health Plan Inc., Interlock Pharmacy Systems LLC, Iowa CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., JHC Acquisition LLC, Kansas CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., Kentucky CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., LCPS Acquisition LLC, Langsam Health Services LLC, Lo-Med Prescription Services LLC, Lobos Acquisition LLC, Longs Drug Stores, Longs Drug Stores California L.L.C., Louisiana CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., MHHP Acquisition Company LLC, MHNet Life and Health Insurance Company, MHNet Specialty Services LLC, MHNet of Florida Inc., Managed Care Coordinators Inc., Managed Healthcare LLC, Martin Health Services LLC, Maryland CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., Med World Acquisition Corp., Medical Arts Health Care LLC, Medical Examinations of New York P.C., Melville Realty Company Inc., MemberHealth LLC, Mental Health Associates Inc., Mental Health Network of New York IPA Inc., Meritain Health Inc., Merwin Long Term Care LLC, MetraComp Inc., Minor Health Enterprise Co Ltd., MinuteClinic, MinuteClinic Diagnostic of Alabama L.L.C., MinuteClinic Diagnostic of Arizona LLC, MinuteClinic Diagnostic of Florida LLC, MinuteClinic Diagnostic of Georgia LLC, MinuteClinic Diagnostic of Hawaii L.L.C., MinuteClinic Diagnostic of Illinois LLC, MinuteClinic Diagnostic of Kentucky L.L.C., MinuteClinic Diagnostic of Louisiana L.L.C., MinuteClinic Diagnostic of Maine L.L.C., MinuteClinic Diagnostic of Maryland LLC, MinuteClinic Diagnostic of Massachusetts LLC, MinuteClinic Diagnostic of Nebraska L.L.C., MinuteClinic Diagnostic of New Hampshire L.L.C., MinuteClinic Diagnostic of New Mexico L.L.C., MinuteClinic Diagnostic of Ohio LLC, MinuteClinic Diagnostic of Oklahoma LLC, MinuteClinic Diagnostic of Oregon LLC, MinuteClinic Diagnostic of Pennsylvania LLC, MinuteClinic Diagnostic of Rhode Island LLC, MinuteClinic Diagnostic of South Carolina L.L.C., MinuteClinic Diagnostic of Texas LLC, MinuteClinic Diagnostic of Utah L.L.C., MinuteClinic Diagnostic of Virginia LLC, MinuteClinic Diagnostic of Washington LLC, MinuteClinic Diagnostic of Wisconsin L.L.C., MinuteClinic L.L.C., MinuteClinic Online Diagnostic Services LLC, MinuteClinic Physician Practice of Texas, MinuteClinic Telehealth Services LLC, Mississippi CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., Missouri CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., Montana CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., NCS Healthcare LLC, NCS Healthcare of Illinois LLC, NCS Healthcare of Iowa LLC, NCS Healthcare of Kansas LLC, NCS Healthcare of Kentucky Inc. (Oh, NCS Healthcare of Montana LLC, NCS Healthcare of New Mexico LLC, NCS Healthcare of Ohio LLC, NCS Healthcare of South Carolina LLC, NCS Healthcare of Tennessee LLC, NCS Healthcare of Wisconsin LLC, NIV Acquisition LLC, Navarro Discount Pharmacy, Nebraska CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., NeighborCare Holdings Inc., NeighborCare Inc., NeighborCare Pharmacy Services Inc., NeighborCare Services Corporation, NeighborCare of Indiana LLC, NeighborCare of Virginia LLC, New Jersey CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., Niagara Re Inc., North Carolina CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., North Shore Pharmacy Services LLC, NovoLogix LLC, OCR Services LLC, Ocean Acquisition Sub L.L.C., Ohio CVS Stores L.L.C., Oklahoma CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., Omnicare, Omnicare Holding Company, Omnicare Inc., Omnicare Indiana Partnership Holding Company LLC, Omnicare Pharmacies of Pennsylvania East LLC, Omnicare Pharmacies of Pennsylvania West LLC, Omnicare Pharmacies of the Great Plains Holding LLC, Omnicare Pharmacy and Supply Services LLC, Omnicare Pharmacy of Tennessee LLC, Omnicare Pharmacy of the Midwest LLC, Omnicare Property Management LLC, Omnicare of Nebraska LLC, Omnicare of Nevada LLC, Omnicare of New York LLC, Oregon CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., PE Holdings LLC, PHPSNE Parent Corporation, PP Acquisition Company LLC, PRN Pharmaceutical Services LP, PT Aetna Management Consulting, Pamplona Saude e Beleza LTDA, Part D Holding Company L.L.C., PayFlex Holdings Inc., PayFlex Systems USA Inc., Pennsylvania CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., Performax Inc., Pharmacy Associates of Glenn Falls LLC, Pharmacy Consultants LLC, Phoenix Data Solutions LLC, Precision Benefit Services Inc., Prime Net Inc., ProCare Pharmacy Direct L.L.C., ProCare Pharmacy L.L.C., Prodigy Health Group Inc., Professional Risk Management Inc., Pt. Aetna Global Benefits Indonesia, Puerto Rico CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., Red Oak Sourcing LLC, Resources for Living LLC, Rhode Island CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., Roeschens Healthcare LLC, RxAmerica, Schaller Anderson Medical Administrators Incorporated, Scrip World LLC, Sheffield Avenue CVS L.L.C., Shore Pharmaceutical Providers LLC, Silverscript Insurance Company, Soma Intimates, South Carolina CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., South Wabash CVS L.L.C., Specialized Pharmacy Services LLC, Spinnaker Bidco Limited, Spinnaker Topco Limited, Stadtlander Drug Company, Stadtlander Pharmacy, Sterling Healthcare Services LLC, Superior Care Pharmacy LLC, Sutter Health and Aetna Administrative Services LLC, Sutter Health and Aetna Insurance Company, Sutter Health and Aetna Insurance Holding Company LLC, T2 Medical Inc., TCPI Acquisition LLC, TargetPharmacy, Tennessee CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., Texas Health + Aetna Health Insurance Company, Texas Health + Aetna Health Insurance Holding Company LLC, Texas Health + Aetna Health Plan Inc., The Vasquez Group Inc., Thomas Phoenix CVS L.L.C., Three Forks Apothecary LLC, U.S Healthcare Holdings LLC, U.S. Healthcare Properties Inc., UAC Holding Inc., UC Acquisition LLC, UNI-Care Health Services of Maine LLC, Universal American - Medicare Part D Business, Utah CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., VAPS Acquisition Company LLC, Value Health Care Services LLC, Vermont CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., Virginia CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., Virtual Home Healthcare L.L.C., Warm Springs Road CVS L.L.C., Washington CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., Washington Lamb CVS L.L.C., Weber Medical Systems LLC, Wellpartner LLC, West Virginia CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., Westhaven Services Co LLC, Williamson Drug Company LLC, Wisconsin CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., Woodward Detroit CVS L.L.C., Work and Family Benefits Inc., ZS Acquisition Company LLC, Zinc Health Services LLC, Zinc Health Ventures LLC, bSwift LLC, and iTriage LLC.
The following companies are subsidiares of Becton, Dickinson and: (Bard Istanbul Healthcare Limited Company), Accuri Cytometers, Accuri Cytometers Inc., Adaptec Manufacturing Singapore, Alverix, Alverix Inc., Atto Bioscience, BD Holding S. de R.L. de C.V., BD Infection Prevention BV, BD Kiestra BV, BD Kiestra Total Lab Automation, BD Rapid Diagnostic (Suzhou) Co. Ltd., BD San Luis Potosi S.A. de C.V., BD Switzerland Sarl, BD Ventures LLC, BD West Africa Limited, BDX INO LLC, Bard (Thailand) Limited, Bard ASDI Inc., Bard Access Systems Inc., Bard Acquisition Sub Inc., Bard Australia Pty. Limited, Bard Benelux N.V., Bard Brachytherapy Inc., Bard Brasil Industria e Comercio de Produtos Para a Saude Ltda., Bard Canada Inc., Bard Chile S.p.A., Bard Czech Republic s.r.o., Bard Devices Inc., Bard Dublin ITC Limited, Bard EMEA Finance Center Sp.z o.o., Bard European Distribution Center N.V., Bard Finance B.V. & Co. KG., Bard Financial Services Ltd., Bard Finland OY, Bard France S.A.S., Bard Global Holdings I LLC, Bard Global Holdings II LLC, Bard Global Holdings III LLC, Bard Healthcare Inc., Bard Healthcare Science (Shanghai) Limited, Bard Hellas S.A., Bard Holding SAS, Bard Holdings Limited, Bard Holdings Netherlands B.V., Bard Hong Kong Limited, Bard IP Holdings Inc., Bard India Healthcare Pvt. Ltd., Bard International Holdings B.V., Bard International Inc., Bard Korea Ltd., Bard Limited, Bard MRL Acquisition Corp., Bard Malaysia Healthcare Sdn. Bhd., Bard Medica SA, Bard Medical Devices (Beijing) Co. Ltd., Bard Medical R&D (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Bard Medical SA (Proprietary) Limited, Bard Mexico Realty S. de R.L. de C.V., Bard Norden AB, Bard Norway AS, Bard Pacific Health Care Company Ltd., Bard Peripheral Vascular Inc., Bard Poland Sp. z.o.o., Bard Productos Plasticos e Medicos Ltda., Bard Reynosa S.A. de C.V., Bard S.r.l., Bard Sdn. Bhd., Bard Shannon Limited, Bard Singapore Private Limited, Bard Sourcing Office Singapore Pte. Ltd., Bard Sweden AB, Bard UK Newco Limited, Bard de Espana S.A., Becton Dickinson (Gibraltar) Holdings Ltd., Becton Dickinson (Gibraltar) Limited, Becton Dickinson (Gibraltar) Management Limited, Becton Dickinson (Mauritius) Limited, Becton Dickinson (Pty) Ltd., Becton Dickinson (Thailand) Limited, Becton Dickinson A.G., Becton Dickinson A/S, Becton Dickinson Argentina S.R.L., Becton Dickinson Asia Holdings Ltd., Becton Dickinson Asia Limited, Becton Dickinson Austria GmbH, Becton Dickinson Austria Holdings GmbH, Becton Dickinson B.V., Becton Dickinson B.V. Saudi Limited Company, Becton Dickinson Benelux N.V., Becton Dickinson Biosciences Systems and Reagents Inc., Becton Dickinson Canada Inc., Becton Dickinson Caribe Ltd., Becton Dickinson Croatia d.o.o., Becton Dickinson Czechia s.r.o., Becton Dickinson Dispensing Belgium BVBA, Becton Dickinson Dispensing Denmark A/S, Becton Dickinson Dispensing France SAS, Becton Dickinson Dispensing Ireland Limited, Becton Dickinson Dispensing Norway, Becton Dickinson Dispensing Spain S.L.U., Becton Dickinson Dispensing UK Ltd., Becton Dickinson Distribution Center N.V., Becton Dickinson East Africa Ltd., Becton Dickinson Euro Finance Sarl, Becton Dickinson Europe Holdings S.A.S., Becton Dickinson France S.A.S., Becton Dickinson GSA Beteilgungs GmbH, Becton Dickinson Global Holdings I Inc., Becton Dickinson Global Holdings II LLC, Becton Dickinson Global Holdings IV LLC, Becton Dickinson Global Holdings V LLC, Becton Dickinson Global Holdings VII LLC, Becton Dickinson Global Holdings VIII LLC, Becton Dickinson Global Services Centre Sdn. Bhd, Becton Dickinson GmbH, Becton Dickinson Guatemala S.A., Becton Dickinson Hellas S.A., Becton Dickinson Holdings Limited, Becton Dickinson Holdings Ltd., Becton Dickinson Holdings Pte Ltd., Becton Dickinson Hungary Kft., Becton Dickinson India Private Limited, Becton Dickinson Industrias Cirurgicas Ltda., Becton Dickinson Infusion Therapy AB, Becton Dickinson Infusion Therapy Holdings UK Limited, Becton Dickinson Infusion Therapy Systems Inc., Becton Dickinson Infusion Therapy Systems Inc. S.A. de C.V., Becton Dickinson Infusion Therapy UK, Becton Dickinson Insulin Syringe Ltd., Becton Dickinson International Holdings II Pte Ltd., Becton Dickinson International Holdings III Pte Ltd., Becton Dickinson International Holdings Pte Ltd., Becton Dickinson Israel Ltd., Becton Dickinson Italia S.p.A., Becton Dickinson Ithalat Ihracat Limited Sirketi, Becton Dickinson Korea Holding Inc., Becton Dickinson Korea Ltd., Becton Dickinson Ltd., Becton Dickinson Luxembourg Finance S.a.r.L., Becton Dickinson Luxembourg Global Holdings Sarl, Becton Dickinson Luxembourg Holdings II S.a.r.L, Becton Dickinson Luxembourg Holdings III S.a.r.L, Becton Dickinson Luxembourg Holdings V S.a.r.L., Becton Dickinson Malaysia Inc., Becton Dickinson Management GmbH & Co. KG, Becton Dickinson Matrex Holdings Inc., Becton Dickinson Medical (S) Pte Ltd., Becton Dickinson Medical Devices (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Becton Dickinson Medical Devices (Suzhou) Co. Ltd., Becton Dickinson Medical Products Pte. Ltd., Becton Dickinson Medical Technology (Jiangsu) Co. Ltd., Becton Dickinson Netherlands Global Holdings II C.V., Becton Dickinson Netherlands Holdings B.V., Becton Dickinson Netherlands Holdings II B.V., Becton Dickinson Norway AS, Becton Dickinson O.Y., Becton Dickinson Overseas Services Ltd., Becton Dickinson Pakistan (Pvt) Ltd., Becton Dickinson Penel Limited, Becton Dickinson Philippines Inc., Becton Dickinson Polska Sp.z.o.o., Becton Dickinson Portugal Unipessoal Lda., Becton Dickinson Pty. Ltd., Becton Dickinson Research Centre Ireland Limited, Becton Dickinson Rowa Germany GmbH, Becton Dickinson Rowa Italy Srl, Becton Dickinson S.A., Becton Dickinson Sample Collection GmbH, Becton Dickinson Scot Financing L.L.P., Becton Dickinson Scot Financing L.P., Becton Dickinson Sdn. Bhd., Becton Dickinson Slovakia s.r.o., Becton Dickinson Sweden AB, Becton Dickinson Sweden Holdings AB, Becton Dickinson Switzerland Global Holdings SarL, Becton Dickinson Technology Campus India, Becton Dickinson U.K. Limited, Becton Dickinson UK Financing I Limited, Becton Dickinson UK Financing II Limited, Becton Dickinson Venezuela C.A., Becton Dickinson Venture LLC, Becton Dickinson Verwaltungs GmbH, Becton Dickinson Vostok LLC, Becton Dickinson Worldwide Investments Sa.r.L., Becton Dickinson Zambia Limited, Becton Dickinson and Company Ltd., Becton Dickinson de Colombia Ltda., Becton Dickinson de Mexico S.A. de C.V., Becton Dickinson del Uruguay S.A., Benex Ltd., Biometric Imaging, Bridger Biomed Inc., C. R. Bard, C. R. Bard (Portugal) - Produtos e Artigos Medicos e Farmaceuticos, C. R. Bard Do Brasil Productos Medicos Ltda., C. R. Bard GmbH, C. R. Bard Inc., C. R. Bard Netherlands Sales B.V., CME America LLC, CME Ltd., CME Medical (UK) Limited, CME UK (Holdings) Limited, CRISI Medical Systems, CRISI Medical Systems Inc., Caesarea Medical Electronics, Cardal II LLC, Care Fusion Development Private Limited, CareFusion, CareFusion (Barbados) SrL, CareFusion (Shanghai) Commercial and Trading Co. Limited, CareFusion 213 LLC, CareFusion 2200 Inc., CareFusion 2201 Inc., CareFusion 302 LLC, CareFusion 303 Inc., CareFusion Asia (HK) Limited, CareFusion BH 335 d.o.o. Cazin, CareFusion Corporation, CareFusion D.R. 203 Ltd., CareFusion France 309 S.A.S., CareFusion Israel 330 Ltd., CareFusion Italy 312 S.p.A., CareFusion Manufacturing LLC, CareFusion Mexico 215 S.A. de C.V., CareFusion Netherlands 328 B.V., CareFusion Netherlands 503 B.V., CareFusion Netherlands 504 B.V., CareFusion Netherlands Financing 283 C.V., CareFusion Resources LLC, CareFusion S.A. 319 (Proprietary) Limited, CareFusion Solutions LLC, CareFusion U.K. 244 Limited, CareFusion U.K. 305 Limited, CareFusion U.K. 306 Limited, Carmel Pharma AB, Carmel Pharma Inc, Cato Software Solutions, Cell Analysis Systems Inc, Cellular Research, Cellular Research Inc., Clearstream Technologies Group Limited, Clearstream Technologies Limited, Clontech Laboratories Inc, Corporativo BD de Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Cubex, Cytopeia, DLD (Bermuda) Ltd., DVL Acquisition Sub Inc., Davol Inc., Davol International Limited, Davol Surgical Innovations S.A. de C.V., Difco Laboratories Incorporated, Distribuidora BD Mexico S.A. de C.V., Dutch American Manufacturers (D.A.M.) B.V., Dymax Corporation, Embo Medical Limited, Enturia de Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Enturican Inc., FJ International Inc., FlowCardia Inc., FlowCardia LLC, FlowJo LLC, Franklin Lakes Enterprises L.L.C., GSL Solutions, Gamer Lasertechnik GmbH, GenCell Biosystems, GenCell Biosystems Ltd., GeneOhm Sciences, GeneOhm Sciences Canada ULC, Gentest Corporation, Gesco International Inc., Gesco International LLC, HandyLab Inc, HandyLab Inc., IBD Holdings LLC, Iontophoretics Corporation, JoHome LLC, Kabushiki Kaisha Medicon (Medicon Inc.), Liberator Health and Education Services Inc., Liberator Health and Wellness Inc., Liberator Medical Holdings Inc., Liberator Medical Supply Inc., LifeBond, Limited Liability Company Bard Rus, Loma Vista Medical Inc., Loma Vista Medical LLC, Lutonix Inc., Med-Design Corporation, Med-Design Investment Holdings Inc., Med-Safe Systems Inc., MedChem Products Inc., Medafor Inc., Medegen LLC, Medinservice.com Inc., Medivance Inc., NAT Diagnostics, NAT Diagnostics Inc., NOW Medical Distribution Inc., NOW Medical Distribution LLC, Navarre Biomedical LLC, Navarre Biomedical Ltd., Neomend Inc., Nippon Becton Dickinson Company Ltd., Omega Biosystems Incorporated, P.R.C. (Isialys) Societe a responsabilitie limitee (Societe a associe unique), PT Becton Dickinson Indonesia, PharMingen, PreAnalytiX GmbH, Pristine Access Technologies Inc., ProSeed Inc., Procesos para Esterilizacion S.A. de C.V., Productos Bard de Mexico S.A. de C.V., Productos Para el Cuidado de la Salud S.A. de C.V., Puls Medical Devices AS LC, PureWick Corporation, Roberts Laboratories Inc., Rochester Medical Corporation, Rochester Medical Ltd., Saf-T-Med, Safety Syringes, Safety Syringes Inc., Sendal S.L.U., SenoRx Inc., SenoRx LLC, Shield Healthcare Centers Inc., Sirigen, Sirigen II Limited, Sirigen Inc., Sistemas Medicos ALARIS S.A. de C.V., Specialized Cooperative Corporation, Specialized Health Products Inc., Specialized Health Products International Inc., Specialized Health Products International LLC, Staged Diabetes Management LLC, Straub Medical, Straub Medical AG, Surgical Site Solutions Inc., TVA Medical, TVA Medical Inc., Tepha, Tepha Inc., Tri-County Medical & Ostomy Supplies Inc., TriPath Imaging, TriPath Imaging Inc., Vas-Cath Incorporated, Vascular Pathways Inc., Velano Vascular, Velano Vascular Inc., Venetec International Inc., Venetec International LLC, Y-Med Inc., Y-Med LLC, and ZebraSci Inc..
The following companies are subsidiares of Fidelity National Information Services: 11601 Roosevelt Boulevard Realty LLC, AFSF II AIV Investors D-LP, AGES Participacoes Ltda., AKC Insurance Company LLC, Advanced Portfolio Technologies Ltd., Alphakinetic Ltd., Armed Forces Financial Network LLC, AssetExchange, Automated Securities Clearance LLC, Best Payment Solutions Inc., Bibit Spain S.L., Bitpay Payments KK, C&E Holdings Luxembourg S.a.r.l., CPRS Holdings Inc., Canadian Envoy Technology Services Ltd., Capco, Central Credit Services Limited, Certegy Canada Company, Certegy Card Services B.V., Certegy Dutch Holdings B.V., Certegy France Limited, Certegy SAS, Certegy UK Holdings B.V., Chex Systems Inc., Clear2Pay, Clear2Pay (Shenzhen) Company Limited, Clear2Pay APAC Pte. Ltd., Clear2Pay APAC Pty Ltd., Clear2Pay BV, Clear2Pay Belgium BV, Clear2Pay China Limited, Clear2Pay France SAS, Clear2Pay Germany GmbH, Clear2Pay Limited, Clear2Pay Nanjing Co. Limited, Clear2Pay Nederland BV, Clear2Pay Poland Sp. z o.o., Clear2Pay Scotland Holdings Limited, Clear2Pay Scotland Limited, Clear2Pay Spain S.l., ClearTwoPay Chile SpA, Complete Payment Recovery Services Inc., Compliance Coach, Credit Management Solutions, Decalog (UK) Limited, Decalog N.V., Envoy Services Bulgaria Limited, Envoy Services Ltd. (Asia) SDn BHD, Envoy Services Pty Ltd., Envoy Services South Africa (Pty) Limited, F.I.S. Systems (Middle East) Limited, FIS (Switzerland) SA, FIS (Tunisia) I SARL, FIS (Tunisia) II SARL, FIS Ambit Holdings Pty Ltd, FIS Apex (International) Limited, FIS Apex (UK) Limited, FIS Asia Pacific Inc., FIS AsiaPacRim Holdings Ltd., FIS Australasia Pty Ltd., FIS AvantGard LLC, FIS Banking Solutions UK Limited, FIS Bilgisayar Hizmetleri Ticaret Limited Sirketi, FIS Brokerage & Securities Services LLC, FIS Business Integration (UK) Limited, FIS Capital Markets UK Limited, FIS Capital Markets US LLC, FIS Card Services (Caribbean) Ltd., FIS Card Services (Thailand) Co. Ltd., FIS Consulting Services (Ireland) Limited, FIS Consulting Services (UK) Limited, FIS Denmark ApS, FIS Derivatives Utility Services (Singapore) Pte. Ltd., FIS Derivatives Utility Services (UK) Limited, FIS Derivatives Utility Services LLC, FIS Energy Solutions Limited, FIS Financial Solutions Canada Inc., FIS Financial Systems (France) SAS, FIS Foundation Inc., FIS GCS LLC, FIS Global Business Solutions India Private Ltd., FIS Global Execution Services (Ireland) Limited, FIS Global Execution Services Limited, FIS Global Holdings S.a.r.l, FIS Global Recovery Services India Private Limited, FIS Global Solutions Philippines Inc., FIS Global Trading (Deutschland) GmbH, FIS Global Trading (Hong Kong) Limited, FIS Global Trading (Iberica) S.L. Unipersonal, FIS Global Trading (Nederland) B.V., FIS Global Trading (Portugal) Unipessoal Lda, FIS Global Trading (Singapore) Pte. Ltd., FIS Global Trading (Suisse) SA, FIS Global Trading (UK) Limited, FIS Healthcare Trustee Limited, FIS Holdings (Germany) GmbH i.L., FIS Holdings Limited, FIS Holdings Mauritius, FIS Insurance Services Limited, FIS International Subsidiaries Holdings Inc., FIS Investment Systems (UK) Limited, FIS Investment Ventures LLC, FIS Investor Services LLC, FIS Japan KK, FIS Kingstar Cayman Islands Limited, FIS Korea Ltd., FIS Management Services LLC, FIS Management Services Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., FIS Pakistan (Private) Limited, FIS Payment Solutions & Services India Private Limited, FIS Payments (Ireland) Limited, FIS Payments (UK) Limited, FIS Pensions Limited, FIS Romania SRL, FIS SG (Italia) S.r.l., FIS SG International Holdings LLC, FIS SG Systems Philippines Inc., FIS Sherwood Systems Limited, FIS Solutions (India) Private Limited, FIS Solutions LLC, FIS Solutions Software (India) Private Limited, FIS Systeme GmbH, FIS Systems (Hong Kong) Limited, FIS Systems (Luxembourg) S.A., FIS Systems (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd., FIS Systems (Singapore) Pte. Ltd., FIS Systems Canada Inc., FIS Systems International LLC, FIS Systems Kenya Limited, FIS Systems Limited, FIS Systems NZ Limited, FIS Systems Pty Ltd, FIS Systems South Africa (Pty) Limited, FIS Systems de Colombia S.A.S., FIS Technology (Beijing) Co. Limited, FIS Technology Services (Poland) Sp. z o.o., FIS Technology Services (Tunisia) SARL, FIS Technology Services Singapore Pte. Ltd., FIS Treasury Systems (Europe) Limited, FIS Treasury Systems (UK) Limited, FIS UK Holdings Limited, FIS Vietnam LLC, FIS Worldpay (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd, FIS Worldpay Jersey Limited, FIS-SG Holding Corp., FNIS Istanbul Danismanlik Limited Sirketi, FV General Partner LLC, Fidelity Holding Ltda., Fidelity Information Services (Hong Kong) Limited, Fidelity Information Services (Iberia) S.L.U., Fidelity Information Services (Israel) Ltd., Fidelity Information Services (South Africa) (Pty) Ltd., Fidelity Information Services (Thailand) Limited, Fidelity Information Services Front Arena AB, Fidelity Information Services GmbH, Fidelity Information Services Holdings B.V., Fidelity Information Services India Private Limited, Fidelity Information Services International Holdings Inc., Fidelity Information Services LLC, Fidelity Information Services Limited, Fidelity Information Services Operations GmbH, Fidelity Information Services SARL, Fidelity Information Services Slovakia s.r.o., Fidelity Information Services de Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Fidelity International Resource Management Inc., Fidelity National Card Services Inc., Fidelity National Global Card Services Inc., Fidelity National Information Services (Netherlands) B.V., Fidelity National Information Services C.V., Fidelity National Information Services Inc., Fidelity National Participacoes e Servicos de Informatica Ltda., Fidelity National Servicos de Tratamento de Documentos e Informatica Ltda., Fidelity National Servicos e Contact Center Ltda., Fidelity Participacoes e Servicos Ltda., Financial Insurance Marketing Group Inc., GL Settle Limited, GL Trade (South Africa) (Proprietary) Limited, GL Trade CMS (Thailand) Limited, GL Trade Software DOO, GL Trade Solutions CMS (Thailand) Limited, Glesia S.r.l., GoCart LLC, Information Services Luxembourg S.a.r.l., Integrity Treasury Solutions Europe Limited, Integrity Treasury Solutions Inc., Integrity Treasury Solutions Limited, Integrity Treasury Solutions Pty Limited, Link2Gov Corp., Memento, Metavante Corporation, Metavante Payment Services LLC, Metavante Technologies Inc, Metavante Technologies Limited, Minorca Corporation NV, Monis Management Limited, Monis Software Limited, NYCE Payments Network LLC, Oshap Software Industries Ltd., Oshap Technologies Ltd., PT FIS Systems Indonesia, PT Fidelity Information Services Indonesia, Panther Holdco 2 Inc., Panther Holdco Inc., Payment Brasil Holdings Ltda., Payment Chile S.A., Payment Trust Limited, Paymetric Inc., Pazien Inc., People's United Merchant Services LLC, Platform Securities Holdings Limited, Platform Securities International Limited, Platform Securities International Nominees Limited, Platform Securities LLP, Platform Securities Nominees Limited, Platform Securities Services Limited, Reech Capital Limited, Reliance Financial Corporation, Reliance Integrated Solutions LLC, Reliance Trust Company, Rocket Partners Holdings LLC, Sanchez Computer Associates Pty Limited, Secondco Limited, Ship Holdco Limited, Ship Luxco 2 S.a.r.l., Ship Luxco 3 S.a.r.l., Ship Midco Limited, Solutions Plus Consulting Services Limited, SunGard, SunGard Data Systems Beijing Co. Ltd., SunGard Global Services (Tunisia) III, SunGard Global Trading (Australia) Pty. Ltd., SunGard India Sales Private Limited, TP Technologies N.V., Tayvin 346 Limited, Transax Limited, Trax BV, Valuelink Information Services Limited, Valutec Card Solutions LLC, Virtus Fund Services, Virtus Group LP, Virtus LP Holdings LLC, Virtus Partners Fund Services Cayman Ltd., Virtus Partners Fund Services Holdings Company, Virtus Partners Fund Services Ireland Limited, Virtus Partners Fund Services Luxembourg S.a.r.l., Virtus Partners Ireland Ltd., Virtus Partners Ltd., Virtus Trade Settlement LLC, WebTone Technologies, Worldpay, Worldpay (HK) Limited, Worldpay (NZ) Limited, Worldpay (UK) Limited, Worldpay AP Ltd., Worldpay Argentina SRL, Worldpay B.V., Worldpay Canada Corporation, Worldpay Cayman Holdings Limited, Worldpay Company LLC, Worldpay Do Brasil Processamento De Pagamentos Ltda., Worldpay Finance Limited, Worldpay Gaming Solutions LLC, Worldpay Governance Limited, Worldpay Group Limited, Worldpay Holdings (Barbados) SRL, Worldpay Holdings Brasil Participacoes Ltda., Worldpay ISO Inc., Worldpay India Private Limited, Worldpay Integrated Payments Canada LLC, Worldpay Integrated Payments LLC., Worldpay Integrated Payments Solutions Inc., Worldpay International Group Limited, Worldpay International Holdings Limited, Worldpay International Limited, Worldpay International Payments Limited, Worldpay International Solutions Limited, Worldpay K.K., Worldpay LLC, Worldpay Latin America Limited, Worldpay Limited, Worldpay Marketing Consulting (Shanghai) Co. Limited, Worldpay Payments (Barbados) SRL, Worldpay Processing Services SRL, Worldpay Pte Ltd., Worldpay Pty Ltd., Worldpay S.a.r.l., Worldpay Services Company, Worldpay Services SRL, Worldpay Solutions SRL, Worldpay Technology Bucharest S.R.L., Worldpay Treasury Solutions SRL, Worldpay US Inc., Worldpay eCommerce LLC, Worldpay eCommerce Limited, Xpede, YES-Secure.com Limited, YESpay International Limited, Zenmonics Inc., Zenmonics Software Private Limited, eFunds Corporation, eFunds Holdings Limited, eFunds International Limited, i DLX International B.V., and mFoundry Inc..
It is fun to say I have a home, said Broussard, who founded the company five years ago in honor of her late dad, a criminal defense attorney. It will be a relief for my customers because oftentimes they are emailing me and they are trying to chase me down and I am all over the city.
iShares S&P 500 ETF's stock was trading at $275.41 on March 11th, 2020 when COVID-19 reached pandemic status according to the World Health Organization. Since then, IVV stock has increased by 71.6% and is now trading at $472.63.

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iShares MSCI India ETF's stock was trading at $28.76 on March 11th, 2020 when Coronavirus reached pandemic status according to the World Health Organization. Since then, INDA stock has increased by 56.8% and is now trading at $45.10.

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Melrose Industries PLC engages in the aerospace, automotive, powder metallurgy, air management, and other industrial businesses in the United Kingdom, rest of Europe, North America, and internationally. Its Aerospace segment provides airframe and engine structures, and electrical interconnection systems for the aerospace industry in civil airframe and defense platforms. The company's Automotive segment designs, develops, manufactures, and integrates driveline technologies; and epowertrains and intelligent all-wheel drive systems. Its Powder Metallurgy segment offers precision automotive components and components for industrial and consumer applications; metal powder for powder metallurgy; and additive manufacturing parts for prototypes. The company's Nortek Air Management segment manufactures and sells ventilation products for the professional remodeling and replacement, residential new construction, and consumer DIY markets. This segment also manufactures and sells split-system and packaged air conditioners, heat pumps, furnaces, air handlers, and parts for the residential replacement and new construction markets; and custom designed and engineered products and systems for non-residential applications. Its Other Industrial segment provides turbo generators, transformers, and switchgears; develops and manufactures security, home automation, and access control technologies for the residential and commercial markets; and designs, manufactures, and distributes ergonomic products for use in a various working, learning, and healthcare environments. The company was formerly known as New Melrose Industries PLC and changed its name to Melrose Industries PLC in November 2015. Melrose Industries PLC was founded in 2003 and is headquartered in London, the United Kingdom.

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iShares MSCI Australia ETF's stock was trading at $17.46 on March 11th, 2020 when COVID-19 reached pandemic status according to the World Health Organization. Since then, EWA stock has increased by 43.2% and is now trading at $25.00.

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For the definitively college-bound, I recommend Paying the Price: College Costs, Financial Aid, and the Betrayal of the American Dream by Sara Goldrick-Rab. It may feel too late, given that these minefields have already been negotiated, but students (and parents) should know why that minefield is laden with so many explosives. It may empower them to advocate for changes to ease their own burdens, as well as that of future graduates.
Och-Ziff Capital Management Group LLC is a publicly owned hedge fund sponsor. The firm provides investment advisory services for its clients. It primarily caters to institutional investors which include pension funds, fund-of-funds, foundations and endowments, corporations and other institutions, private banks and family offices. The firm invests in equity and alternative markets across the world. It employs quantitative and qualitative analysis to make its investments. For its multi-strategy portfolios, the firm employs strategies like convertible and derivative arbitrage, corporate credit, long/short equity special situations, buyout investments, merger arbitrage, private investments, and structured credit. It also invests in real estate and traditional real estate assets including multifamily, office, hotel and retail, loans, portfolio acquisitions, loan pools, operating companies, structured debt products, public securities, and non-traditional real estate assets including gaming, distressed land and residential, cell towers, parking, golf, debt and senior housing. For private equity investments, it considers investments in a variety of special situations that seek to realize value through strategic sales or initial public offerings. The firm typically invests in the energy investments. It prefers to invest in United States. It also manages a buyout fund, Och-Ziff Energy Fund. Och-Ziff Capital Management Group LLC was founded in 1994 and is based New York City with additional offices in Houston, Texas, London, United Kingdom, Hong Kong, Tokyo, Japan, Bangalore, India, Singapore, and Beijing, China.

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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. Ltd., Thermo Fisher Scientific (China) Holding Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific (China-HK) Holding Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific (DE) Holding S.a.r.l., Thermo Fisher Scientific (Ecublens) SARL, Thermo Fisher Scientific (Finance I) B.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific (Finance I) S.a.r.l., Thermo Fisher Scientific (Finance II) S.a.r.l., Thermo Fisher Scientific (Finance III) LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific (Finance III) S.a.r.l., Thermo Fisher Scientific (Fuji) LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific (Guangzhou) Co. Ltd, Thermo Fisher Scientific (Holding II) B.V. & Co. KG, Thermo Fisher Scientific (Hong Kong) Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific (IVGN) B.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific (IVGN) Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific (Johannesburg) (Proprietary) Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific (Mexico City) LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific (Milwaukee) LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific (Mississauga) Inc., Thermo Fisher Scientific (Monterrey) S. De R.L. 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.

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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..
Cenovus Energy Inc., together with its subsidiaries, develops, produces, and markets crude oil, natural gas liquids, and natural gas in Canada, the United States and the Asia Pacific region. The company operates through Oil Sands, Conventional, and Refining and Marketing segments. The Oil Sands segment develops and produces bitumen in northeast Alberta. Its bitumen assets include Foster Creek, Christina Lake, and Narrows Lake, as well as other projects in the early stages of development. The Conventional segment holds assets primarily located in Elmworth-Wapiti, Kaybob-Edson, and Clearwater operating areas of British Columbia and Alberta, as well as various interests in natural gas processing facilities. The Refining and Marketing segment transports and sells crude oil, natural gas, and NGLs. This segment owns a 50% ownership in Wood River and Borger refineries located in the United States; and owns and operates a crude-by-rail terminal in Alberta. Cenovus Energy Inc. was founded in 2009 and is headquartered in Calgary, Canada.

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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.

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After all, Margaret Trudeau, reading from a music stand, spoke critically of her workaholic first husband, Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau and the father of Justin and Alexandre, whom, she said, did not encourage her latent feminism nor her interest in an independent career, forcing her to throw away magazines sent to her by Gloria Steinem and expecting her to play the role of a traditional political wife, a part she was too young and intelligent to play. She did not paint an unbalanced portrait, nor one lacking in affection for her first husband, a brilliant man of his time, she said, and a leader who moved Canada forward. But if you take away the political trappings around this family, youd surely allow that it is rarely easy for any child to listen to one half of a divorced pair of parents describe the failings of another. And yet here they, we, all were.
The following companies are subsidiares of Illinois Tool Works: A V Co 1 Limited, A V Co 2 Limited, A V Co 3 Limited, ACCU-LUBE Manufacturing GmbH - Schmiermittel und -gerate -, AIP/BI Holdings Inc., Accessories Marketing Holding Corp., Advanced Molding Company Inc., Allen Coding GmbH, Allen France SAS, Alpine Automation Limited, Alpine Engineered Products, Alpine Holdings Inc., Alpine Systems Corporation, Anaerobicos S.r.l., AppliChem GmbH, Arylux Hungary Elektromechanikus Alkatreszgyarto Kft, Avery Berkel France, Avery India Limited, Avery Malaysia Sdn Bhd, Avery Weigh Tronix, Avery Weigh-Tronix (Suzhou) Weighing Technology Co. Ltd., Avery Weigh-Tronix Finance Limited, Avery Weigh-Tronix Holdings Limited, Avery Weigh-Tronix International Limited, Avery Weigh-Tronix LLC, Avery Weigh-Tronix Limited, Avery Weigh-Tronix Properties Limited, Azon Limited, B.C. Immo, Beijing Miller Electric Manufacturing Co. Ltd., Berkel (Ireland) Limited, Berrington UK, Brapenta Eletronica Ltda., Brooks Instrument (Shanghai) Co. Ltd, Brooks Instrument B.V., Brooks Instrument GmbH, Brooks Instrument KFT, Brooks Instrument Korea Ltd., Brooks Instrument LLC, Buell Industries Inc., CAPMAX Logistica S.A. de C.V., CCI Realty Company, CFC Europe GmbH, CS (Australia) Pty Limited, CS (Finance) Europe S.a.r.l., CS Mexico Holding Company S DE RL DE CV, CSMTS LLC, Calvia Spolka z Ograniczona Odpowiedzialnosci, Capital Ventures (Australasia) S.a r.l, Capmax Logistica S.A. de C.V., Celeste Industries Corporation, Coeur, Coeur (Shanghai) Medical Appliance Trading Co. Ltd, Coeur Asia Limited, Coeur Holding Company, Coeur Inc., Compagnie Hobart, Compagnie de Materiel et d'Equipements Techniques-Comet, Constructions Isothermiques Bontami C.I.B., Crane Carrier Company, Despatch Industries, Diagraph Corporation Sdn. Bhd, Diagraph ITW Mexico S. de R.L. De C.V., Diagraph Mexico S.A. DE C.V., Dongguan Ark-Les Electric Components Co. Ltd., Dongguan CK Branding Co. Ltd., Dorbyl U.K. (Holdings) Limited, Duo Fast de Espana S.A.U., Duo-Fast Korea Co. Ltd., Duo-Fast LLC, E.C.S. d.o.o., ECS Cable Protection Sp. Zoo, ELRO (Holding) AG, ELRO Grosskuchen GmbH, ELRO-WERKE AG, Elga Skandinavian AS, Elro Group, Eltex-Elektrostatik-Gesellschaft mit beschrankter Haftung, Envases Multipac S.A. de C.V., Eurotec Srl, FEG Investments L.L.C., Fasver, Filtertek, Filtertek De Mexico Holding Inc., Filtertek De Mexico S.A. de C.V., GC Financement SA, Gamko B.V., Gun Hwa Platech (Taicang) Co. Ltd., HOBART Gesellschaft mit beschrankter Haftung, Hartness International, Hobart (Japan) K.K., Hobart Andina S.A.S., Hobart Brothers International Chile Limitada, Hobart Brothers LLC, Hobart Dayton Mexicana S. de R.L. de C.V., Hobart Food Equipment Co. Ltd., Hobart Foster Belgium, Hobart International (Singapore) Pte. Ltd., Hobart Korea LLC, Hobart LLC, Hobart Nederland B.V., Hobart Sales & Service Inc., Hobart Scandinavia ApS, Hobart Techniek B.V., Horis, ILC Investments Holdings Inc., ITW (China) Investment Company Limited, ITW (Deutschland) GmbH, ITW (EU) Holdings Ltd., ITW (European) Finance Co. Ltd., ITW (European) Finance II Co. Ltd., ITW (European) Finance III Co. Ltd., ITW (Ningbo) Components & Fastenings Systems Co. Ltd., ITW AEP LLC, ITW AOC LLC, ITW Aircraft Investments Inc., ITW Alpha Sarl, ITW Ampang Industries Philippines Inc., ITW Appliance Components EOOD, ITW Appliance Components S.A. de C.V., ITW Appliance Components S.r.l.a, ITW Appliance Components d.o.o., ITW Australia Holdings Pty Ltd, ITW Australia Property Holdings Pty Ltd., ITW Australia Pty Ltd, ITW Automotive Components (Chongqing) Co. Ltd., ITW Automotive Components (Langfang) Co. Ltd., ITW Automotive Japan K.K., ITW Automotive Korea LLC, ITW Automotive Parts (Shanghai) Co. Ltd, ITW Automotive Products GmbH, ITW Automotive Products Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., ITW Bailly Comte, ITW Befestigungssysteme GmbH, ITW Belgium, ITW Brazilian Nominee L.L.C., ITW Building Components Group Inc., ITW CER, ITW CP Distribution Center Holland BV, ITW CS (UK) Ltd., ITW Canada Inc., ITW Celeste Inc., ITW Chemical Products Ltda, ITW Chemical Products Scandinavia ApS, ITW Colombia S.A.S., ITW Construction Products (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., ITW Construction Products (Singapore) Pte. Ltd., ITW Construction Products AB, ITW Construction Products AS, ITW Construction Products ApS, ITW Construction Products CZ s.r.o., ITW Construction Products Italy Srl, ITW Construction Products OU, ITW Construction Products OY, ITW Contamination Control (Wujiang) Co. Ltd., ITW Contamination Control B.V., ITW Covid Security Group Inc., ITW DS Investments Inc., ITW DelFast do Brasil Ltda., ITW Delta Sarl, ITW Denmark ApS, ITW Dynatec, ITW Dynatec Adhesive Equipment (Suzhou) Co. Ltd., ITW Dynatec GmbH, ITW Dynatec Kabushiki Kaisha, ITW EAE B.V., ITW EAE Mexico S de RL de CV, ITW EF&C France SAS, ITW EF&C Selb GmbH, ITW Electronic Business Asia Co. Limited, ITW Electronic Components/Products (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., ITW Electronics (Suzhou) Co. Ltd., ITW Epsilon Sarl, ITW Espana S.A., ITW FEG Hong Kong Limited, ITW FEG do Brasil Industria e Comercio Ltda., ITW Fastener Products GmbH, ITW Finance Designated Activity Company, ITW Finance Europe S.A., ITW Fluids and Hygiene Solutions Ltda., ITW Food Equipment Group LLC, ITW France Finance Alpha S.A.S., ITW GH LLC, ITW GSE ApS, ITW GSE Inc., ITW Gamma Sarl, ITW German Management LLC, ITW Global Investments Holdings LLC, ITW Global Investments Holdings Y Compania Sociedad en Comandita por Acciones, ITW Global Investments II Inc., ITW Global Investments Inc., ITW Global Tire Repair Europe GmbH, ITW Global Tire Repair Inc., ITW Global Tire Repair Japan K.K., ITW Graphics (Thailand) Ltd., ITW Graphics Asia Limited, ITW Graphics Italy S.R.L. in liquidazione, ITW Great Britain Investment & Licensing Holding Company, ITW Group France (Luxembourg) S.ar.l., ITW HLP Thailand Co. Ltd., ITW Holding Quimica B.C. S.L. Sole Shareholder Company, ITW Holdings Australia L.P., ITW Holdings I Limited, ITW Holdings II Limited, ITW Holdings III Limited, ITW Holdings IV Limited, ITW Holdings IX Limited, ITW Holdings Inc., ITW Holdings UK, ITW Holdings V Limited, ITW Holdings VI Limited, ITW Holdings VII Limited, ITW Holdings VIII Limited, ITW Holdings X Limited, ITW Holdings XI Limited, ITW Hungary Finance Beta Kft, ITW ILC Holdings I Inc., ITW IPG Investments LLC, ITW Imaden Industria e Comercio Ltda., ITW India Private Limited, ITW International Holdings LLC, ITW Invest Holding GmbH, ITW Ireland Holdings Unlimited Company, ITW Ireland Unlimited Company, ITW Italy Finance Srl, ITW Italy Holding Srl, ITW Japan Ltd., ITW Korea LLC, ITW LLC & Co. KG, ITW Limited, ITW Lombard Holdings Inc., ITW Lys Fusion S.r.l., ITW M FILMS II LLC, ITW MH LLC, ITW Meritex Sdn. Bhd., ITW Metal Fasteners S.L., ITW Mexico Holding Company S. De R.L. de C.V., ITW Mexico Holdings LLC, ITW Morlock GmbH, ITW Mortgage Investments II Inc., ITW Mortgage Investments III Inc., ITW Mortgage Investments IV Inc., ITW Netherlands Administration BV, ITW Netherlands Beta B.V., ITW Netherlands Finance Alpha BV, ITW New Universal LLC, ITW New Zealand, ITW Novadan Sp. Z.o.o., ITW PPF Brasil Adesivos Ltda., ITW Packaging Technology (China) Co. Ltd., ITW Participations S.a r.l., ITW Pension Funds Trustee Company, ITW Performance Plastic (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., ITW Performance Polymers & Fluids Japan Co. Ltd., ITW Performance Polymers & Fluids Korea Limited, ITW Performance Polymers & Fluids OOO, ITW Performance Polymers (Wujiang) Co. Ltd., ITW Performance Polymers ApS, ITW Performance Polymers and Fluids Group FZE, ITW Peru S.A.C., ITW Philippines Holdings LLC, ITW Poly Mex S. de R.L. de C.V., ITW Polymers Sealants North America Inc., ITW Pronovia s.r.o., ITW Pte. Ltd., ITW Qufu Automotive Cooling Systems Co. Ltd., ITW Real Estate Germany GmbH, ITW Residuals III L.L.C., ITW Residuals IV L.L.C., ITW Rivex, ITW SMPI, ITW SPG Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., ITW Simco-Ion (Shenzhen) Co. Ltd., ITW Slovakia s.r.o., ITW Spain Holdings S.L., ITW Specialty Film LLC, ITW Specialty Films France, ITW Specialty Materials (Suzhou) Co. Ltd., ITW Spraytec, ITW Sverige AB, ITW Sweden Holding AB, ITW Test & Measurement Equipment (Shanghai) Co. Ltd, ITW Test & Measurement GmbH, ITW Test and Measurement Italia Srl, ITW Test and Measurement Services Industry and Trade Ltd., ITW Texwipe Philippines Inc., ITW Thermal Films (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., ITW UK, ITW UK Finance Beta Limited, ITW UK Finance Delta Limited, ITW UK Finance Gamma Limited, ITW UK Finance Limited, ITW UK Finance Zeta Ltd., ITW UK II Limited, ITW Universal II LLC, ITW Welding, ITW Welding AB, ITW Welding GmbH, ITW Welding Products B.V., ITW Welding Products Group FZE, ITW Welding Products Group S. DE R.L. De C.V., ITW Welding Products Italy Srl, ITW Welding Products Limited Liability Company, ITW Welding Produtos Para Solgdagem Ltda., ITW Welding Servicios Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., ITW Welding Singapore Pte. Ltd., ITW de France, ITW do Brasil Industrial e Comercial Ltda., Ideal Molding Technologies LLC, Illinois Tool Works (Chile) Limitada, Illinois Tool Works (ITW) Nederland B.V., Illinois Tool Works Norway AS, Impar Comercio E Representacoes Ltda., Industrie Plastic Elsasser GmbH, Inmobiliaria Cit. S.A. de C.F., Innova Temperlite Servicios S.A. de C.V., Innovacion y Transformacion Automotriz S.A. de C.V., Instron (Shanghai) Ltd., Instron (Thailand) Limited, Instron Brasil Equipamentos Cientificos Ltda., Instron Foreign Sales Corp. Limited, Instron France S.A.S., Instron GmbH, Instron Holdings Limited, Instron International Limited, Instron Japan Company Ltd., Instron Korea LLC, International Leasing Company LLC, International Truss Systems Proprietary Limited, Isolenge - ITW Sistemas de Isolamento Termico Ltda., KCPL Mauritius Holdings, Kester, Kester Components (M) Sdn. Bhd., Kleinmann GmbH, Krafft S.L., Loma Systems, Loma Systems (Canada) Inc., Loma Systems BV, Loma Systems sro, Lombard Pressings Limited, Lumex Inc., Lys Fusion Poland Sp. z.o.o., M&C Specialties (Shenzhen) Co. Ltd., M&C Specialties Co., MAGNAFLUX GmbH, MEHB Holdings Limited, MGHG Property LLC, MOA Enterprises Inc, Manufacturing Avancee S.A., Meritex Technology (Suzhou) Co. Ltd., Meurer Verpackungssysteme GmbH, Miller Electric Mfg. LLC, Miller Insurance Ltd., NDT Holding LLC, NOVADAN APS, Norden Olje AB, North Star Imaging Europe, North Star Imaging Inc., Nova Chimica S.r.l., Orbitalum Tools GmbH, PENTA-91 OOO, PR. A. I. Srl, PT ITW Construction Products Indonesia, Pacific Concept Industries Limited (Enping), Panreac Quimica S.L., Paslode Fasteners (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Peerless Machinery Corp., Penta Dnepr LLC, Penta Sever OOO, Penta Volga OOO, Polyrey, Premark FEG L.L.C., Premark HII Holdings LLC, Premark International, Premark International LLC, Prolex Sociedad Anonima, QSA Global Inc., Quimica Industrial Mediterranea S.L., Ramset Fasteners (Hong Kong) Ltd., Rapid Cook LLC, Refrigeration France, S.E.E. Sistemas Industria E Comercio Ltda., ST Mexico Holdings LLC, Sealant Systems International Inc., Sentinel Asia Yuhan Hoesa, Shanghai ITW Plastic & Metal Co. Ltd, Simco (Nederland) B.V., Simco Japan Inc., Societe de Prospection et dInventions Techniques  SPIT, Speedline Holdings I Inc., Speedline Holdings I LLC, Speedline Technologies GmbH, Speedline Technologies Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Speedline Technologies Mexico Services S. de R.L. de C.V., Stokvis Celix Portugal Unipessoal LDA, Stokvis Danmark ApS, Stokvis Holdings S.A.R.L., Stokvis Promi s.r.o, Stokvis Prostick Tapes Private Limited, Stokvis Tapes (Hong Kong) Co. Limited, Stokvis Tapes (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Stokvis Tapes (Shenzhen) Co. Ltd., Stokvis Tapes (Taiwan) Co. Ltd., Stokvis Tapes (Tianjin) Co. Ltd., Stokvis Tapes BVBA, Stokvis Tapes Benelux B.V., Stokvis Tapes Deutschland GmbH, Stokvis Tapes France, Stokvis Tapes Italia s.r.l., Stokvis Tapes Limited, Stokvis Tapes Limited Liability Company, Stokvis Tapes Norge AS, Stokvis Tapes Oy, Stokvis Tapes Polska Sp Z.O.O., Stokvis Tapes Sverige AB, Stolvis Holdings II S.A.R.L., Technopack Industria Comercio Consultoria e Representacoes Ltda., Teknek (China) Limited, Teknek (Japan) Limited, Teksaleco Ltd., The Miller Group Ltd, Thirode Grandes Cuisines Poligny, Tien Tai Electrode (Kunshan) Co. Ltd., Tien Tai Electrode Co. Ltd., Unichemicals Industria e Comercio Ltda., VR-Leasing Sarita GmbH & Co. Immobilien KG, VS European Holdco BV, Valeron Strength Films B.V.B.A., Veneta Decalcogomme S.r.l., Versachem Chile S.A., Vesta, Vesta (Guangzhou) Catering Equipment Co. Ltd, Vesta Global Limited, Viltronics Soltec, Vitronics Soltec B.V., Wachs Canada Ltd., Wachs Subsea LLC, Weigh-Tronix Canada ULC, Weigh-Tronix UK Limited, Wilsonart International Holdings LLC, Wynn Oil (South Africa) (Pty) Ltd., Wynn's Automotive France, Wynn's Belgium BVBA, Wynn's Italia Srl, Wynn's Mekuba India Pvt Ltd, ZF TRW (Engineered Fasteners and Components), and Zip-Pak International B.V..
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..
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 General Motors: 2140879 Ontario Inc., ACAR Leasing, ACAR Leasing Ltd., ACF Investment, ACF Investment Corp., AFS SenSub, APGO Trust, Adam Opel, Adam Opel GmbH, Aftermarket (UK), AmeriCredit, AmeriCredit Consumer Loan, AmeriCredit Consumer Loan Company Inc., AmeriCredit Financial Services, AmeriCredit Financial Services Inc., AmeriCredit Funding, AmeriCredit Syndicated Warehouse Trust, Annunciata Corporation, Argonaut Holdings, Argonaut Holdings LLC, BOCO (Proprietary), BOCO (Proprietary) Limited, Banco GMAC, Banco GMAC S.A., Baylis (Gloucester), Boco Trust, Boden Brussels, CHEVYPLAN, CHEVYPLAN S.A. Sociedad Administradora de Planes de Autofinanciamiento Comercial, Cadillac, Cadillac Europe, Cadillac Europe GmbH, Carve-Out Ownership, Carve-Out Ownership Cooperative LLC, Chevrolet Deutschland GmbH, Chevrolet Sales (Thailand), Chevrolet Sales (Thailand) Limited, Chevrolet Sales India, Chevrolet Sales India Private Ltd., Chevrolet Sociedad Anonima de Ahorro para Fines Determinados, Controladora General Motors, Controladora General Motors S.A. de C.V., Cruise, DCJ1, DCJ1 LLC, DMAX, DMAX Ltd., Dealership Liquidations, Dealership Liquidations Inc., Delphi Energy and Engine Management Systems UK, Delphi Energy and Engine Management Systems UK Overseas Corporation, EDS (Electronic Data Systems), FAW-GM, Fundacion Chevrolet, G.M.A.C., GCAR Titling Ltd., GM (UK) Pension, GM (UK) Pension Trustees Limited, GM APO Holdings, GM Administradora de Bens, GM Administradora de Bens Ltda., GM Asia Pacific Regional Headquarters Ltd., GM Auslandsprojekte, GM Automotive, GM Automotive Services Belgium, GM CME, GM Canada Holdings, GM Canada Limited, GM Components Holdings, GM Components Holdings LLC, GM Cruise, GM Cruise Holdings LLC, GM Cruise LLC, GM Defense, GM Eurometals, GM Eurometals Inc., GM Europe Treasury, GM Finance, GM Finance Co. Holdings LLC, GM Financial, GM Financial AB, GM Financial Canada, GM Financial Canada Leasing, GM Financial Canada Leasing Ltd., GM Financial Colombia Holdings LLC, GM Financial Colombia S.A. Compania de Financiamiento, GM Financial Consumer, GM Financial Consumer Discount, GM Financial Consumer Discount Company, GM Financial Del Peru, GM Financial GmbH, GM Financial Holdings LLC, GM Financial Insurance Services, GM Financial Mexico Holdings, GM Financial Mexico Holdings LLC, GM Financial Real Estate, GM Financial de Mexico, GM Financial de Mexico S.A. de C.V. SOFOM E.R., GM Financial del Peru S.A.C, GM Global Business Services, GM Global Propulsion Systems -Torino S.r.l., GM Global Purchasing and Supply Chain, GM Global Technology Operations, GM Global Technology Operations LLC, GM Global Tooling, GM Global Tooling Company LLC, GM Global Treasury Centre Limited, GM Holden, GM Holden Pty Ltd., GM Holdings U.K. No.1 Limited, GM Inversiones Santiago Limitada, GM Investment Trustees Limited, GM Korea, GM Korea Company, GM LAAM Holdings, GM LAAM Holdings LLC, GM Mexico Holdings, GM Mobility Europe GmbH, GM PSA Purchasing Services, GM Personnel Services, GM Personnel Services Inc., GM Philippines Inc., GM Plats (Proprietary), GM Regional Holdings, GM Regional Holdings LLC, GM Retirees Pension Trustees, GM Retirees Pension Trustees Limited, GM Subsystems Manufacturing, GM Subsystems Manufacturing LLC, GM Technical Center Korea Ltd., GM Viet Nam Motor Company, GM-DI Leasing, GM-DI Leasing LLC, GMAC - Instituicao Financeira de Credito, GMAC Administradora de Consorcios, GMAC Administradora de Consorcios Ltda., GMAC Banque, GMAC Continental, GMAC Espana de Financiacion, GMAC Holdings (U.K.), GMAC Lease B.V. (aka Masterlease Europe), GMAC Nederland N.V., GMAC Prestadora de Servicios de Mao de Obra Ltda., GMAC Servicios, GMAC UK, GMAC de Venezuela, GMAC-Prestadora de Servios de Mo-de-Obra, GMACI Corretora de Seguros, GMACI Corretora de Seguros Ltda, GMAM Real Estate I, GMCH&SP Private Equity II, GMCH&SP Private Equity II L.P., GMF Australia Pty Ltd, GMF Europe, GMF Europe Holdco, GMF Europe LLP, GMF Floorplan Owner Revolving Trust, GMF Funding, GMF Germany Holdings, GMF Global Assignment, GMF Global Assignment LLC, GMF International, GMF International LLC, GMF Leasing LLC, GMF Leasing Warehousing Trust, GMF Wholesale Receivables, GMGP Holdings, General Motors (China) Investment Company, General Motors (China) Investment Company Limited, General Motors (Thailand), General Motors (Thailand) Limited, General Motors - Colmotores, General Motors - Colmotores S.A., General Motors Advisory Services LLC, General Motors Africa and Middle East, General Motors Africa and Middle East FZE, General Motors Asia, General Motors Asia LLC, General Motors Asia Pacific Holdings, General Motors Asia Pacific Holdings LLC, General Motors Asset Management, General Motors Asset Management Corporation, General Motors Australia, General Motors Australia Pty Ltd., General Motors Austria, General Motors Austria, General Motors Auto, General Motors Auto LLC, General Motors Automobiles Philippines, General Motors Automobiles Philippines Inc., General Motors Automotive Holdings, General Motors Automotive Holdings S.L., General Motors Belgique Automobile NV, General Motors Belgium, General Motors Chile, General Motors Chile Industria Automotriz Limitada, General Motors China LLC, General Motors Daewoo Auto and Technology, General Motors Daewoo Auto and Technology CIS LLC, General Motors East Africa, General Motors Egypt, General Motors Egypt S.A.E., General Motors Espana, General Motors Europe Holdings, General Motors Europe Limited, General Motors Financial Chile, General Motors Financial Chile Limitada, General Motors Financial Chile S.A., General Motors Financial Company, General Motors Financial Company Inc., General Motors Financial International, General Motors Financial Italia, General Motors Financial Suisse, General Motors Financial UK, General Motors Financial of Canada, General Motors Financial of Canada Ltd., General Motors Finland, General Motors France, General Motors GBS Hungary, General Motors Global Service Operations, General Motors Global Service Operations Inc., General Motors Hellas, General Motors Holden Australia, General Motors Holden Australia NSC, General Motors Holden Australia NSC Pty Ltd., General Motors Holden Australia Pty Ltd., General Motors Holdings LLC, General Motors IT Services (Ireland) Limited, General Motors India Private, General Motors India Private Limited, General Motors International Holdings, General Motors International Holdings LLC, General Motors International Operations, General Motors International Operations Pte. Ltd., General Motors International Services Company, General Motors International Services Company SAS, General Motors International Services LLC, General Motors Investment Limited, General Motors Investment Management, General Motors Investment Management Corporation, General Motors Investment Participacoes, General Motors Investment Participacoes Ltda., General Motors Investments, General Motors Investments Pty. Ltd., General Motors Ireland, General Motors Israel, General Motors Israel Ltd., General Motors Italia, General Motors Japan, General Motors Japan Limited, General Motors LLC, General Motors Limited, General Motors Manufacturing Poland, General Motors Nederland, General Motors New Zealand Pensions, General Motors New Zealand Pensions Limited, General Motors Overseas, General Motors Overseas Commercial Vehicle, General Motors Overseas Commercial Vehicle Corporation, General Motors Overseas Corporation, General Motors Overseas Distribution, General Motors Overseas Distribution LLC, General Motors Peru, General Motors Peru S.A., General Motors Poland Spolka, General Motors Portugal, General Motors Powertrain (Thailand), General Motors Powertrain (Thailand) Limited, General Motors Research Corporation, General Motors South Africa, General Motors South Africa (Pty) Limited, General Motors Suisse, General Motors Taiwan, General Motors Taiwan Ltd., General Motors Technical Centre India, General Motors Technical Centre India Private Limited, General Motors Treasury Center, General Motors Treasury Center LLC, General Motors Turkiye, General Motors UK, General Motors Uruguay, General Motors Uruguay S.A., General Motors Venezolana, General Motors Ventures, General Motors Ventures LLC, General Motors Warehousing and Trading (Shanghai), General Motors Warehousing and Trading (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., General Motors de Argentina, General Motors de Argentina S.r.l., General Motors de Mexico, General Motors de Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., General Motors del Ecuador, General Motors del Ecuador S.A., General Motors do Brasil, General Motors do Brasil Ltda., General Motors of Canada, General Motors of Canada Company, General Motors-Holden's Sales, General Motors-Holden's Sales Pty. Limited, GigaPower LLC, Global Services Detroit, Global Services Detroit LLC, Global Tooling Service Company Europe, Global Tooling Service Company Europe Limited, Go Motor Retailing, Go Trade Parts, Grand Pointe Holdings, Grand Pointe Holdings Inc., Grand Pointe Park Condominium, Grand Pointe Park Condominium Association, H.S.H., Haines & Strange, Holden New Zealand, Holden New Zealand Limited, IBC Pension Trustees, IBC Pension Trustees Limited, IBC Vehicles, Lease Ownership Cooperative, Lease Ownership Cooperative LLC, Lidlington Engineering Company, Lidlington Engineering Company Ltd., Limited Liability Company "General Motors CIS", Master Lease Germany, Maven Drive, Maven Drive LLC, Millbrook Pension Management, Millbrook Pension Management Limited, Monetization of Carve-Out, Monetization of Carve-Out LLC, Motor Repris Automocio, Motors Holding, Motors Holding LLC, Motors Properties, Motors Properties (Trading), Multi-Use Lease Entity Trust, North American New Cars, North American New Cars LLC, Omnibus BB Transportes, Omnibus BB Transportes S. A., OnStar Connected Services Srl, OnStar Egypt Limited LLC, OnStar Europe, OnStar Europe Ltd., OnStar Global Services, OnStar Global Services Corporation, OnStar LLC, OnStar de Mexico, OnStar de Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Opel Bank, Opel Danmark, Opel Group, Opel Group Warehousing, Opel Leasing, Opel Norge, Opel Sonderdienste, Opel Southeast Europe, Opel Sverige, Opel Szentgotthard Automotive Manufacturing, Opel Wien, P.T. G M AutoWorld Indonesia, P.T. General Motors Indonesia, PIMS, PIMS Co., PT. General Motors Indonesia Manufacturing, Pan Asia Technical Automotive Center, Pan Asia Technical Automotive Center Company Ltd., Prestadora de Servicios GMF Colombia S.A.S., Rapid Motor Vehicle Company, Reliance Motor Car Company, Riverfront Holdings III Inc., Riverfront Holdings Inc., Riverfront Holdings Phase II Inc., SAIC GM (Shenyang) Norsom Motors Co. Ltd., SAIC GM Dong Yue Motors Company Limited, SAIC GM Dong Yue Powertrain Company Limited, SAIC GM Wuling Automobile Company Limited, SAIC General Motors Corporation Limited, SAIC General Motors Investment Limited, SAIC General Motors Sales Company Limited, SAIC-GMAC Automotive Finance Company Limited, SAIC-GMF Leasing Co. Ltd., Servicios GMAC S.A. de C.V., Shanghai Chengxin Used Car Operation and Management Company Limited, Shanghai OnStar Telematics Co. Ltd., Sherwoods (Darlington) Limited, Sidecar Technologies, Skurrays Limited, Stam-Terberg Autobedrijven B. V., Strobe Inc., VHC Sub-Holdings (UK), Vauxhall Defined Contribution Pension Plan Trustees Limited, Vehicle Asset Universal Leasing Trust, Vickers (Lakeside) Limited, Vision Motors Limited, WRE, WRE Inc., and Zona Franca Industrial Colmotores SAS.
The following companies are subsidiares of Tesco: Adminstore Limited, Adsega Limited, Alfred Preedy & Sons (Trustees) Limited, Alfred Preedy & Sons Limited, Anthony Heagney Limited, Arena (Jersey) Management Limited, Armitage Finance Unlimited, Armitage Luxembourg s.? r.l., BLT Holdings 2010 Limited, Bath Upper Bristol Road Management, Bedminster Estates Limited, Beehythe Estates limited, Berry Lane Management Company Limited, Blinkbox Books Limited, BlinxBox, Booker Group, Brian Fords Discount Store Limited, Broadfields Management Limited, Brookmaker (GP) Limited, Broughton Retail Park Nominee 1 Limited, Broughton Retail Park Nominee 2 Limited, Broughton Retail Park Nominee 3 Limited, Broughton Retail Park Nominee 4 Limited, Buckingham Road (Bletchley) Management Company Limited, Bugden Ltd, Buttoncable Limited, Buttoncase Limited, Canterbury Road Management Limited, Cardiff Cathays Terrace Management Company Limited, Careneed News Limited, Cheshunt Finance Unlimited, Cheshunt Holdings Guernsey Limited, Cheshunt Hungary Servicing Limited Liability Company, Cheshunt Luxembourg S.? r.l., Cheshunt Overseas LLP, China Property Holdings (HK) Limited, Chirac Limited, Cirrus Finance (2009) Limited, Cirrus Finance Limited, Cirrus Luxembourg s.? r.l., Clarepharm Limited, Clondalkin Properties Limited, Comar Limited, Commercial Investments Limited, Crazy Prices, Crest Ostrava a.s, Cullens Holdings Limited, Cullens Stores Limited, Daily Wrap Produce Limited, Day And Nite Stores Limited, Delamare Cards Holdco Limited, Delamare Cards MTN Issuer plc, Delamare Finance PLC, Delamare Group Holdings Limited, Delamare Holdings BV Netherlands, Delamare Luxembourg s.? r.l. Luxembourg, Delamare One Limited, Dunnhumby Ventures LLC, ELH Insurance Limited, Edinburgh Butterfly Farm Limited, Edson Investments Limited, Edson Properties Limited, Ek-Chai Distribution System Co. Ltd., Euphorium (London) Limited, Euphorium (North London) Limited, Euphorium Group Limited, Euphorium IP Limited, Europa Foods Limited, Faraday Properties Limited, Flitwick Pharmacies Limited, Food & Wine Lovers Limited, Forum Liberec s.r.o, Freds Food Construction Limited, Freehold and Leasehold Property Fund, Gain Land Limited, Genesis sp. z o.o., Gibbs News Limited, Gibbs Newsagents Limited, Gida Sanayi A.S., Giraffe, Giraffe Cafe Limited, Giraffe Concepts Limited, Golden Island Management Services Limited, HIT hypermarket Sp. z o. o., Halesworth SPV Limited, Harris and Hoole Holdings Limited, Harris and Hoole Limited, Harris and Hoole Nominees Limited, Homeplus, Hymall Co. Ltd., J E Properties Holdings Limited, Jasper Sp. z o. o. Poland, KSS Retail Limited, Kabaty Investments Tesco (Polska) Sp. z o. o. Sp.k, Kingsway Fresh Foods Ltd, Koxka Hungary Refrigeration LLC, Launchgrain Limited, Launchtable Limited, Laws Stores Limited, Lazada Group S.A., Lee (Southern) Limited, Lek?ren? Tesco Bansk? Bystrica k.s. Slovakia Limited Partnership, Lek?ren? Tesco Dunajsk? Streda k.s. Slovakia Limited Partnership, Lek?ren? Tesco Ko?ice k.s. Slovakia Limited Partnership, Lek?ren? Tesco Lama k.s. Slovakia Limited Partnership, Lek?ren? Tesco Nitra k.s. Slovakia Limited Partnership, Lek?ren? Tesco Petr?alka k.s. Slovakia Limited Partnership, Lek?ren? Tesco Pie?tany k.s. Slovakia Limited Partnership, Lek?ren? Tesco Pre?ov Vukov k.s. Slovakia Limited Partnership, Lek?ren? Tesco Senec k.s. Slovakia Limited Partnership, Lek?ren? Tesco Spi?sk? Nov? Ves k.s. Slovakia Limited Partnership, Lek?ren? Tesco Trenc??n s.r.o. Slovakia Limited Partnership, Lek?ren? Tesco Zlat? Piesky k.s. Slovakia Limited Partnership, Lek?ren? Tesco Zvolen k.s. Slovakia Limited Partnership, Linebush III Holdings Limited, Linebush III Limited, Linebush IV Limited, Linebush Limited, Linebush V Limited, London and Home Counties Superstores Limited, Lowfoods Limited, M & W Limited, Merrion Shopping Centre Ltd, Mills (East Midlands) Limited, Mills (West Midlands) Limited, Mills Group Holdings Limited, Mills Group Limited, Mobcast Services, Monread Developments Limited, Morgam Holdings Limited, Morgam News Limited, Motorcause Limited, NPL (Hardgate) Limited, Nabola Development Limited, NutriCentre Limited, OC FORUM Liberec Ltd., Oakwood Distribution Limited, Obchodn? dom Bratislava s.ro, Obchodn? dom Ko?ice s.ro., Obchodn? dom Nitra s.ro., Obchodn? dom Pre?ov s.ro., Old FEHC Inc., Old FEPC LLC, One Stop Community Stores Ltd, One Stop Convenience Stores Limited, One Stop Stores Limited, One Stop Stores Trustee Services Limited, Orpingford, Orpington (Station Road) Limited, Oxford Fox and Hounds Management Company Limited, PEJ Property Developments Limited, Paper Chain (East Anglia) Limited, Pharaway Properties Limited, Power Supermarkets Limited, Premier Garage (Worthing) Limited, Pulford Foods Limited, R.J.D. Holdings, Retail Property Co. Ltd, S Bottomley & Bros Limited, Sanders Supermarkets Limited, Sandtable Limited, Sarcon (No. 239) Limited, Seacroft Green Nominee 1 Limited, Seacroft Green Nominee 2 Limited, Shire Park Limited, Shuke Advertising (Shanghai) Co. Ltd, Snowman Retail 1 Limited, Snowman Retail 2 Limited, Sociomantic AB, Sociomantic Labs B.V, Sociomantic Labs Inc, Sociomantic Labs Internet Hizmetleri Limited ?ireketi, Sociomantic Labs LLC, Sociomantic Labs Limited, Sociomantic Labs Private Limited, Sociomantic Labs Pte Ltd, Sociomantic Labs S.r.l, Sociomantic Labs SARL, Sociomantic Labs Servicos Web Ltda, Sociomantic Labs Sp.z.o.o., Sociomantic Labs s.r.o., Sociomantic S.L.U., Sociomantic labs GmbH, Spen Hill Developments (Holdings) Ltd, Spen Hill Developments (Portishead) Ltd, Spen Hill Developments (Tonbridge) Limited, Spen Hill Developments Limited, Spen Hill Management Limited, Spen Hill Properties (Holdings) plc, Spen Hill Properties (Southend) Limited, Spen Hill Regeneration Limited, Spen Hill Residential No 1 Limited, Spen Hill Residential No 2 Limited, Station House Welling Management Limited, Statusfloat Limited, Stewarts Supermarkets Limited, Streatham Management Company Limited, T & S Management Services Limited, T & S Properties Limited, T & S Stores Limited, TESCO (POLSKA) sp. z o.o., TESCO Akad?mia K?pz?si ?s Fejleszt?si Kor?tolt Felelss?g T?rsas?g, TESCO MOBILE POLSKA SP. Z O.O., TESCO STORES SR a.s., Tapesilver Limited, Teesport (GP) Limited, Teesport (Nominee) Limited, Telegraph Properties (Kirkby) Limited, Tesco (Foxtrot 1) Limited, Tesco (Foxtrot 2) Limited, Tesco (Fujian) Industry Limited, Tesco (Jersey) Limited, Tesco (Overseas) Ltd, Tesco (Yorkshire) Limited, Tesco Aqua (1LP) Limited, Tesco Aqua (3LP) Limited, Tesco Aqua (FinCo1) Limited, Tesco Aqua (FinCo2) Limited, Tesco Aqua (GP) Limited, Tesco Aqua (Nominee 1) Limited, Tesco Aqua (Nominee 2) Limited, Tesco Aqua (Nominee Holdco) Limited, Tesco Atrato (1LP) Limited, Tesco Atrato (GP) Limited, Tesco Barbers Wood Limited, Tesco Bengaluru Private Limited, Tesco Blue (1LP) Limited, Tesco Blue (FinCo2) Limited, Tesco Blue (GP) Limited, Tesco Blue (Nominee 1) Limited, Tesco Blue (Nominee 2) Limited, Tesco Blue (Nominee Holdco) Limited, Tesco Capital No. 1 Limited, Tesco Capital No. 2 Limited, Tesco Card Services Limited, Tesco Card Services Limited, Tesco Card Services Ltd., Tesco Chile Sourcing Limitada, Tesco Coral (GP) Limited, Tesco Corporate Treasury Services PLC, Tesco Depot Propco Limited, Tesco Distribution Holdings Limited, Tesco Distribution Limited, Tesco Dorney (1LP) Limited, Tesco Dorney (GP) Limited, Tesco Dystrybucja Sp. z.o.o., Tesco EU IT Services s.r.o., Tesco Employees Share Scheme Trustees Limited, Tesco Estates Limited, Tesco Europe B.V. Netherlands, Tesco Family Dining Limited, Tesco Food Sourcing Brazil Representa??o De Servi?os Ltda., Tesco Food Sourcing Limited, Tesco Foundation (Nadacia Tesco), Tesco Freetime Limited, Tesco Fuchsia (1LP) Limited, Tesco Fuel Limited, Tesco Global Employment Company Limited, Tesco Guangdong (HK) Co. Limited, Tesco High Beech Limited, Tesco Holdings BV, Tesco Holdings Limited, Tesco Home Shopping Limited, Tesco Hungary (Holdings) Limited, Tesco International Franchising s.r.o., Tesco International Internet Retailing Limited, Tesco International Services Limited, Tesco International Sourcing Limited, Tesco Ireland Holdings Limited, Tesco Ireland Limited, Tesco Ireland Pension Trustees Limited, Tesco Jade (GP) Limited, Tesco Joint Buying Service (Shanghai) Co Limited, Tesco Kipa Kitle Pazarlama Ticaret Lojistik ve, Tesco Kirkby (General Partner) Limited, Tesco Kirkby (LP) Limited, Tesco Kirkby (Nominee 1) Limited, Tesco Kirkby (Nominee 2) Limited, Tesco Kirkby (Nominee Holdco) Limited, Tesco Kirkby (Unitholder 1) Limited, Tesco Kirkby (Unitholder2) Limited, Tesco Lagoon GP Limited, Tesco Licences Limited, Tesco Lotus Retail Growth, Tesco Lotus Retail Growth Freehold and Leasehold Property Fund, Tesco Maintenance Limited, Tesco Mauritius Holdings Limited, Tesco Mobile (Thailand) Co. Ltd., Tesco Mobile CR s.r.o., Tesco Mobile Communications Limited, Tesco Mobile Ireland Limited, Tesco Mobile Ireland Limited, Tesco Mobile Limited, Tesco Mobile Services Limited, Tesco Mobile Slovakia s.r.o, Tesco Mobile Slovakia s.r.o., Tesco Mobile CR, Tesco Nanjing Zhongshan, Tesco Nanjing Zhongshan (HK) Co. Limited, Tesco Navona (1LP) Limited, Tesco Navona (GP) Limited, Tesco Navona (Nominee 1) Limited, Tesco Navona (Nominee 2) Limited, Tesco Navona (Nominee Holdco) Limited, Tesco Navona PL Propco Limited, Tesco Opticians Limited, Tesco Overseas (Holdings) Limited, Tesco Overseas Investments Limited, Tesco Overseas ULC, Tesco Passaic (1LP) Limited, Tesco Passaic (GP) Limited, Tesco Passaic (Nominee 1) Limited, Tesco Passaic (Nominee 2) Limited, Tesco Passaic (Nominee Holdco) Limited, Tesco Passaic PL Propco Limited, Tesco Pension (Jade) Limited, Tesco Pension Investment Limited, Tesco Pension Trustees Limited, Tesco Personal Finance, Tesco Personal Finance Compare Limited, Tesco Personal Finance Group Limited, Tesco Property (No.1) Limited, Tesco Property (Nominees) (No.1) Limited, Tesco Property (Nominees) (No.2) Limited, Tesco Property (Nominees) Limited, Tesco Property A.S., Tesco Property Finance 1 Holdco Limited, Tesco Property Finance 1 PLC, Tesco Property Holdings (No. 2) Limited, Tesco Property Holdings Limited, Tesco Property Limited, Tesco Property Nominees (No.5) Limited, Tesco Property Nominees (No.6) Limited, Tesco Property Partner (GP No.2) Limited, Tesco Property Partner (GP) Limited, Tesco Property Partner (No.1) Limited, Tesco Property Partner (No.2) Limited, Tesco Red (1LP) Limited, Tesco Red (GP) Limited, Tesco Red (Nominee 2) Limited, Tesco Red (Nominee Holdco) Limited, Tesco Sarum (1LP) Limited, Tesco Sarum (GP) Limited, Tesco Seacroft Limited, Tesco Secretaries Limited, Tesco Services Limited, Tesco Sourcing India Private Limited, Tesco Stores (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd, Tesco Stores (Thailand) Ltd, Tesco Stores CR a.s., Tesco Stores Limited, Tesco Technology Services HK Limited, Tesco Treasury Services PLC, Tesco Trustee Company of Ireland Limited, Tesco Underwriting Limited, Tesco Vin Plus SA, Tesco Worldwide Limited, Tesco for Thais Foundation, Tesco-Global Stores Privately Held Co. Ltd, Tesco.Com Limited, The Brookmaker Limited Partnership, The Teesport Limited Partnership Limited Partnership, The Tesco Aqua Limited Partnership Limited Partnership, The Tesco Atrato Limited Partnership, The Tesco Blue Limited Partnership Limited Partnership, The Tesco Coral Limited Partnership, The Tesco Dorney Limited Partnership, The Tesco Kirkby Limited Partnership Limited Partnership, The Tesco Navona Limited Partnership Limited Partnership, The Tesco Passaic Limited Partnership Limited Partnership, The Tesco Property (No.2) Limited Partnership, The Tesco Red Limited Partnership, The Tesco Sarum Limited Partnership, Trent Hypermarket Private Limited, Trigger Retail Ltd, Valiant Insurance Company DAC, Value House Properties Limited, Variable Preference, Ventnor High Street Management Company Limited, Verulam Properties (2001) Limited, Verulam Properties Limited, Victoria BB Sp z.o.o., WE7, WSC Properties Limited, Wanze Properties (Dundalk) Limited, Weymouth Avenue (Dorchester) Limited, Whitecastle Properties Limited, Wm. Low Supermarkets Limited, Woolwich Central Residents Management Company Limited, Worple Road Plc, Xiamen Firste Property Limited, Xiamen Firste Property Limited, aAcklam Management Company Limited, dunnhumby (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd, dunnhumby (Thailand) Limited, dunnhumby Canada Limited, dunnhumby Consulting Services India Private Limited, dunnhumby Czech s.r.o., dunnhumby Employment Company Limited, dunnhumby Holding Limited, dunnhumby Hungary Kft, dunnhumby IT Services India Private Limited, dunnhumby Inc, dunnhumby International Limited, dunnhumby Ireland Limited, dunnhumby Italia Srl., dunnhumby Limited, dunnhumby Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., dunnhumby Netherlands B.V., dunnhumby Norge A.S., dunnhumby Overseas Limited, dunnhumby Poland Sp z.o.o, dunnhumby Slovakia s.r.o., dunnhumby South Africa (Pty) Ltd, dunnhumby Trustees Limited, and dunnuhumby.
Its great, easy access up and down 29 and there is never a crazy amount of traffic. Its a very relaxed atmosphere, Wright said.

Wright said U.S. 29 is growing slowly, but surely with new restaurants and places to stay overnight, along with the craft beverage businesses.

Things are slowly building around here and we want to encourage that, Wright said.

Lindsay Dorrier, president of the Nelson 151 group, said that group had been discussing integrating some of the businesses along U.S. 29 into the Nelson 151 trail for a few years. Then, last summer and into early fall, Craun approached them and started discussing a separate Nelson 29 trail.

We have seen positive results Nelson 151 has created, so we thought it was appropriate to help Nelson 29 get off the ground, Dorrier said.

Dorrier said the beverage trails will help to attract people from all over.

We want folks to come and spend not just a day, but a weekend and come back multiple times to enjoy all Nelson has to offer, Dorrier said.
Host Teri Barr talks with Sally French, a Travel Expert for NerdWallet, to learn why it's important not to be a Scrooge as you travel this holiday season. Sally shares some great tried-and-true tips, along with a few new tricks to help you stress less during your holiday travels (or anytime). You can read more at NerdWallet: "How to Be a 5-Star Traveler This Holiday Season" See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The alert described the suspect as a black man with a medium complexion, who was thin but with an athletic build. Police said he did not have any facial hair, was between 28 and 30 years old, standing between 5-foot-10 and 6 foot tall. Police didnt provide a detailed clothing description, but noted he wore a black jacket and black pants.
We do a screening to determine that this center and this level of care is appropriate for their needs, because what we dont want is a woman who has a higher or more acute or a medical need to come there and be at risk, or that really shes in recovery more than the other folks in the center, she said.

Wood said theyve heard positive feedback from the women who have stayed at the center.

Some days are hard, but those stories really help us keep at it, and doing this is important work for making sure folks have what they need to be able to live in recovery, she said.

The center also has peer recovery specialists whom Banks said were inspiring, and she wants to potentially be one in the future.

The clinicians are very helpful  they know a lot and theyre really smart, but its a whole different perspective from someone whos been through it and done some of the things youve done, she said. And then seeing how they came out and still got their degrees, or whatever they decided to do after, and be successful.
She said that economic opportunity goes with economic development, and that can be started at the county level with a living wage.

We can provide $15 an hour, a living wage, the same thing [the University of Virginia] does, and thats something that will help everybody who works at the county level, she said.

On the topic of affordable housing, LaPisto Kirtley said she would like to see a permanent affordable housing fund and tax reimbursements for developers who provide affordable housing

Another way to address it, if we do have a permanent affordable housing fund, is to make sure that we buy up those properties when they do become available and put those as part of our stock of affordable housing, she said.

Smith said the county has to be open to multiple approaches, and he wanted to explore land trusts, work on public transportation around the urban ring and examine zoning policies.

Are our zoning policies really reflective of where we want to be in the future? he asked.
The relationship between United States history and law is complicated  and something distinguished University of Virginia professor G. Edward White has devoted years to examining in his Law in American History book series.

Though initially intended to only be a single volume, White said he soon realized he couldnt properly examine the connections between law and U.S. history in a single book. Instead, he decided to divide the series into three volumes: the first covering the Colonial era to the Civil War; the second from Reconstruction through the 1920s; and the final volume, which was published recently, stretching from 1930 to 2000.

White said he was approached by the Oxford Press to write a book on the history of American law from his perspective, which differs from a popular one that posits that law is a mirror of society.

The generally accepted thought is that issues and events put pressure on the law, forcing it to respond and change, White said. However, through his research, White said he has come to think that the relationship between law and history is more complex than that.
A portion of the trail remains closed while an investigation continues. The Virginia State Police, the U.S. Forest Service and the FBI are cooperating with the Wythe County Sheriffs Office.

Dunagan said authorities are trying to determine whether anyone else was attacked. There were no such confirmed cases by late Saturday afternoon, but the sheriff said teams were still out on the trail.

None of the people involved in the incident had local addresses, Dunagan said. He declined to say whether the two victims were admitted to a hospital or what their conditions are.

The trail was closed Saturday from Virginia 16 at the Mt. Rogers National Recreational Area headquarters north to Virginia 42 near Groseclose  an approximately 24-mile stretch, according to a post from the Appalachian Trail Conservancy on its Facebook page.

According to the post, the closure was due to ongoing incidents under investigation by the U.S. Forest Service.

Anyone with relevant information was urged to contact the Wythe County Sheriffs Office at 276-223-6000.

Late Saturday, federal authorities were preparing to charge the suspect in the case, Dunagan said.
Schools that lack resources and do not receive necessary assistance from the state are less able to provide the pay and supports that attract and retain teachers. It is no wonder, then, that the vast majority of teachers believe inequity of school funding is a big problem and that more resources should be directed to hard-to-staff schools. Teachers also identify financial incentives for teachers serving hard-to-staff schools as one of the most effective recruitment strategies.

Meanwhile, Virginia has received an "F" on a national report for the fairness of our funding distribution  spending more in our schools with low poverty than in schools with the highest child poverty rates. By strengthening Virginia's At-Risk Add-on program, which directs resources to high-poverty schools, state leaders can address this inequity and provide resources for teacher recruitment and pay incentives.

 Ensure a safe learning environment for teachers and kids by modernizing facilities.

Everyone deserves to work in a clean and safe environment. Yet the vast majority of teachers say that they do not have access to properly maintained facilities, and the response is even higher for teachers who teach mostly students of color.
Will Virginia take his or the school's word for it?

Both might decide to withhold the individuals' identities, concluding that  despite the picture's internet-fueled notoriety  the two people in it do not qualify as public figures and, their apparently bigoted behavior notwithstanding, should be spared the scrutiny Northam can't escape as an elective official.

Northam's get-together with Swecker  it was their first private sit-down since the calamity erupted in the thick of the General Assembly session  and the Cranwell-hosted fundraiser for the Way Ahead political action committee suggest the party elites who had quickly shunned the governor are catching up with the electorate that increasingly is standing by him.

And that is tied, in part, to a perception that Northam, despite his embarrassment, remains effective as governor.

In recent weeks, he's pulled off surprises: New taxes for highways and ending the practice of stripping the driving privileges of people who fail to pay fines and fees. That was a particular hardship for minorities, making it tougher to get to the jobs at which they earn the money to pay those debts.
A second option would be more confrontational: Send U.S. cargo ships loaded with food and medicines and escorted by the Navy to stand off Venezuelas ports and offer to deliver large quantities of necessities when the population ousts Maduro. This course is favored by those who say U.S. policy should emphasize humanitarian help, not military power; but it would signal Moscow and Havana that the U.S. is prepared to send forces to aid a popular uprising.

The third option would be military intervention. It would be triggered by Cuban or Russian actions designed to turn Venezuela into a protectorate under Havanas and Moscows control.

President Trump and Secretary of State Pompeo reportedly warned Russian leaders recently that the U.S. would respond militarily to their intervention. This message seems to have registered in Moscow, and military action is not contemplated. But it leaves open the question of how long Maduro can remain if his military decides time is running out for them.

Congress and the U.S. public show little interest in a confrontation over Venezuela, as their energies are absorbed with the 2020 presidential election. Americans seem complacent these days and not interested in foreign policy.
Using names like Antoine and Whodie, authorities said the caller, Terreance M. King, 22, also made at least one bomb threat before authorities were able to trace the source of the calls to the area of his South Side home, authorities said Sunday during a bail hearing at the Leighton Criminal Court Building.
(CNN)  The U.S. has announced it will deploy additional Patriot missiles to the Middle East after U.S. officials said intelligence indicates Iran and its proxies could be planning to threaten U.S. forces and interests in the Middle East.

Acting Secretary of Defense Patrick Shanahan approved the deployment.

"The Acting Secretary of Defense has approved the movement of USS Arlington and a Patriot Battery to U.S. Central Command as part of the command's original request for forces earlier this week," a Pentagon statement said.

CNN has reported that intelligence has shown that Iran is likely moving short-range ballistic missiles and cruise missiles aboard boats in the Persian Gulf. The U.S. military believes that cruise missiles could be launched from the small Iranian boats, which are known as dhows. Officials have said those boats are IRGC naval assets, not regular Iranian navy boats.

The carrier Abraham Lincoln, deployed by U.S. President Donald Trump's administration to the Middle East as a warning to Iran, passed through Egypt's Suez Canal on Thursday and is currently sailing in the Red Sea.

On Friday a defense official reiterated that the Iranian threat "is still real and credible and we're taking it seriously."

The deployment of the Arlington and Patriot missile battery is "meant to be defensive in nature," the official said.

The official and the Pentagon did not disclose where the additional U.S. missiles will be sent but called it a "prudent measure to protect our forces."

The U.S. posturing of forces "provides us with options should deterrence fail and we need to respond," the official added.

CNN reported on Tuesday that the U.S. could send Patriot missile batteries back to the region months after the U.S. had brought some back home due to the threat.

Patriots are air defense missile systems designed to counter and destroy incoming short-range ballistic missiles, advanced aircraft and cruise missiles.

The missiles have networked remote sensors that provide early warning data to increase probability of a successful hit and are currently deployed in multiple locations around the world, including Germany, Japan, South Korea, and the Middle East.

Iran's leaders have said they do not want conflict with the U.S. and a senior commander of Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps said the U.S. would not "dare" attack Iran.

"Negotiations with Americans will not take place, and Americans will not dare to take military action against us," IRGC Lieutenant Commander for Political Affairs Brigadier General Yadollah Javani told the semi-official Tasnim News Agency.

This story was first published on CNN.com "US deploying more Patriot missiles to Middle East, amid Iranian threats"
By 5:15 p.m., train service had fully restored between the Red Lines Howard and Belmont stations after the medical emergency on the tracks near Bryn Mawr disrupted service for much of the afternoon, the Chicago Transit Authority reported.
Gibson helped provide support to the families of the Little Rock Nine  the nine African-American students who enrolled at a previously segregated high school  in her hometown of Little Rock, Ark., and with her husband owned a motel in Birmingham, Ala., that was headquarters for the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. during efforts to desegregate public facilities in that city. Gibson and her husband survived a bombing of the motel in May 1963 that was an attempt to kill the civil rights leader.
Which is why, in so many conversations with Israel hawks over the years, I have sensed that the plans all had an asterisk in them somewhere  a point where, somehow, the Palestinians aren't there anymore, or at least not so many of them. And one hears the same implied asterisk in conversations with many Palestinian nationalists. That is, after all, the heart of the problem: Two peoples whose national identity is tightly bound to the exact same piece of land are bound to be in the other's way.
Memories bring little comfort as the second week in May is a constant reminder of how deeply I miss my mom. I know that everyone thinks their mom is extraordinary, but my mom was extraordinary. Widowed at 34 years old with two small children, my mother was ill-prepared to be on her own, and at times the struggle overwhelmed her. She was the baby in her family and the only one left at home with a schizophrenic mother, who was eventually institutionalized, and a father who overindulged her. So, when my father died at 42 years old, she was unclear about how to take care of herself. She learned quickly, taking secretarial jobs and enduring sexual harassment, which was common in the 1960s. She never said a word as she needed the job.
Fortuner sold nearly 500 units lesser than it did in March 2019. Endeavour also slipped, still sold nearly three times less as top-selling Toyota. Tiguan was the biggest loser with a 98 per cent decline in month-on-month growth

The entire segment saw a 30 per cent drop in month-on-month demand.

Fortuner sold nearly 500 units lesser than it did in March 2019.

Endeavour also slipped, still sold nearly three times less as top-selling Toyota.

Tiguan was the biggest loser with a 98 per cent decline in month-on-month growth.

Alturas demand halved in the same period, still the third most popular.

The large SUV segment enjoys decent popularity and demand despite the high prices of all competitors. Some use a ladder-frame chassis for a more rugged build while others utilise more modern monocoque platforms better suited for urban environments. The two most popular models here are both ladder-frame SUVs with three rows of seating - the Toyota Fortuner topping the charts ahead of the Ford Endeavour . But hows the demand for the rest of the competition? Heres a detailed look at the sales figures for the month of April 2019:

April 2019 March 2019 MoM Growth Market share current(%) Market share (% last year) YoY mkt share (%) Average sales (6 months) Toyota Fortuner 1,481 1976 -25.05 64.95 75.12 -10.17 1609 Ford Endeavour 498 572 -12.93 21.84 14.1 7.74 502 Mahindra Alturas G4 166 321 -48.28 7.28 0 7.28 266 Skoda Kodiaq 75 252 -70.23 3.28 6.23 -2.95 162 Honda CR-V 59 104 -43.26 2.58 0.65 1.93 94 VW Tiguan 1 54 -98.14 0.04 3.87 -3.83 42 Total 2280 3279 -30.46 99.97

Takeaways

Fortuner faces decline, still on top: The Toyota Fortuner continues to be the most popular large SUV in April 2019 with more than 1400 units shipped. Even though there is a 25.05 per cent drop in month-on-month growth, the Fortuner still holds nearly 65 per cent of the segments market share.

Endeavour a stable second: Fords largest offering is still second to the Japanese giant in this segment and shipped just under 500 units in April 2019. Thats nearly 13 per cent less than its March numbers, but it is still comfortably ahead of the next rival on the sales chart.

Alturas demand halves: The Alturas G4 , Mahindras first large SUV offering, suffered a 48.28 per cent decline month-on-month in April 2019. Only 166 units were shipped as compared to the 321 units in the month before.

Kodiaqs popularity takes a dive: Only 75 units of the big Skoda SUV were shipped this last month - a drop of a little over 70 per cent in month-on-month popularity.

Honda lost out too: The CR-V suffered a 43.26 per cent decline month-on-month with a sale of less than 60 units in the month of April.

Tiguan down to one: The Volkswagen Tiguan is the smallest one here, but is priced quite similarly. It was already the least popular choice in this segment. And last month, VW managed to sell just one unit of it- a decline of more than 98 per cent month-on-month.

Rough times across the segment: Every large SUV and crossover in this list saw its month-on-month demand drop in April 2019. The segment, as a whole, sold 1000 units lesser than March which is a 30 per cent drop in month-on-month.

Disclaimer: This article has not been edited by Deccan Chronicle and is taken from a syndicated feed. Photos: CarDekho.
The CoC is considering NBCC's offer after it rejected Mumbai-based Suraksha Realty's bid on May 3 through voting process under the insolvency law.

New Delhi: Lenders of Jaypee Infratech have asked state-owned NBCC Ltd to withdraw some clauses, like exemption from tax liability, that make its revised offer conditional and non-binding for acquiring the debt-ridden realty firm, sources said.

Lenders wrote a letter to NBCC late on Friday regarding this matter, they said, adding that the public sector firm has been told to reply by May 13 as the lenders' meet has been fixed for May 14.

Clarification has been sought in the backdrop of Jaypee 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 Committee of Creditors (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 earlier.

The CoC is considering NBCC's offer after it rejected Mumbai-based Suraksha Realty's bid on May 3 through voting process under the insolvency law.

Earlier, the creditors' panel did not allow vote on NBCC's bid citing lack of approvals from the government departments. NBCC has now got all the necessary approvals.

In the last CoC meet held on May 9, lenders had sought clarifications from NBCC on various relief measures and concessions proposed in its revised bid.

It was decided in the meeting that lenders would seek written clarifications from NBCC.

In its revised offer, 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 Jaypee Group.

On these relief and concessions, 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.

Meanwhile, 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 Allahabad bench of NCLT has posted the matter for hearing on May 21 and maintained status quo till then.

Apart from NBCC, Adani Group has also shown interest to bid for Jaypee Infratech and complete over 20,000 delayed flats in Noida. But creditors have not sought resolution plan from Adani so far

Interestingly, Jaypee Group's promoters too have put in a bid, under Section 12A of Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, to retain control of the company.

In 2017, Jaypee Infratech 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.

In October 2018, the IRP started a fresh initiative to revive Jaypee Infratech on the NCLT direction.

Jaiprakash Associates Ltd (JAL), the promoter of Jaypee Infratech, had submitted Rs 750 crore in the registry of the Supreme Court for the refund to buyers and the amount is lying with NCLT.
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
The US administration is not taking part in summit preparations but has not said it will skip the event, according to UN officials. (Photo: AFP)

Washington: UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres calls it the defining issue of our time: climate change is moving to the centre stage at the United Nations, three years after the Paris agreement went into force.

A major UN push for progress on climate change kicks off next week when Guterres travels to New Zealand and several Pacific islands, where rising sea levels are threatening the very existence of those small countries.

The stepped-up diplomacy will culminate with a climate action summit at the United Nations in September, an event billed as the last chance to prevent irreversible climate change. "We are still losing the battle," Guterres told reporters last week. "Climate change is still running faster than we are, and if we don't reverse this trend, it will be a tragedy for the whole world."

In Fiji, Tuvalu and Vanuatu, Guterres will meet with families whose lives have been upended by cyclones, flooding and other extreme weather events. Pacific island countries face an especially dire risk from climate change because of sea level rise. In some cases, low-lying countries could disappear completely.

Fiji is working to build a coalition of more than 90 countries from the Caribbean, Africa and Asia facing the climate crisis. "We hope that the secretary-general will draw far more inspiration from his first visit to go further, faster and deeper with the climate summit," Fiji's UN Ambassador Satyendra Prasad told AFP.

"We are very hopeful that the climate summit will mark a turning point." The UN push on climate change is shaping up amid geopolitical shifts: the United States under Donald Trump has decided to pull out of the Paris agreement to combat global warming, giving China more space to assert its views.

"The Trump administration's disdain for climate diplomacy has left China looking like the main guarantor of the Paris agreement," said Richard Gowan, UN director for the International Crisis Group.

"While China is increasingly active across the UN, other states are suspicious of its stances on human rights and development. But it is the indispensable power in climate talks now." Trump announced in 2017 that the United States would exit the Paris agreement, but under the terms of the deal, the withdrawal will only become effective in 2020.

The US administration is not taking part in summit preparations but has not said it will skip the event, according to UN officials. Guterres' mission may also be further complicated by Trump's nomination of Kelly Knight Craft as UN ambassador.

Craft, who is married to a major coal magnate, raised eyebrows for declaring that she believed "both sides" of climate science, indicating she may well be out of sync with the UN on the issue. Guterres has told leaders to bring plans, not speeches, to the summit to be held in New York on September 23 during the annual gathering of world leaders at the United Nations.

The summit is seen as critical because of US resistance to discuss climate change at other forums including the G7 and G20, and again last week at a meeting of the Arctic Council in Finland. "What people are looking for is countries to commit to major ambition increases in 2025 and 2030 at the summit or in 2020," said Nick Mabey, head of the E3G climate think tank.

This should include legally binding targets for countries to phase out coal, become climate neutral and invest in climate resilience, especially for the poorest countries, he added. A string of apocalyptic reports on the state of the planet is bringing home the need for concrete steps.

One million species are on the brink of extinction. Carbon dioxide emissions continue to rise, pushing targets from the Paris accord further out of reach. UN climate envoy Luis Alfonso de Alba told AFP on Friday that he was optimistic about prospects for a breakthrough on climate, saying the dire predictions were having a galvanizing effect.

"The situation worldwide is quite different from what it was five to 10 years ago. Five to 10 years ago, countries were looking at their neighbours before acting," he said. "Today, everybody has full conscience of the urgency to act, and they are not going to wait for their neighbours to act."
Dr Aparajeet Kar, consultant pulmonologist, Narayana Health, Bengaluru, said, E-cigarettes produce aerosol by using a battery to heat a solution of nicotine and flavouring agents. Since they dont burn tobacco, there is no tar or carbon monoxide produced.

The Association of Vapers India (AVI) has termed the state governments ban on e-cigarettes as anti-people. They claim it would imperil the lives of over 1.8 crore smokers in the state.

AVI had last year filed a public interest litigation (PIL) in the Karnataka High Court against the ban on e-cigarettes. It had submitted in court scientific evidence from organisations such as the US FDA, Public Health England and the American Cancer Society to further its claim.

The petition stated smokers in the state have a legitimate right to reduce harm by transitioning to less harmful alternatives.

AVI director Samrat Chowdhery said, The ban on e-cigarettes is arbitrary and unjustified. Electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) are a smoking replacement option without the harmful chemicals found in combustible cigarettes, which significantly reduces cancer risk. Banning their use while allowing cigarettes to be sold violates basic principles of public health; protects the tobacco industry and criminalises citizens who are trying to avoid tobacco-related death and disease.

Dr Aparajeet Kar, consultant pulmonologist, Narayana Health, Bengaluru, said, E-cigarettes produce aerosol by using a battery to heat a solution of nicotine and flavouring agents. Since they dont burn tobacco, there is no tar or carbon monoxide produced.

He added, Thousands of highly toxic chemicals cause the harm from smoking conventional cigarettes. Benzo(a)pyrene, a known lung cancer carcinogen, is absent in e-cigarettes. One of the major benefits of vaping is the ability to control the amount of nicotine that a person is ingesting. So far, there is no evidence that vaping (smoking e-cigarettes) causes harm to other people which is in contrast to passive smoking that kills 800,000 people every year.

AVI is a consumer rights group that represents e-cigarette users across the country.
New Delhi: In country's biggest narcotics raid ever, the Narcotics Control Bureau of India (NCB) on Thursday recovered drug worth Rs 1,000 crore and above from a house in Greater Noida and arrested two Nigerian nationals and one South African national.

According to the officials, the house belongs to an Indian Police Service (IPS) officer and was used as a drug-manufacturing unit. The recovered pseudoephedrine drug weighs up to 1,818kg, reports Hindustan Times.

In the past three years, it is the seizure is Indias biggest-ever narcotics haul and the worlds largest pseudoephedrine seizure, said Madhav Singh, zonal director, NCB.

The revelation unfolded after a tip-off from a South African woman passenger.

On Thursday morning Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) intercepted the 31-year-old, Nomsa Lutalo at Delhis Indira Gandhi International airport.

On checking her bags, they found 24.7kg pseudoephedrine from her bags. On questioning, the woman said she had been handed the consignment in Greater Noida by two people from Nigeria. She said she was asked to carry the same to Johannesburg and was promised good money in exchange, Singh said.

The woman was set to board a flight to Johannesburg via Dubai.

The interrogation with the woman gave lead to NCB and the raid was conducted.
Bengaluru: Two of three Pakistani nationals who, along with an NRI, were arrested in 2017 by the city police for illegally staying in India were deported to Pakistan.

The couple Kashif Shamshuddin (33) and his wife Kirron Gulam Ali (27), who hailed from Chakragot in Karachi, were on Sunday handed over to Pakistani authorities at the Wagah-Attari border.

Another Pakistani national Sameera alias Nazma (27) who was arrested along with the couple is still in Parappana Agrahara Central Prison with her child she gave birth to after the arrest. The three Pakistani nationals illegally entered India via Nepal and were residing in the city for nine months until they were arrested. They had fake documents, including Aadhaar cards.

In May 2017, the sleuths of Central Crime Branch (CCB) had picked up the three Pakistani nationals and the NRI, Mohammad Shihab, hailing from Kerala. Initially Shihab was picked up on suspicion being a car thief, which eventually led to the arrest of the three Pakistani nationals living at his residence.

During the investigation police found that Shihab had gone to Qatar in 2012 and was working as an office boy. There he met Sameera, a domestic help in the same company. The duo got married in 2015 against their families wishes. Sameeras elder brothers, who worked as cab drivers in Qatar, learnt about the wedding and they immediately took her to Karachi. The family members reportedly harassed and ill-treated her. She was allegedly forced to undergo an abortion.

Later with the help of her cousin, Shamshuddin, Sameer managed to get in touch with Shihab over phone. Shihab asked Sameera to come to Qatar so that they can go to India and live there. Sameera left for Qatar along with Shamshuddin and Kirron. Later, four of them left for Kathmandu in Nepal. The three Pakistanis had used their countrys passport to reach there. From there, they crossed the Indian border by foot and then took a train to Bihar. From there, they took another train to reach Bengaluru.
Hyderabad: While Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao dreams of developing urban areas in the state on par with New York, London, and San Francisco, he fails to take into account the dearth of planning experts in the Directorate of Town and Country Planning department.

The state government has made no plans to meet the growing needs of rapid urbanisation.

It has been chalking out plans with less than 50 per cent of the sanctioned strength in the planning departments of cities, towns and newly converted municipalities.

Unlike developed nations, employees working in the municipal administration and urban development (MA & UD) department here will not get rigorous training in planning garbage disposal, urban flooding and other such essential areas. There are no courses in universities and colleges in Telangana state on urban planning and development.

According to highly placed sources in the department, due to lack of planning experts in the Telangana state, the government has been relying on experts from Delhi, Mumbai and other parts of the country for designing master plans, infrastructure, transportation, landscaping, energy management, spatial information technology remote sensing and environmental planning.

The MA&UD department has been relying on consultants for a Comprehensive Transportation Study (CTS) for the growing needs of the urban population. While about 3.5 crore people reside in urban areas, including six corporations and 142 municipalities, not even 20 per cent of the qualified planners have completed M. Tech planning in the state to design happy, healthy and hassle free living.

The state does not even have one qualified planner in each municipality and the decision to recruit 150 eligible planners for 142 ULBs is still pending with the state government.

Sources said that in the absence of eligible planners who were either in charge or promoted, the development in urban areas will be focused and restricted to one specific area in the city or town and development in the western part of Hyderabad would be an ideal example.

Prior to according building permission, the urban planners should consider the key parameters including the environment, population density, urban infrastructure, mobility and impact it would make 10 to 20 years down the line.

Due to lack of urban planners, the scattered development in the city has been troubling citizens with pollution, water contamination, traffic congestion and lack of parking spaces. Even though the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation has a traffic and transportation wing, it has done no planning to enhance the quality of living.

Barring the GHMC, none of the other corporations and ULBs have T&T wing. Due to apathy of successive governments in recruiting qualified urban planners, a city like Hyderabad is in dire need of an Urban Redevelopment Plan (URP), designed to help the city create public and private partnerships to encourage redevelopment and revitalisation within defined areas of the city.

However, sources said if the state government wakes up and recruits qualified urban planners, 142 municipalities and five corporations including Warangal, Khammam, Nizamabad, Karimnagar and Ramagundam could be saved from the present scattered and unsatisfactory development. This apart, the government should also introduce related courses in universities and colleges, said TRS working president K.T. Rama Rao recently.

Mr K. Srinivas Rao, chairman of the Institute of Town Planners India, Telangana chapter, said that despite recruiting qualified urban planners, the government should also put its policies pertaining to urban planning in the public domain.

He said visionless successive governments have made land conversions according to their will, deviating from the master plan, which results in traffic snarls, parking issues and nuisance in residential areas which were later converted to semi-residential, mixed use and semi-commercial.

Mr Srinivas said that governments have even converted conservation zones and SEZs in the master plans. What is the use of a master plan when nothing goes according to the plan? he pointed out.

Mr K. Vidyadhar, director DTCP, said that the recruitment of as many as 150 urban planners has been pending with the state government.

He said the state has about 50 urban planning experts in six corporations and 142 ULBs.
Congress candidate from Bhopal seat Digvijay Singh interacts with voters in Bhopal on Sunday (Photo: AP)

Bhopal: Stray incidents of clashes between Congress and BJP workers marked the penultimate phase Lok Sabha polls in Madhya Pradesh in which eight constituencies went to polls on Sunday. The sixth phase polls witnessed voter turnout of around 62 per cent, chief electoral officers office here said.

The polling percentage, however, may increase. The high-profile seat of Bhopal where Congress veteran Digvijay Singh was taking on BJP nominee Sadhvi Pragya Singh Thakur witnessed 61.7 per cent polling.

Interestingly, Guna and Rajgarh seats, the bastions of Congress veterans Jyotiraditya Scindia and Digvijay Singh, have witnessed highest polling percentages of 65.24 and 68.98 respectively till last reports reaching the CEO office here.

Mr Singh who is a voter in Rajgarh LS seat, however, failed to cast his votes since he was in Bhopal whole day to marshal his polling agents. His wife Amrita cast her vote in a polling booth in Bhopal city.

Mr Singh expressed regret over not casting his vote in Rajgarh district of Madhya Pradesh which is 130 km away from Bhopal.

Yes I couldnt go to vote to Rajgarh and I regret it. Next time I will register my name in Bhopal, he said to media.

All through the day, he visited various polling stations in Bhopal to track voting. The Congress leader also urged people to vote in large numbers.

Digvijaya Singh has been fielded by the Congress party from the Bhopal Lok Sabha constituency against Malegaon blasts-accused Sadhvi Pragya Singh Thakur.

Morena and Bhind witnessed lowest turnout of voters in the sixth phase LS polls in Madhya Pradesh, recording 54.36 and 53.09 percent respectively. Reports reaching the CEO office here said clashes between workers of Congress and BJP were witnessed in some polling booths in Bhind, Sagar and Bhopal constituencies during voting.

A BJP worker sustained head injury following alleged attack by Congress workers in the Karthara polling booth under Bhind seat.
During the early hours on the following day, Armed Reserve head constable Shekar, who was on patrol duty, ran over Pranita with his vehicle (TS 09PA 5508). (Representational Image)

Hyderabad: The three-year-old girl who was battling for her life at a private hospital after being run over by a police van near the old Yadadri temple succumbed to her injuries during the early hours on Sunday. The police, who arrested the van driver, an Armed Reserve Head Constable, have altered the case to a case of death due to negligence.

P. Pranita, a resident of Saroornagar, visited the Yadadri temple with her father and other family members on May 8.

After offering their prayers, her family decided to spend the night in the temple premises.

Subsequently, Pranita and her father slept in a spot under a tree near the old temple while the rest of the family slept at a distance.

During the early hours on the following day, Armed Reserve head constable Shekar, who was on patrol duty, ran over Pranita with his vehicle (TS 09PA 5508). Two other policemen were present in the vehicle when the incident took place.

The girl suffered severe injuries to her head and stomach.

She was first rushed to a nearby private hospital and then to Kamineni hospital, where she was put on ventilator support. Pranita succumbed to her injuries around 5.45 am on Sunday.

Yadadri inspector A. Narasimha Rao said, The victim was in critical care for four days before she succumbed. The case booked against Shekar under Section 338 of the IPC has been altered to section 304 A for the probe.

Following her death, Pranitas body was sent in for an autopsy and then handed over to her father.

The Rachakonda police said Pranitas mother had passed away about five months ago, that she has an elder sister in primary school. Her father is a labourer.

First I lost my wife, and now Ive lost our daughter. I saw the van run over my daughter. She was sleeping right beside me when it happened, her father said to the media.

LB Nagar ACP K. Pruthvidhar Rao said, Pranita passed away early in the morning today. Rachakonda commissioner Mahesh Bhagwat has informed her family that the police will readily extend its support to them as required and that her sisters education will be taken care of. The driver has been arrested.
Hyderabad: Congress president Rahul Gandhi may not stake claim to be Prime Minister if the party does not get a majority on its own in the Lok Sabha.

In the 1989 elections, the Congress could win 197 seats and he refused to stake claim. After the V.P. Singh government fell, the Congress backed the short-lived dispensation before pulling out support and necessitating the 1991 elections.

In 2004, then Congress president Sonia Gandhi refused to head the government at the Centre as the Congress could not cross the half-way mark in the Lok Sabha. Dr Manmohan Singh was picked up to head the UPA government, something that was repeated in 2009.

In this backdrop, political circles expect Mr Rahul Gandhi will stake claim only if the Congress goes past the 272 mark on its own.

Else, the party will keep its options open for their coalition partners to suggest a candidate from among the UPA or even outside.

According to speculation in political circles including in the Congress, the party high command would task senior leaders including former union minister A.K. Antony and Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot to assess the reactions of UPA partners as well parties that have maintaining distance from the BJP.

Amid speculation that several non-BJP Chief Ministers do not want Prime Minister Narendra Modi to continue for anot-her term, the Congress high command plans to involve senior leaders like Mr P. Chidambaram, Mr Ghulam Nabi Azad, Mr Antony and several others to lobby with regional parties like the TRS, Samajwadi Party, Bahujan Samaj Party, YSR Congress and the Biju Janata Dal.

Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi became Prime Minister only when the party enjoyed a majority. At other times, the Congr-ess fielded P.V. Narasimha Rao and Dr Manmohan Singh as Prime Minister. The only exception was Lal Bahadur Shastri.

Mr Gandhis praise of BSP chief Mayawati was an indication that the Congress had made up its mind to keep all options open, party sources said.

While the Congress could back an alliance partner for the Prime Minister, it could keep the top job with itself if it wins a sufficiently large number of seats but not enough to form government.

Rajiv Gandhi had enjoy-ed absolute majority in the elections after the assassination of then PM Indira Gandhi, winning over 410 seats.
Hyderabad: Following the call by a local outfit to march to the site of a demolished mosque in Amberpet, the Hyderabad police beefed up security in Amberpet and nearby areas. Security for the march, which had not been permitted by the police, combined with the arrangements made for the IPL final at Uppal and resulted in some inconvenience to motorists in the form of frisking and vehicle checks.

City police commissioner Anjani Kumar had stated on Saturday that no unlawful gathering would be allowed in Amberpet. Subsequent-ly, 77 people, including activists of certain outfits were taken into custody on Sunday.

The site had become the centre of attention after a disused mosque was demolished by the GHMC after paying compensation to its occupants. Following a controversy, there was an attempt to re-build the mosque at the site which is being opposed by another group.

Mr Shaik Salahuddin, a resident of Amberpet, said, "Following a call from a local outfit, a group of activists arrived at the land to offer prayers. The police officials who were deployed at the spot asked them to leave. In response, the youth started raising slogans. The police had no option but to take them into preventive custody. They were released in the evening to break their fast."

East Zone DCP M. Ramesh said, "In view of the recent events, we have intensified patrolling in the area. Despite very clear instructions, the activists returned to the spot. We took 13 activists and 64 others into preventive custody and shifted them to OU police station. Another six members were shifted to Bowenpally police station."

BJP Goshamahal legislator T. Raja Singh said in a post on social media that he had "been house arrested again by the police (sic)" and that he didn't understand why he was being "targeted".

Following the call for the march, Mr Anjani Kumar had said, "People with vested interests have been spreading these rumours about the gathering in Amberpet. No unlawful gathering will be allowed, particularly in and around an area that witnessed a law and order breach last Sunday."

Mr Kumar warned that anyone who attempted to disturb the peace and tranquility in Amberpet would be dealt with severely in accordance with the law. He requested people to cooperate with the police and to refrain from sharing such messages for the sake of public order and peace.
Hyderabad: Chief Minister K. Chandrashekhar Rao left for Chennai on a special flight from Begumpet airport on Sunday evening. He is expected to meet DMK president M.K. Stalin on Tuesday evening and discuss the present political scenario in the country.

Mr Rao had arrived in the city on Friday night after a five-day tour of Tamil Nadu and Kerala with his family members.

He met with Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan in Thiruvananthapuram last Monday and the two leaders discussed the ongoing elections to the Lok Sabha, possible outcomes of the polls, and the role that regional parties can play together with the Left parties in government formation at the Centre. He had continued on to TN but was unable to meet Mr Stalin, and hopes to do so this time.

This will be the second time Mr Rao will be meeting Mr Stalin after the two met in April last year.

Mr Rao, who is promoting a non-Congress and non-BJP Federal Front at the Centre since last year, has met leaders of several regional parties, including Trinamul president Mamata Banerjee, Janata Dal (Secular) president H D Deve Gowda, Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav, and Biju Janata Dal president Naveen Patnaik.
Police inspecting the car from which 20 kg gold was robbed on Friday.

Kochi: Two days after the heist in which two unidentified men attacked a car and decamped with 20 kg gold worth `6 crore at Edayar, the police suspects they had left the state.

Though there are no significant breakthroughs, the rural police said that the investigation based on the call data records would help them.

The damaged CCTVs across the way through which they might have escaped point towards a meticulously planned operation.

We have received a couple of visuals, but those are unclear to identify the suspects or their vehicle registration number. The remaining CCTV units turned defunct after the August floods, a senior police officer said.

However, the victims and suspected witnesses are being quizzed. We have widened the search as we cannot rule out the possibility of them fleeing the state.

The police had also detained the firm's four employees who were in the car at the time of the incident and released after interrogation. As of now, no one is in custody, the police said.

The heist happened around 10 pm on Thursday in front of CGR Metalloys, a gold refining firm at Edayar.

The assailants decamped with gold kept in two boxes in melted form belonging to some major jewellers, after smashing the window of the car. The robbers left behind one box containing the remaining five kg of gold.

The police was not even aware of such a firm that had been functioning for the past 25 years. Meanwhile, Kadungalloor Panchayat officials were reportedly denied entry to the company when they went there for a visit.
Bhopal: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday slammed Congress for dismissing all its mistakes in last 70 years with the attitude of hua to hua (It happened, so what), citing the recent comment by party leader Sam Pitroda.

Addressing an election meeting in Khandwa districts Chingabamarkhan, Mr Modi said that the Congress has developed a tendency of treating its mistakes committed in the last 70 years with hua to hua mindset, which has been reflected in the insensitive comment of a party leader (Mr Pitroda) on anti-Sikh riots of 1984.

Bhopal gas tragedy of December, 2, 1984 had claimed thousands of lives. But Anderson (boss of Union Carbide) was allowed to flee the country in a government plane. If people here will ask why Anderson was permitted to escape, then Congress will say, hua to hua, he said.
CHENNAI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Governor Banwarilal Purohit and a host of other dignitaries greeted Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami on his birthday on Sunday even as the CM was busy campaigning in Madurai and Thoothukudi districts for the party candidates in Tiruparakundram and Ottapidaram, two places of four where bye-polls are to be held for the Tamil Nadu Assembly on May 19.

Tamil Nadu Governor Banwarilal Purohit extended his birthday greetings to the Chief Minister who turned 65 on Sunday.

Mr Purohit sent a bouquet and a message to Mr. Palaniswami on the occasion.

The Governor in his message said, Please accept my heartiest greetings and best wishes on the happy occasion of your birthday. May God the Almighty bless you with happiness, good health and many more years of dedicated service to the nation.



Responding to the Governors greetings, the CM extended his gratitude saying, I thank you for the kind greetings and flowers sent by you on the occasion of my birthday.

Union Minister of State for Finance and Shipping Pon Radhakrishnan greeted the chief minister on the occasion. BJP Tamil Nadu unit president Dr. Tamilisai Soundararajan took to twitter to extend her greetings. She wrote: Having started his life as a simple party cadre, today Palaniswami, following the footsteps of former Chef Minister J Jayalalithaa, has been initiating a lot of schemes for the welfare of common man.

Earlier, Mr. Modi greeted the Chief Minister, who is on a hectic campaign in Madurai and Thoothukudi districts campaigning for the party candidates in Tiruparakundram and Ottapidaram by-election, over phone. He wished the CM a long and healthy life.

Deputy Chief Minister O. Pannerselvam, State Ministers, TMC chief G K Vasan and leaders of various political parties also wished Mr. Palaniswami on the occasion.
Kolkata: Trinamul Congress supremo Mamata Banerjee on Sunday suspected that the BJP and RSS workers have sneaked into West Bengal wearing the central paramilitary forces uniform for manipulation of votes during the Lok Sabha Election.

She also accused the central forces of directing the voters to cast their ballots for Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Ms Banerjee wondered about the fate of the central forces when Mr Modi would not remain in power at the Centre.

Addressing a poll campaign rally at Basanti in South 24 Parganas the West Bengal chief minister alleged, Polling was held whole day at many places. I do not disrespect the central forces. But they have been picked up selectively and have been tutored. A retired officer who is also the husband of the BJP candidate of Maldah South Lok Sabha constituency, is deploying the central forces.

She claimed, The retired officers can not do this. It is illegal. Still the BJP has forcibly brought some RSS workers in disguise of the central forces personnel. I have great doubt whether some RSS workers are sent in central forces uniform. It is my suspicion. Referring to the firing by security personnel of Bharati Ghosh, the BJP candidate of Ghatal, after she came under attack Ms Banerjee lashed out at the central forces.

Even today I have heard that the central forces have opened firing at booth in many places. At Keshpur a brother of mine from the minority community has been injured. At some places the forces are asking the voters to cast their ballots in favour of Modiji. They can not say this. It is illegal. If they repeat it her, lodge complaints immediately. They will be removed soon, the Trinamul chief told the

crowd.

She complained, Some people were caught red-handed in Midnapore saying: Modi Ko Vote Do, BJP Ko Aur Ek Baar Vote De Do. Who are you?

You only work. Dont you feel ashamed that you are campaigning for Modi. Today you are under Modi. What will you do tomorrow when Modi will not be in power? Will you rolling over the road?.
New Delhi: 'Nari Shakti' was on display in the all-women staffed booths in Delhi Sunday which drew more women voters, especially from the Muslim community, officials said.

In a first for the city, as many as 17 all-woman staffed booths have been established for the Lok Sabha elections in the seven constituencies of Delhi, where from presiding officers to ground staff, all are women.

Incidentally, four of the seven district election officer-cum-returning officer are also women, and they too felt quite enthused to see the impact of the initiative.

Chandni Chowk Returning Officer Tanvi Garg said the Delhi CEO Office had envisioned this with a larger aim of engendering a sense of women empowerment and the "message has been sent".

"We have set up two such booths, one each Matia Mahal and Model Town Assembly segments. All our polling staff have worked very hard, and these women staffed here they are also quite happy to be part of an all-woman team. While women voters were pleased, male voters were also pleasantly surprised," Garg told PTI.

Out of the 17 booths, 10 have been set up in East Delhi constituency, two in Chandni Chowk and one each in rest of the constituencies -- North East Delhi, West Delhi, South Delhi, New Delhi and North West Delhi.

North East Delhi Returning Officer Shashi Kaushal said the initiative was "very successful" and would "definitely contribute" to push voting percentage of women in this election.

"We have set up a pink booth in Zeenat School in an area which is a very Muslim-dominated one. And, in the morning a large number of 'pardanasheen' (in veil) women came to vote. It was so enthusing to see the women in 'burqa' queuing up to be exercise their franchise and celebrating the democratic exercise," she told PTI.

The women voters were also welcomed with a flower each, she said, adding that girl volunteers were also part of the team. But, more than individual empowerment, it is the large social message of "nari shakti" that has been conveyed to the society, and "aptly showcased".

Besides Garg and Kaushal, ROs of New Delhi (Pooja Joshi) an South Delhi (Needhi Shrivastav) are also women. They both said that during the training process, they would see a lot of women polling staff and it was a nice coincidence that four of the seven ROs were women.

Voting is underway in all seven constituencies of Delhi to decide the fate of 164 candidates, of which 18 are women.

A total of 13,816 polling stations have been established at 2,700 locations in Delhi, with a model polling station in each of the 70 assembly constituencies. There are over 1.43 crore voters on Delhi's electoral roll.

Out of the total electorate size of 1,43,16,453, as many as 78,73,022 are male and 64,43,431 female, while 669 belong to third gender.

Such booths are aimed at empowering women and increasing their participation in the electoral process, officials said. However, some women voters said they were not fully aware about such a facility.

"It is good to have an all-woman polling station, but what's the use of it when one doesn't know what is it for," said Ritu Bahl, 46, a resident of Janakpuri.

One polling booth (in north-east district) is completely staffed by persons with disabilities, while the Leprosy Home Complex at Tahirpur in north-east district has a booth for persons with disabilities only, Kaushal said.

A pink booth has been set up by poll authorities at a school in Janakpuri which falls under the West Delhi constituency.

Devinder Anand, 43, said the words 'women empowerment' came to her mind when she first read about all-woman booths in newspapers, but she didn't know the polling booth she visited was such a facility.

The presiding officer, Manju, 50, said the responsibility of creating awareness about all-woman booths lie with the Election Commission and the media.

"We have done our best to highlight it. This is the first time such booths have been set up in Delhi. More people will become aware of such facilities with time," she said.

Sita, 23, a B.Ed. student, and resident of Nizamuddin East, said, "I voted with the issue of improvement in education sector on my mind. Education can bring about all-round changes in the lives of people."
Ghatal: These elections have been intense and with every phase the mood has worsened. In the recent development, Bharati Ghosh, a former IPS officer and once a close confidanteof West Bengal Chief Minister, was heckled and pushed to the ground at a polling booth by the women members of the Trinamool Congress.

Ghosh is the BJP candidate in Bengals Ghatal.

Ghosh was entering a polling booth with her polling agent when some Trinamool Congress (TMC) workers surrounded and heckled her. Soon after, she was heckled at another booth.

The Election Commission has sought a reply as Ghosh had tried to enter the booth with a camera and mobile, both of which are not allowed to be taken inside.

Last night, two BJP workers were shot at in East Midnapore. A Trinamool Congress worker was found dead in the same district. BJP lost a worker in Jhargam.

The animosity between the workers of the BJP and Trinamool Congress continues. Previously central Minister Babul Supriyo was also allegedly attacked by the TMC workers.

Security has been beefed for the last two phases of polling.

Ghosh is contesting from Ghatal against Deepak Adhikari of the Trinamool Congress.

She has been in news for multiple reasons. Few days ago, she was seen warning the TMC supporters if they prevented BJP voters to cast their votes.

Ghosh joined the BJP after she was unhappy for being neglected by the TMC after her alleged involvement in the Gold scam.

Eight parliamentary constituencies in Bengal  Talmuk, Kanthi, Ghatal, Jhargam, Midnapore, Purulia, Bankura and Bishnupur are voting in the 6th phase of of Lok Sabha polls.
New Delhi: Complaints about malfunctioning EVMs poured in from several places of the national capital on Sunday where voting is underway.

Adarsh Gupta, a resident of Matia Mahal area, claimed that at polling booth number 84, 85 and 86, electronic voting machines were initially not working in the morning.

Aam Aadmi Party's Malviya Nagar MLA Somnath Bharti alleged that EVMs at booths number -- 116,117 and 122 -- were not functioning.

"EVM in booth 132, Hauzrani is showing 50 votes without anyone casting any vote in the machine n EVMs at booths 116,117, 122 in Malviya nagar not functioning," Bharti tweeted.

However, there was no immediate reaction from the chief electoral office. Mudit Agarwal, son of Congress' Chandni Chowk candidate JP Agarwal, alleged malfunctioning of EVMs at some booths in Matila Mahal and Ballimaran Assembly segments.

According to officials, they received information about an EVM not working at Begum Pur in Rohini but it was rectified.

AAP's Tilak Nagar MLA Jarnail Singh alleged that EVMs at polling booth number 27 were not working in the morning.

"At Prithivi Park polling booth in Tilak Nagar Assembly, EVMs had not been working since 7 am at polling booth - 27. It is the same area where AAP's vote bank is considered," Singh said.

He said the Election Commission claimed that faulty EVMs are changed within ten minutes, but at ground, such claims are telling a different story Delhi Transport Minister Kailash Gahlot said voters were unable to find their votes at polling booths in his Najafgarh constituency.

"Voters unable to find their votes at polling Booths. It is true that on large scale votes have been deleted. All these are resident of Jai Vihar I, Najafgarh (sic)," Gahlot tweeted.

Over 1.43 crore people in Delhi are eligible to vote in this election which will decide the fate of 164 candidates, of which 18 are women. There are 43 independent candidates.

While 2,54,723 voters are in the age group of 18 and 19, there are 40,532 electorate with disability who would be provided pick up and drop facility. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday appealed to youngsters to go out and vote in record numbers. (Photo: File)

New Delhi: Ahead of the sixth phase of Lok Sabha polls, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday appealed to youngsters to go out and vote in record numbers.

"Yet another phase of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections is here! Urging all those whose constituencies are polling in today's sixth phase to go out and vote. I hope youngsters are voting in record numbers," Prime Minister tweeted before voting for sixth phase of Lok Sabha polls began.

"After all, their participation makes the polls even more special," he added.

Yet another phase of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections is here!



Urging all those whose constituencies are polling in todays sixth phase to go out and vote. I hope youngsters are voting in record numbers. After all, their participation makes the polls even more special.  Chowkidar Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 12, 2019

Voting for the sixth phase of Lok Sabha polls began on Sunday morning. A total of 59 seats from six states and Union Territory of Delhi are going to polls in the sixth phase. The counting of votes will be done on May 23.

Keep yourself updated on Lok Sabha Elections 2019 with our round-the-clock coverage -- breaking news, updates, analyses et all. Happy reading.
'The elections have been fought on four issues - unemployment, demonetisation, farmers issues and corruption in Rafale jet deal (to benefit) Anil Ambani,' Rahul said. (Photo: File)

New Delhi: Rahul Gandhi cast his vote on Sunday and once again cornered Narendra Modi stating that the Prime Minister used "hate to garner votes" and affirmed that "love will win" in the ongoing elections.

The Congress president exercised his franchise at a booth set up in NP senior secondary school at New Delhi's Aurangzeb lane.

"Narendra Modi used hatred (during the poll campaign), while we used love. Love will win," he said.

The Rafale deal made it his list of four major issues on which the national elections are being contested on.

"The elections have been fought on four issues - unemployment, demonetisation, farmers issues and corruption in Rafale jet deal (to benefit) Anil Ambani," Gandhi told reporters.

"Public is the master. They will decide," he replied on being asked if his party will emerge victorious.

Clad in his usual white kurta-pyjama, Gandhi was swarmed by media persons as he walked out of the polling booth tightly guarded by his security men.

After a brief walk, he halted to address the media and also posed for photographs, while Party leader and candidate from New Delhi seat, Ajay Maken accompanied him.

In this election, Gandhi is also contesting from Kerala's Wayanad apart from his family bastion of Uttar Pradesh's Amethi, where he is the sitting lawmaker.

Polling is being held today on all seven Lok Sabha seats in Delhi, eight seats in Bihar, all ten seats in Haryana, eight in Madhya Pradesh, 14 in Uttar Pradesh, eight in West Bengal and four in Jharkhand.

The seventh and last phase of national elections will take place on May 19. Counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Keep yourself updated on Lok Sabha Elections 2019 with our round-the-clock coverage -- breaking news, updates, analysis et al. Happy reading.
'Stones were pelted on her car and she was also injured. Instead of taking action against the goons, Ghosh's movements have been restricted and her car, which was vandalised, has been seized by the local administration. This is unacceptable,' Javadekar said. (Photo: File)

New Delhi: The BJP Sunday termed the attack on its candidate Bharati Ghosh in West Bengal an "act of frustration" by the ruling Trinamool Congress in the state and claimed that the days of the Mamata Banerjee government are numbered.

The party also demanded that the Election Commission take suo motu cognisance of matter. Ghosh was allegedly attacked twice by locals on Sunday when the former IPS officer tried to visit polling stations in Ghatal Lok Sabha constituency, where she is the BJP candidate, when polling was underway there.

One of her security guards was injured in stone pelting while Ghosh herself suffered minor injuries when a group of women allegedly attacked her when she tried to take a BJP agent inside a polling booth at Keshpur area in the morning.

Union minister and BJP leader Prakash Javadekar said, "Stones were pelted on her car and she was also injured. Instead of taking action against the goons, Ghosh's movements have been restricted and her car, which was vandalised, has been seized by the local administration. This is unacceptable. The TMC goons are engaged in unabated violence against the BJP. This is an act of frustration."

The state CEO has sought reports from the West Midnapore district magistrate about the incidents. Javadekar also claimed that in Jhargam Lok Sabha constituency, the body of a BJP booth president has been recovered.

Demanding that poll observers should ensure proper deployment of central forces for smooth voting, the Union minister said, "Mamata (Banerjee) says there is an expiry date for the Prime Minister. But the way they are conducting elections, the amount of frustration, and with the imminent defeat of the TMC, there is an expiry date of the Mamata government."

Keep yourself updated on Lok Sabha Elections 2019 with our round-the-clock coverage -- breaking news, updates, analysis et al. Happy reading.
You dont see this across the country, Puknaitis said. These types of events are very unique. Not every community remembers like Elgin has and not every community has put together the wherewithal to have a museum with all the historical artifacts like Elgin does. I salute you all because this doesnt happen easily.
CHENNAI: Lashing out at the Centre over the terms of reference (ToR) issued to two companies to carry out environmental impact assessment for the proposed hydrocarbon exploration projects in Tamil Nadu, DMK chief M. K. Stalin has demanded the Centre to immediately stop the projects as it was announced when the Model Code of Conduct is in force.

He also urged the Election Commission of India to take appropriate steps to halt it.

In neighbouring Puducherry, Chief Minister V. Narayanasamy said his government would not allow the excavation of oil and gas in the Union Territory. He has come to know through unofficial sources that the Centre has proposed to launch projects to explore oil and gas from Puducherry and Tamil Nadu's Villupuram, he had said.

Election Commission should come forward and ensure that the project is not implemented, Stalin said in a statement here on Sunday rsponding to reports of central government issuing ToR to Vedanta Ltd and Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) to carry out environmental impact assessment for hydrocarbon exploration projects in Villupuram in Tamil Nadu.

Referring to the signing of agreements in 2018 with Vedanta Ltd and ONGC to set up 274 and 67 wells respectively by the Centre, Stalin pointed out that farmers from the State had strongly opposed the move and also staged protests. He alleged that the projects were now being allowed in the State, despite representations by farmers.

He also took strong exception to the ruling AIADMK for not opposing the projects. With Model Code of Conduct in effect, according Terms of Reference is against the election rules, he claimed and called upon the State government to prevail upon the ECI to ensure the projects were not implemented.

Meanwhile, AIADMK's ally and PMK leader S. Ramadoss said the move was against the stand taken by the Centre, which had earlier said it would not implement such projects.

The projects would largely affect the Cauvery-delta regions, he said and sought both the governments to guarantee that such projects would not be implemented in any parts of the State at any cost.
As the 2019 Lok Sabha election winds its way to a close, major political leaders appear to be unflagging in their zeal to tell their side of the story. In this election, there seem to be just two top leaders  the BJPs Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is seeking a second term, and Congress president Rahul Gandhi, the challenger, but also not really in the prime ministerial race for more reasons than one. Mr Modi shows himself to be an able politician, who rakes up issues, relevant or irrelevant, serious or frivolous, and his critics find themselves catching on to everything he says and nailing him for what he said and what he didnt say. The man who seems to enjoy the spectacle of his critics attacking him ineffectively from all sides. Mr Gandhi, on the other hand, has in the past few weeks constructed a counter-narrative of the good man, who will fight hard against an opponent but he will not let rancour fill his soul. The essence of his refrain is that he will return Mr Modis hatred with love. This is the atmospherics of this election.

The underlying issues are quite different. The critics have tried to show Mr Modi, the BJP and by implication its parent body, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, as anti-minority, and especially as anti-Muslim. Mr Modi and his party do not confirm or deny the position. In his latest interview to the Indian Express, Mr Modi has reiterated the old BJP argument that the anti-Muslim image of Mr Modi and that of his party was created by the Congress, and that they  Mr Modi and the BJP  are not obliged to clear the air. It is indeed a cunning position to take, but it is a position that cannot be faulted except on sentimental grounds. That is why even the Congress Party and Mr Gandhi are not harping on the issue of minorities, and they are skirting the question whether the identity of Muslims in India is under threat. The fact is that the BJP recognises that it cannot threaten Muslims in any way even as it stubbornly refuses to humour Muslims. The clash of visions then is no more between secularism and communalism.

India remains a defiantly multi-religious society and the BJP recognises that it cannot do anything about it.

The misuse of institutions  the Supreme Court, the Election Commission, Parliament, the Constitution  is really an old issue, and these are charges that the Opposition of the time had made against the Congress when it (Congress) was in power.

Parties in power do not play fair, but the institutions survive the onslaught because the Indian constitutional system has shown itself to be fairly resilient. In different ways, Mr Modi and Mr Gandhi declare that the poor in the country need to be helped. It is interesting that though that Mr Modi still uses the old-fashioned Congress term, the poor, and he uses the old Congress rhetoric of government stretching its hand to help the poor, Mr Gandhi speaks of the unemployed youth and distressed farmers. Mr Modis welfare state differs very little from that of the old, unreformed Congress.

The real difference between Mr Modi and Mr Gandhi is Mr Modis compulsive populist rhetoric, and he believes, and there is an element of cynicism as well as self-delusion, that the way to win over people is to indulge without restraint in populist theatrics. Mr Gandhi, on the other hand, is both more sensible and more sceptical about the uses of populism. In a way, Mr Gandhi is more intelligent and more modern than Mr Modi in his political perception. Mr Gandhi knows that people cannot be fooled by rhetoric, while Mr Modi thinks that people can be swept off their feet through rhetoric. Mr Modi, in his naive belief in the powers of populism, forgets that people do not believe in rhetoric all the time. Somewhere, Mr Modi is testing the limits of peoples credulity, and he would be shocked if the people were to reject him through sheer cold reasoning.

As democracies mature, and India is no exception, leaders and parties cannot take the people for a ride. Unless Mr Modi and Mr Gandhi offer a credible programme to govern the country, they will not be accepted. Mr Gandhis programme is tethered to reasonableness, while Mr Modi and the BJP are carried away by their own rhetoric. The Congress, and by default Mr Gandhi, have an advantage over the relatively immature BJP and Mr Modi because of political experience. The Congress never promised the moon, not even in the heyday when Indira Gandhi coined the slogan of garibi hatao. If not now, perhaps later, the BJP will have to give up its flaky visions of a New India and a powerful India which has no connect with the real India.

The delusion that the BJP and the RSS entertain about India becoming a vishwa guru, or global spiritual preceptor, will be the undoing of the right-wing BJP and its populist leader, Mr Modi.

The other major lesson that Mr Modi and his party need to learn from the Congress  of course, Mr Modi should remember that the Congress is not that of the Nehru-Gandhi family alone, but that of Maulana Azad, Subhas Chandra Bose, Mahatma Gandhi, Motilal Nehru, Chittaranjan Das, Gopal Krishna Gokhale, Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Badruddin Tyabji and Dadabhai Naoroji  is the nationalist ethos, where you feel proud about India, defend and promote its interests by carrying different sections of the country together. They have to improve their political thinking and modulate their political articulation to be able to speak for the country, whether they be in government or in Opposition.

Winning or losing an election is not so important as it is to learn to engage in democratic politics. The Congress has learned its lessons because it has tasted defeat. Mr Modi and the BJP remain vulnerable because he has not yet shown the maturity of accepting an electoral rebuff. Whether the BJP wins or loses, Prime Minister Modi and the BJP remain a problem in the nations politics. They have yet to prove themselves to be politically mature.
If Pakistan is to establish an equitable relationship with the US, it will have to build the capability to resist India-US military, financial and domestic pressure.

Pakistans long, close and turbulent relationship with the US has had a pervasive impact on this countrys history. The last phase of that relationship, the war on terror alliance, ended in August 2017, when Donald Trump announced a punitive policy towards Pakistan, suspending high-level contacts, freezing Coalition Support Funds repayments and demanding Pakistans cooperation on Afghanistan.

Over the next 18 months, Americas initially coercive demands on Afghanistan became progressively realistic, eventually asking Islamabad to help start direct talks between the US and the Afghan Taliban. Pakistan has delivered on this request. Several rounds of US-Taliban talks, held mostly in Doha, have reportedly led to draft agreements for withdrawal of US troops from Afghanistan and to prevent Afghanistans territory from being used as a base for global terrorism in future. However, the Taliban have refused to talk to what they call the puppet government in Kabul or to accept a ceasefire until US troop withdrawal is under way.

The US has not offered Pakistan any tangible concessions in exchange for its assistance. Contrary to earlier assurances, it is now asking that Pakistan play an important role in achieving a successful conclusion of the peace process. US demands have been extended to the eastern front. During and after the Pulwama mini-crisis, US pressure was ratcheted up  directly and through the UN and the FATF  to demand actions against the Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammad and the inclusion of JeMs Maulana Azhar on the UN Security Councils terrorism list.

Islamabad has seen it in its own interest to comply with the demands to proscribe the activities of the LeT and JeM. It has also continued its cooperation on Afghanistan. However, this may not prove sufficient to restore friendly ties with the US.

Americas new hostility towards Pakistan is due mostly to its emerging global rivalry with China, in which India has been chosen as Washingtons strategic partner whereas Pakistan is listed on Chinas side of the power equation. The recently announced US South Asia Policy is predicated on Indias regional domination.

If Pakistan is to establish an equitable relationship with the US, it will have to build the capability to resist India-US military, financial and domestic pressure. To do so, it needs strong and nationally-oriented governance and Chinas unreserved cooperation.

Pakistan is well placed to resist military pressure. The Pulwama mini-crisis demonstrated two things: one, that Pakistan can defend itself by conventional means; two, that nuclear deterrence worked once again to moderate military behaviour on both sides. Yet, India is embarked on a major arms acquisition and modernisation process which Pakistan will have to continue to neutralise.

Pakistans financial defences are vulnerable. The nation needs to come together to implement the politically difficult yet vital tax and other measures required to ensure a sustained balance in the countrys fiscal and external accounts. Pakistan should join the nascent efforts of China, Russia and some other countries to construct alternate or supplementary arrangements to the US-dominated financial system.

Defensive measures do not imply systemic hostility with the US. There are vast areas for mutually beneficial cooperation which can be promoted as long as the US does not threaten Pakistans core interests and positions, especially its rejection of Indian domination and support for Kashmiri self-determination.

Despite the new Cold War, the US may find it expedient to cooperate with China and Pakistan to stabilise the Afghan economy in a post-settlement scenario, including through Afghanistans integration into CPEC, and collaborative execution of several agreed transnational projects, such as the TAPI and CASA-1000 ventures.

Pakistans revived relationship with Saudi Arabia and the UAE offers another avenue for indirect economic Pakistan-US cooperation. Significantly, Saudi and UAE investments in the energy and petrochemicals sectors, besides potentially building Pakistans bridges with US corporates, will also link them, via oil and gas exports, to China and Central Asia through Pakistan.

Hope resides in the possibility that the US will perceive the economic momentum in Asia, unleashed by the Belt and Road Initiative and Asian economic integration, as a strategic opportunity rather than a challenge. US participation could transform the Belt and Road endeavour into a globally beneficial enterprise.

Indeed, faced by global threats of climate change, poverty and nuclear annihilation, and offered the alternative of a cooperative, knowledge-driven future of growth and prosperity, the US, China, Russia and other powers, including India, ultimately would be wise to opt for win-win cooperation rather than lose-lose confrontation.

By arrangement with Dawn
The 2019 general election is entering the home stretch and the results are due in 10 days time. The less than perfect functioning of EVMs has been a recurring theme so far, leading to delays and long queues in very hot weather. The partisan nature of the Election Commission has been assailed by different political parties, except the ruling BJP. The perfunctory use of VVPAT has been a major debating point, which might just lead on to how the Indian voting system, based on the standalone voting machine, could be bettered to take it nearer greater acceptance by all parties. The issue of abandoning the totaliser system, whereby voting trends in individual booths were masked by mixing the old paper ballots from various booths in bundles of 50 before counting them constituency-wise rather than booth-wise, is also worth considering.

It must also be explored whether it would be possible to reinstate the absolute confidentiality of polls in the age of machine voting. Would all parties sink their differences and agree to each EVM carrying a verifiable paper trail leading to a more elaborate counting process? Paper ballots gave way to machine-readable paper ballots with optical mark recognition in some parts of the United States. It is argued that this technology, with a basic paper ballot, is superior to the EVMs with VVPAT, in which the vote is stored electronically. Of course, the Florida vote in the George W. Bush versus Al Gore presidential election in 2000 is often stated as a warning of how such a system can also lead to complications. The current system must improve at least to a compulsory EVM with VVPAT, or switch to paper ballots with OMR for a polling process that is more satisfying to all.

The rulings of the election panel have come under fire to the extent the present CECs term has proved to be not only the most controversial but also seen to be beholden to those in power, to the extent of being charged with bias. The system is ill served if there is no confidence in the integrity of the election panel, irrespective of whether there is dissent within or not. The challenge has been enhanced with the social media making a huge play in these polls, with both major national parties and others guilty of free dissemination of disinformation. It is true the ruling party, with greater resources, has used the social media more extensively. When the EC is unable to rule in a non-partisan manner on so many aspects of behaviour of politicians, it can only be seen as helpless against the social media as a ubiquitous, no-holds barred communications platform. Elections are the very foundation of democracy. There is a clear need to make them work better. The time for reform will begin the moment the results are declared on May 23 and a new government is in place.
We shall know in exactly 10 days from now whether the morbid stability of the past five years  when the country slipped on practically every measurable metric, and achievements of the past were corroded  will be prolonged, or change ushered in. On the result will depend the degree to which President Ram Nath Kovind might be taxed in the days to come.

The BJP has centred its election campaign on one man alone. If the scheme succeeds, that man is likely to win big. But there is an equal chance of failing big time since the bet is on a single horse. Perhaps this is why there has been a constant guessing game on for the past month on the nature of the next coalition government, no matter which party or individual gets to lead it.

If Prime Minister Narendra Modi is destined to return (with the nagging echo of EVM-related complaints in the background), Mr Kovind has very little work to do. Within the hour of the poll result, he can ask Mr Modi to take a fresh oath after submitting to the formality of the BJP parliamentary party electing him leader.

On the other hand, in the absence of Mr Modis return on the strength of a massive renewal of mandate, the President will be pushed for time if he has to consider deeply the course he is to adopt in the event of an ambiguous situation. The result will be officially communicated by the chief election commissioner to the Rashtrapati on May 23. Ordinarily, the next Prime Minister should be sworn in by May 26, the day the present incumbent took the oath five years ago.

Thats just so little time, especially if the scenario is made complex and tight by the result.

But no matter what, Mr Kovind may rest assured that he runs little risk of committing an act of unconstitutionality, even unconsciously. He must only guard against doing unthinkable (and perfectly stupid) things such as letting a leader with a relatively modest Lok Sabha following be sworn in as PM in the zany hope that such a choice is best suited in the circumstances to bring a stable government into being.

There is a view held by an Indian statesman with a lofty reputation  although this has not been committed to writing  that the time between the declaration of the poll result and the swearing-in of the Prime Minister by the Rashtrapati is the zero hour of politics.

Taken from the vocabulary of parliamentary practice, the so-called zero hour is the glorious time at the end of the Question Hour every day in the Indian Parliament when rules are relaxed to allow for representation of any matter by a MP without having to secure prior permission of the Chair. Thus, when it comes to calling upon a freshly-elected MP to assume the burden of being Prime Minister, it can turn out to be the opportunity for the President of India to be at his creative best.

The reason is that the Rashtrapati is on his own. He may consult anyone, but no ones advice is binding. He becomes his own master in that narrow slat of time. Besides, he cannot be held to be in constitutional error, regardless of the choice he makes.

As former President Pranab Mukherjee notes in The Coalition Years, the last of the three volumes of his memoirs, The amendment introduced in Article 74 of the Indian Constitution through the 42nd Amendment has settled the matter. The provision makes it clear that the President, in exercising his powers and discharging his responsibilities, is bound by the advice given to him by the council of ministers headed by the Prime Minister.

It is quite clear that the President is untrammelled by any advice when the council of ministers presided by the Prime Minister is yet to come into existence. In that zone of time before the day breaks, the President may do as he pleases, just short of trying to command the waves as King Canute apocryphally did. But even if he chose to follow Canutes example, he may be found to be in error in retrospect, but not in violation of his constitutional oath and responsibility.

In 1996, President Shankar Dayal Sharma called Atal Behari Vajpayee, the leader of the largest party in Parliament (which was well short of a majority), to form the government. That government lasted only 13 days. Vajpayee did not even take the trouble to conduct a vote of confidence, and resigned.

The President had evidently made a mistake by mechanically calling the leader of the largest party in a hung Parliament. He had not tried to read the political wind. In this regard, President R. Venkataraman before Dr Sharma, and President K.R. Narayanan after him, chose to exercise greater judiciousness. Unlike Dr Sharma, they tried to gauge the extent of support the aspirants had. Narayanan duly asked for letters of support from different parties for the PM aspirant they backed, and he duly issued press notes.

Ascertaining the degree of support enjoyed by an aspirant before s/he is asked to take oath (preceding the vote of confidence) is sensible, though this may be neither a necessary nor sufficient condition for success. But the President possesses no other safeguard. The difficulty that President Kovind is likely to face, however, is that of having too little time in which to make decisions of great moment. Nevertheless, it is to be hoped that he has commenced consultations to make sense of whats going on.

The most consequential persons in the land have demeaned themselves this election season by their utterances. This can only be taken to indicate a level of desperation on their part. When the election result comes, such persons are likely to exert pressure of a very high order in order to advance their cause. This may need to be resisted by wielders of constitutional authority. The President needs to be both alert and firm.

When the result of the 1989 election came, it was clear that Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi had lost the election, with his party coming in with only 197 seats, although it was the largest single party by far. The late Rajiv Gandhi informed the President that he would not throw his hat into the ring for PM since he had lost the election. It is futile to expect such standards by those in high places now. President Kovind should ready himself for any eventuality.
And he is called Archie! Who would have imagined that the latest addition to the royal family would remind us of the lad from Riverdale! (We can only await the Veronicas and Bettys that may follow). Okay, his full name is Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor. So that may make the plebian Archie sound a little more regal; but given the amount of conversation around the name  it must have been a shock for the bookies and the royal-obsessed Brits who were expecting a more dignified Arthur of perhaps Alfred.

There has also been rude speculation over the fact that the Duchess of Sussex, Meghan Markle, once had a cat named Archie whom she adored  and could her son have been christened Archie in the memory of the cat? That sounds very bizarre  and a kinder, more probable explanation could be that she wanted an American name, and the comic book character, Archie, is a redhead, just like Harry.

So while Archie does acknowledge the newborns American heritage, his second name Harrison not only is British, it points to his lineage, as Harrys son. In any case, since this child is unlikely to inherit the throne, it is fine for the parents to have some fun over his naming. The more interesting thing is that one week later Archie had met the Queen, his great grandmother  but still has to be introduced to his grandparents, Prince Charles and Camilla. He has not met the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, Prince William and Kate Middleton (his uncle and aunt) either. It seems the latter are waiting for Archie to quieten down. Could the rumour of a rift in paradise be true?

While the Duchess of Sussex, Meghan, was clear that she was not going to do the traditional photo op on the steps of the hospital like her sister-in-law  it was obvious that the comparisons would have been difficult to pull off. Kate Middleton, the Duchess of Cambridge and future Queen, has always looked impeccable with a babe in arms, within hours of the birth  and Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, looked a little plump, and far too normal in her recent photographs  a big no-no in the current parenting stakes. In this world of Instagram, Meghan has wisely chosen to opt out of the competition and enjoy her time with Archie.

Meanwhile, who would have thought that the post of Poet Laureate, once upon a time a huge honour to be bestowed upon a struggling pen-pusher, has now become a difficult one to fill? Posts like these used to be hugely appreciated by both the recipient as well as the bestower: while poets need patronage, the British rulers also (still) require reams to be written about their great achievements. Preferably in verse.

But is this post now akin to a singing bird being put in a cage? Poets have recognised that it is difficult to write on demand  after all the muse must come when it does. Some past Poet Laureates, such as Andrew Motion, have also pointed out that it might have some negative impact on ones writing. It is a 10-year post, and carries an annual stipend of 5,750 and comes with a butt of sack  around 600 bottles of sherry. But he found it was very very damaging to his work. Writing for commissions can never be easy  and he felt that his creativity was drying up.

This is partly why Imtiaz Dharker, the Pakistani-origin writer (now UK-based) who had been chosen this year, declined the honour. She wanted to focus on her own work. It would have been a first for the post, though,  that someone from Asia had been chosen, just as Carol Anne Duffy was the first woman Poet Laureate 10 years ago. Ms Dharker, who is well established and whose poetry is taught in academia  is also someone who is multi-talented. I will never forget the caricature she drew of Meghnad once when she had come over for lunch

But I can already sense the Indian lobby in the UK will begin to bristle  why is it that no Indian-origin poet has been appointed to the post? Shouldnt we be a little more prominent  not just in business, but also in other areas in the UK? Meanwhile, a former probation officer, Simon Armitage, has been appointed the countrys 21st Poet Laureate.

Talking about business, that is the one area where Indians are going strong! With his latest acquisition of Hamleys, the 250-year-old toy store, Mukesh Ambani has made his presence really felt on the high street. This is not only an iconic British brand  but I remember that once upon a time, it was de rigueur for all Indian parents who visited London to drop by at Hamleys and pick up something for their young ones. I too, spent hours browsing through the store as it represented the cleverness with which childrens toys could be created: from wooden to mechanical to electrical. To think that Mukesh Ambani has now bought it over  and is also working with Armani, Burberry, Jimmy Choo and other big brands  the project of the reverse colonisation of UK is well under way!
The probe would be completed in about a year and Google executives would likely be summoned to appear before the CCI in coming months. (Photo: AP)

Indias antitrust watchdog has ordered an investigation into Alphabet Incs unit Google for allegedly abusing the dominant position of its popular Android mobile operating system to block rivals, two sources aware of the matter told Reuters.

The Competition Commission of India (CCI) last year started looking into the complaint, which is similar to one Google faced in Europe that resulted in a 4.34 billion euro (USD 5 billion) fine on the company, Reuters reported in February.

In mid-April, the CCI decided there was merit in the accusations made in the complaint and ordered its investigation unit to launch a full probe, one of the sources with direct knowledge of the matter said.

That decision, which was confirmed by the second source, has not been previously reported and the order calling the full investigation was not made public.

It is a strong case for the CCI, given the EU precedent, said the first source. The CCI has (preliminarily) found Google abused its dominant position.

The probe would be completed in about a year and Google executives would likely be summoned to appear before the CCI in coming months, the source said.

The CCI did not respond to a request for comment.

A Google spokesman said Android has enabled millions of Indians to connect to the internet by making mobile devices more affordable. Google looked forward to working with the CCI to demonstrate how Android has led to more competition and innovation, not less, the spokesman said in a statement.

Reuters could not establish who filed the complaint, which involves more than one person.

The precise details of the complaint against Google in India could not be determined, but sources have told Reuters it is on the exact same lines as the case filed against the company in Europe.

In the EU case, regulators said Google forced manufacturers to pre-install Google Search and its Chrome browser, together with its Google Play app store, on Android devices, giving it an unfair advantage.

Google has appealed the order but, in a bid to quell EU antitrust concerns, last month said it's Android device users in Europe would be able to choose rival browsers and search engines. Once a user downloads a rival search app, it also prompts them to change their default search engine in their Google Chrome browser, if they so wish.

Android, used by device makers for free, features on about 88 per cent of the worlds smartphones. In India, about 99 per cent of the smartphones sold this year used the platform, Counterpoint Research estimates.

It remains possible that the CCIs investigations unit could clear Google of any wrongdoing. The amount of fine that can be imposed on Google if the CCI rules against it were not immediately clear.

The Indian regulator has powers to impose a penalty of up to 10% of the relevant turnover of a company in the last three financial years if it is found to have abused its dominant position. In that case, Googles earnings linked to its web browser and the search engine could be considered to assess the fine, New Delhi-based antitrust lawyer Gautam Shahi said.

Google does not disclose its India earnings from its web browser or search engine.

They can either change their conduct in India voluntarily or let CCI investigate. A voluntary change in conduct may have an impact on the quantum of penalty if its imposed, said Shahi.

The Indian investigation, however, is not the only antitrust trouble for the Mountain View, California-based company in its key market.

Last year, the CCI imposed a fine of 1.36 billion rupees (USD 19.46 million) on Google for search bias and abuse of its dominant position. It also found Google had put its commercial flight search function in a prominent position on the search results page.

Google appealed against that order, saying the ruling could cause it irreparable harm and reputational loss.

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It cited a Facebook statement from December as saying the company had discovered a photo API bug that allowed third-party applications to access Facebook user photos. (Photo: ANI)

Turkeys Personal Data Protection Authority (KVKK) said on Friday it had fined Facebook a total of 1.65 million lira (USD 270,976.01) in April due to a data breach.

It cited a Facebook statement from December as saying the company had discovered a photo API bug that allowed third-party applications to access Facebook user photos.

KVKK said that around 300,000 users in Turkey may have been affected by this data breach. It also said that the API bug occurred for 12 days in September last year and Facebook not intervening in time showed there were deficiencies in technical precautions regarding the issue.

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The document further notes that search and seizure are unlawful and unreasonable when it violates an individual's constitutional rights.

In the US district of Idaho a federal magistrate judge denied issuing a search warrant authorising the police to compel an individual to use their fingerprint for unlocking their device.

As stated in the official document, the case relates to a Google Pixel 3 XL unit which is part of other electronic possessions of an individual suspected to be involved in child pornography.

The document further notes that search and seizure are unlawful and unreasonable when it violates an individual's constitutional rights. Compelling to unlock the device using fingerprint would be self-incrimination, communicating the ownership of the device.

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Washington: President Donald Trump warned China on Saturday that it should strike a trade deal with the United States now, otherwise an agreement would be "far worse for them if it has to be negotiated in my second term."

Washington and Beijing are locked in a trade battle that has seen mounting tariffs, sparking fears the dispute will damage the global economy.

Two days of talks ended Friday with no deal. China's top negotiator said the two sides would meet again in Beijing at an unspecified date, but warned that China would make no concessions on "important principles."

Also Read: 'Make or produce in good old USA': Trump shows way to avoid tariffs

"I think that China felt they were being beaten so badly in the recent negotiation that they may as well wait around for the next election, 2020, to see if they could get lucky & have a Democrat win -- in which case they would continue to rip-off the USA for USD 500 Billion a year," Trump said in a tweet Saturday.

"The only problem is that they know I am going to win (best economy & employment numbers in U.S. history, & much more), and the deal will become far worse for them if it has to be negotiated in my second term. Would be wise for them to act now, but love collecting BIG TARIFFS!"

U.S. and Chinese negotiators resumed trade talks Friday, May 10, 2019, under increasing pressure after President Donald Trump raised tariffs on USD 200 billion in Chinese goods and Beijing promised to retaliate. (AP Photo/Ted S. Warren)

Trump had accused Beijing of reneging on its commitments in trade talks and ordered new punitive duties, which took effect Friday, on USA 200 billion worth of Chinese imports, raising them to 25 percent from 10 percent.

He then cranked up the heat further, ordering a tariff hike on almost all remaining imports  USA 300 billion worth, according to US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer -- from the world's second-biggest economy.

Those tariffs would not take effect for months, after a period of public comment.

Trump also said Saturday that firms could easily avoid additional costs by producing goods in the United States.

"Such an easy way to avoid Tariffs? Make or produce your goods and products in the good old USA. It's very simple!" he tweeted, echoing a similar message he sent Friday -- and even retweeted.

Only a week earlier, the United States and China had seemed poised to complete a sweeping agreement.

Washington wants Beijing to tighten its intellectual property protections, cut its subsidies to state-owned firms and reduce the yawning trade deficit; China wants an end to tariffs as part of a "balanced" deal.

While supporters laud Trump as a tough negotiator, free-trade-minded Republicans have warned that the tariffs could do real damage to the economy, and many farmers -- including Trump supporters -- say the tariffs have hit their bottom line.

As the trade war spread, China imposed USD 110 billion in duties on farm exports and other US goods.

Republican Senator Chuck Grassley, from the farm state of Iowa, cautiously welcomed the new tariffs but urged negotiators to reach a quick solution "so we can avoid prolonged tariffs, which we know have an impact on the US economy."
Sentimental Journey: This is the story of Ross and Katey Lehman, told by their son, Chicago actor Ross (Robby) Lehman. It weaves the romantic history of their courtship, marriage and life together, set against the backdrop of WWII, when he was an Air Force bombardier held prisoner by the Germans, and she was a sophisticated career woman who waited for his return. This world premiere includes popular music of the period, such as "We'll Meet Again," and the title song "Sentimental Journey." Tickets: Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays $40; Saturdays and Sundays $45; Discounts available for groups, seniors and students. 1 p.m. Wednesday, Citadel Theatre Company, 300 S. Waukegan Road, Lake Forest, $40-$45; group discounts available, 847-735-8554.
Washington: US President Donald Trump and Chinas Xi Jinping could meet next month on the sidelines of the G20 summit to hash out their differences on trade, but no new talks are scheduled, White House economic adviser Larry Kudlow said on Sunday.

The G20 summit is scheduled to take place in Osaka in Japan on June 28-29.

The worlds top two economies ended two days of negotiations in Washington on Friday with no deal. While making it clear that the US was unwilling to settle, Mr Kudlow sought to tamp down concerns, insisting the process was ongoing.

We need to see something much clearer and until we do, we have to keep our tariffs on, Mr Kudlow said in an interview on Fox News Sunday, adding: We cant accept any backtracking.

As for future negotiations, he said there are no concrete, definite plans yet.
IS has stepped up hit-and-run raids and suicide attacks, including taking responsibility for the Easter Sunday bombing in Sri Lanka that killed at least 253 people. (Photo:AP)

New Delhi/Srinagar: Islamic State (IS) claimed for the first time that it has established a province in India, after a clash between militants and security forces in the contested Kashmir region killed a militant with alleged ties to the group.

ISs Amaq News Agency late on Friday announced the new province, that it called Wilayah of Hind, in a statement that also claimed IS inflicted casualties on Indian army soldiers in the town of Amshipora in the Shopian district of Kashmir.

The IS statement corresponds with an Indian police statement on Friday that a militant called Ishfaq Ahmad Sofi was killed in an encounter in Shopian.

ISs statement establishing the new province appears to be designed to bolster its standing after the group was driven from its self-styled caliphate in Iraq and Syria in April, where at one point it controlled thousands of miles of territory.

IS has stepped up hit-and-run raids and suicide attacks, including taking responsibility for the Easter Sunday bombing in Sri Lanka that killed at least 253 people.

The establishment of a province in a region where it has nothing resembling actual governance is absurd, but it should not be written off, said Rita Katz, director of the SITE Intel Group that tracks Islamic extremists.

The world may roll its eyes at these developments, but to jihadists in these vulnerable regions, these are significant gestures to help lay the groundwork in rebuilding the map of the IS caliphate.

Sofi had been involved in several militant groups in Kashmir for more than a decade before pledging allegiance to Islamic State, according to a military official on Saturday and an interview given by Sofi to a Srinagar-based magazine sympathetic to IS.

He was suspected of several grenade attacks on security forces in the region, police and military sources said.

It was a clean operation and no collateral damage took place during the exchange of fire, a police spokesman said in the statement on Fridays encounter.

The military official said it was possible that Sofi had been the only militant left in Kashmir associated with IS.

Separatists have for decades fought an armed conflict against Indian rule in Muslim-majority Kashmir. The majority of these groups want independence for Kashmir or to join Indias arch-rival Pakistan. They have not, like Islamic State, sought to establish an empire across the Muslim world.

Nuclear powers India and Pakistan have fought two wars over Kashmir, and came to the brink of a third earlier this year after a suicide attack by a Pakistan-based militant group killed at least 40 paramilitary police in the Indian-controlled portion of the region.

A spokesman for Indias home ministry, which is responsible for security in Kashmir, did not respond to a request for comment.
Sri Lankan Catholic devotees pray during a Mass at the St Theresas church as the Catholic churches hold services again after the Easter attacks in Colombo on Sunday. (Photo - AFP)

Colombo: A 47-year old Muslim cleric wanted by the Sri Lankan security forces for using social media platform to air extremist views has been arrested at the Bandaranaike International Airport, a media report said.

The cleric, whose identity has not been disclosed, was wanted for releasing videos in a manner that harms reconciliation in the country and has been remanded till May 14, the Daily Mirror reported.

The suspect, a resident of Vavuniya, was arrested on Saturday at the airport after his arrival from Mecca after performing Hajj. He had been organising pilgrimage tours to Mecca, the paper reported. The arrest of the cleric came days after the Sri Lankan government said the trustees of all the mosques in the country should not engage in or allow any gathering to promote or propagate hatred and also directed them to send the audio recordings of the sermons to authorities.

The governments order was after security forces recovered swords and other weapons from mosques during search operations following the April 21 bomb blasts in which over 250 people, including 44 foreigners 10 of whom were Indians, were killed and 500 others injured. Security was beefed up across Sri Lanka after the Easter Sunday attacks on three churches, two of them Catholic, and three luxury hotels. The Islamic State claimed responsibility for the attack, but the government has blamed local Islamist extremist group, the National Thawheed Jama'ath (NTJ), for the bombings. The security forces are conducting security operations since the attack.
Three militants of the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), armed with automatic weapons, stormed the Pearl Continental (PC) Hotel in Gwadar and opened random firing, killing a guard on Saturday. (Photo: File)

Islamabad: At least eight persons, including four civilians, a Pakistan Navy soldier and three militants, were killed in Saturday's deadly attack on a luxury hotel in the port city of Gwadar in the restive Balochistan province, as the security forces cleared the building and defused explosive devices left behind by the attackers, the Pakistan Army said Sunday.

Three militants of the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), armed with automatic weapons, stormed the Pearl Continental (PC) Hotel in Gwadar and opened random firing, killing a guard on Saturday.

All three attackers were killed by the security forces.

China has built a deep-sea port in Gwadar, which is one of the focal points of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Beijing has invested over USD 50 billion to link the port city with the China's far-western Xinjiang region.

Many Chinese and workers from other provinces of Pakistan are also employed at the port.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Sunday condemned a deadly attack on the PC hotel, saying the terror strike was an effort to "sabotage" the country's economic projects and prosperity.

Pakistan Army spokesperson, in a statement, said the security forces have completed the clearance operation at the PC Gwadar, in which five persons and three attackers were killed.

"All three terrorists killed. Terrorists' bodies are held for identification. During operation five individuals, including four hotel employees and a Pakistan Navy soldier, died," the statement said.

Six individuals got injured which include two Army officials, two Pakistan Navy soldiers and two hotel employee.

Army said the terrorists had attempted entry into the hotel with an aim to target or take hostage the guests present there, but security guard at the entry challenged them and foiled the attempt of the militants to enter into the hotel's main hall.

The terrorists went to the upper floors of the hotel through the staircase.

"Terrorists opened fire, resulting into martyrdom of security guard Zahoor while enroute to stairs, terrorists kept firing indiscriminately resulting into martyrdom of three more hotel employees - Farhad, Bilawal and Awais - while two others got injured," the Army said.

It further said that the Quick Reaction Forces of the Army, the Navy and the Police immediately reached the hotel and secured guests and staff present, and restricted the attackers within corridor of the fourth floor of the hotel.

After ensuring safe evacuation of guests and staff, the security forces launched a clearance operation against the terrorists, who made the CCTV cameras dysfunctional and planted improvised explosive devices (IEDs) at all the entry points leading to fourth floor, it said.

"The security forces made special entry points to get into the fourth floor, shot down all the terrorists and cleared planted IEDs, the statement said, adding in exchange of fire a Pakistan Navy soldier, Abbas Khan, was killed while two Army Captains, two Pakistan Navy soldiers also got injured.

The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) has claimed the responsibility of the attack saying, the attack was carried out by four attackers.

The BLA said that the attackers were linked with the group's 'Majeed Brigade'.

It said Chinese and other investors were in the hotel at the time of attack. However, Balochistan Home Minister Ziaullah Langov told media that no foreigner was in the hotel when the rebels launched the attack.
Students of Indian Academy, an autonomous college in Hennur, are accusing the college of denying them admission tickets even after collecting penalty for the shortage of attendance.

Several students who were denied admission tickets to appear for the undergraduate examinations beginning from Monday, gathered near the college demanding admission tickets.

One student, who says she was hospitalised for 45 days, said she was not permitted to appear for the exam despite submitting medical documents. Priya, the student said, "I suffered face paralysis and was hospitalised for more than a month. I submitted medical records but the college is not accepting them and is asking me to appear for next exams."

However, college authorities were unavailable for comment and registrar of Bengaluru North University Prof M S Reddy said, "Currently there is no provision to give relaxation for attendance even under medical grounds."
Saudi Arabia's security forces killed eight alleged terrorists in a shootout in the predominantly Shiite eastern region of Qatif, a government statement issued late Saturday said.

The Interior Ministry said security forces launched a raid against a suspected militant hideout on the island of Tarot off the coast of the kingdom's Eastern Province, a restive region on the Persian Gulf where most of the country's oil reserves are located.

The statement described the group as a "terrorist cell" and accused them of planning to attack vital installations and security targets.

The Interior Ministry said security forces only opened fire after they were shot at. It did not identify the militants and said an investigation was ongoing.

Videos posted on social media by residents of Tarot showed black smoke rising from residential buildings and the sound of heavy gunfire on Saturday.

Saudi security forces frequently target and clash with Shiite gunmen in the region of Qatif, which saw large protests by minority Shiites in 2011 demanding greater rights and equal treatment from the kingdom's Sunni Muslim rulers.

The kingdom has since targeted many of those protest leaders, including its most iconic figure, Sheikh Nimr al-Nimr, who was accused of national security crimes and executed in early 2016.

The Shiite cleric's execution sparked protests by Shiites in Iraq, Pakistan and Iran, and led to the ransacking of the Saudi Embassy in Tehran, which has remained shuttered ever since.

Tensions have likely spiked in recent weeks after Saudi Arabia beheaded 37 men, most of them Shiites, in a mass execution on April 23.

The UN's human rights chief called the mass execution, which included three sentenced as minors, "shocking" and "abhorrent."

The rights group Amnesty International said 11 of the men were convicted of terrorism-related crimes after a "grossly unfair trial."

At least 14 others executed were convicted of violent offences related to their participation in anti-government demonstrations in Shiite-populated areas of Saudi Arabia between 2011 and 2012.
Trinamool supremo Mamata Banerjee, a key player in the anti-Narendra Modi alliance is expected to opt out of the meeting of opposition leaders planned by the Congress after the conclusion of the seven-phase Lok Sabha elections.

The mega opposition meeting, tentatively scheduled for May 21, is expected to be a show of strength by the non-NDA political parties and also a message to President Ram Nath Kovind to consider them as a cohesive group against the ruling BJP-led alliance.

However, a senior Congress leader admitted that Mamata may not like to divulge her cards till after the declaration of Lok Sabha results and may stay away from any meeting with other leaders before May 23.

BSP supremo Mayawati, who is contesting the elections in alliance with arch-rival Samajwadi Party, is expected to drive a tough bargain in the government formation exercise.

Mayawati has already indicated that she could contest a Lok Sabha bypoll, should a situation arise, a clear indication towards her prime ministerial ambitions. Though Mamata has never spoken publicly about aiming for the top post, her party leaders have been vocal about their desire to see her as prime minister.

Congress leaders believe that the BJP-led NDA will fall short of the numbers after the results of the Lok Sabha elections are declared on May 23. Though they concede that the BJP may emerge as the single-largest party, the opposition would want the President to consider the numbers in favour of a grouping when he considers extending an invitation to form the next government.

Though the precedent has been to extend the invite to the single-largest party, opposition leaders argue that if they are able to demonstrate the numbers  a minimum of 272  it would be imperative on the President to invite them.

Out endeavour would be to demonstrate the numbers, complete with signed letters of support from political parties and a parade of members supporting us, a senior leader said.

Informal parleys have already begun with Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu having met Congress President Rahul Gandhi and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee last week.

Senior Congress leaders are also in touch with their counterparts in the CPI(M) and other Left parties.
Whoever holds the office of Prime Minister after the current Lok Sabha elections gets over is likely to have a meeting with American President Donald Trump in Japan next month.

The next top level engagement between India and the United States is likely to take place on the sidelines of the G-20 summit, scheduled to take place at Osaka in Japan on June 28 and 29.

The US President is likely to attend the summit which Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe will host.

New Delhi and Washington D.C. are in touch to explore if the G-20 summit in Japan could be used as an opportunity to arrange a meeting between Prime Minister and the American President. The possibility of the meeting was discussed when Alice Wells, US Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia, visited New Delhi and met senior officials recently, sources told the DH.

Modi visited Washington D.C. and had a meeting with Trump in White House in June 2017. They had a bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the East Asia Summit at Manila in the Philippines in November 2017.

The two leaders did not hold a bilateral meeting over the past one-and-a-half years. They, however, had a trilateral meeting with Abe  the first such huddle by the leaders of Japan, America and India  during the G-20 summit at Buenos Aires in December last year.

The talk, if held, is likely to set the stage for a series of engagements between India and the United States, sources said. External Affairs Minister and Defence Minister of the government that would take office in New Delhi after the LS polls may travel to Washington D.C. later this year to meet with their US counterparts for the second India-America 2+2 dialogue  a new mechanism of engagement launched last year.

The issues related to the trade disputes between India and the US are likely to figure prominently in the meeting between the Prime Minister and the American President. The other issues could be India's concern over-hasty withdrawal of US troops from Afghanistan as a result of the peace process with Taliban and the impact of US sanctions on crude oil export from Iran on the energy security of India.
Enduring the 45.6 degree Celsius heat in Polavaram project area of West Godavari district the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh Nara Chandrababu Naidu on Monday completed a survey of the progress of project work for the first time after the completion of elections on 11 April.

However, district collectors of East and West Godavari districts, Irrigation secretary Sasibhushan stayed away from the Chief Ministers visit. Polavaram Chief Engineer attended the review of the Chief Minister.

The Election commission has earlier objected to the review meeting undertaken by Naidu on Polavaram immediately after elections. The Chief Secretary LV Subrahmanyam also in an order issued to the officers advised them to stay away from such review meetings as the poll code is in vogue.

However, Naidu argued that the project works will slow down if periodical reviews are not undertaken. I have reviewed Polavaram 90 times and visited the site 30 times. Around 70 % of the Projects works are completed. Spillway works are going on with the full force, another 20 meters of height has to be reached, he said after visiting the project site.

The Chief Minister said that 40 lakh acres of land will get assured irrigation and 980 MW of power can be generated from the project which will have 48 crest gates. Naidu said that the state has so far spent Rs 16,493 cr and the centre has only reimbursed Rs 6,727 Cr. Pending bills worth Rs 4631 cr are with the Centre waiting for reimbursement.

Polavaram is the lifeline of the state. We will win over draught forever by completing the project. We will be diverting the water that otherwise would have gone to the sea, and utilize it to provide irrigation to Godavari districts and Visakhapatnam. It is a multipurpose project. Leaders have been talking about Polavaram since 1941, but we did real work from 2014. Naidu said. Naidu reviewed upstream and downstream works on the coffer dam, spillway and excavation work and progress of diaphragm walls.

Meanwhile, reports say that few IAS officers led by Chief Secretary have met at a hotel here in Vijayawada and discussed the alleged threat to the officers absconding from the Chief Ministers meetings.
Fondly called Yogi or YCD by friends and admirers, Y C Deveshwar has always been dignified and led from the front.

The story of Deveshwar is the story of ITC Ltd, a century-old company, that he transformed from being a cigarette maker to FMCG giant, hotel, hospitality, agri-business, paper, printing and packaging company.

Born as Yogesh Chander Deveshwar, on 4 February 1947 in Lahore, he was conferred the coveted Padma Bhushan, the third-highest civilian honour, in 2011.

Two years later, the corporate czar was listed as the best performing CEO in India by the Harvard Business Review - and the seventh in the world. He was also recognised by Boston Consulting Group.

An alumnus of Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi and Harward Business School, he joined the ITC in 1968. In 1984, he rose to become a director and took over as chief executive and chairman in January 1996. In 2017, he stepped down as a chief executive and started serving as non-executive chairman.

Whether it is the iconic Wills, Gold Flake, Ship safety matches, Mangaldeep agarbatti, Wills Lifestyle, Sundrop, Sunfeast, Bingo, Fiama Di Wills, Welcome Hotel or Ashirvaad, Yogi created and took pride in Indian brands.

The Kolkata-based Yogi often spoke of ITC being the Indian Trademarks Corporation.

ITC started as Imperial Tobacco Company of India Limited in 1910. He looked beyond tobacco and transformed it into a corporate giant, with 30,000 people working in 60 locations and having a market capital of over US $50 billion.

Between 1991-94, he led Air India as its chairman and managing director. He served as director in the central board of the Reserve Bank of India, as a member of National Foundation for Corporate Governance and a member of the National Council of Applied Economic Research. He was also a member of UK-India CEO Forum and US-India CEO Forum.
Preliminary investigation by the Technical Crash Investigations Unit found that the driver of the Nissan had been going southwest on Kenosha Road, and may have driven through a stop sign without stopping. The vehicle then struck an embankment and the office at 40020 N. Green Bay Road.
SALT LAKE CITY  Zhou Tian stood in broad daylight, staring at the railroad stretching over the Sierra-Nevada mountains near Truckee, California. It was here railroad workers had chiseled through the Sierra-Nevada granite during the 1860s, and 150 years later, up close, Zhou stood in awe of the tunnels the workers had drilled and blasted.

The 38-year-old Chinese American composer, an associate professor of composition at Michigan State Universitys College of Music, was out West seeking inspiration for a piece to commemorate the transcontinental railroad on its 150th anniversary. He didnt know much about the railroads history, so to compose his piece, Zhou needed firsthand experience; he needed to see and travel along the route.

After a busy year of cross-country research, followed by what the Grammy-nominated composer called four intense months of writing, Zhou finished his work just last month on April 1. The Utah Symphony is one of 13 orchestras in cities along the railroads route that commissioned the work, and under Thierry Fischers direction, the symphony will perform the new piece May 17 and 18 at Abravanel Hall  one of many arts events, including Utah Operas 10-minute opera premieres, celebrating the sesquicentennial.

In a way, the railroad connected the country together, and the piece connects the country together via music, Zhou said.

'D-O-N-E'

Zhou still remembers how he felt that September morning, around 9 a.m., looking at a stretch of the transcontinental railroad. Although it was still summertime, he was cold. Actually, he was freezing. And in that moment, taking in the chilly Sierra-Nevada air, Zhou was shocked because he knew many of the Chinese railroad workers had come from the subtropical climate of Guangdong province.

Basically the warmest province in China, and they came here all the way to (the) Sierra Mountains to work on this project, said Zhou, who came to the U.S. when he was 20 to study at the Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia. As the research went on, I found out just how brutal and how difficult the environment was for the workers.  They worked through the winter  and from all the photos that I saw, they werent wearing any coats. They were just wearing typical tropical kind of clothes. It was heartbreaking,  and we know for a fact that many of them perished.

That was just one experience Zhou had during his year of research.

Those inspiring experiences actually transformed into musical ideas, he said, noting that Promise, the slower second movement of his three-movement piece, Transcend, blends Chinese and Irish musical styles together as a tribute to the lost people who put their heart and soul into this project.

The first movement of Zhous work also tells its own story, in this case, the tension between man and nature. Titled Pulse, the movement begins calmly, reflecting the quiet desert, before gradually building in intensity with the added pounding of percussion  symbolizing blasts of dynamite  punctuating the piece.

But its the final, third movement Zhou believes will likely be of most interest to Utahns. During his research, the composer discovered that from Promontory Summit, Utah, a one-word message was sent by telegraph to the East and West coasts on May 10, 1869: D-O-N-E.

That single word, sent via Morse code, signaled the completion of the transcontinental railroad. In Zhous mind, the combination of dashes and dots formed an exciting rhythm, one that captured the buzz of such an extraordinary moment. That Morse code rhythm is now a recurring theme throughout the third movement.

Hopefully it will spark a conversation about (the) transcontinental railroad, because its such a monumental and significant event in our history, and it's still being used.  Zhou Tian, composer of "Transcend"

Zhou didnt sleep much during the four months it took to compose Transcend. In fact, he said getting five hours of sleep the night he submitted the piece was heaven. But he wouldnt have had it any other way. His work got its world premiere last month with the Reno Philharmonic, and now, the Utah Symphony will be the second orchestra to perform Transcend before the piece moves on to the other orchestras that commissioned it.

It was all completely worth it, and what an exciting journey, he said. Hopefully it will spark a conversation about (the) transcontinental railroad, because its such a monumental and significant event in our history, and it's still being used.

The Stone, the Tree and the Bird

During her time as a Utah Opera chorus member, Christine McDonough played everything from a lowly peasant to a tipsy baroness. And now, after 18 seasons and more than 50 productions with Utah Opera, McDonough is about to watch the company bring her own opera to life.

Called The Stone, the Tree and the Bird, McDonoughs work is one of four 10-minute operas Utah Opera selected to help commemorate the transcontinental railroads 150th anniversary. With music by composer Jacob Lee, an adjunct music professor at Southern Utah University, the opera is more abstract than the other selections, imagining a campfire conversation between three transcontinental railroad workers the evening before the ceremony at Promontory Summit. Against the glowing fire, the workers dream about what they will do now that the historic job is done.

The Stone, the Tree and the Bird equate to characters in my story, McDonough said. So stone is Stillman Stone, and he wants to stay where he is. The tree is Johnny, and he wants to go back home to his roots, and bird is Billy, and he wants to fly away and go see the world. Theres more  talk about the future and their relationships rather than the railroad, per se.

The other 10-minute operas include the comic No Ladies in the Ladys Book, by composer Lisa DeSpain and librettist Rachel Peters, which explores womens contributions to the transcontinental railroad; Completing the Picture, by composer Michael Ching and librettist Victoria Panella Bourns, which addresses the neglect and harsh working conditions Chinese laborers faced; and Burial, by composer Tony Solitro and librettist/Utah poet laureate Paisley Rekdal, which features a confrontation between a town mayor and a cafe owner over how to appropriately bury and honor Chinese laborers who helped build the railroad.

A couple of days after the Utah Symphonys premiere of Zhous Transcend, Utah Operas resident artists will put on free performances of these works from May 20-22, in Brigham City, Ogden and Salt Lake City. The four 10-minute operas were selected from a total of about 50 submissions, according to Paula Fowler, Utah Symphony and Utah Operas director of education and community outreach. The organization spearheaded this contest with help from the McCarthey Family Foundation, Utahs Spike 150 initiative and the Hal R. and Naoma J. Tate Foundation.

McDonough, who learned about the contest two weeks before the deadline last July, said she came up with the concept and general outline for her story in just a day, but spent another week developing the wording and tone. A month later, Utah Opera had selected The Stone, the Tree and the Bird, and McDonough was workshopping and developing her story with the company.

A lot of people talk about how opera is such a declining art and nobodys really into it, but its really this thriving, living thing that gets produced all over the world all the time, she said. Opera is not dead. Theres an opera happening every day somewhere, and (Utah Opera is) taking an active, strategic role in keeping opera alive.

Beyond the sesquicentennial

In addition to preserving a longstanding art form, the 10-minute operas and the stories they tell also help preserve the history and memory of the transcontinental railroad, and according to Fowler, Utah Opera doesnt plan to shelve these operas once the sesquicentennial has passed.

Maybe we can keep them alive and take them to some of these other towns where the history of the railroad has been very important, she said. Because we're looking back at this history and we're reflecting on it and thinking, What have we learned?

Like Utah Opera, Zhou also hopes his piece Transcend will outlive the sesquicentennial, keeping alive the stories and people behind a significant moment in history as it circulates through orchestras across the country over the next few years.

The transcontinental railroad, its still being used, he said. "To me, the transcontinental railroad transcended the different cultures and people to become a symbol of human perseverance and (the) relentless pursuit of a better life for all.

If you go 

What: Utah Symphony performs Zhou Tian's Transcend

When: May 17, 7:30 p.m.; May 18, 5:30 p.m.

Where: Abravanel Hall, 123 W. South Temple

How much: $15-$92

Web: my.usuo.org

Also ...

What: Utah Opera's 10-minute opera premieres

When: May 20, 7:30 p.m.

Where: Brigham City Fine Arts Center, 58 S. 100 West, Brigham City

Also 

When: May 21, 7:30 p.m.

Where: Ogden Union Station Browning Theater, 2501 Wall Ave., Ogden

Also 

When: May 22, 7:30 p.m.

Where: Gallivan Center, 239 S. Main

How much: free, but ticket required

Web: utahopera.org
SALT LAKE CITY  The latest employment figures from the Department of Labor, released last week, suggest encouraging news for U.S. job seekers, with employers adding 263,000 jobs in April and an unemployment rate at the lowest level in 50 years.

Despite the promising possibilities, however, many still cant get hired.

One reason, according to a recent Brookings Institution report, is that the longer a person is jobless, the less likely they are to find a job.

The short-term unemployed (less than five weeks) are more than three times as likely to find a job in a given month as people who have been unemployed for a year or more, the Brookings study finds.

The current job-finding rate is slightly lower than would be expected considering such favorable Labor Department numbers, due in part to the influence of the Great Recession on todays hiring market. The Brookings analysis shows that the decrease in hiring during that period caused people to be unemployed for a longer time.

As a result, Brookings explains, more of the unemployed have been so for longer, leaving them with diminished chances of re-entering employment.

Even for those who have been working, J.T. ODonnell, founder and CEO of Work It Daily, says a seasoned employee trying to transition to a new position could face a different barrier to getting hired: overqualification.

With Americans 55 and older continuing in the workforce long past traditional retirement ages as well as other workers looking for career changes after 20 years, many job seekers find themselves being told they bring too much to an opening.

The overqualified label is discouraging for job seekers because it results in unemployment. And data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that people in the 55 and older age bracket remain out of work longer than their younger peers  an average of 37 weeks compared with 25 weeks for the 35 to 44 age group.

While ODonnell suggests job seekers present themselves as generalists with a lot to learn, the reality of being too experienced for a potential position is a common reason for employers to pass on a candidate.

Many companies choose to reskill current employees rather than hire and train new ones because its more cost-effective.

Retraining can offer a solution to workers being laid off or passed over because of technological advancements and a changing economy, according to the Department of Labors Employment and Training Administration.

However, the results are mixed on whether or not retraining is a successful venture.

In an article for Forbes, William Dunkelberg, chief economist for the National Federation of Independent Business, explains that the benefits of training new employees are significant, but the costs can be as well. This is especially difficult for small businesses to surmount.

Additionally, 33 percent of employers report difficulty with finding time to train new employees, while 18 percent report difficulty with the financial costs of onboarding.

And for the older population, retraining doesnt always work, Business Insider reports.

Many companies choose to reskill current employees rather than hire and train new ones because its more cost-effective. This means older workers who left a job at a high skill level may be overlooked because they arent currently employed.

As for overall training programs, government-sponsored options are minimal at the state level, and only one program to retrain older workers is offered at the federal level, according to Amanda Bergson-Shilcock, director of upskilling policy at the National Skills Coalition. Seniors must have an income below the poverty level to qualify for it.

This lack of exposure to the professional world can leave many well-qualified graduating students with few options, even in a favorable market.

And what about employment prospects for new college grads?

Alfred Lubrano reports in the Philadelphia Inquirer that if a student doesnt have a college-educated network to leverage, as many first-generation graduating students do not, the prospects are bleak.

First-gen students suffer not only from a lack of financial means, says Lubrano. Parents who graduated from college and landed professional work can offer their offspring advice on what courses to study to snag higher-paying jobs, or how to schmooze a professor wholl help launch a career.

This lack of exposure to the professional world can leave many well-qualified graduating students with few options, even in a favorable market.

Writing for The Week, business and economics correspondent Jeff Spross offers a caveat about a low unemployment rate in the U.S.:

The benefits of Americas recovery (are not) being shared equally: national unemployment  is 4.2 percent for Hispanics and 6.7 percent for black Americans.  The portion of prime working-age Americans without jobs, and the percentage  that have been long-term, remain high.

In addition to the uneven distribution of opportunity for American workers, Fred Payne, commissioner of Indianas Department of Workforce Development, told the Dubois County Herald that a low unemployment rate produces distinct problems for employers:

(T)he unique challenge is that (employers) are looking for employees to fill specific jobs. And theyre looking for skilled employees.
SALT LAKE CITY  Penguin poop helps create and cultivate life in Antarctica, according to a new study.

The New York Times reports that the new research found that penguin and elephant seal excrement can create biodiversity across Antarctica.

Stef Bokhorst, the papers lead author and a polar ecologist with the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam in the Netherlands, said that the excrement creates biodiversity that wouldnt be seen otherwise.

Despite the cold, dry weather, the nitrogen in the animals waste provides nutrients that are otherwise unavailable in this stark setting, The New York Times reports.

If you put more poo in the system, the Antarctic wildlife like that, Bokhorst told The New York Times.

The researchers said in the study, which was published in Current Biology, that Antarctica is sometimes too hard to study because of its cold temperatures.

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, according to The New York Times.

Bokhorst and his team found that the excrement impacts more biodiversity depending on the number of animals living in the colony and not so much on the temperature or humidity of the environment, according to Fox News. The researchers said animals feces could impact biodiversity from about 1,000 meters away.

"What we see is that the poo produced by seals and penguins partly evaporates as ammonia," Bokhorst said in a statement. "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."

Flashback: Penguin excrement has a scientific history. In 2009, scientists wanted to track emperor penguins from space. So they ended up looking at penguin poop for help, CNN reports.
SALT LAKE CITY  A new Disneyland annual pass is on the way, and it will require guests to make their plans in advance, the Orange County Register reports.

According to The Los Angeles Times, the Flex Pass can be used on Monday through Thursday most of the time without restrictions, when demands are low.

However, for most weekends and during high-demand months (like the summer), Flex Pass guests have to log into Disneyland's website or the resort's phone app to book a reservation, The Los Angeles Times reports

The new Disney Flex plan, which will cost $599, will go on sale May 21, which is when it can be used, according to the Register.

The $599 plan will fit between the $399 SoCal Select plan, which has a number of restrictions, and a $799 Deluxe plan, which doesnt have as many block-out dates.

No current annual plan is being dropped.

Disney hopes the lower-priced Flex pass offers visitors more flexibility in planning trips to Disneyland and Disney California Adventure while providing the theme park more control over crowd management. The goal: To smooth demand that varies throughout the year based on school schedules, seasonal events, annual passholder block-out dates and the whims of the calendar, according to the Register.

According to the Register, the standing theory is that the Flex pass would give Disneyland guests access every day of the year except for the two weeks surrounding Christmas. But its possible customers could miss 200 dates per year.

The new Flex Pass is a way for Disneyland to ease crowding ahead of Star Wars: Galaxys Edge, which will open on May 31, The Los Angeles Times reports.
NEW YORK  His trade war already raging worldwide, President Donald Trump on Friday brandished his aggressive actions as a political weapon at home, too, casting himself as a fighter for American workers and scorning his chief Democratic rivals as weak.

Trump's actions have already caused economic harm to some of the regions that backed him in 2016 . Yet the Republican president is showing little regard for the political risks  or his party's traditional embrace of free trade  as he stakes out his position on an issue that could define the 2020 presidential contest as much as any other.

Trump slapped at former Vice President Joe Biden, a leading Democratic presidential contender, in a social media post while defending his latest levying of higher tariffs on Chinese goods, which had taken effect at midnight.

Hours later, U.S. and Chinese negotiators broke off talks they were holding under the increasing pressure of the new tariffs, mostly ultimately paid by U.S. consumers and companies, on $200 billion in Chinese goods and Beijing's promise to retaliate.

The administration already had applied billions of dollars in trade taxes to goods from China, the world's second largest economy. And the administration has also imposed steel tariffs against allies including Canada, Mexico and the European Union and threatened additional tariffs.

"This is not the Obama Administration, or the Administration of Sleepy Joe, who let China get away with 'murder!'" Trump tweeted, using his dismissive nickname for Biden.

A spokesman for Biden, who is in the midst of his inaugural nationwide tour as a formal 2020 presidential candidate, condemned Trump's approach.

"We're not going to get a good deal with China if we let Trump keep negotiating by impulse, tweet, and campaign rally one-liner," said the spokesman, Andrew Bates.

Trump's continued embrace of protectionist trade policies could energize his supporters from both parties across the Midwest, where many blame trade deals, such as the North American Free Trade Agreement, for the decline of America's manufacturing sector. At the same time, And Trump's prominent poking will almost certainly exacerbate divisions among Democrats, who are in the early days of their own intra-party fight to pick someone to take him on next year.

In an interview, AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka said Democratic weakness on trade was part of the reason Trump won in 2016  because his Democratic opponent wasn't strong enough in condemning deals perceived by some as helping other countries more than the U.S. He warned Democrats not to make the same mistake again.

"If they cede that territory, they are doing so at their own peril," Trumka said. "They need to talk more effectively about trade and convince people that they're going to stand up for workers, that we're not going to continue down the road we've been on."

Biden could be particularly vulnerable.

The former senator, known for his working-class roots, is the only 2020 Democratic candidate who voted to support NAFTA. And he supported the trade deal authored by the Obama administration known as the Trans-Pacific Partnership that Trump ultimately killed once he took office. Still, in the Senate, Biden voted against a number of trade deals, including those with Singapore, Chile and Oman.

Privately, Biden's leading Democratic rivals suggest that any advantages he may have in the Midwest will ultimately fade because of his record on trade. Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders, among other high-profile 2020 Democrats, aggressively opposed the trade deals and expects to ratchet up his contrast with Biden in upcoming debates.

Republicans are doing their part already.

Not long after Trump's tweet, the Republican National Committee issued a statement highlighting Biden's "dovish" approach on China both as a presidential candidate and as Barack Obama's vice president. Biden faced intense criticism from both parties last week after downplaying the threat from China during a campaign stop in Iowa.

While conventional wisdom suggests Trump's populist approach may resonate with voters in both parties, AP Vote Cast, a survey of the 2018 national electorate, showed that 81 percent of the people who voted for Democrats last year thought Trump's trade policies would hurt the national economy. Overall, 53% of 2018 voters opposed Trump on trade.

A team of economists from the University of California, Berkeley, Columbia University and Yale University in March found that the trade war was an overall burden on the U.S. economy, but that Trump's initial tariffs appeared designed to favor politically competitive counties around the Great Lakes. But once retaliatory Chinese tariffs were factored in, the people hit the hardest were the ones who live in reliably Republican counties that voted heavily for Trump in 2016.

Still, Democrats are torn between the party's new base and older alliances.

Opponents of foreign trade have historically been more motivated than supporters because trade deals can lead to factory closings and more direct disruptions in lives. But that dynamic may be shifting slightly as Trump's tariffs hammer segments of the agricultural market, especially in the key early voting state of Iowa.

Indeed, some opponents of trade agreements have fretted that the presidential primary map can put them at a disadvantage.

Candidates who flock to Iowa often lambaste Trump's tariffs there. The one heavily union state in the early four is Nevada, whose unions are heavy on service workers and don't prioritize trade issues. Then the mega-states of California and Texas, both of which are dependent on foreign trade, will vote directly after the early four.

The Rust Belt, where the general election could well be decided, will largely vote later in the primary season and not as a bloc, possibly diluting the impact of the anti-trade wing of the party. That group's clout has shrunk as the Democratic base is increasingly young, minority and urban -- a demographic group that broadly favors trade.

"Democratic politicians are in a really interesting position. They actually have the opportunity to be really free-tradish, and I don't think they'd suffer much in the polls," said Scott Lincicome, a trade expert at the Cato Institute in Washington.

Still, few Democratic 2020 aspirants have become full-throated backers of free trade.

Most have offered vague calls for "fair trade." Campaigning in West Virginia on Friday, Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren condemned the way Trump is communicating on trade, but not necessarily his policy.

"I don't believe in tariff negotiation by tweet," she said, calling the Chinese "bad actors on trade."

"Our best way to fight back is with strength and with a coherent plan, not with hands."

Meanwhile, Trump's position is at odds with the conservative Koch network and much of the nation's business community, but there are few Republicans willing to challenge him publicly. One of them is John Weaver, the chief strategist for John Kasich, Ohio's former Republican governor, who has contemplated a primary challenge against Trump.

"Trump is anti-free trade. And the Republican Party is for whatever its master is for. If he switched on a dime tomorrow they'd switch tomorrow," Weaver said. "You don't have to be even on the Trump-level of a student history to know this is not good politics or good policy."

___

Riccardi reported from Denver.
The political media has been consumed with former Vice President Joe Bidens campaign kickoff, but something else has been going on in presidential politics largely unnoticed.

The Mountain West, long a second (or third) thought to the favorite-son, vote-rich Rust Belt states, is stepping, however lightly, into the limelight. Several Mountain West Democrats have jumped into the presidential race (from Colorado, former Gov. John Hickenlooper and Sen. Michael Bennet) or are readying themselves to do so (Gov. Steve Bullock of Montana, and perhaps others). The Democratic Party has hopes that Arizona, which as John McCain used to observe is about the only state where mothers cannot in good faith tell their kids they can grow up to be president, will move into the Democratic column next year.

Not ceding any ground, President Donald Trumps reelection campaign has decreed that a trio of Mountain West blue states  Colorado, Nevada and New Mexico  are flippable in 2020.

Its happy news for the region, which has become tired of being an afterthought for presidential campaigns thanks to its lower population levels and voters who seem to have a natural aversion to the way the rest of the country thinks. But its not clear that either party is naturally well-placed to appeal to voters in the area, even if its nice that they purport to care.

In its current Trumpy iteration, the Republican Party is strongly geared toward the interests of the stereotypical Rust Belt swing voter: anti-free trade, very focused on boosting the manufacturing sector at any cost, skeptical of immigration (particularly Hispanic immigration) and spending-happy. It is also concerned about the social safety net most likely because of the number of older voters who vote for the party as well as because of the slow disintegration, visible from the 1980s and compounded by the housing bubble burst in the 2000s, of in-person, human social networks that used to be more robust across the region. Those hallmarks of Trumpism make the reelection campaigns Mountain West claims seem rather delusional.

Still, its hardly different for Democrats. Overall, the party is strongly geared toward the interests of stereotypical coastal city dwellers: prioritizing environmental concerns, social justice matters and wokeness, and policies aimed at helping people cope with the challenges of booming, pricey-to-live-in cities where new economy industries dominate. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York is the biggest rock star in the party; Elizabeth Warren is driving a lot of the 2020 field on policy. To the extent Democrats show any interest in moving in a less coastal elite direction, their party is also focused on those Rust Belt voters, hence the appeal of Biden (all Pennsylvania, all the time) or, for some, Bernie Sanders.

Who speaks for voters living in and around the Rockies  or those of us who think like them?

Were the ones who didnt get Trumps State of the Union line about fences and love (maybe we all grew up hearing our parents or grandparents singing the old cowboy song Dont Fence Me In too much). Even if were liberal, we tend to be less averse to gun rights than the big stars of the Democratic Party. Were generally not brash like Trump and Ocasio-Cortez, and more quiet-spoken (consider the stereotype of the soft-spoken cowboy). We tend to be more concerned about civil liberties and freedoms and skeptical of government, even if we know it needs to exist and do things. We or our families are people who ditched the rest of the country for the West, so we tend to be a little more sympathetic to immigrants (and hey, a lot of us are immigrants or descended from recent immigrants).

We also tend to be a little disdainful of other parts of America with their pet regional concerns that didnt and dont translate perfectly for us. We ourselves are, or are often descended from, pioneers. So we dont like restrictions on trade or mobility and are simultaneously concerned about preservation of wilderness and the ability to use land to generate income. We are a little more libertarianish than voters in the rest of the country. Everyone who has worked in the region knows this  even if its hard to demonstrate with raw data. The fact is, were going to be hard to firmly sell on either party as currently constructed. And substantive change isnt coming quite yet, even if hints of it are on display.

It wont matter too much next year; the 2020 census needs to happen before Electoral College votes shift and the Mountain West gain some political dominance. However, that move is coming  and thats probably the real reason behind the parties showing more interest in the area in their different ways, one candidate-driven, one (most likely) purely rhetorical.

According to Census Bureau data from July 2017 to July 2018, many of the fastest-growing United States counties are in Nevada, Colorado, Utah and Arizona. Among those losing population are in Appalachia, the Rust Belt region as well as some Mississippi River-bordering and Great Plains areas.

Per Pew Trusts, of the 10 states gaining population the fastest, five are in the Mountain West. The fastest-growing state is Utah, but also among the top 10 are Colorado, Nevada, Idaho and Arizona. West Virginia and Illinois are losing population, while other Rust Belt and Northeastern states are growing comparatively slowly. Among the 10 states with the most declining, or slowest-growing, populations are Rhode Island, Vermont, Maine and Connecticut as well as Michigan, Ohio and Pennsylvania. Even a recent United Van Lines survey shows the same general trend.

The Mountain West  marked by its different philosophical outlook  seems to be a hot ticket. This presidential election will give the parties a chance to figure out how to appeal to the areas voters instead of just being the less bad option for them in that particular cycle. When the Trump campaign talks about flipping Mountain West states, its predicated on the notion that a Democrat as unsalable as Sanders gets the nod; its not because Trump is morphing into a figure somewhere further along the Bill Richardson-Jon Huntsman-Ken Buck spectrum.

If Trump gets reelected in 2020, 2024 could get very interesting, though, should a figure like Kyrsten Sinema, a first-term Democratic senator from Arizona, perform well in office and decide to step up. Her former communications director just got hired by Bullock to work Iowa, so shell have experienced talent to tap should she so desire.

Maybe in the next campaign, McCains old Arizona joke will finally be put to bed by Sinema, who switched a red state to blue in a year when most Democrats in tight Senate races tanked. The Mountain West is growing, and American politics is changing.
Long ago, I learned an unforgettable lesson from a loving mother. Mom listened as I angrily recounted how a friend mistreated me. After patiently listening as I exhausted all my venom, Mom led me to the freezer, selected two popsicles, and directed me to share one with my friend. Popsicles melt quickly, so I ran to my friends home and peace was restored.

Dolley Madison worked similar miracles at the national level, earning her the title, in my mind, of the Mother of American Civility. President Jefferson asked Dolley to serve as his first lady, a responsibility she filled with grace. When Jefferson later insulted an important ambassador by greeting him in slippers, Dolley reached out, inviting the ambassador and his wife to one of her weekly gatherings, treating them with dignity and avoiding escalation of tensions between vying nations.

Dolleys weekly soirees were carefully orchestrated to bring divergent parties together. Realizing that John Adams and his family had been deeply hurt as a result of savage partisan attacks directed against them during the recently concluded presidential election, Dolley invited John Quincy Adams to her gatherings. In that context, John Quincy and James Madison developed a friendship and regularly worked together, despite their partisan differences.

On one occasion, Adams and Madison found a way around Jeffersons objection that he lacked constitutional authority to sign the Louisiana Purchase. They did so by treating the agreement as a treaty requiring Senate approval. Adams, a Federalist, guided the purchase through the Senate and Madison persuaded Jefferson, providing a way for the United States to purchase 530,000,000 acres at a bargain price of just over three cents per acre.

Dolleys talent for handling any storm drew increasing attention during her husbands 1808 presidential campaign. Madisons opponents viciously attacked Dolley, declaring that she regularly provided sexual favors to benefit Jefferson. James was also referred to as a wizened, impotent man.

Dolley responded by inviting attackers to her legendary gatherings, turning enemies slowly into friends. It was exceedingly difficult for anyone to respond to Dolleys grace with anger. Governor Charles Pinckney, Madisons opponent in the election of 1808, acknowledged Dolleys critical role in Madisons victory when he mused, I was beaten by Mr. and Mrs. Madison. I might have had a better chance had I faced Mr. Madison alone.

Dolleys greatest test came as the British burned Washington on Aug. 24, 1814. On that fateful day, James left for the frontlines, instructing Dolley to save the state papers in the Presidents House. Dolley loaded a wagon with important papers, as the militia assigned to guard the Presidents House fled. With the assistance of a few servants, Dolley salvaged the papers and a beloved portrait of President Washington.

James sent a hurried note pleading with Dolley to flee and avoid the indignity of falling into British hands. Admiral George Cockburn, the British commander, had declared, We want to catch Madison and carry him to England as a curiosity. Cockburn would have delighted in capturing Dolley. Shortly after her departure, the British dined on the meal that Dolley had previously set for James' return and then used the love letters and Madison family belongings, which Dolley had to leave behind as she fled, as kindling to burn the Presidents House.

Dolley sought refuge in an inn. When the tavern owners wife discovered that her prospective customer was Dolley, she shrieked, Your husband has got mine out fighting, and (darn) you, you shant stay in my house  get out! Dolley was permitted to remain only after other customers came to her aid. Dolleys measured response to incessant vilification ultimately earned respect from most Americans and set the stage for The Era of Good Feelings, a unique period of civility in American politics.

As she grew older, Dolley became destitute, receiving support from others, including Paul Jennings, a generous former Madison family slave. Nevertheless, the ever-dignified Dolley was often seen wearing slowly tattering but well cared for gowns and her iconic turban as a distinguished guest at important public events. She was a living symbol of American unity.

On Dolleys death, she was honored with the largest parade in the history of Washington. Mary Cutts, Dolleys niece and biographer, wrote that Dolleys gracious smile made friends of all.  She always saw the good and not the evil.

At a time when destructive partisanship is evident at every turn, we would do well to remember the example of Dolley Madison, the Mother of American Civility.
COTTONWOOD HEIGHTS When Becca Paxman launched her online clothing shop in April, she didn't know what to expect.

Not only was she selling clothes, she was opening up about a deeply personal experience in the hope of helping others.

"I just wanted them to know, 'Hey, this is my story. This happened to me,'" Paxman explained during a recent interview in her Cottonwood Heights apartment.

She shared her story on the website of her store, Havenly Creations Co., explaining why she plans to donate 15 percent of proceeds to victim advocates.

In October 2017, Paxman said she matched with a man on a dating app and they met at her work, a public place "which I thought would be safe."

But soon after he got her alone in his vehicle, Paxman recalled, he choked and assaulted her.

The weeks after involved unrelenting fear, reporting the experience to police, and a stay in the University of Utah's Neuropsychiatric Institute, she said. Advocates with the National Center for Victims of Crime helped her through that process.

Paxman later decided that though police may never identify her attacker, whose last name she never learned, she could allow the experience to drive her to help others.

Health department statistics show that 1 in 3 Utah women will experience some form of sexual violence during their lives. In addition, 1 in 8 Utah women and 1 in 50 Utah men will be raped. Sexual violence costs Utah billions of dollars every year.

And online dating has changed the landscape when it comes to dating violence.

According to Pew Research Center, 45 percent of those who use online dating apps and websites believe that it is a "more dangerous way" to meet people than traditional methods.

While there are no U.S. statistics that explore the relationship between online dating and assaults, several Utah cases in the past few years of men accused of sexually assaulting women they met on dating apps have caught the attention of police and victim advocates.

"I hope I can help other women and men heal from sexual abuse or any kind of violence," Paxman said. "Not only by donating, but just by speaking out and putting attention on the fact that this is such a huge problem.  And I know (we're) becoming more and more aware as the time goes on, but it's still very taboo."

Since sharing her story publicly, Paxman says she has already heard from women she knows and women she's never met who have in return shared their stories with her.

"I'm not gonna lie, I've cried a few times reading people's stories," she said.

Paxman said she plans to donate part of each purchase to the organization that helped her when she needed it. She recently quit her day job in medical billing to focus on the store full time, and she hopes to eventually become a victim advocate herself.

Building the strength to share the story took many months.

Last October, she decided to "come out" and disclose what happened to her in an Instagram post. Though she got a "big response" of support from family and friends, "it was very scary," Paxman said. "I had such a bad panic attack, I took it down within a few hours."

But since then, the support of family, friends and her boyfriend helped her heal. "It felt good. Like, I felt like I was healing, letting it all out, so I decided to just let everyone else hear my story, because I'm sure, I know there are so many more women out there" who have gone through similar experiences, she said.

On healing from an assault, according to Paxman, "It's not easy. It takes a lot of work mentally, physically, emotionally. You need a good support system. If your family doesn't encourage you to do what's best for you, then you need to find other ways to do it," she said.

She emphasized the importance of seeking mental health support if needed.

"And eventually you will realize that you are OK. You are alive, and you've got a life to live. And you've gotta find your purpose and strive for that," Paxman explained.

For Paxman, Havenly Creations has been a labor of love and healing.

She runs the shop herself, choosing and purchasing clothing and accessories from manufacturers, developing the store website, marketing, organizing photo shoots, managing inventory and preparing shipments out of her apartment.

Now, Paxman says she's looking for models of all sizes, looks and abilities to show off the clothes.

"Because I've never been the perfect size," she said. "I just wanted to put an image out there that women aren't defined by one type of size, because I know there's someone out there that needs that. And knowing that, I want them to feel beautiful in their skin, in their religion, in their disability."

She's also considering adding a blog to her website where other women can tell their stories. "I think hearing other women's stories will inspire other women that they're not alone."

"We're all beautiful, and we can all make a difference," according to Paxman.

Those interested in modeling for the store can contact Paxman at havenlycreationsco@gmail.com.
SALT LAKE CITY  What characteristics should a high school graduate exemplify after attending Utah public schools grades K-12?

The new "portrait of a graduate" recently adopted by the Utah State Board of Education takes "a holistic view of what we expect from students in Utah," said board member Jennifer Graviet.

"It is meant to be aspirational," as opposed to skills or knowledge that can be quantified and measured, she said.

The portrait, which is called the Utah Talent MAP, focuses on:

 Mastery, meaning the ability to demonstrate depth of knowledge and skill proficiency.

 Autonomy, which is having the self-confidence and motivation to think and act independently.

 Purpose, which guides life decisions, influences behavior, shapes goals, offers a sense of direction and creates meaning.

Board member Laura Belnap, chairwoman of the task force that developed the documents, said the group wants to empower parents, teachers and students to be a voice in their community.

"We encourage you to go through your own journey toward discovering the unique values and characteristics within your own communities," Belnap said in a statement.

The guiding documents were adopted by unanimous vote of the school board after an amendment to add self-advocacy to the wellness section.

"I know that some students struggle with advocating for themselves and being able to represent themselves in social situations, maybe even at the doctor if they have to answer questions about their health. Developing self-advocacy skills is such a vital thing to do," said board member Linda Hansen, who sought the amendment.

The Utah Talent MAP was developed by a task force of state school board members and board staff whose work was informed by statewide surveys and feedback from educators, students, parents and other community members.

The task force agreed on 13 characteristics important to a well-rounded graduate of Utah public schools: academic mastery; wellness; civic, financial and economic literacy; digital literacy; communication; critical thinking and problem-solving; creativity and innovation; collaboration and teamwork; honesty, integrity and responsibility; hard work and resilience; lifelong learning and personal growth; service and respect.

The state board encourages schools and districts to develop their own portraits of a graduate.

"These documents will be helpful as education leaders continue to innovate for competency-based learning to improve outcomes in public schools by advancing student mastery of concepts and skills," a board press release states.
WARSAW, Poland  Thousands of Polish nationalists marched to the U.S. Embassy in Warsaw Saturday, protesting that the U.S. is putting pressure on Poland to compensate Jews whose families lost property during the Holocaust.

The protest took place amid a dramatic rise in anti-Semitic hate speech in public life in Poland and it appeared to be one of the largest anti-Jewish street demonstrations in recent times. It also comes as far-right groups are gaining in popularity, pressuring the conservative government to move further to the right.

Protesters, including far-right groups and their supporters, say the United States has no right to interfere in Polish affairs and that the U.S. government is putting "Jewish interests" over the interests of Poland.

Poland was a major victim of Nazi Germany during World War II and those protesting say it is not fair to ask Poland to compensate Jewish victims when Poland has never received adequate compensation from Germany.

"Why should we have to pay money today when nobody gives us anything?" said 22-year-old Kamil Wencwel. "Americans only think about Jewish and not Polish interests."

The protesters shouted "No to claims!" and "This is Poland, not Polin," using the Hebrew word for Poland.

Rafal Pankowski, a sociologist who heads the anti-extremist group Never Again, called the march "probably the biggest openly anti-Jewish street demonstration in Europe in recent years."

One couple wore matching T-shirts reading "Death to the enemies of the fatherland," while another man wore a shirt saying: "I will not apologize for Jedwabne"  a massacre of Jews by their Polish neighbors in 1941 under the German occupation.

Among those far-right politicians who led the march were Janusz Korwin-Mikke and Grzegorz Braun, who have joined forces in a far-right coalition standing in the elections to the European Parliament later this month. Stopping Jewish restitution claims has been one of their key priorities, along with fighting what they call pro-LGBT "propaganda." The movement is polling well with young Polish men.

Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki echoed the feelings of the protesters at a campaign rally Saturday, saying that it is Poles who deserve compensation.

Poland was the heartland of European Jewish life before the Holocaust, with most of the 3.3 million Polish Jews murdered by occupying Nazi German forces. Christian Poles were also targeted by the Germans, killed in massacres and in concentration camps.

Many Poles to this day have a feeling that their suffering has not been adequately acknowledged by the world, while that of Jewish suffering in the Holocaust has, creating what has often been called a "competition of victimhood."

Many of the properties of both Jews and non-Jews were destroyed during the war or were looted and later nationalized by the communist regime that followed.

The protests in Warsaw target U.S. law S. 447, also known as the Justice for Uncompensated Survivors Today (or JUST) Act. It was signed into law by President Donald Trump last year and requires the State Department to report to Congress on the state of restitution of property stolen in the Holocaust in dozens of countries.

Protesters said paying compensation would ruin Poland's economy.

But Jewish organizations, particularly the World Jewish Restitution Organization, have been seeking compensation for Holocaust survivors and their families, considering compensation a matter of justice for a population that was subjected to genocide.

Poland is the only European Union country that hasn't passed laws regulating the compensation of looted or national property, and the head of the WJRO, Gideon Taylor, noted Saturday that such property "continues to benefit the Polish economy."

At least two U.S. Confederate flags were visible at Saturday's protest, which began with a rally in front of the prime minister's office before the protesters walked to the U.S. Embassy. Men in Native American headdress held a banner with a message pointing to what they see as U.S. double standards: "USA, Practice 447 at home. Return stolen lands to the descendants of native tribes."

With pressure building on this issue, the U.S. State Department's new envoy on anti-Semitism, Elan Carr, was in Warsaw this past week, telling leaders and media that the U.S. is only urging Poland to fulfil a non-binding commitment it made in 2009 to act on the issue. He also said the U.S. recognizes that Poland was a victim of the war and is not dictating how Warsaw regulates compensation.
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SALT LAKE CITY  A former tire store employee who allegedly sold a customer's Hummer for $1,000 is due back in court this week.

Travis Jon Loveland, 28, of Price, is charged in Carbon County's 7th District Court with theft, a second-degree felony.

The incident began in January when a Washington state resident was driving back to Washington from Texas in his 2008 Hummer H3 and experienced mechanical problems near Price, according to a search warrant affidavit.

"(The owner) left the Hummer with Big O Tires in Price for repair," the warrant states. "By late January, the Hummer repairs had been completed and paid for. However, due to bad weather and a difficult work schedule, (the owner) was unable to return to Big O to retrieve the Hummer."

The vehicle sat on the store's property for four months.

On April 4, the mother of the Hummer owner arrived in Price to claim the vehicle, only to find it had been stolen during the night, according to a probable cause affidavit filed against Loveland in 7th District Court.

Based on surveillance video from the tire store and another nearby business, investigators came up with the name of Travis Martin Jordan, 33, of Price. Police went to his residence and found the Hummer, the charges state.

Jordan was handcuffed and taken to police headquarters for questioning. He told detectives that he had gone to Big O to purchase tires, when Loveland, an employee, asked if he was interested in buying a Hummer, the charges state. Loveland claimed "the owner had been deported and the second owner just wanted to sell it. Travis Jordan said the price was extremely low and couldnt believe someone would sell the Hummer for such a small amount," the affidavit states.

Jordan said after the business had closed, he met with Loveland and another man claiming to be the owner of the Hummer and paid $1,000 for the vehicle, according to charging documents.

"Travis Jordan was advised although his story may be somewhat accurate, any reasonable person would know that the circumstances regarding the sale and pick up of this Hummer were suspicious," police wrote in their affidavit. "Travis Jordan was very nervous throughout my contact with him," at one point vomiting in the patrol car. "Travis Jordan explained he was throwing up because he was extremely nervous, had high anxiety, and not wanting to go back to prison."

Jordan was also charged with theft, a second-degree felony.

When Loveland was questioned by police on April 6, he claimed it was Jordan who initiated the talk about purchasing the Hummer, the affidavit states, and also offered marijuana in exchange for used tires.

Both men are scheduled to be back in court on Friday.
SALT LAKE CITY  A judge has ruled a West Jordan woman accused of choking and dragging her young son is competent to stand trial, according to court documents.

In November, Whitney Virginia Romero, 28, was charged with child abuse, a second-degree felony; assault on a police officer, a class A misdemeanor; failing to stop for police, a class A misdemeanor; and interfering with an arrest, a class B misdemeanor.

On Nov. 11, West Jordan police received multiple calls of a woman dragging a 7-year-old boy by a shirt that was wrapped around his neck along 7800 South, according to charging documents. As officers arrived on the scene, Romero ran off, the charges state. When she was caught, she spit on one officer and then continued to kick the interior of a police patrol car once she was placed in the back, to the point that officers had to put restraints on her, the charges state.

When interviewed by police, the boy said Romero was "acting scary toward him" that night, and eventually she grabbed him by the back of the neck, lit a piece of her own hair on fire, blew it out, then placed it on the boy's chest, according to charging documents.

Romero then repeatedly told the boy to "throw up" and forced her fingers down his throat in an attempt to make him do that, the charges state. She then wrapped a sweater around the boy's neck, stabbed him in the neck, shoulder, back, arm and wrist with a pen, and dragged him by his neck, the charges state.

The boy said he told Romero, "'Mom, mom, it's me,' to get her to stop, but she wouldn't," according to charging documents.

On Thursday, Romero was determined competent to stand trial and was ordered to be moved from the Utah State Hospital to the Salt Lake County Jail.
SALT LAKE CITY  An early morning home invasion robbery in Salt Lake City has left one man in extremely critical condition and an elderly woman with serious injuries from being pushed down a flight of stairs, according to police.

The incident happened about 12:20 a.m. Sunday at 577 N. 1400 West. At least two men wearing masks entered the home, said Salt Lake City police public relations director Christina Judd.

Detectives on Sunday were still collecting evidence and trying to piece together what happened. Judd said at least one shot was fired, but she was not sure how a man in the house was injured.

Judd said investigators were looking at whether the incident was drug related. No arrests had been made as of Sunday afternoon,

This story will be updated as additional information becomes available.
SALT LAKE CITY  A man convicted of not paying taxes for years, who then filed several odd motions with the court claiming he was not subject to Utah laws before he skipped his sentencing hearing, has been re-arrested.

Dennis Kay Iverson, 62, of West Valley City, was booked into the Salt Lake County Jail on Friday on a $50,000 bench warrant issued by a judge in April when Iverson was a no-show for his sentencing.

In March, a jury deliberated just three minutes before finding Iverson guilty of seven counts of tax evasion, a second-degree felony; engaging in a pattern of unlawful activity, a second-degree felony; and six counts of tax evasion, a third-degree felony.

Investigators from the Utah State Tax Commission say Iverson has not filed income taxes since 1994.

"During a recent audit, Iverson claimed he sent certified promissory notes to pay balances and that 'only silver and gold coins are considered lawful money,'" according to a statement from the tax commission.

Iverson also sent documents to the state contesting his tax liability and argued the government cannot deal with natural persons and can only deal with fictitious corporate entities," the commission stated.

After his conviction, Iverson filed several motions with the court, one of them titled "Notice of my law."

"Essentially, I am providing notice to the court that I do not voluntarily consent to be subject to this matter, except under common law," he wrote. "Additionally, this court has no authority whatsoever to force, intimidate, threaten, or otherwise use deceitful tactics to trick or attempt to trick me, to accept any jurisdiction other than common law, as government in this matter."

The motion also included an attachment titled "declaration of my law pronounced by Iverson, Dennis Kay."

In another court filing, Iverson informs the court that, "I am a sovereign, living man, dwelling on the land and soil of the Utah Republic, and pursuant to my revocation, I have no federal income tax liability and thus, no tax liability to the state of Utah either."

In another filing, Iverson referred to 3rd District Court as a military court "operating under emergency war powers."

Iverson was scheduled to be sentenced on April 29 but did not show up.

In a notice filed on April 30, Iverson proclaimed, "I do not consent, or volunteer, to be a party to your statutory, color of law, jurisdiction."

Iverson's next court hearing is scheduled for May 20.
SALT LAKE CITY  A new e-scooter player arrived on the streets of Salt Lake City recently, but the newest addition to the local, rentable electric two-wheeler market is taking a slightly subtler approach.

San Francisco-based Spin entered the networked transportation realm in 2017 as an app-based renter of dockless bicycles, but later segued to electric scooters and was acquired by auto giant Ford in a $100 million deal announced late last year.

Now, supported by the financial heft of the country's No. 2 automaker, Spin is planning on rolling into 100 U.S. cities this year. But unlike some of its market competitors that have built reputations for launching service first and figuring out pesky details like legal operating agreements later, Spin says it wants to earn new customers by playing nice.

"We take a little more of a measured approach in figuring out what markets we want to go into," said Spin general manager Ryan Larson. "We prioritize being permitted and fully legal and working with the cities ahead of our arrival."

Spin joins competitors Bird and Lime in Salt Lake City, and all offer electric-powered scooters that can be located and rented via a smartphone app. All three companies are, for the time being, price-matching each other with rates that are $1 to unlock the scooter and 15 cents for each minute of operation.

Salt Lake City is currently capping the total number of vehicles, be they e-scooters or bicycles, that any networked transportation vendor can offer for rent in the city at 500. While Bird and Lime appear to both be at or near that cap on a regular basis, Spin is slow-rolling its deployments, and Larson said the company will likely take the next month to build up to the cap.

In the meantime, however, Salt Lake City has a set of new proposals under consideration that could give all three companies the ability to exceed those caps by up to 20 percent in cases when usage comes close to maxing out available vehicles.

Salt Lake City Transportation Director Jon Larsen told the Deseret News the changes, which will include the so-called dynamic capping and opening up Research Park, a University of Utah property previously off-limits to vehicle deployment by the e-scooter operators, are nearing the end of the approval process and could go into effect in a matter of days.

Larsen said Spin appeared to be taking a measured approach to entering the Salt Lake market and has been "eager to play nice and be a good partner."

While Lime, like Spin, procured an operating license before launching service in the city, Bird, the first of the companies to alight in Salt Lake City, opted for a more cavalier entree with an unexpected, and unpermitted, scooter deployment late last June. The company took a brief hiatus after a couple of weeks of unsanctioned operation to work with the city on obtaining an operating agreement and was back on the streets with a permit at the end of July.

We take a little more of a measured approach in figuring out what markets we want to go into. We prioritize being permitted and fully legal and working with the cities ahead of our arrival.  Spin general manager Ryan Larson

While the question of how many e-scooters is too many remains unanswered, and the new dynamic capping could lead to as many as 1,800 of the two-wheelers being deployed in Salt Lake City, a survey conducted late last year reflected mostly positive feedback from e-scooter riders. One ongoing issue, according to city officials, is reducing the volume of negative interactions between pedestrians and scooter riders on city sidewalks. While current statute bans both scooters and bicycles from sidewalks in the central business district, a set of proposed ordinance changes aiming to establish rules specific to the new transportation option continues to make its way through the city legislative process.

As to why the companies just keep coming, a glimpse of the potential market for so-called micromobility options offers some illumination.

A just-released report by tech market analysis platform CB Insights noted that micromobility, which refers to short-distance transport, usually less than 5 miles, is increasingly becoming shorthand "for the growing crop of bike and scooter-sharing companies that are poised to remake the urban landscape."

And with an estimated 60 percent of all car trips falling into the 0-5 mile range, the report estimates the U.S. market for networked transportation companies that offer short-term bike and/or scooter rentals will be in the range of $200 billion to $300 billion by 2030.
SALT LAKE CITY  For those people with an entrepreneurial spirit, Utah's capital city is one of the best places in the country to try your luck at being your own boss, new reports say.

A report by FitSmallBusiness.com ranked Salt Lake City No. 6 among the top 10 cities for entrepreneurs in 2019. The study looked at business survival rate, economic growth rate, new business growth, the local financial landscape, area tax climate, the labor market, quality of life and cost of living, explained special project editor Jeff Steen.

"There are a lot of factors, but at the ground level it's about opportunity," he said. "Part of that is an existing infrastructure that supports startup culture."

He said in the top-ranked cities, accessibility to investment capital is better than in many other locales compared to the overall population and startup density in those markets.

It's not a huge jump to get to coastal places from Salt Lake, but at the same time it's far enough away to have its own culture, its own dynamic and the landscape is really good for starting a new business.  Jeff Steen

"Based on those factors, is it possible for startups to secure the funding they need to get off the ground?" he said. "Additionally, the best cities are places that offer resources to entrepreneurs that help them in their quest to get their companies up and running, including mentorship."

He also said the top cities had tax climates that were not impediments for budding businesses to establish themselves. The day-to-day expense of being a resident and business owner in a particular location was also a key measurement of a city's ranking, he added.

"As a new entrepreneur, you're going to be investing all of your spare cash and money into this business to ensure it survives, then you're going to want things like a low cost of living," Steen said. "In those instances, those individuals who are really committed to entrepreneurship will consider moving to a new city. The cities on our list, for the most part, have a lower cost of living and higher average salaries."

He said larger coastal cities, which are supposed to be launching pads for budding entrepreneurs, are often too costly to get a new business going from the ground up. For a city like Salt Lake, social opportunity, transportation and quality of life, along with other attributes, help to increase its standing among many places throughout the country that it competes with, he said.

"These are cities with smaller populations that aren't saturated with these kinds of (startup) businesses yet, and yet they have enough infrastructure and foundation for some of these businesses to get off the ground," he said. Noting the Wasatch Front's reputation for technology and life sciences, he said Salt Lake City compares favorably with larger metros like Seattle because of its higher per capita availability of resources  financial and otherwise  along with a pace of life that is alluring to many in the business community.

"The quality of life and cost of living are very attractive to people who are sick and tired of coastal rates and costs," Steen said. "Those people who would have turned away from a tech or startup mecca on the coast are now looking to places like Salt Lake City that are relatively (proximate)."

"It's not a huge jump to get to coastal places from Salt Lake, but at the same time it's far enough away to have its own culture, its own dynamic and the landscape is really good for starting a new business," he added.

The Beehive State also made the top 10 in a couple of other nationwide studies, with one a bit more dubious than the other.

According to data from Twitter, Utah ranked No. 2 for states that love their job and also ranked No. 6 for states that hate their job. The information was compiled by online career adviser Cultivated Culture.

The rankings are based on a month of geotagged Twitter data, explained spokesman Ryan Taylor. The takeaway is there were over 30,000 tweets of people talking about loving their job versus just over 11,000 users tweeting about hating their job, he said.

Meanwhile, as the state recognized Small Business Week, Rep. John Curtis, R-Utah, commended the hard work, creativity and passion of small-business owners in his district as well as statewide.

In a statement, he said data indicates small businesses are at the forefront of economic growth in Utah.

"Small businesses added 24,549 net new jobs during the last year studied. There are 287,803 small businesses in Utah and they employ 46.2 percent of the states private workforce," he said. "We celebrate all that you do to build our communities stronger and more vibrant!"
Councillors from the Glenties Municipal District will have the opportunity of discussing issues relating to water shortages in Falcarragh,and the surrounding areas at an upcoming meeting with Irish Water in Dungloe.

Falcarragh business owners expressed their concern about the impact of ongoing water outages earlier this year.

At the time, Irish Water said that the cut to supply was due to a burst on the rising main from the treatment plant at Ardsbeg to the treated water storage reservoir.

At the May meeting of Glenties Municipal District, Cathaoirleach John Sheamuis expressed his annoyance that the amenity had not agreed to a request to meet with councillors ahead of their meeting.

This week, Independent councillor Micheal Choilm Mac Giolla Easbuic said that Irish Water has agreed to meet with Glenties councillors to discuss the issues relating to water.

He said: "Cloch Cheannfhaola and An Fal Carrach have been plagued with problems with their water supply for a number of years and I have made representations on their behalf to Irish Water over that period of time. In the last six months or so, as the water situation in the area got worse, I asked Irish Water to come to the area to see the conditions for themselves and to talk to the community there to hear how they are affected."

The Rosses-based councillor said that he would like members of the public to be in attendance at the upcoming meeting on Thursday, May 16.

"The only people invited are the Glenties MD councillors. This is not good enough. They need to see for themselves what the water problems are and listen to how this affects the local community. I know if this ongoing problem was affecting me and my family or business Id be at this meeting," he said.
The jockey was happy. So was the trainer. Then they werent.

I dont know if the horse, Maximum Security, knew he had won, which was a good thing, as the victory would turn out to be almost as fleeting as his run. But back in the stables his oats would probably taste just as good. I saw the fouls, or infractions, or whatever they call them. I said to KM as they came down the stretch, Hes all over the track. Ive watched enough races to think it was going to be a problem and was surprised no one was talking about it when the race ended. Come on Randy Moss, you had to have seen that.

Talk about going from the heights to the depths in a matter of minutes. My first reaction was to blame the jockey, Luis Saez. But the next day I read what Bill Mott, the trainer of Country House said, that it wasnt the fault of Saez.
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. For more information, call 334-684-9617.

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.

First Assembly of God in Cottonwood will hold a Gospel sing on Saturday, May 18, at 6 p.m. with Kay Armour ministering in song. The church is located at 11271 Cottonwood Highway. A love offering will be received. For additional information, contact the Rev. John Paul Dean or Lisa Dean at 334-797-8678, or email at cottonwoodfirst@aol.com.
A man who reportedly struck a Dothan police officer following a traffic stop on Saturday has been arrested.

Chief Steve Parrish said a vehicle was being stopped for a traffic violation when the driver pulled to the rear of a residence on the 500 block of Third Avenue and took off running.

One of our police officers chased the individual and caught him in one of the adjoining yards, the chief said. A fight broke out between the two. The officer was struck a couple of times and the suspect got away.

Parrish said officers canvassed the area and arrested a suspect, Desmond Williams, on Mobile Street.

The chief said investigators responded to the scene and more details will be released later.

The officer is going to be fine, Parrish said. It just goes with the job.

The chief said more than likely the suspect will be charged with felony assault against the police officer.

Dothan police have responded to a recent rash of violent acts, including two Dothan officers who were injured on May 5 after responding to a person down call at a gas station on Montgomery Highway at North Park Avenue.
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When her mother came home from work, the daughter told her mother what happened, the women said. The mother said she yelled out the window to Wilson to "let him know that I know what he did." The mother then called 911, which prosecutors played a recording of at trial.
Lisbon, Portugal - 12 May 2019: Machine learning is overtaking humans in predicting death or heart attack. That's the main message of a study presented today at ICNC 2019.1

The International Conference on Nuclear Cardiology and Cardiac CT (ICNC) is co-organised by the American Society of Nuclear Cardiology (ASNC), the European Association of Cardiovascular Imaging (EACVI) of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC), and the European Association of Nuclear Medicine (EANM).

By repeatedly analysing 85 variables in 950 patients with known six-year outcomes, an algorithm "learned" how imaging data interacts. It then identified patterns correlating the variables to death and heart attack with more than 90% accuracy.

Machine learning, the modern bedrock of artificial intelligence (AI), is used every day. Google's search engine, face recognition on smartphones, self-driving cars, Netflix and Spotify recommendation systems all use machine learning algorithms to adapt to the individual user.

Study author Dr Luis Eduardo Juarez-Orozco, of the Turku PET Centre, Finland, said: "These advances are far beyond what has been done in medicine, where we need to be cautious about how we evaluate risk and outcomes. We have the data but we are not using it to its full potential yet."

Doctors use risk scores to make treatment decisions. But these scores are based on just a handful of variables and often have modest accuracy in individual patients. Through repetition and adjustment, machine learning can exploit large amounts of data and identify complex patterns that may not be evident to humans.

Dr Juarez-Orozco explained: "Humans have a very hard time thinking further than three dimensions (a cube) or four dimensions (a cube through time). The moment we jump into the fifth dimension we're lost. Our study shows that very high dimensional patterns are more useful than single dimensional patterns to predict outcomes in individuals and for that we need machine learning."

The study enrolled 950 patients with chest pain who underwent the centre's usual protocol to look for coronary artery disease. A coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) scan yielded 58 pieces of data on presence of coronary plaque, vessel narrowing, and calcification. Those with scans suggestive of disease underwent a positron emission tomography (PET) scan which produced 17 variables on blood flow. Ten clinical variables were obtained from medical records including sex, age, smoking and diabetes.

During an average six-year follow-up there were 24 heart attacks and 49 deaths from any cause. The 85 variables were entered into a machine learning algorithm called LogitBoost, which analysed them over and over again until it found the best structure to predict who had a heart attack or died.

Dr Juarez-Orozco said: "The algorithm progressively learns from the data and after numerous rounds of analyses, it figures out the high dimensional patterns that should be used to efficiently identify patients who have the event. The result is a score of individual risk."

The predictive performance using the ten clinical variables alone (similar to current clinical practice) was modest, with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.65 (where 1.0 is a perfect test and 0.5 is a random result). When PET data were added, AUC increased to 0.69. The predictive performance increased significantly (p=0.005) when CCTA data were added to clinical and PET data, giving an AUC 0.82 and more than 90% accuracy.

Dr Juarez-Orozco said: "Doctors already collect a lot of information about patients - for example those with chest pain. We found that machine learning can integrate these data and accurately predict individual risk. This should allow us to personalise treatment and ultimately lead to better outcomes for patients."

###

Authors: ESC Press Office

Tel: +33 (0)4 8987 2499

Mobile: +33 (0) 7 8531 2036

Email: press@escardio.org

Follow us on Twitter @ESCardioNews

The hashtag for ICNC 2019 is #ICNC2019.

Notes to editor

Sources of funding: This work was supported by The Academy of Finland Centre of Excellence on Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disease, Helsinki, Finland and the Finnish Foundation for Cardiovascular Research.

Disclosures: None.

References and notes

1 The abstract 'Refining the long-term prognostic value of hybrid PET/CT through machine learning' will be presented during the Young Investigator Awards session on Sunday 12 May at 09:00 to 10:00 WEST in room Faro.

About the International Conference on Nuclear Cardiology and Cardiac CT (ICNC)

The International Conference on Nuclear Cardiology and Cardiac CT (ICNC) is held every two years and is co-organised by the European Association of Cardiovascular Imaging (EACVI) of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC), the American Society of Nuclear Cardiology (ASNC), and the European Association of Nuclear Medicine (EANM).

About the American Society of Nuclear Cardiology (ASNC)

ASNC, located in Fairfax (Virginia, USA) is committed to excellence in imaging. Representing over 4,500 nuclear cardiologists, radiologists, technologists, scientists and academics all over the world. ASNC is the leader in the development of established standards of care and guidelines in nuclear cardiovascular imaging. ASNC continuously supports the advancement of the profession through education, research, and advocacy.

About the European Association of Cardiovascular Imaging (EACVI)

The European Association of Cardiovascular Imaging (EACVI) - a branch of the ESC - is the world leading network of Cardiovascular Imaging (CVI) experts, gathering four imaging modalities under one entity (Echocardiography, Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance, Nuclear Cardiology and Cardiac Computed Tomography). Its aim is to promote excellence in clinical diagnosis, research, technical development, and education in cardiovascular imaging. The EACVI welcomes over 11,000 professionals including cardiologists, sonographers, nurses, basic scientists and allied professionals.

About the European Society of Cardiology

The European Society of Cardiology brings together health care professionals from more than 150 countries, working to advance cardiovascular medicine and help people lead longer, healthier lives.

About the European Association of Nuclear Medicine (EANM)

The European Association of Nuclear Medicine (EANM) is the largest organisation dedicated to nuclear medicine and multimodality imaging in Europe, with a strong focus on interdisciplinary. This is especially reflected in the educational offers of the European School of Multimodality Imaging and Therapy (ESMIT) and the programme of the EANM Annual Congress.

Information for journalists attending ICNC 2019

ICNC 2019 will be held 12 to 14 May at the Lisbon Congress Centre (CCL) in Lisbon, Portugal. Explore the scientific programme.
None of this is normal or acceptable, none of it, and Congress does not have the option to shrug and look away. Acting in the name of the nation, the House Ways and Means Committee has the statutory authority -- and good reason -- to look at Trump's tax returns. Acting in the name of the nation, the House Judiciary Committee has the duty to read Mueller's entire unredacted report and hear from Mueller and McGahn. Acting in the name of the nation, the speaker of the House must decide whether Trump's conduct was so egregious that impeachment hearings should be held.
New research from King's College London finds that teacher assessments are equally as reliable as standardised exams at predicting educational success.

The researchers say their findings, published today in the Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry, question whether the benefits of standardised exams outweigh the costs.

Teacher assessments were found to correlate strongly with exam scores across English, mathematics and science from age 7-14, with both measures equally as powerful at predicting later exam success. Teacher assessments predicted around 90% of the differences between pupils in exam performance at GCSE and A-level.

Co-lead researcher Dr Kaili Rimfeld, from the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience (IoPPN), said: 'We have shown for the first time that teacher assessments predict GCSE and A-level results just as well as earlier exam scores. The fact that exam scores correlate so highly with the teacher assessments raises questions about the value of the testing culture that characterises compulsory education in the UK.'

Co-lead researcher Dr Margherita Malanchini, from the IoPPN and the University of Texas at Austin, said: 'While testing can stimulate both pupils and teachers to focus their efforts, high-stakes exams may shift the educational experience away from learning towards exam performance. For these reasons, we suggest that teacher assessments could be relied on for monitoring progress, instead of exam scores, in particular during earlier school years.'

Previous research has looked at how either exam scores or teacher assessments predict educational success, but not compared the two. The researchers were able to make the comparison by linking data from over 5,000 twin pairs in the Twins Early Development Study (TEDS) with teacher assessments and exam scores in the National Pupil Database.

Previous research from King's College London has established that genetic factors are the major influence on exam results for GCSEs and A-levels. Using data from TEDS, the researchers showed a strong genetic correlation between teacher assessments and exam scores, confirming that both measures were identifying the same pupils and largely measuring the same ability.

Teachers in the UK are required to assess their pupils until age 14, and children sit standardised exams throughout school education in the UK, including SATS at age 7 and 11, GCSEs at age 16 and A-levels at age 18.

Dr Rimfeld said: 'We are not arguing against testing in general, or that teachers should increase their workloads by adding further assessments. On the contrary, we have demonstrated that current methods of teacher assessment are powerful predictors of success, allowing schools to reduce testing and still monitor progress effectively.'

Dr Malanchini said: 'Our results should inform the debate about testing during both primary and secondary education. Trusting teachers to implement the curriculum and monitor progress could benefit the wellbeing of pupils and teachers and help to bring joy back to the classroom.'

Previous research has suggested high-stakes exams can impact teachers' morale as well as pupils' wellbeing and mental health. The researchers are now looking to study the links between school experiences and mental health among young people.

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Not intended for U.S. media

-- 48-week results provide additional evidence of relapse reduction for investigational evobrutinib -- Evobrutinib demonstrated rapid lesion reductions on MRI at week 12 that were maintained through week 48, with no new safety signals identified over 52 weeks -- Data presented at the American Academy of Neurology 2019 Annual Meeting and simultaneously published in the NEJM

DARMSTADT, Germany, May 10, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Merck, a leading science and technology company, today announced new 48-week results of the double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled, Phase II study of evobrutinib in patients with relapsing multiple sclerosis (RMS). The results have been presented at the American Academy of Neurology (AAN) 2019 Annual Meeting in Philadelphia, United States with simultaneous publication in the New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM) [http://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa1901981]. Evobrutinib is the first oral, highly selective Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitor to show clinical proof of concept in RMS.

Previously reported data showed that the study had met its primary endpoint over 24-weeks of treatment, where the total cumulative number of T1 gadolinium-enhancing lesions was reduced with evobrutinib compared with placebo. With evobrutinib 75 mg QD (once a day) and 75 mg BID (twice a day), rapid reductions in number of T1 Gd+ lesions were observed by week 12 of treatment. New data showed that the effect on T1 gadolinium-enhancing lesions reduction seen at week 12 was maintained through 48 weeks with evobrutinib 75 mg QD and 75 mg BID.

"These positive Phase II evobrutinib data are a great example of the strength of our pipeline and commitment to developing new, innovative treatments in multiple sclerosis," said Luciano Rossetti, Head of Global Research & Development for the Biopharma business of Merck. "As a leader in autoimmune diseases and MS we are proud of this in-house discovery at Merck. We look forward to continuing to investigate the potential of evobrutinib as we continue to address unmet patient needs in MS care."

With evobrutinib 75 mg BID, annualized relapse rate (ARR) (confidence interval) was 0.11 (0.04-0.25) with 79 percent of patients remaining relapse free over 48 weeks of treatment. For reference, at 24 weeks, ARR for evobrutinib 75 mg BID was 0.08 (0.01-0.30) and 0.37 (0.17-0.70) for placebo.

No treatment associated infections, infestations, or lymphopenia were observed and no new safety signals were identified over 52 weeks. The most common treatment-related TEAEs (>10%) included nasopharyngitis and increased ALT. The percentage of shifts from baseline to Grade 2 or greater in ALT were 5.7%, 3.8%, and 13% in the evobrutinib 25mg QD, 75mg QD and 75mg BID groups, respectively. The corresponding shifts in ALT in the placebo group over 24 weeks was 7.5%. All events had an onset within 24 weeks of treatment initiation and were reversible on treatment discontinuation with no clinical consequences within the 52-week study period. During the course of the study, 85 percent of patients (227 out of 267) completed 52 weeks of treatment.

"Building on our initial analysis at 24 weeks, these new data further demonstrate the potential role of evobrutinib in relapsing multiple sclerosis, subject to further clinical investigation" said Dr. Xavier Montalban, Professor of Medicine and Department Division Director, Neurology, at the University of Toronto and Director of the MS Centre at St. Michael's Hospital, Canada, and Chairman & Director Neurology-Neuroimmunology Department & Neurorehabilitation Unit, Multiple Sclerosis Centre of Catalonia (Cemcat), Vall d'Hebron University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain. "Evobrutinib is the first Bruton's tyrosine kinase inhibitor to demonstrate clinical proof of concept in multiple sclerosis. We are pleased that these 48-week data further support our continued clinical development of evobrutinib and investigation into its efficacy for patients with MS."

These 48-week results are a new analysis following the initial 24-week presentation of the data at the 34(th) Congress of the European Committee for Treatment and Research in Multiple Sclerosis (ECTRIMS) in Berlin, Germany, on October 12, 2018.

Merck presented a total of 20 abstracts (18 posters and two platform presentations) during AAN 2019. For further information on the evobrutinib 48-week abstract please see here:

-- Efficacy and Safety of the Bruton's Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor Evobrutinib in Patients with Relapsing Multiple Sclerosis over 48 Weeks: a Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Phase 2 Study [http://indexsmart.mirasmart.com/AAN2019/SearchResults.php?q=... +] - presented at 13:33 ET on Friday 10 May during the S56: MS Trials and Treatment session.

The presentation of these data read-outs showcases the breadth of Merck's multiple sclerosis (MS) portfolio and further underscores its commitment to the advancement of MS treatment.

All Merck press releases are distributed by e-mail at the same time they become available on the Merck website. Please go to www.merckgroup.com/subscribe to register online, change your selection or discontinue this service.

About Evobrutinib

Evobrutinib (M2951) is in clinical development to investigate its potential as a treatment for multiple sclerosis (MS), rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). It is an oral, highly selective inhibitor of Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK) which is important in the development and functioning of various immune cells including B lymphocytes and macrophages. Selectivity has been assessed in vitro. Evobrutinib is designed to inhibit primary B cell responses such as proliferation and antibody and cytokine release, without directly affecting T cells. BTK inhibition is thought to suppress autoantibody-producing cells, which preclinical research suggests may be therapeutically useful in certain autoimmune diseases. Evobrutinib is currently under clinical investigation and not approved for any use anywhere in the world.

About the Evobrutinib Multiple Sclerosis Phase II Study

This double-blind, placebo-controlled, 48-week, Phase II study evaluates the safety and efficacy of evobrutinib in patients aged 18-65 years with relapsing multiple sclerosis (RMS). Patients were randomised to evobrutinib 25mg QD, 75mg QD, 75mg BID, PBO or open-label dimethyl fumarate (240mg BID; reference arm). The primary endpoint was the sum of T1 gadolinium-enhancing lesions at weeks 12, 16, 20, and 24. Key secondary endpoints included annualised relapse rate (ARR) at week 48 and safety. For more information about the study, visit ClinicalTrials.gov [https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/study/NCT02975349?term=e...].

About Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, inflammatory condition of the central nervous system and is the most common non-traumatic, disabling neurological disease in young adults. It is estimated that approximately 2.3 million people have MS worldwide. While symptoms can vary, the most common symptoms of MS include blurred vision, numbness or tingling in the limbs and problems with strength and coordination. The relapsing forms of MS are the most common.

Merck in Immunology

Merck has a long-standing legacy in immunology, with significant R&D and commercial experience in multiple sclerosis. Merck`s robust immunology pipeline focuses on discovering new therapies that have the potential to modulate key pathogenic mechanisms in chronic diseases such as MS, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and forms of arthritis, including rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and osteoarthritis (OA).

About Merck

(CONTINUA)
GBP/ZAR UPDATE #4: After peaking just above R18.65, the British Pound reversed gains against the South African Rand heading into Tuesday's session on a recovery in risk appetite with Sterling last seen at R18.42530, down 0.8% from the session open.

Risk-appetite is likely to remain a key driver for the ZAR moving forward and while tentative signs of positivity - with Trump agreeing to meet Xi Jinping at japan's G20 summit next month and voicing his optimism that talks in Beijing will be "very successful" - will likely support the risk-sensitive ZAR the inverse is also true with any further deterioration likely to weigh.

Tuesday's session will see labour market figures released for both the UK and SA.

With a forecast of 27.5%, ABSA economist Peter Worthington wrote, "The unemployment rate is likely to increase partly due to seasonal effects but also due to the underlying weakness in the economy."

Meanwhile, on the UK release, ING economists noted the potential for a strong print to support a Bank of England interest rate hike.

"There have been quite a few articles written on how the market is happy to ignore Governor Mark Carneys warning of earlier rate hikes. Another strong UK wage figure today could question the 7 basis points of Bank of England hikes priced in over the next year," wrote global head of strategy, Chris Turner.

GBP/ZAR UPDATE #3: Global trade-related worries appeared to continue to offset the ANC election victory for the South African currency with the Pound to Rand exchange rate extending gains as Monday's session progressed.

As expected, China announced their intention to react in kind to the US administrations tariff-imposition, with higher tariffs on US goods worth $60B set to come into effect on June 1st as the tit-for-tat dispute escalates.

Near-term US-China relations will probably determine the prospects for not just the Rand but the general Asian FX and EM spheres overall. Investors will now be looking to further talks - officials from both sides agreed to continue talks but dates have yet to be set - along side any further news-flow or Trump-tweets which could indicate what to expect moving forward.

For the GBP, a quiet data session and a lack of Brexit-related news saw the Sterling largely benefit against major peers given relatively lower exposure to Chinese markets.

Higher perceived probability of a second EU referendum, given mounting pressure on Labour leader Corbyn to adopt this as the base party line, likely supported the GBP - however a lack of concrete developments will likely keep the Sterling largely directionless.

Tuesday's labour market statistics will be the key data point for the GBP with Rabobank analyst Jane Foley suggesting that investors will be side-lined ahead of the release amid concerns that record-high levels of stockpiling (which contributed to a 0.5% GDP growth print) may have come at the expense of employment.

GBP/ZAR UPDATE #2: The Pound to South African Rand exchange rates punched higher at the start of this weeks session as a risk-off mood in markets saw the Rand relinquish some of its election driven gains from last week.

The Rand followed other emerging currencies lower on Monday as escalating trade tensions between the US and China, left investor to seek shelter in currencies less exposed to a potential trade war.

Meanwhile, capping the Pounds gains against the Rand on Monday was the continued lack of progress in cross-party Brexit talks, amid concerns they could end this week without a deal being agreed.

GBP/ZAR UPDATE: The Pound to Rand exchange rate rose in early trade with the South African currency relinquishing some of it's election-spurred gains as risk-aversion in the light of escalating US-China trade relations weighed almost universally on EMs.

In spite of last weeks election and a perceived investor-friendly outcome, the rand has been largely driven by international factors with the election contributing only marginally to its direction, wrote corporate treasury manager, Bianca Botes, at Peregrine Treasury Solutions.

Sterling was last seen trading at R18.58970, up just shy of 1%.

Tuesday will see labour market statistics released for the UK and SA.

In the UK, the average earnings index is forecast to print a healthy 3.4% (3m/y) rise, a modest 0.1% lower than the prior 3.5% print but still relatively robust. The unemployment rate is tipped to remain at 3.9%, it's lowest level since the '70s.

South African figures are expected to deteriorate with ABSA forecasting a rise in the unemployment rate from 21.5% to 27.%.

"The unemployment rate is likely to increase partly due to seasonal effects but also underlying weakness of economic growth," wrote ABSA economist Peter Worthington.

Wednesday's SA retail sales release could also draw investor focus with the volume of sales at the retail level forecast to have contracted (-0.9%) on an annual basis.

Worthington added, "Year-on-year retail sales likely to fall in March mainly due to a combination of load shedding and base effects."

Meanwhile Sterling remains highly sensitive to political developments with one eye on the newswires as cross-party efforts continue and focus shifts to the upcoming EU parliamentary elections.

"A terrible Conservative performance at European elections (23 May) looks fully priced in. Its interesting, though, to see Labours position subtly shifting on Brexit. It now seems to be formally embracing a confirmatory vote (second referendum)," wrote ING's global head of strategy, Chris Turner, adding "Another strong UK jobs data report could give GBP a brief lift."

The South African Rand (ZAR) roared higher against the Pound this week, rising higher as South Africans when to the polls for what was billed as the most important general election since 1994 and the end of apartheid.

While this lead the Rand to trade in a limited range through the first half of the week in the run up to the vote, the latter half of the session was met by a strong upswing in ZAR exchange rates as it became clear the ruling ANC would again secure a majority.

This surge appeared to be fueled by hopes that, despite the ANC suffering its worst performance since entering government 25 years ago, the victory for President Cyril Ramaphosa will help grant him the mandate to reform South Africas economy.

However Ramaphosa will have his work cut out for him if he is turn around South Africas ailing economy, and we could see the Rand begin to slip back again in the coming months unless he is able to make some headway in the coming months.

Pound Bludgeoned by Political Uncertainty

Meanwhile, the Pound (GBP) struggled to put up a fight this week, as rising political uncertainty in the UK dampened Sterling sentiment.

This most down to concerns regarding the state of the cross-party Brexit talks, with Jeremy Corbyn playing down recent reports of progress as he spoke of the difficulty of negotiating with a disintegrating government.

This feed into fears over the future of Theresa May premiership as the PM faced growing calls from within the Conservatives to outline a timetable for when she would step down.

Not even the release of the UKs GDP figures at the end of the week proved enough to reverse Sterlings fortunes.

While the Office for National Statistics (ONS) reported that headline growth surged from 0.2% to 0.5% in the first quarter, the data made it clear that this was mostly fueled by Brexit stockpiling.

This lead many analysts to warn that the bump in growth was likely to be a flash in the pan with growth in the second quarter likely to be notably more subdued as businesses seek to sell through their extra stock.

Tej Parikh, senior economist at business lobby group The Institute of Directors, suggested: Some businesses brought activity forward early this year in preparation for leaving the EU, so higher stocks and earlier orders have artificially bumped up the growth numbers. In the second quarter, many firms will be keen to run down their Brexit caches, which will drag on economic growth.

GBP/ZAR Exchange Rate Forecast: Rising Wages to Help Sterling to Rally?

Looking ahead to next weeks session, the Pound South African Rand (GBP/ZAR) exchange rate may look to mount a recovery through the first half of next weeks session as the UK publishes its latest employment figures.

While GBP investors would welcome another slide in unemployment, any uptick in Sterling would likely come off the back of the UKs latest wage growth figures, should the recent uptrend in earnings have carried through into March.

However, the Pound is also likely to be remain highly sensitive to political activity in the UK, potentially tempering any gains GBP if cross-party talks continue to stall.

Meanwhile, South Africa will release its own employment figures next week, with the Rand likely to relinquish some ground if unemployment rose in line with forecasts in the first quarter.

On top of this, ZAR exchange rates could also be impacted by any further developments in the US-China trade dispute, with the emerging market currency likely to come under pressure if tensions continue to escalate.
From: American Evaluation Association (AEA) For Immediate Release: Dateline: Washington , DC Sunday, May 12, 2019

Irene Basile, policy analyst at the

Indeed, members of the

Lessons Learned:

Development finance and co-operation actors need a common language, for example definitions of impact and additionality. Evaluators must also improve their financial literacy, since the combination of financial and evaluation skills is not easily sourced on the market.

Existing evaluations show a wide diversity, both on the criteria and the methodological approaches. More collective thinking and experience sharing is needed to understand the relevance of individual methods for specific investment modalities.

The assessment of investment operations should not be confused with, and cannot replace, ex-post evaluation of public policies supporting those investments. Too many conversations among impact investors focus on estimating or measuring outcomes for external accountability; policymakers need to ensure long-term learning based on actual and independently observed results. Rad Resource:

In a field where information is scattered and hard to obtain, existing repositories of knowledge are valuable. The

Over the years, the OECD Development Assistance Committee has greatly contributed to harmonizing evaluation practices in development cooperation, but this is not yet true for the development finance arena, which does not abide to the same vocabulary and standards. Progress in development evaluation has historically focused on grant-based modalities, leaving aside the use of market-oriented instruments.

By adopting the

This is the first in a series of blogs hosted by the

The American Evaluation Association is celebrating Social Impact Measurement Week with our colleagues in the Social Impact Measurement Topical Interest Group. The contributions all this week to aea365 come from our SIM TIG members. Do you have questions, concerns, kudos, or content to extend this aea365 contribution? Please add them in the comments section for this post on the

About AEA The American Evaluation Association is an international professional association and the largest in its field. Evaluation involves assessing the strengths and weaknesses of programs, policies, personnel, products and organizations to improve their effectiveness. AEAs mission is to improve evaluation practices and methods worldwide, to increase evaluation use, promote evaluation as a profession and support the contribution of evaluation to the generation of theory and knowledge about effective human action. For more information about AEA, visit www.eval.org. Hello! I am, policy analyst at the OECD Development Co-operation Directorate. We provide evidence-based policy guidance on innovative approaches to foster private sector participation in development outcomes. As a former independent evaluator, I was astonished to discover the wide gap in evaluation practices between the development finance and the development co-operation spheres.Indeed, members of the OECD Development Assistance Committee are increasingly turning toward market-oriented solutions, such as blended finance and impact investing, to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals in developing countries. However, complex governance, organizational diversity, and lack of harmonization deeply affect the evaluability of such instruments. As the delivery chain grows longer, it becomes more difficult for governments to exercise their steering and oversight function, and for evaluators to reconstruct causal links.In a field where information is scattered and hard to obtain, existing repositories of knowledge are valuable. The OECD and the UNDP Evaluation Resource Centres are good starting points to understand what works and in which context. A systematic review of existing evidence would significantly improve our understanding of the potential contribution of investment instruments in achieving SDGs.Over the years, the OECD Development Assistance Committee has greatly contributed to harmonizing evaluation practices in development cooperation, but this is not yet true for the development finance arena, which does not abide to the same vocabulary and standards. Progress in development evaluation has historically focused on grant-based modalities, leaving aside the use of market-oriented instruments.By adopting the Blended Finance Principles , the OECDs Development Assistance Committee has renewed its commitment to transparency and results. The DAC Network on Development Evaluation has a potentially very important role to play in bridging the cultural gaps among development finance providers (development banks, agencies, private intermediaries, etc.). As champion governmentslike Denmark, Norway, and Germanycombine forces to explore the most appropriate evaluation methodologies for investments in development co-operation, we should expect the issue to gain even more traction over the next years.This is the first in a series of blogs hosted by the Social Impact Measurement TIG . The blogs this week are an exciting peek at the work of the TIGyoull hear from people who balance impact measurement and evaluation as investors, grantmakers, and social entrepreneurs.The American Evaluation Association is celebratingwith our colleagues in the. The contributions all this week to aea365 come from ourmembers. Do you have questions, concerns, kudos, or content to extend this aea365 contribution? Please add them in the comments section for this post on the aea365 webpage so that we may enrich our community of practice. Would you like to submit an aea365 Tip? Please send a note of interest to aea365@eval.org . aea365 is sponsored by the American Evaluation Association and provides a Tip-a-Day by and for evaluators.


Twice in the past six months, San Antonios business leaders have publicly allied themselves with Mayor Ron Nirenberg and against the citys public safety unions  and came up short.

Some of the citys wealthiest executives spent nearly $1.7 million on a campaign to defeat a trio of union-backed charter amendments aimed at kneecapping a loyal ally of theirs, then-City Manager Sheryl Sculley.

The result? San Antonio voters approved two of the amendments in the November elections. Sculley announced her resignation soon after.

A week ago, District 6 Councilman Greg Brockhouse  supported by the police and fire unions and social conservatives  forced Nirenberg into a runoff despite heavy business support for the incumbent heading into the municipal elections.

I think that the business community may have been a little flat-footed going into this election, not because they did not like Ron, but because they did not sense that there was a real race here, philanthropist and real estate developer Gordon Hartman said. The unions have turned this into a race now.

Had the mayoral election taken place in November at the time of the charter election, the business community wouldve been a monolith, said Richard Perez, San Antonio Chamber of Commerce CEO. But this year, he added, we had some issues.

Most prominent among those issues was a March vote by City Council to strike Chick-fil-A, known for supporting organizations with anti-LGBTQ views, from an airport concessions contract.

District 1 Councilman Roberto Trevino introduced the change, and Nirenberg supported it, voting with the majority. The move sparked the ire of Christian conservatives and an investigation by Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton.

The timing of the Chick-fil-A vote, so close to the May 4 election, likely didnt help Nirenberg make inroads with a business community thats still pretty conservative, Perez said.

I think it ultimately hurt Ron, Perez said.

Some business leaders fear Brockhouse will deplete the citys finances to satisfy the fire unions contract demands, jeopardizing the citys AAA bond rating  a charge Brockhouse calls ridiculous and a Ron Nirenberg talking point.

Nonetheless, the sentiment could re-energize the business communitys support of Nirenberg ahead of the June 8 mayoral runoff.

Thats the only thing that has the clear prospect of bankrupting the city, former City Councilman Joe Krier said of the fire union contract.

Tepid support

Business donors tend to support incumbent mayors, said Laura Barberena, a veteran Democratic campaign operative in San Antonio. Even though business support has coalesced around Nirenberg, the support is tepid, she said.

The question is, will they go from tepid to hot? Barberena said. I dont see anybody switching or changing their bet at this point.

Billionaire B.J. Red McCombs  a Republican donor who gave Nirenberg $1,000, the maximum contribution allowed under San Antonios campaign finance laws  said he wouldnt be surprised if business donors stick with Nirenberg in the runoff.

Its a hard job any way you look at it, McCombs said. But the more that you know about it, the better decisions that youre going to make.

Nirenberg seemingly has given business leaders plenty of reasons to jump ship during his two years in office  among them a reputation for excluding the business community from key decisions. But they havent proven enough to completely shake off business support.

Some of them have been issues that probably, if he had handled them in a different way, could have been advantageous or would have been seen by the business community in a better way, Hartman said.

Not a monolith

Though the San Antonio business community often is thought of as a monolithic entity, reactions to moves made by Nirenberg show the community to be multi-faceted, with diverse and often competing political interests.

To restaurateur Louis Barrios, the Chick-fil-A vote was the latest example of Nirenbergs tendency to focus on minor issues, he said.

We have serious, serious, serious issues in this city, said Barrios, a Brockhouse supporter. And this has taken up all the oxygen in the room?

Barrios added, It just makes San Antonio look like Small Town, U.S.A., when we shouldnt be.

Jeff Buell, co-owner of local builder Sitterle Homes, gave Nirenbergs campaign $100 in March but said he was very disappointed in the Chick-fil-A fiasco.

Buell hesitated to say whether he would give to Nirenberg again. He noted the mayors attitude toward business owners has improved during his term.

He initially came in and I felt like he was not really paying attention to a lot of the business community, Buell said. But hes seemed to come around a little bit on that and be a little bit more open toward business.

City Council members delayed a vote on a proposed plan to reduce the citys carbon emissions after local energy giants NuStar Energy and Valero Energy Corp. reportedly threatened to relocate their headquarters if the city adopted the plan. Each company, through their political action committees, gave $1,000 to Nirenbergs campaign last year.

NuStar spokesman Chris Cho said the companys PAC plans to support Nirenberg in the runoff. Valero spokeswoman Lillian Riojas did not respond to an email requesting comment.

The climate plan left many business owners scratching their heads about how much it would affect their bottom lines when the draft plan dropped in January, said Cristina Aldrete, CEO of the North San Antonio Chamber of Commerce.

We wouldve appreciated that the mayor and city council reached out earlier than they did, Aldrete said. To say, Hey, this is something that we want to consider doing. What do you think? And start talking to people in smaller groups before they said, Yeah, were putting a stakeholder committee of 80 people together. Because a big group, youre never going to get consensus from.

The Nirenberg-led City Council also has upset business people by wading into labor issues. Restaurant and small business owners seethed when council members passed an ordinance mandating that San Antonio firms provide paid sick leave to workers.

Earlier, chamber leaders forced council members to ditch a Nirenberg-backed measure to enact a labor peace agreement as part of an airport concessions contract. The agreement would have barred employers from preventing their workers to unionize  as long as the workers agreed to not strike.

Nirenberg also has drawn scrutiny for rejecting two high-profile bids that critics say wouldve been boons for San Antonio.

A joint city-county decision to forgo a bid for online retail giant Amazons proposed $5 billion second headquarters, known as HQ2, gained Nirenberg plaudits from some quarters for refusing to offer tax breaks or other inducements to one of the worlds most profitable companies. Others lamented losing an opportunity to compete for 50,000 high-paying jobs.

The citys decision not to bid on the 2020 Republican National Convention  estimated to generate $200 million worth of economic benefits  riled hoteliers and others in the hospitality industry. Nirenberg cited public safety and traffic concerns after council members decided against competing for the convention in a closed session.

Nirenberg and Brockhouse each backed a new fee paid by hotel guests to fund city tourism promotion efforts, said Liza Barratachea, CEO of the San Antonio Hotel and Lodging Association. But the lodging industry felt left out when it came to the RNC decision, she said.

We really wouldve liked to have had a seat at the table, Barratachea said.

Barratachea added, Its in the past. We cant change it. Its not the last time that well have an opportunity like that.

The Republican convention could have shined a national spotlight on the city, which spent $325 million to renovate the Convention Center, Barrios said.

Whoever made that decision behind closed doors thought about their position politically instead of thinking of the enterprise, Barrios said.

The business brand

Each candidate is positioning himself as the pro-business candidate. Nirenberg campaign manager Kelton Morgan cited strong job growth, rising wages and low unemployment during the mayors tenure but acknowledged that Nirenberg and the business community havent always seen eye-to-eye.

Theres a realization that, yeah, we dont agree on 100 percent of things, but we agree on more than we disagree on, Morgan said. This is a mayor thats good for business and good for our economy.

Brockhouse, conversely, is seen as erratic and unpredictable by people in the business community, Morgan said. Theres a pretty much universal sense that he would not be good for business.

Brockhouse admits he hasnt garnered much support among the citys major business donors, but said Nirenbergs business support is a product of the power of the incumbency. If elected, Brockhouse said he intends to earn the business communitys trust in part by consistently including it in his decision-making.

Nirenberg has not been favorable to the business community by any metric, Brockhouse said. What has he done for the business community? Hes done absolutely nothing.

But how necessary is business support to a mayoral candidate? Nelson Wolff, for example, did not have the whole business community supporting him when he was elected mayor in 1991, said Ramiro Cavazos, who was Wolffs campaign manager. Wolff relied on a diverse coalition of neighborhood and business leaders in that race, said Cavazos, now U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce CEO.

Julian Castro did not have wide business support when he unsuccessfully ran for mayor in 2005, said Perez of the San Antonio Chamber of Commerce. Castro landed more contributions and endorsements from business people when he ran again, and won, in 2009, and had their solid support in his re-election bids in 2011 and 2013.

Brockhouses surge of support from the public safety unions is the wild race in the race, said Barberena, the political consultant.

Do you need the business support to win? Yes, Barberena said. But, with this disrupting entity now, youre going to need either more of the business class or more of the working class. Youre going to need more of each or both to overcome this disrupter, which is the firefighters.

Joshua Fechter is a San Antonio-based staff writer covering real estate, economic development and tourism. Read him on our free site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com. | jfechter@express-news.net | Twitter: @JFreports
Trump's "I could shoot somebody on Fifth Avenue" moment has arrived, in the form of revelations that he is hardly the titan of the business world he has claimed to be, but in some years has declared more losses on his businesses than any other American. For many years, in spite of his lavish life-style, he has paid no income taxes at all. But as he predicted, he won't lose a single vote because of this. His glassy-eyed followers are already making up excuses for him. It's really an amazing thing, and a little sickening, to see a con man of this magnitude at work.
Much of the Houston Ship Channel remained closed Saturday a day after two vessels collided, causing a large gasoline blend spill and setting off another round of environmentalists concerns for the Gulf Coast.

The 755-foot tanker Genesis River carrying liquefied natural gas collided Friday afternoon with a tug boat pushing two barges, each carrying 25,000 barrels of product, around 3:30 p.m., the U.S. Coast Guard said. One barge capsized and the other was damaged, leaking a gasoline product called reformate.

The channel closure is the first unplanned shutdown since March, when a massive chemical storage tank fire at Intercontinental Terminals Co., in Deer Park spilled petroleum products into nearby waterways. That three-day closure cost the energy industry about $1 billion, experts estimated.

The National Weather Service warned residents as far west as Pearland they may be able to smell gasoline fumes, with the most pungent odors in Webster and La Porte. Galveston County health officials are conducting air monitoring and have yet to discover any hazardous levels of chemicals.

Jim Guidry, executive vice president of Kirby Inland Marine, owner of the barges, said at a news conference Saturday morning the tankers hull punctured two of the smaller vessels four storage tanks.

The bow of the ship went through the port tank into the starboard tank, so there was no way to secure the source of the leak, Guidry said. Those two tanks were open to the sea.

Aerial footage showed a trianglular gash in one of the barges and a sheen floating on the water. The white bow of the Genesis River bore scrape marks. The capsized barge is intact and not believed to be leaking product, Kirby Corporation spokesman Greg Beuerman said. The tug, which had four crew aboard, was undamaged.

The Coast Guard has yet to determine to the cause of the collision.

Chief Joergens Reno said crews are attempting to calculate how much product spilled into the water. The channel remains closed between Bayport and Redfish Island, halting 29 inbound and 17 outbound ships.

Our assets are out there right now, still assessing the situation, still trying to come up with a game plan, Reno said. We would love to get some traffic moving.

Crews have deployed 3,800 feet of boom around the barges to contain the spill. More than 12,000 feet of additional boom is being deployed to protect sensitive areas around the bay, the Coast Guard said. There have been no reported impacts to wildlife.

Beuerman said the barge company estimates about 9,000 barrels have spilled. He said once crews determine how to salvage the damaged barge and flip the capsized one, the Coast Guard will be able to estimate when the ship channel can reopen.

An online vessel registry lists the Genesis River as a Panama-flagged vessel built in 2018 that most recently made a port call in Houston on Friday. It was bound for Port Said, Egypt on May 29. Many shipping firms register vessels in Panama, as the Central American company has less onerous fees and regulations than other countries.

All foreign-flagged vessels are required to use a pilot to navigate the Houston Ship Channel. Houston Pilots spokesman Henry de la Garza said a pilot was aboard the Genesis River but declined to comment on the collision, citing the ongoing investigation.

Kirby Inland Marine operates about one-quarter of the 4,000 barges in the United States and has a heavy presence in the ship channel.

A Kirby-owned barge collided with another barge near the mouth of the channel in 2014, igniting a fire. Several months earlier, a tanker and bulk carrier collided overnight off Morgans Point, near the site of Fridays collision. That crash forced the closure of the ship channel and dumped aroud 88,000 gallons of fuel into the waterway.

zach.despart@chron.com

www.twitter.com/zachdespart
The women call themselves Angel Moms.

They gathered at the Menger Hotel on Friday evening, hugging and holding each other as if they were long lost sisters. They sat at a round wooden table on the third floor, their laughter lost in the echo of chattering hotel guests.

Several of the women had never met in person, only through social media. Some had traveled from across the state, others, such as Jennifer McClendon, 56, and Cherie Hanna, 54, came from as far as Los Angeles and Columbus Ohio. Sharon Simmons chimed in from Rosenberg, Texas, via facetime on Odetta Lipkins iPhone.

They had all come to San Antonio at the request of Houston resident Calandrian Simpson-Kemp for a special Mothers Day weekend retreat in tribute to the children they have lost. They are members of the Village of Mothers, whose children have died from a range of tragedies that include gun violence, texting while driving and domestic violence.

Its not to focus on how they died, she said, but honor how they lived. We are still mothers to our children. You never cut that relationship, earthly you do, heavenly you dont. It helps us transition our mind set. Now, Im a mother to an angel.

Simpson-Kemp, founded Village of Mothers, a support group for grieving mothers after her 20-year-old son George H. Kemp Jr. was shot and killed in Houston in 2013. She is a vocal advocate of the gun violence prevention movement, Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense and Everytown for Gun Safety.

Tears filled Simpson-Kemps eyes, as she said this Mothers Day, she didnt want to sit at on her front porch, envisioning her son not walking to give her a gift. The retreat was a way to empower herself and her friends to keep moving past the pain.

On Friday night, Simpson-Kemp, 47, arranged a painting self-care party at Pinots Pallette on Broadway for the start of their Denim and Diamond weekend. Stevie Wonders Isnt She Lovely, played as she presented each woman with a tiara.

Saturday afternoon, they were scheduled to explore the River Walk and see downtown sites from horse-drawn carriages. Later that night called for a reflection dinner, where they honored one another and brought examples of their childrens favorite things. Today, the group will have a Mothers Day Brunch at the hotels Colonial Room Restaurant.

What began as a small, tight-knit group of 33 has expanded to a large network of more than 100 members. Theyve become a sisterhood, showing up for each others birthdays, funerals and court hearings. To contact the Village of Mothers go to villageofmothersnatiowide@gmail.com.

The women encourage and support each other, Simpson-Kemp said, empowered through their tears. She said the village is about justice and accountability; mental health and wellness; job readiness employment, and empowerment and education.

Hanna said before joining the Village of Mothers, she didnt know about gun violence, suicides, bullying and drug overdoses.

Now, I am aware, she said, I dont just look in my backyard.

When they see a news flash about a mother losing a child, they know the pain that awaits her. They reach out to offer guidance about problems they have suffered, such as loss of appetite, trauma and post traumatic stress disorder.

Its like an instant calling, Eloise Peterson, 63, said. Its like, what can I do to help you?

Simpson-Kemp said their goal is to bring awareness to the community about the causes and what happened to their children. And working to honor their children, she said, is a way of turning loose.

Vincent T. Davis is a reporter in the Greater San Antonio and Bexar County area. Read him on our free site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com. | vtdavis@express-news.net | Twitter: @vincentdavis
The Alamo has a new feature among its paid tour offerings, this one spotlighting guns and cannons used in the 1836 siege and battle, from British-made muskets that were a mainstay of the era to a large cannon that famously fired an 18-pound ball in response to Santa Annas flag of no quarter at the start of the 13-day standoff.

Staged daily at 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., the new hour-long Weapons of the Alamo tour that starts Monday complements its standard, youth and self-guided audio tours. It places a focus on artillery, culture and life of the 1830s.

Katie Dillard, a full-time Alamo living historian, explained why so many people came to Texas to become citizens of Mexico after 1821.

You could buy an acre of land for 12 cents, and it was not subject to taxation for six years, she said, dressed as an European settler in a frontier dress during a rehearsal tour last week.

Her narration, starting at the site of the forts main gate, then circling around the plaza, highlights the long rifles used by David Crockett and other defenders; William Barret Travis double-barrel shotgun; and the Baker rifles and Brown Bess muskets issued to Mexican troops, often left behind in the hands of Texans and Tejanos.

On ExpressNews.com: Alamo remembered with soul-stirring events

Standing near the site of the Alamos north wall, where Travis, the garrison commander, was among the first to fall during the early morning battle in 1836, Dillard held up a lead ball like the one fired from a Mexican soldiers weapon that struck Travis in the head.

It will kill you if it hits you in the right place, she said.

Alamo CEO Douglass W. McDonald said the new tour, which costs $15 for adults, $13 for military personnel and veterans, and is free for children 8 and younger, provides a new way to educate visitors wanting to pay for an engaging experience at the mission and battle site.

We know that people who come and actually are a part of the learning process retain more knowledge, he said. This is just another way were improving, and building programs for the Alamo.

Angela Wolfgram, director of living history at the Alamo, said the tour provides details on weapons in perhaps the exact places they were used, while explaining how the site, not built as a fort, was undermanned and inadequately designed and equipped for battle. The tour offers scholarly information in the form of an in-depth narrative, she said.

We actually have fired these weapons. So every tidbit, all about the mechanization, the use and the history of these weapons, is coming from a point of view of historians who talk about this every day, but usually not in this format, Wolfgram said.

Related: Alamo statues added a part of history trail

The tour winds down with a close-up demonstration of a four-pounder cannon and tools needed to fire and reload it  often at great risk of an explosion to the soldiers and volunteers. Dillard said the three-acre fort needed about 900 combatants to defend it, but likely had no more than 250.

News of the death of all the Alamo defenders, followed three weeks later by the execution of 342 men at Goliad, galvanized American support for Texas independence.

The irony of the Alamo is despite all odds, they stayed here and fought, Dillard said.

More information and a link to purchase tickets are available at the Alamo website, thealamo.org.

Scott Huddleston covers Bexar County government and the Alamo for the San Antonio Express-News. Read him on our free site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com. | shuddleston@express-news.net | Twitter: @shuddlestonSA
Does anyone else see the irony of Donald Trumps criticism of the ruling of the Kentucky Derby? Another instance of his believing rules (and laws) need not apply.

A winner does whatever it takes to win  whatever it takes to be first at crossing the line or achieving goals.

Nancy Powlas

Divine intervention

Re: Trumps agenda nothing like Jesus, Another View, Wednesday:

Steven Botts obviously never heard the biblical phrase The Lord works in mysterious ways.

Thank God he gave us Donald Trump!

Tillie Hamilton

Report not credible

Much of the media coverage of the Mueller report focuses on the line it does not exonerate the president of obstruction. That is, Robert Mueller was unable to prove the president is innocent.

Mueller, thereby, acknowledges that the president was denied the presumption of innocence that is a fundamental right under our system of justice.

This calls into question the integrity of the investigation and the credibility of the report.

John Rouse

No mas to migrants

Re: Immigrants are assets, Your Turn, May 6:

A reader makes a comment about the opinion piece by Alex Piquero (Americans told to fear immigrants; facts say otherwise, Opinion, April 28).

I read the piece. For one, when there is an influx of so many immigrants coming into our country, there will be an additional burden to U.S. taxpayers in the form of social services and medical services.

There will be a need to build additional hospitals and schools, and additional cost for social services and, in later years, for Social Security. Look at the additional expenses to house the immigrants now. We, as American taxpayers, do not need an additional tax burden to help immigrants. There are homeless people here who desperately need our help now.

These people need to go back and fight to change their own government and change their way of life so there is no need to leave their own country. We are a nation of compassion, but we also need to take care of our own before we look to help others.

Whether you like or dislike the president and our government, we need to address this in a positive manner and decide where we draw the line and say, No mas.

E.J. Garcia, Converse
FAIRFIELD  Whether it was a valid misunderstanding or an example of race-related targeting by police, the Hanson family is using an incident involving their son as a rallying point to bring light to the issue of racism in Fairfield.

About 150 people came to Sherman Green Saturday afternoon for an awareness event featuring several speakers who shared their feelings about  and experiences relating to  racism in Fairfield.

On April 27 during Fairfield Universitys Clam Jam event, student and Fairfield resident Naquan Oliver, 20, an African-American man, was allegedly accosted by police on his own familys property near the beach.

Olivers mother, Amanda Hanson, said that as happens each year, there was a veritable parade of drunken white male students yelling, spitting and urinating on her lawn throughout the event, none of whom were approached by any police. But when her son, who had also been drinking, came home, police allegedly accosted him and pushed him up against a fence.

It was definitely very disturbing, Oliver said.

Yet while it was something of an eye-opening event for him  in part because many local people have subsequently approached him to share their own emotional experiences relating to their race  Oliver wants to put the incident itself behind him.

Lets make Fairfield a better place, he said, hoping the event  which the family will privately be following up on  can be used to open a dialogue in the community and inspire more incline than decline.

We have diversity here but we just have to find a way to get rid of those biases that have turned into a systemic problem, he said.

How do we come out of this with a focus on improvement? First Selectman Michael Tetreau said, noting that while the town is great, there are many areas that can always use improvement.

The world is becoming increasingly diverse going forward, he said, and Fairfield wants to be part of our world.

While she has long had interest in the concepts and practices surrounding diversity, Hanson was prompted to action by last months incident.

I said to my husband were moving or were gonna start a movement, she said, because I couldnt handle how ignorant people were to race issues.

Consequently, she said the first step is raising awareness about the idea that there are unconscious biases and racism here and everywhere.

Its teaching people to look through a different lens, she said.

Also, she said, I think there are a lot of people that see this as an issue. They have the awareness. They just want something to be done with it.

Im hoping what we can create here is everybody coming together to solve a problem, said Bryan Hanson, noting problem-solving was the goal rather than just finger pointing.

Several speakers at the rally made it clear that problems exist in town. One dark-haired Latino mother shared about being stopped while picking up her son at their Fairfield elementary school and asked if she had a note with permission, as her son has blondish hair.

Ive been asked if I need a passport to be here, she said, near tears.

Amanda Hanson said institutions like the police department and schools need to be held accountable, even if there is education to be done to make that happen.

She also would like to see residents of Fairfield reading a book called White Fragility by Robin Diangelo, and subsequently getting together for some community discussions on the material.

Its been a personal mission to become more racially literate and to become a better human, she said.

At the end of the day its about the community coming together and addressing important issues and topics, said Police Chief Chris Lyddy, and finding ways we can coalesce.

Were happy to be here and join in that effort, he said.
You are here: Arts

A three-episode documentary about civilizations in Asia produced by China Media Group (CMG) will be broadcast from Sunday to Tuesday, the CMG announced in Beijing Saturday.

The documentary, titled "Asia: Light of Civilizations," will present the evolution of Asian civilizations by reviewing the splendid past of the time-honored civilizations that have been developing through exchanges and mutual learning.

Audiences can enjoy the history of Vietnam's Ao Dai, Cambodia's Angkor Wat, Jordan's Petra and the Maldives' marine life, as well as the stories of Asian ancestors working hard to create history.

The crew of the documentary traveled in 22 countries and regions in Asia, covering Chinese, ancient Indian and Mesopotamian civilizations and other civilizations.

The Conference on Dialogue of Asian Civilizations (CDAC) will be held in Beijing from May 15 to 22, focusing on cultural diversity, exchanges and mutual learning.
PHOENIX  Amid hundreds of stables and thousands of stalls that comprise the backside of Turf Paradise racetrack, Dr. Verlin Jones approaches Scott for Her with a smile and a good morning.

The 4-year-old mares trainer, Adriana Vallejo, guides the brown thoroughbred with a splash of white running the length of her nose out of her stall to be examined by Jones. Although the horse appears healthy, on this day she is scheduled to race, which means she is also scheduled for a now-mandatory pre-race exam.

It has become common practice at Turf Paradise, where officials announced in January that it is investigating an uptick in equine deaths since the 2017-18 meet, more than double the national average.

It is a storyline that has also dominated national headlines. The disqualification of Maximum Security in Sundays Kentucky Derby raised questions about horse safety and came just a month after reports that 23 thoroughbreds have died during races or training at Californias Santa Anita Park since late December.

This is our life, jockey Scott Stevens said. This is how we make a living and you know, if you dont love the horse, you dont belong on the backside.

The tracks priority now is to find an answer to this question: Why are so many of its horses dying?

Jones hopes the pre-race exam can help provide some of them. Dressed in a white button-down shirt with the sleeves rolled up to his elbows and stone-washed Wrangler jeans, he calmly approaches Scott for Her and gently lifts her front left leg, which he bends at the knee. He feels for the fluidity of her joint movements.

Well, I take a look at the knees, the ankles, the tendons and ligaments  see if theyre normal just on observation, Jones said. And then when I watch the horse go, I want to see how he travels. Is he traveling sound? Is he a little bit off? Hows he moving?

After examining each front leg, Jones assuredly pats his hand down Scott for Hers back, feeling for any abnormalities while also signaling to the horse that he is approaching her hind legs. He bends her back legs inward at the knee  inspecting them the same as the front  before setting her hoofs back on the dirt ground of the shedrow.

At the end of the exam, Jones instructs Vallejo to jog her horse down the row of stalls and back, so he could look for any oddities in the mares stride.

She passes the inspection, as did the other 64 horses examined by Jones and his counterpart, Dr. Jeff Aldridge, on this race-day morning at Turf Paradise.

Pre-race exams used to be given out sporadically at Turf Paradise  about 15 horses per race day, chosen at the stewards discretion  but that changed recently in lieu of an increase in breakdowns on the track, and consequently, a spike in horse fatalities.

Arizona experienced 50 combined equine deaths related to afternoon racing, training and non-exercise related deaths, according to a report of the 2017-18 racing season. Training and non-exercise deaths, with 19 total in the state, came in close to the national average.

The same could not be said for the 31 racing-related fatalities, 27 of which occurred at Turf Paradise.

In 2017, nationally there were 1.61 equine deaths per 1,000 starts, a start being defined as a horse that leaves the paddock for the post. However, Arizona averaged 3.41 deaths per 1,000 starts, more than double the national average, according to the 2017-18 Arizona Fatality Breakthrough Project form the Arizona Department of Gaming.

Breakdowns occur suddenly and are typically caused when a horse fractures a bone on the track. Thoroughbred and quarter horses usually found on race tracks are unable to lie down for extended periods of time to rest their injuries, and therefore have virtually no chance of recovering.

When a breakdown occurs, the horse is euthanized on-site after a medical evaluation and then carted off the track.

Turf Paradise runs a much longer meet than the two other horse racing tracks in Arizona  Rillito Race Track in Tucson and the Sonoita County Fairgrounds  which explains why Turf Paradise experienced the bulk of the equine deaths in Arizona. Still, Turf Paradise General Manager Vincent Francia characterized the loss of even one horse as devastating.

Any death  one horse suffering a fatality  is too many for us, Francia said.

The race track embraced reform in an effort to understand the possible reasons for the unusually high number of deaths in hopes of solving the problem.

We havent been able to put our finger on a specific cause of whats contributing to these fatalities, Francia said. And by we, I mean its not only the race track, its the horsemen, its the (Department of Gaming Racing Division), which is the agency which regulates the race track.

In addition to administering pre-race exams on each horse scheduled to race on a given day, Turf Paradise reached out to universities for help analyzing their statistics to determine potential causes for the increased number of breakdowns.

Also, Turf Paradise announced that it will no longer host flat track motorcycle racing which the track first hosted in the offseason before the uptick in breakdowns began. Although there is no indication that the flat track racing has affected the condition of the track for horse racing purposes, Turf Paradise took added precautions.

In response to the uptick, the Arizona Department of Gaming created a task force to evaluate the effectiveness of the added preventative measures and to determine if further measures should be taken.

As part of this effort, we convened a multidisciplinary group of racing and veterinary professionals and horsemen, researched equine safety, and provided reports with recommended actions to prevent and reduce breakdowns, which aligned with industry standards, the Arizona Department of Gaming said in an emailed statement.

As Arizonas most active horse racing track, Turf Paradise experienced 27 racing-related horse deaths alone during the 2017-18 meet. After experiencing breakdown occurrences on par with its 2017-18 meet during the first half of the 2018-19 meet, the issue has showed signs of improvement during the past few months.

Turf Paradise experienced 19 total catastrophic breakdowns related to racing so far this meet, Francia said, including only two breakdowns in February and March combined, which suggests an improvement  at least temporarily  to the inexplicable and tragic issue.

So, Im hoping were going the right direction, you know, Jones said. I dont really believe what I do in the morning (administering pre-race exams) has a direct correlation on the deaths.

Turf Paradise acknowledged the problem and is seeking answers. There remains little indication, however, that it or the racing industry at large is any closer to finding a definitive cause, let alone a solution.

We function as a community, Francia said. We know each other, we see each other every day. And when a breakdown happens, horses are part of our family. I mean, anybody in the racing business, be it in management or in the stable area, they are part of the family. And when you lose one, everybody feels it.

The backside

Chaplain John Shumaker stands in front of his congregation with an acoustic guitar in his hand. As the churchgoers welcome each other with hugs and hellos, Shumaker  donning a neat, gray goatee, a collared shirt of the same gray hue and light denim jeans tightened by a thin, brown belt  strums his opening chords and summons the audience to their metallic-folding-chair pews, as well as to attention.

Each note echoes throughout the modest church hidden among a sea of stables behind the track. The small room of wood-paneled walls and mud-splashed blue carpeting come to life as worshipers sang along with country-inspired, twangy hymns on a Sunday morning.

The collection of 30 or so men, women and children who attended Shumakers service are a small sample of those who spend their days in the ecosystem that exists within Turf Paradise. Together, they make up a subculture of working class men and women who own, care for and race the horses there.

And they all want an answer to the same question: Why are so many of their horses dying?

Jockey Stevens, 58, has been at Turf Paradise since the 1992-93 meet and is familiar with the inner workings of the backside.

Everybody back there, most of their horses are treated like royalty, they really are, no matter if theyre a cheap claimer or a stakes horse, he said.

Turf Paradises backside includes hundreds of stables and, during its meet, hundreds of owners, trainers, grooms and other horsemen who tend to the horses and work behind the scenes to ensure the horses are ready to go come race day.

The horse racing community is transient by nature. For those who spend their lives working at different race tracks across the country, at different times of year, it can be difficult to establish and re-establish roots in new communities.

Many workers return to Turf Paradise year after year, but others come and go.

As the Turf Paradise chaplain, Shumaker, who declined to comment about the uptick in breakdowns, and his church have a role in orchestrating a collective sense of community behind the scenes at Turf Paradise.

The chaplain, he comes in every day before the races and prays with the jockeys and the gate crew, Stevens said. He has church on Sundays.  Hes there for support.

Along with the church, the backside also has a separate bar and restaurant, added touches that round out the limited stable area amenities and offer places to gather.

This is home, Stevens said. Its seven days a week. The horse has to eat and drink twice a day so everybodys there seven days a week taking care of their horse. Its a way of life.

The big picture

Turf Paradise is not the only U.S. horse racing track that recently experienced breakdowns at an alarming rate.

Santa Anita Race Track closed its operations from March 3 to March 29 after 22 horses experienced breakdowns and died from the time the meet began on December 26 until the closure. The track reopened after the California Horse Racing Board approved new restrictions on medications and banned the use of riding crops, according to a Santa Anita press release. Another horse died three days after the reopening.

Now what has changed, because of all that has been happening at Santa Anita, is were all under the microscope, Francia said. Its not just Santa Anita, its Turf Paradise, its every race track in America. We are all under that microscope now, and thats because public sentiment is at a level that they are demanding that in this sport, if were going to do it, that all the corrective measures that can be taken have to be taken in order to ensure the welfare of the horses.

Santa Anita is a higher-tier race track than Turf Paradise with larger purses and, consequently, a different grade of animal, Jones said.

More money in the purse structure brings in a higher quality of horse, Jones said. Right now in Arizona we have probably mid-level to low-level claimers. That population of horses comes with their own set of problems, so we deal with horses that have a higher level of injury than other tracks with a higher purse structure.

For over 30 years, Jones worked as a private practitioner on the veterinarian side of the horse racing industry on race tracks across the country. Jones said that the current industry status quo of increasing medication regulations when faced with incidents such as the ones that occurred at Santa Anita and Turf Paradise may actually be a factor in the trend toward increased breakdown rates at some of the lower-tier race tracks nationwide.

I think that right now these private practitioners on the back side, their hands are really, really handcuffed, Jones said. When youre dealing with this level of horse  these are low-level to mid-level claimers  they have a lot of problems. Those problems can be taken care of, but we have to have our full arsenal in order to do that.

Jones said that whether more restrictive medication policies will decrease the number of breakdowns, regardless of a tracks purse structure, remains unanswered.

I really feel like horses today are having to run in more pain, Jones said. More pain leads to muscle fatigue, muscle fatigue leads to bone fatigue, bone fatigue leads to catastrophic breakdowns.

Francia sympathized with the anti-regulations viewpoint but suggested that the answer to the issue is likely to reside somewhere between the anti- and pro-regulation sides of the argument.

I understand where the vets are coming from, I do, because they treat these animals, Francia said. But, theres got to be a middle ground between doing what management, or many in the industry feel is doing the best thing for the horse as compared to pharmaceutically keeping these horses running. That is not a good thing.

The many industry opinions that surround the issue of horse safety are indicative of the complexity of the issue at hand.

Equine breakdowns are the number one issue facing the racing industry both nationally and in Arizona, The Arizona Department of Gaming said in an email. Further, each track has unique characteristics that play a role in equine safety.

The parties involved hope to improve the safety of horse racing while preserving the sport itself, but the lack of concrete evidence as to the cause of the catastrophic breakdowns further complicates the question of how to best resolve the issue.

It would be easier for all of us in the industry if it were just one thing, but it is not just one thing, Francia said.

The race day

After Jones made his morning rounds administering pre-race examinations throughout the stable area, he found his way through the labyrinthine backside and on to the main race track itself.

As the trainers of each of the eight participating horses escorted their animals to the paddock, Jones  now with a pale Stetson hat rested on his head and dark tinted shades drawn over his eyes observed with a watchful eye. Although all of the horses passed their pre-race exams, breakdowns can occur to even an ostensibly healthy horse, so he looked on and used his decades of race track veterinarian experience to conduct an eye-test of his own.

Race after race went by without incident. Each time, Jones followed the horses as they loaded into the starting gates and communicated with their jockeys in search of any abnormalities that could suggest an undetected injury.

Finally, race eight, the final race of the day. Scott for Her, the five-year-old brown mare who Jones inspected that morning, made her way to the gate without incident and passed Jones final eye-test inspection in the process, ready for the 5-and-a-half furlongs maiden claimer to begin.

To that point, each race had gone without incident. That changed when, Jones said, Tails Never Fails  another five-year-old brown mare  approached the gate and, spooked by the gate hands attempt to lead her to her starting place, reared backward. The horse recovered by standing to her feet, but Leonel Camacho-Flores, the jockey she landed on, was less fortunate.

On-site paramedics attended to the jockey and he was eventually escorted to the hospital after an unexpectedly long ambulance wait, despite Arizona regulations that mandate an ambulance to be on stand-by at the track for morning training and races, as reported by The Arizona Republic. Camacho-Flores fractured several bones in his pelvis but survived.

After sending Tails Never Fails back to the paddock for another rider, the other horses became restless and the remaining jockeys decided to call the race, Jones said.

The jockeys have a lot of authority on a race track, Jones said. Its their call if they think the track is unsafe, they think something is not right, they can call it. Theyre the ones who make the call.

Despite the incident at race eight, no horses died that day and as of late, there have been fewer breakdowns at Turf Paradise.

The first half of the meet quickly matched the average breakdown rate from last year that doubled the national average. Fifteen horses died from racing-related breakdown at Turf Paradise from the beginning of the meet in October through January. However, the track only experienced four total breakdowns in February, March and April combined, Francia said.

According to the Arizona Department of Gaming, it has seen a 30 percent decline in the number of catastrophic injuries at all Arizona race tracks since it added the most recent safety precautions for the 2018-19 racing season.

Since then, Turf Paradises breakdown rate decreased from a high of 3.4 incidences per 1,000 starts to 2.2 incidents per 1,000 starts, the Arizona Department of Gaming said.

Jones offered theories about the drop-off in breakdowns. For one, the mandatory pre-race exams may have caused owners and trainers to scratch horses in questionable health for fear of being flagged in the exams. But Jones said it also could simply be a regression to the mean.

I cant sit here and take credit and say that the reason were not having as many breakdowns is because weve done this or that, X, Y and Z, Jones said. I honestly believe that the law of averages catches up with you, and the law of averages moved in our favor.

The reason for the recent downturn in equine deaths may be as unexplained as the cause of the initial increase.

But for a community reeling from the loss of its horses, and a race track perplexed by its status as an unwanted outlier in its industry, it is a welcomed change nonetheless.

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For more stories from Cronkite News, visit cronkitenews.azpbs.org.

COVER PHOTO: The number of horse deaths at Turf Paradise and other racetracks around the country have been alarming to the horse racing community. A fracture during a race often means a horse will be euthanized on site. (Photo by Jake Goodrick/Cronkite News)
by Brendan Tuma | Nationals Correspondent | Sat, May 11th 7:27pm EDT

The Nationals have reinstated Juan Soto (back) from the 10-day IL on Saturday. (Washington Nationals on Twitter)

Fantasy Impact:

Soto returns to Washington's lineup the first day he was eligible to do so. The 20-year-old dealt with back spasms for a little bit but should be all systems go moving forward. Be sure to get him back into your fantasy lineups.
Woodpigeons may become huntable during the open season and then controlled during the close season under the General Licence system, new proposals show.

Defra Secretary Michael Gove may relax shooting legislation for the purpose of preventing serious damage to crops and public health and safety issues.

Numbers of woodpigeon have been consistently increasing since the 1960s, with the population now reaching over 5 million breeding pairs in the UK.

It is estimated that they can cause 5 million worth of crop damage to oilseed rape alone, each year.

The lethal control of the woodpigeon is a tool for farmers to reduce crop damage. However, this has recently been thrown into chaos by Natural Englands decision to revoke the General Licence.

Last week, it was announced that the function of issuing General Licences will be exercised solely by Gove following the uproar.

Defra has even launched a call for evidence on the impact of Natural Englands decision to revoke the General Licences.

Meanwhile, MPs in a House of Commons committee are to question the statutory agency over its handling of the issue.

'Reassure the rural community'

Under the EU Birds Directive 1979 all bird species are protected, hence the UKs current use of the General Licence for controlling the woodpigeon to prevent serious damage.

In the directive the woodpigeon is listed in Annex II, meaning that under Article 7 they can be legally shot in accordance with national legislation.

As the woodpigeon is a species of least concern, and through implementing a close season during their peak breeding season, it is possible for the Secretary of State to change the species status in the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.

The Countryside Alliance, a staunch opponent of Natural England's decision to revoke General Licences, said Gove's proposals would 'reassure' the rural community that Defra has 'grasped the seriousness of the issue'.

Tim Bonner, chief executive of the group, said: Making the woodpigeon a legitimate quarry species would allow pigeon shooting to happen without unnecessary restrictions outside the peak breeding season.

However, it would still be absolutely necessary to have a workable General Licence to allow farmers to protect their crops for the rest of the year and Defra should not seek to hide the fundamental flaws in its newly published woodpigeon licence behind any change in its status.

He added: This would also not solve the real problems that landowners and conservationists are currently facing managing other species like crows and magpies thanks to Natural Englands chaotic handling of the licence issue.
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The exact cause of the fire in Mumbai's Dadar police station is yet to be ascertained. As per some reports, the fire spread across electric wiring. This is a developing story, more details awaited.

A 15-year-old girl died in a fire that broke out in Saitan Chowki police quarters in the premises of Mumbai's Dadar Police Colony on Sunday afternoon. The blaze erupted at around 1.40 pm.

Mumbai: The girl who died in a fire at a building at Dadar Police Station Compound, Dadar (West), is 15-year-old, not 10 as reported earlier. #Maharashtra https://t.co/ZBOeuWYZe9  ANI (@ANI) May 12, 2019

According to reports, four fire engines, three water tankers and an ambulance rushed to the spot. Fire brigade officials have said that one person is trapped inside one of the rooms.

The incident occurred at Gokhale Road in a three-storey residential building, The Times of India reported.

The exact cause of the fire is yet to be ascertained. As per some reports, the fire spread across electric wiring. As this is a developing story, more details are awaited.

On 30 April, a fire broke out at a residential building in Navi Mumbai. The incident was reported from Sector 19 of the Airoli area.
Aatish Taseers main complaint is that Modi did not spare even the unassailable Jawaharlal Nehru, as if Nehru can do no wrong

Take loads of hatred for Prime Minster Narendra Modi, add dollops of dislike for anything that can be remotely connected to the Hindu civilisation, shake it with a liberal dose of allergy for India, add a of dressing of pseudo secularism and western liberal values to camouflage your love for Islam and political dynasties and mix them well. The resultant mixture makes for the best Indian cocktail of 2019 to western customers.

This, in a nutshell is Aatish Taseers article in the latest issue of the Time magazine entitled Can the World's Largest Democracy Endure Another Five Years of a Modi Government?

As he starts sipping this heady cocktail, the first thing that jars is his total disregard for all Indian institutions. Thats why he compares India with Turkey; notwithstanding the fact India has well established constitutional institutions such as the Election Commission and an independent judiciary.

He also has total contempt for the wisdom of Indian electorate.

No wonder he describes the (expected) victory of Narendra Modi as a calamity for India. If he indeed respects democratic, free and fair mandate by Indians, his first argument that India under Modi is following Turkey-like populism crumbles. India is too complex to be carried away by a single populist idea, however attractive it may be. Else, the Congress would be poised for a two-thirds majority only on the basis of NYAY, which is not likely to happen as per his own admission.

He then argues that the 2014 victory of Modi is an expression of distrust in Indian institutions and of its founding principles. His main complaint is that Modi did not spare even the unassailable Jawaharlal Nehru, as if Nehru can do no wrong.

He ignores the fact that proponents of Nehruvian secularism neutralised the Supreme Courts judgment in favour of Shah Bano and Dr Manmohan Singh said that minorities had the first right on the resources of the country. This is in direct contrast to his assertion that beneath the surface ofliberal syncretic culture, India was indeed a cauldron of religious nationalism, anti-Muslim sentiment and deep-seated caste bigotry.

If anything, during the rule of the Congress it was a cauldron of overt minority-ism and appeasement with a topping of liberalism. No wonder that his article finds no mention of post-partition pogrom of Hindus in Pakistan or any anti-Muslim riots under the long rule of the Congress.

Under the intoxication of this cocktail, Taseer then turns to the state of the economy. Again he makes sweeping judgments, without taking into account of the high GDP growth rate under the Modi government, establishment of efficient and transparent systems for direct transfer of benefits the poor and infrastructure development, to list just a few measures taken over the last five years.

On religious conflicts too, he ignores the fact that there were no major incidents in India in last five years and instances of mob lynching were not only condemned by this government but also culprits arrested. His claim that the governments response to these instances is virtual silence is nothing but falsehood. On womens issues, he conveniently ignores the various government initiatives for women empowerment, right for enhanced paid maternity leave, toilets at home, separate toilets in schools for girl students, free schooling, cooking gas connections, micro-financing for women entrepreneurs, etc.

The centrepiece of his arguments can be divided into two parts. First is his presumption that anything that can even remotely be connected with Indias past is against modernity. On the contrary, overwhelming majority of Indians, most of the political parties (with the exception of the ultra-lefts) view India as a continuum, from past, via present, to the future, deeply rooted on the ancient culture such as praying for the happiness and good health of all (not just self), care for the environment and respect for even inanimate objects. That is why Dr BR Ambedkar famously said in 1954,

Positively my social philosophy may be said to be enshrined in three words  liberty, equality and fraternity. Let no one, however, say that I have borrowed my philosophy from the French Revolution. I have not. My philosophy has roots in religion and not in political science. I have derived them from the teachings of my master, the Buddha. If Dr Ambedkar had thought like Taseer, he would not have adapted to Buddhism.

Of course, everything that is old is not gold. Needless to say that our society has yet to overcome evils like discrimination on the basis of caste or gender. We also need to throw out many outdated rituals and traditions. But it does not mean we should follow the ill-advice of Taseer and cut our umbilical cord with the rich heritage and values our ancestors have left for us.

Taseer has now joined elite club of Modi baiters in India and editors of The Economist.

No wonder he did not find even one initiative of the Modi government worth appreciating. Thankfully, he is acutely aware of the limitations of current dynastic leadership of Congress. But he is not against dynasty per se. He is just worried about the incompetence of Rahul and Priyanka. Had they been a little smarter, he would have been the first person to do aarti in favour of the Gandhi dynasts in Varanasi, rather than for Maa Ganga, because according to him, Ganga represents Hindu theocracy, the medieval Indian past, mired in superstition and magic and those who perform Ganga Aarti are people clinging to the past, ill-equipped for the modern world. Corollary to this is that any corrupt, caste-based, unethical, inefficient or incompetent person is better suited to lead India as long as he/she dissociates themselves from the past.

The biggest pain point for the likes of Taseer is that they are at last seeing the inevitable; the victory of Modi. Their desperate attempts of fear mongering are driven by three distinct but inter-connected objectives. First, discredit wisdom of the Indian electorate (also seen in the latest editorial of The Economist), somehow try to raise the stature of the Congress and Rahul (in spite of knowing how challenging the task is) and third discredit Modi before the western audience.

Like their failed logic and shattered wishful thinking, these objectives are unlikely to see the light of the day come 23 May.

The author is in-charge of the foreign affairs department of the Bharatiya Janata Party
The International Nurses Day is celebrated around the world every 12 May, the anniversary of Florence Nightingale's birth.

International Nurses Day is celebrated around the world on 12 May. It celebrates the birth anniversary of Florence Nightingale. The theme for 2019 International Nurses Day 2019 is  "Nurses  A Voice to Lead  Health for All".

An officer with the US Department of Health, Education and Welfare Dorothy Sutherland first proposed Nurses Day in 1953 and was first proclaimed by President Dwight D Eisenhower. It was first celebrated by the International Council of Nurses (ICN) in 1965.

Florence Nightingale (the foundational philosopher of the modern nursing) was born on 12 May in 1820. International Council of Nurses established the day in 1974 to be celebrated every year to highlight the importance of nurses role in providing the best healthcare services. She became an important figure of the nursing since Crimean War during 1850s.

She, stationed at the Barrack Hospital, Scutari, reformed the health care services and nursing and opened the Nightingale School of Nursing at the St. Thomas Hospital, London in 1860, reported IndiaCelebrating.

The International Council of Nurses Code of Ethics states that inherent in nursing is a respect for human rights, including cultural rights, the right to life and choice, to dignity and to be treated with respect. Nursing care is respectful of and unrestricted by considerations of age, colour, creed, culture, disability or illness, gender, sexual orientation, nationality, politics, race or social status. Nurses render health services to the individual, the family and the community and coordinate their services with those of related groups. The need for nursing is universal."

Who was Florence Nightingale?

According to the Florence Nightingale Museum, the farsighted ideas and reforms of the Lady with the Lamp who organised the nursing of sick and wounded soldiers during the Crimean War have influenced the very nature of modern healthcare.

"Her greatest achievement was to transform nursing into a respectable profession for women and in 1860, she established the first professional training school for nurses, the Nightingale Training School at St Thomas Hospital," the museum note said.

The Lady with the Lamp "campaigned tirelessly to improve health standards, publishing over 200 books, reports and pamphlets on hospital planning and organisation which are still widely read and respected today, including her most famous work Notes on Nursing: What It Is and What It Is Not."

She also established a School of Midwifery nursing at the King's College Hospital.

According to the Florence Nightingale Museum, she is also credited with inventing the pie chart and was the first woman to be elected to the Royal Statistical Society, also the first woman to be awarded the Freedom of the City of London in 1909.

Her work led to the establishment of the International Red Cross which still awards the Florence Nightingale Medal for nurses who give exceptional care to the sick and wounded in war or peace.

Born in Florence, Italy, on 12 May, 1820, the Lady with the Lamp pursued with "what she saw as her God-given calling of nursing." During the Crimean War, she and a team of nurses improved the unsanitary conditions at a British base hospital resulting in diminishing death count. She died on 13 August, 1910, in London.

Crimean War

In 1854, Secretary of War Sidney Herbert wrote to Nightingale to organise a corps of nurses to tend to the sick and fallen soldiers in the Crimea. She quickly assembled a team of around three dozen nurses from a variety of religious orders and sailed with them to the Crimea just a few days later.

"Although they had been warned of the horrid conditions there, nothing could have prepared Nightingale and her nurses for what they saw when they arrived at Scutari, the British base hospital in Constantinople. The hospital sat on top of a large cesspool, which contaminated the water and the building itself. Patients lay in their own excrement on stretchers strewn throughout the hallways. Rodents and bugs scurried past them. The most basic supplies, such as bandages and soap, grew increasingly scarce as the number of ill and wounded steadily increased. Even the water needed to be rationed. More soldiers were dying from infectious diseases like typhoid and cholera than from injuries incurred in battle," the Biography said.

Social media thanks nurses for their contribution

Among who congratulated the nurses on the occasion of International Nurses Day is West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee.

Today is #InternationalNursesDay. Nurses play an important role in health care. With a view to augment the availability of nurses, #Bangla Govt has set up new Nursing Training Schools (from 25 in 2011 to 39 in 2018) with a rise in seat capacity from 850 (2011) to 2175 (2018)  Mamata Banerjee (@MamataOfficial) May 12, 2019

The World Health Organisation also appreciated the nurses for their service globally.
This year, Mother's Day is being celebrated on Sunday, 12 May. It is observed on the second Sunday of May every year, in honour of motherhood and to pay tribute to mothers all around the world.

This year, Mother's Day is being celebrated on Sunday, 12 May. It is observed on the second Sunday of May every year, in honour of motherhood and to pay tribute to mothers all around the world.

In India, it is marked by motherhood-centric discounts and offers from retailers and brands have become increasingly conscious about Mother's Day. The United Kingdom, meanwhile, celebrates it on the fourth Sunday of March, in memory of Mother Church on Christian Mothering Sunday, reports said.

In Greece, the day is observed in honour of Jesus Christ being presented to the temple according to the Eastern Orthodox traditions. Arab countries observe Mother's Day on 21 March, which is the spring equinox. However, in ex-Communist countries, people celebrated only International Women's Day instead of Mother's Day.

History of Mother's Day

Writer Julia Ward Howe is credited with first thinking of the idea of Mother's Day in 1872. "Howe was a pacifist and saw the holiday as a chance to unite women and rally for peace. For several years, she held an annual Mother's Day meeting in Boston," CNN reported.

However, an activist in West Virgina, Anna Jarvis came up with the model of Mother's Day that is celebrated today. In 1908, she campaigned for a national holiday in honour of her mother, who was a community health advocate. Her mother had made several efforts that addressed child rearing and public health issues at a community level, which is what Jarvis wanted to commemorate through the Mother's Day celebration.

Even though the request was denied initially, by 1911, the whole United States started observing the holiday. "Woodrow Wilson signed a proclamation designating the second Sunday in the month of May as a national holiday to honour mothers in 1941," The Indian Express reported.

Reportedly, Jarvis became "disillusioned" by the commercialisation of the occasion, and "regretted starting it", reports said.
MP Board 12th Result 2019 Declared: The Madhya Pradesh board (MPBSE) announced the results of the Class 12 exams today (15 May) on mpbse.nic.in.

MP Board 12th Result 2019 Declared | The Madhya Pradesh Board of Secondary Education (MPBSE) announced the results of the Class 12 examinations today (Wednesday, 15 May). Candidates who have appeared for the HSSC (Class 12) MP Board exam 2019 can check their scores on the official websites of the MPBSE  mpbse.nic.in and mpresults.nic.in.

The MP High Secondary School Certificate (HSSC) examination or the Class 12 board exams was conducted between 2 March and 2 April. As many as 7.5 lakh students appeared for the Class 12 HSSC exam.

Steps to check the MP board's Class 12 HSSC Result 2019:

Step 1: Visit the official sites of MPBSE  mpbse.nic.in and mpresults.nic.in

Step 2: Click on the link on the homepage which says 'HSSC Class 12 Examination 2019'

Step 3: Enter your roll number and other details on your admit card to log in

Step 4: Your score will be displayed on the screen

Step 5: Save it in a PDF file and take a print of the same for further reference

Students can also check their scores right here on Firstpost by entering their details below:

Students will be able to collect their marksheets from their schools a few days after the results are announced online.

About Madhya Pradesh Board of Secondary Education (MPBSE):

The Madhya Pradesh Board of Secondary Education was set up in 1965 and is headquartered in Bhopal. It is the apex body which conducts high school, intermediate and other examinations in the state.
Utah is leading other American states in carrying out the English and Chinese dual language immersion program, and hopes to share its experience with other states to benefit more who are interested in Chinese language.

Howard Stephenson, former member of the Utah State Senate, told reporters on the sidelines of a series of events celebrating the 150th anniversary of the completion of the first U.S. transcontinental railroad on May 10, 1869, to which thousands of Chinese railroad workers made great contribution.

"We could not complete the transcontinental railroad without the accomplishment of the Chinese workers. Similarly, Utah could not be No. 1 American state in teaching Chinese without many qualified Chinese language teachers through the Chinese-government sponsored Confucius Institute program," Stephenson said.

According to an online website introduction, dual language immersion programs have been conducted in Utah's elementary school education. Instruction is divided between two high quality and creative classrooms: one English and one Chinese.

Students enjoy the advantage of two caring and qualified teachers, with one using half of the instruction day to teach the state-required core curriculum in English while the other teaching other portions of the curriculum in Chinese.

"You'll be delighted how quickly your child becomes a comfortable and competent Chinese speaker," Stephenson said.

Out of the 50 American states, Utah has one percent of the nation's population, but has 25 percent of Chinese dual language immersion students across the country, according to Stephenson.

Utah hopes to introduce its experience to other states, he said, adding the state of Rhode Island and the state of Delaware have adopted the Utah model in teaching Chinese.

In the United States, people have been paying attention to teaching foreign languages like German, French, Spanish and Italian. "As the Chinese economy is growing very fast, we believe that we should have a strong focus on Mandarin," he said.

Stephenson said Utah has five amazing national parks, but have not accommodated those Chinese visitors in their language.

"I have been working with the superintendents of the five national parks, so our dual language immersion students can guide in the visitor centers and on the buses in Mandarin during summer time," he said.

On the other hand, the process will enable U.S. students to expand their vocabulary and improve their language skills, he added.
The RBI has solicited bids from technology firms for developing the mobile application.

New Delhi: The Reserve Bank of India proposes to come out with a mobile application to aid visually impaired persons in identifying Indian currency notes. At present, banknotes in the denominations of Rs 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500 and 2,000 are in circulation, besides Re 1 notes issued by the Government of India.

Intaglio printing based identification marks for helping the visually challenged in identification of denomination of banknotes are present in notes of Rs 100 and above. The RBI has solicited bids from technology firms for developing the mobile application.

"The application should be able to identify denomination of legal tender banknotes of Mahatma Gandhi Series and Mahatma Gandhi (New) series by capturing the image of the notes placed in front of mobile camera or scrolled across it," said the request for proposal issued by the central bank.

Also, the mobile application should be searchable via voice option in all app stores, it said. "The mobile application should be able to identify the bank note denomination in 2 seconds or less," the RBI said, and added that the app should also work in offline mode without internet connection.

Further, the mobile application shall provide multi-lingual support as well as audio notifications. The application is expected to support Hindi and English language as a minimum, it said. Cash constitutes the most important means of transaction in the country.

As on 31 March, 2018, there were about 102 billion pieces of banknotes in circulation having a value of Rs 18 lakh crore. There are about 80 lakh blind or visually impaired people in the country, who are likely to benefit from the initiative of the central bank.

In June 2018, the central bank had declared that it would explore the feasibility of developing a suitable device or mechanism for aiding the visually impaired in the identification of Indian banknotes.
The incident took place around 4 pm at the unit, a chemical company, in Boisar MIDC of Tarapur in Palghar, when work of filling the chemical was on.

Mumbai: A chemical leak at an industrial unit in Palghar district resulted in the death of three workers on Sunday, police said.

The incident took place around 4 pm at the unit, a chemical company, in Boisar MIDC of Tarapur, when work of filling the chemical was on, an official said.

After being alerted about the leak, the fire brigade personnel rushed to the spot and launched a rescue operation and the unit was vacated, he said.

"The workers apparently died due to the reaction of the chemical," Janardan Prabhkar, senior inspector of Boisar police station told PTI.

The deceased were identified as Prabhakar Khadse (59), Dattatraya Ghule (25), and Raghunath Gorai (25), an official said.

The exact cause of the deaths will be ascertained after the post-mortem, he said.

"The chemical that had got leaked is being identified," the official said.
On Friday, security forces killed a top commander of Islamic State in Jammu and Kashmir (ISJK) in a pre-dawn gun battle in Shopian.

Two militants were killed in an encounter between security forces and terrorists in the Shopian district on Sunday morning. Weapons and a huge cache of ammunition were recovered from the encounter site. The operation is still underway and more details are awaited, ANI reported.

Security forces had launched a cordon and search operation in Hind Sita Pora area of Shopian district following specific information about the presence of militants there, PTI reported. As the forces were conducting the search operations, the militants fired upon them, which led to a gun battle in which the two militants were killed.

#UPDATE Jammu & Kashmir: Two terrorists neutralized in encounter between security forces and terrorists in Hind Sita Pora area of Shopian district. Weapons and huge cache of ammunition recovered. Operation still underway. https://t.co/raIdGqp5dC  ANI (@ANI) May 12, 2019

On Friday, security forces killed a top commander of Islamic State in Jammu and Kashmir (ISJK) in a pre-dawn gunbattle in Shopian. The 34-year-old militant, Ishfaq Ahmad Sofi, had recently featured in the Islamic State mouthpiece, al-Risalah, in which he asserted the need for jihad in Kashmir and owed allegiance to the outfit's leader, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi.

Police officials said that he was killed during a gun battle in Amshipora area of Shopian which lasted from around 3:30 am to 4 am in an orchard. The forces had acted on a specific tip-off about his presence in the area.

A day after the encounter which killed Sofi, Reuters reported that the terror outfit claimed that it had established a "province" in Jammu and Kashmir. Islamic State's Amaq News Agency late on Friday announced the new province, that it called Wilayah of Hind, in a statement that also claimed Islamic State inflicted casualties on Indian Army soldiers in the town of Amshipora.

Islamic State's statement establishing the new province appears to be designed to bolster its standing after the group was driven from its self-styled caliphate in Iraq and Syria in April, where at one point it controlled thousands of miles of territory.

Islamic State has stepped up hit-and-run raids and suicide attacks, including taking responsibility for the Easter Sunday bombing in Sri Lanka that killed at least 253 people.

With inputs from agencies
The TIME magazine has featured Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the cover of its international edition with a controversial headline 'Divider in Chief' and a secondary one that reads 'Modi the Reformer' as the country enters the final phase of the mammoth general election.

The TIME magazine has featured Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the cover of its international edition with a controversial headline 'India's Divider in Chief' and a secondary one that reads 'Modi the Reformer' as the country enters the final phase of the mammoth general election.

The American magazine's 20 May, 2019 international editions  the Europe, Middle East and Africa, Asia and South Pacific  feature the Modi cover story with the main headline "India's Divider in Chief" while the US edition has a cover story on Democrat Elizabeth Warren who is running for the White House in 2020.

The article "India's Divider in Chief" is written by Aatish Taseer, son of Indian journalist Tavleen Singh and late Pakistani politician and businessman Salmaan Taseer.

TIMEs new international cover: Can the worlds largest democracy endure another five years of a Modi government? https://t.co/oIbmacH9MS pic.twitter.com/IqJFeEaaNW  TIME (@TIME) May 9, 2019

It also said the opposition Congress party has little to offer other than the dynastic principle.

The article "Modi the Reformer" is authored by Ian Bremmer, president and founder of Eurasia Group, global political risk research and consulting firm. The cover depicts a portrait of 68-year-old Modi. The articles inside the magazine have the titles "Can the World's Largest Democracy Endure Another Five Years of a Modi Government?", written by Taseer and "Modi Is India's Best Hope for Economic Reform", by Bremmer.

Taseer's article notes that "If in 2014 he (Modi) was able to exploit differences in order to create a climate of hope, in 2019 he is asking people to stave off their desperation by living for their differences alone.

"Then he was a messiah, ushering in a future too bright to behold, one part Hindu renaissance, one part South Korea's economic programme. Now he is merely a politician who has failed to deliver, seeking re-election. Whatever else might be said about the election, hope is off the menu," he says.

Bharatiya Janata Party national spokesperson Sambit Patra on Saturday lashed out at Taseer and also hit out at Congress president Rahul Gandhi with the same brickbat. Addressing a press conference in Delhi, Patra said: "The man who called Modi divider-in-chief is a Pakistani man, he is a Pakistani citizen. You all know what Pakistan is like. They hate Narendra Modi because he did the two surgical strikes on them. What else is there to say? But Rahul Gandhi is tweeting about it."

However, Patra issued a strong rebuttal to the arguments made in the article in his presser. He also penned an op-ed in today's (11 May) The Indian Express, titled Under cover of a story, where he argued that the TIME article was a heavily biased take on Modi's performance in the last five years.

"There is a crucial word missing from the rambling lead article in TIME magazine, which purports to be an analysis of five years of Prime Minister Narendra Modis government. The missing word is 'corruption'. Any balanced report would have mentioned, even if it was only grudgingly, that one of the most important reasons for Narendra Modis victory in 2014 was the pervasive corruption that had become synonymous with Congress rule between 2004 and 2014, bolstered by smaller parties who picked up their share, through a voiceless Prime Minister Manmohan Singh who paid the price of his office with silence. You can rest assured that if there had been even an iota of credible evidence of corruption against Modi or his ministers, it would have dominated the diatribe that has been published under the guise of journalism by TIME."

In 2014, Modi converted cultural anger into an economic promise. He spoke of jobs and development. Taking a swipe at the socialist state, he famously said, 'Government has no business being in business'. That election, though it is hard to believe now, was an election of hope, the article says.

"Not only has Modi's economic miracle failed to materialise, but he has also helped create an atmosphere of poisonous religious nationalism in India," Taseer writes.

Far from his promise of development for all, he has achieved a state in which Indians are increasingly obsessed with their differences, according to the article.

On Congress  India's oldest party  he said it has no more political imagination than to send Priyanka Gandhi - Rahul Gandhi's sister - to join her brother's side. It would be equivalent to America's Democratic Party fielding Hillary Clinton again in 2020, with the added enticement of her daughter Chelsea as Vice President.

"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. Even so, doubts assail him, for he must know he has not delivered on the promise of 2014. It is why he has resorted to looking for enemies within," he wrote.

On the other hand, Bremmer's article notes that while Modi's economic record is mixed, "India still needs change, and Modi remains the person most likely to deliver. He has improved relations with China, the US and Japan, but it's his domestic development agenda that has done the most to improve the lives and prospects of hundreds of millions of people".

Outlining the achievements of the Modi-led government, Bremmer talks about the Goods and Services Tax enacted in 2017, the "unprecedented amounts" of money directed towards the country's new infrastructure, expansion of the Aadhaar biometric identification system that began under the previous Congress-led government.

"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," Bremmer writes.

Modi also benefits from a lack of a credible alternative. The opposition Congress party's election platform centers on a programme 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 government's projects and Modi has already delivered for many people, according to the article.

With inputs from agencies
In their play Mrs and Marx, artistes Satchit Puranik and Michaela Talwar wanted to demystify and humanise Karl Marx. As part of their prep, they read the letters the couple wrote to each other, which speak of their deep love for one another, and discussions on ways to make ends meet

The people we meet in the pages of history, more often than not, are characters carefully built with words, barely ever made of flesh and blood. Take for instance the legendary German philosopher Karl Marx, largely referred to as The Father of Communism, who presents himself in his bushy haired and gruff bearded glory in our collective imagination on being mentioned. Author of the iconic Communist Manifesto and Das Capital, Marx could rarely be mistaken for an ordinary man doing regular things, like writing letters to his wife and worrying about his next meal, until artistes Satchit Puranik and Michaela Talwar decided to demystify and humanise him for the world through their documentary theatre piece, Mrs and Marx. The production premiered at the National Centre for Performing Arts (NCPA) in Mumbai on 5 May, marking the communist icons 201st birth anniversary.

Karl Marx and the doppelganger

Puranik, an alumnus of the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), is no stranger to Marx. To begin with, the man is a spitting image of Karl Marx. Add to that, hes lived in the philosophers skin for a while, having played the eponymous protagonist in the Gujarati play, Karl Marx in Kalbadevi for over five years. For a strictly commercial space like Gujarati theatre, the experimental idea seemed suicidal at first. Six years and over 100 shows later, the play continues to be a crowd-puller, now staged in Hinglish as well.

Gujarati theatre essentially is a commercial space where plays make a lot of money. It is a thriving industry. Any kind of experimentation and minimalism is not encouraged at all. And a thinker like Marx finding a footing among an audience like that (is not easy), Puranik says. On being commissioned by the NCPAs Vasant Gujarati Natya Utsav, the plays director Manoj Shah held no hopes for an audience beyond a handful of people, perhaps a dozen if they got lucky.

All Shah wanted was to show his Gujarati audience the different ways in which money travelled in an economy, and he felt that Marx was the perfect vehicle to do so. The noted director says he was influenced by Marxs philosophy and wanted to convey, through his play, how the worlds wealth is concentrated only in the hands of eight to ten percent of the population. Our Gujarati ancestors came to Bombay with the intention of earning money. (With Kalbadevi) I wanted to talk to my people about money because Gujaratis traditionally believe that they control the economy. But the truth is the complete opposite, he says, adding that even if Gujaratis dont know who Karl Marx is, they certainly understand money.

For 27-year-old Yash Varan, Marx was just another name found in history books and internet memes, until he caught a show in Ahmedabad about a year ago. Before watching the play, I just knew Marxs name and knew that he was well known. Such plays are usually not performed in Gujarati theatre. From that perspective, the play was different and unlike comedic performances that I had normally seen, he says.

It was while watching one such performance at Mumbais Prithvi Theatre around a year-and-a-half ago that the contemporary Indian premise of a play on Marx intrigued Michaela Talwar. Talwar is the co-founder of Harkat Studios, an alternative boutique performance space in Mumbai.

Following this creative encounter, Talwar and Puranik discussed the possibilities of diving deeper into Marxs life and exploring his relationship with his wife Jenny von Westphalen, who is portrayed by Talwar in Mrs and Marx. Harkat Studios handles the production of the play as well.

Puraniks uncanny physical resemblance to Marx encouraged his director, Shah, to play the gamble of introducing the German thinker to Mumbais Gujarati theatre. Now, after his second venture as Marx, the actor intends to produce another play, which will either deal with the philosophers relation with his daughter Eleanor, or zoom into the time he had pawned his coat to buy paper and ink for writing, but wasnt allowed to enter a library without a coat.

American playwright Howard Zinns one-man play, Marx in Soho, inspired Uttam Gada to pen Kalbadevi. According to Puranik, playing Marx helped him find his own politics, making him view the world through a Marxist lens. A lack of references while imagining Marx in Kalbadevi, and not knowing German couldve left the actor in the lurch; instead, it fuelled his creativity like never before. Because the stage is the only place Marx can land up in Kalbadevi, their spirits can be invoked and you can see Marx and Jennys love story (as with Mrs and Marx). This is how one is pushed into journeys like this, he says.

The play goes behind the scenes to unravel the Karl in the Marx, retelling the stories of a father, a husband, and a companion, all of whom came together to create the formidable man. In Karl and Jennys world, love happened at the price of life and livelihood. It is the love story of the most hated man in the world, and the only way to counter the hatred is to go into what kind of an impossible love story could happen between people who lived in such poverty and lost four of their children to malnutrition, and took 15 years to write a book, Puranik says, adding that historians have largely invisibilised his wife and her contributions to his journey.

Mrs and Marx begins with Puranik and Talwar playing themselves, and later invoking the spirits of Marx and Jenny, who then possess them and communicate through their bodies. The performance shows snippets from the couples lives, juxtaposing some events of the present with those in the past. We are going into the world of ghosts and spectres. Our research showed that Marx had a huge lisp and he was very conscious about it. A lot of his anger management issues had to do with the fact that he had excess heat in his system with the kind of lifestyle he led. He also had a host of health issues, Puranik says.

Jenny, a sounding board for Karl Marx

The 2011 book, Love and Capital: Karl and Jenny Marx and the Birth of a Revolution, by Mary Gabriel, triggered the idea for the play. The novel chronicles the couples life and examines Jennys relationship with her husband. The book also explores Marxs relation with his close associates, including dear friend and colleague, Friedrich Engels.

In order to get under Jennys skin, the German-born Michaela Talwar (nee Strobe) pored through biographies and letters written by her. That was very tough  researching, finding these books. Luckily, Im German, so I could read them in the original language, which is of great help because the English translations, I realised later, are quite bad to the point where it becomes misleading, she says.

The personal, anecdotal letters that Jenny wrote to her husband opened a window into the life of the couple. From professing their deep love for each other to deliberating on ways to make ends meet, the letters helped Talwar befriend the persons underneath the characters.

In one of his letters to Jenny, Marx reportedly wrote, When I get up in the morning, the first thing I think about is how my Jenny is doing." It is really cute, says Talwar with a laugh.

Jenny hailed from an aristocratic family and had received an excellent formal education. She learnt how to think for herself and read and understand philosophy and Shakespeare. She could speak in three languages as well, the actor says.

Jenny was significantly enamoured by the Romantics, whose philosophy formed the bedrock of her idealistic approach to love and life. Her faith in the power of love motivated her to battle through bitter hardships, like losing four of her seven children to malnutrition, and being unable to afford food to eat. What kept her going was that she really believed that the love they have for each other could conquer anything and that they had an idealistic dream, which is worth fighting for, Talwar says.

Jennys comfortable childhood was at odds with Marxs wayward life. Her sensibility acted like a sounding board for him. He would go on his long tirades about someone, become emotional and get carried away with solving the problems of the world, and she would pull him and be like Okay, I know what you are saying but put it in simpler words, what do you actually want to say? I think that is why their relationship worked so beautifully, because she was the person he could fall back on, the actor observes.

Condensing this vast amount of research into a 100-minute play was no mean feat. In almost a metanarrative scene opening the play, Talwar is seen punching away the story they are about to enact on a typewriter, as dictated by Puranik. The play is divided into seven acts, and uses video projection in different parts to enhance the storytelling.

While reconciling with the outlandish idea of Marx doing regular things may take some time, the play eases its audience into the life of one of the most influential historical figures in the world. The play shows the Father of Communism holding a baby, scrambling for money, writing a book and ensuring his children are well turned out and educated in music, while not having the means to afford theatre tickets.

The play is not about whether you believe in communism, it is about a man who was thinking about the injustices in his time and looking for solutions. Now, 200 years later, the same injustices still exist, Talwar says, drawing ones attention to Marxs relevance even today. Labour problems and discrimination against women still exist. The life the labour class leads in Mumbai today is very similar to how labourers lived 200 years ago. And that is what shocked us. How is that even possible? Have we not evolved yet? the actor implores, perhaps in search of an answer that demands rewinding time.

Mrs and Marx will be performed at the G5A Foundation for Contemporary Culture on 12 May
Fade far away, dissolve, and quite forget What thou among the leaves hast never known, The weariness, the fever, and the fret Here, where men sit and hear each other groan High up in the mountains, poetry begins to make sense. Keats verses resound in the wild expanse of forestlands; bleak ceases to be merely a word  manifesting in the sheet of mist and gusts of cold wind that surround one at this height. Melancholy is sitting on a solitary ledge built along a stony road; tranquility is a silence broken only by the occasional birdsong. And everywhere you look, a swathe of green  pine, shot through with the blood-red of rhododendrons.

(Above: A small pond at Kalipokhri. Image credit: Apoorv Perti) This same green descends like a curtain when you lower your lids to steal a nap. When on your feet, dry leaves crackle and crunch, the hard stone that lies beneath making walking a painful endeavour. Do we deliberately seek out suffering? For, what else might explain leaving aside ones warm bed and urban comforts  all to trek up a steep mountain? Or for that matter, why people choose to live in isolated communities where everyday life is a series of challenges and the cold  harsh and biting  is a steadfast companion?

(Above: A milestone on Day 1 of the trek to Sandakphu, while on the way to a camp at Tumling. Image credit: Prakash Jadhav) I found myself dwelling on these thoughts as my group of 23 trekked past the hamlet of Meghma  at 2,600 metres above sea level, it literally nestles in the clouds, hence its name  on our way to the Sandakphu Pass. This was my first Himalayan trek and the climb from the small town of Mane Bhanjang in Darjeeling to Sandakphu, which straddles the West Bengal and Ilam borders, was an exciting prospect.

(Above: Losing altitude on the descent from Sandakphu is the village of Srikhola and a river by the same name that passes through here. Image credit: Apoorv Perti) There were 15-km stretches uphill and downhill through the Singalila National Park, with the opportunity to sight a red panda or bear. And of course, here in the Himalayas, the deeper meaning of life would become evident, the floodgates to serious philosophical contemplation opened. Both these possibilities  the earthly and the metaphysical  were to elude me. *** Standing on a mountaintop, 12,000 ft above sea level, solitude silences the brain. There are few thoughts, and no epiphanies.

(Above: The Kanchenjunga Ranges or the Sleeping Buddha as seen from atop Sandakphu. Image credit: Apoorv Perti) Instead, you must contend with upset stomachs, fainting spells, sinus attacks and dehydration  all of which take a backseat when you summit. You find yourself tearing up at the sight of the snow-clad Kanchenjunga ranges on a crisp morning  the Sleeping Buddha, reclining in all his massive, eternal glory; Everest, a faraway pointy tip; and if the weather holds, a glimpse of Lhotse and Makalu. The overwhelming emotions? Those come much later, on the journey back home. Introspection pays a visit only after all the exertion, when youre back at base camp. Even later, as the airplane ferrying you loses altitude and takes you back to your banal existence, the search for some enlightening insight consumes the mind, because if not to spark that why is the beauty of the mountains so profound? Are we to imagine that an idyll that has existed for thousands of years is in fact, quite ordinarily  just magnificent and nothing more?

(Above: A campsite at Kalipokhri. Image credit: Pratiksha Prabhu) But Im getting ahead of myself. Because before we reached the end, there was still a lot of climbing to do. *** Life up in the Himalayan ranges, along the borders of India and Nepal, has motifs similar to those of life elsewhere.

However, here the people have perhaps a clearer understanding of themselves. Theyre generous and kind  reflections of their Buddhist faith  even in the face of limited resources, bad weather and spotty internet. Decades-old sturdy land rovers make trips from Darjeeling to the several teahouses and homestays along the trail. Packed with the middle class coveted goods, they are the only means to stock up on sundry items in case of thunderstorms, hale and occasional snowfall.

(Above: A stone ledge to sit on and catch one's breath while trudging along the 15 kilometre stretch through Singalila National Park. Image: Apoorv Perti) The meals mostly comprise dal-chawal, with the entire family sitting by the wooden stove in the kitchen, putting a kettle on to boil or slicing potatoes to make aloo bhaja. Sometimes, the locals meet up with trek leaders for their dinners: succulent meat cooked in a delicious curry. Dal-chawal was fine with us, for the most part. Our tender stomachs could hold in little else, not even tap water.

Lakpa, a 17-year-old resident of Mane Bhanjang, served as our guide. En route to Sandakphu, he told us about the emphasis on academics here, the greater number of girls as compared to boys in his class. There was no pressure to get married, he said, not even when men and women were well into their late 20s. Most of the locals were engaged in various tourism-related trades. Many girls worked as guides on the Himalayan tracks, others ran the tea houses abutting the summit route.

(Above: The colourful local guide, Lakpa Tamang. Image credit: Pratiksha Prabhu) As for Lakpa, who lives with his widowed mother, becoming a hiking guide was his way of branching out: most of the family served in the Armed Forces, including his older brother. *** On the penultimate day of our trek, Lakpa guided us through a steep, tiring climb of about 6 km  we huffed and puffed through the high altitude and low oxygen on his crafty assurances that only a short walk lay ahead (40 minutes by Lakpas estimation translated to 1.5 hours for us). We were at the highest point of our trek  the Sandhakphu peak.

(Above: Trekkers take off. Image credit: Nikhil Patke) Here there were a few houses, a check-post and a lone hotel for tourists. Also at the summit? The joy of being in two places (India and Nepal) at once, a warm dinner, and a scalding hot mug of coffee. The inn atop Sandhakphu has a dining hall that also serves as lobby and sitting room. Throngs of trekkers gather around a single fire, napping dogs monopolise the sofas. Hindi, Malyalam, French, English, Nepalese words bounce across the room, and you can escape the din by going round the front entrance, and into an under-construction basement of sorts. Lakpa is here, huddled against the 1 degree cold, in a cramped space that smells of burnt coal. With him are a group of weary trekkers, discussing how the community flocks together for the annual Yak Festival and for Losar, their New Year.

(Above: A home stay along the roadside at Sepi. The last camp of the trek after a descent of around 15 kilometres from Sandakphu. Image credit: Adwait Gokhale) Like most locals of Kalpokhari, Meghma, Tumling and other villages along the Sandakphu trek route, Lakpa hasnt travelled too far from home. Lakpa has never been further south than Rishikesh; neither has Bhupender, another local guide. They have no qualms about not being able to travel, wanderlust drives them nowhere, except higher up. Lakpa likes the mountains and wants to scale taller peaks than he has. I imagine him doing so in his Crocs, his tiny sack flung across his back, the clothes on his back all that hell be taking in the way of apparel. Bhupen and Lakpa are a cheery twosome, chopping, peeling, serving and eating, all while they keep up a steady stream of conversation. *** Fade far away, dissolve, and quite forget What thou among the leaves hast never known, The weariness, the fever, and the fret Here, where men sit and hear each other groan The Himalayas are beautiful, grand, harsh. But they are not here to dispense life lessons or induce introspection. Amid their freezing winds and blinding fogs, the soul is purged and thrust into some heady space. Days after I return home, there lurks at the back of my mind, a feeling of something missing  the nothingness I left behind. ***  The verses used in this article are excerpted from John Keats Ode to a Nightingale. The writer completed her hike with Yuvashakti, a Pune-based trekking organisation.  Title image courtesy of Shreyaan Rajguru.
Addressing a rally in Uttar Pradesh, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, asked if 'my jawan' will go to seek the permission of the EC before firing at terrorists

It has been less than six weeks since Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath courted controversy terming the Indian Army 'Modi ji ki Sena' at a rally in Uttar Pradesh, inviting criticism from some veterans of the armed forces as well as the Opposition. It seems Prime Minister Narendra Modi believes the same.

Referring to the Opposition's purported remarks over the encounter in Shopian district of Jammu and Kashmir Sunday morning, Modi, asked if "my jawan will go to seek the permission of the Election Commission on whether he should fire at the terrorist or not", according to PTI.

However, it is not clear whether any Opposition leader has in fact criticised the encounter in such terms.

Addressing a rally in Uttar Pradesh, the prime minister said, "In the morning, when reports and news came, I learnt that terrorists have been gunned down in Kashmir. Now, some people are perturbed over the fact that when polling is going on today, then why did Modi kill the terrorists? They (terrorists) are standing with guns...will my jawan go to seek the permission of the Election Commission on whether to fire at the terrorist or not?"

PM Modi in Kushinagar: Today terrorists were killed by our Army in Kashmir. Now some people are worried as to why did Modi kill the terrorists when voting is underway? An armed terrorist is attacking,do my jawans go to the Election Commission to seek permission to kill him? pic.twitter.com/ZfcovjRt1V  ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) May 12, 2019

When Adityanath first referred to the Indian Army as 'Modi ji ki sena', he was highly criticised by the Opposition, including a former navy chief, but that didn't prevent BJP leaders from repeating it again and again.

Former army chief General VK Singh slammed Adityanath for making the comment, and was quoted as saying that those calling the army 'Modi Ki Sena' were as traitors. However, he later claimed that he was misquoted.

The Election Commission let off both Uttar Pradesh chief minister Adityanath and Union minister Naqvi with just a warning while Opposition leaders are demanding sedition charges against them.

Modi's 'my jawan' remark comes just a day after he claimed in an interview that not even one has he sought vote in the name of the Indian Army.

"Since, we have come to power every second-third day, terrorists are killed. This safai abhiyaan is my work," said Modi on Sunday.

In his rallies at Kushinagar and Deoria on Sunday, the prime minister said it was surprising that Opposition parties were saying that elections were on and the security forces were opening fire on militants.

Seeking votes, he said it was time to make the victory historic in such a way that the 'mahamilawat' people stop thinking about facing the people in future.

He also said, "They are unable to understand why the people of the country are showering their love on the chowkidaar... It is for the fight against terror that the country is voting for the BJP and Modi. Those who used to threaten India have fallen flat, they are feeling afraid."

Modi said the SP and the BSP were incapable of taking on terrorists.

About the Congress, he said, "Congress ne pahley jawan ka sar katwaya (jawan was beheaded during Cong rule), now the party has become 'vote katwa' (vote cutter)."

With inputs from PTI
Both the BHU and the AMU have been witness to 'academic interference', giving space for outsider and anti-social forces to create a disruptive environment in India's educational hubs

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

***

Aligarh/Varanasi: Campus politics in Indian universities is not new. Many of todays prominent political personalities like Arun Jaitley, Ashok Gehlot, Lalu Prasad Yadav and Nitish Kumar have all risen from the cradle of student politics. What is new is the changing nature of campus politics in recent years where student wings of national parties have brought into the campus, the ideologies and idiosyncrasies of their parent organisations, leading to violent unrests and protracted protests.

This has brought forward a new generation of student leaders becoming politically active outside the campuses as well. This is probably best exemplified by Jawaharlal Nehru Universitys doctoral student Kanhaiya Kumar, who is the CPI candidate from Begusarai, Bihar, in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections. Kumar hit national headlines when he was arrested on sedition charges after ABVP, the student wing of the BJP, launched a vehement protest against some JNU students organising an event against the hanging of 2001 Parliament attack convict Afzal Guru.

Kanhaiyas arrest sparked widespread student protests that spread to at least 18 major universities across India. Some even termed it as the biggest student protests since the 90s protests against the Mandal Commission report. But the ABVP has continued to protest other campus events, even literary events, like the one in Delhi Universitys Ramjas College, for inviting researchers like Umar Khalid and Shehla Rashid, who had joined the Jammu and Kashmir People's movement (JKPM), a political party started by former IAS officer Shah Faesal, forcing the college to cancel the event.

Fear of violence from ABVP activists over events they do not agree with, is now being increasingly seen in other campuses, with external interference becoming insidious and the clash between ideologies taking a violent turn. For instance, the Panjab University administration warned students against organising a seminar on rising fascism, fearing an ABVP backlash. While down south in Karnataka, ABVP members in a private engineering college forced an assistant professor to kneel and apologise for his "anti-India" Facebook posts. The ABVPs ire was also turned on noted historian Ramachandra Guha, who had to say no to Ahmedabad university fearing a backlash from the BJP-backed student political party.

To some extent, some campus activities are beginning to reflect the larger currently ongoing Lok Sabha campaign rhetoric over battling terrorism, national security and caste politics, where the BJP is facing accusations of being anti-Dalit. For instance, the suicide of Rohit Vemula, a doctorate student of Hyderabad University in 2015. Vemula, an active member of the Ambedkar Students Association, killed himself after he and four other Dalit students were suspended for allegedly assaulting an ABVP member. Even though a university-appointed proctorial board inquiry had found no substance in the allegations, the suspension came after the ABVP wrote to Union Minister Bandaru Dattatreya alleging that ASA members were indulging in "casteist" and "anti-national" activities.

Dattatreya had passed on the letter to the then HRD minister Smriti Irani and the suspensions followed. But apart from the media outcry against the action, little else happened except claims and counterclaims on whether Vemula was actually a Dalit.

Similarly, protests in four TISS campuses last year against the decision to withdraw financial aid given to SC/ST and OBC researchers despite being eligible for such financial aid under the Government of India Post-Matric Scholarship scheme also evoked no response from the university authorities or the government.

The BJP government has often been accused of "saffronising" universities by appointing known supporters in senior positions. Like with the appointment of actor-turned BJP worker Gajendra Chauhan as chairman of the Pune-based Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) when protests by students and others forced the government to back down.

Nobel Prize-winning economist Amartya Sen had also highlighted the issue accusing the govt of 'academic interference' after he resigned as the chancellor of Nalanda University. He had said that four years back he had never before seen the kind of academic interference that was happening.

The Nalanda University Board unanimously wanted me to continue as Chancellor, but the governments advise was clear: under no circumstances, he told the media on his resignation from the post.

The increasing government interference in academic affairs was highlighted in a report by a nationwide collective called the Peoples Commission on Shrinking Democratic Space in India (PCSDS). It pointed out the drastic cut in funding for universities, leading to a shortage of teachers and a steep hike in course fees. Other key findings were centralisation of the admission process; privatisation of institutions through policy changes; distortion of history and syllabus; appointing loyalists as university heads; the rise of Hindutva forces within campuses; suppression of dissenting voices; and use of legal measures to curb students protests.

To quote from the report: Testimonies presented by students and faculty revealed a socially exclusive and unjust system prevailing in the higher education institutions, designed to replicate the marginalisation in society.

Recent happening in two of the countrys best-known universities  the Banaras Hindu University (BHU) and Aligarh Muslim University (AMU)  highlight the depth to which these issues have seeped into Indian campuses.

The AMU which admits a large number of Muslim students from across the nation has been targeted over its minority status while BHU has seen a rising culture of intolerance, moral policing and violence, brought to the fore again with the murder of a BHU student last month by four gun-weilding, bike-borne men. In September 2017, the university was in the national news when a large number of students indulged in vandalism and violence over victim shaming of a female student for lodging a molestation complaint against three bike-borne boys while going to college.

The entire campus was on the boil for days which saw police with several companies of the paramilitary force camping within the university premises to bring the situation under control. Dusshera holidays were advanced and all students were asked to vacate their respective hostels as the Varanasi police registered FIRs against 1,200 students. In fact, when Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on a trip to his constituency, faced the prospect of girls sitting in protests demanding to meet him, the prime minister's security detail decided to change his route.

Today, everything has been politicised here, said Sashi Bhusan Singh of the universitys Ayurvedic department. He blamed the politicisation of the campus on former vice-chancellor GC Tripathi and the presence of outside anti-social elements in the university.

It was during his tenure that the girls protested against the universitys policies, said Singh.

A judicial committee set up to conduct an inquiry into happenings also said that anti-social elements and political parties provoked the students. Singh alleged that under Tripathi, particular groups were favoured and that the former vice-chancellor himself had said that he had taken some decisions under pressure. Tripathi was removed in November 2017 and a new vice-chancellor was appointed in March 2018.

Singh was scathing in his criticism of the university administration and its proctorial board members. "If they see students, especially boys and girls together, they confront and harass them. But at the first sign of any violence, they run away and the district magistrate and SP have to come to calm things down. Even when a student was killed in broad daylight by some bike-borne men, nothing was done. And it is mainly students from one hostel who are responsible for most of the violence in the campus, he claimed.

But Akhilesh Diwedi, ABVP Oudh region president, insists the student body is not directly linked with any political party, but "when it comes to nationalism they stand together".

The ABVP never raises any political issue. People say that ABVP has got the backing of the ruling party but the fact is the student outfit acts more responsibly when the government of the same ideology comes to power. Playing the blame game is easy, but the ABVP never endorses violence, vandalism and other anti-development activities," he said.

Professor RR Jha, a senior political science professor pointed out that great leaders have emerged from the universitys student politics, however, he rues over the polarisation of education campsuses. "It is good for the nation that students are involved in politics, said Jha, adding, "but political parties take advantage of the student leaders. I will not name any political party giving more importance to any specific student group but every group is actively working on the ground. There is increased polarisation of educational campuses by political parties. Take the case of Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) as there the polarisation would help one specific party.

That, unfortunately, is the additional problem that AMU faces, besides the problems of outsiders and anti-social elements in the campus, as with the BHU. Already fighting a legal battle over its status as a minority institution, AMU in its appeal had said that the minority character of the university, the oldest Muslim University in the country, means a lot to Muslims. But the university continues to be faced with one controversy after another, in which the government is blatantly not in their corner.

AMU had been at the centre of the controversy involving the portrait of Mohammad Ali Jinnah in the central hall of the university last year.

BJP MP from Aligarh Satish Gautam had objected to this while the university said that Jinnah was a life member of the universitys students union. In the end, the portrait had to be taken down as the arguments threatened to get out of control. This year, several right-wing groups  including ABVP, Hindu Jagaran Manch and Bharatiya Janta Yuva Morcha, the youth wing of the BJP  observed the "anniversary" of the defeat of "Jinnah-lovers".

Barely a few months ago, in February, BJYM members had accused several Muslim students of attacking them in a scuffle that reportedly took place between the students of AMU and a news crew from Republic TV. Fourteen Muslim students were booked under the sedition law, which is a serious charge that can be punished with life imprisonment.

Ashar Saeed, a BSC student from the AMU says many questions have been raised on the credibility of the university and it is affecting the education as well as the students studying here. "These controversies are taking a toll on our education. A few days ago, sedition charges were pressed against our seniors which turned out to be false but it disturbed us all," says Saeed.

"AMU becomes an issue for communal forces who target the Muslims and AMU just to get the Hindu votes, says Janib Hussain, a student in international studies. "These people are trying to divide the society on communal lines by targeting AMU and this has created an atmosphere of fear, he adds.

The authors are Aligarh and Varanasi-based freelance writers and members of 101Reporters
After using the Sabarimala temple issue for a Hindu consolidation, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) seems to have grabbed the topic of Sri Lankan suicide bomb attacks in churches and hotels on Easter Sunday to make inroads into the Christian community in the southern state of Kerala

After using the Sabarimala temple issue for a Hindu consolidation, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) seems to have grabbed the topic of Sri Lankan suicide bomb attacks in churches and hotels on Easter Sunday to make inroads into the Christian community in the southern state of Kerala.

The saffron party has sought to don the role of the saviour of Christians in the state by mooting a Christian collective against global terror. The forum being established under the minority wing of the party will be formally launched with a day-long fast and prayer at Mother Teresa Square in Kochi on the 40th day of the massacre on 29 May.

The 40th day of death is considered significant by Christians as they believe that the dead begin their heavenly journey on that day, which marks the ascension of Jesus Christ into heaven. State BJP president PS Sreedharan Pillai said that the function was being organised in accordance with Christian tradition.

Bharatiya Janata Minority Morcha president Noble Mathew said that the organisation had decided to launch the collective in Kerala since the perpetrators of the Sri Lankan attacks had links with sympathisers of the Islamic State (IS) in the state. He claimed that the party had no hidden political agenda behind the initiative.

However, political observers are not ready to believe the claim since the BJP and the Sangh Parivar had made maximum use of the 28 September Supreme Court verdict allowing entry to women of all ages in the Ayyappa temple at Sabarimala to polarise the Hindu votes. The state leadership of the party had viewed the Sabarimala issue as a golden opportunity to unite Hindus under the party banner.

NP Chekutty, a Left-leaning political analyst at Kozhikode, said the BJP was trying to woo the Christians, who account for over 18 percent of the state's population, as it had realised that the Sabarimala issue had not helped the party win the support of the Hindus. Moreover, the party also realises that it will not be able to make any electoral breakthrough in the state with the support of Hindus alone, he added.

"The BJP needs the support of the minorities who constitute nearly 46 percent of the state's population to win elections. The party is not expecting much support from the Muslim community since it has alienated them by taking a strident anti-Muslim stand at the national level. Hence, the party is now making an all-out effort to win over the Christians," felt Chekutty.

He has termed the move to float a communal collective against terror dangerous since it will result in turning the Christians against the Muslims, who have been living in harmony with the rest of the community in the state for several centuries. Chekutty said the new move is part of the divisive politics that BJP has been playing in the north to gain political mileage.

"This will not work in a state like Kerala, where people are more educated, secular and politically enlightened. The BJP can win over people in the state only with a positive agenda. Unfortunately, the party is continuing with the politics of division, which will not pay any political dividend to the BJP in the state in the near future," says Chekutty.

The party has been trying to seek the support of the Christians by engaging with the spiritual leaders of the community. When that failed to yield the desired result, the party sought to achieve its objective by roping in prominent Christian leaders into the party fold and promoting them with positions in the government and the party.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had inducted bureaucrat-turned politician Alphons Kannanthanam, the prominent Christian face in the BJP, into his ministry under this strategy. However, he could not draw many other Christians into the BJP ranks.

The BJP had also used the Sabarimala issue to win over the believers in the Christian community, but it had to contend with the support of a leader with a small pocket of influence in the state. In fact, Janapaksham leader PC George had aligned with the National Democratic Alliance after his attempt to get an entry into either of the two fronts led by the Congress and the Communist Party failed.

The Sri Lankan attacks came at a time when the party was searching for a strong issue to attract the Christians before the Assembly elections due in 2021 in order to fulfil party president Amit Shah's grand plan to 'do a Tripura' in Kerala.

The BJP thinks that the terror threat can do the magic since Christians in the state are concerned over reports that a follower of the Sri Lankan blasts mastermind arrested by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) from Palakkad had planned similar strikes in the state.

Leaders of the Christian community think it is a false notion of the BJP that it can win over the community with political gimmicks. M Vincent, a Congress MLA from Kovalam, said that Christians were not fools to miss the political agenda of the party. He wondered how the party that challenges the safeguards offered by the Constitution to the minorities can protect the Christians.

"The minorities have not forgotten the cold-blooded murder of Graham Staines and his sons by a Sangh Parivar activist in Odisha and a series of attacks on churches and members of the clergy in various parts of the country under the BJP dispensation. The Christians do not need the protection of the Sangh Parivar. They only want the protection of their rights guaranteed by the Constitution," said Vincent.

Dr Chacko Kalanparmpil, a prominent Catholic leader, agreed with Vincent. He said that the community does not consider the protection of a political party against terror desirable. He said that it was the government that had to protect the citizens from threats to their lives and properties.

Chacko said that the Church will not associate with the BJP initiative. He said there was no need for a Christian collective against terror in the state as both the Christians and Muslims in the state have been maintaining cordial relations.

Interestingly, a leading Islamic organisation had joined the Catholic Church of India in condemning the suicide bomb attacks in Sri Lanka. A joint statement issued by Cardinal Oswald Gracias, president of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of India (CBCI) and Maulana Mahmood A Madani, the general secretary of Jamiat Ulema-i-Hind, had even announced a plan to send an inter-faith delegation as a gesture of their condolence and solidarity with the victims.
An exhibition on the famous Chinese artist Zhang Daqian, also known as Chang Dai-chien, opened on Saturday in Silicon Valley to commemorate the 120th anniversary of his birth.

The memorial exhibition, entitled "120 Moments of Chang Dai-chien in California," assembles 120 pieces of archives and artworks focusing the period from 1967 to 1976 when the artist resided in California.

It is open to the public from May 10 to June 2 at the Silicon Valley Asian Art Center in Santa Clara, California.

Zhang (1899-1983) is one of the most well-known Chinese artists in the 20th century. Also renowned as a modern impressionist and expressionist painter, Zhang is often referred to as the "Picasso of China."

The artworks on display include more than 10 pieces of paintings and calligraphy from Zhang. The other artworks were created by other artists in California, such as his friends and students.

The archives include Zhang's photos taken at his home in Carmel by the Sea and with friends, and various invitations to his exhibitions.

It's a rare opportunity to learn about the artist's life through those archives, said Jay Xu, director of the Asian Art Museum in San Francisco. He said Zhang's status in Chinese modern art was "unparalleled."

"I'm happy to see this exhibition in Silicon Valley, because the San Francisco Bay Area is an important stop of his journey. He had a lot of friends and students who still live in this area," said Xu.

"Though the artist has passed away, his influence and spirit live on to this day," said Xu.

The exhibition's organizer also published a catalog, which presents Zhang's private and social life, exhibition and creation in his life in California with archives that have never been published before.

"The nine years in California was Zhang's most creative era abroad. His splash ink painting reached sublimity in these years," said Shu Jianhua, curator of Silicon Valley Asian Art Center.
People know 'Modi hai toh mumkin hai', says Delhi BJP leader "In the entire country, elections are being contested over the issue of nationalism. People have forgotten about issues in their areas and localities. People talk about the nation and believe that Pakistan can only be dealt with by one man. Hence, all other issues are forgotten but people always remember that Modi hai toh mumkin hai," said Ajay Bharadwaj, District Head of BJPs Chandni Chowk unit.

Centenarian Kitabun Nisa was picked up from her home, taken to the polling booth in Sangam Vihar, Assembly Constituency number 49 and dropped back

Leaders' apathy forces Chandni Chowk residents to choose NOTA A voter in Chandni Chowk, where BJPs Harsh Vardhan, Congress Jai Prakash Agarwal and AAPs Pankaj Kumar Gupta are in the fray, said none of the leaders visit the area and only meet voters when seeking votes for elections. Another voter echoed this sentiment, adding that NOTA is the only option for voters. A disgruntled voter said that none of the three big parties - BJP, Congress or AAP - have done any real development work in Chandni Chowk. Young voters say they are disillusioned by fake promises and are choosing NOTA. No councillor or minister has come here. All parties are thieves, a man said. Local resident Shikha jain, voiced strong support for Congress. Jay Prakash Agarwal is being supported in the area. What the Congress is doing since 60-70 years, other parties have not done. Roads, bridges, universities are all Congress doing. Which school, university did the BJP start? she asked. Meanwhile, Dr Bharti, who runs a sweet shop, said that the election is a national one and requires voters to analyse the performance of parties and leaders from the national perspective. India is surrounded by enemies and BJP and its leader Narendra Modi have taken good steps in that regard, he said. Inputs by Pallavi Rebbapragada

Sheila Dikshits candidature may split Muslim vote in North East Delhi, say Jafrabad voters In Jagatpuri, where Delhi BJP chief Manoj Tiwari, former Delhi chief minister Sheila Dikshit, and AAP's Dilip Pandey are contesting, a voter said that the issue of statehood taken up by the Arvind Kejriwal-led party is a waste of time. I have voted for the party that I think will ensure cleanliness and lesser traffic in Delhi, he said. Hamid Khan, a resident of Jafrabad, opined that Sheila Dikshits entry into the battlefield in Delhi has made it tougher for AAP to secure the Muslim vote in the constituency. Saif Ali, who supports AAP, and Mohammed Ali, who supports the Congress, said that the issue in the area is unemployment in the formal sector. Meanwhile, AAP supporters said that Sheila Dikshits age and infirm health makes her unfit to serve the 22 lakh voters in the constituency. AAP has transformed this area. This school was a tent wala school and has been transformed into a proper building called Zeenat Mahal by the AAP, a supporter said. Inputs by Pallavi Rebbapragada, Kangkan Acharyya

Delhi Lok Sabha Election 2019 Latest Update #DelhiVotes: A look at how the National Capital voted till 7 pm The National Capital recorded a turnout of over 55.66 percent by 7 pm on Sunday, with Chandni Chowk registering the maximum voting percentage among seven constituencies.

The stage is set as the national capital goes to Lok Sabha polls on Sunday where the incumbent BJP, Delhi's ruling AAP and the Congress are locked in a triangular fight on all seven seats. The Congress is looking to bounce back after ending up at the third spot in the 2014 elections, while the Aam Aadmi Party will fight tooth and nail to secure its home ground after a tumultuous five-year reign which saw it clash with the Centre and the Lieutenant Governor on several occasions.

"Why do you spread rumours about my health? If you have nothing better to do, come over to have a meal. You will see how I am doing, have a meal and learn to fight elections without spreading rumours," she wrote in Hindi.

Sheila Dikshit, the Congress candidate from North-East Delhi constituency and the party's chief ministerial candidate, called over Arvind Kejriwal for a meal, but only if he "had nothing better to do". Tagging Kejriwal in a tweet, she highlighted three "benefits" to Kejriwal if he accepted the invite.

Sheila Dikshit invites Kejriwal for a meal, if he has nothing better to do

"My family taught me to respect elders," he said, replying to Ms Dikshit's tweet, adding that he never commented on her health. Wishing her good health and calling back to the time he had paid the octogenarian Congress leader a visit before she had left for France last year to receive treatment for a heart condition, Kejriwal "accepted" Ms Dikshit's invite, asking her for a time and date.

Claiming that Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal was spreading rumours about her health, Delhi Congress chief Sheila Dikshit extended a 'special' invitation to him on Saturday, with three-fold benefits. Sheila said that Kejriwal can enjoy a meal, learn how to contest polls without gossiping, and also witness first-hand that she is fit and fine.

BJP's Pravesh Verma is the incumbent MP from this seat. He is contesting against Congress' Mahabal Mishra and AAP's Balbir Singh Jakhar.

On Saturday night some local BJP leaders have assured to solve their problems, however Prahlad Singh a resident of colony said all the major parties have ignored their vital issues, but since BJP has assured us to solve the issue, we will vote on 12 May.

Residents of Geetanjali Park Colony in West Delhi have threatened to boycott Lok Sabha elections over the ongoing water crisis. Some of them said they might opt for NOTA.

BJP's East Delhi Candidate Gautam Gambhir cast an early vote in Delhi along with his parents and wife. Gambhir is BJP's East Delhi candidate and is fielded against AAP's Atishi.

The seat, comprising a mixed population of urban villages and unauthorised colonies, is set to witness a tough tussle between BJP, Congress and AAP. The Purvanchalis, Jats and Gujjars constitute nearly 30 percent of the voters in South Delhi. But people at RK Puram colony say shortage of drinking water and lack of sanitation facilities will be the dominant concerns while they vote.

National Spokesperson of AAP, Raghav Chadha, Boxer Vijendra Singh from Congress and Ramesh Bidhuri from BJP are contesting from the seat. In 2014 general elections, Bidhuri had managed to win by a margin of 1.07 lakh against AAPs candidate Devinder Sehrawat. Interestingly, Sehrawat switched to BJP last week.

South Delhi constituency has 33% (OBC) population, 18.5% Scheduled Caste (SC), 9.39% Brahmins, 9.04% Gujjars, 6% Muslims, 5.29% Punjabis, 5% Jats, 4.40% Banias and 2.1% Others (which include Bengalis and South Indians). Migrants from Uttar Pradesh and Bihar constitute also make up 15% of voter base in the South Delhi constituency.

Unauthorised colony and rural voters are key for South Delhi Constituency where BJP's Ramesh Bidhuri is current incumbent MP. Sangam Vihar, Asia's largest unauthorized colony is located in South Delhi constituency, Of the 20,67,467 voters of South Delhi, 95 percent belongs to unauthorised, rural and resettled areas.

Sealing is one the prominent issues in New Delhi Lok Sabha constituency. Business class is unhappy and this is a domain where BJP remains defensive. About 3,000 properties in New Delhi region have been sealed for land misuse, including converting residential units into commercial ones, non-payment of conversion charges and increased pollution emissions since November-December 2017.

Capital's prestigious New Delhi seat presents an interesting fight between BJPs sitting MP Meenakshi Lekhi and Congress veteran Ajay Maken who came third in 2014. Meanwhile, against BJP and Congress' political biggies the AAP has put up a first time contestant Brijesh Goyal, a businessman, who has foisted on the BJP candidate the slogan "Meenakshi Lekhi, Kabhi Nahi Dekhi"

Dalit activist Rona Jacob Wilson was arrested from Munirka last year. He is accused of being associated with Bhima Koregaon violence.

Girdhari Lal, a member of Ambedkar Vichar Manch at Munirka village, says Bhima Koregaon arrests and the way Modi government has dealt with it is an election issue for them. He claims, his forum has organised several meetings to increase awareness among people and mobilise them to vote against BJP. He also says, BSP is all-time favorite and only Mayawati can match the aura of Modi. However, he asked people to vote tactically and support either Congress or AAP whoever seems to be in close fight with BJP.

As the poll debate hinges largely on hyperbole, personal attacks, and the 'national issues, a voter in the New Delhi constitunecy tells our reporter he will support the candidate he can address the constituency's local issues.

Aam Aadmi Party's East Delhi candidate Atishi cast her vote in Delhi. Speaking to reporters, she expressed confidence that people will reward AAP for its five years' work and the party will win all seven seats. When asked that who she considers a stronger contender in her constituency, Atishi told India Today, "Congress has reserved the third spot for itself, no matter which election it is. But I am confident that AAP will win."

Voters complain of a lack of parking space outside Ryan International School in Vasant Kunj. Cars have obstructed roadways and police are trying to clear the roads.

Rahul Gandhi cast his vote at Tughlaq Road in New Delhi. He however, did not speak to the media, even though he momentarily stopped and appeared to be making up his mind. Rahul was accompanied by Congress' candidate from New Delhi Ajay Maken.

He said, "It's a fight between Narendra Modi's politics of hate and Congress' message of love. I believe our love will win"

Spelling out the three main agendas this election, Rahul Gandhi said that his party has fought elections on the issue of unemployment, the economic crisis post demonetisation and GST, and the Modi government's pro-capitalist policies.

Meanwhile, in South Delhi, a 93-year-old and 86-year-old were turned back due to the lack of wheelchair accessibility, even though one was arranged later. At the same booth, a 66-year-old had no option but to walk to the polling booth in the absence of wheelchairs.

A visually-challenged voter told News18 that he wasn't given a Braille script inside the polling booth, which hampered him in casting his vote. He has only received it twice, out of all the times he's voted.

The Election Commission has been striving to make elections more and more voter friendly by introducing facilities such as selfie points, pink booths with an all-women voting staff and drinking water at the voting booths. However, one key aspect seen missing is South Delhi was adequate facilities for differently-abled candidates. News18 reports:

Migrant labourers from Chapra and Sitamadhi, Mungair, Hazipur, Siwan, in Bihar are at a labour chowk in Dwarka. They say there are nearly 1000 labourers here who dont have voter IDs and feel bad that all parties here - BJP, Congress and AAP are wooing Purvanchali (immigrants from Eastern UP) voters but not helping them cast their vote and exercise their democratic rights.

In response to reports of EVM malfunction and violation of MCC, Akshay Marathe, Secretary Aam Aadmi Party said, "Aam Aadmi Party is moving to Election Commission over mal functioning of three EVMs and various other malpractices during polling in Delhi state"

Reacting upon AAP's allegations about faulty EVMs in different areas of Delhi, state BJP leader Praveen Shankar called it "a political stunt". "Aam Aadmi Party is raising all bogus issues to defend their defeat in Lok Sabha elections and to gain political mileage."

"We are voting tactically. Of course, water, electricity, schools are important issues and AAP has worked on it. But we are disappointed because they couldn't form a coalition with Congress. This is a national election. We are seeing who can lead the government at the Centre. You see, how PM has started blabbering against Rajiv Gandhi. In 2014, some of us voted for Modi. We thought he will safeguard us. But to our utter disappointment, BJP government didn't stand with minorities. They supported hate crimes when law and order was required to be restored. That's why we are voting tactically, at least I can say this about West Delhi," Arshad Khan, 51, a voter from Dwarka More, West Delhi

The Congress West Delhi camp has approached Election Commission against a polling official, who was allegedly wearing a with the name of BJP candidate Parvesh Sahib Singh Varma on it, at a booth Subhash Nagar.

Senior CPM leader Prakash Karat cast his vote at a polling booth in Delhi's Sanchar Bhawan as all seven sets in the National Capital went to polls on Sunday.

Delhi Lok Sabha Election 2019 Voting Updates: The national capital recorded a turnout of over 19 percent in the first two hours of polling on Sunday, with North East Delhi recording the maximum voting percentage among seven constituencies.

Delhi Lok Sabha Election voting updates: The national capital recorded a turnout of over 19 percent in the first two hours of polling on Sunday, with North East Delhi recording the maximum voting percentage among seven constituencies.

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra cast her vote in Delhi. She was accompanied by her husband Robert Vadra.

An elderly woman walked out alone to go cast her vote in South Delhi's Munirka village. She said she had left her hookah only to go vote for Prime Minister Modi.

Rahul Gandhi cast his vote at Tughlaq Road in New Delhi. He however, did not speak to the media, even though he momentarily stopped and appeared to be making up his mind.

Aam Aadmi Party's East Delhi candidate Atishi cast her vote in Delhi. Speaking to reporters, she expressed confidence that people will reward AAP for its five years' work and the party will win all seven seats. When asked that who she considers a stronger contender in her constituency, Atishi told India Today, "Congress has reserved the third spot for itself, no matter which election it is. But I am confident that AAP will win."

Former Delhi chief minister and Congress candidate from North-East Delhi, Sheila Dikshit cast her vote at a polling booth in Nizamuddin (East).

Capital's prestigious New Delhi seat presents an interesting fight between BJPs sitting MP Meenakshi Lekhi and Congress veteran Ajay Maken who came third in 2014. Meanwhile, against BJP and Congress' political biggies the AAP has put up a first time contestant Brijesh Goyal, a businessman, who has foisted on the BJP candidate the slogan "Meenakshi Lekhi, Kabhi Nahi Dekhi"

BJP's East Delhi Candidate Gautam Gambhir cast an early vote in Delhi along with his parents and wife. Gambhir is BJP's East Delhi candidate and is fielded against AAP's Atishi.

Sheila Dikshit, the Congress candidate from North-East Delhi constituency and the party's chief ministerial candidate, called over Arvind Kejriwal for a meal, but only if he "had nothing better to do". Tagging Kejriwal in a tweet, she highlighted three "benefits" to Kejriwal if he accepted the invite.

"Why do you spread rumours about my health? If you have nothing better to do, come over to have a meal. You will see how I am doing, have a meal and learn to fight elections without spreading rumours," she wrote in Hindi.

The stage is set as the national capital goes to Lok Sabha polls on Sunday where the incumbent BJP, Delhi's ruling AAP and the Congress are locked in a fight on all seven seats. The Congress is looking to bounce back after ending up at the third spot in the 2014 elections. The lead up to the polls has not been without drama, with allegations and counter-allegations flying, and it had all the trappings of a soap opera that could give the daily shows a run for their money.

The high-octane poll campaigning in the national capital ended on Friday but not before it saw a plethora of stars descending here to campaign for their respective parties. If Hema Malini and Sunny Deol provided the Bollywood quotient to the saffron party's campaign, Raj Babbar and Nagma added the star quotient to the Congress. Prakash Raj, Swara Bhaskar and Gul Panag campaigned for the AAP.

From Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal being slapped to AAP's East Delhi candidate Atishi breaking down at a press conference over "derogatory pamphlets" to BJP's Udit Raj leaving the party and joining the Congress after being denied a ticket from northwest Delhi, the last two months been quite eventful and have kept everyone on their toes.

The seven seats will see 164 candidates battling it out of which 18 are women. Prominent among them are former chief minister Sheila Dikshit from northeast Delhi, BJP's incumbent MP Meenakshi Lekhi, who is contesting from New Delhi, and Atishi. BJP's incumbent MP Manoj Tiwari is up against Dikshit for the Northeast Delhi seat and has already said that her entry has made the poll contest "one of the most interesting in the country". AAP's Dilip Pandey is also in the fray from the seat.

Other prominent candidates in the race include veteran Congress leader Sheila Dikshit, Olympian boxer Vijender Singh, who is making his electoral debut from south Delhi, Union minister Harsh Vardhan from Chandni Chowk, and cricketer-turned-politician Gautam Gambhir. Voting will begin at 7 am and is scheduled to go on till 6 pm. The 48 hour-period from 6 pm Friday to 6 pm Sunday, known as the silence period, will also be observed as 'dry day'.

A total of 13,819 polling stations will be set up at 2,700 locations in Delhi, with one model polling station in each of the 70 Assembly segments. Seventeen polling stations will be staffed only by women. As many as 523 polling locations have been identified as critical and 60,000 personnel, including those of the Delhi Police, Home Guards and paramilitary, will be on their toes to ensure that there is no untoward incident.

The campaign got off to a slow start as alliance talks between the AAP and the Congress lingered on till the last days of nomination, but it gained momentum over the last fortnight with senior leaders drawing huge crowds at mega rallies and road shows in the national capital.

The campaign reached a crescendo in its last lap, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi holding a massive rally at the iconic Ramlila Maidan here, Congress president Rahul Gandhi addressing two public meetings, and his sister Priyanka Gandhi Vadra taking out two roadshows in the city.

From trying to strike a personal chord with voters in parks at six am to holding door-to-door campaigns till late night, the candidates literally sweated it out in the oppressive heat as mercury crossed the 40-degree Celsius mark. While the BJP's campaign revolved around the party's high-pitched nationalism narrative and the popularity of Modi, the Congress kept him in the cross hairs and sought to hardsell its minimum income guarantee scheme, NYAY.

The AAP, on the other hand, focussed on the demand for full statehood for Delhi. Candidates also tried to out-maneuver each other before the poll body. AAP candidates Atishi and Raghav Chadha sought rejection of nomination papers of their BJP rivals Gautam Gambhir and Ramesh Bidhuri, respectively.

Poll officers were also hard-pressed as several violations of the Model Code of Conduct were reported. In a security breach, Kejriwal was slapped by a man during a road show in Moti Nagar and allegations of horse trading flew thick and fast as two AAP MLAs, Anil Bajpai and Devinder Sehrawat, crossed over to the BJP.

The campaigning also saw south Delhi BJP MP Ramesh Bidhuri allegedly using a Hindi slur against Kejriwal. On the penultimate day, the AAP and the BJP sparred over a derogatory pamphlet that targeted Atishi. The AAP alleged her rival Gautam Gambhir was behind it, a charge vehemently denied by him.

According to the summary of the electoral roll published on 23 April, there are over 1.43 crore voters in Delhi, 78,73,022 male and 64,42,762 female, while 669 belong to the third gender. While 2,54,723 voters are in the age group of 18 and 19, there are 40,532 electorate with disability who would be provided pick up and drop facility. Nearly 270 FIRs and daily diary (DD) entries were registered against political parties and others here till date for violation of the poll code.
Delhi Transport Minister Kailash Gahlot said voters were unable to find if their votes were cast in Najafgarh constituency segment.

New Delhi: Complaints about malfunctioning EVMs poured in from several places of the national capital on Sunday where voting is underway.

Adarsh Gupta, a resident of Matia Mahal area, claimed that at polling booths 84, 85 and 86, electronic voting machines were not working in the morning.

Aam Aadmi Party's Malviya Nagar MLA Somnath Bharti alleged that EVMs at booths 116,117 and 122 were not functioning.

"EVM in booth 132, Hauzrani is showing 50 votes without anyone casting any vote in the machine and EVMs at booths 116,117, 122 in Malviya nagar not functioning," Bharti tweeted.

Delhi Chief Electoral Officer Ranbir Singh said 5.5 percent EVMs were replaced in the morning, adding that problems in EVMs were reported from Chandni Chowk and West Delhi.

"Mock polls happened in the morning and where machines were found defective they were replaced. 5.5 percent EVMs were replaced during morning hours and that might have caused delay in start of polling," Singh said.

Mudit Agarwal, son of Congress's Chandni Chowk candidate JP Agarwal, alleged EVMs malfunctioned at some booths in Matia Mahal and Ballimaran assembly segments.

According to a police official, they received information about an EVM not working at Begum Pur in Rohini but the issue was addressed.

AAP's Tilak Nagar MLA Jarnail Singh alleged that EVMs at polling booth number 27 were not working in the morning.

"At Prithivi Park polling booth in Tilak Nagar assembly segment, EVMs had not been working since 7 am at polling booth 27. It is the same area where AAP's vote bank is considered," Singh said.

He said the Election Commission claimed that faulty EVMs are changed within ten minutes, but at ground, such claims are telling a different story.

Delhi Transport Minister Kailash Gahlot said voters were unable to find if their votes were cast in Najafgarh constituency.

"Voters unable to find their votes at polling booths. It is true that on large scale votes have been deleted. All these are residents of Jai Vihar I, Najafgarh," he tweeted.

Over 1.43 crore people in Delhi are eligible to vote in this election which will decide the fate of 164 candidates, of which 18 are women. There are 43 independent candidates.

While 2,54,723 voters are in the age group of 18 and 19, there are 40,532 electorate with disability who would be provided pick up and drop facility.

The counting of votes will take place on 23 May.
The thing to note here is that it was a Congress Constituent Assembly. There was almost no presence of the party we know as BJP in that Assembly.

Introducing his Hindu Code Bill in 1948, BR Ambedkar described the primary issue that the bill addressed: inheritance. Hindu inheritance law came from two traditions, known as Mitakshara and Dayabhag.

According to the former, the property of a Hindu male does not belong to himself. It belongs jointly to father, son, grandson and great grandson. All four have a birthright in the property. When one of these four dies, he does not leave this share to his heirs, but to the remaining three. This is the law that has evolved out of the tradition of joint families, and it comes from a time when the primary asset was land. It is difficult to partition such property when the family becomes nuclear, but because the property is jointly held, any of the four individuals can demand partition.

In Dayabhag, the property of a Hindu male was held as his personal property and he had the absolute right to dispose of it as he chose (meaning that if his father and grandfather and son were alive, they could not automatically take it over after his death).

Ambedkar wanted the existing Dayabhag system to extend over all of India. Ambedkar wanted to introduce other changes, all of them relating to the inheritance rights of the women of the family. Readers may know that this bill was not passed and Ambedkar resigned. It did not pass because the Constituent Assembly was conservative. Its members had few problems with Ambedkars proposal that the Mitakshara system be ended and Dayabhag be extended all over India; the primary issue they had was with the idea of women inheriting more property rights. This was unacceptable to them.

Their objections were that women were already in possession of their dowry; that women went into another household on marriage and could enjoy the property of that house also; and that if women were given these rights, landholdings would become smaller because they would be broken up.

The reason that we Indians were still debating such basic things in 1948 was that for at least 90 years, there had been little reform in religious traditions. The British were not reformist after the Crown took over the rule of India from the East India Company in 1857.

One of the causes of the Mutiny (according to a book by Sir Syed) was that Indians were reacting negatively to intrusion by British rulers into traditions. Sati had been abolished in 1829 and in 1850, there was legislation introduced to safeguard the property rights of individuals who had converted their religion.

This was also the period in which there was a powerful anti-slavery movement in Britain and America and those in power felt that they should use their authority to introduce modernity to traditional cultures.

After the massive violence of 1857, in which lakhs of people were killed, the British decided that they would leave Hindus and Muslims to do their own reforming. They did not want to touch upon issues that would be controversial, or would interfere with their primary objective of ruling India and controlling its economy.

Untouchability was abolished only by the Congress through Article 17 of our Constitution. Before that, all through the 1920s, Hindus around India were acting violently to prevent Dalits from entering temples. It is this sort of conservatism that blocked the passage of Ambedkars inheritance reforms. The thing to note here is that it was a Congress Constituent Assembly. There was almost no presence of the party we know as BJP in that Assembly.

Even in Nehrus government, the limited Hindutva voice was represented by Syama Prasad Mookerjee (who founded Jana Sangh, which later became BJP), who became a Congressman to take office. We must recognise that despite this inherent conservatism among its MPs and legislators (who were reflecting the cultural conservatism of the society which they came from), the Congress was able to pass reform. This was entirely because it was a party that had a liberal vision and was led by a truly great individual, Nehru.

Alone in South Asia, India has a secular and liberal Constitution. Afghanistan and Pakistan are Islamic states where no non-Muslim can hold high office. Maldives is an Islamic state also. Sri Lankas Constitution gives primacy to Buddhism, Bangladeshs Constitution opens with the phrase 'Bismillah ir rehman ir rahim'. Bhutans government and religion are both controlled by a Buddhist king. Till 2008, Nepal was a Hindu rashtra where executive authority came from a Kshatriya king, as prescribed in Manusmriti.

Only India has been secular constitutionally. Why? This is not because India is Hindu majority. Nepal is also Hindu majority. Nobody asked Indians as the British were leaving to vote on whether we wanted a Hindu rashtra or whether we should include religious aspects in our Constitution. It is only because of the Congress that we became a secular republic.

It will be interesting to see, as we enter a period where another political force has became dominant, if not overwhelming, whether this legacy of Nehru and the Congress is sustained or we are taken in a new direction.
While the breast-beating at loss of influence is understandable, the core charge against Narendra Modi is that he has altered the basic character of the Indian state.

In a much-discussed article for US-based Time magazine, author Aatish Taseer calls Narendra Modi Indias divider in chief and accuses him of masterminding an assault on Indias most basic norms such as the place of minorities and its institutions, from universities to corporate houses to the media.

Taseer includes Indias liberals among the minorities and lays the fantastic charge that Modis lack of a moral compass has led him to instigate a culture of anger and class warfare on liberals and free press who are seen in the eyes of many as part of a grand conspiracy in which a deracinated Hindu elite acts as power brokers to maintain its dominion over Indias Hindu majority.

Shorn of rhetoric, Taseer has merely repeated what Indias anglicized, disempowered elite and its subservient media (of the Lutyens variety) had long accused Modi of. That the prime minister has led a popular backlash against their hold over narrative and power-broking. The rabble is no longer at the gates. They have taken over.

While the breast-beating at loss of influence is understandable, the core charge against Modi is that he has altered the basic character of the Indian state. He has ostensibly made it angrier, less fair, unequal and has doubled down on class fissures. This is a pet theme of the western press that has neither the time (pun intended) nor inclination to listen to the masses beyond reflecting the views of its Indian liberal brethren. Or maybe it feels democracy is too precious to be left to the masses.

No point denying that the popular backlash against power-broking by a rootless, incestuous elite and its favourite tool  the mainstream media that relies on access journalism  is angry in nature. But heres the key question, is the anger unjustified? Let us focus on a recent issue to elaborate on the point.

A Dalit woman was gangraped in Rajasthan on 26 April in front of her husband. According to a report, the couple was waylaid on the Alwar-Thanagazi highway, dragged behind sand dunes and the woman brutally raped by five bikers who filmed the act and robbed the couple of Rs 2,000.

For seven days, the police in this Congress-ruled state sat on the complaint and refused to act. The reason? They were waiting for the polls to end in the region. The state administration was apparently trying to bury the issue, or at least go slow so that the rape of a Dalit woman does not snowball into a major issue bang in the middle of Lok Sabha elections.

As the Rajasthan Police, which is bound by law and protocol to act immediately against complaints, delayed registering an FIR, the seven-day gap allowed the rapists to intimidate the victim and her family, demand a blackmail amount of Rs 10,000 and circulate a video clip of the crime on social media.

Such a heinous crime warrants prompt action by the police, who were clearly under some sort of instructions to go slow on the case. As a report by Indian Express states, quoting the victims father: For the next two days, we told police whenever we heard that the accused were nearby but they took no action. They told us to wait until the elections got over.

The nature of the crime and callousness of the police and state administration were enough to have caused widespread outrage and condemnation. The fact that the victim was an 18-year-old Dalit woman and alleged perpetrators of the crime Gujjars  upper-caste men  should have been enough to amplify the outrage and reverberate it through the length and breadth of India.

In July 2016, four Dalit tanners were stripped, paraded and beaten up with rods by upper-caste men for allegedly skinning a cow in BJP-ruled Gujarat. The heinous incident caused much outrage across the nation and even beyond. It was said that India has become lynchistan, the land of the lynchers and these goons were being empowered by none other than Modi.

Earlier still, a section of Indian intellectuals had accused Modi of fostering an atmosphere of intolerance in the country against minorities and those from the lower-caste and returned their awards en masse in a form of protest that came to be known as award wapsi (returning of awards). This was fashioned as a moral position by individuals who want to reclaim the idea of a Nehruvian India that was ostensibly under threat from a rabble-rousing Modi.

The phony intolerance wave was based less on facts and more on narrative and it ultimately was exposed as a political movement by the perfumed liberals who were failing to cope with altered circumstances where their voice alone doesnt count any more.

It is therefore of no surprise that this intolerance gang has adopted the role of Mahatma Gandhis three monkeys  see, hear and speak no evil  on the rape of a Dalit woman in Alwar ostensibly because Rajasthan is ruled by Congress and it is politically inconvenient to do so. After all, there is no point throwing darts at the feudal, dynastic party that has for decades nurtured an anglicized, snobbish ecosystem dominated by the perfumed elites to further the you-scratch-my-back-and-I-scratch-yours system.

This story would have been quietly buried had it not been for Modi, the rabble-rouser himself, and Mayawati, the leader of the subalterns battling to maintain her political relevance.

Instead of arresting those involved in this heinous crime, Rajasthans Congress government and the police got busy in hiding it as they did not want it to come out before the polling was over, said the prime minister at a recent rally before the sixth phase of polling. They wanted to suppress the news, save the accused for the sake of the vote bank I want to ask the award-wapsi gang, why are they quiet now? said Modi.

Taseer, who wrote the article against Modi, may note that the anger against this compromised media and the liberals is not unjustified. These liberals are no conscience-keepers but political actors waging a grim battle to mitigate an existential crisis. And to do so, they will pick and choose their causes of outrage. This is not a moral position, but a deeply immoral one. If only a class revolt may overturn this unequal idea of India, so be it.
Congress leader Digvijaya Singh on Sunday expressed regret over not being able to cast his ballot in Rajgarh district of Madhya Pradesh, which is over 130 kilometres away from state capital Bhopal where he is locked in a keen contest with BJP candidate Pragya Singh Thakur.

Bhopal: Congress leader Digvijaya Singh on Sunday expressed regret over not being able to cast his ballot in Rajgarh district of Madhya Pradesh, which is over 130 kilometres away from state capital Bhopal where he is locked in a keen contest with BJP candidate Pragya Singh Thakur.

"I regret that I could not reach Rajgarh to cast my ballot. Next time, I will ensure that my vote is registered in Bhopal," Singh said. Throughout the day, he visited various polling stations in Bhopal to track the voting, sources said.

Earlier in the day, he was seen outside a temple. When asked whether he will go to cast his vote, he replied, "I will see. I will try to reach."

The former Madhya Pradesh chief minister also urged people to exercise their franchise in large numbers. "Go in large numbers and cast your vote. Vote without fear," he said.

The Congress leader is facing Thakur, a 2008 Malegaon blast case accused, among other candidates.

Fifty-nine Lok Sabha seats, including Bhopal, spread over seven states went to poll in the sixth and penultimate phase of the Lok Sabha election today.
Gorakhpur and Phulpur seats, which will vote in the last two phases of Lok Sabha polls, are again in the limelight as electoral battle intensifies in the politically crucial state of Uttar Pradesh.

Lucknow: Gorakhpur and Phulpur seats, which will vote in the last two phases of Lok Sabha polls, are again in the limelight as electoral battle intensifies in the politically crucial state of Uttar Pradesh.

The BJP had to bite the dust in the bypolls in these constituencies last year. While the anti-BJP alliance is keen on retaining its grip over both the seats, the saffron party is looking to wrest them from the Opposition.

Their importance can be gauged from the fact that Gorakhpur was represented by Yogi Adityanath in the Lok Sabha from 1998 to 2017, before he became the chief minister of Uttar Pradesh.

Similarly, Phulpur was won for the first time by the BJP in 2014, when Keshav Prasad Maurya emerged victorious from the seat once represented by Jawaharlal Nehru, India's first prime minister. Maurya vacated the seat after he became the deputy chief minister of the state in 2017.

However, this time, the giant killer in the Gorakhpur bypoll, Praveen Kumar Nishad, has switched over to the BJP, and he has been fielded from the Sant Kabir Nagar parliamentary constituency in eastern Uttar Pradesh.

There are 14 candidates in the fray in Phulpur, which has 19.75 lakh voters, and 10 candidates are contesting in Gorakhpur, which has 19.54 lakh voters. The prominent candidates in Phulpur are Keshari Devi Patel from the BJP, Pandhari Yadav of the Samajwadi Party and Pankaj Patel of the Congress.

In Gorakhpur, the fight is mainly among Madhusudan Tripathi of the Congress, Ravindra Shyamnarayan Shukla alias Ravi Kishan of the BJP and Rambhual Nishad of the SP. Exuding confidence that the SP candidate will retain the seat, party spokesperson Rajpal Kashyap said, "Bypolls in Phulpur, Gorakhpur and Kairana changed the narrative of Uttar Pradesh politics... All these seats will definitely vote for mahagathbandhan whose aim is to herald a 'mahaparivartan' (grand change)."

Rebutting SP's claims, state BJP media coordinator Rakesh Tripathi said, "It was the low polling percentage which led to BJP's defeat in the bypolls. However, in the past one year, a large number of first-time voters have become associated with the party. I am confident that both the BJP candidates will emerge as victorious."

The opposition parties defeated the ruling BJP in three Lok Sabha bypolls last year in the state which sends 80 MPs to the Lower House of Parliament. In the Kairana Lok Sabha by-elections in May last year, the BJP lost to the joint Opposition candidate, RLD's Tabassum Hasan. The seat had fallen vacant following the death of the BJP candidate Mriganka Singh's father Hukum Singh.

Tabassum Hasan was supported by the Congress, the SP and the BSP. In March, the BJP lost the Lok Sabha bypolls in Gorakhpur and Phulpur. In the last parliamentary elections in 2014, the BJP had won 71 seats in the state, securing 42.63 percent of the votes. BJP ally Apna Dal bagged two more.

The Samajwadi Party had won five seats with a vote share of 22.35 percent. The BSP did not win any seat but secured 19.77 percent votes. The Congress registered wins on two UP seats in 2014, bagging 7.53 percent of the votes.
Voters who haven't received their voter slip can check their name on the electoral roll and download their photo voter slip from the portal nvsp.in.

Voting for the seven-phase Lok Sabha Election 2019 in India began on 11 April, with Phase 7 scheduled for Sunday, 19 May.

There are nearly 90 crore people registered as voters, of which 1.5 crore are between the ages of 18 and 19. But before exercising their franchise, voters must check if their names have appeared in the voters' list, and download the voter slip, which needs to be presented along with a photo identity card at your polling station to vote in the upcoming election.

If your name does not appear in the voters' list, the polling booth officials will not allow you to cast your vote.

Usually, voter slips (which serve as proof that your name exists in the electoral roll) are made available to voters' by various political parties. But what if you haven't received yours yet?

The Election Commission offers voters the facility to check their name on the electoral roll and download their photo voter slip from the portal nvsp.in. Every voter is required to carry their photo voter slip along with their voter identification card (also known as Electors Photo Identity Card or EPIC or Voter's ID) that is issued by the Election Commission of India (EC) or other approved photo identity proofs.

Here are the steps to download your voter slip:

Step 1. Visit the official website of the National Voter Services Portal's - nvsp.in

Step 2. Click on 'Search Your Name in Electoral Roll' option

Step 3. Fill in your credentials

Step 4. Press the 'search' button

Step 5. Your name will appear at the bottom of the page

Step 6. Click on view details and the page will be directed to your voter slip.

Step 7. Click on Print Voter Information' at the bottom of your voter slip and take a print out.

In case your name does not appear after the first three steps, it is likely that you are not eligible to vote in the 2019 Lok Sabha election.

The ongoing election is being held for 543 seats at nearly 10 lakh polling booths across the country, while the counting of votes will take place on 23 May. Full details of timing, schedule and list of constituencies is available here.

Click here for complete coverage of Lok Sabha Election 2019

Click here for complete coverage of Assembly Elections 2019
The Election Commission has launched a Voter Helpline app, the 1950 voter helpline and nvsp.in to help voters check their polling station and contact details of booth level, electoral registration officers and district officers.

Around 90 crore people are eligible to vote in the seven-phase Lok Sabha Election 2019 that begun on 11 April, which is nearly the combined population of the whole of Europe and Brazil. About 432 million of these voters are women.

With a view to ensure a smooth Lok Sabha election and Assembly elections (Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh), the Election Commission of India strengthened its toll-free voter helpline 1950 in February 2019 making it easy for voters to get authentic information about their voter registration.

Voters enrolled in the electoral roll can check details of their personal information, polling station where they have to go to vote on polling day and contact details of booth-level officers, electoral registration officers and district election officers by using the voter helpline mobile app, or by visiting the nvsp.in portal or by calling 1950 helpline.

Electors can also call the helpline to register any election-related complaint between 8 am and 8 pm in Hindi or English on all working days. The callers identity is kept anonymous.

Services through SMS can also be availed by citizens by sending SMS without any cost to 1950. Here is the list of services that can be availed on SMS and the format to send SMS to 1950:

 To check your details in the electoral roll: Send an SMS in the format <ECI>space<EPIC number>space<0> (for reply in English) or <1> (for reply in the regional language)

 To get address of polling station where you are needed to to cast vote: SEND an SMS in the format: <ECIPS>space<EPIC number>

 To fetch the contact details of Booth Level Officers, Electoral Registration Officers and District Election Officers: Send an SMS in the format <ECICONTACT >space<EPIC number>
"We have set up two such booths, one each in Matia Mahal and Model Town Assembly segments. All our polling staff have worked very hard, and these women staffed here are also quite happy to be part of an all-woman team. While women voters were pleased, male voters were also pleasantly surprised," Garg said.

Incidentally, four of the seven district election officer-cum-returning officer are also women, and they too felt quite enthused to see the impact of the initiative. Chandni Chowk Returning Officer Tanvi Garg said the Delhi CEO Office had envisioned this with a larger aim of engendering a sense of women empowerment and the "message has been sent".

In a first for the city, as many as 17 all-woman staffed booths have been established for the Lok Sabha elections in the seven constituencies of Delhi, where from presiding officers to ground staff, all are women.

'Nari Shakti' was on display in the all-women staffed booths in Delhi, which drew more women voters, especially from the Muslim community, officials said.

Ex-Madhya Pradesh chief minister Digvijaya Singh, who is the Congress candidate from Bhopal, was unable to cast his vote in Raghogarh. Speaking to News18, he said, "By going there (Raghogarh), I would have lost a thousand votes here. I have to start campaigning for other constituencies also. I should've had my voted registered in Bhopal," he said.

The overall voter turnout till 6 pm is estimated to be at 59.7 percent.

Mallikarjun Kharge, Congress in Kalaburagi: Wherever he goes, Modi keeps saying that Congress will not win 40 seats. Do you believe that? If Congress gets more than 40 seats, will Modi hang himself at Delhi's Vijay Chowk? pic.twitter.com/ti3uPIYqlV

In Karnataka's Kalaburagi, senior Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge said, "Wherever he goes, Narendra Modi keeps saying that Congress will not win 40 seats. Do you believe that? If Congress gets more than 40 seats, will Modi hang himself at Delhi's Vijay Chowk?"

#WATCH : Narkatiaganj: An attempt was made to attack Sanjay Jaiswal (in red kurta), BJP candidate from West Champaran Parliamentary Constituency, with sticks outside polling booth no. 162, 163. He is unhurt. #Bihar #LokSabhaElections2019 pic.twitter.com/sxL3YWyAT7

An attempt was made to attack Sanjay Jaiswal, BJP candidate from West Champaran, with sticks outside polling booth no. 162, 163.

On the Narkatiaganj incident, where BJP candidate Sanjay Jaiswal was targetted by stick-laden people, Bihar CEO HR Srinivasa said, "An instigating speech was made, after which the situation got heated. The police immediately intervened, and now everything is going on peacefully. I'll ask for a report. There were sticks in some people's hands, and the MP's bodyguard also fired in the air."

"I have several projects in mind, including Modiji's biopic in Bhojpuri, so that people get to know more about him. Apart from this I am also planning to make biopics of Swami Vivekananda and Atal Bihari Vajpayee," the Bhojpuri film actor said.

Kishan said he also plans to make Bhojpuri films on the lives of Swami Vivekanada and former premier late Atal Bihari Vajpayee.

Film actor and BJP's Gorakhpur Lok Sabha candidate Ravi Kishan Sunday said he will make a biopic on Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Bhojpuri so that the speakers of that language can know more about the leader.

The overall turnout for the sixth phase is estimated to be at 61.03 percent.

As can be expected, the voter turnout has seen a steady increase by the hour, with a decent rise in the last 60 minutes.

Addressing a rally in Indore, Narendra Modi said, "The country is together to elect this government again. It is often said that the country's voter is silent. But this time the public is saying it that many politicians who've lost sleep, they've lost control over their speech. 2014 election was based on anti-incumbency, 2019 will be on pro-incumbency."

The elections in this phase are seen as a big test for the BJP, which had won 45 of these seats in 2014, with the Trinamool Congress bagging 8, the Congress two and the Samajwadi Party and the LJP one seat each among others.

Elections will be held in 14 seats in Uttar Pradesh, 10 seats in Haryana, eights constituencies each in Bihar, Madhya Pradesh and West Bengal, seven seats in Delhi and four in Jharkhand. Over 10.17 crore voters are eligible to exercise their franchise to choose among the 979 candidates in fray. The Election Commission has set up over 1.13 lakh polling stations for smooth conduct of polls

Similarly, Phulpur was won for the first time by the BJP in 2014, when Keshav Prasad Maurya emerged victorious from the seat once represented by Jawaharlal Nehru, India's first prime minister. Maurya vacated the seat after he became the deputy chief minister of the state in 2017.

In Uttar Pradesh, the BJP had won 13 of the 14 constituencies in 2014, the only exception being Azamgarh, won then by SP founder Mulayam Singh Yadav. However, the BJP had to face defeat in the bypolls in Phulpur and Gorakhpur constituencies last year. While the anti-BJP alliance would like to retain its grip over both the seats, the saffron party is looking to wrest them from the Opposition.

The Bhopal seat will see an interesting fight between senior Congress leader Digvijaya Singh and BJP nominee Pragya Singh Thakur. Guna will seal the fate of AICC general secretary and Congress candidate Jyotiraditya Scindia. Union minister and BJP nominee Narendra Singh Tomar is in the fray from Morena.

Polling will be held for Bhopal, Morena, Bhind (SC), Gwalior, Guna, Sagar, Vidisha and Rajgarh seats in Madhya Pradesh. This will be the third phase of polling in Madhya Pradesh, with the first and second phases having been held on 29 April and 6 May. The last phase will be held on 19 May.

Third phase of voting in state to be decider for Maneka, Digvijaya

Prominent candidates in the fray include veteran Congress leader Sheila Dikshit, Olympian boxer Vijender Singh, Union minister Harsh Vardhan, Atishi from AAP and her BJP rival cricketer-turned-politician Gautam Gambhir.

In the national capital, voting will be held in all the seven seats. As many as 164 candidates, including 18 women, are in the fray. It is expected to be a three-cornered fight involving the BJP, AAP and the Congress.

All eyes on national capital, at the centre of several campaign controversies

Among other candidates, Union minister Birender Singh's son Brijendra Singh (BJP) and former chief minister Bhajan Lal's grandson Bhavya Bishnoi (Congress), both political greenhorns, are contesting from the Hisar Lok Sabha seat, where they face sitting MP and leader of newly floated JJP Dushyant Chautala, grandson of former chief minister, OP Chautala. Former Union minister Kumari Selja and state Congress chief Ashok Tanwar are fighting from Ambala and Sirsa, respectively, for the party.

Union ministers Rao Inderjit Singh and Krishan Pal Gurjar are among the 223 candidates in fray in Haryana. Former chief minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda, a sitting MLA of Congress from Rohtak district, is once again trying his luck to enter the Lower House, this time from Sonipat. Earlier, Hooda had remained a four-time MP from Rohak parliamentary constituency. Hooda's son Deepender is seeking re-election for fourth term from Rohtak as Congress nominee.

The ruling Trinamool Congress, the BJP, the Congress and the Left Front constituents  the CPM, the CPI and the AIFB  are the main contenders in West Bengal. In this phase, polling will be held in Jangal Mahal  the forested region of Bankura, West Midnapore, Jhargram and Purulia districts, which used to be a Maoist hotbed, during the erstwhile Left Front government. As many as 770 sections of Central forces have been deployed in the state for the phase.

In Jharkhand, state minister Chandraprakash Choudhary, former cricketer Kirti Azad and ex-chief minister Madhu Koda's wife Gita are among the 67 candidates whose fate will be sealed in the third phase of polls in the state. Polling will be held in Dhanbad, Giridih, Jamshedpur and Singhbhum (ST) seats, all won by the BJP in 2014. Altogether, 66,85,401 voters, including 31,79,720 women and 116 of the third gender, are eligible to exercise their franchise.

Amid tight security, polling will be held in eight Lok Sabha seats - Sheohar, Valmiki Nagar, Pashchimi Champaran, Purvi Champaran, Siwan, Gopalganj, Maharajganj and Vaishali. Among the 127 candidates, 16 are women - eight in Vaishali, four in Siwan and one each in Sheohar, Maharajganj, Purvi Champaran and Valmiki Nagar.

Four sitting MPs, including Union Agriculture Minister Radha Mohan Singh, are among the 127 candidates contesting in Bihar.

A BJP worker, Raman Singh, was found dead on Saturday night at Gopiballabpur in West Bengal's Jhargram district. Jhargram was an erstwhile Maoist hotbed. Violence has marked every single poll phase in West Bengal so far.

Polling officials at the Dhanbad Parliamentary constituency's booth numbers 202, 203, 204 and 313 at Laxmi Narayan Vidya Mandir Madhya Vidyalaya are busy conducting mock polling in the minutes leading up to the 7 am mark. Congress' Kirti Azad and BJP's PN Singh are contesting from this constituency

The last time Congress won here was in 1984. According to political analysts, one of the key factors of Congress continuous defeat on this seat was the worlds worst industrial disaster, Bhopal gas tragedy on the night of 2 and 3 December 1984.

For the last three decades, the Madhya Pradesh capital has been a strong BJP bastion. In 1989, Sushil Chandra Verma won the seat for the BJP and remained an MP for four consecutive terms. In 1999, former Madhya Pradesh chief minister and present Union minister Uma Bharti won by defeating Congress leader Suresh Pachori. After that, former chief minister Kailash Joshi won twice  2004 and 2009.

The Bhopal Lok Sabha constituency is one of hottest seats in the country. The contest between veteran Congress leader and two-term former chief minister of Madhya Pradesh Digvijaya Singh and BJPs newbie politician Sadhvi Pragya Thakur has turned into a saffron versus saffron battle of sorts.

Two BJP workers, Ananta Guchait and Ranjit Maity, were shot at in West Benga's Bhagabanpur in the state's East Medinipur district. Both the injured were admitted to the hospital.

Siwan is considered a stronghold of RJD but the party lost in two consecutive elections in 2009 and 2014. While Hina Shahaab is banking on Muslim-Yadav votes, Kavita Singh is targeting upper caste votes.

Once represented by former chief minister Abdul Gafoor, the high profile Siwan seat will witness a tough fight between the wives of former MP and jailed strongmen Mohammed Shahabuddin and Ajay Singh. RJD has fielded Hina Shahaab, wife of Shahabuddin, whereas JDU had given a ticket to Kavita Singh, wife of Ajay. She had fought two elections from this seat but lost both.

Yadav and Muslims constitute around 28 percent in Gopalganj. While upper caste population is around 32 percent in the seat, backward castes and others comprise 40 percent. This 40 percent population will play a decisive role.

Both the RJD and the JDU are fighting for the Gopalganj seat keeping the votes of the backward castes in mind. RJD has given a ticket to Surendra Mahaan who is fighting the general election for the first time. JDU had won this seat in 2009 but lost it to BJP in 2014. This time it has fielded Dr Alok Kumar Suman from it.

Women can be seen standing in a queue to vote at the Tara Vidyatan booth number 154 in the Bankura Lok Sabha constituency in West Bengal. TMC's Subrata Mukherjee, who was once Kolkata mayor, has been fielded from this constituency. The BJP has fielded a doctor, Subhash Sarkar.

Voting takes off at Bengal constituency from where former Kolkata mayor is contesting

BJP's Bhopal candidate Pragya Singh Thakur, an accused in the Malegaon blast who claimed that she had cursed late Maharashtra ATS chief Hemant Karkare to death, cast her vote early on Sunday.

In West Bengal's Bankura Lok Sabha constituency's polling booth number 136, people standing in a queue lost their cool after voting failed to begin almost an entire hour since 7 am, due to EVM malfunctions.

EVM malfunctions were also reported from booths numbers 71, 274 and 278, of Sultanpur. Voting has not begun at booth numbers 205 and 329 in the same constituency.

Voting has not begun yet in booth numbers 125, 127, 128 and 131 in Jaunpur constituency, at booth number 16 in Pratapgarh constituency and at booth numbers 238, 279, 398, and 404 in Shrawasti Lok Sabha constituency of Uttar Pradesh.

At Sagar's booth number 75, at Police Training College, the EVM machine has not been working.

Voting is yet to begin in Bhopal's booth number 154/348 at Barkatullah University due to EVM malfunctioning. The same fate has been seen in booth number 8- of Jahangirabad in the city.

India men's cricket team captain Virat Kohli was among the first voters in Phase 6. Kohli stood in line and voted at a school in Haryana's Gurugram.

Gautam Gambhir, the BJP's East Delhi candidate and at the centre of raging controversy over a derogatory pamphlet written targeting his AAP counterpart Atishi, cast his vote on Sunday too.

Major clashes were reported in the early hours of 12 May at Kanthi Lok Sabha constituency's booth number 23 and 24 in Paschimbar area. A few rounds of firing took place and two people have been injured. BJP has claimed the individuals named Ananta Gucchait and Ranjit Maiti are party workers.

In Madhya Pradesh , EVM glitches were found at Laharpur Baghmugakiya extension's polling booth in Bhopal. In Machhlishahr's booth number 369 and Jaunpur's booth number 125, 127, 128 and 131, voting is yet to begin.

In Uttar Pradesh 's Pratapgarh, voters complained of heat at booth number 39 where voting has still not begun. Voting has not begun at booth number 346 in Sultanpur either.

In West Bengal , fresh EVM malfunction reports have come in from from Paschim Medinipur's booth numbers 163, 155 and 175, in the Chandipur Kalikakhali village.

A faulty EVM had been replaced in the morning by another at booth number 135 in Section 19 of Panchkula in Haryana. However, this new EVM too has stopped working due to a fresh glitch, pausing the polling process once again.

A home guard was mistakenly fired at, at booth number 272 in Sheohar Lok Sabha constituency in Bihar. Superintendent of police Santosh Kumar said, "One person from the polling party has been injured in firing. He was taken to Sheohar's Sadar Hospital for trearment."

Voter turnout at Bihar and Delhi NCT at 9 am The constituency-wise breakdown of voter turnout percentages in Bihar and the Bihar NCT at 9 am, according to the Google app are as follows.

Below are the voter turnout percentages from Haryana and Madhya Pradesh at 9 am, according to the Google app .

Below are the voter turnout percentages from Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal and Jharkhand at 9 am, according to the Google app .

As many as 45 EVMs malfunctions have been reported from Pratapgarh constituency in Uttar Pradesh. Of these, 30 machines have been repaired already while voting remains affected in 15 other booths.

In Gwalior's Nayapura booth number 26 and Pragati Vidyapeeth booth number 16/65, voting has resumed after poll officers fixed EVM glitchs immediately after they arose.

In Bihar's Sheohar Lok Sabha constituency, voting has been halted for half an hour at booth number 187 in Riga Imli Bazaar due to technical glitches in the EVM.

An argument broke out between Union minister and BJP's candidate from Sultanpur Maneka Gandhi and the SP-BSP gathbandhan's candidate Sonu Singh after Maneka alleged that Singh's supporters were threatening voters.

A senior citizen was allegedly slapped by a polling personnel at booth number 201 in Riga Block under Sheohar Lok Sabha seat in Bihar. The incident angered voters who were in the queue and a protest broke out on spot. The Circle Inspector has reached the spot to control the situation.

According to police officials, the incident took place at the DIG Bungalow polling centre where an unidentified man attacked a polling agent of the BJP. However, BJP leader Sharma claims that the attacker was goon from Congress party and a supporter of Arif Aqueel. He said, "BJP has no arrangement of a polling agent in ward 16 as the booth falls in Arif Aqueel stronghold. So we asked the election official to allow us to send a polling agent from a nearby booth. When the agent went to sit near the booth to help voters, Aamir Aqueel sent goons to beat the agent up."

Alok Sharma, a senior BJP leader and mayor of Bhopal reached Gautam Nagar police station on Sunday morning just after one hour of polling began, with the allegation that Congress' Arif Aqueel's brother Aamir Aqueel threatened BJP's polling agent with weapons.

A car belonging to Giridih constituency's NDA candidate Chandra Prakash Chaudhary, was attacked in Jainamor area of Bokaro between 1 am and 2 am this morning. Chaudhary was staying at a nearby hotel at the time. Police have begun an inquiry. Allegations have been levelled on Jharkhand Mukti Morcha workers.

At Ramnagar (booth number 217) and Patashpur (booth 212) in West Bengal's Kanthi Lok Sabha constituency, voters were left irritated after malfunctioning EVMs and VVPAT glitches left the two booths nonfunctional after the first few minutes in the morning. Voters, who had been standing in the heat, broke out in protests.

BJP candidate for Ghatal, Bharti Ghosh, was stopped from entering a booth at Keshpur by TMC cadres. Bharti had allegedly wanted to sit at the booth and was stopped from doing that by the TMC polling agent, leading to a scuffle where both sides engaged in pushing. Later in the day, Ghosh's vehicles were vandalised, reported ANI. BJP has blamed TMC for the action.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi, after casting his vote at Tughlaq Road with Congress leader Ajay Maken, said that the people were the rulers in this country and that he is willing to accept whatever the mandate of the people is. He said the issues of the polls were unemployment and the money siphoned off to Anil Ambani by Narendra Modi. "He has given us his anger and we have returned it with our love," he said.

District administration and poll authorities have ordered house arrests for BJP and Congress leaders of Bhind in Madhya Pradesh for Sunday. Police forces have also been deployed at the houses of leaders such as BJP MLA Arvind Bhadauriya and former MLA and Congress leader Hemant Katare, both of whom have permission to only go out for the purpose of voting today. The district administration had taken the same measures during the assembly elections last year as a precautionary measure.

Voting has begun after a delay of one and half hours at Badlapur, part of Jaunpur Lok Sabha seat in Uttar Pradesh. More than 4500 voters waiting in a queue to cast their vote after polling was held up due to EVM malfunction.

Speaking to reporters, BJP's West Bengal president Dilip Ghosh said, "We are being stopped by the police. Twice, our leaders cars have been attacked. This arbitrary government has crossed all limits and are not considering that it is a democracy. They have resorted to unethical measures."

Former Madhya Pradesh chief minister Shivraj Singh Chauhan cast his vote at Jait village in Budhni, which falls under the Vidisha Lok Sabha constituency in Madhya Pradesh.

BJP Bengal president Dilip Ghosh's convoy was attacked by unidentified men and his car vandalised at Dantan in West Medinipur. Two people were injured in the violence, one severely. Ghosh has alleged that the men were sent by the TMC. "They are behaving like hooligans and not letting polling take place peacefully," he said. People were allegedly heard shouting 'Dilip Ghosh go back' after surrounding his car.

BJP candidate from Maharajganj Lok Sabha constituency in Bihar, Janardan Singh Sigriwal, before going to cast his vote, said that he is getting all the support from the people of the constituency. Sigriwal's wife also showed confidence in his victory.

Priyanka Gandhi and husband Robert Vadra too voted at the Sardar Patel Vidyalaya in Delhi's Lodhi Estate.

UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi, accompanied by Congress Delhi chief Sheila Dikshit, cast her vote at Delhi's Nirman Bhavan on Sunday. Her son, Rahul, cast his vote earlier in the day and predicted a BJP loss.

Bhopal mayor Alok Sharma wore a badge of the BJP's lotus symbol to Jain Nagar's booth number 182 while casting his vote on Sunday. Congress leaders will be filing a complaint against Sharma for violation of the Model Code of Conduct.

Not for the first time this election, a BJP delegation led by the party's vice-president Jay Prakash Majumdar and election committee member Sishir Bajoria will meet the West Bengal chief electoral officer to discuss the subject of discrepancies in Phase 6 of the polls at 2 pm in Kolkata's BBD Bagh. The polls in Bengal saw widespread violence between TMC and BJP workers.

More than 800 residents of Bariyapur, under the Allahabad Lok Sabha constituency, have boycotted the polls over the demand for an underpass. The villagers gathered near the railway track to protest and claimed that repeated requests to the district administration and the MLA have not seen any impact.

A booth-level officer was seen at the house of the chief election agent of BJP candidate from Pratapgarh, Sangam Lal Gupta, distributing voter slips. A complaint has been filed by district-level election officials to the Election Commission.

BJYM Howrah club cell convener Priyanka Sharma was arrested on charges of posting a photo-shopped picture of WB CM.Her mother says,"She just shared the picture on social media like many others,since she is an opposition worker she was arrested."

Chadha also tweeted, "Massive rigging and bogus voting incidents reported at Govt Boys Sr Sec School in Tughlakabad. Our volunteers have again unearthed the fraud. Election officers and Police are in connivance with BJP. I am reaching the spot. (sic)"

Raghav Chadha, AAP South Delhi candidate, alleged that some BJP workers are moving around in a polling booth in Sangam Vihar, and that a person voted 4 times. "We identified 8-10 such people and caught one red-handed. Ramesh Bidhuri (BJP candidate) is losing badly so is indulging in such tactics," he said.

A retired army personnel was taken into police custody after a quarrel broke out between him and CRPF personnel deployed Rashtriya Vidyamandir polling booth in Jaunpur LS seat in Uttar Pradesh. The retired personnel alleged that the CRPF man hit him with a stick as he was coming out of the booth after voting.

Samajwadi Party has written to the Election Commission over irregularities in Azamgarh Lok Sabha constituency of Uttar Pradesh. SP president Akhilesh Yadav is running from Azamgarh where he is pitted against BJP's star candidate Dinesh Lal Yadav Nirahua.

In an apparent violation of the Moral Code of Conduct, people are posting pictures on social media of them voting for SP-BSP alliance and BJP and the administration is unaware.

Voters jammed the NH-71 in Haryana. No one voted out of 830 voters present in Uchana Halka, Khatkad village, booth no. 209 over lack of development in the area.

Mukul Roy said, "I was once thoroughly searched while exiting airport. Now that I just came out on the main road they again stopped me. These are not police, they are all slaves of Mamata Banerjee. I am sure they feel ashamed to identify themselves as police even to their own children. This is a planned harassment activity by TMC."

BJP leader Mukul Roy's cab was stopped at Kolkata Airport and searched. This led to an argument between the former TMC leader and the police. The incident comes after Rs 1.13 lakh was seized with Ghatal BJP candidate Bharti Ghosh on Friday.

Mukul Roy slams TMC after being stopped and searched by police at Kolkata airport

The Election Commission has also sought a report from the state EC on back-to-back clashes that broke out in Keshpur.

Lok Sabha Election 2019 Phase 6 voting LIVE Updates: The Election Commission ordered presiding officer of Ghatal constituency's Keshpur booth to file an FIR against BJP's Ghatal candidate Bharati Ghosh for flouted poll code by bringing her personal security personnel into 100 metres range of the booth.

Villagers in Bishnupur constituency, booth no 253/226, are boycotting polls. They claimed that central forces are harassing the men and not letting women cast their vote. "There are four central force personnel on duty at the booth. They are not letting us enter and are asking us to vote for BJP. Because we denied, they are not letting the women enter the booth and are chasing us and threatening to beat up the men. Hence, the villagers have decided we will boycott voting," they said.

Gangster Ramesh Lohar was seen with Haryana MoS for Cooperatives Manish Manish Grover at a polling booth. The police caught three cars with temporary numbers and found sticks, rods, poles, two number plates of different numbers and 15 cartridge of 32 bores. These cars have been seized and Ramesh Lohar has been also been detained. Congress candidate Dipendra Huda accused Ramesh Lohar of booth capturing.

In Gram Colony polling station of Mehgaon in Bhind, a person had allegedly put Feviquick glue in EVM to prevent voting for BJP candidate Sandhya Rai. The machine has been replaced by the officers.

With just a few minutes left, brisk voting is going on in a hypersensitive polling booth established in Digha of Saranda in West Singhbhum district in Jharkhand. Saranda is infamous as one of the core hubs of Maoist rebels in Jharkhand.

BJP and Congress workers engaged in a heated argument at Vivekanad polling booth in Bhopal. The Congress workers alleged that BJP workers are forcing voters to press BJP button in EVM. Police reached the spot after being informed about the incident and warned BJP workers to stay away from the booth. The Congress workers also alleged that BJP activists were noting names of voters and asking then to reveal their votes.

RAF jawans posted at booth number 171 under Jugsalai Assembly constituency in Jamshedpur were caught in a violent clash between JMM and BJP supporters. Three persons have been arrested by police so far.

It has been at least two hours since voting was paused in Karomi village in Lambhua, booth no. 9 due to EVM malfunctioning. Officers have stopped voters from leaving the booth.

Supporters of JMM candidate from Jamshedpur, Champai Soren and sitting BJP MP Bidyut Baran Mahato clashed at a polling booth in Jugsalai area of Jamshedpur Parliamentary constituency towards the end of the polling time. The police and paramilitary forces deployed had to resort to mild cane charge and fire teargas to control the mob. One police personnel was reportedly injured in the clash.

Ex-Madhya Pradesh chief minister Digvijaya Singh, who is the Congress candidate from Bhopal, was unable to cast his vote in Raghogarh. Speaking to News18, he said, "By going there (Raghogarh), I would have lost a thousand votes here. I have to start campaigning for other constituencies also. I should've had my voted registered in Bhopal," he said.

In Karnataka's Kalaburagi, senior Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge said, "Wherever he goes, Narendra Modi keeps saying that Congress will not win 40 seats. Do you believe that? If Congress gets more than 40 seats, will Modi hang himself at Delhi's Vijay Chowk?"

On the Narkatiaganj incident, where BJP candidate Sanjay Jaiswal was targetted by stick-laden people, Bihar CEO HR Srinivasa said, "An instigating speech was made, after which the situation got heated. The police immediately intervened, and now everything is going on peacefully. I'll ask for a report. There were sticks in some people's hands, and the MP's bodyguard also fired in the air."

"I have several projects in mind, including Modiji's biopic in Bhojpuri, so that people get to know more about him. Apart from this I am also planning to make biopics of Swami Vivekananda and Atal Bihari Vajpayee," the Bhojpuri film actor said.

Kishan said he also plans to make Bhojpuri films on the lives of Swami Vivekanada and former premier late Atal Bihari Vajpayee.

Film actor and BJP's Gorakhpur Lok Sabha candidate Ravi Kishan Sunday said he will make a biopic on Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Bhojpuri so that the speakers of that language can know more about the leader.

Addressing a rally in Indore, Narendra Modi said, "The country is together to elect this government again. It is often said that the country's voter is silent. But this time the public is saying it that many politicians who've lost sleep, they've lost control over their speech. 2014 election was based on anti-incumbency, 2019 will be on pro-incumbency."

Lok Sabha Election 2019 Phase 6 voting LIVE Updates: A mob made an attempt to 'attack' BJP's West Champaran MP and candidate Sanjay Jaiswal outside polling booth in Bihars Narkatiaganj. Jaiswal escaped unhurt with the help of local police and his security from a polling booth.

Lok Sabha Election 2019 Phase 6 voting LATEST Updates: A mob made an attempt to 'attack' BJP's West Champaran MP and candidate Sanjay Jaiswal outside polling booth in Bihars Narkatiaganj. Jaiswal escaped unhurt with the help of local police and his security from a polling booth.

Ex-Madhya Pradesh chief minister Digvijaya Singh, who is the Congress candidate from Bhopal, was unable to cast his vote in Raghogarh. Speaking to News18, he said, "By going there (Raghogarh), I would have lost a thousand votes here. I have to start campaigning for other constituencies also. I should've had my voted registered in Bhopal," he said.

CPM general-secretary Sitaram Yechury wrote to the Election Commission demanding action against Narendra Modi over his interview in which he "gave out operational details of a sensitive military mission with a purpose to influence voters during the silent period of the campaign".

The RAF jawans posted at booth number 171 under Jugsalai Assembly constituency in Jamshedpur were caught in a violent clash between JMM and BJP supporters. Three persons have been arrested by police so far.

BJP and Congress workers engaged in a heated argument at Vivekanad polling booth in Bhopal. The Congress workers alleged that BJP workers are forcing voters to press BJP button in EVM. Police reached the spot after being informed about the incident and warned BJP workers to stay away from the booth. The Congress workers also alleged that BJP activists were noting names of voters and asking then to reveal their votes.

The Election Commission ordered presiding officer of Ghatal constituency's Keshpur booth to file an FIR against BJP's Ghatal candidate Bharati Ghosh for flouted poll code by bringing her personal security personnel into 100 metres range of the booth.

Raghav Chadha, AAP South Delhi candidate, alleged that some BJP workers are moving around in a polling booth in Sangam Vihar, and that a person voted four times. He also tweeted about BJP being involved in "massive rigging and bogus voting" being reported at Tughlakabad.

Security forces in West Bengal's Ghatal constituency lathicharged at a huge mob that had gathered outside the polling booth in Keshpur Bazar. Police also used tear gas in the area. The seat where TMC's actor-and-politician Dev and BJP's Bharati Ghosh are going head to head, saw violence all day.

Not for the first time this election, a BJP delegation led by the party's vice-president Jay Prakash Majumdar and election committee member Sishir Bajoria will meet the West Bengal chief electoral officer to discuss the subject of discrepancies in Phase 6 of the polls at 2 pm in Kolkata's BBD Bagh. The polls in Bengal saw widespread violence between TMC and BJP workers.

At Toklo of Chakradharpur, in Singhbhum Lok Sabha constituency, villagers have boycotted polls, demanding a road, leading to now votes being cast in the polling station so far. In Fatehnagra village of Kauvapur block in Balrampur district of Uttar Pradesh, villagers also refrained from voting and said they have been deprived of basic amenities like electricity, roads and water.

Officials are still trying to convince residents of Rajswa village, a part of the Domariyaganj Lok Sabha constituency in Uttar Pradeh, not to boycott polls. Booth number 437 is yet to register any vote.

At noon, the country's 59 constituencies that were going to polls had recorded voter turnout percentage of 25.06 percent. In West Bengal, despite clashes between TMC and BJP, the turnout percentage stood at 38.08%, the highest in the country.

BJP Bengal president Dilip Ghosh's convoy was attacked by unidentified men and his car vandalised at Dantan in West Medinipur. Two people were injured in the violence, one severely. Ghosh has alleged that the men were sent by the TMC. "They are behaving like hooligans and not letting polling take place peacefully," he said. People were allegedly heard shouting 'Dilip Ghosh go back' after surrounding his car.

UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi, accompanied by Congress Delhi chief Sheila Dikshit, cast her vote at Delhi's Nirman Bhavan on Sunday. Her son, Rahul, cast his vote earlier in the day and predicted a BJP loss.

BJP candidate for Ghatal, Bharti Ghosh, was stopped from entering a booth at Keshpur by TMC cadres. Bharti had allegedly wanted to sit at the booth and was stopped from doing that by the TMC polling agent, leading to a scuffle where both sides engaged in pushing. Later in the day, Ghosh's vehicles were vandalised, reported ANI. BJP has blamed TMC for the action.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi, after casting his vote at Tughlaq Road with Congress leader Ajay Maken, said that the people were the rulers in this country and that he is willing to accept whatever the mandate of the people is. He said the issues of the polls were unemployment and the money siphoned off to Anil Ambani by Narendra Modi. "He has given us his anger and we have returned it with our love," he said.

An argument broke out between Union minister and BJP's candidate from Sultanpur Maneka Gandhi and the SP-BSP gathbandhan's candidate Sonu Singh after Maneka alleged that Singh's supporters were threatening voters.

Widespread EVM failures have marked Phase 6 of polling as well, leaving people standing in long queues for nearly two hours in the heat. In West Bengal, fresh EVM malfunction reports have come in from from Paschim Medinipur's booth numbers 163, 155 and 175, in the Chandipur Kalikakhali village. In Uttar Pradesh's Pratapgarh, voters complained of heat at booth number 39 where voting has still not begun. Voting has not begun at booth number 346 in Sultanpur either. In Madhya Pradesh, EVM glitches were found at Laharpur Baghmugakiya extension's polling booth in Bhopal. In Machhlishahr's booth number 369 and Jaunpur's booth number 125, 127, 128 and 131, voting is yet to begin.

Major clashes were reported in the early hours of 12 May at Kanthi Lok Sabha constituency's booth number 23 and 24 in Paschimbar area. A few rounds of firing took place and two people have been injured. BJP has claimed the individuals named Ananta Gucchait and Ranjit Maiti are party workers.

Among Sunday's first voters were India cricket captain Virat Kohli, his former teammate and BJP's East Delhi candidate Gautam Gambhir and Bhopal candidate Pragya Singh Thakur. Virat stood in line at a polling booth in Pinecrest School in Gurugram.



Mere minutes into polling, voting has been halted at booth number 369, part of Machhlishahr Lok Sabha constituency in Uttar Pradesh due to EVM malfunction. Voting has not yet begun at booth number 75 in Sagar Lok Sabha constituency in Madhya Pradesh due to a technical malfunction in the EVM.

A BJP worker, Raman Singh, was found dead on Saturday night at Gopiballabpur in West Bengal's Jhargram district. Jhargram was an erstwhile Maoist hotbed. Violence has marked every single poll phase in West Bengal so far. BJP has blamed TMC for the alleged murder.

Elections will be held in 14 seats in Uttar Pradesh, 10 seats in Haryana, eights constituencies each in Bihar, Madhya Pradesh and West Bengal, seven seats in Delhi and four in Jharkhand. Polling will begin at 7 am and go on till 6 pm in most of the constituencies.

The fate of several Union ministers, including Radha Mohan Singh, Harshvardhan and Maneka Gandhi, SP chief Akhilesh Yadav and Congress leaders Digvijaya Singh and Jyotiraditya Scindia will be decided on Sunday in the sixth and penultimate phase of Lok Sabha polls to be held in 59 constituencies in six states and New Delhi.

Over 10.17 crore voters are eligible to exercise their franchise to choose among the 979 candidates in fray. The Election Commission has set up over 1.13 lakh polling stations for smooth conduct of polls

The elections in this phase are seen as a big test for the BJP, which had won 45 of these seats in 2014, with the Trinamool Congress bagging 8, the Congress two and the Samajwadi Party and the LJP one seat each among others.

In Uttar Pradesh, the BJP had won 13 of the 14 constituencies in 2014, the only exception being Azamgarh, won then by SP founder Mulayam Singh Yadav.

However, the BJP had to face defeat in the bypolls in Phulpur and Gorakhpur constituencies last year. While the anti-BJP alliance would like to retain its grip over both the seats, the saffron party is looking to wrest them from the Opposition.

Their importance can be gauged from the fact that Gorakhpur was represented by Yogi Adityanath in Lok Sabha from 1998 to 2017, before he became the chief minister of Uttar Pradesh.

Similarly, Phulpur was won for the first time by the BJP in 2014, when Keshav Prasad Maurya emerged victorious from the seat once represented by Jawaharlal Nehru, India's first prime minister. Maurya vacated the seat after he became the deputy chief minister of the state in 2017.

In Azamgarh this time, Akhilesh is trying to retain his father's seat against Bhojpuri film star Dinesh Lal Yadav 'Nirahua' of the BJP.

Sultanpur too is seeing an interesting contest as the BJP has fielded Union minister Maneka Gandhi for the seat won by her son Varun in 2014.

The seats appear tricky for Maneka as BJP strategists are relying on a division of Congress and gathbandhan votes, besides possible counter-polarisation of non-Yadav and non-Jatav Dalit and OBC votes.

Polling will also be held for Bhopal, Morena, Bhind (SC), Gwalior, Guna, Sagar, Vidisha and Rajgarh seats in Madhya Pradesh. This will be the third phase of polling in Madhya Pradesh, with the first and second phases having been held on 29 April and 6 May. The last phase will be held on 19 May.

The Bhopal seat will see an interesting fight between senior Congress leader Digvijaya Singh and BJP nominee Pragya Singh Thakur.

Guna will seal the fate of AICC general secretary and Congress candidate Scindia. Union minister and BJP nominee Narendra Singh Tomar is in the fray from Morena.

In the national capital, voting will be held in all the seven seats. As many as 164 candidates, including 18 women, are in the fray.

It is expected to be a three-cornered fight involving the BJP, AAP and the Congress.

Prominent candidates in the fray include veteran Congress leader Sheila Dikshit, Olympian boxer Vijender Singh, Union minister Harsh Vardhan, Atishi from AAP and her BJP rival cricketer-turned-politician Gautam Gambhir.

Union ministers Rao Inderjit Singh and Krishan Pal Gurjar are among the 223 candidates in fray in Haryana.

Former chief minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda, a sitting MLA of Congress from Rohtak district, is once again trying his luck to enter the Lower House, this time from Sonipat. Earlier, Hooda had remained a four-time MP from Rohak parliamentary constituency.

Hooda's son Deepender is seeking re-election for fourth term from Rohtak as Congress nominee.

Among other candidates, Union minister Birender Singh's son Brijendra Singh (BJP) and former chief minister Bhajan Lal's grandson Bhavya Bishnoi (Congress), both political greenhorns, are contesting from the Hisar Lok Sabha seat, where they face sitting MP and leader of newly floated JJP Dushyant Chautala, grandson of former chief minister, OP Chautala

Former Union minister Kumari Selja and state Congress chief Ashok Tanwar are fighting from Ambala and Sirsa, respectively, for the party.

The ruling Trinamool Congress, the BJP, the Congress and the Left Front constituents  the CPM, the CPI and the AIFB  are the main contenders in West Bengal. In this phase, polling will be held in Jangal Mahal  the forested region of Bankura, West Midnapore, Jhargram and Purulia districts, which used to be a Maoist hotbed, during the erstwhile Left Front government.

In Jharkhand, state minister Chandraprakash Choudhary, former cricketer Kirti Azad and ex-chief minister Madhu Koda's wife Gita are among the 67 candidates whose fate will be sealed in the third phase of polls in the state.

Polling will be held in Dhanbad, Giridih, Jamshedpur and Singhbhum (ST) seats, all won by the BJP in 2014.

Altogether, 66,85,401 voters, including 31,79,720 women and 116 of the third gender, are eligible to exercise their franchise.

Four sitting MPs, including Union Agriculture Minister Radha Mohan Singh, are among the 127 candidates contesting in Bihar.

Amid tight security, polling will be held in eight Lok Sabha seats - Sheohar, Valmiki Nagar, Pashchimi Champaran, Purvi Champaran, Siwan, Gopalganj, Maharajganj and Vaishali.

Among the 127 candidates, 16 are women - eight in Vaishali, four in Siwan and one each in Sheohar, Maharajganj, Purvi Champaran and Valmiki Nagar.
Bachan Singh, a centenarian, who has never missed an election since 1951, was visited by the Election Commission Officers during the Lok Sabha elections

New Delhi: Age is just a number, says a family member of 111-year-old Bachan Singh, the oldest voter in Delhi who carried a youthful enthusiasm into the polling station in Tilak Vihar.

Till the last Assembly elections in 2015, the centenarian cycled to the polling booth to cast his vote. This time, he reached the booth in a car along with poll officers in full media glare.

He was later wheeled into the polling both using a chair.

A paralysis attack around three months ago had rendered the centenarian bedridden. Though Bachan Singh cannot talk like the way he did before, but he knows how important his vote is.

"I will vote for those who worked for us," he said.

Interestingly, Singh doesn't know there's a party called the AAP and that Arvind Kejriwal is the chief minister of Delhi.

"He doesn't even know that the Aam Aadmi Party exists. For him, every election has been a contest between the BJP and the Congress," his youngest son, Jasbeer Singh, 63, says.

Jasbeer Singh claims his father has never missed out on an election since 1951. Election Commission officers came to Singh's house to invite him to vote in the sixth phase of national elections.

The poll commission will also provide him with pick and drop facility.

Talking about the visit, Singh's daughter-in-law said: "He felt very nice. They talked to him and asked him many questions. They gave him a certificate, a bouquet, and a mug."

"Till a few years ago, he would cycle to the polling booth and cast his vote. He never needed any help. He cooked for himself and spent most of his time doing seva in the gurdwara," Jasbeer says.

The family says they have traditionally voted for the Congress because former prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru "supported Namdhari Sikhs at the time of partition".

But they think the Aam Aadmi party should be given another chance in Delhi.

His grandson Gulchand Singh said: "He always used to tell us to go vote. He made sure that no vote in our family is wasted."

Bachan Singh, a native of Lalpura in Punjab, lives as well as preaches the motto 'even a single vote should be wasted'.

All seven seats of the National Capital vote on 12 May in the sixth phase of Lok Sabha elections

with inputs from agencies
You are here: Business

China's public offering funds reached 13.94 trillion yuan (about 2 trillion U.S. dollars) by the end of March this year, according to data from the Asset Management Association of China.

This marked a decrease of 2.45 percent from the scale seen at the end of February.

According to the association, the public offering funds were operated by 123 fund management companies, of which 79 were domestic firms while the rest were joint ventures.

China's asset management business expanded slower in recent years as authorities tightened regulations to contain risks arising from wealth management products.

In 2017, draft guidelines unified rules covering asset management products issued by all types of financial institutions, requiring them to set leverage ceilings.
The process of voting in the elections was marred by instances of violence, EVM malfunction and boycotts across the country.

Bengaluru: A total of 59 seats went to polls in the penultimate phase of the Lok Sabha elections. A total of 10.17 crore people were eligible to cast their votes from Haryana, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh and West Bengal. This phase witnessed a turnout of 60 percent, with West Bengal witnessing the highest voter turnout with 80 percent, while Uttar Pradesh had the lowest turnout with 51 percent till 6 pm.

The process of voting was marred by instances of violence, EVM malfunction and boycotts across the country. BJP candidate for Ghatal Bharti Ghoshs convoy was allegedly attacked by TMC workers. The West Bengal Chief Electoral Officer has sought a report from the District Magistrate of Ghatal on the attack on Ghosh's convoy. A BJP delegation led by the state vice-president Jay Prakash Majumdar met the CEO of West Bengal to discuss the violations and discrepancies in this phase of elections.

In Madhya Pradesh, Alok Sharma, a senior BJP leader and Mayor of Bhopal reached Gautam Nagar police station on Sunday morning after just one hour of polling. He alleged that Bhopal North MLA and Cabinet minister in the Kamal Nath government Arif Aqueel's brother Aamir Aqueel threatened the BJP's polling agent and brandished a weapon. According to police officials, the incident took place at the DIG Bungalow polling centre where an unidentified man attacked a polling agent of BJP.

"The BJP has no arrangement of a polling agent in ward 16 as the booth falls in Arif Aqueels stronghold. So we asked the election officials to allow us to send a polling agent from a nearby booth. When the agent went to sit near the booth to help voters, Aamir Aqueel sent goons to attack the agent," Sharma said.

EVM malfunction

Voters were disgruntled as widespread EVM failures were reported from across states. Commencement of voting was delayed at booth numbers 125, 127, 128 and 131 in Jaunpur constituency, at booth number 16 in Pratapgarh constituency and at booth numbers 238, 279, 398, and 404 in Shrawasti Lok Sabha constituency of Uttar Pradesh. EVM malfunctions were also reported from booths numbers 71, 274 and 278, of Sultanpur. There was a delay in the start of voting at booth numbers 205 and 329 in the same constituency. Voting began after a delay of one and a half hours at Badlapur, part of Jaunpur Lok Sabha seat. There were more than 4,500 voters who were waiting in the queue to cast their vote after polling was held up due to EVM malfunction.

In Machhlishahr's booth number 369 and Jaunpur's booth numbers 125, 127, 128 and 131, the start of voting was delayed. The highest turnout in Uttar Pradesh was recorded at Ambedkar Nagar with 55 percent while Pratapgarh recorded the lowest turnout with 51 percent till 6 pm.

A faulty EVM was replaced in the morning at booth number 135 in Panchkula, part of Ambala Lok Sabha constituency in Haryana. However, this new EVM too stopped working after some time due to a fresh glitch, pausing the polling process once again.

Voting was delayed by two hours at booth number 301 in Riga under the Sheohar constituency in Bihar due to EVM malfunction. Bihar recorded a voter turnout of 55 percent till 6 pm with Paschim Champaran recording the highest polling percentage in the state with 63 percent while Maharajganj was the lowest with 47 percent till 6 pm

Engineer suspended for taking EVM home

An assistant engineer of the Rural Engineering Service was booked for allegedly taking an EVM to his home in Guna. The accused, AK Shrivastav, was posted for election duty and he allegedly took the EVM to his home. Guna SDM Shivani Raikwar inspected the house and seized the machine. The accused assistant engineer was also suspended from duty. Madhya Pradesh recorded a polling percentage of 60 percent, with Rajgarh recording the highest polling percentage in the state with 68 percent and Bhind recording the lowest with 51 percent till 6 pm

In West Bengal, EVM malfunctions were reported at Paschim Medinipur's booth numbers 163, 155 and 175, in the Chandipur Kalikakhali village. In Madhya Pradesh, EVM glitches delayed voting at Laharpur Baghmugakiya extension's polling booth in Bhopal.

Booth numbers 116,117, 122 in Malviya Nagar of South Delhi constituency and some booths of Ballimaran under Chandni Chowk Lok Sabha constituency reported EVM malfunctioning. Congress and AAP had alleged that EVM malfunctions were reported from areas dominated by Muslims. Delhi BJP leader Praveen Shankar responded to the charge by saying, Aam Aadmi Party is raising bogus issues to defend their defeat in the Lok Sabha elections and it's a step to gain political mileage."

Delhi witnessed a voter turnout of 55 percent with North East Delhi recording 58 percent, while New Delhi recorded the lowest turnout with 54 percent till 6 pm

Widespread boycotts

Incidents of poll boycott were reported across different constituencies in the Hindi belt. In Uttar Pradesh, over 800 residents of Bariyapur under Allahabad Lok Sabha constituency have boycotted the polls over the demand for an underpass. The villagers gathered near the railway track to protest. Villagers claimed that they have spoken to the district administration and the MLA but havent seen any impact. A similar situation was also witnessed in the Sahijanpur village in Pratapgarh LS constituency. Voters boycotted elections in Fatehnagra village, Kauvapur Block, Balrampur district, Uttar Pradesh as they say they have been deprived of the basic amenities like electricity, roads and water and are disappointed by the government.

In Jharkhand, vote boycott was witnessed in booth no 90 at Toklo of Chakradharpur under Singhbhum Lok Sabha constituency. Villagers boycotted the voting and demanded good roads. Jharkhand witnessed a voter turnout of 64 percent with Singhbhum recording the highest turnout with 68 percent while Dhanbad recorded the lowest turnout with 60 percent till 6 pm.

In Haryana, villagers of Bhakli boycotted the Lok Sabha election. Till 10 am, not even a single voter voted at booth no. 12, 13, 14 in Rohtak and Kosli. The villagers were protesting over the notification of making Kosli a municipality. The villagers demanded the removal of Bhakli from Kosli municipality, but officials rejected the demand.

Haryana witnessed a voter turnout of 63 percent with Karnal recording the lowest polling turnout with 56 percent. Kurukshetra recorded the lowest turnout with 68 percent till 6 pm.

In West Bengal, the reasons for boycott were different altogether. In Bishnupur Lok Sabha constituency, booth numbers 253 and 226, villagers boycotted polling claiming that central forces are harassing the men and not letting women cast their vote. They also added that the central forces were asking them to vote for the BJP. In West Bengal, Tamluk witnessed the highest voter turnout of 83 percent while Bankura recorded the lowest turnout with 76 percent till 6 pm.

(The author is a Bengaluru-based freelance writer and a member of 101Reporters.com)

Follow updates on the sixth phase of the Lok Sabha election here
Asserting that the people want a strong and decisive government, Naqvi told a press conference in Kolkata, 'The country does not want a 'jugaad' or 'jod tod ki sarkar' (stop-gap arrangement leading to the formation of an unstable government).'

Kolkata: Union minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi on Sunday said the country wants a permanent and decisive prime minister, instead of a contractual one.

Hitting out at the Opposition alliance for having "too many" contenders for the prime minister's post, Naqvi said the country "does not want a contractual prime minister, where you have someone as prime minister for six months and somebody else for the next six months."

Asserting that the people want a strong and decisive government, he told a press conference in Kolkata, "The country does not want a 'jugaad' or 'jod tod ki sarkar' (stop-gap arrangement leading to the formation of an unstable government)."

The people, claimed the Union minister of minority affairs, will vote for the developmental work done in the last five years.

Mocking the Opposition alliance for fighting a battle of survival, Naqvi added, "Most of the Opposition parties will lose their recognition after elections. They are all fighting a battle for survival."

Naqvi said that the last five years of the Narendra Modi-led government have proved to be years of performance, progress and prosperity.

"Despite of negative and obstructionist politics of the Opposition, the Modi government has tirelessly and honestly worked for the welfare of every section of the society. Earlier, the Opposition used to abuse Modi but now they have started abusing EVMs (Electronic Voting Machines) also," he said.

Criticising Opposition parties for questioning EVMs, the Union minister said this proves that the Opposition parties have surrendered even before the Lok Sabha election results are declared.

Hitting out at West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee for her "arrogance, Naqvi said the Opposition parties like TMC wants to convert "the legacy of Satyamev Jayate" into "the politics of jhoothmev (lies) jayate".
The presence of extra security in West Bengal for the sixth phase of polling for the Lok Sabha election could not prevent violence from breaking out yet again

Kolkata: The presence of extra security in West Bengal for the sixth phase of polling for the Lok Sabha election could not prevent violence from breaking out yet again. Eight seats, including those from around the tribal belt of Purulia and Jhargram, went to the polls on Sunday.

Even before polling could begin, reports of political clashes and deaths poured in from across these eight seats, especially East Midnapore, Kanthi and Jhargram. One BJP worker and one Trinamool Congress worker were found dead in Jhargram and Kanthi. Two other BJP workers  Ananta Guchait and Ranjit Maity  were reportedly shot at in East Midnapore's Bhagabanpur.

The BJP worker who first went missing on Saturday and was later found dead late at night by police has been identified as Raman Singh. The body of Sudhakar Maity, the TMC worker who also went missing Saturday, was found in Contai.

Maity was spotted by a local on the national highway and was brought to Contai government hospital where doctors declared him dead. Maity had a political history with the Left party and he recently joined TMC," Kanthi Police said, adding that an investigation is underway.

Violence, EVM glitches at polling booths

Polling began with a couple of EVM malfunctions reported from Bankura and Bishnupur. State Election Commission also confirmed that an EVM was broken in Bankura's Shaltora, which is being considered for repolling.

Bankura's booth 1 also saw clashes between TMC and BJP supporters. A BJP cadre was allegedly pushed and thrown outside the polling booth by TMC workers. "The EVM was vandalised in front of us and no one could do anything. BJP Bankura candidate Dr Subhash Sarkar and a couple of media persons were stuck inside the booth for a long time as some unidentified men were chasing them with bricks and sticks," said Arabinda Das, an eyewitness.

A whopping 718 companies of Central forces were deployed in Bankura, Medinipur, Ghatal, Kanthi, Bishnupur, Purulia, Tamluk and Jhargram. However, sporadic violence occurred during polling.

Additional Director General of Police (Law and Order) Siddhi Nath Gupta, at a press conference said, Twenty-six were injured during today's voting. Three suffered bullet injuries. At least 16 were arrested and the presiding officer of Gahtal booth number 206/207 was suspended and issued a show cause notice."

BJP faces uphill battle

For the BJP it was a do-or-die situation in Jhargram, Ghatal and Purulia constituencies. While Purulia and Jhargram have already seen a wave of saffronisation, Ghatal looked like a tough nut to crack after today's clashes, firings by forces and lathicharge in the constituency where TMC star candidate Dev Adhikary is contesting against party friend-turned-foe ex-IPS officer Bharati Ghosh.

Bharati's presence at Ghatal's Keshpur made the locals angry. The BJP accused the TMC of "planting outsiders" to create a ruckus in the area. Bharati was accused of violating the Model Code of Conduct by sending her security into the polling booth. Later, unidentified men attacked her convoy. One of Bharati's security and a few media persons were injured.

After Bharatis car was attacked, a mob gathered near Keshpur's 207/206 booth. Central forces lobbed tear gas shells and resort to a lathicharge. Security personnel also had to open fire to disperse the mob.

Attacks were planned, claims Bharati

"It is not only about me," Bharati said. "There are so many people in this convoy. What about their security and life? I did not flout any rules. This was a planned attack."

West Bengal BJP president president Dilip Ghosh said, "Mamata Banerjee is scared of Bharati and her zeal to fight. These are attempts to stop her victory."

Later, even Dilip Ghosh's car was vandalised allegedly by TMC workers in East Midnapore's Dantan. TMC candidate Dev told media in Keshpur, "Bharati has always flouted rules and she thinks she is above the law. We all know how the police seized lakhs from her car on Friday. I believe in peaceful polling. I don't understand such provocative measures taken up by the Opposition."

"Mamata killing sons of West Bengal"

Even as Dev slammed Bharati, BJPs Mukul Roy tweeted, "Mamata Devi, please don't get so desperate and stop killing sons of West Bengal. The history will never forgive you..." (sic)

Roy's cab was stopped twice at Kolkata airport by police and was searched thoroughly. The incident occurred right after Rs 1.13 lakh was seized from Bharatis car on Friday. Bharati was accused of trying to sneak the cash in. Roy, criticising the police and Mamata said, "I was thoroughly searched while exiting the airport. They stopped me again on the main road. These are not the police, they are all slaves of Mamata. I am sure they feel ashamed to identify themselves as police even to their own children. This is a planned harassment activity by TMC."

TMC leader Derek O Brein tweeted, "Some BJP candidates, staring at certain defeat, with no support base, deliberately rushing around from polling station to polling station, seeking to create trouble and disturb the peaceful polling in the state."

Villagers complain of harassment, intimidation

In Bishnupur, villagers boycotted the vote. They claimed Central forces were harassing the men and not letting women cast their votes. There are four Central forces personnel on duty at the booth. They are not letting us enter. They asked us to vote for BJP. After we refused, they did not let our women enter the booths. They chased us away and threatened to beat up the men. Thus, we decided to boycott polls," they said.

A social media post by a voter named Ananya Jana from Haldia stirred up controversy. In a Facebook post, she claimed she and her sister were manhandled at a booth and forced to vote for the local TMC candidate. "Democracy is in danger," she wrote. "Yes, in West Bengal. So, at 11 am today I went to the voting booth, a primary school near my home in Haldia, with my family. The moment we entered there was this guy standing next to the EVM machine. He asked my sister to vote for the TMC candidate."

The author is Kolkata-based freelance writer and a member of 101Reporters.com
Voting for the third phase of Lok Sabha elections in Madhya Pradesh has been underway since 7 am and long queues were seen at several booths.

Bhopal: An average of 42.25 percent voter turnout was recorded till 2 pm in eight Lok Sabha seats of Madhya Pradesh, an official said.

Voting for the third phase of Lok Sabha elections in the state has been underway since 7 am and long queues were seen at several booths. "During mock poll conducted before the actual voting began, 30 to 40 electronic voting machines (EVMs) were changed because of some technical problems," state Chief Electoral Officer VL Kantha Rao said.

The voting figures till 2 pm were: Morena 38.43 percent, Bhind 35.38 percent, Gwalior 38.70 percent, Guna 49.03 percent, Sagar 45.27 percent, Vidisha 46.93 per cent, Bhopal 40.69 percent and Rajgarh 45.30 percent, he added.

In Bhopal, Congress veteran Digvijaya Singh is locked in a battle with BJP candidate and 2008 Malegaon blast accused Pragya Thakur. Singh is a registered voter of his hometown Raghogarh in Rajgarh Lok Sabha seat. Thakur exercised her franchise in the morning at a polling booth in Rivera Town area in the state capital.

Congress general secretary Jyotiraditya Scindia is seeking a re-election from Guna seat, where he cast his vote at a booth early in the morning.

Union minister Narendra Singh Tomar, who is the MP from Gwalior, is contesting from Morena seat this time.

Altogether 138 candidates are in the fray for these eight seats, of which seven were won by the BJP in 2014.

Total 18,141 polling booths have been set up where over 1.44 crore people, including 32,909 service voters, are eligible to exercise their franchise, he said.

Lok Sabha elections for 29 seats in the state are being held in four phases.

The first (in six seats) and second phases (seven seats) were held on 29 April and 6 May. Voting for the last phase in eight seats will be held on 19 May.

Follow live updates for the voter turnout here
As campaigning for Lok Sabha polls entered the final phase, Prime Minister Narendra Modi Sunday predicted the defeat of the opposition parties, saying the people were voting for an effective government

Kushinagar/Deoria: As campaigning for Lok Sabha polls entered the final phase, Prime Minister Narendra Modi Sunday predicted the defeat of the opposition parties, saying the people were voting for an effective government.

"Opposition parties will fall flat in polls. This is because people are voting for an effective and honest government," he said at an election rally in Kushinagar and later in Deoria in eastern UP which go to polls in the last phase on 19 May.

Attacking the SP-BSP alliance, Modi said he had been the chief minister of Gujarat more than the terms of Akhilesh Yadav and Mayawati combined as Uttar Pradesh chief ministers, and there was no blot of corruption on him.

"Now these people have started demanding a certificate of my caste. I never indulge in caste politics and by your blessings, it was never needed. But when they are demanding a certificate, I tell them that I may have been born in an extremely backward caste, but my dream is to make India a frontrunner (in the world).

"To all casteist leaders I would like to say my only caste is poor, my only identity is poor. I have faced poverty, felt its pain and came out of poverty. And with the blessings of the poor, I have got the opportunity to serve the country," Modi said.

"I held the post of chief minister of Gujarat for a long time and the post of prime minister has been given by you. But neither I nor my family ever misused the post or the power. I have been CM for a longer time when compared to the combined stint of 'bua' (Mayawati) and 'babua' (Akhilesh Yadav)," he said.

Modi said he never transformed the poverty of his family to richness.

"The post of power was used to serve the poor and work for their welfare and interest. Those who are demanding my caste certificate, they have accumulated wealth and property for themselves when they were in power.

"I have been the CM of Gujarat and prime minister for five years and my record is an open book, which is in front of the entire country," he said.

Hitting out at BSP chief Mayawati for her remarks on the Alwar gangrape case, the prime minister asked her "not to shed crocodile tears" for the victim.

"If you are serious, why don't you withdraw support from the Congress government in Rajasthan," he asked.

Even the Congress government wanted to suppress the incident involving a Dalit woman, he said, adding that the party thought "hua toh hua", a reference to Sam Pitroda's remark on 1984 anti-Sikh riots.

Hitting out at the Opposition, Modi said, "The biggest example of how the 'mahamilawat' of SP-BSP-Congress actually works is Rajasthan.

"A Dalit daughter was gang-raped and there is the government of Congress and 'naamdaar'. And the Rajasthan government is not a government which enjoys full majority. It is working with the support of BSP. It is busy in hushing up the matter."

Intensifying his attack on the Congress, he said, "The Congress which chants nyay, nyay, nyay, its naamdaar has been silenced by the rapists. Today, the daughters of UP are asking Behenji (Mayawati), and Behanji you have to answer why you have not withdrawn your support to the Congress government (in Rajasthan). You are shedding crocodile tears by only indulging in issuing statements.

"When the (Lucknow) guest house incident happened, the entire country was pained. What is the reason that you are not feeling pained. If you are so honest about the dignity of the daughters, then you should immediately write a letter to the Rajasthan Governor and withdraw your support from the Congress government," he said.

"To punish those who commit crime on women, this chowkidaar of yours had made provisions for the capital punishment. If the intention of the Congress government was right, it would not have suppressed the Alwar incident, but they have only one answer  'hua toh hua'. Be it corruption, price rise or the 1984 anti-Sikh genocide, their answer is 'hua toh hua'," he said.

Seeking votes, he said it was time to make the victory historic in such a way that the 'mahamilawat' (grand adulterated) people stop thinking about facing the people in future.

He also said, "They are unable to understand why the people of the country are showering their love on the chowkidar... It is for the fight against terror that the country is voting for the BJP and Modi. Those who used to threaten India have fallen flat, they are feeling afraid."

Modi said the SP and the BSP were incapable of taking on terrorists.

About the Congress, he said, "Congress ne pahley jawan ka sar katwaya (jawan was beheaded during Cong rule), now the party has become 'vote katwa' (vote cutter)."
Opposition parties, including the Congress, took a swipe at Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday over his remarks that cloud cover 'helped' IAF planes.

New Delhi: Opposition parties, including the Congress, took a swipe at Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday over his remarks that cloud cover "helped" IAF planes evade Pakistani radars during the Balakot strikes, with some leaders terming the statement as "ridiculous and false".

The CPM has also moved the Election Commission, alleging that Modi had revealed "operational details of a sensitive military mission" in a television interview with a purpose to influence voters.

Rejecting the charge, senior BJP leader and Union minister Prakash Javadekar said, "PM Modi did not reveal anything (about the Balakot strike) he was not supposed to reveal."

In the interview aired on Saturday, Modi said he used his "raw wisdom" to dispel doubts of defence experts who wanted the air strike to be deferred due to bad weather.

"The weather was not good on the day of air strike. There was a thought that crept in the minds of the experts that the day of strike should be changed. However, I suggested that the clouds could actually help our planes escape the radars," Modi said while talking about the cross-border strike on terror camps in response to the Pulwama attack that claimed the lives of 40 CRPF personnel.

The prime minister's comment drew widespread ridicule and condemnation from various quarters, including a large number of memes on social media.

In response to a tweet by the BJP on Modi's comment, the Congress tweeted a couplet, "Jumla hi fekta raha paanch saal ki sarkar mein, Socha tha cloudy hai mausam, Nahi aaunga radar mein. (He resorted to rhetoric during his five-year tenure hoping cloudy weather would keep him out of radar)."

A number of Congress leader also hit out at Modi over his remarks.

Congress spokesperson Rajeev Satav said, "Modiji, I totally understand that you are an expert in planning 'escape' operations including that of Nirav Modi, Mehul Bhai and Vijay Mallya as they were never on your radar. Your #EntireCloudCover remarks speak volumes about your understanding and knowledge of national security."

Another Congress spokesperson Sanjay Jha said, "Now (Finance Minister Arun) Jaitley will write a blog explaining the atmospheric decomposition of air particles that accentuates chemical metabolism resulting in a diabolical cloudburst that can conceal large aircraft's from being spotted by Tata Sky radars across the LoC."

Congress social media head Divya Spandana said, "We also have this amazing new and improvised 'radar' since 2014 to detect stupidity, lies, corruption, fudged data...how else do you think we detected a stealth one like you...Narendra Modi the radar to detect planes, cloud or no cloud has been there for decades. Even for the stealth ones. If not, other the country's planes would be crisscrossing the skies firing away at will... This is what happens when you're stuck in the past."

National Conference leader Omar Abdullah took to Twitter and said, "Pakistani radar doesn't penetrate clouds. This is an important piece of tactical information that will be critical when planning future air strikes."

Taking a swipe at Modi, former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister tweeted, "I was raked over the coals for questioning veracity of Balakot strikes. But seeing Pak media & journos troll PM on cloud gaffe is awfully embarrassing. BJP's ability to suspend logic in its quest to win another term is mind numbingly fatuous. Our armed forces don't deserve this."

CPM leader Sitaram Yechury termed the remarks as "shameful" and moved the Election Commission, demanding action against Modi for violating the model code of conduct.

Yechury said Modi's words are "truly shameful".

"Most importantly, because they insult our Air Force as being ignorant and unprofessional. The fact that he is talking about all this is itself anti-national; no patriot would do this."

"National security is not something to be trifled with. Such an irresponsible statement from Modi is highly damaging. Somebody like this can't remain India's PM," he tweeted.

"Modi's ridiculous comments on radars, clouds and fighter jets have been deservedly mocked but the EC needs to act against him for invoking armed forces hours before the sixth phase of voting. Letter to EC asking for prompt and strict action on this flagrant violation," he said.

In his letter to the EC, Yechury has alleged Modi's statements were in clear and deliberate violation of the guidelines which were re-issued and reiterated by the Election Commission before the first round of polling, making it clear that the armed forces, which belong to all of India, cannot be a subject for hyperbolic and false claims by any party.
Polling in West Bengal in almost all the phases has been marred by violence, primarily due to clashes between BJP and TMC workers.

East Medinipur/Jhargram (West Bengal): Ahead of the commencement of polling in the state, three BJP workers were attacked in separate incidents in the state, officials confirmed.

In East Medinipur, BJP workers Ananta Guchait and Ranjit Maity were shot at last night in Bhagabanpur area. The injured were admitted to a hospital soon after the incident and are undergoing treatment.

Meanwhile, BJP worker Raman Singh was found dead in Gopiballabpur area of Jhargram.

Polling in West Bengal in almost all the phases has been marred by violence, primarily due to clashes between BJP and TMC workers.

BJP is looking to make significant inroads into West Bengal while Mamata Banerjee-led TMC is seeking to defend its bastions.

Polling is underway for the sixth phase of elections in the country for 59 Lok Sabha seats, including seven in Delhi, eight in Bihar, ten in Haryana, eight in Madhya Pradesh, 14 in Uttar Pradesh, eight in West Bengal and four in Jharkhand.

Results of the seven-phase elections will be declared on 23 May.
Punjab chief minister Amarinder Singh on Sunday rejected Union minister Harsimrat Kaur Badal's accusations of the Congress disrupting her poll rallies.

Chandigarh: Punjab chief minister Amarinder Singh on Sunday rejected Union minister Harsimrat Kaur Badal's accusations of the Congress disrupting her poll rallies.

"The anger of the people who had been victimised for 10 years by the Badals and their cronies are now finding voice," Singh said, expressing surprise that Badal, the Shiromani Akali Dal candidate from Bathinda, was facing protests only in some villages and not all over the states.

Badal had on Saturday accused the police of playing into the hands of the ruling Congress, alleging that it refused to take action against some miscreants who tried to disrupt her poll rally in Bathinda.

Singh said it was the "wrath of the people that they were venting against the sufferings meted out by the SAD on them for 10 years".

The fact that Badal was prevented from entering a village in her own constituency only showed that "karma" was catching up fast with the Badals, who had made the people of Punjab shed "tears of blood over their decade-long misrule", the chief minister alleged.

The Congress leader said the Akalis had "sabotaged" their own prospects with their "misdeeds", including their alleged attempts to polarise the people with sacrilege cases.

Singh accused Badal of failing to do anything for any section of the state's people despite being a Union minister in the Modi government, saying she had the "audacity" now to seek votes from those very people whose lives she and her family had "ruined".

The protest by a farmers' union, the 'Bargari Morcha and others who had prevented Badal from entering a village to address an election rally was clearly a "sign of the anger" of the people, he said.

"Did she really expect the people to welcome her with open arms after what the Badals did to them?" Singh asked, adding that both the Bargari desecration and the farmer suicides were extremely grave issues, for which he said Punjab and its people could never forgive the Badals.
tech2 News Staff

Apple's colourful line of iPhone XR phones could see a slight shift in colour palette come 2019.

As per Japanese blog Macotakara, "reliable information sources" have stated that Apple will swap out the coral and blue iPhone XRs for green and lavender ones later this year.

Beyond the coral and blue, the iPhone XR (review) currently comes in black, white, yellow, and Product RED. When the iPhone XR debuted in September 2018, it was Apple's first splash back into bright colors since the iPhone 5C launched in 2013 with blue, green, yellow, pink, and white colour options.

Apart from new colours, we've already heard plenty of leaks and predictions around what Apple might do with the follow-up to the iPhone XR.

The new and improved iPhone XR is being tipped to get an extra lens on its back, which would make it a dual-lens snapper.

That should mean it's capable of taking proper portrait photos and matching the 2x optical zoom already available on the more expensive phones, but we'll have to wait until September to know for sure.

Internal antenna upgrades and an in-screen fingerprint sensor have also been mentioned, though Apple will likely want to differentiate between its premium offerings and the more affordable third model again.
The Associated Press

Billionaire Richard Branson is moving Virgin Galactics winged passenger rocket and more than 100 employees from California to a remote commercial launch and landing facility in southern New Mexico, bringing his space-tourism dream a step closer to reality.

Branson said Friday at a news conference that Virgin Galactics development and testing program has advanced enough to make the move to the custom-tailored hangar and runway at the taxpayer-financed Spaceport America facility near the town of Truth or Consequences.

Virgin Galactic CEO George Whitesides said a small number of flight tests are pending. He declined to set a specific deadline for the first commercial flight.

An interior cabin for the companys space rocket is being tested, and pilots and engineers are among the employees relocating from California to New Mexico. The move to New Mexico puts the company in the home stretch, Whitesides said.

The manufacturing of the space vehicles by a sister enterprise, The Spaceship Company, will remain based in the community of Mojave, California.

Taxpayers invested over $200 million in Spaceport America after Branson and then-Gov. Bill Richardson, a Democrat, pitched the plan for the facility, with Virgin Galactic as the anchor tenant.

Virgin Galactics spaceship development has taken far longer than expected and had a major setback when the companys first experimental craft broke apart during a 2014 test flight, killing the co-pilot.

Branson thanked New Mexico politicians and residents for their patience over the past decade. He said he believes space tourism  once aloft  is likely to bring about profound change.

Our future success as a species rests on the planetary perspective, Branson said. The perspective that we know comes sharply into focus when that planet is viewed from the black sky of space.

Branson described a vision of hotels in space and a network of spaceports allowing supersonic, transcontinental travel anywhere on earth within a few hours. He indicated, however, that building financial viability comes first.

We need the financial impetus to be able to do all that, he said. If the space program is successful as I think ... then the sky is the limit.

In February, a new version of Virgin Galactics winged craft SpaceShipTwo soared at three times the speed of sound to an altitude of nearly 56 miles (99 kilometers) in a test flight over Southern California, as a crew member soaked in the experience.

On Friday, that crew member, Beth Moses, recounted her voyage into weightlessness and the visual spectacle of pitch-black space and the earth below.

Everything is silent and still and you can unstrap and float about the cabin, she said. Pictures do not do the view from space justice. ... I will be able to see it forever.

The companys current spaceship doesnt launch from the ground. It is carried under a special plane to an altitude of about 50,000 feet (15,240 meters) before detaching and igniting its rocket engine.

Release is like freefall at an amusement park, except it keeps going, Moses said. And then the rocket motor lights. Before you know it, youre supersonic.

The craft coasts to the top of its climb before gradually descending to earth, stabilized by feathering technology in which twin tails rotate upward to increase drag on the way to a runway landing.

Branson previously has said he would like to make his first suborbital flight this year as one of the ventures first passengers on the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing on July 20. But he made no mention of timelines on Friday.

Pressed on the timeframe, Whitesides said he anticipates the first commercial flight within a year.

Three people with future space-flight reservations were in the audience.

Theyve been patient too, Branson said. Space is hard.

Hundreds of potential customers have committed as much as $250,000 up front for rides in Virgins six-passenger rocket, which is about the size of an executive jet.

Space tourism has not been a complete novelty since millionaire U.S. engineer Dennis Tito in 2001 paid $20 million to join a Russian space mission to the International Space Station. Bransons goal has been to democratize space by opening travel up to more and more people.

The endeavor began in 2004 when Branson announced the founding of Virgin Galactic in the heady days after the flights of SpaceShipOne, the first privately financed manned spacecraft that made three flights into space.

Space sector analyst Adam Jonas, a managing director of equity research at Morgan Stanley, said Bransons venture could have an outsized impact in the age of social media on how the public visualizes space as a domain for scientific and commercial exploration.

You bring them back to earth and they explain what they saw  thats a story, put through the velocity of social media, people want to hear, he said. Sometimes you need some distance to gain a perspective, seeing the earth from space, seeing how thin that layer of atmosphere is that protects us.

Bransons plans have gradually advanced amid a broader surge in private investment in space technology with cost-saving innovations in reusable rockets and microsatellite technology.

Amazon tycoon Jeff Bezos announced Thursday that his space company Blue Origin will send a robotic spaceship to the moon with aspirations for another ship that could bring people there along the same timeframe as NASAs proposed 2024 return. Bezos has provided no details about launch dates.
Chinese Vice Premier Liu He said Friday that cooperation is the only right choice for China and the United States, but China will not compromise on major issues of principle.

China-U.S. relations are of great importance, Liu said in a group interview with Chinese media after the conclusion of the 11th round of high-level economic and trade consultations between the world's top two economies, which took place on Thursday and Friday in Washington.

Economic and trade relations serve as the ballast and propeller of the overall China-U.S. relationship, and matter not only to bilateral ties, but also to world peace and prosperity, added Liu, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee.

Cooperation is the only right choice for the two sides, but it has to be based on principles, said the vice premier, who heads the Chinese side of the China-U.S. comprehensive economic dialogue.

China, he stressed, will never make concessions on major issues of principle.

The Chinese delegation came to Washington for the latest round of talks with sincerity, and held candid and constructive exchanges with the U.S. side, Liu said, adding that the two sides agreed to continue to push forward the consultations.

China strongly opposes U.S. tariff hikes, which are harmful not only to China and the United States, but to the world at large, and China will have to take necessary countermeasures, he added.

Stressing that any agreement must be equal and mutually beneficial, Liu said that the two sides have reached important consensus on many aspects, but there remain three core concerns of China that must be addressed.

The first is to remove all the additional tariffs, he said, adding that the levy of those tariffs is the starting point of the ongoing bilateral trade dispute, and must be totally revoked if the two sides were to reach a deal.

The second is that the amount of purchases should be realistic, he said, adding that the two sides reached consensus on the volume in Argentina, and should not change it randomly.

The third is to improve the balance of the wording of the text, he said, adding that every country has its dignity, the text must be balanced, and more discussions are needed on some critical issues.

Noting that it is just normal that there have been some ups and downs in bilateral consultations since last year, Liu pointed out that it is irresponsible to casually accuse one party of "backtracking" while the two sides are still in the process of negotiation.

As for China, the vice premier said the most important thing is to focus on its own business.

China enjoys huge domestic market demand, the implementation of the supply-side reform will comprehensively boost the competitiveness of Chinese products and enterprises, and there is still ample room for fiscal and monetary policy manoeuvres, he said, adding the Chinese economic prospect is very optimistic.

Liu pointed out that it is a good thing for a major country to encounter some twists and turns in its development, as they can serve as an ability test.

Under the strong leadership of the CPC Central Committee with Xi Jinping at the core, as long as the Chinese people have firm confidence and make joint efforts, China is not afraid of any difficulties, and will certainly be able to maintain the good momentum of sustained and sound economic development, he added.




Two Muslim community sources in Kattankudy told Reuters his hardline views were partly shaped by ultra-conservative Salafi-Wahhabi texts that he picked up at the Centre for Islamic Guidances library around 2 to 3 years ago.

Kattankudy: Sri Lankan authorities have arrested a Saudi-educated scholar for what they claim are links with Zahran Hashim, the suspected ringleader of the Easter Sunday bombings, throwing a spotlight on the rising influence of Salafi-Wahhabi Islam on the islands Muslims. Mohamed Aliyar, 60, is the founder of the Centre for Islamic Guidance, which boasts a mosque, a religious school and a library in Zahrans hometown of Kattankudy, a Muslim-dominated city on Sri Lankas eastern shores.

Information has been revealed that the suspect arrested had a close relationship with ... Zahran and had been operating financial transactions, said a police statement late on Friday. The statement said Aliyar was involved with training in the southern town of Hambantota for the group of suicide bombers who attacked hotels and churches on Easter, killing over 250 people. A police spokesman declined to provide details on the accusations. Calls to Aliyar and his associates went unanswered. Reuters was unable to find contact details for a lawyer.

The government says Zahran, a radical Tamil-speaking preacher, was a leader of the group. Two Muslim community sources in Kattankudy told Reuters his hardline views were partly shaped by ultra-conservative Salafi-Wahhabi texts that he picked up at the Centre for Islamic Guidances library around 2 to 3 years ago. The sources are not affiliated with the centre. I used to always run into him at the centre, reading Saudi journals and literature, said one of the sources.

During that time, Zahran started criticising the practice of asking God for help, for instance, arguing that such pleas were an affront to pure Islam. That kind of teaching was not in Sri Lanka in 2016, unless you read it in Salafi literature, the source added, requesting anonymity to avoid repercussions in Kattankudy. Salafism, a puritanical interpretation of Islam that advocates a return to the values of the first three generations of Muslims and is closely linked to Wahhabism, has often been criticised as the ideology of radical Islamists worldwide.

Wahhabi Islam has its roots in Saudi Arabia and is backed by its rulers, although Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has committed the kingdom to a more moderate form of Islam. Other than the fact that Zahran visited the centre, the sources in Kattankudy said they did not know of any personal ties between him and Aliyar.

Aliyar founded the centre in 1990, a year after he graduated from the Imam Muhammad ibn Saud Islamic University in Riyadh, in what one resident said marked a key moment in the spread of Salafi doctrine in Kattankudy. The centre was partly funded by Saudi and Kuwaiti donors, according to a plaque outside.

Troublemaker Reuters spoke to three members of the centres board before Aliyars arrest. They asked to remain anonymous, citing security concerns amid a backlash against some Muslims. They said Zahran was a troublemaker and that they had warned authorities about his extremist views. The members said they thought Zahran frequented the library around a decade ago, but had no recollection of him visiting recently and denied that any of its books were to blame for his views.

Funding for the center came from local donations, student fees, and private donors who were classmates of Aliyars in Riyadh, the centres sources said. Reuters was unable to immediately determine further details about the funding of the centre. The Saudi government communications office in Riyadh did not respond to requests for comment on the funding of the centre.
LONDON (Reuters) - Theresa May's Conservative Party has fallen into fourth place in a poll on voting intentions for the European elections, well behind Nigel Farage's new Brexit Party which has more support than Britain's traditionally two biggest parties combined. According to the latest Opinium poll for the Observer newspaper, Farage's newly formed party is on 34% of the vote ahead of the May 23 election that is being held because Britain failed to leave the European Union as expected in March.

LONDON (Reuters) - Theresa May's Conservative Party has fallen into fourth place in a poll on voting intentions for the European elections, well behind Nigel Farage's new Brexit Party which has more support than Britain's traditionally two biggest parties combined.

According to the latest Opinium poll for the Observer newspaper, Farage's newly formed party is on 34% of the vote ahead of the May 23 election that is being held because Britain failed to leave the European Union as expected in March.

The poll put Labour in second place on 21% while the prime minister's Conservatives are back in fourth on 11%. The pro-EU Liberal Democrats, the most popular party to explicitly call for a second referendum to reverse Brexit, are on 12%.

Britain's two biggest parties endured a drubbing at the polls this month when voters expressed their frustration with the Brexit deadlock at local elections.

Farage, whose former party UKIP is credited by many with forcing Britain's 2016 referendum on EU membership, launched his new party in April, threatening to take on Britain's political leaders who he accused of betraying the vote to leave.

May has been forced to open talks with the opposition Labour Party to find a compromise on Brexit after lawmakers heavily rejected her EU withdrawal deal three times.

Britain is now due to leave the bloc in October but with parliament split over the terms, it remains unclear how or whether it will.

(Reporting by Kate Holton; Editing by Edmund Blair)

This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed.
Trump wrote on Twitter on Saturday that he thinks China felt they were being 'beaten so badly' in the recent negotiations that they may as well wait for the 2020 United States presidential election 'to see if they could get lucky and have a Democrat win.

Beijing/Washington: China and the United States have agreed to hold more trade talks in Beijing, Vice Premier Liu He said as US President Donald Trump ordered his trade chief to begin the process of imposing tariffs on all remaining imports from China.

Liu voiced a measured optimism on reaching a deal, but said there were "issues of principle" on which China would not back down.

"Negotiations have not broken down," Liu, Chinas chief negotiator in the talks, said in Washington on Friday, according to state television on Saturday. "Quite the opposite, I think small setbacks are normal and inevitable during the negotiations of both countries. Looking forward, we are still cautiously optimistic," Liu said.

Lius optimism was tempered by US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, who told CNBC on Friday that there were no further talks with China planned as of now.

Trump wrote on Twitter on Saturday that he thinks China felt they were being "beaten so badly" in the recent negotiations that they may as well wait for the 2020 presidential election "to see if they could get lucky and have a Democrat win - in which case they would continue to rip-off the USA for $500 Billion a year.

The only problem is that they know I am going to win, Trump wrote on Twitter, ... and the deal will become far worse for them if it has to be negotiated in my second term. Would be wise for them to act now, but love collecting BIG TARIFFS!

The United States escalated a tariff war with China on Friday by hiking levies on $200 billion worth of Chinese goods in the midst of last-ditch talks to rescue a trade deal. Trump had delayed the tariffs as negotiations between Washington and Beijing were progressing.

On Friday, Trump issued orders for the tariff increase, saying China broke the deal by reneging on earlier commitments made during months of negotiations.

China strongly opposes the latest US tariff hike, and as a nation, has to respond to that, Liu told a small group of Chinese reporters in the video clip.

"Right now, both sides have reached mutual understanding in many things, but frankly speaking, there are also differences. We think these differences are significant issues of principle," Liu said. We absolutely cannot make concessions on such issues of principle.

He added that talks would continue in Beijing, but gave no details. Underscoring a lack of progress in the talks, Trump ordered a further escalation of tariffs.

Trumps move would subject about $300 billion worth of Chinese imports to punitive tariffs, U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer said in a statement on Friday. Lighthizer said a final decision has not been made on the new duties, which would come on top of an early Friday tariff rate increase, to 25% from 10%, on $200 billion worth of Chinese imports.

Chinas widely-read Global Times newspaper, which while published by the ruling Communist Partys official Peoples Daily newspaper does not speak for the government, said in a Sunday editorial that the United States has seriously underestimated Chinas endurance.

Washington tried to bring up terms that either harmed the sovereignty and dignity of China, or that were seriously unequal and unrealistic. Those requests have made the negotiations more difficult, the paper said.
The Mueller report served to Congress through Attorney General William Barr in a highly concise fashion however threatened to come to a boiling point when the president used executive privilege to prevent the unredacted report from reaching Congress.

It's hitting 75F in Washington, and not just on the streets. Even as people perspire their way to work, tempers in Congress and elsewhere are flaring as a seemingly endless chapter of revelations on Trump's alleged misdemeanours continues. The New York Times ran a damaging story about the president which showed him to have rather conveniently suffered $1 billion in losses in his businesses over the last ten years. That seemed to point to tax evasions and dubious business practises.

At another time, that could have brought down a president. But #RealDonaldTrump was anything but fazed. His tweet simply admitted  what everyone knows  that real estate developers 30 years ago were entitled to write offs and such like, in a practise which was tantamount to tax shelters. In other words, entirely legal, but certainly not anything like a suit in shining armour.

The story ran in banner headlines and was the subject of news channels across the board. The story itself will probably not harm the presidents chances of re-election. Indeed, it might even improve it. Remember that his constituency includes businessmen enthusiastic about this tax cuts, and whites over 50, who will see this as smart footwork and sassiness in an already unusual president.

The Congress, however, is not amused, especially since the president seemed to block Special Counsel Robert Mueller from testifying before it. The so-called Mueller report, which was tabled in a highly redacted form in Congress, earlier exonerated the president from charges that members of his campaign Conspired or coordinated with the Russian government in its election interference activities. What it did not do however is exonerate the White House from charges of obstruction. To quote it said, while this report does not conclude that the President committed a crime, it also does not exonerate him. Trump chose to interpret that as a statement of complete innocence. It was not.

The Mueller report served to Congress through Attorney General William Barr in a highly concise fashion however threatened to come to a boiling point when the president used executive privilege to prevent the unredacted report and other materials subpoenaed by the House Judiciary Committee from reaching Congress in an exercise that has been called a "blanket defiance" of Congress constitutional rights. That play by the White House is rather similar to Nixons manoeuvres on Watergate. But heres the trouble. Executive privilege only covers confidential conversations between the president and his advisors. The Mueller report concentrates almost entirely  barring the obstruction issue  on events that occurred during the phase of elections. That is before he ever became president. Whether this is legal would need to be decided eventually by the Supreme Court. In most countries, thats a big if.

The high drama was captured by House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, who had no hesitation in calling it a constitutional crisis. But when asked by media whether Congress was considering impeachment, she merely remarked: This is very methodical. Its very Constitution-based, its very law-based, its very factually based. Its not about pressure  its about patriotism.

She went on to warn about the highly divisive exercise that was the prelude to impeachment, and that the country had witnessed in pressurizing president Richard Nixon to resign. Those with a memory of those years are inclined to agree. Impeaching a president is no easy task. It's one that requires the meticulous gathering of evidence, and more importantly, presenting it before the American people. Such an exercise could easily end up burning the fingers of the party or persons initiating the probe. Pelosi summed up the situation in one stringent remark. Every day in every way, Trump was goading the House into impeachment. Thats not surprising.

Take a look at the US economy. As the White House pointed out approval ratings on the economic performance of the government have climbed with 56 percent of those polled giving him a thumbs up. Certainly, the US economy has been growing steadily since Trump took over. Its a different issue that this rise was also seen in the last two years of the Obama administration. It may be that Trump is reaping what Obama sowed.

However, as reports note, a fiscal stimulus and a regulatory rollback during his tenure have helped continued growth, with no recession in sight. True, there are many who predict that the tariff war with China  and others  will hurt the US in the end. But thats yet to come. And the yet to come doesnt influence voters. Meanwhile, the president is using all of these issues to appeal to his supporters. In Florida, he squarely blamed House Democrats for refusing to give disaster relief following the devastating hurricane. If the size of the crowds were any indicator, the president has this sensitive state within his grasp. His consistent theme has been make America great again if only Congress would let him.

Meanwhile with about 22 men and women aspiring to enter the presidential race in 2020  one of the largest presidential fields yet  things can only get more interesting. Four of those 22 are in their 70s  Trump himself, Joe Biden and Bernie Sanders. Age doesnt seem to be a limiting criterion here, which is another thing that India shares with the US when electing its heads of government. We generally like them to be old. Thats not all. Indian politicians fume in Hindi or Tamil or particularly loudly in Bengali. In the US, its an all American twang. The content is not that different. If anything, Trumps jokes on his opponents are even less tasteful than those on a certain not so young opposition leader. Buck up though. India still has a little time to catch up.
While condemning the attack, Imran Khan appreciated the initial response by a security guard and security forces in foiling greater loss to human lives

Islamabad: Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan Sunday condemned a deadly attack on a luxury hotel in the port city of Gwadar in the troubled Balochistan province, saying the terror strike was an effort to "sabotage" the country's economic projects and prosperity.

Three heavily-armed militants on Saturday stormed the Pearl Continental (PC) Hotel in Gwadar and opened random firing, killing a guard. All three attackers were killed by the security forces.

"Such attempts, especially in Balochistan, are an effort to sabotage our economic projects and prosperity. The government will not allow these agendas to succeed," Khan said in a statement issued by his office.

While condemning the attack, Khan appreciated the initial response by a security guard and security forces in foiling greater loss to human lives.

The banned Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) claimed responsibility for the attack.

Gwadar port is one of the focal points of the $50 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) with many Chinese workers from other provinces of Pakistan working at the port. China is investing heavily in Balochistan under the CPEC.

The Chinese embassy in Pakistan also condemned the attack on the hotel and expressed condolences to the families of the security guard who was killed and two security men who were injured.

The hotel, frequented by business as well as leisure travellers, is located on the Koh-e-Batil hill, south of West Bay on Fish Harbour road in Gwadar.

All foreign and local guests staying at the hotel were safely evacuated.

The provincial police chief further said that "the attackers may have come in a boat to launch the attack".

Balochistan chief minister Jam Kamal Khan Alyani condemned "the terrorists' attack" and instructed the authorities to "ensure the safety of all inside the hotel".

He called for a "well planned and strong action against the terrorists", adding that he is "in touch with police and local administration" regarding the situation.

Balochistan, which borders Afghanistan and Iran, is Pakistan's largest and poorest province, rife with ethnic, sectarian and separatist insurgencies.

On 18 April, unidentified gunmen donning uniforms of paramilitary soldiers massacred at least 14 passengers, including Pakistan Navy personnel, after forcing them to disembark from buses on a highway in Balochistan.

The CPEC, launched in 2015, is a planned network of roads, railways and energy projects linking China's resource-rich Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region with Pakistan's strategic Gwadar Port on the Arabian Sea.

The BLA is one of the most-organised terrorist group of Baloch nationalists fighting against security forces. The group was also involved in the terrorist attack at the Chinese consulate in Karachi last year.
Kabul police say that it is not clear whether the murder was a terror act or the result of a personal dispute.

Kabul: An Afghan official says that unidentified gunmen have shot and killed a female journalist and adviser to the country's parliament in the capital Kabul.

Nasrat Rahimi, a spokesman for the interior ministry, says that Mena Mangal, a cultural advisor for the Lower House of the Parliament and former TV presenter, was killed when she was on her way to work Saturday morning.

Rahimi said one or possibly more assailants escaped from the scene. Kabul police have launched an investigation.

No one immediately claimed responsibility for the attack.

Kabul police say that it is not clear whether the murder was a terror act or the result of a personal dispute.

Both Islamic State group and Taliban militants regularly carry out attacks in the capital.
As Arab world evolves, section of Indian subcontinents Muslims gets more regressive After Saudi Arabia proscribed the Tablighi Jamaat group and called it a gateway to terrorism, there is an awkward silence among the subcontinents Muslims
The Interior Ministry said security forces launched a raid against a suspected militant hideout on the island of Tarot, Saudi Arabia.

Dubai: Saudi Arabia's security forces killed eight alleged terrorists in a shootout in the predominantly Shiite eastern region of Qatif, a government statement issued late Saturday said.

The Interior Ministry said security forces launched a raid against a suspected militant hideout on the island of Tarot off the coast of the kingdom's Eastern Province, a restive region on the Persian Gulf where most of the country's oil reserves are located.

The statement described the group as a "terrorist cell" and accused them of planning to attack vital installations and security targets.

The Interior Ministry said security forces only opened fire after they were shot at. It did not identify the militants and said an investigation was ongoing.

Videos posted on social media by residents of Tarot showed black smoke rising from residential buildings and the sound of heavy gunfire on Saturday.

Saudi security forces frequently target and clash with Shiite gunmen in the region of Qatif, which saw large protests by minority Shiites in 2011 demanding greater rights and equal treatment from the kingdom's Sunni Muslim rulers.

The kingdom has since targeted many of those protest leaders, including its most iconic figure, Sheikh Nimr al-Nimr, who was accused of national security crimes and executed in early 2016.

The Shiite cleric's execution sparked protests by Shiites in Iraq, Pakistan, and Iran, and led to the ransacking of the Saudi Embassy in Tehran, which has remained shuttered ever since.

Tensions have likely spiked in recent weeks after Saudi Arabia beheaded 37 men, most of them Shiites, in a mass execution on 23 April. The UN's human rights chief called the mass execution, which included three sentenced as minors, "shocking" and "abhorrent."

The rights group Amnesty International said 11 of the men were convicted of terrorism-related crimes after a "grossly unfair trial." At least 14 others executed were convicted of violent offences related to their participation in anti-government demonstrations in Shiite-populated areas of Saudi Arabia between 2011 and 2012.
The United States is transferring $1.5 billion originally meant for the Afghan security forces and the Pakistan military to a fund to help pay for construction of the US-Mexican border wall, according to acting US Defence Secretary Patrick Shanahan.

Washington: The United States is transferring $1.5 billion originally meant for the Afghan security forces and the Pakistan military to a fund to help pay for construction of the US-Mexican border wall, according to acting US Defence Secretary Patrick Shanahan.

"We reprogrammed $1.5 billion toward the construction of more than 120 miles of border barrier without impacting readiness," Shanahan said in a statement late Friday.

"The funds were culled from a variety of sources, to include unexecuted prior year funds, the suspension of reimbursements to Pakistan, and costs reductions in a series of contracts," he said.

More than $600 million of these funds come from an Afghan security forces account. The US is also taking $78 million from the Coalition Support Fund, which is money used to reimburse Pakistan for logistical and military support for American military operations in Afghanistan.

The funds have been reprogrammed despite an increase in attacks inside Afghanistan and a complaint by the US chief negotiator that peace talks with the Taliban are not moving at a sufficient pace, Dawn said.

The US and the Taliban have held six rounds of direct talks since October in Doha, Qatar, to end America's longest war in which the US has lost over 2,400 soldiers. The latest round of negotiations ended on Thursday.

The Taliban control nearly half of Afghanistan, and are more powerful than at any time since the 2001 US-led invasion.
By Abduljabbar Zeyad HODEIDAH, Yemen (Reuters) - Yemen's Houthi movement on Saturday started withdrawing forces from Saleef port in Hodeidah under a U.N.-sponsored deal stalled for months, a Reuters witness said, reviving hopes for peace efforts to end the four-year war. But a minister in the Yemeni government backed by Saudi Arabia dismissed the Iran-aligned Houthis' pullout as a 'show' meant to 'misinform the international community'

By Abduljabbar Zeyad

HODEIDAH, Yemen (Reuters) - Yemen's Houthi movement on Saturday started withdrawing forces from Saleef port in Hodeidah under a U.N.-sponsored deal stalled for months, a Reuters witness said, reviving hopes for peace efforts to end the four-year war.

But a minister in the Yemeni government backed by Saudi Arabia dismissed the Iran-aligned Houthis' pullout as a "show" meant to "misinform the international community".

The move, yet to be verified by the United Nations, is the first major step in implementing the pact reached last year by the government and the Houthis for a truce and troop withdrawal in Hodeidah, a lifeline for millions of Yemenis.

U.N. teams were overseeing the Houthi redeployment in Saleef, used for grain, as other teams headed to the second port of Ras Isa, used for oil, to start implementing the withdrawal from there, according to the witness.

A dozen trucks carrying Houthi fighters, armed with rocket-propelled grenade launchers and machine guns, departed from Saleef. Two ships were docked at the port and operations were running normally, said the witness who was at the facility.

"The coast guards have taken over in Saleef," he said. "They and U.N. officials have started checking equipment at the port."

The Houthis said their "unilateral step shows our commitment to implement the Hodeidah agreement and to achieving peace," after four years of fighting in the Arab nation. The group called on the U.N. to press the Saudi-led coalition to take "similar steps".

However, Yemeni Information Minister Muammar al-Iryani told Reuters the pullout was "a flagrant show".

"It's an attempt to misinform the international community ahead of a meeting of the U.N. Security Council" on Yemen, he said. "A group of (Houthi) militiamen left and they were replaced by others wearing coast guard police uniforms."

The U.N. Redeployment Coordination Committee (RCC) has said the Houthis would make an "initial unilateral redeployment" from the ports between May 11 and May 14.

It said the redeployment would enable the United Nations to take a leading role in supporting the local Red Sea Ports Authority in managing the ports and enhance U.N. checks on cargoes. It would also allow humanitarian corridors to be reopened. [nL5N22M6XO]

There has been no comment so far from the Saudi-led Sunni Muslim military coalition that has massed forces outside Houthi-held Hodeidah, which handles the bulk of Yemen's imports and aid supplies.

Western allies, which supply arms and intelligence to the coalition, have pushed for an end to the war.

The British ambassador to Yemen reacted sharply to the Yemeni government's scepticism about Houthi withdrawal. "The Yemeni cynics who criticize everything the other side does even if it is positive and who say the UN are naive seem to be saying the only solution is perpetual war in Yemen," Michael Aron said in a Twitter post. He said a U.N. presence in the ports would prevent arms smuggling.

Hodeidah became the focus of the war last year when the coalition twice tried to seize its port to cut off the main supply line of the Houthis, whom they accuse of smuggling Iranian weapons, including missiles that have targeted Saudi cities. The group and Tehran deny the accusations.

U.N. ASSESSMENT NEXT WEEK

It was not clear if U.N. special envoy Martin Griffiths had secured agreement between the two sides over the main sticking point regarding which local authorities would control the ports and city under U.N. supervision after both sides withdraw.

The coalition had disputed an earlier unilateral withdrawal by the Houthis from Hodeidah port in December, saying they had handed it over to coast guard members loyal to the group.

A U.N. source told Reuters on Saturday that the RCC would announce its assessment of the Houthi redeployment next week.

Under the first phase, the Houthis would pull back five km (three miles) from the ports over the next four days. Coalition forces, currently massed four km from Hodeidah port on the edges of the city, would retreat one km from "Kilo 8" and Saleh districts.

In the second phase, both sides would pull troops 18 km outside the city and heavy weapons 30 km away.

The United Nations secured the Hodeidah deal at peace talks in Sweden, the first in two years, to avert a full-scale assault on the port that risked triggering mass famine.

The pact is also a trust-building step to pave the way for wider political negotiations to end the conflict, widely seen in the region as a proxy between Saudi Arabia and Iran.

The alliance led by Saudi Arabia intervened in Yemen in 2015 after the Houthis ousted the internationally recognised government of Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi.

The ceasefire in Hodeidah has largely held but the fighting escalated elsewhere in Yemen.

On Saturday, the Houthis' Masirah TV channel said "enemy air bombing" killed six children and a woman, and injured 11 children and five women, in the southern province of al-Dhale.

A spokesman for the Saudi-led coalition didn't immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment.

(Reporting by Abduljabbar Zeyad in Hodeidah, Mohammed Ghobari in Aden and Aziz El Yaakoubi in Dubai; Editing by Clelia Oziel and Stephen Powell)

This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed.
U.S. farmers have raised an outcry against Washington's latest move to increase tariffs on Chinese imports, warning of serious consequences for U.S. farms and families as the trade tensions drag on.

Washington on Friday increased additional tariffs on 200 billion U.S. dollars' worth of Chinese imports from 10 percent to 25 percent, a move Beijing said it deeply regrets and will be forced to respond to with necessary countermeasures.

In a joint statement, the U.S. National Association of Wheat Growers (NAWG), the American Soybean Association (ASA) and the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) said farmers across the United States "are extremely concerned by the actions taken today" by the U.S. government.

The three commodities, according to the associations, represent around 171 million acres of farmland in the United States.

"U.S. wheat growers are facing tough times right now, and these additional tariffs will continue to put a strain on our export markets and threaten many decades worth of market development," said Ben Scholz, NAWG president and a wheat farmer in Texas.

Davie Stephens, ASA president and a soy grower from Kentucky, urged the U.S. government to hear them and believe what soy farmers are saying about "the real-life consequences to our farms and families as this trade war drags on."

"Adding to current problems, it took us more than 40 years to develop the China soy market. For most of us in farming, that is two thirds of our lives. If we don't get this trade deal sorted out and the tariffs rescinded soon, those of us who worked to build this market likely won't see it recover in our lifetime," he added.

On behalf of U.S. corn farmers, NCGA President Lynn Chrisp said they are watching commodity prices decline amid ongoing tariff threats, even while many cannot get to spring planting because of wet weather.

He argued that the ripple effects of Washington's tariff measures are causing harm to U.S. farmers and rural communities.

"Farmers have been patient and willing to let negotiations play out, but with each passing day, patience is wearing thin. Agriculture needs certainty, not more tariffs," he added.

All the tariff moves, stressed the three agricultural associations, "are having a compounding impact not only on agriculture but all industries across the United States."

China has repeatedly stressed that slapping additional tariffs is no solution to the problems, and the only right way forward is cooperation and consultation based on respect of each other's core concerns.
Thomas Derkseu, a 30-year-old German, has three identities: a graduate in East Asian studies, a foreign son-in-law and an online celebrity with millions of followers on China's social media platform.

Thomas settled in China four years ago, and he is better recognized to crowds of fans as a fluent Chinese speaker who creates funny video clips telling his anecdotes on China.

He recently created a video clip about the popular Chinese mobile products such as Xiaomi and Huawei in Germany as he said more Germans, especially the younger generation, increasingly perceive Chinese products as innovative.

A revolution of globalized Chinese consumer brands is taking place. Perceptual improvements are powered by progress from manufacturers across China's high-tech industries, from mobile payments to artificial intelligence.

China announced in 2017 that May 10 was China Brand Day and the 2019 China Brand Day series, an exhibition inviting indigenous brands to showcase the cutting-edge technology, products and services kicked off Friday in Shanghai, the second such event held in the city.

Nearly 200 Chinese brands joined the event, to be concluded on May 12, and share their experiences in going global.

"Branding strategy is one of the priorities during the shift for Chinese brands to become world power players," said an official with the National Development and Reform Commission, co-host of the event.

Localization strategy

In Thailand, a market dominated by Japanese cars for decades, it is not easy for latecomers to stand out. A car-maker MG from China found its niche in the market by developing an in-car infotainment system that supports Thai language, bringing immediate results in sales.

The system, along with MG's consistent quality, helps the Chinese car-maker become the 7th best-selling car brand in Thailand.

Cars made in China are not only top sellers in the southeastern Asian country, but also across in Britain, New Zealand, Australia, the Middle East and Indonesia.

SAIC Motor, the parent company of MG, is one of the competitive Chinese players that have gained popularity in overseas markets.

In 2018, SAIC Motor's exports of vehicles and overseas sales surged to 277,000, up 62.5 percent year on year, accounting for nearly a quarter of the total overseas sales of Chinese car brands.

"The priority of taking a company global is to earn a reputation and then boost the sales," said Yang Xiaodong, president of SAIC Motor International Corporations. "Localization is the key to establishing a reputation in a strange market and SAIC Motor has always sought to manufacture vehicles and offer after-sale services that cater to the local demand."

SAIC Motor has done exactly what it said, setting up a sophisticated value chain of research and development centers, manufacturing bases, sales and supplying centers and financial companies in its bullish international marketing drive.

Like SAIC Motor, more and more Chinese automobile companies have sped up the efforts to expand their businesses globally in recent years.

According to Shanghai customs, more than 70 Chinese car makers exported their vehicles to over 70 countries and regions via the ports in Shanghai last year, with the total amount reaching 230,000 units, making up about 67 percent of China's total vehicle exports.

Trendsetting services

"With just a few clicks of the mouse, and 10 days of patience, I can have a box of light bulbs delivered to the front door from China that help me save on my electric bill by over 90 percent," said Faisal Saleh, a young man from Dammam, Saudi Arabia.

The e-commerce platform Damman referred to is the AliExpress of China's online retail behemoth Alibaba, making cross-border sales and fast delivery possible for millions of buyers around the world.

As of September, last year, AliExpress's home and abroad users have snowballed to 150 million.

"This year marks the third year for our 'local to global' strategy," said Wang Mingqiang, general manager of AliExpress. "This strategy is intimately connected to Alibaba's broader globalization strategy."

During the annual online shopping bonanza on Nov. 11, China's online retail sales exceeded 300 billion yuan last year, up about 27 percent and a record high, the Ministry of Commerce said.

The double 11 online retail market in China is becoming increasingly international. AliExpress is inviting businesses from other countries to grab a slice of the huge market.

The company not only helps facilitate overseas business owners to sell their goods on its platform, but also share its wisdom of efficient delivery services.

"We want to promote a level playing field for small and medium-sized businesses at home and abroad in global competition," Wang said. "The sales of local products at AliExpress will also boost local economy and create job opportunities."

Mobile payment services are also taking root abroad. According to a recent research released by Nelson, a marketing consultancy, the number of outbound Chinese tourists using mobile payments has surpassed tourists who pay by cash.

The spike in Chinese mobile payment users has caught the attention of overseas business owners since the convenient payment boosts their numbers of customers and revenues.

Alipay, Alibaba's mobile payment platform, has built business relations with over 250 financial institutions abroad to provide online payment service for foreign sellers and the service of mobile payment for Chinese tourists as well as locals.

Thanks to its global expansion, Alipay's users has totaled 1 billion, making it the world's most-downloaded non-social mobile application.

Common prosperity

Sri Lanka welcomed its first railway open to traffic on the early morning of April 8, after over 70 years without railroad transport.

This is the first railway project built by a Chinese company under the Belt and Road Initiative. Thus far, the island nation has developed a sophisticated transport system of land, sea and air.

Over the years a number of countries and regions, especially those participating in the Belt and Road Initiative, have benefited from the investment and expertise of Chinese companies to upgrade their infrastructure and beef up the local economy.

The China-Maldives Friendship Bridge, the first cross-sea bridge in the Maldives, was opened to traffic in August last year. The Montenegro highway, the biggest infrastructure in the terrain-challenged country, was completed last July, and Belarus has started to develop its car manufacturing sector with the help of Chinese expertise.

In the German city of Duisburg, China Railway Express has increased from three trains per week to 35 to 40 per week right now, stimulating the growth of port industry and creating more than 6,000 jobs.

According to the Ministry of Commerce, Chinese investors completed non-financial investment totaling 15.7 billion U.S. dollars in 1,416 foreign companies in 138 countries and regions in the first two months of 2019.




You are here: China

The Ministry of Education (MOE) of China has issued a statement warning the country's middle and primary schools against unauthorized selections and rankings.

The statement, made public on Thursday, was based on several lists of so-called "top 100 middle and primary schools in China" recently released by some institutions.

The MOE has never authorized any organizations or institutions to carry out such selections or rankings, according to the statement.

While educational evaluation has an important role of guidance, such roughly generated and lame evaluations cannot objectively reflect the real conditions of schools, and have severely disrupted education activities, the statement said.

The MOE will therefore continue to regulate such activities in accordance with law and regulations, according to the statement.
China's lunar rover Yutu-2 has driven 190.66 meters on the far side of the moon to conduct scientific exploration on the virgin territory.

Both the lander and the rover of the Chang'e-4 probe switched to dormant mode for the lunar night on Saturday, according to the Lunar Exploration and Space Program Center of the China National Space Administration.

China's Chang'e-4 probe, launched on Dec. 8, 2018, made the first-ever soft landing on the Von Karman Crater in the South Pole-Aitken Basin on the far side of the moon on Jan. 3.

A lunar day equals 14 days on Earth, a lunar night the same length. The Chang'e-4 probe switches to dormant mode during lunar night due to lack of solar power.

During the fifth lunar day of the probe on the moon, the scientific instruments on the lander and rover worked well. A total of 6.6GB of scientific detection data has been sent to the core research team for analysis.

As a result of the tidal locking effect, the moon's revolution cycle is the same as its rotation cycle, and the same side always faces Earth.

The far side of the moon has unique features, and scientists expect Chang'e-4 could bring breakthrough findings.

The scientific tasks of the Chang'e-4 mission include low-frequency radio astronomical observation, surveying the terrain and landforms, detecting the mineral composition and shallow lunar surface structure and measuring neutron radiation and neutral atoms.

The Chang'e-4 mission embodies China's hope to combine wisdom in space exploration with four payloads developed by the Netherlands, Germany, Sweden and Saudi Arabia.
Much of the focus for U.S. franchisors is how to expand their brand to other countries. For multi-unit franchisees in the U.S., however, the focus is on finding new brands to expand and diversify their portfolios. One place they may want to look is the Philippines.

"We advocate Filipino franchises to go global," said Philippine Franchise Association (PFA) president Richard Sanz, in the Manila Standard. "It only makes sense for them to look for opportunities abroad. And when foreigners see these brands, they see the potential of these products in their home markets." Sanz said about 30 Filipino brands have successfully penetrated markets overseas and that about 100 more are expected to join in the coming 3 years.

Franchise Asia Philippines 2019, held in March in Pasay City, drew more than 1,000 brands from 13 countries for the 27th annual event. About 1 in 5 were foreign brands.

The PFA consists of more than 300 member companies with more than 700 brands combined. Domestically, Sanz said he is bullish about franchising growing from $25 billion in 2018 to $31 billion in 2019, driven by three factors: 1) the county's expanding middle class, 2) the dispersal of jobs and development to areas outside Metro Manila, and 3) the continuing growth of homegrown brands.

Three local trends the PFA noted in the article were:

DIY laundromats, specialty skin and beauty concepts, food parks, food strips, the renaissance of barber shops, the third wave popularity of milk teas, micro-finance, dialysis clinics, and the rise of celebrity franchisors, among others.

a move to "manless" business models through robotics and technology, including vending (vendo) machines

and, believe it or not, at least according to the article, "The death and reincarnation franchise concept is a novel concept created to bring down the number of people taking their own lives. The participant has a virtual experience while lying on a coffin for 30 minutes. Before that, he receives an inspirational message from a priest or a monk and gets to write his last will and testament."

Editor's Note: If you're a U.S. brand looking to expand into the Philippines, check out the "Philippines Country Commercial Guide" from the International Trade Administration, part of the U.S. Department of Commerce.
Molly Woodburn of Fredericksburg, a graduate of Riverbend High School, has been accepted into the Peace Corps and will serve in Vanuatu as a water, sanitation, hygiene and nutrition facilitator.

Woodburn earned a Bachelor of Science in community health with a minor in nutrition at George Mason University in Fairfax in 2018. Prior to joining the Peace Corps, she volunteered with Vida Volunteer and Research in Kenya.

During the first three months of her service, Woodburn will live with a host family in Vanuatu to become fully immersed in the countrys language and culture. After acquiring the necessary skills to assist her community, she will be sworn into service and assigned to a community in Vanuatu, where she will live and work for two years with the local people.

I hope to come back from the Peace Corps with a better understanding of the world and cultures. As well as developing useful health education techniques specifically for developing areas, said Woodburn.
If Marsha Stonehills patients arent comfortable talking in her office, she may suggest they go outside for a walk.

Or we can sit by the water or even go out in the kayak, she said.

Stonehill is a psychiatric nurse practitioner whos able to offer that kind of flexibility because she has her own practice, Melt The Ice, in King George County. She and approximately 8,000 other nurse practitioners in Virginia never had the opportunity to operate on their own until Jan. 7, when legislation passed by the General Assembly went into effect.

It allows NPs, who typically work in specialty areas, to maintain a practice without a supervising physician. NPs dont have the same level of education as medical doctors, but they can make diagnoses and prescribe medicine.

Stonehill opened her practice in March, 16 years after she became a NP and 26 years after she became a registered nurse. She can consult with patients about their stress and anxiety, feelings of rejection or problems making transitions, wherever theyre most comfortable.
A New York man who led of one of the largest cigarette smuggling operations in Virginia history pleaded guilty to charges in Henrico County Circuit Court Friday.

Police said Ebrahim Saif Alsaidi, 30, of Richmond Hill, N.Y., paid cash for more than $30,800,000 worth of cigarettes - over 600,000 cartons - tax-exempt. The cigarettes were sold illegally in New York, causing Virginia to lose over $1.5 million in sales tax revenue.

Cigarette trafficking is a highly profitable illegal racket made possible by the difference between low cigarette taxes in states like Virginia and high ones in places like New York. Virginia taxes cigarettes at 30 cents a pack while the combined city/state tax in New York City is $5.85 a pack.

Alsaidi pleaded guilty Friday to six felonies, including possession with the intent to distribute tax-paid cigarettes, and racketeering offenses. He was sentenced to 85 years, with all but 3.5 years suspended and fined $500,000.

Police said additional civil penalties and payment of taxes were levied against people whose names he used to set up and conduct his front businesses.
BUENA VISTAThe death toll from an explosion and fire that ripped through a gas station Friday has risen to three, while the blast continues to send shock waves through the rural community.

Virginia State Police have recovered three sets of human remains from the South River Market, which was leveled by the blast, Sgt. Rick Garletts said in an email Saturday.

The remains have been sent to the Medical Examiners Office in Roanoke for identification, which may take several days, Garletts wrote.

Police remained Saturday at the scene of the blast, at the intersection of South River Road and Old Buena Vista Road north of Buena Vista, and it was not clear if they were searching for additional victims. Late Friday, the number of confirmed fatalities was two.

Garletts did not say if anyone else was still unaccounted for.

Four others were injured in the blast, which shook the ground and sent flames as high as 80 feet in the air.

Authorities have not released the names of any of the victims, nor have they concluded what triggered the blast.
By HOLLY PRESTIDGE

Richmond Times-Dispatch

RICHMONDA woman found dead in a Stratford Hills home Thursday has been identified by Richmond police as Suzanne A. Fairman, a 53-year-old administrator at Virginia Commonwealth University.

Police responding to a welfare check in the 7400 block of Tanglewood Road just after 11 p.m. found Fairman unresponsive in the home. She was pronounced dead at the scene.

Fairman was the operational administrator for Virginia Commonwealth Universitys academic learning transformation lab and graduated from the VCU School of Business, according to a university website.

Police did not say how she died but described her as a victim. The medical examiner will determine the cause and manner of death.
Among the clusters of graduates preparing to line up for the University of Mary Washingtons 108th commencement ceremony Saturday morning was Arrow, a small black-and-white dog wearing a service vest.

She deserves to walk in the ceremony with me because shes been with me in classes for the last two-and-a-half years, Arrows owner Kira Itzkoff, 27, said.

Itzkoff, who lives in Mineral, said she was enrolled at UMW years ago but dropped out in 2012 because of issues. That was before she got Arrow.

She can sense when Im about to have a breakdown and shell press up against me, Itzkoff, a computer science major, said. I couldnt have done this without her.

After graduation, Itzkoff and Arrow will move to Seattle, Wash.

We have a job waiting for us at Microsoft, she said.

Itzkoff was among the 1,234 students who graduated Saturday from UMW.
On every Mothers Day to this point, Anita Crossfield has felt such conflicting emotions from the past that she hasnt been able to enjoy the present.

She was angry at the world in general, because she never met her biological mother. The woman who gave birth to her was single at the time, and because unmarried mothers were scorned in their traditional town of Kosovo in eastern Europe, she abandoned her baby.

As Crossfield dealt with the undercurrent of anger, her feelings morphed into guilt. She felt like she was betraying her adoptive parentsthe elderly couple who took her in as a baby and did what they could, even though their family situation was less than ideal.

The couples older children ran the household and treated her like a second-class citizen who didnt belong. So did her classmates, who threw rocks that left scars on her forehead.

After she had a child of her own, Crossfield still cried on the second Sunday in May, but she kept her tears to herself because she didnt want to spoil the day for her daughter. Still, it was difficult to face a holiday dedicated to unconditional love when shed never experienced a mothers love.
At UMW, she has served on countless committees ranging from academic resources to race and gender. She also has been a board member for student conduct review hearings.

Above all, Hodge has been a teacher. As theater department Chairman Greg Stull put it, students have left her classes surprised by what they can do. Julie teaches and, in so doing, changes lives.

Martinette has been with the university since 2004. He has taught courses in marketing and business strategy as well as leadership. Earlier in his career, he spent a dozen years in marketing roles for 3M and Richmond-based MicroMagnetic.

In 1992, he co-founded and served as president of The Inside Track, a fully integrated marketing and consulting company in Richmond. Before becoming a full-time faculty member at Mary Washington, he taught business as an adjunct at Averett University.

Beginning with his role as the first elected president of the College of Business Faculty Senate, Martinette has served on numerous UMW committees and in a variety of roles, from journalism advising to curriculum review. He received the J. Christopher Topher Bill Faculty Service Award in 2014 and the Outstanding Graduate Faculty Teaching Award in 2013.
Radford University will not raise tuition for the first time in 19 years.

The school's Board of Visitors unanimously voted Friday to keep tuition rates the same during 2019-20 for in-state and out-of-state students for all programs.

The freeze comes after Virginia lawmakers appropriated $52.5 million as an incentive for public colleges in the state to not raise tuition. RU will receive $1.7 million of that for freezing in-state tuition and mandatory fees. School officials did not immediately respond when asked Friday afternoon if that would cover the amount of money the university would have gained if tuition would have been raised.

Tuition for in-state graduates will remain at $7,922 and out-of-state tuition will remain at $19,557. The comprehensive fee, paid in addition to tuition, is increasing from $3,230 to $3,370. Standard room and board fees will go up 2% to $5,387 and meal plans for those living on campus will go up 3% to $4,356.

In-state graduate tuition will stay at $8,915 and $17,441 for out-of-state students. Those students pay the same amount in fees as undergraduate students. Doctoral programs are priced per credit hour and vary depending on the program.
Writer left out key information on Mueller report

I am writing in response to a May 7 letter to the editor [Mueller report editorial jumped the gun] in which Mr. David Cyr claimed The Free LanceStar wasnt credible while leaving out the most important part of the Washington Post article he cited. But thats typical for the left.

According to Justice Department officials, a day after Special Counsel Robert Mueller sent his letter to Attorney General William Barr, the two men spoke by phone. During the call, Mueller said he was concerned that media coverage of the obstruction investigation was misguided and creating public misunderstandings about his offices work.

Mueller did not express similar concerns about the public discussion of the investigation of Russias election interference, the DOJ officials said.

Barr was asked whether Mueller agreed with his conclusions about the report, including that there was insufficient evidence to charge President Trump with obstruction. Barr replied that he did not know whether Mueller agreed.
Iran's decision to partially withdraw from the nuclear agreement in the middle of an ongoing tension with the United States has added to frayed tempers and increased strategic uncertainty in this volatile region.

President Hassan Rouhani announced on television that Iran would reduce its commitments but was not fully abandoning the nuclear deal. Initially, Iran had planned to hold back the excess enriched uranium and heavy water rather than selling it to other countries, so as to reduce its stockpile as stipulated in the agreement.

This comes as a major shock to the deal, which is already on life support, after the U.S. announced to unilaterally terminate it last year. Donald Trump made this decision on the pretext that it was not a good instrument to check on Iran's long term nuclear ambitions.

Officially known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) and more generally as the Iran nuclear deal, the agreement was reached in 2015 between Iran and the P5+1, which includes the U.S., China, Russia, France, U.K. plus Germany and the European Union.

The deal was based on the broad consensus that Iran will drastically reduce its nuclear activities under international supervision. In return, it will have economic sanctions lifted and be on its way to becoming a normal member of the international community.

But right from the beginning, this move was opposed by regional U.S. allies like Saudi Arabia and Israel as well as the hawks in U.S. policymaking circles. They saw it as a trap set by Iran to wriggle out of the crippling sanctions and ultimately restart their nuclear activities.

Those opposing it found a good ear in President Trump who showed his opposition to the agreement during and after election. In addition, he also gradually cobbled up a national security team that strongly opposed the deal. Two prominent member of that team are Mike Pompeo and John Bolton.

So after initial hesitance, Trump finally took the decision in May 2018 to back away from the internationally binding agreement. The rest of the signatories, however, remained by it.

Their pledge to honor the agreement came under a lot pressure after the U.S. re-imposed sanctions on Iran. Recently, it also announced its decision to end a six-month waiver on nations importing Iranian oil, which ended earlier this month.

The U.S. has systematically pushed Iran into a cul-de-sac. The biting sanctions are now back and there is hardly any corporation or nation ready to do normal business with Tehran due to fear of U.S. retaliation.

So what should Iran do as the deal without U.S. support is not worth much? All signatories have complied during this one year period since the U.S. pulled out, but Iran has seen little benefit.

President Rouhani, in his address, warned that more drastic measures would follow if the remaining signatories including China, Russia, Germany, Britain and France failed to ease restrictions on its banking and oil sectors in the next 60 days.

Such measures could include the removal of caps on uranium enrichment levels and restarting of work on the Arak nuclear facility. However, a move like that would virtually be tantamount to waving a red cape in front of a raging bull.

Those trying to push Iran to the brink will be more than satisfied that it is taking bait, though at a slower pace. Anti-nuclear deal hawks will trumpet it as justification for the fears that Iran's commitment to dismantling its facilities was simply a smokescreen.

For those nations still backing the deal, the resumption of Iran's nuclear work will make it even harder for them to justify their stance. British Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt said at a press briefing along with Mike Pompeo that there would be consequences following Iran's decisions.

President Rouhani's move is a sign that his government will not give up fighting till the bitter end. But it also shows that the country must do something to satisfy the people and calm down internal fissures.

The ratcheting up of tension for political mileage is not good. Iran is under stress from rising prices and other factors, and Trump is heading to re-election next year. All these do not augur well for the region.

There is visible tension but we do not yet see any diplomatic push to cool down the situation. The signatories of the nuclear deal excluding the U.S. and Iran should intervene to reduce tension in order to avoid a looming disaster.

Sajjad Malik is a columnist with China.org.cn. For more information please visit:http://www.china.org.cn/opinion/SajjadMalik.htm

Opinion articles reflect the views of their authors, not necessarily those of China.org.cn.





If you would like to contribute, please contact us at opinion@china.org.cn.
News

Unlikely dealers drive local opioid trade, experts say

jenniferreynolds / JENNIFER REYNOLDS/The Daily News Hundreds of packages of a muscle relaxer known as Soma are spread across a table in the Galveston County Sheriffs Office in Galveston as Sgt. William Kilburn talks about the opioid problem in Galveston County on Friday, May 10, 2019. The pills were shipped to a Galveston County address from overseas. jenniferreynolds / JENNIFER REYNOLDS/The Daily News Hundreds of packages of a muscle relaxer known as Soma are spread across a table in the Galveston County Sheriffs Office in Galveston on Friday, May 10, 2019. The pills were shipped to a Galveston County address from overseas.

What does the typical drug dealer driving the most sweeping addiction crisis the country has seen in decades look like?

If you imagined Walter White, protagonist in AMCs television show Breaking Bad, decked out in the pork pie hat and goatee of his alter ego, Heisenberg, youd be wrong.

The people slinging gray-market opioids might look more like your grandmother, or the family physician, law enforcement and drug abuse experts say.

This is the state of the opioid trade in Galveston County.

They dont look like what you think of drug addicts, Galveston Sheriffs Office Lt. Shawn Lozica said. Its a lot of older people on limited incomes trying to supplement their income.

While the opioid crisis has become a common talking point among politicians and others across the nation, local health experts for several years argued the situation wasnt as dire in Galveston County. But that thinking is starting to change.

The saying is that everything happens later in Texas, said Richard Blondell, professor and vice chair of addiction medicine in the Department of Family Medicine at the University of Buffalo in New York.

The opioid epidemic started in the Appalachian region and spread into the Northeast and the West Coast, and its worked its way farther south. It behaves like an infectious epidemic from a public health point of view.

Drug overdose deaths from opioids in the United States have been on a dramatic rise since 1999. Opioids were involved in more than 47,600 overdose deaths in 2017 alone, about 67.8 percent of the countrys total 70,237 overdose deaths, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Opioids include heroin and prescription drugs such as oxycodone and fentanyl, among others.

Carisoprodol, more commonly known as Soma, is a muscle relaxer and is particularly popular among people addicted to opioids in Galveston County, Lozica said.

Soma, however, is not an opioid itself.

THE FOUR Ds

Years of overprescribing opioid medication has created a generation of addicts and contributed to the current national crisis, said Kathryn Cunningham, director of the University of Texas Medical Branchs Center for Addiction Research.

There was a flood of opioid prescriptions, Cunningham said.

Drug companies marketed opioids without emphasizing their addictive qualities, but physicians also overprescribed them and pharmacies often filled prescriptions without question, Blondell said.

Generally speaking, there are four Ds to overprescribing doctors today  dated, duped, disabled and dishonest, Blondell said.

Some doctors havent kept up with the problems related to opioids and continue to prescribe them; others fall for patients who falsely describe different sorts of pain; some doctors take the drugs themselves and get caught up in the life; and some doctors conspire with patients and turn opioid prescriptions into a lucrative business, Blondell said.

Elderly people often flew under the radar, Blondell said. They would get prescribed opioids for chronic pain, which they often have, and then slowly develop an addiction.

But no one recognizes it because theyre old people. They arent out stealing car radios and partying  they dont fit that image of a drug addict  and so people miss it.

THE RISE

Experts for years have pointed to the fact that Texas opioid overdose rate is far below the national average, 5.1 deaths per 100,000 people compared with 14.6 deaths per 100,000 people in 2017, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuses March report.

But while the states numbers lag behind the rest of the country, the sheer number of deaths related to opioids has increased significantly since 1999, from about 291 to 1,174 in 2015, according to a Texas Health and Human Services report.

Galveston County also has a higher rate of opioid prescriptions per 100,000 population than the rest of Texas, said Mukaila Raji, chief of Geriatric Medicine at the medical branch, in a previous interview with The Daily News.

Texas opioid prescription rate is about 57.6 per 100,000 population, which is lower than the national average of about 81 per 100,000 population, Raji said.

But in Galveston County, the rate is about 75 prescriptions per 100,000 population, Raji said.

About 20 Galveston County deaths in 2015 were opiate-related, and in 2017 county poison centers said they had 48 cases of opioid exposure, Cunningham said.

But, for all of the upward trends locally, theres still much experts dont know, Cunningham said.

Is there really that much of an increase? Cunningham said. People are more aware now. Are you really busting people more, or do you just think youre seeing it more?

LOCAL LOOK

District Attorney Jack Roady in 2017 said the countys criminal justice system sees their effects almost daily.

Addiction to opioids such as oxycodone often is a cause in cases of children entering into the states child services system, Roady said. Parents become addicted to prescription opioids and stop caring for their children, Roady said.

Researchers at the University of Texas Medical Branch found that cancer survivors were more likely to use opioids long after their diagnosis than they were before, according to an article in The Journal of the American Geriatrics Society.

Local law enforcement officers encounter many different cases of opioid-related crimes, but many of them are hard to prove because the perpetrators all have prescriptions for the drugs, Lozica said.

You might find 1,000 pills, but they have a prescription for them, Lozica said.

For addicts and even addicts relatives, buying and selling opioids often can turn into a lucrative business, Blondell said.

Older people will swap drugs with one another, Blondell said. Or, sometimes, theyll ask the doctor for more painkillers than they need, with the idea that theyll sell some excess to their friends and that will help out paying the rent, medical bills or whatever else.

Sometimes, people will even turn drugs over to their grandchildren to sell at school, Blondell said.

Deputies recently seized a Soma shipment from India of about 2,000 pills, which might sell for about $6,000, Lozica said. No one was ultimately arrested in that seizure.

FIXES

To battle the crisis, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 2018 ruled that opioid prescriptions should be valid for only three to seven days, Cunningham said.

The hope is that the new limit might decrease the number of cases around the county and country, Cunningham said.

Its making primary care physicians skeptical about their ability to identify when a patient requires opioids and not some other kind of drug, she said.

But thats only part of the solution. Galveston County officials regularly hold drug take-back weekends to cut down on excess pills and doctors are beginning to pay more attention to who is taking what, Cunningham said.

However, theres still much work to be done, she said. Texas ranks dead last among the 48 contiguous states in the number of treatment centers, according to an article by James Langabeer and several other doctors in the American Society of Addiction Medicines journal.

I think we should have a national monument remembering the people who died because of the opioid epidemic and getting the word out there, Cunningham said. Hopefully, we can come up with a way to stop it.

Related
While the PHS boys and girls track team compete today in the district meet at Sisters, let me share with you some interesting news from the middle-school level.

Those who follow the cross-country and distance running scene in Philomath have likely heard or read about Brody Bushnells accomplishments. An eighth-grader, Bushnell back on April 26-27 won the 800-meter run at the Whyte Track and Field Center at Oregon State.

Competing in the Middle School Challenge in the OSU High Performance Track Meet, Bushnell ran the two laps in 2:00.18  the fastest time in the event for a middle-schooler nationwide according to my local sources.

Yes, you read that correctly  best time in the country. Bushnell won the event by a staggering 9-plus seconds over the runner-up. He completed the first 400 meters in a blazing 56.24 seconds. Although its a split, that first-lap time would be a new school record at Philomath Middle School for 400 meters.

By the way, Ben Hernandez was third and Mateo Candanoza fifth in the same race.

Well be keeping an eye on Brody and several of our other talented middle-schoolers coming up as they put on Warriors uniforms in the future.

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At least one security guard was killed and several people were injured when three to four gunmen stormed a five-star hotel in the Gwadar district of Pakistan's southwest Balochistan province on Saturday, several official reports suggested.

The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Pakistani military's media wing, said in a statement that three terrorists attempted forced entry into Pearl Continental Hotel Gwadar, and were challenged by security guards who restrained them to a staircase.

Mir Zia Ullah Langau, Home Minister Balochistan, told local media that army and paramilitary troops were carrying out a joint operation against the militants.

Langau said that the security forces took timely action to evacuate most parts of the hotel. Some local media reports said that Navy helicopters were used to shift hotel guests to safer places.

Meanwhile, sharing initial reports with Xinhua on condition of anonymity, senior security sources from Gwadar said that four militants camouflaging as security personnel entered the hotel and engaged in a gun battle with the hotel's private and public security personnel, leaving three of them killed.

The killed people included two private security guards and a soldier, the sources added.

The militants were later cornered and killed at the 1st floor of the hotel by security forces, and a combing operation is going on which may take several hours to conclude, said the security sources.

They added that three people including two security personnel and a civilian were also injured in the shootout, and had been shifted to a nearby hospital.

The militants were using sophisticated weapons, and hurled hand grenades inside the hotel, the sources said.

Separatist group Balochistan Liberation Army's (BLA) Majeed Brigade faction confirmed the attack from an unverified Twitter account, warning to carry more attacks in the future.

The BLA also released a picture of four militants wearing army uniforms and carrying weapons, claiming that they killed themselves after carrying out the attack at the hotel.
A lengthy stretch of sunny weather this spring may feel like a blessing after torrential downpours and flooding in April. But it could also result in a lengthy fire season.

The lack of rain for three weeks has made much of the Beaver State a tinderbox, said workers with the Northwest Oregon Interagency Fire Organization, which coordinates wildland firefighting responses on federal land in the region.

Residents should think about conditions as if it already were early July, which typically marks the end of Oregons rains, rather than May, said Eric Johnson, deputy fire staff with the Bureau of Land Management.

Were on the verge of getting into fire season in the next week or so, Johnson said.

Conditions are so dry that Linn and Benton counties issued a temporary 4-day burning ban from Thursday through Sunday, and the BLM prohibited fireworks and target shooting with exploding targets and tracer rounds on its land across Oregon and Washington.

Weather predictions have the next 30 days significantly warmer and drier than normal, as well, increasing the chance of significant wildfires, Johnson said.

All summers in Oregon are dry, but some summers are drier than others, he added.

Johnson spoke to the media on Thursday at the Eugene Interagency Communications Center in Springfield. That location serves as a headquarters for the Northwest Oregon Interagency Fire Organization as it handles wildland blazes in the Willamette and Siuslaw national forests and BLMs Northwest Oregon District.

The center is much like a traditional 9-1-1 dispatch center, and during the heart of the summer, there will be a flurry of phone calls, radio traffic and other activity as workers coordinate the responses of federal, state and local agencies. Reports of fires come in from public reporting, staff lookouts and automated cameras, including infrared satellite imagery.

Detailed maps of federal land show the locations of fires and resources dispatched to the blazes, such as engines, other equipment and firefighters. The center also directs logistical support, including meals and water, to fire crews out in the field.

On Thursday, a pin remained just northeast of Detroit Reservoir. The previous morning, a car fire ended up scorching about 7.5 acres, and crews remained on the scene 24 hours later, said Shalyn Whitson, lead initial dispatcher at the Eugene Interagency Communications Center.

Whitson is in her 10th season with the center, and shes also worked as a wildland firefighter.

It seems drier than previous years, but the weather could change back, she said.

Thankfully, thats in the forecast.

The National Weather Service has predicted a chance of showers for the mid-Willamette Valley in the middle of next week, and if there is significant rainfall, that could reset forest fuels, Johnson said.

If we could get a week of rain, that would really help our situation, he said.

If heavy rains dont materialize, however, Western Oregons fire season could be five months long this year, rather than three months long.

Thursdays presentation unintentionally coincided with a red flag warning issued by the National Weather Service for Thursday in the Willamette Valley, cautioning that fires could spread easily due to low humidity and winds. Another red flag warning was issued for Friday.

The Northwest Oregon Interagency Fire Organization has already coordinated responses to about 10 multi-acre fires since the start of May, none of them related to lightning strikes. All of our fires are being caused by humans so far, Johnson said.

In the summer of 2018, almost all of the forest fires in Oregon were caused by human activity, as well, not lightning, officials said.

According to the state of Oregon, Oregonians caused 1,330 wildfires that consumed more than 329,000 acres last summer. Wildfires have increased in intensity and severity in the past decade, according to the state.

On average, people cause 87 percent of wildfires in the nation each year.

Johnson urged people to be aware of burn restrictions and use caution when working or enjoying activities outside. A rural resident maintaining their acreage could spark a blaze, for example. One of the most common ways that wildfires start is an ember from a campfire.

Jennifer Velez, BLM spokeswoman, said that large fires that result have a huge impact on the Willamette Valley and elsewhere in Oregon as smoke spreads and causes respiratory problems.

Winter storms also downed trees south of the Eugene area, and that has made access difficult on forest roads and provided even more fuel for any fires that occur.

Kyle Odegard can be reached at kyle.odegard@lee.net, 541-812-6077 or via Twitter @KyleOdegard.

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With replicas of historic steam locomotives whistling across north Utah on Friday, thousands of people came to celebrate the 150th birthday of the first U.S. transcontinental railroad while honoring the Chinese workers who helped build it.

The celebration was held at the Golden Spike National Historical Park at Promontory Summit, a high ground roughly 100 km northwest of Salt Lake City. The last spike of the transcontinental railroad, often referred to as the Golden Spike, was ceremonially driven in here by Central Pacific Railroad President Leland Stanford on May 10, 1869.

The Central Pacific Railroad hired 15,000 workers, among whom some 12,000 were Chinese immigrants, to construct the western part of the railroad.

"Using manual hammer drills, pick axes and explosives, they (Chinese workers) dug 15 tunnels through hard granite. Snow fell so deeply in the mountains that they had to build roofs over 37 miles (roughly 60 km) of track so supply trains could make it through," U.S. Secretary of Transportation Elaine Chao said while addressing the ceremony.

"The conditions were merciless, dangerous and harsh," she added. "An estimated 500-1,000 Chinese workers lost their lives."

Nancy Potter, whose ancestors participated in the construction of the railroad, told Xinhua that she was familiar with the history and the contribution of the Chinese railroad builders.

"Many of them left their families back in China to build the railroad in the United States, and many of them were lost in the history," Potter said. "We should pay respect to all their contributions."

Chao, the first U.S. secretary of transportation of Chinese ancestry, voiced the same message.

"Today, we remember the estimated 12,000 or more Chinese laborers and all the laborers who sacrificed greatly to make this great dream a reality, the benefits of which America is still enjoying today," she said.

For many years, the stories of the Chinese workers and details of their lives remained untold.

"Chinese workers were so dedicated and hardworking, focused to get their work done," Val K. Potter, member of the Utah House of Representatives and husband of Nancy Potter, told Xinhua.

"They were quiet and paid less, and the American society knew little about them back then," said the lawmaker. "It is important to celebrate their great accomplishments, and let more people know about the history."

Doug Wilde, a volunteer and local resident, said the celebration also symbolizes U.S.-China friendship.

The contribution of the Chinese railroad workers, which were under-appreciated in the past, should be recognized and remembered forever, Wilde added.

In a video-recorded speech marking Friday's ceremony, Chinese Ambassador to the United States Cui Tiankai said the railroad is a project of wonder of the world that linked America from sea to shining sea and laid the foundation for the American economic boom.

This is also a telling example of how the Chinese and American people can come together to get things done, and make the impossible possible, he said.

"A strong bond between China and the United States can deliver real benefits to our two countries and to the world community," Cui said.
Hit the Reload button

The first thing you can do when your Netflix stops working, hit the reload button. If a normal reload doesn't do the job, press Shift+F5 to hard reload the webpage. This will probably fix the Netflix error from Chrome browser.

Restart your Chrome browser

A simple restart will make kill all the running processes on your device that is related to the Chrome browser and might be able to fix your Netflix error message.

Update the browser

In addition to minimizing security risks, having an updated browser also prevents errors. An outdated web browser can also lead to Netflix not working on Google Chrome browser. In order to update the Chrome browser, you can head to Help, then click on About Google Chrome. Chrome will automatically check for any available updates.

Incognito Mode

If you get the Netflix error on Chrome browser even after a restart, you need to open and watch the same video on Incognito mode. Copy the URL and paste it in Chrome's Incognito mode. If the video runs fine here, follow the next step.

Clear the cache

If the video runs without any hiccups on the incognito mode, then you need to clear the chrome data. All you need to do is copy and paste the chrome://settings/clearBrowserData path on the URL bar and this will remove all the history, cookies, and cache.

Disable extensions

If the error started popping up after you installed an extension, you can try disabling the extension to check if that fixed the issue. Disabling all the unused extensions at once is a good way to check whether you still get the error.

Switch to Google DNS

The Chrome browser may show errors because of several DNS issues. If your internet connection's been jumpy or if you've been running into frequent errors while browsing the web, you need to set up Google DNS. After changing the DNS, restart the internet connection and the computer.

Reset Chrome Browser

If the problem still persists even after following all the methods listed above, you need to reset the web browser. Bear in mind that this will also mean saying goodbye to all your personal data including history, saved passwords, etc. So, you need to make sure to have a proper backup as well.
Motorola One Vision massive leak: Full specifications and pricing emerge online News oi-Abhinaya Prabhu Latest leak leaves nothing about Motorola One Vision for our imagination.

Motorola has scheduled to host an event in Brazil on May 15. At the event, the company is expected to launch a few devices including the Motorola One Vision smartphone. As per the latest speculation, the company is also believed to take the wraps off the Motorola Verve earbuds as well.

Recently, the renders of the upcoming smartphone hit the web showing us its design from all angles. Now, those at WinFuture via Android Police have shared the complete specifications, renders and more leaving nothing to our imagination. Besides this, the report also sheds light on the possible pricing of the smartphone ahead of its unveiling.

Motorola One Vision leaked specifications

As per the report, the Motorola One Vision will be launched with a 6.3-inch LCD CinemaVision display with a FHD+ resolution of 2520 x 1080 pixels and an aspect ratio of 21:9. It is speculated to get the power from a 2.2GHz octa-core Samsung Exynos 9609 processor teamed up with 4GB RAM and 128GB storage space. Also, there will be a microSD card slot facilitating expandable storage support.

For imaging, this upcoming Motorola smartphone is believed to feature dual cameras at its rear. The primary sensor is said to be a 48MP sensor with an aperture of f/1.7 and OIS. The secondary sensor is likely to be a 25MP sensor with f/2.0 aperture. The other goodies of the device that have been leaked include Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.0, LTE, dual-SIM support, a USB Type-C port and NFC support.

Alleged One Vision pricing

Furthermore, the report sheds light on the alleged pricing of the upcoming Android One smartphone from the company. It speculated that the One Vision will be priced at 299 euros (approx. Rs. 23,500). The smartphone is likely to go on sale on May 16, which is the next day of its launch in Blue and Bronze colors. As it is an Android One phone, it will arrive with free and unlimited storage to store photos in high resolution.

Motorola Verve earbuds

Besides revealing the details of the One Vision, the report also speculates that the company will launch the Motorola Verve earbuds that will be priced at 130 euros (approx. Rs. 10,200). It goes on stating that the earbuds will be bundled with the smartphone as an introductory offer for early-bird buyers.

Best Mobiles in India

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As voters have chosen the ruling African National Congress (ANC) in South Africa's national election, they cast their hope on its president Cyril Ramaphosa to fix the ailing economy and root out corruption, according to experts after Wednesday's elections.

While the ANC would return to parliament as a major party, its seats have been reduced by 19 to 230. It is the first time that the ANC support has been reduced to below 60 percent since 1994 when it first came to power.

The Democratic Alliance, the official opposition which received over 20 percent of the vote, had its seats reduced to 84 from 89. Only the Economic Freedom Fighters grew from 25 to 44 seats.

Jannie Rossouw, Head of School of Economic and Business Sciences at the University of the Witwatersrand, told Xinhua that voters want Ramaphosa to act tough on corruption and reduce government costs.

"Voters have given Ramaphosa a chance. They want to see decisive actions on corruption. They want him to deal with corrupt senior ANC members," he said.

Rossouw said reviving the economy and creating jobs are important to voters.

"They want him to deal with economic growth, create policy certainty as that would result in job creation," he said, adding that Ramaphosa is expected to reduce the size of his cabinet.

Dr. Somadoda Fikeni of the University of South Africa believed that the results have ensured that there is "stability to investors."

"The ANC needs to move with speed on the economic front because the cry is about inequality, poverty and unemployment." Fikeni told Xinhua.

Fikeni said the challenges that Ramaphosa have to deal with is acting against senior party members who have been implicated in corruption scandals.

"Unity of the party and acting against members allegedly involved in corruption would be a balancing act," he said.
The Danville City Jail plans to go digital by installing touchpads around the facility to save inmates and deputies time and headache.

Inmates will use the touchpads to communicate with jail staff, request medical attention and check the money they have available in jail accounts, Danville Sheriff Mike Mondul said  all at zero cost to taxpayers.

The touch screens will be installed on the walls of the jails common rooms over the coming weeks. The idea is not without precedent, Mondul said, as the jail found success with its video-call booths before. But the new pads can help inmates in reaching jail administrators, which was previously accomplished through a paper form.

We will be able to track them better than a piece of paper floating around the office, Mondul said. That system works, but we think this is a better way to do it.

The technology also will make it easier for sheriffs deputies to keep records and view the totality of an inmates medical requests and complaints to the sheriffs office.

Funds from sales at the jails canteen will pay for the new electronics, Mondul said. All told, the new technology costs around $80,000 and will take about three days to install.

We can only spend that money on the inmates, Mondul said. Thats the requirement.

The Danville City Jail is not the first municipal lock up to adopt the kiosks across the country. The touch screens can be found in jails from Santa Rosa, Florida, to Butler County, Kansas, according to multiple sheriffs office manuals, for some of the same purposes Danville hopes to adopt them.

Right now we use the old Scantron bubble sheets, like you take the SATs on, Mondul said. And inevitably, they do not fill out the bubble correctly or there are discrepancies.

Maj. Matt Wyatt, who manages the program, said 18 touch screens will be installed across the jail and its female-only annex. He anticipates the system helping deputies and inmates keep better track of the jails goings-on.

That way we do not miss anything, because with paper, sometimes paper can get lost, Wyatt said. It does not happen often, but sometimes it does happen.

Those in solitary confinement also will have access, Wyatt said; the sheriffs office purchased one pad that can be taken from room-to-room.

The office also has set aside money in case any of the machines are broken. The tablets are fairly durable, but Mondul does not anticipate inmates deliberately smashing them in the first place.

It helps the inmates, so they tend to take care of things that are going to benefit them, he said.

We are always looking to use technology to streamline our jobs, Wyatt said, especially when it is no cost to the office whatsoever.

James Whitlow reports for the Danville Register & Bee. Contact him at jwhitlow@registerbee.com or (434) 791-7983.
AMHERST  A former Amherst town police officer is facing four criminal charges in Amherst County, according to four indictments filed this week in Amherst Circuit Court.

Timothy David Maberry, 43, was indicted Thursday outside of the county by the Shenandoah Valley Multi-Jurisdictional Grand Jury, according to court records filed in Amherst Circuit Court. He faces a felony count of intercepting wire communication and one misdemeanor count each of disseminating images of another, using a computer for harassment and making an unauthorized copy of computer software, according to court documents.

A warrant was issued for his arrest and he was taken into custody Friday, Blue Ridge Regional Jail online records show.

Maberry, a former detective sergeant for the Amherst Town Police Department, hasnt worked for the town since the end of July 2018, according to town officials. He was employed in the Amherst department from Oct. 18, 2010 to July 31, 2018, Town Manager Sara Carter said.

According to the indictments, each alleged offense took place between Jan. 1, 2015 and July 31, 2018.

The grand jury charges in the felony count Maberry intentionally intercepted or endeavored to intercept any wire, electronic, or oral communication, records show.

On the misdemeanor count of disseminating images of another, the indictment charges he had intent to coerce, harass, or intimidate, maliciously disseminate any videographic or still image created by any means whatsoever that depicts a person who is totally nude, or in a state of undress to expose a person while knowing he wasnt licensed or authorized to, according to court documents filed in the case.

On the misdemeanor count of using a computer for harassment, Maberry is accused of using a computer or computer network to communicate obscene, vulgar, profane, lewd, lascivious, or indecent language or make any suggestion or proposal of a sexual nature, the indictment reads.

In regard to the charge of making an unauthorized copy of computer software, Maberry is accused of using a computer or computer network to make or cause to be made an unauthorized copy, in any form, including but not linked to any print or electronic form of data, computer programs, or computer software.

According to a news release from state police, the Virginia State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation's Appomattox Field Office initiated the investigation in July 2018 at the collective request of the Town of Amherst Police Department, Amherst County Sheriff's Office and Amherst County Commonwealth's Attorney. The charges stem from allegations of illegal activity conducted while Maberry was formerly employed by the Town of Amherst Police Department.

Virginia State Police is investigating the case against Maberry, a representative of the Amherst County Sheriffs Office said when contacted Friday by The News & Advance. When asked for further comment Friday, Carter deferred to state police.

Reporter Richard Chumney contributed. Justin Faulconer covers Amherst County for The News & Advance and can be reached at (434) 385-5551.
The death toll from an explosion and fire that ripped through a Buena Vista convenience store Friday has risen to three.

Virginia State Police have recovered three sets of human remains from the South River Market, which was leveled by the blast, Sgt. Rick Garletts said Saturday.

The remains have been sent to the Medical Examiners Office in Roanoke for identification, which may take several days, Garletts said.

Police remained Saturday at the scene of the blast, at the intersection of South River Road and Old Buena Vista Road north of Buena Vista, and it was not immediately clear if they were searching for additional victims. Late Friday, the number of fatalities confirmed was two.

Four other people were injured in the blast, which shook the ground and sent flames as high as 80 feet in the air.

Authorities have not released the names of any of the victims, nor have they announced a cause of the explosion.
Vice President Mike Pence called on Liberty Universitys Class of 2019 Saturday to remain faithful as they march into the new phases of their lives.

In his commencement address before a crowd of more than 45,000, Pence drew a direct line between religious faith and the future strength of the country.

America has always been a nation of faith and as our first vice president, John Adams, said, our Constitution was made only for a moral and religious people; it is wholly inadequate to the government of any other. So, just know as you strengthen your foundation of faith and the foundation of faith among the American people, you will be strengthening the foundation of America itself, he said.

Pence, an outspoken evangelical Christian, told the more than 8,000 graduates in attendance under cloudy skies to share with the world the lessons they learned at Liberty and to reject any attacks on their right to peacefully worship.

I say, not so much as your vice president but as a brother in Christ, if what youve seen and heard and learned in this place has also taken hold in your hearts, go from here and live it out, share it, because America needs men and women of integrity and faith now more than ever. The truth is we live in a time when the freedom of religion is under assault, he said.

LU President Jerry Falwell Jr. introduced Pence as dedicated public servant and as one of the most engaged and influential vice presidents of his lifetime. He awarded Pence an honorary doctorate.

Pence arrived in Lynchburg Saturday morning aboard Air Force 2 and was greeted by crowd of supporters waiting for him at Lynchburg Regional Airport. He then made the short drive to Williams Stadium, where he spoke for about 30 minutes.

Pence was not the only member of the Trump administration at Saturdays graduation. Ben Carson, the secretary of Housing and Urban Development, also attended the ceremony and briefly addressed graduates.

Dave Brat, a former congressman and the dean of Libertys School of Business, presented recently retired congressman Bob Goodlatte, R-Roanoke County, with an honorary doctorate during the commencement exercises. Brat also announced that Liberty will house Goodlattes correspondence and officials papers from his time in Congress in an on-campus library.

Earlier in an interview, Brat called the ceremonies world class. He said Liberty was unique among the nations universities for its ability to regularly draw influential political figures like Pence and President Donald Trump, who addressed graduates in 2017  accomplishments he credits to the schools value set.

I dont think theres anything like this in the world, Brat said.
A machete-wielding man attacked two hikers on the Appalachian Trail early Saturday, according to Wythe County authorities.

The conditions of the man and woman were not disclosed in a news release from the Wythe County Sheriffs Office.

But according to Sheriff Keith Dunagan, they suffered serious knife wounds.

A man has been arrested, according to the news release. His name and the charges he faces were not disclosed.

The first sign of trouble came when two hikers reported to the Bland County Sheriffs Office that they were threatened early Saturday morning by a man with a machete. The attack on the other two hikers apparently happened later.

Wythe County deputies entered the trail, which runs through the western tip of the county, and made an arrest a short time later.

Such attacks on the trail are unusual.

A.T. hikers are a strong and resilient family, but this rare tragedy shakes us all to our core, said Andrew Downs, a Roanoke-based regional director for The Appalachian Trail Conservancy.

Our hiking family must come together to help those who are suffering from this unthinkable evil. The trail is a place of healing, of peace and a community that can be relied on in this time of great need.

A portion of the trail remains closed while an investigation continues. The Virginia State Police, the U.S. Forest Service and the FBI are cooperating with the Wythe County Sheriffs Office.

Dunagan said authorities are trying to determine whether anyone else was attacked. There were no such confirmed cases by late Saturday afternoon, but the sheriff said teams were still out on the trail.

None of the people involved in the incident had local addresses, Dunagan said. He declined to say whether the two victims were admitted to a hospital or what their conditions are.

The trail was closed Saturday from Virginia 16 at the Mt. Rogers National Recreational Area headquarters north to Virginia 42 near Groseclose  an approximately 24-mile stretch, according to a post from the Appalachian Trail Conservancy on its Facebook page.

According to the post, the closure was due to ongoing incidents under investigation by the U.S. Forest Service.

Anyone with relevant information was urged to contact the Wythe County Sheriffs Office at 276-223-6000.

Late Saturday, federal authorities were preparing to charge the suspect in the case, Dunagan said.

The Appalachian Trail, a scenic footpath than runs more than 2,100 miles from Georgia to Maine, is administered by the National Park Service and the Forest Service and can fall under federal jurisdiction.

In 1981, a man and a woman from Maine were killed and buried in a shallow grave near a shelter on the trail in Giles County. She had been beaten and stabbed more than a dozen times; he was shot three times in the head.

Randall Lee Smith of Pearisburg was convicted in state court of second-degree murder and sentenced to 30 years in prison. He was released on mandatory parole in 1996 and died 12 years later.

In 1988, a hiker from Blacksburg was fatally shot along the trail in the Michaux State Forest in Pennsylvania. Her companion was wounded.

And in 1990, two hikers were shot and stabbed as they slept in a remote shelter on the trail about 18 miles from Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.
Interoperability:

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What does great customer service look like in the health-care industry? How is technology reshaping patient outcomes for the better? Where is secure innovation in health care going next?There are many answers to these question, but perhaps the best response is to point to leaders and organizations that are recognized by their peers as top models to follow  right now.I know of no one better to address these questions than Patrick (Pat) Hale, who is the executive vice president and CIO at VITAS Healthcare in Miami.VITAS Healthcare is the nation's leading provider of end-of-life services. It was established in South Florida in 1978 and today remains a leader and innovator of hospice services by putting patients and families first using compassionate care and delivering value through clinical excellence.To understand their scope, VITAS Healthcare provides hospice care on an average daily basis to more than 18,000 patients. The care is provided by its more than 12,000 employees in 14 states and the District of Columbia. You can learn more about VITAS Healthcare at www.VITAS.com. According to the VITAS Healthcare website : Patrick oversees all aspects of large-scale IT operations. His 20-plus years of experience span multiple business verticals, including healthcare, manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, financial services, retail and government.Patrick joined VITAS in 2013 as a key member of a senior management team that has successfully steered the organization through rapid, continued growth. He oversees all aspects of VITAS technology, cybersecurity and is also responsible for the Care Connection Center, a nationwide VITAS call center that delivers admissions services and after-hours clinical care.Known as a pioneer in mobile solutions, Patrick and his teams shaped a partnership with Apple, AT&T and VMware that delivered mobile technology solutions into the hands of more than 8,000 VITAS clinicians. The iMobility project allows VITAS to provide secure, mobile-supported hospice care, communications, orders and prescriptions from a patients bedside. This project earned VITAS the worldwide honor of 2018 Process Excellence Network Award (PEX) for a technology-enabled process improvement project. In 2017 Patrick also was honored as the CIO of the Year by the. Pat Hale walks the walk and leads by example. But I didnt need to look at Pats LinkedIn profile to learn about his successful career. I saw Pats success first-hand more than a decade ago, when he was the chief technology officer (CTO) in Michigan during the time I was the Michigan chief information security officer (CISO). We worked on numerous technology and cyberprojects together, such as major data center consolidation, while addressing the people, processes and technology components during tough budget times.Patrick has a professional management style which is not only winning and assertive, but is also kind, direct and trust-building. Pat delivered positive business results using technology in government, and later delivered great results at Sparrow Health System in Michigan.I am grateful for Pats support and encouragement to me during a time when he was about to leave state government in January 2009. When I was pegged as the acting CTO to take his place (later that spring being named the permanent CTO in Michigan), Pat spent several weeks going the extra mile to help me adjust and learn the ropes in managing a larger organization with over 1,000 state government and contractor staff. His attention to details and supportive approach were clearly evident.More than 10 years later, I am not surprised that Pats team continues to lead the nation in building innovative solutions that make a difference for the global health-care industry.Patrick Hale (PH): The people. VITAS is a special place to innovate, we expect a lot out of our technologists and they never disappoint. The VITAS brand of IT demands excellent technical skills, relentless collaboration and the ability to check your ego at the door. Our people embrace the future and have such passion to serve our patients, families and clinicians. Its simply an honor to work with them every day.PH: Probably our most lauded advancement has been the Patient Experience Improvement initiative. In 2014 VITAS Healthcare undertook one of the nations most aggressive portfolios of projects designed to speed care transition, improve outcomes and fundamentally innovate the patient experience. Every patient experience begins with a care transition. This initiative included:The VITAS patient experience begins long before admission to our care. Availability of information and coordination of a patients transition is the most crucial and most impactful stage of care. Our interoperability solution transfers medical chart data in real time to our clinical team in the field. Information is also shared with the referring provider, giving them up-to-the-minute data on their patients progression.Care at VITAS is given in many settings, the home, hospital, nursing homes and LTACs [Long-Term Acute Care facilities]. Clinical workers are enabled with secure, fully native mobile solutions that make charting easier, communications immediate and coordination of care seamless. Every VITAS physician, nurse, chaplain and social worker is outfitted with a mobile device that serves as their clinical workstation. Once a patients record is transferred to VITAS from any EMR [electronic medical record], it is instantly made available at the bedside. Mobility gives our clinicians real-time data and connectivity in any care setting, wherever the bedside may be.Employing the latest techniques in business analytics, VITAS uses data as a strategic tool for decision-making and the deployment of care. This capability is further enhanced with intuitive nationwide workflow systems that monitor progress and ensure that resources throughout the country are managed to optimal effect.PH: Virtual reality is probably one of the most exciting emerging technologies in health care. When we think about people facing life-limiting illness two things are almost always at the top of their care goals:Being lucid and able to interact with their loved onesBeing pain freeVirtual reality has proven to be very powerful as a tool for distraction therapy. The 4K experiences available offer an experience that lowers a patients pain, reduces the need for opioid medication and can be used to create shared experiences with loved ones. VR allows a patient who is physically unable to leave the house to attend a wedding, to see a part of the world they always longed to visit or travel home one last time without ever leaving their bed. In 2019 we are taking those virtual experiences mobile over the 5G network (thanks to our partnership with AT&T) to bring VR therapy right to the patients bedside.PH: So much of what we need to do as leaders is to communicate how important every contribution is. As human beings wehave the need to know our work matters. Whether you are answering the phone in our help desk, responsible for database administration or developing a new mobile application, your efforts make a huge difference. At VITAS, we recognize that big things happen in the small moments. Huge, impactful projects are made up of thousands of mundane moments where our employees have a choice to settle for good enough or challenge themselves to excellence. We constantly ask ourselves If that was my sister or my father being cared for, what tools would I want their nurse to have at her fingertips? We encourage our teams to have the audacity to imagine a better tomorrow and the tenacity to do everything we can to make that happen.PH: Its simply paramount. Our systems have to be trusted, they have to be secure. Security is so challenging and has been doubly so given our commitment to mobile. It is one thing to keep your systems safe, its quite another to think about that access remaining secure over a host of vectors (internal network, guest Wifi or over a cellular connection). We ended up using a 3 factor authentication method for all data access (reading and writing) that is transaction based, agile, bandwidth-light and effective. If we have a technology secret sauce this is definitely it. It is one of the things we are most proud of.PH: I see challenges as opportunities. If it was easy, not very many of us would have jobs right? Health care in the U.S. continues to see massive change almost hourly. Whether facing the challenge of new regulations, modified reimbursement or new threats from competition; health care has been (and continues to be) one wild ride. At VITAS, we like to call it the whitewater and I think that analogy is very apt. Everyone is moving so fast and making such incredible progress it almost defies description, but it only takes one big rock in the river to sink your raft. And make no mistake, there are organizations closing, merging and/or being rendered obsolete each and every day. Personally, I love the whitewater. Health-care businesses have never had more opportunity, and it is at these rare moments in history that true change is possible.PH: We have certainly seen health care becoming more and more of a target. Email remains our most attacked vector, but it is by no means the only one. I honestly think the biggest IT failure or risk is not asking for or justifying a robust security budget. I get to interact with hospital CEOs and CFOs all across the country who all list cybersecurity as one of their top three highest concerns. More often than not, their complaint is that they are just not seeing a thoughtful request for funding or detailed enough security planning/road maps. That problem lies 100 percent with the CIO, too often security initiatives are seen as expensive insurance policies and put off for years. In reality, if we (the CIO) wait too long to invest in increasing the effectiveness of our security, we set our organizations up for extremely big hits down the road when one years budget has to make up for five years of delayed investment.PH: We need more of you. This field of study is one I really push and mentor for with the youth I work with. Our society will become increasingly automated and there will always be those trying to take advantage of that. What field of study could you imagine that would have better job security? I think we all need to do a better job letting young people know how vital and exciting the world of cybersecurity is.I never cease to be amazed by the industry-leading work that former government leaders perform each and every day.Far from the narrative that the only people who work in government are those who cant cut it in the private sector, I have seen numerous government technology and cybersecurity leaders go on to be global leaders in banking, transportation, insurance, health care and many other fields. Patrick Hale is an outstanding example of a former state government technology executive who has gone on to be an industry leader in technology innovation  in this case in the health-care field.I encourage all critical infrastructure sectors to take a close look at what VITAS Healthcare has accomplished in the way of innovative technology projects that improve customer care, while maintaining the essential focus on cybersecurity as a priority at the same time.
(TNS)  Terrebonne Parish will receive a $3 million grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency this year to finish an $11 million drainage project in Chauvin.U.S. Sen. John Kennedy, R-La., announced the grant award last week.Terrebonne Parish President Gordy Dove said the parish has been waiting on this final phase of funding for about two years.The new grant money will match the parish's $8 million contribution to build a conveyance channel and pump station in Petit Caillou in Chauvin."Heavy rainfall and flooding in south Louisiana can wreck towns and cause massive damage," Kennedy said. "This grant will help protect towns like Chauvin from dangerous and destructive flooding."The new pump station, with four 48-inch pumps, will reduce the water levels in Petit Caillou by draining all the water coming south from Bourg into Lake Boudreaux, Dove said.It will work in conjunction with the $10 million lock system the parish is also building in Petit Caillou, he said.The pump station, lock system and upcoming replacement of the Lashbrook pump station make for a combined $26 million investment in drainage projects in the Chauvin area.Engineering is already complete, and the parish is expected to go to bid for construction next week, Dove said.Construction should take about 13 months to complete.When finished, the parish will be able to clean out the ditches along La. 56 and Bayouside Drive, "letting them flow back into the bayou like they did 40 years ago," Dove said.The pump station will have water elevation monitors that can kick on the pumps when the Smithridge pump station starts sending water to Chauvin.Dove thanked the area's congressional representatives, Kennedy; Sen. Bill Cassidy; Reps. Garret Graves, R-Baton Rouge, and Steve Scalise, R-Metairie; and parish grant writers for their efforts to the secure the grant."This is a great announcement for Terrebonne Parish and especially Chauvin," Dove said.Staff Writer Julia Arenstam can be reached at 448-7636 or jul ia.arenstam@houmatoday.com. Follow her on Twitter at @JuliaArenstam.2019 The Houma Courier, La.Visit The Houma Courier, La. at www.houmatoday.comDistributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Max Verstappen says he is "not satisfied" with his current situation in the 2019 pecking order.

Although clearly Red Bull's number 1, a big car upgrade for Barcelona has not moved the team any closer to the top step of the podium.

"I am not satisfied," Verstappen admitted to Ziggo Sport in Barcelona.

"We went to Barcelona with updates, just like the other teams, but I am fourth again. How many times have I been fourth?" he said.

Verstappen said the fact that he is close to Ferrari in Spain is "positive", but admitted: "Generally I am not satisfied. Hopefully we can fight for the podium.

"But Mercedes will be too fast. Normally at the start, they are gone."

Verstappen said the issue with the 2019 Red Bull is a simple lack of grip.

"There is nothing really wrong," he admitted. "We just need more grip.

"Everything has to be better. Engine, chassis. But there is no quick solution, otherwise we would have done it. I just drive what I have as fast as I can."

Finally, Verstappen said Mercedes' Valtteri Bottas has a real chance of beating Lewis Hamilton to the 2019 title.

"Yes. He has confidence, and the car seems to suit him better. That always helps," he said.
From December 19th through December 26th we will be granting free access as a gift to our readers presented by High Point University
GREENSBORO  If the Moravian cookie becomes the official state cookie, you can thank 63 students from Brooks Global Studies.

These fourth graders didnt want to just learn state history. They wanted to change it.

Their teacher, John Phillips, told his three social studies classes that it was fourth graders who got sweet potatoes named the state vegetable in the mid-1990s.

He challenged them to suggest new state symbols.

They did lots of research and came up with two  the state cookie should be the Moravian cookie, and the state battleship should be USS North Carolina.

They gathered facts, learned how bills become laws, and each student wrote  and

typed  a formal letter to at least one state legislator.

They learned real quick that 10-year-olds can have a voice, Phillips said. You dont have to be old enough to vote to have a voice.

In his letter, Logan Buckley told legislators that nearly all Moravian spice cookies are made in North Carolina.
What is the risk in allowing a president who has committed the actions that Mueller describes to remain in office?

If an ordinary citizen committed these actions, do you believe he or she would have been indicted for one or more felonies?

If the Senate would not vote to remove Trump and he would claim vindication, would you still recommend impeachment (if you otherwise favor impeachment)?

What if you knew it would help Trump in 2020?

A large majority of Americans oppose impeachment. Does that matter to you in deciding whether to impeach Trump?

Do you have concerns about an impeachment vote on strictly partisan lines? How would you address people who voted for Trump and think you are thwarting the will of the people?

What policies or laws do you think are necessary in the wake of the Russia probe and Trumps efforts to impede the investigation?

Do you believe Attorney General William Barr has behaved appropriately and, if not, what action(s) would you recommend be taken?
Jenkins received understanding, if not love, from the two presidential candidates, as Graham had advised. So what accounts for the difference between Billy Grahams response and his son Franklins recent statements about homosexuality?

Political conservatives in the 1960s were not yet attuned to the potential benefit of adopting and stoking religious arguments about LGBTQ rights and other culturally explosive topics. Although its roots trace back to the fundamentalist movement of the 1920s, the religious, or Christian right, as it is sometimes called, did not emerge as a formidable political movement until the late 1970s. With its rise came the overt politicization of issues ranging from LGBTQ rights to abortion to gender equality as Republicans sought to capitalize on their potency.

The religious rights influence in national politics in the late 20th and early 21st centuries has grown in part because Republicans have seen evangelical voters prove decisive to victories for Republican presidential candidates in the 1980s, the 2000s and 2016.
U.S. opioid prescriptions plunged 17 percent last year, according to new estimates published Thursday by the IQVIA Institute for Human Data Science, the single largest drop ever for the pain medication as scrutiny intensifies on physicians, distributors and manufacturers.

Opioid prescriptions had declined 12 percent in 2017, with major manufacturers including Stamford-based Purdue Pharma.
Gov. Ned Lamont urged business and labor groups Friday to ratchet up pressure on fearful legislators to vote on his tolls proposal before the session ends on June 5.

The Democratic governor also disclosed he would support a temporary transfer of $100 million per year in bonding from other programs to transportation to accelerate construction work until toll receipts arrive in 2024.

I have reached out to Republicans and Democrats, Lamont said during a press conference overlooking ongoing reconstruction of a section of Interstate 91 in Hartfords South End near the junction with I-84. Ive tried everything I could to get the legislators willing to step up and cast a tough vote. They dont always like a tough vote.

More News Lamont tries to bolster tolls support with compromise

The governor said Connecticut has had a long-running and detailed debate about the best way to pay for a rebuild of its transportation infrastructure, and the time for talk is over.

We have a plan thats ready to go, Lamont added. Im ready for them to bring that out to the floor. Lets let that see the light of day and have a vote on it.

Business and labor leaders stood with the governor Friday to press for an immediate vote on tolls.

Joe McGee, vice president of the Business Council of Fairfield County, called Connecticuts aging transportation infrastructure a bigger issue than taxes as far as impediments to economic growth go. The status quo has shrunk us into a no-growth strategy.

Don Shubert, president of the Connecticut Construction Industry Association, said unless with invest in infrastructure, Connecticut has a very bleak future.

Nate Brown, a spokesman for the Connecticut Building Trades Council and political director for Local 478 of the International Union of Operating Engineers, said Connecticuts highways, bridges and rail lines have become a hindrance for our economic development, public safety and quality of life.  You have our 100 percent support on this (tolling) issue.

Republicans, who are in the minority in the state House and Senate, are steadfastly opposed to tolls.

Lamonts fellow Democrats in both chambers have pressed for more details about the governors plan, particularly what extra resources he would dedicate to transportation between now and when toll receipts might arrive.

Connecticut currently borrows $700 million to $800 million per year for capital work, which is combined with about $750 million in matching federal grants.

DOT Commissioner Joe Giulietti recently told lawmakers he needs at least $2 billion to make a difference  and then that annual number would need to grow throughout the 2020s and 30s.

DOT officials also told a key legislative panel last month that Connecticut is barely treading water with its current capital spending of $1.4 billion to $1.5 billion per year. In other words, the average condition of roads, bridges and rail lines is being maintained roughly the same.

Tolls would raise $800 million per year by 2024 or 2025. But Lamont had been criticized for proposing no additional sources to cover the interim.

The governor said Friday he would be willing to transfer $100 million per year away from other borrowing programs to support transportation. Connecticut also borrows funds for school construction, state building maintenance, clean water projects, open space and farmland preservation, and economic development initiatives.

Thats less than the $250 million annual transfer that legislators from both parties endorsed in 2017 to keep the transportation capital program afloat until a long-term funding plan could be resolved.

Unfortunately, that $100 million is nowhere near what Connecticut needs to improve infrastructure today, Senate Minority Leader Len Fasano, R-North Haven, said Friday. What the governor appears to be proposing still leaves a massive problem in the short term, that makes our long term challenges even more difficult to address.

I view it as an act of desperation, not an act of compromise, said Deputy House Minority Leader Vincent J. Candelora, R-North Branford.

The Republican alternative, Prioritize Progress would dramatically redirect borrowing resources for transportation.

The GOP plan would combine $700 million in annual borrowing repaid out of the General Fun with the $700 million-to-$800 million its already borrowing and paying off out of the Special Transportation Fund. Added to that is $750 million per year in federal grants.

It would have more than $2.1 billion each year to spend on transportation projects  without tolls.

But Lamont said Connecticut would rack up a huge amount of debt under this plan, and could avoid a lot of it by paying cash for some projects with toll receipts. In addition, as much as 40 percent of toll receipts would come from out-of-state motorists, he said.

Senate President Pro Tem Martin M. Looney, D-New Haven, disagreed with Lamont about the tolls bills readiness.

There is not sufficient detail on many parts of the bill, Looney said. Legislators still have concerns about whether there will be enough funding for transportation construction before toll receipts arrive five years from now, the senator said. They also want more information on the toll rate discounts that would be offered to Connecticut residents and frequent travelers, as well as on any additional funding the governor would support for bus transit services which are crucial to assist working poor families, he said.

House Speaker Joe Aresimowicz, D-Berlin, praised Lamonts willingness to compromise, but didnt comment on the governors charge that lawmakers are afraid to vote on the tolls issue.

I applaud Governor Lamont for taking steps to incorporate Republican ideas and commit general bonding funds to our transportation system in an effort to find common ground on tolls legislation, Aresimowicz said. I have said all along that it isnt simply about whether someone is for tolls or against them. It is about creating the most sustainable plan that is fairest to taxpayers, to fix our aging and outdated transportation infrastructure.

Also Friday, the governor deflected, but did not refute, a recent report in the Hartford Courant that he privately had offered to scale back his tolling plan to exclude the Merritt Parkway to attract more support among legislators.

Right now our plan is very clear, the governor said, indicating he wants no more than 50 electronic tolling gantries in total spread along key points on Interstates 84, 91 and 95 as well as the Merritt Parkway.
GREENWICH  Audubon Greenwich celebrated World Migratory Bird Day on Saturday with a nest-load of activities.

Ted Gilman, an education specialist and senior naturalist with Audubon Greenwich, met with birders of all experience levels. He pointed out nests made by migrating birds, made bird calls and explained how to identify all different types of birds. Bird fans of all ages grabbed binoculars and got a closer look at the migrating birds.

Julie DesChamps, co-founder of Skip The Straw Greenwich, was on hand to explain how plastic debris poses a risk of both ingestion and entanglement, which can lead to illness, entrapment, and serious injury, for migratory birds.

Visitors to Audubon Greenwich also took in a celebratory bird walk, enjoyed breakfast and watched a live raptor show by Christine's Critters that featured owls and other birds of prey.
GREENWICH  The town of Greenwichs proposed municipal budget for 2019-20 will reach its endgame Monday evening when it goes before the Representative Town Meeting.

The RTM is the final stop in the process for the budget. It is the only item on the agenda for Monday nights meeting, which begins at 7 p.m. at Central Middle School. Up for a vote will be the proposed operating budget of $443.9 million along with a capital budget of $51.7 million.

If approved, that would result in a 2.98 percent increase in the mill rate, which is used to determine property and vehicle taxes, for the 2019-20 fiscal year. In the current fiscal years budget, there was no increase in the mill rate of 11.369, which has been in place since 2016-17. But the town is facing rising health care costs and other expenses that have driven up the budget for the 2019-20 fiscal year.

The proposed budget includes money for new bleachers at Greenwich High School as well as development of a new Eastern Greenwich Civic Center and a new municipal ice rink in Byram. It also would fund new audio equipment for GCTV Channel 79, which broadcasts town meetings and has been hampered in recent months with no audio during live broadcasts.

But the most focus Monday night is expected to be on the development of a new Northwest Greenwich fire station. The budget includes $100,000 for due diligence work as the town looks for a site for a shared fire and Greenwich Emergency Medical Services station in that corner of town.

The fire station has been a a dominant issue throughout the budget process. Residents in District 10, which covers Northwest Greenwich, have strongly advocated for the station. But many others, including many RTM members, have questioned the need, saying its not been proven that a new station would reduce fire response times and provide better coverage.

First Selectman Peter Tesei said Friday that he believes the $100,000 allocation would be the main issue of contention Monday night. Other than the station, there have been few substantive issues raised during the budget review process, he said.

BET members have been meeting with the RTM about the budget, particularly during Mays committee and district meetings. BET Chair Jill Oberlander agreed the funding for a property search would be a major topic of debate.

As officials debated the topic throughout the winter, the BET added $75,000 to the budget in March to do an independent study of fire coverage in town.

The scope of work for this study is not yet drafted, but it may ask for an understanding of townwide response times, including turnout time and placement of firehouses, to equalize services across the town, Oberlander said. The BET vote noted that the study was meant to go simultaneously with the due diligence work and not supplant it, she said.

The purchase of a property would be considered separately. It would need BET and RTM approval outside of the 2019-20 budget.

Oberlander said she also expected discussion around the Davis Avenue Bridge replacement in Bruce Park. Questions have been raised about the requirements for the state project and how the bridge would be configured. She also said there would be a focus on $200,000 proposed for a propane fueling station at Holly Hill, with the need for the fueling station debated and the towns plans unclear for an alternative fuel fleet of vehicles.

Overall, Oberlander said the budget process has been productive, and she looked forward to a constructive dialogue on Monday about the services and investments that the RTM values.

The budget was initially proposed by Tesei in late January, which was followed by a month of hearings before the BETs Budget Committee. In March, the full BET approved the budget in March by an 11-1 vote after a lengthy meeting that stretched into the early morning.

The dissenting vote came from BET member Karen Fassuliotis, who was concerned about town spending. She said the BET could have done better by holding accountable the department heads to budget goal levels and said the proposed tax increases were not fair to residents.

This tax increase is not something we should be doing in a year where Connecticut residents are bracing for new taxes and unfunded mandates that are likely coming from Hartford, Fassuliotis said in March. We should be spending less, not more, as this budget does pure and simple.

Similar arguments about town spending have been heard from members of the RTMs Budget Overview Committee. The BOC is expected to make only a few motions Monday night, but one will be to eliminate the $100,000 for the fire station property search so the fire response time study can go ahead first.

The BOC will also make a motion to eliminate the Holly Hill propane fueling station and for a 0.5 percent reduction in the salary increases for the towns management confidential employees, which covers 55 employees who are not members of labor unions. They are typically department heads and other high-ranking officials

The budget will be Teseis last. He has been in office since 2007 and is not running for re-election. He has also been involved in all aspects of town budgets in the past, first as a teenage member of the RTM and then as chair of the BET.

It has been an honor to serve the town and its residents in all three branches of government, legislative, financial and executive, Tesei said. I hope that the next person who occupies this office enjoys it as much as I have over the past 12 years. It also is my hope that in the coming years Greenwich will retain the fiscal stability, which is continually recognized by the finance industry with its AAA bond ratings, and being the envy of the state for having the lowest mill rate in Connecticut.

kborsuk@greenwichtime.com
In my experience, the best holidays we celebrate are the ones with really compelling backstories. You know, crowd-pleasers such as Christmas, Halloween or the Fourth of July. Why wouldnt everybody love these holidays? Sure, Christmas has presents, Halloween has candy and the Fourth has beer and BBQ, but each also comes jam-packed with captivating myths, interesting characters, and drama that make for great bedtime story source material.

Now think about a holiday like Presidents Day. OK, we get a three-day weekend out of it so technically its a holiday. But wheres the zing, wheres the compelling narrative that seizes your imagination? Its actually a pretty blah holiday, a neither fish nor fowl observance of what, exactly? Have you ever brought snacks to a Presidents Day Grand Old Party, or sent an I Democracy card to your wife? Of course not, because Presidents Day never got the Hallmark treatment.

Take Valentines Day. Originally a minor pagan fertility festival that involved sacrificing goats and slapping each other with the dead carcasses, it became Christianized and renamed after Roman emperor Claudius murdered the original Valentine. Fun story for sure, but it wasnt till centuries later when the greeting card industry realized that instead of people writing their own valentine notes to loved ones, there was money to be made in selling valentine cards. And that, is how Valentines Day became a big boy holiday.

And this Sunday we celebrate probably the second grandest of the Hallmark holidays, Mothers Day. But before you think Im disrespecting mom (or grandma), let me just say Im here to free Mothers Day from the tyranny of burnt breakfast in bed, oversized floral bouquets and the one day Dad will actually put his socks in the hamper without being nagged. Thats because the origin story of Mothers Day is actually much more than the cuddly, flower fest Hallmark has made it into.

Our story begins with Ann Reeves Jarvis, a womens organizer in 1850s West Virginia. Working tirelessly to fight infectious diseases and to help lower infant mortality, Ann and her Mothers Day Work Clubs worked hard against the often-lethal problem of contaminated milk. As time went on, these Work Clubs also cared for both Union and Confederate wounded soldiers during the Civil War. This led to a more pacifist direction for the clubs, which began organizing Mothers Friendship Day picnics and other events. A Mothers Day Proclamation in 1870 called on all women to take a greater political role in helping promote peace, and the clubs expanded nationally.

Around the time of Anns death in 1905, her daughter Anna picked up the cause and on May 10, 1908, the first Mothers Day observances were held in Philadelphia and Anns hometown of Grafton, W. Va., Anna Jarvis continued to cultivate Mothers Day celebrations in her mothers image: a day thanking mothers for helping promote peace, and for the work they do to help the sick and those in need. In part mostly through Annas efforts, more cities and states began adopting the idea of a Mothers Day, and in 1914, President Woodrow Wilson officially designed the second Sunday in May to be the federally recognized holiday of Mothers Day.

But to Anna Jarvis, official recognition started Mothers Day down a path that reshaped the holiday in ugly ways. Anna envisioned Mothers Day to be a quiet, intimate day of gratitude for each individual familys matriarch, based on the idea of Mom as champion of peace, justice and comforter of the sick. But as the holiday turned into an annual commercial spectacle of flowers, chocolates and greeting cards, Anna grew enraged and threw herself (and her inherited fortune) into an ultimately unsuccessful attempt to reclaim Mothers Day from those who she believed were bastardizing its original intent. In 1948, Anna Jarvis died broke and alone, having never wanted to profit from her position as the matriarch of Mothers Day, and offended by anyone else who would dare to try.

The National Retail Federation is projecting that Americans will spend $25 billion on Mothers Day this year. Meanwhile, all Anna Jarvis ever wanted was for all good sons and daughters to visit their mom and say thank you.

David Rafferty is a Greenwich resident.
It's been a week of almost unprecedented calm in our trending chart with most of the phones staying exactly where we left them last week.

The Samsung Galaxy A50 leads from the yet-to-be-announced OnePlus 7 Pro and its Galaxy A70 bigger brother.

Redmi Note 7 still leads the Huawei P30 Pro in fourth and fifth, while sixth place has a new name.

The Realme X is debuting next week in China, but it's already gathering plenty of attention. The young brand already made a big splash in India and each new handset is met with increasingly high expectations.

Huawei P30 lite and slides a spot to seventh, while the Pixel 3a XL also surprisingly lost a position despite it going official this week.

Samsung Galaxy A30 is retaining the ninth place, while the Redmi Note 7 Pro slid down to tenth. That means there's no space left for the Samsung Galaxy S10+ and it gets relegated.




Haiti - Religion : The Catholic Bishops of Haiti oppose the Lutheran Church of Unity





In a note, Catholic Bishops the Episcopal Conference of Haiti (CEH) warn the faithful to stay away from the "Lutheran Church of Unity".



"'Do not be carried away by all kinds of strange teachings. It is good for our hearts to be strengthened by grace' (Hebrews 13 verse 9)



Your complaints have come to us for the shaking that your faith is experiencing today because of what you see.



For some time now you have seen people wearing the sacred garments of priests and bishops, having miter and crook, performing ceremonies similar to Catholic celebrations, such as mass and the ordination of priests. You still see them using the missal and other Catholic liturgical props.



It is a duty for us Bishops to make light for you. We declare that those who claim to be the 'Lutheran Church of Unity' are not part of the Catholic, Apostolic, Roman Church. They want to throw trouble in your mind.



We ask our faithful to take care. Let them be careful so that they can discover the trick of these people. That they do not go to their ceremonies even if they resemble the Catholic celebrations. May they not solicit from them any service with regard to the sacraments or sacramentals (baptism, communion, marriage, funeral, etc...) Therefore we do not recognize their baptismal certificates.



Moreover, we ask our priests not to accept that they come to concelebrate in our churches and not to concelebrate with them in their places of worship. May they make sure to enlighten and strengthen the faith of the faithful.



We exhort you to live in the joy and light of Easter and to remain always attached to the directives and principles of your Catholic, Apostolic, Roman Church."



HL/ HaitiLibre






















Haiti - News : Zapping...





INITE reborn under the name INIFOS name

Friday, following the dissolution of the political party INITE https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-27602-haiti-politic-the-inite-party-founded-by-preval-no-longer-exists.html a new structure policy was presented in Port-au-Prince called "INIFOS". A Party that claims to be of left-wing and proposes to do politics differently according to the former Minister of Justice Paul Denis, coordinator of this Party, who claims that INIFOS is a constructive opposition party...



Artibonite : 53 presumed arrested bandits

On May 9, 2019 during a large operation, the National Police of Haiti (PNH-Nord) arrested at Limbe, 53 people including 6 women suspected of belonging to a large network that operate in the department of Artibonite.



Association for the Integration of Haitians in Mexico: B>

On Friday, the members of the Steering Committee of the "Haitian Community Living in Mexico" (CHVM), a new association of young people living in Mexico that aims to facilitate the integration of Haitians in Mexico, to guide our compatriots on the practices Mexican institutions, university insertion and job search, visited the Embassy of Haiti in Mexico City



Grants for the disabled

On Friday, May 10, as part of its program to strengthen organizations of people with disabilities and socio-economic support, the Office of the Secretary of State for the Integration of Persons with Disabilities (BSEIPH) handed a grant to the National Defense Center of Disabled and Disabled (CNDDH) to support the school fees of 29 children and young disabled, or children and young people with disabled parents. At the same time, the BSEIPH reached 29 other beneficiaries in the North through the Association of Physiotherapy Help for People with Disabilities (AATPH) and the Humanitarian Club for the Disabled Capois du Nord (CLHAC).



CERT : 20 certified Haitian trainers

The Directorate of Civil Protection, with the support of the Fire Brigade of Chile and the Chilean Agency for International Cooperation for Development, has completed the first phase of the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program in Haiti. 20 Haitian trainers have been certified and are ready to forward replicate this program in their communities.



Ministry of Youth and Youth Associations

Edwing Charles, Minister of Youth and Sports met this week with the young President of the Youth Government, Rosny Cadet and Carlin Michel, President of the Association of Volunteers for Democracy (AVD), organizer of the Youth Parliament and the Youth Government of Haiti to build and strengthen links between the Ministry and all Youth Associations.



HL/ HaitiLibre


















Published on 2019/05/12 | Source

Parents are increasingly strained by the demands of their teenage children to travel abroad alone or on school trips. According to Korea's largest travel agency Hana Tour on Monday, the number of teenage customers who traveled abroad alone last year rose almost 50 percent from 4,200 in 2016 to 6,200.

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Some countries require documentation for teenagers traveling alone, prompting travel agencies offer chaperoned tours. Tandem is one travel agency specializing in chaperoned package tours for minors and opened in 2015.

"We are seeing growing demand for such trips and getting a lot of calls asking about our packages", a Tandem staffer said. "The number of teenage travelers more than doubled from 105 in 2016 to 237 last year".

Hana Tour also offers teenage package tours to Europe and elsewhere for the summer and winter vacations. A Hana Tour staffer said, "Traveling overseas is no longer considered a huge event among most Koreans and this has changed attitudes regarding traveling abroad among teens".

But the cost has added to the financial strain on parents, who are already out of pocket due to the endless after-school cramming their children are subjected to.

Kim Jung-sook (55) from southwestern Seoul said, "My daughter in high school has been begging me to send her on a summer trip to Europe that costs more than W5 million (US$1=W1,171). Not only is that too expensive, but I said no for safety reasons. But my daughter tells me that the parents of all her friends are letting them go".
Published on 2019/05/12 | Source

Kim Soon-hee poses in front of her restaurant near Konkuk University in Seoul on May 1.

Women are often the driving force in the burgeoning businesses of Chinatowns that are expanding beyond Seoul to the satellite towns of Suwon and Seongnam, Gyeonggi Province.

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According to realtors, it is mostly ethnic Korean women from China who run the thriving restaurants, nail parlors, hair salons and other businesses there. They often end up owning several restaurants and also invest in standalone supermarkets and wedding halls.

Korean-Chinese women started coming to Korea in the late 1990s, when the Chinese market opened.

One of them is Kim sook-ja (64), who comes from the Chinese border region of Yanbian. She arrived in Korea in 1997 and started working in a restaurant, which she eventually bought with the help of her family in China. Now Kim owns six restaurants as well as a wedding hall in Guro and Gwangjin districts in Seoul.

"I want to do something to help other ethnic Koreans from China adjust to life here", she says.

Moon Ok-hwa (59) was an elementary school teacher in Yanbian before she followed her public servant husband to Korea in 1995. They first opened a small restaurant in Seoul's Dongdaemun.

"We were working day and night". She recalls. Now she owns two noodle restaurants and two wedding halls in Daerim-dong.

Kim Soon-hee (44) opened a beauty shop in Daerim-dong in 2007, but three years later she closed it down and was able to open a hot pot restaurant near Konkuk University instead. Business boomed and Kim now owns three more stores.

She has been serving as the head of a merchants' association of her neighborhood. "Out of around 60 members in our group, 45 are women", Kim says.

Near Suwon station south of Seoul, some 80 stores are run by Korean Chinese along a 900-m street. They have also set up stores in traditional open-air markets. "People are saying that these women are practically keeping the regional economy alive", a realtor said.

Now they are moving into commercial real estate. One ethnic Korean woman bought three small flats in Mullae-dong for W140 million each (US$1=W1,169). That means realtors are increasingly targeting ethnic Korean Chinese women who got rich by their tireless industry.
Over the past several weeks, we have examined the life and ministry of Moses. He is the legendary deliverer of God's people, the Israelites, in the Old Testament. Before Moses, we looked at God's call to Abraham to be a blessing to all peoples. Now, we will spend some time looking at Jesus, God's Son, and our Messiah. Jesus had descended from Abraham. Jesus, a prophet like Moses, became God's greatest leader. Moses even spoke of his coming:

The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me [Moses] from among you, from your fellow Israelites. You must listen to him (Deuteronomy 18:15; 34:10).

The early followers of Jesus proclaimed that Jesus was the prophet Moses had promised (Acts 3:22; 7:37). God thundered on the Mount of Transfiguration and told Peter, James, and John, that Jesus was God's Son, whom he loved, and they must listen to him (Matthew 17:1-5).

Jesus is the focus of God's story of redemption. We will focus on Jesus' life, words, and ministry presented in the Gospel of Matthew, the first book in the New Testament. Matthew presented Jesus as God's Son, Israel's King, and our teacher and Lord. Jesus descended from both Abraham and King David. He spoke with even higher authority than Moses because he was Immanuel, a name that means "God with us" (Matthew 1:23).

In todays video, James shares insights about Jesus from the city of Jerusalem. He also talks about how the Bible is organized so that the focus is on Jesus:

If you can't see the video, and you sure don't want to miss it, view it online. For additional ideas to consider and some things to discuss with others, we encourage you to see the Study Guide.

The coming of Jesus was an incredible gift to the world of flawed and broken people. God had been gracious and sent his people all sorts of teachers, prophets, and spiritual leaders. When he sent Jesus, however, God came himself in Jesus the Son (Hebrews 1:1-3). When we read about Jesus' ministry, we see how God feels about all sorts of people  sinners, religiously arrogant, broken, grieving, debilitated, forgotten, insiders, outsiders, and those hungry for God (John 1:14-18). As we read about Jesus' life, words, and ministry, we get to know God!

As Matthew framed his story of Jesus, he carefully emphasized several things we need to know about Jesus as God walking among people.

First, Matthew connected Jesus to the great story of God's work among his Jewish people. The first section of his account of Jesus (Matthew 1:1-4:16  The Background of Jesus Christ, Son of God) showed his connections with God's Old Testament story of redemption. This story began with God's promise to send a Son to destroy the devil's hold on people (Genesis 3:15; cf. Galatians 4:4). God called Abraham to be the recipient of his divine promise and to be the one through whom God would bless all nations (Genesis 12:1-3).

Jesus descended from the line of Abraham and David. He was the descendant promised to Abraham who would bring God's blessings to all people (Genesis 26:4; Matthew 1:1-17). As son of David and Son of God (Matthew 4:3, 6; 8:29; 14:33; 16:16; 21:9, 15; 26:63-64; 27:40, 43; 27:54), Jesus was worthy of the title, "King of the Jews" (Matthew 2:2; 27:11, 29, 37). Jesus fulfilled what the prophets foretold (Matthew 1:22; 2:15, 17, 23; 3:15; 4:14 and many others). Jesus came as God's promised King and Messiah!

Matthew also reminds us of several women who were Gentiles who were part of Jesus' family tree (Matthew 1:3-6). God had planned on blessing all people through Jesus, the son of Abraham  men and women, Jews and Gentiles, slave and free (Genesis 12:1-3; cf. Galatians 3:26-29). Matthew tells us about the magi at the very beginning of Jesus' story. These non-Jews had discerned who Jesus was from their false religion and then came to welcome him as King of the Jews (Matthew 2:1-12). Later, as Matthew brought his story of Jesus' earthly ministry to a close, he reminded us that the Lord commanded his followers to make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:18-20). From beginning to end, Matthew wanted his readers to know that Jesus gave his messages, miracles, and salvation to all people. Matthew wants us to know that Jesus is the Jewish Messiah, Israel's King, God's Son, as well as the world's Lord.

Matthew also reminds us that just as Moses gave us the five books of the Torah, Jesus as the prophet like Moses brings us five blocks of teaching we must learn and obey (Chapters 5-7, 10, 13, 18, 23-25). However, Matthew wanted his readers to know that Jesus was more significant than Moses. Jesus challenged God's people to go deeper into the heart of God's intent in the Torah (Matthew 5:17-20, 48). Jesus then referred to what Moses had taught, then emphasized the more profound truth he wanted his followers to obey (Matthew 5:21-22, 27-28, 31-32, 33-34, 38-39, 43-44). Jesus called his followers to both know and do what he authoritatively taught them (Matthew 7:21-29; 28:18-20). When challenged, he condensed the four hundred plus commands of Moses in the Torah down to two divine principles: love God with all we are and love our neighbor as we love ourselves (Matthew 22:36-42).

Matthew also insisted that Jesus was far more than a great teacher who brought us God's truth. He reminds us that Jesus was Immanuel; God present with people (Matthew 1:23). As God with us, Jesus demonstrated his mighty power to bless, save, rescue, free, deliver, and heal people oppressed. He freed those imprisoned by their fragile mortality and the destructive power of Satan. Not only was Jesus powerful to save, but Matthew wanted his readers to realize that Jesus' tenderness with people showed God's gracious compassion. Just as Moses redeemed God's people from Pharaoh's tyrannical grip, so also Jesus redeems people from every sort of affliction and oppression.

As we find our story caught up in God's story in Jesus, we want to encourage you to read through the Gospel of Matthew this next month. Ask the Holy Spirit to help you get to know Immanuel as God who longs to be with us. As you read one chapter each day, ask the Holy Spirit to help you answer three questions:

Jesus, what do you want me to know about you today? Jesus, how do you want me to feel about what I see in your life, words, and ministry, today? He will be called Immanuel, God with us! Jesus, help me know what you want me to do in my life based on what you have shown me today!

Matthew wrote so we could know Jesus, so please, don't just settle for information about Jesus; get to know him and how he longs to bless your life and the lives of all you touch with God's redeeming love!

Blessings to you as you seek to live for Jesus!

P.S.  Please remember that when Moses went up on the mountain to receive God's Law, it was written by the finger of God on tablets of stone. When Jesus went up on a mountain to reveal God's love for us, it was written by the nail on his hands and feet. Such is God's great love for us: he came to us as Immanuel!

Special thanks for the use of the Jesus images in Phil's posts, "The Jesus Window," to Free Bible Images and The Lumo Project.
A STREET party was held in Ewelme to mark the 10th anniversary of the villages community-run shop.

About 50 people attended the celebration in Parsons Lane on Saturday and enjoyed glasses of fizz and party food.

The shop, which opened on May 2, 2009, is owned, staffed and stocked by villagers.

It sells meat, fruit and vegetables as well as fish, milk, bread, wine and beer, newspapers and other essentials, including stamps.

There is also a small cafe selling tea, coffee and home-made cakes.

Sarah Maine, chairwoman of the shops management committee, said: When we wrote our business plan we said we wanted it to be a focal point for the community and it really has been that. It has been good.

To start with our volunteers were mainly women but now we probably have more men. They all really like it.

Someone said they couldnt come to the party but asked, What would we do without you?

Its the hub of the community and everybody comes through. We get all the gossip and it works for everybody.

Its nice to have so many people celebrating with us. People who are new to the village are astounded that everyone knows everyone but they can come and meet a lot of people very quickly.

Vice-chairwoman Cara Chapman said: The shop offers something different to lots of people and for a lot of people being volunteers in the shop has been very beneficial.

She said everyone at the party felt proud, adding: There were a lot of local people who came, which was very nice to see, and former members of staff who travelled from far and wide, which was very touching.

Our original objective was to become a focal point for the community and to get to 10 years and to realise we have achieved that is a real milestone. I like to think we mean something to everyone in the community.

In November 2007 a village survey established that most residents were keen to support the re-opening of a village shop, pledging both financial and/or volunteering help.

With the help of Lord and Lady Jay, who live in the village, the old post office was renovated and leased back to the village for use as a community shop for a nominal rent per annum.

In order for the store to open, more than 350 villagers bought a 10 share, made a donation or held a fund-raising event, raising more than 21,000.

The shop also received grants from South Oxfordshire District Council and the Esme Fairbairn Foundation.

The cost of setting up the shop was more than 60,000. It has a 25-year lease on the premises and today has more than 300 shareholders, six daily managers, 25 volunteers and an annual turnover of about 150,000.

The store has won many awards over the years, including best community store in the South-East in 2017.

Shareholders have a say in what it stocks and the direction it should take. Any profits are ploughed back into the shop or the community.
Mastodon bones had been found in the eastern half of the United States early in the nations history. Jefferson, accepting the widely held view of his time that God would not let animals go extinct, entertained the optimistic belief that large herbivores such as the bison of the American West roamed portions of the newly acquired Louisiana Purchase along with American mastodons.

The expedition failed to find great herds of American mastodons trumpeting their way across the vast prairies and grasslands of the Western United States. As any student of history knows, however, the expedition made many important biological discoveries ranging from unique animals as the pronghorn antelope and grizzly bear to various fish, reptiles and plants.

The expedition also described nearly half a dozen species of birds that, at the time, had never been discovered and detailed by European Americans. These birds included the common poorwill and the greater sage-grouse. One of the birds  Lewiss woodpecker  even memorializes the name of Meriwether Lewis and his important contributions to the success of the venture.
ABINGDON, Va.  You can polish your prose and aspire to be a better writer with the Spring Fling Writers Day on May 18, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., in Abingdon, Virginia, at the Virginia Highlands Small Business Incubator.

This event is co-sponsored by the Appalachian Authors Guild and Hoot Books Publishing. It features writer workshop presentations by such authors as Steven James, Rita Quillen, Dr. Rebecca Elswick and Linda Hoagland.

The day includes breakfast, snacks and a catered box lunch (with lunches provided if registered by Wednesday at noon). You can also stick around for book sales and signings by the presenters and some AAG authors at the close of the day, 3-4 p.m.

Cost (which includes food) is $25 for AAG members and $30 for non-members. The incubator building, 851 French Moore Blvd., is just off I-81 Exit 14.

Want to know more? Visit appalachianauthors.com. Email vfletcher56@gmail.com or call 276-492-8314.

Sunday with Friends

Elizabeth Catte speaks in Abingdon, Virginia, on May 19 at 3 p.m., as part of the Sunday with Friends literary series sponsored by the Friends of the Washington County Public Library.
Welch, 59, is an associate pastor at First Presbyterian Church in Bristol, Tennessee, who was elected to the board in 2011. Though Welch did not attend any city schools while growing up, he has three children who all went through the city school system.

He said the system has excellent teachers and in his role as a member of the board he has advocated for more money for the schools from the state legislature and will continue to do so if reelected.

Our schools are asked to do more and more with less resources, Welch said.

Hes proud of the strong relationship the board has with City Council and the improved rela-tionship it has developed with the Sullivan County Commission, but admitted he thinks the board may have done a better job getting the new middle school to come about more quickly.

Looking forward, Welch said the school board should focus on setting up a schedule to replace one of the districts aging elementary schools and expand the CTE program.
Federal law enforcement agencies are also assisting in the case.

The Evidence Response Team from Richmond FBI has been involved, providing assistance to the Knoxville FBI, said Dee Rybiski, an FBI public affairs specialist.

A Knoxville FBI spokesman, however, said he could not confirm or deny the existence of any investigation.

A team from the Black Diamond Search & Rescue assisted Friday, according to the organizations coordinator, Mike Maggard. He said they assisted a K-9.

News about the deaths shocked the small community of Mendota, located between Bristol and Gate City near the Washington and Scott county line.

We are all crushed, said one local business owner who declined further comment due to the sensitive nature of the case and out of respect for the families.

The small town along the North Fork of the Holston River features a post office, community center with library and a new store. Wright lived in a mobile home just outside of the center of the community along Mendota Road. The historic Mendota fire tower is nearby on Clinch Mountain, just above Wrights home.

Wright remains held without bail at the Southwest Virginia Regional Jail in Abingdon.

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A machete-wielding man attacked two people along the Appalachian Trail in Southwest Virginia, authorities said Saturday.

Early in the morning, two hikers reported to the Bland County Sheriffs Office that there was a man with a machete assaulting people in Wythe County, according to a news release from Wythe County Sheriffs Office Major Anthony Cline.

There was a male and female injured in the assaults, the release states.

One of the individuals may have been assaulted on the Smyth County portion of the trail. Smyth County Sheriff Chip Shuler confirmed his office was assisting in the investigation.

The extent of injuries was not known Saturday.

Wythe County Sheriff Keith Dunagan said his tactical team arrived on the trail in the wee hours of Saturday morning to search the area after law enforcement received emergency cell phone signals from someone on the trail.

Dunagan said investigators knew the suspect to be accompanied by a dog. Around 3 a.m. while they were talking to a group of campers, investigators noticed a dog come running out of the woods and were able to follow it to its owner.
Local leaders are on the hunt for a way to rename the region as a tool to draw new residents and businesses into the area  finding a new name for what is essentially Ballad Healths footprint.

Nearly 50 people have been meeting for more than a year, seeking to develop a more descriptive, appealing name for an area loosely defined as stretching from Morristown eastward to the coalfields, including roughly 16 counties of Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia.

Fueled by key company representative from Eastman Chemical Co., Ballad Health and business leaders like Scott Niswonger, CEO of Forward Air and Landair Corp., and Bill Greene Jr., from Bank of Tennessee, the group has picked up the support of all three Tri-Cities chambers of commerce and a number of city and county officials, according to Beth Rhinehart, president and CEO of the Bristol Chamber.

The problem is that the group seems to be all talk  and almost no action.

During a meeting with the Bristol Herald Couriers Editorial Board, a few of the groups main players sat down to discuss their overall plan. But the meeting was met with cliches and dead ends as the group is still discussing many aspects of the renaming.
I spent about 10 years as a reporter at the Bristol Herald Courier before taking to the desk as an editor. I covered just about every beat, from police and crime  my favorite  to politics and health care. But I spent the most time covering the Twin Citys governments, first Bristol, Virginia, for several years before moving to the Tennessee side of town. I got to know a number of city officials. I had a lot of respect for former Bristol Virginia City Manager Hugh Cooper and an excellent working relationship with former Bristol Tennessee City Manager Jerry Pulliam. Then theres longtime Bristol Virginia Mayor and Councilman Jim Rector, who was quite savvy at local politics, down to earth and with a good sense of humor. But I never worked with a councilman more dedicated to the principals of civic duty and service than John Gaines, who died May 3 at the age of 86. Perhaps that is because he dedicated his life to education, working for 30 years as a professor of education and American studies at then-King College. He also had a lifelong love of politics. I discovered the depth of this interest when I spent an afternoon at his house going over his tremendous collection of political memorabilia, going back many decades and covering many races, including presidential. It filled a room that was covered with election buttons. I wrote a feature about it around Election Day one year. I also covered the Bristol Tennessee City Council race in 1989, when three newcomers, including Gaines, swept the race and ousted the longtime councilmen. He spent 16 years on City Council, five as mayor and another five as vice mayor. He was articulate, demonstrated integrity and he had the citys best interest at heart. He didnt always agree with the newspaper, and he didnt mind saying so, but he was always courteous and professional. These days, government and politics  at the local, state and national levels  need more people like John Gaines. He was a true public servant and a gentleman.
In taking Trump to court, pressing methodically ahead, calling key witnesses (e.g., McGahn, Mueller) and obtaining the entire special counsel report Congress is following precisely the same process as it did in Watergate. Just as in Watergate, when Sen. Sam Ervin led the Watergate committee from May 17, 1973, until its report was issued on June 27, 1974, hearings in the House Judiciary and other House committees can gather facts to determine if the House should proceed to consider impeachment. (The House Judiciary Committee under Rep. Peter Rodino commenced on May 9, 1974, and voted to pass three of five articles of impeachment in late July 1974.)

Pelosis determination to take this step by step preserves the Houses option to later institute impeachment hearings, gives the American people a tutorial in Trumps misconduct and, as it turns out, is pushing Trump to undertake even more outlandish (and more impeachable) actions. Pelosi told reporters: I think that 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 and the most productive. Were asking in the constitutional way for the administration to comply. She added, We still have more opportunities. Well see if Mueller will testify, and that will make a big difference in terms of where we go from here.
Meritus enacts surge plan, pauses COVID antibody therapy

Our projections now show that in the coming weeks, we could reach record levels of COVID-19 hospitalizations in Maryland," said Gov. Larry Hogan.
South Africa: SA commended on elections

The international community has congratulated South Africa on its recently concluded sixth democratic National and Provincial Elections.

In series of tweets, the international community commended the country on the elections that concluded on Saturday with the announcement of the results by the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) at a ceremony at the National Results Operation Centre in Pretoria.

The IEC declared the electionsin which the African National Congress (ANC) claimed victory - as free and fair.

Australian High Commissioner to South Africa as well as six other Southern African countries, Adam McCarthy, congratulated South Africa on a successful election.

Congratulations to the people of South Africa on a successful election and good luck to democratic South Africas sixth Parliament, said the Commissioner.

South Africans went to the polls on Wednesday to cast their votes in the elections that saw over 17 million of the 26 779 025 registered voters cast their X.

British Prime Minister Theresa May congratulated President Cyril Ramaphosa on the ANCs win.

As I said in South Africa last year, by working together as friends and partners, we will secure a more prosperous future for all our people. I look forward to continuing that work with you, she said in her tweet.

The German Embassy in South Africa also congratulated South Africa on the strength of her democracy.

What a tremendous journey, 25 years after the end of apartheid, we are celebrating freedom and democracy, it said.

The same sentiment was shared by French Ambassador Christophe Farnaud and Norwegian Ambassador to South Africa Astrid Emilie Helle. - SAnews.gov.za

This story has been published on: 2019-05-12. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
New Delhi : The so-called Islamic State has announced a separate province that would focus on the Indian subcontinent while releasing a picture and claiming that the terrorist Ishfaq Ahmed Sofi, who was shot dead by security forces in Kashmir on Friday, was one of their own.

The IS statement talked about Wilayah-e-Hind (Indian province), but didnt mention the Islamic State in J&K, as the group was identified by some of its members during interrogation by forces. Given the absence of any territory under IS control, or even influence, the claim is an overstatement.

However, in keeping with IS chief Abu Bakr al-Baghdadis recent video, in which he spoke of new areas of influence, the IS statement cannot be dismissed either. In recent weeks, IS has shown a renewed focus on the Indian subcontinent, promising plans for Bangladesh. The Baghdadi video also referred to the Easter bombings in Sri Lanka, indicating that the targets were in keeping with IS instructions to go after followers of infidel faiths.

Intelligence agencies have noted the development and are analysing its implications.

A source in an anti-terror unit termed it significant and said that the terror outfit was reiterating its intent to step up actions in India and neighbouring nations. Given its success in radicalising followers online and then leading them step by step to planning attacks and assembling bombs, IS in some aspects is seen to be more insidious than older jihadi groups like Jaish-e-Muhammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba.

Till now, the affairs in this side of the world were controlled by Khorasan province (ISKP). This means that the central IS will now be directly dealing with their operatives in J&K, the source added.

The move is similar to that of Baghdadi announcing provinces in Turkey and Congo in a passing reference in the recently released video.

The presence of IS in Kashmir was first noted towards mid-2016. In 2017, ISKP started claiming attacks against security forces and several members have been killed in encounters since then.

Last year in March, IS hailed the martyrdom of three brother terrorists killed in an encounter in Anantnag. The IS identified the emir, Essa Fazili, as Abu Yahya al Ishtashadi, Syed Owaid as Abu Barra al Kashmiri, and Taufeeq, aka Sultan al Hyderabadi, as Abu Zar al Hindi. Radicalised through social media, the trio had joined IS in Kashmir by contacting handlers on Facebook.

The claim was made by al-Qarar, the channel of communication for IS in South Asia and J&K. It had also called upon Kashmiris to desire for shahadat (martyrdom) and replace every slain IS fighter in the Valley with two.

In the last one year, the special cell of Delhi Police has busted at least two big IS-inspired terror modules operated by youths from Kashmir. The men were nabbed after they contacted a UP-based arms dealer to procure weapons.

Source : TOI
New Delhi : It is now a well known fact that the Islamic State has become the primary sponsor for local radical groups in India. The Sri Lanka bombings showed clearly that the ISIS had tied up with the National Towheed Jamath (NTJ) for the attacks.

Investigators and Intelligence Bureau (IB) officials have learnt now that the ISIS has recruited a large number of persons based on the language that they speak. This, officials say has been done to target a select audience of a particular state.

In the ISIS South India module case, it has been found that those speaking with the local radical groups were conversing in the local language. Those fluent in Tamil and Malayalam were recruited with a specific purpose of targeting the local radical groups.

Language is a great leveller and hence the ISIS has adopted this strategy, an IB officer told OneIndia. With the fall of the Caliphate in Syria and Iraq, it was expected that the ISIS would look to move out and strike in other places. Prior to the fall, an audio message of Abu Bakr Al-Baghdadi was circulated in which he was heard telling his fighters to return to their homelands and strike there.

An analysis conducted post the Easter bombings suggested that neither the NTJ nor the ISIS could have acted on its own. The NTJ was just a fringe group, while the ISIS had lost considerable ground and hence needed each other to carry out a bombings on such a large scale.

The NIA which is probing an ISIS related case has also learnt that the Sri Lankan bomber Zahran Hashmi had visited Kerala and Karnataka. Sri Lanka suggested that it could have been with an intention of finding allies down South. The ISIS too has focused extensively in the Southern States since the past many years. Dozens of people from Kerala and Tamil Nadu have joined the ISIS over the past five years and either left for Afghanistan or Syria.

A report in the Atlantic states that the ISIS has recruits fluent in what are essentially regional languages. An IB officer who was part of Operation Chakravyuh that was launched track ISIS operatives, says that they had come across several instances when a recruiter was trying to radicalise in regional languages such as Tamil and Malayalam.

The ISIS which tapped the NTJ in Sri Lanka is looking to tie up with local radical groups, which follow similar ideology. Down south there are several radical outfits such as the Popular Front of India (PFI), which follow a very similar ideology of the ISIS as well as the NTJ. The ISIS which has made inroads in southern India could extent support to several radical groups like it did in Sri Lanka, a senior official with the IB says.

These groups specifically target Muslims from Kerala. The target audience is not restricted the residents of Kerala alone, but to those Malayalee youth working abroad. The NIA which is currently investigating this case says that there are many such accounts that specifically target those from Kerala. It is a menace and a huge racket, due to which several youth have gone missing and later joined the ISIS.

Source : One India
New Delhi : 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.

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.

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.

Source : One India
Remember Kriti Sanons mother in Bareilly Ki Barfi, desperate to get her married to any suitable bachelor in sight or Bhumi Pednekars mother in Shubh Mangal Saavdhan whose sex education advice involved Ali Baba and Chaalis Chor? Meet Seema Pahwa, the onscreen mother we almost think as of our own for her witty one-liners and her relatable mommy attitude. On Mothers Day, one of the favourite moms of Bollywood spoke to Hindustan Times about being a mother on and off screen. Excerpts:

You played Kriti Sanons mother in Bareilly Ki Barfi. How different it was from your real personality?

My daughter is yet to grow up that I have to look around in search of suitable boys for her. I live in Mumbai and my daughter has the freedom to chose her own life partner. In Bareilly Ki Barfi, I played a mom from Uttar Pradesh who was looking for a suitor for her daughter. The situation was different.

Seema Pahwa in a still from Shubh Mangal Saavdhan.

You left the audience in splits with your style of sex education in films like Dum Laga Ke Haisha and Shubh Mangal Saavdhan.

Every mother has to impart sex education to her kids, especially her daughter. Since we had to do it in a comic way in Shubh Mangal Saavdhan, the manner of advice was such that it could make anyone laugh. The mother got puzzled about how she can explain it to her daughter.

Every mother tries to give necessary education to her kids as they grow up. I also started talking to my kids at the right time.

You have developed the image of a very cool mom due to your roles in recent films. Are you a cool mom in real life as well?

I think I am a cool mom in real life. I love them a lot and seldom get angry.

Seema Pahwa in a still from Shubh Mangal Saavdhan.

What is the major difference between you bringing up your kids and your upbringing by your mother?

The times have changed, earlier the mothers used to be very strict. We used to live in Delhi and were not allowed to go out late in the evening. We had to reach home by 8 - 8:30 pm and were scolded for being late. The circumstances have changed, its a new world now.

I cant do that with my daughter what my mother used to do with me because the society has changed, the situations have changed. We give that much liberty to our kids that they can chose what they want to do. Our parents used to keep a tab on everything that we used to do, where we are going, when we will come home. We were asked to take our brother along. Now we think that our girls are independent and are capable of ensuring their own safety.

Seema Pahwa in a still from Bareilly Ki Barfi.

What is the major difference in portrayal of a mother on screen in films of the 70s, 80s and now.

Films are a reflection of the change in society. Since society has evolved and women and kids are more independent these days, the moms have also changed accordingly in films. There was once an era of tragedy moms. Children used to approach their mother only for a serious issue. Now women are independent and have different though process. Its not necessary that we follow one set pattern.

Also read: Janhvi Kapoor remembers Sridevi on Mothers Day, asks everyone to cherish and listen to mothers

A mother is a very beautiful creation and whenever one talks about his or her mom, they talk about her with a lot of happiness. A mother can be a funny character and children often have fun in the company of their moms. I believe a mom should be seen on screen as such and I have played similar characters on screen.

Which is the favourite mothers character you have played so far?

My character in Ankhon Dekhi is my favourite. I also loved playing Bhumis mother in Dum Laga Ke Haisha and was also appreciated for my role in Bareilly Ki Barfi.

Seema Pahwa in a still from Dum Laga Ke Haisha.

As a mother, will you like to give an advice to the younger generation?

My only advice to the kids who run away from their responsibilities is that they should not be afraid of taking up responsibilities. A girl has a god-gifted opportunity to become a mother. If they ever get a chance to become a mother, they should avail it. The way they fulfil other responsibilities, they can fulfil the responsibility of a child as well.

Author tweets @ruchik87

Follow @htshowbiz for more
Actor Deepika Padukone met veteran actors Rishi Kapoor and Neetu Singh in New York recently. Neetu took to Instagram to share pictures from their get together.

Such a fun evening with adorable @deepikapadukone .. gave lot of love n warmth, Neetu captioned the pictures. Deepika is seen in a white sweater in the pics, giving Rishi a big hug as Neetu clicks a selfie. Rishi has been receiving treatment for cancer in New York since last year. Deepika was in NYC for the 2019 Met Gala. She walked the red carpet in a ball gown designed by Zac Posen. It would be sage to assume that this was also when she met Rishi and Neetu.

Also read: Janhvi Kapoor remembers Sridevi on Mothers Day, asks everyone to cherish and listen to mothers

WATCH: Met Gala: Deepika Padukone looks pretty in pink, steals the show

Deepika is the ex-girlfriend of Rishi and Neetus son and actor Ranbir Kapoor. Rishi was not always this fond of Deepika and even called her immature for taking digs at Ranbir with Sonam Kapoor during an episode of Koffee With Karan in 2010. On the show, shot after their break-up, Deepika had said that she would like to gift Ranbir a pack of condoms and if she ever woke up as him one day, she would like to go back to sleep. She rated him the least on sex appeal and discreetly took digs at him for cheating on her.

Rishi had said that its a case of sour grapes. It just shows their (Deepika and Sonams) class. I would like to tell them to stop giggling all the time and instead grow up and behave maturely. They are there on the show because they are their fathers daughters and not because of their work! I would advise them to stop talking about their colleagues and running them down, he had said.

Even several Instagram users pointed out the irony of it all upon seeing the latest pictures. You didnt loved her when she was your sons girlfriend. Now you are showing extra, wrote one user. Omg what a drama.. when Deepika was rks gf at that time u didnt like her and now she is adorable, wrote another. This is sad honestly. When she was with your son there was so much hatred, and now suddenly much love?! Lol. People and their ways, read another comment.

Ranbir is now dating actor Alia Bhatt while Deepika married actor Ranveer Singh last year in November. Ranbir and Deepika now share friendly relations and are rumoured to star together in Luv Ranjans next film.

Follow @htshowbiz for more
The Telangana board Secondary School Certificate (SSC) or Class 10 exam results has been declared.

The TS SSC result can be viewed on the www.bse.telangana.gov.in or results.cgg.gov.in. Candidates can check the Telangana Board SSC result using their roll number and date of birth.

Here is the direct link to check Telangana SSC result 2019 on official website.

If the official websites have slowed down to heavy traffic, students can check TS SSC results here.

In 2018, girls outperformed boys in Telanganas Secondary School Certificate (SSC) examinations. A total of 5,38,726 students from 11,103 schools appeared for the Telangana Class 10 or SSC examinations, which was held from March 15 to 31, 2018. The pass percentage was 83.78% . The pass percentage for girls was 85.14% and for boys it was 82.46%.

Telangana Board declared the intermediate examination results 2019 on April 18, this year. A total of 8,70,974 students appeared in the TS Inter exam in 2019, out of which 59.8% passed in the first year and 65% passed in the second year. Girls performed better than boys in both first and second year.
Two members of Pakistan-based terrorist outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) were killed in a gunfight with security forces in Jammu and Kashmirs Shopian district on Sunday, police officials familiar with the matter said.

According to security officials, the forces launched a cordon-and-search operation on Sunday morning after receiving a tip-off about the presence of terrorists in the districts Hend-Sitapur area.

During the search operation, the hiding terrorists opened fire on the search party. In the ensuing encounter, two terrorists were killed and their bodies were retrieved from the encounter site, police spokesperson Manoj Kumar said.

Police identified the slain LeT members as Javid Ahmad Bhat of J&Ks Redwani and Adil Bashir Wani of states Waripora village.

They [Bhat and Wani] were wanted for their complicity in a series of terror crimes, including attacks on security establishments and civilian atrocities. Several terror cases were registered against them, a police statement said.

The police urged residents of the area to stay away from the encounter site till the area was cleared of all explosive material. On 21 October 2018, seven civilians were killed after a stray explosive burst at the site of an encounter in Jammu & Kashmirs Kulgam.
Two militants were killed in a gunfight with security forces in Jammu and Kashmirs southern district of Shopian on Sunday, police said.

Officials said the forces, acting on a credible input, launched a cordon and search operation in the morning in Hend-Sitapur area.

During the search operation, the hiding terrorists fired on the search party. The fire was retaliated leading to an encounter, police spokesperson Manoj Kumar said.

In the ensuing encounter, two terrorists were killed and the bodies were retrieved from the site of encounter. The identities and affiliations of the killed terrorists are being ascertained, Kumar said.

Incriminating material, including arms and ammunition, was recovered from the site of encounter, the official said. No collateral damage took place during the exchange of fire, the spokesperson also said.

Kumar also requested citizens not to venture inside the site of the encounter since such an area can prove dangerous due to stray explosive materials. People are also requested to cooperate with police till the area is completely sanitised and cleared of all the explosive materials if any, the spokesperson said.

A militant from an Islamic State-inspired group was killed in a gun battle with security forces in the Shopian district on Friday. The militant was identified as Ishfaq Ahmad Sofi alias Umar and belonged to the Islamic State of Jammu and Kashmir (ISJK), police said.
Three people and a doctor were booked by the Pimpri-Chinchwad police for domestic violence and abetment to suicide after the doctors wife died when she set herself on fire.

The woman was identified as Yogita Chetan Chaudhury, 33, who lived with her husband in Udyognagar, Chinchwad and was in the final year of her medical studies. The incident happened on Friday night at 9:30pm in which the woman and the husband, both suffered burns.

The woman had been in a fight with her in-laws and had ingested DDT powder, meant to kill ants, after mixing it with water. She had also purchased kerosene from a nearby store on the evening of the incident, the police said. After consuming the poisonous powder, she called her husband. He rushed home from work and got into an argument, according to the womans complaint. During the argument, she doused herself in kerosene and set herself ablaze, the police said. The doctor told us that the husband was burnt while trying to save her, Bhimrao Shingade, senior police inspector, Chinchwad police station.

A native of Gujarat, the woman had been living with her husband since they had an arranged marriage nine years ago.

She was undergoing treatment at Surya Hospital in Pune. Since she had suffered 100 per cent burns, we recorded a statement from her before she died. The husband is undergoing treatment for 20 per cent burns, said senior PI Shingade.

The three accused were identified as Chetan Govind Chaudhury, husband; Rajani Govind Chaudhury, mother-in-law; and Govind Chaudhury, father-in-law, all residents of Chinchwad.

She was pursuing the last year of a medical degree. We do not know when she finished the initial years; pre or post their marriage. They have a child and have been married for the past nine years, said senior PI Shingade. A case under Sections 306 (abetment to suicide), 498(a) (husband or relative of husband of a woman subjecting her to cruelty), 323 (punishment for voluntarily causing hurt) and 34 (common intention) of the Indian Penal Code was registered against the three people at Chinchwad police station.
A shocking video has gone viral on social media showing a brown bear tumbling into a stream from a steep mountain ridge after being stoned by people in Kargil district of Jammu and Kashmir, prompting authorities to launch an operation to trace the animal.

The eight-second video -- shared on Twitter by former director Tourism, Kashmir, Mehmood Shah -- shows a brown bear being stoned by people in Drass area of Kargil district in Ladakh region of the state.

The bear had climbed a steep mountain ridge after being chased by the people from the nearby village, but fell into a stream after losing balance as stones were thrown at the animal.

The people could be heard cheering as the animal tumbled into the stream.

The incident sparked outrage on the social media as several people, including former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Mehbooba Mufti, termed it heartbreaking and inhuman.

Heartbreaking & inhuman. Why invade their habitat in the first place? Mehbooba wrote on Twitter while sharing the video clip.

Heartbreaking & inhuman. Why invade their habitat in the first place? https://t.co/gJQvh3QzUp  Mehbooba Mufti (@MehboobaMufti) May 10, 2019

Several netizens have demanded that the people behind the stone throwing on the animal be identified and brought to book.

After the incident came to the fore, the authorities have launched an operation to trace the bear and are also trying to identify the people involved in the act.

Deputy Commissioner, Kargil, Baseer-ul-Haq Choudhary has ordered an inquiry and teams from the wildlife and other departments have been constituted to trace the brown bear.

An FIR has been registered, the DC said, adding they were also trying to identify the people who threw stones at the bear due to which it slipped into the stream and action would be taken against them.
Mumbai A 16-year-old girl was killed in a fire that broke out in a three-storey residential building inside the Dadar Police Colony on Sunday around 1.15 pm. No other casualties were reported in the blaze, the cause of which is not yet known.

The Mumbai fire brigade, however, found an empty water bottle smelling of kerosene near the body.

The victim, Shravani Chavan, was alone in her third-floor home, which, according to witnesses, was locked from outside and bolted from inside. The fire brigade removed a charred body from the fire and shifted her to Sion Hospital, where the doctors declared the Class 10 student of a Dadar convent school brought dead.

The flat in the Om Sai Ram building, one of the U-shaped police quarters inside the compound, was a one-room- kitchen home. The room was gutted completely, while the kitchen was relatively less damaged.

According to the fire brigade, the blaze is likely to have started from the room and also partially damaged two adjoining apartments.

According to chief fire officer P Rahangdale, When the fire brigade arrived, they were told that the door was locked from outside.

The police said they will question the family and all witnesses after the girl has been cremated. Shravanis parents, younger brother and her grandmother were at a wedding at the time the fire broke out.

Her father, Ashok Chavan, is a head constable at Vakola police station.

A policeman, who is not a resident of the building, was the first to notice smoke emanating from a third-floor window and rushed to the third floor, alerting other residents on his way up.

Residents, who gathered outside the house, said the door was locked from outside and they were unsure if there was anyone inside the apartment.

Ramesh Utekar, a policeman who lives on the second floor, said, It took us a few minutes to break open the lock. The door was latched from inside and locked from outside. We first broke a window and lots of smoke came out.

When residents finally managed to open the door, they saw a body inside the room, and ran out in panic. They bolted the door to prevent the smoke escaping, and evacuated the entire building. By this time, the fire brigade had reached the spot.

A senior officer of the fire brigade said, We recovered an empty drinking water bottle, which smelled of kerosene, from near the girls body. There is a possibility that a blast from an electrical appliance such as a television or refrigerator happened as well, which is why some heard small blasts.

The fire brigade pressed four fire engines and three water tankers into action.

Diwakar Shelke, senior police inspector at Dadar police station, said, We have registered a case of accidental death. Investigations will continue and further action will be taken based on the cause of the fire.

The fire was reported at 1.41 pm and the fire brigade arrived at the spot by 1.50 pm. They managed to douse the fire by 3.35 pm.

The girl was brought in dead at 3.40pm, said Dr Mukesh Jha, assistant medical officer at Lokaniya Tilak Municipal General Hospital, Sion. A post-mortem conducted on Sunday evening revealed that the body was 90% charred.

The cause of death was asphyxia and shock, followed by burns which could have contributed to her death,  said Dr Rajesh Dhere, head of forensic medicine, Sion Hospital.

Dhere said they have preserved skin, hair and blood samples to check the source of inflammable liquid, which caused the burns.

The department was in the process of handing over the body to the family.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said that the Indian Army cannot wait for clearance from the Election Commission of India (EC) to take action against terrorists.

Addressing a rally in Uttar Pradeshs Deoria which he began by addressing the crowd in Bhojpuri, the PM, while referring to an encounter in Shopian in Jammu and Kashmir earlier in the day in which two terrorists were killed, said: They [the terrorists] were standing in front [of the soldiers] with bombs and guns. Would my jawans go to the election commission to ask for permission to shoot? Since I came to Kashmir, every second or third day, clean-up operations are taking place.

Citing action by his government against fugitive liquor baron Vijay Mallya, Modi said that the government had seized more than one quarter of the 9,000 crore Mallya had borrowed from banks before fleeing the country. He added that the countrys chowkidar (watchman) had seized Mallyas luxurious bangalows, farmhouses and resorts in the country.

With the connivance of some people in the government and some bank officials, one corrupt man ran abroad with money of belonging to the poor of the country. But your chowkidar moved in action and more than one and quarter of the amount he stole has been seized... This can only be done by a strong and honest government.

He also called on Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati to withdraw support from the Congress government in Rajasthan after the gang rape in Alwar.

Since the Alwar incident, the daughters of UP are raising the question about what is happening in Rajasthan, a state where the Congress is ruling with the support from the BSP. Both the BSP and the Congress are trying to hush up case, he said.

He added that the lotus was all set to bloom in the country again. The mahamilavati group is now frustrated and desperate because the people are voting for a strong government and a strong nation, he said.

The BJP has built its campaign around the theme of nationalism and national security which no political party has opposed. However, political parties have objected to the Prime Minister referring to my soldiers on the social media.

Referring to Balakot airstrike, he said only his government was able to combat terrorism as the BSP, Samajwadi Party (SP) and the Congress cant even fight street goons.

The PM further targeted Congress over promising in its manifesto the removal of sedition laws. The Congress wishes to withdraw special security cover to our soldiers, special laws and sedition laws. By doing so, it wants to encourage those indulged in hurling abuses the nation and those talking about dividing the country. Should such a mindset be supported?

He added that the Congress was focused on cutting votes in Uttar Pradesh, more than winning seats
Tension gripped two northern Gujarat villages on Sunday when Dalits faced protests from upper caste villagers over the use of a horse by a bridegroom in the wedding procession and, in another incident, when a Dalit groom sought entry to a temple with his relatives.

In Khambhisar village of Aravalli district, Jayesh Chavda, the bridegroom, was forced to wait for more than four hours on the streets for his wedding procession to move. The procession began only after the police resorted to lathicharge to disperse the protesting mobs.

Police personnel in large numbers were deployed in the village to ensure that the wedding party continued with its planned celebration, said Gandhinagar range IG Mayur Chavda.

Police said when the procession initially began around 5 pm, upper caste women members staged a sit-in on the processions route and began chanting the Ramdhun. In retaliation, the Dalit women went past the protesting group and began performing garba, the police said.

Soon, according to the police, the tension escalated between the two communities and they began pelting stones at each other. The orchestra partys vehicle was also damaged in the stone pelting.

We couldnt take out the procession. A couple of family members, including the groom, have received minor injuries. We will file a police complaint, Jayeshs father Dayabhai said.

Another family member said that now the wedding is likely to place on Monday. Police said they have ensured full protection to the Dalit family to take out the wedding procession on Monday.

A deputy superintendent of police was among the few people who suffered injuries in the skirmish. Some police vehicles were also damaged in the stone-pelting.

In another incident, a groom in Sitwada village of Sabarkantha district sought police protection after some members of the upper caste allegedly tried to stop him and his relatives from entering a local temple.

On April 10, Sitwada village had witnessed tension after upper caste members raised objections to a Dalit groom riding a horse. The procession was later taken out under police protection.

On April 7, a similar incident was reported in Lhor village in Mehsana district. Five persons, including sarpanch Viruji Thakor, were arrested for issuing a diktat to boycott the Scheduled Caste community in the village.

On April 9, Deputy chief minister Nitin Patel had held peace meetings with the village community leaders in Lhor village and Kadi town in Mehsana district.
In a fresh attack on the Congress party, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday, while addressing an election rally in Indore, said that the veteran party and its allies would have to account for years of misgovernance and lack of vision.

Taking a swipe at the Congress, PM Modi - who was accompanied by Lok Sabha speaker and sitting Indore MP, Sumitra Mahajan, whom he addressed as Tai throughout his speech - said the Congress and its policies could be described in just three wordshua toh hua. The Congress and its mahamilawati allies have no right to be in public life even for a day. These 3 words describe the attitude of the Congress towards the people of the country and their complete lack of vision, the prime minister said.

A couple of days ago, Congress overseas chief Sam Pitroda, who is also a close aide of Congress chief Rahul Gandhi, came in for a lot of criticism after he referred to the anti-Sikh riots of 1984 and said hua toh hua. He, however, later apologized for his remarks.

Accusing the Congress of not wanting to discuss issues related to defence infrastructure, nor how to stop terror attacks in the country, PM Modi reminded the gathering that terror attacks had significantly reduced after the BJP was voted to power in 2014. Mentioning Pakistan, the prime minister said that earlier the neighbouring country kept reiterating that terrorism was an internal matter that India had to deal with. However, during the tenure of the BJP government at the Centre and after its efforts, Pakistan now has to answer questions on the global stage about the steps it plans to take to eradicate terror camps on its soil, PM Modi said.

He said it was the Congress partys soft attitude on terror which had led to frequent terror attacks in several cities of the country and the loss of innocent lives.

.In 2014, when the Congress was in power, the electoral trend was an anti-incumbency one, but in 2019 I can assure you the election results will reflect the pro-incumbency mood of the electorate, the prime minister said.

Expressing confidence that the BJP would return to power when the results of the Lok Sabha polls are declared on May 23, PM Modi urged the people of Indore to turn out in large numbers and cast their vote in favour of the BJP so that his government could continue to build a strong nation.
Prime Minister Narendra Modis popularity faces a litmus test in Jharkhand as the ruling BJP takes on the mahagathbandhan whose caste arithmetic is strong both on paper and the ground.

The opposition alliance, comprising the Congress, Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM), Jharkhand Vikas Morcha (Prajatantrik) and the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), is posing a challenge to the BJP, which is fighting the elections solely in Modis name.

My vote is for Modi and not for the BJP candidate. My family had been Congress supporters for decades and some of them still are but I think differently, said 28-year-old Pankaj Mishra, a resident of Dhanbad, known as Indias coal capital .

Polling has already been held in seven seats. Four seats  Jamshedpur, Singhbhum, Giridih and Dhanbad  will vote on Sunday. Polling in Godda, Rajmahal and Dumka will be held on May 19. The BJP has re-nominated Pashupati Nath Singh from Dhanbad while the Congress has fielded Kirti Azad, a three-time BJP MP from Darbhanga in neighbouring Bihar.

Though the BJP is primarily fighting on a national security plank, party leaders talk about double-engine growth at their rallies and claim that Jharkhand witnessed massive development during Modis five-year term. The saffron party, however, is worried about perceived anti-incumbency against the state government, headed by chief minister Raghubar Das, coupled with trouble from rebels in several constituencies. These factors might dent the BJPs chances of repeating its 2014 performance, when it won 12 of the 14.

Das is likely to be the first chief minister in the states political history to complete a full five-year term by October-November when assembly elections are due. But some decisions and policies of his government in the past two years have met resistance, especially from tribals, who constitute 26% of Jharkhands 31.9 million population, as per the 2011 census.

The attempt to amend two laws  Chotanagpur Tenancy Act and Santhal Parganas Tenancy Act  that prohibit transfer of tribal land to non-tribals not only triggered a backlash but also galvanised the Opposition. We will have to ensure BJPs defeat. Otherwise, they will try to finish us, said Baydu Sao, a resident of Baijhnath village in Giridih. We will vote for those who protect and empower us, added Mamki, another resident, as he smilingly pointed to a JMM poster with its bow-and-arrow symbol.

The grand alliance has vowed to protect water, forest and land of the natives, and made the issue its key campaign point. Of the 14 seats, the Congress is contesting seven, JMM four, JVM (P) two and the RJD one. The BJP has left the Giridih seat for alliance partner All Jharkhand Student Union Party, led by Sudesh Mahto, sacrificing its five-time MP Ravindra Kumar Pandey.

Not only tribals, the opposition alliance is also banking on Muslims and Christians, apart from sections of Scheduled Castes and OBCs. According to the 2011 census, Muslims comprise 14.53% of Jharkhands population while Christians constitute about 4.30%. Unofficial estimates put the OBC figure at around 53% and Dalits at 12%. The BJP has maintained it is necessary to bring about changes in the 110-year-old laws to ensure development of tribals.

For the first time, we are fighting on twin issues of development and national pride. There are certain anti-national forces indulging in religious conversions and they are trying to instigate tribals against us, said Jharkhand BJP spokesperson Pratul Shah Deo.

But Congress spokesperson Rajeev Ranjan Prasad disagreed. There is nothing called double-engine growth. In fact, the BJP is facing double anti-incumbency of the central and state governments. Whether or not Modi is popular we will come to know on May 23, he said. Political analysts argue that the mahagathbandhan, despite being a formidable force, has marred its chances in some seats due to its internal contradictions.

Take, for example, Godda where a Muslim should have been given the ticket. Similarly, the alliance should have conceded the Kodarma seat to a Left party. Also, they are having a friendly fight in Chatra, said LK Kundan, associate professor of political science in Ranchi University.

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A 44-year-old Indian national has been arrested from Tribhuvan International Airport here for carrying foreign currency beyond the permitted limit, police said on Sunday.

Vandana Soni was carrying USD 100,000 against the permitted limit of USD 5,000 for a flyer.

She was arrested on Saturday after security personnel found the curreny notes hidden inside her hand bag when she going to board the Mumbai-bound Nepal Airlines, the Nepal Police said in a statement.

The police have initiated investigation into the matter, it added.
Jamshedpur Police on Sunday arrested Babulal Soren, JMM candidate Champai Sorens son, on charges of disrupting government work, intimidating government officials and engaging in a scuffle with police officials, the police said.

Babulal has been absconding since April 18 after he pushed and shoved police officers and escaped from a check-post in Jadugora without allowing his SUV to be checked.

We have arrested Babulal Soren at 1 am on chargesof disrupting government work and obstructing government officials from doing their duty. He has been absconding after running away from the Jadugora check-post without getting his car checked and he also got into a scuffle with police personnel there. He will be lodged in jail by the Jadugora police station officer-in-charge (OC), Anoop Birthare, Jamshedpur senior superintendent of police (SSP) said.

Police sources said a team led by the Jadugora OC picked up Babulal Soren from Chirugora under Dhalbhugarh Block of East Singhbhum district at about 1 am in the intervening night of Saturday and Sunday. He was later produced in court from where he was sent to judicial custody.

Babulals father Champai Soren is locked in a direct fight with BJP candidate Bidyut Baran Mahato in the Jamshedpur Lok Sabha seat where voting was in progress on Sunday.

On April 18, the Jadugora police was checking vehicles on the Sundernagar-Jadugora road in view of the ongoing Lok Sabha elections-2019. When they stopped Babulal Sorens SUV, a Black Fortuner at the check point near the Jadugora Hospital chowk and asked him to get down from his car and open the dickey, he got infuriated and allegedly engaged in a fist fight with an assistant sub inspector (ASI).

He even threatened the magistrate on duty, Pradeep Purty, of getting him dismissed from service and abused him. He also abused police personnel.

Babulal then escaped, forcing his way by pushing and shoving police personnel on duty without getting his vehicle checked as required by law and also the model code of conduct. The police said a case has been lodged against former minister Champai Sorens son Babulal Soren at the Jadugora police station (PS) this evening on a complaint by magistrate Pradeep Purty.

JMM district president Ramdas Soren told HT that he was aware of Babulal Soren being arrested late last night. This is BJPs conspiracy to trap him and to malign our candidate Champai Soren. However, people will give them a befitting reply in Sundays polling, Soren said.

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In the last phase, the states drought-hit Bundelkhand went to polls. This time around, the Gwalior-Chambal region, besides parts of Bundelkhand and central Madhya Pradesh, will go to polls on Sunday.

The eight constituencies include four in the Gwalior-Chambal region  Gwalior, Guna, Morena and Bhind (a seat reserved for candidates from the Scheduled Caste categories) and three are in central MP, including Bhopal, Vidisha and Rajgarh. The remaining seat is Sagar, which falls in Bundelkhand region.

In the 2014 elections, the BJP won all these seats, except Guna that was won by Congress general secretary Jyotiraditya Scindia. The saffron party won 27 of the 29 seats in the state. However, the December assembly elections put the Congress back in power after 15 years.

Follow LIVE updates here.

Last Aprils violence in the Gwalior-Chambal region during a bandh observed by SC/ST organisations called after the Supreme Court rolled back certain provisions of the SC and ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act claimed nine lives. This time too, it is an election issue.

Among the main candidates in the fray are sitting MP and Congress candidate from Guna Jyotiraditya Scindia, who is seeking his fifth consecutive term. The BJPs KP Yadav will face him.

Union minister for rural development Narendra Singh Tomar is contesting on a BJP ticket from Morena. He had represented the seat from 2009 to 2014 but shifted to Gwalior in 2014 and won by less than 30,000 votes. Congress has fielded ex-MLA Ramnivas Rawat while BSP has fielded Kartar Singh Bhadana from Morena.

Also Read | All eyes on Delhi in 6th round of polling for Lok Sabha elections

Bhind, which is reserved for scheduled castes, offers an interesting fight. The Congress has pinned its hopes on Devashish Jarariya, who defected to the party from the BSP. He has been one of leaders at the forefront of the agitation against the dilution of the SC/ST Act . The BJP aims to receive support from non-SC votes and draw benefit from the division of SC votes among the Congress and the BSP.

Bhopal will see a fierce fight between Congress veteran Digvijaya Singh and BJPs candidate Pragya Singh Thakur, an accused in 2008 Malegaon serial bomb blasts. Earlier in the month, Thakur was barred for 72 hours by the Election Commission over her polarising campaign speeches, including her remarks on being involved in the Babri Masjid demolition, and her so-called curse on IPS officer Hemant Karkare, who investigated the Malegaon blast, and died in the Mumbai terror attacks in 2008.

While the BJP hopes to gain from Hindutva issue, Digvijaya Singh is pushing his development agenda for the state capital to convince the voters.

In Rajgarh, where is Singh has contested before, the Congress has fielded Mona Sustani against the BJPs sitting MP and candidate Rodmal Nagar. BSP has not fielded any candidate here. Jayant Singh Tomar, head of the department of journalism at Institute of Technology and Management University, Gwalior said, The political equations are quite different this time in comparison to those during state assembly elections. The anger against BJP has subsided and factors like caste equations and national issues are at play.
A total of 72.32% voters cast their vote in 168 polling stations of West Tripura constituency, one of the two Lok Sabha seats of the state, where re-polling was conducted on Sunday, an official from the Election Department said.

Repolling at 168 polling stations out of a total of 1,679 was ordered by the Election Commission of India after declaring polling in these polling stations as void.

On Sunday, voting started from 7 am.

A total of 1,41,251 voters, including 69,328 women and three transgender people were enrolled to cast their vote in the 168 polling stations.

The voting process was peaceful barring reports of EVMs malfunctioning in a few polling stations. These were replaced soon. We did not receive any complaints so far, Deputy Chief Electoral Officer Suman Rakshit said.

The West Tripura seat went for polls in the first phase on April 11 that recorded 83% voter turnout.

After the polls, both the opposition parties CPM and Congress alleged massive booth rigging reportedly by ruling BJP workers and demanded fresh polls in the West Tripura seat.

Amidst their demands, returning officer of the West Tripura seat Dr. Sandeep Mahatme was replaced and he was barred from holding any election related post. Mahatme was replaced by Vikas Singh, former district magistrate of Dhalai and also returning officer of East Tripura constituency, the other Lok Sabha seat, during the polls.

Prior to his replacement, Mahatme informed the states additional chief electoral officer about irregularities in over 400 polling stations. More than 16 poll officials were suspended for allegedly vitiating the poll process in the West Tripura seat.

The BJP accused the CPM of attacking their supporters in a few places when they went to vote.

We complained to the Election Commission about attacks on our workers. We are not surprised as we know that the CPM believes only in violence, BJPs chief spokesperson Dr. Ashok Sinha said.

Denying the allegation, CPM said that there is no democracy under the BJPs rule and the repolling proved the same.

If the BJP claims of good governance in their reign, then why did the repolling take place? There was massive booth rigging and violence in the first phase of the polls and we even filed a case in the Supreme Court demanding fresh polls in the West Tripura seat, CPMs West Tripura seat candidate Shankar Prasad Datta said.

The Congress too, claimed that violence had taken place in a few booths. Our activists and voters complained of violence in a few polling booths. We were not happy with repolling in limited polling stations. And we will move the Supreme Court demanding fresh polls in the rest of the polling stations, Congress vice president Pijush Kanti Biswas said.

The East Tripura constituency recorded 83.15% voter turnout on April 23.
I challenged Mayawati earlier to withdraw her support from MP Government: PM Modi in Indore

PM Narendra Modi targets Kamal Naths governments wafer thin majority.

PM Modi targets Rahul Gandhi, says dynasty can only guarantee top party position, but not vision and wisdom.

Our Government has the willpower to implement developmental schemes: PM Modi in Indore

There was anti-incumbency during 2014 Lok Sabha polls, whereas there is pro-incumbency now: PM Modi

PM Modi addresses a public rally in Indore, says although elections are going on, the Government has handled Cyclone Fani well.

Development in Amritsar can only begin through Arun Jaitley, Hardip Singh Puri: BJP Chief Amit Shah in Amritsar

BJP Chief reiterates that it is only PM Modi and his team who can give a befitting reply to terror emanating from across the border. He promises to make Amritsar a top-tier city if BJP and ally SAD are voted to power once more.

Naamdars have wasted all the developmental funds that Centre has sent for MP: PM Modi in Khandwa

PM Modi says that people are aware of the Tughlaq Road scam, and governance in Madhya Pradesh is controlled by the mafia.

Congress and mahamilawatis hatched Hindu terror conspiracy to defame religious heritage: PM Modi

PM Modi says, Madhya Pradesh needs a decisive government. He says, a khichdi government believes in transferring officials and no real development.

PM Modi says Madhya Pradesh has two and a half CMs.

PM Modi while addressing the rally at Khandwa, claims that development is on the backfoot as authorities cannot decide who to take orders from.

Punjab Congress wanted to get rid of Kamal Nath: PM Modi on 1984 anti-Sikh riots in Khandwa, MP

PM Modi invokes Kishore Kumar, says he was never in support of Emergency. He says his songs were banned because he disagreed with Congress.

OROP stands for Only Rahul and Only Priyanka: BJP Chief Shah in Himachal Pradesh

BJP Chief attacks the Congress for not granting the One Rank One Pension for retired Army professionals.

In the name of deploying central forces here, BJP workers and RSS activists are being pushed into West Bengal: Mamata Banerjee

In the name of deploying central forces here, BJP workers and RSS activists are being pushed into West Bengal: Mamata Banerjee in a rally

Will our jawans take ECs permission before opening fire at militants?: PM

Will our jawans take ECs permission before opening fire at militants, says PM referring to encounter in J&Ks Shopian district, according to PTI

Mayawati shedding crocodile tears over Alwar gang rape: PM Modi in UP

PM says Mayawati shedding crocodile tears over Alwar gang rape; asks why BSP does not withdraw support from Congress government in Rajasthan. Even Congress which is in power in Rajasthan tried to suppress Alwar gang rape case as party thinks hua toh hua.

A poor man doesnt want to live in filth, he is forced to: PM

A poor man doesnt want to live in filth, he is forced to. He lives there because he has no other option. And the then government didnt even care. They belittled the poor, they saw them as someone inferior and small. But we brought Swacch Bharat. I, myself stepped out on the street with a broom to clean the road as part of the campaign.

When they were in power, the bank doors were shut for poor people: PM Modi

When they were in power, the bank doors were shut for people with no money. The poor man was afraid to even walk to the bank. After I came to power, thousands of new bank accounts were opened. The poor who would usually end up spending his hard earned money, is not able to put that money in his account.

I didnt make a bungalow for me or my family: PM

I didnt make a bungalow for me or my family, until others. I made houses for my people, people who are poor like me and my family.

Poverty is my only caste: PM Modi

They keep talking about my caste, they keep questing it. They are asking for my caste certificate. But my poverty is my only cast, my only gotra. I was born in poverty. I never changed my and my familys poverty into wealth, like many others. I just dedicated my life for this country.

Opposition parties will fall flat in Lok Sabha polls: PM Modi

Opposition parties will fall flat in Lok Sabha polls, says PM Narendra Modi in UPs Kushinagar.
After a gap of almost 15 years, the East Indian community this year revived the tradition of Papiya singing, where a group of men go across gaothans reciting hymns in their Marathi dialect, during the holy period of Lent marked by prayers, fasting and abstinence.

In the year 2004-05, there were only two to three Papiya groups left in the city. But, this year, eight groups visited gaothans during Lent weekends. We are hoping that the numbers would be higher next year, said Bryce Rodricks, aircraft engineer, from St Blaise Church, Amboli.

The origins of the East Indian community date back to the 15th and 16th century when Portuguese missionaries converted members of local farming, fishing and salt-making communities to Roman Catholicism. The community refers to themselves as mulvasis or the original inhabitants of the islands. However, their goathans, except for a few like Khotachiwadi and Matharpacady, which are well-known, are on the verge of disappearing.

The community has been trying to bring old traditions back into their weddings. Godfrey Pimenta, vice-president, Bombay East Indian Association, said a couple of decades back, weddings in the community used to be a seven-day affair, and baptism a two-day celebration.

Before a wedding, there is a custom called umbracha paani, where we fetch water from a nearby well to bathe the bride and groom. With no wells left in our gaothans today, we bring tap water from a neighbours house. The weddings have also reduced to two or three days, said Pimenta.

Members from the community said a need was felt for the revival of lugras, which is a nine-yard cotton-woven sari, primarily worn by married women from the community. We have seen our great grandmothers wear lugras because it was the perfect dress to work on their fields. However, over a period of time, westernisation crept in. Now we have started reviving various festivals such as Aagera and Intruz, members of the community who relate to their East Indian identity have started wearing lugras again, said Gleason Barretto, founder trustee, Mobai Gaothan Panchayat.

There have also been efforts to revive the East Indian Marathi dialect, which is dying as families switch to English and other languages. Three years back, a book was found in Bandra that had prayers written in the dialect, following which various churches in the city have been occasionally conducting church services in the dialect. The community also released a dictionary consisting of around 2,000 words in the East Indian Marathi dialect in January with pronunciation and English meaning for the words.

Food is another area of revival. The communitys cuisine, influenced by Portuguese cooking, is unique. Bread would be prepared at my house every single day, now it is prepared once in a while, says Pimenta. Their first community restaurant named Eastern Sunset opened at a suburban hotel at Vile Parle in January, which serves family heirloom recipes, such as moile, vindaloo, fugeas, fish and chicken frithad. The East Indian community has a lineage that goes back more than a few centuries. However, with the advent of the Portuguese and subsequently, the British, a lot of Indian food got colonised. A new form of cooking took place with an amalgamation of Portuguese, British and coastal cuisine, said Michael Swamy, chef at Eastern Sunset who runs the restaurant with its owner Valencia Misquitta Irani. Its not as much as a revival of the cuisine as it is about showcasing our cultural culinary heritage. This is when I decided that an East Indian Restaurant was required.

Last month, the Bombay East Indian Association approached the HC to get gaothans marked in the development plan and for demarcation of gaothan boundaries. Land of our community was taken away for development projects for a pittance in the second half of the 20th century, said Vivian DSouza, president, Bombay East Indian Association. There was no legal help in those days. Our fight to get gaothans marked in the development plan and demarcation of gaothan boundaries is to ensure history is not repeated.

The East Indian communitys unique identity comes from the fact that it is indigenous to one of the most urbanised regions of the country. The metropolis took over the fields, water bodies, and sometimes even the built heritage of the community. And, to fit into the mainstream, the community also gave up speaking the traditional dialect and took to Marathi and English, said Fleur DSouza, former vice-principal of St Xaviers College.
Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Sunday announced that all families whose houses were completely or substantially damaged due to cyclone Fani would get a pucca house.

The government also revised the death toll to 64 with Puri accounting for 39 deaths.

As per preliminary assessment, more than 5.08 lakh houses were left damaged, partially or fully, after winds exceeding 250 kmph battered Puri and Khurda affecting 1.4 crore people in over 16,000 villages and 51 urban local bodies. Meterologists have described Fani as Indias strongest summertime cyclone in the last 43 years.

Patnaik said house damage assessment will begin from May 15 and will be completed within a week. Senior officers will be appointed to supervise the assessment process in all the extremely severely affected blocks. Assuring that not a single eligible person will be left out, Patnaik said work order distribution for construction of houses will begin from June 1.

An inter-ministerial team from Centre headed by a joint secretary of Ministry of Home Affairs would start its assessment of damages to the coastal State from May 13.

Patnaik also announced 650 crore package for agriculture and horticulture, 600 crore for fisheries & animal resources, 100 crore for handicrafts & handlooms, 200 crore for SHGs and supply.

Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee president Niranjan Patnaik however slammed the government saying the package was publicity stunt. Odisha govt has failed to provide cooked food and relief material to the Cyclone Fani affected residents, he alleged.

Meanwhile protests over tardiness in restoration of power supply continued in the State, as a minor boy died after an electric pole fell on him in cyclone-affected Cuttack district.

Officials said people of Nuagada village under Cuttack Sadar station area were trying to erect an electric pole on their own when it fell on the minor boy leaving him critically injured. The boy was rushed to SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack where he succumbed to his injuries. The boy was on a visit to his relatives house in Nuagada village.

Protests continued in several cyclone-affected areas today as people blocked roads demanding quick restoration of power. In Samantarapur area of Bhubaneswar, the residents blocked the Bhubaneswar-Puri road asking why the government could not fulfil supply of power to all parts of the city by May 12 as promised. In Kaduapada gram panchayat of Jagatsinghpur district, people blocked Jagatsinghpur-Machhagaon road alleging non-restoration of power supply.

In Cuttack district, people of Talbasta panchayat under Banki block blocked Khurda-Talabasta road alleging lack of interest of CESU in restoring power supply.

The villagers reinstalled the electric poles on their own while the electricity staff did not show any interest. The officials had promised us to restore electricity within 30 minutes after restoration work was completed, but we are yet to get electricity, said a villager.

A contractual labourer in Cuttack died when the high tension power line was energised accidentally during repair.
The Gurgaon parliamentary constituency witnessed a voter turnout of 67.38% in the sixth phase of the 2019 Lok Sabha polls on Sunday, according to the 10pm report shared by the Election Commission.

After 11 hours of polling, the constituency saw a lower turnout this time compared to the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, when 71.58% of the total registered voters had cast their votes.

The Gurgaon parliamentary constituency is divided into nine assembly constituencies  four in Gurugram (Sohna, Pataudi, Badshahpur and Gurgaon), three in Mewat (Nuh, Ferozepur Jhirka, and Punhana) and two in Rewari (Rewari and Bawal).

The lowest voter turnout, at 63.37%, was recorded in Punhana, whereas the highest voter turnout was registered in Pataudi, at 72%. The voter turnout in Gurgaon assembly constituency was 66%, while Nuh, which has the least number of voters, 168,590, recorded the third-highest voter turnout at 70.24%

Deputy commissioner Amit Khatri, however, said the voter turnout was fairly good. The turnout was decent and we fared well in comparison to other districts such as Rohtak and Faridabad. As far as Mewat is concerned, the voter turnout is almost as good as the average turnout in other assembly constituencies, said Khatri.

While the voter turnout in the morning picked up in the city and Rewari, Mewat trailed. By 10 am, 11% voter turnout was recorded in Gurgaon and Rewari, whereas the turnout in Sohna, Pataudi and Bawal stood at 5%, 8% and 7%, respectively. In Mewat, Nuh, Ferozepur Jhirka, and Punhana saw a turnout of 5%, 4%, and 5.9% respectively.

By noon, however, the charts had changed, with all the three assembly constituencies in Mewat demonstrating a voter turnout of above 30%. Nuh, Ferozepur Jhirka and Punhana had recorded a turnout of 31%, 33% and 35%, respectively. Gurgaon and Badshahpur, meanwhile, had a voting percentage of 18% and 20%, respectively.

Sporadic instances of EVM malfunction were reported from Gurgaon, Sohna and Nuh, leaving people in queues dismayed for several hours. In Sohna, two EVMs and at least four VVPATs were replaced due to glitches. In the main city, incidents of malfunction were reported from Law College in Sector 40 and Sushant Lok.

The polling booth at the Sector 56 community centre was also not operational for the first few hours. In most places across the city, there was a voting slump in the afternoon and it picked up later in the evening.

Voting in Sohna was slow in the morning hours due to EVM and VVPAT malfunctions at several spots. At polling booth number 113, people had to wait for three hours due to a technical snag with the EVM.

EVM malfunction and long queues also delayed the voting process in Mewat. Incidents of altercations and violence were also reported from some places.

There were small technical glitches at few polling stations, but nothing major was reported. Polling largely was conducted peacefully and smoothly, said Khatri.

Residents across Mewat also said that the voter turnout had also been affected due to Ramzan.Several hundred people are travelling to other states for religious congregations (jamaat). Those votes have been lost. Moreover, it is a 15-hour-long fast today. While many people came out to vote, the voting numbers would have been better if it was not Ramzan, said Mohd Azad, of Khanpur.

In the city, there was a higher voter turnout in areas such as DLF Phases 1 and 2 in the morning hours, as per the staff at the polling booths, but the crowd thinned out in the afternoon.

Polling booths in Badshahpur and Farrukhnagar towns were vacant during the afternoon and poll officers said most voters had arrived early morning to cast their votes.

The Badshahpur assembly, which has the highest number of voters (378,243), recorded a turnout of 64%.

In other parts of the city, residents said they had to wait for several hours to exercise their franchise.

The division of voters per booths was done poorly. I have been standing here since 11am. It has been four hours now. There are around 1,300 voters in this booth, said Harsh Sehgal, 50, a resident of Nirvana Country, Sector 50.

In Rewari, meanwhile, polling started on a good note in the morning. Despite a slight dip in voter enthusiasm due to the rising heat, voting picked up in the afternoon and by 4pm, 55% of the voters had cast their vote.

The police also registered two cases one against the presiding officer of a polling booth in Rewasan village in Nuh segment, Mohammad Shahid, for exercising undue influence and violating the model code of conduct. A police spokesperson said that another person, Wajid of Pipaka village, was booked in Sohna segment, also under Gurgaon constituency, for his alleged attempt to cast bogus vote.

Meanwhile, Haryana registered 63% voter turnout in about 19,000 booths across 10 parliamentary constituencies in the state till 6pm on Sunday as polling was marred by sporadic incidents of violence, an unsavoury incident involving a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) minister in Rohtak, leading to the arrest of his two aides; and registration of three criminal cases, one against a poll official in Nuh district in Gurgaon constituency. The voter turnout in the 2014 general elections was 71.41%.
Pakistans interior ministry has banned 11 organisations under the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA) for their alleged affiliation with proscribed outfits Jamaatud Dawa (JuD), Falah-e-Insaniyat Foundation (FIF) and Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM), local media reported on Sunday.

The Jaish-e-Mohammad of Masood Azhar masterminded the deadly Pulwama terror attack in February this year that killed 40 CRPF jawans.

According to a notification issued by the ministry, these organisations include Al Anfal Trust (Lahore), Idara-e-Khidmat Khalaq (Lahore), Al Dawatul Irshad (Lahore), Al Hamd Trust (Lahore and Faisalabad), Al-Fazal Foundation/Trust (Lahore), Mosque and Welfare Trust (Lahore), Al Madinah Foundation (Lahore), Muaz bin Jabal Education Trust (Lahore), Al Eesar Foundation (Lahore), Al Rehmat Trust Organisation (Bahawalpur) and Al Furqan Trust (Karachi).

The action has been taken in line with the National Action Plan (NAP), the notification added.

The NAP is Pakistans 20-point programme to rid the country of terrorism. It was enacted on December 25, 2014 after a terror attack on schoolchildren in Peshawar which left 133 dead.

Earlier in February during a meeting of the National Security Committee, the government decided to ban the JuD and the FIF and launch a crackdown on the JeM, which was banned in 2002 by then military ruler General Pervez Musharraf.

In March, the government sealed or took over administrative control of several establishments run by JuD and the FIF.

New prayer leaders and teachers were appointed by the Auqaf department to replace the ones at the mosques and seminaries run by the two banned outfits.

Masood Azhar, the head of the JeM, was designated a global terrorist by the UN Security Council earlier this month following the Pulwama suicide bombing. China had blocked four previous moves to label Azhar as a global terrorist.

Hafiz Saeed, chief of JuD, was banned on December 10, 2008 by the UN Security Council after the Mumbai terror attacks in November that year in which 166 people were killed.
Several Opposition parties have taken a dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his remarks in a television interview in which he said he gave a go-ahead for the Balakot air strike despite inclement weather because a cloud cover would have helped Indian Air Force jets avoid Pakistans radars.

As a section of Twitter users trolled the PM, Communist Party of India (Marxist) leader Sitaram Yechury complained to the Election Commission that Modi violated the poll code by divulging the details of a sensitive mission. In the PMs defence, senior Bharatiya Janata Party leader and Union minister Prakash Javadekar said, PM Modi did not reveal anything (about the Balakot strike) he was not supposed to reveal.

In the interview aired on Saturday, Modi said, The weather suddenly turned bad. There were showers...There was a thought that the day of the strike should be changed. However, I suggested that the clouds could actually help our planes escape the radars. Modi added that he is not someone with the knowledge of science in such matters but that he used his raw vision.

The February 26 operation against a Jaish-e-Mohammed terror camp operation was Indias response to the February 14 suicide bombing, claimed by the JeM, targeting a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) convoy in Jammu and Kashmirs Pulwama, where at least 40 security men were killed. The bombing and New Delhis retaliation took the two countries on the brink of a war, and figured prominently in the election narrative. So much so that the poll body directed parties to exercise caution while making any reference to the armed forces in their campaigns.

After Modis interview, the CPI(M)s Yechury alleged that the PMs statements were a deliberate violation of the guidelines. He also requested the poll watchdog to act against the PM.

In response to a tweet by the BJP on Modis comment, the Congress posted, Jumla hi fekta raha paanch saal ki sarkar mein, Socha tha cloudy hai mausam, Nahi aaunga radar mein (He used rhetoric during his five-year tenure hoping cloudy weather would keep him out of radar). Congress social media head Divya Spandana said, ...Narendra Modi the radar to detect planes, cloud or no cloud has been there for decades. Even for the stealth ones. If not, other the countrys planes would be crisscrossing the skies firing away at will... .

Ridiculing the PM, National Conference leader Omar Abdullah posted, Pakistani radar doesnt penetrate clouds. This is an important piece of tactical information that will be critical when planning future air strikes.

(With agency inputs)
Protests erupted once again in north Kashmirs Bandipora district as outrage in the region grew after a 3-year-old girl child was allegedly raped by a youth during the month of Ramzan early this week.

Angry villagers assembled in the main markets of Sumbal and Shadipora to protest against the minors rape allegedly by a neighbour on May 8 at Tarigam Sumbal in Bandipora. Police have arrested the accused and have constituted a special investigation team (SIT) to probe the matter.

On Sunday, people from the adjoining villages blocked the Srinagar-Bandipora road while demanding exemplary punishment for the accused. District officials assured the people that the case would be fast-tracked.

We were busy with law and order today. We have begun our investigations and have constituted an SIT to probe the case, said senior superintendent of police, Bandipora Rahul Malik.

On conflicting reports regarding the accuseds age, the SSP said the police is treating him as a major. We have constituted a medical board to ascertain his exact age, he said.

Deputy Commissioner Bandipora, Shahbaz Mirza appealed to the people to stay calm even as he assured justice. The heinous crime of rape of a minor in Shadipora Bandipora is under investigation with full vigor and we assure that perpetrator of the crime will be brought to justice. We appeal to the public to stay calm and not heed to any rumours, he tweeted.

The Srinagar Deputy Commissioner Shahid Choudhary urged the people to avoid naming and sharing photographs of the rape victim. Death penalty for child rape. I hope investigation and trial is fast-tracked to 2-month deadline, he wrote on Twitter.

The case has been trending on social media with people across the board expressing their anger.

Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister and Peoples Democratic Party president Mehbooba Mufti tweeted: Mortified to hear about the rape of a 3 yr old girl in Sumbal. What kind of a sick pervert would do this? Society often blames women for inviting unwanted attention but what was this childs fault? Times like these, Shariah law seems apt so that such paedophiles are stoned to death.

Peoples Conference chairman Sajad Lone said he had requested Governor Satya Pal Malik to ensure that the accused is dealt with strongly.

The tragedy in Tarigam Sumbal, as beastly it is, merits serious social introspection. We need to seriously ponder on this mad sickness on the prowl. We need to work hard to rediscover the moral foundations of our society, Lone said.

Hardline Hurriyat chairman Syed Ali Geelani termed the incident unfortunate and criticised law enforcement agencies for the growing crime. Bribery and a poor sense of responsibility both in judiciary and police administration has left the galloping crime rate un-tethered, because of the disputed nature of our state. Political interference in these law enforcement institutions has infected and ruined the whole system, Geelani said.

A group of women under Kashmir Womens Collective urged the governor for institutionalized support for rape victims. We request the governor to start a full-fledged rape crisis centre, build a shelter home for women, to have fast track courts, to have professionally run helplines, to have training programs that impart training to police, teachers, doctors and lets have mental health counsellors and therapists for girls and women who face violence, they wrote on Facebook.

It is a policy issue. It is a societal issue. It is a feminist issue and an issue of the humanity. Theres zero support on the ground for victims. Theres no understanding in media on not to name the victim but the culprit. The victim is named as if shes the culprit, the group stressed.
Amid fears of widespread contamination of local varieties by Bt Brinjal in Haryana, the National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources (NBPGR) said it had not stored any seeds of the genetically modified variety from field trials conducted before an indefinite moratorium was imposed on its commercialisation in 2010.

Maharashtra Hybrid Seeds Company Pvt Ltd (Mahyco), a private seed developer, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU) and University of Agricultural Sciences (UAS) at Dharwad in Karnataka conducted the trials on Bt Brinjal and were in possession of the seeds.

Minutes of the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) meetings held on February 17, 2010 and May 12, 2010 reveal that the committee decided that NBPGR would store Bt Brinjal seeds from all three seed developers and take affidavits from the company and institutions confirming that all seed stock has been deposited with NBPGR.

This was never done. The seeds are still with the developers  a fact that has come to light only now.

The use of GM crops is contentious, with arguments existing on both sides. Still, with India not allowing the use of genetically modified brinjal, the developments in Haryana are a clear violation of the law.

NBPGR has agreed to accept Bt brinjal seeds from M/s MAHYCO, TNAU, Coimbatore and UAS, Dharwad for which a separate facility has been earmarked. A meeting was convened by Director (NBPGR) with the technology providers and Member Secretary, GEAC wherein it was agreed that a tripartite agreement will be signed by NBPGR, MoEF (environment ministry) and technology provider, the minutes from May 12, 2010 said.

Kuldeep Singh, director at NBPGR, said: That agreement never worked out. It was not signed. So we dont have any seeds from the trials. We dont have any information on where the seeds may be.

Singh added that NBPGR had received Bt Brinjal samples from Fatehabad for testing last week. We have shared the results with Haryana government. Under a confidentiality clause we are not allowed to share test results with any other person.

Haryana horticulture officials as well as deputy commissioner, Fatehabad, said they had not received NBPGRs test reports so far. But lateral flow strip tests conducted last month by the GM-free coalition, a collective of farmers organisations promoting organic farming, found that samples from the field of Jeevan Saini, a Fatehabad- based farmer, tested positive for Bt Cry1Ac protein.

Experts said at the time that the seeds could have come from Bangladesh or be old seeds that were supposed to be deposited.

Brinjal is genetically modified by inserting a protein gene (in this case Cry1Ac) that comes from a soil bacteria, Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), into the Brinjal genome to make the plant resistant to some pests. The lateral flow strip test gives a primary indication if the sample is genetically modified. Farm activists fear widespread contamination through cross-pollination in nearby fields.

In February 2010, after nationwide consultations with scientists, farmers and other stakeholders, then environment minister Jairam Ramesh announced an indefinite moratorium on commercialisation of Bt Brinjal. He said at the time that the moratorium will last till independent scientific studies establish the safety of Bt Brinjals long-term impacts on human health, biodiversity and environment. Bt Brinjal was found to be bio-safe for environmental release by GEAC in 2009.

Bt Brinjal seeds that we had before the moratorium decision have been securely stored by us, and the stock is fully accounted for with information to relevant regulatory authorities, said a spokesperson for Mahyco Grow.

The Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU) has the Bt Brinjal seeds in its custody. We have stopped working on Bt Brinjal because Tamil Nadu government has taken a decision not to allow it in the state. The Bt Brinjal seeds are safe in our custody. Anyway after three years, they may not be viable anymore. These seeds (used in Haryana) may have entered through Bangladesh, said N Kumar, vice chancellor, TNAU. UAS, Dharwad office bearers were not reachable for comment.

Bt Brinjal is being grown in Bangladesh since 2013.

GEAC officials said they were still unaware of the details and that the environment ministry has not been directly informed.

Farmer groups demanded an immediate inquiry into the lapse because many indigenous varieties may have been already contaminated if Bt Brinjal cultivation is widespread.

For any illegal cultivation of Bt Brinjal found in India, the crop/event developer should be held responsible as we demanded in 2010 itself, and it is clear that Mahyco and the two state agriculture universities have to be investigated immediately, the GM- free coalition said in a letter to environment minister, Harsh Vardhan, on Saturday. Some activists recalled that Bt Cotton was released illegally before approval.

The biotech industrys strategy of leak illegal seeds first, contaminate and spread the cultivation and present a fait accompli for obtaining approval is well known. It did this with Bt cotton in India, said Kavitha Kuruganti, convener of the Alliance for Sustainable and Holistic Agriculture.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi attacked the Opposition on questions of national security and fighting terrorism on Sunday, saying Indias defence forces couldnt wait for permission from the Election Commission to take action against terrorists.

Addressing a rally in Uttar Pradeshs Kushinagar, Modi referred to the killing of two Lashkar-e-Taiba militants in Jammu and Kashmirs Shopian on Sunday and criticised opposition parties, who have repeatedly complained to the Election Commission about the Bharatiya Janata Party election campaign using the Balakot air strikes on terror targets in Pakistan.

In the morning when reports and news come, I learn that terrorists have been gunned down in Kashmir. Now some people are perturbed over the fact that when polling is going on today, then why did Modi kill the terrorists? They (terrorists) are standing with guns toting, will my jawan go to seek the permission of the Election Commission whether I should fire at the terrorist or not. Since, we have come to power every second-third day, terrorists are killed. This safai abhiyaan (clean-up project) is my work, he said.

Later in the day at another rally in Deoria, he said he was surprised that opposition parties were saying that elections were on and the security forces were opening fire on militants.

The army and the Balakot air strikes featuring in the BJPs campaign speeches and material has stirred a major controversy with opposition parties saying it violated the model code of conduct. However, the Election Commission has cleared the prime minister of several such complaints.

Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav said Modi would not be able to escape the public radar even if he spoke about the army and air strikes, and that the people of the country would seek a complete account of the governments actions in the past five years.
A 22-year-old woman and her one-year-old daughter were allegedly burnt alive for dowry, in a village at Deoghar district on Saturday night by her husband and in-laws.

Police said Rukshana Biwi and her daughter were allegedly doused with kerosene and set ablaze by her husband, Khurshid Ansari, and his family at Buchi village, around 15 kms from the district headquarters, under Devipur police station limits.

Rukshana, a resident of Chetnari village under Margomunda police station limits of Deoghar, was married to Ansari in 2017. Ansari worked at a private factory in West Bengals Howrah, while his wife stayed with his parents in the village.

Dushyant Singh, Devipur police station officer-in-charge (OC), said that Ansari and his parents used to harass Rukhsana for dowry. On Saturday, Rukshanas mother had come to meet her daughter to reportedly take her back. But Ansari and his parents did not allow Rukshana to leave.

On Sunday morning, neighbours informed police about the stench emanating from Ansaris locked house, following which police reached the spot, and found the charred bodies.

Singh said that Ansari and his parents were absconding, and raids were being conducted to nab the accused. Police were in the process of registering an FIR. Statements of the deceaseds family were being recorded, the OC said

Prima facie it appears to be a dowry death. Considering the evidence at the spot, accidental death because of fire is ruled out, the officer said.

Son hacks mother to death after being refused 150 for booze

A 20-year-old man was sent to jail on Sunday for allegedly murdering his mother at Jameera village under Chapartola panchayat of Latehar district.

Mohan Pandey, officer-in-charge, Chandwa police station said that Rajesh Oraon (20) asked 150 from his mother, Rago Devi (45) on Saturday. After his mother refused, the Rajesh hacked her to death with an axe. After the incident, Oraon snatched away the money. Village residents later informed police about the incident, he said.

In his confession, the Rajesh said that he was infuriated as his mother did not provide him money for having booze, the officer said.

Dowry deaths have been continuous in the state and even efforts by the state government and various non-governmental organisations have proved to be futile.

In December last year, a woman was allegedly burnt alive by her in-laws after she failed to provide with adequate dowry after her marriage. Similarly, in September last year, a woman was burnt to death over dowry in West Singhbhum.
Iterating that the BJP government was using the central forces to influence voters in West Bengal, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Sunday said she feared that BJP and RSS activists have entered the state, sporting the uniform of the forces, to conduct polling.

I do not disrespect the central forces. But they are being instructed to influence the voters. On the pretext of deploying central forces in West Bengal, the BJP is forcefully pushing BJP and RSS activists here.

I doubt that some RSS activists in (central forces) uniform are being pushed into West Bengal, Banerjee said while addressing a rally in Basanti area of South 24 Parganas district here.

Banerjee also said that a Trinamool Congress worker was injured in the firing by the central forces officers in- charge of the security of BJP candidate Bharati Ghosh in Ghatal constituency.

Today, there was a firing by the central forces inside a booth. I have heard that one of my brothers, belonging to the minority community, was injured, she said.

Banerjee also alleged that central forces personnel were asking voters standing in queues to exercise franchise in favour of the saffron party.

How can they do that? Is this the job of the central forces to ask voters to cast vote for the BJP? A few retired officers are being used by the Modi government to conduct polling here and they are doing whatever they feel like, Banerjee said.

You should be ashamed of doing this (asking people to vote for Modi)... You are here to do a job. Today you are under Modi, tomorrow you will be under somebody else. Then what will you do? she said.

In Sundays sixth phase of polling in eight Lok Sabha constituencies in West Bengal, around 770 companies of central forces were deployed to ensure free and fair elections.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday hit out at Bahujan Samaj Party chief Mayawati, accusing her of shedding crocodile tears over an alleged gang rape in Rajasthans Alwar and dared her party to withdraw support from the Congress government in that state.

Hours after his remark, Mayawati accused Modi of doing dirty politics, and demanded his resignation for incidents of Dalit atrocities in the past.

A day ago, Modi and Mayawati separately accused the Congress of hushing up the alleged gang rape in Rajasthans Alwar until polling had been held in the constituency.

The crime in Alwar led to protests across the state after the womans husband said she was raped on April 26 and the police were informed on April 30, but a first information report (FIR) was filed only on May 7.

Rajasthan voted in the Lok Sabha polls in two phases, on April 29 and May 6.

Addressing election meetings in Kushinagar and Deoria in eastern Uttar Pradesh, Modi told Mayawati, Please do not shed crocodile tears. If you are serious, why dont you withdraw support from the Congress government in Rajasthan?

The Bahujan Samaj Party has given support to the Congress government in Rajasthan, although the two parties have no arrangement in any state for the Lok Sabha elections.

In a press note, Mayawati said, In the wake of this (Alwar) incident, Modi is doing dirty politics. The BSP will for sure take an appropriate political decision in the absence of stringent and proper legal action in the case.

The Bahujan Samaj Party press note issued in Lucknow also asked Modi why he was not taking moral responsibility for incidents of Dalit atrocities in the past.

Why is he not resigning? it asked.
Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra said on Sunday the BJP will face a defeat in the Lok Sabha election this year as angry and distressed people will express their decision through their votes.

Priyanka Gandhi made the comments after casting her vote at a polling booth in Sardar Patel Vidyalaya in Lodhi Estate as polling was underway in all the seven parliamentary constituencies in Delhi in the sixth round of the seven-phased Lok Sabha election.

Follow Lok Sabha elections phase 6 LIVE updates here

There is anger among people and they are under distress. Modiji, instead of talking about real issues, has been talking about random things. And, now, they will express their anger against this government through voting, the Congress general secretary said while speaking with reporters.

Watch | Its clear BJP govt is on its way out: Priyanka Gandhi after casting vote

Priyanka Gandhi was accompanied by her businessman husband Robert Vadra as she came to cast her vote.

Its a really important election because we are fighting to save democracy, for our country, and keeping that in mind I cast my vote.

Also read: Lok Sabha elections 2019: Delhi in numbers

Her brother and Congress president Rahul Gandhi cast his vote in the New Delhi parliamentary constituency where there partys Ajay Maken is a candidate against the BJPs Meenakshi Lekhi and AAPs Brijesh Goyal.

The election was fought on several issues  unemployment, farm distress, demonetisation, Rafale Narendra Modi used hatred in the campaign and we used love and I am confident love will win, Rahul Gandhi said after casting his vote.

Her mother and UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi voted in at a polling booth in Nirman Bhavan.

More than 1.43 crore people in Delhi are eligible to vote in this election, which will decide the fate of 164 candidates, of which 18 are women. There are 43 independent candidates.

Priyanka Gandhis Congress party ended up at the third spot in the last Lok Sabha election and is looking to bounce back. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) had won all the seven seats in 2014 and is keen to retain its turf. The Aam Aadmi Party is looking to make a debut in the Lower House of Parliament this year.

Also read: BJP vs Congress vs AAP: A triangular contest for 7 Delhi seats

The votes will be counted on May 23.
Bharati Ghosh, BJPs candidate from West Bengals Ghatal constituency, was in tears on Sunday morning after being heckled at a polling booth. Ghosh alleged that she was pushed by some women supporters of the Trinamool Congress when she went to a polling station in her constituency.

The former Indian Police Service (IPS) officer, once considered close to chief minister Mamata Banerjee, said her polling agent was not allowed to enter the booth in Chandkhali area of Keshpur in West Medinipur district. I am the candidate. I am being pushed around and heckled. Those assaulting me and preventing my polling agent to enter the booth should be arrested, said Ghosh.

TMC supporters pushed me to the ground. They are not allowing any polling to be held in Keshpur area. These women were hired by the TMC. I shall complain in writing to the ECI (Election Commission of India), she alleged.

WATCH: Lok Sabha Elections 2019: Big fights to watch out for in Phase 6 of voting

Also Read | BJP worker found dead in Bengals Jhargram, a day before polls

Ghosh was the superintendent of police in West Midnapore district for six years from 2011 to 2017 in which her constituency is located.

TMC knows that BJP is winning here. That is why they are in fear and TMC workers tried to prevent and threaten Bharati, BJP state president Dilip Ghosh was quoted as saying by news agency ANI.

After trying without luck for about 45 minutes to get her agent inside the booth, Ghosh left the area alleging that the incident was a part of the conspiracy by the TMC men to keep her confined to a particular spot.

Stones were pelted at Ghoshs convoy when she was going to visit another booth at Dogachia in Keshpur after receiving complaints of rigging there. One of her security guards was injured and a vehicle was damaged in the stone pelting.

This is a deliberate attempt by the Trinamool Congress to stop me. They attacked me and I am injured. That my security guards have fired is an absolute lie, Ghosh told news agency PTI.

Also read: BJP candidate Babul Supriyos car vandalised in Bengal poll violence

Bharati Ghoshs vehicle was again blocked by locals when she tried to enter Keshpur market area. The state police intervened and her vehicle was seized. A police officer said her vehicle didnt have a valid pass to move through the area on the polling day.

After the seizure, a large number of protestors gathered at the spot and Ghosh took shelter inside a temple in Keshpur market area with her security officers guarding her, PTI reported. The mob also pelted stones at the policemen who resorted to lathicharge to disperse them. Ghosh was then taken to Keshpur police station.

Also read:

The state chief electoral officer has sought reports from the West Midnapore district magistrate about the incidents. The CEO also sought a report after Ghosh was seen videographing inside a polling booth at Pikurda in Keshpur.

Violent clashes have been reported in West Bengal in almost all the phases of the general elections. The BJPs candidate in Barrackpore parliamentary constituency Arjun Singh had alleged he was attacked by goondas of the Trinamool Congress during the fifth phase of polling.

Before that, scuffles and violence were seen in Asansol, where sitting member of Parliament Babul Supriyos car was vandalised. The minister escaped unharmed with only the rear glass of the vehicle being damaged.

Also read: BJPs Arjun Singh alleges attack by Trinamool goondas in Bengals Barrackpore

At least ten supporters of the Bharatiya Janata Party were injured after they were beaten up allegedly by some TMC men on Friday in Baikunthapur village under Daspur police station area of the Ghatal constituency.

Ghosh is facing Bengali cinemas superstar and Trinamool Congress (TMC) member of Parliament Dipak Adhikari alias Dev in the Ghatal parliamentary constituency. The votes will be counted on May 23.

Polling is being held in Ghatal along with seven other Lok Sabha seats in West Bengal in the sixth round of the seven-phased election on Sunday.
The western region of West Bengal partially comprising the dry, hot and forested eastern extensions of the Chota Nagpur plateau will poll in the sixth phase on May 12, when 13,356,964 voters will choose eight representatives from a total of 83 candidates.

The constituencies where polling will be held in this phase are Tamluk, Kanthi, Ghatal, Medinipur, Bankura, Bishnupur, Purulia and Jhargram.

The remaining nine seats of the 42 constituencies in the state will votes on May 19, the last phase. Counting will be held on May 23.

Read: Full coverage of Lok Sabha elections 2019

All of the 15,428 polling stations in this phase are to be manned by central paramilitary forces.

The TMC has an advantage over others in this phase, mainly because the Left is expected to retain its vote share to a good extent in Jhargram, Bankura and Medinipur  exactly the seats BJP is hopeful of. Left getting anything about 20% votes will increase TMCs chances by dividing anti-TMC votes, said political analyst Maidul Islam.

In Purulia, Rahul Gandhis rally for the Congress candidate will definitely reduce the BJPs chances, Islam, who teaches political science in Kolkatas Centre for Studies in Social Sciences, added.

Read: Trinamool hold Jhargram, once a Left bastion

Among senior leaders, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has campaigned in Jhargram and Tamluk, while Congress president Rahul Gandhi has come to Purulia, and BJP president Amit Shah addressed rallies in Medinipur, Ghatal and Bishnupur. Trinamool Congress (TMC) chief Mamata Banerjee has held about 18 meetings in these eight seats.

In 2014, the TMC won all these seats comfortably, with the lowest winning margin of 98,506 votes in Bankura. In this constituency, its candidate and political greenhorn Moon Moon Sen defeated the Communist Party of India (Marxist)s nine-time MP Basudeb Acharia. The highest winning margin in these eight seats was 3.47 lakh votes in Jhargram.

The most politically-significant fight in this phase will be in Medinipur, where the Bharatiya Janata Partys (BJPs) state unit president and Kharagpur (Sadar) MLA Dilip Ghosh is pitted against seven-time MLA and Bengal minister-turned Trinamool Congress (TMC) Rajya Sabha member Manas Bhunia. The impending battle between the two heavyweights has hogged limelight since the candidates were named.

Read: Mamata will play key role in forming new government, says Chandrababu Naidu

The Jharkhand and Odisha-bordering seats of Jhargram and Purulia are also significant because it was once a Maoist hotbed between 1998 and 2011 and turned into a bastion of the ruling TMC since 2012. Restoring peace in this region by breaking the backbone of the Maoist rebels and ushering in a new area of progress has been the TMCs key campaign issue in this belt.

We ended Maoist insurgency here but the BJP could not end it in Chhattisgarh despite ruling the state for 15 years at a stretch, Mamata Banerjee said while addressing a public meeting in Jhargram.

Amid reports that the Maoists led by their Bengal state unit chief Akash, presently based in Jharkhand, are desperately trying to stage a comeback using grievances against TMCs local leaders alleged indulgence in corruption and nepotism, the BJP made significant inroads over the past couple of years, as was evident in the 2018 rural elections.

Read: BJP sharpens its election pitch in Bengal for last two phases

Our performance in this belt will surprise political analysts and shock Trinamool Congress, said BJPs Dilip Ghosh.

The TMC is confident of retaining all seats, and to even increase winning margins in some.

Among other constituencies in focus are Bishnupur and Bankura.

Saumitra Khan, who won with a Trinamool Congress ticket from Bishnupur in 2014, joined the BJP in January this year. He is contesting from the same seat on a BJP ticket, but was barred by the court from entering the Bankura district in which six of the seven assembly segments that make the Bishnupur Lok Sabha seat are located.

Khan had to park himself at Khandaghosh, the only assembly segment within Bishnupur that is located in neighbouring East Burdwan district. His wife Sujata Mondal campaigned on his behalf in the rest of the constituency, while BJP president Amit Shah came to canvass for him. The TMC has pitted minister Shyamal Santra against him.

Read: Many verbal spats between TMC, BJP

In Bankura, the TMC has fielded senior minister Subrata Mukherjee, who first became an MLA in 1971 and a minister in 1972. He later served as Kolkatas mayor and was one of the key ministers in Mamata Banerjees government until being named Bankura candidate.

Mukherjees battle is not easy because the BJPs Bakura candidate Subhas Sarkar, the partys state unit vice-president, wields significant influence in Bankura district. The CPI(M) has fielded Amiya Patra, a central committee member of the party, who is also an influential politician in the district.

Purulias Congress candidate Nepal Mahato is a four-time MLA and influential political figure in Purulia district, where the BJP has fielded a young organiser, Jyotirmay Mahato, against TMCs incumbent, Mriganka Mahato.

In Ghatal, former Indian Police Service (IPS) officer Bharati Ghosh  who is facing a probe by West Bengal CID since she resigned  is contesting on a BJP ticket. She is taking on TMCs Dipak Adhikary alias Dev, a Bengali film industry superstar and Ghatal incumbent.

Kanthi and Tamluk are the TMCs strong bastions since 2009.

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Bengali film star and Trinamool Congress candidate from West Bengals Ghatal Dipak Adhikari or Dev was in for a surprise when he went to campaign in a small village in West Midnapore district.

Used to seeing his own photos on splashed on billboards, either related to movies or elections, Dev could not find a single election graffiti or poster anywhere in Pinglas Naya village, a small hamlet that is home to only 76 families, on April 26.

Instead, Dev found every square inch of every wall covered by patachitra, a traditional form of folk painting done on handmade paper scrolls or fabric using vegetable dye. The scrolls tell a story, usually from mythology, or carry messages on social issues such as child marriage or illiteracy.

Patachitra adorns a mud hut at Naya village. (HT Photo)

At Naya, where patachitra not only keeps every kitchen running but also earns recognition even in foreign lands, the artisans have thought of a novel way to keep typical election graffiti at bay.

We dont want our village filled with political propaganda. All parties have been told that they can campaign here but cannot put up posters or graffiti. We will cast our votes, but dont want to be tagged with any symbol, Bapi Chitrakar, an artisan and resident of Naya, said.

The parliamentary constituency of Ghatal is polling on Sunday along with Jhargram, Tamluk, Kanthi, Medinipur, Bankura, Bishnupur and Purulia. The remaining nine seats of the 42 constituencies in the state will votes on May 19, the last phase. Counting will be held on May 23.

A wall invites every visitor at the entrance to Naya. It is covered with patachitra, depicting the devastating floods in Kerala and appealing people for help. Some Trinamool workers had put up a poster on the wall and the villagers tore it in no time.

While patachitra fuelled the village economy over the years, Naya got a new road and pukka houses. But none of that has changed the peoples attitude towards political parties.

We do not want political slogans in visual form. This village and every house in it represent art that has earned appreciation across the globe. Our people have been to other states and foreign countries with their work. Many have won awards, said Chandan Chitrakar, an artisan.

Recognising their contribution, political parties said they dont impose their graffiti on the villagers.

Naya is well known for its contribution to folk art. We campaigned there but did not put up any graffiti, the president of the Bharatiya Janata Partys local BJP Antara Bhattacharya said.

These artisans have made us proud. Their walls are precious. We do not want to ruin those, said Soumen Mahapatra, Trinamool Congress minister and Pingla MLA.
Facing opposition attack over his caste, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said he was born a backward but he doesnt do politics on such lines.

At an election rally in Uttar Pradeshs Kushinagar, PM Modi said poverty is his caste. I have only one caste, I am poor. I have seen poverty, felt the pain of it and working tirelessly to eradicate it, he said

The opposition, led by Bahujan Samaj Party chief Mayawati, has been targeting Modi over his caste status. Mayawati has accused that Modi of being a fake OBC leader and alleged that he included his caste in the backward category during his tenure as Gujarat chief minister for electoral benefit.

Follow live updates of voting in Phase 6 here

PM Modi in an effort to mislead people has now come up with a new explanation that his caste is the same as that of the poor. What else will he trick people with for the sake of electoral benefits? But how can the people forgive him for the plight of millions of poor people, labourers, farmers etc. for 5 years? she tweeted on Sunday.

Also read: Delhi votes with 6 states in round 6 of Lok Sabha polls, one more lap to go

Mayawati had said that Modi cant be a backward because the RSS would not have allowed himn to become PM if he was so. The prime minister has been attacking the SP-BSP alliance in UP accusing the two parties of indulging in caste politics.

Also read: BJPs Bharati Ghosh breaks down after being heckled at Bengal poll booth

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BJP President Amit Shah Sunday said Article 370 that gives special powers to Kashmir will be scrapped if Narendra Modi is elected as prime minister again. Addressing his first rally at Chogan Maidan in Chamba district, Shah said former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah said there should be another prime minister for the state whereas Congress in its manifesto declared it will review AFSPA in Kashmir and amend provisions of sedition law.

All this indicated their mindset but if the BJP comes to power again and Modi becomes prime minister, Article 370 will be removed for sure, he added.

The BJP chief is campaigning in support of Kangra BJP candidate Kishan Kapoor.

Targeting the Congress on the issue of national security, he said the Manmohan Singh led previous Congress government did nothing when Pakistan beheaded five India soldiers but under Modi rule airstrikes were carried out in Balakot.

Also read| Kya khel bana rakha hai: PM Modi attacks Oppn over security Ops in J&K

Shah pointed out that Congress leader Sam Pitroda said instead of airstrikes, we should talk to militants.

Targeting Pitroda further, the BJP chief said, If you ask a question regarding the 1984 anti-Sikh riots, the Congress says hua to hua. If you ask a question regarding the 26/11 attacks in Mumbai and migration of Kashmiri Pandits, Congress says hua to hua.Shah also noted that it was for the first time that the opposition has not made corruption an issue as it has been wiped out during the Modi government.

Counting various development works done in HP under the Modi government, Shah said, Process is on to set up an international airport at Mandi. It will be done after Modi government comes to power again at the Centre.HP CM Jai Ram Thakur and veteran BJP leader Shanta Kumar were present in the rally.

Also read| Born as backward, taking India forward: PM Modis comeback to Mayawati

Congress has pitted sitting MLA Pawan Kajal against HP minister Kishan Kapoor from Kangra.

The BJP chief is scheduled to address two more rallies later in the day in HPs Bilaspur and Nahan in support of BJP candidates Anurag Thakur and Suresh Kashyap from Hamirpur and Shimla Lok Sabha seats respectively.

(This story has been published from a wire agency feed without modifications to the text. )
Polling began at 7am on Sunday for the penultimate round of the seven-phase Lok Sabha elections with 59 constituencies across 7 states voting to pick their lawmakers, this includes all seven Lok Sabha seats of Delhi.

Delhi is voting alongside 14 seats in Uttar Pradesh, 10 in Haryana, eights each in Bihar, Madhya Pradesh and West Bengal, and four in Jharkhand.

Follow live updates here

Its a high-stake round for the BJP and its allies as out of the 59 seats polling today, they hold 46, UPA has two and others 11.

Here are the highlights:

-Total voter turnout till 6 pm is 63.3%: Election Commission

-Total 61.14% voting till 7 pm in Phase 6

Total 61.14% voting till 7 pm in Phase 6. West Bengal- 80.16, Delhi-56.11, Haryana- 62.91, Uttar Pradesh- 53.37, Bihar- 59.29, Jharkhand- 64.46, Madhya Pradesh- 60.40

-Total 59.70% voting till 6 pm in Phase 6

Total 59.70% voting till 6 pm in Phase 6. Bihar-55.04%, Haryana-62.12%, Madhya Pradesh-60.12%, Uttar Pradesh-50.82%, West Bengal-80.13%, Jharkhand-64.46%, NCT of Delhi-55.44%.

-Total 50.77% voting till 4 pm in Phase 6

Total 50.77% voting till 4 pm in Phase 6. West Bengal- 70.51, Delhi-45.24, Haryana- 51.86 Uttar Pradesh- 43.26, Bihar- 44.40, Jharkhand- 58.08, Madhya Pradesh- 52.78.

-Around 4 pm, police blocked the way of Ghatals BJP candidate Bharati Ghosh

Around 4 pm, police blocked the way of Ghatals BJP candidate Bharati Ghosh when she was moving towards Pingla. Guardrails were placed on the road to prevent her car.

If there is any allegation of my security personnel opening fire, there will be an investigation. Bullets will be matched and due process has to be followed. But why block my way? Ghosh told the media.

- At 3 pm, 51% voter turnout in Phase 6

At 3 pm, the overall voter turnout in Phase 6 of Lok Sabha elections 2019 stood at 50.63%.

44.40% votes were polled in Bihar, 51.65% in Haryana, 52.54% in Madhya Pradesh, 43.26% in Uttar Pradesh, 70.22% in West Bengal, 58.05% in Jharkhand, and 44.90% in Delhi, as per data on Election Commissions Voter Turnout app.

- Register complaint against BJPs Bharati Ghosh: Poll panel directs police

The Election Commission has directed the police to register a complaint against BJP candidate Bharati Ghosh for coming within 100 metres of booths (206 and 207 number booths in Keshpur) with security men carrying arms.

On Sunday morning, Ghosh went to these booths after getting reports that her polling agent could not enter the booth since TMC supporters were resisting him.

Eventually, Ghosh had to return after trying fruitlessly to take him into the booth. She was heckled by TMC women supporters when she and her agent tried to enter the booth.

- At 12 noon, 25.13% voter turnout in Phase 6

At 12 noon, the overall voter turnout in Phase 6 of Lok Sabha elections 2019 stood at 25.13%.

20.70% votes were polled in Bihar, 23.30% in Haryana, 28.21% in Madhya Pradesh, 21.75% in Uttar Pradesh, 38.26% in West Bengal, 31.27% in Jharkhand, and 19.55% in Delhi, as per data on Election Commissions Voter Turnout app.

- EVM glitches reported in Delhi

Complaints about malfunctioning EVMs poured in from several places of the national capital on Sunday where voting is underway.

Adarsh Gupta, a resident of Matia Mahal area, claimed that at polling booth number 84, 85 and 86, electronic voting machines were initially not working in the morning.

Aam Aadmi Partys Malviya Nagar MLA Somnath Bharti alleged that EVMs at booths number -- 116,117 and 122 -- were not functioning.

EVM in booth 132, Hauzrani is showing 50 votes without anyone casting any vote in the machine n EVMs at booths 116,117, 122 in Malviya nagar not functioning, Bharti tweeted.

However, there was no immediate reaction from the chief electoral office, reported news agency PTI.

- At 11 am, 24.80% voter turnout in Phase 6

At 11 am, the overall voter turnout in Phase 6 of Lok Sabha elections 2019 stood at 24.80%.

20.70% votes were polled in Bihar, 22.63% in Haryana, 27.59% in Madhya Pradesh, 21.75% in Uttar Pradesh, 38.08% in West Bengal, 31.27% in Jharkhand, and 18.76% in Delhi, as per data on Election Commissions Voter Turnout app.

- Love will win against PM Modis campaign of hate: Rahul Gandhi

Love will win, was Congress president Rahul Gandhis message after casting vote in New Delhi on Sunday for the sixth round of the seven-phase Lok Sabha elections in 59 constituencies across 7 states.

The election was fought on several issues  unemployment, farm distress, demonetization, Rafale Narendra Modi used hatred in the campaign and we used love and I am confident love will win, the president said after casting his vote in New Delhi constituency where partys Ajay Maken is a candidate against BJPs Meenakshi Lekhi and AAPs Brijesh Goyal.

- BJP, Trinamool workers found dead in Bengal ahead of sixth phase polling

The bodies of a BJP leader and a Trinamool Congress worker were found on Saturday night, triggering allegations of political murders in West Bengal, a few hours before polling began in the sixth phase of Lok Sabha election on Sunday.

Ramen Singh, 42, and Sudhakar Maity, 55, were found dead in Gopiballavpur of Jhargram and Contai of East Midnapore respectively. While Singh was a booth president of the Bharatiya Janata Party, Maity was a Trinamool Congress worker.

Medinipur and Jhargram are among the eight constituencies polling in the sixth phase of the seven-phase Lok Sabha elections on Sunday.

- BJP vs Congress vs AAP: A triangular contest for 7 Delhi seats

As many as 1.43 crore people are expected to vote on Sunday in a high-stakes triangular fight to elect Delhis seven Lok Sabha representatives, where the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is looking to retain all seats, the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) trying to make its debut in the Lower House from the Capital and the Congress attempting to regain its lost base.

This election, which saw a high-pitched campaign replete with rhetoric, political defections, an assault on the CM, and even a couple of personal attacks, will be even more crucial as Delhi elects a new assembly in less than nine months  one of the reasons why for months, AAP and the Congress were trying to get into a seat-sharing pact and ensure their combined vote share increased and surpassed that of the BJP in the LS election.

Now that AAP and the Congress have failed to forge an alliance, the fight for the seven seats, presently held by the BJP, will be triangular.

- BJPs Bharati Ghosh allegedly pushed by TMC supporters at Bengal poll booth

BJP candidate Bharati Ghosh alleged that she was pushed around by some women when she rushed to a polling station in Chandkhali area of Keshpur under West Bengals Ghatal constituency. Ghosh said her polling agent was not allowed to enter the booth.

The women said in front of TV channels that they were TMC supporters.

I am the candidate. I am being pushed around and heckled. Those assaulting me and preventing my polling agent to enter the booth should be arrested, said Ghosh, who was the superintendent of police in West Midnapore district for six years (2011-2017) in which her constituency is located.

- Early reports of VVPAT malfunctioning in Bengal

Polling began in eight constituencies the 6th phase with long queues outside polling stations in Bengal from as early as 6 am, or in some cases, even earlier.

There were early reports of VVPAT malfunctioning in one booth in Jaypur area of Purulia constituency.

- PM Modi urges youngsters to turn up in record numbers

Yet another phase of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections is here!

Urging all those whose constituencies are polling in todays sixth phase to go out and vote. I hope youngsters are voting in record numbers. After all, their participation makes the polls even more special, tweeted PM Narendra Modi.

- Key contests in Phase 6

Among those in the ring in phase 6 of elections -- predominantly in northern states, barring West Bengal -- are Maneka Gandhi, Varun Gandhi, Rita Bahuguna Joshi, Dilip Ghosh, Meenakshi Lekhi (all BJP), Digvijaya Singh, Jyotiraditya Scindia, Sheila Dikshit, Ajay Maken, Bhupinder Singh Hooda, Kirti Azad (all Congress), Akhilesh Yadav (Samajwadi Party) and Manas Bhunia (Trinamool).

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As campaigning for the Lok Sabha polls entered its final phase, Prime Minister Narendra Modi Sunday predicted defeat of the opposition parties, saying the people were voting for an effective government.

Opposition parties will fall flat in Lok Sabha polls. This is because people are voting for an effective and honest government, he said at an election rally here.

Attacking the SP-BSP alliance, Modi said he had been the chief minister of Gujarat more than the terms of Akhilesh Yadav and Mayawati as Uttar Pradesh chief ministers combined, and there was no blot of corruption on him.

Watch | PM Modi: Will soldiers take ECs permission before shooting militants?

Hitting out at BSP chief Mayawati for her remarks on the Alwar gangrape case, the prime minister asked her not to shed crocodile tears for the victim.

Also read| Born as backward, taking India forward: PM Modis comeback to Mayawati

If you are serious, why dont you withdraw support from the Congress government in Rajasthan, he asked.

Even the Congress government wanted to suppress the incident involving a Dalit woman, he said, adding that the party thought hua toh hua, a reference to Sam Pitrodas remark on 1984 anti-Sikh riots.

Referring to the encounter in Shopian district of Jammu and Kashmir Sunday morning, the prime minister wondered, Will our jawans take ECs permission before opening fire at militants? Opposition kya khel bana rakha hai? (What drama is the opposition enacting). He said it was surprising to note that the opposition parties were saying that elections were on and the security forces were opening fire at militants.

Also read| Love will win: Rahul Gandhis sharp attack on PM after voting in Delhi
A political row broke out on Sunday over Prime Minister Narendra Modis comments in a television interview over the timing of the Balakot air strikes. In this interview, PM Modi had outlined how the government had decided to go ahead with the strike at Jaish-e-Mohammeds biggest terror training camp despite a cloud cover.

The weather suddenly turned bad. There was a doubt about whether we can strike in bad weather. During a review (of the Balakot plan), experts said what if we change the date. I had two issues in mind. One was secrecy... second, I said I have a raw vision, the clouds can benefit us too. We can escape the radar. Everyone was confused. Ultimately I said there are clouds... lets proceed, he told News Nation on Saturday.

Read: Will jawans take ECs permission before shooting terrorists?: PM Modi

When contacted senior Indian Air Force officer, a fighter pilot involved in Balakot strikes planning, said : The radars, most probably Swedish Giraffe, used by Pakistanis can see through the cloud cover, but the kill system or missile (probably RBS 70) used to bring down the intruder is equipped with an infra-red homing head. It is the infra-red seeker that get degraded during cloud cover. And hence the difficulty in knocking out the intruding fighter.

PM Modis comment nevertheless triggered a series of reaction on social media from opposition parties. It didnt help that the BJPs Twitter handle, which tweeted the PMs remark soon after the interview, deleted it later. Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah was among the first politicians to take a swipe at the Prime Minister.

Looks like the tweet got lost in the clouds. Luckily there are screen shots floating around to help, Abdullah tweeted, adding, Pakistani radar doesnt penetrate clouds. This is an important piece of tactical information that will be critical when planning future air strikes.

The Left leader Sitaram Yechury said: National security is not something to be trifled with. Such an irresponsible statement from Modi is highly damaging. Somebody like this cant remain Indias PM.

#EntireCloudCover is a blockbuster clip. It will be used in the Indian Institute of Science as a case-study, national spokesperson of the Congress Sanjay Jha tweeted.

On February 27, the Indian Air Force had carried out the airstrikes at the Jaish camp deep inside Pakistan. The government said the strikes were designed to destroy the training camp of the Jaish-e-Mohammed for the Pulwama suicide bombing 13 days earlier. Forty CRPF soldiers were killed in the February 14 bombing, the deadliest terror attack on security forces in Jammu and Kashmir in three decades.
The May 12 Lok Sabha election is set to be a make-or-mar poll for many bigwigs belonging to all four political majors  the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party, Congress, Indian National Lok Dal (INLD) and its splinter outfit Jannayak Janata Party (JJP)  in Haryana.

The ruling BJP had won seven of the total 10 Lok Sabha seats in 2014, INLD won three, while Congress won two.

Not only will the BJP be looking to maintain, if not increase, its tally, 2019 will also be a prestige battle for the once- main opposition party, INLD, especially with splinter outfit, JJP, formed by Hisar MP Dushyant Chautala, in the fray.

The Aam Aadmi Party, which has allied with the JJP, will contest three of the seven seats, while JJP will contest all.

BJP has fielded five of seven sitting MPs, two of whom  Rao Inderjit Singh (Gurgaon) and Krishan Pal Gurjar (Faridabad)  are union ministers. While Kurukshetra MP Rajkumar Saini rebelled and will fight the polls in alliance with the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), Karnal MP Ashwini Chopra declined to fight the polls on health grounds.

Instead, Nayab Saini, who is the sitting MLA from Naraingarh, will contest from Kurukshetra, while Sanjay Bhatia, state general secretary, will fight from Karnal, the home turf of chief minister Manohar Lal Khattar. Bhatia has contested two assembly elections unsuccessfully, and has been state president of the BJP Kisan Morcha as well. Saini, on the other hand, has been brought in to appease the Other Backward Castes, especially the Saini community.

Congress two-time chief minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda will contest from home turf Sonepat, while son Deepender Singh Hooda, who is a three-time MP, will contest from Rohtak.

In Sirsa, the Congress state party president and former MP Ashok Tanwar will face first-timer Sunita Duggal, a former Indian Revenue Services officer.

In Hisar, GenNext of political heavyweights will battle it out. Brijendra Singh, son of Union steel minister Birender Singh, from the BJP will face Bhavya Bishnoi, the grandson of former chief minister Bhajan Lal, who is the Congress pick for Hisar. Both the sons of Ajay Chautala, the former MP and eldest son of INLD supremo Om Prakash Chautala, will contest as JJP candidates  Dushyant will contest from Hisar and Digvijay from Sonepat.

Ajay Chautala is undergoing 10-year imprisonment along with his father in the Junior Basic Trained teacher recruitment scam, since 2013.

Professor Rajendra Sharma, head, department of political science, Maharishi Dayanand University, Rohtak, said, People are by now clear about the functioning and ideology of Modi and the government at the Centre as well as Haryana. The poll results would show the future of polity the people would have.
From soaring the skies as an Israeli fighter pilot to sauteing vegetables for a delicious Shakshuka, Israeli chef Gil de Picciottos journey has been nothing less than a fiction novel. After all, it isnt easy imagining that one man would serve two roles, both so distinct, in a single lifetime. But, the chef, food technologist and an entrepreneur feels this was destined. In town for the grand Israeli National Day celebrations that took place on May 8, the chef talked to us about his journey, the parallels between Indian and Israeli food and more.

Ask him how his tryst with food began, and Gil immediately says that food was a family thing for him. My grandparents come from Syria, Egypt, Romania and Germany, so you can imagine what kind of cuisine we had at home. My family loved to cook and there was always something going on in the kitchen, we had our family dinners and Shabbat dinners and everyone would bring the dishes they were proud of to it. My father, my mother, everyone cooked and each of them had their own flair, and maybe because of that I wanted to bring my own too. I was about 11 when I cooked my first dishes in my mothers kitchen; they were basic but the process felt really good to me. For many years after that, I didnt really do anything about it. I had my army service, my education, but the love for food came back to me and I wanted to do something with it. And, once I finished my army service, I couldve chosen to be an engineer or do something in economics but I followed my heart and went to culinary school, he says.

And the next thing that he says tells us that Jewish moms are not very different from our Indian moms. He says, A Jewish mother needs to have a certain certification for her son  be it a doctor, an engineer or more. Once I was a pilot in the Israeli Air Force, I did not need any more certification and I had proven myself. I served the military on reserve duty until I was 42, but that did not work for my creative part since pilots are not required to be creative but precise. So, I think the other side of me was yearning for creativity and I found that in the kitchen. 

But, creating wonders in the kitchen wasnt enough for Gil, he wanted to do more in the culinary world and soon found himself dabbling with food science and nutrition so he could come up with innovations. He cam up with FoodLabs Ltd. where he could fuse his love for food and technology and turned his ideas into foodtech startups that would give the world healthy , delicious and safe food. In a perfect world, the perfect culinary person would be a great chef who has a hold over the various culinary styles, a food scientist who understands the process behind the dish and thus can innovate with it and a nutritionist who understands what impact the food has on the body. Unfortunately, the academy divides this into three professions. So, I trained in Israel, France and the USA to learn the most I could in culinary techniques. I became a chef and got creative with the process and ingredients, but with that I also understood that with science one can be more creative. Now there are textures, tastes, the fusion of ingredients and flavours all in a small bite which I call wild innovation, and the flip side to that is subtle innovation that works with food products where you create something for a consumer keeping in mind its shelf life, taste, health factors and more. This subtle innovation is what held my interest, and for the last 12 years, that is what I have been doing. To do something no one has done, to surprise the consumer and to create wonders despite limitations is what gets me going, he says.

We have a special guest helping us prepare as we gear up to celebrate #Israel71 #IndependenceDay in New Delhi! Chef Gil de Picciotto will be bringing authentic Israeli flavor to the festivities this year, and believe me it tastes amazing  pic.twitter.com/wo1pbhrLVp  Avigail C.J. Spira  (@Avigailcjm) May 7, 2019

On his maiden visit to India, the chef plans to explore whatever Indian food he can, and feels that there are several parallels that the countrys food has with Israeli offerings. It is my first time in India and I am very happy to be here. Ive had some Indian food, but Ive known Indian flavours from back in Israel too. I like the flavours, the spices, the colours, the fragrances, everything. The spices I have got here from Israel have also originated in India. I absolutely love spicy food so Indian food works for me, but I am still looking to have more and will be heading to Old Delhi to try out some street delicacies, on recommendation from people. There are many parallels between Israeli and Indian food be it colours or flavours and I feel both are melting pots for various cultures that results in some great combinations. But, if I have to make it simple, it is happy food, he says, and takes out a notebook to ask us about a few places where he could go to try out food and buy spices.

What also has the chef intrigued are the Israeli communities in Delhi, especially the ones in Paharganj (referred to as the Main Bazaar by some). I really want to see what Israel is like in this mirror. I would love to explore these spots and maybe have some food from there too. This one is a short trip, but I would love to be back for longer so I can cherish more, says Gil.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR Aditya Dogra Aditya Dogra writes on art, culture and campus, for the daily Entertainment & Lifestyle supplement, HT City. ...view detail
The education department said that 2,261 students have confirmed their admissions for seats under the Right to Education (RTE) Act in schools after the end of first round. According to the department, 3,532 students were allotted admissions across 356 schools in round one, of which, 64% confirmed their admissions.

This leaves 1,271 vacant seats after the end of round 1 of admissions. The education department said these seats will be added to the second round, which is likely to begin on May 21.

This year, the admission process has been smooth so far. Most of the students who were allotted the admissions, have confirmed the seats. The remaining applicants will get a chance in the upcoming rounds, said an official from the education department.

This year, over 11,000 students had applied for more than 7,000 seats across the Mumbai region. Under the RTE act, all unaided non-minority schools have to reserve 25% seats at the entry-level for students from socially and economically weaker sections.

In 2018, only 3,214 students secured admissions against the 8,374 seats in 347 schools under the quota.

The education department, which is responsible for primary education, had recently launched an app to register for admissions, keeping in mind those who could not go to guidance centres. Most parents, however, said they did not know about the app, and thus, most of the applications were made from the guidance centre. Education activists have criticised the government for not making any efforts to ensure that parents know about the app.
Nine years after they first approached the authorities for a water connection, the wait will soon be over for 15,915 slum-dwellers in the shanties of Darukhana in Sewri. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has almost finished laying 4.3km of new water pipelines in Darukhana, which includes areas such as Kaula Bunder, Coal Bunder and Lakri Bunder.

The work of laying pipelines has been going on since March, at a cost of Rs5.54 crore, after the Pani Haq Samiti got a no-objection certificate (NOC) from the Mumbai Port Trust (MbPT), which owns the land, in 2019. The Samiti has been fighting for equitable water distribution in the city for years and has been following up with the Darukhana issue since 2010. The work is in the final stage. Well start the water supply soon, said a hydraulic department official.

In Darukhana, the slum dwellers, who are mostly labourers in the scrap market, had been buying water for their daily needs for decades. It costs us Rs300 to Rs400 every month to buy water. Some would also steal water, said Fayaz Shaikh, a resident of Kaula Bunder.

Water rights activists have hailed the move as a landmark event for the city, where most slum-dwellers  who form 52% of Mumbais population  do not have proper access to water. This is the first time the Centre has given a nod for water supply to slums in its land. We are hoping this sets a precedent for other agencies like Railways and forest departments, which also have a huge number of slums on their land, said Sitaram Shelar, convenor, Pani Haq Samiti.

The Samiti had previously got an NOC from MbPT in 2013. But, due to procedural issues, the NOC had lapsed, he said.
Lying on the mattress with her gaze fixed on the static fan, she prays silently for a miracle. The thought of losing her son sleeping peacefully right next to her shakes her to the core. As she lovingly strokes his forehead, she cant stop herself from falling apart. She weeps quitely, afraid that she would wake up her child. Her son is suffering from liver disorder, and doctors have recommended a transplant. She has agreed to give hers and she is waiting for the doctor to confirm that she is medically suitable for donating her liver. With bated breath, she is waiting for the results. As soon as the results come, she jumps up with a sense of solace in her heart and donates her. Her love is selfless and unconditional. She cant break any barriers to give life to her children.

This Mothers Day, we spoke to 5 such mothers from around the world, whos unbridled love and selfless ness gave a new life to their child.

Jhanice Moreno with son Nicelle

My mother, my hero

I used to cry the entire night. I thought of losing my son use to break me down. As soon as I got to know I can donate a part of my liver to save this life, I didnt think twice and went for it, says Jhanice Moreno as she recalls the condition of her two-month-old son in 2017. Jhanice from Philippines, her husband and two kids live in Philippines. Nicelle, her youngest son, was two months old when they realised that his skin was turning yellow and they need to seek medical consultation. His tummy grew big, eyes turned yellow, he stopped eating anything. And so later, he was diagnosed with Biliary Atresia.

They were told by doctors that the only way to save him was a transplant else he wont survive. This broke the family down and bought them to India for the operation. We are a middle-class family and dont have so much money. So we had to raise funds for him. Its very shameful and painful to ask someone for money however, for my child I did it. We sold out a lot of our stuff and collected money for the operation and our stay in India. Thankfully the lord provided, we prayed a lot and finally today we both are healthy, says a teary-eyed Jhanice. On August 1st, our operation took place, it lasted for almost 10 hours, I gave 25% of my liver to him which saved his. For a mother, there is nothing more satisfying than this. I knew I saved my kids live and even if it would have been giving up mine, I would have done the same, adds Jhanice, who is now 32 and healthy.

Shyantani Dey with daughter Ariana

Main tere pe Kurbaan

When we asked Shyantani Dey from Kolkata , what made her donate her organ to her daughter Ariana Dey while she was just 5 months old, she recited two lines for us. Janu meri jaan, Main tere pe Kurbaan. Tu meri, main teri jaane sara Hindustan. Apni beti ke liye toh jaan hazir hai! sung Dey with a heart full of love. However, last few months havent been easy for her. On 7th March 2019, Ariana underwent an operation, where her mothers 182 gm liver was transplanted into her. The operation was a very crucial keeping in mind Arianas age. The 10-hour-long operation at Max Super Speciality Hospital, Saket was successfully granting lives to the mother and daughter.

5-month-old Ariana Dey from Kolkata, flew to Delhi on 5th March after she was diagnosed with liver malfunctioning with prolonged INR of 3.84  which is supposed to be under 1- and elevated Ammonia which was only detected in adults. When she same arrived her condition was very critical condition and was bleeding already, a sign of acute liver dysfunction. Doctors in Kolkata said, she has only five days and nothing can be done. Her urine and eyes were yellow in colour and she was passing clay-like stool. Her father and I refused to believe that we cant save her. Once her father wasnt eligible to give his liver, I was tested. And they said I can give her my liver. The clock was ticking and he had no time. I feel so proud that I was the one who gave her my kidney, says Dey.

The hardship wasnt just to see their daughter suffer but the societal pressure which Dey faced. I left breast feeding her after 2 months and you know how Indian society is, they blame the mother for everything. Many accused me for her state. They said it is because I stopped feeding too early or that I gave her water and so on. It was painful to hear doctors accuse me for it, says Dey as she gulped down a lump in her throat.

Rita with her son Namit

When prayers are met

On September 2017, at 6am Rita and her son Namit, lay on the hospital bed thinking about each other. All Rita could think of was seeing his son fit and fine. The thought of undergoing the knife herself didnt occur to her even once. They were to undergo a surgery where Ritas 20% liver was transplanted into Namits body(her son).

Namit was 13 then, and since he was born, I didnt see him sleep in the night. It was heart breaking the way he used to shout and feel itchy throughout the night. I used to rub my fingers on his back all night so that he can sleep for a while. But it was a temporary solution. Things became worst when his platelets reduced, blood reduced. He wasnt responding to medicines well. Once day we took him for his second endography in Chandigrah, on our way back to our house in Una, Himachal Pradesh when he started vomiting. He vomited a lot of blood that took us in aghast and we decided to go to Apollo Hospital as per our doctors recommendation, reminisces Rita.

Rita prayed to her god that her liver matches and she can be the one to save her son from this ghastly disease. Apne bache k liye sab karna hai mujhe. I could go to any extreme, says the mother. When her liver matched, they underwent the transplant which started at 6am in the morning and was successfully completed at 1:30am the next morning.

Nandita Mondal with her son Trishan

Bhaalo Beta Mera

On 8th May when we called Nandita Mondal to talk to her about her son Trishan who had undergone a liver transplant in 2017, she told us that it was today that the operation took place. 8th May, 2017, exactly 2 years back, Trishan was operated and 30% of my liver was given to him. Us time bas lagta tha ki main guzar jau par mera beta bhalo hojae, said Nandita from Kolkata. In a turmoil, Nandita kept asking herself, why my son? Trishan who was 6-years-old then, was rushed to the hospitals many times in Kolkata, as he used to have fever constantly, his stomach had expanded and doctors said he has Hepatitis B.

One day when we was in pain and had fever, we took him to emergency, doctors had given up. We decided to get him to Delhi, all the doctors refused and said what will you do if something happened to him on the way? But we took the risk and got him to Delhi, Apollo Hospital. Here doctors recommended transplant and for the first time someone said to me that he would be fine, recalls Nandita. She knew her liver would match with her son and it did. Im proud I could give him a part of my liver and a second life. Ab toh hum dono tek hai. Mera liver complete hogaya hai. When I see him play and enjoy today, it gives me immense pleasure and solace, adds Nandita.

Sneha Arora with daughter Gurbani (PHOTO BY RAAJESSH KASHYAP/ HT)

A mothers pride

A six month old baby Gurbani was detected with congenital liver problem and the root cause was Biliary Atresia. The child was born with an absent bile duct, called as biliary atresia. To save her life, she had to undergo a liver transplant at the age of 6 months. How difficult would it be for the mother to see her child in pain? Ask Sneha Arora, her mother, and tears would roll down. It was not just medical issues; they didnt have the money to get the operation done to save Gurbani.

We got in touch with crowd funding sites such as Milap and they helped us raise money. In about a weeks time they were able to generate fund we were able to process the operation, says Arora who also had medical complication. Gurbani was a surgical baby and Sneha was recovering from the surgery. She didnt know how much her body would support her. I wasnt able to understand anything. Kushmakash tha dil me par beti k otoh kuch bhi kar k bachana tha. So I went ahead with the surgery. The operation took place on 21st January 2019, 25% of my liver was transplanted into. The surgery was almost 12 hour long. Today, we both are fine. I have recovered and Gurbani is still recovering but is health, says Arora with smile on her face and a sense of pride in her heart.

Experts say

Dr.(Prof) Subhash Gupta, Chairman - Liver and Biliary Sciences, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Saket says, The main thing about a mother donating organ to her child is that it is always unconditional. There is no thought of personal benefit at all. The donation that a mother does for a child is truly for love. I can say that in most other organ donations there is some kind of expectations whereas in mothers case, the donations is beyond any expectation and without any thought for the self. As soon as the mother wakes up after the surgery she always asks how is my baby. She never asks for herself or her pain. She is always concerned about the baby. This is what true love is.

Dr. Sharat Varma, Lead Consultant, Paediatric, Hepatologist and Gastroenterologist, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Saket says, Typically, a liver donor spends approximately five to seven days in the hospital, and will have an additional six to eight weeks of recovery time. Donors would have the liver grow back to normal within two months time after the donation. During the early recovery period, donor experiences some pain and discomfort from the incision, which is usually well controlled with pain medications. Once the pain is well controlled, donor is eating and drinking well, walking around without too much difficulty, they are discharged from the hospital. After discharge, donor is advised not to lift anything heavier than 10 Kgs for at least six weeks and encouraged to walk several times a day. Depending on the type of work you do, the donor may be able to return to work six to eight weeks after surgery.

Dr. Anupam Sibal, Group Medical Director and Senior Pediatric Gastroenterologist, Apollo Hospitals Group explains, Just like Mahatma Gandhi said a Man can never be a womans equal in the spirit of selfless service with which nature has endowed her. Nobody can beat a mothers courage and love. We dont need to convince them, they are ready to sacrifice their lives for her child. The first thing a mother asks after the operation and being conscious is  How is my child?. A few years back, we had 70% mothers who were donating their organs however, today even fathers have come up. We want fathers also to donate as a mother can then take care of the child. After the surgery, the mother is also weak and cant do anything for a few days. However, the liver grows back and there is no risk to the donor.

Dr Neerav Goyal, Senior Consultant liver transplant and Hepatobiliary and pancreatic surgeon, Apollo Hospitals Group, Usually its the mother who comes forward because there is a strong power in motherhood which is unbeatable. They put their life at risk and a lot is dependent on you to make things fine. However, we would want to promote organ donation. We mathematically calculate and make sure that the donation is beneficial for the child and not risky for the donor.

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An attack on a luxury hotel in the southwestern city of Gwadar was a bid to sabotage prosperity, Pakistani prime minister Imran Khan said Sunday, as police confirmed all the attackers had been killed.

At least one person was shot dead Saturday after gunmen stormed a luxury hotel in the southwestern Pakistani city of Gwadar, the centrepiece of a multi-billion dollar Chinese infrastructure project.

A Baloch separatist group, the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), claimed responsibility for the attack via Twitter.

Such attempts especially in Balochistan are an effort to sabotage our economic projects and prosperity. We shall not allow these agendas to succeed, Khan said in a statement issued by his office.

Also Read | Gunmen storm five-star hotel in Pakistan, killing at least one

The Chinese embassy in Islamabad also strongly condemned the incident.

Local police said four gunmen who had stormed the hotel, shooting dead a security guard, had been killed overnight by security forces.

All four terrorists were killed and security forces had taken complete control of the hotel building, a local police official in Gwadar told AFP via telephone.

His account was confirmed by a security source in Islamabad. The military had said on Saturday that there were three gunmen.

Mohammad Aslam, a police official in Gwadar, told AFP Saturday that only staff were present in the building at the time of the attack.

The BLA is one of a myriad of insurgent groups fighting in tightly-guarded Balochistan province, which has been rocked by separatist, Islamist and sectarian violence for years.

The next Dubai

The Pearl Continental, part of Pakistans largest five-star hotel chain, is the only luxury hotel in Gwadar, frequented by foreign and Pakistani business delegations as well as diplomats.

It sits isolated on a ridge overlooking the Arabian Sea port city that was formerly a small fishing village, but now touted by officials as the next Dubai thanks to the multi-billion dollar China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

Part of Chinas Belt and Road initiative, CPEC seeks to connect the western Chinese province of Xinjiang with Gwadar, with the development of the port as the plans flagship project.

Gwadar will provide China with safer and more direct access to the oil-rich Middle East than the waterway trade route it currently uses through the narrow Malacca Straits.

But it has also drawn its share of attacks -- particularly from separatists who have long complained that residents of Pakistans poorest and largest province do not receive a fair share of profits from its resources.

The BLA has targeted Chinese workers in Pakistan multiple times, including during a brazen daylight attack on the Chinese consulate in Karachi which killed four people in November last year.

At the time, the BLA branded Beijing an oppressor.

Balochistan is tightly guarded by the Pakistani military, who have been targeting insurgents there since 2004. The army has been repeatedly accused by international rights groups of abuses there, but denies all allegations.

The attack was the second deadly attack in a prominent Pakistan city this week, after a suicide blast claimed by the Pakistani Taliban at one of the countrys oldest and most popular Sufi shrines killed at least 12 people in the eastern city of Lahore.
Sri Lankan authorities have arrested a Saudi-educated scholar for what they claim are links with Zahran Hashim, the suspected ringleader of the Easter Sunday bombings, throwing a spotlight on the rising influence of Salafi-Wahhabi Islam on the islands Muslims.

Mohamed Aliyar, 60, is the founder of the Centre for Islamic Guidance, which boasts a mosque, a religious school and a library in Zahrans hometown of Kattankudy, a Muslim-dominated city on Sri Lankas eastern shores.

Information has been revealed that the suspect arrested had a close relationship with ... Zahran and had been operating financial transactions, said a police statement late on Friday.

The statement said Aliyar was involved with training in the southern town of Hambantota for the group of suicide bombers who attacked hotels and churches on Easter, killing over 250 people.

A police spokesman declined to provide details on the accusations.

Calls to Aliyar and his associates went unanswered. Reuters was unable to find contact details for a lawyer.

The government says Zahran, a radical Tamil-speaking preacher, was a leader of the group.

Two Muslim community sources in Kattankudy told Reuters his hardline views were partly shaped by ultra-conservative Salafi-Wahhabi texts that he picked up at the Centre for Islamic Guidances library around 2-3 years ago. The sources are not affiliated with the centre.

I used to always run into him at the centre, reading Saudi journals and literature, said one of the sources.

During that time, Zahran started criticising the practice of asking God for help, for instance, arguing that such pleas were an affront to pure Islam.

That kind of teaching was not in Sri Lanka in 2016, unless you read it in Salafi literature, the source added, requesting anonymity to avoid repercussions in Kattankudy.

Salafism, a puritanical interpretation of Islam that advocates a return to the values of the first three generations of Muslims and is closely linked to Wahhabism, has often been criticised as the ideology of radical Islamists worldwide.

Wahhabi Islam has its roots in Saudi Arabia and is backed by its rulers, although Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has committed the kingdom to a more moderate form of Islam.

Other than the fact that Zahran visited the centre, the sources in Kattankudy said they did not know of any personal ties between him and Aliyar.

Aliyar founded the centre in 1990, a year after he graduated from the Imam Muhammad ibn Saud Islamic University in Riyadh, in what one resident said marked a key moment in the spread of Salafi doctrine in Kattankudy. The centre was partly funded by Saudi and Kuwaiti donors, according to a plaque outside.

TROUBLEMAKER

Reuters spoke to three members of the centres board before Aliyars arrest. They asked to remain anonymous, citing security concerns amid a backlash against some Muslims.

They said Zahran was a troublemaker and that they had warned authorities about his extremist views. The members said they thought Zahran frequented the library around a decade ago, but had no recollection of him visiting recently and denied that any of its books were to blame for his views.

Funding for the center came from local donations, student fees, and private donors who were classmates of Aliyars in Riyadh, the centres sources said. Reuters was unable to immediately determine further details about the funding of the centre.

The Saudi government communications office in Riyadh did not respond to requests for comment on the funding of the centre.

(Additional reporting by Stephen Kalin in Riyadh and Ranga Sirilal in Colombo; Writing by Alexandra Ulmer, Editing by Raju Gopalakrishnan)
US President Donald Trump has warned China that the deal it rejected last week to end the escalating trade war between the worlds two largest economies will get far worse if its intention was to wait out his first term in office and engage a more malleable successor.

Talks broke down Friday between the two countries after two days of negotiations because Chinas reluctance to concede US demand that it must codify into law the changes it was undertaking to make as part of the deal and detail them, which Beijing saw as a sovereignty issue.

The United States has since  12:01 am Friday  hiked tariff on $200 billion worth of Chinese goods from 10% to 25%; and President Trump has threatened to extend the new rate to $325 billion worth more of Chinese goods, covering practically all of imports from China.

Though Trump wants a deal just as badly  the tariff hikes will push up prices in the US and an average American family of could be paying $767 more a year as a result, according to one estimate  he probably feels emboldened to stay the course because of the surging economy and bipartisan support he is getting to taking the fight to China.

I think that China felt they were being beaten so badly in the recent negotiation that they may as well wait around for the next election, 2020, to see if they could get lucky & have a Democrat win, he wrote on Twitter Saturday.

But, he said, the only problem is that they know I am going to win (best economy & employment numbers in US history, & much more), and the deal will become far worse for them if it has to be negotiated in my second term.

President Trump has accused Democrats of failing to stop the Chinese trade juggernaut and has said the Chinese would rather negotiate with former Vice-President Joe Biden, who is running for the Democratic presidential nomination to take on Trump in 2020. This is just politics, because Trump has been unsparing in his criticism of Republican administrations as well on the issue of trade with China.

Trumps accusation that Democrats were soft on China is also a mischaracterization of their position. Many of them feel just as strongly about it as him, and have fully backed his bare-knuckles fight the Chinese. Hang tough on China, President @realDonaldTrump, Chuck Schumer, the top democrat in US senate wrote on Twitter ahead of the talks that failed Friday. Dont back down. Strength is the only way to win with China.
Berkshire-based Laurens Brand has been sentenced to life imprisonment for the December 2018 murder of his wife, Angela Mittal, who suffered 59 wounds to her neck and chest, the Thames Valley Police said.

Brand, 47, pleaded guilty to killing Mittal, 41, at the Reading Crown Court on March 22 and was on Friday sentenced to life in jail. Mittal was born in England to Bharat and Kamla Mittal.

Mike Roddy of the Thames Valley said: This was a brutal assault carried out by Laurens Brand on his wife, Angela Mittal during which she suffered 59 separate injuries. Brand subjected Angela to this vicious attack in her own home, a place where she should have felt safe and secure.

Instead of helping Angela, he tried to clean up before calling 999. When he did call, he didnt ask for an ambulance, he asked directly for the police already in the knowledge it was too late for Angela.

Mittals family paid tribute to her in a statement: Angela Mittal was a popular young lady known for her sweet and enduring wit. Her life was tragically cut short due to a senseless crime.

The family added: Angela truly lived life to the fullest through the simple pleasures; chatting with friends, spending time and enriching the life of her family and always seeing the brighter side to life.

She had this beautiful talent to bring people together from all walks of life and touch them in a deep and positive way. Angela was known for her creativity, kindness and big heartAngela will be missed beyond words, her love and warmth.

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VladTV is reporting the untimely passing of Hellabandz, a Chicago rapper best known to the mass media for a short-winded relationship with Blac Chyna not too long ago. The 18-year old was viewed as a rising talent in by his Chicago contemporaries, of which Lil Durk is noted to have taken a keen interest in his progress in recent times. It was Lil Durk who ultimately confirmed his death by way of a Tweet. "Rip to my dawg love you 4ever hella Bandz," he wrote yesterday afternoon.

https://twitter.com/_/status/1127275590069960704



The incident took at Cameo nightclub in Miami, Florida. As NBC Miami would go on to report, Hella wasn't the only person bludgeoned in the attack, as two other individuals were also reported as injured - one was escorted to Jackson Memorial Hospital's Ryder Trauma Center in critical condition, the other is believed to be in good sorts.

"A potential subject vehicle was located not far from the scene. While another fled. A pursuit ensued," The Miami Beach Police Department said in a statement. "Our officer witnessed an occupant display a firearm from within the vehicle and later lost sight of that vehicle. A third vehicle was located near 83 Street and Collins Avenue which also fled."

The search for the assailants is ongoing. A convoy of police vehicles that were called to the scene in pursuit of the suspects, ended in a collision. Two of the police-issue vehicles smashed into one another near 91st Street and Harding Avenue. One of the officers involved in the mishap is said to be suffering from minor injuries caused by sudden impact. He is however expected to make a full recovery in the coming days.

[Via]
A Minnesota middle-school teacher was severely reprimanded recently after a video of her in a distasteful position went viral. Herein, Wendy Brilowski is seen using the N-word repeatedly toward her students. The Highland Park Middle School students filmed the unpleasant moment and shared it via social media, which sparked widespread outrage and led to the video going viral. Since the latter, the Saint Paul Public Schools superintendent Joe Gothard promised serious action would be undertaken against the teacher involved.

Furthermore, Gothard issued an apologetic statement to parents through a video in which he insisted that nor racist or foul language was accepted in the school district. The superintendent additionally specified: "As educators, we have to be held to a higher standard and we know that this situation represents a failure on our part. And we will not fall silent in the face of racism in our schools."

Parents were obviously furious upon viewing the video and called for the teacher to be fired. Brandy Coleman, a student's mother, told KARE her daughter previously shared that Brilowski had called her as well as other students "negroes" on numerous other occasions. As of now, the district shared no further details as to what exactly will happen to the teacher, but serious actions surely await.

[Via]
Big Boi and Andre 3000 haven't made music together as Outkast in over a decade. Although the two did do a little reunion tour a few years back, since then, they've continued to focus on their solo ventures. That doesn't mean there's any bad blood between 3K and Big Boi. They're constantly showing each other love and most recently, they came together for Big Boi's son's graduation.

It's been a few decades since Big Boi and Andre 3000 joined forces as Outkast and their relationship is undoubtedly deeper than music. Uncle Andre showed up to Big Boi's son's high school graduation where he posed alongside the father and son for a picture. Like any father would, Big Boi shared a ton of photos of his son to celebrate his graduation. "Congrats Son ! Cross  The Boss  Patton ! Oregon here we come !" He captioned the post with Andre.

"Its been 1 hell of a journey, Big Boi wrote in another post. Raising three kids, private school to college degrees, never woulda thought this rap sh*t would have brought me here, to God be the glory.

This isn't the first time Outkast has shown face at one of Big Boi's kid's grads. Last year, Big Boi's son, Andre Bamboo Patton II, graduated with honors at his high school. Andre came through once again to celebrate the big day with Big Boi and his family.
New reports by TMZ indicate the death of legendary actress Peggy Lipton. The famed actress was best known for her role as Julia Barnes in the television series The Mod Squad, which was very successful back in the early 1960s to 1970s. Moreover, Lipton even went onto winning a Golden Globe for best actress in a TV drama series in the year of 1970 because of that role. Furthermore, she successfully transitioned into a noteworthy singing career while also scoring other major Hollywood roles (Twin Peaks, A Dog's Purpose & Angie Tribeca) While the LA-born starlet was already famous in her own right, she married the super-producer Quincy Jones in 1974 and later divorced him in 1990. The two share daughters, Kidada (The Intern and also was Tupac's fiance prior to his death) and Rashida Jones (Parks & Recreations).

According to the aforementioned news outlet, the Twin Peaks star lost an enduring battle to cancer. The giant TV star's daughter Rashida stated in response to her dear mother's death "We feel so lucky for every moment we spent with her." Indeed, unfortunate news especially on Mother's Day. The actress was 72 years old. We offer both the Jones and Lipton family our deepest and sincerest condolences.

RIP.

[Via]
Rolling Loud's PR team is taking measures to distances itself from Kodak Black's arrest, in light of the fact he wasn't apprehended on festival grounds. It's safe to say the 2019 edition of the tourney hasn't gone as planned, and not because of anything they or any of their hundreds of staffers put into motion.

https://twitter.com/_/status/1127378045193658369



The first knock came as Lil Wayne canceled his set in abrupt fashion after being forced to undergo a spot check. By all accounts, Weezy wasn't the only participant perturbed by officials standing just outside the entrance. In all fairness to Rolling Loud, Lil Wayne did offer a distinction - the so-called "Festival Police" unit wasn't, to his knowledge, employed by the festival, but an outside source.

"The Festival Police (Not Rolling Loud) made it mandatory that I had to be policed and checked to get on the stadium grounds. I do not and will not ever settle for being policed to do my job," Lil Wayne lamented.

Then there's Kodak Black's arrest, creating yet another unforced void in the lineup. Given that Kodak's arrest took place outside festivals grounds, over an outstanding criminal warrant, Rolling Loud was/is in no mood to let their brand integrity slip away - over something outside their control. Their statement reads as follows.
(Bloomberg) -- He wants to keep his country racially pure and makes gestures used by white supremacists. And this week he will sit down with the rest of the euro regions finance ministers.

The new man in charge of Estonias national wallet, Martin Helme, will take his seat for the first time at the heart of the continents mainstream policy-making at the Eurogroup meeting in Brussels on May 16. Hes a member of the anti-immigrant EKRE party that secured some of the Baltic countrys key government positions after winning 18% support in a March election.

Located on the European Unions eastern frontier with Russia, Estonia is the latest triumph for a growing band of anti-immigrant populists from Rome to Helsinki. Led by Italys deputy prime minister, Matteo Salvini, theyre looking to make inroads in votes for the European Parliament this month.

Helme, 43, took his oath of office in April and marked the occasion by flashing a white supremacist hand sign also used by the perpetrator of this years deadly New Zealand terrorist attacks. Like his father, EKRE Chairman Mart Helme, he wants an Estonia free from all other nationalities. In March, he stood by an earlier remark about how to decide who should live in his country, saying if hes black, send him back.

Martin Helme, to my mind, is the dangerous fanatic of the family, said Andres Kasekamp, an expert on the radical right at the University of Toronto. Hes intelligent and hes been very purposefully working in this direction for a long time. He sincerely holds on to these principles that he espouses.

Helme said by email that theres a tendency to label people too light-handedly. Every person has a right to their own opinion and Ill always stand for personal freedoms, he said in response to questions.

Despite a population of just 1.3 million people, Estonia is important. Its seen as an example of successful post-Soviet economic transition, a front-runner in digital government and a model of fiscal conservatism inside the euro region. The country is also among the EUs staunchest backers of sanctions against President Vladimir Putins government over Ukraine, while being home to a sizable NATO troop contingent from Western members.

EU ELECTIONS PRIMER: Europeans slated to head to the polls May 23-26 to choose lawmakers

There have been blemishes. Estonia is grappling with its part in a $230 billion money-laundering scandal. But burgeoning support for the far right in the wake of Europes refugee crisis had gone largely unnoticed as Estonia successfully branded itself as a modern, western state, according to Cas Mudde, a professor at the University of Georgia and an expert on populism.

In many ways, Martin Helme reflects classic Estonian nationalism, Mudde said. Hes added remarkably open racism to it.

EKRE, the countrys third-biggest party, has links to political bedfellows in neighboring Finland and eastern European countries and has applied to join Salvinis nationalist group.

It has the usual credentials. As well as railing against immigrants  the Helmes complain of a replacement of indigenous people in Europe EKRE opposes same-sex partnerships. In 2016, U.S. alt-right figure Richard Spencer tweeted a photo of himself with EKREs youth-wing leader, now a lawmaker, writing my new Estonian friend.

Meanwhile, they have escalated criticism of President Kersti Kaljulaid after she attended the April 29 swearing-in of the cabinet wearing a sweatshirt with the slogan speech is free. They also said she had dishonored her office by failing to congratulate the government.

Helme has backed away from some earlier inflammatory statements. Having accused politicians of complicity in money laundering, his first statement as finance minister was to keep the countrys financial environment fair and transparent.

In his email to Bloomberg, Helme said he pledged to nurture open economic relations and fight money-laundering. He will use his four years experience on the Estonian Parliaments finance committee, he said.

Indeed, the meeting of finance ministers will give him the chance to help tackle the economic issues of the day  and hone his skills.

A history graduate whos been a lawmaker since 2015 after running a publishing house, Helme once told a local weekly that hes completely inept at math and cant even play cards because I cant count the tricks.

To contact the authors of this story: Andrew Langley in London at alangley1@bloomberg.netOtt Ummelas in Tallinn at oummelas@bloomberg.net

To contact the editor responsible for this story: Rodney Jefferson at r.jefferson@bloomberg.net

2019 Bloomberg L.P.
One could not select a more serene location for a homicide. On July 17, 1982, a womans body was found in a meadow in the mountains that run along the border between California and Nevada, not far from Lake Tahoe.

Footprints revealed that she and her killer had strolled half a mile or so from the road to an area known as Sheeps Flat. It appeared that she was seated on a log when she was shot in the back of the head.

I found that unusual, said Len Iljana, who was a deputy at the Washoe County Sheriffs Office at the time.

For years, he and his colleagues tried to identify the woman. They circulated news releases that stated she was in her 20s or 30s, was 5 1/2 feet tall and had hazel eyes and brown hair, which she wore in a bun at the time of her death. The quality of the dental work suggested she might be European. Her last meal was a salad. None of that led anywhere.

The team became desperate enough to explore leads from psychics, he said.

On Tuesday, more than 36 years after she died, the Washoe County Sheriffs Office announced her name: Mary Edith Silvani, born Sept. 29, 1948. Detectives also believe they know who killed her.

These two puzzles of identity were solved with genetic genealogy, a technique that puts a name to DNA with the help of relatives on genealogy sites. Over the past year, the method has been used to advance dozens of cold cases. This is the first time officials have announced in one fell swoop that the technique has been used to identify an adult victims body as well as the persons killer.

The role that a group of volunteer sleuths played in the investigation is a bit different from that in other recent cases. The role played by infidelity and adoption is very much the same.

Naming the victim

In February 2018, investigators in Nevada heard about a method for identifying DNA developed by Colleen Fitzpatrick, a physicist turned forensic genealogist. They contracted the DNA Doe Project, an organization founded by Fitzpatrick and Margaret Press, a mystery writer and software developer.

The pair assigned about a dozen volunteers to the case. Some are in their 20s, some are in their 70s, Press said of their pool of regulars, and some are grandmothers, some are former law enforcement.

After uploading the victims DNA to GEDmatch, a genealogical database, the group had a list of relatives to work with. Each volunteer was assigned to build a tree around one match. Whenever volunteers ran into trouble, they knew they could throw it out to others who would pounce on it like a bunch of sharks, said Ruth Foreman, a retired human resources director who served as a team leader for the group.

CRACKING COLD CASES: Genealogy site, DNA used to help solve decades-old murder

One common reason to do a DNA test is to find a parent, so many people on genealogy sites are adoptees. One close relative of Silvanis fell into this category. The volunteers helped identify her mother. From there, they quickly arrived at a couple who seemed as if they could be the victims parents: John and Blanche Silvani of Detroit.

A relative said the Silvanis had one son and two daughters. The volunteers found that in 1982, the year Mary Silvani was killed, the son, Charles Silvani, jumped off a parking structure in San Diego and died. His life had been troubled for years: In 1972, he killed a bar owner in Fresno, California.

A tip from a man claiming to be Mary Silvanis nephew revealed that there was another brother, Bob, whose profile page on the Internet Movie Database revealed mostly pornography projects from the 1970s, according to Cheryl Hester of Frisco, Texas, a volunteer charged with taking screenshots of his face. They never looked at the camera, she said. It was awful.

Eventually property records led to a former neighbor of John and Blanche Silvanis in Detroit. He clarified that the couple had two sons and one daughter  not one son and two daughters. That meant Sheeps Flat Jane Doe had to be Mary Silvani, who was 33 at her death. Had she lived, she would be 70.

Detective Kathleen Bishop of the Washoe County Sheriffs Office located a 1974 misdemeanor arrest for loitering in Detroit. The fingerprints matched.

Finding the killer

The DNA Doe Project seeks to identify only bodies, not killers. Fitzpatrick leads a separate organization, Identifinders, that tracks down suspects.

Upon uploading a DNA profile to GEDmatch that had been extracted from semen discovered at the scene, Fitzpatrick identified a second cousin living in Texas. From there, Hester, who honed her genealogical skills by helping Vietnam War babies find their fathers, took the lead. She eventually identified a man who seemed likely to be the suspects father. Family records showed he had one son.

Law enforcement was dispatched to collect discarded DNA when the son left his house. But he never emerged, Fitzpatrick said, because he had recently died.

That was not the end. Investigators located a son of the newly deceased man in a criminal database. It ruled out his father as the killer. What did that mean? It meant the deceased man had a half brother, one he might not have known about.

Confused? Actually, discrepancies between families as defined by records versus by DNA are common. Follow any family line long enough and you are will encounter at least one nonpaternity event, to use genealogists polite term. Sometimes they involve infidelity.

Critics of this new approach to cold cases warn that sooner or later confusing family records will lead to the wrong person. Forensic genealogy has misled the police before. But for defenders of the approach, its complexity is part of the reason they say critics are overreacting: Even though most Americans DNA is now identifiable, you cannot simply upload DNA into a machine that will single out a name.

Sometimes, to get from point A to point B, you must build a tree containing 16,000 people. That is what Hester did. Eventually, another critical match emerged, and a 90-year-old relative agreed to upload DNA.

That led to James Richard Curry, born in Texas in 1946. The more Hester read, the more excited she grew. He had confessed to three homicides around the time of Silvanis death and went after people he knew. He killed himself in January 1983, but his children offered their DNA, providing investigators with the confirmation they needed.

The team was elated. And frustrated. Mary Silvani had a name, but she was still just a collection of facts. She was born in Pontiac, Michigan, to a mother who spent her life in and out of mental hospitals and a father who died when she was 16, leaving her homeless. She may or may not have had a baby whom she gave up for adoption in Detroit. She never had a drivers license, as far as the team could tell. She was never reported missing. She wore a blue bathing suit under her Lee Rider jeans, hinting at plans to swim on the day she died.

Mary Silvanis nephew, Robert Silvani Jr., 53, was the closest living relative located. He barely knew his own father and had never met his aunt.

She gets to be remembered now, he said, adding that, in a family with the background mine has, hes grateful anytime something works out.

This article originally appeared in The New York Times.
NEW YORK - Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga and U.S. Vice President Mike Pence agreed that North Korea's firing of ballistic missiles on Thursday was extremely regrettable and pledged to closely cooperate on a response to the issue during their meeting at the White House in Washington on Friday.

They also agreed to take concerted action to resolve the issue of the abduction of Japanese nationals by North Korea.

In the about 40-minute meeting, Suga and Pence agreed on the importance of fully implementing U.N. Security Council sanctions resolutions on Pyongyang in response to the launching of ballistic missiles.

"The firing of ballistic missiles violates the Security Council resolutions," Suga told reporters after the meeting.

Regarding the abduction issue, Suga told Pence that Prime Minister Shinzo Abe is determined to meet directly with North Korean leader and chairman of the Workers' Party of Korea Kim Jong Un without preconditions, and again called for U.S. cooperation to resolve the issue. Pence said he intended to continue to support the Japanese government's efforts.

Suga also renewed requests for U.S. cooperation regarding the realignment of U.S. bases in Japan, telling Pence, "It is extremely important to work to ease the burden on Okinawa Prefecture, where U.S. military land and facilities are concentrated."

The two confirmed that both countries will steadily proceed with the relocation of the U.S. Marine Corps' Futenma Air Station in Ginowan, Okinawa Prefecture, to the Henoko area of Nago in the same prefecture.

They also addressed U.S.-China trade friction in the talks, with Suga telling Pence, "Japan hopes that both the United States and China will attempt to constructively solve the issue through dialogue."

After the talks, Suga attended a symposium on the abduction issue at the U.N. headquarters in New York on Friday afternoon. The symposium was organized by the Japanese government and other entities.

In his keynote speech, Suga pledged to dedicate all his strength to solving the abduction issue and asked for the cooperation of the international community.

"We'll break the shell of mutual distrust with North Korea and make a fresh start [on the issue]," he said.
North Korea is once again pressing the boundaries of what it can get away with, returning to missile tests this week in violation of international sanctions championed by U.S. President Donald Trump. So far, the reaction has been muted.

Trump dismissed Kim Jong Un's move to launch two short-range missiles on Thursday, six days after the North Korean leader supervised a military exercise in which he fired off several projectiles, including what non-proliferation experts believed was another short-range ballistic missile.

"They're smaller missiles," Trump told reporters on Thursday. "Nobody's happy about it." The Pentagon confirmed late Thursday that North Korea tested "multiple ballistic missiles," a description affirmed by Japan's defense ministry Friday.

The launches took place as the president's top envoy to North Korean negotiations, Stephen Biegun, was in Seoul to discuss how to jump-start talks stalled since Trump and Kim failed to reach an accord at a summit in Vietnam in February. While both leaders have said they're open to a third summit, the lack of lower-level talks or other signs of progress had left Trump relying on Pyongyang's lack of weapons testing as a sign of his diplomatic success.

Now even that has ended. North Korea hinted that more tests may be on the way, saying in an official Korean Central News Agency media report Friday that Kim was looking "to further increase the capability of the defense units" that carried out the tests. Kim "guided the strike drill," KCNA said.

"The recent tests put Trump in a difficult position," said Eric Brewer, a visiting fellow with the Center for a New American Security who previously worked on North Korean policy in Trump's National Security Council. "He has highlighted multiple times now the lack of missile testing and nuclear testing as one of the big success points and big selling points of his efforts at diplomacy and as one of the key outcomes of that process."

Even though ballistic missile testing is banned by resolutions pushed by Trump's former ambassador to the United Nations, Nikki Haley, the U.S. tamped down talk earlier this week of discussing the violations with U.N. Security Council, according to two Security Council diplomats who asked not to be identified.

South Korean officials had played down the earlier tests, saying they were not a provocation. Non-proliferation experts said the muted response to the tests risks encouraging Kim to conduct more. The latest incident bolstered those concerns.

North Korean state media described the latest test as a "long-range strike dill" and didn't mention the word "missile." That was similar language to its reports on the Saturday weapons test, which North Korea said involved "modern large-caliber long-range multiple rocket launchers and tactical guided weapons."

"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.

The most significant pushback on the tests came Thursday from South Korean President Moon Jae-in, who has championed the outreach to North Korea.

"I'd like to warn that if such tests continue, it could hurt dialogue," Moon said in an interview with broadcaster KBS TV on Thursday, the eve of his second anniversary in office. "North Korea appears to have significant frustration that the Hanoi summit ended without a deal. It is protesting to the United States and South Korea."

In the U.S., the Department of Justice announced on Thursday that it took possession of a North Korean ship that had been seized by a foreign government more than a year ago after violating restrictions on transporting coal out of North Korea.

Without an easing of sanctions, however, Kim may be emboldened to go further. The U.S. this week said it was suspending efforts to recover the remains of American troops who died in North Korea during the 1950-1953 Korean War, CNN reported, saying officials were unable to make contact with their North Korean counterparts.

Kim's regime, impatient for concessions from the U.S., has also restarted attacks against Trump's officials. That includes an accusation by a senior North Korean diplomat last month that Secretary of State Michael Pompeo made "reckless remarks" that undermined talks between Trump and Kim.

The official urged that Pompeo be replaced as the U.S. point man in the negotiations. While the North Korean regime has criticized Pompeo often since Trump's first meeting with Kim in June, it was the first time an official had formally demanded his replacement.

"We've seen a series of escalatory moves since Hanoi," Brewer said. "There has been a lot of attacks against members of Trump's team. Kim's ultimate goal is defacto acceptance of North Korea's nuclear status and with that the ending or irrelevance of the international sanctions regime."

Just before Kim's first summit with Trump last June, analysis of satellite imagery by the website 38 North showed that Kim was razing facilities in the area used to test missile ejections. Trump said after meeting Kim it was a "big thing" to have missile facilities destroyed. But since then, some facilities have expanded and North Korea is believed to have continued production of missiles and fissile material.

Kim Dong-yub, a professor of North Korea studies at Kyungnam University's Institute of Far Eastern Studies, said North Korea's launches appeared calibrated to project military strength to a domestic audience without doing anything so provocative that it closes the door to talks.

"I see this as a starting point for Kim Jong Un to continue his military training supervisions," Kim Dong-yub said. "Now that it's done east-west, perhaps next time they'll aim at something slightly more southern."

- - -

Bloomberg's Jihye Lee, Jennifer Jacobs, David Wainer and Shinhye Kang contributed.
The Sabine-Neches Waterway was fully closed to ship traffic for part of Friday and later opened to most vessels with speed restrictions after wind from Thursday nights storm caused several hazards in the shipping channel, including knocking a giant loading arm into the water.

Captain Jackie Twomey, commanding officer of the U.S. Coast Guard Marine Safety Unit Port Arthur, said the inclement weather was enough reason to restrict traffic, but the loading arms collapse around 2 a.m. Friday presented further danger to vessels headed upstream.

We had to close the waterway in the vicinity of the arm due it its failure, since there was no way of knowing how dangerous it would be to passing ships, Twomey said Friday afternoon. We are now allowing some vessels to enter the waterway slowly, but are waiting for a survey before opening up traffic.

Jefferson County Emergency Mike White helped provide aerial photos of the situation and coordinate assistance to the Coast Guard, as did Jefferson Countys Marine Safety Patrol.

Officials had a third problem on their hands when they received reports that a dredge tender vessels tank had become unmoored and drifted away. Twomey said the vessel was removed without any pollution or injury. He said the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality and local agencies were instrumental in assessing the situation.

Farther downstream, near the mouth of the waterway, a fourth issue quietly cropped up near Sabine Pass.

A giant floating lift made by Versabar used to remove and carry offshore drilling structures broke loose of its moorings in the early morning and drifted nearly two miles downstream before getting tangled up in the waterway. Good samaritans from Cheniere and Seabulk Towing helped stabilize the lift unit to prevent further drifting or damage.

A barge attached to the Versabar wasnt so lucky. It drifted out into the Gulf of Mexico, where it was picked up and towed in by some assisting ships.

Twomey said the lift unit was secured but wouldnt be returned to its moorings until later in the day when traffic had a chance to travel in and out of the waterway.

As of Friday afternoon, there had been a line of nine vessels waiting to leave the waterway and about 10 waiting to enter.

It really was unusual to have so many different situations going on at the same time, but we were also lucky in a way that there wasnt any oil spills or injuries, Twomey said.

She said cooperation among all of the state, federal and local emergency and law enforcement agencies as well as the stakeholders in the waterway helped resolve a chaotic Friday in a relatively smooth manner.

The incidents did disrupt schedules, but it was mostly business as usual at most of the area ports Friday.

The Port of Beaumont was briefly on generator power after some outages but didnt report any serious damage to their facilities.

Larry Kelley, port director and CEO at the Port of Port Arthur, had similar issues, with a longer wait time for power.

Other than the internet being down, were pretty much normal around here, Kelley said.

Mic Cowart, port manager for Sabine Pass Port Authority, said the port did have some minor damage, but they were still working as usual.

Its mainly damage from the mooring, but we did have some crafts break their lines, Cowart said. Were in fairly good shape for the most part.

On the labor front, longshoremen in Beaumont were able to complete their work orders as the delayed ships came in.

Local 21 President Walter Mullens said the union was able to labor out as soon as ships came in, and had already loaded a grain ship as traffic started to move.

The biggest problem was a tall vessel that was unable to come into the port because of the height of the water, but that is beyond our control, he said. Other than that, we are back to business as usual.

More scattered storms are predicted through the rest of the weekend, but Twomey said hopefully most of the weak spots had already been identified and secured.

We are optimistic about the coming days ahead, but we cant predict what will happen in the future, Twomey said. We just know we will be ready.

jacob.dick@beaumontenterprise.com

twitter.com/jdickjournalism
Danny ONeel could not help but feel guilt as he stared over his former snipers casket.

As a 23-year-old squadron leader, hed protected Adam Smith and the other soldiers of the Armys 3rd Battalion, 67th Armored Regiment while deployed to one of Iraqs most violent parts.

Sadr City in 2006 was terrible, one of the most dangerous places on earth, ONeel said Saturday.

Some men lost limbs; nine lost their lives.

But little of that prepared them for their new battle - the war with depression, post-traumatic stress disorder and suicide that has claimed 14 men from the battalion since they returned in 2006.

Smiths funeral was the third that year. ONeel felt like hed failed him.

Standing with his fellow soldiers, ONeel had another though: Smith would have much rather had us here two weeks ago.

And so, months later, 20 or so veterans of 367 met at ONeels home in California, the first such reunion since leaving Iraq.

They met again in Houston this week, spending time together at an Astros game and, on Saturday, a resource fair to combat suicide among veterans.

ONeel and his wife Daun helped coordinate the reunion through the Independence Fund, a nonprofit that aids combat veterans.

We want to remind them all that they didnt go through war alone, Faun said. They didnt have gunfights alone. And they dont need to battle things at home alone.

Such conversations are not easily had amid the constant barrage of combat, ONeel said.

One of the biggest things that gave me my guilt and shame, as a leader, was that I didnt allow my men to mourn when their brothers got hurt or killed, ONeel said. We went to their memorial, and then afterwards I told them that its over, were going back out tomorrow. Get your head on a swivel or were going to die in here tomorrow.

Nor does the stricture of the military lend itself to open conversations about war and trauma.

On Wednesday, the battalions commander, Colonel Mark Bertolini, finally had a chance to tell his men about what their 13-year-old mission meant to the broader Iraq War.

Sometimes soldiers feel as though theyre left in the dark and just told to go from point a to point b, and they dont understand the context, he said. These guys didnt see the big picture (during deployment) and I was able to kind of put things in perspective.

Bertolini said the militarys approach to suicide and mental health issues has progressed substantially since he joined in 1987.

He said that was in part because of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, a sea change that he said galvanized public support and gave soldiers the sense of a common mission.

He notices little things that, two decades prior, werent commonhplace for soldiers.

Nowadays you see soldiers get together like this and, when they part company they all grab each other in an embrace, they hug each other, he said. That was not the case or my experience the first 15 years I was in.

Other elements have changed since then too, however.

In Iraq and Afghanistan, there is no clear enemy, he said. Every marketplace, mountaintop or street corner could in minutes be a battlefield, the enemy hiding among civilians before disappearing into thin air.

Counterinsurgency warfare is the masters level of warfare because its counterintuitive, its frustrating, he said. Everyday, youre getting shot at; theyre hiding behind civilians, behind women and children.

Soldiers carry that fear when they arrive home, coloring mundane grocery store visits or trips to the mall with a constant tension.

Meanwhile, there seems to be little victory or end in sight for either wars, adding to the frustration, guilt or trauma many veterans experience at home.

You dont have a definitive victory, he said. You dont go into a capital somewhere and raise a flag.

Instead, ONeel said, soldiers simply pack up their bags and go home to deal with persistent trauma without the comrades they trust implicitly.

These people are your brothers, he said. You train with them for a year, you go to war and then theyre ripped violently from your life. You dont know how to reconcile that because you dont know whats going happen. Many times youre not sure theyre going to live because they were catastrophically injured.

He carried that fear for more than a decade and, like many other veterans, soon found himself abusing alcohol or in a jail cell.

I felt worthless, he said. I felt there was no purpose in my life and, for the most part, that was true because I wasnt seeking that out. I was staying stagnant.

Things have changed since Smiths funeral and the battalions first retreat.

It felt like there was life - not just in myself but in them, he said. I realized what that healing really meant.

Since then, hes opted for a new mission: Changing the way the military talks about trauma, and helping those who may suffer in solitude. While he doesnt think itll be easy to open up dialogue within the militarys chain of command, he said hes optimistic soldiers will one day better understand their role in war.

Those things are organic, he said. The (Department of Veterans Affairs) cannot just put us in a room and tell us to talk about our feelings. But if they allow us to sit in a group with the people we trust more than anything, it will happen on its own.

That much was clear after Bertolinis speech on Wednesday, when ONeel was finally told what their mission was and meant.

That was only because Bertolini felt it important to tell them.

The battalion, ONeel said he learned, had been sent into Sadr City on a mission that was expected to fail. But it didnt, prompting the military to later send more than 17,000 soldiers there.

We had no clue about that - about those numbers - until he speaks them a few nights ago and changes every single one of their lives, mine included, he said. Him putting that in context allows us to see how vital our mission was to the unclear victory of Iraq.
It was the last meeting of Judge Rosie Speedlin Gonzalezs child abuse and domestic violence class at the University of Texas at San Antonios Downtown Campus, and its 32 students were closing out the semester with video project presentations.

The goal of each video was to raise awareness of the issue, its victims and the ramifications on society, the economy and childrens welfare. The videos zeroed in on one overriding message: Bexar County has a serious domestic violence problem that permeates every religious, ethnic and socioeconomic segment of society.

The judges students, some just days away from graduation, could school us about a problem that has become an issue in the mayoral runoff election. The issue of domestic violence has yet to be adequately addressed during an election cycle in which a fast-food chain has managed to get more traction.

Incumbent Mayor Ron Nirenberg and City Councilman Greg Brockhouse will face off in the June 8 runoff. Early voting begins May 28.

Domestic violence did get some attention this week when two City Council members  Shirley Gonzales in District 5 and Manny Pelaez in District 8  announced their support for more funding and the development of a comprehensive plan to address domestic violence in San Antonio.

It was a good signal to voters that they need to pay attention to this issue, one that is more important than whether Chick-Fil-A was or wasnt given a fair shake in its pursuit of an airport concession contract. Religious freedom in San Antonio isnt as overarching a problem as is domestic violence. Nor did the LGBTQ community, in this instance, necessarily need protection from a company that has supported an agenda against same-sex marriage.

Altogether it was a cluster of misspent political capital. The only winner of the Chick-Fil-A/LGBTQ episode appears to be District 1 Councilman Roberto Trevino, who fended off an army of challengers to win re-election. Trevino spoke out strongly against Chick-Fil-A, citing the companys history of donating to faith-based organizations that oppose same-sex marriage.

Meanwhile, segments of San Antonios conservative faith community appear more riled by what they view as a threat to religious freedom. That issue has masqueraded for an anti-LGBTQ agenda, exposed during the City Councils vote on a non-discrimination ordinance.

That same community, one that vows allegiance to family values, has remained virtually silent about domestic violence, probably because that communitys preferred mayoral candidate is Brockhouse, a preachers son and a Catholic convert.

Brockhouse has twice been accused of domestic violence, once by his second wife and then by his third and current wife. Like Brockhouse, his wife has refused to speak of it. He was never arrested, nor were charges filed. But as a public figure, an accounting will eventually arrive.

Also troubling is that a 2009 police report involving Brockhouse has disappeared from the public record, inexplicably expunged even as news media hold copies of that report.

Several of the citys evangelical megachurches took a pass on commenting about the issue to voters.

The Rev. Les Hollon, senior pastor of Trinity Baptist Church, was brave enough to take a call. Hes not a one-issue voter and disagreed with the councils decision to exclude Chick-Fil-A as a potential vendor at the San Antonio airport. Hollon also said he doesnt know about the specifics of the domestic violence allegations against Brockhouse and cant form a conclusion about it, but he fiercely condemned domestic violence.

Like the rest of us, Hollon wants to hold people accountable for such a permissive crime. Hes not alone in not knowing more specifics.

Still, what we do know about Brockhouses domestic life begs for explanation, especially given that hes known for his aggressive manner and fiery temperament on the council dais.

All of this is exacerbated by Brockhouses troubling ties to law-enforcement and firefighter unions, especially given that its members are routinely called into domestic-violence situations.

The Rev. Fredricc Gerard Brock of The Message Church, a small Baptist congregation, has studied the intersection of church and violence. During Domestic Violence Awareness Month in October, his church highlighted the issue.

He, too, questions why some congregations are quick to jump on the religious-freedom bandwagon yet demure on a far more important family-values issue. He theorizes communities of faith are uncomfortable with the issue because it requires we address some of our own inequities on the subject before addressing it more broadly.

It keeps San Antonio families in danger and in denial.

One things for sure, the Chick-Fil-A flap, which has nothing to do with whos the better candidate for mayor, has overshadowed a real problem  and the always important issues of truth and character.

Elaine Ayala is a columnist covering San Antonio and Bexar County. Read her on our free site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com. | eayala@express-news.net | Twitter: @ElaineAyala
To an unhealthy degree, electoral politics is governed by a simple Catch-22: In order to get voters, you have to convince them that you already have voters.

In order to become electable, you first must demonstrate electability.

We saw that play out on the national level in January 2008, when Barack Obama pulled off an upset win over Hillary Clinton in the Iowa caucuses. That victory helped convince African-American voters in South Carolina that Obama had a legitimate shot at becoming the nations first black president.

Prior to Iowa, Clinton enjoyed the support of a majority of African-American Democrats. Within a month of Obamas Iowa breakthrough, however, he opened up a 2-1 national lead over Clinton among African-Americans.

This Catch-22 should work to Councilman Greg Brockhouses advantage in his June 8 mayoral runoff against incumbent Ron Nirenberg. After all, one of the big challenges Brockhouse faced in the first round of this campaign was convincing San Antonio voters that he had a real chance, that his candidacy amounted to something more than a three-month protest statement against Nirenberg.

By finishing only 3 percentage points behind Nirenberg, Brockhouse exceeded expectations and answered the viability question. Political optimism is contagious, and Brockhouse has it right now.

Two years ago, we saw the same dynamic for Nirenberg.

In the first round of that race, Nirenberg finished within 5 percentage points of then-Mayor Ivy Taylor. Almost instantly, you could sense a surge of pro-Nirenberg enthusiasm from political progressives who resented Taylor for opposing the citys 2013 nondiscrimination ordinance and attributing generational poverty to broken people who are not in relationship with their Creator.

A week after election day, former Mayor Julian Castro endorsed Nirenberg and went block-walking with him on the West Side. Nirenberg won the runoff by more than 9,000 votes.

Given Brockhouses momentum, and Nirenbergs inability to close the deal in a race with only one major opponent, its easy to see the runoff as Brockhouses to lose.

Brockhouse also is helped by the fact that one of the three council runoffs is in District 6, the district he represents and one that he carried by 1,675 votes in the first round. (The other two districts with council runoffs  Districts 2 and 4  are close to a wash.)

Brockhouses newly established viability, however, cuts both ways.

While it will encourage some voters to jump on the Brockhouse bandwagon, it also could scare some political progressives who stayed home in the first round  and with an 11 percent turnout rate, a lot of people stayed home  to back Nirenberg in the runoff.

Some potential Nirenberg supporters didnt vote in the first round because they wrongly assumed the mayor had the election locked up. Others were so lukewarm about Nirenberg that they couldnt motivate themselves to participate in the election.

This speaks to the way that Nirenberg tends to frustrate people on both ends of the political spectrum. Consider the way he handled the issue of paid sick leave.

An alliance spearheaded by the Texas Organizing Project gathered enough petition signatures last year to put a paid-sick-leave initiative on the November 2018 ballot. Nirenberg worried that paid sick leaves presence on the ballot would complicate his efforts to defeat three proposed charter amendments from the San Antonio Professional Firefighters Association, so he joined the council in passing its own paid-sick-leave ordinance.

That irritated some members of the business community.

Last month, Nirenberg voted against Councilman Rey Saldanas motion urging the city to defend its paid sick leave ordinance against state legislation that would nullify it.

That irritated TOP, which did not make an endorsement in the first round of the campaign.

This lack of enthusiasm for Nirenberg helps to explain why John Velasquez, a clinical psychologist focused on increasing awareness of mental-health issues, managed to siphon off 1,643 votes in the first round. (Two years ago, Velasquez received only 383 votes.)

Now, the choice is unmistakably stark. The prospect of a Mayor Brockhouse is a very real one and that prospect carries the baggage of two domestic violence incidents involving Brockhouse as well as concerns about the challengers close associations with the police and fire unions. It also carries Brockhouses reluctance to use the power of city government to address issues such as housing displacement or climate change.

Its beyond dispute that Brockhouses candidacy is for real. The question is whether his demonstrated electability will do a better job of motivating people to vote for him or against him.

Gilbert Garcia is a columnist covering the San Antonio and Bexar County area. Read him on our free site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com. | ggarcia@express-news.net | Twitter: @gilgamesh470
Drug companies will fight

Regarding Lower drug prices could be costly later (Outlook, Friday): Columnist Megan McArdle does not discuss or compare research and development costs for drug companies to the marketing and sales costs. If we watch TV, we are consumed by ads for many prescription drugs telling us to ask our doctor about a drug.

The only two countries to allow TV ads for drugs are the United States and New Zealand. Obviously these ads drive up drug costs. A study by the Institute for Health and Socio-Economic Policy of the 100 top drug companies revealed that 64 percent spent twice as much on marketing and sales as R&D; 58 pecent spent three times as much; 43 percent spent five times as much; and 27 percent spent 10 ten times as much.

Now Health and Human Services is going to require drug companies to list their prices in TV ads, and the drug companies plan to fight this. Drug prices are too high and drug companies will fight any changes.

David C. Redford, Houston

Energy and Millennials

Regarding As oil sector ages, firms tune culture to woo younger talent (Front page, Thursday): How wonderful that millennials prefer jobs that serve sustainability and so shun the oil industry. Yes, for decades, Big Oil has said Were energy companies but then avoided the risks of energy innovation. That strategy works in stable times. But now, peak oil and global warming threaten our global civilization.

Millions of years ago, big and powerful creatures thrived until they were exterminated by environmental catastrophe. Now dinosaur means anything that is impractically large, obsolete and bound for extinction. Scientists have recently discovered that most of the dozen mass extinctions were caused by climate change.

We can follow our moral compass like the millennial job hunters are doing. Since our world is growing more complex and interdependent, integrity is now the best strategy. Oil companies could focus on diversifying into clean, renewable energy. They could focus on being a blessing for the future.

Nan Hildreth, Houston

Founders had it right

Regarding Can we finally get smart about guns? (Outlook, Thursday): Short answer to your question  no. You can present all the reasoned arguments you want, but conservatives and those of us who respect the Founders and the Constitution simply dont trust you.

Reasonable gun control, everywhere its been implemented, has led inevitably to gun confiscation, then to tyranny imposed by those who took the guns. Do you reasonably think that the Cuban or Venezuelan people are better off now without guns?

What part of shall not be infringed do you not get?

Steven K. Howell, Houston

Breathing a little easier

Regarding Chemical fires shouldnt catch Harris County by surprise (Outlook, May 5) by Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo: I very much appreciate the sentiments and commitment expressed in Judge Hidalgos op-ed regarding the Intercontinental Terminals Company fire in Deer Park and how we move forward. I firmly believe that Hidalgo must now lead the fight to reduce air pollution and protect peoples health because Texas lawmakers and the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality are failing to do so.

The fires at ITC and KMCO chemical plant are the consequence of the political and regulatory leaders in Austin looking the other way while industrial polluters deny our right to breathe clean air. For too long, they have been able to avoid significantly reducing their pollution because the state does not force them to follow the law. If Austin will not act, Harris County must.

Fortunately, Hidalgo and the Harris County Commissioners Court agreed to hire more prosecutors for environmental crimes. It is a good first step, but there is a lot more work to do before we can breathe easy. .

Jonathan J. Ross, board president, Air Alliance, Houston
One of the great pleasures of living in Houston this time of the year is relaxing in my Montrose-area backyard, enjoying the spring weather and gazing to the west, where two gigantic water oaks filter the sun and shade much of my property. In summer, when the heat arrives, the protection provided by these magnificent trees is even more welcomed.

Its been that way for the past 22 years, but it wont be much longer.

Developers are buying old bungalows at record prices to tear them down, along with the propertys trees. The city of Houston protects the trees that are in the easement.

In this case, Croix Custom Homes is destroying nine trees  including two giant oaks that measure more than 88 inches in diameter and soar more than 70 feet high on the adjoining lot shading my back yard  to erect a faux Mediterranean mini-mansion that will take up nearly every inch of the property next door.

Its a similar scene just about everywhere inside the Loop, and its gotten to the point that neighborhood groups are worried that the canopy that shades much ofHouston is disappearing permanently.

More than 50 Texas cities have tree protection ordinances, according to the Texas Chapter of the International Society of Arboriculture. Some municipalities such as Houston offer stringent protections of mature heritage trees located in the easement between the sidewalk and the street but not anyplace else. Other cities are more progressive about protecting trees on private property.

In Austin, any tree within the city limits is protected once it reaches 19 inches in diameter. When disputes occur, a tree reviewer works with the applicant to find a viable solution.

In West University, any tree with a 10-inch diameter or greater must be protected. To obtain a construction permit, the application must submit a plan that has to be approved by the citys urban forester.

Like most regulations of this kind that have been enacted, removal is allowed if a tree poses a safety risk or prevents reasonable land use, but usually the landowner is required to plant additional trees on the property to make up for the lost canopy.

In Houston, however, theres no protection for trees on private property, no matter how old or magnificent they are.

Isnt it about time to revisit that outdated policy?

Sure, some will howl that property rights should trump everything else. Texas Gov. Greg Abbott has already hopped on that bandwagon, asking the Texas Legislature in 2017 to prohibit any city in the state from restricting tree removal on private property after he said the city of Austin told him he couldnt cut down a pecan tree in his yard.

(The Austin American Statesman reported that city records showed that Abbott had never been denied permission to cut down the tree but he was asked to plant new trees with trunk sizes totaling 24 inches to mitigate the damage from the loss of the tree in question.)

The Legislature eventually passed a watered-down bill that didnt affect most tree ordinances, according to the Statesman, and predicts Abbott may take aim at trees again this time around, leading some to wonder why the state is so intent in telling city governments what they can and cant do.

If a number of Houston neighborhoods see the merits of preserving trees and homeowners want further protections, why doesnt the Houston City Council craft an ordinance that pertains to those specific neighborhoods? Right now, many of these neighborhoods have minimum lot size options that restrict the type of development in their surroundings, so the ability to save some large trees that might otherwise be cut down seems like a logical next step.

Experts note that mature trees provide shade that reduces energy costs and can mitigate flooding by stabilizing soil and creating a barrier to water. When such old-growth trees are removed, it will take a generation or longer for others to grow to a similar size and take their place.

Many residents in my neighborhood and surrounding areas arent anti-development. But we are seeking creative ways to prod developers to protect and expand Houstons tree canopy, because in the long run we believe its good for the environment, and it makes good business sense. But right, now that dialogue isnt taking place.

Will we wait until most of the heritage trees are gone to tackle this issue? By then it will be too late. We currently have to depend on the kindness of developers to save these irreplaceable treasures. And that doesnt get us very far.
The news you need, when you need it, by the editors you trust. Get continuing news coverage and educational information on crops, livestock, soil health and other topics you select.




iciHaiti - Politic : The French ambassador take a stand





On Friday, French Ambassador Jose Gomez received representatives of several Haitian human rights organizations who presented the diplomat in detail, their main concerns, including their concern over the rise of gang violence, the need to find answers to the PetroCaribe file and their dissatisfaction with the way justice works in Haiti.



In summary, Ambassador Jose Gomez, expressed his positions on the following points :



Insecurity and the development of gang activity :

The Ambassador expressed deep sadness at the high number of innocent victims caused by the clashes between the gangs. He praised the police operations launched against criminal groups. He showed his support for the Haitian Police and deplored the cowardly assassinations that affected his agents.



The La Saline massacre :

Gomez stressed that all the light needed to be shed on these terrible events and hoped that the ongoing investigation will determine the responsibilities and punish the guilty parties and the sponsors https://www.icihaiti.com/en/news-27679-icihaiti-massacre-of-la-saline-dcpj-investigation-implicates-2-high-officials-of-the-state.html He also regretted that nearly 6 months after these events the report prepared by the United Nations has still not been made public.



PetroCaribe :

The Ambassador recalled that the Petrocaribe case constituted an intolerable abuse committed against the Haitian people. He hoped that the inquiry would make it possible to determine all the responsibilities and to put an end to unacceptable and dangerous impunity for the Haitian democracy.



Women's Rights :

Jose Gomez said the urgency in this area was to confirm in fact, the quota of 30% of women provided in the bill on the upcoming parliamentary elections. Reiterating that all its cooperation activities, France was working to strengthen women's rights and their empowerment.



Finally, the Ambassador expressed his full support for human rights activists and strongly condemned the threats addressed to them.



IH/ iciHaiti


















Former Banker Extradited from Malaysia to United States to Face Charges in Multi-Billion Dollar Money Laundering and Bribery Scheme

Brooklyn, New York - A Malaysian national, Ng Chong Hwa, 46, also known as Roger Ng, has been extradited from Malaysia to the United States to face charges of conspiring to launder billions of dollars embezzled from 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB), Malaysias investment development fund, conspiring to violate the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) by paying bribes to multiple government officials in Malaysia and Abu Dhabi, and conspiring to violate the FCPA by circumventing the internal accounting controls of a major New York-headquartered financial institution.

Assistant Attorney General Brian A. Benczkowski of the U.S. Department of Justices Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Richard P. Donoghue for the Eastern District of New York, Assistant Director in Charge William F. Sweeney Jr., of the FBIs New York Field Office and Acting Special Agent in Charge Ryan L. Korner of the IRS Criminal Investigation (CI), Los Angeles Field Office announced the extradition.

In a three-count indictment unsealed last year, Ng, of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, was charged with crimes he allegedly committed while employed as a Managing Director at the Financial Institution, which underwrote more than $6 billion in bonds issued by 1MDB in three separate bond offerings in 2012 and 2013. Ng was arrested in Malaysia on Nov. 1, 2018, pursuant to a provisional arrest warrant issued at the request of the United States, later waived extradition to the United States, and is scheduled to make his first appearance Monday before U.S. Magistrate Judge Peggy Kuo in federal court in Brooklyn, New York.

As alleged in the indictment, between approximately 2009 and 2014, Ng conspired with others to launder billions of dollars misappropriated and fraudulently diverted from 1MDB, including funds 1MDB raised in 2012 and 2013 through three bond transactions 1MDB executed with the Financial Institution. As part of the scheme, Ng and others conspired to bribe government officials in Malaysia and Abu Dhabi to obtain and retain lucrative business for the Financial Institution, including the 2012 and 2013 bond deals. They further conspired to launder the proceeds of their criminal conduct through the U.S. financial system.

Court filings further allege that Ng, Low Taek Jho, also known as Jho Low, and the co-conspirators used co-defendant Lows close relationships with high-ranking government officials in Malaysia and Abu Dhabi to obtain and retain business for the Financial Institution through the promise and payment of hundreds of millions of dollars in bribes. In the course of executing the scheme, Ng and others at the Financial Institution conspired to circumvent the Financial Institutions internal accounting controls. Through its work for 1MDB during that time, the Financial Institution received approximately $600 million in fees and revenues along with increased reputational prestige. At the same time, Ng and other co-conspirators at the Financial Institution received large bonuses and enhanced their own reputations at the Financial Institution. In total, more than $2.7 billion was misappropriated from the 1MDB bond proceeds. Low remains at large.

The charges in the indictment are merely allegations, and the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

The investigation was jointly conducted by the FBIs International Corruption Unit and IRS-CI. The governments criminal case is being handled by the Criminal Divisions Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section (MLARS) and Fraud Section and the Business and Securities Fraud Section of the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Eastern District of New York. MLARS Trial Attorneys Jennifer E. Ambuehl, Woo S. Lee, Mary Ann McCarthy and Kyle Freeny, Fraud Section Trial Attorneys Katherine A. Nielsen and Nikhila Raj and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jacquelyn M. Kasulis, Alixandra E. Smith and Drew G. Rolle are prosecuting the case. The Criminal Divisions Office of International Affairs provided critical assistance in this case. Additional Criminal Division Trial Attorneys and Assistant U.S. Attorneys within U.S. Attorneys Offices for the Eastern District of New York and Central District of California have provided valuable assistance with various aspects of this investigation, including with civil and criminal forfeitures.

The Department also appreciates the significant cooperation and assistance provided by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, and the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System along with the Federal Reserve Bank of New York. The Department also appreciates the significant assistance provided by the government of Malaysia, including the Attorney Generals Chambers of Malaysia, the Royal Malaysia Police and NCB Interpol Malaysia. The Department also appreciates the significant assistance provided by the Attorney Generals Chambers of Singapore, the Singapore Police Force-Commercial Affairs Division, the Office of the Attorney General of Switzerland, the Judicial Investigating Authority of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg and the Criminal Investigation Department of the Grand-Ducal Police of Luxembourg.

The International Unit of the Criminal Divisions MLARS is home to the Kleptocracy Asset Recovery Initiativea team of dedicated prosecutors working to prosecute individuals and forfeit the proceeds of foreign official corruption that has affected the U.S. financial system and, where appropriate, return those proceeds to benefit the people harmed by these acts of corruption and abuse of office. MLARSs Bank Integrity Unit investigates and prosecutes banks and other financial institutions, including their officers, managers, and employees, whose actions threaten the integrity of the individual institution or the wider financial system.
Patient Recruiter Sentenced for Role In $1.6 Million Kickback Scheme

Miami, Florida - A South Florida patient recruiter was sentenced to 87 months in prison Wednesday for her role in a scheme involving approximately $1.6 million in Medicare claims for home health care services that were procured through the payment of kickbacks.

Assistant Attorney General Brian A. Benczkowski of the Justice Departments Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Ariana Fajardo Orshan of the Southern District of Florida, Special Agent in Charge George L. Piro of the FBIs Miami Field Office and Special Agent in Charge Shimon R. Richmond of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector Generals (HHS-OIG) Miami Regional Office made the announcement.

Yamilet Diaz, 50, of Hialeah, Florida, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge James I. Cohn of the Southern District of Florida. After a four-day trial in February 2019, which Judge Cohn presided over, Diaz was convicted of one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States and to receive health care kickbacks and four counts of receiving health care kickbacks.

According to evidence presented at trial and at sentencing, from approximately February 2012 to August 2013, Diaz received kickbacks in return for referring Medicare beneficiaries to five South Florida home health agencies to serve as patients. The evidence established that Diaz and her co-conspirators caused Medicare to make over $1.6 million in payments to the home health agencies based upon claims for home health services submitted on behalf of the beneficiaries recruited by Diaz. The evidence further established that Diaz personally benefited from the fraud and received at least $710,000.

This case was investigated by the FBI with support from HHS-OIG and was brought as part of the Medicare Fraud Strike Force, under the supervision of the Criminal Divisions Fraud Section and the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Southern District of Florida. The case was prosecuted by Trial Attorneys Patrick Mott, John (Fritz) Scanlon and Timothy Loper of the Fraud Section. Assistant U.S. Attorney Leslie Wright of the District of Massachusetts, formerly with the Fraud Section, previously worked on the case.

The Fraud Section leads the Medicare Fraud Strike Force. Since its inception in March 2007, the Medicare Fraud Strike Force, which maintains 14 strike forces operating in 23 districts, has charged nearly 4,000 defendants who have collectively billed the Medicare program for more than $14 billion. In addition, the HHS Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with the HHS-OIG, are taking steps to increase accountability and decrease the presence of fraudulent providers.
Texas Man Pleads Guilty to Conspiring to Provide Material Support to a Foreign Terrorist Organization

Dallas, Texas - A Fort Worth man Wednesday 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 coconspirators 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 facilitators trust and be permitted to join LeT. Sewell also contacted the facilitator to vouch for the coconspirators 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 Sheriffs 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.
Peruvian Man Pleads Guilty to Operating Spanish-Speaking Call Center that Threatened and Extorted U.S. Consumers

Miami, Florida - A resident of Lima, Peru, pleaded guilty Wednesday to extortion for operating call centers that threatened Spanish-speaking victims in the United States, the Justice Department and U.S. Postal Inspection Service announced.

Omar Portocarrero Caceres, 39, was extradited from Peru in April and pleaded guilty in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida. The charges against Portocarrero allege that he owned and operated a call center in Peru that falsely told Spanish-speaking victims across the United States that they had incurred debts and would suffer various consequences for failure to pay off the debts that they did not, in fact, owe.

The Department of Justice is committed to identifying and prosecuting criminals who target and extort consumers in the United States, said Assistant Attorney General Jody Hunt of the Department of Justices Civil Division. Those who threaten U.S. consumers by phone cannot escape justice by placing their calls from abroad. Working with our international partners, we will bring them to justice no matter where they reside. I thank the Republic of Peru for extraditing the defendants in this case to face justice in our courts.

Portocarrero and his co-conspirators in Peru contacted U.S. consumers, many of whom were elderly and vulnerable, using Internet-based telephone calls. Claiming to be attorneys and government representatives, the callers falsely told victims that they had failed to pay for or receive a delivery of products. The callers also falsely threatened victims with lawsuits, negative marks on their credit reports, imprisonment, or immigration consequences if they did not immediately pay for the purportedly delivered products and settlement fees. Many victims made monetary payments based on these baseless threats.

If an individual who claims to be an attorney or government representative calls and instructs you to pay money to: receive products you did not buy; avoid a lawsuit; avoid imprisonment; or avoid a change in immigration status, hang up and immediately report that threat to www.ftccomplaintassistant.gov, said U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Florida Ariana Fajardo Orshan. I thank the Republic of Peru for extraditing the defendants in this case and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service for their unwavering commitment to investigate and pursue those who threaten U.S. consumers.

The U.S. Postal Inspection Service will not allow overseas criminal enterprises to illegally enrich themselves by using the U.S. Mail to defraud U.S. consumers, said U.S. Postal Inspector in Charge Antonio J. Gomez. With the continued cooperation of law enforcement colleagues in countries like Peru, these criminals will be aggressively pursued and brought to justice.

Portocarrero is the second defendant to plead guilty in connection with the scheme. Three of his co-defendants have been detained pending trial before U.S. District Court Judge Roy K. Altman in Fort Lauderdale. Judge Altman has scheduled their trial to begin on June 10, 2019.

Trial Attorney Phil Toomajian of the Department of Justices Consumer Protection Branch is prosecuting the case. The Postal Inspection Service investigated the case. The Criminal Divisions Office of International Affairs, the U.S. Attorneys Office of the Southern District of Florida, the Diplomatic Security Service, and the Peruvian National Police provided critical assistance.
Nigerian Man Pleads Guilty to Role in $8.3 Million Medicare Fraud Scheme and Related Money Laundering

Los Angeles, California - A Nigerian man pleaded guilty Wednesday for his role in a durable medical equipment (DME) scheme that fraudulently billed more than $8 million dollars to Medicare for DME that was not medically necessary.

Assistant Attorney General Brian A. Benczkowski of the Justice Departments Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Nicola T. Hanna of the Central District of California, Special Agent in Charge Christian J. Schrank of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of the Inspector Generals (HHS-OIG) Los Angeles Region, Assistant Director in Charge Paul D. Delacourt of the FBIs Los Angeles Division and Acting Special Agent in Charge Ryan L. Korner of the IRS Criminal Investigations (IRS-CI) Los Angeles Field Office made the announcement.

Ayodeji Temitayo Fatunmbi, 47, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit health care fraud and one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering before U.S. District Judge Christina A. Snyder of the Central District of California. Fatunmbi was extradited from Nigeria to the Central District of California in October of 2018 on charges contained in a May 2013 indictment. Sentencing has been scheduled for Aug. 19, 2019 before Judge Snyder.

As part of his guilty plea, Fatunmbi admitted that he and others paid cash kickbacks to patient recruiters and physicians for fraudulent prescriptions for DME such as power wheelchairs, which the Medicare beneficiaries did not need. Fatunmbi and co-conspirators caused Lutemi Medical Supply (Lutemi), a DME supply company that he co-ran, to submit approximately $8.3 million in claims to Medicare, which resulted in the company being paid over $3.5 million. Fatunmbi further admitted that he was responsible for $2,090,434 in false and fraudulent claims for medically unnecessary DME and that as a result of his conduct, Medicare paid Lutemi a total of $1,076,893. In furtherance of this scheme, Fatunmbi and a co-conspirator wrote checks from Lutemis bank account to Lutemi employees and others, and Fatunmbi instructed that those monies be returned to him to pay the illegal cash kickbacks to the patient recruiters and doctors, he admitted. Fatummbi admittedly directed others at Lutemi to engage in these tranactions to conceal the nature and source of the proceeds of the health care fraud conspiracy. As part of his plea agreement, Fatunmbi agreed to pay restitution to Medicare in the amount of $1,076,893.

Fatunmbi was charged along with Olufunke Ibiyemi Fadojutimi, 47, of Carson, California, and Maritza Elizabeth Velasquez, 44, of Las Vegas, Nevada. Velasquez pleaded guilty on July 24, 2013, to one count of conspiracy to commit health care fraud, and was sentenced to 15 months in prison and restitution in the amount of $3,411,428. Fadojutimi was found guilty after a jury trial on July 31, 2014, of one count of conspiracy to commit health care fraud, seven counts of health care fraud and one count of money laundering, and sentenced to four years in prison and restitution in the amount of $4,372,466. In her sentencing, Fadojutimi was held responsible for the full amount of over $8 million in intended losses caused by the fraud at Lutemi.

This case was investigated by the the FBI, the IRS and the Los Angeles Region of HHS-OIG. Trial Attorneys Claire Yan, Emily Culbertson and Justin Givens of the Criminal Divisions Fraud Section are prosecuting the case.

The Fraud Section leads the Medicare Fraud Strike Force. Since its inception in March 2007, the Medicare Fraud Strike Force, now operating in nine cities across the country, has charged nearly 2,300 defendants who have collectively billed the Medicare program for more than $7 billion. In addition, the HHS Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with the HHS-OIG, are taking steps to increase accountability and decrease the presence of fraudulent providers.
Six Men Charged for Role in Five-Year High-Yield Investment Fraud Scheme

Dallas, Texas - Six men were charged in an indictment unsealed Wednesday for their alleged participation in a five-year high-yield investment fraud scheme.

Assistant Attorney General Brian A. Benczkowski of the Justice Departments Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Erin Nealy Cox of the Northern District of Texas and Inspector in Charge Delany DeLeon-Colon of the U.S. Postal Inspection Services Criminal Investigations Group in Washington, D.C., made the announcement.

Cengiz Jan CJ Comu, 58, of Dallas, Texas; John Mervyn Price, 63, also of Dallas; Harley E. Buddy Barnes, III, 60, of Plano, Texas; Richard Laurence Kadish, 57, of Miami, Florida; Richard Lawrence Green, 69, also of Miami; and Daniel Thomas Broyles Sr., 61, formerly of Malibu, California, were charged in an indictment returned in the Northern District of Texas with one count of conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud, 10 counts of mail fraud and 10 counts of wire fraud. Price and Barnes were arrested and appeared Monday before U.S. Magistrate Judge Renee H. Toliver of the Northern District of Texas. Comu was arrested and appeared on Wednesday, also before Judge Toliver. Kadish was arrested and appeared Wednesday in Miami before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jacqueline Becerra of the Southern District of Florida. Kadish was arrested and appeared Wednesday in Fort Lauderdale before U.S. Magistrate Judge Lurana S. Snow of the Southern District of Florida. A trial date has not yet been set.

Broyles, who was previously indicted in the Western District of North Carolina for his role in another high-yield investment fraud scheme, also remains a fugitive.

These individuals are charged with making multiple false and fraudulent representations as part of a five-year fraud scheme that ripped off investors, many of whom were elderly, said Assistant Attorney General Benczkowski. The indictment unsealed today underscores the Criminal Divisions commitment to combating high-yield investment fraud, which often targets and victimizes some of the most vulnerable members of our community.

The defendants peddled an absurd get-rich-quick scheme, deceiving hundreds of hardworking Americans, said U.S. Attorney Erin Nealy Cox. We will not stand for this type of blatant fraud.

Anyone who engages in deceptive securities practices needs to know they will not go undetected and will be held accountable, said Inspector in Charge DeLeon-Colon. The Postal Inspection Service has been investigating crimes like the ones alleged here for many years. Our duty is to protect investors and defend the integrity of the marketplace and the U.S. Mail.

The indictment alleges that, beginning in 2013, Comu, Price, Barnes, Kadish, Green and Broyles conspired to sell stock in EarthWater, a United Kingdom company headquartered in Dallas County, Texas. EarthWater manufactured and sold bottled water that it claimed was infused with special minerals mined from an 80-million-year-old deposit hidden in a secret location.

According to the indictment, Comu, who is EarthWaters founder, chairman and chief executive officer, falsely represented to victim investors that he was a successful Wall Street veteran with decades of experience and did not disclose to investors that, among other things, he was permanently barred from selling unregistered securities as a result of actions filed by state and federal securities regulators.

The indictment further alleges that, to induce victims to purchase EarthWater stock, Comu, Price, Barnes, Kadish, Green, Broyles, and others made numerous false and misleading representations, including that victim investors only had a brief opportunity to purchase EarthWater stock for anywhere from $.10 to $.50 per share in an unregistered offering before EarthWater launched an initial public offering (IPO) or was acquired by a large well-known company and EarthWaters stock price would increase anywhere from 10- to 50- times the purchase price. In reality, EarthWater allegedly never initiated an IPO, or a merger or acquisition.

The indictment also alleges that defendants falsely represented to victim investors that EarthWater would use 90 percent of invested funds to grow its business and expand operations, and that any fees paid to broker-dealers with respect to the sale of EarthWater stock would not exceed 10 percent of the purchase price of the shares. In reality, Comu, Price and Barnes allegedly agreed to split victim investors funds 50-50 with Kadish, Green, Broyles and other individuals who sold EarthWater stock. As a result, nearly half of all of the money victims invested in EarthWater allegedly went directly into the pockets of the individuals who sold them the stock.

In addition, according to the indictment, the defendants also falsely represented to victim investors that Comu, Price and Barnes did not receive salary from EarthWater in 2014, 2015 or 2016. In reality, Comu, Price and Barnes allegedly used EarthWaters investment account as a personal piggybank, using victim investor funds for their own personal benefit and transferring victim investor funds to bank accounts controlled by them for their own personal use.

An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

This case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. Trial Attorneys Christopher Fenton and William Bowne of the Criminal Divisions Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Mary F. Walters of the Northern District of Texas are prosecuting the case.

The Criminal Divisions Fraud Section plays a pivotal role in the Department of Justices fight against white collar crime around the country.

Individuals who believe that they may be a victim in this case should visit the Fraud Sections Victim Witness website for more information.
Administrators of DeepDotWeb Indicted for Money Laundering Conspiracy, Relating to Kickbacks for Sales of Fentanyl, Heroin and Other Illegal Goods

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania - The alleged owners and operators of a website known as DeepDotWeb (DDW) have been indicted by a federal grand jury sitting in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, for money laundering conspiracy, relating to millions of dollars in kickbacks they received for purchases of fentanyl, heroin, and other illegal contraband by individuals referred to Darknet marketplaces by DDW. The website has now been seized by court order.

Assistant Attorney General Brian A. Benczkowski of the Justice Departments Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Scott W. Brady for the Western District of Pennsylvania, Assistant Director Robert Johnson of the FBIs Criminal Investigative Division and Special Agent in Charge Robert Allan Jones of the FBIs Pittsburgh Field Office made the announcement.

In an indictment unsealed today, Tal Prihar, 37, an Israeli citizen residing in Brazil, and Michael Phan, 34, an Israeli citizen residing in Israel, were charged on April 24, 2019, in a one-count indictment by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh. Prihar was arrested on May 6, 2019 by French law enforcement authorities in Paris, pursuant to a provisional arrest request by the United States in connection with the indictment. Phan was arrested in Israel on May 6 pursuant to charges in Israel. Further, the FBI seized DDW, pursuant to a court order issued by the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania.

According to the indictment unsealed today, these defendants allegedly made millions of dollars by providing a gateway to illegal Darknet marketplaces, allowing hundreds of thousands of users to buy fentanyl, hacking tools, stolen credit cards, and other contraband, said Assistant Attorney General Benczkowski. The great work of our law enforcement partners and prosecutors allowed us to penetrate these supposedly anonymous online criminal networks, and those who used the networks to commit crimes will be held accountable regardless of where they live or how they attempt to hide their identities.

This is the single most significant law enforcement disruption of the Darknet to date, said U.S. Attorney Scott W. Brady. While there have been successful prosecutions of various Darknet marketplaces, this prosecution is the first to attack the infrastructure supporting the Darknet itself.

For years, DeepDotWeb operated as a key gateway to the criminal underbelly of Darknet marketplaces, all while the website administrators profited from the Darknet economy, said FBI Assistant Director Robert Johnson. Although they believed that they could hide in plain sight, this case demonstrates nothing could be further from the truth. The FBI does not turn a blind eye to criminal activity happening on or off the Darknet. Rather, we have worked together with our partners, both at home and abroad, to investigate nefarious activity, shut down websites like DeepDotWeb that facilitate the introduction of opioids and other illicit contraband into the United States, and arrest the individuals profiting from these transactions. The indictment announced today represents a true international success and should serve as a message to others that the FBI will always pursue criminals victimizing Americans, no matter where they may try to hide.

Websites like DeepDotWeb pose global threats that require global partnerships, said FBI Special Agent in Charge Jones. DDW acted as a gateway to the Darknet, allowing for the purchase and exchange of illicit drugs and other illegal items around the world, and the individuals charged today profited from those nefarious transactions. The efforts of federal and international law enforcement should send the message that we are coming after the operators of these dangerous websites.

Summary

According to the indictment, from in and around October 2013 and continuing through the date of the indictment, Tal Prihar and his co-conspirator Michael Phan allegedly owned and operated DDW, hosted at www.deepdotweb.com and also accessible on the Darknet at DeepDot35Wveyd5.onion.

DDW provided users with direct access to numerous online Darknet marketplaces, not accessible through traditional search engines, at which vendors offered for sale illegal narcotics such as fentanyl, carfentanil, cocaine, heroin, and crystal methamphetamine, firearms, including assault rifles, malicious software and hacking tools; stolen financial information and payment cards and numbers; access device-making equipment and other illegal contraband.

Prihar and Phan received kickback payments, representing commissions on the proceeds from each purchase of the illegal goods made by individuals referred to a Darknet marketplace from the DDW site. These kickback payments were made in virtual currency, such as bitcoin, and paid into a DDW-controlled bitcoin wallet. To conceal and disguise the nature and source of the illegal proceeds, totaling over $15 million, Prihar and Phan transferred their illegal kickback payments from their DDW bitcoin wallet to other bitcoin accounts and to bank accounts they controlled in the names of shell companies.

The Money Laundering Kickback Scheme

According to the indictment, Darknet marketplaces operated on the Tor network, a computer network designed to facilitate anonymous communication over the Internet. Because of Tors structure, a user who wanted to visit a particular Darknet marketplace needed to know the sites exact .onion address. DDW simplified this process by including pages of hyperlinks to various Darknet marketplaces .onion addresses.

Further, the indictment alleges that users who visited DDW were able to click on the hyperlinks to navigate directly to the Darknet marketplaces. Embedded in these links were unique account identifiers, which enabled the individual marketplaces to pay what they referred to as Referral Bonuses, to DDW. Kickbacks in the form of referral bonuses, paid in virtual currency, were a percentage of the profits of all of the activities conducted on the marketplace by any user who made purchases on the marketplace by using DDWs customized referral link. Through the use of the referral links, DDW received kickbacks from Darknet marketplaces every time a purchaser used DDW to buy illegal narcotics or other illegal goods on the marketplace.

During the time period relevant to this Indictment, DDWs referral links were widely used by users in the Western District of Pennsylvania and elsewhere to access and then create accounts on many Darknet marketplaces, including AlphaBay Market, Agora Market, Abraxas Market, Dream Market, Valhalla Market, Hansa Market, TradeRoute Market, Dr. Ds, Wall Street Market, and Tochka Market. When AlphaBay was seized by law enforcement in 2017, it was one of the largest Darknet markets that offered illegal drugs, fraudulent identification materials, counterfeit goods, hacking tools, malware, firearms, and toxic chemicals. Approximately 23.6 percent of all orders completed on AlphaBay were associated with an account created through a DDW referral link, meaning that DDW received a referral fee for 23.6 percent of all orders made on AlphaBay.

Over the course of the conspiracy, the defendants referred hundreds of thousands of users to Darknet marketplaces. These users in turn completed hundreds of millions of dollars worth of transactions, including purchases of illegal narcotics such as fentanyl, carfentanil, cocaine, heroin, and crystal methamphetamine; firearms, including assault rifles; malicious software and hacking tools; stolen financial information and payment cards and numbers; access device-making equipment; and other illegal contraband. Through the use of the referral links, the defendants received kickbacks worth millions of dollars, generated from the illicit sales conducted on Darknet marketplace accounts created through the site.

The defendants grew and promoted the DDW site, which functioned to drive further traffic to the DDW referral links, generating additional income for the defendants. Prihar functioned as the administrator of DDW. He registered the domain, made infrastructure payments and maintained control over site content. Phan was responsible for DDWs technical operations, designing and maintaining the websites day-to-day operation. Phan and Prihar communicated on a daily basis to facilitate their criminal enterprise.

From in or before November 2014 until the date of this indictment, the defendants controlled a bitcoin wallet that they used to receive the kickback payments for purchases completed on the various Darknet marketplaces. Throughout the course of the conspiracy, DDW operated accounts on Darknet markets and communicated with the operators of various Darknet markets regarding kickback payments.

Between in and around November 2014 and April 10, 2019, DDW received approximately 8,155 bitcoin in kickback payments from Darknet marketplaces, worth approximately $8,414,173 when adjusted for the trading value of bitcoin at the time of each transaction. The bitcoin was transferred to DDWs bitcoin wallet, controlled by the defendants, in a series of more than 40,000 deposits and was subsequently withdrawn to various destinations both known and unknown to the grand jury through over 2,700 transactions. Due to bitcoins fluctuating exchange rate, the value of the bitcoin at the time of the withdrawals from the DDW bitcoin wallet equated to approximately $15,489,415. In seeking to conceal their illicit activities and protect their criminal enterprise and the illegal proceeds it generated, the defendants set up numerous shell companies around the world. The defendants used these companies to move their ill-gotten gains and conduct other activity related to DDW. These companies included WwwCom Ltd., M&T Marketing, Imtech, O.T.S.R. Biztech, and Tal Advanced Tech.

An indictment contains only allegations. A defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

This case was brought in conjunction with the Joint Criminal Opioid and Darknet Enforcement (J-CODE) Team. Established within the FBIs Hi-Tech Organized Crime Unit, J-CODE is a U.S. Government initiative announced in January 2018, aimed at targeting drug trafficking, especially fentanyl and other opioids, on the Darknet. The J-CODE team brings together agents, analysts, and professional staff with expertise in drugs, gangs, health care fraud, and more. J-CODE entities, including the FBI, U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcements Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Department of Defense (DOD), Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN), and Department of Justice focus on disrupting the sale of drugs via the Darknet and dismantling criminal enterprises that facilitate this trafficking.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica Lieber Smolar of the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania, Trial Attorney C. Alden Pelker of the Criminal Divisions Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section, and Trial Attorneys Alexander Gottfried and Joseph Wheatley of the Criminal Divisions Organized Crime and Gang Section are prosecuting the case. The FBIs Pittsburgh Field Office is investigating the case. The Department thanks the French authorities, as well as its law enforcement colleagues at the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, National Cyber-Forensics and Training Alliance, IRS Criminal Investigation, Brazilian Federal Police Cyber Division, Israeli National Police, Dutch National Police, Europol Darkweb Team, German Federal Criminal Police (the Bundeskriminalamt), Polizeidirektion Zwickau and Saxon Police in Germany and law enforcement authorities in the United Kingdom. Significant assistance was also provided by the U.S. Department of Justices Office of International Affairs. The prosecution and investigative team thanks the AlphaBay prosecution team and the Criminal Divisions Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section for their assistance.
Man Sentenced for Unlawfully Importing and Distributing Misbranded Drugs

Detroit, Michigan - Matthew Dailey, 36, of Royal Oak, Michigan, was sentenced Wednesday to two years in prison for illegally importing kratoma powerful psychoactive substanceand selling it unlawfully through unapproved claims that it could treat serious diseases and medical conditions, including opiate withdrawal symptoms, the Department of Justice announced.

Dailey pleaded guilty on Jan. 8 in the Eastern District of Michigan to one count of introducing misbranded drugs into interstate commerce and one count of importing merchandise contrary to law. As part of his plea, Dailey agreed to forfeit $1,000,000 in illegal proceeds. Today, Judge Judith E. Levy of the Eastern District of Michigan sentenced Dailey to serve two years in prison, followed by three years supervised release.

Dailey was the owner and operator of Nomad Botanicals, an online business that sold kratom, which is made from the leaves of a tree indigenous to Southeast Asia, to consumers throughout the United States. In pleading guilty, Dailey admitted that he sold kratom with the intention that it be used as a drug to treat a variety of diseases, including chronic pain, Lyme disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and fibromyalgia. Dailey also widely distributed kratom as an opiate withdrawal drug, and as a substitute for drugs of abuse and prescription pills. Dailey further admitted that to circumvent the United States Food and Drug Administrations (FDA) regulation of drugs under the federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FDCA), Dailey knowingly and fraudulently portrayed his kratom products to the FDA as incense, paint pigment, and other substances not intended for human consumption. By deceiving the FDA in this manner, Dailey was able to import several tons of kratom into the United States.

We will not tolerate the importation or misbranding of drugs and other products without proper regulatory approvals, said Assistant Attorney General Jody Hunt of the Department of Justices Civil Division. The Department of Justice will continue to work with the FDA to ensure that drug distributors do not put consumers at risk by circumventing their obligations under the Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act.

As part of his plea agreement, Dailey further admitted that he repackaged and labeled the illegally imported kratom in his residence, which he did not register as a facility that manufactured, prepared, and processed drugs, as required under the FDCA. Dailey then sold and shipped kratom products to consumers throughout the United States for use as a drug without providing any directions for use, such as indications, dosage instructions, methods of administration, or contraindications.

This case was prosecuted by Trial Attorneys Clint Narver and Jocelyn Hines of the Department of Justices Consumer Protection Branch. The prosecution was assisted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Adriana Dydell of the United States Attorneys Office for the Eastern District of Michigan. The case was investigated by the FDAs Office of Criminal Investigations.
Honduran Drug Trafficker Sentenced to 33 Years in Prison

Miami, Florida - A Honduran man was sentenced Thursday to 33 years in prison for leading a drug trafficking organization that smuggled at least thousands of kilos of cocaine into the United States over the last decade.

Assistant Attorney General Brian A. Benczkowski of the Justice Departments Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney G. Zachary Terwilliger for the Eastern District of Virginia, Special Agent in Charge Jesse R. Fong of the Drug Enforcement Administrations (DEA) Washington Field Division, Assistant Director in Charge Nancy McNamara of the FBIs Washington Field Office, Special Agent in Charge Raymond Villanueva of U.S Immigration and Customs Enforcements Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Washington, D.C. and Superintendent of Virginia State Police Colonel Gary T. Settle made the announcement.

Arnulfo Fagot-Maximo, 58, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Liam O Grady for the Eastern District of Virginia. According to court records and evidence presented at trial, Fagot-Maximo was the leader of a drug trafficking organization based in the La Mosquitia region of the Department of Gracias a Dios, Honduras. His organization was a critical link between Colombian cocaine suppliers and other major Honduran traffickers. For over a decade, Fagot-Maximo received cocaine along the Mosquitia coast from Colombia by go fast boats, small aircraft and submersible vessels in quantities ranging from a few hundred to several thousand kilograms per delivery. Most of this cocaine was transferred to the Montes-Bobadilla organization in Francia, Honduras, where other traffickers received it. Eventually the cocaine was transported by land through Honduras and Guatemala, and then it was delivered to the Mexican cartels for importation into the United States. Fagot-Maximo received tens of millions of dollars in U.S. currency for the sale and delivery of this cocaine.

The case was investigated by the DEA as part of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF), Operation Harpoon through DEAs HIDTA Task Force in Annandale Virginia. The OCDETF program is a federal multi-agency, multi-jurisdictional task force that supplies supplemental federal funding to federal and state agencies involved in the identification, investigation and prosecution of major drug trafficking organizations. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking, weapons trafficking and money laundering organizations, and those primarily responsible for the nations illegal drug supply.

Assistance in the investigation and prosecution was provided by the U.S. Attorneys Offices for the Southern District of New York, the Middle District of Florida, and the Southern District of Florida. Assistance was also provided by the U.S. Coast Guard and the Honduran National Police. Assistant U.S. Attorneys James L. Trump, Thomas W. Traxler and Trial Attorney Anthony Aminoff with the Narcotic and Dangerous Drug Section prosecuted the case.
Deputy Assistant Attorney General Roger Alford Delivers Remarks at the 2019 China Competition Policy Forum

Hainan, China - Thank you for the opportunity to be here today. I have been to China on several occasions but never before to Hainan Island. I am delighted to be with you today in this island made famous for huge and colorful pearls.

This island of great pearls reminds me of one of the great antitrust stories in modern literature, written by the American author John Steinbeck. It is about a young boy who is diving in the ocean and discovers a pearl of great worth. When the boy goes to the local village to sell the great pearl, he discovers that all the pearl dealers in town have conspired together to fix the price they will offer. One after another, the dealers feigned little interest, even though it was the most beautiful pearl they had ever seen. They each offered only a fraction of the pearls true price. The boy knew he was being cheated, and stormed away in fury to try his luck in the distant capital.

That evening, the local villagers discussed the events of the day. Each of the three dealers knew the pearl was valueless, said one villager. But suppose they had arranged it before? asked another. If that is so, then all of us have been cheated all of our lives. It is hard to know, said the village elder. We do know that we are cheated from birth to the overcharge on our coffins. But we survive. He then turned to the boy who rejected the worthless offer and said, You have defied not the pearl buyers, but the whole structure, the whole way of life, and I am afraid of you. The boy responded to the village elder, What have I to fear but starvation?  What can I do? Some deep outrage is here.

That story, in a nutshell, is our mission as competition enforcers. To challenge those who prey upon the vulnerable and cheat the system by not buying or selling goods or services based on their true price. The local villagers may not be able to challenge the pearl dealers who fix prices, but we as enforcers can. In so doing, we change the whole structure, and the whole way of life of the people who cannot on their own challenge the powerful.

We join together in pursuit of this common mission. There is a well-known Chinese idiom about Eight Immortals who cross the sea, each showing their own remarkable ability. The meaning behind the idiom is that every actor has a special role to play in achieving a common goal. The same is true for competition enforcement. In the modern world of international commerce, we cannot protect the economic structures against anticompetitive behavior if only a few countries effectively enforce their antitrust laws. Every major market needs effective competition enforcement. With over 130 jurisdictions with competition laws, perhaps the most important benefit of combining our collective strengths is the development of a robust competition community. We are here today, talking about important competition enforcement and policy issues, and sharing our approaches. That alone is significant. As globalization increases, our world continues to need analytical and operational coherence in competition enforcement. And we have worked hard, as a community, to provide that coherence. You only need to look at the multilateral organizations devoted to competition enforcement to see the work that we have done. These include regional efforts, such as the ECN, ASEAN, CARICOM, and COMESA, as well as international organizations whose membership spans the globe, such as the OECD and the ICN. These organizations create a stable infrastructure that allows competition agencies to learn from each other, challenge one another, and continually improve together. They complement the many additional ways by which competition enforcement agencies interact bilaterally.

Further, we are a community that can leverage our collective strengths to confront challenges. One area where we have continued to challenge ourselves is procedural fairness. Ten years ago, the Department of Justices Antitrust Division first raised the issue of procedural fairness in the OECD. We then engaged on due process issues in both the OECD and the ICN. Those labors are bearing fruit. This year will be watershed in promoting fundamental due process. Almost a year ago, the Antitrust Divisions Assistant Attorney General Makan Delrahim announced the Multilateral Framework on Procedures in Competition Law Investigation and Enforcement, or MFP. The goal of the MFP was to globally strengthen and promote due process in competition law enforcement, and to thereby also improve cooperation among competition agencies around the world. The MFP proposal was different from the reports and recommendations of the past that exist in the area of procedural fairness in two important ways.

First, the substantive standards outlined in the Framework were truly universal. They are not aspirational, but are widely accepted and already recognized by most competition agencies. We derived these principles from the texts of competition chapters in several major trade agreements, as well as the work on procedural fairness conducted by the OECD and ICN, in conjunction with an examination of procedures and practices of major competition agencies around the world.

Second, the MFP proposed an individual competition agency commitment to adhere to these universal principles, and a compliance mechanism that allows signatories to gauge the extent to which fellow adherents are following these principles. Participant competition agencies agree to engage in consultations regarding material issues of competition law covered by the text, to provide reports regarding their procedures to other participants and update these reports in the event of significant changes, to meet regularly to review the implementation and functioning of the framework, and to adopt reports and proposals for improvement.

We developed the initial text of the MFP in close cooperation with a dozen of our closest competition agencies, from both civil law and common law jurisdictions and from both administrative and prosecutorial systems. We worked hard to find solutions that work broadly for competition agencies.

Then, in the summer and fall of last year, we introduced the proposed text to the broader community of competition agencies worldwide. In September and November, we met with over 40 competition agencies. We received unanimous support for the substantive principles set forth in our proposal from each and every competition agency engaged in these discussions. Several agencies proposed implementing the MFP arrangement through the ICN, to take advantage of existing institutions and processes, and to reduce the administrative burden. We agreed that this proposal had merit, and worked closely and tirelessly with ICN Chair Andreas Mundt and his staff to find a way to implement the MFPs strong substantive norms and meaningful review mechanisms within an ICN instrument.

The capstone result of this cooperation is the Framework on Competition Agency Procedures, or CAP, which incorporates the substantive principles and review mechanisms of the original MFP within an ICN instrument. CAP is open to all competition agencies, both ICN members as well as non-member competition agencies. The CAP was opened for signature on May 1 and will be formally launched at the 2019 ICN Annual Conference in Cartagena, Colombia next week. We are confident that dozens of agencies will sign the CAP as charter members next week, including major competition agencies in North America, South America, Africa, Europe and Asia. I look forward to continuing discussions with SAMR here in Hainan in the hopes that they too will sign either the CAP or the MFP. And given that the norms in the framework reflect international minimum standards of fundamental due process, we are confident that SAMR will follow these procedural norms, even as it decides whether to become a signatory.

Certainly, for us at the Antitrust Division, the CAP is a natural progression from years during which people at all levels of the Antitrust Division, both staff and management, have worked closely with our international counterparts. This cooperation, which has taken many forms, has led to better understanding of our strengths, as well as our differences, and has resulted in a deeper level of engagement. Together with the U.S. Federal Trade Commission, we have entered into cooperation agreements with competition agencies from 15 jurisdictions. In fact, we have entered into cooperation agreements with every competition agency joining me on stage today. Through these agreements, we engage widely in cooperation on individual cases and on broader policy developments.

For example, cooperation in just our merger enforcement alone allows us to share updates on timing, theories of harm and results of economic analysis. Working closely together on a particular matter gives us the benefit of one anothers expertise in reviewing the markets involved. Thats good for business  such cooperation means more consistency across jurisdictions, speedier resolutions, and less duplicative efforts. And ultimately, thats good for consumers  more efficient government is more effective government.

Let me conclude with two other areas of further dialogue that I suggest can assist us in reaching the shared goal of sound competition enforcement: the purpose of competition enforcement and the enforcement of competition laws on matters involving state-owned-enterprises.

The purpose of competition enforcement is an issue that is being discussed within the United States, as well as around the world. The current debate centers on the differences between the consumer welfare and the public interest standard. We believe the consumer welfare standard should remain our guiding light because the goals of consumer welfare and competition go hand-in-hand.

At its essence, antitrust law condemns practices that harm competition. Competition for competitions sake and its inherent benefits is the critical policy goal. We believe this is best accomplished through free markets, where the role of antitrust is to ensure that there are adequate incentives for innovation, which is the heart of competition. For example, with respect to monopolies, it is important to recognize that antitrust law does not condemn all monopolies  it condemns the abuse of monopoly power. Prices can tend to be higher when monopoly exists. But, monopolies are also fragile because high prices attract new entrants and innovators who seek to cut into the monopolists market share.

In addition to protecting competition in the marketplace, some competition agencies consider the impact of a merger or conduct, or furthering economic growth domestically, helping socially disadvantaged groups, supporting national champions, protecting privacy, or enhancing national security. We have suggested that the broad reaches of the public interest standard, which encompass a wide range of factors, can result in a vague, less predictable analysis depending on how the factors are applied in any particular transaction. It invites competition agencies to sacrifice the welfare of consumers in pursuit of other goals. In contrast, the focused consumer welfare standard analyzes the impact on prices, output or quality to determine whether a purportedly harmful practice actually has anticompetitive effects and harms consumers.

We understand that not every jurisdiction agrees with us. We welcome continued dialogue on this topic because in a world of global multinationals whose conduct spans multiple jurisdictions, we should have a deeper understanding of how these different standards impact our enforcement.

Turning to the role of state-owned-enterprises, over the past few decades, SOEs have increasingly played a more prominent role in international commerce. In fact, some of the largest companies in the world are SOEs, including numerous Chinese companies. To the extent those companies engage in anticompetitive commercial behavior that harms the United States market, the Antitrust Division will challenge such behavior and subject foreign SOEs to the U.S. antitrust laws to the same extent as the activities of privately owned firms. As Assistant Attorney General Makan Delrahim said last year, in the United States state-owned enterprises that are engaged in commercial activity are not immune from the antitrust laws and where competitors come together to engage in collusive or anticompetitive behavior, we will bring all our enforcement tools to bear.

Last month the Antitrust Division filed a statement of interest interpreting the scope of the commercial activity exception to foreign sovereign immunity. As we noted in that filing, actions of a foreign company to join and act in furtherance of an antitrust conspiracy can cause a direct effect in the United States even if that company made no direct sales in the United States. Any other interpretation could immunize many conspirators from liability for their anticompetitive actions, even when the conspiracy substantially harms consumers in the United States.

In addition, the mere fact that a foreign government owns shares in a company does not render that company an SOE that benefits from foreign sovereign immunity. For a company to enjoy such immunity, it must be majority-owned by a foreign government or engage in a public activity on behalf of the foreign government such that it is an organ of the state. While commercial enterprises can qualify as organs of a foreign state in certain circumstances, they do not constitute organs when they are acting to maximize profits rather than pursue public objectives on behalf of the foreign state.

The United States is not alone in our concern that foreign SOEs comply with competition laws. As the OECD Secretariat recently noted, SOEs involved in anti-competitive agreements, mergers or unilateral anti-competitive conduct are regularly prosecuted in jurisdictions with an established competition law. Perhaps the most notable recent example of such concern is the European Commissions case against Gazprom, one of Russias largest SOEs. Every competition agency represented on stage, as well as the many competition agencies that make up our competition community, is committed to effective enforcement against all those who violate the competition laws. We should all think creatively as to how we can promote competition law enforcement in cases involving foreign SOEs.

In conclusion, the great pearl of wisdom I hope to leave with you today is that our goal as enforcers should always be to tirelessly help those who cannot help themselves from the anticompetitive and predatory behavior of those bad actors who threaten the very structures of economic society, and deprive the common consumer of the true value of their precious goods and noble labors.

Thank you.
Perhaps you're reading this with your phone in one hand and a cup of coffee in the other, or while heading out from work to meet a colleague for work. If that's the case, we have some very good news -- although, perhaps with a small caveat.

Over the past few years, a series of studies have come out showing that drinking coffee--in fact, drinking a lot of coffee--has significant health benefits. In fact, some suggested there could be big benefits in drinking copious amounts.

The big unanswered question, however, has been whether there's any amount of coffee that's actually "too much." Now, a brand new study that examined 347,077 coffee drinkers, seems to have found an answer: the precise number of cups of coffee at which at which health problems might begin to show up, and could even outweigh the benefits.

Let's not hide the ball, By synthesizing several of these of the earlier "positive" studies with the new one out of the University of South Australia that suggests an upper limit, we can come up with the perfect number: Five cups of coffee per day.

Here's the background, the new study, and why when it comes to coffee, five is a magic number.

First, drink more coffee

First, the benefits. Study after study after study suggests real benefits to drinking coffee from a health perspective. As a coffee fiend myself, I've followed several of them over the years, including:

A study in which researchers funded by the American Heart Association and the University of Colorado School of Medicine found that risk of heart failure or stroke went down 8 percent for each additional cup of coffee per day.

A British study of 498,123 people found that the ones who habitually drank coffee were between 10 and 15 percent less likely to die during any 10 year period than non-coffee drinkers.

A Stanford University study that tracked 100 people over several years, and found that coffee drinkers tended to live longer than non-coffee drinkers. Here, the theory--just a theory, but still -- was that increased caffeine consumption might counteract the "fundamental inflammatory mechanism associated with human aging."

A Spanish study found that drinking four cups of coffee per day led to a 64 percent lower risk of dying among study participants compared to non-coffee drinkers.

If you read through all of those studies, you come away with the idea that drinking as many as four cups of coffee per day could have some significant health benefits.

But if four is good, then how about five? And if five is good, why not 10?

But then, stop at five

While I consider myself a pretty serious coffee drinker, the truth is I would rarely go past three cups in a day: one or two with breakfast, and perhaps one in the afternoon.

According to this new study out of South Australia, however, I've got some room to go before hitting the danger area. The problem, once you reach it, is the point at which the increased stimulation can lead to heart disease.

"In order to maintain a healthy heart and a healthy blood pressure, people must limit their coffees to fewer than six cups a day -- based on our data six was the tipping point where caffeine started to negatively affect cardiovascular risk," said Professor Elina Hypponen of the Australian Centre for Precision Health, one of the study's authors.

Specifically, once you reach six cups of coffee per day, the risk of heart disease increases by 22 percent according to the study.
This is a story about a terrible crime that you'd probably never hear about outside of the state where it happened, except for the occupation of the person who's been arrested: a pilot for American Airlines.

It's also about just how complete your trust as a passenger has to be in the competence, character, and health of the people flying your plane.

First Officer Christian Richard Martin was arrested at the airport in Louisville early Saturday and charged with three counts of murder.

Martin, who American said had been working for its wholly owned subsidiary, PSA Airlines, since January 2018, was reportedly being held without bail in a jail in Kentucky Saturday night.

The circumstances are hard to summarize. In a statement Saturday, the Kentucky attorney general said Martin was responsible for the November 2015 deaths of husband and wife Calvin and Pamela Phillips, and Edward Dansereau, all of whom were his neighbors at the time.

Although officials didn't provide a motive, news reports say that Martin, while serving in the U.S. Army, had been tried by court-martial for child sexual abuse among other charges, and that the Phillipses were scheduled to be witnesses against him.

Martin actually gave a 29-minute television interview in 2016 about their deaths, denying any involvement and saying that he'd actually expected Calvin Phillips to be the star witness for his defense.

He was later acquitted of the most serious charges in his military court-martial, although he was convicted of two counts of mishandling classified information and two counts of simple assault.

American Airlines told me Saturday that Martin had undergone a background check, which would apparently would have been handled by the Transportation Security Administration, and that there hadn't been anything that came up that would have disqualified him from being a pilot.

Here's the airline's statement.

"All of us at American Airlines and PSA Airlines are deeply saddened to have learned about these allegations from 2015. Our team was made aware of the indictment this morning after his arrest at Louisville International Airport. We have an unwavering commitment to the safety and security of our customers and team members, and we will provide any investigative assistance possible to law enforcement throughout their investigation."

Passengers who were in the airport at the time of Martin's arrest described a tense scene, with lots of police and the arrested pilot marched away in handcuffs from an airport gate, apparently just before he was set to be the first officer on Flight 5523 from Louisville to Charlotte.

In a mugshot widely disseminated on media sites, Martin is seen wearing his airline uniform, with the three stripes of a first officer visible on each shoulder.

American Airlines pilot arrested in Louisville for 2015 triple murder https://t.co/pwhcpywrQX pic.twitter.com/2U7QsQjdTo -- WLKY (@WLKY) May 12, 2019

One passenger described the scene to a local television station as being like out of a movie. Other passengers took to Twitter both to describe the bizarre scene of a commercial airline pilot being arrested and accused of murder -- along with complaints about the resulting delay.

Hey @AmericanAir how about you hire enough employees that I don't have to wait 2 hours in a line to get my luggage sorted out after YOUR pilot got arrested .... just a thought -- Anna Margaret (@annamargarita55) May 11, 2019

when u find out that the @AmericanAir pilot was a murderer for TRIPLE homicide!!!! can't believe we could have got on a plane with him -- Victoria Rendeiro (@victoriarend) May 11, 2019

Ok, so this is WILD and SCARY!

We were so close to the Pilots arrest today at SDF, terminal B.



This AA pilot was arrested TODAY (while we were nearby Gate B5)!! Glad they got the Murderer Pilot ! Besides weather, they were 3 hrs late! I wonder why#AmericanAirlines #AA5523 pic.twitter.com/BrMRn00Zs5 -- DFS_GAL (@Hills11DFS) May 12, 2019

Flight 5523 took off a little under three hours late, once American was able to find a replacement first officer.

This is truly one of the more disturbing and unusual airline-related stories I've seen. Of course, we have the presumption of innocence in criminal matters in this country.

But the idea that Martin had been flying passengers for going on a year and a half is perplexing to say the least. Even if he were 100 percent innocent, he had to have been concerned about being implicated in these killings, if for no other reason that at least one of the victims was supposed to testify at his court-martial.
Whenever I write about the Boeing 737 Max, I can expect to hear from at least a few pilots, often from American, United, and especially Southwest Airlines, which is the biggest U.S. 737 Max customer.

Now it seems that federal criminal investigators want to hear from them as well.

A report broke Friday that the unions representing American, United and Southwest pilots have all been hit with subpoenas from the criminal division of the US Department of Justice, requiring them to turn over 737 Max-related documents to a federal grand jury, according to Bloomberg.

The unions confirmed for me Saturday that they'd been served.

"I don't know what aspect they are investigating. They just want to know what we have on the Max. We knew it would come eventually," Jon Weaks, the Southwest union president, told Bloomberg's Mary Schlangenstein.

5 different investigations

At this point there are at least five federal investigations regarding the 737 Max. The Seattle Times compiled them all from various sources including:

A criminal investigation "into the development and certification of the Boeing 737 MAX by the Federal Aviation Administration and Boeing. In this first investigation, it's being led by the U.S. Department of Justice Fraud Section, with help from the FBI and the Department of Transportation's Inspector General. A separate administrative investigation by the Department of Transportation's Inspector General. Hearings in front of the Department of Transportation's Inspector General. On March 27, the FAA's acting administrator, Daniel Elwell, testified; Boeing executives are supposed to testify at a later date. An FAA review panel that's supposed to look into "the certification of the automated flight-control system on the Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, as well as its design and how pilots interact with it," according to the Times. An overall congressional investigation into the "status of the Boeing 737 MAX," in front of the U.S. House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee's Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, starting May 15.

'Hundreds' more

Quick recap: this all dates back to the crash of Lion Air Flight 610 on October 29, 2018, and then the crash of Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 on March 10, both of which were 737 Max aircraft. The crashes claimed the lives of all aboard, killing 346 people in total.

The 737 Max has been grounded worldwide since the second crash, while investigations continue regarding what went wrong -- and of how the plane was approved for flight in the first place.

Within the U.S., Southwest has reportedly made the biggest bet by far on the 737 Max, with 280 orders and 31 deliveries -- plus a plan to buy "hundreds more," according to its CEO.

American has ordered 100 and taken delivery of 24, according to the same source, while United has ordered 137 and taken delivery of 14. All three airlines' 737 Max aircraft are reportedly waiting out the grounding order in desert boneyards in the western U.S.

The 4 scariest words

It remains to be seen whether passengers will even be willing to fly on the 737 Max when it returns to service. Fully 20 percent of passengers surveyed by Barclays said they'd never fly on one, while another 23 percent said they'd wait at least a year after it returns to service before being willing to give it a try.

It's almost enough data to take President Trump's recent suggestion seriously -- although I'm still convinced that airlines that flew a rebranded 737 Max would risk their own reputations with their customers.

There's nothing suggesting any criminal wrongdoing by any pilots or the pilots' unions that I'm aware of. And a grand jury investigation is just that -- an investigation.

It doesn't mean anyone will wind up facing any criminal charges.

That said, I'm a former lawyer, and as far as I'm concerned, four of the scariest words in the English language are: "federal grand jury subpoena."
What makes an album stand the test of time? Mostly its the music  songs that resonate with the listener long after the final note has played out. But it also has something to do with the art that accompanies it  whether thats a photograph, a painting, a collage or something else altogether.

The album cover is arguably less valued than it once was. Moody solo shots or images of bands slouching against brick walls have become the norm (thanks Ramones), or else artists go for plain covers with their name in block letters, in the belief that simple is best. But over the decades, artists famous in their own right have created genuine works of art that just happen to grace the covers of albums.

Photographers have succeeded in capturing the true essence of the artist via a striking portrait shot, like Robert Mapplethorpe with Patti Smith, or Pennie Smith and The Clash. Elsewhere, artists like Andy Warhol and Peter Blake have added their own vision to bands like the Velvet Underground, The Rolling Stones and The Beatles. They in turn are emulated by the likes of Madonna and photographer Herb Ritts, to mirror the connection between art and brand.

Here are 30 of the most iconic album covers of all time:
In the summer of 2017, Jane Jonas and her wife were vacationing in the Outer Banks of North Carolina when a massive power outage forced thousands to evacuate the islands. Not ready to return home to Washington DC yet, the couple scoured Airbnb for holiday rentals and found a cabin in the mountains of West Virginia in a town called Lost River. Neither of them had heard of the place before, but they instantly fell in love with its wild, forested landscape  and the solitude.

It didnt feel like any place Id been to before, says Jonas, who grew up backpacking with her family near their home in northern California. All the other places where Id vacationed around here were full of people. When her wife, Laurie, suggested buying property there, Jonas, an entrepreneur, wondered if there might be a business opportunity.

Now, two years later, Jonas and two friends, Shawn Harrington and Andrew St Cyr, have launched Lost River Vacations, an eco-friendly tiny house retreat on a 22-acre property in Lost River. Two and a half hours away from the district, the retreat is scheduled to open in June.

The three friends are all small businesses owners in the DC area, but what makes their story unique is not that theyre starting a trendy new venture  its that their trendy new venture is owned, managed, and supported almost exclusively by the deaf community. Jonas, Harrington, and St Cyr, who met as students at Gallaudet University, are deaf; the tiny house itself was built by deaf carpenters; a deaf-owned company, Catalyst+, will design hiking trails on the property; and the walls of the tiny house will be decorated with artwork by deaf artists.

Thats part of the purpose of Lost River Vacations  to support the deaf economy.

Shawn Harrington, co-owner of Lost River Vacations (Evelyn Hockstein  The Washington Post)

Deaf people and deaf businesses have been marginalised for a long time, Harrington says Red Bear Brewing Co, where Lost River Vacations launched a Kickstarter campaign to raise money to expand the retreat. If you take a deaf business and a hearing business, people typically choose the hearing business, Harrington says. By encouraging everyone to visit their retreat, the trio hopes that hearing people, who might otherwise be reluctant to hire deaf businesses and individuals, will see the value deaf people can add to a project and be inspired to work with them.

They will open with one tiny house that sleeps four available to rent. But the trio hopes to raise enough capital to build 10 more small abodes, including a tree house and a yurt, in the years ahead. This past week, they raised enough money to build a second house that they hope will be up and running later this summer.

The retreat, previously a hunting ground, is 2 miles away from Lost River State Park. It lies outside the range of mobile-phone service and sits at an elevation of 1,850ft with views of mountains and forests  and no signs of other human inhabitants. (Urban travellers need not fear: High-speed wifi, the retreats website reads, makes it easy to post your best pictures to Instagram!)

More than 500 deaf people gathered for the fundraiser at Red Bear Brewing Co over craft beers, sausages and free cake to support Lost River Vacations. All across the room, people in the crowd  which included government workers, small business owners, and students  were signing to one another while the deaf DJ, Nico DiMarco, blared songs like No Scrubs and All the Single Ladies loudly enough so that the audience could feel the beats and vibrations of the music. (DiMarcos brother, Nyle, also deaf, was the 2015 winner of the reality show Americas Top Model.)

It was no accident that the event was full of creative talent, says Calvin Young, a filmmaker who created the marketing video for Lost River Vacations, as he interacted with the crowd at the brewery.

We have something called deaf gain, says Young, explaining that when one sense like hearing is missing, that amplifies the others, like taste and sight  meaning that in the deaf community, there are a disproportionate number of cooks, artists and designers. Hearing people might focus on sound, Young says, but when Im filming, Ill focus on movement or the facial expression. There is no sound in my videos. I want people to see my film as I see them, through deaf eyes.

The owners of Lost River Vacations hope to introduce hearing visitors to the gifts of people who are hearing impaired (Evelyn Hockstein  The Washington Post)

Rosemary Latin, the baker of the free cake, was sitting along a wall watching the party unfold. A pastry chef, she founded Rosemarys Fabulous Cakes in Keedysville, Maryland in 2003. Many of her clients are deaf, but she also has a roster of hearing clients, some of whom didnt realise she was deaf when they first approached her. When they found out, Latin says, they were a little resistant at first. They worried about how theyd communicate and work together. But Latin reassured them. She told them that they could communicate via texting rather than calling. I had to be a bit more assertive, she says.

Entrepreneurs like Latin, Young and Jonas and her partners are bucking trends in the deaf community. According to an analysis by the National Deaf Centre, which used data from the US Censuss 2014 American Community Survey, the employment rate among the deaf is 48 per cent compared to 72 per cent in the hearing community, and nearly half of all deaf people are not in the labour force compared to a quarter of hearing people.

The deaf community is starving for entrepreneurs, says Ryan Maliszewski at Red Bear.

Entrepreneurs (left to right) Andrew St Cyr, Jane Jonas and Shawn Harrington during the fundraiser at Red Bear Brewing Co in Washington DC (Evelyn Hockstein  The Washington Post)

Maliszewski directs the Gallaudet Innovation and Entrepreneurship Institute, which launched in the autumn of 2017. Most students at Gallaudet, he says, major in communication studies, interpretation or social work, and go on to work in deaf-related roles, such as teachers in deaf schools. Though thats fine, he also wants the students to not be afraid to think big. Being deaf, Maliszewski points out, equips students with a set of characteristics that makes them natural entrepreneurs  like assertiveness and the ability to quickly adapt and be resourceful.

Our community has some absolutely phenomenal talents, but they do not communicate using sound, so they are unknown, Jonas says, so its my passion to get their work and talents out there.

The other, major goal of Lost River Vacations is to expose more hearing people to the deaf community.

52% of deaf people are unemployed, according to analysis by the National Deaf Centre

The retreat will welcome deaf and hearing people alike, and the three co-founders hope that hearing people who come will leave with a different perspective on deaf individuals. Right now, Harrington explains, many hearing people see deafness as a disability, a term that implies victimhood and helplessness. They dont understand how deaf people can function in a culture as auditory as ours. Once when I was at a restaurant, Harrington says, a stranger gave me a $20 bill saying Im so sorry youre deaf. But its like, no, I can pay for my own food! But they learn youre deaf and they think everything is falling apart, that theres something wrong with you.

Its similar with parents, he explains. More than 90 per cent of deaf children are born to hearing parents, and many of these parents believe the only way for their children to succeed is by learning to speak. There is a major schism in the deaf community between people who embrace sign language as their primary method of communication and those who want themselves or their children to assimilate into hearing culture with cochlear implants and speech therapy.

Growing up, Jonas sat in the middle of that schism. She was raised by hearing parents in Berkeley, California. Her mother, a high-school foreign language teacher, understood the critical importance of language to the development of a young child and so learned to sign with Jonas. But Jonass parents also sent her to thousands of hours of speech therapy classes. Eventually, they enrolled her in deaf schools. Jonas thrived academically and when the time came to choose a college, she decided to attend Gallaudet. She considered going to a more mainstream school like UC Santa Cruz, where shed been accepted, but Jonas realised she didnt want to spend the next four years of her life speaking and learning through an interpreter. She wanted to figure out how to be a deaf person in the world, she says.

Jonas, Harrington, and St Cyr want to show deaf children, their parents and the hearing community that its possible to be productive and successful while embracing ones deaf identity.

Seeing Lost River Vacations launch, Maliszewski says, gave him goosebumps. I want students to hear more of these stories, he says, and say, Oh, if they can do it, I can do it, too.

 Washington Post
Thousands of mothers and their families marched through central London on Sunday to demand urgent action on climate change and dramatic cuts in carbon emissions.

The Mothers Rise up protest was led by eleven 11-year-olds to represent the 11-year window to act on climate change, set out by the worlds leading climate scientists in a landmark UN report last year.

A spokesperson for the group said that an estimated 2,500 people attended the march on International Mothers Day in support of youth climate strikes nationwide.

Families, including many young children in prams, marched from Hyde Park Corner to Parliament Square holding placards with slogans including Do Not Mess with a Lioness, Vote 4 Mother Earth and Theres No Planet B.

Similar marches took place across the country and internationally on the same day, with rallies in the Netherlands, Spain and Australia.

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Among those at the London march were TV presenter Konnie Huq, comedian Shappi Khorsandi and environmental lawyer and Extinction Rebellion activist Farhana Yamin.

One of the mothers on the march, Maria Hall, 34, of Hertfordshire said she worried that her two daughters aged two and four might not be left with a planet to grow up on.

It just scares me that weve brought them into this world and that theres not a future for them at the moment thats worth living for, unless we do something about it, she said.

Illana Adamson, a 48-year-old sustainability consultant, said: Ive got a daughter whos 13, and mainly I cant bear the thought of me having done nothing to change the trajectory of this. I am terrified at what the growing climate crisis means for our children.

Other parents highlighted the limited time left to mitigate the worst effects of climate changes, according to the report by the UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change.

Bryony Barker, of Brentford, said: We have 11 years in which to really make a difference and if we dont make enough action in that, then almost any action we do isnt going to help us.

If methane gas is produced from permafrost, if we havent got the ice sheets reflecting the heat back, then even if we pulled out all the stops then we would be too late.

And my kids are going to be 16 when its too late, so we have to do it for them.

The march came as exclusive polling for The Independent showed that a majority of Britons backed radical action on climate change. Six out of 10 supported spending tens of billions to slash greenhouse gas emissions.

Becky Burchell, a 29-year-old mother of two from Dorset, said her familys plans for the future had massively changed in response to the climate crisis.

Weve moved to the countryside to a small village and my job is now focused around how the arts can help tackle the problem around climate change, she said. Its made me reprioritise whats important.

Other parents emphasised the need for the government to take decisive action on climate change.

Matt Colnell, 52-year-old father of three from Derbyshire, said: What we need is for the powers that be to come together and put us on a serious footing to do something serious about our futures.

It cant be piecemeal, it cant be voluntary  we need global action and we need it now.

Don Burgess, a 51-year-old doctor from London, said: For my kids, if theyre going to survive and have any quality of life, we need to make changes. A lot of what were doing now, we know how to make it better but we need to have the political will to actually make it better.

And Rosamund Kissi-Debrah, who daughter Ella died from an asthma attack believed to be linked to air pollution in London, said: Business as usual  toxic pollution in our streets and our schools  is fuelling a crisis that is making our kids sick and it is families in the deprived areas that are paying the heaviest price.

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

Ms Huq also addressed the crowds at the rally, and said: The reason we are here is because of the youth strikes  the young people have been putting us to shame and its time for us adults to take responsibility.

The Mothers Rise Up protest comes weeks after the Extinction Rebellion movement brought parts of London to a standstill to demand action on climate change and MPs voted to declare a climate emergency.

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Greta Thunberg, the Swedish teenager who has inspired worldwide school strikes, also visited London last month and condemned the governments support for fossil fuels and airport expansion as beyond absurd.

And on Saturday, health secretary Matt Hancock named dirty air as the largest environmental risk to public health in the UK and warned of a growing national health emergency triggered by the slow and deadly poison of air pollution.

He announced that he had commissioned Public Health England (PHE) to carry out a review of the impact of air pollution on the UKs health.
Sir Philip Green is no longer listed as a billionaire in the new Sunday Times Rich List, which valued his high street fashion empire as worthless as it struggles with pensions debt as well as harassment and bullying scandals.

The tycoon, whose Arcadia Group includes brands such as Topshop, Burton and Dorothy Perkins, is believed to have seen his fortune halve over the last year, according to the annual ranking of the UKs top 1,000 wealthiest people.

Sir Philip and his wife Tina were placed 156th in the 2019 list  down from joint 66th last year  with riches of 950m.

Robert Watts, who compiled this years rankings, said he doubted the tycoon would ever return to the upper echelons of Britains financial elite.

Sir Philip Green may have clung on to his knighthood, but we can no longer justify his status as one of the UKs billionaires, he added. This is the first time since 2002 he has not been in that top tier of the UKs super-rich individuals.

Sir Philip has faced sustained criticism since the controversial collapse of the BHS department store chain in 2016, which led to the loss of 11,000 jobs and left a pension deficit assessed at 571m.

The Hinduja brothers are worth a combined total of 11.9bn (Rex)

A parliamentary investigation found the company had been systematically plundered by its owners and described a hole in its pension fund as the unacceptable face of capitalism.

Sir Philip has also been dogged by sexual harassment, racism and bullying claims.

Earlier this year, US police investigated allegations that he groped a female executive and made sexual comments at a ranch in Arizona. The retail tycoon was said to have attempted to buy the womans silence with more than 1m, but he denied any wrongdoing and said authorities had closed the case.

He is also alleged to have referred to a black employee throwing spears in the jungle while drawing attention to his dreadlocks.

Five staff signed non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) to keep their complaints confidential and The Daily Telegraph fought a legal battle to report the allegations.

Indian brothers Gopichand and Srichand Hinduja topped the Sunday Times Rich List for the third time this year with a fortune of 22bn. Their familys Hinduja Group has interests in oil and gas, banking, IT and property.

Controversial chemicals firm founder Sir Jim Ratcliffe, who is leading the drive to develop fracking in the UK, slipped to third place with an estimated fortune of 18.1bn after topping last years rankings.

The wealthiest woman in Britain is Sigrid Rausing, granddaughter of the man who invented Tetra Pak packaging. She is reportedly worth 12.2bn and ranked sixth.

Entrepreneur Valerie Moran, jointly worth 122m with her Irish husband, became the first black female woman to make the list.
Labour will trial universal basic income if it wins power in the next general election, the shadow chancellor has revealed.

John McDonnell said pilots would be run in Liverpool, Sheffield and the midlands to test the impact of giving every person a fixed sum to cover the basics whether they are rich or poor, in work or unemployed.

Mr McDonnell told the Sunday Mirror people would be able to spend the money however they wanted, but the intention was for it to be used to study, set up a business or leave work to care for a loved one.

He acknowledged that the idea was radical but insisted the Labour Party could get the design right.

The reason were doing it is because the social security system has collapsed, Mr McDonnell added. We need a radical alternative and were going to examine that.

Labour Party conference 2018: in pictures Show all 24 1 /24 Labour Party conference 2018: in pictures Labour Party conference 2018: in pictures Leader Jeremy Corbyn addresses a pre-conference rally at Pier Head in Liverpool on Saturday Getty Labour Party conference 2018: in pictures Deputy leader Tom Watson cycles at the party conference as part of the Labour Cycles scheme PA Labour Party conference 2018: in pictures Leader Jeremy Corbyn and Deputy Leader Tom Watson sit together on stage on Sunday Reuters Labour Party conference 2018: in pictures Shadow Chancellor John McDonnell speaks at a fringe event at the party conference on Sunday REUTERS Labour Party conference 2018: in pictures Delegates are welcomed to the conference at the Arena and Convention Centre in Liverpool Getty Labour Party conference 2018: in pictures Shadow Chancellor John McDonnell speaks at a fringe event at the party conference Reuters Labour Party conference 2018: in pictures Leader Jeremy Corbyn and Shadow Foreign Secretary Emily Thornberry attend a vigil in Liverpool for those who are affected by the war in Yemen PA Labour Party conference 2018: in pictures Anti-Brexit supporters demonstrate outside the conference in Liverpool on Sunday Getty Labour Party conference 2018: in pictures Anti-Brexit supporters demonstrate outside the conference in Liverpool on Sunday PA Labour Party conference 2018: in pictures Mayor of London Sadiq Khan arrive at the conference on Sunday EPA Labour Party conference 2018: in pictures Shadow Chancellor John McDonnell speaks at a fringe event at the party conference EPA Labour Party conference 2018: in pictures Delegates at the Arena and Convention Centre in Liverpool, where the conference is being held PA Labour Party conference 2018: in pictures Badges worn by a delegate at the conference on Sunday EPA Labour Party conference 2018: in pictures Shadow Home Secretary Diane Abbott speaks at a fringe event at the party conference EPA Labour Party conference 2018: in pictures Anti-Brexit supporters demonstrate outside the conference in Liverpool on Sunday Reuters Labour Party conference 2018: in pictures Deputy leader Tom Watson poses for a selfie on Sunday AFP/Getty Labour Party conference 2018: in pictures Leader Jeremy Corbyn listens to a speech on Sunday Getty Labour Party conference 2018: in pictures General Secretary of the Labour Party is welcomed to the stage by leader Jeremy Corbyn on Sunday Reuters Labour Party conference 2018: in pictures An anti-Brexit protester Reuters Labour Party conference 2018: in pictures Leader Jeremy Corbyn speaks at a vigil in Liverpool for those who are affected by the war in Yemen PA Labour Party conference 2018: in pictures An anti-Brexit protester AFP/Getty Labour Party conference 2018: in pictures Anti-Brexit supporters demonstrate outside the conference in Liverpool on Sunday AFP/Getty Labour Party conference 2018: in pictures Leader Jeremy Corbyn and Deputy Leader Tom Watson sit together on stage on Sunday Reuters Labour Party conference 2018: in pictures Anti-Brexit supporters demonstrate outside the conference in Liverpool on Sunday Reuters

Well look at options, run the pilots and see if we can roll it out.

It came as a new poll of voting intention for a general election put Labour ahead of all other parties.

ComRes found that 27 per cent of voters would back Labour in a Westminster vote, 20 per cent the Brexit Party, 19 per cent Conservatives, 14 per cent Liberal Democrats, 7 per cent Change UK, 5 per cent Green Party and 3 per cent Ukip.

Labour set up a working group to investigate the feasibility of a basic income in 2017 and a report produced last week put forward concrete proposals for trials.

Basic income would be a weekly or monthly payment to every person lawfully resident in the UK, paid without conditions or means tests, the Progressive Economy Forum (PEF) said.

It could dramatically reduce poverty, insecurity and the use of food banks while saving on the bureaucracy of current social welfare administration.

Small-scale trials have taken place around the world including in Finland, Canada, the US, India and Namibia, each using different methods and delivering different results.

 What is Finland's universal basic income scheme?

Proponents of a universal basic income argue that it would ensure nobody lives in poverty and free the entrepreneurial instincts of the population.

Interest in the policy has increased rapidly in recent times, in response to years of austerity and fears of the impact of increasing automation on global employment.

But some critics fear it would be unaffordable and fail to provide a stronger incentive to work than the current welfare system.

John Kay, former director of the Institute for Fiscal Studies, said: If you do the numbers, either the basic income is unrealistically low, or the tax rate to finance it is unacceptably high. End of story.

Additional reporting by PA
The elections that many thought  or hoped  would never occur are nearly upon us.

Seventy-three British MEPs will be elected to represent the 12 UK electoral regions at the European parliament for what is likely to be an uncertain tenure.

The contest is taking place only because Theresa May was unable to deliver Brexit on time, pushing the UKs potential departure date back to October and forcing the UK to take part in the European elections.
Almost three-quarters of voters think the government has spent too much time on Brexit at the expense of addressing other important issues, a new poll had found.

The BMG survey for The Independent found that 74 per cent of voters thought ministers had forgotten about important domestic issues and focused too much attention on negotiating Britains EU withdrawal.

36 per cent said they strongly agreed with the suggestion, while a further 38 per cent somewhat agreed.

Brexit has dominated the parliamentary agenda in recent months, with new legislation having all but dried up as ministers focus their efforts on trying to secure parliaments support for an exit deal.

On several occasions the House of Commons has risen hours earlier than scheduled because there was nothing for MPs to debate.

Frustration at the lack of focus on other policy areas is much higher among older voters, with 81 per cent of 55- to 64-year-olds and 79 per cent of over-65s saying ministers have been too distracted by Brexit.

That could reflect voters concerns about the growing crisis in areas such as social care. The governments social care plan had been promised before April but has yet to be published. It has now been delayed five times in just over two years.

Anger at the governments focus on Brexit is consistent across supporters of all the main political parties. While 81 per cent of Labour supporters and 82 per cent of Liberal Democrats think ministers have been too pre-occupied by Britains exit from the EU, so too do 70 per cent of Conservative supporters. Even a majority of Ukip supporters (70 per cent) and Brexit Party (62 per cent) supporters agree.

The belief also unites people across the Brexit divide, with 82 per cent of Remain voters and 73 per cent of Leave voters agreeing with the statement: The government has spent too much time focusing on Brexit and has forgotten about important domestic issues.

The finding will likely be seized on by allies of Theresa May as evidence that voters want politicians to get on with delivering Brexit.

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

The prime minister will make a fresh bid to secure a breakthrough this week when cross-party talks with Labour come to a head. The government is also expected to seek new talks with the EU to determine whether compromises discussed during talks with Jeremy Corbyns party be acceptable to leaders in Brussels.

But with senior figures in both parties playing down the prospect of an agreement, the deadlock looks set to continue.

A Downing Street spokesperson said: This government has taken action to ensure we build an economy that works for everyone. This has included investing record amounts in public services, including 2.8bn more for the NHS and 1.3bn more for schools. We have doubled free childcare, frozen fuel duty, cut stamp duty for 95 per cent of first-time buyers and increased the National Living Wage and tax-free Personal Allowance.

We are delivering on issues people care most about. We have introduced world-leading legislation to cut the gender pay gap, launched the governments first ever 25 year environment action plan, the first ever Race Disparity audit and are putting a legal duty of care on internet companies to keep people safe.

Supporters of a second Brexit referendum said the finding highlighted the need to give the public another vote.

Labour MP Stephen Doughty said: Thousands of hours of political energy that could have been spent on challenges like climate change  and billions of pounds of taxpayers money that could have been spent on schools, hospitals and police  are being shamefully wasted by this Brexit chaos.

We cannot keep going round and round and round in circles. We must break the Brexit deadlock by giving the people the final say in a confirmatory vote on any deal, and move on so we can focus on all the other issues that matter.
Two Labour frontbenchers have warned that a cross-party Brexit deal will be "impossible" to get through the Commons without a fresh public vote.

In an escalation of pressure on Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn, shadow Brexit secretary Sir Keir Starmer said up to 150 of the party's MPs could oppose any deal without a Final Say vote attached.

Deputy leader Tom Watson rowed in behind his colleague, saying it would be "difficult" for Labour MPs to support any deal without a confirmatory vote.

He also claimed the party's position was "remain and reform" - a direct contradiction of his shadow cabinet colleague Barry Gardiner, who recently insisted it was "not a party of remain".

Ahead of the continuation of cross-party talks on Monday, Sir Keir said: A significant number of Labour MPs, probably 120 if not 150, would not back a deal if it hasnt got a confirmatory vote.

Cliffs of Dover lit up in Brexit protest Show all 5 1 /5 Cliffs of Dover lit up in Brexit protest Cliffs of Dover lit up in Brexit protest Campaign group Led By Donkeys projected this statement by Nigel Farage on the Cliffs of Dover on the evening of April 4 @ByDonkeys / Twitter Cliffs of Dover lit up in Brexit protest Campaign group Led By Donkeys projected this statement by former Brexit secretary Dominic Raab on the Cliffs of Dover on the evening of April 4 @ByDonkeys / Twitter Cliffs of Dover lit up in Brexit protest Campaign group Led By Donkeys projected this message to the EU on the Cliffs of Dover on the evening of April 4 @ByDonkeys / Twitter Cliffs of Dover lit up in Brexit protest Campaign group Led By Donkeys projected this message on the Cliffs of Dover on the evening of April 4 @ByDonkeys / Twitter Cliffs of Dover lit up in Brexit protest Campaign group Led By Donkeys projected this message on the Cliffs of Dover on the evening of April 4 @ByDonkeys / Twitter

If the point of the exercise is to get a sustainable majority, over several weeks or months of delivering on the implementation, you cant leave a confirmatory vote out of the package," he told The Guardian.

Theresa May has repeatedly ruled out holding a second vote on an agreement but she is facing increasing pressure to break the Brexit deadlock after failing to get her deal through the Commons.

Sir Keir said there was still a "considerable distance" between Labour and the government in the Brexit talks, and any deal had to be "something truly deliverable".

He said: For many of my colleagues, they have made it clear that they will not vote for a deal without a confirmatory vote attached to it.

So if you want that stable majority, that has to be taken into account. And without it, it is impossible to see how the numbers would stack up.

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The Independent has been campaigning for a Final Say vote on any Brexit deal  a position that has been supported by more than a million people.

Mr Watson told the Today programme: "If a deal could be found that inspires enough votes in Westminster then fine, but it seemed to me that that's very, very difficult.

"And so my idea of a confirmatory ballot is not a religious point or a point of ideology, it's just how do you get an outcome, how do you sort this out?

"And one way to do it are these two minority positions - the prime minister's deal and those that think the people should have a say on the deal - plug them together and you build a majority."

Mr Watson also described Labour's position in relation to the European elections as a "remain and reform" party.

It comes after Theresa Mays de facto deputy David Lidington gave fresh hope to second referendum campaigners earlier this week by saying another vote was perfectly practical.

It was very clear they are thinking about it, and they are doing a lot of practical planning in case it happens, Vince Cable, leader of the Liberal Democrats, told The Sun.

The continuing Brexit deadlock means the UK will hold European parliamentary elections on 23 May, Mr Lidington confirmed last week.
Cross-party talks to break the Brexit deadlock are "not getting very far", a senior shadow minister has said, dealing a further blow to hopes of a breakthrough.

Jonathan Ashworth, the shadow health secretary, claimed the government was refusing to agree to Labour's demands for a customs union with the EU and accused Theresa May of being "unprepared to compromise".

The comments contradict claims made by those involved in the negotiations, who have repeatedly said that talks have been "constructive" and made progress.

Government ministers have been meeting with senior Labour figures since the start of April in an attempt to find a cross-party solution to the current impasse.

Mr Ashworth told the BBC's Andrew Marr Show: "What we are trying to do is say we want a Brexit deal on a permanent customs union basis, something that secures rights for workers and environmental protections and a single market relationship.

Recommended Labour MPs urge Corbyn to walk away from Brexit talks

"That is what we have been negotiating with the government - we're not getting far, by the way, but that is the basis of our negotiations."

He added: "We've always said that we accept the result of the referendum, we've put forward our alternatives and we're trying to negotiate that with the government. As I say, it's not getting very far but we're still engaging in those negotiations in good faith."

Asked whether Labour was trying to help deliver Brexit, he said: "We're in negotiations with the prime minister. They're not getting very far but we're trying our best."

The shadow health secretary said Labour had raised the issue of another referendum during the talks but said: "The prime minister isn't prepared to compromise. We have been prepared to compromise and that's been demonstrated by the way we've voted [for second referendum] on three different occasions in the House of Commons."

He urged people to vote Labour in European Parliament elections later this month, saying they were a "two-horse race" between his party and Nigel Farage's Brexit Party in areas where the anti-EU party is performing well.

Current polls suggest that the Brexit Party is on course to win the elections by some way, with Labour in second place.

Mr Ashworth said: "Be in no doubt, if you want to stop Nigel Farage in these elections vote Labour.

"The Lib Dems and Change UK cannot stop the Brexit Party getting MEPs in regions - it's a two-horse race now between Labour and the Brexit Party."

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

Hopes of the cross-party Brexit talks reaching a positive outcome have faded in recent days after senior figures in both Labour and the Conservatives suggested they were unlikely to succeed.

On Friday, several Labour MPs called on Jeremy Corbyn to pull out of the discussions.

A day later, senior Tory Sir Graham Brady predicted that the talks would "peter out in the next few days without having come to any significant conclusion".

The chair of the 1922 Committee, which represents backbench Conservative MPs, told the BBC's The Week in Westminster that he found it "very hard to see" how the talks "can lead to any sensible resolution".

And former defence secretary Gavin Williamson, who was sacked by Ms May earlier this month after being accused of leaking details of a National Security Council meeting, told the Mail on Sunday that the negotiations with Labour were "politically naive". Mr Williamson, who denies being behind the leak, suggested the prime minister was making "a grave mistake" in trying to strike a deal with Mr Corbyn.

The talks are expected to come to a head on Monday when the conclusions of the working groups set up by the two parties will be brought together.

 Labour 'doesn't exist to stop Brexit' says Corbyn ally Richard Burgon after European manifesto launch

The government also plans to speak to the EU this week to discuss whether the bloc would accept potential changes to the proposed future EU-UK relationship that have been discussed with Labour.
Nigel Farage has launched a furious rant at Andrew Marr during a heated appearance on live television, accusing the BBC presenter of conducting the most ridiculous interview ever.

The Brexit Party leader reacted with fury after being asked whether he still agreed with a series of controversial statements he had made in the past.

Pushed on his previous comments about Vladimir Putin, gun control and immigrants with HIV, Mr Farage initially tried to defend the claims but quickly lost his temper at the line of questioning and demanded he instead be asked about this months European parliament elections.

He told Marr during an appearance on the BBCs Andrew Marr Show: Do you want to discuss these European elections or not? Go on then  lets try.

As the presenter continued with his questioning, Mr Farage added: Here we are with one of the biggest changes in politics thats ever occurred and youre not even interested. What is wrong with the BBC?

Ive been going round the country speaking at packed rallies every night and do you know whos not there? The BBC, and from this line of questioning now I can see why.

Youre just not interested, are you? You are just not interested. Lets talk about democracy, lets talk about trust, lets talk about competence in politics. This is ludicrous.

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

He continued: This is absolutely ludicrous. Ive never in my life seen a more ridiculous interview than this. You are not prepared to talk about what is going on in this country today. Youre in denial, the BBC is in denial, the Tory and Labour parties are in denial.

Referring to European elections later this month, which polls suggest his party is on course to win, Mr Farage added: I think youre all in for a bigger surprise on Thursday week than you can even imagine.

The former Ukip leader was asked about a series of previous clams, including that he wanted to abolish the NHS, admired Vladimir Putins leadership style and believed that worrying about global warming was the stupidest thing in human history.

Marr also pressed him on suggestions that he wanted to roll back gun controls in the UK, was uncomfortable with foreign languages being spoken on trains and thought that immigrants with HIV should not be allowed into the UK.

After Mr Farage had defended his previous comments, he turned his guns on the presenter, saying: What is the relevance of this? What is the relevance of any of it? You havent asked about a single other member of the Brexit Party, you havent commented on the fact weve got the most diverse list of candidates of any party fighting in this election.

Thats worth discussing isnt it? How have we managed to get left and right together? These things are really interesting to your viewers  not trawling back through a series of quotes from years ago.

He could be seen shaking his head angrily as the interview finished.

 Lincoln man asks Nigel Farage if he's been to prison during Brexit Party walkabout

Mr Farage launched the Brexit Party last month after quitting Ukip in protest at its direction under current leader Gerard Batten.

He told Marr that his new party would never publish a manifesto, saying it was a discredited word.

He said: I will never, ever use the word manifesto again. Manifesto to me has a word association with lie, because thats what weve had at election after election. Policy platforms [but] no manifestos from the Brexit Party  its a bad, discredited word.

He also defended a controversial poster used by Ukip in 2016 that showed a queue of immigrants under the caption breaking point  but admitted that his current party would not have released it.

He said: Were in different circumstances... As years go by, decades evolve, different issues come to the fore. Throughout that period of time, there is no question that the number one issue in British politics was immigration  peoples concerns about open borders and the impact on wages and access to public health care.

The number one issue in British politics now is democracy  the failure of our political parties to keep their promises. That is what the country is debating.

Asked whether the Brexit Party would have released the poster, he said it would not because it isnt the burning issue of the time but insisted he did not regret doing so because it was the truth and had transformed European politics.
This year marks the sixth anniversary of the Black Mamba Anti-Poaching Unit, South Africas predominantly female team of anti-poachers. Established in 2013, the 36 women patrol the Balule Nature Reserve, a 100,000-acre private wildlife reserve in northern South Africa, on the western boundary of Kruger National Park.

The women, some of whom are as young as 18, are there to protect the countrys lions, pangolin, elephants and rhinos, whose horns are thought to have medicinal properties and can be sold for hundreds of thousands of dollars on the black market.

The Mambas track about 78 miles of the parks border for eight hours a day, looking for snares or traps, inspecting the border fence and searching cars for weapons or contraband. But while they may look like soldiers in their camouflage uniforms, the Mambas are unarmed.

In addition to the pride of working in a traditionally male environment, being a Mamba gives the women the opportunity to show their children  especially their female children  that women can hold meaningful work outside of the home. Their beginning salary is about 3,500 South African rand, or about 190, monthly, with the chance to earn more the higher they go.

Pandoro Safari Game Lodge and Roar Africa both offer tours of the nature reserve with the Mambas.

A short timeline of elephant poaching Show all 10 1 /10 A short timeline of elephant poaching A short timeline of elephant poaching 1880s.jpg Robert H. Milligan, New York Public Library A short timeline of elephant poaching 1910.jpg Creative commons A short timeline of elephant poaching 1979.jpg Surreal Name Given, Flickr A short timeline of elephant poaching 1980s.jpg Scotch Macaskill A short timeline of elephant poaching actual elephant forensic.jpg Space for Giants A short timeline of elephant poaching 1990s.jpg Space for Giants A short timeline of elephant poaching 1999.jpg Vidhi Doshi A short timeline of elephant poaching Ivory elephants.jpeg Space for Giants A short timeline of elephant poaching elephantfence.jpg Space for Giants A short timeline of elephant poaching Elephant dust (1)_1.jpeg Space for Giants

These women are part of the changing face of the male-dominated safari industry, and without them, our wild spaces and wildlife would perish, says Deborah Calmeyer, Roar Africas founder and chief executive.

Collet Ngobeni has been a Black Mamba since 2013. Now 34, Ngobeni lives in Bushbuckridge, a small community nearly two hours away from the reserve, with her husband and two young children.

When I grew up, I only knew that wild animals are for white people! They didnt belong to black people. But thats not true. Wild animals belong to all of us because its nature

Q: As a young girl, did you ever imagine you would one day be patrolling a park, saving animals from poachers?

Ngobeni: When I grew up, I only knew that wild animals are for white people! They didnt belong to black people. But thats not true. Wild animals belong to all of us because its nature.

Q: What kind of work did you think youd be doing?

A: I only knew that if you go to university, you need to be a teacher or doctor. We changed that mindset. They can be a photographer. They can be anything that they like as long as they love it. We go to the school here, called Bush Babies, to educate these kids on nature. When they see us in schools, because of our uniforms, they call us soldiers and they get excited to see us. They pay attention to us. We tell them that they must tell their parents that its not good to kill wild animals. We have people who have a lot of money  they check for the boys that are poor, then recruit them to be poachers.

Q: What did you do before becoming a Mamba?

A: I was at home. I was not working. Now and then I heard news on the radio speaking about poachers and rhinos. I was not aware of anti-poaching; I wanted to be a guide or a tracker. So when I heard they want women to do the anti-poaching, I was very happy to be the one who applied. I wanted to give a change to my community.

Q: How did your family react to the news that you would be out in the bush without any weapons?

A: My husband was very positive about this. He said, You are going to make a change in our communities and in our kids and in our future generations.

The group tries to educate locals about the importance of nature (AFP/Getty) (AFP/Getty Images)

My mother was scared. She said, These people are going to kill you! I explained that its not only for me but for future generations. They need to see wildlife in real life, not in postcards.

She is not scared anymore because she realised how great a job we are doing. My life is not in danger. These poachers are not in the reserve for the human beings, they are there for the animals. If they see us, they dont come after us. They just run away.

I know how to interact in the bush. So, I dont feel in danger when Im in the bush. I dont go alone. We work in a group.

The Black Mambas stay in the reserve for 21 days at a time (Getty)

Q: What was your scariest moment?

A: In 2014, I was with two of my colleagues patrolling the fence. There was a car parked next to the fence. They were outside the reserve and we were inside. If we see cars, we greet them with smiles, but these people did not want to speak to us. They were poachers. I was scared. But we were not going to leave them there. We needed to show them that we are here with pride and we know what we are doing. They saw us try to take their number plate. We managed to scare them. They drove away.

Q: But that raises a good question. How do you stay safe?

Our first round of training was very hard: they taught us how to survive in the bush without bathing  for seven weeks!

A: We have smartphones with an app that lets everyone know where we are. When we go out to patrol, we tell the others where were going. If we see rhinos, we take pictures and send to the office so they know where to send people to patrol at night.

Q: What was your training like?

A: The first one was very hard: they were training us how to survive in the bush without bathing  for seven weeks! That was very hard because we would wake up early in the morning, and run or walk along the fences. We made our houses with branches. They showed us how to interact when we see the Big Five (elephant, lion, leopard, rhinoceros and Cape buffalo). The second training was two weeks. I stay in the reserve now for 21 days and go home for 10 days. People donated houses to us in the bush. We call them compounds. We share with two or three people.

The team prepares for a night patrol (AFP/Getty) (AFP/Getty Images)

Q: What do people say when they run into a group of women patrolling the park?

A: At first they thought it was a mans job what we are doing. They were not giving us the respect they were supposed to give us. Now they see that this woman can do the job they are doing. When they see us, they love us! Especially when we are at the gate doing road checks. Because in their lodges they tell them what we do in the reserve. We go there to educate those people that they dont have to poach animals or take firewood with them because its illegal.

 New York Times
Jose was seven years old when they put him on the raft.

The smugglers were sending him across the Rio Grande to reunite with his mother, who had left him back in Honduras two years earlier and moved to Texas.

He boarded the raft with his sole possession: a piece of laminated paper bearing her phone number and address.

His mother had borrowed $3,500 (2,700) from a cousin and a friend to pay the coyotes.

Her brother handed Jose over to the men, who tried to scare the boy into staying quiet as the raft pushed off from the Mexican shore.

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

They were telling me that they were going to report me to my country, Jose said. But I didnt believe him.

What the boy didnt know was that reaching his mother would be much harder than finding a Border Patrol agent, spending a few days in custody and then looking for his mothers house, as he had been told to do.

He found the Border Patrol, all right, but instead of being handed over to his mother, Jose was sent to a foster care facility in New York, where he was held for nearly eight months as his mother tried to win permission for his release. She didnt succeed until April.

Jose was what the federal government calls an unaccompanied minor  an abstract clinical description for a dangerously specific human drama that has been playing out in ever-larger numbers along the southwest border.

Although the Trump administration has officially ended its policy of taking children away from their parents if families are caught crossing the border illegally, young children like Jose continue to be held in US immigration detention facilities, sometimes for months at a time, because of regulations requiring complicated screening procedures that officials say are intended to ensure the childrens safety.

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Much of the time, young people take the dangerous journey from Honduras, Guatemala and El Salvador on their own or with a smuggler to rejoin parents in the United States.

In many cases, their parents came to the United States illegally, settled somewhere and then, possibly years later, sent for the children they left behind.

It is a phenomenon that has been going on for decades, but as the number of Central American migrants arriving at the border continues to grow, there has also been a sharp increase in young people travelling alone.

While there were 38,189 apprehensions on the south-western border of Central American children travelling alone in the 2018 fiscal year, there have been 37,669 in the current fiscal year as of April.

Joses mother, Patricia, 23, did not want to disclose her or her sons last name, because of fears of reprisals from the government because of their immigration status.

Patricia is in the country illegally, and an immigration court judge has ordered her to be deported.

Their story began in 2016, when Patricia left Honduras, leaving her son, whose father had died before he was born, with relatives.

She settled in Bryan, Texas, started a new life as a house painter and gave birth to another child, a daughter, now 2.

 Trump compares US-Mexico border to Disneyland and calls end to family separations a disaster

Finally, she said, she told relatives she was ready for them to send Jose to her.

She had assumed he would spend some time in Border Patrol custody, she said, but had no idea he would be sent to a foster care program in New York while the government decided whom he should be released to.

Weeks went by.

Then months. Finally, the paperwork settled, Jose was put on a plane bound for Houston on 11 April and joined his mother.

Nearly eight months had elapsed since he left Honduras.

To discourage the large migration flows, the Trump administration has repeatedly called attention to the dangers that parents are subjecting their children to on the journey from Central America.

Children have been abandoned by coyotes, like the 3-year-old boy that Border Patrol agents discovered alone and crying in April in a cornfield; they have survived near-drownings, sexual and physical abuse, and gruelling hikes.

The uncertainty and hardships often continue once the children are in government hands, say many of those who work with newly arrived migrants, even though the government no longer has a policy of separating families.

In the case of Joses family, Patricia said she had difficulty communicating with her son after he arrived in the United States, or even finding out what was happening to him.

I would send messages, and sometimes I wouldnt get a response, and sometimes I would, she said. I had never seen an extreme case that would take this long.

After he was apprehended at the Texas border, Jose was placed with the Cayuga Centres, a New York non-profit group that runs a foster-care program that receives federal money to assist migrant children.

He remained in Cayugas custody from early September until he was released in April.

The federal Office of Refugee Resettlement oversees the care and housing of unaccompanied minors, whom the government calls unaccompanied alien children, or UACs.

 Baby girl returned to Honduran mother after separated and detained at US-Mexico border

A spokeswoman declined to comment about Jose, noting in a statement that to protect the privacy and security of children in the country illegally, their locations are kept confidential and we do not identify or discuss specific UAC cases.

The average length of care in the federal unaccompanied minor program is 66 days, or about two months.

Joses case was an unusually complex one involving an investigation of a possible child-safety issue, according to some of those working on the case.

Patricia said she knew of no circumstance that would have justified keeping her son away from her for so long.

Jose has had a rough transition after spending two years apart from his mother in Honduras, then enduring the crossing, the months in custody and his enrolment in first grade at a new school in a new city.

He has acted out, his mother said, as he tries to find his footing.

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Another mother in the country illegally who lives in Bryan knows how hard that transition can be.

Jesus, an acquaintance of Patricias, came to the United States several years ago after leaving her own son behind in El Salvador, then sent for him.

The boy, Ernesto, was 12 years old when he made the crossing with an older teenage cousin a few years ago.

Now 15 and a sophomore at a Bryan high school, Ernesto, whose family also asked that their last names not be used, said many students at his school had made the frightening river crossing over the Rio Grande to join their parents in the United States.

It is a bond among them that often goes unspoken. I dont really talk about it, he said.

Ernesto said he struggled to learn English and to become a son again  he had been only 4 when his mother left El Salvador. I didnt have the money to bring him with me, Jesus said.

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Both Patricia and Jesus defended their decisions to make new lives in the United States before sending for their children.

The escalating gang violence in El Salvador convinced Jesus to pay a smuggler to bring Ernesto, she said.

He was more in danger there than anything, so thats why I decided for him to come, she said. Its a risk you have to take, for good or for bad. You cant explain it, from the time you leave them to the time you see them, theres just so much. Theres so many emotions, you cant explain it.

Patricia, too, said she knew the risks of the journey, but she felt more at ease because her brother would be with Jose most of the way.

Still, she said, she had trouble sleeping as Jose and her brother travelled to the border. I thank God that he crossed safely, she said, because Ive seen lots of news stories where a lot of my people have suffered tragedies and have died.

The New York Times
A judge in Tennessee is facing repercussions after posting racist memes and articles to Facebook, including an article posted on April 5 that called Muslims "foreign mud" and said Jews should "get the f--- over the Holocaust.

Commercial Appeal reports that several organisations in Memphis, Tennessee are calling for state authorities to censure Criminal Court Judge Jim Lammey following the discovery of his racist Facebook activity.

Organisations calling for censure include the NAACP Memphis Branch, Memphis Islamic Center, Jewish Community Partners, American Muslim Advisory Council, the Anti-Defamation League Southeast Region, Bridges, Facing History and Ourselves, Jewish Federation and Jewish Foundation of Nashville & Middle Tennessee, Memphis Islamic Center, MIFA, the National Civil Rights Museum, and Tennessee Holocaust Commission, according to a press release.

Judge Lammey, who has made his Facebook page private since the local discovery, was first elected in 2006 and re-elected for an eight-year term in 2015.

In an interview with the Commercial Appeal, he claimed that his posts would not hinder his ability to judge fairly, and said that he certainly doesnt agree with being Holocaust denier.

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My best friend  whos deceased now  was Jewish and I wouldnt do that, he said.

Local Memphis organisation Just City has argued that Judge Lammey has a history of treating immigrants differently in court, including requiring some seeking probation to report themselves to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, or ICE. This practice is unusual, and could leader to a persons deportation.

In a letter sent to city officials by the coalition of organisations alarmed by his posting, the coalition called the April 5 post one example of his habit of sharing articles, conspiracy theories, and jokes online that carry a dark message of hatred.

"The content he spreads often targets Muslim and Latin American immigrants, the letter continues, which is troubling because of Judge Lammeys elected position overseeing criminal trials as a representative of the State of Tennessee.

They have called for the Administrative Office of the Courts and the Board of Judicial Conduct to publicly censure Judge Lammey and to explore bringing the anti-bias and Holocaust education resources of our respective organisations to the judges, clerks, and staff of our state judicial system."
A December fundraising campaign brought in more than $22m (16.9m) over the course of a few weeks, its thousands of donors united by a common goal: the construction of a wall along the US-Mexico border, often promised by Donald Trump.

Some four months later, a contingent of those supporters is ready to see what their money has built.

The border wall GoFundMe page was conceived by Brian Kolfage, who wrote at the time he was upset by too many illegals ... taking advantage of the United States taxpayers and the political games from both parties when it came to border security.

The veteran, a triple amputee, pressed on despite falling short of his $1bn goal  launching a nonprofit to build portions of the wall on private land for a fraction of what it costs the government.

While the majority of donors continue to believe in Mr Kolfages efforts, the nonprofits clandestine operations and assurances of progress are insufficient for others.

Trump prototypes for Mexico border wall demolished in California Show all 20 1 /20 Trump prototypes for Mexico border wall demolished in California Trump prototypes for Mexico border wall demolished in California The prototypes for President Trumps border wall are being demolished. AP Trump prototypes for Mexico border wall demolished in California The US Customs and Border protection had built the eight 30-foot tall steel and concrete models near San Diego on the US-Mexico border. Reuters Trump prototypes for Mexico border wall demolished in California A 2018 report from the Government Accountability Office found that the construction challenges presented by the four concrete models would be extensive and those presented by two of the other models would be substantial. Reuters Trump prototypes for Mexico border wall demolished in California It was intended that Mr Trump would choose his favourite of the designs after testing had been completed. AFP/Getty Trump prototypes for Mexico border wall demolished in California The President is yet to comment. AFP/Getty Trump prototypes for Mexico border wall demolished in California Each prototype cost $300,000 to $500,000 to build and they are being knocked down in order to make way for the San Diego Secondary Wall project which will see up to 14 miles of barrier being built to support the existing steel border fence. AP Trump prototypes for Mexico border wall demolished in California The new barrier will not employ the design of any of the prototypes, instead being built of the favoured steel bollards which make up the current section of the wall at San Diego. Reuters Trump prototypes for Mexico border wall demolished in California The new secondary barrier being built near San Diego. Reuters Trump prototypes for Mexico border wall demolished in California The rubble of one of the demolished prototypes. Reuters Trump prototypes for Mexico border wall demolished in California A steel wall prototype AFP/Getty Trump prototypes for Mexico border wall demolished in California A wall prototype made from a mix of steel and concrete AFP/Getty Trump prototypes for Mexico border wall demolished in California A wall prototype made from a mix of steel and concrete AFP/Getty Trump prototypes for Mexico border wall demolished in California A concrete wall prototype AFP/Getty Trump prototypes for Mexico border wall demolished in California A steel wall prototype AFP/Getty Trump prototypes for Mexico border wall demolished in California A concrete wall prototype AFP/Getty Trump prototypes for Mexico border wall demolished in California A concrete wall prototype AFP/Getty Trump prototypes for Mexico border wall demolished in California A concrete wall prototype AFP/Getty Trump prototypes for Mexico border wall demolished in California A digger approaches the prototype wall AFP/Getty Trump prototypes for Mexico border wall demolished in California Aerial view of the wall prototypes at the US-Mexico border after they were torn down AFP/Getty Trump prototypes for Mexico border wall demolished in California An aerial view showing Tijuana, Mexico on the left and the demolished wall prototypes on the right AFP/Getty

Some have taken to social media, seeking photos, videos  anything  for evidence they are not being misled.

I am very disappointed in you Brian Kolfage, where are the progress photographs? one woman posted to the We Build The Wall Facebook page.

Quit talking about it and do it, another commented.

Ive been away for FIVE months, one person tweeted in April. Whens the groundbreaking?

A story reporting on the apparent lack of progress on the private wall, published on Friday by the Daily Beast, drew criticism from Mr Kolfage.

The veteran called out the storys author, Will Sommer, who indicated he repeatedly asked Mr Kolfage for proof that work on the wall was beginning to start.

Omg this is PERFECT timing by the liberal rag news site. They are about to look more stupid than @hillaryclinton on election night 2016! Mr Kolfage wrote. I guaranteed we would build the wall ... and Ill leave it at that!

Mr Kolfage did not respond to requests for comment.

While the nonprofit has floated various dates for work to begin in the past, it is not exactly clear when, or if, construction will begin.

We should be turning dirt on this thing by 1 May, 1 June at the latest, according to our experts, Mr Kolfage told Politico in February.

In a 21 March interview with American Family Radio, however, the veteran asserted the project was going to start breaking ground in April.

In the interview, Mr Kolfage said his nonprofit had identified eight locations to build along the border, but failed to name them, stating that his efforts could be thwarted by liberals if they were revealed.

I wish I could name where its at, but we cant name it because of the ACLU [American Civil Liberties Union], these other liberal groups who want to sue us and impede our progress, he said.

But its actually happening, the process is happening ... the project is moving forward.

 An artist has recreated Trump's mexico border wall - with cheese

He continued: But as soon as we start breaking ground, well be putting that information out there to show the American people what theyre doing.

Mr Kolfage has previously indicated that We Build The Wall Inc is seeking to develop segments of the wall on private property, which he told The Washington Post in January would cost $2m to $3m per mile.

His GoFundMe page says he has visited the border to scope out potential sites and negotiate with private land owners.

Mr Kolfage has also enlisted the help of several high-profile politicians, among them former White House chief strategist Steve Bannon and Kris Kobach, the former secretary of state for Kansas.

Back in January, Mr Kobach told The New York Times the nonprofit would hopefully be breaking ground within weeks.

Some critics noted Mr Kolfage was accused of shady behaviour in the past, including allegations of misusing funds he raised.

NBC and BuzzFeed investigations earlier this year alleged that Mr Kolfage peddled false articles and conspiracy theories with the intent of harvesting reader email addresses.

The purported scheme would draw people back to his websites and Facebook pages, generating hundreds of thousands in advertising revenue, BuzzFeed reported.

Facebook removed several of the pages he operated last year, according to NBC.

In response, Mr Kolfage created a new campaign, Fight4FreeSpeech, which also accepts donations.

BuzzFeed looked into Mr Kolfages previous crowdfunding efforts, which included an initiative to mentor wounded veterans at military hospitals  among them Walter Reed National Military Medical Centre in Bethesda, and Brooke Army Medical Centre in San Antonio.

 New Mexico's governor literally runs through walls in response to Trump's border wall

He raised thousands for the project, according to BuzzFeed, but spokespeople for the medical facilities told the outlet they have no record of him working at the hospitals or donating money.

Asked about the story in January, Mr Kolfage said that BuzzFeed 100 per cent lied and had fabricated the investigation to slander him.

He said the money was raised to cover his travel expenses, and that he only used them for that purpose.

On Friday, many supporters of Mr Kolfage called the Daily Beast story fake news intended to stymie donations.

We Build The Wall occasionally replied in agreement, reassuring commenters the wall was on its way.

This is what we call FAKE NEWS, it wrote in a post. We didnt stop anything and we are full steam ahead. The wall is being built.

As of Friday night, the group said it will be breaking ground shortly.

In a separate comment, one woman indicated she had heard enough.

Saying it doesnt get it done, she wrote. Do it.

 The Washington Post
They are fixtures at the anti-government protests every Thursday night in the Austrian capital, older women wearing hand-knit hats in purples, reds and blues. They like to march between the shouting students and the masked anti-fascists, waving to onlookers and hoping to catch someones eye long enough to exchange a smile.

Its the Grannies, shouted a voice from a third-storey window as the demonstration wound its way through Viennas fifth district last month. Look! The Grannies!

They are the Grannies Against the Right, dozens of women from a generation that watched their mothers suffer the fallout of the Second World War and helped create democracy in Austria.

Refugees march from Hungary to Austria Show all 10 1 /10 Refugees march from Hungary to Austria Refugees march from Hungary to Austria Refugees march from Hungary to Austria Migrants walk in a long line along the highway near Budapest, Hungary, Friday, Sept. 4, 2015 AP Refugees march from Hungary to Austria Refugees march from Hungary to Austria Migrants walk on the railway tracks between Bicske and Szar, some 40 km west of Budapest, Hungary, 04 September 2015 EPA Refugees march from Hungary to Austria Refugees march from Hungary to Austria The destination for most of those walking is reportedly Austria AP Refugees march from Hungary to Austria Refugees march from Hungary to Austria Most refugees have come to Hungary through the southern border with Serbia AP Refugees march from Hungary to Austria Refugees march from Hungary to Austria People walk in a long line along the highway near Budapest, Hungary AP Refugees march from Hungary to Austria Refugees march from Hungary to Austria Over 150,000 people seeking to enter Europe have reached Hungary this year AP Refugees march from Hungary to Austria Refugees march from Hungary to Austria Refugees walk along Budaorsi Street on their way out of Budapest EPA Refugees march from Hungary to Austria Refugees march from Hungary to Austria Refugees hold up an EU flag as they on the highway out of Budpest AP Refugees march from Hungary to Austria Refugees march from Hungary to Austria Refugees exit Budapest AP Refugees march from Hungary to Austria Refugees march from Hungary to Austria Hundreds of migrants walk after leaving the transit zone of the Budapest main train station AFP

Now, freed from the burdens of raising their families and working to support them, they are galvanising protests against Austrias shift to the right under the conservative-nationalist government of chancellor Sebastian Kurz.

They are even aiming to form an international resistance against the right wing and extremists across Europe and beyond, the Grannies declared at an annual meeting last month.

We are angry about their policies, says Monika Salzer, 71 and a grandmother of three. She founded the group on Facebook in November 2017 amid concern over the return of a far-right party to government. Last year, she registered the Grannies as an official organisation in Austria and it now counts 300 members, with branches across Austria and Germany and thousands of followers over social media.

The Grannies list of grievances is long: cuts to womens programmes; discrimination against women, who receive no pension compensation for time taken off to raise children; the demonisation of refugees and minorities in general; and an overall lack of empathy in the political discourse.

They want to destroy everything we have built up over the past 50 years, Salzer says of Kurzs coalition of conservatives and the far-right Freedom Party, which is part of the government for the second time in 20 years.

The last time the Freedom Party joined the government, in 2000, howls of protest went up across Europe and tens of thousands of Austrians took to the streets. The reaction after Kurzs government was sworn in during December 2017 was more muted.

The regular Thursday demonstrations began only in October, by which time the Grannies were organised. The Grannies havent missed a march since, but with the political opposition weakened for the moment, the protests have had limited influence, says Martin Dolezal, a political scientist at the University of Salzburg.

The women have a list of grievances they want the government to answer to (AFP/Getty Images)

The Grannies have received a lot of attention because of their age  they stand out in the largely younger crowd and they are well connected, Dolezal says. But I wouldnt overemphasise their influence.

Still, precisely because of their age, their presence serves as a reminder of past horrors born of intolerance and of the democratic gains that the Grannies want to preserve.

Although their numbers fluctuate from demonstration to demonstration, depending largely on whether they are needed to help care for their grandchildren, the Grannies have become a recognised political force.

We dont want a seat in parliament, we dont want to become chancellor. We want the social, democratic principles of our country that we were raised in to exist for our children and grandchildren Susanne Scholl, 69, member of Grannies Against the Right

For Irene Haider, who joined with the group for a demonstration on International Womens Day in March, the Grannies age made them not just unusual, but also important.

Its great that older women are making their political voice heard, says Haider, 48. Without having to be asked, she took one of a dozen white signs stashed in a shopping cart brought to each demonstration.

That spirit of openness defines the group, which despite its name, welcomes anyone, regardless of gender or age, who supports its opposition to discrimination and far-right ideology. Nonpartisanship is important.

We dont want a seat in parliament, we dont want to become chancellor, says Susanne Scholl, 69, a former correspondent with the national broadcaster ORF who is expecting her first grandchild this year. We want the social, democratic principles of our country that we were raised in to exist for our children and grandchildren.

At its general meeting last month, the group established a European-wide branch, with an eye towards elections for the European parliament in May, and changed its name into English for broader appeal.

The Grannies also addressed one of the problems that has shadowed them since the beginning: a misunderstanding among some members about their mission.

We had to make clear we are not a handicraft or knitting club, Scholl says. This, despite adopting the suggestion that the Grannies take over the cat-eared pussy hat beanies that had become the signature fashion item of the 2017 womens marches in the United States. But not just in pink.

Banners and stickers all read the same message and send the government a clear warning (AFP/Getty Images)

We decided that we needed brighter colours, Salzer says, laughing. At our age, we are beyond pink.

Heinz-Christian Strache, the Freedom Party leader and Kurzs deputy, gave the group an inadvertent lift at a political rally this year in the town of Ried. Wearing lederhosen and gripping a mug of beer, he extolled the governments success in making the country less attractive to asylum-seekers and unravelling some of the benefits that flourished under centre-left governments.

He also took a swipe at the demonstrators.

On Thursday again well see these so-called Thursday demos, along with the Grannies, the Grannies Against the Right, he told the crowd. They can march around the ring as long as they want, until they are so dizzy  dizzier then they already are  that they fall down.

Salzer and Scholl were delighted. Everyone is talking about us, Salzer says. Even the vice chancellor.

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At a march down one of Viennas main shopping streets on International Womens Day, about 15 of the Grannies take their place in the centre of the demonstrators. They wave to two women watching from the sidewalk, then pull a couple of Grannies Against the Right signs from the shopping cart and ask them to join.

Laughing, Ebru Uzun, 26, and Sabine Schwaighofer, 49, accept and join the group for the march.

It sends an important signal to the conservatives, says Uzun, 26. Everyone has a granny, they play a role in connecting a family, they are there for everyone.

Schwaighofer nods in agreement, saying, Grannies are unifiers and even though society wants to see them as apolitical, they are succeeding in making themselves into a political force.

 New York Times
An Afghan journalist and political advisor, who was vocal about womens rights in the country, has been gunned down in broad daylight, just days after saying she believed her life was in danger.

Mena Mangal was shot dead on Saturday morning in a public place while she was on her way to work in the capital city of Kabul.

Nasrat Rahimi, a spokesman for the interior ministry, said one or possibly more assailants had escaped the scene but no one has immediately claimed responsibility for the attack and police say it is not yet clear whether the murder was a terror attack or an attack from someone Ms Mangal knew.

Womens rights activists have expressed grief and anger that Ms Mangal was not better protected by authorities despite making her fears clear.

This woman had already shared that her life was in danger. Why did nothing happen? We need answers, Wazhma Frogh, an Afghan human rights lawyer and womens rights campaigner said in a post on Twitter. Frogh said Ms Mangal had recently posted on Facebook that she feared for her life and was receiving threats.

Mother of late Afghan female journalist and political adviser Mena Mangal grieves on her grave (EPA)

Why is it so easy in this society [for men] to keep killing women they disagree with?

Officials have said a special police force will now investigate.

Ms Mangal was a highly regarded former journalist who had worked at Tolo TV, the largest private broadcaster in Afghanistan, as well as Shamshad and Lemar television stations. She had also recently become a cultural adviser to the lower chamber of Afghanistans national parliament.

On top of her career as a journalist, Ms Mangal was a passionate advocate of womens rights, speaking out for womens right to an education and to work.

Cant stop my tears at the loss of this beautiful soul. She had a loud voice and actively raising voice for her people, Frogh said.

Reporters without Borders has previously said 2018 was the deadliest year for journalists since the fall of the Taliban regime in 2001, when 15 journalists and media workers were killed.

Amnesty International has ranked Afghanistan as the worst place in the world to be a woman. Women can be attacked because they go to school or to work. The country also has high levels of rape and domestic violence, as well as physical and sexual abuse by state forces, forced and child marriage and honour killings.

Afghanistan has seen a number of assassinations of women in public positions over the past two decades of war, including policewomen, politicians, educators, students and journalists.

Some have been so-called honour killings carried out by relatives or community members. Other women have been murdered by insurgents who object to women having a role in public life or speaking about womens rights. The Taliban, which regularly carries out attacks in Kabul, is notorious for human rights abuses, including against women.

In 2012 Malala Yousafzai was famously shot in the head, aged just 15, by the Taliban in Pakistan because she spoke out about girls right to be educated.
The withdrawal announced by Houthi rebels from a key strategic port in Yemen has been disputed by government officials who suggest it could be a ploy.

Rebels forces said on Friday they were beginning a unilateral pullout from the key port of Hodeidah, a move observers hoped could save a fractured peace deal and bring an end to a civil war that has raged for four years.

If the conflict ends this year, the UN estimates that more than 100,000 will have died in the fighting and 131,000 will have lost their lives indirectly though lack of food, health services and infrastructure.

News agency AFP reported the United Nations had confirmed the withdrawal, while video footage obtained by the BBC showed Houthi forces setting off in trucks.

Reports also said Houthi troops had been seen leaving Saleef, another key port, and said these movements were also observed by the UN.

However Moammar al-Eryani, information minister for Yemens government, warned rebels might try to mislead the world, and suggested they may just be reshuffling personnel.

Children suffering from acute malnutrition in Yemen Show all 17 1 /17 Children suffering from acute malnutrition in Yemen Children suffering from acute malnutrition in Yemen Doctors take some blood of Yemeni Yousef Abdullah Bakhit Ali, 13, suffering from severe acute malnutrition. With ongoing and unending conflict in Yemen, humanitarian situation continues to deteriorate across the country Unicef/Huwais Children suffering from acute malnutrition in Yemen A doctor weighs Yemeni baby Yahya Hamoud Ali Al Huzef, 9 months suffering from malnutrition Unicef/Huwais Children suffering from acute malnutrition in Yemen Ali Mohammed Ahmed Jamal,12 years old and suffering from severe acute malnutrition. He arrives with his family at a Unicef supported treatment centre in a hospital in Sanaa Unicef/Huwais Children suffering from acute malnutrition in Yemen A doctor measures the arm of Yemeni Ali Mohammed Ahmed Jamal, 12, who is suffering from malnutrition at a treatment centre in a hospital in Sanaa Unicef/Huwais Children suffering from acute malnutrition in Yemen There are over 400,000 severely malnourished children in need urgent lifesaving assistance in Yemen Unicef/Abdulhaleem Children suffering from acute malnutrition in Yemen Ali Mohammed Ahmed Jamal is weighed Unicef/Huwais Children suffering from acute malnutrition in Yemen A doctor measures the arm of baby Yahya Hamoud Ali Al Huzef Unicef/Huwais Children suffering from acute malnutrition in Yemen Unicef are currently working to reach 275,000 malnourished children with critical life-saving supplies and care for over 5 million people with safe and clean water to stop the spread of life-threatening diseases Unicef/Huwais Children suffering from acute malnutrition in Yemen Yahya Hamoud Ali Al Huzef with his family in his house in the outskirts of the capital Sanaa Unicef/Huwais Children suffering from acute malnutrition in Yemen The country is on the brink of famine and children's chances of survival are becoming slimmer by the day Unicef/Abdulhaleem Children suffering from acute malnutrition in Yemen Ali Mohammed Ahmed Jamal has his arm measured Unicef/Huwais Children suffering from acute malnutrition in Yemen Unicef are currently working to provide nearly 1 million children with vaccines and healthcare Unicef/Huwais Children suffering from acute malnutrition in Yemen Unicef/Huwais Children suffering from acute malnutrition in Yemen Unicef are working with partners around-the clock to save children suffering from malnutrition and disease Unicef/Abdulhaleem Children suffering from acute malnutrition in Yemen Unicef are currently working to provide 9 million people with emergency cash assistance to help families buy basic commodities so they can survive Unicef/Huwais Children suffering from acute malnutrition in Yemen Ali Mohammed Ahmed Jamal is suffering from malnutrition Unicef Children suffering from acute malnutrition in Yemen Unicef/Abdulhaleem

We welcome any measures towards the implementation of the Sweden agreement on redeployment in ports in Hodeidah province and warn of attempts by the militia to mislead the international community and the [UN] Security Council before the next meeting, Mr Eryani tweeted.

Over the past year Hodeidah has become the front line of the war between Iran-backed rebels and the Gulf-backed Yemeni government.

 Video shows damaged buildings and homes in Yemen village hit by Saudi-led coalition airstrikes

The fighting has prevented millions of people on the brink of famine from receiving vital resources, as the bulk of food and humanitarian aid to the war-torn country comes through the port.

A deal brokered by the UN in Sweden in December stipulated a retraction of all forces from three key Red Sea ports of Hodeidah, Salif and Ras Isa as the first step to a longer comprehensive peace agreement.

General Michael Lollesgaard, the head of the UN redeployment committee, said if a withdrawal has begun, it should be completed by Tuesday. A UN observer mission led by him will monitor the movement of forces.

The war, sparked by Houthi rebels frustrated by corruption, unemployment, food insecurity and terror attacks under President Abdrabbuh Mansour Hadis leadership, has been named the worst humanitarian crisis in the world.
By Dan Kaburu for People Daily in Kenya

Kenyas Rift Valley, the cradle of mankind, is known for its many lakes. The lakes are tourist attraction sites earning regional counties millions of pounds in revenue. But one such facility, Lake Kamnarok Game Reserve in the Kerio Valley 140 miles northwest of the capital, Nairobi, could soon be extinct if nothing is done to save it.

The lake and reserve was once home to more than 10,000 crocodiles, the second highest population in Africa after Lake Chad, 400 elephants, 13 species of other mammals. Now it is a shadow of its former self.

Rampant human activities such as wanton felling of trees for charcoal burning and farming as well as invasion of water hyacinth are posing a major threat to the reserve. The number of crocodiles has reduced to below 3,000 with the situation getting worse every day.

At the shores of the lake you will be forgiven to think its a farm, because of the water hyacinth and other types of vegetation that have covered it over time. Lake Kamnarok is located at the base of Elgeyo Marakwet escapement.

This reporters mission to catch a glimpse of the rare crocodile species was not easy. It was a whole day walk in vain. The ecosystem also used to hosts 59 birds species but today most of them have migrated to other areas. The park hosts 600 elephants, with more than 20,000 people and more than 500,000 heads of cattle depending on it.

Due to the drying-up of the lake, human-wildlife conflicts have increased. When we visited, a Kenya Wildlife Service ranger was being buried at a nearby village after he was trampled on by an elephant while preventing them from accessing the village.

The death of the lake is occasioned by poor land use, uncontrolled charcoal burning and other human activities in the upper areas of the lake which has led to siltation.

There are fears that the situation could get worse because of the nearby construction of a new road linking Ainamoi Barwesa to Koloa. The loose soil from the construction finds its way to the lake when it rains.

Baringo Governor Stanley Kiptis admits that the lake is on its deathbed and urges stakeholders to partner with the county government to save it. The lake was once a tourist attraction site but today no tourists visit, he said.

The county government has also embarked on reviving the lost glory of the lake with the devolved unit setting aside Sh1 .2 million in a pilot project aimed at removing the invasive water hyacinth from the lake.

This article is reproduced here as part of the Giants Club African Conservation Journalism Fellowships, a programme of the charity Space for Giants and supported by the owner of ESI Media, which includes independent.co.uk. It aims to expand the reach of conservation and environmental journalism in Africa, and bring more African voices into the international conservation debate. Read the original story here
There were just 2,700 homes available to rent nationwide on May 1 (Niall Carson/PA)

There were just 2,700 homes available to rent nationwide on May 1, the lowest total ever recorded.

According to the latest quarterly Rental Report by Daft.ie, listed rents rose in all 54 markets covered in the report.

The average monthly rent in Ireland is now 1,366 euro, up 8.3% year-on-year.

The average listed rent is now 337 euro higher per month than the previous peak in 2008 and almost 625 euro higher than the low seen in late 2011.

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In Dublin, the increase in rents in the year to December 2018 was 6.8%, the 31st consecutive quarter where rents have risen.

The average rent in the capital is now 2,002 euro per month, while the second highest rent in the country is in Cork, with an average of 1,331 euro per month, up 10% from last year.

Elsewhere in the country, rents continue to rise at double-digit rates, with increases of between 10% and 15% in Cork, Galway, Limerick and Waterford cities, and increases of 12% on average in Munster, Connacht and Ulster.

Commenting on the report, Ronan Lyons, economist at Trinity College Dublin and author of the Daft Report, said: The rental market remains plagued by weak supply at a time of strong demand.

While the total number of rental homes on the market did improve slightly earlier in 2019, the figures for May have undone all that progress.

With the sale market showing signs of greater balance between supply and demand, policymakers must maintain their focus on boosting rental supply. A key part of that is developers building, and institutional landlords buying, new apartment blocks.

Dublin: 2,002, up 6.8%

Cork: 1,331, up 10.0%

Galway: 1,260, up 11.4%

Limerick: 1,195, up 14.4%

Waterford: 986, up 13.6%

Rest of the country: 968, up 9.7%

Raychel OConnell from Daft.ie said: Low availability of rental properties is clearly a major issue at the moment. With over 1.4 million property searches on Daft each day demand continues to be strong, despite decreasing supply in the current market.

The report has sparked criticism of the Government from housing campaigners, who say Housing Minister Eoghan Murphy is not acting effectively enough to resolve the housing crisis.

Sinn Feins housing spokesman Eoin OBroin said the Governments rental sector strategy is not working.

The Rent Pressure Zones are now effectively meaningless for new renters, he said.

Meanwhile, Eoghan Murphy is sleepwalking through a disorderly exit of properties from the private rental sector.

All of this demonstrates the need for radical action.

It demonstrates the need for an immediate rent freeze for existing and new tenancies combined with a refundable renters tax credit worth a months rent.

It also demonstrates the need for a major programme of Government investment in affordable cost rental accommodation by local authorities and approved housing bodies.

The amount of homeless people in Ireland is now over 10,000, the worst in the history of the state.

A third of Irelands homeless population are children.

Campaigners have often noted that lack of affordable rental properties is forcing young families into homelessness.

A national protest against the Governments housing policies is planned for May 18.

A spokesman for the Department of Housing said: The Government is committed to increasing the supply of all types of homes  social, affordable and private housing.

The best way to reduce and stabilise rents in the long term, and benefit the entire sector, is to increase supply and accelerate delivery of housing for the private and social rented sectors.

The Government has already brought forward a number of initiatives to increase supply.
Twenty years of sterling service to the administration of the Irish Angus Cattle Society was recognised at the National Hall of Fame Awards at Athlone on Sunday night where the "unsung heroes of the organisation" were honoured.

Patsy Keenan and Breda McWeeney were the nominatees of the Irish Angus Cattle Society for the 2019 National Hall of Fame award.

During the formative decaces of the society, the administration of the Irish Angus Cattle Society was provided by the Department of Agriculture at their office in Cavan. In 1999 the Society took the very progressive decision to run their own business and organisation, initially from rented offices in main street Carrick-on-Shannon to which they appointed Patsy Keenan and Breda McWeeney, and since 2007 at their own offices in Hawthorn Crescent on the Boyle Road. During their tenure they have seen registrations increase from less than 2,500 annually to over 6,500 in 2018. The successful hosting by Ireland of the European and World Angus Forum in June 2017, which was deemed a tremendous success, was largely attributed to their organisational skills and unseen background work. IACS President, John O'Sullivan said: "When I was looking for advice from past presidents about my new role, a number said 'don't worry, Patsy and Breda will guide you through it'. There is no doubt Patsy and Breda are the unsung heroes of our organisation".
Irish milk output is soaring, with 2019 likely to be another record-breaking year. But is this huge increase in production putting unsustainable pressure on the environment?

When EU dairy quotas, which had artificially restricted Irish milk output for 31 years, were abolished at the end of March 2015, farmers moved quickly to increase production. Milk output jumped by 13pc to almost 6.4 billion litres in 2015 as the sector moved to make up for lost time.

And milk output just kept on rising. It hit almost 7.6 billion litres last year and is now widely expected to reach at least 7.8 billion for the full year, with output up by 8.6pc in the first three months of the year.

That's a 40pc rise in output in just five years. Further strong growth is being widely predicted, with Dairygold chief executive Jim Woulfe having said that a 10-billion-litre Irish dairy industry was "in sight".

So far so good, but are we in danger of getting too much of a good thing? As Irish dairy farmers move to make up for the time lost during the more than three decades of quotas the template is very much that of New Zealand.

When quotas were first introduced in 1984 the Irish and New Zealand dairy industries were of roughly comparable size. While Irish milk output remained flat under quotas, New Zealand's output quadrupled to an estimated 23 billion litres in 2018/19. Now, with quotas gone, Ireland is playing catch-up.

Expand Close A new programme to test the suitability of various bull breeds to produce beef animals from the dairy herd is being put in place by Teagasc and Dawn Meats. / Facebook

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Whatsapp A new programme to test the suitability of various bull breeds to produce beef animals from the dairy herd is being put in place by Teagasc and Dawn Meats.

However, there are increasing signs that the massive expansion of the New Zealand dairy has come at a heavy environmental cost. A report published last month by the New Zealand Environment Ministry paints a devastating picture of environmental degradation, with increased dairy production being one of the main culprits.

"In farming areas, water pollution affects almost all rivers and many aquifers. Some lakes and estuaries may also be affected," according to the report.

"There has been a significant shift from sheep and beef farming into dairy farming, most notably in Canterbury, Otago, and Southland. The national dairy herd increased by 70pc between 1994 and 2017, while numbers of sheep and beef cattle declined. This shift is important because cattle excrete more nitrogen [through urination] per animal than sheep."

As a result of this huge increase in intensive dairy farming the report estimated that 71pc of the river length in pastoral farming areas had excessive nitrogen levels while pollution caused by animal dung meant that 82pc of the river length was unsuitable for swimming.

New Zealand is not unique in experiencing environmental problems resulting from intensive dairy farming. Closer to home the Dutch government has been culling that country's dairy herd as it attempts to curb excessive phosphate levels caused by animal manure.

The number of dairy cows has been cut by 190,000 in the two years to the end of 2018, a reduction of 11pc in the size of the overall herd. These environmental issues in New Zealand and the Netherlands come at the same time as a report commissioned by the British medical journal The Lancet, which was published in January, called for the consumption of meat and dairy products to be significantly reduced. While the Lancet report was fiercely attacked by Irish farming groups at the time of its publication - IFA president Joe Healy said Ireland was the most carbon-efficient milk producer in Europe - it's not hard to detect which way the wind is blowing.

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Whatsapp Emissions from dairy farms continue to rise as the sector expands

The huge increase in Irish dairy production over the past five years has only been possible due to a 26pc increase in the size of the dairy herd, from 1.08 million cows in 2012 to 1.37 million in 2018 - farmers began increasing their herd sizes in 2013 in anticipation of the end of quotas in the spring of 2014. That's an extra 290,000 dairy cows, with all of the extra waste that comes with them.

While the Netherlands is a relatively small country, just over half the size of the Republic of Ireland, New Zealand is much larger. At 268,000 sq km it is almost four times the size of this country's 70,000sq km. All of which begs the question: If New Zealand is hitting environmental constraints at 23 billion litres, will Ireland hit them at much lower volumes?

"It is not a question of when it begins to happen. It is already beginning to happen," says Professor Nick Holden of UCD's School of Biosystems and Food Engineering. "It is not as extreme as in New Zealand, but there is certainly evidence that we are going in that direction."

Other experts in the field aren't quite so pessimistic.

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"We should not assume that the rapid expansion we have seen in the past few years in dairy will be the norm," says Alan Matthews, emeritus professor of European agricultural policy at TCD.

"This has been mostly a one-off response to the removal of dairy quotas after 30 years, so a rapid expansion in production and dairy cow numbers was to be expected. While left to its own devices production will continue to increase, I would not expect it to be at this hectic pace. Apart from environmental constraints, there are also issues with finding labour, etc," he added.

The rapid post-1984 expansion in New Zealand dairy production followed the UK's entry into the then EU in 1973, which deprived New Zealand agriculture of most of its traditional export markets, and the end of all farm subsidies in the mid-1980s. Forced to rely exclusively on world markets for a living, New Zealand farmers replaced sheep with much more environmentally-demanding dairy cattle.

Irish dairy farmers, who as Holden points out, have much more experience of dealing with environmental factors than their New Zealand counterparts, are much less likely to bump up against environmental constraints in such an abrupt manner.

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has found himself confronted by beef farmers while campaigning for his party's candidates in the European and local elections. Those farmers are angry at low beef prices which they claim leave them with no future.

The difficulties being faced by beef farmers could ironically represent an opportunity for dairying. In addition to the 1.37 million dairy cows, Ireland also has another 982,000 suckler cows - where, instead of the milk going for processing, the cow feeds her calf, which is reared for beef instead.

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"The beef guys have been complaining that they have no future. Maybe they should be in dairying instead," says one long-time agribusiness observer.

Making the transition would involve farmers switching from beef, which offers a less hectic, if financially relatively unrewarding lifestyle, to what is a brutally demanding form of agriculture. Dairy farming means getting up before dawn to milk 60, 70, or even more cows, cleaning the milking parlour after they have left and then, a few hours later, doing it all over again. All of this twice a day, seven days a week, for nine or 10 months a year.

Yes, the financial rewards are there for those prepared to put in the effort with dairying, but how many of today's beef farmers will be prepared to do so?

Regardless of whether or not beef farmers are prepared to make the switch, the existence of a near million-strong suckler herd does provide the dairy sector with a lot of potential room for growth. Low-margin suckler cows could be replaced by high-margin dairy cows at no net cost to the environment. This is important because, even under current regulations, Irish agriculture faces significant environmental constraints.

"The environmental constraints that are most important in the Irish context are water quality, ammonia, biodiversity loss and greenhouse gas emissions. For ammonia there is a national ceiling and as agriculture produces more than 90pc of ammonia this is de facto a ceiling for agriculture, though this would be shared by all enterprises and not just dairy," says Matthews.

Cows, both dairy and suckler, are also significant producers of greenhouse gasses. The EPA estimates that agriculture, principally cattle, contributed approximately a third of Ireland's greenhouse gasses in 2017.

Yet despite these emerging constraints, Matthews believes that further expansion of milk output is still possible. "Dairying contributes to all of these problems and further expansion will intensify them. However, apart from ammonia, the limits are relatively non-specific so from a formal or legal perspective it would seem further expansion is possible."

However, UCD's Holden believes that the environmental problems being encountered by agriculture mean that we need to fundamentally change the way we produce food. "The EPA surface water quality data has not improved in the way one would expect over the past decade. That is most likely caused by livestock agriculture," he says.

"Rather than maximising dairy production we should be seeking to find a better business model. We spend very little money exploring possible alternatives. Why does milk cost less than bottled water? Why does the beef industry only make a profit on the fifth quarter?"

As the environment becomes an increasingly dominant concern, the answer to those questions will set the parameters for future growth in Irish agriculture.
Strong drilling results with "significant new mineralisation" have transformed an early-stage Limerick prospect to a "high-priority target" for Canadian-registered zinc explorer Group Eleven.

A 2,700m drill programme at the Stonepark lead and zinc prospect discovered the "outer margin of potential new Irish-Type zinc system" and also uncovered new mineralisation at the adjacent Ballywire system, said Group Eleven.

The Stonepark system - in which Group Eleven holds just over 75pc and Arkle Resources holds a minority stake - is 20km south-east of Glencore's Pallas Green deposit.

Six years ago international mining giant Glencore upgraded the potential size of the Pallas Green deposit from 30 million tonnes to 42 million tonnes. But the project went into abeyance until 2017 when drilling recommenced. If proven and commercialised at that level it would become the second-biggest Irish zinc find after Tara Mines.

Group Eleven's drilling results - part of what it has described as a "Big Think" approach to ancient volcanic structures in the area - are likely to add further to industry interest in the area.

"We are very pleased with our recent drill programme" said Group Eleven CEO Bart Jaworski. He said that the company was "excited to have transformed this early-stage prospect to a high-priority target".

"Drilling has returned the best results to date in the area and we look forward to advancing even closer to the potential feeder structure during the next phase of work. Ballywire effectively doubles the strike of the Pallas Green corridor to 20 kilometres."

"At Kilteely [Stonepark], the breadth of the new hydrothermal system is significant, being on-trend and in a similar geological environment as Glencore's Pallas Green zinc-lead deposit," said Jaworski. "This is our first hole into the southern half of the 'Limerick Volcanic Complex' and the area remains virtually unexplored. Exploration upside is wide open," he said.
Three years ago the futures of the Carphone Warehouse and Currys PC World brands in Ireland were under real threat.

The businesses, owned by the Dixons group, were haemorrhaging cash and in 2016 booked a 7m loss. The group's top brass had "conversations" around the prospects of the business and whether or not it was worth the hassle to keep it alive.

It was around this time the company started talking to former Three sales chief and Brown Thomas marketing director Mark Delaney.

"The business was pretty much on its knees," Delaney says in the company's headquarters in Santry, north Dublin.

"My mandate was to turn it around. We had great colleagues everywhere, but no real plan or strategy for the business. So I went away and looked at the company for six weeks, then reported back to the board and said 'Here's my plan', and they bought into it."

That decision proved fruitful after Delaney's plan led to a swing into a 4.6m profit, thanks to the removal of what seemed an obvious drag on the business - it had too many stores.

"The first year was all about stopping the bleeding, which meant stripping out any costs that weren't customer or colleague enhancing," he says.

"We began looking at property costs. We had 27 Currys and PC World stores, they were not the amalgamated versions we have now but rather two separate entities.

"We had that dotted around the country, so we had to consolidate those stores. It just didn't make sense to have your product range spread around over two sites. So we consolidated those down to 16 stores and introduced a Carphone Warehouse mobile into those stores so we had all our brands under one roof."

He closed physical stores but managed to maintain headcount, bringing the group's brands to a single location. Delaney is happy that the wounds have been fully cauterised and instead he is now focused on growth, something that was unthinkable before he arrived.

His big target is to drive up the company's revenues. He thinks that within the next three years Dixons Carphone revenue will top 400m, a sizeable jump on the 278m it banked last year.

"My vision for the business is that we change our Currys PC World stores and our Carphone Warehouse stores into technology playgrounds," says Delaney, from Howth, Co Dublin.

"Customers can come in, feel absolutely no pressure, and can play with our toys. See drones being operated, have a cappuccino made by a trained barista, play to your heart's content in our gaming bunkers - but be met with expertise and impartial advice."

This move to keep customers in-store longer plays into his short-term revenue targets: the longer they're in, the more they'll spend.

Technology as an industry is not without its challenges, not least from online sales.

But Delaney feels that his top-selling store, the company's website, is more than equipped to deal with huge growth over the next 18 months.

"We've got to get our customers to spend more with us. Credit will help us do that, our online proposition will help get more share of their wallet by being more convenient. Our web offering will be truly omnichannel," he says.

Having just navigated one of the more difficult job introductions, Delaney has also implemented plans for a hard Brexit.

"One thing we miss here is the divisiveness of it in the UK. There are households completely divided on Brexit and it's been quite divisive a subject not just at a governmental level but also at a household level," he says.

"Depending on what variety of Brexit ends up being served to us, we've planned for a hard Brexit from day one. So we increased our distribution centre - we moved to a distribution centre that was seven times the size of the old one.

"We needed it because if we were going to be closed off from the UK for any length of time that meant delays for our customers receiving product."

That distribution centre, situated in Ballymount in West Dublin, holds five weeks' worth of stock, which is about five times more than the company would normally hold.

"In addition, we've done deals with all of our main suppliers so that they can supply us from mainland Europe should it be required," Delaney says. "Our major suppliers are confident they have alternative arrangements for us. You'll see a lot more coming through sealed, bonded containers through the UK."

Another headache for the ex-Arnotts trading chief was the inheritance of ID, Carphone's own mobile network.

Delaney said there were some obvious problems with the logic behind a company that had trading agreements with all the country's major networks selling a network of its own.

"I inherited ID and the business plan for it was quite ambitious, the reality was we had 45,000 customers after one year, which was really good growth.

"But if you look at Tesco Mobile, it's taken them 12 years to get to 400,000," he says.

"For us to break even as a network we needed to get to that level. That meant that we would be taking customers from some other network. Networks who are partners of ours in our Carphone business.

"So it was a trade-off and I decided it was the wrong thing for us to be involved in."

Delaney also revealed that he had unsuccessfully attempted to sell the network before the decision was taken to liquidate ID in April 2018.

The 53-year old has had a varied career that began when he left school and began selling printers in Dublin 2, a job he said that made "good sense" to leave a year later.

Following that he entered the luxury retailer Brown Thomas, where he worked his way up the ranks to become group operations director in 1996.

This was shortly followed by his "proverbial Sol Campbell move" to Arnotts, owned separately at the time.

His time at Carphone is far from his first foray into the mobile business - he was at the heart of Three's mega move to acquire O2 in 2014.

"I had my own business at the time, providing interim management services and Three retained me to oversee their integration," he recalls.

"I took on the role as head of sales, then a week later I was head of online. A few months later, I was head of operations because so many people were changing. So anyone that left I got their role."

Delaney recalls them being two "very different companies with different cultures" and described his time there as "quite fun but quite intense".

The smartphone business has changed substantially since then, with the market hitting something of a curb.

Samsung and Apple were forced into issuing low guidances for their flagship Galaxy and iPhone ranges as a new consumer cycle began to take hold. People were beginning to hold onto their handsets for three years rather than two. A problem when you're in the business of selling phones.

"People are holding onto their phones longer, but the reason that is because technology has slowed down," he says.

"The iPhone was launched 11 years ago and it innovated from the original iPhone but it kind of slowed down since the 6, while competitors have innovated quite quickly."

That marketplace is now more competitive than ever before, especially with the establishment of Huawei as a major player in the premium market, thanks to its new P30 Pro.

Delaney's plan to break 400m in revenues doesn't depend on further footprint, instead he's more likely to invest in staff and the development of an improved online offering.

Despite the turnaround of the company's Irish fortunes, his UK counterparts are demanding more, "they always push for more".

"Their reward for our performance is to give us more to do. Personally, it keeps me interested. It's a great business. I came here in January 2016 and I've enjoyed every minute of it. The team here is a great bunch of people," Delaney says.

"It's a lonely enough job, particularly when you come into a business tasked with turning it around. There's always going to be a degree of resistance, scepticism. It's a hard journey to get people to believe in the long-term vision when there's challenges in the short-term."

Delaney's vision of his store's future is one of a more relevant retail offering which benefits from a lower cost base. One that will put the consumer experience at the forefront of its battle against online.
The National Lottery has signed up to sponsor NewsBrands Ireland's annual Journalism Awards with a new three-year deal.

The awards will take place in Dublin's Mansion House on November 14 and feature a total of 26 categories spanning all areas and disciplines of modern journalism.

Entry to the Journalism Awards is open to any work published in print, website, online, mobile, video, audio or any other news delivery format from any NewsBrands Ireland member title.

This year sees the addition of three new digital categories: Best News Website/App, Podcast of the Year and Best Use of Video.

Tim Vaughan has been announced as the new chair of the judging panel. A former editor of the Irish Examiner for more than 15 years, he is now head of content and corporate communications at the global employee communications company, Poppulo.

Speaking about his new role, Tim said: "Despite the challenges journalism is under, there's really outstanding work being done across the newspaper sector, week in, week out. So, it's great that NewsBrands are showcasing the very best of Irish journalism and it's an honour to have been asked to chair the judging panel."

Commenting at the launch of this year's awards, Vincent Crowley, chairman of NewsBrands Ireland, said: "We are delighted to welcome Tim Vaughan as our new judging panel chairperson. Tim's vast experience, knowledge and integrity will be of great benefit to the entire judging process.

"Thanks once again to all in the National Lottery for their continued support."

Dermot Griffin, chief executive of the National Lottery, said: "The National Lottery is honoured to continue to sponsor the Journalism Awards for the next three years. We have a very successful partnership with NewsBrands Ireland and we are delighted to be involved in this important awards initiative."

The eligibility period for this year's NewsBrands Ireland Journalism Awards is from July 1, 2018, to June 30, 2019.

Entries will open in July 2019.
Cathal Friel will be the new CEO

The new owners of listed clinical trials firm Venn Life Sciences intend to grow its revenue from 15m a year to 50m within the next three years, it is understood.

Pharma services business Open Orphan performed a reverse takeover of Venn Life last Friday. The move was driven by Cathal Friel, formerly of Fastnet Oil & Gas and Amryt Pharma.

Shareholders are expected to vote to approve the takeover in June, as well as a name change to Open Orphan PLC.

The company has also begun raising funds to recapitalise the Venn Life business, which issued a profit warning alongside its 2018 results. It is believed the fundraise is being led by Arden Stockbrokers in London and by Tom Godfrey of IBI Corporate Finance.

"The new entity intends on adding around 35m to the company's revenue over the next three years," according to a source familiar with the company.

"That will be achieved through a number of acquisitions and deals, at which point the new owners will look to sell the business to a bigger player."

Shares in Venn Life were suspended on the London AIM market last Friday morning as the company announced the merger.

The transaction will see Venn issue new shares to meet the 5.7m valuation of Open Orphan, which will be issued to Open Orphan's shareholders.

Friel will take over as the new chief executive while Tony Richardson, the company's current CEO, will assume the role of corporate development director are the new entity.

Venn Life also published its annual results on Friday, which showed a loss of 1.06m as well as a slide in revenues, down to 14.6m from 17.8m a year earlier.

Directors of the group expect there should be an increase in revenues and profitability in the coming months but additional financial resources were required.
Q: I returned to Ireland last week and am finding it hard to get a Personal Public Service number (PPSN) and to open a bank account. I have been working in New Zealand for the last 10 years but recently took up a job offer here. I don't have a permanent address yet as I'm staying with friends until I can find a place to rent. This is making it difficult for me to get a PPSN - and to open a bank account. How can I sort this out quickly? Tom, Co Kildare

You don't mention whether you previously lived or worked in Ireland. If you did work here or claimed any benefits in Ireland after 1979, it could well be that you may already have a valid PPSN in the system here already. So this is the first thing to check out. You can do this by contacting the Client Identity Services section of the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection. If you have a PPSN already, request that the department posts this out to you at your friend's address.

If you do not have a PPSN, book an appointment with your nearest PPS registration centre by phone or by setting up an online account with mywelfare.ie. To complete the PPSN application process, you will have to attend a face-to-face meeting at the PPSN registration centre and bring along a number of documents. These include a valid photo ID, a reason why a PPSN is required, and proof of your address in Ireland.

I understand that you will have a difficulty in providing the proof of address (in your own name here in Ireland). However, the department will accept a utility bill in your friend's name, at their address. This should also be accompanied by a short signed statement from your friend to confirm that you are residing at the address.

Be aware that the commencement of a new job is not considered a valid reason for a requirement to have a PPSN. So, evidence that you need a PPSN for a transaction with a specified Government body or department will be required. Some examples of proof of this that you could bring along (if relevant to you) include a copy of a council housing application form, an application for a medical card or GP visit card, or an application for a driver's licence or learner permit.

The second part of your query relates to difficulties opening a bank account.

Due to Criminal Justice Legislation in Ireland (relating to the prevention of money laundering), anyone wishing to open a bank account in Ireland is required to provide valid photo ID and proof of address in Ireland.

In terms of proof of address, most banks here will require at least one form of proof of address (usually a recent utility bill in your own name at your Irish address). However, if, as in your case, the person seeking to open the account does not have a utility bill, some banks will accept a letter from a Government body, sent to them at their Irish address.

Therefore once you have written confirmation of your PPSN (to your friend's address), you can try approaching the banks again to see if it will open the account for you. Another possible alternative for proof of address, is, once you have details of your PPSN, you can set up an online account with the Revenue Commissioners (via revenue.ie). As part of the registration process, the Revenue Commissioners will need to send you a PIN number in the post. The letter from Revenue to you at your friend's address in Ireland may also be accepted as proof of address.

Carer's allowance woes

Q: I returned to Ireland from France recently so that I can care for my brother, who has special needs. I worked in France for many years. My husband, who is French, is due to move to Ireland shortly too - once he secures a job over here. I've been turned down for a carer's allowance here because the Department of Social Protection is of the opinion that I am not habitually resident in Ireland. I still have a bank account in France. My husband and I also own a property in France - which we are planning to rent out when he moves over here. How do prove that I'm habitually resident in Ireland? Emer, Co Kerry

To be eligible for the carer's allowance, one of the conditions is that the applicant must be considered habitually resident in the State. There are a number of factors that are used to assess if applicants are habitually resident in the State for the purposes of certain social welfare schemes, including the carer's allowance. These include the length and continuity of residence in Ireland, the length and purpose of any absence from Ireland, their nature and pattern of employment, their main centre of interest, and the applicant's future intentions to live in Ireland (as it appears from evidence).

It is not clear from your query whether you have yet exhausted the appeals process for your carer's allowance claim. The decision letter from the carer's allowance section should have clearly outlined why you were not considered habitually resident in the State. If you still have leave to appeal, and you can provide any new or additional information to counteract the points raised in the decision letter, you should go down this route as soon as possible.

From what you have outlined, the following are likely to have played a significant part in the negative outcome of your application: first, your spouse is still resident in France; second, you have a family home in France; and third: you still have bank account open in France. It is worth noting that departmental guidelines state that having a spouse still resident overseas is not, in and of itself, sufficient grounds for a claim to be disallowed on habitual residency grounds - however, we expect that based on the combination of the factors above, a decision was made that your 'centre of interest' is still in France.

If the decision that has been reached is a final one, having gone through the appeals process, all is not lost. You mention that your husband plans to join you in Ireland and that it is your intention to rent out your home in France in the future. Once this is in place and your husband has joined you in Ireland, we would suggest that you reapply for the carer's allowance.

Certainly any income earned from renting your home abroad will be taken into account in the means-testing side of things (when determining your eligibility for the carer's allowance). However, the fact that your home is in France and you have a bank account there should not be sufficient grounds for your claim to be denied.

If submitting a new claim for the carer's allowance down the line, you should provide as much back up documentation as you can to show that you and your husband have established yourselves in Ireland and that it is your intention to remain here for the foreseeable future. Proof that you have a car registered here, are registered with a GP, have bank accounts open here, or are on the electoral register, are some examples of how you can demonstrate this.

While all of the above is ongoing, you may wish to look into applying for the standalone Carers Support Grant (formerly know as the Respite Grant).

Karen McHugh is chief executive of Safe Home Ireland (safehomeireland.com); email: info@safehomeireland.com
The holiday of a lifetime could easily cost an individual 10,000 - about a quarter of the average Irish wage. The bill could be multiple times that if paying for a partner or family. However, the economic boom - which has led to a surge in the numbers of Irish people going on holiday - could now make it more feasible to save up for the break of a lifetime.

So how much would you need in the bank for a bucket-list holiday - and are there any ways to do it cheaply?

Rockies and Alaska

An 18-night holiday to the Canadian Rockies, including an Alaskan cruise, costs from 10,749 per person with travel agents Trailfinders - based on two people sharing. That price, which is for its 'Canadian Rockies Explorer and optional Alaskan Cruise' trip, includes accommodation, most meals, the cruise, and return flights from Dublin to Vancouver - assuming the initial flight out is on September 4. (Flight prices vary depending on availability, the time of year you're travelling, and whether you're travelling economy or business class). The trip takes in Banff, Lake Louise, Jasper National Park, Whistler and other well-known spots in the Rockies - as well as the Glacier Bay National Park.

Trailfinders has a cheaper version of this tour that does not include the Alaskan cruise. Sunway also recently advertised a five-night trip to the Canadian Rockies in May from 2,399 per person sharing (based on two sharing) and which does not include an Alaskan cruise.

One of the cheapest months to visit the Rockies in is November - just before the ski season starts in Canada, according to Jonathan Bridge, a spokesman for Trailfinders. "If including an Alaskan cruise [in your trip], May is the cheapest [time to travel]," said Bridge.

You could save money by arranging your own holiday - rather than going through a travel agent. Should you be purely interested in the Canadian Rockies and happy to skip the Alaskan cruise, you could fly from Dublin to Calgary, hire a car, drive through the Rockies and make your way to Vancouver - where you would fly home from.

Hotel accommodation in the Rockies is often expensive, so if you're up for camping, pack a tent - as there are plenty of affordable campgrounds in and around the national parks. Hostels are another option. "Jasper and Banff have a network of around 10 rustic hostels," said Brendan Sainsbury, a freelance author who has written many books for travel guide publisher Lonely Planet - including ones on Canada.

Book your accommodation early. "The national parks have limited accommodation and strict planning laws mean no new hotels are likely to be built," said Sainsbury. "The earlier you book, the more choice you will get."

Being flexible with your travel times and avoiding travel during peak season should also help keep the bill down. "High season in the [Canadian national] parks is roughly Victoria Day [late May] to Labour Day [first weekend in September] - with July and August being the busiest and most expensive months," said Sainsbury. "Shoulder season - that is spring or early autumn - is cheaper."

Another way to keep costs down is to stay in accommodation just outside the national parks. Sainsbury often stays in Canmore when visiting Banff. "Canmore has cheaper accommodation [than Banff] and more options - including some apartments," said Sainsbury. "There are regular cheap local buses (called Roam buses) from Canmore into Banff Town - or you can cycle in."

There are some shuttle buses in the national parks (for getting around the parks), but these are mostly in Banff and more widespread in the summer, said Sainsbury.

Should you be organising your own trip to the Rockies, buy the National Park Discovery Pass - which costs about 45 (CA$67.70) per person or 91 (CA$136.40) per family (up to seven people in a car). This gives you unlimited admission to over 80 national parks in Canada and so should save you on park entrance fees.

Trans-Siberia

A 16-day trip on the Trans-Siberian Express - which will take you from Moscow to Beijing - could cost over 17,000 per person, excluding flights. This is the price of a Platinum cabin on the Tsar's Gold Trans-Siberian rail tour in July or August - a tour offered by the Russian tour specialist, Travel All Russia. (There are cheaper cabins on this tour - Platinum is the most expensive one). The price includes accommodation, meals and airport transfers - but it does not include flights. As the price of flights from Dublin to Moscow and Beijing to Dublin could be anything from 1,000 to 2,000 or more; flights would bring the total cost of the trip to almost 20,000 or more.

Trailfinders also offers trips on the Trans-Siberian Express, including a 15-day trip on the Golden Eagle luxury train. The price of this holiday starts from 15,999 per person - based on two sharing and including flights (assuming trip starts on August 18), accommodation and meals.

You need visas on the Trans-Siberian railway journey so be sure to understand - and meet - those requirements. "The visa situation with the Trans-Siberian trip is quite stressful," said Sarah Slattery, founder of the travel website, thetravelexpert.ie. "You need to fill out a huge amount of forms."

A visa specialist (such as Visa First - visafirst.com) can help to organise your visas for this trip - or your travel agent may also assist. "Russian, Chinese and Mongolian visas are usually required for Irish passport holders going on the Trans-Siberian express," said Kellsie Larkin, account manager with Visa First in Dublin.

"We organise these visas on a daily basis and have been working with these embassies for many years."

Antarctic Cruise

John Galligan Travel recently advertised an Antarctic cruise for from 11,250 per person (based on two sharing). That price - which is for a trip which starts this November - included flights from Dublin, 16 nights on board the cruise ship, meals and drinks on board, and two nights hotel accommodation.

The trip takes in Antarctic Sound, the Antarctic Peninsula and Drake Passage. You can also book Antarctic - and Arctic - cruises through Trailfinders and a number of other Irish travel agents.

Booking cruises early - and paying the full bill well in advance - often secures good discounts and gives you the best choice of cabins.

Luxury safari

You could pay several grand or more for a week's luxury safari, largely depending on where and when you go, and the standard of accommodation.

The cost of an eight-night luxury safari in Tanzania this September or October starts from 8,299 per person with Trailfinders - based on two people sharing. This price includes flights, accommodation, meals, park fees, and game drives (where you travel in a 4x4 to view wildlife).

Trailfinders also has a seven-night luxury safari in Kenya for the same months for from 6,849 per person (based on two people sharing) - or in the Dulini Lodge in Kruger National Park for from 8,649 per person .

It is possible to get cheaper safari trips. Sunway recently advertised a six-night safari in Kenya in November for from 2,099 per person.

June and November are typically the cheapest months to go on safari in Tanzania, according to Bridge. (Bear in mind though that the best time to see the migration of the wildebeest in Tanzania is typically between July and October.) April to June is typically the cheapest time to go on safari in Kenya, while May to August are generally cheapest for South Africa, according to Bridge.

Consider limiting your safari trip to two nights if struggling to afford such a holiday.

"You don't have to stay much longer than two nights on safari - particularly if you can get six-game drives in over that time," said Slattery. "Two nights is more than enough. If you go for two nights though, make sure you arrive [at the safari park] before lunchtime - and that you leave after lunch on the day of your departure. That will allow you to get all of your game drives in."

A safari, like any once-in-a-lifetime holiday, is likely to be expensive but shopping around and doing your research before booking could chop hundreds - perhaps thousands - off the bill.
Although the eurozone's population is five times that of the UK, it accounts for only 20pc of all Irish exports. As such, it presents what Minister for Trade Pat Breen (pictured) described as one of the greatest sources of "untapped export potential" at Enterprise Ireland's Eurozone Summit earlier this year. Picture: Steve Humphreys

The Chinese use two characters for the word 'crisis'. One character represents danger; the other opportunity.

Although we continue to face a period of uncertainty for Irish businesses, we are also better placed than we sometimes imagine. Irish firms looking for export opportunities have many elements in their favour.

The largest opportunity on our doorstep is the eurozone.

Historically, we have enjoyed very good trade relationships with the UK and US, driven by size and ease of market access, geography, language and cultural links. While this trade is important and hard won, a refocus of the export lens to build on this success could benefit Irish firms enormously.

The eurozone offers ease of access to 340 million people in the 19 states sharing the single currency and a stable economy that, as a bloc, will continue to grow a further 1.3pc through 2019. The benefits of the single currency should not be underestimated: zero currency risk with no fluctuating exchange rates or conversion costs.

Trade in the eurozone benefits from the absence of tariffs and customs, while a common regulatory environment means that Irish goods and services comply with EU legislation.

Although the eurozone's population is five times that of the UK, it accounts for only 20pc of all Irish exports. As such, it presents what Minister for Trade Pat Breen described as one of the greatest sources of "untapped export potential" at Enterprise Ireland's Eurozone Summit earlier this year.

In order to successfully tap into eurozone markets all elements of new market entry preparations are required: market research to select the market with the best opportunities; a value proposition that matches the new market and highlights your competitive advantage; the right route to market; and the resourcing of people, skills and funding to make it happen.

Enterprise Ireland's world-class Market Research Centre has extensive resources to aid your research, while our Excel at Market Intelligence programme will advise how best to conduct market research.

Our Market Discovery fund is a key financial support for new market entry, ensuring you have funding to research, get expert advice and conduct market study visits. GradStart provides up to 70pc of two-year salaries for graduates with relevant market language skills.

Many companies we support have successfully entered the eurozone in recent years. Among them was workwear company Portwest, which said that when a single client collapsed, they lost 35pc of their business.

"It taught us a hard lesson about diversification," said Orla Hughes, Portwest's European Commercial Manager. "If we didn't expand to Europe, our business would be only 50pc of what it is now."

When parking marketplace firm ParkPnP conducted market research, it found strong competitors in its target market, the UK, and opted to move directly into Europe.

By acquiring a local Belgian firm, it quickly gained market share and, importantly, local market knowledge.

CEO Garret Flower cited the importance of market research: "You are immediately drawn to Germany because of the scale. But dig a little deeper and you find that Germans don't pay for their parking via apps; 90pc of them still prefer to pay by coin."

The decision to locate in Belgium paid off. Garret Flower said: "Having done it this way, we feel we have a solid foundation to roll out across Europe and are now ready to enter France and Germany."

Companies we support benefit from our market advisers' near-unmatched knowledge of market dynamics, target buyers, networks and ecosystems across six eurozone locations.

When you're ready to enter the market, we offer a key manager grant to help co-fund the salary of personnel with the right skills to work with market advisers and drive your diversification plans.

By 2020, Enterprise Ireland aims to help boost eurozone exports to 6.15bn from the 4.1bn recorded in 2017.

It is ambitious, but achievable, if we "take advantage of the eurozone", as was advised by the first President of the European Council, Count Herman Van Rompuy, at the eurozone Summit.

Anne Lanigan is regional director for the Eurozone at Enterprise Ireland.
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The US and China are taking another swing at global sentiment, which is bad news for Europe as the economy starts to find its feet after a torrid year. In a week that was supposed to bring progress in trade talks, President Donald Trump boosted tariffs on $200bn of goods and threatened more. China said it will be forced to retaliate, though it hasn't yet given details.

The escalation will have a global impact, but for the euro area it brings to life one of the "pronounced" risks highlighted this week by the European Commission in its latest (gloomy) economic assessment. The region is also facing its own US deadline: Trump is due to decide by May 18 whether to slap levies on car imports, though the date could be extended. "We're at a very fragile position in the global economy; we're seeing an industrial recession in most parts of the world," said Zurich strategist Guy Miller.

"The uncertainty this creates means the global trade situation, which is already fragile, is going to be very vulnerable."

The US-China setback follows figures suggesting the euro-area economy was starting to stabilise. First-quarter growth was better than anticipated and surveys of activity bottomed out after tumbling through 2018. In Germany, industrial production and orders grew in March.

But confidence remains fragile, with a commission measure for the eurozone at the weakest in more than two years. "A quarter of our members have exports to the US that were already affected by these ridiculous tariffs," said EU Chamber of Commerce in China president Mats Harborn. Increasing tariffs to 25pc "will prove extremely damaging to those companies, and the collateral damage will ripple around the globe".

The latest tit-for-tat is likely to worry EU leaders. They agreed on a trade pact with Trump last year and are working to prevent more tariffs on EU products.

Moreover, Europe's worries could be moot: The US-China talks may ultimately succeed. A deal would help support the view of a better second half for the euro-area economy. Failure, though, "would mean persistent (trade) uncertainty and flat-lining growth rather than a return above potential next year," Bank of America Merrill Lynch analysts said in a note.
John Connolly's wonderfully realised main character, the former NYPD cop turned private investigator Charlie Parker, is, as fans around the world will know, highly unusual in his profession, in that he fights evil on two distinct fronts.

In our own normal, temporal world he helps to solve heinous crimes, but, as he knows only too well - and at his own terrible personal cost - there exists another darkly evil dimension parallel to our own where he must also do battle with the malign spirits who seek to break through to our world and corrupt it.

In hands less skilled, this unusual alignment of two distinctly different genres might well be disastrous, but Connolly, to his great credit, has always managed with consummate ease to tread the extremely delicate line between rattling good modern police procedural thrillers and out-and-out spooky Gothic horror tales without alienating either fan base.

This latest Charlie Parker adventure, the 17th in the series, is essentially part two of last year's The Woman in the Woods.

In that adventure, Parker had been hired to try to establish the identity of a young woman found buried in the roots of a tree in the local forest in Portland, Maine, where he lives. But others are searching for her identity and possessions, too, including a mysterious and seemingly immortal English lawyer called Quayle and his murderous enforcer, the deathly white and extravagantly named Pallida Mors. Quayle is convinced that the dead woman, who had recently given birth, stole from an antiquarian book collector a forbidden tome called The Fractured Atlas.

Quayle is working for a dangerous and shadowy cabal who believe that when the atlas is found, and its missing pages reunited with it, it will allow the spirit world to finally extend its poisonous tentacles into ours and change it irrevocably. Parker, Quayle and Mors have a final showdown in Maine which sees Parker and his gay friend Louis wounded, and Quayle and Mors fleeing America for Amsterdam in possession of the incomplete atlas.

A Book of Bones opens with Parker about to give evidence in a Texas court against two notorious paedophiles he has brought to justice, but before he can take the stand, FBI senior agent Edgar Ross, his sometime boss, hauls him off to Arizona where a woman resembling Pallida Mors has been found dead in a junkyard.

Parker quickly establishes the woman is not Mors, and that the body is simply a ruse to keep him busy. He knows he must travel to Europe, so he and his friends Louis and Angel head for Amsterdam, where the Quayle and Mors trail has grown cold, and on to the old Inns of Court buildings in London where Quayle's family law firm has been based for centuries. When they arrive, they hear of a string of murders - more like ritualised human sacrifices - in Northumberland. Bodies have been discovered near the ruins of ancient churches that have carried with them through the centuries tales of hauntings and evil deeds.

While the local police, led by the efficient and charismatic Detective Inspector Nicola Priestman, try to get a handle on the mysterious deaths, Charlie gets a psychic warning from his dead daughter Jennifer telling him that the forces of evil in those northern churches intend to do him harm and are readying themselves for a final assault of the fabric of the universe when The Fractured Atlas is completed.

It is in this long middle section of the novel that Connolly's skill in balancing two distinctly different narratives is at its best; the police investigations are as breathlessly exciting as anything you'll read in mainstream crime fiction from the like of Michael Connolly or Harlan Coben, while the whiff of sulphur and indescribable evil that threateningly swirls around Parker and his friends is pure goosebump territory on a par with the best of Stephen King or Clive Barker.

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A Book of Bones is a really well-crafted and absorbing doorstop of a novel, perhaps not one for a Ryanair holiday flight, as it weighs in at one kilo exactly and is 720 pages in length.
US presidential candidate Pete Buttigieg made headlines around the world recently when he claimed James Joyce's Ulysses was his favourite book.

Deemed the hardest book in the English language - many bibliophiles merely pretend to have completed it, while those who have managed it, speak as though they've conquered Everest.

Now meet the man who has surpasssed them all and claims to have read the epic novel an amazing 59 times.

Not only has Dubliner PJ Murphy read it so many times, he has done so in several languages including Italian, French, Spanish and German.

And far from joining those who tapped out after staring at the pages without absorbing a word, he claims "it is the easiest book in the world to read - you just have to know how".

Sitting behind the counter of Sweny's chemists in Dublin's Lincoln Place, he said: "I first picked it up when I was 19 but I didn't finish it. Then many, many years later, in my fifties, I went back. It's never too late. Now, every time I read it, something new pops out that I hadn't seen before."

Far from boasting about his achievement, Murphy plays it down, saying anyone can follow in his footsteps if they give themselves the chance.

"It's wrongly seen as an academic book, but Joyce made Ulysses accessible to everyone," he says.

"In fact one of the very first copies he handed out was to the local concierge. He wrote it for ordinary people."

Murphy, whose store features in the novel, says people just have to know "there's a knack to it".

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In fact, he usually reads it from cover to cover over a few short weeks.

His first piece of advice for those hoping to conquer the iconic tome is to "read it aloud".

He says: "Joyce wrote it phonetically, he loved playing with languages and words, so if you read it aloud you will grasp the actual words, whereas if you read it silently, they will seem to disappear."

His next tip goes against the well-worn advice to take a page or two at a time. Instead, he says: "Read it until your mind starts to wander - and then put it down. I would never limit myself to a goal."

Like eating a nice piece of cake until you're just satisfied, he says: "I read it until I have had enough."

But he says his favourite reading sessions are with a group of people taking turns "with a glass [of whiskey] in one hand and the book in the other.

"When you read it with friends, the words just dance off the page."

Asked if he has shed a tear between the covers, he says "of course! Everyone cries in it. Sometimes the fact that I have finished it again, I cry with joy."

Imparting his best Joycean tip for writers, he says: "Joyce doesn't describe anyone in detail. He just gives you hints about how the character is or moves, like the slight turn of their wrist or a simple glance.

"Everyone falls in love with their own idea of a hero, so he just gives a hint and lets the reader fill in the blanks."

But Murphy quips that his literary obsession might be the reason he is still single.

The 69-year-old says: "I haven't found a wife yet. Maybe it's the reason," he laughs.

Far from his passion of impressing women, he says: "I think it might put them off, maybe I shouldn't tell them," he laughs, "They wonder 'has he not got a life?'"

Famous for its pornographic content, the novel has been likened to sex, with one critic commenting how "although sometimes unpleasant, there's a big pay-off at the end".

The final page even ends in a climax and Murphy says no one writes about sex like Joyce: "Nobody writes with a sexual impact as well as he does. He doesn't mince his words. He goes straight for the jugular."

Murphy recalls during one reading with a number of high-profile guests from the Argentinian Embassy, passages were chosen that were particularly pornographic.

After finishing the reading, he looked up to a shocked room. "Anybody have any questions?" he asked. He was met with dead silence.

On another occasion, a well-heeled woman in her 60s and her daughter in her 30s came to take part in one of the reading groups.

Murphy says the mother "read the raunchiest verses with tremendous panache and enthusiasm".

As soon as she finished, her daughter, still staring at her, mouth agape, could only utter the memorable line: "I've only ever heard you read your prayer book like that."

Mr Murphy insists that the book is for every type of reader and should be viewed as such, "there is something in it for everyone".

On the best life advice he has taken from it, he says: "The entire novel takes place in Dublin on a single day. The best advice I can take from that is that you just have to enjoy life one moment at a time."

Group readings are held in Sweny's chemists, Dublin, between 1-2pm seven days a week in five languages. No pre-booking required. It's free but donations are welcome. Tea is served and evening readings conclude with a pint in Conway's pub. On June 16 the group will enjoy a breakfast which recreates the meal served in Calypso, chapter four of Ulysses.
Fiona Shaw, Phoebe Waller-Bridge and Jodie Comer in the press room (Ian West/PA)

Killing Eve has triumphed at the TV Baftas, with its star Jodie Comer sheding tears as she was named best actress.

Comer, 26, who plays assassin Villanelle in the hit thriller, shook off her cold, screen alter-ego to turn on the waterworks on stage.

She beat co-star Sandra Oh  who plays the operative on a mission to catch her  to the gong.

Thank you so much, Comer said. Sorry Im the only one whos turned on the waterworks.

A HUGE congratulations to the wonderful @jodiecomer who picked up the BAFTA for Leading Actress for her role in Killing Eve, dedicating the award to her Nana  #BAFTATV pic.twitter.com/ydd15JWJWJ  BAFTA (@BAFTA) May 12, 2019

She dedicated the award to her grandmother, saying: Nana Frances sadly passed away on the first week of filming.

She never got to see Villanelle, the life and soul of everything.

Shed say you get it off me you know. I want to say Nana Frances, you were absolutely right all along.

Comer, who revealed she spent years as a child watching the Baftas in her bedroom, also paid tribute to the shows creator Phoebe Waller-Bridge as well as Line Of Dutys Stephen Graham, a fellow Liverpudlian.

If I didnt owe you a pint before I definitely do now, she said.

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Thank you for the generosity you showed me all those years ago.

Killing Eve won best drama series, beating another BBC hit, Bodyguard.

Waller-Bridge said: I cant speak its so unbelievably exciting.

She added: Thanks for everyone for taking risks. Jodie Comer almost swallowed a wasp in Tuscany.

Killing Eves Fiona Shaw won best supporting actress, beating Billie Piper, Keeley Hawes and Monica Dolan.

The role was probably the greatest pleasure in my life, she said.

Comedy thriller Killing Eve went into the awards leading the nominations, but not without controversy.

Baftas rules say a programme must have premiered in the UK to be eligible, but the show first aired in the US on BBC America before coming to the UK.

Bafta said there was significant creative contribution from key UK talent throughout the production and the television committee is the arbiter of all eligibility.

Bodyguard had been its main opposition, but it had to make do with one gong  the only award voted for by viewers  Virgin Medias must-see moment.

It claimed the prize for the death of Julia Montague (Keeley Hawes) in an explosion in the BBC One drama.

The moment when Eve (Oh) stabs Villanelle (Comer) in Killing Eve, the Doctor Who episode on Rosa Parks, Peter Kays Car Share, The finale, and Queer Eye were all up for the award.

#BAFTATV backstage winners' interview...

Leading Actor, Benedict Cumberbatch for his role in 'Patrick Melrose'  pic.twitter.com/8pEnl2kohz  BAFTA (@BAFTA) May 12, 2019

Benedict Cumberbatch won the leading actor award for his role as Patrick Melrose in the Sky Atlantic drama of the same name.

The actor, who received his first Bafta nomination in 2005, told the audience: Oh gosh, I think Im going to fall over, Im very used to being a bridesmaid not the bride.

Ill keep it short because everyone probably does need to go to the bathroom.

Backstage, he said: I really thought Hugh Grant was going to win.

On stage, Cumberbatch paid tribute to his wife, saying: Youre my rock, I had to go pretty weird for this one and it was nice to come home and feel stable again.

Its all right, Ive got one (an award) and Im going to bring it home.

Funnyman Steve Coogan presented the award for leading actress.

He quipped: When I was asked to present the leading actress award I was delighted because of course women are quite fashionable at the moment

I realise this is the last award of the night so will keep this shorter than originally planned scroll down autocue.

Female empowerment, blah blah blah humbled and privileged nah, nah nah. The Bafta goes to Jodie Comer.

Piers Morgans hopes of a win were dashed by Cambridge Analytica Uncovered (Channel 4), which triumphed in the news coverage category.

A camera panned to the Good Morning Britain presenter looking unimpressed.

Good Morning Britain had two nominations, for On A Knife Edge and its Thomas Markle exclusive.

Programme-makers thanked the undercover reporter who exposed what Cambridge Analytica were up to.

We couldnt have done it without him  or her, they said.

Facebook are saying they are doing what they can to protect peoples data  we still await to see if thats the case.

Success! Congratulations Ben Whishaw on winning the Supporting Actor 2019 @BAFTA for A Very English Scandal.#BAFTATV pic.twitter.com/UN9mdvY3Yq  BBC One (@BBCOne) May 12, 2019

Ben Whishaw won best supporting actor for A Very English Scandal.

The actor was unable to attend the ceremony, with the award collected on his behalf by director Stephen Frears.

The Royal Wedding: Prince Harry And Meghan Markle lost out in the live event category.

The Royal British Legion Festival Of Remembrance, also on BBC One, won the gong.

Huw Edwards, who presented the programme, paid tribute to the true heroes who won the award, that generation of men and women.

BBC Threes Killed By My Debt won best single drama, beating Netflix show Bandersnatch  Black Mirror.

The drama was based on the true story of Jerome Rogers from south London, who took his own life at the age of 20 after accruing mounting debts sparked initially by traffic fines while working a zero-hours job.

Programme-makers criticised bailiffs, calling them organised gangs extorting money from people who havent got it.

Mr Rogerss brother, speaking on stage, criticised the gig economy in our nation and the unregulated bailiff industry leading a young man to take his own life before he reaches his own 21st birthday.

He added: If one more person sees it (the show) because of tonight, its amazing.

The Bros documentary lost out to Suffragettes With Lucy Worsley for specialist factual programme.

Steve Pemberton won best male performance in a comedy programme for Inside No 9.

The actor thanked his family and his mother, who he said would be screaming and dancing in the street.
Actress Alyssa Milano, who prompted the Me Too movement, has said she looks forward to seeing justice prevail after Harvey Weinstein was charged with sex crimes.

The Charmed actress sparked thousands of women to share their own stories of sexual harassment and abuse after the first allegations against the producer emerged.

She wrote on Twitter: Today a man whose actions were so egregious that they spawned a global reckoning has been taken into custody.

Harvey Weinstein shattered the lives of an untold number of women.

We stand with them, and remain in solidarity with women everywhere who have faced unsafe and abusive workplaces. We look forward to seeing justice prevail.

Actress Mira Sorvino, who was one of the first to make an allegation of sexual misconduct against Weinstein, tweeted: Sending love to all my sisters today who stood up against a monster so many emotions

Sending love to all my sisters today who stood up against a monster... so many emotions... I am proud of and grateful to you all.  Mira Sorvino (@MiraSorvino) May 25, 2018

I am proud of and grateful to you all.

Rose McGowan, who has alleged Weinstein raped her and instructed Doughty Street Chambers in London to bring a harassment case against him, told BBC Radio 4s PM: Its a concrete slap in the face of abuse of power.

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I hope we emerge victorious and if anything we have emerged victorious, no mater what, because people are listening now.

She wrote on Twitter: We got you, Harvey Weinstein, we got you.

We got you, Harvey Weinstein, we got you  RoseMcGowan (@rosemcgowan) May 25, 2018

Actress Asia Argento, who has also has also accused Weinstein of rape, said she was popping this bubbly after the disgraced mogul surrendered to police to face allegations of sexual misconduct.

The actress also shared a video of Weinstein arriving at the New York Police Department at Tribeca in Manhattan, writing: What took you so long Harvey?

She later wrote: Harvey Weinstein aint smiling now.

TV chef Anthony Bourdain wrote on Twitter: When you went on record, @AsiaArgento you were sure this day would never come, that you would be crushed, that you were alone. And yet you did it anyway. #perpwalk.

When you went on record, @AsiaArgento you were sure this day would never come, that you would be crushed, that you were alone. And yet you did it anyway. #perpwalk pic.twitter.com/sGzI1qUjx7  Anthony Bourdain (@Bourdain) May 25, 2018

Argento is one of dozens of women who have made allegations against Weinstein.

Speaking on stage at the Cannes film festival last week, Argento said she predicted the producer would live in disgrace, shunned by a film community that once embraced him.

Weinstein has denied all allegations of non-consensual sex.
In 1996 an English prisoner serving a decade long sentence for smuggling cocaine wrote a letter to the Irish folk band Dervish about his love of, and admiration for, their music. One of the founding members, Shane Mitchell, wrote back and sent a batch of the bands CDs.

The delighted recipient, north Londoner Kevin Barry White, spent the next four years learning the tunes and teaching himself how to play the accordion. A tentative friendship blossomed between musician and prisoner and over the course of the next two decades Kevin turned his life around. He credits Dervishs music with helping him to find a new focus and a new purpose in life both during, and after, his time in her Majestys complex.

Here they tell Independent.ie about that journey and the transformative power of music.

"Im a 6 foot tall, flat-nosed, ex-cocaine smuggler

Kevin is a Londoner through and through but as a child he spent time living in Dundrum, and started school in Ballally. His father, Barry White, had Irish ancestry and was a hard-working, straight-as-a-die man who loved to play the accordion. On his deathbed he encouraged the then wayward Kevin to find a new path in life with music.

Ive always done what I thought was right. But Ive always had people along the way saying to me, What the f*** are you doing? What are you playing at? because I was always on my own road," says Kevin. "If I make a decision I go for it. Ive not had many friends over the years, Ive got to be honest. Ive always been a bit of a one-man band. But when my father said to me, You need to change your life and music is the way to do it and he was dying, he was on his deathbed, I had no real choice. I had to do it.

However, Kevin had a ten year prison sentence to serve. He took his fathers accordion with him and began teaching himself how to play. I lost everything  my wife, family, house, everything went but the one thing that didnt go was the accordion and music. Its been by my side ever since.

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Kevin was particularly enraptured by the music of Dervish, which prompted a lengthy letter to the band outlining exactly what the music meant to him. Shane says it nearly moved me to tears and I was very touched by it. When Kevin subsequently received the collection of Dervish CDs in the post he was equally moved.

It was like Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and the moment he opens the golden ticket. All the band members had signed the CDs and written words like freedom and keep going and I couldnt believe it, he says.

I was sitting in prison and somebody had taken the time to send these to me with a message. They didnt know me and they must get thousands of letters but they took the time to send me all those CDs and I thought theres a reason behind all of this. Id say it was my fathers spirit knowing how much of a f***er I was and he knew he had to get something down in front of me to make me change! he laughs.

"I thought, this is what Im here for, this is my reason

During his time in prison he continued to play the accordion and even organized a music class for the younger prisoners, lobbying groups for funding for musical instruments and eventually securing 10,000 from the Inside Out Trust. We had the youngsters singing and rapping about their lives and I just thought, this is what Im here for, this is my reason.

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Once I went to prison I was left with nothing material, nothing from the outside, just myself. I discovered a creative side I never knew I had, adds Kevin. This is the thing I try to express to people  it doesnt matter how dire life is, if youre involved with drugs or whatever you do, we all have a creative side we can tap into and it can give us so much. It will always be there for you when you need it and people dont realise that.

A decade after he left prison, Kevin is still playing music. He also runs his own successful tree surgeon business, providing apprenticeships for youngsters who have been in trouble in an effort to give them a trade and a chance in life. Im out of prison 10 years now and Ive had an amazing time. Ive got an amazing partner, beautiful children, bought a house, have a business. Everything is fine. Im really happy, he says. He hopes now that his story might inspire other people who might be pursuing the path he was before his stint inside.

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If theres a way of inspiring people, mentoring people, that would be for me. Its giving something back, he says. Bear in mind I was full on in the drugs game. Thats what I was doing. I was bringing misery, but the total opposite of that is music. Music brings joy. Its a big transformation  instead of bringing misery into the world, Im bringing joy into the world.

Shane in particular has been a huge inspiration for Kevin; I just said to Shane, you dont even know what you did for me. He transformed my way of thinking, along with a few other people, but that was the thing that did it. Im a 6 foot tall, flat-nosed, ex-cocaine smuggler. Youd never believe how my life has changed.

Kevin thanked Shane by designing a beautiful hand-made walnut accordion especially for him, which he had made with experts in Italy. The accordion has toured with Shane and features on Dervishs current album, The Great Irish Songbook. The respect Kevin has for Shane is mutual - the latter describes meeting Kevin as one of the best things that ever happened to me".

"Irish music touches people in a very deep and meaningful way

[Being in Dervish] has never been about doing the Glastonburys or the Rock in Rios or travelling on government jets or all the great things weve done in our careers. We have had a music career most musicians would die for but at the end of the day its the letters that you get from people, says Shane.

Irish music, weve always known, is very strong and it touches people in a very deep and meaningful way and that has been reflected over the past 30 years in the stories weve been told, some of them very difficult, about how music has had a positive effect on peoples lives. There were so many different people but for me one of the best things that has ever happened to me in my own life was receiving a letter 23 years ago from Kevin Barry White.

He adds, He completely inspired me, how positive his life was, how people can change their lives, how his own life had changed, and he went into great detail about his time in prison and some of it was very heavy and he had difficult times and his story just blew me away.

Im very proud of the bands music, that Kevin was introduced to the bands music, and that he learned to play in a prison. Its fantastic. Everybody has difficulties in their lives in different ways and everybody has different things that help them overcome that and their own therapeutic tools and certainly music is definitely one and Im very proud that I was a part of this whole thing.

Dervishs new album The Great Irish Songbook is out now and features Dervish performing with over a dozen luminaries across an eclectic range of genres including Imelda May, Brendan Gleeson, Steve Earle, Andrea Corr, David Gray, Vince Gill, Rhiannon Giddens, Kate Rusby, Abigail Washburn and others.
The UKs entry for this years Eurovision Song Contest has said arriving in Tel Aviv for the event has been daunting but magical.

Speaking after his second rehearsal at the Expo Tel Aviv venue, Hartlepool native Michael Rice said being at the centre of preparations had given him a burst of motivation.

The 21-year-old found success after winning the BBC One singing show All Together Now, where contestants sing to an audience of 100 music industry experts.

 @MichaelRiceOff, representing the United Kingdom, will perform in the second half of the Grand Final on Saturday 18 May.@BBCEurovision#DareToDream #Eurovision pic.twitter.com/tfEsMMOt4B  Eurovision Song Contest (@Eurovision) May 12, 2019

Asked how it felt to know he would be singing to a predicted global audience of 200 million come the grand final on Saturday, Rice replied: Its definitely different from 100 people.

I really thought 100 was a daunting number but this is so much more daunting.

Last years grand final in Lisbon, Portugal, was watched by an estimated 189 million worldwide.

It feels magical, he said of the venue in the north of Tel Aviv.

There is so much going on in the background and backstage. It makes you know that you are here to do this  that its your time to shine.

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The lightings incredible and the people who work at the Expo are just so nice, so helpful.

Being here for Eurovision is incredible. Its just amazing to be here and experience the big stage like this.

During the conference Rice took part in a hat draw to determine where he would perform in the grand final, pulling out a slip which said he would appear in the second half.

Expand Close Michael Rice performs on the the Graham Norton Show (Isabel Infantes/PA) / Facebook

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He also performed an a-capella rendition of Bigger Than Us, the song chosen for him during the BBCs national selection show Eurovision: You Decide earlier this year.

Rice hinted that he had four or five meetings with big record label people organised for when he returns to the UK.

He will be joined by his mother, Stephanie, and his grandmother the night before Saturdays grand final.

He said: My mums coming out and my nana is coming out next Friday. They are all so excited and proud of me. The towns going wild  the whole of the North East.

This is their first time actually coming to watch Eurovision. My mums a big fan and my nana watched it growing up in Ireland. Its going to be amazing seeing me on stage.
One of the boys on trial for murdering Ana Kriegel told a guidance counsellor of his theory about what might have happened to the 14-year-old schoolgirl.

It was May 16, 2018 - two days after Ana was reported missing by her parents. Boy B had been helping gardai with their investigation into her disappearance.

Trial: The scene of the killing at Glenwood House in Lucan. Photo: Colin Keegan, Collins Dublin

In a conversation with a guidance counsellor, Boy B said that perhaps the two men who had attacked Boy A in the park had either "got, taken, or kidnapped" her.

The counsellor had contacted Boy B to offer her support as she knew he was one of the last people to see Ana.

Boy B told her he had spoken to gardai three times and was "stressed" and "feeling the pressure" of being interviewed by them. Boy B called it an "interrogation".

During their conversation, the counsellor noticed Boy B 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 left before her and Boy A.

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Boy B also mentioned "more than once" that Boy A had scratches on his body and those injuries had come from an attack in the park.

She said Boy B was worried about Ana being missing and offered a theory about what had happened to Ana, saying that perhaps the men who attacked Boy A had "got, kidnapped or taken" her.

However, it appears Boy B was doubting Boy A's claim he had been assaulted.

The day after meeting with the counsellor, Boy B told a garda he believed that injuries which Boy A said he received in an assault by two older teens had been inflicted on him by Ana.

When Detective Garda Marcus Roantree met Boy B on May 17, 2018, Ana's body had just been found.

Gda Roantree said Boy B knew Ana's body had been found and told him he was nervous because he was one of the last people seen with her.

Boy B also told him that Boy A had spoken briefly about being assaulted.

Gda Roantree said Boy B told him he believed "Ana did this to him" as Boy A would have had "more marks on his face" if he'd been assaulted by two big guys.

Meanwhile, Boy A was feeling "nervous" and "anxious", another woman who counselled him said.

She was aware Boy A was one of the last people to be seen by Ana. She had also spoken to Boy A's mother, who told her he'd been beaten up in the park.

The witness said Boy A told her about his physical injuries from the assault and the pain he was in.

Ana's name was mentioned during her conversation with Boy A, the witness said. Boy A told her he knew Ana but wasn't her friend. He also said she had asked him out but he'd told her he wasn't interested. She then gave him a look and stormed off.

The witness said she spoke to Boy A a second time, and he told her he was going to complete an evofit, or computer-generated image, of his attackers, with gardai. He also told her he was having trouble sleeping as he was in pain and had "no appetite".

The two youths, aged 13 at the time, have pleaded not guilty before the Central Criminal Court to murdering Ana Kriegel (14) at Glenwood House, Laraghcon, Clonee Road in Lucan on May 14 last year.

Boy A has also denied a charge of aggravated sexual assault. The jury heard this week about gardai finding Ana's body. By Thursday, May 17, Ana had been missing nearly 72 hours.

During that period, gardai from several stations had been joined by more than 50 members of the Civil Defence to search for her. Gardai had also searched local bodies of water and part of the River Liffey.

Sergeant Declan Birchall was in charge of the Divisional Search Team and on the Thursday his team was tasked to search the park where Ana was last seen for any signs of her.

The team of four met up at noon.

There were a number of derelict buildings in the area, and it was planned to search them. The team searched along hedgerows and roadsides before reaching Glenwood House.

Sgt Birchall was searching an outbuilding when a colleague in the main house shouted "find", the signal he may have found something.

Sgt Birchall went into Glenwood House through the back door and into a room at the front of the house.

The house was in very poor condition, and some of the rooms were in a dangerous condition. There was a lot of debris, as well as ash, mounds of rubbish and drink cans.

It was Garda Sean White who found Ana's body.

He was in a room at the front of the house when he saw what he thought was either a mannequin or "something terrible".

The lighting was poor and the room was dark. Gda White took in his surroundings and the smell of dried blood, and realised what he had found. He stepped back, as is procedure, and called out to Sgt Birchall.

Sgt Birchall walked into the room and saw the "body of a female lying on the floor". She was naked except for a pair of black socks.

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 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.

The house was then sealed off and the garda technical team arrived to carry out an examination.

First into the building was Detective Garda Eoin Conway, whose job it was to photograph the scene.

He gave evidence of photographing a concrete block and a piece of timber, both with blood stains, in the room where Ana's body was found. The items were produced in court and shown to the jury by his colleague Detective Garda Seamus O'Donnell.

Both were bloodstained, the garda said, and a nail was protruding from one end of the timber.

There was "a lot of rubbish in the room" and Gda O'Donnell catalogued anything he thought might be of probative value, including an old condom, a condom wrapper, a length of white backing tape, two false nails and an earring.

He said he believed Ana had suffered a "violent assault". 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 broken false nails, ripped clothing and a bloody half concrete block, all of which were found at the scene.

Gda O'Donnell also 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 jury then 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.

Before Prof Cassidy gave her evidence, Mr Justice Paul McDermott told the jury he had agreed to an application to excuse the two boys from court during her testimony.

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 examination showed Ana had suffered severe and extensive injuries, which were mostly confined to the head and neck area.

Prof Cassidy also said there was evidence of penetration or attempted penetration of the vagina.

The pathologist identified more than 50 areas of injury on the teenager's head and body.

There were four separate impacts to Ana's head. They could have been caused by a heavy object with a small striking surface, or the corners of a larger object, but she couldn't say.

There was extensive haemorrhaging to the soft tissue at the neck and Ana would have asphyxiated due to compression of the neck.

In cross-examination, Prof Cassidy agreed Ana suffered a "very horrific death".

The trial continues this Tuesday.
Night-vision cameras, drones and motion sensors are helping local authorities in their ongoing battle with illegal dumpers and fly-tippers.

Advances in technology have led to increased success in targeting those breaking the litter and waste disposal laws.

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"Small, covert CCTV cameras have been very useful in detecting those responsible," said a spokesman for Wicklow County Council.

"In the past, cameras were the size of suitcases but the new covert cameras are just the size of a tin of beans. In remote areas, the cameras are movement activated which helps conserve their power sources."

Night vision is also a valuable tool in keeping watch for night-time dumpers.

Wicklow County Council has battled for a long time against illegal dumping in remote rural areas but the incidences have been steadily brought down in recent years.

Drones are increasingly used for surveillance and checking for new incidences of illegal dumping.

Wicklow officials prosecuted 42 incidences of illegal dumping last year, while 350 litter fines were levied on people for offences such as illegally disposing of small bags of domestic garbage. No householder or business person should hand over waste to anybody who is not authorised, he said.

In the past week, 600 tonnes of industrial and domestic waste was found illegally dumped in two Coillte-owned forests in Co Meath. It will cost at least 100,000 to remove it.

A spokeswoman for Dublin City Council said: "The most common offences... are the dumping of domestic waste on streets, in laneways and on green spaces in the city.

"Complaints are received from all areas of the city and range from the reporting of small incidents of domestic waste dumping to issues concerning fly tipping."

In 2018, the city council issued 991 fines of which 96 were successfully appealed and 454 were paid. Successful prosecutions were secured in 26 cases before the District Court, with fines ranging from 300 to 1,500, plus costs applied to those found guilty of offences. A further 17 cases were settled out of court.

"Actions taken by the city council to prevent, deter and carry out enforcement in relation to illegal dumping include the use of CCTV, door-to-door compliance inspections, litter patrols, investigations of complaints received and investigations of dumped waste by enforcement staff," the spokeswoman said.

The council has 13 litter wardens carrying out investigations into illegal dumping and littering offences.

A spokeswoman for the Environmental Protection Agency said the number of waste enforcements initiated by 31 local authorities rose from 11,900 in 2016 to 13,300 the following year. In the same period, the number of waste prosecutions nationally rose from 370 to more than 630.
When the time comes to die, some 80pc of people say they would prefer to die at home. Yet only 25pc of Irish people achieve this.

"People need to start talking with their families about death and dying," said Rebecca Lloyd of the Irish Hospice Foundation.

Too many people fail to make clear their wishes about their deaths, which creates problems for loved ones who can make the wrong choices, she said.

Distressed family members should not end up being obliged to discuss important matters around a deathbed or have disagreements in a hospital corridor, she said.

She led an event entitled 'Death chat, cake and a cuppa' that brought people together in Dublin last Thursday to break the taboo about talking about death.

"What we are trying to do is take away the fear and the anxiety, which is natural and normal, that we have around death," she said.

The event at St James's Hospital was run by the foundation in partnership with the Age and Opportunity Bealtaine Festival art initiative. Participants were invited to draw pictures portraying their feelings about death to help open discussions.

"Older people should take the lead early on in their families in talking about their preferences in all matters around their own deaths," Ms Lloyd said.

In ways, it is a bit like that important talk about sex that some parents dread having with their teenage offspring, she said. A survey of 3,000 people revealed people find it difficult to talk about their deaths and often avoid it. But if a person expresses clearly their preferences around their care in their final days and their wishes for their funerals and other matters, their wishes can be honoured. It will prevent stress and disagreements among loved ones.

Ms Lloyd, public engagement officer for the foundation, said a very useful tool is a booklet entitled Think Ahead in which people can write answers to all the relevant questions in the event of them becoming gravely ill and preferences regarding their eventual deaths. Important information can be written down and kept for medics around whether or not the person wants life-sustaining treatments and resuscitation.

The booklet has blank spaces in each section for the person to write their answers on healthcare preferences, legal and financial information, funeral liturgy wishes, and matters like the location of the deeds of the house, the will, and insurance policies, who will mind the dog, and where the keys are kept.

The Think Ahead booklet is available from the Irish Hospice Foundation.

In nursing homes, if a resident asks 'Am I going to die?' they should not be told 'don't be daft' as it shuts down the conversation. She said it is best to tell people the truth when they ask if they are going to die as it enables them to make preparations and it will not deprive them of the chance to say 'I love you' or 'I forgive you' to loved ones.

About 20pc of the population die in nursing homes, 6pc die in hospices, and 50pc die in hospitals. Of those who die at home, many have the care of a palliative nurse.

According to Ms Lloyd, part of living in a community involved helping older people to remain longer in that community by offering to help with bins, mowing grass, and shopping, etc.

'Dying Is Everyone's Business' will be the theme of the Irish Hospice Foundation's bi-annual conference in Dublin Castle on October 24. Tickets: www.hospicefoundation.ie
Left to Right: Lloyd Fikiasi  Legal Adviser, Office of the Maritime Regulator; Kitack Lim  IMO Secretary General; Laurent Parente  Ambassador of Vanuatu to the IMO; John Markmon Batie  Commissioner of Maritime Affairs and Harris Clement  Political Advisor, Ministry of Transport
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Auditors warned of urgent need for "refurbishment and modernisation" in Irish mortuaries 10 years ago, but several have still not been upgraded.

As a third family came forward with concerns about the degrading conditions at the mortuary at Waterford University Hospital last week, it has emerged that "hygiene" and "health and safety" issues were singled out as problems in an audit in 2009.

The problems came back to haunt the mortuary when four consultant pathologists complained of bodies on trolleys, due to a lack of space, often leaking bodily fluids, with relatives unable to view the remains as a result of gaseous decomposition. The scandal came to public attention, only when the consultants' internal letter to management was released under a Freedom of Information request.

Waterford University Hospital has said it had no evidence to substantiate the pathologists' claims and its handling of the controversy is now likely to be raised within the hospital group's board when it meets later this month.

Margaret Murphy, the patient advocate on the South/South West Hospital Group board, told the Sunday Independent she was unaware of the issues at Waterford hospital mortuary. "I think boards, in general, are in a difficult situation because information is fed to boards and our capacity to interrogate that information... is something that needs to be looked into. As a board member I would be disturbed that I learned such a thing from the media."

The State pathology service confirmed last week that it will no longer conduct post-mortems at the mortuary, sources say because of possible "contamination of evidence".

Three families have now contacted local representatives with concerns about their loved ones. The latest is a Kilkenny family who told local TD Bobby Aylward that their relative returned from the mortuary in a closed casket against the family's wishes and without explanation. Mr Aylward raised the family's concerns in the Dail last week. The Sinn Fein TD, David Cullinane, said two families contacted him and made complaints.

An audit of post-mortem practices in 2009, by the Health Service Executive, highlighted the dilapidated state of hospital mortuaries in several counties. Auditors singled out Waterford's mortuary for its "poor hygiene, poor health and safety" among other issues.
A former president of the Irish Medical Organisation has accused his profession of "groupthink" in its "knee-jerk reaction" to a High Court judgment that sets a new medical standard of "absolute confidence" for reading cervical smear slides.

Dr Asam Ishtiaq, a consultant surgeon, said the profession needs to "take a breath to pause and to reflect" on the judgment in the Ruth Morrissey case which convulsed the medical profession last week.

Mrs Morrissey, who is terminally ill, was awarded 2.1m after she sued the HSE, Quest Diagnostics and Medlab Pathology over the misreading of her cervical smear tests.

Mr Justice Kevin Cross's landmark judgment said screeners must have "absolute confidence" rather than judge slides on the "balance of probabilities" - a standard which has applied in the UK since 1999 - and if in doubt on whether a slide could be classed as normal it should be sent for further checks.

Doctors last week rushed to question the implications of his judgment with statements issued by the Institute of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, the Royal College of Physicians in Ireland and the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland.

Doctors warned that uncertainty is inherent in screening but the judgment could lead to increased litigation which could jeopardise cancer screening programmes.

Senior HSE staff discussed halting the State's screening programmes at a meeting in the wake of the judgment. Mr Justice Cross criticised some of the commentary in the media as "hysterical".

Dr Ishtiaq criticised "this total knee-jerk reaction that all our screening programmes will come to a halt".

He said: "It's called groupthink. It is called staying in their comfort zone. There is a cultural problem we have here and I am calling it out."

He said Mr Justice Cross's judgment does not call for certainty in detecting cancer on slides but for confidence that a slide is normal. It requires cyto-technicians who read slides to be "absolutely confident" when deciding whether a cell "looks normal". He said: "Finding something cancerous is not their job, their training or their responsibility."

"Mr Justice Cross's judgment is a timely reminder for the medical profession that we can no longer indulge ourselves in delusions of delivering quality screening services while not objectively measuring it and striving to improve it constantly," he said.

Mairead Enright, a senior lecturer at Birmingham Law School, suggested the judgment does not mean screeners must be 100pc certain on every call or that false negative results equate to negligence.

Quest Diagnostics is appealing the judgment to the Supreme Court, while the two other defendants are considering doing so.

Meanwhile, the 221 women impacted by the CervicalCheck scandal received invitations last week to apply for ex-gratia payments in line with settlements for "nervous infliction of emotional suffering" and psychological injury. The payment will be the same for all women who qualify and legal sources say it is likely to mirror the 10,000 awarded to Mrs Morrissey.
Barred: Controversial US Pastor Steven Anderson. reacts as he leaves the Botswana Department of immigration after being issued a deportation order by Botswana authorities, on September 20, 2016, in Gaborone. Photo: STRINGER/AFP/Getty Images

A Holocaust-denying American preacher who promotes anti-LGBT rhetoric has been barred from speaking in Ireland later this month.

Justice Minister Charlie Flanagan has taken the rare step to prevent Pastor Steven Anderson from entering the country.

Mr Anderson has been the subject of petitions calling for him not to be allowed stage an event in Dublin.

He is due to travel to the capital on May 26 and has estimated that 150 people would attend a planned sermon.

However, Mr Flanagan told the Irish Independent: I have signed the exclusion order under my executive powers in the interests of public policy.

The minister broke with the normal protocol of not commenting on individual cases to confirm the order  but he declined to comment further

It is understood to be the first time Mr Flanagan has used the power available to him under the Immigration Act 1999.

The ban on Mr Anderson takes immediate effect.

More than 14,000 people had signed a petition set up by Changing Attitude Ireland, a liberal Church of Ireland group sympathetic to gay people. They claimed Mr Anderson has advocated exterminating LGBT+ people.

He previously posted an online video in which he justified the murders of 49 people in the Pulse nightclub massacre in Orlando in 2016.

The Pastor also claimed to pray at night that former US president Barack Obama would die.

It was expected that his trip to Dublin would involve commentary on the outcome of the referendum to repeal the Eighth Amendment.

Mr Anderson had already been banned from the 26 EU countries in the Schengen Area, which does not include Ireland.

The 38-year-old recently posted a video in which he said his European tour was curtailed but he stilled planned to fly directly to Dublin.

So far so good on Dublin. It is still on, he said. These events are still going on; the soul-winning and the preaching are still going on. Its just yours truly who wont be there, except I am planning to be there in Ireland.

I am planning to fly directly to Dublin. So, unless they ban me, Im still going to be there in Dublin, he said.

Mr Anderson called for UK followers to travel to the event here. They were to meet at a McDonalds restaurant near the airport from where they would be transported to a secret venue for the seminar.

Mr Anderson is a member of the Faithful Word Baptist Church which is not affiliated to any Christian denominations. The churchs website says his lectures have been translated into 115 languages.

We are an old-fashioned, independent, fundamental, King James Bible only, soul-winning Baptist church, it says.

Mr Anderson has 10 children and set up the church on Christmas Day, 2005.

His biography states that he holds no college degree but has well over 140 chapters of the Bible memorized word-for-word, including approximately half of the New Testament.
Outgoing Mayors have denied a breach in protocol of Mayoral chain use in local election posters.

Voters raised concern that Mayors may be breaching council protocol by wearing the Mayoral chain in their local election posters.

Lord Mayor Nial Ring, who is standing as an Independent candidate for the forthcoming local elections, used his official Lord Mayor photographs in his posters, which depict him wearing the chain. He denied any breach in protocol.

Of course I had that checked out, its absolutely not a breach of any protocol, he told Independent.ie.

Id be very conscious of rules and regulations and protocols and SIPO and all those sort of things, I wouldnt be doing anything unless I had it checked out thoroughly first, he added.

Marino voter and a former Fine Gael Seanad 2016 candidate Daniel Sullivan criticised the mayor for using the chains in his posters, calling it bizzare.

I dont remember previous Mayors having chains on in posters, he said.

There are five mayors between each election and one would think that all previous officeholders going back years would be using posters with themselves in the Mayoral chains or none could.

Its fine in literature in leaflets but I dont think they should be used in posters. I just think its a bit farcical, he explained.

The use of Mayoral Chains is outlined in a report to the Protocol Committee in Dublin City Council (DCC). It states that the Lord Mayors Chain is only worn at important Civic events including the election of the Lord Mayor, Civic Receptions and Freedom of the City ceremonies.

It adds that a 9ct gold replica is worn by the Lord Mayor on a day to day basis.

A Lord Mayors Information Pack 2018 states that because of its great antiquity and historic importance, the Lord Mayors Great Chain is now only worn on the following occasions: the Inauguration of the Lord Mayor of Dublin, the conferring of the Honorary Freedom of the City of Dublin and an occasion of outstanding civic importance.

The pack adds that a replica of the Great Chain is used for all other civic functions, which is identical in design to the original.

Local election Fina Gael candidate Ray McAdam claimed that wearing the chain in election posters is a slight disrespect for the office.

I thought it would have been a breach of protocol to wear the chain. If a current mayor had to attend events and the mayor was also candidate then they would have had to wear the chain and that has to happen, he explained.

But wearing the chain for your own personal reasons, I wouldnt do it. No one has raised the issue that the outgoing Lord Mayor has been wearing the chain in his election posters, may be more of an issue within the political bubble, he added.

In response to request for comment by Independent.ie, a spokesperson for DCC stated: "The Lord Mayors Chain is a symbol of the Office of the Lord Mayor of Dublin and is worn by the Lord Mayor when carrying out their role as Lord Mayor."

Dublin City Council has no say in the content of any election poster as long as it meets the requirement of the Litter Acts.

Anthony Lavin, Mayor of Fingal confirmed to Independent.ie that he is wearing the Chains of Office in his election posters. He stated that he was not aware of any protocols in place in Fingal County Council in regards to wearing the chain in election posters.

A spokesperson for Fingal County Council stated that "the Mayoral Chain is used as a function of the Office of the Mayor".

The Standards in Public Office Commission, or SIPO, does not have any rules or regulations in place which oversee the content of political advertising.
The body of a man in his 30s has been discovered following an apparent paragliding accident.

The man is believed to have been on the Wicklow Mountains yesterday, Saturday May 11th, and failed to return to his North Dublin home.

Gardai and the Wicklow Mountain Rescue commenced a search together with the Irish Coast Guard Rescue.

At approximately 8am this morning, the mans body was discovered in a field at Ballinacor Estate, Wicklow ,together with wreckage.

The body will be removed this morning for a post mortem examination. The Air Accident Investigation Unit (AAIU) have been informed and will commence an investigation.
A male teenager presented himself to gardai investigating the fatal stabbing of an 18-year-old youth in a south Dublin park.

The teenager turned up at a Dublin garda station yesterday afternoon and gardai said later they were following "a definite line of inquiry".

Azzam Raguragui (18) was stabbed at Finsbury Park in Churchtown at 8.10pm last Friday.

He was treated at the scene by paramedics before being rushed to St James's Hospital where he was later pronounced dead.

Gardai said they were not considering any racial motive in the attack. They are continuing to seek witnesses.

The teenager, who lived at Hillview Grove, Dundrum, was described as "kind, courteous and respectful", and a big GAA fan.

Residents of the Finsbury Park area said they had made a number of complaints about anti-social behaviour to gardai in recent weeks concerning groups of rowdy teenage boys at night at a green space that is not overlooked by homes.

Gardai have spoken to a number of young people who were present in the area when the incident happened. The victim, known as 'Azzy' to his friends, was previously a student at De La Salle College in Churchtown and wanted to become an entrepreneur.

Azzam and his family were members of the local Muslim community. His father Abderrahmane, who is originally from Morocco, moved to Ireland in 2001.

Mr Raguragui, his wife, and their two remaining children were being comforted at their home in Dundrum last night. Mr Raguragui is a nursing home care worker who in a media interview a few years ago described Ireland as a friendly and warm place with greater tolerance than other countries.

Dr Ali Selim of the Islamic Cultural Centre of Ireland knew Azzam personally and described him as very promising young man who was always decent and polite.

What happened [on Friday] shocked all the community here. That guy killed him on a Friday, which is a very special day for Muslims. He also killed him in the month of Ramadan, where Muslims observe fasting, so he killed him while fasting.

It is terrible. All the community stayed up last night. Most of us could not sleep because it was such a shocking incident. To see a very nice guy of this age stabbed to death in Dundrum, I cant believe it. If this is happening in Dundrum where is safe?

Azzams family visited Clonskeagh Mosque last night, where members of the Muslim community offered condolences.

Dr Selim said Azzam was studying for his Leaving Cert and had previously spoken about becoming a doctor. He was a student at De La Salle School in Churchtown and was a keen GAA and football fan.

I would like to offer my sincere condolences to his parents. We all share the shock and our thoughts and prayers are with them, he said.

Its a terrible that incident that is happening at what should be the best time of year for us. In two weeks we would be celebrating.

The Irish Sufi Foundation stated: "Azzam was a kind, courteous, respectful and cheerful young man who always had a smile on his face. He was bright, talented and ambitious with aspirations to become a successful entrepreneur. Such a tragic loss. A wonderful young life full of potential cut short."

Jameel Mutoola, imam of the Sufi mosque in Dublin's Talbot Street, told the Sunday Independent prayers were being said in all Dublin mosques for the victim and his family.

Local Fianna Fail councillor Shay Brennan said the death was "utterly tragic".
Taoiseach Leo Varadkar's 3bn tax cut election pledge is under threat due to the cost of extending high-speed broadband throughout the country, the Sunday Independent can reveal.

Mr Varadkar has promised to significantly increase the entry point for the top rate of tax to 50,000 within the next five years, which would save workers up to 3,000 a year.

However, the Taoiseach is now being warned that he "can't just print money" to fulfil his tax cut commitments while also spending a further 3bn of the State's cash on the controversial National Broadband Plan.

The warning comes as the Sunday Independent reveals that the Government spent an extraordinary 23.6m on consultancy firms during the tendering process for the State broadband project.

Meanwhile, it has also emerged that Agriculture Minister Michael Creed has accidentally revealed that Granahan McCourt, the company implementing the National Broadband Plan, is investing 200m of its own financial resources upfront into the 3bn project.

Speaking on Clare FM last Wednesday, Mr Creed said: "The State is providing a subsidy to Granahan McCourt who I think are putting in something shy of the region of 200m."

The Department of Communications said it could not comment on Mr Creed's comments as the "level of initial equity investment and working capital is commercially sensitive".

However, the Sunday Independent has independently established that Granahan McCourt's investment is only 200m.

However, writing in the Sunday Independent today, the chairman of National Broadband Ireland, David C McCourt, maintained his company would invest 2.5bn in to the project over the next 25 years.

Yesterday, Fianna Fail's Willie O'Dea said it "beggars belief" that there is "so little commitment on the part of the investor compared to what the taxpayer in putting in".

Department of Public Expenditure and Reform secretary general Robert Watt raised serious concerns about the level of investment by the telecommunications firm headed by Mr McCourt in highly critical correspondence released on the day the broadband plan was announced.

However, the scale of private investment was redacted in the official Government documents.

Mr Watt said the telecommunications firm was "only risking" an undisclosed figure, now confirmed to be 200m, of their own funds which the company will have potentially recouped by 2028.

"In these circumstances, I would question whether the future risk associated with guaranteeing service provisions over 25 years is genuinely transferred to the private operator or, in reality, actually retained by the Exchequer," he said.

In observations on the final plan, Mr Watt also issued a stark warning about the impact the broadband plan would have on other State infrastructure projects.

He said there were serious implications for projects committed to under the Government's much-hyped Project Ireland 2040 national development plan, including the construction of 18 primary schools, 10 primary care centres and 2,000 social houses.

When questioned on his secretary general's comments, Minister for Finance Paschal Donohoe insisted he would find the additional revenue for the projects.

However, economists and Opposition politicians believe the Government's figures do not add up and insist there is not enough money in the State's coffers to pay for Mr Varadkar's election promises while also meeting the demands of the broadband plan and other projects, as well as the spiralling cost of the National Children's Hospital.

Economist Colm McCarthy said the Government has "completely lost control" of public spending.

"They have ignored all warnings from the Central Bank and the Fiscal Advisory Council about public spending. It's all well and good spending taxpayers' money when the sun is shining but once things turn bad, taxes are the first thing the Government looks at," Mr McCarthy told the Sunday Independent.

He also questioned how the Taoiseach could see through his promise to raise the entry point for the higher rate of tax to 50,000 in five years while also splurging the public's finances on an increasing number of State projects. "The funding has to come from somewhere and the Government can't just print money so something will have to give," Mr McCarthy added.

Fianna Fail's public expenditure and reform spokesperson Barry Cowen also said the Government's spending and tax cut figures "don't add up".

"If they were being straight and honest with people, they wouldn't be saying they can give them 3bn high speed broadband and 3bn tax cuts in five years," Mr Cowen told the Sunday Independent.

Mr McCarthy also raised concerns about a potential shortage of construction workers to build new homes because of all the Government's infrastructure projects.

"If you divert 2,000 construction workers to the National Broadband Plan, then they are not building all the new homes the country desperately needs," he said.

"Builders are already complaining about the shortage of construction workers and these projects are going to significantly add to the problem," he said.

A senior Department of Finance source said the Taoiseach's tax plan is not at risk due to spending on infrastructure projects but rather from future increases in current spending such as increasing public sector pay.

"Governments always get into difficult over losing control of recurring spending rather than one-off capital projects," the source said. The source said the Department's "golden rule" was to keep current spending below the level of economic growth.

Separately, it has emerged the Government spent 23.6m on consultancy and advisory firms throughout the National Broadband Plan tendering process.

This included 11.6m paid to KPMG for "financial and procurement advisory services/specialist personnel to support" and 5.4m paid to Analysys Mason for "technical advisory services". A further 5.4m was paid to Mason Hayes & Curran for legal advice and PwC were paid 2.4m for "economic and strategy advisory services".

The estimated total cost of the project is around 5bn over 25 years and the State will make a maximum contribution of 2.6bn plus Vat. National Broadband Ireland (NBI), the entity overseeing the plan, carries all the risk of providing the 2.4bn. If commercial revenues do not transpire, for whatever reason, the company is required to make up any shortfall with its own funds.
Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has said insurance premiums will fall if damages for soft-tissue injuries, such as whiplash, are brought into line with other jurisdictions.

He said the issue was costing society and it was "hard to believe" there was any justification for the massive difference between the size of awards in Ireland and those in England and Wales.

Speaking at the Law Society's annual dinner last Friday, Mr Varadkar pointed to findings made by the Personal Injuries Commission (PIC) last year.

A benchmarking exercise by the commission found the level of general damages in this jurisdiction for soft-tissue injuries was 4.4 times higher than in England and Wales.

"Whether it affects premiums or not, it is hard to believe there is any justification for such a wide differential," he said.

"And, of course, it has societal costs. Higher insurance premiums, businesses that have to close, jobs and livelihoods that are lost, amenities that are no longer available, and, perhaps most worryingly, changes to the way doctors and medical scientists carry out their practice, to the detriment of patients and society."

The Government remains under sustained pressure to reform insurance costs. Last week, ISME, the body representing small and medium businesses, warned some firms faced an existential crisis due to high premiums.

Rathbeggan Lakes Family Adventure Park in Co Meath announced it would be closing after its public liability insurance bill went up more than 100pc this year to 400,000.

Mr Varadkar said the best way of dealing with the discrepancies between soft-tissue awards here and in England and Wales was a Judicial Council. Last September, the PIC recommended the setting up of a council so that judges could recalibrate guideline injury award levels.

The amendment to allow this has yet to be finalised, but the junior minister responsible for insurance reform, Michael D'Arcy, said legislation could be passed by mid-July.

"I think that if we can bring the level of damages awarded in this country for soft-tissue injuries and other injuries more in line with those awarded in other jurisdictions, there is going to be a reduction in premiums," said Mr Varadkar.

Mr Varadkar told the Law Society event that insurers have a major role to play in the reforms. "We know that those companies make very substantial profits," he said.

The Taoiseach also gave an assurance judges would still have discretion and the separation of powers would be respected.

The Law Society disputes the link between award levels and the cost of insurance. Its president, Patrick Dorgan, questioned why the focus of attention was on the level of personal injury awards in Ireland in comparison to England and Wales.

"The true focus of attention, we believe, should be on the levels of premium in the two jurisdictions," he said.

"We produced to Minister D'Arcy some expert research to demonstrate that when like is compared with like, insurance premiums of all cases are actually higher in the UK than they are in Ireland.

"We believe this demonstrates that the assumed direct link between award levels and the cost of insurance is highly questionable."

Mr Dorgan said it was "of vital importance" that if there is to be a reduction in awards, the Government must also insist on a "cast-iron" guarantee premiums will reduce.
(CNN)  Baby No. 4 has arrived for Kim Kardashian West and Kanye West.

The reality star/mogul tweeted Friday about the 6-pound, 9-ounces arrival.

"He's here and he's perfect!" she wrote.

The pair on Thursday welcomed the baby via surrogate, and he joins sisters North, 5, and Chicago 1, and brother Saint, 3.

On "The Ellen Show" Thursday with her nieces and nephews, Kourtney Kardashian said her sister was supposed to join her but couldn't because the surrogate was in labor.

Their mother and family matriarch, Kris Jenner, appeared surprised and said she was not aware labor had started.

The baby's name is sure to be of interest.

In January, Kardashian West said she had been Googling Armenian boys' names in honor of her family's heritage but hadn't found anything.

This story was first published on CNN.com "Kim Kardashian West and Kanye West welcome fourth child"
Minister of State for Mental Health Jim Daly has said the Government should follow in the footsteps of the United Kingdom and introduce strict age verification laws for pornographic websites.

Mr Daly said he fully supports the introduction of so-called 'porn block' legislation which requires users of adult websites to verify their age.

The minister said the UK laws were similar to proposals he put forward to introduce online verification codes for social media websites.

"The recent bill passed in the UK that now requires all individuals who want to access pornography websites to verify they are over the age of 18 proves the online verification codes proposal can work and is worth progressing," said Mr Daly.

"I would ascertain this new law should not be restricted to pornography only - all inappropriate access should be captured," he added.

The UK laws, which come into effect on July 15, will see users asked to produce passports, driving licences or what are being described as 'porn passes' when seeking to access adult websites.

Porn passes will be sold in shops to people who can prove they are old enough to access adult website.

The aim of the age verification laws is to deter young people from accessing pornography images which are impacting on mental health.

The legislation has faced criticism from civil rights groups who have said the new laws could lead to a massive data breach.

There are also fears the Digital Economy Act will force people underground or on to the dark web where they could access illegal content.

Mr Daly faced criticism when he suggested introducing personal codes linked to a person's PPS number for accessing social media websites.

The tech firms would not have access to any personal details such as addresses or dates of birth but the unique codes would prevent predators and bullies from hiding behind a cloak of anonymity online. The codes would also stop children accessing websites with age limits.

Children must be older than 13 to log on to social media websites in Ireland.

"The average age of owning a smartphone is now as low as just nine years old," Mr Daly said. "We really need to think long and hard about how we are failing our children by handing over to them full and unfettered access to viewing or purchasing highly inappropriate products that could damage their mental well- being irreversibly."

Mr Daly said society "will live to regret" it if age controls are not introduced for certain websites.

"We might as well just rescind all of our current laws that prevent minors from viewing adult content at home or in the cinema, from visiting adult-themed shops, or purchasing adult products such as alcohol and tobacco, as we give it all to children on a plate in the form of an unrestricted and unlimited access to the world-wide web," he said.

Mr Daly recently discussed his proposal to introduce online verification codes with Data Protection Commissioner Helen Dixon.

"The commissioner did not raise data protection issues with my proposal at the meeting," he said.

"She did indeed point out she felt it would be a challenge to encompass all internet users under the proposed law, owing to the global nature of the world-wide web."
Following the 'yes' vote to repeal the Eighth and the 'yes' vote to allow gay marriage, it feels like Ireland is on the crest of a liberal wave. It is likely there will be yet another 'yes' vote in the forthcoming referendum on the legal framework of divorce.

There is a general feeling that we Irish have finally rid ourselves of the tag of being a lowly, priest-ridden backwater, and we are basking in the glow of being perceived internationally as progressive and forward-thinking.

But does easing restrictions on divorce wait times, as proposed in the referendum, mean that we are forward-thinking, progressive liberals? Or does it mean that we are simply following a mindless culture that encourages quick decisions that stem from an immature desire for instant gratification?

The reasoning is that we don't have to wait years if we wish to get married so, in many ways it doesn't make sense that we have to wait years before we can divorce.

It is arguable that the current enforced waiting time of four years just creates a messy limbo at the very time when clarity and certainty is needed. It leaves divorcing parents without the means to provide a concise explanation to their children's questions.

When a client comes into my clinic needing support as they go through the divorce process, they usually just want to get the whole thing out of their hair and move on as fast as they can, but this is not necessarily the most helpful or therapeutic route to take. Indeed, I often recommend the client watches Olly Lambert's film Mum and Dad are Splitting Up as a way to encourage further thought and analysis about how to best manage the situation.

Although putting in arbitrary time lags seems counter-intuitive, the longer I practice psychotherapy, the more I appreciate the need to take time for thoughtful contemplation and reflection when we face life-changing situations.

Dismantling process

The truth is that divorce is inherently messy. It is difficult and complicated to dismantle a life that was set up to be permanent. It can be even harder when one person wants out while the other wishes to try again, and when children are involved, the couple are pretty much bound together for life - whether they like it or not - and so the dismantling process is even more complex.

Although an enforced period of reflection might seem like a heavy-handed attempt to try to encourage deeper thought, there is significant value found in slowing down when you wish to speed up. But perhaps a more practical way to produce the same results would be to take the lead from an interesting new innovation that Denmark has brought in to manage the messy business of divorce.

This new Danish law, brought in last month, requires parents with children under the age of 18 to take an online 'divorce course' designed to help the family to adapt to the new situation before they are allowed to legally end the marriage.

The fundamentals of every family breakdown could be covered in a divorce course, such as communication challenges, potential conflict areas and specific issues such as how to manage children's schooling, holidays, future birthday parties and extended families.

Even the logistics of Christmas could be addressed, as it can often be a disaster zone for divorced parents.

The Danish 'divorce course' seems to be akin to the marriage courses that many Irish people complain about having to take when wishing to marry in church, and then later generally remark were surprisingly helpful.

Currently, many liberal countries make it very easy to get a divorce - in Denmark it costs approximately 60 and it can be signed, sealed and delivered within a few months.

Although this might seem attractive to anyone who is withering under the compulsory four-year restriction in Ireland, it must be noted that Denmark has the highest divorce rate in Europe and, with nearly half of all Danish marriages failing, this doesn't seem like such a great result for anyone.

The truth is that divorce almost always hurts - especially when children are involved.

It has been said before that abortion is "always wrong but sometimes necessary" and the same could perhaps be applied to divorce.

No one gets married with a view to divorcing but life can go wrong, things fall apart and the best laid plans do go awry. It's not helpful to pretend this doesn't happen - but nor is it helpful to pretend that divorce isn't painful.

It is much braver - and more therapeutic - to confront the issue head on. Divorce might hurt the children, but then a lot of things in life will hurt our children - and staying together can cause even more hurt. Perhaps the most productive approach is to undergo a divorce course that requires the involved parents to resolve their communication challenges and come to some sort of agreement about the future before they legally dissolve the marriage.

If the parents haven't found a way to communicate and cannot come to any discernible agreement, then the children often get profoundly hurt. If the couple can communicate well, then the kids have a better chance of emerging from the break-up still bruised but not broken.

The most powerful gift you can provide for your children is your own behaviour - even when your ex-partner is incredibly difficult to deal with. We can't hope to protect our children from all the ways that they can get hurt, but we can provide them with an approach that will help them deal with their problems as they happen.

And so what many divorcing couples need is not a quickie divorce nor an artificially lengthy divorce, but a thoughtful and reflective divorce process that encourages people to learn from their experiences and plan ahead so that everyone can move on with a deeper understanding of what has happened to their family unit. This isn't at all easy - but it is entirely necessary.

Stella O'Malley is a psychotherapist, writer and public speaker. Her new book, 'Fragile: Why We Feel More Stressed, Anxious and Overwhelmed Than Ever, and What We Can Do About It', is out now
This June bank holiday, the roads of Co Laois, Co Carlow and Co Kildare will be adorned by some of the most spectacular classic cars in celebration of the Gordon Bennett Irish Classic Car Run.

The road run takes place every June to commemorate the original 1903 race which shaped modern motorsport by being the first to use laps of a closed circuit and was without fatality.

It was a precursor to the modern grand prix.

This year's launch of the Gordon Bennett Irish Classic Car Run was held at the Garda Headquarters in the Phoenix Park, where it was attended by representatives of the Road Safety Authority and An Garda Siochana.

The event has an unblemished road safety record, linking it to the proud record of the 1903 race, "the race that saved motorsport".

This record set the 1903 race apart from other early races, whose hosts ran it on open roads, resulting in multiple fatalities.

Adding glamour to the launch was iconic Irish motor racing star Rosemary Smith, who arrived in a stunning red 1965 Sunbeam - but she was quick to point out she still drives one of her original Hillman Imps, which brought her so much success on the rally circuit.

The Gordon Bennett Irish Classic Car Run is a fun weekend which attracts growing numbers of Irish and overseas visitors every year, a popularity which the organisers attribute to its amazing heritage and the success of the very first race in 1903, which attracted more than 150,000 spectators, a record which still stands.
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Colm McCarthy Opinion Colm McCarthy: What planet are leaders on when shaping emissions policy?

It has been clear since the 1990s that worldwide emissions of greenhouse gases, of which carbon dioxide is the most important, would have to fall in the medium term if damaging climate consequences were to be avoided. Instead, they have risen, most dramatically in countries outside Europe. The scale of required adjustment has risen and the time available to face the music has diminished. It is no longer credible that minor and gentle changes will suffice, and the burden of adjustment has been permitted to rise.
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Dan O'Brien Opinion While we catastrophise about Covid, we ignore risk of running out of cash

We Irish view the world in an increasingly strange and unhealthy way. We catastrophise about Covid in a way other European countries do not. We focus on how bad the effects of the virus could get, on how many more restrictions might be imposed by Government and how helpless we are in the face of the virus.
Last Tuesday afternoon marked a milestone for this country. After seven years in gestation, the Government unanimously agreed to sign off on the National Broadband Plan. It will end the urban/ rural digital divide and bring unprecedented benefits to Ireland for decades to come.

It was a very proud day for me personally as the Granahan McCourt consortium (National Broadband Ireland) was announced as the preferred bidder for the contract to deliver this life-changing infrastructure to more than half a million homes, schools and businesses in rural Ireland.

It means our team at National Broadband Ireland - the company set up to roll-out this nationwide fibre broadband - can now set its sights on making this plan a reality and start the real work in getting more than 146,000km of fibre cable in place, hiring up to 2,000 people to do so during the course of the network build. We will invest 2.5bn in the project over 25 years.

The scale and complexity of the National Broadband Plan is incredibly ambitious and it requires deep knowledge of designing, building and operating telecoms network infrastructure.

I am proud of the many decades of telecoms experience I have been fortunate to bring to the project, but what makes me even more proud is what I'm bringing back - the fruits of my grandparents' sacrifice following their emigration from rural Ireland to the US in a much more testing time. My mother, now the great age of 102, often recounted stories to my six siblings and I of my grandmother's memories.

I am a proud Irish-American, with family and connections here, and have owned a home in the Co Clare countryside for more than 20 years. Ireland is - and has always been - a major part of my identity. In fact, growing up in the Irish communities of south Boston gave me a real sense of belonging and something to identify as or with. So I'm far from a 'foreign investor'.

Ballymacward is a bit of a backwater, a tiny village with a church, a shop and a pub. But to my grandparents, it was home. This little townland in east Co Galway - which I visit frequently and where my cousins still live - is like so many others across the country, a proud close-knit community with a local GAA club, Padraig Pearses, like many other small parishes. However, many of the locals need to commute more than 40km daily for work, to a congested Galway city.

Many of those who went to the local school through the years are long gone because facilities and infrastructure - which we take for granted in towns and cities, along with jobs - are nowhere to be found. But, after years of decline and under-investment, Ballymacward and all those other rural communities, which make up a quarter of Ireland's population, could have a better and brighter future. While a part of the townland has access to broadband, neighbours a few doors up don't.

That's what I want to bring to Ballymacward - a reason and opportunity for people to stay so future generations are not economic emigrants like my grandmother.

I believe the provision of high-speed broadband can be life-changing, whether for fledgling enterprises, e-health programmes and remote monitoring, e-education, new farming technologies or working from home. This is not about Netflix, it's about equity for all our citizens in their participation in society.

While many have welcomed the development, others have disagreed with the need for the National Broadband Plan and the awarding of preferred bidder status to Granahan McCourt.

I am not simply an American investor and I have never been a venture capitalist. I have been working in telecommunications for four decades and my work and career has led me to build and grow many successful businesses. It's not for me to say I have been any kind of pioneer, but we have founded businesses from the ground up many times and been bold enough to challenge the norms and take on industry giants who control monopolies in no one else's interest but their own.

My mission across these multiple telecom ventures has been simple: run a commercially successful enterprise, create jobs and serve the under-served.

For the past 30 years, I've ridden the wave of change the industry has been through.

Let's look at what has changed: phone calls were 30c a minute but now they are virtually free; there was one monopoly per market with 100pc market share, now in Ireland we have more than 70 internet service providers; when I started out there was no regulatory framework for competition; no competition to speak of; no commercial internet to speak of; no cable modem; no smartphone; no social networks; no concept of wifi or walking into a room and having connectivity; content was controlled by a few; equipment was centrally designed and controlled by a few.

I list these examples as today we are building a network future-proofed for the next 30 to 40 years and the rate of change is going to be huge.

We have one chance to do this and do it right.

With the National Broadband Plan, Ireland is making a commitment to serve its people for decades to come and end the digital divide we see opening up before us.

National Broadband Ireland will be an open access network which will enable customers to have a choice of operators, and we will connect customers within 10 days of receiving an order. Regardless of peak usage times, everyone is guaranteed speeds of 150Mbps, but packages of up to 1Gbps will be available from the first day.

When I built my second company, Corporate Communication Network, we were the first competitive phone company in the US. We looked at the monopolies in the market and saw that consumers were being treated poorly and charged astronomical fees.

From my first venture into telecoms, it has been a consistent focus on needing to be better; bring costs down; create a level playing field for all operators to have access to the best networks at the same cost; look after consumers' interests; and build networks which are designed to scale and be future-proof.

We've been fortunate to take this approach around the world and succeed in some of the globe's largest telecoms infrastructure projects.

Albert Einstein said that "nothing travelled faster than the speed of light" - so show me a technology better or faster than fibre, which transmits broadband data at the speed of light. The future for rural Ireland is bright, and light will lead the way.
Ireland has "disturbingly high" levels of sexual harassment. That's according to Justice Minister Charlie Flanagan, who has just launched a new three-year national awareness-raising campaign to tackle the problem under the slogan "Enough Is Enough" - and heaven help anyone who dares to suggest it's a huge waste of time and money.

This might, though, be a classic example of not seeing the wood for the trees. Did no one's alarm bells go off in Government on seeing figures that showed Ireland had the highest level of sexual harassment in Europe, and second only to Mexico in the whole world?

Did no one question whether it was at all likely that there was, as this study said, twice as much sexual harassment in Ireland than Britain? That doesn't sound plausible in two countries roughly similar in culture and social attitudes.

The key here is the figure of "claimed" sexual harassment. Surely what the figures actually show is that Irish women are twice as likely as British women to report sexual harassment - and that's a good thing, isn't it? It may mean Irish women are the least likely in Europe to put up with, or brush off, certain behaviours as harmless. It's about how you frame the question. Are these women victims of harassment, or authors of their own destiny calling out harassers?

Of course, questioning the wisdom of official campaigns lays one open to the charge of not wanting to do anything to solve particular problems, when actually it's the Government which isn't doing anything. If sexual harassment really is as bad as he says, shouldn't the Minister for Justice be doing more than launching a half-baked "national awareness ad campaign"?

Commissioning some outdoor posters or ads on TV and radio, in cinemas, on social media and other digital platforms, is less a crackdown on harassment, and more another display of tokenism.

It's not as if people don't know sexual harassment is bad. They do it because they think they can get away with it. Smoking in pubs didn't end because smokers suddenly realised how unpleasant it was for other people to breathe in their second-hand smoke, but because it was made against the law, with penalties to match. Likewise, sexual harassers will stop when it starts to have consequences. That was the lesson of #MeToo.

Ads are notoriously ineffective as agents of change, and these latest examples are so full of cartoonish villains that few perpetrators will recognise themselves in the scenarios being acted out.

They also weaken the message by casting the net too widely, for example by showing an older female boss making a young male employees uncomfortable at work by touching his shoulders, or men pressuring female partners into sexual acts with which they're not happy, before asking rhetorically: "Does Ireland have a problem with sexual harassment and violence?"

The second ad looks at some of the excuses people make for inappropriate behaviour by lifting out of context phrases from a conversation with a focus group which was invited to watch the first ad and respond to the situations depicted. As we now know with bullying, the role of the bystander is crucial, but the message is muddled. Lumping harassment in with literal violence up to and including implied rape smacks of desperately trying to tick as many boxes as possible.

After another new report declared binge drinking has increased by 20pc in Ireland over the last 30 years, Senator Catherine Noone also called last week for Ireland to look at the experience of Iceland which "increased the drinking age to 20 years and put a ban on alcohol and tobacco advertisements". Politicians' obsession with the power of advertising knows no bounds.

She insisted she was only "starting a debate". Charlie Flanagan also declared that he wanted to "spark a national conversation" about sexual harassment. It's become the standard cliche from politicians who, despite itching to micromanage people's lives, also want to avoid giving the impression of being officious busybodies.

This is the same Catherine Noone who chaired the Oireachtas committee on the Eighth Amendment, which concluded that Irish women must be free to have full control of their own bodies. Women's bodies are their own until they decide that what they want to do with them is put some alcohol inside, then suddenly it becomes the State's moral duty to save them from making the wrong choices.

The Icelandic model, which Noone pointed to as an example of positive action, includes plenty of initiatives which are well worth considering, not least offering young people struggling with crappy personal lives opportunities to get "natural highs" through sport and leisure rather than drugs and alcohol. But, be honest, is the Government going to fund that kind of imaginative scheme? Probably not. They might slap a ban on booze ads, though, because that's easy.

At least the new Norwegian health minister is willing to resist the lure of nannying. "I do not plan to be the moral police, and will not tell people how to live their lives," announced Sylvi Listhaug, "but I intend to help people get information that forms the basis for making choices." Imagine being a government minister who doesn't want to tell people how to live their lives. Where will this madness end?

It's the cynical tokenism of it all which really grates. The Taoiseach actually flew to last week's EU summit on the future of Europe post-Brexit and announced that Ireland's priority was climate change. The Dail duly became the second country in the world, after Britain, to declare a so-called "climate emergency" after passing a Fianna Fail amendment to the Oireachtas report on climate change which was then accepted without a vote by the only six TDs who were in the Dail chamber, none of whom were from FF.

There are so many levels of political masquerade going on here that it's a wonder everyone's drivel detector didn't simultaneously go off. They're either fooling themselves or us. Green Party leader Eamon Ryan said the motion "will be of little meaning unless we are now willing to act on the recommendations of the Committee".

But of course they won't. Earlier this year, the Taoiseach couldn't even stick to his guns for 24 hours after saying that he was cutting down on his meat consumption to help in the fight against global warming. At the first sign of resistance from farmers, he crumbled and made it known that he'd had "a very nice Hereford steak" the night before. Somehow we're supposed to believe he will now leave no stone unturned in the fight against global warming. Irish ministers talk a good fight, but have neither the courage to emulate the new Norwegian health minister and butt out of people's lives, or else take hard, possibly unpopular decisions and stand by them.

All they do is parrot the right slogans. Whatever climate change strategy is devised, one thing is sure. It will undoubtedly include a big public awareness campaign. Ad executives can start house hunting for those villas in Umbria now.
'Italy is the centre of the political universe... above all, because of the rise of Salvini and what he means for Europe..."

The speaker is Steve Bannon, former adviser to US President Donald Trump.

Just over a month ago, Bannon met members of the resident foreign press corps in Rome, outlining to us his European election battle plans.

Basically, he hopes to be "a cheerleader" in the promotion of a right-wing populist groundswell in these elections, a groundswell that will essentially reinforce the values of "the Judeo-Christian West" in face of the threat posed both by China and by (Islamic) migration.

He was in Italy, he said, because of the "experiment" of the populist government formed here last summer.

He said that he could sense "a real momentum for the populist, nationalist, sovereignty movement", a movement in which he identified right-wing Rassemblement National leader Marine Le Pen in France, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban and Italian Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini as principal protagonists, saying: "Now, you have an alternative narrative, whether it is in Hungary or Italy or France or Poland or Germany or wherever and that is the Europe of Nations, that the sovereignty movement focuses on..."

Bannon went on to call Marine Le Pen "one of the most important politicians in the world and a great leader", expressing his admiration for the manner in which she has "repositioned" her party, formerly known as Front National.

If he was appreciative of her, one imagines he will have much enjoyed the meeting in Hungary last week between Messrs Orban and Salvini.

In what seemed much more an occasion of Euro-election campaigning rather than a bilateral, ministerial visit, Prime Minister Orban helicoptered Salvini off to inspect his anti-migrant wall. The two men marched up and down along a stretch of the 175km long, barbed wire fence that separates Hungary and Serbia.

At one point, they stopped to climb up into one of the border watchtowers, where Salvini borrowed a soldier's binoculars to survey the terrain, presumably not for a spot of birdwatching.

Both men seemed oblivious to the fact that, for many of us, the Hungarian border fence prompts memories of either the Berlin Wall or of a Nazi concentration camp, or indeed of both.

Later, writing on Facebook, Salvini expressed his satisfaction, saying: "I have to compliment Prime Minister Viktor Orban for the rapid and efficient manner in which he has secured total control of 600km of the border, blocking all the entry points. The positions of the Hungarian and Italian governments are identical...

"We hope that the new Europe, from May 24 on, will protect both land borders, as Hungary is doing, and also coastline borders, as Italy is doing. The problem is not about the redistribution of migrants, rather it is to block them from coming at all."

In a joint press conference with Prime Minister Orban, Salvini further explained: "If the left continues to govern in Europe (the EU), we'll have an Islamic caliphate here. I don't want to leave that sort of Europe to my children. I will do everything within my power to ensure that Europe does not come to such a sad end."

Mr Salvini did not say it but there was the fairly clear implication that one of the ways to avoid such a "sad end" would be to vote for those popular, nationalist, far-right forces that will guarantee some form of Fortress Europe. With the two biggest political blocs in the European Parliament expected to lose their combined majority, the idea is to form some kind of eurosceptic opposition, that could hold up or even block legislation.

The point about the forthcoming Euro elections (May 23-26) is that, despite everything the Irish and British public has experienced this winter, this vote is NOT about Brexit.

Migration, economic growth, environmentalist issues, youth unemployment, EU foreign policy, the common agricultural policy and even the euro itself are all issues that arguably generate much more concern among the 512 million-strong EU electorate due to vote for 751 MEPs.

As one senior Brussels eurocrat told the Sunday Independent last week, at this point many senior EU partners are simply "fed up" with the never-ending British indecision (not to say incompetence) re Brexit.

The rest of Europe needs to get on with its life.

And that life is suddenly a very different one with the European voter in the street facing myriad party options that goes way beyond the European People's Party (EPP) on the centre-right and the Alliance of Socialists and Democrats on the centre-left, the two forces that have essentially dominated the European Parliament since its inception in 1979.

Populist forces, on the left, on the right and in the centre, are expected to pick up perhaps as much as one-third of the vote.

These forces will not turn Parliament in Brussels and Strasbourg upside down but they will make the formation of the next EU Commission all the more difficult. Poll predictions suggest that the vote will generate three blocs - the right, the eurosceptic protest movements and the left, in that order of seats.

Experienced insiders like Fine Gael's European Parliament vice-president Mairead McGuinness argue that even if the Parliament "will be very different in its make-up", it will still function effectively thanks to its consolidated tradition "of consensus and compromise".

Incidentally, McGuinness could herself come out of the elections well, given that she is a leading candidate to replace Forza Italia's Antonio Tajani as European Parliament president.

"Hers is one of the names that keeps circulating... She has been around, she is not below the radar, she comes from the right party (EPP) and she is a woman," one Brussels insider commented last week.

It remains to be seen if she is right in her confidence that the Parliament will still function effectively. What happens if the populist movements, many of them eurosceptic, return a much heavier vote than expected?

And there is plenty of choice. On the right, as well as Le Pen, Orban and Salvini, there are relative new boys on the block such as Forum For Democracy in the Netherlands, AFD (Alternative for Germany), some form of Gilets Jaunes party, not to mention the latest arrival, namely far-right Spanish party VOX, which picked up an impressive 10.29pc of votes and 24 deputies in the Spanish general election two weeks ago.

There is the populist left, including such as Podemos in Spain, the Five Star Movement in Italy, Syriza in Greece, Die Linke in Germany, NOW - List Pilz in Austria, La France Insoumise, the Dutch GreenLeft and again many others.

Then, too, there is a populist centre, best represented by the En Marche party of French President Emmanuel Macron, but also including such as Ciudadanos in Spain and the DiEM25 transnational, progressive party inspired by the charismatic Greek anti-austerity economist, Yanis Varoufakis. Many of the above will doubtless win little or nothing. However, others such as the Bannon Boys - Le Pen, Salvini and Orban - can be expected to poll well. After all, Orban and Salvini might be a form of "protest" party but they are actually in government in their own backyards.

Admittedly, as European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker pointed out recently, given that the right-wing populists all spring from national movements, it is not yet clear just how effectively they would work together in Brussels and Strasbourg.

However, they represent a serious challenge as was recently conceded by Dutch socialist and vice-president of the European Commission Frans Timmermans, himself a possible candidate for the role of next European Commission President. Speaking in Florence last March, Timmermans said: "I believe this is the first time since the beginning of European integration, that this European Union could actually break apart... As politicians, we have a task to give a voice to the people who now are silent to stand up for what they believe in... to address the populists, address the right extreme, to say we don't want a society based on confrontation and hate and exclusion."
Actress Alyssa Milano ignited social media with a tweet on Friday night calling for women to join her in a sex strike to protest against strict abortion laws in the US.

The former star of Charmed and Melrose Place urged women in her tweet to stop having sex until we get bodily autonomy back.

Expand Close Actress Alyssa Milano speaks at a protest outside the White House (AP/Andrew Harnik) / Facebook

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Whatsapp Actress Alyssa Milano speaks at a protest outside the White House (AP/Andrew Harnik)

Her tweet came days after Georgia became the fourth state in the US this year to ban abortions once a fetal heartbeat is detected, which can be as early as six weeks, before many women know they are pregnant.

We need to understand how dire the situation is across the country, Milano told The Associated Press on Saturday.

Its reminding people that we have control over our own bodies and how we use them.

Our reproductive rights are being erased.



Until women have legal control over our own bodies we just cannot risk pregnancy.



JOIN ME by not having sex until we get bodily autonomy back.



Im calling for a #SexStrike. Pass it on. pic.twitter.com/uOgN4FKwpg  Alyssa Milano (@Alyssa_Milano) May 11, 2019

Milano faced some criticism for her idea but also received support from fans and fellow actress Bette Midler, who joined her in also calling for a sex strike with her own tweet.

I hope the #womenofGeorgia stop having sex with men until these indignities are overturned.  bettemidler (@BetteMidler) May 11, 2019

Milano said the criticism did not bother her and that her tweet was having her desired effect, which is getting people to talk about the war on women.

She said she fears one of the laws could eventually be decided by the conservative-leaning US Supreme Court, which Republicans hope will overturn the 1973 Roe v Wade decision legalising abortion.

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That is absolutely horrifying to me, Milano said. Anyone who is not completely and totally outraged by this and doesnt see where this is leading, I think is not taking this threat seriously.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 12)  Quezon City mayoralty bet Bingbong Crisologo was arrested after an altercation with police in relation to alleged vote-buying incidents Sunday evening.

Police reported that around 7:30 p.m., operations against vote-buying were conducted in a house in Brgy. Bahay Toro. A certain Renato Echas was apprehended and was found to have P800 and a volunteer card with Crisologos picture  which led to the arrest of 43 others.

When the operatives were supposed to bring out the nabbed people, mayoralty bet and 1st District Rep. Crisologo arrived. The report claimed Crisologo humiliated the police operatives. The police operations leader, PCMS Luisito Maninang, was injured after he was pulled by Crisologo and house owner Arturo delos Reyes inside the house.

This led to Crisologos arrest and detention with his son Frederick in Quezon City Police Department Headquarters

Police said Crisologo will face charges of obstruction of justice, unjust vexation, disobience and resisting arrest, indirect assault resulting to physical injury, and grave coercion.

Supporters of the citys 1st District Representative have gathered outside the QCPD Headquarters calling for Crisologos release.

Crisologo and incumbent Vice Mayor Joy Belmonte are among the front-runners in the citys mayoralty race.

The embattled mayoral candidate is also facing a disqualification case for lacking proof of absolute pardon in relation to his double life imprisonment sentence for arson with homicide.
So happy: Prince Harry and wife Meghan at a photocall with new baby Archie. Photo: AFP/Getty Images

Prince Harry and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex hold their baby son Archie, during a photocall in St George's Hall at Windsor Castle. Photo: Dominic Lipinski/Pool via REUTERS

Britain's Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex (R), and his wife Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, pose for a photo with their newborn baby son in St George's Hall at Windsor Castle in Windsor, west of London on May 8, 2019. (Photo by Dominic Lipinski / POOL / AFP)

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex with their baby son Archie (Dominic Lipinski/PA)

Meghan Markle has paid tribute to mothers across the world on Mother's Day, which is celebrated in the US among other countries today.

The new mum took to the official Sussex Royal Instagram account to share an adorable photo of baby Archie's feet cupped in her palm against a backdrop of forget-me-knots alongside her message.

"Paying tribute to all mothers today - past, present, mothers-to-be, and those lost but forever remembered," it began.

"We honor and celebrate each and every one of you.

"Today is Mothers Day in the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Kenya, Japan, and several countries across Europe.

"This is the first Mothers Day for The Duchess of Sussex."

The message also included a quote from Nayyirah Waheed's Lands: "My mother was my first cotnry; the first place I ever lived."

Mother's Day was celebrated in Ireland and the UK on March 31st this year.

Meghan is spending her first Mother's Day with her own mother Doria Ragland who has been with her at Frogmore Cottage for the past month ahead of her grandson's arrival.

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Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor was born on Monday at 5.26am weighing 7lb 3oz and was introduced to the public by the Duke and Duchess of Sussex on Wednesday at St George's Hall in Windsor Castle.

"It's magic, it's pretty amazing. I have the two best guys in the world so I'm really happy," Meghan said at the time.

Harry took a break from parenting on Saturday to join the Queen at the Royal Windsor Horse Show on Saturday although he did not travel too far as it was held on the grounds of Winsor Castle.
Maura Derrane and her husband John Deasy at the Santa Rita/Sunday Independent RAI Awards in the Burlington hotel

Long distance love: RTE Chat Show host Maura Derrane has adjusted to her husband Fine Gaels John Deasy spending time away in the States. Photo: Kip Carroll

It's a big week for Maura Derrane. She's in Cork to judge the 'most stylish lady' competition at Mallow Races. Her chat show, which she hosts with Daithi O Shea, has defied the dreaded 'curse' of the time slot - its popularity has continued to climb and RTE have said the show will be extended by half an hour.

This week the show will be broadcast live from the Aran islands. Today Maura will return home to Inis Mor and celebrate the fifth birthday of her son, Cal.

Unlike their British equivalents - Piers Morgan and Susanna Reid - Maura says there is no tension between herself and Daithi. "I'm not in competition with him. I would hate that. It's almost like a marriage with him - I spend so much time with him."

Maura's actual marriage is to Fine Gael TD and the Government's Special Envoy to the US John Deasy. Despite their respective high profiles, she says they baulked at being photographed and interviewed together.

Expand Close Maura Derrane and her husband John Deasy at the Santa Rita/Sunday Independent RAI Awards in the Burlington hotel / Facebook

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"We never want to be a power couple," she says. "I don't want to be perceived as political. On the show we talk about different news stories and people having a hard time getting services for their kids, for instance. I can't be backing up the Government just because Fine Gael are in power."

They have adjusted to the long-distance relationship caused by his work in America, she says.

"It is what it is. It's difficult if John is away and I'm on my own doing everything. I get straight in from work and Cal is there and I put him to bed. But loads of people are in the same boat."

Like many Irish women today, Maura had her first child later in life: she was 43 in 2014 when she gave birth to Cal.

Like Miriam O'Callaghan, she did worry about being replaced while on maternity leave. "The reality is that I'm a contractor and if I didn't go back, I would probably have been replaced. I never thought for one second of asking for extended maternity leave. To be honest I was glad to go back, it's actually easier to go to work than to take care of a child all day."

She says she doesn't worry about allowing Cal too much screen time.

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"I know the WHO [World Health Organisation] has said, 'no screen time before two years old', but is that realistic? Certainly not for me."

She says she regrets that her father, who died in 2005, did not live to meet Cal. "He would have loved that, because he was surrounded all his life with women."

Despite being one of the most personable presenters on Irish TV, Maura has dealt with her fair share of trolls over the years, and says that, surprisingly, they are mostly women.

"Last year I wore a cream skirt and a striped sweater. It started with one person on Facebook saying, 'that's rotten on her', and moved on to, 'I don't like her personally.' I couldn't believe the cattiness and drama. I think women can be worse trolls than men."

In a first for the show, Maura will be broadcasting this week live from her home island of Inis Mor, into the studio in Cork (where Daithi will be, as usual). "We're going to do a bit of a walkabout with me and one of my friends from school."

She will also confront the ghosts of ceilis past: "There will be a bit of reminiscing and we have some old video. My hair looks the wildlings from Game of Thrones. It's going to be a fun week."

'The Today Show' with Maura and Daithi is on RTE1, weekdays from 3.30pm
B&Q owner Kingfisher is set to reveal a bounce back in sales at the DIY chain on Wednesday thanks to a sun-soaked Easter weekend.

Analysts at Jefferies are pencilling in a 2.6% rise in like-for-like sales over the groups first quarter, boosted by a surge in DIY activity over the warmest Easter on record.

It compares with a torrid start to 2018, when trading slumped 9% amid the Beast from the East extreme weather.

Overall first quarter like-for-like sales at Kingfisher, which also owns chains including Castorama in France and Screwfix, are likely to rise by around 1%, according to Jefferies.

The trading update comes as the group searches for a successor to under-fire boss Veronique Laury.

Expand Close Kingfisher has kicked off the search for a successor to chief executive Veronique Laury (Charles Best/Kingfisher/PA) / Facebook

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Whatsapp Kingfisher has kicked off the search for a successor to chief executive Veronique Laury (Charles Best/Kingfisher/PA)

It announced in March that she planned to step down, but has not yet set a departure date and Ms Laury will remain in post until a successor is appointed.

The Share Centre said the first quarter trading update will be closely watched for any news on the top job, while also being a key period for the group.

It said: There will be considerable interest in this first quarter trading update given that spring is usually a strong period for DIY activity and the Easter bank holiday weekend enjoyed exceptionally good weather this year.

That should bode well for the B&Q and Screwfix businesses.

It added: Any update on the companys search for a new CEO to replace Veronique Laury will also be of interest although it may be a little too soon for anything firm on that.

Ms Laurys departure was announced as the group also revealed in March that profits tumbled 52.8% to 322 million for the year to January 31.

On an underlying basis and stripping out costs including 111 million for store closures, pre-tax profits fell 13% to 693 million.

The groups 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.

But, in spite of the profits and sales woes, Kingfishers annual report this month showed Ms Laurys total pay package swelled 11% to 1.8 million thanks to a hefty salary hike and bonus awards.

Ms Laury picked up a 4%, or 30,800, salary hike, 522,000 annual cash award and 333,700 in long-term bonus shares.
Unidentified gunmen have shot and killed a female Afghan journalist and adviser to the country's parliament in the capital Kabul.

A spokesman for the interior ministry said Mena Mangal, a cultural adviser for the lower house of the parliament and former TV presenter, was killed on her way to work yesterday morning, adding that one or possibly more assailants escaped from the scene. Kabul police have launched an investigation.

No one immediately claimed responsibility for the attack. Kabul police said it was not clear whether the murder was a terror act or the result of a personal dispute. Both Islamic State group and Taliban militants regularly carry out attacks in the capital.

China 'optimistic' over talks on tariffs war

China's leading envoy to trade talks in Washington said the failure to strike a deal in the tariffs war with the US was "just a small setback" and negotiations would continue despite increases in import duties on American imports from China.

Vice Premier Liu He said he was cautiously optimistic but that a deal would require the Trump administration to agree to end the punitive tariffs it has imposed on billions of dollars' worth of Chinese goods. Liu said the remaining differences are crucial ones having to do with principles, "and we will make no concessions on matters of principle". He added that he did not believe the negotiations had broken down.

Armitage named as UK Poet Laureate

Simon Armitage has been named the UK's new Poet Laureate, succeeding Carol Ann Duffy in the 10-year post.

Queen Elizabeth II has approved the appointment, Britain's highest literary honour. It dates back to the 17th century, and previous laureates have included John Dryden, William Wordsworth and Ted Hughes. It is up to the poet to decide whether or not to produce poetry for national and royal occasions. Armitage, a professor of poetry at the University of Leeds, has published 28 collections of poetry

Theroux 'confused' over Savile friendship

Documentary filmmaker Louis Theroux has said he is still "confused" about how he maintained a friendship with Jimmy Savile. Theroux spent three months with Savile while making a documentary about the DJ in 2000, which failed to expose him as a paedophile. He went on to have a friendship with the former Jim'll Fix It presenter, even staying at his house.

Theroux told BBC Radio's Desert Island Discs: "There's a slightly naive view that if abuse happens you recognise it as abuse straight away... I'm still a bit confused about how was I able to experience him as a somewhat likeable person in the year or two after making it."

Stones thrown at police after woman dies

German police said it took them several hours to recover the body of a woman from an asylum center in the Bavarian city of Regensburg because angry residents pelted officers with stones and other objects.

Police said they were told of the 31-year-old African woman's death yesterday morning but that extra officers had to be called in before they were able to enter the shelter to retrieve the body. Police could not immediately give the cause of death.
Priests lie face down on the floor during an ordination ceremony presided over by Pope Francis in St Peters Basilica (Alessandra Tarantino/AP)

Pope Francis has ordained 19 men to the priesthood during a ceremony in St Peters Basilica.

Most of the new priests are Italian, but other seminarians are from Croatia, Peru, Haiti and Japan.

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Wearing white robes, the seminarians stood in three rows before the central altar after replying Here I am, as their names were called one by one.

In a ritual, Francis asked if they were worthy to become priests.

Expand Close As part of the ordination ceremony, the new priests lay face down on the floor (Giuseppe Lami/AP / Facebook

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During his homily, he told them to carry out their mission in joy and charity and to never tire of being merciful towards the faithful.

The seminarians ages range from mid-20s to 46.
Fishermen cross the sea waters off Fujairah, United Arab Emirates, near the Strait of Hormuz. (AP/Kamran Jebreili)

The United Arab Emirates has said that four commercial ships off its eastern coast were subjected to sabotage operations, just hours after Iranian and Lebanese media outlets aired false reports of explosions at a nearby Emirati port.

Emirati officials declined to elaborate on the nature of the sabotage or say who might have been responsible.

However, the reported incident comes as the US has warned ships that Iran or its proxies could be targeting maritime traffic in the region.

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The incident happened as America deploys an aircraft carrier and B-52 bombers to the Persian Gulf to counter alleged threats from Tehran.

Tensions have risen in the year since President Donald Trump withdrew the United States from the 2015 nuclear deal between Iran and world powers, restoring American sanctions that have pushed Irans economy into crisis.

Last week, Iran warned it would begin enriching uranium at higher levels in 60 days if world powers failed to negotiate new terms for the deal.

The statement from the UAEs Foreign Ministry put the ships near the countrys territorial waters in the Gulf of Oman, east of the port of Fujairah.

It said it was investigating the incident in co-operation with local and international bodies. It said there were no injuries or fatalities on board the vessels and no spillage of harmful chemicals or fuel.

Earlier on Sunday, Lebanons pro-Iran satellite channel Al-Mayadeen, quoting Gulf sources, falsely reported that a series of explosions had struck Fujairahs port.

State and semi-official media in Iran picked up the reports, citing Al-Mayadeen, which later published the names of vessels it claimed were involved in the incident.

The Associated Press, after speaking to Emirati officials and local witnesses, found the reports about an explosion at the port to be unsubstantiated.

The reported sabotage incident comes after the US Maritime Administration warned last week that Iran could target commercial sea traffic.

Since early May, there is an increased possibility that Iran and/or its regional proxies could take action against US and partner interests, including oil production infrastructure, after recently threatening to close the Strait of Hormuz, the warning read.

Iran or its proxies could respond by targeting commercial vessels, including oil tankers, or US military vessels in the Red Sea, Bab-el-Mandeb Strait, or the Persian Gulf.
Antonio Guterres met New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern on his arrival in Auckland (Hannah Peters/AP)

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has warned the political will to fight climate change seems to be fading at the same time as things are getting worse for those on the front-line.

Mr Guterres made the comments after arriving in New Zealand, where he spoke alongside Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern in Auckland.

Mr Guterres plans to spend three days in New Zealand as part of a trip to the South Pacific to highlight the problems of climate change.

In New Zealand, I thanked @JacindaArdern for her efforts to curb violent extremism on social media and her visionary leadership on the global climate emergency  a model of urgent #ClimateAction for all countries to follow. pic.twitter.com/Sli9mfsRIY  Antonio Guterres (@antonioguterres) May 12, 2019

In Christchurch, he will also meet with Muslim leaders following the March 15 killing of 51 worshippers by a gunman who attacked two mosques during Friday prayers.

Mr Guterres said he usually visits a Muslim country during the holy month of Ramadan but this year decided to visit Muslims in New Zealand as a tribute to their courage and resilience after the attack.

On climate change, he said countries are not living up to their commitments under the 2016 Paris Agreement to keep the global temperature rise to below 2C above pre-industrial levels.

He said: We are not on track to achieve the objectives defined in the Paris Agreement.

And the paradox is that as things are getting worse on the ground, political will seems to be fading.

He commended Ms Ardern for last week introducing an ambitious Bill that aims to make New Zealand mostly carbon neutral by 2050.

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Mr Guterres said Pacific Island nations are on the front-line of climate change.

We cannot allow for runaway climate change, he said. We need to protect the lives of our people and we need to protect our planet.

He will also visit Fiji, Tuvalu and Vanuatu during his visit, and meet leaders and senior government officials from the Pacific Islands Forum.

His trip comes ahead of the Climate Action Summit that he plans to convene in September in New York.
If you dont stand up during the national anthem at a cinema hall, chances are you might get arrested  just like this man from Bengaluru.

This 29-year-old man in Bengaluru was arrested on Wednesday on charges of dishonouring the nation after he didnt stand up during National Anthem at a cinema hall.

cloudfront.net

The incident took place in Garuda Mall, Magrath Road, in Central Business District (CBD). Jithin, a sound engineer, had gone to the theatre to watch Avengers: Endgame.

Jithin was sitting next to Suman Kumar, who had also gone to watch the Marvel movie along with his friends. When the national anthem played before the film, everyone stood up but Jithin remained seated.

AFP

That is when Suman Kumar asked him to stand up. This led to a heated argument between the two. Jithin, apparently, used defamatory words against the national anthem, it is being said. Since their argument was disrupting others, the theatre authorities asked both of them to leave the theatre, according to a report on Indian Express.

BCCL

The next day, Suman Kumar lodged a complaint at Ashoknagar police station against Jithin.

All charges and complaints against Jithin have been dropped, he has claimed. In his reddit post, he wrote he was hit on face inside the theatre. I get hit on the face and they incite a crowd against me. They close in and shouting threats to my life.

@ndtv @TimesNow @abpnewstv @IndiaToday

I was assaulted and harassed by thugs at an @INOXMovies theater

Heres the Reddit post.https://t.co/SW5rsgiEUL

Now the mall came out officially denying anything happened.

This is not right!

Please share and retweet#BOYCOTTINOX  Jithin Chand (@jithknot) May 10, 2019

Patriotism is a felt sentiment that people cherish, but do they require demonstration in visible ways?

In 2016, Supreme Court had passed an order for cinema halls to compulsorily play National Anthem before the screening of any film  which led to arguments and debates all across the nation.

In 2018, however, Supreme Court modified the order that playing National Anthem wasnt mandatory, but if a cinema hall decides to play it, all patrons must stand up and show respect.
A couple of years after Kamali Moorthy, a nine-year-old girl who made waves for being the only girl surfer in her village in Tamil Nadu, a short film based her and her single mothers journey to raising her daughter, is winning accolades.

After recently winning top honours at the Atlanta Film Festival, the short film, which was shot at the coastal town of Mahabalipuram has qualified for Oscars 2020, reports Glute.com.

'Kamali' a short film on the life of a single mother in India raising her 9-year-old daughter as a skateboarder has won top honours at the Atlanta Film Festival https://t.co/fec8CqlsZV #Emotional  Fareeduddin Mohd (@mohdfareeduddin) May 5, 2019

The film narrates the story of Suganthi, Kamalis single mother who sells fish and is the epitome of women power as she defies all odds to raise her daughter and fulfil her wish to not only become a skateboarding champion. Kamali Moorthys mother has been her biggest support system.

Outdoorsy

Her story reached millions after skater Tony Hawk had shared a photo of his new favourite skate shot and it went viral like a wildfire. The little girl in the photo wasnt wearing traditional skater gear, but she was donning a frock. She was barefoot and her hair let loose. The intense concentration on her face showed her passion and won hearts.

The photo was clicked by Jamie Thomas, who is a skater, a surfboarder and also noted photographer, on his trip to Mahabalipuram. This caught Tony Hawks attention. She was being seen as a symbol of empowerment for Indian women.

The 24-minute short film on Kamali Moorthy has been directed by filmmaker Sasha Rainbow from New Zealand. The short film titled Kamali had earlier won Best Director Award at the Mumbai International short film in 2018.

Watch the trailer of short-film Kamali below.
Iran has announced that it would reduce its commitments in a phased manner to the nuclear deal, also known as JCPOA (The Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action).

It announced that it would invoke articles 26 and 36 of the JCPOA. As per those articles, it will not abide by limits for enriched uranium (LEU) and heavy water, but would still be within compliance limits of the JCPOA.

This would be achieved by not exporting these (enriched uranium and heavy water). The move was seen as an attempt to get EU to deliver on its JCPOA commitments so that Iran gets some economic reprieve from the harsh US sanctions imposed last November and intensified this month when it didn't extend sanctions waivers for import of Iranian oil with the aim of reducing its oil exports to near-zero.

reuters

Further after a period of 60 days, in case the other JCPOA signatories dont help Iran with a mechanism to access banking channels and sell its oil, Iran would suspend compliance with uranium enrichment limit of 3.67% and also modernise the Arak heavy water reactor.

Kelsey Davenport, Director of Nonproliferation Policy at Arms Control Association says that Iranian President Rouhanis announcement that Iran will no longer abide by the limits on heavy water and enriched uranium is an unfortunate but unsurprising escalation.

The Trump administrations systematic campaign to deny Iran all of the benefits envisioned under the deal drove Tehran to take this step.

reuters

Davenport adds that while any violation of the nuclear deal is concerning, the steps Iran announced do not pose an immediate proliferation risk. It will be critical for the remaining parties to the deal to work with Iran to head off further steps that risk reigniting a nuclear crisis and increase the chance of conflict.

Jarrett Blanc, State Department Coordinator for Iran Nuclear Implementation under US President Obama and presently senior fellow in geoeconomics and strategy at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, says that Iran has laid out a step-wise approach.

It declared that it would pay less attention to limits of enriched uranium (LEU) and heavy water. US withdrawing from the sanctions waivers made it easier for Iran to manage stockpile limits It would be a couple of months by when it would get to the stockpile limits.

reuters

They have also announced more dangerous steps after two months from now. Enriching uranium above 3.67%, restarting work on the Arak reactor and processing weapons grade plutonium. Why they did this is difficult to say.

It could be due to domestic compulsions. Or as leverage for economic support from Europe, Russia and China. Or it could be to get into the room with Trump with a Kim - style pageant.

Younes Zangiabadi, Vice-President of the Toronto based think-tank Institute for Peace and Diplomacy says that while Iran has not yet withdrawn from the Nuclear Deal, its move today reveals that they are on the path to do so if the P4+1 do not back their political support with concrete actions that guarantee the economic benefits that Iran was promised under terms of the agreement.

However, this will be a step-by-step process, which in case of inactions by the remaining parties to the JCPOA, will probably be fully completed sometimes around the U.S elections. Given the rise of war rhetorics and the likelihood of more escalations with the Islamic Republic, Irans full withdrawal can then have the greatest impact on US elections, threatening Trump's bid for presidency.

reuters

Rouhani in his speech said that it was becoming increasingly difficult to stop the flow of narcotics and refugees to Europe, given that Irans economy is in shambles. Narcotics and refugees from war-torn Afghanistan head towards Europe. This can be seen as an attempt to blackmail EU into doing at least something more than mere words as Iran is in huge economic stress.

The cancellation of sanctions waivers can potentially take down Irans oil imports down to around 500 kbpd given that it would go mostly via the black market. No refiner is willing to risk trade for fear of US sanctions not anyone ship it or provide insurance.

Additionally now fresh sanctions are imposed on Irans non-oil exports- iron, steel, aluminium and copper. It is a last ditch effort by the Rouhani administration from the economic warfare unleashed by the United States on Iran.

Rouhani in his speech added that it was diplomacy but with a new language and tone. The reason for the change of tone from friendly to legal, he said, was because one side cant bear the costs with no benefits.

reuters

On one hand the US is unrelenting in applying economic pressure on Iran, on the other hand is Iran that is finding it hard to find breathing space but is still has to be cautious as to not give UNSC an excuse for slapping sanctions or the US waging war.

Andrey Baklitskiy nuclear, US-Russia and Iran expert at Moscow based PIR Center says that Iran would want to tread carefully. Tehran will try not to alienate Europe too much not to get EU or even UN sanctions reimposed, Iran will also try not to rush to action that might provoke Israel or US to use military force against it. Tehran still seems to try to outlast Donald Trump administration and restart the talks with next Democratic president.

Baklitskiy adds that article 36 and invoking dispute resolution mechanism is tricky - one step further and the whole thing goes to the UN Security Council and could trigger reimposition of all of the previous resolutions sanctioning Iran.

Asked if it applies even if Iran in not in violation, he says that there are no distinction, the final phase of dispute resolution mechanism is to invoke the Security Council and snap back all of the Security Council resolutions sanctioning Iran.

Iran is treading down a tricky slope. Will it come out unscathed by getting the concessions from EU, Russia and China that it wants. Or would a misstep, maybe coupled with provocations, make Iran repent its decision. As for India, it doesn't abide unilateral US sanctions but would abide by UNSC sanctions. Time will tell whether Iran's gambit pays off.

(Aveek Sen is an independent journalist working on cybersecurity and the geopolitics of Indias neighborhood, focusing on Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iran, and Bangladesh. @aveeksen.)
Two or three fighter pilots of the Indian Air Force (AIF) would be the main astronauts for Indias first manned space flight mission, Gaganyaan, director general armed forces medical service (DG-AFMS) Lieutenant General Bipin Puri has said.

The space mission is likely to be launched in 2022. Lt Gen Puri said Bengaluru-based IAFs Institute of Aerospace Medicine (IAM) has initiated the process of finalizing the crew.

Twitter/Representational Image

We have got big groups of pilots, of whom the best two or three would will be selected for the mission, Lt Gen Puri told TOI on the sidelines of the platinum jubilee celebrations of Artificial Limb Centre (ALC) of the Indian Army in the city.

The IAM and Indian Space Research Organisation (Isro) have held several meetings to deliberate on medical aspects in the last few months. The government has roped in the institute to select the right members because it has adequate database related to flying and aerospace medicines, IAF sources said.

The institute has a dedicated teaching faculty, posted on the basis of core competency in the sub-fields of aerospace medicine. It also conducts regular interactions with international aerospace medicine specialists, aviation pathologists, aeronautical engineers, psychologists and aircrew to understand the current trends in the field.

TOI

The institute has played a pivotal role in several aerospace missions, including long hours of flying of fighter jets, a senior IAF officer.

Former commandants of ALC and former director generals of medical services were also present during the event. Officers from Armed Forces Medical College, Command Hospital Southern Command, other military establishments and medical students from various colleges of Pune and Mumbai also attended the programme.
Delhi will vote to elect its seven members of parliament on May 12. The voters have more or less decided what are the key issues going to be. Among all the issues that the voters have identified, traffic, pollution and women's security are on top.

According to a study conducted by the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) here are the key findings after Delhiites where asked about their problems.

1. Traffic, pollution are main issues, but employment also makes the cut

The ADR survey done in Delhi NCT find out that traffic, water and air pollution are indeed the major issues or priorities that concern the people in Delhi, but the issues like better employment opportunities are also among the key issues. While 49.67 per cent respondent believe that traffic congestion is the main issue, water and air pollution was voted as key issue by 44.52 per cent.

Better employment opportunities, was another people in Delhi are concern for as 43.07 per cent people think its the key issue that concerns people in Delhi.

The government fares poorly giving solutions

The top three issues were traffic congestion, water and air pollution and better employment opportunities and when asked about rating the governments steps in tackling these three main issues, the respondents have the government below average marks.

ADR

On the scale of 1 to 5, the respondents in Delhi have only 2.27 marks on the scale of 5 in terms of performing to ease traffic congestion. In terms of dealing with water and air pollution, the respondents think the government performed below par and they gave 2.29 marks while the government received 2.29 marks on the scale of 5 in providing better employment opportunities.

Govt performed very poorly on Empowerment of Women and Security and Noise Pollution

The issues like Empowerment of Women and Security received only 1.85 marks on the scale of 5 which is very poor given that Delhi is known for crime against women. Noise Pollution was another issue where the government needs to work diligently as it got only 2.27 marks on the scale of 5.

Issues that bother the rural Delhi

The respondents in rural areas of Delhi have three major priorities- Higher Price Realization for Farm Products (56%), Better Employment Opportunities (52%), and Electricity for Agriculture (44%).

ADR

And the voters in rural Delhi too believe that government hasnt done enough to address their key issues as Higher Price Realization for Farm Products (2.12 on a scale of 5), Better Employment Opportunities (2.17), and Electricity for Agriculture (2.25) was rated as below average.

As per the Census 2011, 97.50 per cent of Delhis population is urban and therefore the prime focus of the survey was on the priorities of the urban voters.

#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
In a development which could worry the government, the Islamic State (IS) claimed that the terror group have established a new province in India. The announcement was made after the clashes were reported between terrorists and security forces on May 10 in Kashmir.

Wilayah of Hind or India province, is the new branch with an Arabic name and the declaration was made through Amaq News Agency, which is said to be the mouthpiece of the group. The senior police official in J&K, however, rejected the claim.

Reuters/Representational Image

The director of the SITE Intel Group that tracks Islamic extremists, Rita Katz told PTI: "ISIS declares its new "Hind Province" while claiming clashes with Indian forces in Amshipora". "Of course, the establishment of a 'province' in a region where it has nothing resembling actual governance is absurd, but it should not be written off," she said on Twitter.

ISIS however, didnt elaborate geographical remits of the branch it mentioned and the announcement is seen as the ISIS strategy to give an impression that despite losing almost all territories it held, the terror outfit is strengthening its global affiliation.

Reuters/Representational Image

The brief statement of the ISIS came via Telegram, the messaging app on May 10 in which it was said the IS fighters are using machine guns in fight against Indian security forces in the village of Amshipora in Kashmirs Shopian district, killing or injuring a number of them.

BCCL/Representational Image

The reports in media said that on May 10, one militant was killed in clashes with security forces on Shopian district.
After Keralas tallest elephant, 'Thechikkottukavu Ramachandran' cleared the fitness test, the nod was given, on Saturday, for the famous elephant to participate in the famed Thissur pooram.

The clearance was given after the 54-year-old elephant cleared the medical test conducted by a team of three veterinarians and the team also submitted the report of medical examination to Thrissur collector TV Anupama stating that elephant was fit to participate in the vilambaram ritual as part of pooram.

BCCL

The main event pooram begin with the 10.5 foot tall elephant pushing open the southern gates of ancient Vadakkumanathan temple with idol of neithilakkavilamma atop it which symbolises the start of the festivities.

Due to restriction imposed on the use of the elephant, the elephant can take part in the ritual only for an hours from 9:30 am and the barricades should be constructed on 10-metre radius to prevent people getting closer to the elephant. Four mahouts will escort the animals during the ceremony.

The elephant has been performing the ritual since 2014 and is very famous across the state.

But after the elephant killed two people during a house-warming ceremony in Guruvayur in February earlier this year, the administration had put a ban on elephants participation in the festivals.

BCCL

#WATCH Kerala: 54 year old elephant Thechikottukavu Ramachandran participates in the Thrissur Pooram festival after doctors cleared it following medical tests. A ban had been imposed on the elephant after it killed two people during an event in Guruvayur earlier this year pic.twitter.com/fk3eeQLvVk  ANI (@ANI) May 12, 2019

After the doubts were raised over elephant being allowed to take part on the ritual, the elephant owners association threatened not to provide any elephant for the pooram festival. And now after 'Thechikkottukavu Ramachandran was cleared for the pooram festival, the association has agreed to provide elephants for the festivals.

MN Jayachandran, the animal welfare board member, however, said that he was against the elephant being allowed to carry out the ceremony. Jayachandran was also the part of committee head by district collector which took the decision whether elephant to be allowed to carry out ritual or not.

"I have given my note of dissent to the collector and this was not a unanimous decision," he told a television channel and was quoted by PTI.

BCCL

The elephant, which is partially blind in the right eye, is said to have many people besides two other elephants.
You might have smelled durian several times, what was your reaction? Well, in India, its pretty normal for people to smell and eat it, but in Australia, the case is somehow different.

The smell of durian created panic on campus if the Canberra library. According to reports, the people at the campus felt strong smell of gas after which fire fighters were called in.

However, it was found that the smell was emanating from a durian.

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Canberra Times cited the university which accepted that the source of the smell was a durian.

Durian is quite common in south-east Asia and known for its incredibly bad smell. Some places including Singapore has banned it in the subway system due to pungent smell.

Staff said the offending fruit was removed from the building in a sealed bag after being found near an air vent on level B.

All are safe and sound in the university now. Next time, if there's a such a smell, probably people will not panic.
In a country that produces 50,000 doctors every year, a recent medical conference in the national capital revealed shocking statistics - over the last 10 years,332 out of the 576 medical teaching institutions have failed to produce even a single research paper.

President of the Association of Diplomate of National Board (DNB) of Doctors, Dr. Jateen Ukrani raises concern for the medical science community. Research is supposed to be the foundation stone of medical teaching and training.If our colleges are not producing enough research, how do we as doctors keep up to being efficient?

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The medical education system in India is one of the largest in the world,60 per cent of the colleges of which lie in the private sector. While the number of medical colleges in India has grown exponentially, there is still almost no published research work from many institutions where hundreds of postgraduate students write a thesis for their exams.

World Banks HNP (Health,Nutrition and Population) statistics show that one third of these doctors leave India every year for residency training and/or practice abroad, with around 1,500 medical graduates emigrating to the United States each year to enter residency training. The quality of Indian medical education and of the physicians it produces therefore, has implications for the United States and the entire world.

With 5 doctors per 1,000 people, compared with 23 per 1,000 in the US, the Indian doctors are over burdened with patients.

"The patient to doctor ratio is highly imbalanced and we are almost always overburdened. Furthermore,we as medical students are not promoted or even encouraged to pursue research, shares Archita Singh, student of a government medical college.

Why is research,so integral to medical education?

Medical education and medical research are non separable components of health care. In their article for the Walawalkar International Medical Journal 2017, called Current Status of Medical Research in India- Where are we?, Dr.Basavraj Nagoba and Milind Davane discuss this issue.

BCCL/Representational Image

Health research is of paramount importance as it provides knowledge regarding the health status, diseases relevant to our soil, changing pattern of disease prevalence, treatment strategy to be adopted and the impact of various health programs initiated by Government, states the article.

To be a global provider and not just another secondary research consumer, the need-based clinically oriented research useful to patients in particular and general public at large is crucial to sustain quality and hence, is a must.

Why is there a lack of research in India?

Dr. Anand Rai, in 2013, had exposed a massive cheating ring involving medical school entrance exams in the central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh wherein despite lacking sufficient research papers, students were selected to work as full time professionals. According to a probe by Reuters, recruiting companies,even today, routinely provide medical colleges with doctors to pose as full-time faculty to pass government inspections.

The next generation of doctors is being taught to cheat and deceive before they even enter the classroom, Dr. Rai had told The Telegraph.

Thus, very few students actually take up a medical career essentially out of a sense of scientific inquiry but do so, to provide solely for their financial aspirations.

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I know of almost 252 private medical colleges that have never produced research since their existence, said Dr. Pawan Kapoor, Founder of NABH. Dr. Kapoor, in an attempt to explain this behavioural pattern, said that since these institutes are solely running after money, they find it impossible to focus on research.

As per the data analysis report of Index Medicus, Indias share was only 0.714% to the world research portal in medical sciences.

According to Dr Ukrani, there are two basic reasons as to why Indian medical colleges produce less research, Medical curriculum does not lay proper emphasis on research. Only at a PG level, thesis is mandatory, but still many institutes dont train their post graduates in systemic research. Secondly, half of the medical colleges in India are private medical colleges. Many a times at these places, infrastructure and patient load is insufficient to learn the art of medicine, so research takes a backseat.

At another level, however, the low output of research papers is a serious issue because it is a harbinger of something much bigger, with implications for healthcare delivery.

Evidence-based medicine is a new buzz world of modern medicine. Medical colleges are expected to be the forerunners in this endeavor. But, presently, medical colleges in India contribute very less to their present capacity. Lack of training and lack of appreciation are the major hindrances. They need to be corrected to the root cause to guide the medical practice in the country and further the evidence-based medicine which is a need of hour.

What can be done to stimulate research in India?

Experts think that we need to focus on research as a mandatory part of the curriculum and organize research oriented workshops.

We need to get appropriate funding from the government to conduct research in the medical colleges.Until there are set incentives for doing research wherein students are given some sort of financial or non-financial benefits for publishing papers or for presenting papers,research in India can just not flourish, says Dr. Kapoor.

Although this aspiration may be unique to India, in many countries where a nationalised health system means fixed salaries, students aspiring for big money typically dont enter the medical field for the payout.In some countries including the US, there is significant space and recognition for research and teaching activity as an alternative to private practice.

Of the two parallel post graduate medical education systems, the one under National Board of Examination(NBE) focuses on research more than the one under Medical Council of India(MCI). All DNB post graduates undergo thesis workshops wherein they are taught systemic research and thesis is mandatory without which candidates results are not declared. It has one of the most stringent criteria for research. On the other hand, MCI does have thesis mandatory for MD/MS but there is no training on how to go about it and that in turn produces futile researches.

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Dr. Avinash Supe,professor and head, Department of Surgical Gastroenterology, SGS Medical College, Mumbai; director, School of Training and Evaluation, Maharashtra University of Health Sciences, states in his research paper titled Challenges and Issues in medical Education in India, that constraints created by the detailed national regulations from the MCI make the much needed reform of medical education-difficult.

It is essential for the government--the policy makers-- to really understand research and employ them to make policies. Busting the myth for students pursuing research from the beginning of their careers, Dr. Kapoor says, The reason why we dont have enough research is that our aspiring doctors dont know how to do it! The policy makers think including research at an early stage will be a waste of time and ought to be introduced later but that only scares the students away.

This mentality in turn, promotes non-exposure to students and it is due to the non-mandatory nature of research, that it is,ultimately, not given due importance.

Present status in the world of medical science?

Indias share in global literature in indexed medical journals,as observed by Index Medicus, has significantly declined in the recent years from 0.9% to 0.5% which is much lesser than China,Thailand and Philipinnes.

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As per the ICMR report (2016), only four medical colleges among the nations top 10 global institutes have publications in peer- reviewed journals-namely - AIIMS, New Delhi, PGI, Chandigarh, CMC, Vellore and SGIMS, Lucknow.

The results of this review concluded that the India has the best and yet the worst medical education in the world.

To remain globally competitive, quality research is a must. To enhance the quality of research, experts stress on the need to rethink the whole medical education system of our country and adopt reforms that will encourage the idea of research amongst young aspirants.

The writer is a New Delhi based freelance contributor.
In a horrific incident reported from the Madhya Pradesh capital, a six-year-old boy was reportedly mauled to death by a pack of six stray dogs in the city. The incident took place on Friday evening in Shiv Sangam Nagar, police said.

The deceased, identified as Sanju, was surrounded by the pack of dogs in a playground and the subsequent attack by canines, left the boy swathed in blood.

According to a TOI report, Sanjiu was busy playing in a playground, located only 300 metres away from his home. Just when his mother stepped out of house looking for him, she saw him surrounded by the strays.

Reuters/Picture for Representation

She immediately screamed for help, but by the time the neighbours arrived, the dogs had inflicted severe wounds.

The child was rushed to the nearest hospital but was declared dead on arrival. Local residents blamed the Bhopal Municipal Corporation (BMC) for the stray dog menace. Awadhpuri police inspector M L Bhati said they have contacted the BMC officials, who have launched a drive against stray dogs on a large scale.

Agency Inputs PTI
Bengaluru City Police Commissioner T. Suneel Kumar holds a meeting April 26 with religious leaders to brief them about the heightened safety measures that are in place as a precautionary measure, after the Sri Lankan suicide bombings on Easter Sunday that killed nearly 300 people and left 500 injured. (IANS photo)
Eghan stated that;

If youre so attached to Game of Thrones that youre getting angry with me, then who are you worshipping? GOD or GOT? One letter makes a big difference. And that one letter change can make a big difference when you stand before GOD on that day.

Reacting to this, Daddy Freeze said it is highly hypocritical that the pastor would say such and added that he should have also advised people against reading the bible.

In his words;

It is absolutely unscholarly and downright hypocritical to tell people to stop watching Game of Thrones without telling them to also stop reading the Bible, because there is hardly any difference between the storylines of both.

Dear Pastor,

It is absolutely unscholarly and downright hypocritical to tell people to stop watching Game of Thrones without telling them to also stop reading the Bible, because there is hardly any difference between the storylines of both.

? Game of Thrones had 865 deaths, the Bible had more than 2 million. David killed 200 men and cut their foreskins just to marry Sauls daughter.

(1st SAMUEL 18:27)

?Game of Thrones had 17 rape cases. The Bible also had many:

Davids daughter Tamar was raped by her own brother Amnon, Dinah, daughter of Jacob and Leah, was also raped and her brothers committed murder in their revenge, while many scholars suggest that David himself raped Bathsheba, Solomons mother. Solomon also murdered his own brother Adonijah because of a girl called Abishag.

?Game of Thrones had 144 scenes of naked people, the Bible also has a major scene; David dancing almost naked (Some Scholars say totally naked), in front of the the whole city, while Christ himself was stripped naked publicly and beaten before being crucified.

? There are a lot of porn stars in Game of Thrones.. Well, the very first porn movie recorded, was shot live on the roof, while the entire Israel watched as Davids son Absalom slept with 10 of his concubines publicly.

? 2 Samuel 16:22 ?

NIV

So they pitched a tent for Absalom on the roof, and he slept with his fathers concubines in the sight of all Israel.

? You say there are prostitutes in game of thrones. Arent Christ, David and Solomon all descendants of a prostitute named Rahab? Mary was a prostitute and so also was Tamar, who slept with her father in law.

? Genesis 38:24 ?

NIV

About three months later Judah was told, Your daughter-in-law Tamar is guilty of prostitution.

Therefore, this submission is ignorant and does very little to showcase anything apart from your ignorance of the scriptures. I watch GOT with my family, if there is a scene I find unfit, I screen it out.

Kindly read the Bible verse below and tell me if you dont find it unfit for children.

? Ezekiel 23:20 ?

NLT

She lusted after lovers with genitals as large as a donkeys and emissions like those of a horse.
A couple in Jos, Nigeria have recounted their joy of welcoming a set of quadruplet after being childless for 7years.

Mrs. Manji Sebastian Pyoklam and her husband, Sebastian of Jos South local government area of Plateau State who got married in 2011 finally had their prayers answered in 2018  When Mrs. Manji became pregnant last year.

A scan shortly after confirmed that she will be having a set of quadruplets  Then gave birth to quadruplets( two males and two females) via a caesarian section.

This is my first pregnancy, she said. Even though Mrs. Manji and her husband were excited after the scan result, the fear of uncertainty had engulfed their minds, because we didnt know what it entails, but at the end of the day I was very happy when I was delivered to the quadruplets, I requested to see them and I held them one by one. Manji, 33, who works with the Plateau State government, is the first to have quadruplets in the state.

There are records of twins in my mothers family, but I am the first to have quadruplets in our family and even in the state, she said. The pregnancy was quite peaceful and stress-free, but it made me eat heavily. Manjis husband, Mr. Sebastian Pyokalam Jibrin, a businessman and part-time lecturer at the College of Health, Zawan, is elated at becoming a father after seven years.

We really appreciate God for the pregnancy and successful delivery. We have been trusting God all these years so when she told me she was pregnant last year, I was very happy. And when we went to the hospital after one month and the doctor scanned her and told us it was a set of quadruplets, I was shocked.

We kept praying together and it was amazing how the pregnancy went; she wasnt complaining and even during her ante-natal the doctor told us everything was normal. During the pregnancy, the doctor advised that his wife be put on bed rest but because of financial challenges, they couldnt afford that. I told her the God that gave us quadruplets after seven years of waiting would take care of them and that was our trust.

We were going to hospital for almost seven months, and when I wanted to go to my village last Christmas, I decided to take her to hospital for bed rest because it was high risk to leave her at home. I took her to the hospital not because she was sick but to take precaution, because even at that point she still cooks food and does some house chores, he said.

The doctor advised that anytime she started feeling sick or cannot work, he would operate her. She gave birth through CS at almost nine months and the babies were matured; they didnt need extra oxygen, he said.

Presently, the babies are healthy and eat very well. There hasnt been any support from government. If Im not mistaken, I think ours is the first family to have quadruplets in the state, therefore I am appealing to government, NGOs and individuals to assist us. It has been very difficult taking care of them without any form of support, said Jibrin.
Controversial Nollywood actor, Uche Maduagwu, has advised Davido to be grateful for having Chioma as he girlfriend if not he would have collapsed under pressure from the music industry.

Uche Maduagwu revealed that although Davido is the biggest artist in Nigeria, he would have gone into depression if not for his girlfriend Chioma who has been showing him, constant love and love.

Read Also: Dear Young Men, Stop looking for women who will share in your suffering  Akin Alabi

He stated that the music industry is full of hatred from fellow artist. Hence, he urged Davido to be grateful to Chioma.

See his post below:
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, as clamped down on some of Bukola Sarakis houses in Lagos.

According to Punch, the houses located at 15a, 15b and 17 MacDonald Road, Ikoyi, Lagos, belonging to the Senate president have been seized.

EFCC was said to however be unsure which of the properties actually belonged to the Senate President then proceeded to place inscriptions and stickers on all of them.

Houses 15a and 15b were said to have been declared by Saraki in his asset declaration form, but the EFCC believes that a couple of some other houses on the street belong to the Senate President which he bought from the Presidential Implementation Committee when they went on sale of some Government Property through shell companies.
Nigerian actor IK Ogbonna has shared more details about his 7-year old daughter whom he has been accused of abandoning by his baby.

According to IK he has always wanted to be part of her life but his ex does not allow him. Taking to his page, he shared a picture with the inscription,

There are men who want to be a good father and there are women who wont let them

Recall for weeks now, IK has been accused of being an absentee father and he somehow addressed that when he shared a photo of his daughter, Makayla and captioned;
Nigerias Senate President, Bukola Saraki, says the seizure of his houses by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission is mischievous, contrary to the tenets of the rule of law and only aimed at settling scores. 

This was made known by Saraki in a statement signed YusuphOlaniyonu, his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity on Sunday.

Houses located at 15a, 15b and 17 MacDonald Road, Ikoyi, Lagos belonging to the Senate president were sealed off, with EFCC saying they are investigating them.

The statement reads thus:
Tara took to her IG page to pen a sweet post which read thus;

This man 18 years ago was given to me As a GIFT !

I knew it then and now that I won a JACKPOT?

Olufela.Happy 18th anniversary to us and Happy birthday to you .

Thank you for being the real meaning of a HUSBAND .

I am confident because you flame all the good things about me .

I can dream big because your dreams for me are bigger .

I love Nigeria because I live with one who shows his love for NIgeria by the example you set .

You make me a better Christian cos when the chips are down you will ask what will Jesus Do?

I feel beautiful ,sexy ,wanted and cherished cos you say it in your eyes when I walk pass you ,you say it in your words when I am with you and not with you .

You make it very easy to submit ,support and respect you .You dont insist ;you only show the example .The example of a considerate man who puts his family first .

You give me space to be me (the good ,the bad & the ugly )

I know them ;I have worked on some ,have failed at many but your emphasis are on my good .As you say focus creates blindness

Thank you FOR BEING AN EXAMPLE IN WORDS AND ACTION.

You still make me smile when you walk into a room .

Your smile,your thoughtfulness ,your compassion,kindness .

I have seen you in your highs and in your lows and still my heart throbs for you .

When I am 48 I want to be like you .

?

Cheers to more years with you .

I celebrate you ,I honor and my respect is for you .

Oko mi
The Kano State Government says it did not receive any court order restraining Gov. Abdullahi Ganduje from taking any action concerning the newly-appointed First Class Emirs of Rano, Karaye, Gaya and Bichi Emirates.

In a statement signed by Abba Anwar, the Chief Press Secretary to Gov Ganduje on Saturday, the state government said the court order was reportedly issued around 5 pm on Friday, and the new emirs had long accepted the appointment.

Letters of the Notification of Appointment were written from the office of the Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Usman Alhaji, since Thursday, May 9, 2019 and were despatched to the concerned Emirs the following day Friday, May 10, 2019, in the very early hours of the day. In accordance with the power conferred on the Governor by the Kano State Emirs (Appointment and Deposition) Amended Law 2019 (1440 AH) which provides the creation of more Emirates. I wish to convey the approval of His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Kano State, Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje OFR for your appointment as First Class Emir of (Bichi) (Karaye) (Rano) (Gaya) Emirate.

The statement says that the new Emir of Karaye, Ibrahim Abubakar II, and in his acceptance letter at about 12 noon on Friday, Emir of Rano, Tafida Abubakar Il sent his around 10:15 am while the Emir of Bichi, Aminu Ado Bayero and the Emir of Gaya, Ibrahim Abdulkadir, forwarded theirs at 10 am and 10:30 am respectively.

The ceremony that will hold at the Sani Abacha Indoor Stadium, Kofar Mata, on Saturday, according to the statement was just for the new emirs to thank the governor for appointing them.
The Presidential spokesman, Mallam Garba Shehu, has faulted the Peoples Democratic Party(PDP) for accusing the Presidency of influencing the election petition tribunal.

According to the Presidential spokesman who spoke via his Twitter handle, he said if the presidency has any influence on the election petition tribunal then no APC candidate would have lost a single case before the court.

His words:

If the presidency had any influence on election petition tribunals, APC candidates wouldnt have lost a single case before the courts. The PDP praised the verdict of the Osun gubernatorial election tribunal because it favoured them, but they are now singing a different tune because they lost their appeal

His tweet:

If the presidency had any influence on election petition tribunals, APC candidates wouldn't have lost a single case before the courts.  Garba Shehu (@GarShehu) May 11, 2019
earthbig

Just a few days remain of ITR's survey, in which taxpayers can voice their opinions anonymously on the taxation of the digital economy.

The survey asks corporate taxpayers to outline their opinions on, and their strategic responses to, the multilateral process at the OECD, with its two pillars and its anticipated completion date of 2020.

It also provides an opportunity for a frank discussion of countries unilateral measures, such as the digital services taxes recently announced by France, Austria, and others.

The survey will end on Tuesday, June 4 2019.

Your responses are strictly anonymous.

The results will be featured across a series of articles online and compiled in International Tax Reviews JulyAugust magazine issue.

For further details, or to share your opinions with our editorial team, please feel free email alexander.hartley@euromoneyplc.com.

Take the survey here.





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Teva Pharmaceuticals chief financial officer has reiterated the company has done nothing wrong in the wake of a price-fixing lawsuit filed by 44 US states. Mike McClellan told a conference in Israel yesterday that the suit was an amended one and not new, while stressing it was civil and not criminal.

Teva is the worlds largest generic drugmaker and employs 800 people across Ireland. It has a huge manufacturing plant in Waterford where it has 500 people making respiratory drugs.

It also employs around 50 staff in Baldoyle, Dublin, making Sudocrem, and manufactures Nicobrand nicotine products in Coleraine, Co Derry, as well as making hormonal products and running a research and development facility in Co Antrim.

There have been no developments in this area, Mr McClellan said.

We take these accusations seriously and we are going to defend ourselves.

The Israeli companys US unit and 19 other drug companies conspired to divide up the market for drugs to avoid competing and, in some cases, conspired to prevent prices from dropping or to raise them, according to the complaint filed late last week in the US District Court in Connecticut.

Prosecutors said Teva Pharmaceuticals USA had orchestrated to inflate drug prices  sometimes by more than 1,000% and stifle competition for generic drugs.

The allegations in this new complaint, and in the litigation more generally, are just that  allegations, Teva said in a statement. Tevas Tel Aviv-listed shares fell almost 11% at one stage in yesterday trade.

Earlier this month, Teva forecast a sharp rise in revenue next year from its new migraine drug Ajovy and reported a slightly smaller-than-expected drop in first-quarter profit. It is counting on Ajovy and Huntingtons treatment Austedo to help revive its fortunes after restructuring to tackle a debt crisis.

Teva has reduced its spending around 2bn in recent years. Last year, it ran down a testing laboratory at Dundalk to set up a single European testing laboratory in Zagreb, Croatia, on the basis of costs.

Reuters and Irish Examiner staff


Space News space history and artifacts articles Messages space history discussion forums Sightings worldwide astronaut appearances Resources selected space history documents





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Blue Origin kicks off kids' space club with offer to launch postcards



May 11, 2019  Jeff Bezos is adding another title to his credit: space postmaster.



The Amazon CEO and founder of Blue Origin on Thursday (May 9) announced that his private spaceflight company has created a new program to inspire today's youth to think about their future in space. To get them started, Bezos plans to launch and return 10,000 stamped postcards with students' visions for humanity beyond Earth.



"One of the things we have to do is inspire the future generations," said Bezos during a press event where he also unveiled his own far-reaching vision for space settlement, including Blue Origin's Blue Moon lunar lander. "So today, I am announcing that Blue Origin is founding the Club for the Future, whose mission is to inspire young people to build the future of life in space."



Billed as a "new kind of space club," Blue Origin's non-profit Club for the Future is open to students in kindergarten through high school, their parents and educators who are interested in efforts to preserve Earth and want to "unlock the potential of living and working in space." The Club will organize initiatives and campaigns that make use of Blue Origin's access to space.



The Club's first activity is to send students' postcards on a suborbital flight aboard Blue Origin's New Shepard rocket and spacecraft.



"We're going to do a series of activities focused on K through 12 and the first one I love," said Bezos. "We're going to ask K through 12 students to send us postcards with their dreams of the future and then we are going to send them to space on New Shepard, bring them back and mail them back."



According to the Club for the Future website, students are invited to create their "first space mail" by using a blank white postcard to "draw or write your vision of millions of people living and working in space."



Bezos shared his own ideas for the future during his presentation on Thursday, citing in part the concepts first proposed by physicist and Space Studies Institute founder Gerald K. O'Neill.



"What O'Neill and his students came up with was the idea of manufactured worlds, rotated to create artificial gravity with centrifugal force. These are large structures, miles on end, and they hold a million people or more each," said Bezos. "This is a very different kind of space colony."



Once Club for the Future members have written or illustrated their concepts for a space-based civilization, they then need to address the postcard to themselves, affix a stamp for the return postage, place the postcard in an envelope and mail it to the Club For The Future (at PO Box 5759, Kent, Washington 98064).



The first 10,000 postcards that the Club receives before July 20, 2019  the 50th anniversary of the historic Apollo 11 first moon landing  will be flown on board a New Shepard crew capsule.



"Your idea will launch into space! Once New Shepard returns to Earth, we'll send your postcard back to you, officially stamped 'flown to space,'" reads the Club for the Future website.



The club's "Postcard from Space" activity joins a long history of rocket-launched mail (or "rocket mail") that dates back to 1931 and 102 letters that traveled by a solid-fuel rocket three decades before the world's first satellite entered Earth orbit. Later, in July 1969, Apollo 11 astronauts Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin and Michael Collins postmarked an envelope while on their way back from the moon.



More recently, Russians cosmonauts aboard the International Space Station and Chinese taikonauts aboard Tiangong space labs operated small post offices using custom ink cancellation devices.



The Club for the Future's postcard program is just the beginning.



"I want to inspire you," said Bezos. "and so think about this. Big things start small."



For step-by-step instructions on how to participate in Postcards from Space, see Blue Origin's Club for the Future website.



Blue Origin's Club for the Future is "dedicated to inspiring and engaging the next generation of dreamers and space entrepreneurs as we journey to preserve Earth and unlock the potential of living and working in space." (Blue Origin/Club for the Future)





Blue Origin founder Jeff Bezos and the first members of the Club for the Future pose with the Blue Moon lunar lander. (Blue Origin)





Step-by-step instructions for taking part in the Club for the Future's Postcards from Space activity. (Blue Origin/Club for the Future)



 2021 collectSPACE.com All rights reserved.
Food Wise 2025 sets out a roadmap for increases in agricultural output over the 2015-2020 period.

It also maintains that this must occur in an environmentally sustainable fashion.

It recognises that Irelands farmers and foresters manage the vast majority of land in Ireland. They play a positive role in maintaining valued landscapes and in providing valued ecosystem services.

But agricultures footprint also has a negative impact on several environmental resources, including air and water quality and the extent of biodiversity, as well as contributing to greenhouse gas emissions which must be reduced if we are to stabilise our climate for future generations.

Increased production will exacerbate these environmental problems unless steps are taken to mitigate them.

Food Wise 2025 proposes to reconcile these conflicting objectives by basing the continued growth of the agri-food sector on sustainable intensification. This is defined as improving productivity while using natural resources in a manner which protects them into the future.

Sustainable intensification is thus a process or system where agricultural yields are increased without adverse environmental impact and without the conversion of additional non-agricultural land.

The concept does not articulate or privilege any particular vision or method of agricultural production.

The problem is that this commitment is immediately weakened in Food Wise 2025, by establishing a guiding principle that, in meeting these sustainability goals, environmental protection and economic competitiveness will be considered equal and complementary, such that one will not be achieved at the expense of the other.

In practice, this means that economic competitiveness is often given priority, when these objectives conflict.

Where environmental targets are embodied in EU directives, they are pursued  we do not have a choice.

In other cases, environmental objectives are considered only to the extent they are consistent with pursuing economic competitiveness.

As a result, where progress is made towards environmental targets, it is slow, and in some areas, we continue to lose ground. We have almost eliminated rivers classified as bad biological quality, and lake biological quality has stabilised.

But 44% of rivers still do not meet the minimum standard of good biological quality, and the number of river bodies classified as of high quality continues to decline. The rate of improvement in nitrogen concentration may be beginning to slow down.

The important issue for biodiversity is habitat loss, which can be impacted by activities such as agricultural intensification (or abandonment); increased biocide usage, and afforestation.

The state has protected habitats for specific flora and fauna of key importance, by designating Natura 2000 sites which now cover around 13% of Irelands land area.

Have you heard of the Roseate Tern? It could have been yet another extinct bird species, but for a @BirdWatchIE #EU funded project to restore its numbers on Rockabill Island near #Skerries in #Dublin #EUProtects #Natura2000 @EU_Env pic.twitter.com/vmWMXWWHRN  EU Commission in Ireland (@eurireland) March 27, 2019

However, the conservation status of some habitats and species is often poor, due to the adverse impact of agricultural practices on some of these sites. There is also a need to maintain and expand biodiversity on land outside these protected areas.

National emissions of ammonia, 99% of which are linked to the agricultural sector, continue to rise, and now exceed our limit under EU legislation.

Ammonia emissions adversely affect air quality through the formation of particles and ozone, as well as contributing to eutrophication of waterways.

Agriculture is also a major contributor to national greenhouse gas emissions.

Emissions fell from their peak in the early 1990s, due to fewer livestock and a fall in fertiliser use, but have recently begun to rise again.

Although there is no national target for agricultural emissions, agricultural emissions make up 45% of the non-quota sector not covered by the EU Emissions Trading Scheme, where Ireland has a commitment to reduce emissions by 30% compared to 2005 levels.

The main reason why the environment is damaged, as agricultural production expands and farming intensifies, is that environmental resources are a free good.

There is no price or cost attached to the loss of biodiversity, or to letting excess nitrogen seep into waterways, or to emitting damaging pollution into the air.

At the same time, efforts made by farmers to provide public goods and to protect valued environmental amenities are not remunerated in the same way as the production of food or bioenergy which has a specific market price.

In the language of economists, these are externalities, whose value is ignored in the marketplace. When farmers make production choices, in the absence of any government rules or interventions, the impact on the environment is generally not factored into decisions about the optimal level of output or the farm practices adopted.

To address the problem of externalities, we need first to be able to measure them and second to put a price on them. Great advances have been made in measuring the human impact on the environment in recent years.

The Environment Protection Agency produces regular updates of its flagship State of the Environment assessment, and has developed a series of environmental indicators which allow us to track in much greater detail than before what is happening to our environment.

Teagasc has evolved its regular farm recording work measuring economic results in its National Farm Survey, to include a wide set of sustainability indicators.

This is path-breaking work of global significance and provides detailed information on how differences in the environmental footprint of farms are related to output and farm practices.

Individual farmers also get feedback on their carbon footprint and other sustainability issues through their involvement with Origin Green.

As a result of these and other initiatives, awareness and understanding of the environmental impact of farming, including both positive and negative impacts, has greatly increased.

But we cannot rely only on the voluntary efforts of farmers to protect the agricultural environment, important though these individual initiatives are, no more than we can rely on the voluntary efforts of consumers to solve the problems of plastic pollution, or food waste, or transport emissions.

Government intervention is required to ensure that these externalities are considered in both production and purchasing decisions.

Various measures are in place to reduce the impact of intensive farming on the environment, and should be strengthened.

Potential measures include regulations, permits, subsidies, standards and levies.

Regulations are the most widely-used instrument.

For example, Irelands fourth Nitrates Action Plan, covering the period 2018-2021, included new strengthened water protection measures as well as targeting improved soil fertility.

Currently, the role of the nitrates derogation is under review.

The derogation allows around 7,000 heavily-stocked farms to apply higher levels of livestock manure than would normally be allowed under strict controls, and subject to nutrient management plans.

Additional monitoring and mitigation measures will be required, to ensure that any intensification or increase in livestock numbers does not directly impact on water quality.

Irish farming is heavily dependent on CAP subsidies.

Increasingly, these subsidies have been linked to environmental objectives.

Environmental conditions have been included in the cross-compliance requirements that farmers must observe, in order to remain eligible for direct payments.

Additional payments are made to farmers who agree to observe higher environmental standards under the voluntary agri-environment-climate scheme GLAS, including organic farmers.

The Commission in its legal proposal for the CAP post-2020 has rightly identified the need for a higher level of environmental and climate ambition in the future. It has proposed that Member States should use part of their direct payments envelope to support farmers in their efforts to transition to more sustainable farming practices.

It has also proposed that Member States should maintain a minimum share of spending on voluntary agri-environment-climate schemes in their rural development programmes. However, its parallel proposal for the EU medium-term budget proposes to reduce CAP funding for rural development programmes. But there will be scope for Member States to make up the gap by shifting funds from direct payments, and by contributing additional national funding.

Ireland will draw up a CAP Strategic Plan outlining how it intends to use its CAP budget allocation in the coming programming period.

This is a real opportunity to target more of the CAP funds to assist farmers in making the transition to more sustainable farming practices and to better remunerate the provision of public goods.

The IFA has suggested that support for additional measures to tackle climate change should be funded from a new climate fund on top of existing farm supports.

But the public consultation undertaken prior to the Commission making its legal proposal for the next CAP showed that most respondents, both farmers and non-farmers, wanted CAP money used to reduce the adverse footprint of agriculture on the environment and to support farmers in providing public goods.

Irish agriculture is not yet sustainable in the sense of Food Wise 2025, where further expansion will have no negative impact on the environment. Despite the industrys heightened awareness of these issues, policy-makers must do more to reflect the value we place on our natural environment in farmers decision-making.

Existing targets  to improve the water quality status of rivers and lakes, to halt the decline in biodiversity, to reduce ammonia and greenhouse gas emissions  need to be pursued more vigorously.

The forthcoming CAP Strategic Plan can provide the springboard to ensure that this happens.

Alan Matthews is Professor Emeritus of European Agricultural Policy at Trinity College Dublin
Latest: Tributes have been paid to a man who died in a paragliding accident in Co Wicklow.

He has been named as Ralph Skora, 30s, a paragliding enthusiast and married father-of-two.

Mr Skora was out on the Wicklow Mountains yesterday. The alarm was raised when he failed to return to his home in north Dublin.

Following a search by gardai, Dublin-Wicklow Mountain Rescue and the Irish Coast Guard Rescue, his body was recovered this morning at around 8am in a field at Ballinacor Estate in Wicklow. Wreckage was also found at the scene.

The Irish Hang Gliding and Paragliding Association paid tribute to Mr Skora today and extended their sympathies to his friends and family.

"It is with deep regret we wish to inform all pilots that Ralph Skora died tragically following a paragliding accident. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends. The accident is being investigated by the Air Accident Investigation Unit with the assistance of the IHPA. The AAIU will report in due course."

Man, 30s, dies following paragliding accident in Co Wicklow

The body of a man in his 30s has been discovered following an apparent paragliding accident in Co Wicklow.

The man is believed to have been on the Wicklow Mountains yesterday and failed to return to his home in north Dublin.

The alarm was raised and a search was then conducted by gardai, Dublin-Wicklow Mountain Rescue and the Irish Coast Guard Rescue.

A man's body was discovered at around 8am this morning in a field at Ballinacor Estate, Wicklow. Wreckage was also found at the scene.

A post-mortem examination is due to take place on the man's remains later this morning.

The Air Accident Investigation Unit has been informed and will launch an investigation into the incident.
The guitar-shaped Ormonds Island lies close to the Cork/ Kerry border on the mountainous Beara Peninsula with the Kingdom just able to claim it by dint of a few kilometres. It has no residents now and is grazed by cattle who can loll across a connecting causeway at low tide.

The island lies just across the busy road from the Cloonee lakes in the phenomenal Gleninchaquin valley whose glaciated forms includes all nouns of a glacial vocabulary: corries; striations; erratics. Oilean Urumhan in Irish (Ormond) is in the parish of Tuosist.

The Island was once owned by relatives of the historic family of OSullivan Beare whose chieftain Donal Cam led 1,000 followers 500km north to Co Letirim in 1602 after his fortresses at Dunboy and Dursey were destroyed by the English under George Carew.

The OSullivans of Ardea resided in a castle of the same name very close to Ormond Island. However, the castle was destroyed on Cromwells orders in 1643 and the family were obliged to rent their former property. The lands were passed down the generations.

One member of the sept, Darby OSullivan, aged103, requested a renewal of the lease from the Earl of Shelburne in 1793. Ormond Island was named after the earls of Ormond, the Butlers, allied to the Crown and mortal enemies of the Gaelic chieftains.

First Duke of Ormond, James Butler, member of an Anglo-Norman dynasty which controlled vast stretches of territory in Munster.

It appears the island was unpopulated for a long time and was certainly had no one living on it during the Famine. The 1901 census records a family of three living there: Patrick Casey aged 66; Katie aged 25 and Jeremiah aged 22.

With just three people available to work the farm, life would have been difficult, made more so when Jeremiah fell foul of the law. At a pattern in Kilmacillogue just up the road he was charged with assault having thrown a stone which inflicted injuries to the frontal and nasal bones of a Patrick OSullivan, reported the Kerry Sentinel. He was duly jailed.

A ruined farmhouse with out buildings and a dwelling on the eastern end are all that remains today. Farming was obviously a mainstay of their existence but in all likelihood fishing too. Pilchard fishing provided huge employment in the Kenmare Bay from the 17th century till stocks dwindled away. Fish palaces for the smoking and curing of the pilchards were common up and down the bay.

Nowadays whale-watching is almost a national past-time but 100 years and more ago cetaceans were a valuable commodity and the related industry supported hundreds of people not least at the Inishkea islands in Co Mayo where a Norwegian company operated.

The presence of the whales was enough of a surprise in 1863 for The Tralee Chronicle and Killarney Echo to report that we were agreeably surprised here on Monday by the visit of no less than two monstrous whales. One of them came in with the tide and was first seen between Ormonds Island and Ardea by a man named Shea.

However, the whale provoked more than curiosity as the paper reported:

the sea monster soon floated into a creek and apparently fell asleep when Shea and two boys took out a boat and made him fast to a rock by means of a rope. The tide having receded, Shea dispatched the animal with an axe.

It measured 26 feet in length and 15 feet in girth [probably a minke]. Crowds flocked to see it when suddenly another floated in to the creek. Its fate is not recorded.

Ormonds Island has a couple of impressive standing stones. Not exactly news as there are probably more prehistoric structures on Beara Peninsula than cars. One archaeology websites refers to a small boulder burial in the fence line which will soon be lost to the sea.

Further evidence, if any were needed, of how the sea is munching our past for lunch. It also suggests many burial sites were located on the island but were cleared for agriculture. The two stones and the 15m hill are perfectly aligned.

Nowadays Ormond island is an unremarkable place but secures its place in history as being on the interface of the Gaelic/ English wars.

How to get there: Stroll across the beach at low tide about 10km west of Kenmare Bridge.
A beluga whale wearing a harness approached fishing-boats off the Norwegian coast last month. It allowed itself to be stroked: Clearly, the visitor was used to people. A fisherman entered the water and removed the contraption, which carried a label with the inscription Equipment of St Petersburg.

The animal, its believed, had been recruited by the Russian navy and trained to carry cameras, or worse, in covert undersea operations. Having deserted, it was seeking political asylum in Norwegian waters.

In 1877, the Royal Aquarium in London purchased a female beluga which had been captured off the Canadian coast. It would become the first whale ever to be exhibited to the public. Belugas were hunted relentlessly back then, so imprisonment in a tank was preferable to being killed.

Beluga is Russian for white; whales of this species are all-white or occasionally yellow-tinged. The monster super-transporter aircraft, which ferries Airbus sub-assemblies between Wales and Toulouse in France, is known as the beluga; it too is white.

The ghostly beluga belongs to the toothed sub-order of cetaceans, which includes the dolphins and orcas. Males may exceed 5m in length and weigh up of 1.5 tonnes. Uniquely among whales, belugas have flexible necks and can turn their heads in any direction, as seals do. There is no dorsal fin.

Very gregarious, belugas form schools, congregations sometimes several hundred strong. Known as canary whales, they are accomplished vocalists, producing rich and varied songs, sometimes heard above water. In 2012, a captive one learned to make sounds resembling human speech.

Occasionally, the calls would suggest a crowd of children shouting in the distance, wrote whale zoologist Sam Ridgway in Current Biology.

Belugas avoid deep water and occasionally swim up rivers. Preferring sub-Arctic waters, they are rarely seen off the Irish coast, although one entered Cork Harbour in June 1988. They may seem an odd choice for military service, bottle-nosed dolphins being far better qualified for special operations.

Bottle-noses can master complex routines and perform extraordinary acrobatic feats in aquarium shows. The US navy has trained them for mine detection and harbour protection. One, named Tiffy, carried messages 60m down to Sealab off the Californian coast and was trained to guide lost divers.

The waters off Russias northern ports in the Barents and Kara seas, however, are too cold for bottle-noses, whereas icy conditions are the habitat of choice for belugas.

Whiteness and the absence of a dorsal fin are clues to the species lifestyle. The colour provides camouflage against the white background when hunting around ice floes and an upwardly protruding fin, rubbing against the ice, would be a hindrance. The great enemy is the orca. When threatened, a beluga retreats under the ice where the orca, with its huge dorsal fin, cant follow it. The defence isnt perfect; polar bears wait above holes in the ice, ready to pounce.

Belugas, therefore, tick most of the boxes for military service. Sociable and friendly towards people, they can be kept in captivity and trained. Creatures of shallow seas with flexible necks, used to manoeuvring past obstacles in nooks and crannies, they dont become trapped or stranded.

Following the removal of its harness, the renegade was released to the wild. Will it remain free or return to barracks? What duties did it have in the Russian navy, and why did it defect to the West?
High fertility rates in the worlds fourth biggest country continue to pose a threat to the health of the nation and its prosperity, writes Jenna Dodson.

Indonesia, home to 264m people, is the worlds fourth most populous country.

Its capital, Jakarta, is the second-most populous urban area on earth. For the sake of its long-term economic and social health, ending population growth should be a priority.

As Indonesian President Joko Widodo (widely known as Jokowi) acknowledged in 2016, Family planning is key for the success of future generations. And not just in Indonesia. Lower population growth translates into higher per capita GDP, leading to higher incomes, savings, and investment.

By contrast, high population growth can reinforce an intergenerational cycle of poverty, with young people in large families often lacking access to the skills, tools, and opportunities they need to improve their future.

In 1970, Indonesias National Population and Family Planning Board (BKKBN) was launched to address the problem. It had two specific goals: to establish a small, prosperous family as the norm in Indonesia and to reduce fertility through the promotion of contraceptives.

At first, the BKKBNs family-planning efforts achieved extraordinary results. By 2000, after 30 years of focused action, total fertility dropped by 54%, from 5.6 births per woman to 2.6, making Indonesias family-planning program one of the most effective in history. But progress stalled before Indonesia achieved its objective of achieving replacement-level fertility (2.1) by 2010-2015. According to the United Nations, Indonesias total fertility rate in 2015 was 2.45.

The BKKBN is now targeting replacement-level fertility by 2025. This is feasible and could enable Indonesia to achieve its second key quantitative target  stabilizing population growth by 2050  on schedule. But that means identifying the major barriers to success and designing a strategy to overcome them, using past successes as a guide.

One such barrier is erected by regional governments, most of which still do not regard family planning as a priority. The central governments efforts to reduce fertility to replacement level will have little impact without the committed engagement of Indonesias 511 autonomous regions.

While efforts are already underway to increase awareness of family plannings paramount importance and move it higher on subnational authorities agenda, that is just the first step.

Governments at all levels must also collaborate more effectively with local communities. In fact, widespread outreach and community participation at the village level was a key reason for the success of past family-planning efforts in Indonesia.

Widodo has attempted to revitalize this outreach effort by investing in Kampung KB, a program intended to improve village communities welfare and quality of life by expanding access to long-acting contraceptives, providing free services, and offering peer education programs.

As part of this initiative, intra-uterine devices (IUDs), condoms, and implants are now offered free of charge to all couples that need them.

But such initiatives run up against another major barrier to progress: the stigma against women  particularly unmarried women  who seek family-planning services. Past family-planning programs partly overcame this obstacle by focusing on their efforts compatibility with cultural, religious, and social norms.

Because of this sensitivity, religious leaders not only accepted the need for improved family planning; they actually preached about it, providing relevant information to their congregations.

Moreover, schools included population-related issues in their curricula. The slogan Dua Anak Cukup (Two Children are Enough) became ubiquitous.

Progress on reducing the adolescent fertility rate, like progress on lowering overall fertility in Indonesia, has plateaued in recent decades. Changing this will require closer collaboration between youth programs and organizations that advocate for adolescent sexual and reproductive rights.

But no policy will work without greater engagement by men. According to Nofrijal, the BKKBNs principal secretary, the organization wants to understand better what types of contraceptives are needed and are favored by the public, both men and women.

In the past, official policies reinforced the view that women are solely responsible for family planning. While there was once some interest in male contraceptive methods, a few conservative community leaders expressed alarm, disinformation proliferated, and these approaches were widely rejected. To reduce stigma and distribute responsibility fairly, however, men must participate more fully in family-planning processes.

Effective family planning is critical to a healthy, stable, and prosperous future. Indonesia has made remarkable progress toward replacement-level fertility. But to achieve that goal, everyone  married and unmarried men, women, and young people  must be included.

Jenna Dodson is an associate researcher in the Biological and Environmental Sciences Department at the University of Gothenburg in Sweden.
Hungarys Viktor Orban visits the White House today, but Donald Trump will try to cut an arms deal with him, not promote democracy, say Anne-Marie Slaughter and Melissa Hooper.

Today, US president, Donald Trump, will host Hungarian prime minister, Viktor Orban, at the White House.

According to some pundits, Trump will try to dissuade Hungary  ostensibly a US ally  from establishing deeper ties with China and Russia.

Dont hold your breath.

Trumps obsession, for domestic political consumption, with closing deals, combined with his admiration for autocrats, suggests that his focus will be finalising the sale of medium-range missiles and natural gas to Hungary.

Even if the Trump administration does want to peel Hungary away from Americas geopolitical rivals, it is not evident that it has any plan for doing so.

In February, US secretary of state, Mike Pompeo, became the first cabinet-level US official to visit Budapest since 2011, when Orban had started dismantling Hungarian democracy.

Pompeo apparently demanded nothing in exchange for that honour. The Hungarian parliament has yet to ratify a defence co-operation agreement that Pompeo signed during his visit.

And though Pompeo made clear that Ukraine-Nato talks are a US priority, Hungary has continued to block them, no doubt pleasing Russian president, Vladimir Putin.

Meanwhile, Orban has been courting Russia and China, not least by allowing the Kremlin-backed International Investment Bank to set up shop in Budapest, raising clear security concerns for the US.

The IIBs chairman is closely affiliated with Russian intelligence, and the banks new office could end up being adjacent to the US embassy. Behind closed doors, Hungarys security service has admitted that it cant guarantee the bank will not serve as a diplomatic cover for Russian espionage efforts.

Similarly, in April, Hungarian finance minister, Mihaly Varga, flew to China to meet with executives from Huawei, even though Pompeo has explicitly warned US partners and allies not to engage with the tech giant.

Despite Hungarys repeated acts of defiance against the US, Trump is now awarding Orban a face-to-face meeting. Perhaps that is because Orban is precisely what Trump aspires to be: a democratically elected leader who is immune from democratic accountability.

Despite Hungarys repeated acts of defiance against the US, Trump is now awarding Prime Minister Vikto Orban a face-to-face meeting. Perhaps that is because Orban is precisely what Trump aspires to be: a democratically elected leader who is immune from democratic accountabi

Since taking office, Orban has demolished or neutralised almost every check on his power, from the courts and the press to various human-rights organisations.

In the name of Christian values, he attacks Muslims and migrants, and traffics in anti-Semitism, regularly scapegoating the Hungarian-American philanthropist George Soros.

It is no accident that Trumps alt-right-adjacent guru, Steve Bannon, described Orban as a real patriot and a real hero.

The Trump administrations softness toward Orban is reflected not just in its rhetoric, but in its policies, as well. For example, in late 2017, the US Department of State announced a programme to fund independent media in Hungary, only to reverse itself under pressure from the Hungarian government.

As matters stand, the US has no formal programme to support anti-corruption groups, minorities, education, or free and independent media in Hungary.

Far from signalling disapproval of Orbans actions, the Trump administration has all but endorsed them.

Against this backdrop, there is every reason to worry that the Trump-Orban meeting will yield nothing but an exchange of compliments. If so, Orban will effectively have carte blanche to keep playing the US off against Russia and China, while gladly accepting funds from all three.

Under a strong American leader, Orban would be required to abide by, rather than dictate, the terms of US-Hungarian co-operation. Hungary would not merely stand aside and allow Ukraine-Nato negotiations to proceed; it would refuse to co-operate with authoritarian states that do not share Nato values.

By awarding Orban a personal meeting, Trump, as usual, has already surrendered a great deal of diplomatic leverage.

But if he wanted to bring Hungary into line, there are still plenty of other tools he could use.

Orban

Only Germany provides more financial assistance to Hungary than the US does, so Trump could threaten to withdraw those funds.

He could also threaten to impose corruption-related sanctions, for example under the global Magnitsky Act. In 2014, the Obama administration sent a clear message to Orban and the Hungarian public by sanctioning ten members of the prime ministers inner circle for corruption.

Unfortunately, if Trumps approach to Saudi Arabia is any guide, he will not stand up for American principles or interests, and will instead focus on making some kind of deal with Hungary, possibly at the expense of US national security.

Given Orbans anti-American positions and sheer unpredictability, there is no guarantee that Trump will get the gas and arms deals he wants. But even if he does, Orban will be free to keep cosying up to China and Russia, while obstructing US policy imperatives whenever he feels like it.

It may be tempting to dismiss a country with fewer than 10 million people as a secondary issue for the US. But Hungary represents the proverbial camels nose under the tent.

How the Trump administration manages the relationship with Orban is indicative of how it handles larger issues relating to national security, geopolitics, human rights, and the defence of democracy, both at home and abroad.

Anne-Marie Slaughter is president and CEO of New America. Melissa Hooper is director of foreign policy advocacy at Human Rights First.Copyright: Project Syndicate, 2019
I firmly believe that the time is right in Ireland to have a border poll, ie, a referendum of whether people in all of Ireland want to: 1. Keep the border, or 2. Get rid of the border.

I believe the people in both North and South will vote firmly to be rid of the border forever. All the many recent polls and surveys support this view.

The most recent survey by Empathy Research published this month shows 62% of people in the Republic are in favour of a united Ireland, while 28% of people are against a united Ireland. People dont want the border; in fact, many detest it.

Its a fake  an artificial contrivance and a divisive abomination that has caused untold human misery and suffering for almost a century. The suffering of the plain people of Ireland.

It is a thorn in the side of peace, co- operation, our economies, and, most of all, the onward march of the Irish nation.

A border poll is firmly provided for in the Good Friday Agreement, which locks our Irish Government legally in.

The reunification of Ireland is natural and inevitable.

It is the only way to have peace and prosperity in all of our beloved country, the dream of all our forefathers, the endeavours of whom we celebrate in these centenary years.

Not for decades has the time been more right to unite Ireland and allow it to take its rightful place among the nations of the world. Even Theresa May sees a united Ireland as the most likely outcome of a no-deal Brexit.

Politicians here in the south are absolutely fearful of even mentioning a united Ireland. Why are so many of our political leaders afraid to put the reunification of Ireland firmly on the national agenda for discourse?

Why not have a national forum on it?

Why not openly and maturely discuss this most important prospect, the dream and ultimate vision of all of our forebears  the reunification of Ireland?

Richie Fennessy

ClonmelCo Tipperary

This reader's opinion was originally published in the letters page of the Irish Examiner print edition on 13 May 2019.
On This Day When Helen Keller Visited Myanmar

Helen Keller (second from left) during her visit to the Shwedagon Pagoda

Sixty-four years ago today, deaf-blind American author, activist and lecturer Helen Adams Keller arrived in Myanmar as part of her international tour to support the deaf and blind. She and her secretary Polly Thomson flew from Bangkok and arrived at Yangons Mingaladon Airport on the afternoon of May 12. They stayed at the Strand Hotel.

During her stay in Yangon, the 75-year-old met with President Dr. Ba U at his Presidential Residence and commented that the president was a thoughtful person after touching his face. At a meeting with Prime Minister U Nu, she requested his support for the deaf and blind as part of his efforts to encourage creative and informative literary translations through the Burma Translation Society, in order to enlighten people. She also met with Gen. Aung Sans widow, Daw Khin Kyi, who chaired the Committee of the Union of Burma Council of Social Services at the time.

Keller also visited Shwedagon Pagoda, St. Michaels School for the Blind in Kyimyintdaing Township, and the School for the Deaf.

On her last day in Yangon before heading to Hong Kong on an early morning flight, she gave a speech at a Rotary Club luncheon at the Strand Hotel. As a mark of their appreciation, the citys Rotarians presented Keller with an embossed and inscribed Burmese silver bowl. Fingering the bowl she tapped it gently and remarked, It is not only beautiful, but musical as well.

Keller is well known in Myanmar; her biography is included in the Encyclopedia of Burmania and the English reader for 11th grade students. In 2016, Daw Aung San Suu Kyi received the Helen Keller International Humanitarian Award from Helen Keller International Europe for her commitment to humanitarian causes.

You may also like these stories:

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The 1930 Earthquake Which Flattened Bago

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The Day the First Train Pulled out of Yangon Central
Sunday, May 12th, 2019 (12:01 am) - Score 3,345

The trade association for mobile operators, Mobile UK, has warned that many councils currently adopt an inconsistent approach to improving mobile connectivity and fixed line broadband is often given a higher priority. Instead the group wants local authorities to take the future roll-out of ultrafast 5G networks more seriously.

At present O2, Three UK, EE and Vodafone are all expected to tentatively start the commercial roll-out of their future 5G mobile networks during the latter half of 2019, although their primary national deployments may have to wait until 2020, which is when Ofcom hope to release more of the necessary radio spectrum bands (assuming squabbling between operators doesnt delay it).

However Mobile UKs report  Councils & Connectivity 2  warns that 87% of councils surveyed (reflecting a sample of 60 randomly selected councils with varying degrees of urban/rural geography) have not yet audited their assets for suitability to host digital infrastructure. Meanwhile 56% lacked a cabinet member with specific responsibility for digital issues and 74% had yet to apply for funding to improve local digital connectivity.

Worse still, only 28% of Local Plans make a detailed reference to mobile connectivity and councils often overlook this while still adopting a heavy focus toward broadband. Instead the Mobile UK report calls for equal prioritisation of mobile with fixed broadband by local authorities.

All of this is despite the fact that 94% of UK adults own a mobile phone and there are 92 million subscriptions to such networks. The GSMA has also previously estimated that the impact of mobile on UK GDP could be 112bn in 2020, rising to between 164-198bn per annum by 2030. But the report notes that only 10% of council economic strategies give a clear view of how important mobile is to future economic outcomes.

Gareth Elliot, Head of Policy and Comms for Mobile UK, said: Mobile connectivity has transformed our daily lives, and 5G is expected to take us even further, but we must ensure that at all levels of government we are equally prepared. Councils have a vital role, yet while many are working towards a connected future, our research has found that there is still a lag in fully prioritising mobile connectivity. With launch plans announced for 5G, now is the time to take the opportunity to work with industry to break down barriers and champion mobile connectivity, to ensure the next generation of mobile infrastructure is deployed quickly and effectively.

Naturally Mobile UK is hoping their report will encourage councils to work in partnership with the industry to help provide the certainty needed to assist mobile operators to rollout networks and theyve produced a series of recommendations to help shape that engagement. In theory they believe this could help MNOs to build next generation networks quickly, effectively and in a manner that is economically viable.

Mobile UKs Key Recommendations 1. Put greater emphasis on the importance of mobile connectivity to the future success of local economies. This can be supported by the following actions:  Auditing public sector assets as potential locations for mobile infrastructure. Using public buildings, structures and open land to install mobile infrastructure has supported widespread improvements to connectivity. The charge for use of these assets should be set on the basis set out in the Electronic Communications Code, and not at rates that disincentivise investment.  Learning lessons from the rollout of broadband. There are numerous examples  such as Connecting Devon and Somerset and Connecting Cambridgeshire  of how concerted effort has improved broadband provision in local areas.  Exploring different models of collaboration with the mobile industry. Examples of current partnerships include regular catch-up meetings and round-tables, which support a collaborative approach between the mobile industry and local political and business leaders. 2. Publish a clear statement of approach to create a positive environment to build mobile infrastructure. This can be supported by the following actions:  Embedding mobile connectivity in plans for local economic development. The development of mobile infrastructure should be included in Local Plans and all other types of local economic strategy.  Establishing connectivity considerations as best practice in the planning phase of new developments. Any development  from upgrades to the road network to new housing estates  should consider connectivity requirements prior to construction beginning, not after construction is complete.  Creating local government digital champions. This could be a Local Authority cabinet post or committee focussed on mobile connectivity, a senior role dedicated to making better use of mobile/digital technology (such as a Chief Digital Officer) or a council officer with responsibility to improve mobile connectivity. Digital champions provide a single point of contact and responsibility for mobile connectivity and will also be in a unique position to align competing interests within a local authority such as economic development, property, planning and politics.

One of the biggest difficulties that councils will face in all this is that their local constituents dont always approve of new mobile infrastructure being deployed, particularly if it spoils a beauty spot or lowers the value of their homes. Ironically some of the same people often complain about poor signals. Not to mention disputes over land access and wayleaves, which can still occur despite recent changes in the law (ECC).

On this subject the proposal for a simplification of planning effectively means a step down of all telecommunications equipment into permitted development (PD), which would provide certainty in terms of time to a decision and does not fully remove a local authorities right to object via the with approval process. However this is a much softer approach, which might work for smaller infrastructure but making big masts PD could be a tough sell. Naturally nobody wants to be voted out of office and thus theres a difficult balancing act to be achieved.

Nevertheless the nature of 5G means that it only works at its best with a much denser local network and to deliver that may indeed require more cooperation from councils, which could help with preparatory work in terms of things like organising site availability, power, fibre access and forward planning.
There are many things that one can say about America's premier spy agency, the NSA, but one can never accuse it of not instilling an incredible degree of loyalty among most of its employees, to the extent that those who left its portals decades ago still carry water for it when someone attacks the agency.

Exactly what prompts this loyalty? A security industry source says it is not unrelated to the fact that a lot of outsourced work from the NSA ends up being given to outfits run by  yes, you guessed it, ex-NSA spooks. And the NSA has a massive budget so these contracts are not trivial.

Last week, The New York Times ran a story based on a leak from security firm Symantec, claiming that Chinese spies had gained access to a number of NSA exploits and used them for attacks, well before they were leaked on the Web by a group known as the Shadow Brokers.

Symantec's contention was that a group called Buckeye, which appears to be a Chinese-affiliated group, had been using tools from the NSA  which Symantec referred to as the Equation Group, using nomenclature that has been employed by Kaspersky Lab  to gain persistent access to targets at least a year before the Shadow Brokers leaked a trove of exploits on the Web.

To date, there has been no indication as to the identity of the Brokers who first offered exploits for sale in 2016, and later, finding no takers, dumped said exploits which included DoublePulsar, EternalBlue, EternalRomance and EternalSynergy.

EternalBlue was used to craft the WannaCry ransomware which wreaked havoc on companies and organisations in May 2017.

The US isnt perfect. The NSA has deserved some black eyes. But I am a staunch advocate of countries spying on each other for intelligence and ideally better statecraft. And the US intel community trying to think of the community while they do that is great. Unpopular take I know  Robert M. Lee (@RobertMLee) May 8, 2019

News stories in the NYT always contain comment, and probably what irked the ex-NSA types was stuff like this: "The Chinese action shows how proliferating cyber conflict is creating a digital wild West with few rules or certainties, and how difficult it is for the United States to keep track of the malware it uses to break into foreign networks and attack adversaries infrastructure.

"The losses have touched off a debate within the intelligence community over whether the United States should continue to develop some of the worlds most high-tech, stealthy cyber weapons if it is unable to keep them under lock and key."

The theft of the exploits by the Brokers has given the NSA a considerable black eye: three years on from the first announcement, nobody is any the wiser as to the identities of the thieves.

Im honestly confused by the coverage on this one and the outrage shown by some folks. I feel I must be missing something. If you lose control and things get leaked; thats one thing. But proliferation and abuse through use? Thats not new nor unique to the NSA.  Robert M. Lee (@RobertMLee) May 7, 2019

The sideshow that took place after the NYT story was put online was infinitely more interesting than the NYT story itself; the only point of interest around these leaked NSA exploits is the identity of the Shadow Brokers. Some say they are Russian, others see it as more plausible that they are a homegrown unit.

But no matter that this article was all about a sideshow, ex-NSA spooks, one after another, lined up to take up cudgels for their former employer.

Among them was Dave Aitel, the chief of Immunity, a security company that was bought by Cyxtera Technologies in January. Aitel wrote a blog post, claiming, "I want to point out that Nicole Perlroth, David E. Sanger and Scott Shane (the authors of the NYT article) have, as usual, written an article... that is more advocacy than news.

I've seen a lot of anti-NSA rants after the new @symantec report about EternalSynergy and DoublePulsar. Exploits serve an obvious purpose which we should all agree is valuable - gaining intelligence on those who wish us harm. Those arguments miss this. 1/9https://t.co/rzyP35QMWF  Jake Williams (@MalwareJake) May 7, 2019

"They say never to pick a fight with someone who buys ink by the barrel, but this article is pure nonsense. Let's let Rob Lee, who knows what he's talking about, say it succinctly."

Aitel inserted a tweet from Lee, also an NSA alumnus, which read: "My late night take: if were going to yell at the NSA for making an exploit that an adversary saw in an intrusion and learned from as an example of 'losing control of weapons' then we should just argue that no one should make exploits ever because they can all be lost in that way."

Aitel does not always spar with journalists; he is not averse to a bit of publicity himself and this writer interviewed him at length in 2005 when he was under pressure from proprietary software vendors and a senior researcher over the way he ran his company. At the time, Aitel and his researchers followed a business model of providing clients with inside knowledge of the vulnerabilities they found without ever informing the vendor of the software in question.

Recently, however, Aitel seems to have taken a dislike to those who call themselves journalists, banning media from the annual Infiltrate security conference that Immunity organises.

In another tweet, Lee, who runs his own security firm, Dragos, said: "Im honestly confused by the coverage on this one and the outrage shown by some folks. I feel I must be missing something. If you lose control and things get leaked; thats one thing. But proliferation and abuse through use? Thats not new nor unique to the NSA."

And referring to Aitel's blog post, Lee wrote: "Anyway  Daves blog had me thinking. Our intel professionals do amazing work far outside the scathing view of infosec. They should strive to do better but Im also proud to have been part of the US IC and thank those still in doing the grind."

Jake Williams, an extremely well-known former NSA man who now runs his own infosec outfit, Rendition Infosec, and at times takes the middle ground, also defended his former employer, saying: "I've seen a lot of anti-NSA rants after the new @symantec report about EternalSynergy and DoublePulsar. Exploits serve an obvious purpose which we should all agree is valuable - gaining intelligence on those who wish us harm."

He followed up with another eight tweets, explaining why this case  that of the NSA exploits being stolen  was more a matter of faults in the Vulnerabilities Equities Process, a US government process that outlines when zero-day exploits can be kept hidden in order to craft exploits for attacking foreign enemies, and when they should be disclosed to vendors for patching.

Old loyalties it would appear die hard  especially when the wheels are greased well.
Q: Ive received two calls from someone claiming to be from Social Security about my account. What should we do?

B.E.

Answer: Late last year, the Social Security Administration issued a warning about an ongoing caller-ID scheme in which the scammers were displaying SSAs 800 number. This is a scam; citizens should not engage with those calls or provide any personal information, according to the SSA.

People who have accepted the calls said the caller identifies as an SSA employee. In some cases, the caller states that SSA does not have all of the persons personal information, such as their Social Security number (SSN), on file. Other callers claim SSA needs additional information so the agency can increase the persons benefit payment, or that SSA will terminate the persons benefits if they do not confirm their information. This appears to be a widespread issue, as reports have come from citizens across the country.
All was quiet inside the Amani Village Market. It was a little bit warm and on the humid side, too, as a lone volunteer sat quietly sorting bags of brightly colored beads.

Just trying to see what combinations might work best for necklaces and bracelets, she said. Theres no science to it.

Probably not. But there is plenty of art associated with the store  Amani sells African beads, bags, jewelry, clothing and other gifts  and one heck of a back story for anyone who cares to ask.

Proceeds go to support New Life Home Trust, a 25-year-old organization in Kenya with a network of four homes that have housed, fed and cared for some 2,000 abandoned children through the years. One was built largely with money raised right here in Winston-Salem with the support of famed poet and activist of Maya Angelou. (Angelou died at her Winston-Salem home in 2014 at age 86.)

Anytime anybody comes in, we ask if theyve been here before, Kay Landry said. If not, they get the full story.

Its well worth knowing. Especially on Mothers Day.

Long winding road
Talks with China continue in a very congenial manner  there is absolutely no need to rush  as Tariffs are NOW being paid to the United States by China of 25% on 250 Billion Dollars worth of goods & products, Trump tweeted. These massive payments go directly to the Treasury of the U.S.

He also claimed that tariffs will bring in FAR MORE wealth to our Country than even a phenomenal deal of the traditional kind.

And Saturday, Trump suggested that the United States was collecting tariffs from China.

Would be wise for them to act now, but love collecting BIG TARIFFS! Trump said in a tweet.

On Sunday, both Republicans and Democrats criticized Trumps handling of the China trade talks.

Sen. Rand Paul, R-Ky., an ally of Trump, said on ABC News This Week that he is worried about the effect the tariffs will have on the U.S. economy.

Paul told host George Stephanopoulos that he is very concerned that Trump may enact permanent tariffs.
Dubbed "Black Mama's Bail Out," the name is a bit of a misnomer. The group is focused on caregivers, regardless of gender.

"Were talking about anyone who takes care of people, that includes older people, children, people who are trans," Crippen said. "People who are transgender  because of the way our society is set up  they end up taking care of each other," she explained. The group has had trouble determining transgender people who may need the group's help because Guilford County does not recognize their gender, Crippen said.

The group meets with potential recipients beforehand to see if they want their help and to find out what their needs will be when they get out.

We have to get their permission," Crippen said. "A lot of times, (the jail) is the only place that they can get medical care. Also, people get very nervous about people coming to bail them out that they dont know.

The initiative comes amid a growing movement among criminal justice groups to overhaul bail systems that critics say favor the wealthy and punish the poor, while clogging local jails with people yet to be convicted of a crime.
Along with roll call votes this week, the House also passed the Taiwan Assurance Act (H.R. 2002), to foster security in Taiwan; and the Advancing Critical Connectivity Expands Service, Small Business Resources, Opportunities, Access, and Data Based on Assessed Need and Demand Act (H.R. 1328), to establish the Office of Internet Connectivity and Growth.

House votes

COMMERCE AND DIPLOMACY: The House has passed the Championing American Business Through Diplomacy Act (H.R. 1704), sponsored by Rep. Michael T. McCaul, R-Texas. The bill would establish an Assistant Secretary of State for Economic and Business Matters at the State Department, and state that a principal duty of U.S. diplomatic missions to foreign countries is the promotion of U.S. economic and commercial interests in foreign lands. McCaul said of the need for economic diplomacy: If America does not step up its economic engagement in the world, this vacuum will be filled by others, with a potentially devastating impact on American national security. The vote, on May 7, was 400 yeas to 16 nays.
Tillis already has drawn a primary challenger in Tucker. There may be more.

Should Tillis move right to secure a primary win, hell be left scrambling to return to the center for the general election.

There hell face charges of flip-flopping and be vilified for enabling an erratic, unfit president.

Tillis biggest problem will be running with Trump at the top of the ticket. Provided Democrats dont blow it with a unelectable nominee, North Carolina will be a key battleground state and a place to re-energize African American voters.

Like it or not, Tillis is going to be joined at the hip with Trump and held to account for failing to take on the latters racism, corruption and trade wars.

Vulnerable Senate Republicans (e.g., Sens. Joni Ernst of Iowa, Susan Collins of Maine, Cory Gardner of Colorado) should be on notice:

They can never be loyal enough (e.g., Collins on health care) to prevent a Trumpian challenge but as they try to mollify the right (e.g., Gardner voting down the line on Trumps agenda), they anger moderates in their states who helped elect them. (Collinss poll numbers have sunk since her vote to confirm Justice Brett Kavanaugh.)
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.

This 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 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.

Six rural hospitals have closed in North Carolina since 2010, affecting not only access to health care but the well-being of rural economies.
Ive thought for a long time that Thomas is unfortunately out-of-touch, and this situation does nothing to change my mind. We, of course, didnt get the offending editorial cartoon, either, although I dont see that much wrong with the cartoon as Thomas describes it. Im not sure the International New York Times needed to apologize for it, as Thomas reports the newspaper has done.

Much more appropriate, to my mind, is a column by Yousef Bashir on the back page of last Sundays Times Sunday Review, which we do get here. Bashir  the author of The Words of My Father: Love and Pain in Palestine  was 15 years old in 2004, when an Israeli soldier shot him in the back, apparently accidentally. It took him a year to learn to walk again, but he has forgiven the soldier. His column was titled, An Israeli Shot Me. An Israeli healed me. He says of the soldier, I wish we could talk. I would tell him that I want to do my part to make peace between our peoples more possible, the way my father taught me.
A fifth farmer has pleaded guilty to his role in an organic grain fraud scheme that involved at least $140 million in sales of grain.

John Burton, of Clarksdale, Missouri, pleaded guilty Friday to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, as part of a plea agreement with federal prosecutors.

Burton, 52, admitted that grain grown on his non-organic fields was marketed and sold as organic and that unapproved substances were used on fields certified as organic. Federal prosecutors are seeking to require that he forfeit $2.2 million that was traced to the scheme.

Burton's plea comes months after one of his associates, 61-year-old Randy Constant of Chillicothe, Missouri, pleaded guilty to charges alleging he masterminded the scheme.

Constant made many of the fraudulent sales through an Iowa grain brokerage that he owned. Three other Nebraska farmers have also pleaded guilty in the case.
April Soto has been honored as Aurora Medical Center Kenoshas Nurse of the Year.

Soto and 32 other nurses across Advocate Aurora Health in Illinois and Wisconsin were honored by the organizations executive leaders in a celebration May 7 in Gurnee, Ill.

Nursing practice and patient-centered care have become Sotos specialty this past year. She partnered with others in the creation of a vascular access team.

She is known for making sure patients and their families are fully educated in the decision-making process of their health.

April is a true patient advocate who is willing to ensure the patient receives the right vascular access for the best outcome, said Jess Herr, her manager. She has also recently obtained her certification in vascular access demonstrating her commitment to this skill set.

Colleagues said Soto emanates an exterior of calm in stressful situations and is not afraid to initiate difficult conversations that patients and families often face including palliative care and end-of-life discussions.

She is known for taking family members aside to host private conversations, allowing them opportunities to understand realities and expectations of care. She respects and supports patient decision-making and gives them autonomy and ownership over their care.

She is the chairwoman of the Nursing Practice Council, participates in a research project on vascular access and mentors other student and staff nurses on vascular access.

Nearly 600 nominations for this inaugural award were received on behalf of nurses from Advocate Aurora Health. Nominations were submitted by nurses, physicians and team members.

All nominations were vetted and presented in blinded format to a local review committees for judging according to each nominees passion for patient care, commitment to service, problem-solving abilities and leadership aptitude.

The winners represent a variety of specialties; some are veteran nurses with more than 30 years of experience while others are relatively new to the nursing profession.

These nurses demonstrate Advocate Aurora values every day, exemplifying an unwavering commitment to the delivery of exceptional, high quality, safe, nursing care, said Mary Beth Kingston, chief nursing officer of Advocate Aurora Health.

Advocate Aurora Health employs nearly 22,000 professional nurses across the systems 28 acute care facilities and more than 500 sites of care. Nurses represent one-third of Advocate Aurora Healths workforce.

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Kenosha will receive $8 million from the Department of Transportation to extend the runway at Kenosha Regional Airport.

First District U.S. Rep. Bryan Steil, R-Wis., confirmed that the grant money will come to Kenosha through the DOTs Airport Improvement Program.

This is great news for Kenosha, Steil said in a statement. The Kenosha Regional Airport plays an important role in expanding workforce development opportunities in our area.

New funding for the airports runway will enhance current aviation capabilities. As our Kenosha community continues to grow, an improved airport will help attract investment and jobs.

Plans approved last fall by the Wisconsin DOT include:

Lengthening the runway from just under 5,500 feet to 6,600 feet.

Extending the parallel taxiway accordingly to access the extension.

Rebuilding and strengthening the runway to better accommodate current and future corporate and general aviation traffic.

Acquiring property to protect and control the extended runway airspace and protection zone, as well as removal of trees and obstructions to provide clear approach procedures at both runway ends.

Creating dry ponds and making other improvements to control stormwater runoff.

Making other improvements to meet Federal Aviation Administration standards.

Kenosha Mayor John Antaramian said the announcement is good news for the airport, noting that the project has been in the works for a number of years.

This has been going on for the last 10 years or so, he said. A lot of these projects take a long time to get in the queue. We anticipated them moving in the last couple of years. Its exciting that its happening now.

Not for bigger planes

Antaramian said the runway is needed as a safety precaution.

This is not to accommodate bigger aircraft, he said. This will enable aircraft to take off and land more safely than before.

He said aircraft sometimes need a longer runway due to the weight of the fuel they carry, especially on hot days.

With the way the weather can be, the length of the runway is a concern, he said. This will make the airport more safe and allow jets to take off with more gas. This will support the things we presently do at the airport.

In the summertime, during times of high heat and humidity, when the air is less dense, you need a longer runway to create lift when the aircraft is fully loaded, airport manager Corey Reed told the Kenosha News in September.

And, in winter, when the runways are compromised with ice and snow, you need more distance to stop  especially when you come in fully loaded.

Antaramian said land will need to be acquired for the project but noted that acquisition has been part of the airports conceptual plan from the beginning.

Construction isnt likely to begin anytime soon, Antaramian said.

This isnt happening this year. It will get started some time next year, he said, noting that design work is needed first.

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While the last Northside Librarys Old Weird America program held by local historian Cathy Polovina Thursday was a bit more macabre than usual, that didnt stop residents from packing the room and sitting on the edge of their seats.

Many had never heard of Belle Gunness, an Indiana farm woman dubbed the Female Bluebeard and The La Porte Ghoul after hundreds of butchered body parts were discovered buried on her farm in 1908.

The remains of 30 men were identified from the body parts, which had been butchered supposedly in her cellar, with the rest fed to the pigs. Shes believed to have killed at least 50 people. A Kenosha woman also was believed to have stayed at the farm for a rest prior to 1907.

Its interesting because shes a murderer, said Polovina, who began the series last June. I try to stay away from that kind of thing, but I have to admit, thats what America is made of.

The fascination with serial killers has fueled an endless stream of books, movies and TV series focusing on John Wayne Gacy, Jeffrey Dahmer, Ted Bundy and even Jack the Ripper, but this was different. Gunness, likely the Midwests first female serial killer, lured men to her farm with personal ads promising work and sometimes even marriage. They were never seen or heard from again.

The subject material is fascinating, said Kenoshan Laura Kastelic. These are not people we heard about in history class.

Norwegian immigrant Brynhilde Poulsdatter changed her name to Belle after moving to Chicago and married her first husband Max Mads Sorensen in 1883. She was soon plagued by bad luck when their failing candy store went up in flames. She collected the insurance. She collected again when their home burned down. Sorensens death from illness  likely strychnine poisoning  in 1900 netted Belle a small fortune from two life insurance policies.

She collected on both, Polovina said. She got $5,000, equal to $150,000 today.

Misfortune hit again when the infant daughter of her second husband Peter Gunness died weeks after their marriage in April 1902. He died in December after being hit in the head from a falling meat grinder.

She got $4,000 in life insurance, Polovina said.

A parade of men came to the farm in response to lonely hearts and help wanted newspaper ads. They brought their money and left behind scores of watches, filled trunks and their lives.

Gunness mightve been trying to cover up her crimes after reporting that her former farmhand and lover Ray Lamphere was insane and stalking her. When the farmhouse burned down, he was charged with arson and initially murder after the bodies of three children and a headless woman, identified as Gunness by a dental partial, were found.

Some thought Gunness had died, while others, like Polovina, thought she escaped.

I suspect she did, Polovina said. But what about the head?

Lamphere died in jail of tuberculosis after being arrested for arson and murder. He later confessed to doing the planting, but denied killing anyone. Other remains were uncovered in a garbage pit on April 28, 1908, after another Norwegian man, suspicious about his missing brother, helped with the digging and found his brothers severed head.

As the digging continued, the farm soon became a circus.

Up to 16,000 people a day would join in and picnic at the murder farm, Polovina said. Local gawkers hung around. Ice cream, peanuts and cotton candy were sold.

Several items from the former crime scene, including a skull and some bones, can be found at the La Porte County Historical Society.

Since starting the Old Weird America series, which marks its first anniversary next month, Polovina has watched its popularity grow from month to month.

Its gotten momentum, I think, she said. Its nice.

She admits that not all the stories are so lurid, as shes done presentations on Americas would-be emperor, to New Yorks hoarder-brothers and more, but she knows that the more extreme stories do have their draw.

People do have an interest in the garishness of some of the topics. Its mine, too, she said. Because its history we can excuse ourselves.

She plans to continue the series and is working on next falls subject list.

The summer presentations will be held the second Thursday of the month from 6 to 7 p.m. at the Northside Library, 1500 27th Avenue. The subjects of the summer presentations include:

June 13: The Devil at the Crossroads  The stormy lives of folk and blues legends Lead Belly and Robert Johnson; sorting fact from fiction in the lives of these legendary musical figures.

July 11: Fake News and the Great Moon Hoax of 1835. The New York Sun reported the discovery of life on the moon as seen through the telescope of Sir John Herschel. Why was the public so eager to believe stories of bi-pedal beavers and flying man-bats who built towering gold and sapphire temples? What part did Edgar Allan Poe play in the story?

August 8: The Lonely Doll  The Strange Inanimate World of Dare Wright. Her mother primped and photographed her pretty daughter while isolating her from other family connections. Dare then created her own world, photographing and creating Tthe Lonely Doll books. The presentation explores how Dare lived in this virtual world until cruel reality intervened.

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Paris Solar Energy Center has announced the hiring of Frank Krupkowski as the local representative for the project  a proposed solar development located in the town of Paris in Kenosha County.

Paris Solar is being developed by Invenergy, a privately held developer and operator of sustainable energy solutions.

The Midwest-based company is also the developer of the recently approved Badger Hollow Solar Farm in Iowa County.

The Paris Solar project is expected to produce enough clean, renewable energy to power 55,000 Wisconsin homes per year and directly invest more than $3 million in the local economy every year.

Krupkowski has lived and worked in Kenosha County for the last 30 years. He has been president of the Greater Union Grove Area Chamber of Commerce and he has been involved with the Union Grove and Kansasville fire departments and 4-H. He also served as a trustee on the Union Grove Village Board.

Paris Solar will host a grand opening celebration for the project office later this month.

Krupkowski will hold regular office hours on Monday and Tuesday from 8 a.m. to noon as well as by appointment at the office, 1013 Main St., Union Grove.

He can also be reached at Frank@parissolarfarm.com or 262-864-4103.

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PORTLAND, Ore-- A Portland toddler is recovering tonight after her mother says she was scalded by water she received from the McDonald's in PDX.

The pictures tell the story. Emily Dolbeer and her four-year-old Lainey were heading to a vacation at Disneyland when she says their trip was ruined before it even began.

Dolbeer asked if the McDonald's at PDX could fill up her daughters sippie cup with water. However, it wasnt until after Lainey took a sip that she realized the water was scalding hot.

"It was the most little, heart wrenching sound you've ever heard. I turn around and she is just the most inconsolable little human you've ever seen," said Dolbeer.

She says it only took five minutes for blisters and sores to develop on Lainey's mouth, tongue, and chest.

"(The water) was hotter than I would have drank coffee or tea or anything. It was absolutely burning," said Dolbeer.

She says they got pain management and are monitoring the situation the best they can, but her daughter hasn't been acting like herself and that it has been affecting her eating.

Dolbeer says that even after she told the employees what had happened they offered no support and no compassion for the situation.

She says she can't even wrap her head how this happened.

"(The cup) is a thermo, but it's covered in Disney princesses. Like why would you even think to put scalding water in a child's water bottle?" asked Dolbeer.

However she does say Lainey has had a little distraction while she heals.

"I think the fact that we are at the happiest place on earth is the best distraction for her. We actually saw Pluto on the way home from dinner last night. He's one of her favorites so that put a little smile on her face." said Dolbeer.

She says she has received one call from McDonald's management, but that's not enough. She says she needs to see some action and not just for her situation.

"Something needs to be done because this negligence can just keep happening. I don't know if they need better training. Something needs to be done," she continued.

After posting about the situation on Facebook, Emily and Lainey received an outpouring of support.

KEZI reached out to the McDonald's location where this happened and they said they have no comment.
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Scientists found 2,624 years old tree in North Carolina



The ancient trees are a piece of a flawless biological system that traverses the greater part of the 65-mile length of the Black River. Additionally to their age, the trees are logically profitable methods for recreating ancient atmosphere conditions. The most established trees in the preserve expand the paleoclimate record in the southeast United States by 900 years and show proof of dry seasons and flooding amid during and pre-pilgrim times that surpass any measured in modern times.



Now, scientists have recently documented stand of bald cypress trees in North Carolina that is almost 2,624 years old. As scientists reported, it is the oldest known living trees in eastern North America and the oldest known wetland tree species in the world.



In 2017, David Stahle, Distinguished Professor of Geosciences, along with colleagues from the universitys Ancient Bald Cypress Consortium and other conservation groups, discovered the trees from a forested wetland preserve along the Black River south of Raleigh, North Carolina. Stahle documented the age of the trees using dendrochronology, the study of tree rings, and radio carbon dating.



Scientists examined a total of 110 trees located in a 16,000-acre plot of land owned by the North Carolina Nature Conservancy. The trees, which are Bald Cypress, are located along the Black River.



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UN Watch reports:

Despite Bruneis notorious new penal code that provides for the stoning of gays, nation after nation lined up today at the UN Human Rights Council to laud the absolute monarchys track record on human rights, as the country underwent a mandatory review that all UN member states undergo every five years. (See quotes below.)

According to a count by UN Watch, 61 out of 91 countries that spoke praised the government for its human rights record. An additional 21 countries expressed some praise for Bruneis alleged progress, in addition to applying genuine scrutiny. If one includes these statements, then 82 out of 91 countries, or 90%, expressed praise for the country.

While the UNHRCs mandatory review exercise is meant to scrutinize all nations every five years in order to improve the lives of victims worldwide, the vast majority of countries who took the floor today chose not to address Bruneis atrocious human rights record, which includes criminalization of same-sex sexual activity, the use of caning and stoning as punishment, and strict censorship.
Mike Hosking writes:

Firstly, the Greens lost this battle. This is not what they wanted. They wanted a vote, and for that vote to be law on the spot. Their original win was to get a vote in the first place. That was part of their confidence and supply document. It was a sop that, with yesterdays details, reveals the chances of us ending up in a government supplied pot cafe is slim indeed, thank goodness.

Because if a yes vote gets up, the proposed legislation goes to the house. What does the house do with it? Potentially scuttle it. If the Parliament is roughly the same as it is now, it should be scuttled. New Zealand First will see to it.

It is impossible to believe the two heaviest hitters in that party  who come from Northland, an area ravaged by drug abuse  are going to proactively promote more drug use, use taxpayer money to supply drugs, and then stand by writing the cheques required to mop up the social and economic harm of their actions.

It is hard to imagine Peters and Jones implementing the results of the referendum.

Of course, National will campaign against this sort of madness, and there are votes in that. Taking a strong stand against drugs is a path to popularity, as it connects with large swathes of middle New Zealand.

Which leaves Labour, who may or may not be for any of this, stuck in a quagmire of indecision, just like with the CGT. They want us to be smoke-free  Helen Clarks idea  but not dope-free.

They rail against social ills and deprivation, yet support, if not encourage, our right to obliterate our brains. Its a mixed message, and its the price you pay for hanging out with the wrong crowd.

I think this will become a major issue for next years election.

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President of the Vaturisu, Chief Henry Manlaewia calling on chiefs to reclaim their nasaras
New Delhi, May 12: Prime Minister Narendra Modi sharpened his assault against the rivals after the security forces gunned down two militants in Jammu & Kashmir's Shopian district on Sunday. The PM, while addressing a rally in Uttar Pradesh's Kushinagar, said the Opposition would now raise hue and cry on why the insurgents have been neutralised on the day of polling.

Modi said a section of his opponents will accuse his government of violating the Model Code of Conduct by allowing the soldiers to carry out their duty while the sixth phase of voting was underway. Modi's Statement on 'Effect of Clouds on Radar Signals During Balakot Strike' Deleted By BJP Twitter Handles

"Today terrorists were killed by our Army in Kashmir. Now some people are worried as to why did Modi kill the terrorists when voting is underway? An armed terrorist is attacking,do my jawans go to the Election Commission to seek permission to kill him," the Prime Minister questioned, while addressing a BJP rally in eastern Uttar Pradesh's Kushinagar region.

Here's What PM Modi Said:

PM Modi: Wo bomb-bandook lekar samne khada hai, kya wahan mera jawan Election Commission ki permission lene jaye ki main isko goli maroon ya na maroon? Acha Kashmir main jab se hum aaye hain har doosre-teesre din safai hoti rehti hai, ye safai abhiyaan mera kaam hai bhai https://t.co/HJBlQr9X0B  ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) May 12, 2019

Earlier in the day, a team of security personnel raided a terror hideout in South Kashmir's Shopian and killed two militants. No major Opposition party is yet to raise any question on the security operation.

The Model Code of Conduct, which is in force since March 11 after the announcement of polling dates, does not prohibit the armed forces from discharging their duty.

Modi's reference to the military encounter while targeting the Opposition comes amid the charges of "politicising the Army" levelled against him. Congress president Rahul Gandhi had accused the PM of attempting to project the country's armed forces as his "personal fiefdom".

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on May 12, 2019 01:22 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
Weathering change is one of the biggest tests of any relationship. Often the shift has to do with money or housing or pregnancy. For young couple Fiona and Alice, its even more fundamental; it goes to the very core of their identities.

The news  which launches an absorbing play called Rotterdam  emerges late one night as the pair banter about an email that Alice is agonizing over. Its topic: revealing to her parents that shes a lesbian. When she finally lets Fiona have a look, Fiona is so struck by the emails forthrightness that she feels compelled to share something shes kept private during their half-dozen years together. Grasping for the right words, she stammers out: I think Im meant to be a man.

The 2015 play by Englishman Jon Brittain joins a growing and absolutely essential list of shows about transgender lives. Brittain, a straight, cisgender 30-year-old, approaches the topic with tremendous empathy, envisioning characters who are fallible yet loving, always doing the best that they can as they try to find the way forward.

Winner of a 2017 Olivier Award in London and buzzed about in a festival appearance in New York this year, Rotterdam arrives in Los Angeles in a pitch-perfect staging at the Skylight Theatre in Los Feliz. Working with a gifted young cast, director Michael A. Shepperd, whose credits include the recent The View UpStairs at the Celebration, mines the plays rich specificity in a production that often feels like a rom-com yet plunges so deeply into the heart of the matter that we respond with whole catalogs of emotion.

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The storys central couple, in their late 20s, are different yet complementary. Alice (portrayed by Miranda Wynne) is the sort who has to think things through, then think some more. Fiona (Ashley Romans) seems much more decisive. They are English yet live in Rotterdam, the Netherlands  a place that has become as much a state of mind as anything else. Alice realizes that she should return to England to face her parents and wholly acknowledge her love for women among people who know her, but she resists, hiding away in another country.

Then comes Fionas news. You know this doesnt change anything between us, Fiona says to Alice, hoping for assurance. But so much is changing.

Fiona brings home binders to flatten her chest. Alice helps put one on, which requires almost a hug as she reaches around Fiona to tug at it. Love, longing and loss all play across Alices face. Fiona turns to look in a mirror and stares in wonder at the transformation.

Brittain, whose transgender friends inspired him to write the play, read extensively, interviewed transgender people and became involved with a nonprofit gender diversity group.

Fiona takes the name Adrian and dresses more masculinely. Scared yet increasingly self-assured, he becomes ever more himself.

As Fionas pronoun changes, Alice wrestles with her own identity, with which she was only just beginning to be comfortable. If she loves a man, what does she call herself now?

The couple dont live in a vacuum, of course. With them on the journey is Josh (Ryan Brophy), who has complex ties to both. And theres Lelani (Audrey Cain), Alices flirtatious colleague at work, radiating the boundless confidence of youth.

Jeff McLaughlins set design evokes the Rotterdam cityscape, complete with the cables of the Erasmus Bridge. The buildings, which are the same height as the actors, are cleverly engineered to transform into whatever furnishings are needed, whether in an apartment or a market.

Shepperds staging is so crisp that even the between-scenes set changes have a choreography to them.

The characters strive to celebrate each other, even if it causes them to let go of something.

Its important to remember that this is just one story. As with any community, there are many possible journeys in the transgender community.

But Adrian touches on something universal when he says: I dont want to change the world. I just want people to see me the way I want to be seen. The way I am.

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Rotterdam

Where: Skylight Theatre, 1816 N. Vermont Ave., L.A.

When: 8:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays, 8 p.m. Mondays; ends Dec. 11

Tickets: $20-$41

Info: (213) 761-7061, skylighttheatrecompany.org

Running time: 2 hours, 10 minutes

daryl.miller@latimes.com

Twitter: @darylhmiller

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Alvin Sargent, a versatile and prolific screenwriter whose work spanned a wide range of genres and who won two Oscars for the films Julia and Ordinary People, has died at age 92.

Sargent died of natural causes on Thursday at his home in Seattle, his representatives confirmed.

Equally adept with dramas, thrillers and comic-book movies, Sargent had a particular talent for translating literary works to the screen.

He earned his first of three Oscar nominations for his screenplay for director Peter Bogdanovichs Depression-era dramedy Paper Moon, which Sargent adapted from the 1971 Joe David Brown novel Addie Pray. The film made history when its 10-year-old star, Tatum ONeal, became the youngest actress ever to win a competitive Oscar for her performance as a young con artist being tutored by an adult one, played by her real-life dad Ryan ONeal.

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Sargent went on to win two adapted screenplay Oscars, first for the 1977 Holocaust drama Julia, which was based on writings by author Lillian Hellman, and then for 1980s best picture-winning Ordinary People, an emotionally wrenching portrait of an upper-middle-class family disintegrating after the tragic loss of a child, which Sargent adapted from the 1976 novel by Judith Guest.

Born Alvin Supowitz in Philadelphia on April 27, 1927, Sargent cut his teeth writing for television in the 1950s and 60s on series like Ben Casey, Route 66, and Naked City before earning his first big-screen screenwriting credit with the 1966 Michael Caine-starring caper comedy-thriller Gambit.

Later in his career, Sargent played a critical role in the development of the modern comic-book movie through his work on the blockbuster Spider-Man franchise. After doing uncredited work on the 2002 hit Spider-Man, Sargent went on to pen the scripts for 2004s Spider-Man 2, 2007s Spider-Man 3 and 2014s The Amazing Spider-Man. Credited with bringing a grounded sense of humanity to the story of the teenage web-slinger Peter Parker, Sargent worked on all of the Spider-Man films with his longtime companion, producer Laura Ziskin, to whom he was married from 2010 until her death in 2011.

In recognition of his six-decade career, Sargent received the Writers Guild of Americas lifetime achievement honor, the Laurel Award for Screenwriting Achievement, in 1991.

Ever tireless in his search for a good story, Sargent  whose other credits include such films as the 1978 drama Straight Time, the 1991 comedy What About Bob? and the 2002 thriller Unfaithful  was known to crack, When I die, Im going to have written on my tombstone, Finally, a plot! 

josh.rottenberg@latimes.com

Twitter: @joshrottenberg
On Tuesday night, as part of this years Food Bowl festival, cookbook author Diana Kennedy will be in Los Angeles for a preview screening of her new documentary. Nothing Fancy is a biographical film that traces Kennedys life and career as a cook and writer.

The British-born Kennedy, 96, is an expert in regional Mexican cooking and has written many books on the subject, including Oaxaca al Gusto, which took her 14 years to research and write; it won a James Beard Award for best cookbook in 2011. Kennedy has been awarded Mexicos Order of the Aztec Eagle and membership in the Order of the British Empire.

 Trailer for Nothing Fancy: Diana Kennedy.

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Diana Kennedy, expert on Mexican food, is growing her own coffee and making her own tortillas 

Throughout four decades of living in Michoacan, Kennedy has worked to translate the food of her adopted country into pages and pages of recipes, and also to promote issues of sustainability and conservation. At her solar-powered home outside Zitacuaro, she cooks, teaches, recycles rainwater and grows her own vegetables and coffee.

When I visited her last year, Kennedy told me about the hard work.

This is trabajo, she said. Life is not easy here; theres no Walmart around the corner.

Nothing Fancy will be shown at the Paley Center in Beverly Hills, followed by a conversation with Kennedy and the films director, Elizabeth Carroll.

$25, 7-10 p.m. Tuesday at Paley Center, 465 N. Beverly Drive, Beverly Hills: Get more details and tickets.

amy.scattergood@latimes.com

Instagram: @AScattergood
Food Bowl continues.

Night Market comes to an end this afternoon with a barbecue party, hosted by Food Editor Peter Meehan, with BBQ specialists Adam Perry Lang, Sam Jones and Aaron Franklin, plus many others. There are also dinners, discussions, screenings and lots of food and drink going on all week, and for the rest of the month.

MAY 13: KATO X BAROO

Chef Jonathan Yao from Kato and chef Kwang Uh from Baroo Canteen collaborate to bring a unique tasting menu that combines Yaos seafood and Asian American nostalgia dishes with Uhs fermentation-heavy rice bowls.

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$101, 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Kato. Tickets and more info: lafoodbowl.com/events/kato-x-baroo.

MAY 14: COOKBOOK TALK WITH GABRIELA CAMARA

Restaurateur and chef Gabriela Camara will be joined by L.A. Times Food Editor Peter Meehan for a discussion about her debut cookbook, My Mexico City Kitchen: Recipes and Convictions. A book signing will follow the interview.

Admission is free. 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Space 15 Twenty. More info at lafoodbowl.com/events/cookbook-signing-by-gabriela-camara-at-now-serving.

MAY 14: DIANA KENNEDY DOCUMENTARY

A screening of Nothing Fancy, the new documentary about Mexican cuisine expert and cookbook author Diana Kennedy, with a conversation with Kennedy and with director Elizabeth Carroll.

$25, 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Paley Center. Tickets and more info at: lafoodbowl.com/events/nothing-fancy-diana-kennedy.

MAY 15: CHEF YU BO SICHUAN DINNER

Chef Qiu Tian Tian will open up her Westside restaurant, Mala Town, to Chengdu chef Yu Bo. Guests will enjoy more than 30 dishes, such as the chefs famed pen-brush pastry, four-by-four appetizers, hedgehog bun, truffle cold noodle and other dishes featuring all 24 flavors of Sichuan cuisine. A wine pairing will be available.

$190, 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. at Mala Town. Tickets and more info at: lafoodbowl.com/events/chef-yu-bo-sichuan-dinner-hosted-by-qiu-tian-tian-2.

MAY 17: ESCAMOLES DINNER

Chef Fernando Villagomez of will introduce adventurous diners to escamoles, or ant eggs, a Mexican delicacy enjoyed since the time of the Aztecs and considered Mexicos answer to caviar. Villagomez is importing a limited supply of this rarity for a four-course tasting menu available for just three days.

$50, 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at La Tostaderia. Tickets and more info at: lafoodbowl.com/events/l-a-goes-buggy-for-escamoles-3/.

MAY 18: SUSHI KIMURA POP-UP

Chef Kouji Kimura of Sushi Kimura in Tokyo is a master of aging seafood. Kimura presents a light omakase dinner, featuring a selection of his special dishes.

$100, 11:30 a.m., 1 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. at Inn Ann at Japan House. Tickets and more info at: lafoodbowl.com/events/sushi-kimura-pop-up-dinner-japan-house.

MAY 18: FILIPINX GARAGE PARTY

This event brings some of the best Filipinx chefs to the roof of the Standard, Downtown LA. Participating chefs such as Russell Victorioso (Cafe Birdie), Chad Valencia (Lasa), Tom Cunanan (Bad Saint) and JP Anglo (Sarsa), will come together to create a potluck-style party.

$35, 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Rooftop at the Standard. Tickets and more info at: lafoodbowl.com/events/filipino-garage-party.

MAY 18: FRITES FETE

Chef Dominique Ansel and his team are cooking steak, moules or mushroom frites, teamed with unlimited crispy herbed fries. Also on the menu: Gruyere gougeres, salad and tarte tatin for dessert. The dinner has an optional wine pairing.

$55, 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. at 189 by Dominique Ansel. Tickets and more info at: lafoodbowl.com/events/frites-fete-at-189-by-dominique-ansel.

amy.scattergood@latimes.com

Instagram: @AScattergood
Maria Villatoro had a few things on her checklist that would sway her vote for her kids new school board member: They should make the superintendent work harder, visit schools in her southeast Los Angeles neighborhood more often  and preferably, be a Latina, who might better understand the needs of her community.

But in the Tuesday runoff election, she will have to choose between two white candidates in Board District 5, even though about 8 in 10 residents are not white and nearly 90% of the district students are Latino.

The oddly shaped district includes increasingly upscale northeast L.A. communities such as Silver Lake, Echo Park and Eagle Rock and the lower-income, majority-Latino cities of Bell, Huntington Park, South Gate and Cudahy in the southeast.

It was redrawn about 15 years ago to ensure the Latino vote would not be diluted. The forces of gentrification have complicated those efforts, and the fact that there are no Latino candidates left on the ballot disappoints some in the district.

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LAUSD Board District 5 results (Thomas Suh Lauder / Los Angeles Times)

The election will have significance beyond its boundaries, no matter the outcome. Four of the boards seven members will be white in a school district where 9 in 10 students are non-white.

The numbers underscore that even though Latinos now make up nearly half the population of Los Angeles, they still lag behind in voting rolls and political clout in parts of the city. Some Latinos in the school district are not citizens, so theyre not eligible to vote. But even among those who are qualified, voter turnout in the heavily Latino southeast portion of Board District 5 remains low.

How the candidates are trying to connect

Villatoro, whose son attends Fishburn Avenue Elementary in Maywood, said shes most worried about cuts in arts classes, counselors and nurses. In the primary, she voted for Cynthia Gonzalez, a Latina from Huntington Park who she believed could fix those issues and best understand Latinos unique needs.

For me, it would be important to have a Latino [on the board], she said. They understand the culture and the trauma that kids have in certain neighborhoods.

But it was two white women  Jackie Goldberg and Heather Repenning  who emerged from a crowded pack of 10 candidates  seven of them Latino  to fill the seat left vacant by the resignation of a Latino, Ref Rodriguez, who pleaded guilty to a conspiracy charge related to campaign finance allegations.

Both candidates said they believe that Latino representation is important and vow to aggressively advocate for the communities in the district.

And voters appeared to embrace Goldbergs message. She carried almost half the vote, but Repenning edged out Graciela Ortiz, a Latina school counselor and Huntington Park City Council member who won almost every precinct in the southern part of the district, by just 31 votes.

Check back Tuesday, May 14 for the school board election runoff results.

Goldberg, a veteran politician, has argued that she was the only candidate with enough name recognition to ensure a charter school-backed candidate would not be elected.

I believe its a Latino seat, she said in an interview. But I will tell you, in all honesty, I dont believe that we had any chance of keeping a fourth vote from being a charter vote unless I ran.

Repenning, whose daughter attends a district school, said she entered the contest to represent parents and to be a neutral voice on issues affecting the teachers union and expansion of charter schools.

I understand that its important for our students to have leaders that look like them. I get it, 100%, Repenning said. You know, the way I make up for that is that  I believe that I can represent the value of, you know, wanting to make sure that our kids have the best possible opportunities and that we have equity, that we have a fair system that works for everyone.

Both said they believe they can represent a diverse population, and have the backgrounds to be powerful advocates for kids and parents.

In the 2015 election, southeast voters were partially responsible for ousting white incumbent Bennett Kayser in favor of Rodriguez, said Gabriella Barbosa, a policy analyst for the Alliance for a Better Community, a Latino advocacy group.

During the March primary election this year, there were nearly three times as many votes cast in the northern part of District 5 as in the southeast.

That mismatch in LAUSD is particularly compounded by the non-citizen population, said Thomas Saenz, president and general counsel of the Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund. So there are lots of parents who cant vote and  lots of voters who arent parents.

In appealing to divergent constituencies, Repenning and Goldberg are taking different approaches.

Jackie Goldberg met with campaign supporters Betty Forrester, left, Fidencio Gallardo and Bill Gallegos at a South Gate McDonalds to discuss southeast election strategy. Goldberg is running for LAUSD Board District 5. (Myung J. Chun / Los Angeles Times)

Goldberg is relying on her northeast voter base to carry the runoff as she did the primary, where she won 48% of the vote.

Repenning, meanwhile, is trying to keep her northeast votes and win over supporters of Ortiz, who has since endorsed Repenning and mobilized voters and volunteers to support her.

And voters are responding to the womens messages in different ways.

Villatoro, for example, has shifted focus to Goldberg, who Gonzalez endorsed and who she believes has more education experience and exudes more confidence in a leadership role. Goldberg was a teacher for 16 years, served on the school board in the 1980s, and was a member of the L.A. City Council and state Assembly.

Goldbergs campaign office is in the northeast, she said, because its 75% of the voters. But if elected, she wants to set up her headquarters in the southeast because I feel like [those residents] get left behind.

Some of Repennings supporters say the mere fact that she speaks Spanish makes her a winning candidate.

Repenning learned the language while teaching in Honduras two decades ago and has spoken Spanish, with some translation help, in debates and town halls. (Goldberg has said she speaks basic Spanish.) She vowed to have a multilingual staff and work to better understand the daily experiences of Latino students.

One feels good to be able to understand her and that she tries, said Remedios Ochoa Reyes, whose 10th-grader attends Alliance Margaret M. Bloomfield High School, a charter school that is within District 5 boundaries and receives public funds, but is run privately.

Heather Repenning greets parent Perla Esparza at a meeting with parents and voters at Tierra Mia Coffee in Huntington Park. (Irfan Khan / Los Angeles Times)

Does representation matter?

Both candidates said they would have multilingual staff and pay attention to issues that southeast voters have said are important, particularly special education, and continue soliciting feedback from southeast constituents, including candidates they defeated.

Supporters of Repenning and Goldberg said they, too, understood the political and racial dynamic at play  but made practical choices.

Emiliana Dore, a white Atwater Village resident and mother of two, said Goldberg has long committed to advocating for minorities and low-income communities. She liked that Goldberg is vocal and knows the issues well enough to battle with the board when necessary.

I would love  someone whos a native Spanish speaker because representation does matter, Dore said. But ethnicity and language shouldnt be the only factors in choosing a board member, she said.

The impact of a Latino board member goes beyond language and representation.

A 2009 survey of school board members across California conducted by the Public Policy Institute of California, found that Latino board members are more likely to see a variety of problems as serious, particularly such issues as low levels of college attendance or school and community condition.

White trustees, meanwhile, are more concerned with the involvement of the state and federal government in school policy. Latino board members are also more likely to advocate for immigrant students needs and for more teachers and school leaders of color.

Yolie Flores, who held the District 5 seat before Kayser, said she felt that difference when she was on the dais from 2007-2011.

I had many experiences that what I was advocating for  as school board member, some of my colleagues just couldnt understand why that mattered, said Flores, who grew up in Huntington Park as an English learner.

When she advocated to open parent centers in every school, she saw pushback from a non-Latino board member who represented wealthier communities. She said the district was not as responsive to lower-income Latino constituents who sought a dual-language program as they were to white parents who asked for similar classes.

A recent survey by the Alliance for a Better Community asked about 500 parents (most of whom were Latinos from southeast L.A.) what qualities they believed were most important in a candidate. Almost half of all respondents  48%  said they preferred a representative who was Latino. However, 90% listed the most important quality as professional education experience. About 84% said they preferred a Spanish speaker.

Parents who answered the survey in Spanish reported that they found it more difficult to get help for their kids and reported lower levels of satisfaction with their schools.

English-speaking respondents were 14 times more likely to say their schools were headed in the right direction.

Barbosa said the most commonly reported needs for Latino parents are English-learner support and resources for special-needs students. Many are frustrated that their schools consistently fail to perform at state standards.

Though Ochoa Reyes says a Latino representative would better serve on the board, she swung her support to Repenning. Whatever happens, she said, not much will change without Latinos heading to the polls and into their schools.

I wish I had been involved sooner, she said. We want the best for our kids, to make this country better and be better in the future. Its a dream we all have.

Times staff writers Ben Welsh and Howard Blume contributed to this report.

Reach Sonali Kohli at Sonali.Kohli@latimes.com or on Twitter @Sonali_Kohli.
Michael Vechell had already drawn the attention of an airline worker and two passengers at Los Angeles International Airport by the time he was confronted by police.

Waiting to board his Philadelphia-bound flight with his dog Odie, Vechell had sparked concern when he sidled up to another passenger and asked if she wanted to join his drug smuggling ring, authorities say.

Although Vechell told LAX police it was just a misunderstanding, officers demanded to see his checked baggage. Inside, they found nearly 70 pounds of vacuum-sealed marijuana bundled into packages labeled T-shirts, cold weather and sexy pants.

More than a year after California legalized the recreational use of cannabis, trafficking arrests like Vechells have surged 166% at LAX, according to arrest records obtained by the Los Angeles Times.

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Emboldened by legalization and facing only light punishment if captured, more and more smugglers are taking to the friendly skies in an effort to escape Californias glutted cannabis market, according to authorities, marijuana industry experts and a lawyer who represents accused smugglers. As a result, the worlds fourth-busiest airport is now an expanding hub in the illegal export of marijuana, they say.

This is normal procedure for these guys, and I would say 29 out of 30 times they make it through without a problem, said Bill Kroger Jr., a 20-year criminal defense lawyer who specializes in marijuana cases and who represented Vechell.

Authorities at LAX say they are encountering more and more airline passengers who are carrying small amounts of pot for personal use, but the number of checked bags stuffed entirely full of marijuana has soared as well. Police in Oakland and Sacramento say they are seeing the same thing.

We intercept large quantities of marijuana regularly, said Sgt. Ray Kelly of the Alameda County Sheriffs Office, which has jurisdiction over Oakland International Airport. We find it in about 50-pound quantities  the carry-on rate for luggage. I would imagine were only intercepting some of it, not all of it.

The sudden increase in airport smuggling is largely the result of legalization and a saturated market. California grows far more marijuana than its residents consume  up to five times more by some accounts  and cannabis users in other states will pay a much higher price.

Since pots been legalized in California, theres no money to be made because everyone got involved in it, Kroger said. Theyve got these big 50,000-square-foot [grow] houses, and theyre flooding the market. The money is outside of California.

In 2018  the states first year of legalized recreational pot use  LAX police made 101 trafficking arrests, compared with 38 trafficking arrests in 2017 and 20 in 2016, according to Los Angeles Airport Police records.

I think we anticipated it, said Los Angeles World Airports police spokesman Rob Pedregon. If you just look at the sheer numbers for us  87 million passengers a year  I wouldnt be surprised if in a couple months we do what the other airports do in a year.

Although the medical and recreational use of cannabis is legal in California, it remains illegal in the eyes of the federal government, which considers it a Schedule 1 drug on par with heroin, LSD and ecstasy.

Hoping to avoid a confrontation with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, the California Bureau of Cannabis Control has prohibited the export of marijuana to other states.

Experts, however, say prohibition will do little to stop California from illegally exporting the bulk of its marijuana crop.

In a 2017 paper on the economic effects of marijuanas legalization, researchers for the University of California Agricultural Issues Center estimate that up to 80% of the pot grown in California is shipped out of state  never to be taxed or regulated here.

Projections from all sources indicate that illegal cannabis will remain significant, the study said, given that it is a market with long-established producers and consumers.

As a result of this ongoing black market  and other factors  the state has been disappointed by the amount of tax revenue that legal pot generates.

The bulk of illegally exported pot leaves the state by car or truck. In 2018, the California Highway Patrol seized more than 8 tons of marijuana in 63 incidents. The year before that, officers seized just over 2 tons in 76 stops. The incidents are fewer, said CHP Capt. Jason Daughrity, but the weight is heavier.

Nevertheless, the number of traffickers using commercial airlines appears to be growing. Popular flight destinations include Chicago, Atlanta, Indianapolis and Dallas, according to LAX arrest records.

Kroger said the consequences for getting stopped at a California airport with two checked bags of marijuana were relatively minor: a misdemeanor charge for someone without a history of drug or violent offenses.

In the eyes of the federal government, the surge in smuggling is a clear case of I told you so.

I dont think were surprised by the numbers. These are things we foresaw and weve warned folks about, said Kyle Mori of the DEAs Los Angeles office. When states legalize it, you give folks a false sense of security that they can come through TSA checkpoints. They believe what theyre doing is legal.

Last year at LAX, there were 503 reports of marijuana discovered in bags, and only one-fifth of them involved trafficking suspects. In comparison, there were 400 reports of marijuana in 2017 and 282 reports in 2016.

Much of the marijuana discovered is a result of passengers being confused over state and federal jurisdictions, and where those lines are drawn. In fact, people are allowed to possess up to 28.5 grams of marijuana or 8 grams of concentrated marijuana at LAX, according to the airports website.

Although federally its still illegal and they would be in violation of federal laws, we as airport police cannot enforce federal laws, Pedregon said. As long as its a usable, personal quantity under an ounce, theyre free to go.

Hundreds of passengers now regularly pack personal amounts of marijuana, cannabis oil or edibles in their carry-on or checked baggage assuming its legal to fly with, forgetting that the federal government has dominion over the skies.

From Nov. 16 to Nov. 26  when an estimated 2.52 million holiday season passengers usually pass through LAX  Transportation Security Administration agents called police 27 times after discovering marijuana in carry-on or checked luggage, though only six arrests were made.

Among those stopped was a UCLA student-athlete on scholarship who was carrying 34 grams of marijuana  nearly 6 grams more than the state permits one person to carry  and a pipe in her purse. The woman spontaneously said that the marijuana was hers and she was sorry for having it. Officers let her off with a warning, and she continued on her flight without the marijuana.

Traffickers, however, will put more effort into concealing large amounts of cannabis and its derivatives, either by wrapping the contraband in things like wax paper, tinfoil or gift wrapping or disguising their products as candy or other foods.

Such was the case Nov. 14 when TSA employees scanning checked luggage opened five suitcases that had failed to produce a scanned image on their monitors.

The luggage belonged to two men on a Newark-bound flight and contained more than 100 pounds of cannabis products, according to arrest reports.

In December, police arrested a man carrying 3 pounds of edibles and cannabis oil in his luggage. The suspect said he was struck by how low the prices were at the Inglewood dispensary he was visiting compared with prices he found at home in Hagerstown, Md.

In numerous arrest reports reviewed by the Los Angeles Times, trafficking suspects told police they flew to California to purchase better and cheaper cannabis products to sell for a profit back home.

When some states legalize marijuana but others do not, suppliers will move in to fill that void even if its through black market channels, said California Cannabis Industry Assn. spokesman Josh Drayton. A pound of marijuana flower that costs $600 to $800 in California can be resold for $4,000 in the Midwest, he said.

Despite the increase in commercial aviation trafficking incidents, marijuana remains a low enforcement priority, police say. The DEAs stance is that the drug has no medical benefit and that legalizing it increases DUI-related arrests, crashes and helps fund Mexican cartels. But beyond that, their immediate focus is elsewhere.

Heroin trafficking, Mori said, and the diversion of chemicals and pharmaceuticals into the hands of gang members and violent criminals  those are certainly our priority.
The massive subway project under construction beneath the streets of downtown Los Angeles has long been seen as the linchpin in L.A. Countys ambitious rail expansion plans, a way to ease commutes and attract more riders to a rapidly growing transit system.

The twin tunnels known as the Regional Connector are designed to knit together three rail lines into two mega-routes that will allow passengers to ride from East Los Angeles to Santa Monica or from Azusa to Long Beach without changing trains.

Early progress on the project was rocky, forcing Metropolitan Transportation Authority officials to increase the budget twice, to $1.75 billion, and push back the opening date by a year, to December 2021.

Now, it appears riders may wait longer still. As the contractor grapples with labor shortages, progress has slowed, pushing the completion date to mid-March 2022, Metro said. Rail service is scheduled to begin about five months after that.

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Slower progress, and damage to the historic Los Angeles Times building, are the latest wrinkles in a complicated construction project that has required nearly four miles of excavation for two 1.9-mile tunnels and three subway stations.

Still ahead is the intricate process of connecting the three lines in the tunnels that run between Little Tokyo and the financial district.

We havent given up on having the contractor actually do the work faster, said Rick Clarke, Metros chief program management officer. That could involve paying the contractor to work faster, he said, or just hoping that it will  something Metro cant count on, he said, but would be one of the nicer things that could happen.

The estimated construction completion date has slipped about four months since December. But the contractor, a joint venture of Skanska USA and Traylor Bros., is still on track to finish before the new deadline that Metro established two years ago, officials said.

Its probably a little bit early to be predicting what day or week theyll be finished, said project manager Gary Baker. Im very confident that well finish this as contracted.

When construction began more than four years ago, crews almost immediately encountered problems as they worked to relocate aging water pipes and fragile utility lines buried beneath streets in the heart of the central city.

Reinforcing and moving the lines so tunneling could safely proceed added months and millions of dollars to the projects schedule. The tunneling machine later got stuck under 2nd Street after striking a steel structure.

The project is still on track to open well before the 2023 deadline set by federal officials, who are disbursing a $670-million grant and a $130-million low-interest loan for the project.

But slower progress in recent months has eaten through some of the float in that schedule, Baker said.

The labor shortages span a wide range of jobs, he said, including management and craft labor such as concrete workers, carpenters and electricians. Without more hiring, Baker said, the project will continue to progress more slowly.

Theres a lot of strain on the construction industry in general  large businesses, small businesses, even Metro  in attracting qualified staff, Clarke told Metros directors last month. Were seeing more and more bottlenecks coming up.

Those bottlenecks could pose schedule and budget challenges as Metro prepares to build nearly a dozen new rail lines across Los Angeles in the next four decades. The historic building boom will create thousands of vacant positions in construction and engineering.

Five rail segments are under construction, including the Regional Connector, the Crenshaw Line through South L.A., and the extension of the Wilshire subway to West Los Angeles, which is being built in three phases.

Labor shortages typically drive up the price of bids from contractors, Clarke said, because companies wind up raising salary offers to attract qualified workers. That could lead to Metro paying more to build each project.

The biggest crunch for Metro will come over the next decade, as the agency works to finish 28 transit and highway projects before the 2028 Summer Olympic Games, an initiative dubbed 28 by 28.

Twenty of the projects are slated to be finished within the decade, including the Crenshaw Line, a smaller train to Los Angeles International Airport, the Wilshire subway extension and a Van Nuys light-rail line.

Metro would need an additional $26.2 billion to build the other eight projects by then. Those include several interchange improvements, a rail line to Artesia and a Sepulveda Pass transit line.

Metro is also tracking several issues that could add costs to the Regional Connectors budget, Baker said.

That includes negotiations with the city of Los Angeles over a yard where Metro stages construction vehicles, and plans to build a permanent ventilation fan plant. City negotiators asked for $25 million for a three-year lease for the staging yard, $10 million higher than Metro had expected, Baker said.

And a new design for a pedestrian bridge from a Metro station to the Broad museum could add $6 million to the $10-million budget, Clarke said.

As tunneling work on the Regional Connector project continued under the adjacent street, cracks have developed in walls of the former Los Angeles Times buildings downtown. (Laura J. Nelson / Los Angeles Times)

Also, the historic former headquarters of The Times, across the street from a future Regional Connector station, has sustained damage during construction.

Cracks running from floor to ceiling are visible in several hallways and near a freight elevator in two Art Deco-style buildings. The structures, built in the 1930s and 1940s, were granted historic-cultural monument status last year.

Im just aghast, said historian and preservationist Richard Schave, who filed the landmark application to protect the Times Mirror complex. He called on city leaders, including Mayor Eric Garcetti, to investigate the damage and ensure that the building and its tenants can be protected.

In a report on the subway prepared for federal regulators, Metro wrote that evidence of damage inside the building raises threats to the projects cost.

The damage appeared in January, Metro said. The agency has installed tiny gauges on each crack that monitor whether they have grown. Most of the cracks are not widening, and the damage appears to be cosmetic, Baker said.

During the construction of L.A.s first modern subway in the 1990s, the owners of the historic Wiltern Theatre and a Hollywood apartment building listed on the National Register of Historic Places sued Metro, alleging that the subway construction had damaged their properties.

Onni Group, the Canadian developer that purchased Times Mirror Square in 2016, is not planning to sue over the damage but is monitoring it closely, chief of staff Duncan Wlodarczak said.

The Times moved into new headquarters in El Segundo last summer after being purchased by Dr. Patrick Soon-Shiong.

Onnis plans to redevelop the downtown complex include restaurants, shops and a grocery store on the ground floor of the existing buildings, with commercial tenants in the floors above.

A parking garage and a 1973 office building designed by William Pereira along Broadway, which did not receive historic status, would be demolished to make way for two towers of 37 and 53 stories with more than 1,100 apartments, a swimming pool and ground-floor retail.

laura.nelson@latimes.com

For more transportation news, follow @laura_nelson on Twitter.
For nearly a decade, Oakland Councilwoman Lynette Gibson McElhaney and her family regularly gathered with the group Soldiers Against Violence Everywhere on street corners in their community to mourn the victims of violence.

They said prayers, recited the names of young men and women who died on those corners and chanted somebody died here, you need to care in order to comfort grieving families and ensure that every victim of violence was memorialized.

On Saturday, the day before Mothers Day, McElhaney and her husband stood on the corner of Maple Avenue and Adams Boulevard in Los Angeles, to do the same for their own son, Victor McElhaney, a USC student who was shot and killed on that corner two months ago.

Im standing where my son took his last breath, and that seemed the right thing to do on this Mothers Day, she said.

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Victor McElhaney, 21, who had been studying jazz percussion at the Thornton School of Music, was with a group of friends about a mile and a half from USC when he was shot during a robbery outside a liquor store. The three suspects fled in a dark-colored sedan, police have said.

Despite pleas from family and friends for someone to come forward with information about the killing, no one has been arrested.

On Saturday, his parents again appealed to the community for information in the case.

Weve got some men out there who dont know the value of their own lives, Lynette Gibson McElhaney said. They dont need to be at large where they can do harm to another mothers son.

An undated photo of Victor McElhaney with his mother, Lynette Gibson McElhaney. (McElhaney family)

Victor McElhaney, a talented drummer, had transferred to USC from Cal State East Bay in the fall of 2017, and was a leader on campus, friends recalled.

Before coming to Los Angeles, he had taught at Oakland Public Conservatory of Music.

In the days after McElhaney was killed, hundreds gathered to remember him at a standing-room-only memorial at USC that included spoken word and musical performances.

Vic has made a legacy that is going to forever live on in my heart and at USC, said Nia Warren, 21, a USC student and childhood friend of McElhaney. I am asking for justice for my friend  and Im asking for some sort of peace for his family.

Los Angeles County Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas also urged the killers or anyone with information about the case to come forward.

We will not rest until this matter is appropriately resolved, he said. The least we can do as a city and as a county is to make sure justice is done.

Theresa Butler, 60, of Oakland, who helped found Soldiers Against Violence Everywhere, was one of McElhaneys Bible study teachers. He sometimes played the drums at the groups events, she said.

On Saturday, Butler stood on the corner of Maple Avenue and Adams Boulevard while another young man played the drums. McElhaneys friends handed out red roses and fliers asking for information about the case to drivers and passersby.

We want to bring awareness to the community, Butler said. They dont have to be scared to tell us what they know.

Standing next to her, a woman with a bullhorn chanted: Somebody died here. You need to care.

carlos.lozano@latimes.com
When Republican lawmakers in Alabama weighed a stringent new bill that would outlaw almost all abortions, they did not pretend that it complied with federal law or that it would go into effect anytime soon.

Yes, its unconstitutional, state House Rep. Terri Collins, the bills sponsor, said last week at a hearing. All our pro-life bills are unconstitutional right now. Thats the goal.

For years, conservatives in Southern and Midwestern states have been passing laws that restrict womens access to abortion: mandating women wait as long as 72 hours for the procedure after receiving counseling, banning widely used surgical abortion methods, limiting state Medicaid programs from covering most abortions.

Now they are pursuing a more extreme legal strategy. Emboldened by the rightward tilt of the U.S. Supreme Court, states are passing more severe restrictions and near-total bans in a deliberate attempt to trigger a lawsuit that could push the Supreme Court to overturn its landmark 1973 Roe vs. Wade decision, which recognized a womans constitutional right to abortion.

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(Los Angeles Times)

Last week, Georgia followed Kentucky, Mississippi and Ohio to become the fourth state this year to outlaw abortion once a fetal heartbeat is detected, typically at around six weeks  before most women know they are pregnant.

Georgias new law gives a fetus  an embryo smaller than a coffee bean that has not developed a brain or organs that allow it to survive outside the womb  the status of a class of living, distinct persons that deserves full legal recognition.

Alabama, meanwhile, is on the verge of passing another strict abortion law, the Alabama Human Life Protection Act, which would ban abortion from the moment of conception. Any doctor who terminates a pregnancy in any circumstance, other than to save a womans life, could face up to 99 years in prison.

Weve never seen states passing near-total abortion bans, said Elizabeth Nash, senior state issues manager at the Guttmacher Institute, a nonprofit research group that supports abortion rights. This is new and different.

Legislators in red states have become more willing to experiment, in part because they think theres a greater chance an abortion ban could be upheld now that the Supreme Court has a solid conservative majority after President Trumps appointment of Justices Neil M. Gorsuch and Brett M. Kavanaugh.

They also calculate that in an era of intense political and cultural partisanship, rolling back abortion rights will carry less of a political penalty.

Theres more of a sense in some states that you can energize antiabortion voters and prevail at the polls by passing these laws even if a lot of other people might find them to be too extreme, said Mary Ziegler, a professor of law at Florida State University and author of Beyond Abortion: Roe v. Wade and the Battle for Privacy.

At the same time, lawmakers in a growing number of Democratic-controlled states are clamoring to shore up abortion rights. Last week, Vermont passed a bill that would enshrine a right to personal reproductive autonomy in the state constitution.

In January, New York passed the Reproductive Health Act, which affirmed a fundamental right to abortion, allowed licensed professionals other than doctors to perform the procedures, and expanded access to abortions after the 24th week of pregnancy if necessary to protect the patients life or health.

Even as legislators pass ever more extreme state laws, abortion remains legal across the United States. All the severe abortion bans violate Roe  which prevents states from restricting abortion before the fetus is viable, usually at about 23 or 24 weeks of pregnancy  and are likely to be subject to long, drawn-out legal challenges.

An antiabortion activist demonstrates outside the Supreme Court on the 46th anniversary of Roe vs. Wade in January. (Jim Watson / AFP/Getty Images)

On Friday, a federal judge struck down Kentuckys six-week ban.

U.S. District Judge Joseph H. McKinley Jr. ruled the law was unconstitutional  that it would create a substantial obstacle to a womans right to an abortion. Kentucky Gov. Matt Bevin, a Republican, vowed to appeal.

For the architects of the new abortion bans, the ultimate goal is to get the Supreme Court to look at the moral question of when human life begins.

Theres a conversation that has to take place, said state Rep. Rich Wingo, a Republican who worked with the Alabama Pro-Life Coalition to draft the Alabama bill.

We all know Roe says that an unborn child is not a person, thus its not protected by the Constitution of the United States, Wingo said. But in 1973, there wasnt 3-D or 4-D imaging; there wasnt fetal monitoring; the ultrasound was somewhat archaic.

The bottom line is we believe that life begins at conception, we believe that there is life in the womb, and we have evidence of that from these new technologies, he added.

Many advocates for womens reproductive rights see the issue of fetal personhood as a red herring.

Even if the fetus or embryo is a person in the full legal and moral sense, it does not follow that it has the right to use anothers body for its development, said Laurie Shrage, a professor of philosophy at Florida International University.

Drawing the line between permissible and impermissible abortions involves balancing a number of important interests and rights  especially a womans reproductive autonomy versus preserving a fetal human life, she added. There is no perfect way to draw this line.

Unlike the Bible-thumping sermons of past decades, many abortion opponents in conservative Southern states talk of how medical science and technology allow for more understanding of human development in its earliest stages.

They also use the language of equal rights.

The Alabama bill, for example, frames the rights of the fetus as an issue of human equality  a natural step from the principle that all men are created equal and a continuation of movements against slavery and even for womens suffrage.

Travis Jackson protests Alabamas abortion ban bill last month outside the State House in Montgomery. (Mickey Welsh / Montgomery Advertiser)

Abortion advocates speak to womens rights, the bill states, but they ignore the unborn child, while medical science has increasingly recognized the humanity of the unborn child.

Many who uphold abortion rights contend that such complex moral questions cannot be solved by politicians.

This question about when life begins is a deeply personal belief, said Staci Fox, president and chief executive of Planned Parenthood Southeast.

For some, its based on religion. For some, its based on science. These issues are really between women and their families and their faith and their doctors, not between them and their politicians, she said.

Across the United States, a majority of Americans generally support abortion in the early stages of pregnancy.

While 6 in 10 Americans say abortion should generally be legal during the first three months, according to a 2018 Gallup poll, support for abortion dwindles to 28% for the second trimester and 13% for the third trimester.

Legal experts on both sides of the debate agree that the Supreme Court is likely to move slowly.

Its going to be difficult for the Supreme Court to make an outright reversal of Roe, said Randall Marshall, executive director of the American Civil Liberties Union of Alabama, which has vowed to challenge the states bill if it passes.

If the court were suddenly to reverse the last 40-plus years of its cases, then it looks less like an independent judicial branch than the political arm of whoevers in power, he said. I think the court is concerned for its very legitimacy.

Critics of the abortion bans complain that the race to be the first to challenge Roe vs. Wade is a waste of millions of taxpayer dollars that could be used to address cash-strapped schools, childrens healthcare programs, rural hospitals and prisons.

Politicians who advocate for the life of fetuses, though, say they are following the morally righteous path, no matter the financial costs or legal challenges.

Our job is to do what is right, not what is easy, Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp, a Republican, said at a signing ceremony Tuesday at the Georgia State Capitol in Atlanta. We are called to be strong and courageous, and we will not back down. We will always continue to fight for life.

In signing the law, Kemp fulfilled a campaign promise to his conservative base, but it is still a risky political strategy in an increasingly diversifying state where Republican power is slowly receding and Democrats have become competitive.

Even in the South, public opinion on abortion varies by state. While 59% of Alabama voters supported a constitutional amendment last year declaring it state policy to recognize and support the rights of fetuses, support is more tepid in Georgia. A recent poll suggested that 49% of Georgians oppose the six-week ban and 44% support it.

While the Georgia law makes exceptions for some cases of rape or incest, the sponsors of the Alabama law make an exception only for preventing a serious health risk to the mother.

Exempting abortions in cases of rape or incest, they argue, creates a knotty question for the Supreme Court: Is it OK to end a pregnancy if the mother is a victim of rape or incest? Instead, they advocate presenting an outright ban to the Supreme Court and tweaking the finer details later.

Last week, the Alabama Senate dissolved into a chaotic shouting match when its leaders removed an amendment that would permit exemptions for rape or incest  without allowing for a full roll call vote that would show the public how each senator had voted.

Senators postponed the debate until Tuesday. Yet not even the bills opponents doubted that it would ultimately be signed into law.

I know you all are for this bill, and I know this bill is going to pass, said Sen. Vivian Davis Figures, a Democrat, as she urged her Senate colleagues  more than three-quarters of them Republican men  to hold a full and transparent vote.

You all are going to get your way, she said, but at least treat us fairly and do it the right way.
Despite an endless stream of bombshells, there was little novelty in the noxious confirmation fights involving Merrick Garland, Neil M. Gorsuch and Brett M. Kavanaugh over the last three years. They were simply the latest rounds of a long-running battle over the Supreme Court. Well before the term Borked became synonymous with the unorthodox steps taken to defeat Robert H. Borks nomination in 1987, the nomination of Abe Fortas  already a sitting justice  to become chief justice in 1968 established the template for the bitter confirmation battles mimicked by later generations.

Confronted with the threat of impeachment months after his aborted ascension, Fortas resigned from the court on May 14, 1969. Though renowned as an able jurist, he will forever be remembered as the only justice to resign under a cloud of scandal.

Fortas wasnt blameless in his downfall. Questionable financial arrangements allowed his political enemies to orchestrate his ouster, but his misbegotten ethical choices werent what doomed him. As Chief Justice Earl Warrens ideological heir, Fortas was the first casualty of a conservative counterrevolution that, in trying to seize control of the court over the next half-century, revolutionized the confirmation process.

On the 50th anniversary of his fall, the legacy of Abe Fortas nomination still looms over the nation.

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It was a cruel irony that months before his undoing, he was on the verge of reaching the pinnacle of his career. When President Lyndon B. Johnson named Fortas on June 26, 1968, to replace Warren, congratulatory letters poured in from the capitals elite.

They had good reason to be confident.

Fortas brandished stellar credentials. After graduating from Yale Law School, he worked in various New Deal agencies before establishing one of the nations preeminent law firms. Touted for guiding clients through Washingtons legal and political minefields, a colleague called him a brain surgeon  the guy you call when all else fails.

History also foretold his swift ascension. In a process largely devoid of ideological litmus tests and partisan wrangling, the Senate had confirmed all but one of 46 nominees from 1894 to 1967, mostly through voice votes, a procedure used to vote expeditiously and often unanimously. Hearings were usually brief and uncontroversial  one lasted five minutes. Fortas earned the Senates imprimatur in a mere fortnight to become an associate justice in 1965. Expecting a repeat performance three years later, the New York Times confidently proclaimed: Fortas will move up  to stage center as Chief Justice.

Then came the unexpected insurrection.

South Carolinas Strom Thurmond, a Republican, emerged as the bombastic frontman of a coalition of senators willing to breach the deep-seated customs governing judicial appointments to sabotage Fortas. Exasperated by repeated failures to neutralize the Warren courts liberal rulings, they devised a revolutionary strategy that has since become the norm: Obstruct a political rivals nominees while stacking the court with like-minded jurists.

Shattering long-held norms, Republicans teamed up with Southern Democrats to orchestrate the first filibuster against a court nominee. Claiming Johnson was a lame duck, Fortas opponents called for the next president to fill the vacancy. Aiming for the jugular, critics labeled Fortas a crony for serving as the presidents advisor, tarnished his reputation by pointing to questionable earnings from a teaching position and invited social conservatives to brand him a guardian of criminals and pornographers. In the eras version of culture wars, Thurmond aired a series of adult movies the court had shielded from censors to underscore Fortas purportedly lax morals. The highlight of his performance occurred when, during Fortas testimony, Thurmond blindly accused Fortas of encouraging criminals to commit rapes. Blindsided by this unanticipated fusillade, Fortas grumbled to Justice William O. Douglas: All the accumulated venom about practically everything seems to have come to a focus.

On Oct. 1, 1968, Fortas became the only court nominee to be done in by a filibuster. Seven months later, President Nixon pressured the justice to resign  also a first  by exploiting Fortas arrangement with a white-collar criminal who arranged for him to be paid the equivalent of half of Fortas annual judicial salary for serving on a foundation board.

Contrary to the prevailing wisdom, it was this imbroglio  and not Borks nomination in 1987  that triggered the modern confirmation wars, transforming the selection of justices into the hyper-politicized, high-stakes contest we live with to this day. This new paradigm became evident soon after Fortas exodus. Within a year of his resignation, Senate liberals avenged him by rejecting two of Nixons nominees  the Southern conservatives Clement Haynsworth and G. Harrold Carswell. In the next phase of this tit-for-tat, Nixon tried to impeach Justice Douglas in 1970.

Enter the Fray: First takes on the news of the minute from L.A. Times Opinion 

After a peaceful lull, Borks nomination represented an atavistic return to this epoch. With several of the combatants from 1968 taking part, the parallels between the Bork and Fortas nominations were palpable. A Johnson advisor, Joseph A. Califano Jr., even urged those disagreeing with Borks judicial philosophy to oppose the nomination, by filibuster if necessary.

Many of the groundbreaking tactics deployed against Fortas also resurfaced in later nomination clashes. In 2005, Harriet Miers was labeled George W. Bushs crony. Calling President Obama a lame duck, Sen. Mitch McConnell refused to consider Garlands nomination in 2016, and Senate liberals targeted Gorsuch in 2017 through a filibuster. In its latest manifestation, the heated exchanges between Kavanaugh and Senate Democrats eerily resembled the testy duels between Fortas and Thurmond.

It was Fortas misfortune that he became an unwitting victim of this new battlefront. The final irony was that, unwilling to leave his lucrative legal practice, he capitulated to joining the court in 1965 only after Johnsons entreaties. Reflecting on his friends tragic fate, Johnson wrote: I made him take the justiceship. In that way I ruined his life.

He wasnt the only one left in ruins. On the 50th anniversary of his fall, the legacy of Fortas nomination still looms over the nation.

Michael Bobelian is the author of Battle for the Marble Palace: Abe Fortas, Earl Warren, Lyndon Johnson, Richard Nixon and the Forging of the Modern Supreme Court, scheduled to be published May 29.
My mother died when I was 16, so Mothers Day always fills me with wistfulness and a bit of dread. It forces me to relive long-ago grief as I reflect on what a kind and generous mother I lost more than 20 years ago. But Ive found a way to inject more happiness into the holiday by expanding my definition of what it means to be a mother. Now I celebrate all the other mothers in my life, the many women who caringly stepped in over the years to help smooth my path to adulthood.

Sociologist Patricia Hill Collins describes other mothers as women who support biological mothers and informally share mothering responsibilities with them. Such an arrangement  usually unpaid or bartered  has long been central to the experience of African American motherhood.

The notion also has been a mainstay among working-class, religious and immigrant communities, except for one big difference  a biological connection.

In my own life, Ive benefited from the care of other mothers, even when my mother was alive.

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Grandmothers often share child-rearing duties and ease the childcare burden of working parents, a role that has only been increasing, according to Madonna Harrington Meyer, a sociologist who wrote Grandmothers at Work. And when the Obamas moved into the White House, Michelles mother came along for the first familys eight-year stay. Her mother, Marian Shields Robinson, later said she felt it was going to be a very hard life for the parents and she was worried about her granddaughters.

In my own life, Ive benefited from the care of other mothers, even when my mother was alive. These other women just happened to be my teachers, too. From my earliest elementary school days through the years I studied for my doctorate, teachers helped me academically, mentored me professionally  and served as my nurturing anchors.

A dear college professor supported my path to graduate school as the first in my family to go to college. She saw something in me I didnt see in myself and encouraged me to take advanced classes, patiently answering my questions, and showing me glimpses of her life as a professor. She also supplied me with subway fare, and made sure I had food to eat and books to nourish my physical and emotional health. When I earned my doctorate 16 years later, she celebrated at my dissertation defense party.

My three younger sisters were between 10 and 13 when my mother died, and we came to depend on our network of other mothers. Mothers of friends took my sisters on weekend outings. When I had to be at school early and my father had already left for work, we leaned on the neighborhood women who worked at the bagel store near our house to keep an eye on my sisters for an hour in the mornings until their school bus arrived.

As adults, my sisters continue to embrace the concept of other mothers. My sister, Joelle, still keeps in touch with her other mother, a childhood friends mom. Their relationship inspired Joelle, who has four young children, to pay it forward. She is a part of a community of other mothers who are always helping each other out, and she once took in a neighbors 10-year-old daughter for a time because both the single mother and daughter needed a break from each other.

Similar child-keeping practices are common in poorer communities, according to research by Carol Stack, a sociologist.

I, too, aspire to be an other mother. My personal history plays a part in this choice but so do concerns about meeting what seem like the impossibly high expectations of modern motherhood, a cultural pressure one sociologist calls intensive mothering  the near-total devotion to child-rearing and family life.

Enter the Fray: First takes on the news of the minute from L.A. Times Opinion 

Yet women like me who choose not to have children still face assumptions that we are somehow selfish. But I see it far differently, as a way to build meaningful relationships with both children and their mothers, as a way to help them soar. As an aunt, sister, teacher, friend and community member, I can be a member of a vast family.

As a college professor, Ive tried to show my students the same empathy and support my mentors have shown me, whether that means pointing them to various income-based student loan repayment programs after graduation or offering a sympathetic ear during a personal crisis, such as a death in the family or a health problem. I would have less time to devote to this if I had children at home.

Before Sylvia Bloom died last year at 96, the legal secretary secretly amassed a fortune while living a modest life. She left behind more than $8 million and bequeathed the bulk of it to the Henry Street Settlement, which helps disadvantaged students in New York. She never had children, but her donation will support young people for generations to come. She will be the other grandmother they never met.

Thats the kind of woman I aspire to be. Happy Other Mothers Day to all you kindred spirits out there. You  and those youve nurtured along the way  know who you are.

Stacy Torres is an assistant professor of sociology at UC San Francisco.
To the editor: Any impeachment quandary paralyzing the Democrats is a false one. President Trump has already forced the decision with his every action. The House has no choice but to hold hearings. (Trumps contempt for Congress is dangerous and self-serving, editorial, May 9)

Televised testimony will have a profound effect on public opinion. If the hearings should result in impeachment, an absence of a two-thirds majority in the Senate for conviction is immaterial.

As with Watergate, there is a better than even chance that the majority of voters will see this president for what he is and support conviction, if not soundly reject him at the polls in 2020.

Blowback against the Democrats is a specious bluff, unconvincingly purported by the GOP. Voters rightly held the Republicans responsible for blatant overreach that resulted in President Clintons impeachment because the underlying crime wasnt a crime. It was morally reprehensible and irresponsible behavior, to be sure.

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Lying under oath about a non-crime is still a crime, but its not the duplicitous, dangerous, borderline disloyal self-dealing perfidy of Trump.

J. Kevin Jones, Rancho Palos Verdes

..

To the editor: Trump may be stonewalling Congress, but Republicans in both the House and the Senate are equally obstructive.

If Democrats presented evidence that Trump was Dracula, Republicans would demand more than circumstantial evidence. They would require the president to turn into a bat right in front of them.

Even if that happened, they would probably call it fake vampirism and let it go.

Tim Geddes, Huntington Beach

Follow the Opinion section on Twitter @latimesopinion and Facebook
Washington seems to be barreling toward a constitutional crisis.

Democrats are barraging President Trump with demands for witnesses and documents. Trump has answered by stonewalling, vowing to fight all the subpoenas.

As House Speaker Nancy Pelosi warned, Trump seems to be goading the Democratic-controlled House toward impeachment, perhaps because its a battle he thinks he can win.

Politicians on both sides are repairing to their tribal corners.

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Is there anyone who can serve as honest referees in this partisan standoff?

One answer  dont laugh  is lawyers. Specifically, Republican lawyers.

Even as Republicans in Congress have fallen in line to defend Trump at every turn, a surprising number of conservative lawyers have broken ranks and are condemning the president for abuses of power and denouncing his blanket claims of executive privilege.

Last week, John Yoo, the former Justice Department official who drafted a notorious memo justifying the torture of detainees under President George W. Bush, warned that Trump had gone too far in asserting unbridled presidential power.

Thats what Nixon did, Yoo told NPR. Thats what other presidents who have failed have done.

In an email exchange, Yoo told me he stands by the comparison, and added that Trumps actions are sufficient grounds for the House to consider impeachment.

Impeachment [is] the only solution to Trumps challenge to the constitutional order, he wrote.

Yoo isnt alone. George Conway, a leading conservative lawyer (and dissenting husband of Trump aide Kellyanne Conway), declared that Trump is a cancer on the presidency, echoing White House Counsel John Deans famous warning to Nixon during Watergate. Conway urged Congress to remove Trump from office.

Presidential attempts to abuse power by putting personal interests above the nations can surely be impeachable, Conway wrote in the Washington Post. Last year, he changed his voter registration from Republican to unaffiliated, saying the GOP had become a personality cult.

Other attorneys have been more restrained, but only a little.

The presidents conduct demonstrates a flagrant disregard for the rule of law a disregard that is in direct conflict with his constitutional responsibilities, 11 conservative lawyers wrote last month. They urged the House to continue its investigations, but stopped short of endorsing impeachment.

This president is undermining the basic principle of checks and balances, one of the 11, former Deputy Atty. Gen. Donald B. Ayer, told me. Its really kind of tyrannical. Its un-American. Its the sort of expansion of government power you would expect Republicans to worry about.

In addition, more than 800 former federal prosecutors, many of them Republicans, signed a statement declaring that the report by special counsel Robert S. Mueller III, far from exonerating Trump, showed that he deserved to be indicted for obstruction of justice.

It seems to me important, especially today, for lawyers to speak with consistency about the rule of law and apply it without consideration of party, said Paul Rosenzweig, a former assistant to independent counsel Kenneth Starr in the investigation of President Clinton that led to his impeachment by the House in 1998. The Senate did not convict, and Clinton served out his term.

The existence of dissident Republican voices shouldnt be noteworthy  but it is. There arent many institutions in Washington that have resisted the descent into tribalism.

To take the most glaring example, the Republican caucus in the Senate  home to Lindsey Graham of South Carolina, who once called Trump a complete idiot and a race-baiting bigot, and Ted Cruz of Texas, who called him a pathological liar  is now, on most working days, a chorus of Trumpolatry.

Why are so many Republican lawyers standing against their partys prevailing tide?

Maybe they just take their professional canons seriously.

You are the guardians of the rule of law, Rod Rosenstein, then Trumps deputy attorney general, told the American Bar Assn.s annual meeting last year. Honorable lawyers defend the rule of law, even when it is difficult, so it will be there when we need it.

On a more visceral level, some are offended by Trumps disdain for lawyers. After all, two of Trumps, Roy Cohn and Michael Cohen, were disbarred.

Theres a point in the Mueller report where Trump complains that [then-White House Counsel] Don McGahn is always taking notes, and McGahn explains that real lawyers do that, Ayer said. If you want to be an autocrat, you dont want people who care about whats legal looking over your shoulder. Theyre out to get the lawyers.

And they know that this constitutional crisis, like most, is likely to end up in the courts.

In their recent book How Democracies Die, Harvard political scientists Steven Levitsky and Daniel Ziblatt noted that one way autocratic regimes rise to power is by undermining the media, the legal profession and the judiciary. All are potential independent checks on government.

Democracy no longer ends with a bang, but with a whimper: the slow, steady weakening of critical institutions, they wrote.

Trump has often described the courts in partisan terms. He has condemned judges appointed by Democratic presidents as biased against him, while extolling the Supreme Court as a Republican-led refuge.

If the partisan Dems ever tried to Impeach, I would first head to the U.S. Supreme Court, he tweeted recently.

The president seems to think government lawyers are duty-bound to defend his every whim, and that Republican judges are duty-bound to decide cases in his favor.

These GOP lawyers are reminding their colleagues  justices as well as attorneys  that their real duty lies elsewhere.
There are hundreds of photos and pieces of memorabilia hanging on the walls of Bobs Big Boy in Burbank.

The restaurant, which opened in 1949 and is listed as a California Point of Historical Interest, has headshots of James Dean, Errol Flynn and Dorothy Barrett gracing the archway over the waiting area and stills from the movie Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery greeting customers as they enter.

NEWSLETTER: Stay up to date with whats going on in the 818 >>

Tucked away in an unassuming corner near the front of the diner hangs the establishments newest piece: a pair of headshots of Eddie Kelly, a former regular dancer on the TV music show American Bandstand.

The photo on the left is of Kelly when he was a teen from Philadelphia, Pa., in 1959. On the right is a photo taken of him in 2010. Below the more current picture are the words Still Dancin.

Well, that was a mistake, Kelly said, jokingly.

The manager of the restaurant recently put a photo of Eddie Kelly on the wall of Bobs Big Boy in Burbank to highlight his teenage career on American Bandstand. (Tim Berger / Staff Photographer)

Kelly, 72, who moved to Burbank from the East Coast two years ago, is now a regular at Bobs Big Boy, sometimes eating each meal of the day at the diner. He noticed the 1950s to 1960s theme in the restaurant and figured that it would be appropriate to have his headshot hung up because of his well-known status during that era.

When I look around, Im probably one the remaining live ones, Kelly said of his photo hung next to all of the celebrities. But Ill tell you what, the fact that I was recognized and worthy to be put up there was really nice of them. Im proud of it and proud of being a part of rock n roll history.

Bobs Big Boys celebrity history runs deeper than just headshots of actors. Director David Lynch is known for setting up shop in the diner while writing a screenplay. Bob Hope would sit at his usual table, where he would eat a plain Big Boy burger, a root beer and a small order of fries with his driver, said Jesus Franco, the diners marketing manager.

However, the restaurants biggest attraction is a corner booth by a window where the Beatles reportedly sat in during the 1960s. A plaque commemorating the big moment hangs on a wall near the booth, Franco said.

Theres no evidence, but I know its true because of the stories Ive heard from the people that worked here before, he said, noting that customers from around the world have waited hours to sit in the booth.

Franco, who has worked at the diner for about 20 years, said people come in not just for the food, but also for a dose of nostalgia. He said customers would recognize a loved one from an old photo of the Burbank Police Department or start dancing and singing when they heard a 1950s rock song play over the speakers.

It brings back a lot of memories, Franco said. Its important to keep this theme at this restaurant. There are other Big Boys, but people prefer to drive an extra mile just to be here.

For Kelly, the local restaurant holds a special place in his heart.

Its like home to me, he said. Its the atmosphere and the music they play. It takes me back to when I was a teenager.

--

anthonyclark.carpio@latimes.com

--

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Its not every day you can get an up-close look at a 1931 Ford Model A, a 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air convertible, a 1963 Corvette Sting Ray coupe, a hot-off-the-assembly-line 2017 Tesla, and four vehicles from the 2017 movie The Fate of the Furious all in a matter of a three-block walk.

But, thanks to the Downtown Burbank Partnership and the citys Community Development Department, that is just what thousands of residents and visitors got to do as they perused more than 150 classic vehicles at the sixth annual Downtown Burbank Car Classic this past Saturday.

Chaired by Don Baldaseroni of the Road Kings of Burbank, the event was also made possible by Robin Faulk, downtown marketing consultant, Mary Hamzoian, economic development manager, and economic development analysts Marissa Minor and Susie Avetisyan.

Along with autos owned by Road Kings members and local individuals, the cavalcade of cars on display included vehicles from the Petersen Automotive Museum, the Television Motion Picture Car Club, Vehicle Effects, Hollywood Hot Rods and Unique Twist.

Among those that were clear crowd-pleasers were a 1946 Ford convertible that had been customized by the late George Barris and used as a picture car in the 1978 film Grease, a 1999 Mach 5 prototype from the 2008 movie Speed Racer, and Doms blue Subaru BRZ, the Ice Charger, GTX, and the Letty 66 Corvette that appear in this years The Fate of the Furious.

Included in the day of autos was also a presentation of accolades.

Each year, this event names a Lifetime Achievement Award recipient, and the 2017 honors were split between two Burbankers who have achieved legendary status in the world of NHRA drag racing: Jim Miles and Bob Muravez.

Miles is best-known for piloting a 1948 blown Fiat Topolino at the Lions Drag Strip, a raceway adjacent to Long Beach that existed from 1955 to 1972, while Muravez, who began his career using the pseudonym Floyd Lippencott Jr., was the driver of the top Gas dragster in the nation, a twin engine Chevrolet called the Freight Train.

The event also paid tribute to all members of the Road Kings, which is celebrating its 65th anniversary.

Along with being lovers of classic cars, as a group, the organizations members have a long history of embracing the Burbank community and have raised and presented more than $500,000 to local charities.

Among the local notables who were spotted enjoying the day during a late afternoon stroll down San Fernando Boulevard were Burbank Mayor Will Rogers, Parks Commissioner Mickey DePalo, Road Kings President Ben Curtis, renowned photographer and writer Doug Dobransky, who authored the touching and poignant book Autumn Sister (Mill City Press, Inc., 2007) that chronicled his sisters battle with cancer, and actress Shay Aljadeff, who is best known for her role as Dr. Leah Bardovi on NBCs Chicago Med.

DAVID LAURELL may be reached by email at dlaurell@aol.com or (818) 563-1007.
Three men whose bodies were found in an abandoned car in Burbank on April 17 all died from gunshot wounds to the head, authorities said Monday.

Jan Carlos Amiama, 21, his brother Lucas Josh Amiama, 23, and Carlos Elias Lopez, 32, were reported missing from the Bakersfield area the previous weekend before their bodies were found in a Burbank industrial park. The Los Angeles County Coroners office said the brothers died from multiple gunshot wounds to their heads while Lopez received a single gunshot to his head.

Their deaths were ruled as homicides.

Their bodies were discovered just after 7 a.m. April 17 in the 1300 block of South Varney Street after a parking officer responded to a complaint about a Jeep Patriot that had not been moved in a while.

Sgt. Derek Green, a spokesman with the Burbank Police Department, said the officer noticed an odor coming from the car and saw a person inside who appeared to be dead.

Investigators immediately deemed the deaths highly suspicious, Green said.

According to the Amiama brothers family, the three men were on their way to a Riverside home before they went missing.

By late last week deputies with the Riverside County Sheriffs Department obtained a search warrant for a home in the 5200 block of Stone Avenue where the men were said to have gone.

Enough evidence was found in the home to suggest a crime involving the three men had taken place there, according to a statement from the sheriffs department.

Los Angeles Times reporter James Queally contributed to this report.

andy.nguyen@latimes.com

Twitter: @Andy_Truc

UPDATES:

April 24, 2:45 p.m.: This article was updated with clarifying information on how the three men died.

This article was originally published on April 23 at 2:35 p.m.
I understand why people get frustrated with the so-called language police.

Personally, I dont mind requests that I use more sensitive language. If a guy named Robert asks me to call him Bob, or for that matter, if a guy named Robert asks me to call him Skippy, its only courteous that I address him as he wishes to be addressed.

The same thing goes for talking about groups of people. I understand why others may not be so accommodating, but, to me, its just politeness writ large.

However, when people try to tell you how to talk, thats when things get ugly. And if they try to use grammar as a justification for their language bullying, things get ugly and stupid. Enter this Feb. 12 tweet from actor James Woods.

The correct pronoun usage in the English language is he for a singular male and she for a singular female. They is used for the plural of either males, females or both. Dont be bullied by hare-brained liberals.

First off, its harebrained, not hare-brained. The one-word form means foolish.

When you make your own hyphenated compound, youre expressly referencing the brain of a hare, which could suggest anything from a craving for delicious grass to a full-blown case of Easter Bunny envy.

Yes, harebrained began life as a reference to a hare. But it has evolved to mean something quite specific, and today, it carries almost no meaningful reference to the rabbits leggy cousin.

One can be forgiven for not checking a dictionary on this matter when one is not engaged in the act of language bullying. But when telling people how to talk  especially with a side of nastiness and insults  failure to confirm the meaning of your own words is downright harebrained.

But, more important: Woods is just wrong about they.

They has been officially recognized as a singular pronoun for centuries. Lexicographers have noted uses going back to the 1300s. And even careful style guides like the Associated Press Stylebook allow it.

Sometimes they to refer to a singular antecedent can help sidestep sexist language, like assuming a hypothetical doctor is male:

If you have an internist, they should know what medicines youre on.

But it would be a mistake to assume singular they started in the 1970s.

Although a lack of a common-gender, third-person singular pronoun has received much attention in recent years from those concerned with womens issues, the problem, as felt by writers, is much older; the plural pronouns have been pressed into use to supply the missing form since Middle English, writes Merriam-Websters Dictionary of English Usage.

As an example, the guide cites a passage from Chaucer penned in 1395: And whoseo fyndeth hym out of swich blame, They wol come up.

They is a way to avoid writing he or she over and over.

Another common reason to use they when referring to a singular person is that youre not actually sure it is just one person. This happens a lot when working with pronouns like whoever.

Whoever is unwilling to accept these terms, well  they know where the door is.

In these cases, they spares you an even longer term: he, she or they, as in Whoever is unwilling to accept these terms, well  he, she or they know where the door is.

In the 18th century, some overconfident grammarians started pushing a solution: If you dont know the number or the sex of the person in question, just use the masculine pronoun.

This led to real-world stupidity like this example from a 1983 edition of Readers Digest: She and Louis had a game  who could find the ugliest photograph of himself.

That brings us full circle to Woods: Dont use language rules as a tool to promote ugliness. Youll always come off as harebrained.

JUNE CASAGRANDE is the author of The Joy of Syntax: A Simple Guide to All the Grammar You Know You Should Know. She can be reached at JuneTCN@aol.com.
Painter Mark Rothko faced a series of struggles: He left Russia when he was 10, his father died seven months after the family arrived in Portland, Ore., he dropped out of Yale after two years and bouts of heavy drinking destroyed his health. He committed suicide at age 67 in 1970.

But his prolific works of large, abstract canvases with occasional hints of color had a profound influence on artistic styles, and Rothko, who refused to be defined by any art movement, is considered one of the most famous postwar American artists.

In playwright John Logans Tony Award-winning drama Red, the plot centers on Rothko and his assistant and touches on themes like the nature of art and what drives an artist.

Red is set in 1958 as New York artist Rothko has received the art worlds largest commission to create a series of murals for The Four Seasons restaurant in the new Seagram building on Park Avenue. Rothko works feverishly with his young assistant, Ken, in his studio on the Bowery. But when Ken gains the confidence to challenge his mentor, Rothko feels a vulnerability as he faces the mission of creating a definitive work.

South Coast Repertory founding artistic director David Emmes said what drove him to want to direct Red is that it addresses the complexity of pursuing a passion while facing the reality of making a living. The play runs through Feb. 21 at the Costa Mesa theaters Segerstrom Stage.

Emmes said he also has always had an interest in the visual arts and is an admirer of Rothkos.

He said when he reread Logans script, he found the play to be a remarkable inside look into the creative process and the often competing demands of creativity and commerce.

I think the play draws us wonderfully into the world of creativity and its process, and it brings a discussion of what an artists responsibilities are, Emmes said. Its a really compelling piece.

To translate the script into a compelling play, Emmes said he first had to secure the right cast and that included actor Mark Harelik for the role of Rothko.

Harelik, described by Emmes as gifted and one of the best American theater actors, has done six previous productions over his long association with South Coast Repertory, including leading roles in Cyrano de Bergerac and Tartuffe. His credits also include the original Broadway production of The Light in the Piazza.

The two-person play also stars Paul David Story, who is making his SCR debut as Rothkos assistant, Ken. Story has also appeared on Broadway.

The original play opened in London seven years ago featuring Alfred Molina and Eddie Redmayne. The production, with its two leads, transferred to Broadway and was awarded the 2010 Tony Award for Best Play.

The challenge of the two-character play, Emmes said, was to ensure that each scene has a context where the actors can explore the dramatic needs of the play, which features heated moments between the two.

Emmes said he was confident in Harelik and Storys ability to explore the aspects of the painter and assistant relationship.

I thought this required great artistry, and its a big mountain to climb, Emmes said. You need someone who has the stamina and energy to hit the summit.

Emmes, who read Rothko biographies and conducted research on the painter, said he wants audiences to gain a deeper insight into how difficult it is for an artist to make his or her way in the world.

As Rothko is often quoted as having said, When I was a younger man, art was a lonely thing. No galleries, no collectors, no critics, no money. Yet it was a golden age, for we all had nothing to lose and a vision to gain. Today it is not quite the same. It is a time of tons of verbiage, activity, consumption.

*

IF YOU GO:

What: Red

When: 7:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 8 p.m. Thursdays, 2:30 and 8 p.m. Saturdays, and 2:30 and 7:30 p.m. Sundays, until Feb. 21

Where: South Coast Repertorys Segerstrom Stage, 655 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa

Cost: Ticket prices vary

Information: (714) 708-5555 or visit scr.org

--

Kathleen Luppi, kathleen.luppi@latimes.com

Twitter: @KathleenLuppi
If politics and religion are among the most combustible topics, then God Help Us! must be dynamite.

Billed as a political comedy for our times, the 90-minute stage show centers on two opposite-leaning pundits who are transported to purgatory by the Supreme Being himself for the purpose of debating todays political and social issues.

The play was written by Samuel Warren Joseph and Phil Proctor concurrent with the Donald Trump-Hillary Clinton debates of summer 2016. It premiered in Chicago in August 2018.

Having tapped Ed Asner for a 2001 staged reading of his play Moral Imperative, Joseph conceived of God Help Us! with Asner in the title role. Proctor, who is also an actor and voice actor, had also done several live audio shows with Asner.

As soon as Asner heard about the role, he gleefully accepted the part sight unseen.

Next weekend will be the first time God Help Us! comes to Orange County, with three special benefit performances at the Robert S. Wentz Theatre in Newport Beach (courtesy of the Newport Harbor High Schools drama department). Asners daughter Liza Asner is the shows producer.

The story pits liberal Larry (played by Stewart J. Zully) against conservative Randi (Pamela Guest), two politically opposite media pundits who were a couple in college.

Largely because they were unable to disagree without being disagreeable, they split up, so God brings them together in limbo, interrogating them on a wide variety of domestic and world topics  a well as personal matters.

Whichever of them he finds more persuasive, he informs them, will receive his mighty thumb on the scale in their favor.

The playwrights God is indeed Asner-like, a cantankerous, sarcastic figure openly offended by what American political leaders have done to the U.S. The play imbues him with deity-like wisdom, qualities that emerge as God offers his take on the Bible and on the origins of the universe and humankind.

Asner said this Gods tactics are designed to see if a compromise can be worked out. He said he has been amazed at how open people at opposite political poles are in response to the play.

Mitch Levine, the shows director, attributes that fact to the way the play exposes both the foibles and the potential of humanity.

He also said that both political camps will feel equally celebrated and castigated by Asners God, calling the character an equal opportunity proclaimer and challenger whose acerbic approach to circumstances really links to the idea that we should all be doing better.

An avowed Socialist, the outspoken Asner said he finds it unbelievable how many people share Trumps beliefs, yet the play is meant to show how ridiculous both supporters and opponents of Trump can be.

In the process, God Help Us! makes the same appeal to everyone regardless of their political persuasion: that if were to survive, we must listen to each other.

Eric Marchese is a contributor to Times Community News.

IF YOU GO

What: God Help Us!

Where: Robert S. Wentz Theater, Newport Harbor High School, 600 Irvine Ave., Newport Beach.

When: 7 p.m. Feb. 22, 2 and 7 p.m. Feb. 23

Cost: $25-$40

Information: (310) 413-4309, nhhsdrama.com
Children designed and launched bottle rockets into the sky Saturday for Boeing Co.s annual rocket launch event in Huntington Beach.

Participants were encouraged to bring empty 2-liter bottles to use for their rockets. Staff provided other materials such as tape, scissors and plastic bags for rocket parachutes. Engineers from Boeing were on hand to give design and engineering tips.

The event, co-presented by Discovery Cube Orange County, encourages participants to use their problem-solving skills and imagination.

Support our coverage by becoming a digital subscriber.
Costa Mesa City Council members will get their first official look next week at a proposed mixed-use community that would bring 1,057 residential units and thousands of square feet of retail and office space to a commercial and industrial area north of the 405 Freeway.

One Metro West would be the first project of its kind in this particular section of the city.

A brainchild of Beverly Hills-based Rose Equities, One Metro West would include studio, one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments in three residential structures with integrated parking garages, 6,000 square feet of retail, a 25,000-square-foot office building and 1.7 acres of open and park space on 15.23 acres.

The site at 1683 Sunflower Ave., which is just west of the South Coast Collection, currently contains a two-story, 345,400-square-foot industrial building, according to a staff report included in Tuesdays council agenda.

The upcoming hearing is meant for council members to screen the project and determine whether it can move forward. A decision on whether to actually approve the community would come at a later date.

Passing muster with the council is only part of the equation. Ultimately, the projects fate would be decided at the ballot box.

In our opinion, the facts are on our side, Brent Stoll, a partner at Rose Equities, said. South Coast Metro, which defines Costa Mesas worldwide brand and economic strength, represents an opportunity for the city to continue to ensure its future.

This general area of Costa Mesa is dotted with significant commercial and employment centers  including SOCO, IKEA, the Automobile Club of Southern California, Vans corporate headquarters and, soon, an office, retail and dining campus called the Press.

Thousands of jobs are there. Thousands more are coming, said Stoll, who also serves as the Costa Mesa Chamber of Commerce liaison to the citys Bikeway & Walkability Committee. One Metro West is the connective tissue [that] allows for these jobs to thrive while minimizing the traffic impacts ... on our morning and evening commutes south of the 405.

The project also would present a financial benefit, he said, by adding annual tax revenue to city coffers.

As envisioned, One Metro West would feature an array of on-site amenities, such as a fitness center, swimming pools, a gaming center, coffee bar and bowling alley. Also proposed are pedestrian and bikeway upgrades on Sunflower and Hyland Avenue, as well as installation of a bike parking/active transportation hub.

Rose Equities has committed to designating 15% of the total units for those with very low, low or moderate incomes.

However, the question of whether the site will welcome residents in the future would have to be answered by current Costa Mesans.

Measure Y, a ballot initiative approved in 2016, requires public approval of projects that entail a general plan amendment or zoning change and would add 40 or more dwelling units or 10,000 or more square feet of commercial space on top of what already exists.

Since it checks those boxes, One Metro West could become the first project to be put to a public vote under the measure  assuming a favorable outcome in City Hall. The idea of adding housing in this area north of the 405 has been a matter of philosophical dispute in recent years, with some saying that doing so could erode an important part of the citys commercial core.

Tuesdays council meeting starts at 6 p.m. in the Costa Mesa Senior Center, 695 W. 19th St.
Ten months after publicly unveiling the proposal in City Hall, Vanguard University secured Costa Mesa City Council approval of a master plan that will chart the long-term physical future of its campus to accommodate planned enrollment growth.

Council members on the winning side of the 5-2 decision said the vote wasnt an easy one, but that they had to strike a balance between the interests of the private Christian university and the concerns of nearby residents who have long objected to one particular component.

We live here just like you do, and we have to weigh this with some balance, and we have to look at what the legal rights are of all parties concerned, Councilman Allan Mansoor told the crowd at Tuesdays meeting. I can see no legal reason to say no to this.

All told, the plan outlines 12 separate projects that will reshape Vanguards 38-acre campus at 55 Fair Drive. Among them are building a 300-bed dormitory, adding a four-level parking structure along Newport Boulevard, replacing the gymnasium and science, technology, engineering, math and kinesiology facilities, and constructing a new student center.

The master plan  which previously won approval from the city Planning Commission before being pulled up to the council for review  will allow Vanguards enrollment to grow from 2,098 students to as many as 2,700, university officials said.

Council members Arlis Reynolds and Andrea Marr, whose district includes Vanguard, voted against the master plan.

I just feel like were putting a square peg in a round hole, Marr said. If were going to constrain the size of your building  when you can access it, what you can use it for  were just setting ourselves up for failure in the long run.

She was referring to the project that has dogged the master plan throughout the city review process: the relocation of Vanguards maintenance and operations facility to the southwest corner of the campus.

Some nearby residents living along Vanguard Way  particularly those in the Newport Landing community next to the university  have steadfastly opposed the concept, maintaining that it will spoil their views, lower their property values, subject them to disruptive noise, bring dangerous delivery-truck traffic to the area and harm their general quality of life.

University officials, on the other hand, said they have made several concessions to address residents concerns, including agreeing to set the facility farther back from the property line, limit its height to 22 feet and restrict outside noise-generating work to weekdays between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m.

They said they also studied alternative sites, but eventually determined that locating it elsewhere could create problems with on-campus vehicle circulation, safety and parking or force the costly relocation of other facilities.

We listened and tried to produce a project that balanced the interests of both the university and the neighbors, Vanguard President Michael Beals said Tuesday.

In a previous hearing, Beals said the 30-year campus master plan will continue to grow the universitys academic rank and regional position as a residential liberal-arts college right here in the heart of Costa Mesa.

As part of their approval, council members requested and Vanguard agreed to a handful of additional conditions on the maintenance and operations facility, including that semi-truck deliveries be limited to no more than twice a week between the hours of 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., that any trash compactors be contained in an enclosed structure and that the design of the facility itself come back to the city Planning Commission for review once its finalized.

I feel, with our conditions of approval, that this is a fair deal, said Councilman Manuel Chavez.

The council also asked staff to monitor speeds along Vanguard Way and see whether additional police enforcement or traffic-calming measures are necessary.
Tivoli Terrace, a popular wedding and event venue next to Laguna Beachs Festival of Arts grounds, has been sold to new owners who plan to renovate the business and repurpose it as a restaurant.

After nearly 50 years, Tivoli owner June Neptune sold her lease April 20 to Laguna businessman Mohammed Mo Honarkars Laguna Beach Co., according to a news release.

The space is being transformed into Terra Laguna Beach but will remain open for the summer and handle existing wedding bookings, the company said. A grand reopening is scheduled for May 2019.

Company officials said the Terra name refers to our collective home, Mother Earth, or terra firma, the natural and necessary nourishment we receive from our planet, and gives an identity relative to its cuisine  natural, fresh and native California cuisine.

As a restaurant, it will have the same footprint as Tivoli Terrace but with some renovations. Its top tier will be renamed the Neptune Lounge after Neptune, who founded Tivoli Terrace on April 20, 1971, and coincidentally ended her run there exactly 47 years later.

For the past 47 years it has been an honor and, most of all, my pleasure to serve the thousands of guests that visited Tivoli Terrace, Neptune said in a statement. I wish only the very best for the new life and business at the location that was known as Tivoli Terrace as they begin what I hope is another 47 years of success.

Company officials said Neptune also is closing Tivoli Too, an event venue down Laguna Canyon Road and within the Art-A-Fair property, which Honarkar acquired last fall. She is not closing the Hacienda, an event space on a historical ranch estate in Santa Ana.

Plans for Tivoli Toos replacement have not been announced.

Part of Terras transformation will be reintroducing Tivoli Terraces futuristic paraboloid rooftop designed by Don Williamson in 1957.

Williamson was an architect who designed many buildings around Laguna and directed the Pageant of the Masters from 1964 to 1978. The roof spans 70 feet and is supported at two points. It has always been on the building but was obscured.

We are so excited to be adding Terra to our vision for the arts district and are thrilled to have discovered this hidden historic structure that is an important part of the history of architecture in Laguna Beach and Orange County, Honarkar said in a statement. We are eager to reintroduce such a magnificent building to our community and look forward to providing the patrons of Festival of Arts/Pageant of the Masters and Laguna Playhouse with a dining destination that mirrors the level of excellence provided by those organizations.

BRADLEY ZINT is a contributor to Times Community News.
Authorities arrested a man during a routine traffic stop in Glendale on Thursday after they allegedly found him in possession of cocaine for sale.

Jose Rivera, 25, was arrested on suspicion of possessing a controlled substance for the purpose of sales.

Tahnee Lightfoot, a spokeswoman for the Glendale Police Department, said Rivera was driving a Dodge Charger near Colorado and Adams streets around 6 p.m. when he was pulled over for not displaying his license plates. She said Rivera could not provide any form of identification to the officer, and a records check revealed he had a warrant for driving on a suspended license.

During a search of his vehicle, police reportedly found a substantial amount of white powdery substance resembling cocaine, along with packaging materials, scales for weighing and an undisclosed amount of cash.

Rivera was taken into custody and was released the next day on $30,000 bail.

andy.nguyen@latimes.com

Twitter: @Andy_Truc
Most members of Temple Sinai of Glendale remember the late Rabbi Carole Meyers for her historic presence in their lives  serving from 1986 to 2001, she was the first female rabbi to lead a congregation throughout Greater Los Angeles.

Beyond that distinction, those who knew the La Canada Flintridge wife and mother of two recall her warmth and authenticity as a spiritual counselor as well as her constant search for the presence of God in everything around her.

Meyers sermons  faithfully inscribed each week on yellow legal pads and kept to a strictly enforced eight-page limit  dealt honestly with matters of life and death, of living with and through loss and making sense of the human experience. It was an approach that won hearts and helped the Reform temple grow its membership by half during her tenure.

Ralph Zarefsky, who came to the Glendale synagogue one month after Meyers arrival, partly out of curiosity to see a female rabbi, recalled the captivating power of her sermons.

She was a very compelling speaker, he recalled. She had a very lyrical voice, a very smooth speaking style and an encompassing demeanor. She just made you want to be engaged.

Zarefsky and Meyers were mutually attracted. The couple were wed in late December 1990.

Although she left Temple Sinai in 2001 to devote more time to her two young sons, regroup and seek out a new direction, Meyers personal and spiritual ties to the congregation remained strong all the way up to her swift death from cancer in 2007 at age 50.

The community was shocked by her passing, unable to understand how someone so vivid and alive could suddenly be gone. For a time it seemed the wealth of sermons shed delivered since her ordination in 1983, after graduating from Hebrew Union College in New York, would disappear with her.

Zarefsky, today a retired federal magistrate judge, could not let that happen. A year after his wifes death he began sifting through her legal pads, stored in four bankers boxes, with the thought of compiling them in a book.

It was quite a process, he recalled of the side project. I read them all and just picked out the ones that seemed the best.

After years of reading and sorting, and with the help of others willing to transcribe the handwritten sermons into a digital format, Zarefsky had completed his labor of love.

The result, Leaning on God: The Sermons of Rabbi Carole L. Meyers, was published by Steel Cut Press in June. The 278-page book comprises 40 sermons categorized into sections: Loss, Evil and Faith; the World Around Us; Our Emotional Lives; Change and Ritual; and God.

I wanted to leave a memorial for our sons, Zarefsky, since remarried, said of 25-year-old Joe and Gus, 21. [But] I also felt she had something to say to the larger community. For people whove never heard her speak, I think it will open something up.

For those who knew and loved Rabbi Carole, the new book offers a cherished window of remembrance.

La Crescenta resident Pilar Apodaca Oppenheimer began attending Temple Sinai, where her husbands family worshiped, in 1988 and converted to Judaism about a decade later. She said Meyers influence and teachings played a large role in her decision.

She definitely, in her sermons, moved me and many others to a place of feeling connected to the bigger whole of humanity, and to live in a manner that respected that connection, Oppenheimer said. When she spoke you felt elevated to a different realm.

Oppenheimer looks forward to revisiting the sermons from Leaning on God with her two sons and their having the opportunity to do the same with their children.

Rabbi Susan Goldberg of Los Angeles Wilshire Boulevard Temple credits Meyers for her own decision to enter rabbinical school at a pivotal time in her life.

Meeting her kind of brought it all together in a way I hadnt expected, she recalled. It was really meaningful to learn with her and from her because she lived the teachings.

Goldberg said she is grateful to now have a collection of her mentors words.

Theres a special poignancy for those of us who knew her but also for people who didnt know her to receive the teachings, she said of Zarefskys book. Its great what hes done.

sara.cardine@latimes.com

Twitter: @SaraCardine
UFC 237 takes place Saturday night from Rio de Janeiro, featuring champion Rose Namajunas defending her strawweight title against Brazilian challenger Jessica Andrade on Andrades home turf. The co-feature pits all time legend Anderson Silva versus Jared Cannonier, while Jose Aldo battles Alexander Volkanovski in a pivotal showdown between top featherweight contenders.

Talita Bernardo vs. Viviane Araujo

Talita Bernardo is a submission grappler who picked up her first UFC victory last time out in the Octagon and is 6-3 in MMA competition overall. Viviane Araujo is the smaller woman naturally and is taking the fight on late notice. She is 6-1 over the course of her MMA career.

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Round 1. Araujos striking looks crisp. She is bouncing around on the outside and landing strikes. Bernardo is clearly bigger but she is also the much slower competitor and Araujo is taking advantage of her speed to pepper Bernardo with jabs and kicks. Bernardo goes for a takedown late but cant get it cleanly and opts to pull guard instead. Araujo quickly takes Bernardos back as the round comes to a close. One-sided action there. 10-9 Araujo.

Round 2. Araujo opens up with some low kicks. Araujo cracks Bernardo with a hard right hand to the jaw, easily the biggest blow of the fight. Araujo follows with some more leg kicks. Bernardo answers back with a couple punches and shoots for a takedown but she doesnt come close. Bernardo lands a few punches and Araujo responds by taking Bernardo down. Bernardo has full guard up against the cage. They return to the feet and Bernardo lands a few more quality punches at the end of the round. Bernardo finally seemed to get going a little big in the second half of that round. 10-9 Araujo.

Round 3. Araujo comes out with a lot of movement. She lands a few solid punches and then knocks Bernardo out cold with a punch.

Winner: Viviane Araujo, KO, round 3.

That was a terrific UFC debut for Viviane Araujo. She was fighting in a higher weight class on short notice and dominated the fight before securing a clean knockout. She looks like she could be a force in the UFC. As for Bernardo, she may find herself on smaller shows next.

Raoni Barcelos vs. Carlos Huachin

Raoni Barcelos will be one of the biggest UFC betting favorites of the year when he takes on Carlos Huachin tonight. Barcelos is 13-1 with finishes in both his UFC bouts. He takes on the Peruvian Huachin, who is taking the fight on short notice. All 10 of Huachins wins have come via knockout or submission while all 3 of his losses have come via decision.

Round 1. Barcelos moves forward early but Huachin is throwing more while backing up and hes throwing hard. Barcelos is mostly defending well but Huachin is connecting here and there with heavy punches. Barcelos begins to throw more in the second half of the round but Huachin is landing the stronger shots. 10-9 Huachin.

Round 2. Barcelos drops Huachin early in the second round. Barcelos opens up with punches on the ground and has Huachin in big trouble. Huachin looks to isolate an arm while Barcelos keeps dropping down punches. Barcelos gets Huachins back but then gives that up and looks for a guillotine choke. He cannot get it and instead goes back to landing punches and elbows from the top. Barcelos gains full mount and lands some punches from there. The referee finally steps in.

Winner: Raoni Barcelos, TKO, round 2.

Huachin proved himself game early in the fight, but Barcelos worked his way through that danger and really took over on the ground late.

Luana Carolina vs. Priscila Cachoeira

Carolina won a fight on the Dana White Contender Series and now she will fight on a major UFC show for the first time. She is 5-1 for her career. Priscila Cachoeira is more experienced at 8-2 but both of those losses were in her last two fights in the UFC so she needs to rebound here.

Round 1. Cachoeira lands a big right hand early. Carolina clinches and lands a few knees to the body. They trade hooks back and forth. Cachoeira is the fighter moving forward with Carolina backs away and circles. Carolina lands a couple of standing elbows. They begin swinging wildly back and forth with some unusual technique. Carolina lands a head kick. Cachoeira lands a hard overhand right. Carolina is badly bleeding but it is underneath her eye rather than above it. 10-9 Cachoeira.

Round 2. Cachoeira continues to pursue, with Carolina looking to either counter or tie Cachoeira up. Carolina drops Cachoeira with a massive head kick. Carolina looks for an armbar from a weird angle but loses it. Cachoeira stands up and eats an illegal knee as she is returning to her feet. Carolina lands a series of kicks on the feet and then grabs a guillotine choke. Carolina uses the threat of the submission to take full mount. Carolina looks for an inverted triangle but Cachoeira pops out. They trade big punches at the close of the round. 10-8 Carolina.

Round 3. Carolina isnt backing up nearly as much in the third and she is throwing repeated head kicks after having success with that earlier. Carolina lands a backfist and Cachoeira answers back with a couple of heavy straight punches. Carolina looks for a guillotine choke but then gives it up, perhaps not wanting to use up the remaining energy in her arms. Cachoeira continues to throw to the end even as she is clearly very tired. 10-9 Carolina, 29-27 Carolina.

Winner, Luana Carolina, unanimous decision (30-26, 30-26, 29-27).

That was a fun, hard fought fight. Both fighters showed some vulnerabilities that could be exploited but they exhibited heart and solid offensive tools.

Clay Guida vs. B.J. Penn

Fan favorite Clay Guida is known for his wild hair and he has secured 14 wins in the UFC since debuting in 2006. B.J. Penn is the former UFC lightweight and welterweight champion but he has lost six straight and not looked good in the process. The decision to keep him on this card has been a controversial one after the mother of his children accused him of physical and sexual abuse.

Round 1. The fighters are mostly boxing in the early going. Penn looks better than he has in recent fights. Guida is missing with a bunch of his wild looping punches. Neither man is connecting with anything too substantial but Penn has some of the crispest shots of the round. 10-9 Penn.

Round 2. The second round begins much like the first. Penn is landing more in a boxing match where the pace is quick enough but neither is doing much damage. The live crowd is sporadically booing and heckling the fight. Guida lands a head kick late, a few additional punches, and takes Penn down. 10-9 Guida.

Round 3. Guida backs Penn up with punches. He is beating Penn up, mixing in kicks, and Penn looks exhausted. They end up in a clinch, which allows Penn time to recover. Guidas punches, which Penn was avoiding early on, are now consistently connecting to the chin. 10-9 Guida, 29-28 Guida.

Winner: Clay Guida, unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-27).

That was sad to watch on a variety of levels.

Warlley Alves vs. Sergio Moraes

Warlley Alves was thought to be an elite prospect after winning the Ultimate Fighter Brazil 3 and he remains the only fighter to defeat Colby Covington but his stock has fallen badly with 3 losses in his last 5 fights. Sergio Moraes has quietly accumulated an impressive 8-3-1 UFC record with 6 of those wins coming in Brazil.

Round 1. Alves is the aggressor early, throwing plenty of kicks. Moraes finally lands a massive overhand right but as he comes in, Alves nails him with a couple of vicious low kicks. Moraes lands a pair of punches but has his momentum halted when he takes an eye poke moving in. Alves lands a lunging punch in an exchange. 10-9 Alves.

Round 2. Moraes has slowed after repeated attacks to the leg in the first round. Moraes does land a solid left hand. Alves is cautious with his striking in spite of the advantage he has gained, throwing not all that often and forcing Moraes to move forward. 10-9 Alves.

Round 3. The action is faster at the start of the third. Moraes lands a big hook and Alves answers back as they exchange wild looping punches. Alves comes in with a flying knee that doesnt connect but then throws another of his hard leg kicks. Moraes clutches his leg after a particularly brutal leg kick in the middle of the round. Alves goes for another flying knee. This time it connects better and then Alves floors Moraes with an uppercut for the finish.

Winner: Warlley Alves, KO, round 3.

That was a classic example of a fighter attacking the leg and then using that damage to open up attacks to the head. This was a big win for Alves as he looks to regain the stature he once had.

Thiago Moises vs. Kurt Holobaugh

Thiago Moises has accrued an 11-3 record at age 24 and has been fighting mainly in the United States despite his Brazilian heritage. Kurt Holobaugh is 0-3 thus far in the UFC but is getting another opportunity to establish a name for himself on the major league level of the sport.

Round 1. Moises lands some nice punches at Holobaugh moves in, but Holobaugh is able to get in for the clinch. Holobaugh cant secure a takedown and backs away. Moises then gets a takedown of his own. Moises lands punches from the top while Holobaugh isnt able to stand up or threaten with submissions. 10-9 Moises.

Round 2. Moises lands a strong right hand right at the start of the round and Holobaugh fires back. They end up in a clinch and Moises scores another takedown. Holobaugh is able to work back to his feet this time. Holobaugh attacks the body with some stiff punches. Moises responds with a few elbow attempts but they dont connect the same way. Holobaugh really pours it on at the end of the round and does just enough to steal the round. 10-9 Holobaugh.

Round 3. Moises staggers Holobaugh with a right hand near the ear and then knocks him down with a leg kick. Moises takes top position and is in half guard. Holobaugh gets up but he cant get Moises down and Moises scores another takedown on Holobaugh. As Holobaugh stands up, Moises takes his neck and squeezes, but Moises doesnt have his hooks in and he isnt able to get the submission. Holobaugh finally secures top position. Moises gets up and slams Holobaugh down. Moises lands some elbows at the close of the round. 10-8 Moises, 29-27 Moises.

Winner: Thiago Moises, unanimous decision (30-26, 30-26, 30-27).

Moises looked like he might be fading in the second round but he firmly regained control in the third to pick up the decision.

Antonio Rogerio Nogueira vs. Ryan Spann

An elite fighter for a decade and a half, the now 42-year-old Nogueira is looking for a win at home here. Ryan Spann is 15 years younger than Nogueira and has won 5 straight fights.

Round 1. Spann gets a takedown early. He looks for an arm triangle choke but does not secure it and returns to his feet. Spann drops Nogueira with punches and knocks him out on the ground.

Winner: Ryan Spann, KO, round 1.

Fighting isnt a pursuit thats well suited for people in their 40s, as we saw again there.

Irene Aldana vs. Bethe Correia

Irene Aldana is a Mexican fighter who has spent most of her career competing in Invicta and UFC. Bethe Correia once fought Ronda Rousey in a massive pay-per-view title attraction but she has won only once since, hasnt fought in nearly two years and missed weight for this fight by five pounds.

Round 1. Aldana takes a caution approach, keeping her hands high and relying almost exclusively on straight punches when Correia comes in. The shorter Correia is mixing in more kicks but neither fighter is landing much. Aldanas punches are clearly the difference in the first round. 10-9 Aldana.

Round 2. Correia comes in with a few kicks at the start. Aldana responds with some kicks of her own. The fight over time returns to its first round pace, not a lot landing either way and Aldana having the reach advantage. Correia connects with a nice right hand but Aldana blocks the takedown attempt. Correia goes for a takedown but it is blocked and Aldana opens up with a knee and some strong punches. Close round. 10-9 Aldana.

Round 3. Correia throws low kicks with more frequency early in the third. She then moves in with hooks, allowing Aldana the opportunity to counter with her boxing. The fighters are engaging more than they did in the first two rounds. Correia goes for a takedown but doesnt get it. Aldana grabs an arm bar in the scramble for the submission.

Winner: Irene Aldana, submission, round 3.

That wasnt a great fight by any means but Aldana showed good awareness locking up the submission in the third to pull out the win. Between her performance and missing weight badly, Correias future as a UFC fighter appears uncertain.

Thiago Alves vs. Laureano Staropoli

This fight advances a major regional rivalry as the Brazilian Alves takes on the Argentinian Staropoli. Alves is a long tenured former title challenger who has struggled in recent bouts while Staropoli is a decade younger but much less accomplished, looking to build off a win in his UFC debut.

Round 1. Staropoli throws some kicks at the start of the fight and switches stances a number of times to give Alves different looks. Staropoli isnt getting a lot accomplished offensively but all the varied movements have Alves simply staring at him. Alves does throw a few leg kicks late. 10-9 Staropoli.

Round 2. Alves is a little more active in the second round but it is still slow going. The crowd begins to boo. Staropoli goes for a takedown and briefly has Alves down but he doesnt have Alves there for long. The measured striking continues to the end. 10-9 Staropoli.

Round 3. Alves goes for a takedown at the beginning of the round and gets Staropoli down but Staropoli is able to get up quickly. Staropoli lands a nice kick to the body. Alves still hasnt really gotten going offensively. Alves does land a number of low kicks. Alves lands a big knee and pursues Staropoli across the cage. 10-9 Alves, 29-28 Staropoli.

Winner: Laureano Staropoli, unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 29-28).

Thiago Alves was never able to figure Laureano Staropoli out. Staropoli didnt dish out a lot of offense but it was enough to pick up the decision.

Jose Aldo vs. Alexander Volkanovski

Jose Aldo is the most accomplished featherweight in MMA history, having dominated the division for many years and he has still proven to be quite dangerous since dropping his belt. Alexander Volkanovski has a sparkling 19-1 record and is 6-0 in the UFC. His last TKO win over Chad Mendes earned him this fight and a win here could net him a title shot. Of course, getting by Jose Aldo is easier said than done.

Round 1. Theres not a lot of action in the first couple of minutes. Volkanovski throws a few leg kicks and straight punches while Aldo is for the most part just measuring Volkanovski. After a few leg kicks to Aldo, he retaliates with a hard body punch on Volkanovski. Volkanovski lands two straight punches and Aldo responds with a stiff jab. Aldo appears to have a lot more force behind his blows and the crowd reacting big each time helps. Aldo lands a flying knee late. 10-9 Volkanovski.

Round 2. Volkanovski continues to throw low kicks. They arent landing with great impact but theyve been the most consistent offense throughout the fight. Aldo connects with a hard jab. Aldo lands a low kick and then follows with two additional punches. Volkanovski clinches up against the cage and lands a series of knees to the leg. 10-9 Volkanovski.

Round 3. Aldo lands a couple of punches but Volkanovski answers back with two of his own and unlike earlier in the fight, Volkanovskis appeared to land with more impact this time. Volkanovski becomes more assertive with his striking, as he is throwing more and seems more comfortable in range with Aldo. They end up in a clinch, where Volkanovski is more active. 10-9 Volkanovski, 30-27 Volkanovski.

Winner: Alexander Volkanovski, unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27).

That was a strange performance from Aldo, who never seemed to fight with much urgency and simply got outworked most of the way. Volkanovski didnt get the sort of exclamation point victory that will make fans clamor for him to get a featherweight title shot but his resume and a win over that caliber of opponent gives him the inside track.

Anderson Silva vs. Jared Cannonier

Anderson Silva is on the short list for greatest fighter of all time and he continues to fight at age 44. He clearly isnt the fighter he used to be but he is savvy enough to still give opponents trouble. Jared Cannonier is 4-4 in the UFC and a win over Silva would be by far the biggest win of his career.

Round 1. Both fighters are tentative early. Cannonier moves forward and lands a nice right punch a minute and a half in, the first blow of consequence. Silva begins throwing around the midpoint of the round. He lands some leg kicks and then attacks the head with a kick. Cannonier responds with a right hand to the head and they end up in a clinch. Cannonier gets out before Silva can start throwing knees. Cannonier lands an inside leg kick that sends Silva down in pain and the fight is called off.

Winner: Jared Cannonier, TKO, round 1.

Its unfortunate to see Silva in that type of pain. He famously suffered a broken leg in his second fight with Chris Weidman and is struggling here. This has been a rough night for legends and Silva continues the trend.

UFC strawweight title: Rose Namajunas vs. Jessica Andrade

Rose Namajunas captured the title with a very surprising upset of Joanna Jedrzejczyk and she successfully defended her title in the rematch as well. Things dont get easier for Namajunas here, as she takes on a bulldog of an opponent in Andrade. Andrade has won six of seven and is fighting at home as well.

Round 1. Namajunas works to establish her striking early as she lands a series of punches from range. She is really connecting with her jab and mixing in her power behind that as well. Andrades face is not in great shape already. Andrade looks to slam Namjunas with a takedown but Namajunas threatens with a kimura and then an armbar and prevents the fight from going to the ground. Namajunas lands some more major punches on the feet. Namajunas knocks Andrade back and down with a knee and Namajunas pursues Andrade to the ground. Namajunas grabs a guillotine as Andrade stands up but she lets it go. Andrade is better in close range and she knows it, so she wades in dangerously towards the end of the round throwing big punches. Namajunas fires back and they both land from close range. 10-8 Namajunas.

Round 2. Andrade lands a couple of low kicks to start. Namajunas punishes Andrade with punches as Andrade closes in. Andrade catches Namajunas with a hard hook, forcing Namajunas to back up quickly and get out of danger. In a stunning finish, Andrade lifts Namajunas up and slams Namajunas down on her head and neck. This knocks Namajunas out and ends the fight.

Winner: Jessica Andrade, KO, round 2.

That was an all time highlight reel finishing slam, securing a victory in what had been a challenging fight. Rose Namajunas had looked great leading up to the finish and given the nature of the ending there might be a quick rematch.
As the controversy over who should have been declared the winner of the Kentucky Derby continues to fester, the Preakness Stakes is doing its best to find relevance amid its own turmoil before the race Saturday.

Maximum Security, the disqualified winner of the Kentucky Derby, wont be there. Country House, the elevated winner of the Kentucky Derby, wont be there. Runner-up Code of Honor and third-place Tacitus wont be there.

Its the first time since 1951 that the first four horses across the finish line in the Kentucky Derby have passed on the trip to Baltimore. Its the first time since 1996 that the Derby winner has not gone to Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore. That year Grindstone had bone chips in his right knee.

Pimlico is a crumbling icon that might lose the race after next year. Its future is even more uncertain than who the winner of this years race will be.

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So, its against that backdrop of chaos that we offer five story lines to watch this week for the Preakness Stakes.

Why should anyone care about this years Preakness?

The winner of the race, regardless of how little we know about him, will have the tag of winning a Triple Crown race and that immediately gets him a spot in the breeding shed. Oxbow, the 2013 winner, won only three races lifetime, with victories in a maiden race, the LeComte Stakes and the Preakness. He was second in the Belmont.

Then there is 2011 winner Shackleford, who won six races lifetime including the Grade 1 Clark and Metropolitan Handicap. He had second-place finishes in the Haskell, Indiana Derby, Kelso and Breeders Cup Dirt Mile. Oxbow stands for a $15,000 stallion fee and Shackleford for $20,000. Even though Shackleford had a much better career, being a Preakness winner gets you a better seat at the table. And thats why there will be 10 or 11 entered to run in the Preakness.

Who is the likely favorite?

Even if Country House had run, the Kentucky Derby winner would most likely have been no better than third on the odds board. Bob Bafferts Improbable, who was the Derby favorite, looks to hold that honor again. Even though Improbable is winless in three starts this year, hes been in tough company. He was fifth, and moved to fourth, in the Kentucky Derby after getting boxed up for most of the race. Baffert is looking for his eighth Preakness win, so he knows how to master the place known as Old Hilltop. He has a big-time jockey switch to Mike Smith. And, finally, there is no real standout in the race.

Is there an underdog horse we should be rooting for?

The sentimental favorite is Alwaysmining, a Maryland-bred racing in his home state. If you can overlook the fact that no Maryland-bred has won the race since 1983, when Deputed Testamony took the second leg of the Triple Crown, then this might be your horse. Alwaysmining has won his last six, including an 11-length win in the Federico Tesio Stakes. Now, all those wins did come at nearby Laurel Park, which isnt a top national circuit. The colt is trained by Kelly Rubley, a former middle school science teacher with two masters degrees.

Who else from California will be there?

Its slim pickings from California. In addition to the presumptive favorite Improbable there is Anothertwistafate, who is stabled at Golden Gate Fields. Trained by Blaine Wright, the colt won the El Camino Real Derby and got an automatic entry into the Preakness. He finished second to Cutting Humor in the Sunland Derby and second to Owendale in the Lexington Stakes. He fell just short of having enough qualifying points to make the Derby field. Hes a big, long-striding horse, Wright said after the colt worked at Golden Gate on Saturday. This will be five weeks between races, so I sent him out going a mile.  Now all we have to do hopefully is travel. His plane leaves on Tuesday.

How much longer will the Preakness be at Pimlico?

The people of Baltimore seem to adore the Preakness and believe it is part of the citys fabric. The problem is the place is a dump. This year they closed down 7,000 grandstand seats because they are unsafe. The track needs to be rebuilt at a cost of about $400 million. Pimlico currently runs only 12 days a year. This is yet another crisis the Stronach Group is dealing with, in addition to the horse deaths at Santa Anita. The Maryland Jockey Club, which is Stronach, in the last few days averted a strike by union workers at the track. They have been without a contract since the end of 2017.

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The Stronach Group wants to create a super track at Laurel Park and has offered to finance the improvements. It is state law that the Preakness cannot be moved out of Baltimore without legislative consent. It has rankled some that Stronach has used the bulk of its state subsidies to improve Laurel, not Pimlico. The race will be run there at least one more year after this year. After that, its a matter of who can best exercise their power.
The article in the May 5 Travel section To Keep Your Global Entry, Avoid These Three Mistakes (On the Spot by Terry Gardner) was informative. I made sure to forward it to my friends and loved ones who use this great service.

I would add one more caution about driving back from Mexico. My friends and family use our cards to return to the U.S. in the Sentri lanes. [Editors note: Customs and Border Protection explains that Sentri, a Trusted Traveler program, allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers upon arrival in the United States. Participants may enter the United States by using dedicated primary lanes into the United States at southern land border ports. Travelers must be pre-approved for the Sentri program. All applicants undergo a rigorous background check and in-person interview before enrollment. To read more: bit.ly/Sentriprogram.]

Recently, my son was returning with a few friends; his car has Sentri and all people in the car have either a Global Entry or Sentri card issued to them. Unfortunately, one friend didnt have his card with him. They were sent to secondary screening, the car was searched and my son was given a strike against his card. One more strike and he will lose the privileges.

Make sure all people have the cards and paperwork with them before entering.

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Amy Stephens

Encinitas

Even more caution needed

Catharine Hamms safety article has eye-openers about potential dangerous situations for men as well as women (For Women Traveling Alone, Preparation Is Key to Safety, On the Spot, April 21). But regarding the " entering an elevator issue, it suggests let him or her punch their floor button first.

First or not, Im not sure it is wise to let them them see which floor you push. Perhaps it would be worthwhile to push an arbitrary higher-numbered floor. Once he or she has exited at their floor, enjoy the round-trip tour as you return to your proper floor.

John Loggins

Rancho Palos Verdes

travel@latimes.com

@latimestravel
Theres that moment near the beginning of The Wizard of Oz when Dorothys house is swept away from the black-and-white world of Kansas and lands with a thud in Oz, a wonderland of blinding Technicolor.

You get a similar sense of amazement when you walk into Comfort Town, a massive housing development that has taken shape in recent years in a drab, Soviet-era residential district of Kiev, the capital of Ukraine.

Comfort Town looms over the landscape like some giant Lego set in the brightest imaginable hues: screaming yellows, bright lime greens, blues and oranges and deep brick reds  all rising into the sky in the form of dozens of blocky, high-rise buildings. Even the grays seem rich with pigmentation. The whole development covers some 115 acres, about 1 1/2 times the size of Disneyland.

The builders of Comfort Town wanted to create a complex that people would find inviting, unlike the Soviet-era developments that dominate Kiev. (Alexey Furman / For The Times)

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The colors would stand out anywhere, but in Kiev, they explode on the senses like fireworks in a gloomy sky, practically mocking the gray cityscape around it.

That was the whole idea.

Well get to that in a minute. First, lets talk about Soviet mass housing, because there would be no Comfort Town without it.

On Dec. 7, 1954, Nikita Khrushchev delivered a speech to a national builders conference, calling for an overhaul of Soviet architecture. Khrushchev was the Soviet Communist Party leader at the time, and he proposed that architects focus entirely on unadorned, standardized buildings made of prefabricated, reinforced concrete.

Its a remarkable speech. Khrushchev at times sounds less like the leader of the international communist movement than he does a construction contractor trying to land a large industrial account. No detail is too small to capture his attention.

Production of linoleum must be expanded, he insists. Floors covered in linoleum are no worse than parquet floors; theyre more hygienic and smarter. It is easier to look after such floors than after parquet ones. Everyone knows that parquet floors have to be waxed  which is a complicated business and requires extra expenditure.

Soon, construction crews all over Russia, Ukraine and the rest of the Soviet Union were erecting tens of thousands of identical five-story apartment houses, largely unadorned, that began to ease a massive housing crisis. They were called khrushchevkas in honor of the man who ordered them built.

To understand their significance, its important to recall what they replaced: communal apartments in which multiple families were crammed together, one family to a room, and forced to share bathrooms and kitchens.

From 1955 to 1970, roughly half of all urban residents of the Soviet Union moved into new housing, according to Jane Zavisca, a sociology professor at the University of Arizona and author of Housing the New Russia.

Later, under Khrushchevs successors, the five-story buildings gave way to much taller apartment blocks. Every few years, the design would change, but entire districts of cities such as Moscow, Leningrad and Kiev were populated with rows of colorless high-rise buildings that seemed to stretch to the horizon.

It became something of a national joke. One of the most popular of all Soviet movies, The Irony of Fate, is a romantic comedy built entirely around the idea that one could not tell the buildings apart (and a man could stumble into a strange womans apartment and insist it was his own). The opening credits use animation to tell the history of Soviet housing, as architectural embellishments are stripped from buildings and armies of high-rise towers march into place.

Scholars say housing is one realm where the Soviet Union did what the United States could not: provide cheap, reasonably decent housing for everyone. They actually did solve the housing question, said Steven Harris, a historian at the University of Mary Washington and author of Communism on Tomorrow Street: Mass Housing and Everyday Life After Stalin. One architectural historian has estimated that 170 million people around the world live in Soviet-style mass housing today.

Now, these buildings  which can be found in virtually every country where Moscow once wielded influence  are acknowledged for their social purpose, but few defend them on aesthetic grounds. They really do become very drab, Harris said. Some places, most notably the city of Moscow, have undertaken programs to tear them down.

In Kiev, among many other places, masses of gray 1960s and 70s buildings have become decrepit with age, surrounded by scruffy, weed- and litter-strewn yards, battered metal sheds and creaky childrens playgrounds.

That brings us back to Comfort Town.

Comfort Town is built on the site of an abandoned rubber factory in one of the Ukrainian capitals most blighted districts. (Alexey Furman / For The Times)

The idea was born about a decade ago, according to co-designer Dmitro Vasyliev, who was among a team of architects charged with building a new housing development on the site of an abandoned rubber factory in one of the Ukrainian capitals most blighted districts. They wanted it to stand apart from the Soviet-era housing surrounding it. They wanted to build a place that people would find inviting, that might actually lift residents spirits rather than crush them.

There was one major catch, Vasyliev said: It had to be cheap.

The only instrument we had to work with was color, said Comfort Town co-designer Dmitro Vasyliev. (Mitchell Landsberg / Los Angeles Times)

The only instrument we had to work with was color, he said as he stood inside the entrance to the gated community, marked by a faux windmill that hides an electrical power station. We used the simplest materials, the simplest techniques. We really just had the color and the lines of the skyline.

They went wild with the color. The lines of the building are mostly similar to late Soviet housing, with some key differences. Some of the buildings have peaked roofs, rather than the standard flat roofs of Soviet buildings. Balconies, which waffle the sides of Soviet-era buildings, are recessed, so they dont stick out.

And much of the common space is in the form of internal courtyards, green with lawns, shrubs and trees, whereas Soviet buildings had outward-facing yards. To Kuba Snopek, a Polish architect and an expert on Soviet mass housing, that represents a key philosophical difference: The Soviet system was built on the principle of state-owned, public property, so it was open to the masses; Comfort Town is private, its outside space more cloistered.

Comfort Town offers market-rate housing  about $40,000 to $90,000 per apartment. (Mitchell Landsberg / Los Angeles Times)

Theres also a difference in cost: Whereas Soviet housing was free (and residents typically were given ownership after the collapse of the Soviet Union), Comfort Town offers market-rate housing  about $40,000 to $90,000 per apartment.

Still, the similarities to Soviet housing are striking  such as the inclusion of schools and a fitness center within the development. Comfort Town may be a reaction to Soviet architecture, Snopek said, but what I think is funny in this situation is how little a reaction it is. (He is also no fan of the color scheme: I personally dont see a point.)

Zhanna Rzhanova, a spokeswoman for the developers of Comfort Town, acknowledged that the color scheme wasnt for everyone. Either you love it or you hate it, she said. Theres nothing in between.

Elizaveta Pankratova pushes a stroller with her son, Kristian, at Comfort Town. (Mitchell Landsberg / Los Angeles Times)

The real innovation of Comfort Town, Vasyliev said, is inside the apartments, which have distinct bedrooms and living rooms. This may sound unremarkable, but in Soviet apartments, no such distinction was made. There were just rooms, and entire families often slept in the same room where they entertained, watched TV and so on. Comfort Town offers one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments, each with a living room and kitchen. They range in size from about 430 square feet to just under 1,000 square feet.

That appears to be the main draw for many of the 20,000 residents  that and the feeling of safety and child-friendliness.

Natasha Kalnibolotskaya and her husband were among the first families to move into Comfort Town after it opened in late 2012. Before they had children, they lived in a small, one-bedroom apartment. It was just my husband and the beer, she joked.

Comfort Town resident Natasha Kalnibolotskaya and her daughters, Masha, left, and Vera, at a playground in the housing complex. (Mitchell Landsberg / Los Angeles Times)

After they had two children  Masha, now 4, and Vera, 2  they moved into a larger apartment with relatives, and then into their own three-bedroom place. Im from the worst district in Kiev, so this is the best thing thats happened to me, ever, said Kalnibolotskaya, 38.

She and her daughters were out enjoying a recent sunny day in one of the Comfort Town playgrounds, where even the ground is splashed in bright color. Clearly that wasnt the most important reason to live there. But, she said, children from the very first day understand colors.

She believes the kaleidoscope of Comfort Town makes them happier. As if to prove her point, the girls smiled, then ran off to play.

Reporting for this article was partially funded by KfW Development Bank, which supports the nonpartisan, nonprofit German Marshall Fund of the United States fellowships.
Life as one of Chinas industrial worker ants did not suit Liu Xu: waking up early in factory accommodation, working for 11 hours operating a machine in the tool-making factory, eating all his meals in the factory canteen and going to bed, only to wake up and do it again.

His parents spent most of their lives in deadening jobs  his father on construction sites and his mother in factories  but 23-year-old Liu Xu lasted just a year in a factory in the southern China city of Dongguan. Half of that was the time his company invested in training him to work the machine before he up and quit.

Like Liu, a generation of young Chinese is turning its back on the factory jobs that once fueled Chinas growth  and they are helping to transform the economy by doing it.

Life in the factory was really boring and repetitive, Liu said. Every day I walked into the factory, I felt like this was all there was to my life. I was going to end up in that factory forever.

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You felt trapped, just walking between three places your whole life: work, the accommodation and the canteen. I couldnt get used to the working conditions. I had to wear a uniform every day.

Factory bosses, for their part, disparage Chinese millennials as a lazy, coddled generation, more interested in leisure and material goods than their factory fodder forefathers. The bosses complain it is difficult to find enough new young workers to replace the old  even as China moves from being the worlds cheap low-wage factory capital to a post-industrial economy based on high-tech industries and consumer-driven services.

With an aging population, the workforce is predicted to shrink rapidly  by 100 million every 15 years from 2020  according to National Committee of Chinese Peoples Political Consultative Conference. In the meantime, factory bosses are caught short in finding adequate employees, as some factories automate more quickly than others.

In an automotive components factory in Taishan city, southern China, the hot, muggy air smells of paint. Vice President Li Na walks briskly, her heels tapping on the factory floor like an efficient machine, passing a small glass-walled room where a worker sits on an upturned bucket, spray-painting metal car components on a trundling conveyor belt.

He is an older man, staring out over his breathing mask with dull, bored eyes before turning back to the line.

Loyal older workers are becoming harder to find, Li says, as the spoiled children of the past one-child policy generation turn their backs on factory jobs.

If they complain to their parents that they dont like working in a factory, their parents just tell them to leave the job, says Li, a perky woman in her 30s whose fingers dance incessantly on her smartphone between answering questions. She says that young workers rarely remain long.

Bosses complain that spoiled young Chinese are turning their backs on jobs in factories like this, in Hangzhou eastern China photographed last June. (AFP/Getty Images)

For generations, low-skilled factory jobs were the lifeblood of Chinas incredible growth. That improved living standards  but also saw changing job expectations. As the government fosters high-tech industries to tackle U.S. global dominance, cheap, high-volume manufacturers are caught facing higher wages and labor shortages, struggling to compete with nations like Cambodia, Thailand and Vietnam.

Its almost impossible to find someone born after the 1990s to come and learn how to do the work, said Dai Wei Yan, recruiting for a garment manufacturer at a job fair in Dalang, a city 14 miles southwest of Dongguan. Two decades ago, nearly all its staffers were in their 20s. Now almost none are.

Younger people are getting better jobs through higher education, or they are learning specific skills like cooking, or starting up their own businesses, he said. His company now sends products to factories in Vietnam and Cambodia for finishing, to cut labor costs.

Dongguan is a sprawling manufacturing hub in the heart of the Pearl River Delta that churns out electronics, computer parts, shoes and furniture, exporting $104 billion in products a year. Red LED signs outside box-like factories beam out siren calls to try to attract workers: We are actively hiring and Join us.

Older male job-seekers from out of town squat on the sidewalk outside factories with their bags and suitcases. Some ply the streets dragging their wheeled suitcases, looking for the best wages and conditions. At noon, they throng to cheap cafes with low plastic stools for hot soupy noodles.

But while most older workers are looking for permanent work, millennial job-seekers acknowledge they are looking for only a few months of work as a stepping stone to something better  such as a start-up small business of their own.

Some of the factories are like small towns, with workers accommodations strung with row after row of drying laundry. Others are just small family-run affairs  but all are struggling to find enough willing laborers.

Chinese workers scan listings at a job fair in Tengzhou, eastern China, as factories struggle to find young workers. (STR / AFP/Getty Images)

On a street corner in Dongguans industrial zone, a young couple peppers recruiting agent Huang Wen Cheng with questions about conditions in the factories he represents.

You have to stand for 12 hours. You cant sit down. You get used to it after the first week, and then you will be fine, he urges them, but they drift away.

Workers are getting really picky. They are asking if they have to stand or if they can sit, Huang says. As far as I know, almost all the factories around here you have to stand at the production line, and its really long hours, from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. or 10 p.m.

The term millennials often conjures up the privileged, upwardly mobile university-educated youth of Chinas big cities. But lower-skilled, less-educated young workers are equally important to Chinas shift to an economy geared to domestic consumption and services.

Chinese millennials are often surveyed by business consultants and marketers eager to figure out the secrets of the generation driving Chinese consumption: They tend to be entrepreneurial; happiness seekers; and want fulfillment, not just financial stability, in their work.

According to business consultancy Brunswick, 97% of Chinese millennials would prefer to work for a company whose values were similar to their own. They live on their smartphones, online shopping, playing video games, browsing social media, ordering e-restaurant deliveries and livestreaming videos.

Liu graduated after three years of technical college, and is happy to do low-skilled work  as long as he does not have to work in a factory  hence his decision to give up his factory job despite six months training to operate precision metal production equipment.

He grew up the son of impoverished, rural farmers who left their home village to find work. His father was a construction site laborer, and his mother was a factory worker. The pay was low, but they worked hard and sacrificed everything for him.

When he told them he hated his Dongguan factory job, they supported his decision to quit, because no parents want their kids to work in a factory for someone else their whole lives.

I felt I was capable of doing something better, he said.

Liu sits behind a counter in a courier company, surrounded by stacks of boxes and parcels. The business is piggybacking on Chinas gargantuan, fast-growing online shopping industry. His job, packing and sending parcels, is easy compared with operating a precision metal machine. It pays him $820 a month  $74 more than the factory paid.

Here, I dont feel so much pressure. The job is really simple, he says.

The hours are still long, but he can relax and spend time surfing the internet on his smartphone when its quiet. He sleeps in a room above the shop.

If you work in a factory, there are so many tiny rules and regulations you have to obey, he says. This is freedom.

Lius shift reflects the growing role that the service sector is playing. The government says that growth in services like e-commerce and finance will flip the nations primary reliance on labor-intensive heavy industry, a tectonic shift already seen in the numbers: Manufacturing accounted for 47% of GDP in 2010 but only 40% in 2017  when services accounted for more than 50%. In the first half of 2018, services contributed 60.5% of Chinas economic growth and accounted for 45% of employment, according to state-owned news agency Xinhua.

Liu aims to start his own small business. I want to learn how to do barbecue or how to cook because Im a foodie. Id love to have my own little restaurant.

Workers assemble LED lights at a Yushan county factory in central China, the kind of job younger Chinese are increasingly shunning. (Associated Press)

Ma Jinhang, 45, resigned his job at a provincial electricity company in Xining city in Qinghai province, central China, drawn by a shoe factory in distant Dongguan advertising jobs at $615 a month. He traveled 36 hours on the slow train, only to find the salary was actually $450.

He quit after two months and now hangs disconsolately around outside a low-cost, multistory migrant hostel where small children totter, kittens gambol and a handful of migrant workers chatter.

Theyre all liars, Ma says angrily, railing at the shoe factory bosses. I left because the salary was so low  too low. It was unbearable. And it was 13 hours a day.

The supervisors were always bothering you, Work faster, work faster. The meals were terrible. I felt as if they were raising livestock.

Im going back to Xining, he says. Id rather be a street cleaner in my hometown than work in this inhuman environment.

Chinas service sector is growing fast, offering new jobs in e-commerce, e-restaurants and the nations gargantuan delivery industry. (STR / AFP/Getty Images)

Yang Qiang, 24, zips along on a motor scooter, wearing a yellow helmet, one of an army of deliverymen in a $35-billion e-commerce and food delivery business. He grew up as a farmers son in rural Hunan and arrived in Dongguan after graduating high school, at first working in a shoe factory, pairing and packing shoes for $447 a month.

The pay was terrible, he says. It was so repetitive and soul-destroying and boring. If you stayed for a long time in the factory, you might as well be dead. Youd have given up your life for the company.

Around him were older workers who did not have the guts to leave, despite the bad working conditions.

There was no freedom.

As a motorcycle deliveryman, he more than doubled his factory pay, earning $1,194 a month. He is saving to start a business.

A job in Chinas $35-billion delivery industry is more attractive to many young unskilled Chinese than the factory jobs their parents did. (Wang Zhao/AFP/Getty Images)

Manufacturing wages in China have increased five-fold since 2005 according to the Deloitte 2016 Global Manufacturing Competitiveness Index, while wages remain much lower in nations like Vietnam, Thailand, and Indonesia. Lis factory cut staff from 400 workers to 300 through automation last year.

Labor costs are high in China these days, Li says. In the future, greater automation is a must if our company is to continue to grow. Well spend more on new machinery. Our workforce will shrink further. Many other companies in the region are also doing the same.

Zhou Qiyin, 33, worked his way up to manager in a large precision tools factory, and started his own small factory two years ago. He cannot interest young people in learning how to operate his precision metal machines.

There are many families who are not willing to let their kids work in a factory, he said. Kids these days dont want to work too hard because they can have an easy life and go out for meals.

But for China, its all part of the plan. Let someone else be the worlds cheap factory. Its 400-million-strong millennial generation, with better pay and more free time to spend money, is driving the transformation of the economy.

Because of the economy going up in recent decades, every family is rich enough to give their one child a good life. Now, young kids want to play, Hayes Lou, head of the Taiwan Business Assn. of Dongguan, says of millennials. They want an easy life, easy money. They dont want to work in a factory.

Gaochao Zhang from the Times Beijing Bureau contributed to this story.

Talks with China may lead to long-promised deal  or all-out trade war 

robyn.dixon@latimes.com

Twitter: @RobynDixon_LAT
- One of the Nigeria's governors is reportedly in trouble over N100b local government fund

- The fraud was said to have been uncovered by a federal agency, NFIU

- NFIU had shown widespread abuse of the State Joint Local Government Accounts (SJLGA) by state governors

A report by The Nation indicates that a state governor is in trouble for allegedly withdrawing about N100billion from his states Joint Local Government Account (SJLGA) under the guise of addressing security challenges.

Legit.ng reports that the newspaper noted that much of the funds was withdrawn in cash on the orders of the governor.

The alleged fraud was uncovered by the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) following suspicious transactions by the governor.

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The banks which facilitated the withdrawals have been assisting security agencies, especially the NFIU, on how the fraud was perpetrated.

It was gathered that sources said ongoing investigation by the NFIU has shown widespread abuse of the State Joint Local Government Accounts (SJLGA) by state governors.

The development was said to have informed the decision of the NFIU to ban banks, governors other financial institutions, public officers and relevant stakeholders from tampering with the statutory allocations of local government areas from the federation account.

It was learnt that although new financial guidelines by the NFIU would become effective from June 1, the agency has already put all the banks on alert to forestall last minute withdrawal from the joint account by governors.

The NFIU said as from 1st June, any bank that allows any transaction from any local government account without monies first reaching a particular local government account will be sanctioned 100 per cent, both locally and internationally.

According to a reliable source, the NFIU has retrieved a table of massive withdrawals by state governors from the joint account.

The source said: Of all the instances at hand, we have a case of cash withdrawal from a joint account which was as much as N100 billion by a governor. This is a state with all sorts of insecurity. About N10billion out of the N100billion was recently withdrawn in suspicious circumstances.

We have shared the intelligence with all relevant agencies. We cannot allow the trend to continue at all because whatever we are doing have global implications. Some agencies are already handling the case of the said governor.

The NFIU has tightened the noose on some complicit banks. Before the international community comes talking to us, we have decided to act with the issuance of new guidelines.

Remember that all these electronic transactions are regulated worldwide, they have worldwide connection. They are seeing it; they are not just coming to Nigeria simply because they just want to blacklist us for blacklisting sake.

The source said the NFIU would fully monitor compliance with the new guidelines on financial transactions by local governments.

The source added: The volume of transactions from the account doesnt matter; we have ways of how money laundering can be detected.

Even if the guidelines do not work, we will do everything to make the banks comply because our main concern about local government account is the corruption aspect of it, money laundering, terrorism financing and proliferation of weapon.

We are prepared to face the task, we have options in stages on how to handle the issue at hand but if it gets apparent that our national security is threatened, we go international and blacklist the banks.

The source said the agency will take all precautionary steps before wielding the big stick on banks collaborating with governors to siphon local governments funds.

Continuing, the source said: We intend to be friendly with the banks with the assumption that they will implement the guidelines but if the banks refused, they will be blacklisted internationally.

We will not allow the country to be blacklisted, instead we will sacrifice the banks and the individuals involved.

We didnt put this in the guidelines because once we blacklist anyone or bank, it appears real time in over 160 countries that are linked to the system.

This is a system that politics dont come to play. You can play your politics anywhere but you cant bring politics into NFIU because once a name is on the system, its global and finger print scrambled internationally immediately.

On the constitutionality of NFIUs action, the source said: We have instruments within our law and well work with the federal ministry of justice on the implementation of the new guidelines.

Previous issue of contention between the federal government and the governors was about control of funds, and not within the context of money laundering, terrorism financing issues among others, which are our exclusive mandate.

Constitutionally, the governors do not have powers to do anything with the joint account other than collection and distribution. The account is not for transactions to pay individuals or companies.

The NFIU had on Monday, May 6, unveiled the new guidelines in Abuja.

The complete copy of the guidelines has been released to the governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, the chairman, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the chairman, Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) and chief executive officers of all banks and other financial institutions.

READ ALSO: 9th NASS: PDP reportedly picks Abaribe, Dogara as Senate, House minority leaders

Meanwhile, Legit.ng had previously reported that the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU)'s new financial guidelines for local governments received the backing of the Senate.

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Nigeria News 2018: Abacha Loot - The Federal Government To Share $322M To Nigerians | - on Legit TV

Source: Legit.ng
In the face of complaints by Nigerians over the alleged escalating level of insecurity across the nation, the presidency on Sunday, May 12, listed the achievements of the Muhammadu Buhari government concerning the challenge.

In a lengthy detail, Femi Adesina, listed some of the achievements in the area of security to include the various operations that the police and other security agencies created to resolve issues of kidnappings, armed banditry and related issues.

The presidency also gave a timeline of all the efforts made by the security agencies in the fight against insecurity in the nation.

Read details as listed by Femi Adesina:

MAJOR SECURITY MILESTONES IN 2019, BY PRESIDENCY

These are no doubt times of great security challenges for our country, and the President Muhammadu Buhari-led government is not leaving any stone unturned to restore sanity and calm.

For the records, below are some of the security initiatives taken between January and now, for the safety and security of Nigerians:

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1. Operation Puff Adder (Nigerian Police), Operation HARBIN KUNAMA 3 (Nigerian Army) and Exercise Egwu Eke 3 (Nigerian Army) have all been launched in 2019, to complement the existing Operations Sharan Daji (launched in 2016 by the Nigerian Army) and Diran Mikiya (launched 2018 by the Nigerian Air Force). All of these operations are focused on tackling banditry and criminality in the North West of Nigeria.

2. Operation HARBIN KUNAMA 3 was launched on 1 April 2019 to ensure the complete defeat of the bandits fleeing military operations in Zamfara and escaping into Kaduna, Katsina, Kano, Niger and Sokoto states.

3. Hundreds of kidnappers and bandits have been arrested or killed since January, several camps/hideouts destroyed; and hundreds of hostages rescued. In a two-week operation in February (lasting from February 4 to Feb 14), 80 hostages were freed by the Nigerian Army, with 37 bandits killed.

4. Aerial bombardments of bandits camps have been intensified in recent months. A new Air Force Base  the 271 Nigerian Air Force Detachment (271 NAF Det)  was commissioned at Birinin Gwari in Kaduna state in May 2019, to complement the 207 Quick Response Group (QRG) established in Gusau, Zamfara State, in 2017.

NIGERIAN POLICE:

Between January 2019 and the 1st week of May, 2019, a total of 270 suspected kidnappers, 275 suspected armed robbers, were arrested and 105 assorted weapons plus a large cache of ammunition recovered by the Nigerian police within the states of the North West and North Central Nigeria.

 April 5- The Nigerian Police launched Operation Puff Adder, a multi-agency strategy, in collaboration with the Nigerian Armed Forces and the Department of State Services (DSS), tailored towards ridding the Kaduna  Abuja Expressway, Kogi, Katsina, Niger and Zamfara states of all forms of crimes and criminality- kidnapping, armed robbery, cattle rustling, amongst others.

 April 9- Police operatives attached to Operation Puff Adder arrested three notorious criminals involved in the kidnap of Channels Televisions staff, Mr Friday Okeregbe- Hanniel Patrick, Abdulwahab Isah and Salisu Mohammed.

 April 10- Officers of the Operation Puff Adder killed nine notorious criminals on the Abuja-Kaduna Expressway. 6 Ak47 Rifles, 1 Pump Action Gun, 1,206 Rounds of Ak47 Ammunition, 7 Magazines, 28 Cartridges And 158 Expended Shells were recovered from the criminals.

 April 16- Operatives attached to Operation Puff Adder arrested one Mallam Salisu Abubakar, 48yrs old, a native of Dutsinma LGA, Katsina state. The Mallam, is a self-confessed spiritual father of kidnappers terrorizing Abuja-Kaduna expressway and parts of other North-West/North-Central states.

 Following the arrest of the kidnappers spiritual father, police detectives attached to Operation Puff Adder, arrested 18 notorious kidnappers and armed robbers at different times and places across the country. A total of twenty- two (22) AK 47 rifles, five (5) locally fabricated pistols and a cache of live ammunition were recovered from the bandits.

 May 5- Operatives from Operation Puff Adder rescued unhurt 27 kidnap victims including 5 Chinese nationals. The Chinese citizens who were earlier kidnapped on 15th April, 2019 in Bobi, Niger state, were safely and successfully rescued from a forest in Birnin Gwari, Kaduna state, following painstaking investigative efforts, including both air and ground surveillance. Two of the kidnappers died from injuries sustained during exchange of gun fire with the police in the course of the rescue mission. Twenty-two other kidnap victims were rescued in Zamfara state and other parts of the country.

NIGERIAN ARMY:

 8 January  The Army flagged off Exercise EGWU EKE III in 8 Division Nigerian Army's area of responsibility at 1 Battalion, Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi state.

 2 February- Troops of 8 Division of the Nigerian Army on Exercise EGWU EKE III, in conjunction with other security agencies recovered dangerous weapons from criminals and political thugs in Sokoto state. This has really contributed immensely to a peaceful security situation in the state.

 15 March- Troops of 72 Special Forces Makurdi, deployed at Yelwata, in Guma LGA, which is a border town between Benue and Nasarawa states, while on patrol along Yelwata-Kadarko road engaged armed robbers in a gun battle, which resulted in the elimination of one of the armed robbers, while others took to their heels. The suspects were dressed in military desert camouflage and robbing motorists along the road.

 13 April- Troops conducting Operation Sharan Daji in Zamfara state killed 23 bandits and arrested 18 suspected informants, cattle rustlers, kidnappers and logistics suppliers to armed criminals in the state.

 20 April- Troops on Operation HABIN KUNAMA III, based on credible intelligence about bandits' movements in Kirsa and Sunke in Anka LGA, Zamfara state, continued with the clearance operation into the hinterland to clear the brigands, arresting 18 informants and recovering arms and motorcycles.

 22 April- Troops of 72 Special Forces (SF) Battalion Makurdi deployed for internal security operation in Katsina-Ala LGA, Benue state, averted a terrible clash between two Tiv clans-Shitile and Ikyora in the early hours of that day. They exterminated 5 mercenaries, recovered arms and ammunition.

 May 8- A patrol team of 1 Division of the Nigerian Army raided a bandits' den at Gonan Bature East of Rijana and Kasarami farm house in Chikun LGA, Kaduna state. The abandoned Kasarami farm house was reportedly forcefully occupied by criminals and had been used as a shelter and a place where victims of kidnapping were kept.

 May 8- Troops on Exercise HARBIN KUNAMA III arrested a notorious logistics supplier for bandits crouching between Jibia-Batsari axis -one Marwana Abubakar was arrested at Kwashabawa village in Jibia LGA, Katsina state.

 May 8- Troops of 311 Artillery Regiment successfully conducted a raid operation on a suspected facility in Kontagora township, Niger state. During the raid, some weapons were discovered and recovered.

NIGERIAN AIR FORCE:

 19 January- The Nigerian Air Force deployed a fighter aircraft, along with support equipment, and a detachment of Special Forces (SF) personnel to Sokoto to further boost anti-banditry operations in Northwest Nigeria under Operation DIRAN MIKIYA. The deployment is aimed at adding value to the efforts to deal with the spate of insecurity in some parts of Sokoto state and the border areas between Zamfara and Sokoto states.

 7 February- The Air Task Force (ATF) of Operation DIRAN MIKIYA intensified the bombardment of armed bandits hideouts in Zamfara state and environs, after several camps being used by the bandits to launch attacks against innocent civilians were identified.

 21 February- The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) provided a mobile Jet A-1 fuelling facility to enable the refuelling of NAF Helicopters that would operate out of the 23 Quick Response Wing (23 QRW) Nguroje. This will further enhance security on the Mambilla Plateau.

 12 March- In continuation of efforts to enhance security in Kaduna state and its environs, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), working with other security agencies, intensified aerial surveillance over identified hotspots and flashpoints in the state while sustaining its air patrol along the Abuja-Kaduna Highway. Some of the areas covered in the surveillance missions include Gonin Gora, Kajuru, Kujama, Kasuwar Maganin and surrounding settlements.

 31 March- A Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Special Forces (SF) Team operating in Zamfara State successfully repelled attacks by armed bandits who attempted to invade Hayin Mahe and Hayin Kanawa Villages in Gusau local government area.

 8 April- The Air Task Force (ATF) for Operation DIRAN MIKIYA renewed air offensive against armed bandits in Zamfara state and its environs. The air strikes are aimed at flushing out the bandits from their hideouts in Sububu, Rugu and Kagara Forests, amongst others, whilst ensuring the protection of the lives and properties of citizens in Northwest Nigeria.

 9 April- The Air Task Force (ATF), Operation DIRAN MIKIYA neutralized dozens of armed bandits in Sector 2 Area of Operation in Zamfara State and also supported surface forces to move into the attacked areas to mop-up the fleeing survivors and recover their weapons. Some of the bandits fled across the border into Niger Republic.

 13 April- The Air Task Force (ATF) for Operation DIRAN MIKIYA destroyed some logistics stores belonging to bandits at a location within Kagara Forest, Zamfara state. Some of the armed bandits who had fled their camps as a result of NAFs earlier air strikes had relocated some logistics items, including fuel, motorcycles and local arms-making equipment, to another location within Kagara Forest.

 16 April- In response to reports that high profile armed bandits were gathering around Rafi and Doka villages of Mada district in Gusau Local Government Area (LGA) of Zamfara state, which is under the Area of Responsibility (AOR) of the 207 Quick Response Group (207 QRG), a Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Special Forces (SF) Team was dispatched to the area to secure the 2 settlements.

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 22 April- The Air Task Force (ATF) for Operation DIRAN MIKIYA neutralized about 10 armed bandits at Sububu Forest area in Zamfara state. This was achieved while the ATF was responding to a request for close air support by ground troops of Sector 7 Area of Responsibility of Operation SHARAN DAJI, who had come into contact with armed bandits in Shinkafi local government area.

 4 May- NAF commissioned the 271 Nigerian Air Force Detachment (271 NAF Det) at Birinin Gwari in Kaduna state. The Detachment was established to serve as support Base and a blocking force for troops in Operations DIRAN MIKIYA and SHARAN DAJI.

It is the constitutional duty and responsibility of government to safeguard lives and properties. The Buhari administration remains committed to this, and despite recent spikes in the spate of crime and criminality, the evildoers will be beaten, and badly, too. The ravening clouds can never be victorious. Soon, they shall no longer possess the sky.

Legit.ng earlier reported that at a security meeting summoned by Muhammadu Buhari on Thursday, May 9, the president ordered the nations security chiefs to ensure Nigerians slept with their two eyes closed and without fears.

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Nigerian women protest against harassment of ladies in Abuja | Legit TV

Source: Legit.ng
Instead of questions about issues or qualifications, questions of integrity continue to swirl around the campaign of one of the Northampton County district attorney candidates.

Thats due to a controversial campaign sign for President Trump that Democratic candidate Nuria DiLuzio admits was on her front door.

DiLuzio said she was registered as a Republican and switched parties in November to run as a Democrat for the district attorneys office.

She said she put up the sign as a kneejerk reaction to a dispute with her neighbor. She said the sign was visible only to her neighbor.

I didnt vote for Trump, she said.

However, the sign offended a group of her supporters and now DiLuzios campaign manager, Celeste Dee, no longer works for her. DiLuzio says she fired Dee but Dee says she left professional reasons, because DiLuzio refused to back out of the race. Dee said she saw a photo of the sign posted a few weeks ago by the closed Facebook group Lehigh Valley ROAR.

An attempt by lehighvalleylive.com to join the group to seek a comment wasnt successful. The group includes feminists who would never support a pro-Trump candidate, Dee said. Dee said she left the campaign because of the message the sign sent.

Many of the groups that would be out there helping my candidate are incredibly upset and feel misled, she said. She said she left the campaign not due to ill will toward DiLuzio but because I cannot jeopardize my family and the other candidates and elected officials that I represent.

DiLuzio said she had the sign up for a few days. However, two photos have surfaced of the sign. One photo of the sign includes DiLuzios green law with flowers on her porch. A second photos shows her lawn is turning brown and the flowers are gone. Dee authenticated the photos and said they show the sign was up longer than just a few days.

DiLuzio dismissed the criticism. She said she has switched parties multiple times. She said she supports political candidates, not political parties.

The idea that my policies, my way of thinking havent been strictly aligned with the Democratic way of thinking is the message theyre trying to send and thats not correct, she said.

DiLuzios opponent in the Democratic primary, county First Deputy District Attorney Terence Houck, said he learned about the Trump sign controversy through media reports.

The facts speak for themselves. People can make up their own minds, he said. He noted that DiLuzio changed parties quickly after current District Attorney John Morganelli announced he would not seek re-election to instead pursue a county judgeship.

The top law enforcement official in the county must be open and honest. The facts surrounding the Trump sign suggest DiLuzio isnt telling the truth, which casts a shadow over her candidacy, Houck said.

I have as much of an issue with the lack of integrity dealing with this issue as I have about the Trump signs themselves, Houck said.

He said DiLuzio was less than honest when discussing how her marriage to Bethlehem police Chief Mark DiLuzio could affect her ability to serve as district attorney. At an Easton NAACP candidates forum, DiLuzio said the Pennsylvania Bar Association assured her that her husbands job running a police department under her jurisdiction would not pose a conflict of interest were she to be elected district attorney. The opinion, however, says a conflict could be avoided if the district attorney assigns an assistant to handle cases involving Chief DiLuzio. It doesnt say theres no conflict.

Another dance. Another pack of lies. ... I have an issue with the lack of truth telling more than anything else, Houck said.

DiLuzio noted that the opinion is non-binding and came from just one member of the state bar associations ethics committee.

Its based on a hypothetical situation. So theres no actual conflict, she said. She said shes not the only attorney married to a police official.

We have police officers married to lawyers. We have lawyers married to judges. There is always potential for conflict, she said. If the parties involved dont have a problem with her marriage to the chief, then theres no conflict. If they do have a problem, DiLuzio says she could address each problem on a case by case basis.

She accused Houck of political opportunism because he recently moved from Bucks County to Northampton County in October. Only Northampton County residents can run for Northampton County district attorney.

He has not supported local Democratic candidates the way I have. He hasnt voted here. He hasnt paid taxes here. He hasnt lived here. And I think thats important for the voters to know, DiLuzio said.

Houck said he has worked in the Lehigh Valley for the past 17 years. He stayed in Bucks County after taking jobs as a prosecutor in Lehigh and Northampton counties because he didnt want to uproot his family or force his wife to quit her job because he wanted to work in the Valley.

I have been a resident of this county longer than shes been a Democrat. To imply that Im not a member of this county, its desperate and its false, Houck said.

He said Morganelli made him the top deputy district attorney based on his qualifications, not his residency. No one hes ever represented as a prosecutor has made an issue of his home county, he said.

The winner of the Democratic primary on May 21 will face Republican Thomas Carroll in the fall election.

What follows is a summary of each candidate and his or her qualifications:

TERENCE HOUCK

Age 63

Resident of Forks Township

Houck started his career in law enforcement as a Philadelphia police officer. He became an attorney because he felt prosecutors and defense attorneys didnt always treat their clients with respect and dignity. He went to night school and obtained his bachelors, masters and law degrees. After nine years as a police officer, he was hired to prosecute sex offenders in Bucks County in 1986. He went to work for the Lehigh County district attorney in 2002 and for the Northampton County district attorney in 2006. Hes handled thousands of cases and tried hundreds of them, including violent crimes, homicides and capital murder cases.

There isnt a case on our books that I havent tried or handled, he said.

If elected he vows to continue the departments aggressive prosecution of gangs, to keep reducing the crime rates of Easton and Bethlehem, to expand diversionary programs such as mental health and drug court, to support bail reform, and to make it easier for low-level offenders to have their criminal records expunged.

NURIA DILUZIO

Age 51

Resident of Bethlehem Township

Her legal career started in 1998. During her last two years in law school she worked in the legal department at Bethlehem Steel. She worked for three years as a public defender, then continued as a part-time public defender and a conflict counsel through 2009. Conflict counsels are appointed when a client has a conflict of interest and cant be represented by a staff public defender. Shes been a sole practitioner of her legal practice for 10 years. She was named Northampton Countys chief public defender in 2018 and is the first woman to hold the office in county history.

Since taking over as public defender she implemented a program to hire young volunteer attorneys to handle matters such as bail hearings or protection-from-abuse order contempt hearings. They get courtroom experience and the taxpayers arent burdened with paying for them, she said.

Shed like to see Northampton County expand its diversionary programs such as drug court and mental health court.

We cant incarcerate everyone anymore, she said.

Rudy Miller may be reached at rmiller@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow him on Twitter @RudyMillerLV. Find Easton area news on Facebook.
A gunman is accused of opening fire on four people at a Monroe County home.

Thomas George Modzel of Chestnuthill Township is being charged with criminal attempted homicide, aggravated assault, reckless endangerment and simple assault, police said. Pennsylvania State Police in Fern Ridge said the incident began shortly after 8 p.m. Saturday at a home in the 800 block of Toll Road.

Troopers were called to the home following multiple reports of gunshots in the vicinity. Modzel allegedly pointed a black and camouflage Mossberg 500A 12-gauge shotgun at the victims and fired multiple rounds. He then fled.

Four people sustained gunshot wounds and were taken to Lehigh Valley Hospital-Pocono campus. Their conditions were not available Sunday.

Its unclear what led to the gunfire or the relationship of the victims to Modzel, police said. The shooting remains under investigation by Pennsylvania State Police in Fern Ridge.

Pamela Sroka-Holzmann may be reached at pholzmann@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow her on Twitter @pamholzmann. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook.
A bank manager who was 31 years old when a gunman opened fire and shot her multiple times in an infamous 1986 robbery has died.

Marcia Hauser of Forks Township died May 4 at age 64 at Wesley Enhanced Living at Stapeley in Philadelphia, according to her obituary.

Hauser, who became the first branch manager at the First National Bank of Bath in 1985, was working in East Allen Township in June 1986 when two gunmen entered the bank. Martin Appel shot and killed three women, all bank employees, and injured a customer. His co-conspirator, Stanley Hertzog, shot and critically injured Hauser.

Appel and Hertzog reportedly never asked for cash or passed a demand note to the teller. Instead, the pair asked a teller to give them change for large bills, and then the two began shooting.

Hertzog injured Hauser when he sprayed her office with bullets. She was shot her in the head, leg and wrist and left for dead. The pair fled with a less than $3,000 in cash and were arrested three hours later at a police road block on Indian Trail Road.

Appel of Moore Township was 28 and Hertzog was 29 when they met while working as night-shift cab drivers in Allentown. Over a month, Appel concocted a plan to rob the bank on D-Day. In an effort to divert police, the two men called in a bomb scare at the Lehigh Valley International Airport in Hanover Township, Lehigh County 25 minutes before the robbery.

Hertzog was found guilty after a trial and sentenced to three life sentences. He died on Oct. 3, 2017 of natural causes, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections.

Appel pleaded guilty and asked to be put to death by the electric chair so he said he could atone for his sins. He said he did not want an attorney because legal representation might slow the process.

Northampton County District Attorney John Morganelli took over the Appel case in 1992 and went on to write the book, The D-Day Bank Massacre: The True Story Behind the Martin Appel Case. In 1993, Morganelli filed a lawsuit to compel former Gov. Bob Casey to sign Appels death warrant. But while the lawsuit was successful, Casey appealed. Former Gov. Tom Ridge signed the warrant in 1995. But between 1995 and 2001, the case remained in the system until the death penalty decision was ultimately overturned.

Appel again pleaded guilty to the murders in 2002 and was sentenced to life in prison. After years of asking to be put to death, Appel went on to change his story and claimed he thought he was a CIA mole when he committed the robbery and murders.

Morganelli on Sunday said he was saddened to hear of Hausers passing.

Marcias life was never the same after that terrible day, he said. Nevertheless, she continued on in life and I considered her a truly heroic person.

In an interview with The Express-Times 20 years after the robbery, a 51-year-old Hauser then said she still struggled with the lingering effects of being shot multiple times. A doctor later told her it was her strong will that helped her recover, she had said.

Hauser lost the sight in her right eye, and her left eye had no feeling, requiring artificial tears. When she was shot, the bullet entered her left temple and went straight across to the right side of her head, leaving bullet fragments in her brain. She was required to nap for two hours a day, and remained under the care of a neuropsychologist, and a psychiatrist and ophthalmologist.

She eventually went on to volunteer one day a week helping the bookkeeper at the Third Street Alliance for Women and Children in Easton.

She raised her beloved daughter, Jessica, with former husband, Peter Hauser. She also is survived by Jessicas partner, Nick Leraris of Philadelphia; brother Douglas McCormick and wife, Susan, of New Rochelle, New York; brother Alan McCormick of Milford, Connecticut; and Peter Hausers wife, Tammy.

Services are being handled by the Joseph F. Reichel Funeral Home in Nazareth and planned for Saturday.

Despite the difficulties dealt to her, she found joy in dancing, playing pool, traveling, advocating for those in need, playing cards, and taking in the beauty of nature, her obituary states.

Marcia is remembered for her enduring strength, her laugh, her endlessly kind heart, and her ability to find resiliency and light in the face of adversity, the obituary added.

Pamela Sroka-Holzmann may be reached at pholzmann@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow her on Twitter @pamholzmann. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook.
The Alzheimer Society of Ireland (ASI) is calling on all candidates in the local elections to promote dementia-inclusive communities if successfully elected.

The society says this support from local representatives is desperately needed to help the 711 people living with dementia and their struggling families in Laois.

The ASI says it evidence to prove that people living with dementia and their families are still dealing with inadequate services and supports. It says the 2018 mapping of dementia-specific services in Ireland shows that not only does access to community dementia-specific services vary depending on where you live, but no county has even a minimum level of dementia support.

The society says there are serious gaps in the services provided in Laois, with none of the following services available according to the mapping project carried out by ASI and National Dementia Office (NDO): Alzheimers cafe, daycare centre, dementia assistive technology library, dementia cognitive therapies, dementia counselling service.

It says that with dementia a growing issue and the majority of those with dementia living in the community, there is a need for a whole community response to dementia.

The society believes local councillors are working every day in their communities and are witnessing the issues families are facing so that is why The ASI is calling on local candidates, if elected, to:

- Sign up and become a Dementia: Understand Together Community Champion at understandtogether.ie;

- Engage with local dementia service providers to identify facilities where dementia inclusive initiatives can be held and link with other Community Champions to offer these;

- Encourage public facing staff e.g. libraries, to participate in dementia-awareness training

Alzheimer Society of Ireland CEO is Pat McLoughlin.

People with dementia and their family carers need their newly elected local representatives to play a key role in championing their rights in the years ahead and a community-wide response is needed to ensure that struggling families get better support and services. Dementia is one of the biggest health issues that this country faces. The sad reality is that people with dementia and their families are really struggling in each and every community in Ireland because they are being faced with inadequate services and supports, he says.

The Laois branch of the Society is trying to raise awareness of facilities and try to get posters up in as many places as possible throughout Laois. It is looking for volunteers to put up posters in their local area. To help contact Jacintha on 087 2511300

For any information on dementia contact Ann Munnelly on 057 866 3398/086 8372168 Home-care Coordinator 47 Main Street, Portlaoise, Co Laois R32 VRX8 Email laois.branch@alzheimer.ie


Tell us a bit about the Shannon Chamber

The Shannon Chamber is the voice of the business community in the broader Shannon Region. We have a strong board who together with the Chamber team led by our chief executive Helen Downes work to ensure we continue to improve the operating environment for businesses in this region. Our mandate, as an organisation is to deliver a range of services that benefit members, individually and collectively, that helps them to grow their business, and that gives them a platform to voice their opinions on a wide range of business issues. It is also about building a network of people who can support each other in business and being the voice of our members on issues that are important to them.

When did you join the board?

I joined the board of the Shannon Chamber of Commerce in 2011 and over that period we have seen significant growth in our membership, today we represent over 300 companies employing some 10,000 people across the broader Shannon  Mid West Region.

What does your role as president entail?

The Chamber is focused on creating the right environment for businesses to grow, and I am excited to champion the needs of a thriving Shannon that will be at the heart of a strong, stable economic future for our region and Ireland. I believe that strong regions make for a strong national economy and that a business as usual approach cannot deliver the growth that we would like to see in the future. Close collaboration will be key to ensuring that Shannon and the wider region and part of the Limerick-Shannon Metropolitan area reaches its full economic potential in the years ahead. We are stronger together. In that regard, one of my key priorities is to strengthen the working relationship with the other Chambers and stakeholders in the Mid-West. It is important that regions like ours can support and accelerate their own economic development and ensure that our voices are heard at national level. In that context Project Ireland 2040 provides us with a unique opportunity, one which we must capitalise on. Working together, Shannon and the wider region can ensure that the aspirations of Project Ireland 2040, to secure sustained, long-term and regionally balanced progress on social, economic and environmental fronts, are realised.

What types of companies or sectors are members of the Shannon Chamber?

We have a diverse range of member companies from large multi-nationals to sole traders. We work with our diverse membership in many ways; through round-table discussions and forums, education and Training. We also run a series of networking events providing opportunities for members to showcase their businesses, share information and importantly build strong relationships for the future.

What is driving the success of the Shannon Chamber?

The strength of the Chamber is its ability to respond to the needs of its members. An example of this is the Mid-West Lean network based in the Shannon Free Zone. It was established seven years ago and is administered through Shannon Chamber, with the purpose of creating a forum where organisations in the region can share best practice on continuous improvement with the purpose of improving the effectiveness of their business

Where were you born and raised?

I am Clare born and raised  and proud to be living and working in this region!

What is your educational background?

Im an accountant by background and I have completed a series of work on leadership development over the past number of years.

How did you get to where you are today?

I am currently the deputy chief executive of Shannon Group plc, the parent company of Shannon Airport,Shannon Commercial Properties and Shannon Heritage and previously. I have worked in a number of senior roles in aviation and commercial activities. As well as president of Shannon Chamber, I am also a member of the governing authority of Mary Immaculate College here in Limerick and a member of the VHI advisory council. I believe each opportunity you get in life helps you to grow  we are constantly learning!

What are your goals for the next 12 months?

My goal as Chamber president is to strengthen collaboration amongst the Chambers and key stakeholders in this Region to ensure we provide a strong unified voice for business in this region. Shannon at the heart of the Mid-West, ideally positioned between the second tier city. Regions of Galway and Limerick, has a key role to play in delivering growth for this region. The government has set an ambitious target under The Ireland 2040 Plan, to have 75% of population growth in Ireland outside of Dublin. This region needs to work together to ensure we have the infrastructure and skills in place to facilitate this growth.

Who do you admire in business?

We have so many fantastic business leaders that have come from this region or are working here today, and its very hard to name one. But for me, the late Dr Brendan ORegan comes to mind. He was the driver behind the creation of many world firsts that were pioneered at Shannon. The wellspring for many of his unrivalled flow of industrial and tourism initiatives are today multi-billion-euro global phenomena, among them the creation of duty-free shopping at Shannon Airport. He set up the worlds first Customs Free Zone in Shannon and the Chinese special economic zones are now modelled on the original Shannon concept. The innovative environment created by Brendan went on to spawn a second generation of innovators in the business community, in aviation, retail and tourism, who have spread their wings and are making their mark internationally.

In business and life, are you guided by any particular motto?

In a week where a life-size bronze statue of the former US president John F Kennedy has been unveiled in the home of his ancestors in Bruff, I am reminded of the quote he used for the first time when he addressed the Dail back in 1963. Some men see things as they are and say 'why?' I dream things that never were and say, 'why not?' We have so much to be proud of in this region and working together the sky is the limit!

Away from work, what are your pastimes and hobbies?

Spending time with family and I love to get out for a long walk!
RESIDENTS at a large housing estate in Abbeyfeale have warned of potential fatalities because of the dangerous access to their estate and are pressing for remedial works.

Already, there have been five accidents at or near the estate, Mairead Guirey, treasurer of the Cryle View Residents Association said this week. There will be a fatality if something isnt done about it, she said.

The 104-house estate is located on the N21 Killarney Road and the residents association has been highlighting the issue of safety for the past four or five years but to no avail, according to Ms Guirey.

We are very disappointed with our local councillors, she said.

Over the years, Ms Guirey said, numerous people had come from the council and promised to get back to them.

There has been no communication from the council. Nobody is listening. No-one will own up to the problem. No-one is saying, this is what is wrong. No-one wants to take responsibility, she said.

As a result, the residents are stuck between a rock and a hard place, she added.

Access to the estate from the very busy N21, particularly from the Kerry side, is the main problem. Traffic speeds along the road, Ms Guirey explained, and when a car is attempting to turn right into the estate from the Kerry side, traffic coming on from behind is forced on to the footpath.

And she gave the example of one accident where a car turning in was hit from behind, forced across the road and on to the footpath, narrowly avoiding a pedestrian.

Stacking or turning lanes which would address this problem are not feasible, Ms Guirey said. The road is too narrow for them.

The width of the entrance was also a problem, Ms Guirey said. It is not wide enough and is barely wide enough for two cars to pass, she explained. In addition, there is only one footpath coming out of the estate, putting school-going children at risk as they cross the entrance.

All of this, she said, will be made far worse when the 20 new houses for which planning permission have been given, come on stream.

The residents were not objecting to new houses, per se, Ms Guirey stressed, but they believed the new houses should have their own separate entrance and their own separate sewage system.

The existing sewage system cannot take extra capacity, Ms Guirey added. She also highlighted the issue of storm-water flooding which happens with every heavy rain fall. The man-holes erupt, she explained, flooding the entrance and nearby houses. But when they contacted Irish Water, they were told it wasnt their problem while the council said it was a problem for Irish Water.

Ms Guirey outlined the problems to councillors at last weeks meeting of the Newcastle West Municipal District where Cllr Liam Galvin said the problem was there were three bodies involved: Irish Water, Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) and the council. Double yellow lines had been put in to improve sightlines, he said but the problem remained for cars trying to access or exit the estate.

There is an issue with safety, no question about it. The argument needs to be made to the TII, Cllr Seamus Browne said and he asked that the issue be raised by the next delegation to meet the TII.
A LOCAL election candidate, who has been left on crutches after she was attacked by a dog while out canvassing, has submitted her nomination papers to Limerick City and County Council.

First time Fianna Fail local election candidate in the Adare Rathkeale area Trina ODea must attend University Hospital Limerick every 48 hours for medical treatment after she was badly bitten by a dog in the Ballyneety area on April 30.

Im very grateful for the support Ive received over the last week or so, Ms ODea said.

It has been overwhelming, Im very fortunate to have a number of people who have stepped in for me on the canvass trail, she added.

People from within the Fianna Fail party membership, my family, friends and local supporters.

The bite inflicted on Ms ODea was so deep the doctor could put his fingers straight in to her wounds and touch the bone in her shin, Ms ODea previously told the Limerick Leader.

Because of the extent of the wounds, in other words how deep and long they are, this dog was narrowly close to taking away a severe chunk of my skin and leaving my leg wide open. They told me in A&E that it was the worst dog bite they had seen in a longtime.

Ms ODea also required an X-ray, to ensure the animal did not leave teeth behind in her leg, and doctors also had to use three litres of fluids to thoroughly clean her wounds, which required urgent care due to the highly infectious nature of dog bites.

Following the incident, Ms ODea must use crutches to get around due to her injuries, she added.

The show must go on and thanks to the support of my family and friends Im doing just that.

Im not sure how long Ill be off my foot but Ill continue to do as much as I can to speak to and meet with as many people as I can over the next two weeks.

However, if I have not met you and you would like for me to call, let me know and Ill do my best to get to you, the Fianna Fail candidate said.
A MAN was fined 250 after he was successfully prosecuted for using an illegal net to catch Salmon at the mouth of the Tail Race on the river Shannon.

Damien Mallard, 31, of Oliver Plunkett Street, St Marys Park, Limerick was before Limerick District Court relating to an offence which was detected in the early hours of July 6, 2018.

Solicitor Adrian Frawley said inspectors from Inland Fisheries Ireland were on duty at 1.30am when they saw the defendant and another man in a boat getting ready to secure a net.

A large net, containing 11 fresh Salmon, was found at the front of the boat while another net was detected in the water. Nine Salmon had been caught in that net.

While Mr Mallard initially gave the inspectors a false name, his correct ID was later established.

Solicitor Tom Kiely said his client, who has no previous convictions, had been assisting the other individual and that there have been no difficulties since.

It has been a salutary lesson for him, he said.

In addition to the 250 fine, Judge Marie Keane ordered that Mr Mallard pay the costs of Inland Fisheries Ireland which totalled 968.
A MAN who died while climbing on Carrauntoohil mountain in Co Kerry on Saturday has been named locally as Ger Duffy.

Mr Duffy, who was in his late 50s, is from Clonlara on the outskirts of Limerick. He was an avid motorcycle enthusiast, and had a passion for mountaineering.

He died from a fall at around midday. Kerry Mountain Rescue was involved in the recovery of his body.

The Rescue 115 helicopter, which flew from Shannon, was unable to land due to the rough terrain and instead ferried a number of people to the scene who were then followed by around 20 volunteers on foot.

Mr Duffy was an experienced hill walking and mountain climbing. He had only recently returned from a motorbike trip to Cambodia.

A friend of Mr Duffys spoke his love for motorbikes and mountain climbing.

If a person gets killed biking then they were doing what they loved doing and they died happy, making it easier to accept. Ger loved climbing and was following his passion to explore the terrain, they said.

Carrauntoohil is the highest mountain in Ireland, and is part of the MacGillycuddys Reeks.
ON Sunday Morning last I took Jack Faulkner to Dirha Bog. It was no novelty for the famous traveller for he had camped there many a time in his heyday.

However, 20 years had gone by since his last visit. He met Canavans talking dog but was not impressed.

If he dont say nothing about me, said Jack, I wont say nothing to him.

With the goats it was different. He was greatly impressed by the size and condition of the herd. He found the venerable pucks Rajah and Sultan to be the finest specimen he ever seen.

All ate

An I young said Jack, there wouldnt be any of them, theyd be all ate.

As we walked along he philosophised. The vast expanse of the brown bogland appealed greatly to him.

No man to say come or go you, said Jack, and cathrawns go leor for a fire, a bonfire if you wanted it and the fresh air better than porter. Do people know when their well off?

As we proceeded peacefully onwards the powerful scent of heather imposed itself upon the more pedestrian odours of the roadway.

Larks appeared at our feet and went spiraling upwards caroling with sublime happiness. A forlorn ass looked at us apprehensively wondering if he were to be rewarded for forceful labour. A wild goose broke from a marshy bog pool, swishing furiously, decoying us from its nest.

A flight of plover rested where the heather was deepest and to seek the all-round loveliness the cuckoo called from a green grove in distant affoulia.

Badly wronged

Where the bog turned to green a cabal of crows debated the feasibility of further flight from the giant conifer.

A small woman passed leading an ass cart which contained several bags of turf. She waddled rather than walked, the podgy constituents of her posterior relieved by good legs.

I was often badly wronged, said Jack Faulkner. The hard word was put on me when I was in no way entitled to it. Men blacked my name and that was the worst of all because that was all I ever valued, I thought of Othello. For Jacks benefit I quoted:

Reputation, reputation, reputation. I have lost my reputation, the immortal part of myself and all that remains is bestial.

Jack agreed fully with the Shakespearean sentiments.

Biggest wrong

The biggest wrong that was ever done to me. Jack informed me, was by a cattle dealer one day in a pub in Newcastle West, Myself and Katie was sitting down minding our own business, drinking out of the same pint.

Twas three days before Christmas and we were after spending the night before making the paper flowers.

There was a gross in all packed into Katies basket. At tuppence apiece that gave you four bob with a pound, a small fortune in those days when youd buy a good goose dor half crown and a gallon of porter for six bob.

I seen good asses sold for a half sovereign. A haircut was a tanner. You could gwine to the cinema for fourpence and five Woodbines was tuppence with a few red matches for luck.

What about the cattle dealer I asked.

He wasnt a cattle dealer at all, was the reply, h eonly looked like one. There was the two of us sitting down minding our own business.

Burning

Do you smell something burning? said the publicans wife, and she coming from behind the counter. We sniffed and we snuffed but we could smell nothing bar stale porter and fag smoke.

The next thing Katie jumped up like a scalded cat and let go a screech. There was our flowers in a blaze. I done something I never done. I threw the porter on the fire but twas too late. All that was left was black wire and ashes.

The man that started the fire was winking at another fellow, his crony. I was on the point of attack by I wasnt long out of jail so I kept my wits and suffered in silence.

I saw him in Glin ten years after an be going in the back for a pub to relieve himself. There was a heap of turnips in a corner. I picked a good one, I let fly and ran.

So ended Jacks narrative of injustice. There may be men who have suffered more but these must be few and far between.

Love Story

IN A RECENT column there was reference to the origins and meaning of the word Tumberawrd. We explained that it was no more than an agreistic misconstruction or interpretation of timber yard.

Now from Foynes comes a letter, one of many from diverse places, concerning the village of Moyard in County Galway.

Many years ago there was a certain Foynes girl who fell in love with a soldier who happened to be stationed in Sarsfield Barracks in the fair City of Limerick.

The young soldier hailed from the district of Moyard in Co.Galway and when the war was over he returned home to the family farm which had been handed over to him by his ageing father. He incited the Foynes girl and her parents come and see the place.

At the borders of Clare and Galway they stopped to enquire for directions. The girls father, who was the driver, lowered his window and hailed an elderly man who chanced to be sauntering along the margin of the roadway.

Question

Excuse me sir, said the father, but could you tell us where Moyard is?

Your yard? said the old man.

Moyard, said the father.

Blasht you, said the old man, How would I know where you yard is or what kind of fool are you that doesnt know his own yard.

They drove on and at a cross roads they beheld a well-dressed young man. They decided to try their luck a second time. On this occasion the girl asked the question.

Could you please point out the directions to Moyard, she said sweetly.

Look miss, said the young man, it gives me all I can do, to find my own yard,

Eventually they located the village, and the young mans home. There was a marriage and the couple lived happily ever after. Both are alive and well and living outside Moyard.

And another

FROM Michael J.Collins of Ballinacurra, Limerick, comes another Moyard letter. Michael and his family happened to be searching for a guest house owned by a Missus Coyne of Moyard.

They duly arrived at Moyard after negotiating one of the twistiest roads in Ireland. The next thing was to find the Coyne household.

Let Michael tell it that way:

I looked about for someone who might know the Coynes. I overtook an old man sitting on a common cart drawn by a slow ass. Pulling up I walked back towards him and fell in step to talk to him.

Would you happen to know Mrs. Coyne of Moyard, I asked.

He looked at me blankly and I repeated the question. I pronounced the question as follows: Missus Coyne of Mow-yard.

There was no response and I thought that maybe I had come across a non-English speaking gentleman. I repeated the question once more for luck and his eyes cleared.

Ah, he exclaimed, you mean Missus Kine of My-owered.

He then gave me specific accurate directions.

By the way, we spent a marvellous holiday with Mrs. Coyne that year and several years after as well.

Good Advice

NOW For a few lines from a poem written by Michael Ryan, of Bawbreagh, Askeaton.

Rejoice with me for days of Spring

And here again. The small birds sing

Of peeping primrose dewbe-decked

And bright, new daisies, crimson-flecked.

Just this morning news came that set Dan Hayess trees a flame

Rowdy, riotous, raucous rooks

Squabble over nesting nooks

So off with ye, ye winter woes

The corn is springing green.

Who knows

At this days troubles we may laugh

Ere autumn blade has scattered chaff

And if your house of dreams has fallen

Do not be sad or look forlorn

But take advice from rook and wren

Pick up the pieces, Build again.

The article was first published in the Leader on May 8, 1976.




Meghan Markle's dad's ex-wife has said the Duchess of Sussex will be making a huge mistake if she lets her dad to be a part of her newborn son's life.

Roslyn Markle, 73, who was married to Meghan's father, Thomas Markle, 74, from 1964 to 1975, warned Meghan not to involve her father in the life of newborn son Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor because Thomas Markle sr. was an "awful father" to his children. She added that Meghan would be a "fool" to end the current estrangement between her and her father.

Roslyn is the mother of Samantha Markle, the half-sister who makes Meghan's life miserable and says horrible things about her to the press.

Roslyn told the Mirror of Meghan's father: "Repeatedly he has shown to Meghan he cannot be trusted. She must know that now. I speak not out of bitterness, my life moved on many years ago, but out of concern.

"Archie deserves to be brought up in a happy home, not in this vengeful situation that has been created."

Roslyn also claims that during their marriage, Thomas Markle had affairs with other women, took drugs and starved the family of money to the point that she had to steal from a store to survive.

She also said that soon after her marriage to Thomas Merkle, he began "screaming" abuse at her and would "often lose his temper". She gave up work to look after their daughter Samantha, and says that this was often used against her when she asked for money to buy food and nappies.

She said that when they welcomed their son Thomas Markle Jr in 1965, their hostile marital life only went from bad to worse. At one stage, she claims Thomas sr. drove her and their children to his mums house in Pennsylvania and "abandoned" them there while he went to Chicago to enjoy a single life. She said his parents helped to clothe and feed the family but doing so made them "broke" and eventually he "reluctantly" came to collect them.

Living together again, Roslyn claims Thomas refused to take her anywhere to buy food and she became so desperate she had to resort to stealing.

She said: "It got so bad that one day I had nothing to feed the kids with, I went down the local corner store and got some food. I put some items on top of Jnrs blanket, but I put many underneath it. I am so ashamed, but I had to steal, it was the only way I could feed them."

Roslyn also claims Thomas got into a habit of not coming home till 10 am the following morning. He usually retuned "smelling of women" then he will have a shower, change and go to work.

She went on to claim that Meghan's father used cocaine. Thomas Markle Sr. admitted last year to having had an "occasional sniff".

Roslyn said she was finally able to leave the marriage after a friend helped her out. Four years after Roslyn and Thomas sr. divorced, he married Meghan Markle's mother, Doria Ragland. But they parted ways in 1987, 8 years after they married. Meghan was still a child at the time.

Thomas Markle denies all the allegations. He said that his ex-wifes accusations were "not valid", adding that his children Samantha and Tom Jnr had since both left their mother to live with him. He claimed they had joined him as a result of Roslyns "bad habits and abuse".




The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has seized some houses belonging to the Senate President, Bukola Saraki.

According to reports, the houses are said to be located at 15a, 15b and 17, MacDonald Road, Ikoyi, Lagos.

This development comes after the EFCC recently opened a fresh probe into Sarakis activities while he was governor of Kwara State from 2003 to 2011. The EFCC in a statement sent to the Kwara state government, said that Saraki is to be investigated for an alleged case of conspiracy, abuse of office, misappropriation of public funds, theft, and money laundering.

The houses that were recently seized, were part of Sarakis trial before the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT) at the beginning of his Senate Presidency. The suit was later dismissed for lack of evidence.

Confirming the sealing of the property, Saraki's spokesperson, Yusuph Olaniyonu, in a statement released, said

Our attention has been drawn to the fact that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has marked certain property belonging to Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, obviously under the claim that they are subjects of investigation. The action of the EFCC only reinforced our earlier stated position that their current investigation is mischievous, contrary to the tenets of the rule of law and only aimed at settling scores. This position is founded on the fact that these same buildings were the subject of earlier investigations by the EFCC, as well as the case initiated by the Federal Government at the Code of Conduct Tribunal. Also, the case went all the way to the highest court in our country, the Supreme Court of Nigeria. In that case, Dr. Saraki was discharged and acquitted because the courts believe the government has no case.

There are claims that the EFCC is keeping Saraki under surveillance before May 29th when he will be asked to come forward for questionning.




It's been 38 years since Bob Marley died, but his legacy is larger than ever.

History has it that Money cant buy life were the last words late music legend, Robert Nesta "Bob" Marley uttered to his son, Ziggy as the 36 year-old Jamaican passed away on May 11, 1981 at the Cedars of Lebanon Hospital in Miami, USA surrounded by members of his family including his weeping mother, Cedelar Booker after his long battle with cancer and brain tumor.

Today marks 38 years after his death and it's safe to say that his legend, music and impactful message still lives on!

At the time of his death, the world was shook with the news but comforted by the illustrious legacy the iconic figure left where he used his music as a tool to fight societal ills as well making it an avenue to unite the human race.

The late Bob Marley had a humble beginning. He was born in the ghettos of Kingston, Jamaica on February 6, 1945. His father was Norman Marley, a British Naval Captain posted to the West Indies during the Second World War.

Late Marley had little Western education as he dropped out of school at 14 to become an apprentice welder. He soon quit welding to team up with Peter Tosh whom he had met recently and both released a single, Simmer Down which enjoyed a considerable airplay on the local radio.

In 1964, Marley and Tosh formed the Wailing Wailers together with Bunny Livingstone Wailer, Junior Braithwaite, Beverly Kelso, Rita Anderson (who later became Rita Marley in 1966), Judy Mowatt, and Marcia Griffith (the 1-Three). The group was popular in Jamaica as it performed in many shows.

In 1972, the Wailers was signed on by Chris Blackwells Island Records and the following year, 1973 came out with their debut album, Catch A Fire an album that launched the Wailers into superstardom. The group toured Britain, but as successful as the tour was, it turned out to be the turning point for the group. Back in Jamaica, the group split with Peter Tosh and Bonny Walter opting out after alleging Bob Marleys domineering role while on tour.

Bob Marley married Alpharita Constantia "Rita" Anderson in Kingston, Jamaica, on 10 February 1966. Marley had many children: three with his wife Rita, two adopted from Rita's previous relationships, and several others with different women. The Bob Marley official website acknowledges eleven children.

With 42 official releases, plus countless photos and videos of him captured both on and off the stage, the story of Bob Marley is one of the most chronicled in all of music history

Thirty Six years after, Bob Marleys work still lives on, he would constantly be remembered as the apostle of reggae music, a thorn in the flesh of the oppressors and the wailing voice of the oppressed. He was the cultural ambassador of the Carribean Island and his indelible mark in the world and influence on music even on generations yet unborn cannot and will never be rivaled.
It may sound like the stuff of science fiction, but scientists have already detected a time warp. But what does this mean? Basically, a time warp is some phenomenon that changes the flow of time by speeding it up or making it run more slowly.

Physicists have known about time warps for over 100 years: In fact, you're standing on a kind of time warp right now.

In 1905, Albert Einstein published his theory of special relativity, followed a decade later by his sequel on general relativity, which stated that gravity is a property of the curving of space and time  the fabric of our universe. As a result, anything that has mass can warp time. [8 Ways You Can See Einstein's Theory of Relativity in Real Life]

Naturally, bigger things warp time better. With masses billions of times larger than the sun, black holes have a lot of heft, which translates into a lot of time-warping potential. If you were to approach a black hole, the object's gravity would dilate time, making things happen much more slowly than they would when compared to an outside observer. However, a black hole wouldn't make a good time machine if you wanted to make a return trip: After passing a certain point called the event horizon, you and anything you bring with you can never come back out. Not even light (hence the name black hole).

The sun and Earth can also dilate time on noticeable scales. In 2007, a NASA satellite known as Gravity Probe B confirmed general relativity with 99% accuracy by observing how Earth distorts the space around it. As a further example, if you were living on a high mountaintop, you'd actually be aging faster than your friends by the sea where the pull of gravity is stronger, meaning time runs slower. Though to be fair, your accelerated aging would take place at an utterly imperceptible rate.

Time dilation can also be achieved by moving quickly. Moving faster can cause time to slow down relative to a stationary viewpoint, according to special relativity. This time warping due to speed and gravity shows up in our daily lives every time we use GPS on our phones to find our location.

"GPS satellites work by having super accurate clocks aboard the satellite," Ken Olum, professor at the Tufts University Institute of Cosmology in Medford, Massachusetts, told Live Science. "The clocks on the satellites run at different speeds, depending on what distance from Earth they are. They also run a different speed depending on the motion of the satellite." In order for the GPS to accurately report your position, the satellites have to take general relativity and special relativity into account when calculating the time.

Of course, massive objects warping time isn't exactly the kind of time travel that science fiction authors love to write about. So, are there other ways of warping time? Well, possibly, but it's not likely.

"The general consensus is that these really bizarre solutions of general relativity that include time machines are almost certainly impossible in the real universe," said Benjamin Shlaer, a research fellow in physics at the University of Auckland in New Zealand.

But there are a few options. Unlikely option number one is a wormhole, a theoretical bridge that matter and light could pass through and that's created from the curving of space. While some theories predict these existed at microscopic levels in the early universe, they also found that these wormholes were likely unstable and would have collapsed quickly.

In order for a wormhole to actually work for time travel, there would need to be some kind of exotic matter. To stabilize the wormhole, theory demands this type of exotic matter  an unknown form of matter fundamentally different than the stuff that makes up everything around you  would need to have negative mass and pressure, something scientists have never seen, nor expect to find anytime soon.

The second option involves cosmic strings. Cosmic strings are hypothetical tubes of energy that, if they exist, would be extremely tiny. Theory predicts that two strings speeding by each other could alter time in weird ways, like creating closed curves in space-time that could act like time machines. However, you'd need an infinite amount of energy to speed up these strings enough to see this effect  not exactly something you could do on a Saturday afternoon, or any afternoon for that matter.

If there is any hope of finding exotic matter or time warps in the future, they'll most likely be found through observational cosmology, which could come as new, unexpected discoveries, Shlaer said.

"It's pretty clear that all of our so-called safe assumptions about what actually exists are probably not true if you go to extreme regimes," Shlaer told Live Science. "And we could hope that these are questions we can ask and answer in the field of cosmology."

Originally published on Live Science.
One of the lead organizers in Laredo for a multinational drug trafficking and money laundering organization was sentenced Thursday in a Laredo federal court.

Oscar Mancillas pleaded guilty to drug trafficking conspiracy and money laundering conspiracy from August 2017. U.S. District Judge Diana Saldana sentenced Mancillas to 97 months in federal prison to run concurrent for both counts with five years of supervised release. He is also ordered to complete 150 hours of community service within the first two years of his supervised release, and he will be given credit for time served in federal custody.

Saldana also ordered that Mancillas assets totaling $96,950 that were seized by federal, state and local entities be credited toward the $100,000 forfeiture.

At his initial sentencing hearing in July, Mancillas told Saldana that he had agreed to forfeit $10,000. However, Assistant U.S. Attorney Graciela Rodriguez Lindberg said that as per Mancillas written plea agreement and conversations with him, he would forfeit $100,000. Due to the misunderstanding between the two parties, Saldana rescheduled his sentencing.

RELATED: Operation Tres Equis: Twenty-six defendants face federal charges

On Thursday, the judge also recommended that Mancillas be placed in a federal prison in Bastrop, and she requested that he not be placed with any of the other co-defendants named in the case, specifically with Daniel Laurel.

The personal bank accounts of Laurel and Marco Antonio Salazar  another co-defendant  were used to funnel drug proceeds and during their trials in June. They claimed they didnt know the money they were receiving was related to drug trafficking. Salazar was acquitted of all charges by the jury. Laurel was found guilty of money laundering conspiracy and is set to be sentenced on May 17.

On one occasion on April 22, 2014, agents intercepted communications regarding Mancillas shipment of cocaine that he would be sending from Houston, according to court documents. Agents attempted to monitor Mancillas actions in Houston but were unsuccessful in following him and in taking the narcotics, records state.

However, agents did intercept communications where the defendant tells others that the cocaine package had been sent via Federal Express, court documents state.

The following day, Mancillas asked Antonio Romero, another co-conspirator, if the package arrived. Romero responds saying that, The guy will be sending the other three, referring to more shipments of cocaine, records state.

READ MORE: Star witness in serial killer case arrested on three charges

Court documents state that based on the intercepted calls and other information, agents know that Mancillas shipped at least one kilogram of cocaine as part of this incident to New York and met with the guy in Houston, who was to send additional cocaine to the organization.

Mancillas is among the 35 indicted in connection with an investigation into the Romero drug trafficking organization, dubbed Operation Tres Equis. The investigation revealed a sophisticated drug smuggling ring that used people from around the world to transport narcotics and launder drug proceeds by using friends, co-workers and family members as different players in the conspiracy.

Maria Salas may be reached at msalas@lmtonline.com
Law enforcement descended on five amusement centers on allegations of illegal gambling as a result of a multi-month investigation, according to Laredo police.

READ MORE: Teenage trio arrested after allegedly wounding man, robbing him at gunpoint

Shortly before 5 p.m., authorities executed simultaneous search warrants at five 8-liner businesses throughout the city, according to police.

The LPD narcotics and vice unit, the Webb County District Attorney's Office, the Webb County Precinct 4 Constable's office and Homeland Security Investigations are assisting in the case.

Authorities could be seen outside the Gold Fish on Jacaman Road.

Locations raided also included Gold Dragon on San Bernardo Avenue, Sun Flower Amusement on Fenwick Drive, Winner Amusement on Chicago Street and San Bernardo, and ABC Amusement on Rancho Viejo Drive and Mines Road.

LPD said investigators were expected to seize more than 400 machines as evidence. Money was also seized, but an amount was not available Friday evening.

READ MORE: Laredo man accused of strangling woman after argument

Police said the raids were done as part of Operation One-Armed Bandit. No arrest has been made in connection with the execution of the search warrants. The investigation continues.
A man landed behind bars for allegedly carjacking a family of three who were at the H-E-B on 2314 S. Zapata Highway.

Laredo police served an arrest warrant on Raul Nieto Jr., 29. He was charged with three counts of robbery.

READ MORE: Man accused of firing gun shots in the air outside north Laredo business

The case unfolded at about 2 p.m. Tuesday when officers responded to a robbery in the 3900 block of Casa Blanca Lake Road.

A man stated he was at H-E-B when a male approached him and befriended them. He then offered the assailant a ride when his wife and daughter returned from the store.

Police said the assailant asked the male to pull over in the 3800 block of Casa Blanca Lake and demanded the cellphone from the daughter.

The daughter initially refused and fought the suspect until he reached for his waistband, pretending to have a weapon, according to police.

READ MORE: Probe into S.A. strip club leads to 'darker' discovery, BCSO says

Police said the assailant pushed the male out of the car not before taking his cellphone and snatching his wife's purse. He then sped off. Authorities located and recovered the vehicle in the 1900 block of Los Presidentes Avenue.

During the investigation, crimes against persons detectives identified the suspect as Nieto, according to police.
Three teenagers allegedly took part in an armed robbery where a male was shot.

READ MORE: Suspect claims self defense in fatal shooting at north Webb Co. ranch house



Jose Emanuel Solis, 18, and Andre Esquivel, 17, were arrested and a 16-year-old male juvenile was detained on Thursday. Each was charged with aggravated robbery and engaging in organized criminal activity.

The Texas Department of Public Safety, Homeland Security Investigations and the LPD patrol division assisted in serving the arrest warrants.

The aggravated robbery was reported April 8 in the 500 block of Beverly Drive. A 17-year-old male stated he was robbed of some money at gunpoint. He identified a suspect as Solis.

An investigation revealed that Esquivel and the 16 year old drove with Solis to the address on Beverly to commit the robbery, authorities said.

READ MORE: 2 Laredo men found dead in unrelated cases

Solis allegedly shot and wounded the 17 year old with shrapnel. He was treated for the non-life threatening injury. LPD's Juvenile and Gang Enforcement Task Force investigators were able to secure enough evidence, including a .22 caliber long rifle used in the robbery, to obtain the arrest warrants.
WASHINGTON - National Economic Council Director Larry Kudlow acknowledged Sunday that American consumers end up paying for the administration's tariffs on Chinese imports, contradicting President Trump's repeated inaccurate claim that the Chinese foot the bill.

In an appearance on "Fox News Sunday" two days after U.S.-China trade talks ended with no news of a deal, Kudlow was asked by host Chris Wallace about Trump's claim.

"It's not China that pays tariffs," Wallace said. "It's the American importers, the American companies that pay what, in effect, is a tax increase and oftentimes passes it on to U.S. consumers."

"Fair enough," Kudlow replied. "In fact, both sides will pay. Both sides will pay in these things."

Pressed again by Wallace, Kudlow acknowledged that China does not actually "pay" the tariffs.

"No, but the Chinese will suffer GDP losses and so forth with respect to a diminishing export market," he said.

Kudlow added that "both sides will suffer on this."

The latest round of trade talks ended Friday with no announcement of an agreement. This followed tweets from Trump defending his decision to more than double tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese imports.

"Talks with China continue in a very congenial manner - there is absolutely no need to rush - as Tariffs are NOW being paid to the United States by China of 25% on 250 Billion Dollars worth of goods & products," Trump tweeted. "These massive payments go directly to the Treasury of the U.S."

He also claimed that tariffs will "bring in FAR MORE wealth to our Country than even a phenomenal deal of the traditional kind."

And Saturday, Trump suggested that the United States was "collecting" tariffs from China.

"Would be wise for them to act now, but love collecting BIG TARIFFS!" Trump said in a tweet.

Trump insisted Sunday night that the tariffs would be advantageous for the U.S. despite what Kudlow said.

"We are right where we want to be with China. Remember, they broke the deal with us & tried to renegotiate. We will be taking in Tens of Billions of Dollars in Tariffs from China. Buyers of product can make it themselves in the USA (ideal), or buy it from non-Tariffed countries," the president tweeted.

Trump has argued that trade wars are "good and easy to win" and maintains that his tariffs are a useful way to force China to the negotiating table. But Democrats and a growing number of Republicans have voiced concern that Trump's tariffs could undermine the past several years of robust economic growth.

The effect is being felt by industries across the country, from farmers in Iowa to auto manufacturers in Tennessee. Financial markets also have taken a dive amid the trade standoff, with the Standard & Poor's 500 index losing 2.18 percent last week, its worst week of the year.

On Sunday, figures on both sides of the aisle criticized Trump's handling of the China trade talks.

Sen. Rand Paul, R-Ky., an ally of Trump, said on ABC News's "This Week" that he is worried about the effect the tariffs will have on the U.S. economy.

Paul told host George Stephanopoulos that he is "very concerned" that Trump may enact permanent tariffs that will wind up hurting U.S. consumers, farmers and manufacturers.

"I know of a big company that told me that the tax cuts specifically helped them but that the tariffs are almost equal in punishing them," Paul said, referring to the Republican-led tax overhaul passed in 2017. "The farmers in Kentucky are concerned about the tariffs, and I've talked to the administration about this. . . . The longer we're involved in a tariff battle or a trade war, the better chance there is that we could actually enter into a recession because of it."

In an appearance on CBS News's "Face the Nation," Henry Paulson., who was treasury secretary under President George W. Bush, said that although "we don't have many good tools" to put economic pressure on China, tariffs are not an ideal choice.

"They're a tax on the American consumer," said Paulson, who is chairman of the Paulson Institute and a former chief executive of Goldman Sachs. He added: "Will it hurt us? If this persists too long, it will. There'll be a cost to it."

Paulson said he would "prefer the tactic of working with our allies to put pressure" on China but described that approach as imperfect as well because U.S. allies are often risk-averse when it comes to dealing with the Chinese.

Sen. Kamala Harris, D-Calif., a 2020 presidential candidate, said on CNN's "State of the Union" that the Trump administration has "failed to understand that we are stronger when we work with our allies on every issue, China included."

"This president seems to believe and has a preference for conducting trade policy, economic policy, foreign policy by tweet," Harris said. "And that's irresponsible."

Among the lawmakers defending Trump on Sunday was Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C.

"I'm 100 percent with the president," Graham said on Fox News Channel's "Sunday Morning Futures."

Graham argued that Trump is "trying to break the stranglehold China has" on the global supply chain, and that while American consumers will pay more, "eventually, China is going to get hurt more than us."

"When you put tariffs on products coming out of China, it makes other countries a cheaper place to do business, which eventually moves market share away from China," Graham said. "This is what Trump's trying to do."

- - -

The Washington Post's Taylor Telford contributed to this report.
ISLAMABAD - Four hotel employees and a Pakistani navy soldier were killed in Saturday's terrorist attack and gun battle at a luxury hotel in the southern port city of Gwadar, officials said Sunday.

Three attackers were killed and six other people were wounded, officials said. All hotel guests were reported safe.

A regional separatist group claimed responsibility for the attack on Twitter. The Balochistan Liberation Army seeks autonomy for ethnic Baloch tribes in the vast desert province of Balochistan, which borders Afghanistan and Iran and also touches the Arabian Sea.

Gwadar, on the Balochistan seacoast, is the hub of a multibillion-dollar Chinese infrastructure project in Pakistan and a high-security priority for the government. The attack came several weeks after 14 Pakistani troops were ambushed and killed on a highway through the region. That attack was also claimed by militant separatists.

Army officials said Sunday that gunmen stormed the five-star Pearl Continental Hotel late Saturday afternoon in an attempt to take guests hostage. Stopped by a hotel guard, they fled up a staircase while "firing indiscriminately" at hotel workers.

A quick-reaction commando team of army, navy and police forces arrived, evacuated all guests and staff and then "launched a clearance operation" on the fourth floor, officials said. The attackers had created a bunker there by deactivating hotel cameras and planting explosive devices at entrances to the floor.

The commando team opened special entry points into the fourth floor, officials said, and shot and killed all three attackers. Pakistani navy soldier Abbas Khan was killed in that encounter.

Gwadar, once a sleepy fishing village, is now being touted as "the next Dubai" by Pakistani officials. It is a centerpiece of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor project, which aims to link transport, trade and communications from the Arabian Sea to far western China. Beijing is now the most important economic and political ally of Pakistan.

During the attack Saturday, Balochistan Chief Minister Jam Kamal Khan ordered security forces to place a high priority on ensuring the safety of all hotel guests. Officials said Sunday that there were no Chinese or other foreigners staying at the hotel during the attack.

Balochistan has long been plagued with political violence. The province is home to several regional militant separatist groups. The Balochistan Liberation Army attacked the Chinese consulate in Karachi last November. Separately, Islamist militants have attacked churches and other targets mostly in the provincial capital, Quetta.

Pakistani officials have accused India of sending spies to infiltrate the region, which India has denied. Pakistan, a longtime nuclear-armed rival of India, first successfully tested nuclear weapons in 1998 in the Balochistan desert.
WASHINGTON - President Donald Trump and his allies are working to block more than 20 separate investigations by Democrats into his actions as president, his personal finances and his administration's policies, according to a Washington Post analysis, amounting to what many experts call the most expansive White House obstruction effort in decades.

Trump's noncooperation strategy has shifted from partial resistance to all-out war as he faces mounting inquiries from the Democratic-controlled House - a strategy that many legal and congressional experts fear could undermine the institutional power of Congress for years to come. All told, House Democrats say the Trump administration has failed to respond to or comply with at least 79 requests for documents or other information.

The president is blocking aides from testifying, refusing entire document requests from some committees, filing lawsuits against corporations to bar them from responding to subpoenas and asserting executive privilege to keep information about the special counsel's Russia investigation from public view. One such case will come to a head in court on Tuesday, when a federal judge is expected to rule on whether Trump can quash a House Oversight Committee subpoena demanding financial records from his personal accounting firm.

The administration also faces another subpoena deadline Friday for Trump's tax returns following the administration's move to refuse access to them. Trump signaled Saturday that he will continue to refuse disclosure of his tax returns, and he suggested that Democratic attempts to force their release would help him win a second term.

"I won the 2016 Election partially based on no Tax Returns while I am under audit (which I still am), and the voters didn't care," Trump tweeted, falsely claiming that an audit would prevent the release of his tax records. "Now the Radical Left Democrats want to again re-litigate this matter. Make it a part of the 2020 Election!"

Kerry Kircher, who served as House counsel for the last GOP majority, said the standoff marks "a complete breakdown and complete obstruction of Congress' role."

"If the court signs off on this stuff, then we'll have an imperial presidency," Kircher said, adding: "We'll have a presidency that will be largely unchecked."

Trump's block-everything strategy stands in contrast to the White House approach to special counsel Robert Mueller III's investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election, when Trump allowed his aides to speak to the special counsel and even turned over documents. Now, the White House is refusing to give an inch on investigations pertaining to the president.

Trump and his allies view the array of probes by Democrats as overreaching political attacks aimed at undermining his presidency and his reelection effort.

"There are rules and norms governing congressional oversight of the executive branch, and the Democrats simply refuse to abide by them," said White House deputy press secretary Steven Groves. "Democrats are demanding documents they know they have no legal right to see - including confidential communications between the president and foreign leaders and grand jury information that cannot be disclosed under the law. This White House will not and cannot comply with unlawful demands made by increasingly unhinged and politically-motivated Democrats."

Republicans on Capitol Hill also defend Trump's decision to resist congressional inquiries, with Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., calling the investigations the result of a political party still embittered about losing the White House in 2016.

"If I were Trump, I'd protect my family, and I'd protect my interests of the presidency and fight it out in court," Graham said. "Oversight's one thing. Revenge is another."

But Democrats say their probes are part of legitimate congressional oversight - spanning issues such as the hurricane-recovery effort in Puerto Rico, the administration's abandoned family-separation policy at the border and Trump's attempt to build a border wall without congressional approval.

Meanwhile, Democrats are also examining dozens of actions involving administration policies rather than Trump himself. The Energy and Commerce Committee, for instance, has sent out more than 30 oversight requests to agencies that are responsible for health, environment and consumer protection issues, with varying levels of response.

The Post analysis of Democratic inquiries and other records identified more than 20 investigations directly connected to Trump, his family or the White House that have been met with partial or complete stonewalling by the administration.

"I think it is unprecedented in its vehement concealment and noncompliance with basic constitutional duties," Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., said of the administration's broader strategy to not respond to investigations from the Hill. "Congress has some undeniable powers under the Constitution, and one of them is oversight."

Congress and the executive branch have always had a tense relationship, especially when the opposition party controls the House or Senate. When President Barack Obama was in the White House, House Republicans held Attorney General Eric Holder in contempt of Congress for refusing to hand over documents pertaining to the "Fast and Furious" gunrunning case in the Justice Department.

The Obama administration begrudgingly cooperated with several Republican investigations that the Democratic president's allies viewed as politically motivated. The House Oversight Committee conducted private interviews with several IRS officials amid allegations that the tax agency was targeting tea party groups for scrutiny. And some of Obama's top White House aides sat for closed-door depositions as part of the GOP's years-long Benghazi investigation.

Trump's approach toward House Democrats' investigations, experts say, is different because of the sheer number of investigations he is choosing to ignore or actively resist.

In the past week alone, Trump and the White House blocked three major inquiries - rebuffing requests for his tax returns, refusing to turn over an unredacted version of Mueller's final report on Russian interference and barring former White House counsel Donald McGahn from responding to a Hill subpoena.

Congress has had the power to request any individual's tax returns since 1924, when the Teapot Dome scandal set off a flurry of Hill investigations amid allegations of bribery and self-dealing.

The law says the treasury secretary "shall furnish" tax returns to Congress upon request. But Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin on Tuesday declined a request under the law from House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Richard Neal, D-Mass., saying that the demand served no "legitimate legislative purpose." House investigators responded on Friday with a subpoena as they ready a lawsuit aimed at forcing compliance with the request.

The same day, Trump officials barred McGahn from turning over subpoenaed information related to Mueller's investigation, potentially opening him up to legal peril and a contempt of Congress charge. McGahn was a central witness in several of 10 instances of potential obstruction of justice identified in the Mueller report.

McGahn may not be the only former White House aide who will be targeted by Democrats. House Democrats have a long list of former Trump officials they want to speak with, but Trump has told aides he does not want anyone to cooperate with congressional investigators.

Last Wednesday, the president also asserted executive privilege for the first time over the entire Mueller report, though much of it has already been released to the public. Mueller concluded there was no criminal conspiracy between the Trump campaign and Russia, but he declined to reach a decision on whether Trump obstructed justice in the investigation. Barr concluded that the evidence did not support obstruction charges.

Democrats say they need to view the underlying evidence gathered over the course of nearly two years by Mueller to reach their own conclusion on whether Trump may have obstructed justice in the probe. A House committee voted Wednesday to hold Barr in contempt of Congress for refusing to turn over the information.

"Now that the president has been fully and completely exonerated after three years of FBI and DOJ investigation, Democrats are concocting new conspiracy theories," said Kayleigh McEnany, national press secretary for the Trump campaign. "The American people want legislating, not investigating, but Democrats continue their fanatical quest to overthrow the legitimate results of an election. Their baseless, fact-free investigations are a disgrace."

Trump's personal and business lawyers have also sued the House Oversight Committee and his former accounting firm, Mazars, to block a subpoena. The inquiry gained steam after Trump's former attorney Michael Cohen alleged in a February hearing that Trump inflated his wealth for insurance purposes but deflated it to avoid taxes.

Former House counsels of both political parties question the logic of the lawsuit. Trump's lawyers cite a court precedent from 1880 that suggests Congress cannot investigate individuals, but many lawyers note that ruling was overturned in the 1920s and has not been followed in nearly 100 years.

Trump's lawyers are also suing Deutsche Bank, a Trump lender, and Capital One, his private bank, to stop them from cooperating with the House Financial Services and Intelligence committees on a probe involving alleged Russian money laundering. In a joint statement, Trump lawyers William S. Consovoy, Patrick Strawbridge and Marc Mukasey called the subpoenas "unlawful and illegitimate."

"Every citizen should be concerned about this sweeping, lawless, invasion of privacy," they said. "We look forward to vindicating our clients' rights in this matter."

Trump is also defending himself against plaintiffs in two lawsuits alleging that his company violates the Constitution by doing business with foreign governments. The Constitution bars any government official from receiving foreign payments known as "emoluments" while in office. Since Trump still has a vested interest in his company, the president's critics argue his foreign hotel patrons are boosting his bottom line.

In a case brought in Maryland by the attorneys general of the District of Columbia and Maryland, Justice Department lawyers representing the president have succeeded in temporarily blocking subpoenas for financial records and other documents related to the Trump International Hotel in Washington. A second case, brought by 200 congressional Democrats, extends beyond the hotel and provides a potential new avenue for investigators to gain access to a broader array of Trump's closely held finances

On Capitol Hill, multiple committees are also investigating whether the lease for Trump's District hotel, which operates in the federally owned Old Post Office Pavilion, violates the Constitution. The committees have tried to circumvent Trump officials to get information from the General Services Administration, which oversees leases of government property, but they say they have only received partial responses.

The White House has also refused to provide documents demanded by the House Oversight Committee involving its security clearance process. In April, the White House instructed former personnel security director Carl Kline not to appear for a subpoenaed deposition, although Kline later agreed to answer broad questions.

Other pending Democratic investigations focus on Trump administration policies.

The administration has resisted providing several pieces of information involving immigration issues. One request from the House Homeland Security Committee on Jan. 4 - which included questions about the border, asylum seekers and the treatment of children in federal custody - was only partially answered, according to a committee spokesman.

Others, including requests for information about a proposal to bus migrants to the districts of political adversaries, have either been ignored or not fully answered.

The White House has also rebuffed House Judiciary Committee inquiries into the legal basis of Trump's emergency declaration on the southern border, which the president issued in February to secure money for a wall that Congress declined to provide.

Five House committees wrote to the White House, the Justice Department, and Health and Human Services in April demanding documents regarding why the administration decided to no longer defend the Affordable Care Act in court. They have received no substantive response.

The White House also declined to provide information involving private communications between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, calling the request from a trio of House committees "sweeping" and saying that foreign policy was solely in the purview of the executive branch.

Tom Campbell, a former Republican congressman and a professor at Chapman University, said that while Democrats share some of the blame in the breakdown of the system, their inquiries of Trump are justifiable.

"These are perfectly legitimate oversight functions," Campbell said. "No system works - even one as brilliantly constructed as the United States Constitution - works without good faith . . . . When good faith falls apart, the ability for the Constitution to work is compromised."

- - -

The Washington Post's Toluse Olorunnipa and Jonathan O'Connell contributed to this report.
1. Tax returns

Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin is blocking Congress' request for President Donald Trump's tax returns, a demand based on a 1924 anti-corruption law. On Friday, House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Richard Neal, D-Mass., subpoenaed Mnuchin and Charles Rettig, the commissioner of the Internal Revenue Service. Democrats say they are ready to take the matter to court if need be.

- - -

2. The Mueller report

The White House asserted executive privilege over the full report issued by special counsel Robert Mueller III on Wednesday after Democrats tried to subpoena the underlying evidence in their probe of whether Trump obstructed justice. Democrats are preparing to hold Attorney General William Barr in contempt of Congress for refusing to honor their subpoena.

- - -

3. McGahn testimony

The White House has told former White House counsel Donald McGahn to ignore a House Judiciary Committee subpoena for documents pertaining to the Mueller investigation. McGahn was a central witness in several of 10 instances of potential obstruction identified by Mueller. He also could face being held in contempt of Congress if he refuses to appear to testify later this month.

- - -

4. Mazars

Trump's personal and Trump Organization attorneys are suing the House Oversight Committee and his accounting firm, Mazars, to quash a subpoena for his financial information. The lawsuit cites an 1880s precedent that has been overturned and dormant for nearly 100 years. A judge recently agreed to fast-track the proceedings and could make a ruling as early as Tuesday.

- - -

5. Deutsche Bank and Capital One

Trump's personal attorneys and Trump Organization lawyers are suing to block his former lender and bank from handing over similar financial documents related to a congressional investigation into Russia money laundering as well as political interference in the 2016 election.

- - -

6. Trump-Putin meetings

The Trump administration declined to comply with requests for documents and communications related to Trump and President Vladimir Putin's private discussions. The Washington Post reported that Trump tried to conceal the contents of one discussion by taking possession of his own interpreter's notes and instructing a linguist present not to discuss what had transpired.

- - -

7. Emoluments

Trump is defending himself in two lawsuits that say his company violates the Constitution by doing business with foreign governments. Justice Department lawyers representing the president have succeeded in temporarily blocking subpoenas by the attorneys general of the District of Columbia and Maryland for financial records and other documents related to Trump's Washington District hotel. A second lawsuit was filed by 200 congressional Democrats.

- - -

8. Trump International Hotel

The Trump administration has been slow to turn over information regarding the lease for Trump International Hotel in Washington, which rents the historic federally-owned Old Post Office Pavilion. Democrats say they have only received what they called a "partial" response for documents as part of the investigation being conducted by the Transportation and Infrastructure and Oversight committees.

- - -

9. FBI building

Five House panels have demanded records involving a decision to stop the relocation of the FBI headquarters to the suburbs of Washington. Democrats believe Trump was involved in the decision to prevent the building - located across the street from the Trump International Hotel - from being replaced by a hotel that could compete for business. There has been no response from any of the agencies from which they have asked for information.

- - -

10. Hush-money payments

The House Oversight Committee sent letters in January and February demanding more information about payments made by the president's former personal lawyer, Michael Cohen, to an adult-film actress who said she had an affair with Trump. The White House allowed the committee to review some documents in person, but Democrats are continuing to demand the full records.

- - -

11. Security clearances

The White House has refused to answer most of the House Oversight Committee's questions and document demands related to its security clearance process. Trump leaned on then-Chief of Staff John Kelly to grant his son-in-law Jared Kushner a security clearances despite concerns from intelligence officials. Kushner was among more than 20 people whose security clearances were approved despite objections raised by national security officials, according to staffer Tricia Newbold.

- - -

12. Family separation policy

The administration has not fully responded to document requests or testimony from multiple committees on a policy that separated migrant children from their parents. The Health and Human Services Department has partially responded to House Energy and Commerce Committee demands for documents and communications related to the policy. Other committees, including Judiciary, Homeland and Oversight panels, say they are still awaiting answers.

- - -

13. Other immigration issues

The administration has not answered inquiries about a proposal to bus migrant children to sanctuary cities and the reasons for a leadership shake-up at the Department of Homeland Security. On the latter, the House Homeland Security Committee expects a response before it holds a DHS budget hearing on May 22. The House Oversight Committee is also investigating the issue.

- - -

14. National emergency declaration

The White House has ignored Judiciary Committee inquiries into the legal basis of Trump's emergency declaration aimed at building a wall or fencing on the southern border. Trump declared the state of emergency on the border after a 35-day shutdown failed to result in a deal giving him billions for his proposed wall, which he had repeatedly promised would be paid for by Mexico.

- - -

15. Obamacare repeal

The Trump administration has refused to discuss the process by which it decided to challenge the Affordable Care Act in court, sending the committees demanding the information only a confirmation that it had received their letters.

- - -

16. Puerto Rico

The House Oversight Committee on Monday revived an investigation into the federal government's response to Hurricane Maria by sending letters to the White House, Health and Human Services and the Federal Emergency Management Agency. The committee is asking for all documents by May 20. In the fall of 2017, the committee had made a bipartisan request for those records to DHS and FEMA. Democrats say they did not receive answers.

- - -

17. Census

Barr has blocked Justice Department official John Gore from appearing for subpoenaed testimony on the addition of a citizenship question on the 2020 Census, an idea that reportedly began in the White House. Democrats have called the question unlawful and say it is aimed at depressing the number of undocumented immigrants tallied in the census.

- - -

18. Saudi nuclear transfer

The White House has refused to answer Oversight Committee questions or document requests on a proposal to transfer highly sensitive U.S. nuclear technology to Saudi Arabia.

- - -

19. White House use of private email

The Oversight panel has sought more information surrounding allegations that White House officials have conducted work on private email, including Trump's daughter and adviser, Ivanka Trump. The White House has said it feels it has addressed the matter, but Democrats are pressing for more documents.

- - -

20. Kushner Saudi trip

The House Foreign Affairs Committee has asked for documents and information related to a February trip taken by Kushner, Trump's son-in-law and senior adviser, to Saudi Arabia, where he reportedly met with Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman. According to the committee, which has asked Secretary of State Mike Pompeo to brief the panel on the purpose of the trip, U.S. Embassy diplomats were left out of the meetings.
MDINA, Malta - His missions begin with a phone call from the pope. "Do me a favor," Pope Francis tends to say, and then Archbishop Charles Scicluna steels himself, packs his bags and books a flight to another country where something terrible has happened.

Within a church besieged by clerical abuse cases, Scicluna, 59, has become the Vatican's emergency investigator - a priest-and-lawyer-turned-sex-crimes specialist who is dispatched to scandal zones.

"Nothing prepares you for the wounds," Scicluna said. "You don't get used to it."

He is sent to places where cardinals or bishops are accused of committing abuse; where officials are suspected of burying evidence or systematically ignoring victims; where the church has profoundly failed and squandered trust. Over the past decade-and-a-half, he has led at least four major investigations on four separate continents, interviewing hundreds of victims, during feverish days he likens to an "ant working in summer."

For most of that time, he has operated out of public view, refusing to speak about cases, returning to Rome from his missions with dossiers meant for the eyes of the pope. But recently, with the church facing outside pressure to reform, Scicluna was vaulted by Francis into a broad and public role. The archbishop helped to plan a major anti-abuse summit in February and has worked on subsequent reforms. He also regularly appears at news conferences to explain Vatican thinking.

As the Roman Catholic Church attempts to prove that it can credibly police itself, it is presenting Scicluna as an example of how rigorous and caring it can be.

In interviews in his home country of Malta and inside the Vatican - where documents on the table are labeled in Latin "secreta" - Scicluna said he "hoped and prayed" that the institution, during his lifetime, can "become an example of best practices" for responding to and preventing abuse.

"But we will not solve the problem," he said, calling abuse a pervasive global issue that goes beyond the church. "This will not go away."

Scicluna has developed a reputation - even among some wary abuse victims and advocates - as one of the rare Vatican officials who appreciates the seriousness and scale of the church's abuse crisis. Victims say Scicluna presents himself as a listener and fact-finder, sensitive but also meticulous in pinning down dates and specifics.

"He cared. It mattered to him," said Juan Carlos Cruz, a whistleblowing Chilean abuse victim now living in the United States, who met with Scicluna last year. Cruz had volunteered to speak with Scicluna via Skype. Instead, Scicluna flew to New York and spoke with Cruz for four hours.

"I've been telling my story and dealing with church officials forever," Cruz said. "It was the first time I felt empathy."

In New York, Scicluna wept several times while listening to Cruz, and he began to feel ill that night. Several days later, after having flown to Chile, he was in a Santiago hospital, having his gallbladder removed. Scicluna wonders whether it was somehow brought on by what he was hearing.

"Maybe it was psychosomatic," he said. "I don't know."

But Scicluna is also fully a man of the institution, not a radical.

He points to past papal quotes as guiding wisdom for handling the crisis. He chides the church gently, prescribing reforms for handling complaints, urging prelates to listen more openly to victims. He speaks about the importance of transparency and encourages church officials to cooperate with civil authorities, but his own investigations are fully in-house, and not even summaries of his findings are made public.

He has carried out special investigations on behalf of both Francis and his predecessor, Pope Benedict XVI, and he considers his missions a "service" for the pontiff.

"You have your own ideas of how things should proceed," Scicluna said. "But you know that you are not the owner of what you are doing."

Scicluna serves as the archbishop of Malta and as a top official within the church's disciplinary body, the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith. He is also a self-described bookish "nerd," who holds both civil and cannon law degrees. At barely 5 feet tall, he says he struggles to find clothes that fit properly. In Malta, he eschews the grand residence offered to the archbishop and instead lives in a ground-floor apartment with his 83-year-old mother. He spends one week a month in Rome.

When he arrived in the Vatican in the mid-1990s, he knew barely a word of sexual jargon. He said he became versed in clerical abuse only because the church was confronting a "tsunami" and needed help.

In 2002, just as abuse by clergy was emerging as a major story in the United States, Scicluna was elevated by then-Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, the future Benedict, to be the top prosecutor inside the Holy See's powerful and opaque doctrinal office. Working from inside the city-state, Scicluna heard details about thousands of cases, mostly accusations against diocesan priests. But it was in the higher-magnitude cases - involving mass-scale abuse, or particularly powerful figures - where the church especially struggled, in large part because bishops and cardinals are answerable only to the pope.

So Scicluna started making the special trips.

He first went to Mexico and the United States in 2005, documenting the serial abuse of Marcial Maciel, the charismatic founder of the conservative Legionaries of Christ whose work had been repeatedly praised by Pope John Paul II.

Scicluna traveled to Syria in 2008 to investigate a bishop. He was ordered to Scotland in 2014 in the aftermath of abuse claims against Cardinal Keith O'Brien. All of those investigations led to some form of church punishment.

Scicluna has been confronted with various theories about the causes of abuse within the Catholic Church.

He dismisses the popular notion that the priestly celibacy requirement leads to a culture of sexual secrecy, because it gives even priests who have consensual relationships something to hide. But he does say that some clerics fail to develop mature ways to show affection, and then feel "protected in the status and the ritual" of the priesthood.

For him, the more difficult question - one that he is cautious about addressing - is what to make of data showing that clerical abuse victims are predominantly male, and often teenagers.

"People invariably make the link with same-sex attractions," Scicluna said. Vatican traditionalists argue that the hidden homosexuality of some priests is a major underlying reason for the abuse crisis. Scicluna has been prodded several times by journalists from conservative Catholic outlets to agree, but he has always stopped short. Studies have found no correlation between sexual orientation and abuse.

"I don't think you can pinpoint only one set of causes," Scicluna says. "This cannot be a judgment about a category of people."

Scicluna's most recent mission was perhaps his most complicated. The Chilean church had been ravaged by systemic clerical abuse, and Francis, during a January 2018 trip to South America, created fury by defending a bishop, Juan Barros, widely considered to have helped protect a notorious predator priest. For more than a week, the backlash continued. Francis told Scicluna to head for Chile.

Scicluna and an assistant, Monsignor Jordi Bertomeu, interviewed Cruz in New York and then nearly five-dozen more victims in Chile. Scicluna tried to keep the meetings efficient - most no more than an hour. He asked victims to pre-write their stories for his records. When Scicluna went to the hospital for his surgery, Bertomeu took the lead. They returned after 10 days and handed more than 2,000 pages to the pope.

Francis has since dramatically reversed his position on Chile, apologizing for "grave errors," inviting three Chilean abuse survivors to the Vatican, and then calling Chile's 34 bishops to Rome, where each submitted a letter of resignation. (Francis has accepted more than a half-dozen.)

"Scicluna's role in Chile was to lend his prestige and allow the Holy Father to reverse himself almost 180 degrees," said the Rev. Raymond de Souza, a Canadian priest and church commentator.

But in the aftermath of that reversal, one of the victims who met with Scicluna has wondered about how much of the problem has really been solved. The church had been warned for years about the abuse in Chile. Cruz had written a book about his experiences, published in 2014. Politicians and demonstrators had protested the church's inaction, as well as Francis's 2015 decision to promote Barros to a new post. Whenever the church's next major investigation came, would it be launched too late as well?

"The illness is in the roots of the church," said James Hamilton, a surgeon who was abused into adulthood by now-defrocked priest Fernando Karadima and has spent 15 years in therapy. "The time to make a cut on the arm or the leg, it passed." Within that system, Hamilton said, "Scicluna is just one person. He's nothing."

Jason Berry, a reporter and author who has covered sexual abuse for decades, said the need for an investigator like Scicluna shows the church is in a state of flux, looking for ad hoc solutions after failures.

"I view what Scicluna is doing as a transitional process," Berry said. "But an instrumental one, to say the least."

Scicluna, for his part, said he is "available" if needed to launch future investigations.

"Probably I will do it again," he said, "by mandate of the Holy Father."

---

The Washington Post's Stefano Pitrelli contributed to this report.
The mother of missing 4-year-old Maleah Davis is blaming her common-law husband for the girls disappearance, alleging he might have retaliated after a fight and accusing him of past abuse.

Community activist Quanell X dropped the accusations on Friday, speaking on behalf of Maleahs mother Brittany Bowens. He said Bowens has seen a surveillance video that apparently shows the girls stepfather walking out of his apartment with bleach, a laundry container and a black bag she believes contained the girls body.

Theres a lot that hasnt come out, thats for sure, he said Friday. Its just a sad story.

Houston Police Department officials declined to comment on what evidence they might have, or corroborate whether Bowens was meeting with HPD officers Friday to discuss the video, which a neighbor apparently caught from their home.

Were not confirming anything at this point, police spokesman Victor Senties said.

WHAT WE KNOW: Everything we know about the disappearance of 4-year-old Maleah Davis

Stepfather Darion Vence hasnt been found since he reported Maleahs disappearance, police said Thursday. They were actively searching for him but didnt know if he was missing. Theyve said they dont consider him a suspect or person of interest in the case.

He told police that he pulled over to check a flat tire around 9 p.m. last Friday while driving to Bush Intercontinental Airport to pick up Bowens. He said he was with Maleah and his 1-year-old son when three men approached him and knocked him unconscious, near Interstate 69 and Greens Road. He said he blacked out until 6 p.m. Saturday.

When he awoke, he was in Sugar Land with the boy, but Maleah was gone, he said. He sought medical attention four hours later and reported the girl missing and the Nissan Altima he was driving stolen.

That car was found in a Missouri City parking lot Thursday morning, police said.

In the video, Vence was seen the morning after Bowens went to Massachusetts for her fathers funeral carrying two bottles of bleach, a large laundry container and a black bag stuffed inside, Quanell X said.

Bowens believes that Maleahs disappearance was triggered by a confrontation she had with Vence the day before her trip, Quanell X said. She asked Vence about nude photos he allegedly sent to another person, and he snapped.

He took it out on Maleah, possibly because of indications that he physically and sexually abused the girl, who has special needs, Quanell X said. She described severe bruising on the little girls leg on at least one occasion, as well as suspicions she had been molested.

It was out of fear and out of being threatened by Mr. Darion that she covered up physical abuse of Maleah that the stepfather was doing, the activist said. For some reason, she was unwilling to tell everything she knew about him. And I think the mother has a twisted love for the man.

Court documents show that the girls grandmother, Brenda Bowens, tried having Maleah and her two siblings placed in her home  rather than in foster care  during a Child Protective Services investigation that began last August.

MISSOURI CITY: Car involved in missing 4-year-old Maleah Davis case has been found

Maleah was taken into state custody after suffering an unexplained head injury, which was reported as an allegation of physical abuse and neglectful supervision.

Brittany Bowens told her mother that Maleah had fallen from a tall chair to a marble table but was fine. During a second hospital visit after the fall, she had a procedure that required half of her skull to be removed.

She had also been hospitalized on July 10, 2018, after vomiting with small amounts of blood, according to court records.

Police and Texas EquuSearch continue searching for Maleah.

samantha.ketterer@chron.com

Twitter.com/sam_kett
In my volunteer work with the SA Cancer Council, I meet people from all walks of life who are battling cancer, and it wasnt until recently when I received an email from a social worker with Patient & Family Services at University of Texas Health San Antonio MD Anderson Cancer Center that I truly realized just how much of an impact our nonprofit has on those dealing with the disease.

The social worker, Carol Sherman, told me about a 39-year-old, single mother of two boys, ages 2 and 14, who is undergoing chemotherapy for metastatic melanoma. Understandably, she can no longer work. During Christmas, Carol gave her two gift cards provided by the SA Cancer Council to buy presents for her children. I was told she was grateful beyond measure for the love and assistance.

Stories like this reaffirm the significance of the SA Cancer Councils mission: to raise funds for patient assistance and cancer research at the Mays Cancer Center, home of UT Health San Antonio MD Anderson Cancer Center  just as we did when we raised nearly $95,000 at our annual spring luncheon on April 10. To date, the organization has raised more than $5 million, which stays in San Antonio and is put to great use, thanks to countless donors.

This year, the SA Cancer Council celebrates its 35th anniversary, so Id like to reflect upon the accomplishments of our all-volunteer nonprofit and share a few highlights with the community. To begin with, the organization was started in 1994 by a pioneering group of women, including the late philanthropist Edith McAllister, who had one goal in mind  to make a difference in the fight against cancer. The organization was formerly called the CTRC Council but changed its name to the SA Cancer Council three years ago.

We are particularly proud of a major achievement regarding funding for cancer research, specifically providing a $1 million endowment for the creation of the SA Cancer Council Distinguished Chair in Oncology. It was established in 2012 through an initial gift from the SA Cancer Council and subsequent gifts from various donors.

The endowment was created for the use and benefit of UT Health San Antonio MD Anderson Cancer Center, with distribution supporting the academic work of a Distinguished Chair in Oncology, namely Dr. Michael Wargovich. A search is underway for a distinguished candidate to use $1.1 million available funds in the endowment for further research.

In terms of patient assistance, we manage a food pantry at the Mays Cancer Center, where our office is located. Volunteers go to the San Antonio Food Bank about once a month to stock our pantry and then provide a box of non-perishable food items for patients.

Additionally, because of the generosity of donors, funds were used to purchase two vans to transport patients to and from their chemotherapy treatments, for instance.

Already, one of the vans has seen better days, so we hope to purchase two new ones in the near future. New vans will allow us to expand transportation services outside Loop 1604 and serve the Stone Oak area.

We have found that getting to an appointment for treatment can be challenging for many patients.

We also fund clinical trials through our Circle of Hope program in which 10 couples donate $2,500 each for a total of $25,000. This is the seed money to launch the research process. If the hypothesis of the pilot study is found to be credible, then the research moves into the clinical trial phase.

The SA Cancer Council thanks the community for their support over the past 35 years to help us assist patients and to continue to raise funds for cancer research. We hope you will learn more about us at www.sacancercouncil.org and consider becoming a volunteer, too, to help us fight cancer in San Antonio. Or consider joining to make a difference in someones life.

Cheryl Wright is president of the SA Cancer Council.
The charge was criminal trespass, but Jack Michael Ule was put in jail because he was homeless and mentally ill. He died there, a tragic example of the criminal justice reform needed but that too many are still trying to stymie.

Ule spent two weeks in the Bexar County Adult Detention Center for a nonviolent misdemeanor simply because he could not afford a nominal bond. He spent two weeks locked up, and he never saw a judge.

Tragically, this is all too familiar. The contours of Ules death on April 18 mirror the December death of Janice Dotson-Stephens, another inmate in the Bexar County Jail. Both had schizophrenia diagnoses. Adults in their 60s, both were charged with criminal trespass and held on low bonds. For Ule, bond was $500. For Dotson-Stephens, it was $300. Neither received representation at their bail hearings, nor appropriate mental health treatment while languishing in jail.

Their deaths were four months apart, but each is the same damning indictment of a broken system desperately in need of the very reforms Bexar Countys judges continue to resist and reject. If Bexar Countys judges had embraced bail reform for nonviolent misdemeanors, Ule would never have died in jail. If Bexar Countys judges truly embraced public defender representation for all defendants at bail hearings, Ules mental health issues may have been flagged, and again, he may never have ended up in jail.

But he did end up in jail. Just like Dotson-Stephens was placed in jail. Just like countless others who are homeless or have mental health issues find their way into jail each day.

Ule was from Ohio. He was a bright student, earning straight As in grade school and high school. He studied agronomy at Ohio State University, his brother Joseph Ule told us. But as an adult, he was kind of diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia, Joseph Ule said.

He could be difficult when not on his medication, which was often. But he made his way, working at times as a cook and living with his mother, Sylvia Ule, in Richmond Heights, Ohio, just outside Cleveland.

After his mother died about four years ago, Ule became homeless. Sylvia was behind on her property taxes, and Joseph Ule said the house had to be sold.

He didnt understand why he had to move out of the house, said Peggy Taksar, Ules sister. He kind of just went on his own.

Joseph Ule lives in Kansas City and said he offered his brother a place to stay there, but his brother wasnt interested. Instead, Ule drifted across the Southwest. Phoenix. Albuquerque. Colorado. El Paso. North to Ohio and then south to the sunshine.

It was hard to keep tabs. Joseph Ule was battling pancreatic cancer back in Kansas City, and his brother was an adult. Ule might have been schizophrenic, but his siblings couldnt force him into treatment. As long as he wasnt a danger to himself or others, he was free to come and go. Joseph Ule said he had long been dreading the call he received about his brother.

His family didnt know how long Ule was in San Antonio or what brought him here. Joseph Ule thought it was the warm weather. Taksar thought her brother might have been making his way to El Paso.

But we know from a University Health System police report that he received medical assistance in February, and that UHS police had warned him about criminal trespass in March. We also know he listed Haven for Hope, the communitys homeless shelter, as his address. On April 4th, UHS police arrested Ule, 63, for criminal trespass at University Hospital in the Medical Center.

It was 12:08 a.m., and he was watching television in an unoccupied waiting area without an appointment, wrote officer Edwin Bell.

Ule said he had recently been discharged from the hospital and he wanted to rest and watch television. Bell said he was loitering.

University Hospital is the immediate alternative to jail for people in mental health crises, but in this case the system worked in reverse. The hospital sent a person with mental illness to jail. Why?

In a situation where we have a disturbance at the hospital or another University Health System facility, officers are faced with three options: asking the person to leave, making an arrest, or putting the person in emergency detention, wrote Elizabeth Allen, a public relations manager for UHS. The officer, like the majority of our officers, has had crisis intervention training to accurately assess these things, and this person did not qualify for emergency detention.

But that doesnt mean he should have qualified for jail.

In jail, his case was fast-tracked. It moved so fast the public defender never had the chance to meet with Ule and represent him at his bail hearing. It moved so fast no one took into account his previous mental health history.

Consider this timeline:

2:30 a.m. Ule entered the countys Justice Intake and Assessment Center.

2:42 a.m. The public defenders office received his booking slip.

3:30 a.m. Judge Celeste Ramirez set his $500 bond.

There are two problems here. The first is that even though the public defenders office is supposed to represent defendants at bail hearings, that representation comes with caveats. Per a district judge order, the public defender cant represent defendants with existing representation or another bond.

In real terms, that has meant public defenders have to jump through many hoops to determine if someone is eligible for representation. In our view, this obstacle reflects the district judges resistance to expanding the public defenders office and providing representation at bail hearings.

The second problem is that beyond bail hearings, the public defenders office primarily represents mentally ill defendants accused of low-level offenses. People just like Ule. But in this case, Ule was assigned a private court-appointed attorney.

He would have been the perfect candidate for our program, said Bexar County Chief Public Defender Michael Young. He had indicated some mental illness. He was charged with a low-level offense.

But the public defender never even had the chance to speak with Ule.

Instead, he spent the next two weeks in jail, a homeless man from Ohio with a $500 bond. It might as well have been $5 million. His family would have paid the bond in a heartbeat, but they had no idea where he was.

People being thrown in jail because they are homeless, said a disgusted Bexar County Judge Nelson Wolff, who oversees Commissioners Court. Because they got a mental problem. Because they cant afford to pay a bond. Thats what the justice system is? No, its not.

In jail, Ule joined a cadre of people charged with criminal trespass who couldnt make nominal bonds. According to data from the Bexar County Sheriffs Office, the week Ule died, 54 people were in jail for criminal trespass. Their bonds ranged from $100 to $2,000.

Ule died April 18, and the cause of his death remains unknown. A press release from the sheriffs office cites ongoing health issues as a possible factor. In the aftermath of this tragedy, Bexar County District Attorney Joe Gonzales said he will no longer prosecute people charged with criminal trespass.

There are exceptions to every rule, but as a general matter, I dont think we need to have the homeless population in the Bexar County Jail because they are homeless, he said.

And Ules death was one of the reasons Bexar County Commissioners decided to have city of San Antonio judges oversee bail hearings. Municipal Court Presiding Judge John Bull has welcomed the public defender and said the defense and prosecution will be present at all bail hearings.

As welcome as these changes are, they are not enough. Meaningful criminal justice reform must be embraced by Bexar Countys felony and misdemeanor court judges, and this includes a better job identifying mental health issues to keep people out of jail.

There will be one more journey for Jack Ule. His ashes will be sent to Kansas City where there will be a service at a Slovenian church to honor his heritage, Joseph Ule said. His remains will then be buried in Ohio, beside his mother.
The basis for congressional oversight of the executive branch is in the implied powers the Constitution grants Congress. But dont let that word implied throw you. The Supreme Court has upheld House and Senate oversight powers  deeming them guaranteed by the Constitutions necessary and proper clause. This means Congress is empowered to do what is necessary and proper to execute the express powers spelled out in the Constitution.

Congressional oversight of U.S. presidents is part of a broader system of checks and balances.

President Donald Trump, however, says he intends to resist all subpoenas from Congress.

As if on cue, Attorney General William Barr  after appearing before a Senate Committee the day before  refused to testify before a House committee on Thursday, objecting to the format because it will include questioning from a committee lawyer  as Christine Ford was interviewed during the Kavanaugh hearings. He now is subject to being held in contempt.

Consider the sweeping nature of Trumps refusal. Hes not saying  as past presidents have  that he will challenge each request individually on their merits (usually invoking executive privilege) or that he will negotiate whether aides will testify or whether requested documents will be provided. Were fighting all the subpoenas, he said last week. Period. No negotiation. A simple stone wall, though he did relent in one case after a plea from a fellow Republican.

This is dangerous, even with the single partisan accommodation. No matter how you feel about impeachment, this refusal threatens a system of checks and balances necessary for a functioning democracy.

Yes, other presidents have challenged congressional oversight  and have generally been slapped down by the courts.

President Barack Obama resisted congressional oversight of his administrations Operation Fast and Furious gun-trafficking investigation. The courts said the administration had to comply, and it did.

But presidents  in accordance with the Constitution  have generally complied with requests in other instances. Thats because oversight authority of Congress has been acknowledged as early as George Washingtons administration.

And then theres Trump, who has claimed an exoneration that doesnt exist in the report from special counsel Robert Mueller. Congress is fully empowered to investigate any and all allegations contained in that report, which didnt rule out obstruction of justice. And while saying there was no coordination between the Russians and the Trump campaign, it also laid out many contacts between the two and campaign eagerness to receive and benefit from any information provided by the Russians. And no one in the Trump campaign picked up the phone to report a foreign effort to subvert the election for Trumps benefit.

This is troubling.

We have counseled against immediate impeachment proceedings. And we continue to. But the House still has a responsibility to investigate possible presidential wrongdoing. This is true even if the special counsel didnt recommend criminal prosecution  especially because the Justice Department said he couldnt seek the indictment of a sitting president in any case.

Congress cannot ignore the Mueller report and must exercise its oversight powers if the public is ever to have any confidence in the investigation or in Congress as a co-equal branch of government.

There will certainly be legal challenges to the presidents refusals. And this could run out the clock before Election Day in 2020. The rationale for the presidents refusals go something like this: House Democrats are acting purely out of partisan spite or seeking partisan advantage.

Well, we would not be a bit surprised by partisan motivations from Democrats, though there is, in fact, a split in the party on impeachment  and still there is that Mueller report full of items worth investigating and the congressional responsibility to do so, even if impeachment is ultimately off the table.

But the charge of partisanship is hollow coming from folks who cheered the incessant investigations of Hillary Clinton. The offenses alleged in the Mueller report are at least as bad as what Clinton allegedly did (those investigations substantively coming up empty). And we note that Barr appeared before a GOP led Senate committee but refused to appear before a Democratic controlled House committee. So, whos partisan?

The president should relent. A stone wall has all the signs of merely being a convenient hiding place. The public is ill-served by lack of knowledge. Texas congressional delegation should buck the president on this.
One of the countrys oldest surviving fairs, The Lanesboro Horse Fair, is due to kick off in Longford this Saturday, May 11, in what promises to be an excellent day out for all.

The event dates back to 1615, when it is thought the first ever fair was held. This year sees the fair making its way back to the main street in Lanesboro for yet another installment and organisers say this gives the event a more traditional feel.

This is its third year it is back on the main street. Committee chair Gerald Farrell told the Leader.

We close off a section of the main street, fencing it off with barriers. It is safe for people to walk outside and the horses are kept inside, which really adds to the atmosphere in the town.



Although the horse fair took a thirty year break in the late 1960s, the community of Lanesboro rallied together to revive it in 1999. The first re-enactment took place in 2000 and it has now taken place every year since.

Upon the retirement of the committee behind the revival approximately four years ago, a new committee was formed and spearheaded by Cllr Farrell.

We didnt want to let the horse fair go, so we formed our own small committee and we organised the fair.

Cllr Farrell added, We have held it for the past four years under this committee and it has been very strong for them four years. It is a great addition to the town.

Described as a wonderful day out, the event will cater for those who have a genuine gra for horses, the sales and purchases of said horses, whilst there will be an award on the day for the best horse of the fair.

The dog show did not take place this year, however, though the committee have promised that they will be looking to reintroduce the dog show next year.

Cllr Farrell urged locals to show their support to what is a long standing tradition for the people of Lanesboro.

It is a long standing tradition in Lanesboro and we want to try and keep it going."
An 18-year-old was shot Sunday morning in Cambridge after there were reports of two groups of people fighting in the Harvard Square area, according to police.

The teen, who is from Cambridge, is expected to live. No further details about the victim were given.

Police were called around 3:30 a.m. for a report of shots fired in the area of Eliot Street near JFK Street. Officers found several shell casings at the scene.

Officers were then notified that a shooting victim arrived at a nearby hospital, police said. Police spoke to the victim.

Prior to the shooting, two groups were reportedly involved in several altercations in the Harvard Square area, police. Detectives will be seeking and reviewing any nearby video surveillance footage today and looking to speak to any witnesses for further information.

A 27-year-old Roxbury man was arrested and charged with distribution of a class D drug as part of the investigation.

Anyone with any information can call Cambridge Police at 617-349-3300.
Authorities released information about the vehicle believed to be involved in the near-fatal hit and run crash Tuesday in Westport that left a 30-year-old woman in critical condition.

The Bristol District Attorneys Office said it appears a BMW 3 Series vehicle was involved in the pedestrian crash that critically injured Stephanie Tripp of Fall River.

The BMW is likely a model from 1999 through 2005 and should have minor damage to the hood, front end and front passenger side, authorities said.

Westport police were called around 8:15 p.m. Tuesday to a report of a crash in the area of 288 Old Bedford Road.

When first responders arrived, they located the victim, Stephanie Tripp, face down in the breakdown lane suffering from major injuries, the district attorneys office said. The victim was rushed to Rhode Island Hospital, where she remains in critical condition.

The preliminary investigation shows Tripp was walking on the side of the road when she was struck by the BMV.

The male operator of the vehicle exited the car and apparently told a witness he was sorry and didnt mean to hit the victim, authorities said. A witness told the driver to stay on scene, but as the witness was providing aid to the victim, the driver sped off in an easterly direction on Old Bedford Road.

Another witness tried to follow the BMW but lost sight of it in the area of Faunce Corner Road in Dartmouth.

The driver was speeding and passing cars in the opposite travel lane.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Massachusetts State Police Trooper Phil Giardino at 508-961-1928 or Westport Police detectives at 508-636-1122. Residents can also submit a tip about this case anonymously by utilizing our anonymous text a tip program. To anonymously text a tip to us, text the word Bristol to the phone number CRIMES (274637). Then just text us your tip. You can also submit a web-based anonymous tip by going to https://new.tipsubmit.com/en/create-report/anonymous/da.bristol.ma.us.
Former New England Patriots player Greg Spires will be brought to a New Hampshire courtroom Monday morning where he will face a stalking charge.

The Concord Monitor reports the 44-year-old Texas resident was arrested Friday in Concord, New Hampshire. Spires was charged with stalking and accused of violating a protective order.

According to the newspaper, Spires is being held without bail until his arraignment Monday.

Authorities told the Concord Monitor that Spires ex-wife received a protective order against him on Thursday. Spires violated the protective order the following day, the newspaper reports.

Drafted by the Patriots in the third round of the 1998 draft, Spires played three seasons in New England before eventually ending up playing for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

He won a Super Bowl with the Buccaneers in the 2002 season.

The Boston Globe reported that Spires was ordered to stay away from his ex-wife in April 2016 after he allegedly sent threatening text messages.

The couple began divorce proceedings in 2005, the same year Spires was accused of assaulting her. Charges were never filed, the Globe reported.
NORTHAMPTON  Art in a can  an aerosol can.

The Northampton Public Arts Festival is a two-day event designed to promote art created in public spaces with local and nationally known street artists armed with spray paint and brushes.

Presented by the Northampton Arts Council, the festival opened Saturday and concludes Sunday in the public plaza behind Thornes Marketplace.

Brian Foote, executive director of the Northampton Arts Council, said he hopes the festival will inspire other community members to do more public art."

The council received entries from 25 artists, and selected eight.

Dripped On Productions conducted an open painting session Saturday with the eight artists working on four mural cubes. In addition, Dripped On team member Jonathan Neville and various community members conducted workshops inviting participants to paint. For the kids, it was love at first brush.

The selected artists were MerkThose, Seymour Van Gogh, Grace Lang, Steph Burr, Peter O. Zierlein, Xile, Barrett Capistran and Haley McDevitt.

Former Northampton resident Ramiro Davaro-Comas, now living in Brooklyn, worked with the arts council to bring the public arts festival to Northampton.

For about 10 years, Ive wanted to bring a public art project like this to the community to get them psyched and excited about public artwork, and maybe we can show people that aerosol paint and muralism is a positive thing, he said Saturday.

On Sunday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., the artists will put the finishing touches on their work. There is a chance for rain, but the artists have an aerosol-can-do attitude. If it rains, I still paint, said Hank VonHellion, whose street artist name is Xile.
CHICOPEE  A 15-year-old student was subdued with pepper spray and then arrested after swearing at two vice principals and threatening to punch one on Wednesday at Chicopee High School.

The teenager, whose name was not released because of his age, was charged with assault, threatening to commit a crime, trespassing and resisting arrest, said Michael Wilk, police public information officer.

The boy had previously been suspended and was not allowed in the school when one of the vice principals spotted him at about 11:30 a.m. She ordered him to leave because he was trespassing, Wilk said.

The 15-year-old refused and said Im not (expletive) going nowhere. At that point the principal was joined by an ROTC instructor who was concerned the student was going to assault the vice principal, Wilk said.

The boy went to the cafeteria and the two with School Resource Police Officer Johnny Jusino went to confront him again. The vice principal ordered the student to leave and he again swore at her, called her a derogatory name and refused to leave, he said.

The student was extremely agitated and had already punched a wall. At the time there were about 200 students in the cafeteria on their lunch period, Wilk said.

When a second female vice principal arrived and tried to calm down the student, he became more agitated, swore at her and threatened to punch her in the face. He made a fist with both hands, continued to yell and leaned toward the administrator, who stepped back, he said.

At this point, SRO Jusino felt that the student was going to attack the vice principal. He then deployed one short burst of pepper spray to stop the students assault. The student stopped his assault towards the vice principal, and began to walk away, Wilk said.

Jusino handcuffed and arrested the teenager. Before being driven to the Police Department, he was walked to the nurses office so the pepper spray could be washed from his face, Wilk said.

The case is now being handled in Juvenile Court, Wilk said.
CHICOPEE  Three men were arrested after being accused of being part of a group that threatened a police sergeant early Saturday morning.

When responding to a call of a fight near the Sunoco station at 2041 Memorial Drive, Sgt. Scott Lynch saw a man exit a vehicle and walk to the back of a closed store, which has an enclosed fence area, said Michael Wilk, police public information officer.

He yelled for the man to stop and show his hands. The man refused, saying Whatcha you wanna do (expletive). Then a second man them came from behind and said, You aint gonna take me, Wilk said.

Lynch withdrew his stun gun from his holster, fearing they may attack him because they refused to follow his commands. He then saw about 10 more people coming from the area near New Ludlow Road, Wilk said.

By then backup arrived and were able to control the crowd. The two men were arrested and a third, who had four warrants, was also taken into custody, Wilk said.

Anthony Ortiz-Esquilin, 26, of Hamden, Connecticut, and Angel Sanchez, 28, of 1 Emerson St., Chicopee, were charged with resisting arrest and disorderly conduct. Sanchez was also charged with threat to commit a crime.

Roberto Sanchez, 37, of 12 Chapman St., Chicopee, was arrested on four warrants, Wilk said.

Roberto Sanchez is being held without bail. Angel Sanchez was released on $290 and Ortiz Esquilin was released on $140 bail. The three are expected to be arraigned in Chicopee District Court on Monday, he said.
A Massachusetts man is being held in connection with a machete attack on the Appalachian Trial in Virginia that left one person dead and a second critically injured.

Federal prosecutors and the FBI announced in a press release Sunday that 30-year-old James L. Jordan of West Yarmouth was arrested Saturday and is currently being held on a federal criminal complaint.

According to prosecutors, Jordan is being charged after hikers reported to Wythe County Sheriffs Department that a man was attacking people along the trial with a machete.

Jordan was arrested along the trail near Abingdon, Virginia, and will be arraigned on murder and assault charges in U.S. District Court in Abingdon Monday.
Peggy Lipton, best known for her roles in The Mod Squad and Twin Peaks has died. She was 72.

Her daughters Rashida and Kidada Jones announced her death to The Los Angeles Times.

She made her journey peacefully with her daughters and nieces by her side, Liptons daughters said in a statement to the newspaper. We feel so lucky for every moment we spent with her.

She was diagnosed with colon cancer in 2004.

Lipton won a Golden Globe and was nominated four times for an Emmy Award her playing Julie Barnes in The Mod Squa, from 1968 to 1973. She returned to series television to co-star in David Lynchs Twin Peaks, where she played Norma Jennings, owner of the Double R Diner from 1989 to 1991 and again in 2017.

She married music producer Quincy Jones in 1974, and they had two daughters. The couple divorced in 1989.

We cant put all of our feelings into words right now, but we will say: Peggy was and will always be our beacon of light, both in this world and beyond, her daughters said in a statement Saturday. She will always be a part of us.
BERNARDSTON -- Massachusetts State Police arrested two Vermont residents and a New York man on multiple drug offenses, including trafficking heroin, after a trooper pulled over their car for having two defective rear lights.

Amanda Stacey, 35, of East Hardwick, Vermont, Angela Limoges, 34, of Hyde Park, Vermont and Ricardo Romero, 43, of Jamaica, New York, were arrested on Wednesday. They were all charged with trafficking in heroin and cocaine, conspiracy to violate the drug laws and possession of Class A, Class B and Class E drugs, police said.

Stacey and Limoges were also charged with tampering with evidence and Stacey was charged with motor vehicle offenses, police said.

Trooper Michael Leslie was on routine patrol on Interstate-91 when he noticed a Hyundai Elantra with a defective rear taillight and license plate light. He pulled over the car and when he approached Stacey, who was driving, he observed an ax-style weapon and items he felt were used with crack cocaine, police said.

Stacey was asked to step out of the car to keep her away from the ax. The vehicle was then searched and Leslie found a small amount of cocaine in her possession.

The two passengers were then ordered from the car and it was searched. Leslie found a total of 125 grams of cocaine, 71 grams of heroin, and a small amount of prescription medication in the car, police said.

All three were arraigned at Greenfield District Court on Thursday, police said.
Update: Manager Alex Cora said after Sundays game David Price will throw another bullpen session. Price likely will start either next weekend vs. the Astros or next week vs. the Blue Jays in Toronto.

It might be over the weekend. It might be after the weekend, Cora said.

BOSTON  David Price, who the Red Sox placed on the 10-day injured list with elbow tendinitis May 6, threw a bullpen session at Fenway Park on Sunday.

I havent gotten any feedback from it, manager Alex Cora said at his pregame media availability.

But when Cora was asked if Price could be ready to pitch in the Red Sox-Astros series, Cora replied, Probably."

Chris Sale will start for Boston on Tuesday against Colorado at Fenway Park. Eduardo Rodriguez likely will start Wednesday against the Rockies.

The Red Sox then play Houston at Fenway on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Its not finalized yet (Rodriguez on Wednesday), Cora said. We have to talk to David.. But it seems like were going to lean that way.

~ Jackie Bradley Jr. isnt playing Sunday because of a routine day off, Cora said.

~ Nathan Eovaldi threw from one knee Saturday. What could be his next step?

I dont know. Theres a lot of steps coming. He feels great, Cora said. He feels good today.

Cora said Eovaldi walks into his office every day and shows him how much farther he can reach with his arm. Cora added this is a lot different rehab from last when Eovaldi had the same surgery (right elbow arthroscopy and loose body removal). He also was returning from Tommy John surgery last year.

It should be quicker (than last year), Cora said.
ASHKELON, Israel

May 12, 2019

Israel's

Ashkelon

David Harris

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Israel

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/PRNewswire/ -- American Jewish Committee (AJC), following a long tradition of offering support foremergency needs, made a donation today to the Barzilai Medical Center in. AJC CEOpresented a check to Barzilai CEO and Medical Director Dr. Chezy Levy for the purchase of x-ray equipment.The AJC donation comes in the wake of the relentless assault a week ago by Hamas and Islamic Jihad, which fired 700 rockets frominto southern. Barzilai, located in, is the main hospital in the country's south, servicing Jews and Arabs alike, including, notably, patients from"The Jewish and Arab doctors and medical staff at Barzilai, only eight miles from theborder, are literally on the front lines," said Harris, who has visited the hospital during previous rocket attacks from Gaza. "I've personally witnessed the remarkably caring and compassionate treatment administered to all patients, even combatants from. It's not something you'd necessarily see everywhere else in the world. You'll see it in."During the latest attack, the Barzilai Medical Center treated 150 people, three of whom died. A fourth Israeli was killed by a rocket that struck his home. Hospital administrators told AJC that rocket fragments littered the hospital grounds, and one rocket hit the roof of the oncology wing.In 2014, during the last major confrontation between Hamas and, AJC funds helped Barzilai purchase an anesthesia machine for its emergency room.In 2012, during a Hamas escalation of firing rockets into, an AJC grant enabled Barzilai to purchase a mobile x-ray apparatus and a plasma sterrad sterilizer.And a large AJC delegation visited Barzilai Medical Center in 2009, during Operation Cast Lead, whenentered, four years after its total withdrawal from the coastal strip, in an effort to stop Hamas rockets attacks. Following that visit, AJC provided a grant to purchase emergency medical equipment for the hospital's trauma center.https://www.ajc.org/news/ajc-donation-will-provide-equipment-for-barzilai-medical-center-after-hamas-attacks

View original content:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/ajc-donation-will-provide-equipment-for-barzilai-medical-center-after-hamas-attacks-300848550.html



SOURCE American Jewish Committee




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This is the first time an upper limit has been placed on safe coffee consumption and cardiovascular health."Coffee is the most commonly consumed stimulant in the world - it wakes us up, boosts our energy and helps us focus - but people are always asking 'How much caffeine is too much?'," Prof Hypponen says."Most people would agree that if you drink a lot of coffee, you might feel jittery, irritable or perhaps even nauseas - that's because caffeine helps your body work faster and harder, but it is also likely to suggest that you may have reached your limit for the time being."We also know that risk of cardiovascular disease increases with high blood pressure, a known consequence of excess caffeine consumption.Using UK Biobank data of 347,077 participants aged 37-73 years, the study explored the ability of the caffeine-metabolizing gene (CYP1A2) to better process caffeine, identifying increased risks of cardiovascular disease in line with coffee consumption and genetic variations.Prof Hypponen says that despite carriers of the fast-processing gene vaariation being four times quicker at metabolising caffeine, the research does not support the belief that these people could safely consume more caffeine, more frequently, without detrimental health effects. "An estimated three billion cups of coffee are enjoyed every day around the world," Prof Hypponen says."Knowing the limits of what's good for you and what's not is imperative. "As with many things, it's all about moderation; overindulge and your health will pay for it."Source: Eurekalert
Styling your hair in the summer can be a tricky thing. You do not just have to keep it cool around the nape of your neck but also make sure you're not getting a nerdy look while you're at it. Besides, humidity is also a major concern in summers. So here's a guide to great summer hairstyles that you could use to show to your stylist next time you visit the salon.

Check out best summer hairstyles for men:

1. The Fading Buzz Cut

 Instagram

The fading buzz cut is characterized by tapered sides with a short crop on top. This army-inspired buzz cut goes well with all kinds of face structures and especially works great with a well-groomed beard.

2. Low-Fade Spikes

 Instagram

A low-fade haircut with a cropped (but slightly spiked) fringe is honestly great for the summer, since fades have been up and running for a long time. Plus, this hairstyle suits every hair type!

3. The Crop Top

 Instagram

Think Thomas Shelby from 'Peaky Blinders'; that's exactly what we're talking about. The crop top is a refined look and is understated yet contemporary. It involves a gradual fade on the side with focused short hair on the top-front. It is versatile and can achieve both clean and messy looks with wax.

4. A Faded Mess

 Instagram

For men with considerable volume on top, Kartik Aaryan can be your inspiration for getting a faded mess. The key is to play with texture on top and keep the sides short by opting for a fade, to make the cut look a lot more dramatic.

5. The Slick-Back Look

 Instagram

This look requires mid-length hair to give it a tamed mold. Wax or gel is a necessary tool to create this look: you can either direct it to the back or flip it to one side to give it a structured look. This hairstyle blends well with an au naturel beard, a moustache or even a fresh clean-shaven look.

6. The Disconnected Crop

 Instagram

A hairstyle with a longer length at the top and a fade on the sides. The good thing about this hairstyle is that you can style it whichever way you fancy. You could go all neat for an office meeting or choose a dishevelled look for the after party. You cannot go wrong with this versatile hairstyle.

7. The Casual Dishevelled Look

 Instagram

This hairstyle is for the low-maintenance guys who only prefer the rolled-out-of-bed look. Just keep a high-quality hairbrush and hairdryer handy. Before the big party, swipe the brush through your hair for a good look.

8. The Mad Men Look

 Instagram

Mad Men hairstyles inspired by the 'Mad Men', this elegant, clean look is a great choice for working professionals. This style is suitable for straight, fine hair but needs a little help of styling products.

9. The Bon Chic Look

 Getty Images

Inspired by Leonardo DiCaprio's legendary haircut in Titanic, the bon chic look is a classic style of the 90s that is back in force this year. We love this messy-tousled style for its casual yet playful look.
Such unacceptable and unfounded claims against Greece undermine the stability of the area and the cohesion of the Alliance. Similar claims have absolutely no footing in international law and have been answered appropriately and repeatedly.



We remind Turkey that the legal status of the Aegean has been expressly and unquestionably clarified by the 1923 Treaty of Lausanne and the 1947 Treaty of Paris. The latter, however, grants no rights to Turkey, as it is not one of the counterparties.



Besides, on the basis of the provisions of United Nations' Charter, Greece will never give up its right to take appropriate measures to legally defend and protect its sovereignty and territorial integrity.



Furthermore, Turkey is putting forward equally unfounded claims as to the institutional operation of NATO and the carrying out of its operations in the Aegean, which it obstructs unjustifiably.



We call upon Turkey to respect its obligations that stem from Article 1 of the Treaty of Washington and Article 2(4) of the UN Charter, and to fully abstain from any threat of use of violence or illegal unilateral actions. The key condition for stability in our turbulent area is strict implementation of international law and the law of the sea, as it applies and not as Turkey wishes to arbitrarily interpret, unique in the world.



Only in this context can honest dialogue take place.
Minister of Foreign Affairs Giorgos Katrougalos is travelling to Brussels to participate in the two-day proceedings of the EU Foreign Affairs Council (FAC) on 13 and 14 May. The meeting will also be attended by the Defence Ministers of the EU Members States.



The Foreign Ministers will exchange views on the latest developments in Venezuela and Libya. The talks on Libya will focus on initiatives the EU could undertake to avoid any further escalation of conflicts and resolve the crisis. Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General in Libya, Ghassan Salame, will also take part in the proceedings.



Prior to this, the EU Foreign Ministers will meet with their counterparts from the countries of the Eastern Partnership, which is celebrating its 10-year anniversary.



On the second day of proceedings, the EU Foreign and Defence Ministers along with their counterparts from the G5 Sahel countries (Burkina Faso, Chad, Mali, Mauritania and Niger) will examine the situation in the area of Sahel. They will also assess the progress made so far with regard to the commitments undertaken by the 25 participating Member States in the context of the Permanent Structured Cooperation (PESCO) in the area of security and defence policy.



Lastly, the Minister of Foreign Affairs will refer extensively to Turkeys misconduct in the Cypriot EEZ, focusing on the need to preserve stability and to implement the international law in the Eastern Mediterranean.



On the sidelines of the Council, the Minister of Foreign Affairs will meet with his counterparts.






By Fox News, May 11, 2019





Tensions escalated in the Middle East on Friday as Iran warned it could easily destroy a naval fleet sent by the United States in order to ward off a potential threat to American commercial interests.





"Their billion[-dollar] fleet can be destroyed with one missile," Ayatollah Tabatabai-Nejad said, according to Reuters.
Dear @IlhanMN,



I hear you plan to go on a fact-finding tour of Israel. In fact, Israel is doing pretty well. Its, Somalia, your native country, that could truly use your formidable skills. Maybe you could use your frequent flyer miles and swing by.
India is going through one of the greatest periods of wealth creation -- and destruction -- all at the same time.

A new breed of self-made entrepreneurs is vaulting into the ranks of the wealthy, offsetting billions lost by debt-burdened industrialists and members of the country's old dynasties. The changes are set to help India's ultra-rich population grow at the world's fastest pace.

It's a shift shaped partly by a debt-fueled expansion that left businesses from power generation to airlines with $190 billion in soured loans. Over the past few years, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government has cracked down on delinquent borrowers, and India's banks moved to seize their assets, a dramatic change for a country where the wealthy once enjoyed almost complete protection.

While old business clans continue to dominate India's rich lists, a tenfold expansion in its economy since its opening in the 1990s has spawned new tycoons in fields like technology. The number of billionaires in India more than doubled to 119 between 2013 and 2018, according to Knight Frank. And the country will lead the global growth in ultrahigh net worth individuals, with its numbers rising 39 percent to 2,697 by 2023, the researcher estimates.

"The business environment has improved over the years," said Charles Dhanaraj, a professor at the Fox School of Business at Temple University in Philadelphia. "The availability of venture capital and private equity has changed the opportunity space for promising businesses. So we should see more of these startups and scaleups in the coming years."

Here are some well-known names who have seen a shift in their fortunes:

Old money:

- Anil Ambani, the younger brother of Asia's richest man, inherited some of the newer businesses of Reliance Industries Ltd. in 2005 as part of a settlement with older sibling, Mukesh, following the death of their father Dhirubhai Ambani three years earlier. Now, more than a decade later, the younger Ambani has been fending off creditors and fighting multiple cases in courts amid his phone carrier Reliance Communications Ltd.'s slide into bankruptcy. A representative for Anil Ambani didn't comment. The value of his holdings in companies has plunged to about $120 million from a net worth of at least $31 billion in 2008, according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index.

- The first-generation entrepreneurs, Shashi and Ravi Ruia, started the Essar Group in 1969 as a construction company. Later they diversified into new businesses, investing about $18 billion between 2008 and 2012. The excessive leverage across the group and some adverse policy actions forced them to sell many of their assets. The Ruia brothers were jointly worth more than $4 billion at the start of 2015, and have since lost their billionaire status, according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index.

- Tulsi Tanti's Suzlon Energy Ltd. purchased German REpower Systems for nearly $2 billion in 2007 to be hailed as a global company, but things went downhill from there. Once the world's top turbine maker, Suzlon's debt-driven expansion caused one of India's largest corporate debt default in 2012. Seven years later Tanti is struggling to repair his company's finances. Tanti, who had a net worth of more than $5.7 billion in 2007, has lost his billionaire status, according to data compiled by Bloomberg.

- After inheriting his father's liquor empire, Vijay Mallya, started Kingfisher Airlines Ltd. Struggling to repay lenders, the carrier was grounded seven years later. Mallya is currently fighting an extradition case in London after fleeing India. Lenders have sought to recover as much as $1.5 billion from the man known as "the king of good times'' for his flamboyant lifestyle.

New money:

- Binny Bansal and Sachin Bansal, who aren't related, created Flipkart, India's largest online retailer, within a decade. Last year, they sold their company to Walmart, becoming billionaires. Binny left shortly after, with Walmart said to have conducted an inquiry into a consensual relationship he had with a woman. He still holds 4 percent of Flipkart and a board seat. Sachin exited Flipkart at the time of the Walmart acquisition.

- Vijay Shekhar Sharma founded One97 Communications in 2000 when fewer than 10 million Indians were online. Business at his Paytm digital payment unit soared after the Indian government eliminated 500- and 1,000-rupee banknotes at the end of 2016. An August 2018 funding round valued One97 at more than $10 billion, people familiar with the matter said at the time. Sharma currently owns 15 percent of the company, according to a person familiar with the matter.

- Byju Raveendran, chief executive of Bangalore-based Think & Learn Pvt., launched the Byju's K-12 education app in 2015. His videos explain fractions or the laws of motion at a conceptual level, drawing almost 30 million users from 1,700 Indian cities. A December funding round valued it at $3.6 billion. Raveendran, his wife and brother together own about 36 percent, according to Raveendran.

- - -

Bloomberg's Swansy Afonso, Anindya Upadhyay and Pei Yi Mak contributetd.
Isaak Olson was two months from graduating in 2014 when he disclosed that his fiancee had given birth several months earlier...
HOLLAND, MI  Step inside Jeff Gallaghers new store in Holland Town Center and youll see flourishes typical of any health and wellness shop.

Signs dot the walls advertising products for everything from pain and inflammation to skincare and sleep assistance. Theres even a section for dogs and cats, with items designed to Stop the Itch and keep animals Calm and Quiet during thunderstorms or stressful events.

But theres a twist to these products.

They all contain CBD, a non-intoxicating chemical found in marijuana and hemp that has exploded in popularity in recent years. Businesses market CBD as a treatment for problems ranging from anxiety to muscle pain, and the substance can now be found in malls, video stores and national pharmacy chains.

Gallagher  whose store, Made by Hemp, is opening Saturday  is a firm believer in CBD. He says it helped him get off the anti-anxiety medication he began taking after his wife passed away in 2006.

Hes been a cheerleader for it ever since.

My goal was to help people get off their anxiety medicine when I started this thing, said Gallagher, who launched his business as an online CBD retailer in 2013 and is now opening his first brick-and-mortar location. I have 33 employees now. Im not a doctor so I cant make claims. But what I can do is educate people to live a more healthy lifestyle and incorporate hemp and CBD into that lifestyle.

While testimonials from CBD users are plentiful, theres little scientific research on the health claims associated with the product.

A this point there are some questions about some of those claims, said Kevin Boehnke, a research investigator at the Chronic Pain and Fatigue Research Center at University of Michigan who has studied the effect of CBD and cannabis on chronic pain. One of the reasons for that is because its been incredibly difficult to study cannabis for a long time because Hemp was classified as a controlled substance prior to the passage of the 2018 Farm Bill.

In Michigan, CBD products that contain below 0.3 percent THC are not regulated as marijuana. THC is the chemical in marijuana that produces the high effect.

Inside his store, Gallagher shows off his goods. There are two-ounce tubes of cooling CBD muscle rub, CBD gummies, CBD face and body moisturizer, CBD seltzer water, and one-ounce vials of berry flavored hemp extract that customers can dribble in their mouth.

Gallaghers company produces some of the products itself at a factory in Jenison. Others are purchased from outside suppliers.

My wife loves that stuff, Gallagher, who has since remarried, said as he pointed to a tube of hemp and blue chamomile face serum. She puts it on her face before she puts her makeup on.

He even sells CBD products for dogs and cats.

Cats get anxious too, he said, standing near a display case with packages of Calm and Quiet pet treat supplements.

The products arent cheap.

A one-ounce tube of hemp oil Tasty Drops with 300 milligrams of CBD costs $49.99. The same product, but with 1,000 milligrams of CBD, costs $99.99. Overall, the products range in price from $3 for a single straw of CBD-infused honey to $176.999 for a 10-gram tube of CBD concentrate.

It takes so much money to process this stuff, Gallagher said when asked about the prices. The plant that we use to process is a $7 million plant.

While Gallaghers company has been selling CBD products online since 2013, his location in the Holland Town Center is his first brick-and-mortar site. He decided to open the store given the rapid growth in the CBD marketplace.

The Brightfield Group, a market research firm, estimated that CBD sales totaled $627 million in 2018. It projects that sales will climb to $22 billion by 2022.

Gallagher sees his role as educating customers who are interested in buying CBD but dont want to purchase it online. He says his staff will give customers an opportunity to touch, smell and taste the substance, and provide an overview of where it comes from.

Theres a lot of product on that market that isnt what it says it is, Gallagher said. Theres a lot of product on the market that tests well. But is it domestic or Chinese?

In April, after the federal government in 2018 removed hemp from a list of controlled substances, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced it would review its stance on CBD products in a set of hearings in May.

The agencys commissioner, Scott Gottlieb, said in a statement that there are lingering questions about CBD products, particularly those that claim the substance can be used to treat cancer.

Selling unapproved products with unsubstantiated therapeutic claims can put patients and consumers at risk, he said.

Gallagher, 41, of Holland, says hes concerned about bad actors in the market. He says his mission is to provide a product that is safe and reliable. He says he emphasizes that CBD can be used to treat pain but is not a cure all for the ailment.

I got into this to help a few people, and its become life changing, he said.
MECOSTA COUNTY, MI -- Police are trying to identify a woman who tried to pass a $100 counterfeit bill at a Jimmy Johns restaurant near Big Rapids.

She entered the store just after 4 p.m. Friday, May 10.

Mecosta County sheriffs deputies said the woman ordered a sandwich and drink and then tried to pay with the $100 bill. Employees determined it was fake before finishing the transaction.

She then fled the store and left in a Gray Hyundai Tucson SUV with Arizona plate BPC8806.

Anyone with information about the woman can call police at 231-592-0150.
MATTAWAN, MI -- Believe in our ability to bring about change, was the message Roosevelt University student Alex Fruin of Mattawan imparted on fellow graduates in his college commencement speech.

The musical arts major delivered the Roosevelt University student commencement speech Friday, May 10. His speech was dedicated to his brother, Nathaniel Fruin, a Mattawan volunteer firefighter who died in the line of duty in 2013.

Growing up on a vineyard in Mattawan, Alex Fruin loved singing in choir and participating in band, but never put much stock in going to college.

It just wasnt a priority for me, he said in a university news release.

But, his older brother encouraged him to go to college and pursue his passion for music. He would Drive Alex to Chicago twice a month for private voice lessons at Roosevelt University and attended his band performances.

My brother was my biggest supporter and ultimately one of the reasons I came to Roosevelt University, he said.

When his brother died, Fruin said, he was devastated and stopped doing everything for about six months. It wasnt until his senior year he pursued voice lessons again.

Death changes the way you look at the world, Fruin said. It has made me desire to have a life that has meaning in serving others and in creating a world that is more equitable for all.

In his speech, Fruin credits his high school voice teacher with giving him the encouragement and belief in himself he needed in that difficult time. Ultimately, it led him to Roosevelt University.

People come into our lives for a reason, especially during times of tragedy, Fruin said.

Fruin recently trained with the Obama Foundation Community Leadership Corps in Chicago. He is a recipient of the Theodore Presser Undergraduate Scholarship, the Make Music Chicagos James Weging Memorial Internship and the Yamaha Fellowship to attend the Eastman School of Musics Leadership Academy.

This year, he was the first student to receive Roosevelt Universitys Presidential Social Justice Award, which was given in recognition of an honors project Fruin completed on ways classical American arts organizations must strategically plan to further embrace principles of diversity, equity and inclusion in order to survive and flourish in the communities they serve.

Our graduation today is a beginning, not an ending," Fruin said in his speech. "We have dedicated the past four years of our lives to understanding the principles of logic, science and fact. These are the foundations in which we can rebuild our community during stormy times.

We have the tools now to bring about the change in our own backyard, so let us view this graduation as the opportunity to unequivocally commit to building a better society.

Fruins full remarks can be viewed in the following video, starting at the 52-minute mark:
BERRIEN COUNTY, MI  At least one person was killed and three were critically injured Saturday following a head-on crash in southwest Michigan, according to the Berrien County Sheriffs office.

The crash happened around 4 p.m. Saturday, May 11, on M-239 just south of Wilson Road in Berrien Countys New Buffalo Township, according to a news release issued by the sheriffs office.

Deputies did not identify the person killed in the crash.

The sheriffs office is assisting with the investigation, which is ongoing.

Officers with several area law enforcement agencies responded around 4 p.m. Saturday on M-239 near Wilson Road to a multi-vehicle crash. Upon investigation, officers and sheriffs deputies determined that a Honda CRV driven by a 21-year-old LaPorte, Indiana woman had crossed the center line and struck two vehicles.

The CRV first struck a Nissan Rough, which received minor damage and no injuries were reported to the occupants of the vehicle, the release reads.

The CRV then struck a Toyota Sequoia driven by a 40-year-old Elkhart, Indiana man head-on and caused heavy front-end damage to both vehicles.

Deputies said the Toyota was occupied by four additional passengers who were pinned inside the vehicle following the crash. One passenger died from his injuries and the remaining three were listed in critical condition, according to the release.

The drivers of the Honda and the Toyota were both listed in stable condition and received treatment for their injuries.

Each injured person was taken to Memorial Hospital in South Bend, Indiana following the crash.
MECOSTA COUNTY, MI  A 46-year-old motorcyclist was hospitalized Saturday evening after he hit a deer, according to the Mecosta County Sheriffs office.

The crash occurred around 7:30 p.m. Saturday, May 11, on Millbrook Road near 10th Avenue in Mecosta Countys village of Millbrook, according to a news release issued by the sheriffs office.

Deputies were dispatched Sunday evening to Millbrook and 10th Avenue on a report of a personal injury crash involving a motorcycle and a deer. Upon arrival, deputies could not find a crash victim nor a motorcycle and continued to investigate.

Deputies later determined that a 46-year-old Barryton man had crashed and left the scene before deputies arrived, the release reads.

The man was located at a residence in Millbrook a short time later.

After the investigation was complete, the motorcyclist was taken to Spectrum Health Butterworth Hospital in Grand Rapids to seek treatment for non-life-threatening injuries.

Millbrook fire and Mecosta EMS assisted Mecosta County Sheriffs deputies on scene.
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MUSKEGON, MI - Whitehall High School students spent and evening in Paris, City of Lights during prom 2019.

The prom was held on Saturday, May 11, at Watermark 920 in Muskegon.

With the theme Paris, City of Lights, students and guests enjoyed an evening of music and dancing highlighted by an Eiffel Tower backdrop, flowers and twinkling lights. There was also a French bistro-style snack bar featuring Ice Box Brand ice cream bars and desserts from Sweet Traditions.

About 300 students and guests were expected to attend the event.

The prom was planned by eight students with the help of two advisors.

As the only Muskegon County prom this week, Whitehall didnt have to compete against other schools for the Prom of the Week title. Reeths-Puffer High School won last weeks prom poll. Other winners have been Ravenna High School, Fruitport High School and Muskegon Catholic Central.

Previous prom coverage

Reeths-Puffer students spend Starry Night in Paris at prom 2019

Muskegon High students show off glitz, glam at prom 2019

Ravenna prom 2019 blends glam, rustic vibes in Enchanted Forest

Western Michigan Christian prom 2019 honors Beauty and the Beast

Fruitport hosts enchanted prom 2019

Muskegon Catholic Central goes to prom 2019 with Among the Stars theme

North Muskegon goes to prom 2019 with New York City Lights theme

150 kings and queens crowned at Night to Shine prom
GRAND RAPIDS, MI  Darth Vader crashed East Kentwoods prom.

Vader and over 400 East Kentwood High School students attended the Summer Nights themed prom which was held on Saturday, May 11, at DeVos Place in downtown Grand Rapids.

The Star Wars villain, along with a stormtrooper and other Star Wars characters, stopped by and posed for photos with the prom goers as they checked in. They were at DeVos Place for another event, but made time to swing by the prom.

For complete MLive prom coverage, CLICK HERE.
JACKSON, MI - Napoleon High School went to prom 2019 with a theme of Under the Stars.

About 175 students and guests attended the event at the Potter Center on the campus of Jackson College.

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A DJ, photos, photo booth and french fry bar greeted attendees, said junior class advisor Derek Shell.

The juniors put on the event for the seniors. Shell said that junior class president Elizabeth Phelps was the leader in the planning and execution of the prom.

"The seniors have almost nothing to do, Shell said.

The Pirates won the Citizen Patriot Prom of the Week.
Six people, including a priest, have been killed in an attack on a Catholic church in Dablo, Burkina Faso after attackers opened fire as people prayed at Sunday mass.

"Towards 9.00 am, during mass, armed individuals burst into the Catholic Church," the mayor of Dablo, Ousmane Zongo, told AFP. "They started firing as the congregation tried to flee."

Dablo is a village located 90km from Kaya in the north-central part of the country.

The attack is the first on a Catholic church since terrorist attacks began in the country in 2015. Over 350 people have been killed in the raids which have been attributed to a number of jihadist groups, including the Islamic State in the Greater Sahara and the Ansarul Islam group.

Also on rt.com 2 French soldiers killed while freeing 4 kidnapped tourists in Burkina Faso

On April 29, gunmen attacked a Protestant church, killing a pastor and four worshippers in Silgadji near Djibo, which was the first attack on a church, France 24 reports.

Muslim and Christian clerics have been targeted by the groups. In February, a Spanish Catholic priest was killed in a raid in Nohao in the center of the country.

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Asian countries are expected to be the main drivers of global growth through the next decade, with growth rates at around 7 percent. China, however, will be absent from the club, according to Standard Chartered predictions.

Five of the seven rapidly growing economies will be in Asia, the banks analysts, Global Chief Economist David Mann and India-based head of thematic research Madhur Jha have concluded, according to Bloomberg, citing their research. The list includes India, Bangladesh, Vietnam, Myanmar, and the Philippines, while the two remaining countries in the club are in Africa  Ethiopia and Cote dIvoire.

Also on rt.com India to outpace US as worlds 2nd most powerful economy  report

While all the countries listed are predicted to enjoy surges in per-capita GDP, the research notes that it does not necessarily mean that peoples lives will become much better in spheres such as health and education, and have better access to goods and services. However, the growth can result in higher incomes and reduce socio-political instability and make it easier to introduce structural reforms, creating a virtuous cycle.

Meanwhile, China, the champion of the banks previous similar rankings, is not expected to meet the seven-percent benchmark, growing instead at a 5.5-percent pace. The worlds second largest economy had not left the list for four decades, but is set to lose its place in the club due to an economic slowdown and a progression toward higher per-capita incomes.

Also on rt.com US-China trade war could create winners in Southeast Asia  report

In 2018, Chinese economic growth saw a slowdown to 6.6 percent, compared to 6.8 one year before, However, that did not stop it from eclipsing the entire economy of some countries, like Australia.

Research by the ASEAN+3 Macroeconomic Research Office (AMRO) issued earlier this month said that Chinas growth is set to further cool down next year, and stand at 6.2 percent. It noted that the ongoing China-US trade row could slow East Asian economies, among other factors, but strong domestic demand will keep them afloat.

For more stories on economy & finance visit RT's business section
German pharmaceutical giant Bayer is hiring an outside law firm to review claims circulating in the French media that its seed firm, Monsanto, compiled illegal lists of influential journalists and lawmakers.

Bayer, who acquired the controversial agrochemical business last year, said on Sunday that the decision to commission the independent review came after its own internal investigation into the matter. It added that it understood the concerns raised over the week.

This is not the way Bayer seeks dialogue with society and stakeholders. We apologize for this behavior, the company said. However, it maintained that in the company's eyes, there was nothing illicit about the way such lists were compiled.

Also on rt.com New York calls for Monsantos 'toxic' pesticides to be banned from city parks

The complaint that Monsanto had illegally compiled a dossier of influential journalists, media publications, and politicians was initially made by the French daily, Le Monde. The paper said one of its journalists was among 200 names on the dossier, who would then be targeted by Monsanto lobbyists in a bid to sway their views on glyphosate-based herbicides. A complaint was then made to French police under the charge that the list of personal information was made by fraudulent, unfair or illicit means.

Le Monde said the lists were seen by the paper and France 2 after being leaked by a source inside the St. Louis-based PR and lobbying firm, Fleishman-Hillard. Bayer initially told the paper that is was unable to concretely identify the document, now dubbed in the media as the Monsanto file.

The French investigation is the latest in a string of legal woes inherited by Bayer, who have seen their share value plummet by almost 40 percent since taking over Monsanto. Last August, a US court ordered Monsanto to pay $289 million in compensation to a California groundskeeper, after they ruled that years of him using Monsantos glyphosate-based weedkiller Roundup contributed to his cancer. The ruling has opened up Bayer to thousands of other legal cases and 11,000 other Roundup-linked suits are currently making their way through the US courts.

In April, a French court ruled that Monsanto was liable for causing the neurological damages of a farmer, who accidentally inhaled fumes from its Lasso weedkiller in 2004. Arguing that the company gave insufficient warnings on its label, Paul Francois is seeking 1 million ($1.1 million) in damages.

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The self-proclaimed master of deal-making, US President Donald Trump, has warned Beijing against waiting out his term in hopes of a more lenient approach from a successor, saying he will insist on even worse conditions after 2020.

In an apparent attempt to coerce China into making concessions following a round of high-level trade talks in Washington that ended with no breakthrough, Trump resorted to a racketeering tactic, urging China to come on board with his terms now, unless it wants to deal with a much tougher post-2020 Trump.

Also on rt.com Trump orders tariff hikes on remaining Chinese goods, worth about $300bn

In a string of tweets on Saturday, Trump rehashed his old argument that having a Democrat in the White House would be a favorable scenario to China in terms of trade.

"I think that China felt they were being beaten so badly in the recent negotiation that they may as well wait around for the next election, 2020, to see if they could get lucky & have a Democrat win - in which case they would continue to rip-off the USA for $500 Billion a year," he tweeted.

Dismissing the possibility of anyone but himself winning in 2020, Trump promised to produce conditions Beijing finds even less acceptable during his second term.

"The deal will become far worse for them if it has to be negotiated in my second term. Would be wise for them to act now, but love collecting BIG TARIFFS!"

Earlier on Wednesday, Trump argued along the same lines, tweeting that China's reported detour from the draft deal with the US is a sign that it is pinning its hopes on Democratic presidential frontrunner Joe Biden or another one of "the very weak Democrats."

READ MORE: Minor twists will not fully derail trade war talks with US  Beijing

With negations stalled, Trump has been portraying the trade deal as something Beijing wants much more than Washington. Tariffs are "much easier and quicker to do" and bring the US more money than a deal, he has been claiming.

To complement his "or else" tactics, Trump has been cranking up tariffs on Chinese imports. On Friday, a fresh 15 percent hike on $200 billion worth of Chinese products came into effect. An increase in tariffs on all remaining Chinese goods, worth some $300 billion, is also on its way.

The US President did not rule out that he might reverse the tariffs if there is progress in the future rounds of trade talks.

Meanwhile, Beijing said it still remains "cautiously optimistic" about the course of the negotiations. Speaking following the two-day talks in Washington, the head of the Chinese delegation, Chinese Vice Premier Liu He, said that despite "minor twists and turns" he doesn't see the negotiations as having being "derailed

China earlier said that it would retaliate with "necessary countermeasures" to the new barrage of American tariffs.

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Billionaires and multimillionaires are preparing to leave the UK, taking their assets with them, should Jeremy Corbyn enter Downing Street.

Bracing for what some called Corbygeddon, people featured in this years Sunday Times Rich List, are ready to shift their businesses overseas to avoid a tax raid on their finances. The exodus may take up to 1 trillion (US$1.3 trillion) of capital from the UK, according to the newspaper.

Some of the wealthiest people in Britain have more concerns over Corbyn taking power and potential tax increases than they do Brexit, the boss of Coutts, the Queens bank, revealed to the outlet. The wealth advisor said he was helping clients to move their money out of the UK.

Also on rt.com Its a kind of magic: Rock band Queen are richer than the actual Queen

Meanwhile, tax expert Brian White told the newspaper that his business exports people out of the UK at a fast rate. Over the past year, he has assisted 10 people with net worth more than 500 million ($649mn), the total of more than 5 billion ($6.4bn), in leaving the country.

Alfie Best, who sits on the 450th place among the UKs richest 1,000, wont risk his personal wealth and would prefer to move money abroad if Corbyn becomes prime minister. The millionaire said that he would rather develop his business of luxury mobile home parks in the US and the Caribbean, but it would mean that he gives fewer jobs to the British.

Also on rt.com Brexit exit? Paris flat reportedly sold for record $44 million to mysterious British tycoon

The 2019 Rich List, led by London-based brothers Sri and Gopi Hinduja with a net worth of 1.356 billion ($1.762bn), showed that the wealthiest people and families are sitting on record wealth of 771.3 billion ($1tn). The top 10 included three Russian businessmen, billionaire Alisher Usmanov, Chelseas owner Roman Abramovich and the founder of one of Russias biggest banks, Mikhail Fridman, who is a newcomer for the list.

Jeremy Corbyn's party led a ComRes poll on Saturday, which put Labour on 27 percent, followed by the Brexit Party on 20 percent followed by the Conservatives close behind on 19 percent. If elected, apart from recently touted universal basic income, Labour also plans to ask the top 5 percent of earners to contribute more in tax to help fund public services, while leaving tax rates for other untouched.

For more stories on economy & finance visit RT's business section
Five people were killed during a terror attack on a private five-star hotel in the Pakistani southwestern port city of Gwadar, the military now confirmed announcing that the clearance operation is over.

Four hotel staff members and a Navy soldier lost their lives as three gunmen broke into the Pearl Continental hotel. Six more people were injured including in the ensuing gun fight

Also on rt.com At least 1 killed as gunmen attack 5-star hotel in major Pakistani port city of Gwadar

The attackers who reportedly had rocket launchers were killed by the security forces during the operation while all hotel visitors were safely evacuated. A local militant group, the Balochistan Liberation Army, claimed responsibility for the attack, according to local media.

Gwadar is one of the major hubs involved in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor project development and is often visited by Chinese nationals.

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Eurovision organizers wanted to advertise Israel to tourists and show that the locals aren't afraid to laugh at themselves but missed the mark completely uniting the most fierce political rivals in outrage.

The clip, released by state-owned Kan broadcaster ahead of the Eurovision Song Contest in Tel-Aviv next week, begins with a pair of terrified European guests arriving at Ben Gurion International Airport. They are jumped on by the contests host Lucy Ayoub and the channels journalist Elia Grinfeld, who break into a catchy song full of various stereotypes about Israel.

Don't say a word, I know what you just heard, that it's a land of war and occupation. But we have so much more than that, Lucy and Elia reassure the visitors in the opening verse of their 4-minute-long musical number.

They then insist that people in Israel treat each other as frenemies because most of them have complex identities.

The exercise in self-deprecation continues with a scene at the shop where Elia sings that most of us are Jews but only some of us are greedy as he snatches the tourist's change for himself.

Lucy and Elia then warn the Eurovision guests of mad drivers, recommend enjoying our lovely b*tches and the Dead Sea soon to be obsolete because of industries, trying good shawarma and to laugh at shops working on Saturday.

For most of the video, Elia is also seen sporting a t-shirt, which reads: I love Iron Dome, referring to the Israeli air defense system.

However, when the video was released on Friday not many in Israel and abroad got the joke, no matter of their political affiliation.

Yair Netanyahu, the son of Israeli PM, Benjamin Netanyahu, raged on Twitter over taxpayer money being used to make an anti-Semitic video.

Other right-wing commentators also chipped in, saying that the clip didn't mock, but only reinforced negative stereotypes about Jewish people.

Some suggested that the scandalous video was sponsored by Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) international movement, which pushes for Israeli withdrawal from occupied territories. But a pro-BDS Jewish Voice for Peace group also attacked the clip, describing as anti-Semitism and misogyny set to music.

There were, of course, some Twitterati, who supported the video and even called it genius, but the majority of comments were still on the negative side.

The Palestinians were also unhappy, but for another reason. They said the part in which Israeli performers briefly visit Jerusalem and refer to it as our beloved capital, was unacceptable claiming the video wipes the State of Palestine from the map.

The PA's foreign ministry demanded the sequence about Jerusalem be removed from the promo and accused Israel of using the Eurovision to entrench its colonial occupation by effectively normalizing the global acceptance of its unlawful conduct.

Also on rt.com Beautiful Diverse Sensational: Israel sets up fake Eurovision boycott page to counter BDS campaign

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In news that may stir fears of a Robocalypse among the faint-hearted, South Koreas military unveiled plans to design robots that would mimic animals and humans. The biorobots could be deployed in five years.

South Koreas Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) has published a new document offering a glimpse into the countrys grandiose plans to put several kinds of sophisticated biometric robots into military service within the next several years, Yonhap reported.

The DAPA said that it would galvanize efforts to design robots that would resemble humans and other living creatures, such as insects, birds, snakes, and possibly other marine life. For the moment, priority has been placed on developing human and insects-like robots. If the effort pays off, the know-how might be brought into the South Korean Army as early as 2024.

Also on rt.com US Army will have more combat robots than human soldiers by 2025  former British spy

The agency called the proposed biometric robots a game change in future warfare that will set the direction for the future of the defense industry.

Once enrolled in the army, humanoid and animaloid robots would be used for a variety of tasks, including rescue and search missions and reconnaissance.

That robots will one day replace humans on the battlefield or will make up the majority of the combat troops is no longer an idea from the world of science fiction, but a firm conviction of some security experts.

In 2016, the head of Russias military hi-tech body  analogous to the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) in the US  said the notion of people fighting battles on the ground will soon be obsolete.

Future warfare will involve operators and machines, not soldiers shooting at each other on the battlefield, Andrey Grigoriev, head of the Advanced Research Foundation (ARF), said.

Also on rt.com Halting the robo-pocalypse? Elon Musk & tech leaders pledge never to make lethal AI

The push for replacing humans with advanced killer robots has stoked fears of imminent destruction of humanity. Concerns were raised by the late Stephen Hawking, Elon Musk, and other tech leaders calling on governments to halt the development of potentially lethal autonomous weapons.

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Beto ORourkes hiring of a former oil industry lobbyist is a puzzling move for a Democrat who touts his green credentials. But such contradictions are par for the course in the Washington DC swamp.

Although his policy positions are often fluid and unclear, Beto ORourke has worked hard to present his campaign as a grassroots movement of the people. The failed Texas Senate candidate has embraced a range of feel-good positions, promising to take down the wall along the Mexican border in El Paso, unveiling a $5 trillion plan to combat climate change, and earlier this month promising to reject donations from the fossil fuel industry.

ORourkes hiring last week of veteran lobbyist Jeff Berman, however, is at odds with his professed integrity.

A bona-fide swamp creature, Berman lobbied for private prison company GEO Group, Keystone XL pipeline firm TransCanada, and SeaWorld, the aquarium giant that has become a byword for animal cruelty, when he worked for law and lobbying firm Bryan Cave from 2009 to 2011.

Hailing from the Border town of El Paso, Texas, ORourke has made opposition to President Donald Trumps hardline immigration policies one of his main standpoints, describing the detention centers illegal immigrants are housed in as institutions of terror. Yet during the Obama years, Berman lobbied on behalf of the GEO Group, which operates 12 Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facilities in the US, including the notorious Karnes County Detention Center in Texas, where staff were accused of sexually assaulting female detainees in 2014, and this month of denying migrants of their rights to access lawyers.

Also on rt.com Biden caught in immigration hypocrisy after rediscovered clip shows him demanding border fence

To the ORourke campaign, Bermans expertise is in delegate strategy, the labyrinthine process by which a final candidate is selected by the Democratic National Committee. The veteran lobbyists delegate game is credited for securing Barack Obamas nomination in 2008, and helping Hillary Clinton get the tip in 2016.

Described by Politico as the unsung hero of the Obama primary campaign, Berman would push for approval for the Keystone XL pipeline, a project still fiercely protested by Native Americans and environmental activists to this day.

The Obama administration would also expand the network of ICE facilities in border states, and increase the government spending on incarcerating immigrants from $591 million in 2005 to over $1 billion in 2011. The GEO Group meanwhile saw its annual revenue from federal contracts jump more than 300 percent during these years.

Good old Washington tradition

Companies, foreign leaders, and interest groups pay lobbying firms handsomely for access to the White House. A lobbyist who worked on a political campaign, especially one as instrumental to the presidents victory as Berman was in 2008, is understandably thought to have the presidents ear, and can command a high price for their services.

Also on rt.com Foreign Affairs Committee chair cited Saudi talking points in Yemen debate, now he lobbies for them

This strategy of electing and then lobbying the president was pioneered by infamous lobbying agency Black, Manafort, and Stone (former Trump campaign manager Paul Manafort and former Trump adviser Roger Stones operation) in the 1980s. Black, Manafort and Stone helped elect Ronald Reagan and George HW Bush, then lobbied Congress on behalf of dictators Mohamed Siad Barre of Somalia, Ferdinand Marcos of the Philippines, and Mobuto Sese Seko of Zaire, earning the agency the nickname The Torturers Lobby.

Manafort and Stones names are often spat out with distaste, and the activities of Black, Manafort and Stone are seen as a nadir in Washington politics, and the beginning of a destructive trend.

Yet the ORourke campaigns decision to cosy up with Berman generated only a few headlines, and little outrage. Buzzfeeds write-up completely neglected to mention his lobbying career, as did Politicos. Only the Intercept did a deep dive into Bermans storied career in the swamp.

A bipartisan game

What if the shoe were on the other foot? Would ORourke be eviscerated by the media if he were a Republican?

Most likely yes. President Trump has drawn a firestorm of criticism for appointing lobbyists to key positions, despite running his campaign on a pledge to drain the swamp of cronyism and corruption. Since taking office, Trump appointed coal industry lobbyist Andrew Wheeler as administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency last July, and just last month the Senate voted to confirm energy lobbyist David Bernhardt as secretary of the interior.

Bernhardt was confirmed in the face of stiff Democrat opposition, and became the subject of an ethics investigation four days after his confirmation. The investigation was opened following requests from Democratic lawmakers and activists, who accused Berman of using his previous position as deputy secretary of the interior to further the interests of his old fossil fuel lobbying buddies.

The appointments of Wheeler and Berman generated hundreds of headlines. Remember when Trump promised to drain the swamp, not restock it? read a Los Angeles Times op-ed last month. Outside Magazine even published a handy David Bernhardt Scandal Tracker.

However, whether hidden behind the scenes or conducted in full view of the public, the relationship between lobbyists and politicians transcends partisan divisions, and is one of the few issues that both parties seem to see completely eye-to-eye on.

ORourke, for his part, hired Berman at a make-or-break time for his campaign. While the progressive Texan was hovering around double digits in the polls after he announced his candidacy in March, his early energy has flagged. A new Monmouth University poll put former Vice President Joe Biden out in front at 36 percent, followed by progressive icon Bernie Sanders at 18 percent. ORourke trails at a mere two percent, tied for sixth place.

ORourke plans on re-launching his campaign in the coming days, an unnamed adviser told the Associated Press on Sunday. And this is a moment when an alliance with the swamp may be very handy.

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A piece of land has been chosen for a village to be named after US President Donald Trump in gratitude for Washingtons decision to recognize the Jewish States sovereignty over the Golan Heights, Prime Minister Netanyahu says.

Not disclosing the exact name of the settlement, Benjamin Netanyahu said that he will bring the name to the cabinet for approval as soon as the new community is established.

Netanyahu announced his symbolic gesture on Twitter in mid-April shortly after his alliance won the majority of seats in parliament. Filmed against the Golan Heights landscape, the prime minister said the Israelis were deeply moved by Trumps historic decision to recognize the region as part of the Jewish State.

When the leaders signed a declaration on the disputed region in late March, Netanyahu called it historic justice and a diplomatic victory, while Trump praised the powerful relationship between the US and Israel.

Israel seized the Golan Heights from Syria during the 1967 Six-Day War and annexed it in 1981. Tel Avivs actions are, however, considered illegal by the UN Security Council  an assessment which Washington agreed with until recently.

Meanwhile, the US move was blasted by Arab states, with Syria calling the decision a blatant aggression and a slap to the international community.

Also on rt.com 'Unlawful & unrecognized': Twitter heaps criticism as US maps show Golan Heights as part of Israel

Notably, Trumps stance on the Golan Heights was also rejected by Washingtons NATO allies. French President Emmanuel Macron said the decision violates international law and creates tensions in the region, while the EUs foreign affairs chief, Federica Mogherini, said ignoring the UN resolutions on the Golan Heights is not a solution.

In 2017, the Trump administration recognized Jerusalem as Israels capital and later moved the US Embassy there, drawing criticism from around the world.

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The sudden death of a woman sparked scuffles at a refugee reception center in Bavaria, with dozens of asylum seekers pelting police and ambulance workers with stones and bottles.

The body of the woman, 31, said to be from Nigeria, was found on Saturday at a refugee facility in the town of Regensburg. Police say officers who arrived to investigate the death and ambulance workers who responded to the call were attacked and abused by furious migrants.

As the situation grew tense, migrants began to throw stones and bottles at police. Some barricaded themselves inside the building trying to prevent the body from being removed.

Local police say it took them several hours to recover the body due to the scuffles, and additional forces were deployed to deal with the situation.

Afterwards, police confirmed there was no initial evidence that the woman was murdered. The facility is an anchor center where incoming asylum seekers wait for their applications to be processed. No arrests have been made and no people were injured, it was announced.

Germany welcomed hundreds of thousands of refugees during the major influx in 2015, triggering both pro and anti-refugee sentiment inside the country.

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Hundreds of people marched to the US Embassy in Warsaw as part of a demonstration against US pressure on Poland to compensate Jews who lost property during the Holocaust. The rally has sparked accusations of anti-Semitism.

Nationalist and far-right backers gathered at Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawieckis office on Saturday, where they rallied against US legislation S. 447, also known as the Justice for Uncompensated Survivors Today (JUST) Act. It was signed into law last year and requires the State Department to monitor the restitution of property seized during the Holocaust in dozens of countries.

Morawiecki expressed support for the protesters, arguing that it was Poles who deserve to be compensated for Nazi crimes. The demonstrators, many holding signs and shouting slogans, then marched on the US Embassy in Warsaw.

People were seen carrying banners with slogans such as Poland has no obligations and shouting, This is Poland, not Polin, using the Hebrew word for Poland.

Opponents of a compensation law insist that it would inflict serious damage on the countrys economy, and claim that Poland itself has never been adequately compensated by Germany for Nazi crimes. Far-right groups claim that Act 447 could force Poland to pay upwards of US$300 billion in compensation.

The demonstration has been painted by many as openly anti-Semitic, with some even describing the event as one of the largest anti-Jewish gatherings in recent memory.

Rafal Pankowski, the head of anti-hate group Never Again, told AP that the rally was probably the biggest openly anti-Jewish street demonstration in Europe in recent years.

Also on rt.com Poland wont engage with Israeli politicians who insult the country  Deputy FM

The US State Departments new envoy on anti-Semitism, Elan Carr, was recently in Warsaw, where he emphasized that the US only wants Poland to fulfil a non-binding commitment it made in 2009 to take action on compensating Holocaust victims. He also stated that Washington recognizes Poland as a victim of Nazi occupation.

Right-wing groups have seen a surge in popularity in Poland, which continues to lock horns with the European Union on issues ranging from environmental protection to judicial reform.

Also on rt.com 'How to spot a Jew': Front-page headline in Polish paper openly sold in parliament sparks fury

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The US doesnt want war but reserves the right to surround Iran with warships and bombers just in case Tehran makes a bad decision that doesnt conform to Washingtons interests, Mike Pompeo has boldly stated in an interview.

The United States would of course welcome the opportunity to negotiate with Tehran, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo told CNBC on Saturday. However, a build-up of deterrent forces around Iran is necessary so that the US could respond if Iran decided to come after an American interest  whether that be in Iraq, or Afghanistan, or Yemen, or any place in the Middle East.

He insisted that Washington has no interest in inflaming a new conflict in the region, but would still be prepared to act in the event that the Iranians make a bad decision.

Were not going to miscalculate: Our aim is not war, our aim is a change in the behavior of the Iranian leadership, Pompeo said.

Also on rt.com US wages psychological war against Iran  Revolutionary Guards chief

Apparently as a behavior-changing incentive the US deployed the USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group as well as a bomber task force last week. US National Security Advisor John Bolton said that the move was designed to send a clear and unmistakable message to the Iranian regime.

The Pentagon also announced that a battery of Patriot missiles and the transport ship USS Arlington are being deployed to the region in response to indications of heightened Iranian readiness to conduct offensive operations against US forces and our interests.

While the US military has become a semi-permanent fixture in the Persian Gulf, its unusual for Washington to call out Iran by name when justifying such deployments. On Sunday, the head of Irans elite Revolutionary Guards, Major General Hossein Salami, described American activity in the region as a psychological war.

Also on rt.com 1 missile can destroy billion-dollar fleet, Iran cleric says as US carrier sails to Gulf

Still, Pompeo stressed that he would welcome a call from Tehran, but that sanctions and American military posturing would continue unless the Iranian government changes its behavior.

As an example, the Secretary of State claimed that Hezbollah, a militant group backed by Iran, is now operating in Venezuela  another country in Washingtons crosshairs. Pompeo has yet to provide evidence substantiating the Hezbollah-Venezuela link which he so often speaks out.

Venezuela itself has been exposed to Washingtons unique form of diplomacy: A US Coast Guard vessel was instructed to turn back after traveling towards Venezuelas territorial waters. A patrol boat was dispatched by the Venezuelan Navy to discourage the US ship from encroaching further. Caracas has been faced with a crisis since January, when US-backed opposition leader Juan Guaido declared himself interim president.

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Anti-coup activists holed up in the Venezuelan embassy in Washington DC say they have been left with no utilities after the water supply got shut off or disrupted. The municipal water provider has denied responsibility.

The already dismal conditions the activists 'Embassy Civilian Protection Collective' have been having to endure after the US authorities complied with the opposition's request to shut down power in the building, have grown even worse, with water now reportedly gone as well.

Since it comes just two days after the 'ambassador' appointed by Juan Guaido, the US-backed opposition leader and self-proclaimed 'interim president' of Venezuela, demanded that the US authorities shut down power, activists suggested that it was yet another joint attempt by Washington and Guaido to drive them out of the embassy.

Also on rt.com US cuts off power to Venezuelan Embassy with activists besieged inside

"The US govt turned off water at Venezuela Embassy this morning to try to force the #EmbassyProtectionCollective to leave," Code Pink's Medea Benjamin wrote, while another activist, reporter Mark Hand, accused municipal water company DC Water for leaving the activists without water and public utility Pepco for the continued blackout.

DC Water denied being behind the cut-off, though. Responding to Hand, the company said it did had neither shut off the supply nor received a request to do so.

The provider's response has sparked more questions, with activists asking the company to turn the water on and investigate the incident.

Journalist Max Blumenthal, who is also a member of the 'Collective,' suggested sabotage might be to blame.

As the conditions inside the embassy become more unbearable, several activists appeared to be leaving the building with pro-Guaido protesters rejoicing at the difficulties they had to face.

The opposition supporters have encircled the embassy in a bid to prevent activists from breaking the siege or bringing much-needed water and food inside. The pro-Guaido crowd is reportedly being aided by the DC police, which replaced the Secret Service in standing guard outside the building.

The standoff between pro-Guaido protesters and the 'Collective,' which says it was invited by the Venezuelan foreign ministry into the embassy after US authorities forced diplomats loyal to President Maduro to leave the premises, has been ongoing since late April. A failed coup attempt on April 30 inflamed the situation, with protesters blocking any attempts by activists to sneak supplies inside. Several people were arrested as they attempted to throw food and hygiene products into the embassy's windows.

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Israel could face an attack from Iran or its proxies in the region which might involve missile strikes or turmoil in Gaza if hostility between the Islamic Republic and the US escalates dramatically, an Israeli minister says.

Mutual enmity between Iran and the US is adding more volatility to the already unstable Middle East, and the brewing conflict may have an immediate impact on Israel, according to Energy Minister Yuval Steinitz. Speaking to Ynet news, he said that things are heating up in the Persian Gulf.

If theres some sort of conflagration between Iran and the United States, between Iran and its neighbors, Im not ruling out that they will activate Hezbollah (in Lebanon) and Islamic Jihad from Gaza, or even that they will try to fire missiles from Iran at the State of Israel.

The story comes as the US is building up naval forces in the Gulf close to Iranian waters. Just recently, the Pentagon deployed the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group and a bomber task force to the Middle East citing a threat to US interests from Iran

Announcing the deployment, National Security Advisor John Bolton raised the tensions to new heights when he threatened to use unrelenting force against Tehran. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, another Iran hardliner, echoed Boltons message and vowed a swift and decisive response to what he called escalatory actions by Iran.

Also on rt.com 1 missile can destroy billion-dollar fleet, Iran cleric says as US carrier sails to Gulf

Later it emerged that the decision to deploy these forces was made after a vague tip-off on a credible threat from Iran, which came from Israeli spy agency Mossad. The reliability of the intelligence is an open question, but Washington was nevertheless eager to use it.

The US has been parroting Israels hardline policies towards Iran since Donald Trump took office in 2017, first by ditching the milestone 2015 nuclear deal and then slapping Tehran with further economic sanctions. In addition, Washington formally designated Irans Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organization, triggering a tit-for-tat response from Tehran.

Also on rt.com US acted on vague Mossad tip-off when it sent strike group to Middle East  report

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Those dastardly Russian hackers are alive and well and meddling in the upcoming European Parliament elections, warned the New York Times. Just dont expect to see any proof, because the paper offers none.

Fresh from interfering in seemingly everything wrong in America, unidentified Russian hackers have shifted their attention to Europe, deploying information warfare tactics to give a boost to populist and right-wing parties ahead of next months European Parliament elections. At least according to a New York Times article, given the front-page treatment on Sunday.

The story is heavy with accusation. The Russians, it states, are busy spreading disinformation, encouraging discord and amplifying distrust in the centrist parties that have governed for decades. Among their tools are news websites that bear the same electronic signatures as pro-Kremlin websites, Twitter accounts, Facebook profiles, and WhatsApp groups.

Although the Times article claimed that intelligence officials, and security experts back up its theories, it quotes only one: Former FBI analyst Daniel Jones, who now runs a nonprofit entitled Advance Democracy.

Theyre working to destroy everything that was built post-World War II, Jones said, an explanation rivaling George W. Bushs they hate our freedom for its nonsensical reductionism.

Is it possible that Jones might have an agenda? Most definitely. The former intelligence analyst runs a second nonprofit, The Democracy Integrity Project, from his home in Virginia. TDIP spent much of the last two years emailing a daily collusionnewsletter to journalists, including those at the New York Times.

Jones ties to the Democratic party machine are also extensive. A former staffer for California Senator Dianne Feinstein (D), Jones reportedly worked with opposition research firm Fusion GPS to continue to search for evidence of collusion between the Trump campaign and Russia even after Trumps election. The uncorroborated claims made in the so-called Steele Dossier often featured prominently in TDIPs daily memos to reporters, and leaked text messages to Democrat Senate Intelligence Committee member Mark Warner revealed Jones to be an associate of Christopher Steele, the former British spy who compiled the dossier.

With the Steele Dossier deemed unfit to print by every single mainstream media outlet (except, of course, Buzzfeed), and with the collusion narrative completely dismantled by Special Counsel Robert Muellers final report, who else can the New York Times bring in to back up their Russian meddling expose?

Enter Ben Nimmo, who claims at the end of the article that Europe is a test bed for Russian interference efforts. Again, Nimmo offers no proof, but a glimpse at his resume gives an idea of what his motivations might be. A senior fellow at NATO-sponsored think tank the Atlantic Council, Nimmo has emerged in recent years as a reliable Russia-basher, always ready to give a juicy soundbite to the media. Hes also identified thousands of Russian-linked Twitter accounts, based on some thoroughly dodgy methodology.

With two experts down, what has the Times got left? Not much. The article notes that a definitive attribution would require the kind of tools that the American government used to reveal the 2016 interference. Of course, none is provided.

Even if the Russians arent involved, the article claims that populist and right-wing groups in Europe are adopting many of the Kremlins tactics. In practice, this means that the nasties on the right side of the political spectrum make funny memes and videos to support their candidates of choice.

Also on rt.com Most ridiculous interview ever: Farage blasts BBC in testy live exchange on Marr show

Running through the article is a palpable fear that the centrism that has dominated European politics for more than half a century is now under threat. False and divisive stories about the European Union, NATO, immigrants and more, amplify the threat, driving voters into the embrace of populist parties, many of them sympathetic to Russia.

However, never once does it occur to the authors that perhaps Europeans are simply tiring of the consensus. Perhaps they disagree with mass immigration, especially at a time of slow economic recovery from the Great Recession. Perhaps they disagree with the often unaccountable bureaucracy of Brussels, and their membership in a military alliance that they have personally never felt a connection with. After all, populism is called populism because its positions are popular ones.

But nope, its all a sinister Russian plot to undermine democracy. Lets go with that one.

Graham Dockery, RT

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The United Arab Emirates has said that four commercial ships were hit by sabotage in its waters, hours after denying reports of explosions at an oil tanker terminal. The incident comes as US/Iran tension ratchets up.

The four vessels were targeted by sabotage operations in waters near the emirate of Fujairah, the countrys foreign ministry said on Sunday. The exact nature of the sabotage was not revealed, nor were the nationalities of the ships. There were no reported casualties.

Subjecting commercial vessels to sabotage operations and threatening the lives of their crew is considered a dangerous development, the foreign ministry said in a statement, adding that it is investigating the alleged incident.

The statement came hours after Fujairahs government denied reports that an explosion had rocked an oil terminal at the emirates port. Lebanese broadcaster Mayadeen first reported the explosion, before the story was picked up by Irans Press TV. Officials in Fujairah called on the media to investigate accurately and rely on official sources.

Also on rt.com Our aim is not war, Pompeo insists as US warships & bombers gather off coast of Iran

Although the exact events are unknown, Iranian lawmaker Heshmatollah Falahatpisheh tweeted that the explosions of Fujairah showed that the security of the south of the Persian Gulf is like glass.

Should the security situation in the region deteriorate, much is at stake. Fujairah backs on to the Gulf of Oman on the south side of the Strait of Hormuz. With the UAE and Saudi Arabia on one side and Iran on the other, one-third of the worlds oil at sea transits the strait, which is only 39 kilometers wide.

The UAE did not directly blame Iran for the alleged sabotage, but its claim comes just days after the United States Maritime Administration warned that Iran and/or its regional proxies could take action against US and partner interests, including oil production infrastructure in the region. Saudi Arabia and the UAE are steadfast American allies.

Egypt, another American ally in the Middle East, sided with the UAE's take on events, condemning the alleged act of sabotage later on Sunday night.

Iran has insisted that it has no interest in escalating tensions in the region, yet the US has pressed ahead with the deployment of a carrier strike group and an Air Force bomber group to the region, to protect US interests from the unspecified threat. The USS Abraham Lincoln passed through Egypts Suez Canal on Thursday, in what National Security Advisor John Bolton called a clear and unmistakable message to Tehran.

Also on rt.com US military in Gulf was threat but now opportunity  Irans elite IRGC

The carrier will be joined by a battery of Patriot missiles and a transport ship  the USS Arlington  the Pentagon announced on Friday. Still, State Secretary Mike Pompeo assured the world that our aim is not war, our aim is a change in the behavior of the Iranian leadership.

Details about the intelligence used to justify the buildup are thin on the ground. A CNN report on Friday warned that Irans elite Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps may be planning on launching missiles from small civilian boats, citing an anonymous defense official. The networks report has not yet been substantiated. Multiple sources within the US government have said that Bolton and Pompeo are overreacting to the threat posed by Iran, and mischaracterizing intelligence reports.

Iran has matched the US in the rhetoric game, with IRGC aerospace head Amirali Hajiadeh telling the Iranian Students News Agency that an aircraft carrier parked in the Gulf provides opportunities for Iran to test its missile capabilities. Ayatollah Yousef Tabatabai-Nejad also warned Washington that a single missile from Iran could easily sink its billion-dollar fleet.

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The presence of US military might in the Gulf region has shifted from a being threat and is now an opportunity, a senior official from Irans Revolutionary Guard has said amid Washingtons latest round of saber-rattling.

Amirali Hajiadeh, who heads the elite units aerospace division, made the comments on Sunday while discussing the presence of US military garrisons and naval fleets based in countries neighboring Iran.

An aircraft carrier that has at least 40 to 50 planes on it and 6000 forces gathered within it was a serious threat for us in the past, he told the Iranian Students News Agency (ISNA).

Also on rt.com US wages psychological war against Iran  Revolutionary Guards chief

But now, the threats have switched to opportunities, he added. Hajiadeh also noted the growth in Irans missile capabilities, which could easily target US aircraft carriers floating between 300 and 700 kilometers away.

If [the Americans] make a move we will hit them in the head.

The commanders remarks come a week after the Pentagon sent the USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group and bomber aircraft to the Gulf, in what US National Security Advisor (NSA) John Bolton called an unmistakable message to the Iranian government.This was later bulked up with the deployment of another battery of its Patriot missile system to the region.

However, Iranian clerics, as well as government and military officials, have hit back at the growth in the US military threat. On Sunday, the head of the Revolutionary Guards dismissed the US build-up as part of a psychological war against Iran.

While on Friday, Ayatollah Yousef Tabatabai-Nejad warned Washington that a single missile from Iran could easily sink its billion-dollar fleet.

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Pakistan has notified Iran that mounting US economic pressure makes it impossible to proceed with the massive Iran-Pakistan gas pipeline (IP) project, also known as the Peace pipeline.

We cannot risk US sanctions by going ahead with the [IP] project as America has clearly said that anybody who will work with Iran will also be sanctioned, Mobin Saulat, the managing director of Inter State Gas Systems, which works under the auspices of the Pakistani government, told Arab News.

Islamabad recently informed Tehran in writing about the hurdle to implementing the pipeline project, according to the official. He noted that if the restrictions against Iran are lifted, Pakistan will be eager to go ahead with it. The same position was earlier voiced by Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan.

The project, which has been under discussion since 1994, was initially meant to deliver natural gas from Irans giant South Pars field to Pakistan and India. New Delhi quit it in 2009, citing the costs and security concerns.

The US vocally opposed the $7 billion project long ago, even before the 2015 nuclear deal, from which Washington has already withdrawn. It said that the construction of the pipeline could violate sanctions imposed on Iran over alleged nuclear activities, despite Iran denying the claims and arguing that natural gas cannot be used for making atomic bombs.

Iran has already slammed Pakistan for failing to adhere to the bilateral deal and delays in laying down the pipeline. In February, the Islamic Republic threatened to take its project partner to the international court of arbitration over the lack of progress on construction. Islamabad has at least two months to respond to Iran on the matter, according to Inter State Gas Systems.

We have time till August this year to legally respond to Irans legal notice and settle the issue through negotiations, Saulat said.

The news comes just days after the Trump administration imposed new sanctions targeting anyone who fails to wind down transactions related to Irans metal sector. This is in addition to the tough restrictions on energy exports, which the US seeks to cut to zero.

Also on rt.com Thorny dilemma: Will Trump manage to rein in oil prices & keep on pressuring Iran & Venezuela?

On Sunday, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani called for unity as the country faces unprecedented pressure from its enemies. He compared the current situation with the conditions during the 1980s war with Iraq, saying that it is not clear if they are better or worse, but back then Iran had no problems with its banks, oil sales, or imports and exports, except for arms purchases.

For more stories on economy & finance visit RT's business section
The United States is conducting psychological war aimed at Iran and the surrounding region, the commander of Irans elite Revolutionary Guards has said. His comments come amid growing tensions between Tehran and Washington.

Major General Hossein Salami noted on Sunday that the Americans have started a psychological war because the comings and goings of their military is a normal matter. The comment was relayed by a parliamentary spokesman and cited by state media.

Last week the US deployed the USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group as well as a bomber task force to send a clear and unmistakable message to the Iranian regime, as US National Security Advisor John Bolton put it.

Also on rt.com 1 missile can destroy billion-dollar fleet, Iran cleric says as US carrier sails to Gulf

However, the move apparently failed to impress Tehran, with Iranian officials noting that theyve become accustomed to an American naval presence in their backyard and are more than capable of defending their country from any provocations.

A senior Iranian cleric said on Friday that the Pentagons billion-dollar fleet can be destroyed with one missile. In an earlier statement, Keyvan Khosravi, the spokesman for Irans National Security Council, dismissed the message from Bolton as an unskillful use of a worn-out event to wage psychological war against Iran.

Washington has been criticized for using gunboat diplomacy to exert pressure on Tehran, which recently announced that it would bypass US sanctions by selling oil on the grey market.

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From an investment perspective, if the market resumes the uptrend hereon, then the midcap space has a higher probability of outperforming the large-cap space in next few months, Ruchit Jain, Equity Technical Analyst, Angel Broking Ltd, said in an interview with Moneycontrols Kshitij Anand.

Edited excerpts:

Q: Sensex and Nifty have fallen massively in May. What should investors do now ahead of election results?

A: After registering an all-time high of around 11,850, Nifty has seen a corrective phase in the last couple of weeks.

However, if we look at some of the recent historical data, it is seen that the index had shown an impulsive up move from late February to April 2019.

The recent correction, which is mainly on the back of the meltdown seen in global markets, seems to be retracing the previous up move and looks like just a corrective phase of the uptrend.

The retracement supports are placed around 11,220-11,070. Also, the 200-DMA on Nifty is placed around the second support mentioned above. Hence, an investor should use this dip as a buying opportunity and expect a resumption of the uptrend soon.

Q: Do you think the equity market is pricing an adverse outcome in the upcoming election results?

A: The recent up move in late February started after the Balakot airstrike that was conducted by the Indian Air Force.

This seemed to be a huge advantage to the existing government and things seemed to have changed in favour of BJP, which also lifted the sentiments of market participants.

However, the recent correction is mainly led by the weakness in global markets, on mounting fear of an adverse outcome of the trade talks between the US and China.

Hence, we believe that in spite of the correction, markets have not priced adverse outcome and participants are still expecting the election results to be in favour of the existing government.

Q: Given that FIIs have withdrawn nearly Rs 2,800 crore from Indian equity markets in May, how do you see their strategy?

A: In the last three months, FIIs had poured in significant liquidity and had bought equities worth more than Rs 58,000 crore. So, the sell-off figure in this month so far does not seem to be a concern as of now.

As far as their position in F&O is concerned, they had rolled over their long positions in the May series and their Long-Short ratio in index futures at the start of this series was around 75 percent.

In this series, they have exited some of their long positions and created some short positions as well. Due to this, their Long-Short ratio now stands around 58 percent. Although they have reduced some of their long positions, there are no signs of concern as the ratio still stands above 50 percent.

Q: Considerable selling was seen in oil & gas and metals. Should investors avoid these two sectors as of now?

A: Within the oil & gas space, we have witnessed some stock specific momentum in the last few days. The index heavyweight Reliance Industries has corrected from its highs whereas ONGC has managed to outperform the broader markets.

The higher degree trend still continues to be positive and hence investors could use this decline to buy heavyweight such as Reliance Industries which is also approaching its 200-DMA support around Rs 1,210.

On the other hand, the metal index has corrected led by the heavyweight Tata Steel which corrected sharply on May 10. Until we see any signs of reversal, one can avoid bottom fishing in this sector.

Q: Does it make sense to invest in beaten-down midcaps if someone is looking at a time horizon of five years or so?

A: If we look at the weekly charts, then the midcap index seems to be more attractive (technically) than the benchmark index.

The Nifty midcap index had shown a price wise correction in the calendar year 2018, while it has consolidated in a range in this year so far.

So it seems that the price-wise correction is already done and now the time-wise correction may also be in its last phase. The 200-SMA on the weekly chart has acted as strong support in the recent past as well which is placed around 16,500.

So, from an investment perspective, if the market resumes the uptrend hereon, then the midcap space has a higher probability of outperforming the large-cap space in the next few months. This view will negate only if the Nifty Midcap 100 breaches 16,000.

: The views and investment tips expressed by investment expert on Moneycontrol.com are his own and not that of the website or its management. Moneycontrol.com advises users to check with certified experts before taking any investment decisions.
With the Lok Sabha election in full swing and Prime Minister Narendra Modi battling hard for re-election, let us take a look at what will be his priorities when it comes to healthcare, if he is voted back to power.

The best document to refer to is his party's election manifesto. The party promises to reduce out-of-pocket expenditure on health and talks about health for all, if they retain power.

Ayushman Bharat

The manifesto starts with Modi's flagship programme Ayushman Bharat. It calls this programme "historic" and "world's largest healthcare programme".

Ayushman Bharat also called as the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY), launched in 2018 provides annual health cover of Rs 5 lakh to 10.74 crore poor families. According to PMJAYs latest update, so far 3.22 crore e-cards have been issued. Around 23.1 lakh hospital admissions worth Rs 3,078 crores have been done, and 64 percent of that is in private hospitals.

Modi is relying on this scheme in states such as Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir and Jharkhand, where such healthcare initiative is getting implemented for the first time ever.

The government authorities have been on full throttle to ensure these "greenfield" states get priority in the implementation. UP, Bihar and Madhya Pradesh together constitute over one-fourth of the total Lok Sabha seats.

Primary health

The manifesto mentions about its ambitious programme to set up 1.50 lakh Health and Wellness Centres (HWCs) by 2022.

Till date, the manifesto says 17,150 HWCs have become functional, and talks about scaling up and taking it to next level by providing telemedicine and diagnostic laboratory facilities at these HWCs by 2022 to ensure quality primary medical care to the poor at their doorstep.

Price controls of drugs and medical devices

Well, this may not be of much liking to the industry, but price controls of drugs and medical devices are not going away, if Modi retains power. The party takes credit about controlling prices of medicines.

It also says that it will create an essential devices list and a separate pricing policy for medical devices to ensure their accessibility and affordability to masses.

Healthcare infrastructure

The manifesto claims that its government had successfully reached the stage of ensuring one Medical College for every three parliamentary constituencies. Now, it promises to set up one medical college or post-graduate medical college in every district.

"We will take it forward and set up one Medical College or Post Graduate Medical College in every district, through public or private participation, by 2024. To start with 75 such Medical Institutes will be set up by 2022. This would ensure availability and accessibility of quality secondary and tertiary medical care to the citizens across the diverse landscape of our country," the manifesto says.

The party says that in a span of 5 years, it had increased the number of MBBS seats by 18,000 and that of post-graduate medical seats by 12,000. It also promises to double the number of MBBS and Specialist doctors in the country by 2024, as compared to the work done from 1947 till 2014.

It also talks about accelerating the reforms in para-medical education sector so as to increase the availability of nurses, pharmacists and other paramedical personnel.

Immunization & TB control

The Mission Indradhanush programme has ensured full immunization of 3.39 crore children and 87.18 lakh pregnant mothers.

The party promises full immunization coverage for all the children and pregnant women by 2022.

On Tuberculosis, the party promises to eliminate the disease from India by 2025.

"We will ensure this becomes a success much ahead of the target given in Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)," the manifesto says.

Silence on healthcare spending

The healthcare spending remains just a little over 1 percent of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), as opposed to the National Health Policy direction of 2.5 percent. The budgetary allocation on healthcare as percentage share of the total budget remained at 1.98 percent.

The allocations for Ayushman Bharat are taking a large portion of the budget allocation, that has not kept up pace with the rising healthcare requirements. In the recent Interim Budget, the government raised the allocation for Ayushman Bharat scheme by a whopping 167 percent to Rs 6,400 crore for 2019-2020.

Beyond Ayushman Bharat, the allocations for health expenditure remained flat on others heads. For instance the immunisation or vaccination programme was cut 7 percent to Rs 6,758.46 crore.

Through Ayushman Bharat, the government is pushing the demand for healthcare services, but the supply side has not kept pace.

The government was silent on providing incentives for setting up hospitals across the country.

Also the state of public health infrastructure is in a bad shape. Most government hospitals have vacancies for doctors and specialists unfilled for years. The government hospitals in rural and tribal areas suffer from lack of facilities and corruption.
In the sixth phase of the ongoing Lok Sabha elections, people living in 59 constituencies across seven states and a union territory are casting their votes. Among these, the seven constituencies in Delhi and few in Uttar Pradesh are being closely watched.

In the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) had won all seven seats in Delhi; and 13 of the 14 UP constituencies going to polls on May 12. BJP President Amit Shah and UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath have consistently expressed their confidence of repeating their 2014 victory.

Meanwhile, amid incidences of sporadic violence in various pockets of West Bengal, seven constituencies will also cast their votes in the sixth phase. The BJP has managed to be a prominent face in West Bengal and is hopeful on the basis of its victory in the 2018 panchayat polls.

Moneycontrol's Sakshi Batra chats with Moneycontrol's Deputy Executive Editor Gaurav Choudhary to take a closer look at the key battles in this phase.
The US is "banding together" with nations like India, Australia, Japan and South Korea to ensure that the sovereignty of Indo-Pacific nations are protected and that they are not subjected to any coercion, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has said.

His comments came days after the Indian Navy 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.

Pompeo, in his address to the Claremont Institute's 40th Anniversary Gala in Beverly Hills, California, said: "We are banding together with the like-minded nations like Australia, India, Japan and South Korea to make sure that each Indo-Pacific nation can protect its sovereignty from coercion".

"It's part of a greater commitment to a free and open order. You all know this: The distinctive mark of western civilization is the belief in the inherent worth of human beings, with the attendant respect for god-authored rights and liberties. Indeed, the declaration says that 'all men are created equal'. And we ought to help nations protect these first things  and human rights as well," he said.

Trump administration's policies, he said, has been a real pivot to Asia.

"The President has taken action to stop China from stealing our stuff. No longer will American companies be forced to hand over their technological crown jewels as the price of doing business in China. When a deal doesn't work for the United States, no deal shall be done, Pompeo said.

The United States, he said, has bolstered its military presence in the South China Sea, and have put nations on notice around the world that the sale of key infrastructure and technology companies to China threatens their national security.

"We have strengthened the group, the entity, that screens Chinese and other foreign investments here in the United States. We are also fighting the battle to make sure that the Chinese Communist Party cannot burrow into the data of billions of internet users through companies like Huawei and ZTE," he said.

The internet of tomorrow must have buried within its Western values and must not belong to China, Pompeo asserted amidst applause from the audience.

Pompeo said putting 'America First' means proudly associating with nations that share its principles and are willing to defend them.

"It's true; we had some earlier comments from Washington's Farewell Address. He warned against permanent alliances, but that same speech praised connections with nations based on policy, humanity and interest. We have reaffirmed America's historic alliance with the only free nation in the Middle East: Israel," Pompeo added.

The combined show of naval might by the US, the Philippines and Japan on Thursday came 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.
Three gunmen stormed a luxury hotel in Pakistan's southwestern port city of Gwadar on May 11, killing at least one guard and battling security forces inside, officials and the army said.

Balochistan Home Minister Ziaullah Langove said most guests were evacuated from the five-star Pearl Continental Hotel, which helicopters circled as fighting was under way.

Police said that in addition to the guard killed by the attackers, at least two other people were wounded but there was no final casualty total.

The military said three gunmen killed a guard at the entrance to the hotel when they entered. Security forces had cordoned off the area and cornered the attackers in a staircase leading to the top floor, the military said in its statement.

Balochistan Liberation Army, a group fighting for greater autonomy in Pakistan's poorest province, claimed responsibility in an emailed statement that said the attack was aimed at "Chinese and other foreign investors."

As night fell, a Twitter feed apparently run by the insurgents said the attackers had "achieved all their targets" but there was no official confirmation that the fighting was over.

Gwadar is a strategic port on the Arabian Sea that is being developed as part of the $60 billion China Pakistan Economic Corridor, which is itself part of China's mammoth Belt and Road infrastructure project.

The Pearl Continental Hotel, located on a hillside near the port, is used by foreign guests, including Chinese project staff, but there were none in the building at the time of the attack, Langove said.

A statement from the Chinese embassy in Islamabad condemned the attack and said "the heroic action of Pakistani army and law enforcement agencies is highly appreciated."

Pakistani officials have said the security forces were on alert for attacks during the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan, which began in early May.

Security across most of Pakistan has improved over recent years following a major crackdown after the country's worst attack, when some 150 people, most of them children, were killed in an attack on a school in the western city of Peshawar in 2014.

But Balochistan, Pakistan's largest province, remains an exception and there have been several attacks this year, with at least 14 people killed last month in an attack on buses travelling between the southern city of Karachi and Gwadar.

The province is rife with ethnic, sectarian and separatist insurgencies, with several militant groups, including the Pakistani Taliban group Tehrik-i Taliban Pakistan (TTP), Balochistan Liberation Army and the Sunni group Lashkar-e-Jhangvi.

Saturday's incident follows a bombing this week that targeted police outside a major Sufi shrine in Lahore, in the north of Pakistan, that killed at least 10 people and wounded more than 20, officials said.
GA English on Sunday : News in Brief from Bonn and the region

Bonn Bonn has decided against car-free Sundays and instead are promoting the use of bikes and public transport. A pilot scheme that uses an app to charge for journeys according to the actual distance travelled is underway. A Unicef virtual theatre event was held in Bonn and a convicted drug dealer claimed to be employed by the city administration. Here is our news in brief on Sunday.

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Unlike other cities in NRW, Bonn has rejected the idea of car-free Sundays

METTMANN. In view of climate change, many cities in NRW are thinking about how they can reduce car traffic and thus improve air quality. For the first time, a car-free Sunday will be tested in Mettmann on 12 May. Dusseldorf will also have a car-free Sunday on 15 September, which will only affect a small inner-city area around the Old Town and Konigsallee. In Cologne, roads in selected districts have been closed to cars once a year since 2013.

The Neuss Town Hall is also open to the idea. It's time to rethink mobility. Such an action can contribute to raising citizens awareness, said a city spokesman. Especially in the inner city, distances are generally short and there are plenty of alternatives to the car. Whether and how such a car-free Sunday could be realised in Duisburg, however, still has to be examined by the city. Other cities such as Bocholt and Bonn, have rejected the idea of car-free Sundays. The Bonn city administration announced that attempts are being made to advertise the bicycle as an alternative means of transport and to make local transport more attractive. (Orig. text: Christian Schwerdtfeger, Anna Steinhaus)

A pilot scheme to test a new tariff based on the actual distance travelled is underway and the VRS is looking for additional participants

BONN/COLOGNE. The Rhein-Sieg transport association (VRS) is looking for people to join a pilot eTicket scheme until the beginning of September. The special feature is that the ticket price is determined electronically according to the distance travelled. Passengers only pay for the shortest distance between the start and destination stops. In addition to a basic price of 1.50 euros per trip, 15 cents per kilometre or part thereof will be charged, up to a maximum daily price of 15 euros. The distance travelled and the corresponding ticket price will be determined with the help of a free app FTQ-Lab. The customer checks in to the pre-installed app before boarding the bus, tram or local train or and checks out again at the end of the journey.

According to the VRS press office, the pilot test of the electronic fare, which has been running since April, has met with great interest among passengers. About 3,000 customers have now registered for the pilot, and 1,000 more can still take part. To test the eTariff, customers must be at least 18 years old and need a Visa or MasterCard credit card and a smartphone that meets the technical requirements. Each participant should make at least one trip in the course of the test phase by 6 September. Further information and registration can be found at www.vrs.de/etarif. (Orig. text: Elena Sebening)

Virtual theatre as part of a Unicef campaign was held on Bonn

BONN. this weekend, about 50 participants defied the bad weather to take part in the Unicef event Theatre of 10,000, which simultaneously took place in about 80 German cities. The hobby actors became avatars of previously unborn children who want to create a better future with the help of time travel in a world without wars, natural disasters, hunger and fear. The event was not aimed at an audience, but exclusively at the players. Hildegard Niehus, one of the participants said I heard about it from the newspaper and was immediately fascinated by the idea.

The participants were controlled remotely via smartphone and for about 20 minutes became fictitious time travellers, who first had to synchronise themselves with their unfamiliar bodies and only then could they delve deeper into the story. Mayor Reinhard Limbach also took part: "I really like this event and am proud of all the people from Bonn who took part despite the bad weather" he said. "Somehow we were all connected, we were part of a larger whole", explains Muna Zubedi, who would like to repeat this experience. "It was unbelievable: We completely faded out reality and were in another world for a short time. From the outside it must have looked pretty weird, but for us every movement made sense. It is unknown whether the "Theatre of 10,000" will be repeated. First, the Unicef organisers want to analyse how great the response has been throughout Germany. (Orig. text: Thomas Kolsch)

Drug-dealer claimed to be a security guard employed at the city council

BONN. A 25-year-old man has been sentenced in two criminal proceedings by regional and local courts to more than four years imprisonment for drug trafficking, including around the Stadthouse. He claims to have worked as a security chief in the administration building. The court showed a video recorded by mobile phone of the 25-year-old, showing him as a security guard with uniforms and ID in front of the municipal office. Whether the man was actually in the service of the city administration, however, could not be clarified last Friday. The city is ensuring that the strict tender criteria are adhered to so that no such similar cases occur.

Rainer Friedrich, a representative of the city council personnel explained that the staff council has no influence on which security company is selected. "Every employee of a security company must undergo a reliability check carried out by the regulatory authorities", explained Silke Wollmann, press spokesperson for the Federal Association of the Security Industry.

Due to the wave of refugees, many security companies sprang up because of the sudden enormous need for security forces, so that the authorities had not complied with thechecks. Since the Bonner Loch has been built over, the Bonn police have noticed a shift in both the drug and drinking scenes. "The Stadthaus is one of several meeting places next to Kaiserplatz, Hofgarten and Windeckbunker", said their spokesman Frank Piontek. Especially in good weather, the areas towards Weiherstrasse and Franzstrasse are a popular meeting place at the Stadthaus. (Orig. text: Lisa Inhoffen, Philipp Konigs)
May 12, 2019

The MoA Week In Review - OT 2019-26

Last week's posts at Moon of Alabama:

May 6 - Syria - Russian And Syrian Airforce Prepare The Ground For An Attack On Idlib Province

Turkey called on Russia to end the Syrian operation but to no avail. The Syrian Army continues to make some progress. This will be slow and long fight with many interruptions.

May 6 - How The U.S. Is Pressing Iran To Breach The Nuclear Deal

See also Whitney Webb: Another Whistleblower Bites the Dust as The Intercept Adds a Third Notch to Its Burn Belt

May 10 - Botched Post Days

May 11 - Media Amplify Iran War Propaganda - Play Up Intelligence Lies

See also Gareth Porter: Bolton Is Spinning Israeli Intelligence to Push for War Against Iran

---

Other issues:

On Friday the Marco Rubio clownish puppet in Venezuela called for more demonstrations:

Guaido called for a national demonstration on Saturday to reject measures taken by the Supreme Court against opposition lawmakers.

...

"We're not going to stop, we're going to stay in the streets. This is a process that will end with Venezuela's liberty."

On Saturday the Random Guyaido spoke to demonstrators in Caracas. This was in the richer part of the city, the oppositions stronghold.

The AP's report first version:

A modest crowd of Venezuelans has taken to the streets to show support for the opposition-led congress which has come under increasing pressure from the government of President Nicolas Maduro.

...

Guaido on Saturday addressed roughly 1,000 supporters gathered in Caracas, reflecting both fear and demoralization among supporters after the attempted military rebellion.

AP later published a revised version:

Meanwhile, noticeably diminished crowds at opposition protests reflected a growing fear and demoralization that has permeated Guaido's ranks of supporters after he led a failed military uprising on April 30. In previous months, thousands of demonstrators heeded his calls to protest. On Saturday, a modest crowd of several hundred Venezuelans gathered in the capital of Caracas.

Guaido wants foreign military support:

He announced Saturday a forthcoming meeting with U.S. military officials and said that new actions taken by the opposition will seek to "achieve the necessary pressure" to put an end to the Bolivarian revolution launched 20 years ago by the late socialist President Hugo Chavez. Guaido has said that as Venezuela's rightful leader he reserves the right to invite foreign military actions in the same way independence hero Simon Bolivar hired 5,000 British mercenaries to liberate South America from Spain. He says any such help should be considered "cooperation," instead of intervention, something he has accused Maduro of allowing in the form of military and intelligence support from allies Cuba and Russia.

---

Pompous snowflakes:

Macron driven along the Champs Elysee in a large convoy, smiling and waving to the crowd lining the street. The crowd? (vid)

BBC - Andrew Neil and Ben Shapiro on abortion, Obama and Middle East (vid, start at ~10min); When diligently questioned, Shapiro gives up and ends the interview.

New Yorker - Michael Oren Cuts Short a Conversation About Israel;

Use as open thread ...

Posted by b on May 12, 2019 at 12:53 UTC | Permalink

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Kiwis can rejoice - everyone's favourite comfort drink is back on the market.



After an ill-fated recipe change in 2015, New Zealander's mourned the loss of their iconic Milo.



Nestle added vitamin D, B3, B6 and B12. The company removed vitamins A, B1 and magnesium - as well as the much loved vanilla flavouring.



"Rank," "disgusting" and "yucky" were a few of the choice words Kiwis chose to describe the new recipe online.



Now, after four years of complaints, Milo is going backtcry over new Milo



"We've had on-going feedback that Kiwis missed the old Milo, so we knew it was time to bring it back," said Nestle business manager Anna Stewart in a statement.



"This wasn't a process we took lightly. We knew it was vital to nail that classic taste and we weren't going to stop until we had that perfected," she said.



However, not everyone is convinced the company will nail it.



In 2015, when the recipe changed, a Facebook page called "Change Milo back to the old recipe" gained more than 9000 likes.



The creator of the page, Taryn Ibell told Newshub on Monday she wasnt't sure it will be like the good old days.



"I guess the only way to tell is by taste and I'm unsure if it will be like what we all remember."



The new Milo will be on shelves from May 20 - so Kiwis will be able to find out for themselves if it's as good as the old recipe.



"I have slight hopes, but I guess time will tell," said Ibell.



Newshub.
The Permian Basin continues to exceed state and even national rates of growth, and unfortunately that also applies to drug and alcohol abuse.

Rhonda Murphy, office manager in the Midland office of Drug Screen Compliance, said that the positivity rate for drug tests nationwide is 9 percent. But in the Permian Basin, it's 18 percent.

She said marijuana is the most frequent to show up in positive tests, followed by cocaine. Methamphetamines and opiates trade the third and fourth spots, she said.

Nationwide, the positivity rate has soared 51 percent, but Murphy explained that was because the U.S. Department of Transportation added new screening panels for oxycodone, oxymorphone, hydrocodone and hydromorphone.

In the thriving Permian Basin, Murphy speculated that some truck drivers may use drugs to help them navigate long hours and many consecutive days at work, so they can earn overtime. But then, she said, the script flips so they're working overtime to earn money to buy drugs.

RELATED: Oil and drugs: A toxic mix

She said everyone thinks of truck drivers, but truck drivers are only one of six entities under the Department of Transportation that must undergo drug testing. Others include the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration, Federal Railroad Administration and the U.S. Coast Guard. And the DOT is only one of three federal entities that test for drugs, she said.

The issue has attracted attention. As the staff prepared to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the West Texas Safety Training Center, they decided addiction should be the focus of the keynote address.

"Here we are in 2019, and drugs have crept deeper and deeper into our workplaces. Drugs have caused injuries and accidents," said Phil Young, president and chief executive officer of the center.

"People tell us it's hard for the industry to find employees and applicants who can pass the drug tests; for the industry it's a big problem," he said.

Agreed keynote speaker Christopher Pierce, director of marketing at The Springboard Center, a nonprofit substance abuse treatment center in Midland.

"Drugs and alcohol are a very touchy subject. Companies say, 'It never happens here.' But on a day-to-day basis, I've seen first-hand the last two years -- from the very top to the very bottom, I've seen addiction," said Pierce, addressing the annual meeting of the West Texas Safety Training Center recently at the MCM Elegante Hotel.

Murphy said that drug use may actually be more widespread than believed because "we're not testing people who are unemployed."

Noting that he used heroin for 15 years as he worked his way up the ranks of the oil and gas industry, Pierce said he thought he was special because he was making $100,000 a year in the industry. After he got sober, he spent nine months working at Domino's before being offered a job at Springboard.

It was something as small as "a change in attitude" like working at Domino's that made a difference, he said.

He said there were drug tests and other attempts to detect use of drugs and alcohol during his time in the oil field services industry, but "there are people you can hire to keep your career on track" by helping fake drug tests. "That's a loophole people exploit."

The Permian Basin oil and gas industry is "amazing. We're setting the standards for the world," said Pierce. But "we have the highest driving while intoxicated rate in the state of Texas here. Alcohol is raging, and people need to pay attention to what's going on."

He urged companies to implement an open-door policy when it comes to addiction. "I'm an advocate for addicts. There (are) people that can help. Addicts need to be able to go in and say 'I'm drinking a lot. I love my job, but I need help.'"

Having that open-door policy "opens a dialogue and makes a person feel that much safer in opening up," Pierce said. He said the energy industry is getting better about that openness but "it's a work in progress."

Murphy recommends that companies send supervisors to her company's "reasonable suspicion" classes to learn how to approach employees they suspect are using. The company can also provide information on how to react to positive results from random tests so "they're not willy-nilly firing people."

She said local companies need to be more responsive and proactive about drug testing, not just pre-employment testing but randomly testing employees throughout their employment.

"Companies realize it's up to them to get ahead of the issue," she said.
ODESSA  2020 is still months away, but community members are already busy preparing for the U.S. Census, which occurs every 10 years.

Results of each census determines how many congressional seats each state will have and is used to apportion federal funding. After the 2010 Census, Texas picked up four new congressional seats and is expected to add three more after the 2020 Census. Also, after the 2010 Census, Texas received $59.4 billion from 55 large federal spending programs.

This time, Americans will be able to take part via the Internet or telephone as well as the traditional paper forms.

Organizers gathered at Odessa College's Gregory Williams Lecture Hall to discuss the upcoming census, focusing on how the count is being impacted by the region's booming oil and gas industry.

"We have seen the economic impact of the energy's boom and bust  now economic sustainability," Midland Mayor Jerry Morales told the gathering. He pointed out that Midland's population is forecast to reach between 185,000 and 190,000 by 2030, perhaps even 200,000. Combined with Odessa, he said that is a population ranging from 400,000 to 500,000.

RELATED: Report: Migration trends could result in Midland population of 500K

Even more people coming to the area will intensify the challenges that already exist in terms of housing, health care and education, he said. "That's why it's critical everyone participates in the census." Pointing out that the region needs more funding for infrastructure like roads, he added that Midland Independent School District and Ector County Independent School District each send tens of millions of dollars to Austin to be redistributed to less-wealthy schools. That harms students in both towns, Morales said.

"It's important we get back every dollar we send," he said.

Dewey Bryant, Odessa City Councilman, echoed Morales' points that an accurate count is needed to ensure the area receives the resources it needs to support its expected growth. He did tell Morales that "If you're going to have 200,000, we're going to have 205,000."

The effort to ensure participation in the census will involve the area's economic driver, the oil and gas industry. Paul Kenworthy, a small independent oil and gas operator and board member of the Permian Basin Petroleum Association, said the PBPA will be working with its member companies to encourage their employees to participate. He said companies could even have "census participation fairs."

Julie Green, public affairs coordinator with the PBPA, noted that the association is already at work in Austin and Santa Fe on state legislation and funding to benefit member companies. Improved participation in the census could mean more federal dollars to address issues, she said.

The effort is complicated by the nature of the area's oil and gas industry, which sees a number of workers coming to the Permian Basin to work on a temporary basis  working several weeks and then returning home for a week or two. While here, they often live in hotels, corporate housing, rent rooms in houses or stay in workforce lodging.

Cathy Lacy, regional director with the Census Bureau out of Denver, said that was the first question Morales asked at another meeting earlier in the day. She said the bureau will be working with the managers of workforce lodges to get a count of rooms and residents and bureau employees will count the number of residents at those lodges on a specific day.

"The Permian Basin is unique in that some are here three weeks out of the month and one week elsewhere," said Lacy, who can sympathize. She noted that she travels thee to five days of each week.

Mike Hernandez with Permian Lodging told the gathering his company will be working with Census officials to improve access to those temporary workers in its lodges by offering the workers access to computers so they can file their Census forms online "like at a library."

But also, he said the company's lodges will serve as satellite hubs for Census field workers who visit the remote regions to help conduct the census.

Accurately counting the people who work here, even part-time, is "one of our largest challenges," said Midland City Councilwoman Sharla Hotchkiss.

She said it's important to educate everyone about the importance of participating in the census, spreading the word through the media, public organizations, non-profits and churches.

Gloria Apolinario, regional director for U.S. Congressman Mike Conaway, agreed the challenge will be to reach the remote residents  the farmers, the man camps.

The census has been mired in controversy because of the Trump Administration's plans to add a question about citizenship to the survey. That has raised concerns immigrants will be afraid to participate in the survey. Apolinario said reaching the area's Hispanic population will be key, stressing to them the results are private and how important it is for them to participate. The resources that will come from the Census "will help everyone," she said.

Privacy was stressed during the meeting, beginning with Cathy Lacy, regional director with the Census Bureau out of Denver.

"Every employee of the Census Bureau takes an oath  a lifetime oath  that they will not share any information from the Census during their lifetime," she said.

She added, "I cannot see any of the questionnaires, not even my own." She also stressed that none of the information is shared with any other agencies nor can it be used to determine a person's eligibility for government benefits.

Said Hotchkiss, "We need numbers, not names."
Obituary

Jenna Welch

July 24, 1919-May 10, 2019

Jenna Welch, the mother of Laura Bush and friend to many in Midland over the years passed away Friday.

Her granddaughter, Jenna Bush Hager, offered the following on her Twitter account Sunday morning.

Waking up thinking of my precious namesake, Jenna Welch who passed away Friday. How lucky I was to be named after a woman who taught me how to slow down and appreciate every bird, and every plant in West Texas. She read us poetry and taught us about every constellation in the sky. Her kindness and graciousness were as expansive as the West Texas horizon. So happy shes reunited with her great love, our Pa after almost 25-years apart. Thinking of my mama too who lost her little mama right before Mothers Day.

Jenna Hawkins Welch died at the age of 99.

An obituary in Sundays Midland Reporter-Telegram indicated that A family funeral service was held at Resthaven Memorial Park in Midland on Saturday.It also stated . In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to the Midland County Public Library Foundation, Post Office Box 1634, Midland, Texas, 79702; or to the Jenna Welch Nature Study Center, Post Office Box 2906, Midland, Texas, 79702.

More Information "In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to the Midland County Public Library Foundation, Post Office Box 1634, Midland, Texas, 79702; or to the Jenna Welch Nature Study Center, Post Office Box 2906, Midland, Texas, 79702." See More Collapse

The following is based on information from the obituary:

The only child of Jesse and Hal Hawkins, Mrs. Welch was a true daughter of West Texas - a woman who loved its people, its wildlife, and its land. Born on July 24, 1919, in Little Rock, Arkansas, she was raised in Canutillo, outside of El Paso, Texas, one block from the banks of the Rio Grande.

Jenna Hawkins loved school and reading, a passion she would later nurture in her daughter, Laura. Although she came of age during the Depression, she managed to attend two years of college at the Texas College of Mines and Metallurgy (now the University of Texas at El Paso), before leaving to work full-time. She was hired by the advertising department of the Popular Dry Goods Company in El Paso. It was there that she met her future husband, Harold Welch. Family lore has it that she looked down from a second floor office window just as he looked up from the street below.  Harold and Jenna were married in the chapel on the grounds of the U.S. Army's Fort Bliss in January 1944, just before Master Gunner Harold Welch was shipped out to combat in Europe. He did not return for two years, during which time he was part of the assault on Germany and was among the U.S. forces to liberate the Nazi concentration camp at Nordhausen.

In 1946, not long after Harold's return, the young couple moved from El Paso to Midland, Texas, where on November 4 of that year, their daughter, Laura Lane Welch, the future Mrs. Laura Bush, was born.

Like many women of that era, Jenna Welch stayed home to raise her daughter and make a home for her husband. She devoted considerable time to her main interests: reading and nature.



Her daughter, Laura Bush, recalls coming home from school most afternoons to be "greeted by the soft rustle of book pages" and finding her mother immersed in a book. Jenna Welch read aloud to her daughter Little Women was among their favorites and the two routinely visited the Midland Public Library.

Mrs. Welch was a knowledgeable, self-taught naturalist. She learned the name of every Midland wildflower and was an accomplished amateur birder. She took extension courses at Midland College and developed a passion for astronomy, which she shared with her daughter and granddaughters. Her daughter remembers how she and her mother would lie on a blanket on the grass and look up at the vast sky. More than two decades later, her twin granddaughters would skywatch with their Grammee.

Jenna Welch engaged in a variety of civic activities, including as a Girl Scout troop leader, a member of the Boone Bible Class and a Sunday school teacher at the First United Methodist Church of Midland, and a member of the Midland Naturalist Society, "the Mid-Nats." In her later years, she lovingly cared for her husband as he battled cancer and later dementia until his death in 1995.

Jenna Hawkins Welch is survived by her daughter, Laura; son-in-law, former President George W. Bush; two granddaughters, Barbara Bush and husband Craig Coyne, and her namesake, Jenna Hager and husband, Henry Hager; as well as two great-granddaughters. The family would like to thank Elaine Magruder and Yolanda Guzman for their devotion to Mrs. Welch.
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UPDATE:

Lucas Sierra was a 17-year-old Hispanic boy who died May 12 from multiple gunshot wounds at 1403 Cypress Creek Parkway, Houston.

ORIGINAL STORY:

A security guard at a Walgreens on FM 1960 opened fire on two armed, masked teens who were preparing to enter the store, critically wounding one of them. He later died at the hospital.

The double shooting happened around midnight Saturday at the Walgreens at FM 1960 and Ella Boulevard in northeast Harris County, just west of Interstate 45.

Lt. L.R. Rush of the Harris County Sheriff's Office told Metro Video that two cousins, ages 18 and 16, approached the store in what authorities believe was a planned robbery. They did not see the security guard, who came from around the corner and approached the pair. He told them to stop, at which time one of the armed men pulled a gun from his waist band and pointed it at the guard.

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The guard pulled his gun and opened fire on both.

The security guard "engaged them at this point and verbally ordered them to put their guns down," Rush said. "The one with the gun pointed at him and he let fly. He took both of them down."

The 16-year-old, who allegedly pulled his gun, was shot multiple times and transported to the hospital in critical condition. Sheriff Ed Gonzalez later tweeted that he had been "confirmed deceased" at the hospital.

The 18-year-old was shot in the calf and tried to run. Rush, who happened to be in the vicinity, responded to the scene and apprehended the second suspect.

HPD INVESTIGATIONS: Bail set at $1 million for Maleah Davis' stepfather

"I just advised him, 'Don't move,'" Rush said of the man, who was transported to the hospital in stable condition. He was facing an aggravated robbery charge, Gonzalez tweeted.

It does not appear that the teens fired any shots, and the security guard was not injured.

"As far as I can tell, the security guard did an excellent job," Rush told Metro Video. He said investigators will review store surveillance tapes.

They are also looking into whether the two are linked to other robberies in the area.
With at least two dozen women staring at her - all of them wearing long, platinum wigs and Daenerys Targaryen attire  actress Emilia Clarke told a near-capacity crowd at Comicpalooza a story about standing on a toilet in a museum restroom receiving a call from her agent about an audition for Game of Thrones.

Clarke was the headliner at this years Comicpalooza, nifty timing as the Thrones panel with her co-star Nathalie Emmanuel fell one day before the shows penultimate episode.

Both told tales of their struggles to get jobs in film. I was incredibly unemployed, Clarke said.

Emmanuel said, I was working retail, with a mortgage, paying the bills. I phoned my agent about the show. Never heard of it  dragons  this sounds ridiculous.

When Emmanuels agent called to tell her she got the job, the actor thought shed landed a TV commercial.

Both expressed a bittersweet feeling about the shows end. Neither sees the episodes in advance. So when Emmanuels Missandei lost her head last week, Clarke didnt know it was coming at that moment. I thought, Oh, the credits will roll in a minute oh no, its THAT ONE.

They described an instant friendship that arose as they began working together on a show where the male-centric storyline has evolved over eight seasons. Both will likely find future work offers pouring in.

In Clarkes case, the visit to Houston also brought with it a chance to see the Rockets - a losing effort by the home team at a game also attended by Houston native Beyonce Knowles. The queen was in the building, Clarke said, adding that her pre-shoot playlists throughout Game of Thrones have been greatly informed by Beyonces music.

As for the rest of Comicpalooza, it continues to operate as an efficient convention with some expansion and a continuation of features that work. The north side of the George R. Brown Convention Center was once something of a dead zone, where the event would host races between Doctor Who Daleks. Now its a hive of gaming activity, a low hum and a high glow emanating from the room.

The vendor floor continues to be a draw with artists and comic book writers selling their wares. Its not an easy event to work: Like TK-421, it can be challenging to cover the event and stay at ones post.

Louisiana native Danny Allains art greets many convention goers the moment the enter the showroom floor. He uses India ink to draw a skeletal structure - say the inside of a shark or a human hand inside a Kermit the Frog puppet - and paints water color over it.

It was an experiment, he said. Watercolor, you cant really control. It. You let it dry and it does what it does. So the bones were a way to control it just a little. I was just throwing darts to see what would stick.

Vehicles were on display, as usual: Speed Racers car, the A-Teams van. Various Game of Thrones iron thrones were made available for photo ops. One booth was occupied by the Knights of the Drunk Watch. Motto: We drink and we watch things.

WEBTOON had a strong presence on the floor and a strong audience all day. The company provides a digital publishing platform for graphic storytellers. It built a strong readership in Japan and Korea before launching in the States five years ago. WEBTOON currently has 55 million monthly readers. The company offers space to fledgling artists with the hopes of building a readership that can grow into the tends of thousands and then beyond. Successful artists on the platform are offered contracts.

Leeanne Krecic, who writes the Lets Play comic under the name Mongie, drew a long line of fans Saturday afternoon. The Kansas City natives road to being a comics author ran through years of spirit-crushing work in IT, helping other people make lots of money.

Two years ago she left her job and debuted Lets Play through WEBTOONs Discovery program, and quickly found her readership growing by a few thousand and then tens of thousands each week. Shes now one of the companys Top 5 most-read artists.

I dont take any of it for granted, she said. And I appreciate the readers who are there. Theres enough (expletive) in the world to bring people down. If I can make them laugh, or just feel outside of it all for two or five or 20 minutes, thats enough for me,

Junepurrr is another rising artist on the platform who turned down working a numbers job to make art. She graduated from University of Houston with a masters in accounting and took an internship where she found herself drawing more than interning.

Id stare at spreadsheets, she said. I knew if I didnt at least try to do this, Id be looking at them the rest of my life.

She also went through the Discovery program starting in May 2017 with her series Sub Zero and now has between 70,000 and 80,000 readers each week.

Many of them were lined up inside the convention center. And those are the sorts of stories that make the event such a magical one. People trading spreadsheets for art. Fans making costumes from materials found around the house. Bobby Edge of the Houston Brick Club spent 80 or so hours creating an Alamo from LEGOs, taking pieces from all sorts of sets: His Mexican soldiers were built in part from old pirate LEGO sets. Some of the Texans were pilfered from a Lord of the Rings set.

Overall, the crowd represented all corners of fan culture, with billowing capes and clinging spandex. There were lots of Game of Thrones fans, including a family of four in different character guises, as well as an Arya Stark bearing her fairly new two-bladed dragonglass spear. There were Doctors and Daleks, Padawan and Jedi, Mulder and Scully, a bunch of Jon Snows and even more Daenerys Targaryens.

Thrones actor Emmanuel was talking about her character at a panel, but she couldve been talking about this event, where space exists for all worlds, an approach centered on being kind and meeting people where theyre at.
A dispute between two men that San Antonio police believe are related ended in a shooting overnight on the West Side.

According to a police sergeant at the scene, the two had been arguing in their home in the 600 block of Marquette Drive, near St. Mary's University, about 3 a.m. when one of them pulled a gun and shot the other in the abdomen.
My name is Kathryn Fellure, and I am the military widow of Lt. Col. Michael Fellure, who served for 22 years in the U.S. Army and died three months ago on active duty here in San Antonio.

A week after Michaels funeral, I learned I was eligible for benefits from the Department of Defense via Defense Finance and Accounting Service, or SFAS, and Veterans Affairs. However, due to a federal law, I could not receive both in full because I was eligible for both in full.

I know that sounds very confusing  because it is. Federal law requires a $1 reduction in Survivor Benefit Plan, or SBP, for each $1 received in Dependency and Indemnity Compensation, or DIC. This is called the SBP-DIC offset.

SBP is an insurance annuity earned by years in service and/or paid for as income protection for surviving family members. It is not standard practice for insurance programs to deny payment because a beneficiary receives income from another source. The average offset of DIC to SBP is $925 a month. DIC is a fixed amount, regardless of the service members grade or service.

The Military Widows Tax Elimination Act of 2019 (S 622) and Military Surviving Spouses Equity Act (HR 553) are companion bills that would eliminate the SBP-DIC offset. This bipartisan legislation would repeal the SBP-DIC offset and give surviving spouses their full entitled benefits.

The number of surviving spouses in Texas affected by the SBP-DIC offset as of December is 7,825, according to the Department of Defense Office of the Actuary.

Currently, U.S. Sens. John Cornyn and Ted Cruz of Texas are not co-sponsoring S 622. But, as of May 3, 61 senators are co-sponsoring the legislation.

In the House, there were 256 co-sponsors as of May 3. There are 17 Texas representatives who are not co-sponsoring.

In the San Antonio area, Democratic Rep. Joaquin Castro of District 20, GOP Rep. Chip Roy of District 21 and Democratic Rep. Lloyd Doggett of District 35 have not co-sponsored HR 553.

Bexar and Comal counties are home to a significant amount of surviving spouses affected by the SBP-DIC offset. As of December, District 20 had 487 offset spouses, District 21 had 638 and District 35 had 363.

I am asking other members of the San Antonio area to call Reps. Castro, Roy and Doggett, and Sens. Cornyn and Cruz on behalf of these widows, widowers and children.

End the SBP-DIC offset and give these surviving spouses their full entitled benefits. These representatives say they support military families and love to tout Military City, USA, but they need to show it.

Kathryn Fellure is the surviving spouse of Lt. Col. Michael Fellure and resides in Fort Sam Houston.
The questionable Easter Day antics of Bexar County Precinct 2 Constable Michelle Barrientes Vela at a county park merit criminal investigation.

The first-term constable first tried to deprive a man of the use of a pavilion at Rodriguez Park  for which he had paid a rental fee 12 months earlier  by telling him his reservation had been canceled. She wanted the space for her own family. This is according to the family she was allegedly trying to oust.

When that ploy did not work, she coerced him, the family said, into paying her a $50-an-hour security so he could remain in the space. He ended up forking over $300 to Vela and her chief deputy, Anthony Castillo, before he ran out of money and left.

Commissioners Court, which has jurisdiction over the parks, had made arrangements for extra security at the park for the holiday. It had also waived a requirement that parties of more than 50 people and serving alcohol hire private security for their festivities. This information had been forwarded to Vela, said Bexar County Heritage & Parks Department Director Betty Bueche.

If all this is factual, Velas behavior is unbecoming of any law enforcement officer. It is even more egregious when one of those law enforcement officers is an elected official earning close to $94,000 who has sworn to uphold the law and ensure the safety of all Bexar County residents.

Spending Easter in a public park is a time-honored tradition among many Bexar County families. If the facts are as presented, Vela took advantage of the situation, going rogue and imposing her own rules. That is unacceptable.

The constable has some serious explaining to do. Under what authority could she collect the security fee from the parkgoer? Where did the money go? Vela told the man she collected $300 in security fees, telling him there were new rules in place when he questioned her money demands. If there are new rules, they were imposed by Vela. She did not have the authority do what is alleged.

The Texas Rangers or federal law enforcement need to step in and conduct an investigation. The Bexar County District Attorneys Office has a conflict of interest on this because the office is representing the constable in another legal matter in her official capacity as an elected officeholder.

Vela has shown a troubling pattern of behavior since taking office in 2017. Her activities came under scrutiny by the previous district attorneys office after it was discovered her deputies were executing warrants improperly and collecting fines from defendants without taking them before a judge.

Some of the earlier problems are understandable because they happened early in her first term in office. It could have stemmed from lack of familiarity with the job. However, Vela spent a few months working as a deputy constable for Precinct 2 Constable Mark Vojvodich in 2010 and 2011 and should have been familiar with the duties of the constables office.

Most recently she has tried to file criminal charges against a deputy who filed complaints against her, sued her for sex discrimination and has announced intentions to challenge her on the ballot in 2020.

Bexar County does not need elected law enforcement officials who make up the rules as they see fit or use the power of their office for acts of retaliation. At the very least its an abuse of power that carries serious legal liabilities for the county.

It is the taxpayers who have to foot the legal cost for the irresponsible antics of any elected official.
A POTENTIALLY explosive debate awaits Parliament after Cabinet approved the amendment of the Marriages Act to effectively make it illegal for same sex marriages to be solemnised and recognised in the country.

During a post-Cabinet briefing yesterday, Environment, Tourism and Hospitality Industry minister Priscah Mupfumira said the executive had approved the amendment Bill, which among other things seeks to repeal and replace the Customary Marriages Act and merge it with the Marriage Act (Chapter 5:11) into one Act.

The highlight of the amendment is the prohibition of same sex marriages at a time the gays and lesbians community was looking at government to ensure that they enjoy more rights including legally marrying.

The objectives of the Bill are  prohibition of same sex marriages and recognition of the supremacy of the Constitution which invalidates, any law practice and custom and conduct inconsistent with the Constitution, Mupfumira said.

Zimbabwe, largely a Christian nation, has been against same sex unions, with former President Robert Mugabe gaining political mileage in his Zanu PF party by declaring an open war against the gay community.

He even called them worse than pigs and dogs, but the coming in of President Emmerson Mnangagwa had given the gays and lesbians hope that they could be accommodated.

Mupfumira also said government had set aside ZWL$1 million to assist small-to-medium enterprises recover from losses induced by Cyclone Idai.

An amount of ZWL$ 1 million has been put in place to assist the recovery of SME business affected by Cyclone Idai, she said.

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A 32-YEAR-OLD man from Bulawayo has been sentenced to four years in jail for kidnapping a stranded woman and keeping her hostage for two days after she approached him seeking help.

Ndumiso Ncube pleaded not guilty to a kidnapping charge but was convicted by Bulawayo regional magistrate, Mrs Sibonginkosi Mnkandla.

The court heard that Ncube kidnapped the 18-year-old woman Ms Langelihle Ntini who had asked him for help in Bulawayo when she was on her way to Plumtree from Gweru.

Prosecuting, Mr Simbarashe Manyiwa said on February 13 this year at around 4PM, Ms Ntini alighted from a bus in Bulawayo en route to Plumtree where she had secured a job as a maid.

She approached Ncube at the terminus and asked where she could find transport to Plumtree. Since she had no cellphone she asked Ncube if he could help her call the person she was going to see. Ncube agreed to help her and asked her to accompany him to his house to get the cellphone and she complied.

They arrived at Ncubes home at Burombo Flats, Thorngrove, Bulawayo, and Ncube told Ms Ntini to wait for him as he was going to get his phone from his sisters place, said Mr Manyiwa.

He said when Ncube came back to the house late at night, he suggested that Ms Ntini should sleep and travel the next morning.

On the following morning Ncube told Ms Ntini to cook and wash his clothes but she refused.

Ncube left the house, locked her inside and showed up at night at around 10PM. On the same day he asked Ms Ntini to cook supper and she complied.

After eating Ncube told her that he wanted to marry her but she rejected his proposal, said the prosecutor.

On February 15, Ncube told Ms Ntini not to talk to anyone and again left her locked up in the room. At around 10AM on the same day Ms Ntini opened the window, shouted to people who were passing by and briefly narrated her story as she sought help.

A passerby rescued her at around 11AM and she went to the police and reported the matter.

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Chief Nhlanhla Ndiweni has launched a campaign to save Ntabazinduna Mountain in Matabeleland North province from being illegally parceled out under the guise of the land reform programme.

His campaign was motivated by the governments plan to evict a white commercial farmer, Brian Davies, from Tabas Induna Farm.

The outspoken chief argues Ntabazinduna holds historical value as it is the birthplace for the Ndebele nation, but its significance is now under threat by the eviction being spearheaded by the Umguza district councils lands committee.

Should the eviction go ahead, Chief Ndiweni said he would lobby for the West to tighten sanctions against President Emmerson Mnangagwas government.

Chief Ndiweni said the Parsons and Davies families, who own the farm, were of Ntabazinduna as they had coexisted well with locals.

Parsons are the family who were behind the brand Colcom, noted the paramount chief.

The land committee has apportioned land to one Mr Ambrose and he is only a front man, we know there are others hiding behind him. I use the word corruption because we have evidence for that and will duly be provided to you in a few weeks time when we gather at the top of the mountain, Ndiweni told journalists at the Bulawayo Media Centre on Friday.

The paramount chief noted that he would lead the charge (Imbizo) on May 18 in Ntabazinduna as part of Save Ntabazinduna Mountain campaign.

Ntabazinduna encapsulates so many issues that show the rot we are having to face. Our preparations are now in advance that the event is streamed internationally, he said.

Chief Ndiweni stressed his fight was not about the white farmer but was motivated by the greed of individuals within Zanu PF who wanted to destroy the legacy of the mountain.

Im not talking about the high level of morality for the land reform programme, we are talking about base corruption, something all of you will disagree with and reject. This about a few individuals who want to give each other land for favours earned in political parties. At this time, it is Zanu PF and that is where it comes from, he alleged.

President Mnangagwa has repeatedly said he would deal with corruption but Chief Ndiweni claimed the corruption at Ntabazinduna Mountain speaks to how false those promises have been.

He noted that he has spent four years engaging the Ministry of Lands and Agriculture, generating a lot of paperwork to alert officials to the rot but that had been to no avail.

As a result, he no longer has a desire to engage with the authorities but would take decisive action so that they back off.

He added: We are incredibly angry that this administration has adopted a most arrogant posture and that disqualifies it completely from high office they currently occupy. I as a traditional leader whose job entitles me as Chief Ndiweni to look after, protect, maintain the customs, practices and norms of our people I find what they have done an affront and theres no excuse whatsoever.

Ive done my work, been up to see the Minister of Lands three or four times at my expense and written countless documents to his offices. He has chosen to sit on his hands, so for me Im saying let the campaign begin. It will be bruising, difficult and yes its effects will touch the whole nation. We have to start somewhere to claw back common sense, bring rationality to everyday living.

He added that his father, the late Chief Khayisa, had protected the land at Ntabazinduna for 77 years and likewise he would do the same.

Chief Ndiweni called on the United States President Donald Trumps government to immediately increase and tighten sanctions and travel restrictions they applied against the Mnangagwa administration.

We have in place point persons in Washington D.C, London and Europe to engage those particular organisations who have been speaking about Zimbabwe. Those organisations which the current administration is trying to engage. Our agenda is simple: we need to bring common sense to many issues that start with Ntabazinduna Mountain and so we are openly asking those institutions to increase sanctions they brought against this administration.

Were asking those institutions to increase the travel restrictions they brought against this administration. We want to make sure that common senses comes into play because the sanctions they imposed were miniscule. Do not be beguiled by the notion that sanctions have brought Zimbabwe to a standstill. That is a fallacy, it has no truth in it whatsoever; these are targeted sanctions and targeted restrictions.

The chief wondered why authorities were so lax when it came to historical monuments, saying it was puzzling that in 2019, Zimbabwe had not even given Ntabazinduna Mountain legislative protection when it has held historical meaning to the Ndebele people.

How is it that a mountain can be treated so appallingly, as to be thrust deep within the land reform process to be given away at will and whim to anyone who comes? Clearly, to anyone who engages in political corruption. If such were to happen elsewhere, people would be up in arms but here we seem to accept. I dont mean this for the general populace but for the current administration, he said.

Ntabazinduna (Hill of the Chiefs) holds special significance in the history of Ndebele people. It was there that King Mzilikazi set up the capital of his kingdom, kwaBulawayo, after the long trek from KwaZulu Natal in South Africa.

A popular belief is that he was directed specifically to the flat top hill, with two conical hills aside it, by spirit mediums.

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CalPERS private equity initiative is looking a lot like Brexit.

Just like Brexit, CalPERS launched its private equity scheme for political reasons, namely, to reduce transparency since the public agency is too thin-skinned to take well-warranted criticism, yet too lazy to up its game (CalPERS failure to offer a coherent justification makes it hard to reach any other conclusion). Both were undertaken with a remarkable lack of thought or investigation.1 Just like Brexit, CalPERS keeps running into realities that undermine its claims about how great things would be, like having to admit it will pay higher fees (lowering net returns), and that one of its planned new funds, one that will engage in Warren-Buffet-style long-hold investing, will earn less than CalPERS current private equity approach. On top of that, there is no reason to expect CalPERS other pet idea, late stage venture capital to do all that well, since late stage venture capital companies today are as mature as tech companies that went public in previous decades. Why should CalPERS expect return premiums to public companies from companies that are essentially public companies? Just like Brexit, CalPERS is unable to either resolve or live with contradictory aims. In Brexit, the glaring example is the Irish border, where the UK does not want a hard border, but also rejects having Northern Ireland be subject to EU rules on trade. With CalPERS, the giant fund fantasizes that it will be able to protect its interests with a mere advisory board, when its only leverage is likely to be to stop providing more funds or dissolve the ventures, both of which are such radical moves that CalPERS would be unlikely to use them until results became visibly poor, as opposed to merely sub-par. Just like Brexit, CalPERS is falling back on cheap sloganeering to cover ideas doesnt hold up to scrutiny. For instance, CalPERS keeps saying it needs private equity for its returns. Yet there are other approaches that would deliver private-equity like returns for the portfolio, such as public market replication of private equity or applying more leverage to the entire portfolio. More important, if CalPERS real objective were returns, it would not be dithereing about with creating a new middleman with less experience than private equity firms but where the talent would expect to get economically similar terms to what theyd get if they launched their own fund. The way to achieve the highest returns possible from private equity is to bring most or all of it in house. CalPERS refusal even to discuss this alternative says the pension fund has other objectives that it is keeping hidden. It is hard to see how any covert motivations could be aligned with those of beneficiaries; otherwise, there would be no reason to hide them. And just like Brexit, CalPERS is more than two years into its process and is hardly any further along than when it started. Yet, again like Brexit, CalPERS seems to regard it as politically impossible to drop the idea.

CalPERS CEO Marcie Frost effectively said in recent remarks to the press that CalPERS has made no progress on its private equity new business model, making her a provincial competitor to UK Prime Minister Theresa May in protracted exercises in non-delivery. However, a big advantage that Frost has is that the captured trade press is all too willing to take up CalPERS misdirection spin.

Consider an early May article in Top 1000 Funds, CalPERS wants PE ideas for new entity. A not-very-close reading shows Frost falling back on a key element of CalPERS branding, namely, casual lying. Frost tries to act as if CalPERS is in the early phases of developing its private equity scheme, when in fact (like Brexit), CalPERS is again going over well-trodden ground, acting as if repeating the same steps will somehow magically lead to a different outcome.

Lets start from the top:

The CalPERS board has approved the first step in the creation of a new private equity model, and now the funds CEO, Marcie Frost, is looking for advice on how to structure such an entity.

This is false. The CalPERS board only gave approval for the staff to continue to explore the private equity business model. And this isnt a first anything. The board vote in the April open session was similar to what was approved in last Mays closed session. That became largely public as a result of Frost and then Chief Investment Officer Ted Eliopoulos acting as if the board had green-lighted the concept, leading to board member objections and a walkback by Frost at the following board meeting.

And what is this blather about looking for advice on how to structure such an entity? CalPERS has been discussing structure, as in legal structure, for well over a year. Silicon Valley fixer Larry Sonsini sent a memo to Marcie Frost, Ted Eliopoulos, and John Cole, who has been managing this initiative, titled Private Equity Direct Investment Entity: Investment Structure Roles and Responsibilities. You can view the document, which was presented to the board in a May 2018 closed session, here. CalPERS hired a big ticket lawyer to give advice on the legal structure, among other things.

So is Frost admitting her dalliance with Sonsini was a complete waste of time and CalPERS money, and she has had to throw out all of his work product and start from scratch? And if this isnt the case, why is Frost lying by pretending she is starting afresh?

The article then does mention that the giant funds fortune have improved somewhat due to former Governor Jerry Brown having provided $6 billion of pre-funding, but rather than calling that a mini-bailut, the author blandly depicts the state moving to alleviate CalPERS underfunding as an improving liquidity position.

The next paragraph returns to private equity, mentioning that it  is also the only portfolio forecast to beat its return target over the next 10 years. The author is either so captured or so inattentive as not to know that CalPERS resorted to lowering its benchmark to preserve the fiction that private equity was producing enough in the way of return to justify its extra risks. From a 2017 post:

Recall that CalPERS has failed to meet its private equity benchmarks for the last ten, five, three, and one years. CalPERS is widely considered to have ready access to fund managers and to be disciplined about fund selection. Its hard to think that many investors would do meaningfully better than CalPERS; indeed, PCA said in September that CalPERS did better than an industry peer group index. But private equity is a high-risk, hoped-for high-return strategy. And yet the benchmarks that have been used in the industry for decades show that private equity hasnt delivered the returns that go along with the risks.. CalPERS has not just fallen short of these targets. It has fallen short by a gaping chasm of several hundred basis points for the ten, five, three, and one year measurement periods. Ironically, in a April Investment Committee presentation, CalPERS admits that private equity hasnt been earning enough to meet its idiosyncratic risks of late, measured against a host of equity indices:

In this board meeting, CalPERS used a con that it had passed off on the board before, that of using an artificially low volatility estimate. CalPERS later revised the benchmark to lower the risk premium for private equity from 300 basis points (3%) to 150 basis points (1.5%).

The next sentence is another eye-popper:

Frost said the boards approval in the first step of a separate entity to invest in private equity was an important signal the fund was embracing innovation.

As we indicated above, the board made no new commitment. But on top of that, Frost is engaging in Brexit-like Groundhog day behavior with her flogging of innovation. First, innovation isnt a magical cure-all. History is full of terrible innovations, such as radium-infused medical tonics, asset-backed-securities CDOs (the kind that blew up the global financial system), and New Coke. Second, what CalPERS is planning to do isnt innovative. Its just a separately managed account, which CalPERS could get from any established private equity fund manager with far less brain damage. And third, Frost abandoned the innovation positioning when it polled badly among CalPERS beneficiaries, leading CalPERS to do a 180 and present the new model as tried and true. Maybe Frost thinks she can run one type of messaging to finance professionals and another to CalPERS members. That sort of move didnt work very well for Theresa May, who found out the hard way that EU leaders and negotiators were reading the UK press with considerable care.

But Frost has worked her way up to the most damaging admission:

Now CalPERS is a [sic] looking for a team, or individual, to join discussions and workshops to help figure out what the detail of this new private equity venture could look like. Come and talk to us about your ideas, she said. We need every access point in private equity we can get. 7 per cent is a high target and we know we have to take some risk and have to understand those risks.

This is an admission of failure. CalPERS did a big listening tour which it doggedly presented as serious research. It was then caught out by Bloomberg in September 2017 trying to outsource the entire scheme to Blackrock. CalPERS then engaged Larry Sonsini later that fall. In December, CalPERS launched an invite only strategic partners search for an unjustifiable fund of funds program that was again designed to favor Blackrock.2

With Sonsini installed, CalPERS developed a napkin-doodle level structure for the new entities. CalPERS also began talking to potential fund managers. At the beginning of January of this year, Bloomberg broke the story that CalPERS had already been recruiting potential talent and was in advanced discussions with two former Silver Lake partners, among others. This suggests that CalPERS had been out recruiting for at least a couple of months, without any board approval. As we wrote in January:

CalPERS staff is operating in an astonishingly high-handed and incompetent manner. The only rationale for trying to recruit candidates before staff has finalized the private equity scheme and the board has approved it is to strong-arm the board, by trying to argue that these great picks wont wait much longer. It also serves to condition board to see the venture as a given by getting them to focus on implementation issues and divert their attention and energy from fundamental Why are we doing this at all? questions.

So it is flat out dishonest for Frost to pretend that she is soliciting interest for the first time.

But far worse is that Frost yet again is showing how inept CalPERS is at going about it, which (again shades of Brexit) is also why it is going in circles.

For anything non-trivial, competent organizations do not tell potential vendors, Tell me what you think I ought to buy. That is an invitation to be taken.

Similarly, most professionals will tell you the worst clients are the ones who dont know what they want, or make 50,000 foot requests that arent deliverable (I want to make a really good acquisition at a cheap price3). Conversely, the best ones are very clear about what they want from a project at the outset and have done enough homework to be realistic about timing and budget.

Statements like the ones Frost has made to the press scream that it will be torture to getting anything done with CalPERS, which may have a lot to do with why Frost is still spinning her wheels.

CalPERS has no justification for not going through the discipline of having a public solicitation process. First, it would force the fund to articulate what it wants and would give potential candidates greater confidence that they wont be wasting their time if they express interest. Second, an open, competitive process is the best way to get good results for the funds. CalPERS keeps fetishizing the importance of prospective partners sharing CalPERS ESG goals. Anyone who is anti-transparency isnt credible as being a supporter of good governance, the G in ESG.

But this gets back to the question we raised at the outset: why is CalPERS so doggedly pursuing this scheme when its showing that it isnt getting anywhere with it, and rejecting the idea other public pension funds are moving toward and Dr. Ashby Monk has recommended forcefully, that of bringing private equity in house? CalPERS keeps trying to peddle falsehoods, like it cant pay enough (not true, according to CalHR, CalPERS can pay whatever it needs to as long as it can substantiate the compensation level) or the equally barmy excuse that no one would work in Sacramento (they dont need to: how hard is it to have an office in San Francisco and later New York?). It would admittedly take a long time to build the skills to bring most of the investments in house. But for CalPERS to bring private equity in house is a smaller leap in capabilities than when commercial banks decided they wanted to get into investment banking. Yet in a decade of concerted effort, the biggest players had made significant inroads.

So if the analogy to Brexit holds true, Frost should take a hard look at what it has done to Theresa Mays reputation. May is still Prime Minister only because no other Tory wants the job.4 Frost will not be so lucky if she cant deliver on her private equity scheme, or alternatively, tries to ram it through without remedying its considerable shortcomings.

____

1 From one of several discussions of CalPERS claims that it had done bona fide research, which it first presented at a July 2017 offsite:

CalPERS staff engaged in yet another snow job with the board in trying to pretend it had done a bona fide strategic review. The centerpiece was (and I am not making this up) a listening tour where CalPERS consulted with 50 Big Names on private equity, many of whom would have absolutely no reason to know anything relevant, such as Jeff Immelt of GE and Jamie Dimon as well as Steve Schwarzman of Blackstone and critics like Ludovic Phalippou of Oxford. They asked for their views on private equity topics as well as What would you do if you were CalPERS? By contrast, the last time CalPERS thought about making a big change in its private equity strategy, it hired McKinsey. As anyone with a modicum of business training, or even some common sense, would recognize, this was a garbage-in, garbage-out exercise intended to provide the sheen of brand name validation. People like Immelt are too removed from the industry to have much if any insight; general partners like Schwarzman clearly have an agenda, which is to keep limited partners giving them money and paying fat fees. In addition, none of them know CalPERS well enough to provide specific advice. Its another sign of how little respect the staff has for the board that it didnt deign to provide a list of its interviewees, but merely mentioned the names cited above plus Larry Fink of BlackRock and Dr. Ashby Monk from Stanford.

We later learned that Professor Phalippou was shocked that his chat with a CalPERS employee was being depicted as research. Phalippou had been invited for a drink and the research consisted of a 45 minute chat in a pub.

2 The original documentation for the solicitation made clear that only six invited firms should apply. When that was exposed, CalPERS then took the position that anyone could submit a proposal, when it was obvious that that was just a face saving gesture.

3 A common request from Japanese corporations circa 1988.

4 Save the widely-loathed Boris Johnson.
By Alexander C. Kaufman, Senior Business Editor at The Huffington Post, and Chris DAngeloa, Associate Editor at HuffPost Hawaii Cross-posted from Grist, as part of the Climate Desk collaboration.

At a moment when mounting reports from the worlds top scientists indicate humanity is barrelling toward climate catastrophe and ecological collapse, Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden is preparing a climate policy that appears to put the United States back on the pre-Trump trajectory.

The former vice presidents proposal is anchored in resetting the clock to 2016 by rejoining the Paris climate accord and reinstating Obama-era regulations on power plant and vehicle emissions, according to a Reuters report published Friday. The policy is expected to maintain a role for fossil fuels, and veer away from the Green New Deal framework that most of Bidens top rivals for his partys 2020 presidential nomination have embraced.

Reheating the Obama administrations regulations-plus-Paris approach will be totally insufficient, said Joseph Majkut, a climate scientist and policy expert at the center-right think tank Niskanen Center.

TJ Ducklo, a spokesman for Bidens campaign, said in an email statement that the former vice president knows how high the stakes are and noted his record on addressing climate change.

As president, Biden would enact a bold policy to tackle climate change in a meaningful and lasting way, and will be discussing the specifics of that plan in the near future, he said. Any assertions otherwise are not accurate.

The descriptions of the forthcoming policy offer only a first glance at Bidens proposal to address a global crisis that, over the past year, has surged to the top of Democratic primary voters concerns. But the position appears dangerously out of step with the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. The worlds leading climate science body warned in October that governments must cut global emission by nearly half and begin removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere to keep warming from exceeding 1.5 degrees Celsius, or 2.7 degrees Fahrenheit, at which point the havoc wreaked by extreme weather and sea-level rise is expected to cost $54 trillion and kill millions.

The finding, confirmed a month later by 13 federal agencies in the congressionally mandated National Climate Assessment, cast a shadow over the Obama administrations climate legacy. While the 44th president forged the first global emissions-cutting deal to include the United States and China, his administration oversaw the rapid expansion of U.S. oil and gas production, a fact about which Obama boasted last November. Expanded U.S. drilling threatens to add 1,000 coal plants worth of greenhouse gases by the middle of the century, according to a January analysis by researchers at more than a dozen environmental groups. That will make the emissions reductions set out by the IPCC all but impossible to meet, and discourage countries like China, India and Indonesia  whose emissions are growing at a rapid clip  from adopting cleaner development strategies as the worlds richest nation and biggest historic emitter fails to set an example.

The greatest fault in his proposal is the suggestion that natural gas can be part of the solution, Michael Mann, a climate scientist at Pennsylvania State University, said by email. The solution to a problem created by burning fossil fuels cannot be the burning of fossil fuels.

Biden has called climate change an existential threat. And during a campaign speech in Iowa earlier this month, he noted that he was one of the first guys to introduce a climate change bill, way, way back in 87. PolitiFact looked into the claim and found it to be true.

Yet, in a speech last month, the former vice president parroted a familiar oil and gas industry line, declaring, North American energy makes us independent. And, according to Reuters, he picked Heather Zichal as a climate adviser. Zichal, 42, who advised in the Obama administration, served on the board of liquified natural gas giant Cheniere Energy Partners from 2014 until last year.

Zichal came to Bidens defense in a post to Twitter on Friday afternoon, saying Reuters got it wrong.

There may have been a chance for modest, all of the above, middle ground climate strategies 20 years ago but weve passed that point now, said Peter Gleick, a climate scientist and co-founder of Californias Pacific Institute. He added that many politicians still fail to understand or accept the severity of the climate crisis or the speed with which we now have to act.

Of the nearly two dozen Democrats vying for president in 2020, only two  Washington Governor Jay Inslee and former Texas Congressman Beto ORourke  have laid out detailed climate policies, as The Guardian reported this week. But the plans set a far different course from what former President Barack Obama envisioned.

ORourke, who climate activists criticized for pro-fossil fuel votes in the past, proposed a sweeping $5 trillion plan to beef up infrastructure and make the United States carbon neutral by 2050.

Inslee, whos making climate change the sole focus of his White House bid, went further, outlining a detailed vision to eliminate emissions from power plants, passenger vehicles and new buildings by 2030.

Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass) vowed to ban new fossil fuel leases on federal lands and waters and increase renewable energy generation on public acreage by nearly tenfold.

Senator Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) threw his weight behind the Green New Deal resolution that Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) and Senator Ed Markey (D-Mass.) released in February, which calls for a sweeping national industrial plan to decarbonize the United States and expand the social safety net over the next 10 years. Roughly half the 21 Democrats running for president pledged to reject donations from the fossil fuel industry.

In an election where more than half the field had pledges to reject fossil fuel money, Biden has a fossil fuel bird member leading his climate policy development, David Turnbull, a spokesman for the nonprofit Oil Change U.S., said by email. This is not a good look, and worse yet will lead to terrible policy stuck in the past.

Andrew Dessler, an atmospheric scientist at Texas A&M University, said the policies described in the Reuters story do not sound very ambitious and would likely blow past the additional degree of average temperature rise the Paris Agreement aimed to cap global warming.

My rough intuition is that this approach would be more in line with stabilizing at 3 to 4 degrees C of warming, rather than staying below 2 degrees C, he said by email. So I would categorize this as a bit disappointing.

Yet he said it may be a politically savvy appeal to draw voters who elected President Donald Trump in 2016. That may be a strength in the general election, but the proposal drew fierce criticism from Democratic activists who could influence the primary election.

Im a Woolsey Fire survivor, RL Miller, political director of the political action committee Climate Hawks Vote, said referring to one of the historic wildfires that blazed in California last year. Does Biden mean that the next wildfire will compromise with me which half of my home emerges unscathed?

Sunrise Movement co-founder Varshini Prakash, whose youth-focused group led the protests that propelled the Green New Deal into the national conversation last year, called Bidens middle ground policy a death sentence for our generation and the millions of people on the frontlines of the climate crisis.

The Green New Deal remains the only framework on the scope of the crisis, and the movement to enact it initially drew stunning bipartisan support. A December poll from Yale and George Mason universities found 81 percent of voters, including 64 percent of Republicans and 57 percent of conservative Republicans favored the policies outlined under such a program. But months of negative coverage on right-wing media outlets like Fox News  which routinely smeared the Green New Deal by falsely claiming it would ban hamburgers, trigger genocide against white men, or set the stage for Stalinist government policy  dramatically eroded support among Republicans, new polling shows.

Labor unions, a key constituency for Democrats, are divided on the Green New Deal. The building and construction trade unions, a powerful force in the labor movement, rely on the fossil fuel industry for lucrative jobs with coal trains and pipelines, and as such have opposed proposals that threatened those sectors.

Yet proponents of the Green New Deal say a Democratic leader with strong appeal to unions could help bridge that divide by promoting the policys potential to generate unionized clean energy jobs.

Its a false tradeoff to say that we have to seek moderate climate policy in order to appeal to both the environmental left and the labor movement, said Greg Carlock, the researcher who authored the left-leaning think tank Data for Progress Green New Deal blueprint last year. We can decarbonize our economy and we can grow good jobs.
Dancing honeybees use democratic process when selecting a new home ScienceDaily. From 2010. Still germane!

Scientists Discover Nearly 200,000 Kinds of Ocean Viruses Quanta

A Flightless, Chicken-Sized Bird Keeps Re-Evolving Into Existence Because It DGAF Buzzfeed (DK). Original.

Ubers IPO Joins Ranks of Wall Street Flops Bloomberg

1 big thing: Ubers IPO got caught in perfect storm Axios

Uberd Eschaton. Just spitballing here, but what if theres so much capital sloshing about that Ubers VCs backed it as a form of social engineering: To destroy public transportation, increase traffic, degrade employment law, pioneer an immiserated labor force of gigsters, and so forth. Whats not to like? Ubers inability to ever turn a profit would have then been a secondary consideration, and Uber a sort of hobby farm for the 0.1%. Oh, and Uber (along with Facebook) pioneered the idea that move fast and break things applies to the law, as well. And whats wrong with freeing capital from such antiquated fetters?

Playing DICE with Life on Earth: Nordhauss Damage Function Steve Keen (part one).

Huge Moment for Justice: Landmark Verdict as UK Jury Acquits Extinction Rebellion Co-Founder Who Argued Necessity Defense Common Dreams

Internal documents show 3M hid PFAS dangers for decades Detroit Free Press (MN).

Brexit

Is Jeremy Corbyn really anti-Semitic? Spectator

The latest multi-billion pound move in NHS privatisation  is the endgame in sight? OpenDemocracy

China?

India

Syraqistan

Venezuela

Yikes:

This is the psychopathic Governor of Rio de Janeiro who  among other things  has been using helicopter-snipers & drones to execute people from the sky. Here he proudly shows himself flying over a favela as the police shoot, including at evangelicals mistaken for drug dealers: https://t.co/nZ8yvCqhaZ  Glenn Greenwald (@ggreenwald) May 8, 2019

Trump Transition

2020

Our Famously Free Press

The Last Family-Owned Daily in Mississippi The Atlantic. If we want things to stay as they are, things will have to change.

Big Brother Is Watching You Watch

Harvard Drops Harvey Weinstein Lawyer as a Faculty Dean NYT. The unwoke do not deserve legal representation.

Class Warfare

Why We Join Cults Areo. We? And if youre looking for an explanation of the various *DSs ( ____ Derangement Syndromes) that we seem to be accumulating, they dont fit the criteria given for cult in the article. Interesting nonetheless.

5-HTTLPR: A Pointed Review Slate Star Codex

Antidote du Jour (via):



Bonus antidote, osprey cam:

See yesterdays Links and Antidote du Jour here.
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.
(Natural News) Grilling season is here, but you might want to think twice before skewering up some shrimp this summer  those tasty crustaceans may be toxic. Scientists studying rivers in the United Kingdom say every single sample of shrimp they examined tested positive for cocaine and lidocaine. Other drugs, such as ketamine and opioids, were also found in the shrimp. Many of the shellfish examined also tested positive for pesticides that are banned in the U.K. and other potentially hazardous chemicals.

But the U.K. is not the only place riddled with drug-infested shrimp. Drugged-up shellfish are becoming an international issue. Crustaceans are clearly not buying their own cocaine, and as scientists explain, the sudden uptick in contaminated sea critters is yet another sign that humans are polluting the environment.

Cocaine shrimp and pesticide prawns

Scientists from the U.K. just published research in the journal Environmental Research which shows how badly contaminated local rivers really are. Freshwater shrimp were collected at 15 different sites along five Suffolk County rivers. Suffolk County is a rural area north of London.

The researchers say the drugs most likely made their way into the ecosystem through human consumption.

In a press release, study co-author Leon Barron said of the findings, Such regular occurrence of illicit drugs in wildlife was surprising. We might expect to see these in urban areas such as London, but not in smaller and more rural catchments. The presence of pesticides which have long been banned in the U.K. also poses a particular challenge as the sources of these remain unclear.

Study leader Dr. Thomas Miller adds that while the concentrations of contaminants detected were relatively low, they were able to identify compounds that might be of concern to the environment and crucially, which might pose a risk to wildlife.

The scientists say they were not able to come to any conclusions on what effects drug and pesticide pollution will have on shrimp (and the animals which eat them). However, one can surmise that regular exposure to dangerous contaminants such as these, even in small amounts, probably isnt good. Pesticides can be especially harmful to delicate marine environments  and potent drugs like cocaine, ketamine and opioids probably arent going to do wildlife any favors, either.

Global crustacean contamination

The presence of all these pollutants in rural waters should be highly concerning  especially given that there has been an increase in contaminated shellfish around the world.

As Business Insider reports, traces of drugs have been found in shellfish harvested from the U.K., Canada and the U.S. Studies have also shown that exposure to these drugs, even in small amounts, can be harmful to sea life.

Just last year, scientists found that mussels collected from the Seattle area were riddled with oxycodone, antidepressants, and chemotherapy drugs. Scientists posited that the mussels were feeding on contaminated human waste.

You wouldnt want to collect (and eat) mussels from these urban bays, study co-author Andy James said in a press release at the time.

As if marine life didnt face enough of a threat from toxic pesticides and harmful drugs, plastic is another major issue that threatens oceans and rivers alike.

While seafood is often lauded for its health benefits, it is growing increasingly clear that much of it really isnt safe. Thanks to poor environmental practices and escalating drug use, our waterways may never be the same.

Learn more about environmental hazards at Environ.news.

Sources for this article include:

BigLeaguePolitics.com

BusinessInsider.com

Newsweek.com
(Natural News) FBI Director Christopher Wray has been praised by many within D.C. circles as a straight-shooter and law-and-order kind of guy, and yet earlier this week he proved that hes not much different than the same swamp creatures out to depose POTUS Donald Turmp.

During testimony on Tuesday before a Senate Appropriations subcommittee regarding the bureaus 2020 budget, Wray told the panel he wouldnt use the word spying to describe the Obama deep statesspyingon the 2016 Trump campaign.

Well, its not the term I would use. Lots of people have different colloquial phrases, he said. I believe the FBI is engaged in investigative activity, and part of investigative activity includes surveillance.

Fired FBI Director James Comey, himself likely in hot, hot water over allegedly releasing classified memos to be leaked to the media, said something similarly asinine last month. (Related: Levin: Impanel grand jury NOW and move against Comey and his deep state Spygate conspirators.)

I have no idea what (Attorney General William Barr)s talking about. The FBI doesnt spy. The FBI investigates, Comey told CBS This Morning, according to Fox News.

Got that? The standard FBI response to accusations of spying is obviously, No, we do surveillance. Of course, when you conduct surveillance on someone without their knowledge, you are spying on them.

We get why Comey would say something like that  he may be looking at some significant legal trouble for allegedly falsifying a FISA court spying surveillance warrant against Team Trump adviser Carter Page.

But Wray? Why? There can only be one answer: Because he, too, is a creature of the same deep state swamp that POTUS Trump has pledged to drain. And he will, if he can just wade through the stuff that keeps floating to the top.

Fox News noted further:

In an interview on Americas Newsroom House Oversight Committee Ranking Member Representative Jim Jordan, R-Ohio, cited the Christopher Steele dossier, before making a dramatic statement about what went on ahead of the 2016 election in regards to surveillance on members of the Trump campaign.

The FBI is involved in counterintelligence, which includes spying

If thats not spying I dont know what is, Jordan said. [Fired FBI Deputy Director] Andy McCabe told us when we deposed him that, but for the dossier, they wouldnt have gotten the warrant. So, the idea that they used itJim Comeys own words: salacious and unverified. Not my words. Not Republican words.

The Director of the FBI who has been fired said it was salacious and unverified when they took it to a courta secret courtto get a warrant to spy on Carter Page who was associated with the Trump campaign, Jordan continued.

AG Barr used the same term  spying  when he testified before a Senate Appropriations subcommittee in April about the Justice Departments budget, Politico reported.

Spying on a political campaign is a big deal, he said. I think spying did occur. The question is whether it was adequately predicated. And Im not suggesting that it wasnt adequately predicated. But I need to explore that.

Meanwhile, its important to note that the FBI does indeed have a counterintelligence division, and that fired agent Peter Strzok was the No. 2 official in that division as Spygate was being launched.

While the Counterintelligence Division continues to neutralize national security threats from foreign intelligence services, its modern-day mission is much broader, says the Bureaus website. The FBI is the lead agency for exposing, preventing, and investigating intelligence activities on U.S. soil, and the Counterintelligence Division uses its full suite of investigative and intelligence capabilities to combat counterintelligence threats.

If an agency is involved in espionage in any way  even counter-espionage  then it deploys and utilizes spies.

Wray needs to dispense with the standard we just investigate nonsense. We know better.

Read more about the anti-Trump deep state and its continued targeting of the Trump White House at DeepState.news and WhiteHouse.news.

Sources include:

Politico.com

FoxNews.com

TheHill.com

JamesComey.news
(Natural News) Most Americans, especially those who have traveled abroad, agree that America is the greatest place on earth to live, raise a family, and  with some work, education, and dedication  live a good and prosperous life.

But they also understand that as big and as wealthy as the United States has become, we cannot take on all of the worlds needy. We dont have the space, we dont have the money, and our people dont have the tolerance for it.

And yet, increasingly, the Democrat Party backs open borders and the importation of as much of the poor, needy, Third World as possible, because a) they see the mass migration of the worlds poor to the U.S. as an endless stream of favorable voters; b) mass migration is politically destabilizing, which is something the party wants; and c) more poor people mean more people for Democrats to rule over.

Thats why the results of a recent survey were music to the ears of open-border Democrats or, at least, those in elected office, because of the opportunity it presents.

As reported by Conservative Review:

According to a recent survey of Guatemalans conducted by the Association for Research and Social Studies and Barometro de las Americas, 39.2 percent of Guatemalans would like to migrate, 85 percent of them to the United States. Which means that roughly 5.6 million Guatemalans would like to come here, not including the close to one million who already came here in recent years.

The Daily Caller noted that, according to the survey, nearly 6-in-10 (58 percent) of the nearly 1,600 respondents claimed they already had a relative living in the U.S.

The survey was originally published on a news site called Prensa Libre. The article, according to TheDC, noted that family reunification and lack of employment and poverty are why most Guatemalans want to come to the United States. And of course, the Guatemalan government isnt going to do much to stop them because the government would love to export its poverty to some other country, but the U.S. in particular because migrants who find work here can send money back to their relatives in Guatemala.

Conservative Review says that many on the Left claim our immigration laws are broken and as such thats why there is so much illegal immigration; its not possible to get into America legally through a system that no longer functions, right?

Where are Democrats in the House?

Except that the more people who are allowed into the country without going through the proper immigration channels, the more people who come looking for the same pathway in, not fewer. (Related: Border INVASION of America happening right now, yet even GOP lawmakers vote against national defense are they insane?)

So that theory is bunk.

If anything, it is clear that the liberal premise is contrary to the reality  that the more we hand over the keys to immigration to a particular area, the more people will come through all available channels  both legal and illegal  to join their friends, families, and communities, writes Daniel Horowitz for Conservative Review.

Since Democrats took over the House in November and since being sworn in earlier this year, they have shown no inclination whatsoever to work with Republicans and the president to shore up border security with new walls, provide additional resources to border enforcement agencies trying to cope with the current crush of mostly Central American migrants, or reform asylum and other laws that make it harder to enter the U.S. illegally and remain.

Instead, House Democrats are spending their time harassing the president and his family while passing little in the way of useful legislation that would actually help our country.

Given the ongoing border crisis and Democrats unwillingness to help resolve it, that should prove without any doubt who are their priorities.

Hint: Its not Mr. and Mrs. America.

Read more about Democrats push for an invasion of migrants and open borders at InvasionUSA.news and OpenBorders.news.

Sources include:

ConservativeReview.com

DailyCaller.com

TheNationalSentinel.com
(Natural News) A former publicist for the infamous sex cult NXIVM has come forward as a whistleblower to tell all that he knows about the evils he witnessed while working for the group  and perhaps more importantly, to reveal the identities of some of the corrupt politicians who were also involved.

During an exclusive interview on The Campaign Show with Patrick Howley, which airs on Patriots Soapbox, Frank Parlato discussed the trial of Keith Raniere, NXIVMs cult leader and top dog. Parlato also talked about how Raniere and other NXIVM leadership were very closely aligned with Hillary Clinton, having given illegally bundled money, to quote Big League Politics, to her 2008 presidential campaign.

According to Parlato, NXIVM routinely trafficked in teenage girls from Mexico, who were then turned into sex slaves and physically branded on their bodies with Ranieres initials. And unbeknownst to millions of Americans are the many mainstream politicians who, at the very least, appear to have known that this was going on  and some of whom may have also been perpetrators themselves.

As it turns out, Democrat senator for New York and 2020 presidential contender Kirsten Gillibrand has been called out for her close family ties to the NXIVM sex cult. Gillibrands father and stepmother, who are second cousins, were both heavily involved with NXIVM before they married. Gillibrands father, Doug Rutnik, is also a former employee of NXIVM.

According to Big League Politics, Gillibrands father functioned as a broker between Raniere, NXIVMs leader, and then-New York attorney general Eliot Spitzer, who had been working at the time to resolve Ranieres financial problems with the state  this, according to Joseph OHara, another ex-employee at NXIVM-turned-whistleblower.

For more news like this about deep state politicians and their dirty deeds, be sure to check out Evil.news.

Bill Clintons close friend Richard Mays got hooked on the NXIVM sex cult, whistleblowers say

Nancy Salzman, president of NXIVM, apparently acted as a personal guru for Gillibrands stepmother, Gwenn Belcourt, whos said to have gotten hooked on the cult  along with Richard Mays, a close friend of former President Bill Clinton.

New York Senator Chuck Schumer is also said to have been connected to NXIVM, as the sex cult reportedly viewed him as a friendly Democrat ally, according to Parlato.

Be sure to check out the full discussion between Frank Parlato and Patrick Howley on YouTube.

In a nutshell, NXIVM was closely linked with Gillibrand and her family, the Clintons, and presumably many other deep state politicians, many of whom identify as Democrats, and all of whom would appear to have given cover for the untold wickedness that it propagated against innocent human beings.

As you may recall, NXIVM is the same sex cult that recruited Smallville star Allison Mack into its ranks, only to eventually turn her into one of its leaders to recruit other young women (and possibly young men) to become the next generation of sex slaves.

At the time I worked for them, I thought they were a little peculiar, Parlato maintains. But it wasnt until the end that I realized they were a downright evil group, he says.

You can read full copies of the court documents outlining NXIVMs suit against Rutnik, which Parlato shared with Big League Politics, at this link.

There are women on the record who are now adults who have accused Raniere of statutory rape and there are some very suspicious incidents where Mexican girls came under the perimeters of Ranieres control and left under suspicious circumstances, Parlato adds.

They came from Chihuahua, Mexico. I reported this to the authorities.

Watch for the upcoming website Satanism.news for more reporting on the satanic worship by globalist elites.

Sources for this article include:

BigLeaguePolitics.com

YouTu.be

NaturalNews.com

FrankReport.com
The Ohio-class ballistic-missile submarine USS Rhode Island (SSBN 740) along with the U.S. Navy's Strategic Systems Programs (SSP) conducted a successful test flight of one unarmed Trident II D5 missile, May 9.

The Ohio-class ballistic-missile submarine USS Rhode Island (SSBN 740) along with the U.S. Navy's Strategic Systems Programs (SSP) conducted a successful test flight of one unarmed Trident II D5 missile, May 9.

An unarmed Trident II D5 missile launches from the Ohio-class ballistic missile submarine USS Rhode Island (SSBN 740) off the coast of Cape Canaveral, Florida, May 9, 2019 (Picture Source: U.S. Navy photo by John Kowalski/Released)

The Ohio-class ballistic-missile submarine USS Rhode Island (SSBN 740) along with the U.S. Navy's Strategic Systems Programs (SSP) conducted a successful test flight of one unarmed Trident II D5 missile, May 9.

This launch marked the 172nd successful test flight of the Trident II D5 missile since its introduction to the fleet in 1989.

This test flight was part of a Demonstration and Shakedown Operation, designated DASO 29. The primary objective of a DASO is to evaluate and demonstrate the readiness of the SSBN's strategic weapon system and crew before operational deployment following its engineered refuelling overhaul (ERO).

Im incredibly proud of Team Kings Bay and the Rhode Island crew. Theyve spent the last nine months preparing for this test and the patrols that will follow. Because of their hard work and dedication, our sea-based deterrent remains the most survivable and reliable in the world, said Rear Adm. Michael Bernacchi, Commander, Submarine Group 10.

Rhode Island completed its ERO in August 2018. An ERO is a complex, major shipyard availability during which the submarine is refueled and upgraded before returning to support the countrys nuclear deterrence strategy. This ERO extended the life of Rhode Island for more than 20 years.

EROs play a critical role in the future of the U.S. Navys submarine force. EROs extend the life of the ageing 14 Ohio-class submarines in the Navys fleet, scheduled to be replaced by 12 Columbia-class submarines, with the first initial deterrent patrol in 2031.

"USS Rhode Islands successful test flight today demonstrates not only that this ships crew and shipboard weapons system are ready to return to service, but also that the sea-based leg of our nuclear deterrent remains ready, reliable and credible, said Capt. Mark Behning, deputy director, SSP.

While weve demonstrated today that our efforts to extend the life of our existing D5 missiles and SSBNs are successful, it is imperative that we remain focused on the Navys number one priority: on-time delivery of the first Colombia-class submarine, said Behning.

SSP, along with Naval Ordnance Test Unit, oversees the DASO certification process and provides integrated testing and evaluation capabilities, while various other organizations provide support.

Ohio-class SSBNs carry up to 20 submarine-launched ballistic missiles, and provide the United States with its most survivable and enduring nuclear strike capability. The design allows the submarines to operate for 15 years or more between major overhauls. The Columbia-class submarine will not need to be refueled during its lifetime.

Rhode Island is the fourth U.S. Navy ship to bear the name and was commissioned July 9, 1994. Assigned to Submarine Group 10, Rhode Island is one of five ballistic-missile submarines homeported at Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay, Georgia.
The father of a 3-year-old child at the center of an East Bay Amber Alert Saturday night has been arrested for filing a false police report, according to police.

Oakland police on Sunday said that the child wasn't actually in a car that was reported to have been carjacked Saturday night. As it turns out, the child was safe with their mother at the time.

Police said the father lied to them hoping they would find the car "quickly."

Authorities issued the Amber Alert after the carjacking was reported in Oakland.

The suspect was spotted and pursued by authorities around 11:40 p.m., before crashing the vehicle, a silver 2005 Mercedes-Benz sedan, near the intersection of Carlson Boulevard and San Pablo Avenue in El Cerrito before midnight after a short chase, police said.

The suspect was arrested at the scene, but there was no one else in the car.

Police found the 3-year-old in safe condition about two hours later.
What to Know Zuckerberg, in an interview with French broadcaster France 2, was responding to an op-ed written by Facebook co-founder Chris Hughes.

Hughes said Zuckerberg had acquired unprecendented and un-American power.

Zuckerberg argued that Facebooks size is actually a benefit to its users and the security of the democratic process.

Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg has forcefully dismissed growing calls for regulators to break up the social media company, arguing that Facebook's size allows it to invest billions of dollars in security every year.

Zuckerberg, in an interview with French broadcaster France 2, was responding to an op-ed written by Facebook co-founder Chris Hughes, who said Zuckerberg had acquired 'unprecendented and un-American' power. Hughes joined politicians, such as Sen. Elizabeth Warren, in calling for regulators to break up Facebook.

"My main reaction is that what he's proposing we do isn't going to do anything to help," Zuckerberg told France 2 in a heavily dubbed interview that was published Friday.

In his op-ed in The New York Times, Hughes said he came to his position in the wake of the 2016 election, in which Russia used Facebook as a platform to wage a disinformation campaign, and the Cambridge Analytica data scandal.

But Zuckerberg, who was in France to meet with President Emmanuel Macron, argued that Facebook's size is actually a benefit to users and the security of democracy.

"If what you care about is democracy and elections, then you want a company like us to invest billions of dollars a year, like we are, in building up really advanced tools to fight election interference," Zuckerberg said.



"Our budget for safety this year is bigger than the whole revenue of our company was when we went public earlier this decade," he said "A lot of that is because we've been able to build a successful business that can now support that."

Facebook faces growing scrutiny from regulators and politicians both in the U.S. and abroad. The Federal Trade Commission launched an investigation into the social media company after the Cambridge Analytica data scandal, probing whether Facebook violated a 2011 agreement to gain users' explicit consent for their data to be shared.



Facebook recently disclosed that it took a $3 billion charge due to the FTC's inquiry and estimated the final charge could amount to $5 billion.

Sen. Elizabeth Warren, who is running for the Democratic 2020 presidential nomination, laid out a proposal in March to implement "structural changes" to the tech sector, including breaking up Amazon, Facebook and Google.

This story first appeared on CNBC.com. More from CNBC:
Author Natasha Tynes sparked outrage on social media after she tweeted a photo of a black Metro employee eating on the train and reported the woman to officials. Now, Tynes may lose her book deal.

Tynes, a writer and World Bank employee in Washington, tweeted a photo Friday morning of a Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority employee in uniform eating on one of the service's trains, NBC News reported.

"When youre on your morning commute & see @wmata employee in UNIFORM eating on the train," Tynes wrote in the tweet, which she has since deleted. I thought we were not allowed to eat on the train. This is unacceptable. Hope @wmata responds. When I asked the employee about this, her response was, worry about yourself.'"

Transit officials responded to her tweet within an hour and thanked her for "catching" the employee eating and "helping" to "make sure all Metro employees are held accountable."

The response said: "Can you confirm the time you were on the train, the direction you were headed and what line you were on?

Tynes provided those details and added: "Thank you for responding. Appreciate it."

Eating, drinking, smoking and littering is banned on Metro buses or trains and in stations.

But the backlash began immediately. University of New Hampshire professor Chanda Prescod-Weinstein commented: "Eating while Black."
A New Hampshire man who avoided jail time on bigamy charges could end up behind bars after all after authorities say he lied about his whereabouts and then disappeared.

Michael Middleton, 43, pleaded guilty last month and was given a 12-month sentence, which was suspended on the condition of good behavior for five years. A warrant was issued for his arrest Wednesday, however, after a probation officer said Middleton was missing.

According to court documents, Middleton told his probation officer May 1 that he was living in a transitional housing unit in Dover, but was thinking of moving to a Portsmouth homeless shelter. But authorities said he never showed up there, and actually had left the transitional housing facility two days earlier.

A probation officer who tried to contact Middleton on Monday found the phone disconnected.

"His whereabouts are unknown and it is respectfully recommended the court issue a warrant for his arrest," wrote Gregory Mourgenos.

Middleton married a Georgia woman in 2006, an Alabama woman in 2011 and a New Hampshire woman in 2013. That led to the bigamy charge in New Hampshire, but according to court documents, he also married a fourth woman in Kentucky in 2016.

Prosecutors said he used the marriages to gain access to the women's assets. In court last month, Assistant Strafford County Attorney David Rotman read a statement from Middleton's New Hampshire wife, Alicia Grant, who blamed Middleton for her transformation from a compassionate person to someone with a "not-my-problem" attitude. She said she was satisfied with the sentence, however, because Middleton would have the threat of jail time hanging over his head.

Middleton's attorney did not return a call seeking comment Thursday. After his sentencing last month, Middleton told reporters he felt "compassion and understanding" for Grant and that he planned to abide by the court's conditions.

Middleton was arrested in Ohio in February. He also has faced domestic violence charges in Maine.
Prosecutors investigating the case against two students suspected of shooting nine classmates, one fatally, in a suburban Denver charter school have until next week to decide what charges to pursue, a judge ruled Friday.

Meanwhile, all but one of those injured in the shooting have been released from hospitals, officials said.

District Judge Theresa Slade delayed hearings that had been scheduled for Friday for Devon Erickson, 18, and a 16-year-old whom the Douglas County sheriff said was female but whose attorney said uses male pronouns. They are suspects in the shooting at STEM School Highlands Ranch on Tuesday. NBC News is not identifying the juvenile suspect.

Court spokesman Rob McCallum said that both the prosecutors and defense agreed to a postponement until Wednesday.

Vikki Migoya, a spokeswoman for District Attorney George Brauchler, did not explain the reason for the delay.

The entire court file in the case is under seal. In an initial court appearance on Wednesday, Brauchler asked for a delay until Monday to file charges so that authorities would have the weekend to pursue their investigation.

The latest delay until Wednesday gives prosecutors more time to decide whether to charge the 16-year-old suspect as an adult. Colorado law permits prosecutors to file adult charges of serious felonies against 16- and 17-year-olds without prior approval from a judge.

Kendrick Castillo, the 18-year-old senior killed during the shooting, and two classmates at the school have been credited with helping thwart the attack by charging at one of the shooters when he entered a classroom. Authorities have said an armed private security guard restrained the second shooter.

Both suspects have been in jail since Tuesday on suspicion of murder and attempted murder.

The two students walked into their school with handguns and opened fire in two classrooms, authorities said. Investigators have offered no motive and refused to discuss how the students obtained the weapons.

Student Joshua Jones told ABC's "Good Morning America" on Friday that he, Castillo and Brendan Bialy reacted as soon as they saw the gun.

"We rushed him," Jones said. "Kendrick pushed him against the wall. Me and Brendan grabbed him and threw him to the ground. I stayed on top of him while Brendan went off and tried to help Kendrick."

Jones said he never specifically thought how he would react in such a situation.

"When it actually happened, I had to make that decision that nobody should really ever have to make, which was run towards a gunman or run away from them. I chose to run towards them," he said.

Eight students were wounded. One remained hospitalized in fair condition Friday, and the others have been sent home.

The attack unfolded nearly three weeks after neighboring Littleton marked the 20th anniversary of the Columbine attack that killed 13 people. The two schools are separated by about 7 miles south of Denver.
Officials with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention plan a door-to-door survey this weekend in northern Illinois near where an anhydrous ammonia leak sickened dozens last month.

The Lake County Health Department says CDC staff will start interviews Saturday at home within a 1-mile radius of the spill in Beach Park, about 40 miles (65 kilometers) north of downtown Chicago. The CDC also will interview first responders and nearly 40 people hospitalized after the April 25 leak.

Authorities have said a tractor driver was towing tanks of anhydrous ammonia from Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin, to an Illinois farm when the chemical leaked, creating a toxic gas cloud. Nearby residents were ordered to stay indoors for several hours.

Lake County health officials say water samples from nearby homes showed slightly elevated ammonia levels on April 26. Those levels were normal on April 30.
Two people are dead and at least 20 other people have been wounded in shootings across the city of Chicago this weekend.

A 46-year-old man was found dead in a stairwell with a gunshot wound to his head on Friday evening, according to police. Authorities were called to the building in the 3800 block of South Michigan just before 6:30 p.m. and found the man lying on the ground with the gunshot wound.

He was pronounced dead at the scene, and no offender is in custody, according to police.

On Saturday afternoon, a 25-year-old man was walking westbound in the 5800 block of West Division when a person in a vehicle, which was parked on the street, began firing at him.

The man was struck in the left leg, the left arm, and his chest, and he was taken to Stroger Hospital in critical condition. Police say he later died from his injuries, and no one is in custody in the shooting.

Early Saturday morning, two people were shot while attending a party in the 2600 block of West Lithuania Plaza Court, according to police. The victims were inside of the building when a person in a tan sedan opened fire, striking both individuals.

A 31-year-old was shot in the chest, and was taken to Advocate Christ Medical Center in serious condition, and a 36-year-old woman was listed in stable condition at Holy Cross with a gunshot wound to her left leg.

No one is in custody, and police are continuing to investigate the shooting.

Just after 1:30 p.m. on Saturday afternoon, a 19-year-old was shot in the left leg in the 6600 block of South Morgan, according to police. The man was taken to the University of Chicago Medical Center, where he is listed in critical, but stable, condition.

Later on Saturday afternoon, two people were hurt in a shooting in the 200 block of South Lavergne, according to police. Authorities say that the two victims were sitting in a vehicle just after 5 p.m. when a person fired shots at them.

A 23-year-old man was shot in the head, and he is in grave condition at Mount Sinai. A 20-year-old woman was shot in the left thigh, and is in good condition at Stroger. No one has been arrested in the shooting, and police are investigating.

Late Saturday night, a 23-year-old man was in a third floor apartment in the 1600 block of West 82nd Street when a man knocked on his back door.

When the victim answered, the man opened fire, striking the victim multiple times. He was rushed to Christ Hospital, where he is listed in critical condition.

Here are the rest of the weekends shootings so far:

Friday:

Two men were shot in the 3100 block of West Madison at approximately 2:15 p.m., according to police. The men were standing on a sidewalk when a person in a vehicle opened fire, striking both victims. A 19-year-old man suffered a graze wound to his leg and refused treatment. A 33-year-old man was shot in the right arm and ear and was taken to Mount Sinai, where he was listed in good condition.

In the 6700 block of South Oakley at approximately 6:21 p.m., a 23-year-old man was standing on a sidewalk when a dark colored vehicle pulled up, a man got out, and fired shots at him. The victim was struck in the back, and he also suffered graze wounds to his right leg and to his chest. He was taken to Christ Hospital in serious condition, police said.

Just before 8 p.m. in the 3900 block of West 63rd Street, a 15-year-old boy was on a sidewalk when a person walked up to him and opened fire, striking him in the left side. The boy was taken to Christ Hospital in stable condition, and there is a person of interest being questioned in the shooting, according to police.

Saturday:

A 30-year-old man was sitting in a car in the 7100 block of South Dorchester at approximately 1:30 a.m. when a person walked up to him and fired shots, striking him in the back. He was taken to the University of Chicago Medical Center in stable condition, police said.

In the 4600 block of South Ellis, a 19-year-old man was sitting in the passenger seat of a vehicle when a man fired shots at him, according to police. The man was hit in the left arm, and was taken to the University of Chicago Medical Center, where he is listed in stable condition.

At approximately 3:08 a.m., a 22-year-old man was walking on a sidewalk in the 3900 block of South Langley when he heard shots and felt pain in his groin. The man was listed in stable condition at the University of Chicago Medical Center, police said.

A 22-year-old man was standing in an alley in the 10600 block of South Torrance at approximately 4:40 a.m. when he heard shots and felt pain in his right shoulder, according to police. The man was taken to Trinity Hospital in stable condition.

In the 5500 block of North Linder at approximately 7:40 p.m., a 29-year-old man was walking when he heard gunshots. The man was taken to Community First Hospital, where he is listed in good condition with a gunshot wound to his right arm.

Sunday:
Two people are dead and at least 14 other people have been wounded in shootings across the city of Chicago this weekend.

A 46-year-old man was found dead in a stairwell with a gunshot wound to his head on Friday evening, according to police. Authorities were called to the building in the 3800 block of South Michigan just before 6:30 p.m. and found the man lying on the ground with the gunshot wound.

He was pronounced dead at the scene, and no offender is in custody, according to police.

On Saturday afternoon, a 25-year-old man was walking westbound in the 5800 block of West Division when a person in a vehicle, which was parked on the street, began firing at him.

The man was struck in the left leg, the left arm, and his chest, and he was taken to Stroger Hospital in critical condition. Police say he later died from his injuries, and no one is in custody in the shooting.

Early Saturday morning, two people were shot while attending a party in the 2600 block of West Lithuania Plaza Court, according to police. The victims were inside of the building when a person in a tan sedan opened fire, striking both individuals.

A 31-year-old was shot in the chest, and was taken to Advocate Christ Medical Center in serious condition, and a 36-year-old woman was listed in stable condition at Holy Cross with a gunshot wound to her left leg.

No one is in custody, and police are continuing to investigate the shooting.

Just after 1:30 p.m. on Saturday afternoon, a 19-year-old was shot in the left leg in the 6600 block of South Morgan, according to police. The man was taken to the University of Chicago Medical Center, where he is listed in critical, but stable, condition.

Later on Saturday afternoon, two people were hurt in a shooting in the 200 block of South Lavergne, according to police. Authorities say that the two victims were sitting in a vehicle just after 5 p.m. when a person fired shots at them.

A 23-year-old man was shot in the head, and he is in grave condition at Mount Sinai. A 20-year-old woman was shot in the left thigh, and is in good condition at Stroger. No one has been arrested in the shooting, and police are investigating.

Here are the rest of the weekends shootings so far:

Friday:

Two men were shot in the 3100 block of West Madison at approximately 2:15 p.m., according to police. The men were standing on a sidewalk when a person in a vehicle opened fire, striking both victims. A 19-year-old man suffered a graze wound to his leg and refused treatment. A 33-year-old man was shot in the right arm and ear and was taken to Mount Sinai, where he was listed in good condition.

In the 6700 block of South Oakley at approximately 6:21 p.m., a 23-year-old man was standing on a sidewalk when a dark colored vehicle pulled up, a man got out, and fired shots at him. The victim was struck in the back, and he also suffered graze wounds to his right leg and to his chest. He was taken to Christ Hospital in serious condition, police said.

Just before 8 p.m. in the 3900 block of West 63rd Street, a 15-year-old boy was on a sidewalk when a person walked up to him and opened fire, striking him in the left side. The boy was taken to Christ Hospital in stable condition, and there is a person of interest being questioned in the shooting, according to police.

Saturday:
Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte's name is not on the ballot but Monday's midterm elections are seen as a crucial referendum on his rise to power with a brutal crackdown on illegal drugs, unorthodox style and contentious embrace of China.

Nearly 62 million Filipinos have registered to choose among 43,500 candidates vying for about 18,000 congressional and local posts in one of Asia's most rambunctious democracies.

The most crucial race is for 12 seats in the 24-member Senate, which Duterte wants to fill with allies to bolster his legislative agenda. That includes the return of the death penalty, lowering the age for criminal liability of child offenders and revising the country's 1987 constitution primarily to allow a shift to a federal form of government, a proposal some critics fear may be a cover to remove term limits.

Opposition aspirants consider the Senate the last bastion of checks and balances given the solid dominance of Duterte's loyalists in the lower House of Representatives. Last year, opposition senators moved to block proposed bills they feared would undermine civil liberties.

Duterte's politics and key programs, including his drive against illegal drugs that has left more than 5,200 mostly urban poor suspects dead, have been scrutinized on the campaign trail and defended by close allies running for the Senate, led by his former national police chief Roland dela Rosa, who first enforced the crackdown when the president took office in mid-2016.

Aside from the drug killings, Duterte's gutter language and what nationalists say is a policy of appeasement toward China that may undermine Philippine territorial claims in the South China Sea, have also been hounded by protests and criticism.

"This is very much a referendum on his three years of very disruptive yet very popular presidency," Manila-based analyst Richard Heydarian said. "Are we going to affirm or are we going to reject the 2016 elections? Was that an aberration and historical accident that we have to fix, or is this actually the beginning of the kind of new era or new normal?"

A May 3-6 survey by independent pollster Pulse Asia showed 11 of Duterte-backed senatorial candidates and four other aspirants in the winning circle, including only one from the opposition. The survey of 1,800 respondents had a margin of error of plus or minus 2.3 percentage points.

Duterte himself remains hugely popular, topping ratings surveys with about 70 percent approval.

While the election survey strongly indicated a favorable outcome for Duterte, there was a probability that the result could still change given the considerable number of undecided voters and narrow leads of some candidates.

Divided, cash-strapped and without a unified leader, opposition aspirants are fighting an uphill battle to capture the few number of Senate seats they need to stymie any hostile legislation. Many Filipinos seem more open to authoritarianism due to past failures of liberal leaders, Heydarian said. Such a mindset has helped the family of former dictator Ferdinand Marcos to make a political comeback.

Among many dirt-poor Filipinos, however, the concern is day-to-day survival.

"Martial law is scary but we're more afraid of dying in hunger," Arturo Veles, a jobless father of six, told The Associated Press.

Wiping away tears, Veles spoke outside his family's shanty in the humid squalor atop Smokey Mountain, a long-closed dumpsite in Manila's Tondo slum that remains a symbol of the country's appalling poverty. His asthma-stricken wife, Agnes, said that not one congressional candidate had treaded the fly-strewn and trash-littered path to their cluster of crumbling huts, probably because of the smell and filth.

Arturo Veles said the poor always suffer the most, indicating he and his wife would not vote for administration candidates. "They only see the poor, those using and selling drugs. That's the only thing they see, not the depth of our poverty."

Village guard Jose Mondejar, who lives in a Tondo community heavily festooned with elections streamers and posters, said Duterte's anti-crime campaign has reduced daytime robberies by drug addicts of passing cargo trucks by about 70 percent in his neighborhood.

"Criminals once even opened fire on our village hall because we were cracking down on them," he said. "Now you can walk around here without being pestered. Duterte's campaign has worked."
What to Know When Elizabeth Warren released her sweeping student loan forgiveness proposal, many borrowers imagined how their lives would transform.

CNBC spoke with people about how Warrens proposal would change their circumstances.

If I didnt have that debt I could retire in the next few years, one woman said.

When Elizabeth Warren released her sweeping student debt forgiveness proposal last month, many borrowers imagined how their lives would transform if their loan balance shrank or disappeared.

Emotionally, its the biggest thing in the back of your mind, said Dominic DeFelice, 23, who owes more than $100,000. To have Elizabeth Warren actually come out and have a plan for it felt really good.

On Twitter, people described what student debt forgiveness would mean to them and included the hashtag #cancelmydebt.

Nearly 45 million Americans hold student loans. Average debt at graduation is currently around $30,000, up from $10,000 in the early 1990s. Repayment is a challenge for many: Every day, 3,000 borrowers default.

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. The time for half measures is over, Warren writes. My broad cancellation plan is a real solution to our student debt crisis.

It helps millions of families and removes a weight thats holding back our economy.

Critics of the proposal, which could cost $1.25 trillion over 10 years, say much of the money would go to borrowers with high incomes who are capable of repaying their debt. Others say the plan only throws money at the larger problem of rising tuition.

Still, more than half of Americans say student debt is a major problem for the country, according to a new Politico/Morning Consult poll.

And its no wonder people saddled with student debt cant help but dream of a different life (even if the candidate with the proposal trails in the polls): 67 percent of people with student debt say the loans delayed them from buying a house, car or large appliance. Forty percent claimed the debt caused them to put off having a child or getting married.

CNBC spoke with borrowers about how the Massachusetts Democratic senators proposal would change their circumstances.

DOMINIC DeFELICES bachelors degree in geology left him $120,000 in the hole. That amount of money is incomprehensible to someone like me, said the 23-year-old DeFelice. I should have known that at 17.

The entry level jobs to which hes been applying since he graduated last year from Juniata College in Pennsylvania offer annual salaries of around $30,000. After taxes, he calculates, hed have $2,200 a month to live on. His student loan bill is more than $1,300. (The loans are currently on pause, accruing interest.)

I invested in an education and I dont see a return in sight, DeFelice said. He said his brother, who is 2 years younger and never went to college, makes more money as a security guard.

DeFelice noticed a lot of the environmental jobs he hoped to fill require a graduate degree. And so thanks to a grant he received, he recently enrolled at Brooklyn College to get his masters degree in geology. However, he decided to leave school after just one semester, realizing that, given the high cost of living in New York, hed still have to take out some loans.

It could really amplify my earning potential, but I just cant, he said. Im just digging myself deeper when Im already at rock bottom. Education loans, ironically, can be a barrier to education: One study found that bachelor degree recipients without debt are 70% more likely to enroll in further schooling than those with debt.

Under Warrens plan, DeFelice would have $50,000 of his federal loans wiped away, and potentially some of his private loans, too. With a smaller debt load, he said, he could likely finish his schooling and not have to move back in with his parents or his girlfriends, a reality now on his horizon.

I could actually plan my life, he said.

KANU MENDOZA wishes she could work less, but she owes more than $50,000 in student loans. When a disk in her back ruptured, the 52-year-old had to leave the Navy after a two-decade career. To advance in the Navy, she pursued a bachelors degree in leadership and then a masters in public administration at Bellevue University in Nebraska.

Currently, shes a supervisor at an aerospace manufacturing company in San Diego. If I didnt have that debt hanging over my head, Id probably find a less demanding job, Mendoza said. Its difficult when youre in so much pain you dont want to move, but you have to get up and go to work.

Student debt is growing fast among older people: In 2018, Americans over age 50 owed more than $260 billion in student loans, up from $36 billion in 2004, according to the Federal Reserve.

Mendoza said her $400 monthly student loan bill makes it hard for her to save for retirement. Her pension is just $1,500 a month.

If I didnt have that debt I could retire in the next few years, Mendoza said. With it, Im going to be in the workforce another 10 years, if not longer.

MORGAN HOPKINS would like to start a family.

But she owes more than $75,000 in student loans, for her bachelors and masters degrees in psychology and womens studies.

If I could understand the implication of having this debt forever, I might have made a different choice, Hopkins, 31, said of her education. Today, she works as a national field manager at a nonprofit in Denver.

She said its going to take years of planning for her and her boyfriend to be able to have a child and buy a house  and even just a financial cushion should one of them lose their job or fall ill. If I didnt have half-a-rent payment in student debt, Id have an emergency savings plan, she said.

Her monthly student loan bill is more than $900, most of which she said just goes to interest. I havent seen any significant reduction, Hopkins said.

Under Warrens plan, half of Hopkins debt would be canceled, and all of her boyfriends loans would be forgiven. The result: She could see a future.

I have a lot of financial stress now, as a lot of our generation does, Hopkins said. How am I ever going to get to these goals I have for my life?

MADELINE FENING, 27, studied communications at Bowling Green State University in Ohio, and has long wanted to tell stories about autism. Her sister is on the spectrum.

After graduation, she moved to Texas to intern at the Austin Film Festival. She wanted to continue working in media, and reporting on the disorder, but her $50,000 in student debt weighed heavily on her. It feels like before I can do anything else, theres this huge wall I need to knock down, Fening said.

She worked as a bartender and told herself that she could develop a documentary on autism at the same time, but she found herself exhausted after shifts. Im on my feet and using my body the whole time, Fening said. And the expenses of making a film are hard to come up with  last year she made $28,000. Ive been trying to work on it with limited resources, she said.

More than half of student loan borrowers say their debt informed their career choice, according to a study by American Student Assistance, an educational nonprofit. Recent research found that an additional $2,500 in student debt makes someone 5 percentage points less likely to be employed in a field related to their studies.

Soon, Fening is moving back to Ohio, where she grew up, to live with family and ultimately secure a cheaper apartment. Most of her debt would be forgiven under Warrens plan, in which case Fening said she could put more time and resources into her work on autism.

You shouldnt have to choose between starting a project and paying your student loans, Fening said.

This story first appeared on CNBC.com. More from CNBC:
A federal grand jury has indicted two members of "extremely sophisticated" hacking group operating from China in the 2014-2015 theft of the personal information of nearly 79 million customers of insurer Anthem Inc., the biggest known health care hack in U.S. history.

The Justice Department said the two also hacked three other U.S.-based companies it did not name, one in the technology sector, the others in basic materials and communications.

The indictment unsealed Thursday alleges Fujie Wang, a 32-year-old who goes by the Western name "Dennis," and a man with three listed aliases identified as John Doe stole data including names, birthdates, Social Security numbers and medical IDs, first accessing Anthem's network in May 2014.

Their access was not terminated until January 2015 after they were detected, the indictment says.

Indianapolis-based Anthem, the nation's second-largest health insurer, agreed last October to pay the government a record $16 million to settle potential privacy violations.

Anthem said in a statement that it was "pleased" with the indictment and stressed that "there is no evidence that information obtained through the 2015 cyber-attack targeting Anthem has resulted in fraud."

Alex Holden, founder and chief information security officer of the cybersecurity firm Hold Security, said there is no credible evidence any of the stolen data was ever put up for sale for use in identity theft. He said the Anthem data would be much more potent "on a state-sponsored level" for purposes of espionage than it would be in private hands.

The indictment did not say whether U.S. authorities have evidence the hackers were working for the Chinese state. U.S. officials blame state-backed Chinese hackers for rampant theft of Western intellectual property and trade secrets but did not lodge similar allegations in Thursday's indictment.

A Justice Department spokeswoman had no comment when asked how confident it is that Wang will be brought to the U.S. for prosecution. The U.S. does not have an extradition treaty with China. The indictment says Wang lives in Shenzhen, China, and that Doe's activities were China-based.

In a 2015 report, the cybersecurity firm Symantec said the Anthem hack was believed to be the work of a well-resourced Chinese group it called Black Vine that it said had been actively conducting cyberespionage for three years targeting industries including aerospace, energy and health care.

The indictment alleges that Doe and others in the hacking group used spear-phishing emails and other exploits to compromise the systems of the targeted companies. The two are charged with one count of conspiracy to commit fraud and related activity in relation to computers and identity theft, one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, and two counts of intentional damage to a protected computer.

When Anthem agreed to pay $16 million in a settlement with the Department of Health and Human Services, HHS said its investigation found that Anthem had failed to deploy adequate measures for countering hackers.
To help make sure you stay informed on the most shared and talked about stories, each Saturday and Sunday we'll revisit 5 stories from the previous week, including the most recent updates.

Pay Raise?

The Connecticut House of Representatives passed a bill on Thursday that would raise the minimum wage in the state to $15 by 2023. The vote came after 14 hours of debate. Republicans in the House said passing the bill was a mistake and that it will hurt businesses and workers in the long run. The bill now goes to the Senate. See more on the minimum wage battle here.

After 14 hours of debate, the state House of Representatives passed a bill that would raise the minimum wage to $15 over the next several years.

Another School Shooting

One student was killed and eight others injured when two classmates opened fire inside a charter school in Colorado, just miles away from Columbine High School. The shooting's lone fatality 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. The two shooters, an 18-year-old male and a juvenile female were both taken into custody. See more on the shooting here.

Tops Marketplace in Southington announced Monday they plan to reopen in February after a devastating fire destroyed the building in March.

Oh Baby!

On Monday, royal-watchers received the news they had been waiting for. The royal baby was born to Prince Harry and Duchess Meghan. Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor was introduced to the world on Wednesday. Prince Harry said he was "over the moon" about the birth of his son and Meghan called being a mother "magic." For more on the royal baby, click here.

Furniture Warning

South Shore Furniture is recalling about 310,000 chests after a 2-year-old was killed and another child was injured by units that tipped over and fell on top of them. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission said Thursday that the chests are unstable if they are not secured to a wall and could result in death or injuries to children. For details on the types of chests, click here.

Winter Is Coming To Hartford

The Game of Thrones Live Concert Experience is coming to the Xfinity Theatre on September 11. The show features live music by Ramin Djawadi from the hit HBO series. See when tickets go on sale here.
A school violence prevention program started by parents whose children were killed in the 2012 Sandy Hook school massacre is receiving a $25,000 donation.

The gift from the Wireless Zone Foundation will be presented to Sandy Hook Promise on Monday.

The donation is earmarked to support the training of youth and adults in Sandy Hook Promise's Know the Signs program, which is designed to help decrease violence, bullying, and other forms of victimization, while strengthening school communities.

More than 7.5 million people in more than 14,000 schools and youth organizations have gone through the training, learning techniques to reduce bullying and cyberbullying and help identify those as risk to commit violence, including school shootings.
More rain is coming and is creating a wet, dreary, and cool Mothers Day.

NBC Connecticut

Rain moved in Sunday morning with periods of light to moderate rain and otherwise cloudy skies throughout the day. Highs will be much cooler in the 50s.

NBC Connecticut

There have been reports of sleet and snow in northern parts of the state, but there is no accumulation.

More rain develops Monday and may be heavy at times, especially Monday night into Tuesday. There is a chance of more showers on Tuesday.

Get the latest forecast anytime here.
Dozens of Fort Worth police officers, and members of Cpl. Garrett Hull's family traveled to Washington Saturday to honor Hull and other fallen officers during National Police Week, which runs through Thursday.

Hull was killed in a shootout in September confronting gunmen outside a bar they had just robbed.

Hillwood Airways, a private charter airline owned by the Perot Company, provided air travel for the trip to Washington from Fort Worth. Brotherhood for the Fallen's Fort Worth chapter, the Fort Worth Police Officers Association, and the Fort Worth Police Department, with the help of Hillwood Airways, coordinated the trip.

"This is the first time we're taking this large number of officers," Assistant Fort Worth Police Chief Ed Kraus said. "There will be a lot of smiles, a lot of hugging, and stories told about Garrett. This is just a reinforcement of how much support we have out there in the community."

Hull spent 17 years with the department.

"He believed that there was good in this world," said Hull's wife Sabrina, who will be joined on the flight by her two daughters. "It's just incredible how everyone is coming out like this. I've been preparing for what is about to happen. I know that I'm about to see my husband's name on the National Memorial, and that makes it more real, but I can hear him saying, 'Keep going, babe. Just be brave, rise up.' I can just hear that."

Hull's family and friends, along with the Fort Worth Police Department, will attend the 31st annual Candlelight Vigil on the National Mall Monday night.
Eleven days into May and North Texas has already seen more rain than it does for the entire month on average. In several parts of Dallas-Fort Worth, it's resulted in wastewater overflows that have left some homeowners with a stinky mess.

Mary Hoover said sewage, including toilet paper and feces, has bubbled up just feet from her Arlington home for the last two days.

"It smells stinky. It's kind of gassy. It's just not a pleasant odor you want when you walk outside of your house," Hoover said.

She said the city responded to her call by sending a crew, though she said she was told little could be done until the rain comes to an end.

Arlington hasn't responded to NBC 5's response for comment, but nearby the cities of Dallas, Duncanville and Fort Worth have released warnings to residents of wastewater overflows in their cities.

A statement issued by Fort Worth Friday night said, "Heavy rains entering Fort Worth's wastewater collection system caused discharges citywide Saturday. Rain water enters the collection system through cracks in private plumbing lines and through cracks in the city's lines."

Saturday morning it resulted in seven overflows in Fort Worth.

Both Fort Worth and Duncanville said drinking water wasn't affected. City officials warned residents to avoid contact with any waste, along with the water and soil that could've been contaminated by the overflows.

On Sunday, Dallas said more than 1.2 million gallons of wastewater had overflowed from 43 locations in their city, resulting in the infiltration of four basins -- East Bank, White Rock, Five Mile and West Bank.

See specific locations and volume for Dallas in the document below.
Mexico's Economy Department said Tuesday that U.S. consumers could pay 38% to 70% more for tomatoes after the U.S. Commerce Department announced it would re-impose anti-dumping duties on Mexican imports.

The Mexican agency said the country exports about $2 billion in tomatoes to the United States and supplies about half the tomatoes the U.S. consumes annually.

"Definitely, we'll have fewer tomatoes," said Essie Rodriguez of JD Produce near the Dallas Farmers Market. "We always get caught in the middle."

The family-owned JD Produce imports much of its produce from Mexico. Rodriguez said tomatoes account for one-third of their orders, and are the company's most popular item.

The Mexico Economy Department said that many small- and medium-sized Mexican tomato exporters won't be able to pay the deposits required to export. Tomatoes are Mexico's largest agricultural export after beer and avocados, and tomato growing and harvesting provides about 400,000 jobs in Mexico.

But the deposits required to comply with the 17.5% U.S. tariff would amount to about $350 million, money that many Mexican producers don't have.

In March the Commerce Department announced it was ending a 2013 suspension agreement in which Mexican growers promised to sell at fair prices, and that it would reinstate the 1996 tariffs. The Mexican government said its growers continue to negotiate with the U.S., and expressed hope that another agreement, like ones that have been in place for 23 years, could be reached.

"It's been a roller coaster ride on many products from Mexico, and it's one more that's going to impact the consumer," Rodriguez said. "Unfortunately, we have to pass on the higher price to the consumer."

U.S. growers, mainly in Florida, say Mexican tomato producers charge below fair prices; U.S. growers also have a hard time competing with Mexico's extremely low wages.

However, the availability of Mexican tomatoes has increased the availability of fresh tomatoes year-round and helped lead to an increase in U.S. tomato consumption from an average of about 12 pounds per person in the 1980s to almost 21 pounds in 2011.
Even as students grow into adulthood and get ready to leave high school, educators at the Quinlan Independent School District embrace the responsibility to make every last second a teaching experience.

The Greenville Herald-Banner reports one of those lessons is the dangers of drunk and distracted driving, which leads to tens of thousands of deaths each year. To achieve that goal, the district recently organized a third "Shattered Dreams" event.

School administrators collaborated with the district's police department -- as well as other first responders in Hunt County -- to organize re-enactments that showed students how big an impact their actions can have in the real world.

Reenactments included a gruesome scene of a car wreck that showed people, portrayed by high school theater students, who were partying in celebration of prom.

Local police, emergency and fire crews participated in the exercise to heighten the reality of the act, arriving on scene with emergency vehicles. Mothers of the students in the reenactment also participated by showing up emotional to the scene of the car crash.

One of the fictional victims of the crash was even flown out by a helicopter.

The school even organized a mock funeral service for a character that had lost their life as part of the reenactment storyline on the previous day.

Following the mock funeral, students also got to witness a mock trial involving the fictional driver of the vehicle.

Quinlan ISD Superintendent Jeff Irvin said the extra effort that the district put into organizing the two-day event will do a better job of instilling a message that will stay with students throughout adulthood.

"It just shows our kids what exactly can happen when people are drinking and driving, or texting and driving," Irvin said. "They witness the pain behind losing a friend or loved one to a senseless act that could have been prevented."

The district organizes "Shattered Dreams" every three years, and this is the third time that the event has been held at Ford High School. Through an application process, the district also chooses a group of students who are selected to help their peers visualize some of the data behind drunk and distracted driving.

Fifteen students were chosen this year and picked out of their classes to portray individuals who had lost their lives to irresponsible driving. During the two events, the group did not talk to anyone, and wore gray shirts and face paint.

After the May 2 reenactment of the car wreck, students attended an overnight retreat to discuss what they learned.

Damien Garcia, who is in 10th grade at Ford High School, was one of the fifteen students attending. Garcia said the visualization exercises made a big impact on his understanding of the consequences of drunk and distracted driving.

"Of course, we all know its fake, but it's still really vivid -- seeing the car wreck and the mothers crying," Garcia said.
Jaron was just 3 years old when we first met him.

A foster child since birth, he was diagnosed with shaken baby syndrome and any prospective adoptive families would be told he could have developmental delays.

But one family watching Wednesday's Child on NBC4 years ago saw something special in Jaron.

"The day I saw him it was on television  your show  and for some reason it was like a magnet, like 'we want that child," recounted Earl Taylor.

Earl and his wife Sarah Taylor were both officers in the U.S. Air Force and had been thinking about adoption before being transferred to the D.C. area from Colorado.

"We had just started the process when we got an assignment here in the Washington, D.C. area," Sarah said.

They had found a home, but the timing was off. The Taylors needed to get settled, but Sarah called to ask about Jaron anyway.

"We knew that [he] was the the one we wanted to try to adopt," Earl said.

"I said, if I can't have that one, then I don't want any," Sarah said.

The call led to several visits with Jaron, and Earl said they knew from the first visit that there was no turning back.

"The first day that I saw him, he came up to me and he asked. He said, 'Are you my daddy?'" Earl said. "And I said, yes, I am."

It didn't take long for Jaron to bond with Sarah as well. She was convinced on his first overnight visit.

"One evening, we were in my bedroom watching television and he looked up at me at said, 'you know, I love you," Sarah recounted. "I just didn't know what to do after that."

Although social workers had warned about the long-term affects of Jaron's mistreatment as an infant, the Taylors decided to use their own brand of healing for their son.

"The ladies were advocating that he needed to have Ritalin and he was ADHD and all that," Earl said. "I told them, no, all he needs is love and all he needs is attention and direction."

The Taylors brough Jaron home to his new brick house and the years just seemed to fly by.

Today, Jaron still stops by home regularly when he gets off work  Now sporting a uniform. Jaron is now a police officer in Anne Arundel County, Maryland.

He still remembers things about coming home the first time at just 3 years old.

"I guess the main one would be in the driveway asking my dad, 'Are you my dad?'"

Jaron says he also remembers his dad responding with a yes.

Those were tender moments with two career military parents who could be tough, too, Jaron told NBC4's Barbara Harrison.

"Tough but not pushy. They got the job done. Here I am now," he said with a laugh.

His parents are very proud of the man Jaron has become after overcoming challenges, including the shaken baby syndrome that led some to say he would never run or ride a bike.

"A lot of the things they told us that he couldn't do or he wouldn't be able to do, he's done," Sarah said. "When you're a police officer, you have to run."

Jaron remains close with his parents, teaching martial arts classes with mom Sarah in Fort Washington and cheering on the Redskins with dad Earl.
Three sets of remains were found in the rubble of a gas station explosion in Rockbridge County, Virginia, state police said and NBC News reported.

Matching the remains to identities could take several days, Virginia State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation Sgt. Rick Garletts said in a statement Saturday afternoon.

The explosion at the fuel stop, called South River Market, was reported about 9:30 Saturday morning, and rescue crews have been combing through the rubble in an initial search for three to five people who might have been at the site before the blast.

State police initially said in a statement on the explosion, "At this time it does not appear suspicious in nature."

Four injured in the explosion were taken to Carilion Stonewall Jackson Hospital hospital.
Here are some of last week's top stories from the NBC 6 Weekend Digest:

Man Outraged After He Says Car Was Damaged While Being Towed

Chris Cooney has been a member of AAA, the American Automobile Association, for 10 years. In June 2018, he thought of his membership when he needed help getting his car to a repair shop.

"There was a problem with either the keys or the ignition and they weren't talking to each other. The car wouldn't start. So I needed to get the car towed," Cooney said.

He called AAA and they sent tow company MG Towing to transport his 2006 Mercedes-Benz.

Cooney says he followed behind the tow truck in another car. When the tow truck arrived at the shop, Conney says he heard a loud noise.

For more information, click here.

A Miami Beach man says his car was damaged while it was being towed by a local company. He called NBC 6 Responds when he got stuck with the bill.

Non-Invasive Procedure Promises to Sculpt Muscles, Shed Fat

A new non-surgical procedure promises to give you a better body without the work and in half the time. It's called Emsculpt, and it uses a machine that's supposed to target problem areas you can't reach at the gym.

The company claims it's the first FDA-approved machine that can help you burn fat and increase muscle at the same time. Women and men are trying out the new technology to slim their waist, and even, lift their back side.

The Emsculpt machine uses electromagnetic technology, causing contractions in your abs or buttocks.

For more information, click here.

A new non-surgical procedure promises to give you a better body without the work and in half the time. NBC 6 anchor Trina Robinson has the story.

Murder Suspect Claims Involvement in 6 Other Killings: Cops

Authorities say a man accused of killing another man inside a Miami Beach apartment told detectives he was involved in six other previous murders in multiple states.

Nicholas Brent Gibson, 32, was arrested Sunday in New York City to face charges in the killing of 77-year-old Erik B. Stocker, Miami Beach Police officials said.

Detectives interviewed Gibson after his arrest and he made statements about his involvement in six other murders "during earlier times in his life," police said in a statement Wednesday. Gibson said the murders happened in Florida, Georgia and California, police said.

For more information, click here.

Authorities say a man accused of killing another man inside a Miami Beach apartment told detectives he was involved in six other previous murders in multiple states. Nicholas Brent Gibson, 32, was arrested Sunday in New York City to face charges in the killing of 77-year-old Erik B. Stocker, Miami Beach Police officials said.

NBC 6 Responds Finds Banned Skin Care Products Sold on Local Store Shelves

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.

For more information, click here.

Skin-whitening products that contain mercury have been banned from being sold the U.S. So why are they still on store shelves?
A South Florida family is searching for answers after burglars ransacked their Coconut Grove home.

Surveillance video caught two men approaching a home and then showing them leaving with several items.

Bills were thrown all over the floor, drawers were open. The whole house was ransacked, said the homeowner.

The home was ransacked on May 9th at around 11:00 a.m. on Vista Court.

The victims daughter spoke to NBC 6, but did not want her identity revealed.

Her jewelry box, her iPad, and everything were all missing.

The would-be thieves got away with between $75,000 and $100,000 worth of irreplaceable memories for a family, they said.

They took the stuff that was the most meaningful, like stuff from my father that he had given her over the years, said the victim.

The burglary lasted for about 20 minutes. In the surveillance video, two men were seen getting into a getaway car and then driving off in broad daylight.

The victims family is now urging the public to come forward with any information.

Anyone with information on this incident is asked to call Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at 305-471-TIPS.
Palestinian militants on Saturday fired over 250 rockets into Israel, drawing dozens of retaliatory airstrikes on targets across the Gaza Strip in a round of heavy fighting that broke a month-long lull between the enemies. Six Palestinians, including a pregnant mother and her baby, were killed, while four Israelis were wounded, including an elderly man who was in a critical condition.

The fighting, the most intense between the sides in months, came as leaders from Hamas, the militant group that rules Gaza, and the smaller armed faction Islamic Jihad, were in Cairo for talks with Egyptian mediators aimed at preventing a fraying cease-fire from collapsing altogether.

It also comes at a sensitive time for Israel, which is to mark its Memorial Day and Independence Day holiday this week, before hosting the Eurovision song contest in the middle of the month. Prolonged fighting could overshadow the Eurovision and potentially deter international travelers from coming in for the festive event. For Gazans, the violence continued as they prepare to begin the Muslim holy fasting month of Ramadan on Monday.

Israel and Hamas, an Islamic group that opposes Israel's existence, have fought three wars and dozens of smaller flare-ups of violence since Hamas seized control of Gaza in 2007. They engaged in several days of heavy fighting in March before Egypt brokered a truce in which Israel agreed to ease a crippling blockade on Gaza in exchange for a halt in rocket fire. In recent days, Hamas accused Israel of reneging on its pledges as militants began to fire rockets into Israel.

In a familiar scene, air raid sirens wailed across southern Israel throughout the day and into the evening as barrages of rockets were repeatedly fired. Retaliatory airstrikes caused large explosions to thunder across Gaza, as plumes of smoke rose into the air. Outgoing Palestinian rockets left long trails of smoke behind them.

Gaza's Health Ministry said a 14-month-old girl, Seba Abu Arar, was killed in an Israeli airstrike that hit their home in east Gaza City. Her pregnant mother, 37, was severely wounded and died later at the hospital, the ministry added. Another child was moderately injured.

"They were sitting at the yard in their house with their mother. They were shocked by a missile landing on them," said Abu Nidal Abu Arar, a relative living next door. "This occupation is criminal."

In the morning, Gaza's Health Ministry said a 22-year-old Palestinian man was killed by an Israeli airstrike, and 40 other Palestinians were wounded. Late Saturday, health officials said a 25-year-old man was killed by an Israeli drone missile as he was traveling on a motorbike in northern Gaza. At dawn, two Islamic Jihad militants were killed by an airstrike in central Gaza Strip, the group said.

In Israel, medical officials said an 80-year-old woman was severely wounded by rocket fire, a 50-year-old man was moderately wounded by shrapnel and a teenage boy was mildly hurt as he ran for cover. Israeli police said a house in the coastal city of Ashkelon was damaged.

Early Sunday, Israeli police said a rocket landed in a courtyard in Ashkelon, about 10 kilometers north of Gaza, causing damage to several buildings. As a result, an Israeli man suffered "heavy injuries and was in a grave condition."

The Israeli military accused the Iranian-backed Islamic Jihad of instigating the latest round of violence by shooting and wounding two Israeli soldiers Friday. It said the shooting was not coordinated with Hamas, but said it holds Hamas, as the territory's ruling power, responsible for all fire emanating from Gaza.

State Department spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus said "the United States strongly condemns the ongoing barrage of rocket attacks by Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad from Gaza upon innocent civilians and their communities across Israel."

"We stand with Israel and fully support its right to self defense against these abhorrent attacks," she said in a statement.

By nightfall, the army said militants had fired well over 200 rockets into Israel. It said dozens of the rockets were intercepted by its Iron Dome rocket-defense system. But it closed roads near the Gaza border to civilian traffic and closed a popular beach as a security precaution.

The military said it struck some 120 targets in Gaza, including Hamas and Islamic Jihad military compounds, a Hamas rocket-manufacturing site and a "high-end Islamic Jihad tunnel" that it said stretched into Israel for use in attacks.

Late on Saturday, Israel struck a building that it said housed Hamas military intelligence offices in Gaza City. Another airstrike hit a six-story commercial and residential building. Journalists said the building housed the office of Turkey's news agency Anadolu. There was no immediate comment from the Israeli military.

COGAT, the Israeli defense body responsible for Palestinian civilian affairs, said it was closing the fishing zone off Gaza's coast altogether and sealing Israel's two land crossings with Gaza. The crossings are used by Palestinian medical patients to enter and exit the territory, and provide the main entry for cargo into the blockaded territory.

The U.N.'s Mideast envoy, Nickolay Mladenov, said the United Nations was working with Egypt to restore calm and called on all sides to "de-escalate" and restore recent understandings.

"Those who seek to destroy them will bear responsibility for a conflict that will have grave consequences for all," he said in a statement.

The European Union's ambassador to Israel, Emanuele Giaufret, sharply criticized the rocket attacks on Twitter, saying "firing indiscriminately against civilians (is) unacceptable."

Islamic Jihad, which sometimes acts independently of Hamas, threatened to fire longer range rockets toward Israel's heartland. In a video that also was seen an implicit claim of responsibility, it showed archived footage of militants attaching warheads to rockets.

Israel and Egypt have maintained a crippling blockade on Gaza since Hamas seized control of the territory in 2007.

Under the recent understandings, Israel agreed to expand a fishing zone off Gaza's coast, increased imports into Gaza and allow the Gulf state of Qatar to deliver aid to cash-strapped Gaza. But like previous Egyptian-mediated agreements, those understandings have shown signs of unraveling in recent days.

On Friday, two Palestinians were fatally shot by Israeli forces during the weekly protests along Israel-Gaza perimeter fence. Palestinian militants also shot and wounded two Israeli soldiers along the border fence. No group claimed responsibility for the shooting. In response, Israeli aircraft carried out retaliatory strikes, killing two Hamas militants.

Hamas has hoped that Egyptian mediators could further ease the blockade, which has ravaged Gaza's economy. For over a year, the Islamic group has orchestrated mass demonstrations each week along the Israeli frontier to draw attention to Gaza's plight. More than 200 Palestinians and an Israeli soldier have been killed in the border protests.
Saturday Night Live opened this week with cast member Kyle Mooney reprising his role as MSNBC commentator Chuck Todd, as he hosted several Republican politicians and quizzed them on their support for President Trump.

Todd does his best to ask the guests what it would take for them to stop supporting President Trump.

British actress Emma Thompson hosted the show for her first time. The Love Actually star gave a small shoutout to the longest serving member of the SNL cast, Kenan Thompson, jokingly saying Its incredible to be working alongside my beloved husband of 16 years, Kenan Thompson. Thompson responded by blowing a kiss.

Thompson was joined by SNL legends Tina Fey and Amy Poehler, who helped her teach mother speak 101, translating typical motherly sayings for the audience.

On this weeks Weekend Update, hosts Michael Che and Colin Jost broke down the recent New York Times report that shows President Trump posted losses of over $1 billion as a businessman during the 1980s and 90s.

Che went on to explain how Trumps ongoing trade feud with China will impact his everyday life, joking China makes everything I need to survive. Shoes, hoodies, fake Louis Vuitton

The musical guest was the Jonas Brothers, jamming out to one of their new songs, "Cool," before breaking out a throwback jam in "Burnin' Up."
An armed group in New Mexico whose leader faces federal firearms possession charges drew national attention last month for detaining asylum-seeking Central American families near the U.S.-Mexico border.

It's not the first time an armed militia patrolled the border amid immigration and racial tensions. Throughout U.S. history, private, armed groups have been hired or appointed themselves to police the U.S-Mexico border for a variety of reasons  from preventing black slaves from fleeing to stopping Chinese immigrants from crossing over illegally.

A look at the history of armed groups patrolling the border:

SLAVE PATROLS

After the Mexican-American War, slave-hunting groups began monitoring the border between Texas and Mexico and watching for black slaves who had run away.

Slavery had been abolished in Mexico, and slaves from as far as Alabama sought to escape to Mexico through the southern Underground Railroad before the U.S. Civil War.

Historians say the armed horsemen sometimes went into Mexico illegally to try to capture runaway slaves but were met with resistance from the Mexican government and people. Mexico refused to return the slaves who fled there.

University of Texas doctoral candidate Maria Esther Hammack has documented how Mexican Americans helped runaway slaves avoid the patrols and escape to Mexico in the mid-1800s.

THE TEXAS RANGERS

The Texas Rangers were recommissioned after the U.S. Civil War. Although the group was known for fighting Native American tribes and alleged bandits, historians say it also functioned as a private militia on behalf of wealthy landowners and ranchers concerned about cattle and horse thefts.

During the early 1900s, the Texas Rangers operated with impunity along the Texas-Mexico border on the grounds that they were protecting U.S. residents from Mexican outlaws who would cross over and raid ranches. But, according to historians, the Texas Rangers often attacked Mexican Americans in Texas border towns, raiding homes without warrants, torturing suspects and sometimes killing innocent people.

Tensions were especially high during the Mexican Revolution as refugees attempted to cross over and escape the violence. In 1919, the Texas Rangers executed 15 Mexican American men and boys from Porvenir, Texas, in what would later be called the Porvenir Massacre. None of the Rangers would serve any jail time and the massacre would later lead to reforms.

CESAR CHAVEZ AND "THE WET LINE"

After World War II, many Mexican American civil rights leaders openly expressed alarm at the growing number of Mexican immigrants coming into the U.S. illegally. They also felt white businessmen and ranchers used the immigrants to keep the wages of Mexican Americans low because they couldn't unionize. Cesar Chavez, the co-founder of the United Farm Workers, believed white growers used Mexican immigrants as strikebreakers.

In 1973, members of the United Farm Workers under the guidance of Chavez's cousin, Manuel, set up a "wet line" along the U.S.-Mexico border near San Luis, Arizona, to halt Mexican migration. (The term "wet" refers to a racial epithet aimed at Mexican immigrants.) Manuel erected 17 tents along a 25-mile stretch of the border and had members physically attack migrants. The Yuma Daily Sun newspaper reported that cars were torched, men were beaten with a plastic hose and one man claimed attackers burned the soles of his feet.

Miriam Pawel, in her 2014 book "The Crusades of Cesar Chavez: A Biography," wrote that the Mexican labor federation  the Confederacion de Trabajadores de Mexico  broke with the United Farm Workers and denounced the "wet lines" as a campaign of terror. The labor group's leader, Francisco Modesto, said hundreds of beatings occurred and two men were castrated.

WHITE SUPREMACISTS

In 1977, then-Ku Klux Klan national director David Duke announced that members of the white supremacist group would patrol the U.S.-Mexico border. He said armed members would assist the U.S. Border Patrol in stopping immigrants from getting into the U.S. illegally.

The U.S. Border Patrol in the 1990s under then-President Bill Clinton, a Democrat, increased enforcement in urban areas like El Paso, Texas, and San Diego, and migrants started shifting their path through the Arizona desert, prompting militias to form. The groups were accused of unlawfully detaining Latinos, and in some cases, physically attacking them.

Among those forming was the Minuteman Civil Defense Corps founded by Chris Simcox and J. T. Ready, a former neo-Nazi. The group urged citizens to take it upon themselves to guard the region.

Glenn Spencer also created the American Border Patrol in southern Arizona and touted it as a "shadow Border Patrol." The Southern Poverty Law Center lists the American Border Patrol as an extremist group.
Authorities say gunmen have attacked a Catholic church in Burkina Faso, killing a priest and five worshippers.

The attack on Sunday took place in Dablo, about 124 miles from the capital, Ouagadougou.

Urbain Kabore, a government spokesman for the West African country's Sahel region, said the gunmen also set fire to a health center and destroyed all places serving alcohol.

There was no immediate claim of responsibility but the attacks bore the hallmarks of Islamic extremists who are known to be active in the area. An attack on a Protestant church about two weeks ago left six people dead.

Burkina Faso has been increasingly destabilized by jihadists from across the border in Mali. Attacks have included the kidnapping of foreigners.
A group of students from Spelman and Morehouse colleges who've been studying Michelle Obama's memoir, "Becoming," had a surprise visitor to discuss the work  the former first lady herself.

Obama came to Spelman to talk with the students Saturday about the best-selling book ahead of her sold-out appearance Saturday night at State Farm Arena in downtown Atlanta.

Obama encouraged the 18 students to have faith in themselves, saying she learned through her eight years in the White House and elsewhere that she is as smart and capable as the well-educated and famous leaders she encountered, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported. Obama used a phrase made famous by Atlanta civil rights icon the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. to emphasize her point. "I've been to the mountaintop and I've seen it. You're deserving and worthy," she said.

She later added, "The biggest challenge to overcome now is believing in yourself."

The students spent this past semester studying "Becoming" as a foundational text for their political science class "Black Women: Developing Public Leadership Skills." The students occasionally take courses on each other's campus. Spelman and Morehouse, located near downtown Atlanta, are two of Georgia's nine accredited historically black colleges and universities.

The former first lady asked jokingly when she arrived if the students fell asleep reading her book.

No way, they replied.

Spelman junior political science major Jordan Barefield said "Becoming" has increased her motivation to continue her pursuit of a career in public service, saying the examples set by the Obamas were "inspiring."

"Being able to dissect that has been a blessing," said Barefield. "This is unbelievable."

Morehouse student Lanarion Norwood told Obama her book motivated him.

"I have to be the fruits of my labor and grow for my country," Norwood said.

Obama approvingly snapped both her fingers several times after his remarks and said "you're hired" to laughter.

Obama also talked about her own experiences as a student at Princeton University, where she encountered some people who felt she didn't belong at the Ivy League school.

"If you still believe here today as students at Morehouse and Spelman that you are not good enough, it's not about something that's happened to you today, it's probably a part of what you've heard and seen consistently throughout your life. And that's your story that you have to own and have to understand," she said. "That's what this book is about. You've got to be able to go over the moments in your life that brought you to a moment of joy and happiness or broke you down and be able to understand how has that made you who you are today and what are you going to do to recalibrate."

Zoe Turner, 11, sat in on part of the discussion. She said Obama's remarks reinforced some lessons from her parents, who brought her.

"If somebody tells me you can't do something, don't listen to them," Turner said. "Always believe."
If a new Mississippi law survives a court challenge, it will be nearly impossible for most pregnant women to get an abortion there.

Or, potentially, in neighboring Louisiana. Or Alabama. Or Georgia.

The Louisiana legislature is halfway toward passing a law  like the ones enacted in Mississippi and Georgia  that will ban abortions after a fetal heartbeat is detected, about six weeks into a pregnancy and before many women know they're pregnant. Alabama is on the cusp of approving an even more restrictive bill.

State governments are on a course to virtually eliminate abortion access in large chunks of the Deep South and Midwest. Ohio and Kentucky also have passed heartbeat laws; Missouri's Republican-controlled legislature is considering one.

Their hope is that a more conservative U.S. Supreme Court will approve, spelling the end of the constitutional right to abortion.

"For pro-life folks, these are huge victories," said Sue Liebel, state director for the Susan B. Anthony List, an anti-abortion advocacy group. "And I think they're indicative of the momentum and excitement and the hope that's happening with changes in the Supreme Court and having such a pro-life president."

For abortion rights supporters, meanwhile, the trend is ominous. Said Diane Derzis, owner of Mississippi's sole abortion clinic, the Jackson Women's Health Organization: "I think it's certainly more dire than it ever has been. They smell blood and that's why they're doing this."

Already, Mississippi mandates a 24-hour wait between an in-person consultation. That means women must make at least two trips to her clinic, often traveling long distances.

Other states have passed similar, incremental laws restricting abortion in recent years, and aside from Mississippi, five states have just one clinic  Kentucky, Missouri, North and South Dakota, and West Virginia. But the latest efforts to bar the procedure represent the largest assault on abortion rights in decades.

Lawmakers sponsoring the bans have made it clear their goal is to spark court challenges in hopes of ultimately overturning the 1973 Roe v. Wade decision legalizing abortion.

Those challenges have begun. Derzis' attorneys are scheduled to go before a judge on May 21, seeking to prevent Mississippi's heartbeat law from taking effect July 1.

A judge in Kentucky blocked enforcement of that state's heartbeat ban after the American Civil Liberties Union filed suit on behalf of the clinic in Louisville.

Similar legal action is expected before bans can take effect in Ohio and Georgia, where Republican Gov. Brian Kemp signed the latest heartbeat bill into law Tuesday. Kemp said he welcomed the fight, vowing: "We will not back down."

Georgia's ban doesn't take effect until Jan. 1. But the impact was immediate.

An abortion clinic operated by The Women's Centers in Atlanta began receiving anxious calls from patients soon after Kemp signed the law. Many callers had plans to travel from outside the state for abortions. Georgia's heartbeat ban would have a wider impact because the state has 17 abortion clinics  more than the combined total in the other four Southern states that have passed or are considering bans.

"On a typical day we will see people from North Carolina, Tennessee, Alabama, South Carolina  all over the region," said Dr. Lisa Haddad, the Atlanta clinic's medical director. "And my thought is we're not going to see those people coming here because they assume it's already illegal in Georgia."

Dr. Ernest Marshall, co-founder of Kentucky's last remaining abortion clinic in Louisville, said in an email that banning abortions before most women know they're pregnant would "have a disproportionate impact on poor women and communities of color throughout the South."

Advocates for abortion rights expect judges to halt enforcement of any new bans while lawsuits work their way through the courts. That could take years.

"These laws are blatantly unconstitutional," said Elisabeth Smith, chief counsel for state policy and advocacy for the Center for Reproductive Rights, which also has filed suit over Mississippi's ban. "But if they were allowed to go into force, they would have devastating consequences for the residents of all of these states."

If heartbeat bans are upheld, many women who are poor and have limited means to travel would have few options other than to try to terminate their own pregnancies, Haddad said, possibly using abortion drugs purchased online.

Others would have to drive or fly across multiple states, said Elizabeth Nash, a state policy analyst for the Guttmacher Institute, a research group that supports abortion rights.

"People would go to Florida, people would continue to go to Memphis," Nash said. "How many states do you have to cross before you can access abortion services? It exacerbates all the issues we've already seen around taking time off from work and having the money to travel."

Proposed heartbeat bans failed to pass this year in several Republican-led states, including Texas. There, GOP lawmakers lost ground to Democrats in the 2018 elections, and some abortion foes were wary after courts struck down prior abortion restrictions in the state. Such efforts also fell short in Florida, South Carolina, Tennessee and West Virginia.

Alabama lawmakers postponed until next week a vote on a proposal that would make performing nearly all abortions a felony. The measure has passed the state House, and the Senate suspended debate Thursday amid a heated dispute over whether exemptions for rape and incest should be stripped from the bill.

"You can't put a price on unborn life," Eric Johnston, president of the Alabama Pro-Life Coalition, said Wednesday, as a legislative committee heard testimony on the state's proposed ban. "What you have to do is protect the people that live in this state and that includes unborn children."

But Jenna King-Shepherd told Alabama lawmakers she believed the abortion she had at age 17 allowed her to finish college. She said her father, a part-time Baptist preacher furious about her pregnancy, drove her to the abortion clinic because he trusted her to make the right choice.

"I'm not asking you to support access to abortion," King-Shepherd said. "I'm only asking you to let women, their families, their physicians and their God make this decision on how they want to start their families in private and trust them to do that."
The days are getting longer, the heat is turning up, and Lizzo's "Juice" has already got us dancing: It's music festival season.

Whether you're ready for a road trip or want to stay close to home, here are the music festivals that the D.C. area needs to know about.

Don't see your favorite festival? Tweet at us.

DC101 KERFUFFLE

May 19

Columbia, MD

Featuring: Gretta Van Fleet, Young The Giant

For years, DC Kerfuffle has brought some of the biggest names in alternative music to the grounds of Merriweather Post Pavilion. This year continues the legacy with headliners Gretta Van Fleet, Young The Giant and Tom Morello.

Porchfest DC

Southeast DC Porchfest

May 19

Washington, D.C.

Featuring: Local artists in their element

It doesnt get more local than a neighbors porch. Southeast D.C.s Porchfest highlights the districts emerging artists through a series of mini concerts on front porches across the Hillcrest neighborhood. Performances range from folk music to spoken word to Go-Go. There will also be food trucks and vendors set up along the way. The event is free, and families are encouraged to bring their children.

The Roots Picnic

June 1

Philadelphia, PA

Featuring: H.E.R., 21 Savage, Lil Baby, Things Fall Apart

Back for its 12th year, this festival hosted by music legends The Roots promises a pretty impeccable lineup. On top of sets from artists like H.E.R. and 21 Savage, there will also be a live taping of Joe Buddens podcast and a performance of a live mixtape featuring Yasiin Bey (formerly Mos Def) and Roots emcee Black Thought. This is their first year at Fairmount Park, which means the picnic finally has grass to sit on.

Capital Jazz Fest

June 7-9

Merriweather Post Pavilion

Featuring: Gladys Knight, Babyface, Brian McKnight

The Capital Jazz Festival will be held for the 27th consecutive year this June. Jazz, soul and funk musicians take the stage at Merriweather Post Pavilion to set the mood for a chill summer. Enjoy some food on the lawn as Gladys Knight and Babyface play through sets of their classic hits, and then tour the Festival Marketplace for some arts and crafts.

DC Jazzfest

June 7-16

Various venues

Dozens of artists will come to D.C. to perform at venues on The Wharf and in other neighborhoods. A few highlights include an opening ceremony with Stefon Harris & Blackout and Sharon Clark, Snarky Puppy and a revue honoring the Great Masters of Jazz hosted by Nick Cannon.

Firefly Music Festival

June 21-23

Dover, Delaware

Featuring: Panic! At the Disco, Travis Scott, Post Malone

This festival, only about a 2-hour drive from the D.C. area, has a lineup stacked with rap and rock staples. It pretty much offers an experience for anyone, whether you like roughing it in a tent, glamping or staying at a hotel right in Dover. Festival organizers have promised an upgraded camp site experience in 2019.

Floydfest

July 24-28

Floyd, VA

Featuring: Kacey Musgraves, The String Cheese Incident, Phil Lesh & The Terrapin Family Band, Brandi Carlile

FloydFest is an annual, eight-stage festival set in Patrick County, Virginia. Attendees can camp off or onsite for five full days of country and folk music. Kacey Musgraves, this years Grammy Award winner for Album of the Year, is slated to perform.

Woodstock 50

August 16-18

Watkins Glen, NY

Featuring: The Killers, Miley Cyrus, Chance The Rapper, Jay-Z

The same organizers that brought the original 1969 Woodstock festival to life will host a three-day festival this summer with the same mission: to celebrate peace, love and music. The festival celebrates 50 years since the original was held.

LOCKN Festival

August 22-25

Arrington, VA

Featuring: Joe Russo's Almost Dead, Trey Anastasio Band, Tedeschi Trucks Band, Bob Weir and Wolf Bros

This four-day festival takes place against the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. Every year, organizers create a series of collaboration stages between their headliners to provide festival-goers the ultimate exclusive experience. Attendees can listen to the live performances, grab some food from a local vendor and explore the natural surroundings.

Made In America

August 31-September 1

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Featuring: Travis Scott, Cardi B, Juice Wrld

Jay-Z launched his curated festival in 2012 as a way of bringing together music and culture. Every year since, acts ranging from Beyonce to Coldplay have headlined the festival in Philadelphia. This years lineup is sure to match the reputation that the festival has made for itself over the years.

Rosslyn Jazz Festival

September 7

Rosslyn, VA

Back for its 30th year, the Rosslyn Jazz Fest is set to return to Gateway Park for a day of free performances. Last years festival drew over 10,000 people, according to the festivals website. Enjoy live jazz and contemporary music as you sip on a glass of wine in the middle of the park.
A Fairfax County, Virginia, teen who went missing last month is endangered, police say.

Richard Donaldo Hernandez Cruz, 16, was last seen on Monday, April 22 in the 4900 block of Beauregard Street in Lincolnia, police said.

He is "endangered due to physical concerns based on new info developed by detectives," police said on Twitter.

Hernandez Cruz is 5 feet 6 inches and 130 pounds with brown hair and brown eyes.

It is not known at this time what he was wearing when he was last seen.

Police are asking anyone with information to call 703-691-2131.

Stay with News4 and NBCWashington.com for updates.
A marine killed in a training accident in California who had deep ties to the D.C. area is being remembered as a leader and upstanding patriot.

First Lieutenant Hugh Conor McDowell was killed in an accident that wounded six other Marines at Camp Pendleton. He had grown up in Chevy Chase, Maryland, and attended St. John's College High School in Northwest.

McDowell graduated from The Citadel Military College in South Carolina and become a Marine Corps officer in May 2017.

His father, Michael McDowell, told News4 in a Skype interview that McDowell was a leader, "a patriot in the right way" and had achieved his lifelong dream in becoming a Marine.

"He was a leader. He loved leading the young kids. He would never allow them to be hazed or bullied," Michael McDowell said.

McDowell was engaged to his soulmate, with whom he wanted to have six children, his family said.

His fiancee, Kathleen Isabel Rose Bourque, remembered McDowell as a "beacon of strength and ferocity and courage and grace."

A training crash involving a vehicle roll-over cut his life short. The McDowells, grieving the loss of their only child, want to ensure no other family feels that pain.

"I will not be satisfied unless there is a very rigorous investigation," Michael McDowell said. "Did he die needlessly?"
A Maryland pediatrician charged with raping a patient is on home detention after posting a $100,000 bond.

The Frederick News-Post reports that Dr. Ernesto Torres was released Wednesday from jail. He's charged with second-degree rape involving an 18-year-old woman and other charges.

During his bail review Wednesday, the 68-year-old Torres told Judge Julia Martz-Fisher that he no longer possesses a Peruvian passport.

The judge declined to determine if Torres could continue to practice medicine while in the judicial process, leaving that decision to the medical board. His office website says Torres has practiced medicine since 1979.

A spokeswoman for the Maryland Board of Physicians spokeswoman Yemisi Koya said the board cannot disclose that information.

The newspaper reported that Torres' attorney, Richard Bricken, didn't return a call for comment.
Two men have been arrested and charged after robbing a store and violently assaulting two of the store's employees, officials said.

According to police in Burlington, Vermont, Ethan Villemaire, 28, of Burlington, and Jeffrey Leduc, 32, of Burlington, were arrested Sunday in connection to the incident.

The armed robbery and assault occurred at Simon's Downtown Quick Stop, located at 93 South Winooski Avenue, on May 6. Police say an unknown man entered the store and violently assaulted two female employees. The suspect threatened the employees with a weapon, which was not displayed. The suspect fled the scene with an unknown amount of money.

Both employees sustained non-life threatening injuries and were treated at the University of Vermont Medical Center.

"The attack on these two cashiers was violent and sustained," Police Chief Brandon del Pozo said. "The man who did it and his accomplice were a threat to our community.

Villemaire is charged with assault and robbery and is currently being held on $25,000 bail and an escape warrant issued by the Vermont Department of Corrections.

Leduc is charged with accessory to assault and robbery before and after the fact. He is currently incarcerated with the Vermont Department of Corrections on unrelated charges and was cited to appear in court.

It is unclear if the two suspects have attorneys.
Billerica and Tewskbury Animal Control is warning residents in the area to beware of black bears.

According to Animal Control, there have been multiple reported sightings of black bears in the area of Bridle Road and Bridge Street in Billerica, Massachusetts.

Officials encourage residents to secure their trash and bring bird feeders inside because the bears will move on if there is no food source. They are also asking residents to be cautious with their pets.

Officials say to give the bears their space.
The deaths of a man and woman found inside of their Lebanon home on Saturday afternoon are being investigated as a murder suicide, according to the Maine Department of Public Safety.

Police say 30-year-old Allison Parker was shot to death by 27-year-old Thomas Doyon, who was Parker's estranged boyfriend. Doyon then shot himself.

The shootings took place inside a Bigelow Road home the couple shared with the victim's parents.

According to authorities, the couple has been together for about three years but had recently broken up. On Saturday Parker returned to the house with a friend to retrieve her belongings. The friend and Parker's parents were downstairs when they heard shots come from an upstairs bedroom. They fled the home and called police, officials said.

State troopers responded to the house around 3:45 p.m. Saturday. They discovered the two bodies when they entered the house.

Parker had a 7-year-old daughter, but Doyon was not the father.

Officials say autopsies are being performed by the State Medical Examiner's Office in Augusta.
Maine is turning 200, and the state wants to make sure the Pine Tree State celebrates the big birthday with the best flag possible.

Maine Secretary of State Matthew Dunlap is asking the public for input on three proposed designs for the commemorative flag, which will be on display around the state in 2020. Maine became a state in 1820.

Dunlap is charged with presenting a final decision about the flags to the Maine Legislature and Maine Bicentennial Commission. The state says the result of the public vote will play a major role in Dunlap's decision.

Dunlap says the voting has begun and it is scheduled to end on May 17 at 5 p.m.
Vermont State Police say officers shot and killed an armed, dangerous man following a lengthy manhunt and standoff.

Police say the fatal shooting of 39-year-old Jeremy Potwin happened on Saturday in Tunbridge. They say in a statement that Potwin had been the subject of a manhunt following "an escalating series of crimes over the past several weeks.''

Vermont State Police had sent a warning to the public on Saturday about Potwin.

Police say they learned Potwin was in a home in Tunbridge holding a woman hostage. He fired multiple shots out of the home during a negotiation, they say. Police say Potwin eventually emerged from the home carrying two handguns and pointed one at police. Troopers then fired rifles, striking him fatally.

Police say the hostage is being evaluated but appears unhurt. They say an investigation into the incident is in early stages.

According to police, Potwin was wanted on two arrest warrants violation of conditions of release and escape from probation and parole. He was convicted in 2018 for leaving the scene of a 2017 crash that killed one person in South Royalton.

Potwin was also wanted for questioning in connection with a vehicle pursuit with State Police on May 3 and an aggravated assault and kidnapping in Braintree on May 9. In the later incident, Potwin is suspected of assaulting a man associate and discharging a firearm, police said. No one was seriously injured in the incident.
Renovation of the towns District I wastewater treatment plant to meet tougher environmental standards  the linchpin of the $48 million sewer project approved by voters last November  will be the focus of a public hearing Tuesday.

The treatment plant off South Street serves the downtown and village area, and is beyond its 20-year life expectancy, according to Amy Siebert, chairwoman of the Water Pollution Control Authority, the agency that oversees the operation.

The plant will be modernized and upgraded, reducing the amount of nitrogen and phosphorous in the treated water that it releases into Great Swamp and the Norwalk River, leading eventually to Long Island Sound.

The hearing is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. in the town hall annex.

The plant renovation is part of a larger plan that also involves closing the District II treatment plant near the intersection of Routes 7 and 35, and piping the effluent from District II to South Street for treatment at the upgraded District I plant.

The District I plants 1 million gallon capacity will increase  though this isnt regarded as an expansion of overall capacity, since the additional 120,000 gallons per day is the capacity at the District II plant, which will be closed.

The District I plant renovation is the central aspect of the plan, expected to take up nearly $32 million of the entire sewer projects $48 million anticipated cost. Phase II of the plan, included in the $48 million, includes building a pump station and pressured sewer line to carry wastewater from the commercial and multifamily development around the intersection of Routes 7 and 35 to South Street, where wastes from both sewer districts will be treated at the renovated District I plant.

That will allow the District II plant to be closed  saving the town the cost of upgrading that plant, and also saving money on operations.

With a number of municipalities seeking bids for sewer projects, Siebert admitted to being a little nervous about construction bids.

We can only hope that we will get good results, Siebert said. Many wastewater utilities across the state are all bidding significant projects this spring season.

We have to have a contract awarded by July 1st, added First Selectman Rudy Marconi, and were on schedule to achieve that  assuming all the bids come in and we have a contract thats acceptable.

Awarding the contract by July 1 is important because the town is seeking grants that could reduce local taxpayers cost by some $11.5 million, but the project needs to meet the July 1 deadline to be eligible.

Getting the $11.5 million in grants would leave a projected $36.5 million in costs to be paid by the town, its taxpayers and sewer users. That cost would be financed through the Clean Water Fund at 2 percent interest, Marconi said.

Projections are that about $8 million of the cost would be borne by general taxpayers  many with homes on septic systems and the remainder would be covered by sewer users who more directly benefit. That repayment cost is to be covered largely through sewer use and hookup fees. Fees are expected to about double, although the increase would be phased in.

Plans for the South Street plants renovation project were formally accepted April 9 by the Planning and Zoning Commission and Inland Wetlands Board.
Ned Gerard / Hearst Connecticut Media

BRIDGEPORT  A victim was unconscious when she was taken to a city hospital early Saturday morning after being hit by a vehicle.

It happened around 2:45 a.m. at the intersection of Washington and Highland avenues, according to police spokesman Terron Jones. The intersection is near the Greene Homes apartment complex.
ANSONIA  Members who attended a special emergency meeting of the citys Water Pollution Control Authority voted unanimously to pay Frank Pepe Constructions full $915,738 bill for repairs to the recent sewer collapses on Pershing Drive, Woodlawn Avenue and Hull Street.

The money was taken from the Authoritys $2 million undesignated reserve fund.

There were no membership challenges, no yelling over each others comments and no controversy over the actual vote.

However, Rita St. Jacques, the citys sewer administration, warned that draining the rainy day fund may eventually lead to an increase in the sewer usage fees charged homeowners and businesses.

She said the Authority will set the usage fee following a public hearing in July.

St. Jacques also told the Authority that Chairman Nunzio Parente, who was unable to attend Thursdays meeting, was on board with paying the full bill.

Until Thursday, Parente offered only half payment and opposed paying the full amount using only WPCA money.

Im gratified that the two people (Parente and Andrew Geruntho) who were fearlessly opposed to paying the bill did the right thing, said Charley Stowe, a WPCA member and first ward alderman. Why have a rainy day fund if you are not going to use it for emergencies? And this was a major emergency.

Stowe said several residents have complemented him for standing up in the face of adversity and pressing to pay the bill.

I didnt like what went on in our last two meetings but I felt I had to stand up for the taxpayers, he said.

But Stowe also believes the sections of the City Charter which deals with WPCA has to be cleared up in its next revision.

The debate over the bill was a result of a major sewer collapse on Feb. 23 that flooded the basement of the Lemko Social Club with raw sewage and threatened businesses and restaurants on Pershing Drive. The collapse required digging a 30-foot trench, blocking the Pershing Drive breakdown lane with barriers and slowing vehicles to 10 mph through the repair zone.

It took nearly a month to repair the break  then a 10-foot pipe broke on Woodlawn Avenue near Forest Street and nearly 70 feet of pipe collapsed on Hull Street.

In response, Mayor David Cassetti to begin work on a $16 million capital improvement project to photograph the inside of the entire system running through the citys six square miles. He said he wants to repair the broken areas and reline the remaining century-old clay pipes.

John Hinson, pastor of First Baptist Church and a WPCA member, arrived after Thursdays meeting had adjourned. He was allowed to register his abstention on the record.

Im still not convinced we had to pay anything, Hinson told his colleagues. Im not convinced we are responsible at all.

Im not saying we shouldnt help, Hinson said.

Parente had recommended the WPCA pay half of the bill and let the city pick up the rest.

In early March, the Authority voted 3-2 with Hinson abstaining to pay the full bill.

Parente refused to accept that vote, claiming it was illegal because he believes Alderman Domenico Filippone should not be on the Authority. He cited a city charter line which allows an alderman and a Public Works employee to sit on the Authority, which he said meant only one alderman on the board, a seat filled by Alderman Charley Stowe.

Corporation Counsel John P. Marini disagreed, saying if that was the case, the Charter would read no more than one Alderman.

Nevertheless, the Alderman revised the line last month by passing an ordinance that change the wording to at least one Alderman. Their ordinance also adds two more members, including a third alderman.

Parente brought the WPCA lawyer to the May 1 meeting, who claimed the ordinance and the new members could not take effect until May 19  30 days after its publication in the newspaper.
Washington Governor Jay Inslee and best-selling author David Wallace-Wells will headline an interactive speakers series, Conversations On the Green, May 19 at 3 p.m. in Washington, Conn.

The program, Doomsday Denial: The Politics of Climate Change, will be held at Shepaug Valley School at 159 South St.

The event is a fundraiser for New Milford Hospital.

The event, which will be moderated by Jane Whitney, a former NBC News correspondent and talk show host, is a benefit for local charities working to protect vulnerable neighbors.

The two-term Democratic governor and Wallace-Wells, author of The Uninhabitable Earth: Life After Warming, will discuss the dichotomy between what scientists say needs to be done to moderate an impending disaster and the political reality of what is possible.

Were the first generation to feel the sting of climate change and were the last that can do something about it, according to Inslee, who is a presidential candidate.

The program will feature a discussion of the science, economics and politics swirling around the climate change headlines.

The debate will examine what state and local communities are doing to mitigate the congressional stasis, what might break the logjam, how the issue plays in national, state and local elections, and the role of private citizens and companies.

Elected to Congress in 1992 from a relatively rural, agricultural area of Washington, Inslee became the first public figure to propose a moon-shot like national energy program.

In the 2002 op-ed and a subsequent series of pieces, he laid out a precursor to what is now colloquially known as the Green New Deal, a multifaceted agenda to wean the country off fossil fuels while rebuilding the national economy by creating millions of green collar jobs.

We went to the moon and created technologies that have changed the world, said Inslee, who has been at the forefront of myriad legal and political battles against President Trump but is basing his 2020 presidential campaign on the issue of global warming.

Our countrys next mission must be to rise up to the most urgent challenge of our time, defeating climate change, he said.

Wallace-Wells, an editor at New York magazine and the author of the new NYT best seller, The Uninhabitable Earth: Life After Warming, offers an apocalyptic portrait of where civilization is headed.

Originally published two years ago as a long-form essay in New York magazine, the piece immediately provoked a storm and went viral, becoming the most read article in the publications history.

Audiences are encouraged to ask questions.

Tickets, which start at $45, are available by emailing conversationsonthegreen@gmail.com.
U.S. Rep. Dave Joyce, R-Bainbridge Township, was recently presented with the Great Lakes Changemaker Award during the 2019 Great Lakes Economic Forum.

The award from the Council of the Great Lakes Region was presented for the first time at this years forum held May 6 to 8 in Cleveland.

The Great Lakes Economic Forum began in 2005 as a gathering of leaders from all levels of government, business, academia and the non-profit sector who are committed to economic growth and environmental sustainability in the Great Lakes region.

According to a news release, the award was created to recognize individuals, companies or non-profit organizations that are leading the way in strengthening the long-term competitiveness and sustainability of the Great Lakes Region, and who are playing a leadership role internationally on a range of economic and environmental issues.

The bi-national Great Lakes are a crucial economic region and watershed for the United States and Canada, said Mark Fisher, president and CEO of the Council of the Great Lakes Region. Through the new Great Lakes Changemaker Award, the Council is pleased to be able to recognize people, organizations, and companies each year who share our vision of creating the most prosperous, innovative, sustainable, livable, and welcoming region in the world.

The other award recipients were SC Johnson, former Ambassador Bruce Heyman and Vicki Heyman, the Fred A. and Barbara M. Erb Family Foundation, and Swim Drink Fish Canada.

Joyces work with the Great Lakes includes advocacy for the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, including the language formally authorizing it at $300 million annually for the first time in 2016.

Since it was approved in 2009, the initiative has given more than $2 billion to the eight-state region for projects that have removed toxic wastes from industrial harbors, fought invasive species such as Asian carp, restored wildlife habitat and supported efforts to prevent harmful algal blooms.

As a father, I was proud to share the importance of protecting the Lakes with my children, and now as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives, I have the honor of advocating for the Lakes in Congress, Joyce said in a statement. The Great Lakes are an invaluable natural resource and economic powerhouse, and I am proud to fight to ensure we make the necessary investments to treat them as the national treasure they are. I am humbled to be a recipient of the first-ever Great Lakes Changemaker Award and am eager to live up to the title.
First Congregational's Moderator Lois Daunais, left, photographer Carin Quirke, Revisioning Committee co-Chairwoman Margaret Whitney and the Rev. Carolyn Peck talk about the window project on Wednesday. Daunais said the musicians are pleased with the amount of light they have. The new windows have details to match the woodwork by the altar. A smaller panel is light from behind. The large rose window on the front of the church still lets in colorful light. The new windows were installed over several days in April. PreviousNext

Tiffany Windows Give North Adams Church Light-Filled Future



Each window was captured by photographer Carin Quirke and printed on metallic paper. NORTH ADAMS, Mass.  First Congregational Church is a lot lighter nowadays  both in its physical attributes and its future prospects.

And also in its spirit.

But that now light-filled nave came with a difficult decision last year when the 70-member congregation agreed after months of debate to sell the 10 Tiffany windows that once lined the walls.

"It became an issue with regard to sustainability," said Margeret Whitney, co-chairman of the revisioning committee. "So the sale of the windows, although not the happiest set of circumstances in the world  there were many people, including me, who love the windows  but one has to think of church as a group of people not as only a building. And that's what we are concentrating on is our sustainability."

The sale of the windows to a private museum in Texas garnered the congregation $1.1 million  a hefty sum that will help support the congregation and its mission for years to come. The church also sold the mid-century commercial building it had long used for religious education and offices last summer for $260,000.

Like many parishes, First Congregational has been struggling with declining membership. The titans of industry that once sat in the pews  and donated those Tiffany windows  are no longer around. When the offer came in for the stained-glass works, the members thrashed out the pros and cons of parting with the treasured objects.

About a year ago, the windows were removed and sent off to Texas. Last month, new clear, energy-efficient windows were installed in their place, filling the nave with a light it hadn't seen in nearly 90 years.

The revisioning committee had returned the church to a more traditional look. Whitney said the stained-glass windows, including two non-Tiffanys, were installed over a period of about 30 years beginning at about 1903.

"This building was built in 1865. And the people who were in North Adams and attended this church at that time, were the industrialists of the area. They were the leaders of the community, the Cadys, and the Richardsons and the Hunters, all of the names you hear in North Adams," she said. "Many of them were the people who donated the windows over the course."

In a way, they bequeathed the congregation twice  first through the donation of the windows and secondly through the realization of their sale.

The congregation had been offered initially $650,000 for the 10 Tiffanys but it reached out to a local stained-glass consultant who lived nearby, Julie Sloan, who was able to negotiate with purveyors Adrian Hamers Inc. of Larchmont, N.Y. The final purchase price was $1 million and Hamers gifted the congregation another $100,000.

"It's not meant to be part of the operating budget, it's meant to sustain us here so that we can focus on other ministries instead of worrying about the day to day and whether we're going to be able to be here to do the things we're hoping to do," said the Rev. Carolyn Peck.

Over the past year, the congregation has also embarked on some other building renewal including upgrading the electrical and investing in energy efficiencies. A previous project had relocated offices and programs into what had been empty space in the back of the church. It's also looking to do some painting and repairs and replacing the pews' dated pads.

Moderator Lois Daunais said the Center for Ecological Technology had covered 85 to 90 percent of the cost of insulating and "we had a donor in the church who was so excited about the fact that we're doing this that she generously donated rest."

The result is a brighter more efficient structure that can continue to host the congregation's programs and partnerships including the Berkshire Food Project, and AA and Boy Scout meetings, and take on new missions such as an immigrant program.

"It will just open our hearts and our building to a variety of different uses and ways. It's much more uplifting," said Peck.

The Tiffanys and their biblical images aren't completely gone. Again, another neighbor had the expertise to capture the windows photographically and they now are framed and hung in order of where they used to be.

Daunais said a member of the church, Kathy Denault, "thought it would be really neat to retain the memory of the pictures."

"And then we invited members of the congregation, friends and families to make a donation, in memory or honor of a relative to fund the cost of this photo project," she said, later adding, "we were very, very pleased with the photographs and extremely pleased with the way they have come out."

Their first attempts to photograph the windows didn't feel right so they turned to Carin Quirke, who spent two days on "tables and ladders" at different times of the day to capture how the light came through.

"They were beautiful, I feel like I spent a lot of time with those panels," she laughed. "I think it was a problem with getting rid of them that you kind of touched on, which is that a lot of people were very attached to them and just couldn't quite feel right about selling them. This just keeps that memory here."

Primarily a portrait photographer, Quirke said she's been doing more art photography since moving to North Adams. She also called on colleagues in New York for advice on how to shoot them. They were then printed on metallic paper to capture the "glimmer" of light by a printing company in Albany, N.Y.

Quirke said she does work for nonprofits that often think these kinds of project are out of reach.

"So it's been a challenge to make it affordable," she said, adding some of it is a donation of time and effort. But the windows were important "as part of the fabric of the community."

The church still has four stained-glass windows  the two tall non-Tiffanys that no decision has been made on, the large rose window on the front and a smaller circular window above the sanctuary that has a new light behind it. The new windows on the sides have details similar to the woodwork in the sanctuary.

Whitney noted there was no stained glass when the church was built, though there may have blue or amber at some point.

"And so it's been interesting that, you know, there is this iteration of the glass. We've sort of returned to the traditional," she said.

Peck said the goal is to be a "visible and viable presence here," something that would be difficult if the congregation couldn't maintain itself.

"I think the more we reach out, open ourselves up like we have with the windows, then more people will be aware of what's happening here and be able to connect," she said. "Because it's harder for folks to be interested in coming in, if they're unaware of who we are right now. But if we reach out, it's a little easier for them to cross the threshold and get involved in different ways."

She said the North County clergy have begun monthly meetings to figure out how to do more unified events. Daunais pointed the church's "open and affirming" position and its use for benefits such as the concert series it hosts.

"We have to re-envision church, and it's not the same as it used to be years ago," Peck said. "So how do we do this together as a community?"

Daunais said a longtime congregation member in her 80s remembered how she used to come to church with her grandmother and they'd sit by a particular window and bond over the Bible story behind it.

"I thought when she first started telling the story, she was trying to explain why we should never say goodbye to the windows," she said. "But what she was really saying is I love that window. And I will love looking at the photograph. But I love even more that we're staying viable as a congregation."
May 12, 2019 19:21 (IST)

Cong Banned Songs of Kishore Kumar: Modi | Prime Minister Narendra Modi today at a public meeting in Khanda, Madhya Pradesh, in a snide reference to Congress leader Sam Pitroda's remark on the 1984 anti-Sikh riots, reminded the people of the days of the Emergency when the songs of Kishore Kumar were banned on All India Radio (AIR) because he did not toe the government line. "At the mention of Khandwa, people are reminded of Kishore Kumar. He was among the people who refused to fall in line during the Emergency when every dissident against the government was thrown into jail. But Kishore Kumar refused to buckle under pressure, which resulted in his songs being banned from the All India Radio (AIR). If you ask the Congress about that episode now, the answer you will get is 'hua toh hua'," said Modi.
(Newser)  Don McGahn just can't seem to shake his old boss. President Trump has twice asked the former White House counsel to deny that he thought Trump obstructed justice with the Mueller probeand McGahn refused both times, insiders say. The White House first asked him after reading a pre-release of the Mueller report, per the New York Times. Mueller had left out McGahn's professed belief the president hadn't obstructed justice, and Trump's lawyers wanted him to say so. McGahn apparently mulled. "We did not perceive it as any kind of threat or something sinister," says McGahn's lawyer in a statement. "It was a request, professionally and cordially made."

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McGahn's refusal angered Trump, who already considered McGahn disloyal for telling Mueller's team that Trump had asked him to dismiss Mueller in 2017. Then after the report came out, the White House asked McGahn to deny that Trump's request amounted to obstruction, and say that another Trump effortto have McGahn deny the request ever happenedwasn't obstruction either, sources tell the Wall Street Journal. But McGahn kept his own counsel and said nothing. On another front, he's now refusing to comply with a subpoena from the House Judiciary Committee. (By one account, McGahn saved Trump's presidency.)
(Newser)  Thousands of Polish nationalists marched to the US Embassy in Warsaw Saturday, protesting that America is putting pressure on Poland to compensate Jews whose families lost property during the Holocaust, the AP reports. The protest took place amid a dramatic rise in anti-Semitic hate speech in public life in Poland and it appeared to be one of the largest anti-Jewish street demonstrations in recent times. It also comes as far-right groups are gaining in popularity, pressuring the conservative government to move further to the right. Protesters, including far-right groups and their supporters, say the US has no right to interfere in Polish affairs and the US government is putting "Jewish interests" over the interests of Poland. A sociologist called the march "probably the biggest openly anti-Jewish street demonstration in Europe in recent years."

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Poland was a major victim of Nazi Germany during World War II and those protesting say it is not fair to ask Poland to compensate Jewish victims when Poland has never received adequate compensation from Germany. "Why should we have to pay money today when nobody gives us anything?" says 22-year-old Kamil Wencwel. "Americans only think about Jewish and not Polish interests." Protesters say paying compensation would ruin Poland's economy. But Jewish organizations have been seeking compensation for Holocaust survivors and their families, considering compensation a matter of justice. With pressure building on this issue, the State Department's new envoy on anti-Semitism, Elan Carr, was in Warsaw this past week, telling leaders and media that the US is only urging Poland to fulfil a non-binding commitment it made in 2009 to act on the issue.

(Read more Holocaust stories.)
(Newser)  President Trump's chief economic adviser contradicted his boss Sunday on tariffs placed on imports from China by the US. The president had said that China will bear the cost. On Fox News Sunday, host Chris Wallace pressed Larry Kudlow, saying the cost of tariffs is passed on to US importers, companies, and consumers. "Fair enough," Kudlow answered. "In fact, both sides will pay." He argued that China's GDP will be hit harder because the US economy is strong, CNBC reports. "This is a risk we should and can take without damaging our economy in any appreciable way," Kudlow said.

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Trump defended his decision to more than double tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese imports in tweets on Friday. This round of trade talks then ended without a deal. "Love collecting BIG TARIFFS! he tweeted the next day. Members of both parties criticized Trump's handling of the trade talks on Sunday. "The longer were involved in a tariff battle or a trade war, the better chance there is that we could actually enter into a recession because of it," Republican Rand Paul said on ABC's This Week, per the Washington Post. Henry Paulson, who was Treasury secretary under President George W. Bush, warned about tariffs. "Theyre a tax on the American consumer," Paulson said on Face the Nation. (Read more tariffs stories.)
(Newser)  The United Arab Emirates said Sunday that four commercial ships off its eastern coast "were subjected to sabotage operations," hours after Iranian and Lebanese media outlets aired false reports of explosions at a nearby Emirati port. Emirati officials declined to say who might have been responsible, the AP reports. However, the US has warned ships that "Iran or its proxies" could be targeting maritime traffic in the region; America is deploying an aircraft carrier and B-52 bombers to the Persian Gulf to counter alleged threats from Tehran. Tensions have risen since President Trump withdrew the US from the 2015 nuclear deal between Iran and world powers, restoring American sanctions that have pushed Iran's economy into crisis. Last week, Iran warned it would begin enriching uranium at higher levels in 60 days if world powers failed to renegotiate the deal.

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The UAE statement put the ships near the country's territorial waters in the Gulf of Oman, east of the port of Fujairah. It said that it was investigating the incident "in cooperation with local and international bodies" and that there were "no injuries or fatalities on board the vessels" and "no spillage of harmful chemicals or fuel." Earlier Sunday, Lebanon's pro-Iran satellite channel Al-Mayadeen, quoting "Gulf sources," falsely reported a series of explosions at Fujairah's port. State and semi-official media in Iran picked up the reports, citing Al-Mayadeen, which later published the names of vessels it claimed were involved. The AP found the reports about an explosion to be unsubstantiated.

(Read more UAE stories.)
(Newser)  A pilot for an American Airlines subsidiary was arrested Saturday in the 2015 shooting deaths of three people in Kentucky. Christian R. Martin was arrested at the Louisville airport, a day after he was indicted by a Christian County grand jury in the November 2015 deaths of Calvin and Pamela Phillips of Pembroke and their neighbor, Edward Dansereau, said state Attorney General Andy Beshear, per the AP. Martin moved from Christian County after the slayings and was living in North Carolina at the time of the indictment. American Airlines said Martin has been a pilot for subsidiary PSA Airlines since January 2018. In fact, his jail mugshot shows him wearing a pilot's uniform.

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As for the 2015 murders, police said Calvin Phillips, 59, was found shot to death in the cellar of his home. The bodies of Pamela Phillips, 58, and Dansereau, 63, were found a few miles away in a cornfield inside her burned car. Authorities have not given a motive for the slayings or said what led them to believe Martin was responsible. Beshear said he met nearly two years ago with the couple's son, Matt Phillips, who was worried the case had stalled. Beshear accepted a request from the local commonwealth attorney to appoint a special prosecutor to handle the case. Relatives of Calvin and Pamela Phillips had offered a $100,000 reward to help solve the case.

(Read more Kentucky stories.)
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New Delhi:

Japanese two-wheeler manufacturer Suzuki is all set to launch the highly awaited Gixxer 250 on May 20 in India. Now, ahead of the launch, the technical specifications and design of the upcoming Suzuki Gixxer SF 250 have been leaked online by Motoroids.

The leaked image of the Suzuki GIxxer SF 250 show a fully faired bike in white. According to the leaked image, the motorcycle features a fully-fledged fairing which looks sleek clean lines, contoured fuel tank, and split-seats. Also the leaked brochure reveals the design language on the new Suzuki Gixxer SF 250 that takes inspiration from the larger GSX-R models.

On the other hand, the leaked brochure also reveals the specifications of motor-cycle in detail. According to the brochure, the fuel tank capacity stands at 12 litres, while the rear view mirrors are fairing mounted. Gixxer SF 250 will be suspended by telescopic forks up front and a swingarm type monoshock at the rear. The motorcycle will ride on 17-inch dual 5-spoke alloy wheel shod with a 110/70 section tyre for the front and a 150/60 section tyre for the rear, both of which are tubeless.

Suzuki Gixxer SF 250 will draw power from a 249 cc single-cylinder, oil-cooled, fuel-injected, SOHC motor tuned for 26 bhp at 9000 rpm and 22.6 Nm of peak torque available at 7500 rpm. The bike is mated with a 6-speed gearbox. Suspension duties are performed by oil damped telescopic forks up front and a swingarm-type monoshock unit at the rear. Discs at either end take care of braking duties on the motorcycle. For braking, the motorcycle will employ disc brakes at both ends and will be equipped with dual-channel ABS.

Prices are expected to be around Rs 1.40 lakh (ex-showroom). The motorcycle will take on the Bajaj Pulsar RS 200, Yamaha Fazer 25, and the Honda CBR 250R in India.
New Delhi:

Tata Motors 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 companys 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).
Lahore:

Pakistan will review re-opening of its airspace for Indian flights on May 15 amid heightened Indo-Pak military tensions, a civil aviation official said on Sunday, but a senior minister indicated that the status quo will remain till the elections are over in India. Pakistan fully closed its airspace after an Indian Air Force strike on a terror camp in Balakot on February 26. However, Pakistan on March 27, opened its airspace for all flights except for New Delhi, Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur.

"The Pakistani government will decide whether to lift or not its airspace ban for the Indian flights on May 15," Pakistan's Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) spokesperson Mujtaba Baig told PTI on Sunday. He said that in the May 15 meeting the officials and ministers of all ministries concerned will participate and a decision will be taken about lifting of ban or not on the Pakistani airspace 'operational and overflying' for India. "The decision will be notified any time on May 15," Baig said.

However, Prime Minister Imran Khan's close aide and federal science and technology minister Fawad Chaudhry doesn't see any change in the status quo till conclusion of Lok Sabha polls in India. "Status quo will remain till the elections are over in India. I don't see any improvement in relations between Pakistan and India till the elections are over and a new government is installed. The ban on airspace by each other I think will also continue till Indian polls," Chaudhry told PTI.

Pakistan and India had closed their airspace for each other on February 26 after rise in tension between the two nuclear countries.

When asked had not the CAA written to Prime Minister Khan about huge financial losses the Pakistan International Airlines, other private airlines and CAA were facing because of closure of its profitable routes because of ban of Indian airspace, Baig said: "It is a bilateral matter to be resolved by the both governments".

Owing to ban on its airspace by India, Pakistan has suspended its operation for Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur which is causing a loss of millions of rupees per day. PIA used to operate four flights to Kuala Lumpur, two to Bangkok and two to New Delhi.

A senior PIA official told PTI that the national flag carrier's loss is running into billions of rupees because of suspension of our flights especially to Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur. "We are not only facing the huge financial loss but also losing our passengers to other airlines," he said, adding that this matter should now be resolved. "If land and rail routes are operational between Pakistan and India, what's wrong with the air route," the official questioned.

The airlines and civil aviation authorities of both the countries are enduring massive losses. The flights between Europe to Far-East are not only facing massive financial losses, but the flight duration has also increased, while the airlines have also increased their ticket prices.

Pakistan in mid-April had opened one of its 11 air routes for west-bound flights from India and airlines such as Air India and Turkish Airlines have started using it. The operating cost for Air India, which flies to destinations in Europe and the US, reportedly has increased significantly as it had to take longer routes due to closure of Pakistan airspace.

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New Delhi:

The candidates who have appeared for TS EAMCET 2019, we have some important news for you. As per the latest update, the JNTU Hyderabad has released the TS EAMCET 2019 Answer Key and the Response Sheet for the entrance exam. The candidates must note that the TS EAMCET 2019 Answer Key released by the TSCHE and JNTU Hyderabad is preliminary in nature and will be revised based on the objections filed by the candidates. The candidates can visit the official website of the university i.e. eamcet.tsche.ac.in to download the preliminary answer key.

The Telangana State Engineering, Agriculture & Medical (Pharmacy, Veterinary etc.,) Common Entrance Test is a state-level entrance test that is conducted by the JNTU Hyderabad on behalf of the Telangana State Council of Higher Education.

For the convenience of the students, we have mentioned the steps through which the candidates can download the answer key:

Step 1: Visit official website eamcet.tsche.ac.in

Step 2: Find and Click on the Question Paper & Answer Key Direct Link

Step 3: A new window will open with details of different slots and subjects for the exam

Step 4: Download the TS EAMCET 2019 Answer Key as per your slot

The candidates must note that apart from TS EAMCET 2019 Answer Key, the Council has also made available individual response sheet of the candidates who had appeared for the exam. By using the TS EAMCET 2019 Answer Key and the Response Sheet simultaneously, the candidates can now predict their expected score in the entrance exam.
New Delhi:

Delhi's oldest voter, 111-year old Bachan Singh on Sunday cast his vote at a polling booth in Sant Garh. He was wheeled into the polling both using a chair. "I will vote for those who worked for us," he said. He doesnt even know that the Aam Aadmi Party exists. For him, every election has been a contest between the BJP and the Congress, news agency PTI quoted his youngest son, Jasbeer Singh as saying.

Till a few years ago, he would cycle to the polling booth and cast his vote. He never needed any help. He cooked for himself and spent most of time doing seva in gurdwara, Jasbeer says.







A total of 59 constituencies spread over six states and Delhi are going to polls in the seven-phase election today. Elections are being held across 14 seats in Uttar Pradesh, 10 seats in Haryana, eights constituencies each in Bihar, Madhya Pradesh and West Bengal, seven seats in Delhi and four in Jharkhand. A total of 979 candidates from across parties are testing their luck. Altogether, 66,85,401 voters, including 31,79,720 women and 116 of the third gender, are eligible to exercise their franchise. The polling began at 7 am and will continue till 6 pm.




New Delhi:

Sanjay Jaiswal, BJPasA Paschim Champaran Lok Sabha seat candidate, was allegedly injured in an attack by unidentified people during Lok Sabha elections polling in Biharas Narkatiaganj on Sunday. It is being reported that Jaiswal was attacked inside booth number 162 and his vehicle was completely damaged.

#WATCH: Narkatiaganj: An attempt was made to attack Sanjay Jaiswal (in red kurta), BJP candidate from West Champaran Parliamentary Constituency, with sticks outside polling booth no. 162, 163. He is unhurt. #Bihar #LokSabhaElections2019 pic.twitter.com/sxL3YWyAT7 a ANI (@ANI) May 12, 2019

Party workers have demanded than an ambulance be rushed to the polling booth immediately.In the 2014 Lok Sabha election, Jaiswal won by getting a margin of over 1.10 lakh votes. He had defeated film maker Prakash Jha of the Janata Dal (United). Jaiswal had secured 371232 votes while Jha got 260978 votes
New Delhi:

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday urged voters in the sixth phase of Lok Sabha elections to exercise their franchise. He urged the youth to cast their votes in record numbers

Yet another phase of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections is here! Urging all those whose constituencies are polling in todays sixth phase to go out and vote. I hope youngsters are voting in record numbers. After all, their participation makes the polls even more special, PM Modi tweeted.

Polling for 59 Lok Sabha seats in the sixth and penultimate phase of Lok Sabha polls is being held today. Union ministers Radha Mohan Singh, Harsh Vardhan and Maneka Gandhi, SP chief Akhilesh Yadav and Congress leaders Digvijay Singh and Jyotiraditya Scindia among several prominent faces are in the fray.

Elections are being held in 14 seats in Uttar Pradesh, 10 seats in Haryana, eights constituencies each in Bihar, Madhya Pradesh and West Bengal, seven seats in Delhi and four in Jharkhand.

Over 10.17 crore voters are eligible to exercise their franchise to decide the fate of 979 candidates. The Election Commission has set up over 1.13 lakh polling stations for smooth conduct of the polls.

The elections in this phase are seen as a big test for the BJP which had won 45 of these seats in 2014, with the Trinamool Congress bagging 8, the Congress two and the Samajwadi Party and the LJP one seat each among others.

The Lok Sabha elections are being held in seven phases, starting from April till May 19. The counting of votes will be held on May 23.

While the Narendra Modi government is seeking a second term in office, the Congress -- revived by the recent victories in Hindi heartland states of Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh -- is hoping to turn the tide.








New Delhi:

BJP candidate Bharati Ghosh was allegedly attacked twice by local people when the former IPS officer tried to visit polling stations in her Ghatal Lok Sabha constituency on Sunday when the sixth phase of polling was underway there.

One of her security guards was injured in stone pelting in one of the two incidents of attack.

The state CEO has sought reports from the West Midnapore district magistrate about the incidents.

Ghosh suffered minor injuries when a group of women allegedly attacked her when she tried to take one BJP agent inside a polling booth at Keshpur area in the morning, officials said.

Following this, bombs were hurled and stones were pelted towards the former IPS officer's convoy when she was going to visit another booth at Dogachia in Keshpur after receiving complaints of rigging there.

One of her security guards was injured and a vehicle was damaged in the stone pelting following which the security officers restored to lathicharge, the officials said.

It was also alleged a Trinamool Congress worker was injured in firing by central forces who were with the BJP candidate who, however, denied the charge.

"This is a deliberate attempt by the Trinamool Congress to stop me. They attacked me and I am injured. That my security guards have fired is an absolute lie," Ghosh told PTI when contacted.

A senior election official said, "We have sought a report from the district magistrate over the alleged attacks on the BJP candidate. Once the report arrives, we will take the necessary step."

The state CEO also sought a report after Ghosh was seen videographying inside a polling booth at Pikurda in Keshpur.

State minister and TMC leader Firhad Hakim claimed that the BJP restored to violence when the polling was going on in a peaceful manner.

"This is nothing but a ploy to disturb the peaceful polling process. When the BJP is losing its ground in West Bengal it is trying to create an atmosphere of violence. Both the candidates of BJP, Bharati Ghosh and Dilip Ghosh, are trying to disrupt peace on the polling day. They have nothing to do. Both know that people have rejected them," Hakim told PTI.

Ghatal's sitting MP Deepak Adhikary of the Trinamool Congress claimed that local people resisted because of Ghosh's bad attitude towards them.

"She is a former IPS officer and knows what to do and what not to. She is trying to break the law. I will ask her and every other candidate as well as the voters to stay calm. Polling should happen peacefully," Dev told PTI.

BJP state president Dilip Ghosh said this is not for the first time that Bharati Ghosh was attacked.

"Since the TMC failed to stop her politically, it is trying to physically harm her," he said.

The Election Commission has deployed a total of 770 companies of central forces in the eight Lok Sabha seats, including Ghatal, where polling is underway.
New Delhi:

Senior Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge sparked a controversy on Sunday, as voting took place in the sixth round of the national election, with his comments on Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Kharge, who was addressing a rally in Karnataka's Kalburgi, said: "Wherever he (Modi) goes, he keeps saying that the Congress will not win 40 seats. Do you believe that? If the Congress gets more than 40 seats, will Modi hang himself at Vijay Chowk in Delhi," Kharge said.

Last month, Modi claimed the Congress will get fewer than 50 seats in the Lok Sabha elections. In the last General Elections, the Congress had been reduced to 44 seats, its lowest-ever figure.

Modi said every survey was talking about whether the Bharatiya Janata Party will remain on 282 seats or cross it, but on the Congress, they were discussing whether the party can reach the figure of 50 or get limited at 40.

Last week, slamming the prime minister for his "bhrashtachari no. 1" taunt at Rajiv Gandhi, Kharge said Modi did not get "sanskar" (cultural grooming) as he had escaped from home at a young age. Kharge said Modi's remark reflected his frustration.

At a rally in Uttar Pradesh Saturday, Modi attacked Congress chief Rahul Gandhi, saying, "Your father was termed Mr Clean by his courtiers but his life ended as bhrashtachari no. 1" (Corrupt no. 1).

Speaking to reporters in Kalaburagi, Kharge said Modi lacked political and practical knowledge.

"He did not get sanskar at home as he had fled home at a young age. Where will he get it? People should have control over their tongue when speaking," the Congress leader said.

Modi's comment on Rajiv Gandhi has drawn widespread criticism from various opposition parties, which said he lowered the dignity of the office of the prime minister.

(With PTI inputs)
New Delhi:

In yet another tragic incident, a 15-year-old girl was killed after a major fire broke out in Saitan Chowki police quarters at Mumbai's Dadar police station compound on Sunday afternoon. Soon after the incident, four fire tenders were rushed to the spot and have been trying to put out the blaze. An ambulance was also put in service to shift the injured to nearby hospitals.

Mumbai: A 15-year-old girl died in a fire that broke out in a building at Dadar Police Station Compound, Dadar (West),A the news agency ANI reported.

Mumbai: The girl who died in a fire at a building at Dadar Police Station Compound, Dadar (West), is 15-year-old, not 10 as reported earlier. #Maharashtra https://t.co/ZBOeuWYZe9 a ANI (@ANI) May 12, 2019

As per the media reports, the blaze erupted at around 1.45 pm in one of the quarters on third floor of the four-storey building located in the Dadar police station compound. Several electrical wirings, installations and household items were gutted in the fire. However, the reason behind the incident is yet to be ascertained.

On April 29, another fire broke out at a Big Bazaar outlet in Matunga Road station area. However, no casualties were reported in the incident as the building was evacuated safely following a timely alert.

On the next day, a fire was reported at a chemical plant located in Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC) in the Dombivli district.A However, no loss of life was reported in that incident too. Eight fire engines were present at the spot to douse the flames.

The year 2018 also proved to be disastrous for Mumbai when it comes to combating fire incidents. There have been over 49,000 incidents of fire in Mumbai in the last one decade, which claimed over 600 lives and injured several others, according to a statement released by the Maharashtra government.

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New Delhi:

The Islamic State terror group has claimed to have established a new "province" in India, the first of its kind announcement that came after clashes between militants and security forces in Kashmir on May 10.

The Arabic name of the new branch is "Wilayah of Hind" (India Province), the dreaded terror outfit, (also known as ISIS and ISIL), said through its Amaq News Agency.

A senior Jammu and Kashmir police officer has rejected the claim.

Rita Katz, director of the SITE Intel Group that tracks Islamic extremists, said: "ISIS declares its new "Hind Province" while claiming clashes with Indian forces in Amshipora".

"Of course, the establishment of a 'province' in a region where it has nothing resembling actual governance is absurd, but it should not be written off," she said on Twitter.

ISIS did not elaborate on the branch's geographical remit as it mentioned the name of its new branch in a low-key announcement.

The announcement of the new branch is seen as part of ISIS' strategy to give the impression of strengthening its global affiliations following the territorial losses in the Middle East.

Such a strategy was highlighted by ISIS chief Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi in the past.

The brief ISIS statement of May 10 via the messaging app Telegram said that the Islamic State militants using machine guns had clashed with the Indian security forces in the village of Amshipora in Kashmir's Shopian district, killing or injuring a number of them.

The statement, however, did not mention when the alleged clashes occurred.

Media reports on May 10 said that one militant was killed in clashes with security forces in Kashmir's Shopian district. ISIS began claiming attacks against Indian security forces in Kashmir since November 2017 without any branch affiliation.

Prevously, ISIS attacks in Kashmir were linked to its so-called Khorasan Province branch, which was set up in 2015 to cover "Afghanistan, Pakistan and nearby lands".

(With PTI inputs)

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Geneva:

A dramatic transformation of the global economic model will be necessary if the world truly wants to tackle the problem of climate change, a top UN envoy said. We need bold actions, insisted Luis Alfonso de Alba, who was appointed late last year to prepare an ambitious climate summit in New York in September.

In an interview with AFP in Geneva Friday, he stressed that climate change should not be merely considered an environmental problem.

We are talking about a transformation of the economic model that is going to be needed to achieve the results we need, he said.

The September 23 summit at the United Nations is billed as the first major stocktaking gathering of world leaders on climate change since the Paris agreement was reached in 2015.

The event follows a string of reports containing dire predictions about the future of the planet as carbon dioxide emissions continue to rise, pushing targets set out under the Paris accord further out of reach.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has said he wants the summit to be action oriented, and he has asked countries to present concrete, realistic plans to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 45 percent over the next decade and to net zero by 2050.

De Alba said he was working to identify ambitious projects to showcase at the September meeting, as well as new models of cooperation and coordination between countries, organisations and public and private players.

It is evident that private financing will be indispensable to move from the billions to the trillions that are going to be needed, he said.

Fighting climate change he said, is an issue that requires a transformation of the way we consume, the way we produce. This is not a process in which we can aim at a gradual increase of the ambitions. We need some drastic changes.

Despite the huge challenges, de Alba said that he was optimistic, pointing to the enthusiasm and commitment he was witnessing from governments and non-governmental groups alike.

He acknowledged though that not everyone was equally engaged in the process, including the host-country of the summit.

President Donald Trumps 2017 decision to pull the United States out of the Paris accord has cast a cloud over global efforts to rein in climate change.

But de Alba said the federal government in Washington was continuing to work on a number of areas that are important to fight climate change, and that he hoped the US would participate in the September summit.

The UN climate envoy also hailed the work done by youth activists like Swedish teen Greta Thunberg, and said young people would have an important part to play at the meeting.

We want them to be part of the solution, and not only take note of their very obviously... justified anger because of lack of action," he said.

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New Delhi:

As many as 12 Indian nationals were arrested for allegedly running an illegal networking business and duping several people at Kathmandu in Nepal. All the accused belonged to Uttar Pradesh and were arrested from a hotel in the Nepalese capital on Friday while organising an orientation and training programme to run the illegal networking business for around 300 people, the Himalayan Times reported. Networking business, under which money is sent to foreign countries without any legal channel, has been banned by Nepal Rastra Bank.

"They were asking the people participating in the orientation to invest $1,250 promising them attractive return, a spokesperson for the Metropolitan Crime Range DSP Hobindra Bogati was quoted as saying. He further said the arrested Indian nationals had opened an unregistered marketing company in Nepal named Shine Group International.

"The arrestees have already swindled many Nepalis in the name of the company," the official said.

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New Delhi:

At least eight children were killed and two others sustained injuries in a roadside bomb explosion in the south-eastern Ghazni province of Afghanistan on Saturday.

The horrific incident took place when the children were playing in the area stepped on an Improvised Explosive Device (IED). The blast occurred at around 8 am in the Muqer district of the province.

According to the regional authorities, the explosion was caused by an improvised explosive device planted by Taliban militants. So far no group, including the Taliban, has claimed the responsibility for the attack.

However, Taliban have been using IED to target security forces. As per official figures, at least 120 civilians in Afghanistan are affected by mines and unexploded ordnance every month.

Later, an Afghanistan woman journalist named Meena Mangal, who was also a cultural advisor to the Parliament, was shot dead by unidentified gunmen in the eastern part of Kabul. Importantly, as many as 15 journalists were killed in a series of bombings that began early this year, with nine of them in a single day.

On May 8, an explosion shook Afghanistans capital Kabul. Fortunately, there was no casualty reported. Taliban had claimed responsibility for the attack, saying it targeted the American NGO Counterpart International, which is working with the US Agency for International Development in Afghanistan.

It is to be noted that Afghanistan is suffering from an unstable political, social and security situation due to the activity of the Taliban movement and the Islamic State terrorist group. The national security forces are involved in anti-terrorist operations across the country.

According to figures released by the United Nations, more than 1,690 civilians have been killed and over 3,430 others injured in conflict-related incidents in the first half of the year in the war-torn country.

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New Delhi:

French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian has asked Tehran to show political maturity after the country threated to resume nuclear workin what would be a contravention of its commitments under the 2015 Iran nuclear deal. Iran announced earlier this month that it will stop respecting some limits on its nuclear activities imposed under the landmark 2015 deal.

Iran has had a bad reaction, faced with a bad US decision to withdraw from the Vienna agreements and impose sanctions, Le Drian said in an interview published online by Le Parisien, referring to the 2015 deal signed in Vienna.

It is a pity that the United States is not honouring its commitments, Iran must show its political maturity, Le Drian added.



Earlier, US President Donald Trump had said that he is open to talks with the Iranian leadership. Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump had said, "What I would like to see with Iran, I would like to see them call me. We don't want them to have nuclear weapons -- not much to ask," he said.

The US withdrew from the deal, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), with further measures threatened if the agreements other signatories fail to mitigate the impact of renewed American sanctions within 60 days.

Le Drian also warned against a bellicose spiral, stressing the responsibility of the Americans and the importance of dialogue with Tehran.

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The UN confirmed a withdrawal by Yemens Huthis from three Red Sea ports had begun yesterday, while a senior pro-government official accused them of faking the pullout. The pullback is a first step in implementing a hard-won ceasefire deal reached between Yemens internationally-recognized government and the Iran-backed Huthis late last year. Yes, it has begun, said UN spokesman Farhan Haq, when asked whether redeployment of Huthi troops was underway.

Sources close to the Huthis said that the ports were handed over to coastguard personnel who were in charge before the rebels took over almost five years ago. A photographer at Saleef port saw Huthi troops leave the facility, and men dressed in coastguard uniforms enter, adding that these movements were observed by the UN.
Bahrains has achieved a high honor for its outstanding level of postal service in the implementation of a key international project. Bahrain, represented by Bahrain post and the Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications, was honored with the Universal Postal Union Quality of Service Fund award for the outstanding implementation of a Global Monitoring System (GMS) project. Universal Postal Union (UPU) is a specialized agency of the United Nations (UN) that coordinates postal policies among member nations, in addition to the worldwide postal system.

The UPU contains four bodies consisting of the Congress, the Council of Administration (CA), the Postal Operations Council (POC) and the International Bureau (IB). According to UPU, GMS is a state-of-the-art measurement system managed by the UPU International Bureau.

Its primary objective is to provide each participant with accurate, high-quality operational results. This information can be used to determine UPU terminal dues remuneration, according to a performance bonus system established within the UPU, and to contribute to informed decisions on operational and quality improvement. UPU stated.
Chinese consumers for the first time last year bought more Cadillacs than Americans did, helping drive profits at General Motors. And though the designs for those Cadillacs may have been drafted in Detroit, nearly all of the luxury automobiles were assembled in China by some of GM's nearly 60,000 local workers.

This growing dynamic - of American companies serving Chinese consumers with products made in China - marks a shift in global trade that could pose a significant challenge to President Donald Trump's "America First" agenda.

Trump has based his campaign to refashion economic relations with China on the well-established notion that the country undercut American workers through low-wage manufacturing of goods exported to the United States.

That campaign entered a new chapter this past week when Trump once again hiked tariffs on Chinese goods after declaring himself dissatisfied with the pace of negotiations on a new trade agreement.

But whether he succeeds in securing a trade deal, many economists and executives say, the nature of the business relationship between the United States and China already is being redefined.

After four decades of economic reform, China is morphing from a low-wage exporter into the largest consumer market for a growing number of industries, including automobiles, video games and computers.

"We're at the end of a period of the globalization of production," said William Overholt, a senior fellow at Harvard University's Asia Center. "We're at the beginning of a period of globalization of consumption in which the center of gravity moves from baby boomers in the west to the relatively young Chinese."

A decade ago, for instance, Chinese consumers bought 71 percent of the products manufactured in China, according to the McKinsey Global Institute. Today, the Chinese buy 85 percent of what they produce - and their economy is three times larger.

By next year, China's per-person income will have doubled since 2010, according to the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development.

The phenomenon, which is also seen in other quickly developing countries such as India and Indonesia, will create a new set of winners and losers.

In the United States, the principal beneficiaries of the era of globalized consumption are likely to be investors and highly skilled employees, rather than the blue-collar workers who suffered as companies moved overseas.

"It's definitely a profits story," said Dean Baker, senior economist at the Center for Economic and Policy Research. "It'll have very little to do with any jobs here."

In the past, Americans bought up the low-cost goods made in China, which was a boon for Chinese workers and also for cost-conscious Americans. But, in seeking to cater to the Chinese consumer, the reverse is not true. American companies instead are setting up factories there and in other developing markets.

Already, United States-based multinationals have been creating jobs faster in China than at home, according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis. Since 2009, corporations have increased their Chinese workforce by 86 percent to 1.7 million - roughly four times the rate of increase at home.

For Trump, that means a trade policy that often seems to promise a return to an earlier era before globalization could disappoint, even if he secures a good deal with the Chinese.

Administration officials say they are making headway rebalancing trade relations with China and other countries to rectify mistakes made by Trump's predecessors. A new North American trade deal, for example, requires more auto manufacturing to be done in the United States. (It still needs to be passed by Congress.) The president's tariffs are credited with reviving steel production, one factor in the addition of 452,000 new manufacturing jobs during his tenure.

Other trends also could benefit the United States. Rising wages in countries such as China and increasing automation are making labor costs relatively less important in determining the location of new factories. That makes the United States more attractive as an investment destination, though rising automation means new plants require fewer American workers than the factories that closed earlier this century, vaporizing 6 million jobs.

In trade talks with Beijing, the administration also is seeking greater access to the Chinese market, which could aid U.S. export prospects. But the biggest new opportunities may do little for blue-collar workers who lost out over the past 20 years of growing U.S.-China trade ties.

U.S. negotiators are pushing the Chinese to open their markets for industries such as financial services, insurance and cloud computing. These are profitable endeavors, but ones that favor the well-educated and skilled.

The president has often portrayed a narrative of global commerce that puts the United States - not foreign markets - at the center. He calls it a "privilege" for other countries to sell into the U.S. market. And his decision to quit a 12-nation Pacific trade deal, known as the Trans-Pacific Partnership, on his fourth day in office left American companies at a disadvantage in key Asian markets at a time when developing countries are driving the growth in global demand.

Now, many executives say they do not expect the United States to reclaim its role as the globe's dominant market.

Craig Allen, president of the U.S.-China Business Council, which represents companies such as Amazon, Goldman Sachs and Procter & Gamble, said the administration's stance presents multinationals with a dilemma.

"A company told me today they feel some tension between what their shareholders are telling them and what the Trump administration is telling them," said Allen, a former U.S. diplomat. "The administration is suggesting or emphasizing investment in the U.S. That's not where the market is; that's not where the market growth is."

To be sure, despite consumption's blossoming role in China's growth, the country remains one of the world's top exporters and enjoys a sizable merchandise trade surplus. Brad Setser, a former White House economist in the Obama administration, said talk of a new era is premature.

"This is one possible future evolution of the global economy. It isn't necessarily the trajectory we're already on," he said.

The Chinese economy also has slowed from its double-digit growth pace of earlier this decade, and many business executives doubt President Xi Jinping's commitment to further market-oriented reforms. China faces a daunting corporate debt burden that some economists warn could spark a financial crisis and delay the onset of a new economic era.

The typical Chinese individual also still earns much less than an American. In terms of purchasing power parity, which takes account of each country's living costs, Chinese per-capita income is about $16,000, compared with roughly $60,000 in the United States.

Still, China has firmly established itself as a top opportunity - if not the top opportunity - for a wide range of American companies, including Apple, Walmart and Caterpillar. Over the past decade, per-person income in China has grown by 120 percent, compared with just 15 percent in the United States, according to Andy Rothman, an investment strategist with Matthews Asia in San Francisco.

"This is the world's best consumer story," Rothman said.

China's growing prosperity is part of a broader transformation of developing countries that is affecting the volume of goods traded across borders, the design of industry supply chains and the mix between factory labor and robots.

By 2030, fast-growing developing countries led by China are expected to account for 51 percent of global consumption, nearly double their 2007 share, according to a study by McKinsey Global Institute.

Companies in the advanced economies, including the United States, the European Union and Japan, last year sold $4.5 trillion worth of goods, including machinery, chemicals and cars, to customers in poorer nations.

"This is exactly the wrong time to be putting up barriers to trade," said Susan Lund, a McKinsey partner who directed the study.

In recent years, China accounted for more than one-third of global economic growth - roughly equal to the combined contributions of the United States, Europe and Japan, according to the International Monetary Fund.

For General Motors, that translated into deliveries of 3.65 million vehicles last year to Chinese buyers, compared with fewer than 3 million to Americans. The automaker earned $2 billion last year from its joint ventures in China.

"We posted the highest global sales mark in Cadillac's 116-year history of 382,184 units, primarily on the strength of our performance in China," Steve Carlisle, senior vice president of General Motors, told an investor conference last month.

U.S. multinationals that prosper overseas typically add jobs back home at their headquarters, research labs and design studios. Successful ventures like Cadillac's generate profits that flow to the corporate bottom line, generating job-creating innovations for Americans.

But those gains tilt toward investors and better-educated workers.

"The benefit of Chinese consumers buying more Cadillacs accrue more to shareholders and very high-skilled people. You'll see more of an unbalanced distribution of benefits," said Sergi Lanau, deputy chief economist for the Institute of International Finance.
Cybersecurity is a topic that is repeatedly in the headlines. This past week, China was credited with hacking the National Security Agency. On the May 5 on the 60 Minutes television program, one of the news segments was on ransomware. Have your noticed that nearly operational team in the movies and on television has a person who is a high-level cyber hacker?

Ransomware is a software program that infiltrates your information systems and freezes your files. You then receive a notification from the hacker that you need to pay a ransom by a specific date to receive an encryption key that will unlock your system. Additionally, I would wager that most of you reading this column have been victims of your personal data being stolen from a vendor or organization with which you are affiliated.

I recently attended a seminar on cybersecurity. It was held by the Community Economic Development Fund in Meriden, and the program consisted of a cybersecurity attorney from Murtha Cullina LLP in Stamford and the co-founders of Atlas Cybersecurity in Great Neck, N.Y.

The combined presentations offered a number of insights and considerations that organizations and individuals should consider to minimize their exposure to negative cyber activity. The information presented was more detailed but a few of the lower-level takeaways were:

 Change your passwords on a regular basis.

 Where possible use dual authentication for your systems access.

 When offered updates or software patches, install them in a timely fashion.

 A long password with special characters is better than a short password.

 Back up your data and test the backup.

For organizations, it is also critical that an analysis of cyber exposure and data needs is performed. The cyber analysis then can lead to development of a plan to prepare your organization to minimize the damage of a cyber exposure if you are targeted.

As you know from past columns, I have particular interest in how customer service is impacted by the activities and processes of ones organization.

It was mentioned in the 60 Minutes piece that, in one case, the company hacked was told that their client data would be released. Think about that for a moment. Your organizational data being compromised is bad enough, to include your financials, personnel data, strategic plans, etc. But your client data and the implied trust associated with maintaining that data, I contend, is another level. I look at it in a simplistic manner: if you have a bad cold it is bad enough that those in your household are exposed to becoming ill, but to now expose all of your friends to the disease is a way to lose friends.

Some might say that most of us have had our personal data compromised by some organization and we still frequent those establishments or have kept that job. We now know that even the NSA can be hacked. Certainly changing our passwords will not prevent a nation-state from getting our data; however, being more diligent about our cyber presence and having a plan can reduce the potential damage of a cyber exposure. If not, contact the firms above or others in the growing cybersecurity industry for assistance.

Cornell Wright is the lead consultant at The Parker Wright Group Inc. in Stratford, with a focus on benefits of strategic customer service. He can be reached at 203-377-4226 or cornell@parkerwrightgroup.com.
Mom's spend their lives taking care of others, so they deserve something special on Mother's Day.

Sure, you could get her flowers from a local florist or buy her a gift, but what she probably really wants is to spend time with her family.

There are plenty of opportunities to spend some quality time with mom in southwestern Connecticut this weekend. Click through the slideshow above for some suggestions.

According to history.com, Mother's Day started in the United States in 1914 by a woman named Anna Jarvis who wanted to honor her mother, Ann Reeves Jarvis.

"In the years before the Civil War (1861-65), Ann Reeves Jarvis of West Virginia helped start Mothers Day Work Clubs to teach local women how to properly care for their children...In 1868 Jarvis organized Mothers Friendship Day, at which mothers gathered with former Union and Confederate soldiers to promote reconciliation," history.com writes.

Anna Jarvis felt that American holidays were biased toward men, so she started a campaign to instate a day honoring mothers. In 1914, President Woodrow Wilson signed a measure officially establishing the second Sunday in May as Mothers Day.

Today, it has become somewhat of consumer holiday as the tradition is to buy mom flowers and jewelry or take her out to eat. But, "at times Mother's Day has also been a date for launching political or feminist causes," history.com writes. "In 1968 Coretta Scott King, wife of Martin Luther King Jr., used Mother's Day to host a march in support of underprivileged women and children. In the 1970s women's groups also used the holiday as a time to highlight the need for equal rights and access to childcare."
REDDING  Students from Joel Barlow High School won a piece of software valued at nearly $10,000 at a recent science competition.

The Joel Barlow students were among almost 100 students from eight high school schools in the state to compete in the Sikorsky STEM Challenge, where they designed helicopter cockpits of the future.

Laurelton Hall in Milford won first place followed by Joel Barlow and Hamden High School.

But Joel Barlow won the live demonstration round, earning the school the Lockheed Martins flagship flight simulation software, Prepar3D. This equipment allows users to create training scenarios for aviation, maritime and the ground, according to a press release from Sikorksy.

Since October, Sikorsky engineers have mentored the students in participating schools.

The experience allows students to apply their creative thinking and in-class education to the types of technical problems faced in an actual engineering workplace, said John McGonagle, chief pilot and director, test flight and operations.
I read with interest the article Communities push for fast track link to NYC on April 28.

As a 52 year, and going, railroader, I find that story a bit misleading.

1. If the train leaves from the existing Danbury station, it would have to head north around the loop, past the museum, and then make a reverse move to head west on the Maybrook line.

2. Unless there is new construction in New York state, the current connection of the Maybrook line to the Harlem (Brewster) line at Dykemans requires an additional backup move. I believe that even if the Maybrook line is upgraded to 50 mph operation, it will still take 45 minutes to make the move from Danbury to Southeast.

3. If you have to change trains at Southeast, then add additional minutes to the schedule. Current collective bargaining agreements may require a crew change at Southeast.

Ultimately, the time of the trip will be about the same as the existing trip from Danbury and certainly nowhere near the statement  The idea promises to cut an hour off the commute from Danbury to midtown Manhattan.

The current Danbury line is not outdated as you describe. The state of Connecticut has poured millions of dollars into the branch with a new signal system , centralized traffics control, continuous welded rail, and Positive Train Control. The fact of the matter is that the existing branch has numerous vehicular crossings and an over abundance of curves that require permanent speed restrictions.

I would like nothing better than to see a rebirth of traffic on the Maybrook line, but the cost of refurbishment must provide real value. It seems implausible that the capital required will reap the benefits mentioned in the article.

Tom DeJoseph

Senior Advisor, Industry Relations

Loram M/W Inc

Danbury resident
By Philip Giraldi

May 11, 2019 " Information Clearing House " - The United States is moving dangerously forward in what appears to be a deliberate attempt to provoke a war with Iran, apparently based on threat intelligence provided by Israel. The claims made by National Security Advisor John Bolton and by Secretary of State Mike Pompeo that there is solid evidence of Irans intention to attack US forces in the Persian Gulf region is almost certainly a fabrication, possibly deliberately contrived by Bolton and company in collaboration with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. It will be used to justify sending bombers and additional naval air resources to confront any possible moves by Tehran to maintain its oil exports, which were blocked by Washington last week. If the US Navy tries to board ships carrying Iranian oil it will undoubtedly, and justifiably, provoke a violent response from Iran, which is precisely what Bolton, Pompeo and Netanyahu are seeking.

It would be difficult to find in the history books another example of a war fought for no reason whatsoever. As ignorant as President Donald Trump and his triumvirate or psychotics Bolton, Pompeo and Elliott Abrams are, even they surely know that Iran poses no threat to the United States. If they believe at all that a war is necessary, they no doubt base their judgment on the perception that the United States must maintain its number one position in the world by occasionally attacking and defeating someone to serve as an example of what might happen if one defies Washington. Understanding that, the Iranians would be wise to avoid confrontation until the sages in the White House move on to some easier target, which at the moment would appear to be Venezuela.

The influence of Israel over US foreign policy is undeniable, with Washington now declaring that it will review ties with other nations that are considered to be unfriendly to the Jewish state. For observers who might also believe that Israel and its allies in the US are the driving force behind Americas belligerency in the Middle East, there are possibly some other games that are in play, all involving Benjamin Netanyahu and his band of merry cutthroats. It is becoming increasingly apparent that foreign politicians have realized that the easiest way to gain Washingtons favor is to do something that will please Israel. In practical terms, the door to Capitol Hill and the White House is opened through the good offices of the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC).

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Israel is desperate to confirm its legitimacy in international fora, where it has few friends in spite of an intensive lobbying campaign. It seeks to have countries that do not have an embassy in Israel to take steps to establish one, and it also wants more nations that do already have an embassy in Tel Aviv to move to Jerusalem, building on the White Houses decision taken last year to do just that. Not surprisingly, nations and political leaders who are on the make and want American support have drawn the correct conclusions and pander to Israel as a first step.

One only has to cite the example of Venezuela. Juan Guaido, the candidate favored by Washington for regime change, has undoubtedly a lot of things on his plate but he has proven willing to make some time to say what Benjamin Netanyahu wants to hear, as reported by the Israeli media. The Times of Israel describes how Venezuelas self-proclaimed leader Juan Guaido is working to re-establish diplomatic relations with Israel and isnt ruling out placing his countrys embassy in Jerusalem, according to an interview with an Israeli newspaper published Tuesday.

One would think that Guaido would consider his interview sufficient, but he has also taken the pandering process one step farther, reportedly displaying huge video images of the flags of both Israel and the United States at his rallies.

This deference to Israels interests produced an almost immediate positive result with Netanyahu recognizing him as the legitimate Venezuelan head of state, followed by an echo chamber of effusive congratulations from US (sic) Ambassador to Israel David Friedman, who praised the Jewish state for standing with the people of Venezuela and the forces of freedom and democracy. Donald Trumps esteemed special envoy for international negotiations, Jason Greenblatt, also joined in, praising the Israeli government for its courageous stand in solidarity with the Venezuelan people.

A similar bonding took place regarding Brazil, where hard right conservative leader Jair Bolsonaro was recently elected president. Netanyahu attended the Bolsonaro inauguration last December and the two men benefit from strong support from Christian Evangelicals. Bolsonaro repaid the favor by promising that Israel would be his first foreign trip. In the event he went to Washington first, but the state visit to Israel took place in April, just before that countrys elections, in a bid to demonstrate international support for Netanyahu.

Brazilian Jews constitute a wealthy and powerful community which reacted positively to Bolsonaros pledges to fight corruption and high crime rates while also repairing a struggling economy. They also appreciated his stance on Israel. He committed to moving the Brazilian embassy to Jerusalem from Tel Aviv, though he has backpedaled a bit on that pledge. And he also promised to shut the Palestinian embassy in the capital Brasilia. He famously asked and answered his own question, Is Palestine a country? Palestine is not a country, so there should be no embassy here. You do not negotiate with terrorists. Bolsonaros pro-Israel anti-Venezuela credentials also endeared him to Donald Trump on a visit to Washington in mid-March which was described by the media as a love fest. The Brazilian leaders visits to Israel and the US as well as Guaidos promises to Israel reveal that the foreign policies of Tel Aviv and Washington have become inextricably intertwined, with supplicant nations and politicians wisely seeking to do homage to both regimes to gain favor. It is a development that would shock the Founding Fathers, most particularly George Washington, who warned against entangling alliances, and it means that American interests will be seen through an Israeli prism, a reality that has already produced very bad results.

Philip Giraldi is a former counter-terrorism specialist and military intelligence officer of the United States Central Intelligence Agency and a columnist and television commentator who is the Executive Director of the Council for the National Interest.
ALBANY  Gov. Cuomo indicated for the first time Friday that he fully backs a bill that would allow the state Tax Department to release President Trumps tax returns Congress.

The legislation sailed through the Democrat-controlled state Senate this week and the Assembly is slated to discuss the measure on Monday.

I am supportive of that bill, Cuomo said following a Hudson River boat ride showcasing the dismantling of the old Tappan Zee Bridge. I believe its going to pass.

The governors comments came as House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Richard Neal issued a subpoena to Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin and Internal Revenue Service commissioner Charles Rettig for six years of Trumps personal and business tax returns  setting the stage for a lengthy court battle.

Mnuchin has so far refused to provide the documents to Congress, claiming lawmakers dont have a legitimate purpose to see them. Dems claim they want to vet an IRS policy of automatically auditing every president and are seeking Trumps personal returns and business tax documents from 2013 through 2018.

The bill would allow three congressional committees  the House Ways and Means Committee, the Senate Finance Committee and the Joint Committee on Taxation  to request the state Department of Taxation and Finance to provide the presidents state tax returns.

With the President calling the Empire State home, Trumps New York returns could offer Dems in D.C. much of the information they are seeking.

Cuomo has previously said he would support the legislation, but couched his comments by saying any such measure must also apply to all state lawmakers and statewide elected officials.

The bill as written applies to statewide officeholders, the president and vice president, U.S. senators, the governor, lieutenant governor, attorney general and comptroller.

Though not legally required to make his tax returns public, Trump is the first president in modern history dating back to fellow Republican Gerald Ford, who released summaries of his taxes, to not disclose his full returns. Trump repeatedly said he was under audit during the 2016 campaign and promised to eventually comply with tradition, but has since refused to do so.

He also refused to fully divest from his business upon entering office, instead placing his two adult sons in charge of the New York-based Trump Organization.

Assemblywoman Pat Fahy and supporters of the state legislation rallied at the Capitol Building on Friday, calling on the Assembly to pass the measure as soon as possible.

I believe this statute, this proposal, is in the public interest. This is not about partisanship, this is about the public interest, she said. I see this as New York assisting Congress at a very critical juncture. No one, including the President, is above the law.



2019 New York Daily News
EAST HAVEN  The town, after setting aside $55,000 in the capital budget last year to fix a street sweeper and vacuum truck used to clean catch basins and storm sewers, spent $55,577 to hire a private contractor to do the catch basin job on four occasions late last year.

Now, with the money set aside to fix the truck spent, officials want to sell the broken vacuum truck  often referred to generically by the brand name Vactor  for $24,000 to the one bidder on it, Cherry Hill Construction of North Branford.

The sale, which has yet to be completed, would put East Haven  which has a growing backlog of complaints about clogged catch basins  in the position of either perpetually paying private contractors or buying a new Vactor.

Town Engineer Kevin White said the latter could easily cost between $400,000 and $500,000.

Members of the Town Councils Democratic minority dont like it.

They said the town should not have spent money earmarked to fix the truck on anything else without first coming back to the Town Council, which has approval authority over the town and capital budgets according to the town charter.

The bottom line is, we gave them capital improvement funds, and they used the funds to hire a contractor, and it wasnt stipulated to use those funds to hire a contractor, said Councilman Joe Carfora, D-3, an announced candidate for mayor.

Those funds were stipulated  $55,000  to repair the vac, and they werent used for that, Carfora said Friday.

Instead, the town went out and hired McVac, a New Haven environmental contractor, to do the work for it, he said.

Carfora and colleagues Joe Deko, D-2, and Lou Pacelli, D-3, brought the issue to the New Haven Register recently after failing to get answers in recent budget meetings.

Were paying people $415 an hour to do our work, Deko said, when the town could do it itself if it paid the estimated $12,500 to fix the truck.

Town Finance Director Paul Rizza said the $12,500 figure was just one estimate. He said he since had heard estimates that it could cost $25,000, $30,000 or even $85,000 to fix the truck.

Meanwhile, Weve got a list of storm drains that need to be cleared thats growing every time it rains, Rizza said.

Deko said the town, by state statute, is required to maintain its 2,400 storm drains, and without the vacuum truck, were not in compliance with that regulation.

During a budget meeting, I asked for a list of what storm drains McVac had done, but officials did not provide , Deko said.

Deko, Carfora, Pacelli and Councilman Nick Palladino, D-2, sent a letter to Town Engineer Kevin White asking him for details on why the town brought in McVac, who authorized it, and what accounts it came out of  but never received an answer, Deko said.

I just think its misappropriation of taxpayers dollars ... I think its irresponsible that we spent over $50,000 for something that we could have had our employees do for a fraction of that by fixing the truck, he said.

Carfora asked, Whos accountable for telling McVac to do this work and taking the money out of the capital budget?

Town Engineer White said the decision came out of the Mayors Office.

Director of Administration and Management Sal Brancati Jr., who is Mayor Joseph Maturo Jr.s second-in-command, said he was only tangentially involved. He suggested calling White.

Maturo, who has yet to announce whether he will seek another term as mayor, did not immediately return a call for comment.

White said the town has yet to sell the vacuum truck.

Heres the thing: You have a truck thats been in service for over 10 years. We had an estimate to get some repairs done and it was $50,000-plus. The decision was made that, rather than fix it, the town would use an outside contractor, as does some of its neighbors.

He mentioned Milford as one such community.

Milford Public Works Director Chris Saley couldnt immediately be reached for comment. A public works employee said Milford owns a vacuum truck but did not know whether it also hires a private contractor to clean catch basins.

New Haven Director of Public Works Jeff Pescosolido said the citys Department of Public Works does not own a vac truck and contracts the cleaning of the Citys catch basins.

Ian Juden, who manages that work for the New Haven City Engineers Office, could not be reached for comment.

Two of East Havens other neighbors, West Haven and Branford, each own two vacuum trucks. In each case, one truck is owned by the local water pollution control authority and one is owned by the public works department.

Guilford Public Works Director Tom Fillion did not return a call for comment.

East Haven is part of the regional Greater New Haven Water Pollution Control Authority, but a GNHWPCA employee said the WPCA maintains the sanitary sewer system and is not responsible to maintain catch basins and storm drains, which is done by member communities.

East Haven Town Engineer White said the question of whether or not to own a town vac truck is like anything. Do you consistently use all your equipment or do you go out and get and a private contractor to do it?

He compared what East Haven is looking to do by replacing its vacuum truck with a private contractor to communities hiring private contractors to collect municipal waste.

White did not rule out the possibility of eventually buying a new vac truck if that number becomes available of if theres a grant available to fund it.

If you own your own truck, There are occasions in certain seasons when you use it every day, he said. But there also may be times when you never use it.

With the price of new equipment so high, there have been discussions over the last two or three months at regional work sessions with fellow members of the 15-municipality South Central Regional Council of Governments about possibly sharing assets, White said.

Its being discussed, not only with the vac truck, but also with equipment such as crack-sealing machines and backhoes, he said.

The thing is, somebody has to own it, somebody has to house it and theres no guarantee a piece of equipment will always be available just when a city or town needs it, White said.

Its not the cut-and-dried thing that everybody says it is, he said.

I understand everybody has ideas as to how certain things are done, White said. Were trying to do things and were trying to be as transparent as possible.

mark.zaretsky@hearstmediact.com
The Rev. Franklin Graham, most recently in the news for calling on presidential candidate Pete Buttigieg to repent because he is gay, will bring his Decision America Northeast Tour to Seaside Park in Bridgeport on May 28.

Traveling to seven Northeast cities in a lobster-emblazoned tour bus, Graham plans to call on Christians to proclaim the Gospel and join believers to pray for our nation, our communities, and the lost, according to his website. The Christian musician Crowder will provide music and the evening will end with fireworks.

Graham will bring his evangelical message to the most post-Christian section of the country, according to a Barna survey, from Portland, Maine, to Syracuse, N.Y., starting May 19. That message is that Christians must commit themselves to Jesus as Lord and savior and follow traditional biblical views about morality.

But Christians who welcome LGBTQ people into their congregations and the clergy who perform their weddings  Connecticut legalized same-sex marriage in 2008  say Graham is improperly inserting himself into politics. Pastors of parishes whose members will be attending and volunteering at his Bridgeport rally also express concerns, while welcoming his call to follow the good news of Jesus Christ.

I dont think its so much about Franklin Graham, but the message, said Pastor Mark Smith of North Park Baptist Church in Bridgeport, many of whose members have been trained as volunteers to respond to people who answer the altar call to come forward and commit themselves to Jesus. He wants to bring a message of hope and we could sure use some hope.

Smith said hope is needed because of the failure of leadership, moral leaders in the church  People are still financially struggling, theres still racism, with the shootings.

Smith said that while he agrees with Graham that sex outside a male-female marriage is sinful, he does wish Graham hadnt entered the political fray with his tweets about Buttigieg, the mayor of South Bend, Ind., who says he is a committed Episcopalian and is the second openly gay presidential candidate, one of 21 Democrats seeking to defeat President Donald Trump. (Fred Karger, a Republican, was the first openly gay presidential hopeful in 2012.)

I think unfortunately whats happened is [Grahams] gotten known for a few of his political statements and everyones forgotten the years he spent around the world evangelizing and assisting the poor through Samaritans Purse. Theyve channeled hundreds of millions of dollars to people in need, Smith said.

While Grahams father, the legendary evangelist Billy Graham (Franklins full name is William Franklin Graham III), was close to several presidents, he didnt speak about politics, Smith said. He just tried to distance himself from those things. Franklin hasnt.

Gay and faithful

Responding to what they see as an anti-LGBTQ message, area faith groups and the Triangle Community Center of Norwalk will hold an interfaith celebration at 7 p.m. the night after Grahams rally at the United Church of Christ of Bridgeport, 2200 North Ave., according to the Rev. Sara Smith, senior minister. (The Smiths are unrelated.)

The idea is not to go negative about what someone else is doing or saying, Sara Smith said, but to gather as communities that love and support and nurture and affirm and include GLBTQ folks, and our church is one of them.

Smith, who said she is her parishs first openly lesbian pastor, said, At our community we celebrate that you can be gay and be faithful, whatever tribe you belong to.  There are places where you will be loved, not just tolerated, but loved and celebrated just like you are.

She said that while the event wont be advertised on Interstate 95 billboards like the Decision America tour is, theyll have little rainbow cookies for everybody.

Graham tweets at Buttigieg

Graham took to Twitter on April 24 to criticize Buttigiegs statement to CNN that God does not have a political party. Buttigieg also said in that interview, It can be challenging to be a person of faith whos also part of the LGBTQ community and yet, to me, the core of faith is regard for one another. And part of [how] Gods love is experienced, according to my faith tradition, is in the way that we support one another and, in particular, support the least among us.

In his tweets, Graham first said Buttigieg is right  God doesnt have a political party. But God does have commandments, laws & standards He gives us to live by. God doesnt change. His Word is the same yesterday, today & forever.

Next, Graham tweeted, Mayor Buttigieg says hes a gay Christian. As a Christian I believe the Bible which defines homosexuality as sin, something to be repentant of, not something to be flaunted, praised or politicized. The Bible says marriage is between a man & a woman  not two men, not two women.

Finally, Graham said, The core of the Christian faith is believing and following Jesus Christ, who God sent to be the Savior of the world  to save us from sin, to save us from hell, to save us from eternal damnation.

Buttigieg has criticized Vice President Mike Pence for using his Christian faith to harm other people, such as when, as governor, Pence signed a law allowing people and businesses to refuse to serve others based on their religious beliefs.

Buttigieg also questioned Trumps faith in an interview with USA Today, saying, Im reluctant to comment on another persons faith, but I would say it is hard to look at this presidents actions and believe that theyre the actions of somebody who believes in God. I just dont understand how you can be as worshipful of your own self as he is and be prepared to humble yourself before God.  And the exaltation of yourself, especially a self thats about wealth and power, could not be more at odds with at least my understanding of the teachings of the Christian faith.

Graham has been a strong defender of Trump, who has been divorced twice and has been accused of having a porn star paid hush money. On Axios on HBO, Graham said, Now people say, Well Frank but how can you defend him, when hes lived such a sordid life? I never said he was the best example of the Christian faith. He defends the faith. And I appreciate that very much.

Objectionable choices

Dean Andrew McGowan of Berkeley Divinity School, the Episcopal seminary at Yale Divinity School, said Graham has made a number of very distinct choices, in particular about the nexus of religion and politics that he called dubious to say the least and have contributed to the dubious kind of alliances that many evangelical believers would find objectionable.

I think he represents this kind of way in which a significant chunk [of evangelicals] has failed to distinguish itself from the kind of conservatism associated with Trump, McGowan said,

McGowan said that Graham attacked President Bill Clinton over Clintons moral foibles, [while] Trump I think is a figure who makes Clinton look almost pure as the driven snow  in personal morality. Instead of calling out the president, Graham acts as an apologist for Trump and making up all kinds of special pleading arguments  that evangelicals should be supporting Trump.

Evangelical Christians have a tradition that should give them an independent voice on issues that are important to them, McGowan said. Billy Graham thought that his proclamation of the gospel of Jesus Christ was too important to get mired in everyday politics.

No politics expected

Lead Pastor Joshua Miller of Gospel Light Community Church in Bridgeport, whose members also are volunteering at the rally, said he hasnt been to one of Grahams events, but from what Ive seen and heard, his principal focus is the gospel message of hope.  Political overtones I think wont be there.

He said he expects about 50 of the 70 to 80 members of his congregation will attend the rally. The goal too is to convert others so were hoping that those that come are inviting others to come as well, he said. I would be concerned if there was any type of political agenda involved in this  but we were assured that that wouldnt be the case, Miller said.

The tours website says, Franklin will present the Gospel of Jesus Christ at each stop, calling the lost to repentance and faith  and praying together with believers for their families, churches, communities, and those who are far from God. Graham has held evangelism events since 1989 and now is president of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association.

Among the lost are members of the LGBTQ community, according to Graham and other evangelicals. Smith of North Park Baptist Church agrees. We believe that God created men and women to be a unit and to be a pair and we dont believe God created gay people to be in homosexual unions, but God loves everybody.

He added, God loves everybody, but he doesnt love every idea. Smith said he believes all are born heterosexual. We dont love the idea of homosexuality, but we love the people who are attracted to same-sex relationships. We do believe that they are extraordinarily worthy people.

Smith those who have sex outside of heterosexual marriage need to repent, just as alcoholics do. We wouldnt single out people with homosexual behavior as uniquely in need of repentance and change, he said.

Enthusiasm in Connecticut

Steve Rhoads, vice president of church ministries for the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, said he didnt know how many would attend the Bridgeport event but that the organization has reached out to churches from Westchester County, N.Y., to Hartford.

Weve been thrilled by the number of churches that have collaborated together and worked together.  Im surprised by how much enthusiasm there is in the Christian community in Connecticut. We live in a day where everythings so splintered and theres a lack of unity.

Rhoads said the event isnt a political rally. This is an event to preach what we consider to be good news, that anyone can start over.  Jesus called it being born again, being born a second time.

He said that issues such as same-sex marriage and abortion are political issues, but at their very foundation, deeper than that, they are moral issues. They are questions that relate to what is the nature of truth and what does the Bible teach.

The Rev. Curtis Farr, rector of St. Pauls Episcopal Church, Fairfield, doesnt accept that Graham and other evangelicals are following Jesus teaching when it comes to loving everyone.

When Franklin Graham speaks about those of Gods children who are LGBTQ+ just the way God made them, Graham proves that he has no interest in following Jesus of Nazareth, who taught people by word and example to err on the side of love, Farr said.

Repentance is something Christians do when the way they live brings harm on Gods creation and that includes Gods children, so I would encourage Franklin Graham to consider some repentance of his own, he said.

Farr said the Bible is a little bit queer, including people who lived apart from the accepted norms of their time.  I think queer people have something to bring to the conversation when it comes to spirituality and theology, and we would all be better off if we were able to hear those voices and learn from them.

Farr said St. Pauls will once again be at Pride in the Park on June 8, and the following day is Pentecost and well have our annual Pride service on that day. The festival, held from noon to 8 p.m. in Mathews Park in Norwalk, is sponsored by the Triangle Community Center. The Pride service, a collaboration of several Episcopal churches, takes place at St. Pauls Church in Norwalk.

The Rev. Herron Gaston, senior pastor of Summerfield United Methodist Church in Bridgeport, a largely black parish, said, Folks in my congregation are of two different minds about the rally. Some want to support a more progressive message

Gaston, who also is associate director of admissions and recruitment at Yale Divinity School, said many African Americans are leery of the more literal interpretation of the Bible taken by evangelicals. The Bible has been used as a weapon of mass destruction against them, he said.

Im very open and affirming and I think its very important that we create and forge a more diverse and inclusive community, Gaston said. Thats one of the reasons that the church is in the position that the church is in today, because the church is extremely judgmental.  The churchs moral and ethical responsibility is to lift its moral voice for people of all backgrounds.

The Rev. Keri Aubert, priest-in-charge of St. Thomass Episcopal Church in New Haven, said she didnt really absorb that [Graham] was coming, then three weeks ago a missive arrived in my inbox.

Aubert said St. Thomass is one of many churches in Connecticut that are fully welcoming of LGBT+ persons who offer a message that God loves you and you are loveable. Your sexuality is a gift from God, your embodiedness is a gift from God, and dont listen to people who say different.

Editors note: This story was corrected to say that Republican Fred Karger was the first openly gay presidential candidate. There were 21 Democrats running when this story was published. The location of the annual Pride service was clarified.

edward.stannard@hearstmediact.com; 203-680-9382
HAMDEN  In the weeks after a tornado ripped through town last May, devastating homes, roads and parks, public works employees worked tirelessly to repair the damage.

Public Works Director Craig Cesare said the cleanup has cost about $3 million for all the work related to the storm and the town is still waiting a year later to recoup some of that money from Federal Emergency Management Agency as promised.

The May 15 tornado that tore through Hamden and other parts of the state last year wreaked havoc on homes, cars, roads and parks. It brought down trees and power lines onto buildings, and sections of Sleeping Giant State Park forest were nearly leveled.

The town worked with United Illuminating on power line damage, and brought in a logging company to help with removing fallen trees in the weeks following the storm.

This was way beyond anything weve ever seen, Cesare said. There was a lot of damage to homes like weve never seen. In the north end, every single street had trees down. Im just amazing we had no loss of life.

The tornado damaged more than 200 houses, Mayor Curt B. Leng said. The north half of Hamden was hit hardest by the tornado, which turned to a microburst.

It was both a terrible event due to the damage and difficulty it caused our residents, but also a real blessing that no one was seriously injured in such a ferocious storm, he said in a statement. It continues to be a tremendous inspiration to see how our community came together to help one another, to offer an assist to neighbors. Having my professional and experienced Storm Management Team ready to take an all hands on deck approach to make sure our local government was there to do our part to make neighborhoods safe immediately and help with a truly enormous clean-up effort was invaluable.

Public Works was responsible with clearing all the roads and the thousands of trees torn down by the storm. The town for the first time offered curbside pickup for trees and debris, Cesare said.

All the roads opened up in days, but were simply passable, he said, and it was almost two weeks before all power was restored. United Illuminating reported 333,941 customers without power the day of the storm, including 4,676 in Hamden, 2,220 in North Haven, 2,007 in Shelton and 1,102 in New Haven.

It was quite some time before all power was restored, he said. It was almost two weeks.

In those two weeks immediately after the storm, public works overtime cost about $240,000, Cesare said, and as soon as the emergency status was over, they went back to working regular days.

But in total, the departments regular time and overtime cost about $500,000 managing the initial shock of the tornado, he said.

This was unimaginable what occurred here, Cesare said.

Two months rolled on as the town cleaned up the havoc wreaked by devastating winds. Leng said the towns FEMA claim is $1.5 million. Cesare said any money the town can get back would be tremendously helpful.

By comparison, North Havens FEMA claim is about $450,000, First Selectman Michael Freda said. The town hasnt been reimbursed yet, but is trying to finalize the reimbursement with FEMA now, he said.

We were hit very badly in about 30 percent of the town, he said. It took us a while to recover from that. Freda said many people had to evacuate their homes but a year later, many people have returned.

It was a significant event that really impacted Hamden and North Haven in a very devastating fashion, Freda said.

Cesare said his own house was damaged badly by the storm.

Last October, U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal introduced the DEBRIS Act, legislation to reimburse homeowners for the cost of removing storm debris from their properties and require FEMA to factor in such damage when weighing whether to provide aid to people in an area after disasters.

But FEMA denied individual homeowner assistance.

U.S. Rep. Rosa DeLauro said she plans to reintroduce the DEBRIS Act next week.

From there, we will push to get this provision into law through either the authorizing process or the appropriations process, she said.

In the heavily wooded northern part of Hamden, there are still fallen trees in the woods and entire lengths of roads once covered by a tree canopy that are wide open to the sky now, he said.

Roads will never look the same, he said.

The storm cleanup is done to the extent of what public works has authority over, so theyve begun repairing the neighborhoods by planting new trees.

Were looking to plant 30 trees this spring, Cesare said. Weve been pretty aggressive thanks to our tree commission. Public works is looking for residents interested in having trees replanted who will take care of their early growth. Residents can contact the Hamden Tree Commission if they are interested in having trees replanted, he said.

Unfortunately people blame the trees for the destruction, but we want to encourage residents to replant the trees where we can, he said.

Cesare said UI tries to tries to lessen the impact of storms by cutting back trees near power lines, but nothing the company is doing would prepare for a storm like the one last May.

mdignan@hearstmediact.com
The roll of the dead in Connecticut as a result of the exploding opioid epidemic tells a lot about the victims and how they died, with no names attached. The list of 3,701 deaths between 2015 and 2018 reveals some facts that cant be seen any other way.

Because many people die of opioid overdose in a hospital or where they ingested the drug, Hearst Connecticut Media looked at the individual deaths according to where the deceased lived.

Of 169 towns and cities in Connecticut, only 10 did not record an opioid-related death in the four years: Colebrook, Morris and Roxbury in Litchfield County; Sherman in Fairfield County; Hartland in Hartford County; Bozrah and Lyme in New London County; Pomfret and Scotland in Windham County; and Union, the smallest town in the state with 839 residents, in Tolland County. Only Sherman and Pomfret in that group have more than 3,000 residents.

The ages of those who died ranged from a 15-year-old who died in 2016, which news reports have identified as Olivia Elizabeth Roark of Griswold, to an 84-year-old Hartford man, who died in 2018.

The average age was just under 42 years, 3 months, and those who died in Connecticut came from at least 25 other states, from Alabama to California, and from Oklahoma to South Dakota.

Litchfield County, with 229 deaths over four years, had the highest average number, 3.14 per 10,000 residents, followed by New London, 324, 3.01; Hartford, 1,002, 2.80; New Haven, 924, 2.68; Windham, 133, 2.86; Middlesex, 156, 2.39; Tolland, 116, 1.91; and Fairfield, 576, 1.52. The average for the state was 2.56 per 10,000 residents.

White males make up the largest group by far, with 2,120 over four years, followed by 756 white females, 367 Hispanic males, 245 black males, 79 black females, 70 Hispanic females, 17 Asian, Hawaiian or other males, 10 Asian Indian males, eight Asian or other females, three Asian Indian females, 19 males of unknown race or with no race recorded, seven females of unknown race or no race recorded.

Towns with less than 10,000 population understandably had few deaths, with only Lebanon, with 11, and Portland, 15, having more than nine. Sharon and North Canaan rank eighth and ninth in terms of the average number of opioid overdoses per 10,000 residents over four years. Chaplin follows at No. 12.

Data on opioid deaths in Connecticut 2015-18

edward.stannard@hearstmediact.com; 203-680-9382
By Eric Margolis

May 11, 2019 " Information Clearing House " - Is it just a coincidence that TV networks are re-running old Dirty Harry films just as a powerful US Naval armada and Air Force B-52 bombers are headed for what could be a clash with Iran? Here we go again with the good guys versus the bad guys, and make my day.

Maybe its more bluffing? The current US military deployment was scheduled before the latest flare-up with Iran, but the bellicose threats of White House neocon crusaders like John Bolton and Mike Pompeo certainly create the impression that the US wants war.

Adding to the warlike excitement, President Trump just ordered seizure of a large North Korean bulk cargo ship. This was clearly a brazen act of war and violation of international law. More dangerous brinkmanship by administration war-mongers who increasingly appear besotted by power and hubris.

So much for the president who vowed to avoid foreign wars  and so much for the millions of anti-war voters who believed him.

Why does Trump let his two horsemen of the apocalypse get away with this?

Im following this latest gunboat diplomacy with particular interest because I had the privilege in 1994 of going to sea on the very same aircraft carrier, CVN-72 USS Abraham Lincoln that is now reportedly steaming towards Irans coast. With it are a nuclear submarine, a cruiser and a group of destroyers, all equipped with land-attack missiles.

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As a former soldier and war correspondent, I was deeply impressed by the Lincoln and her youthful crew. They were efficient, motivated and superbly well-organized. In our lifetime, no other navy will ever equal the skills of the US carrier fleet. The only real threat to Americas huge carriers is the growing power and accuracy of Russian, Chinese and Indian heavy anti-ship missiles.

The Navy task force is backed up by B-52 nuclear-capable heavy bombers now stationed in Qatar, and US warplanes from other bases in the Gulf, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Turkey, Jordan, and Pakistan that effectively surround Iran. The carriers are just for show and threat.

Israel, which is eager to see the US attack Iran, has helpfully provided intelligence allegedly showing that Iran is planning to attack certain US installations in the Mideast. Interestingly, Israel and its American supporters did the same thing in 2001 and 2003, pushing the US to attack its foe Iraq. Washington largely relied on Israeli intelligence about Iraq since its own resources were so weak  and senior Bush administration neocons kept touting the claims from Israel.

President Trump sees himself as an emperor besieged by Washington Lilliputians. Theres nothing like a jolly little war to shut up all his critics and garner media support. Even better, the bad guys in this case are Eye-ranian Muslims. Trumps religious base would thrill at the prospect of pounding the Islamic Republic. During the Bush administration years, over 80% of so-called born again Christians backed war against Iraq. What happened to turn the other cheek?

This administrations neocons have made it their lifes work to destroy Iran, which is considered Israels only serious enemy and a champion of the Palestinian cause.

The Trump administration has largely fallen under the influence of Israels hard right in foreign and military affairs. So Bolton and Pompeo are clearly trying to engineer an incident that would spark war.

Not full-scale war, but an excuse for the US and Israel to bomb Irans nuclear facilities, key military sites and communications infrastructure as was done with Iraq. It wont be back all the way to the Stone Age, but half way, so that Irans development is set back by a decade.

Israel will then use its control over the US Congress to keep Iran under a very tight embargo. The Pentagons original plan to punish Iran called for some 2,300 air strikes on Day 1 alone.

Washingtons hope, as usual, is that growing misery and hardship in Iran will provoke a revolt to oust the Islamic government, allowing the US to install the exiled Iranian royalists it has waiting in Southern California. This was the pattern in Cuba, Nicaragua, Iraq, Syria, Libya and now Venezuela. Its not diplomacy, just brute force.

Eric S. Margolis is an award-winning, internationally syndicated columnist. His articles have appeared in the New York Times, the International Herald Tribune the Los Angeles Times, Times of London, the Gulf Times, the Khaleej Times, Nation  Pakistan, Hurriyet,  Turkey, Sun Times Malaysia and other news sites in Asia.

Copyright Eric S. Margolis 2019

Do you agree or disagree? Post your comment here
Newsfrom Japan

Tokyo, May 12 (Jiji Press)--The general course of high schools in Japan, which has remained untouched since the current school system was established after World War II, will undergo reform as the main part of a drastic revamping of high school education.

The general course is expected to be split into categories, such as an emphasis on math and science education or developing human resources for local communities, in line with the focus of individual schools, according to officials familiar with reform discussions.

Japanese high schools currently teach the general course, as well as special subject options that provide specialized education including on agriculture and engineering. In 1994, an integrated course was created to allow students to choose from a broad range of subjects both in general and special subject courses.

At present, about 70 pct of students are enrolled in the general course.

Hiroyuki Yoshiie, a member of a special team of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party's Headquarters for the Revitalization of Education, calls for speedy reform of the current high school education system. "This is completely a Showa system," he said, referring to the 1926-1989 Showa era.

[Copyright The Jiji Press, Ltd.]
A five-year-old girl was badly burned after falling into a fire pit at her New Jersey home Saturday.

NorthJersey.com reports the girl accidentally tripped and fell into the pit, sustaining burns to her face and arms. She was taken from her Demarest home to a nearby field and airlifted by helicopter to Saint Barnabas Medical Center in Livingston.

Her condition is unknown, but the website reports emergency medical workers had treated and stabilized the girl before the airlift.

Bobby Olivier may be reached at bolivier@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @BobbyOlivier and Facebook. Find NJ.com on Facebook. Have a tip? Tell us.nj.com/tips
JERSEY CITY  Many members of the community have embraced and celebrated LGBTQ pride, but there are those  with fear in their hearts and bony fingers clutched around their pearls  who refuse to accept people for who they are.

WORD JC, a bookstore on 123 Newark Ave., hosted its monthly Drag Queen Story Hour with Harmonica Sunbeam  who reads and sings  Saturday morning. Demonstrators planted themselves outside the store with signs protesting the event, but it fell on deaf ears.

Store manager Brian Benavides said he was working while the protest occurred, but there was no interaction between the demonstrators and the people inside the store.

Nobody came in, nobody came out, Benavides said.

The demonstrators were from The American Society for the Defense of Tradition, Family and Property, which bills itself as a lay Catholic group peacefully defending the values of tradition, family and private ownership.

Last month the group demonstrated outside a Hoboken bookstore during a similar event. Drag Queen Story Hour, at which drag queens read books to children to give children glamorous, positive and unabashedly queer role models."

Benavides said that the shop hosts the monthly Drag Queen Story Hour because the bookstore is welcoming to everyone in the community.

He said this is the first time there have been demonstrators at the Jersey City shop, but he preferred to not comment.

(Were) not giving them any acknowledgement, he said.
EAST NEWARK  Four men, one who was armed with a handgun, robbed a local resident walking on Central Avenue Sunday morning, authorities said.

At approximately 7:30 a.m., police say a resident was walking to a local store near Central Avenue and North Third Street when a vehicle with four men inside pulled up alongside him, the borough's Chief of Police Anthony Monteiro said.

One of the men, a 17-year-old Newark resident, was armed with a handgun and struck the resident, knocking him to the ground, Monteiro said.

A nearby police officer observed the incident and confronted the group. Three of the men took off in the car, but the juvenile was arrested after a brief foot chase down Central Avenue, the chief said.

The robber remains in custody, Monteiro said, and the incident remains an open investigation.

The resident reported some bruising on his head, but did not report any serious injuries, the Chief said.

Corey W. McDonald may be reached at cmcdonald@jjournal.com. Follow him on Twitter @cwmcdonald_. Find The Jersey Journal on Facebook.
JERSEY CITY  The Board of Education will hold a special meeting tomorrow to vote on final budget deliberations as hundreds of jobs in the district remain under threat.

The nine-member body will meet Monday evening at PS 26 regarding the adoption of the 2019-20 school year budget. It comes at a dire time for the 30,000-student school district  facing a $120 million shortfall and millions in state funding cuts planned over the next several years.

Under its preliminary budget in March, the district earmarked 450 instructional staff positions, including teachers and teachers aides, and 260 central administration and non-instructional staff positions for elimination throughout the district.

Last week, more than 250 non-tenured public school teachers received layoff notices. It is unclear at this time exactly how many teaching and staff positions will be eliminated throughout the district.

"We will ask the citizens to be united with the district in our all encompassing approach to the funding and financial crisis which we are confident will ultimately prevail despite near term pains which we will tackle strategically," board President Sudhan Thomas said in a statement.

School officials had previously said they were waiting to see how much revenue it would collect from the payroll tax before determining how many positions would be eliminated.

The tax went into effect after state legislators passed a law last year allowing Jersey City to enact a 1 percent payroll tax on local businesses to help fund the city's public school district.

Jersey City Mayor Steve Fulop said in a tweet last week that the tax will generate roughly $13.7 million.

"We feel comfortable with that but the final overall number isnt done yet," he added. "There were some late filers and some issues with some payroll companies that were resolved."

The school district last month filed a lawsuit against the state, alleging the hundreds of millions planned in state funding cuts over the next six years are unconstitutional and have harmed the districts students.

"The state has abandoned its constitutional and moral obligations to Jersey City," Thomas said in a statement.

A number of local groups will be in attendance to advocate for the district employees, including Jersey City Together  which is pushing the district to raise the school tax levy in order to make up for the funding gap.

The Board of Education could have raised the school tax levy to avoid these staffing cuts; they could have forced a conversation with the city, demanding they curb their spending and better prioritize schools. But they didnt, said Brigid DSouza, a leader with Jersey City Together. Now the board has a choice. If they really care about the dignity of our children, teachers, administrators, paras and support staff, they need to stiffen their spines, stand with our public schools and demand the city set aside significant municipal dollars for schools.

The meeting is scheduled for 5 p.m. Monday at PS 26, 164 Laidlaw Ave.

Corey W. McDonald may be reached at cmcdonald@jjournal.com. Follow him on Twitter @cwmcdonald_. Find The Jersey Journal on Facebook.
A 36-year-old Trenton man has died after he was shot in the early morning hours Friday, according to Bucks County authorities.

The victim, Jamar Tucker, was also celebrating his birthday the same day, according to mourners on Facebook.

Bucks County Detectives said Tucker was found dead on the 300 Block of S. Bellevue Avenue in Langhorne Borough.

Police are searching for his vehicle, a black 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee with N.J. license plate T69HDG, which they say is missing.

Anyone with information is asked to call 215.348.6354 or submit tips to Buckscrimetips@buckscounty.org.

Jamar Tucker I really didnt have the strength or words to say. Yesterday was supposed to be a joyous occasion but that... Posted by Tiyana Clark on Saturday, May 11, 2019

You didnt deserve this. Heck, no one does. But GOD, sees all and knows all so Im praying that your family gets justice.... Posted by Rashad Walker on Friday, May 10, 2019

Jessica Remo may be reached at jremo@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter@JessicaRemoNJ. Find NJ.com on Facebook. Get the latest updates right in your inbox. Subscribe to NJ.coms newsletters.
This Mothers Day marks the 10th year my mother has been gone. I would give all for one more conversation to tell her all that has happened in my life since we last talked.

Mothers are all great listeners, and I always got what I needed to hear from mine, although not necessarily what I wanted to hear.

My mother was the epitome of a southern, mixed-race, churchgoing woman. She was at the church once or twice during the week and twice on Sunday. But, if she were still here, I would have some trepidation about her going to church alone, as she often did. Houses of worship too often have become dangerous places. The unthinkable has become reality. Innocent people are being killed in churches, mosques and synagogues in a nation whose earliest inhabitants were seeking religious freedom. This is irony personified.

Most places of worship try to be spaces where all are invited, welcomed and accepted unconditionally. Access is often easy, since doors are rarely locked even during the week. Every day, people are coming and going, handling business affairs, maintaining the premises, conducting community meetings, serving meals or welcoming those from the surrounding neighborhood with varied programing.

Then, of course, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays are reserved for religious services. Among those who know this are extremists, the Ku Klux Klan, white nationalists, and others filled with racial and religious hatred. They use the vulnerability of people assembled in peaceful prayer as an opportunity to strike and kill.

The first murders I can recall that occurred in a church were in 1963, when four little girls were killed in a bomb blast while attending Sunday school at the 16th Street Baptist Church in Birmingham, Ala. Eleven years later, the mother of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was shot to death in an Atlanta church as she played the organ.

Last month, on the last day of Passover, a man walked into a synagogue in California, shot and killed one woman, blew the fingers off of the lead rabbi  who was lucky to escape with his life  and wounded several other people. Last October, a man walked into a Pittsburgh synagogue with an AR-15 and three handguns, killing 11 defenseless people. I have never seen the American Jewish community under such attack.

Among Christians, nine parishioners were killed as they held a prayer vigil in 2015 in a predominantly black Charleston, S.C., church. In March of this year, at least 50 men, women and children were murdered at two different New Zealand mosques. The alleged shooter is a white nationalist who had praised Donald Trump in a manifesto as a symbol of renewed white identity and common purpose. Authorities said the suspect attached a camera to his body and livestreamed the murders on Facebook.

Places of worship must change their culture and make the safety of congregants a priority. Although having trained security personnel is not an affordable option for many houses of worship, prudent steps need to be taken. Church doors should be locked during services. If they cant be, personnel should be assigned to a single designated doorway with the ability to see not just those entering, but those approaching. Security cameras with the ability to record continuously have become an affordable option.

Every single house of worship should have an emergency plan detailing contact phone numbers and evacuation procedures, as well as lockdown and shelter-in-place scenarios.

Although only the Pittsburgh incident resulted in fatalities, nearly two dozen houses of worship in Pennsylvania and New Jersey were attack targets in recent years. This is one of the newest additions to the American cultural narrative.

We must recognize what is common in most of these events nationwide. To be blunt, a deranged individual is able to obtain semi-automatic weapons and ammunition, and goes on a killing spree. We have to realize that Founding Fathers or not, Second Amendment or not, in the year 2019, not everyone has the cognitive capacity or emotional stability to possess firearms. Until this nation comes to grips with this critical issue, innocent, peaceful people are going to die.

On this Mothers Day, allow me to frame this as my mother would have if she were here. She would say, I dont believe they can send a man in a rocket ship to the moon, but cant stop these crazy people from killing people in church and school.

I dont either, Mom.

Milton W. Hinton Jr. is retired as director of equal opportunity for the Gloucester County government, and is past president of the Gloucester County Branch NAACP. Email: miltonw@imap.cc

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You are a priest forever according to the order of Melchizedek is a promise made in Psalm 110. And Monsignor James Finnerty is living proof of the forever part even as he turned 90 this past Palm Sunday.

A resident of Peace Care St. Anns, formerly St. Anns Home for the Aged, in Jersey City for the last six years, Finnerty ministers to his neighbors at the home. He says Mass, hears confessions, anoints the sick, counsels and just cheers people up.

For his priestly service, Finnerty received St. Anns Resident of the Year award last year and was then honored with the Better Life Award at the Health Care Association of New Jerseys annual meeting at Harrahs in Atlantic City in October. The plaque is in his one room, where his door is always open and he can be found in his wheelchair praying his Breviary, or daily prayers, or writing the 100 letters and cards he sends out each month. It reads: for his dedicated unselfish efforts.

Finnertys long list of priestly assignments often found him in challenging situations where demographic or pastoral changes required a special resolve. For 10 years, he was in inner-city Newark at St. Charles Borromeo Church and received no pay for six months.

"I told then Archbishop Peter Gerety,'We have no money,''' Finnerty said.

Eventually the chancery stepped in to cover expenses, and today the church is merged with Blessed Sacrament. Finnerty also covered Beth Israel Hospital and the county jail.

Finnerty was also the pastor of St. Marys Church in Downtown Jersey City when the archdiocese merged it with four other churches into the new Resurrection Parish. It was a massive undertaking bringing together virtually all of the Downtown Catholic churches except for three. Finnerty was not the pastor but stayed for a short time until then-Archbishop Theodore McCarrick appointed him to be the vicar for clergy and made him pastor of St. Johns in Newark. The church had no real parishioners, but its food program fed hundreds of people daily. Finnerty stayed for five years.

Ordained in 1955, Finnerty was assigned first to Sacred Heart, Vailsburg, which was an enormous church near South Orange, with thousands of parishioners. After five years, then-Archbishop Thomas Boland appointed him the Dean of Men at Immaculate Conception Seminary, at a time when it was filled to capacity with 270 seminarians. It was also during the years of the Second Vatican Council when change was in the air.

A church historian described this as the turbulent years.

Boland told Finnerty his job was to keep a lid on the seminary, he said. It was a time of experimentation and seminarians anticipated relaxing of rules, which made Finnertys job more difficult, especially when they did not come fast enough. After six years of what might described as combat, he left for St. Leos Church in Irvington.

Finnerty spent more than eight years at Immaculate Conception, Montclair, and then had a brief stint at St. Aedans, Jersey City. After retiring, he moved to St. Pauls in Greenville to assist the late Rev. Robert Antczak. There, he often visited St. Anns Home across the street, which would later become his home.

I have a nice room and the people are nice, Finnerty said.

I interviewed Finnerty on Good Friday as he was preparing to lead the Stations of the Cross in the afternoon.

We think what Jesus suffered today, we suffer whether in our wheelchairs or beds, he said, becoming reflective, It is a privilege to offer ourselves to God and let God take care of us.

Before departing, I heard him say, I am very happy. I am the luckiest guy in the world.

So are the other residents of Peace Care St. Anns because Father Finnerty is there for them.

The Rev. Alexander Santora is the pastor of Our Lady of Grace and St. Joseph, 400 Willow Ave., Hoboken, 07030, FAX: 201-659-5833; Email: padrealex@yahoo.com; Twitter: @padrehoboken.
Pity America, because of this crazy Trump! Heres what Irans man in Iraq would say to Mike Pompeo



Why didnt Mike Pompeo talk to Irans most important supporter in Iraq?



By Robert Fisk



May 11, 2019 " Information Clearing House " - 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.

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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.

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.

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.

This article was originally published by " The Independent " -

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I woke up the other day and checked my messages. The first was from the most right-wing member of the state Senate.

Trump needs to rein in Captain Kangaroo and Mike Plumpeo, read the message from Mike Doherty of Warrren County. They are out of control.

The first reference is to John Bolton, the comic character with the white mustache. He got the job as President Trumps national security adviser despite opposing the president on virtually every aspect of his America First foreign policy.

The second reference is to Mike Pompeo, the somewhat portly secretary of state who is, like Doherty, a graduate of West Point and former Army officer.

The two Republicans part company when it comes to Trump and his foreign policy. Doherty was one of Trumps earliest backers. He backed The Donald primarily because of his promise to keep the U.S. out of regime-change wars of the type embraced by the Beltway establishment.

As for Pompeo, in the 2016 presidential primaries he supported Florida Senator Marco Rubio. Rubio is one of the strongest proponents of the so-called neoconservative foreign policy that led to the loss of thousands of American lives and trillions of taxpayer dollars.

Trump remarked on the folly of that foreign policy over and over in the campaign. During one debate, he told former Florida governor Jeb Bush that it was your brother's Iraq War that gave us Barack Obama.

That may have shocked the GOP establishment. But it didnt shock GOP primary voters. Soon Bush was headed back to Florida and Trump was headed to the White House.

If he wants to stay there, he would be wise to follow his own advice on avoiding wars. Thats so obvious that even the house organ of the Washington establishment is picking it up.

In an article last week, the Washington Post described how the efforts of the Bolton-Pompeo team in Venezuela and Iran go against the anti-interventionist platform Trump ran on in the last cycle.

The paper quoted John D. Feeley, a former Marine helicopter pilot and later U.S. ambassador to Panama, as saying that any effort to start a war runs counter to Donald Trumps 2020 re-election narrative.

It does indeed. So whats The Donald up to?

I put that question to another military vet, former Vietnam Green Beret Pat Lang.

Once hes committed to a war in the Mideast, hes just screwed, said Lang of Trump.

But Lang, who later spent more than a decade in the Mideast, noted that Bolton has no direct control over the military.

Bolton has a problem, he said. If he can just get the generals to obey him, he can start all the wars he wants. But they dont obey him.

They obey the commander-in-chief. And Trump has a history of hiring war-crazed advisors who end up losing their jobs when they get a bit too bellicose. Former UN Ambassador Nikki Haley comes to mind.

In Langs view, anyone who sees Trump as some sort of ideologue is missing the point.

Hes an entrepreneurial businessman who hires consultants for their advice and then gets rid of them when he doesnt want that advice, he said.

So far that advice hasnt been very helpful, at least in the case of Bolton. His big mouth seems to have deep-sixed Trumps chance of a summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. And that failed coup in Venezuela has brought up comparisons to the failed Bay of Pigs invasion during the Kennedy administration.

Jose Gomez Rivera is a Jersey guy who served in the State Department in Venezuela at the time of the coup that brought the current socialist regime to power. He said Bolton ignored the rules for initiating a coup.

Unless you know the military is going to blink, theres no reason to try and overthrow the regime, he said.

Yet thats what opposition leader Juan Guaido tried to do recently. Apparently he took Pompeo seriously, including his assurance that "The president has been crystal clear and incredibly consistent. A military action is possible. If necessary, that is what the United States will do.

As at the Bay of Pigs, the U.S. led the rebels to believe theyd get U.S. support. Once again, those who trusted us were hung out to dry.

Its time for Bolton and Pompeo to be hung out to dry as well.

Once the 2020 campaign begins in earnest, Trump is likely to want to repeat his campaign as the guy who will keep us out of pointless foreign wars.

That wont work if hes got a pointless foreign war going on at the time.

I dont know if theres any TV network out there considering a revival of that classic comic character named after a marsupial.

But I know where they can find the star.

ADD - PAT BUCHANAN WEIGHS IN ON THE TRUE CONSERVATIVE FOREIGN POLICY:

Perhaps the biggest lie the mainstream media have tried to get over on the American public is the idea that it is conservatives, that start wars. Thats total nonsense of course. All of Americas wars in the 20th century were stared by liberal Democrats. And all ended badly for the cause of freedom. Liberals argue that World War II was a victory over totalitarianism. But in fact that war ended with the totalitarians conquering all of Eastern Europe.

Arguing against all this nonsense for all there years has been traditional conservative Pat Buchanan. Heres an excerpt from his latest piece on the Venezuela screw-up by the so-called neo - a Latin term meaning fake - conservatives like Bolton:

Iran has no nukes or ICBMs. It wants no war with us. It does not threaten us. Why is Iran then our problem to solve rather than a problem for Saudi Arabia, the Gulf States and the Sunni Arabs?

Nor does Russias annexation of Crimea threaten us. When Ronald Reagan strolled through Red Square with Mikhail Gorbachev in 1988, all of Ukraine was ruled by Moscow.

The Venezuelan regime of Nicolas Maduro was established decades ago by his mentor, Hugo Chavez. When did that regime become so grave a threat that the U.S. should consider an invasion to remove it?

During the uprising in Caracas, Bolton cited the Monroe Doctrine of 1823. But according to President James Monroe, and Mike Pompeos predecessor John Quincy Adams, who wrote the message to Congress, under the Doctrine, while European powers were to keep their hands off our hemisphere  we would reciprocate and stay out of Europes quarrels and wars.
John Bennett is one of 180,000 inmates incarcerated in federal prisons across the country. And hed like to get out of prison early.

Now that hes been denied twice, along with a number of other factors, the 83-year-old says he meets the criteria to be released under the First Step Act signed by President Trump in December, according to a recent motion filed in federal court in New Jersey.

Bennett, the former CEO of a Canadian hazardous waste treatment company, is serving a 63-month term for white collar crimes in New Jersey related to kickback and fraud schemes committed in an attempt to win a government contract for a toxic waste site in Manville, Somerset County. (In addition to prison, handed down in 2016, the judge also ordered him to pay over $3 million in restitution.)

Bennett argues in his motion that hes over 65 years old, has served approximately 60 percent of of his sentence, has prostate cancer as well as 18 other medical conditions such as hypertension and Type II diabetes. They all make his survival unlikely.

Bennetts daughter, Jane Ten Vaanholt also filed the motion on her fathers behalf and would like the CEO to be transferred back to Canada where he could receive medical care and cancer treatment for free she says.

The First Step Act, a bi-partisan criminal justice bill widely-publicized with reforms like getting juveniles in solitary confinement and allowing non-violent and drug crime inmates gain early release, has been successful for others.

The New York Times reported in April that former Hilary Clinton finance chair Hassan Nemazee was released that month from federal prison in Maryland and allowed to finish the rest of his sentence in home confinement. Nemazee was sentenced to 12 years in prison in 2009 after being convicted for defrauding banks of over $300 million, but he now resides in Manhattan.

In addition to a number of criteria Bennett listed in the motion for his release, authorities must determine the applying inmate does not have a risk of committing new crimes or harming others.

If he gets his freedom, Bennett would still be among the first to benefit from the bill. Approximately 10 prisoners have been released into home confinement since Trump signed the bill into law, according to the U.S. Bureau of Prisons, as reported by the New York Times.

A response to Bennetts motion has not yet been filed.

Bennetts currently doing his time at Moshannon Valley Correctional Center in the center of Pennsylvania, with about 1,700 other federal offenders.

Taylor Tiamoyo Harris may be reached at tharris@njadvancemedia.com. Find NJ.com on Facebook.

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Weeks after a New Jersey high school student declared he is running for a seat on his local school board, he filed a complaint saying administrators are unfairly punishing and isolating him.

Kason Little, a 19-year-old high school senior, said before he announced his candidacy for a school board seat on March 16, he had never been sent to detention. But, in the past few weeks, he claims he has been assigned detention three times by staff members at his high school in Elizabeth.

He filed a complaint with the United States Department of Education Office of Civil Rights, and sent a letter to the commissioner of the state Department of Education, requesting an investigation, he said.

The federal department of education couldnt comment on Littles situation, but said complaints take several weeks to evaluate, and if necessary, to investigate. The state department did not respond to requests for comment on Friday.

Little claimed that he was unfairly singled out for discipline during a lockdown drill last week. He and three other students were in the hallway when the drill occurred, but he was the only one who received detention, he said.

State law prevents district officials from commenting on specific students disciplinary records.

But, Elizabeth Schools spokesperson Pat Politano spoke generally about the lockdown incident, and said the district has a policy of treating all students equally.

"Video surveillance from the hallway has been reviewed by district officials and confirms the students behavior was a potential danger to himself and fellow students and staff, Politano said in a statement.

During the course of that drill, one student failed to follow school district procedures and protocols. The student was found walking the hallway and failed to remain in a locked classroom when instructed.

The student was assigned detention, where he would re-learn safety protocol, Politano said.

Little claims he got two other detentions since March, one for not returning to class after going to the nurses office (an allegation he denies), and another that he says the school did not provide reasoning on. Little said school administrators have put him under greater scrutiny because he is an outspoken advocate and is running for school board.

The School Ethics Commission governs the conduct of members of the boards of education in New Jersey. Generally, students dont face a conflict of interest if they are a board of education member, but in certain circumstances like making employment decisions regarding current teachers or voting for the establishment of new clubs, a student board member may have to recuse himself.

However, Little will graduate in June and will no longer be a student in the district if he is elected in November  removing any worry of conflicts of interest.

Little said he has attended board of education meetings since he was 12, and spoken up against systemic issues he sees in the district. He said he plans to attend Berkley College to study civil litigation.

Three seats are up on the Elizabeth Board of Education in this Novembers election. The deadline to file petitions to run in the school board race is in September.

Note: A previous version of this story said Little is graduating in May. Its June.

Cassidy Grom may be reached at cgrom@njadvancemedia.com Follow her at @cassidygrom . Have a tip? Tell us. nj.com/tips .

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Folks hoping to celebrate Mothers Day with some outdoor activities might have to make other plans, as the National Weather Service predicts chilly temperatures and rain throughout the state Sunday.

A slow-moving system pushed temperatures down into the 50s after some warmer spring days earlier in the week, the National Weather Service out of Mount Holly said Sunday morning. Temperatures in South Jersey could reach mid-to-high 50s Sunday, while parts of North Jersey may barely reach 50.

Periods of rain throughout the day could add up to two inches by early Monday morning, the service said.

Parts of the state, especially east of the I-95 corridor, could see wind gusts up to 35 miles per hour.

Minor tidal flooding is possible, the service said, with tonights high tide on the states coasts.

A Coastal Flood Advisory has been issued for tonight's high tide for coastal New Jersey and Delaware including Delaware Bay. Minor flooding is expected, which often results in some road closures. Do not leave your vehicle at a location that is prone to tidal flooding. #njwx #dewx pic.twitter.com/5aKTKDSje7  NWS Mount Holly (@NWS_MountHolly) May 12, 2019

The Weather Service also issued a Coastal Flood Advisory for Sundays high tide for coastal New Jersey and Delaware including, the Delaware Bay. Minor flooding is expected, which can result in some road closures.

Do not leave your vehicle at a location that is prone to tidal flooding, the Weather Service tweeted Sunday morning.

The Weather Service says it expects the chilly temperatures, periods of rain and strong winds to continue into Monday.

Paige Gross may be reached at pgross@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @By_paigegross.

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ST. PETERSBURG, Fla.  For the second straight night, the Yankees will be worrying about how one of their key players feels when he wakes up in the morning.

Catcher Gary Sanchez said he felt OK after taking a Guillermo Heredia backswing to the back of his helmet in the eighth inning of a 7-2 loss to the Rays at Tropicana Field.

Sanchez said the Yankees training staff put him through a few concussion tests and that he felt OK. Then he added a caveat.

Ive got to wait and see how I feel (Sunday), said Sanchez, via team translator Marlon Abreu.

It might not matter. Its unlikely Sanchez will start Sundays afternoon game, anyway. Manager Aaron Boone rarely makes Sanchez start day games after night games behind the plate. Austin Romine will likely instead start.

Sanchez stayed crouched over for a while after getting hit. Heredia immediately checked on him.

Then out came team trainer Steve Donohue and Boone. Donohue made Sanchez laugh while making sure the catcher was OK. Sanchez remained on the field.

Sanchez missed time already this season with a left calf strain. Hes hitting .250 with 11 home runs and 21 RBI in 25 games.

Its unexpected, as you said, and it happens very quickly. When you go through something like that, youve got to gather yourself and make sure youre OK, Sanchez said.

On Friday night, shortstop Gleyber Torres got hit on the right elbow with a 92-mph fastball. Though he had swelling Saturday, he played and said he felt fine.

Said Boone, Hit him pretty hard obviously on the backswing there. Any time youre talking head stuff. So he seemed pretty solid out there when we went out there though. So hopefully its nothing.

Brendan Kuty may be reached at bkuty@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @BrendanKutyNJ. Find NJ.com Yankees on Facebook.
Braving heavy rain, lightning and low visibility, a Coast Guard crew from New Orleans rescued two men and three dogs who were stranded by high water in the Poplarville, Mississippi, area early Sunday (May 12).

The Coast Guard received a report around 2 a.m. that the men were stranded in a vehicle on a McNeill McHenry Road overpass because of rapidly rising river flooding, the agency said.

A MH-65 Dolphin helicopter crew had to wait until 3:46 a.m. to launch due to bad weather.

The crew arrived at the scene around 4:30 a.m. and hoisted the men, who were not identified, and the dogs into the helicopter before taking them to awaiting emergency medical personnel at a nearby field, the Coast Guard said.

We faced torrential rain, lightning and low visibility but, thanks to our training, we were able to safely transport the two men and the dogs to safety, said Petty Officer 3rd Class Johannel Mejia, an aviation maintenance technician at Air Station New Orleans. Its times like this, when were able to make an impact on someones life, that makes this job so fulfilling.
Turnkey Tyranny on the Streets of Washington



We are at the point Edward Snowden described as turnkey tyranny. And on Wednesday night the key was turned a bit more dramatically. Ray McGovern explains.



By Ray McGovern

May 11, 2019 " Information Clearing House " - Gerry Condon, President of Veterans For Peace, was bloodied and taken to ground, on Wednesday night for trying to get food to people inside the Venezuelan Embassy in Washington. The activists inside, some of whom have lived in the embassy for weeks with permission from the Venezuelan government, are protecting the premises from protestors who support the self-declared president Juan Guaido.

With the acquiescence of Washington police and the Secret Service, the protestors have been able to block food from entering the embassy. On Wednesday night electricity was cut to the building. One activist tossing a loaf of bread to a window was arrested earlier this week for using a missile. Now Condon has been manhandled and nabbed for throwing a cucumber.

We are at the point Edward Snowden described as turnkey tyranny. On Wednesday night the key was turned a bit more dramatically. Until now it has been an almost imperceptibly gradual process, like the proverbial frog in boiling water.

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Photo and video of Condons arrest (story continues below):

Follow my friend & colleague @RealAlexRubi for updates as well: https://t.co/egKaGMMLEq  Anya Parampil (@anyaparampil) May 8, 2019

BREAKING: Police violently arrest the president of @VFPNational, Jerry Condone, for trying to get food into the embassy. He is left with lacerations on his face. @UrsulaRozum also arrested. Opposition walks away with stolen food. pic.twitter.com/KhPvSAtC05  Alex Rubinstein (@RealAlexRubi) May 8, 2019

Of course, this has happened before. I quoted these words in this article I wrote for Consortium News on December 27, 2007:

There are few things as odd as the calm, superior indifference with which I and those like me watched the beginnings of the Nazi revolution in Germany, as if from a box at the theater.  Perhaps the only comparably odd thing is the way that now, years later.

The words are those of Sebastian Haffner (pen name for Raimund Pretzel), who as a young lawyer in Berlin during the 1930s experienced the Nazi takeover, and wrote a first-hand account . His children found the manuscript when he died in 1999 and published it the following year as Geschichte eines Deutschen (The Story of a German).

The book became an immediate bestseller and has been translated into 20 languagesin English as Defying Hitler.

I recently learned from his daughter Sarah, an artist in Berlin, that today is the 100th anniversary of Haffners birth. She had seen an earlier article in which I quoted her father and e-mailed to ask me to write some more about the book and the comparison to Bushs America.  This is almost unbelievable.

More about Haffner below. Lets set the stage first by recapping some of what has been going on here in the U.S. that may have resonance for readers familiar with the Nazi ascendancy, noting how odd it is that the frontal attack on our Constitutional rights is met with such calm, superior indifference.

After suppressing for two and a half years the explosive story of the Bush/Cheney surveillance of Americans in gross violation of the Fourth Amendment, top New York Times officials decided to let the rest of us in on the fact that the George W. Bush administration had been eavesdropping on American citizens without the court warrants required by the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) of 1978. Not to mention the U.S. Constitution.

The Times had learned of this well before the election in 2004 and acquiesced to White House entreaties to suppress the damaging information.

In late fall 2005 when Times correspondent James Risens book, State of War: the Secret History of the CIA and the Bush Administration, revealing the warrantless eavesdropping was being printed, Times publisher, Arthur Sulzberger, Jr., recognized that he could procrastinate no longer.

It would simply be too embarrassing to have Risens book on the street, with Sulzberger and his associates pretending that this explosive eavesdropping story did not fit Adolph Ochss trademark criterion: All The News Thats Fit To Print.

(The Times own ombudsman, Public Editor Byron Calame, branded the newspapers explanation for the long delay in publishing this story woefully inadequate.)

When Sulzberger told his friends in the White House that he could no longer hold off on publishing in the newspaper, he was summoned to the Oval Office for a counseling session with the president on Dec. 5, 2005. Bush tried in vain to talk him out of putting the story in the Times.

The truth would out; part of it, at least.

Unnamed Program

What followed struck me as bizarre. The day after the Dec. 16 Times feature article exposing the Fourth-Amendment-trashing program, the president of the United States publicly admitted to a demonstrably impeachable offense.

Authorizing illegal electronic surveillance was a key provision of the second article of impeachment against President Richard Nixon. On July 27, 1974, this and two other articles of impeachment were approved by bipartisan votes in the House Judiciary Committee.

Bush took a frontal approach, Far from expressing regret, he bragged about having authorized the surveillance more than 30 times since the September the 11th attacks, and said he would continue to do so. The president also said:

Leaders in Congress have been briefed more than a dozen times on this authorization and the activities conducted under it.

On Dec. 19, 2005, then-Attorney General Alberto Gonzales and then-NSA Director Michael Hayden held a press conference to answer questions about the as yet unnamed surveillance program.

Gonzales was asked why the White House decided to flout FISA rather than attempt to amend it, choosing instead a backdoor approach. He answered:

We have had discussions with Congressas to whether or not FISA could be amended to allow us to adequately deal with this kind of threat, and we were advised that that would be difficult, if not impossible.

It Had to Do With Us

It was not difficult to infer that the surveillance program must have been of such scope and intrusiveness that, even amid highly stoked fear, it didnt have a prayer for passage.

It turns out we didnt know the half of it.

Bear in mind that when this illegal surveillance program began, it had nothing to do with terrorism, an issue that did not really appear on the new administrations radar screen until a week before 9/11.  So this until-recently-unknown pre-9/11 facet of the Terrorist Surveillance Program was not related to Osama bin Laden or to whomever he and his associates might be speaking. It had to do with us.

We know that the Democrats briefed on the Terrorist Surveillance Program include House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-CA, (the one with the longest tenure on the House Intelligence Committee), Rep. Jane Harman, D-California, and former and current chairmen of the Senate Intelligence Committee, Bob Graham, D-FL, and Jay Rockefeller, D-WV, respectively.

May one interpret their lack of public comment on the news that the snooping began well before 9/11 as a sign they were co-opted and then sworn to secrecy?

It is an important question. Were the appropriate leaders in Congress informed that within days of George W. Bushs first inauguration the NSA electronic vacuum cleaner began to suck up information on you and me, despite the FISA law and the Fourth Amendment?

Are they all complicit? And are Democratic leaders about to cave in and grant retroactive immunity to those telecommunications corporationsAT&T and Verizonwhich made millions by winking at the law and the Constitution?

(Qwest, to its credit, heeded the advice of its general counsel who said that what NSA wanted done was clearly illegal.)

Whats going on here? [December 2007] Have congressional leaders no sense for what is at stake?

Lately the adjective spineless has come into vogue in describing congressional Democratsno offense to invertebrates.

Nazis and Their Enablers

You dont have to be a Nazi. You can just be, well, a sheep.

In his journal, Sebastian Haffner decries what he calls the sheepish submissiveness with which the German people reacted to a 9/11-like event, the burning of the German Parliament (Reichstag) on Feb. 27, 1933.

Haffner finds it quite telling that none of his acquaintances saw anything out of the ordinary in the fact that, from then on, ones telephone would be tapped, ones letters opened, and ones desk might be broken into.

But it is for the cowardly politicians that Haffner reserves his most vehement condemnation. Do you see any contemporary parallels here?

In the elections of March 4, 1933, shortly after the Reichstag fire, the Nazi party garnered only 44 percent of the vote. Only the cowardly treachery of the Social Democrats and other parties to whom 56 percent of the German people had entrusted their votes made it possible for the Nazis to seize full power. Haffner adds:

It is in the final analysis only that betrayal that explains the almost inexplicable fact that a great nation, which cannot have consisted entirely of cowards, fell into ignominy without a fight.

The Social Democratic leaders betrayed their followersfor the most part decent, unimportant individuals. In May, the party leaders sang the Nazi anthem; in June the Social Democratic party was dissolved.

The middle-class Catholic party Zentrum folded in less than a month, and in the end supplied the votes necessary for the two-thirds majority that legalized Hitlers dictatorship.

As for the right-wing conservatives and German nationalists: Oh God, writes Haffner, what an infinitely dishonorable and cowardly spectacle their leaders made in 1933 and continued to make afterward.  They went along with everything: the terror, the persecution of Jews.  They were not even bothered when their own party was banned and their own members arrested.

In sum: There was not a single example of energetic defense, of courage or principle. There was only panic, flight, and desertion. In March 1933, millions were ready to fight the Nazis. Overnight they found themselves without leaders.  At the moment of truth, when other nations rise spontaneously to the occasion, the Germans collectively and limply collapsed. They yielded and capitulated, and suffered a nervous breakdown.  The result is today the nightmare of the rest of the world.

This is what can happen when virtually all are intimidated.

Our Founding Fathers were not oblivious to this; thus, James Madison wrote:

I believe there are more instances of the abridgment of freedom of the people by gradual and silent encroachments by those in power than by violent and sudden usurpations.  The means of defense against foreign danger historically have become the instruments of tyranny at home.

We cannot say we werent warned.

Ray McGovern works with Tell the Word, a publishing arm of the ecumenical Church of the Saviour in inner city Washington. He was a CIA analyst for 27 years and presidential briefer and is co-founder of Veteran Intelligence Professionals for Sanity.

This article was originally published by " Consortium News " -

Do you agree or disagree? Post your comment here
Today

Cloudy skies early, then partly cloudy after midnight. Low near 65F. Winds light and variable.

Tonight

Cloudy skies early, then partly cloudy after midnight. Low near 65F. Winds light and variable.

Tomorrow

Partly cloudy skies. High 77F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph.
Google.org and Googlers are donating more than $125,000 to flood relief efforts in Iowa and Nebraska to support the work of organizations such as the American Red Cross, Team Rubicon and United Way of the Midlands. The support will help communities devastated by flooding in early March.

Google is proud to call Iowa home, and we felt it was important to support our neighbors in need that have been affected by the catastrophic floods this spring, said Dan Harbeke, Googles area head of public policy and external affairs.

Individual Googlers from across the company, along with a direct contribution from the Council Bluffs data center and combined with a matching gift from Google.org, generously contributed to these flood relief efforts to help their communities rebuild.

In addition to monetary donations, Googlers have also donated their time. Local site personnel collected donations  food, water, cleaning supplies, & clothing  to provide to the surrounding community relief agencies.

Googles data center in Iowa officially came online 10 years ago this year. Since then, Google has invested more than $2.5 billion and established a long-term commitment to the region and state.

Google employs more than 400 people at its Iowa facility and has awarded more than $1.5 million to local schools and nonprofits since 2009.
Recently, I had the pleasure of sitting in on a goat yoga class at Honey Creek Creamery. It was the perfect way to end the work week and kickoff a spring weekend.

Only a short drive outside of Council Bluffs, near Hitchcock Nature Center, Honey Creek Creamery sits on a hill covered by shady trees, patrolled by fluffy Great Pyrenees and surrounded by goats and cows. If youre an animal lover like myself, you will be delighted from the moment you park and are greeted by quizzical cows and goats wondering if youve come to feed them their evening meal.

After disappointing the cows, I and other participants signed in and then set up our yoga mats in a grassy pen outside. While waiting for the baby goats to arrive, the class was treated to the presence of one of the Great Pyrenees dogs who meandered his way into the pen begging for pets. He got them.

The real treat came when Honey Creek Creamery owners and staff began to bring out the baby goats, dropping them into the pen with the excited guests. The goats stumbled slowly and unsurely around, every so often bursting into a sudden jump or bleat of excitement before returning to their cautious exploring.

As the class began, the yoga instructor was quick to admit that he was, obviously, not the main event. He encouraged everyone to take as many breaks from yoga as they wanted to watch and pet the goats. While some kept up with his changes in positions, others  like myself  stayed on alert for the baby goats. Some were on the lookout for fear of being jumped on, while others kept a watchful eye to see if a goat wandered close for pets and love.

The young goats, known as kids, all had different personalities. One sweet little guy spent the last half of the class snuggled up in one lucky guests lap  the same way a sleepy puppy would. I wasnt quite as fortunate but did seem to have one kid that really liked me.

So much so that he spent quite a bit of time trying to nibble on my fingers, ponytail and the collar of my shirt. The nibbles didnt hurt and he was so cute that I may have even encouraged him.

Others were not quite as enthralled by the goats nibbling or their bathroom accidents  they are animals after all.

As one girl said to a baby goat halfway through relieving itself, No, please. This yoga mat is Lululemon.

Throughout the yoga lesson, goat handlers were on site to pick up any accidents and make sure as many people as possible had time with the goats. During yoga positions like plank and downward dog, the handlers would pick up baby goats, placing them on participants backs or stomachs.

The entire evening was enchanting. The yoga moves were relaxing, the goats were adorable and watching the sunset from the shade of the creamerys beautiful trees felt like a vacation.

After the class ended, participants were invited back to the creamerys barn to view the goat nursery where two kids had been born mere hours before we all arrived.

The evening ended with the nursery tour and samples of wine, cheese and gelato (all Friday classes end with a sampling). As folks sipped wine and tried different cheeses, a barn cat made his way around looking for pets and a certain Great Pyrenees dog made his way back to his favorite guest. As the sun set on the creamery, the dog and the guest sat side-by-side enjoying the view while goats merrily ran around pens in the background. An adorable ending to an adorable experience.

Goat yoga lessons learned:

1) Wear clothes you are okay getting dirty

2) Bring an old or cheap yoga mat  the goats may have accidents!

3) Take an allergy pill if allergic to animals or hay  Im allergic to the latter and was struggling by the end of the evening.

4) Take lots of photos.

Try it for yourself. Theres still time to sign up for a class at Honey Creek Creamery, but do so soon! Goat yoga classes can only be held in the springtime when the babies are small. Classes will fill up quick.
Celebrate CB 2019 is rolling along as it commemorates the 150th anniversary of the Transcontinental Railroad, celebrates RAGBRAI and continued growth of the community.

The Celebrate CB activities began May 6 with the selfie contest, and more activities are scheduled for the upcoming week beginning Tuesday.

Selfie Contest:

Through Saturday at midnight

Celebrate CB will host its fifth annual Selfie Contest. The contest encourages participants to enter and take selfies at one or all of the designated locations. Images posted on Twitter, Instagram or the Celebrate CB Facebook using #CBRollingAlong will be entered into the contest.

The contest began May 6, and will promptly at midnight on Saturday.

Locations include:

Any of the five B-cycle stations

Any of the 10 UN Sculptures

Union Pacific Railroad Museum

Lake Manawa Dream Playground

Rails West Railroad Museum

Wabash Trace Nature Trail

Golden Spike Monument

The West Broadway Reconstruction Project from 16th to 36th streets

Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge at the Iowa-Nebraska Border Line

Imagination Takes Flight Sculpture at Council Bluffs Public Library

Synchronicity Co. (Photo with a dolphin)

Clean Sweep:

Tuesday at 5:30 p.m.

The Clean Sweep tradition begins at Bayliss Park at 5:30 p.m. Rewards will be given for most litter collected, most unique item and team spirit. Those who want to participate can do so at Bayliss Park between 5 and 5:30 p.m. Participants of all ages can register as individuals or as a group. There is a light meal planned for after the event, according to the website: celebratecb.com.

The schedule is as follows:

5 to 5:30 p.m.  Volunteer check-in at Bayliss Park

5:30 to 7 p.m.  Pick up litter

7 p.m.  Return to Bayliss

7:30 p.m.  Award presentation and Mayors Proclamation

In addition, live music and family activities have been added to the event.

In the event of rain, the event will be held on Wednesday.

Farmers Market & Superhero Night:

Thursday from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Farmers Market Council Bluffs hosts seasonal vendors selling a wide variety of items including fruits, vegetables, eggs, honey, jams, jellies, prepared food items, baked goods, arts, crafts and wares. Some activities include local musicians performing, yoga in the park, superheroes and a kids zone at Bayliss Park.

Ag Committee Spring Cookout:

Friday, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The Ag Committee will serve steak sandwiches and hamburgers with chips and a drink from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Bayliss Park. Depending on the meal prices are $6 or $8.

Celebrate CB Parade:

Saturday, 10:30 a.m.

The annual parade will begin around 10:30 a.m., and will begin at Ninth Avenue and Pearl Street, travel north up Pearl, turn onto South Main Street at West Broadway and end at the corner of Sixth Avenue and South Main Street.

Bayliss Park Childrens Activities:

Saturday at noon

Following the parade, activities such as a Raise Me To Read story walk, face painting, wood building project and other activities for children will be available. Live music by the band Damaged Jenny will also be performed in the park.

For more information, go online to celebratecb.com.
Iowa Medicaid will hold a town hall meeting from 5:15 to 6:15 p.m. Tuesday at the Council Bluffs Public Library to update members. Provider training will be offered from 9 a.m. to noon and 1 to 4 p.m. Tuesday at Iowa Western Community College.

They are among several meetings and provider training sessions planned for different parts of the state.

Iowa Total Care is joining the IA Health Link program, and UnitedHealthcare is leaving, according to a press release from the Iowa Department of Human Services. Amerigroup Iowa continues to provide coverage.

This is an important opportunity to make sure our members know that, regardless of which (managed care organization) theyre assigned to, the same Medicaid benefits are covered, said Michael Randol, Medicaid director. No one is losing benefits. Members may exercise choice, or they may do nothing. We also want to let people know were taking extra measures to ensure continuity of care.

Until Sept. 30, 2019, all IA Health Link members are in an Open Choice Period, which means they can switch MCOs for any reason, the press release stated. Members have until June 18, 2019, for coverage effective July 1, 2019.

All prior authorizations will be honored for 90 days. If United Healthcare did not require a prior authorization for a specific service, the other MCOs will not require them for 90 days. Additionally, when a member receiving Home- and Community-Based Services changes MCO, their service plan will be honored until a new assessment is completed and a new plan is developed with the member and their team.

We are also working to maintain members relationships with their case managers. Both the Iowa Medicaid member services call center, as well as the MCOs call centers, in the coming weeks will have lists of which case managers will be with which MCO.

Details on provider training can be found in an informational letter at bit.ly/2JcxCdd. Details on the Medicaid town halls are available on the DHS website at bit.ly/2J3q24.

For more information, visit: IAHealthLink.gov.

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The U.S. House of Representatives passed a $19 billion disaster aid bill that would provide long-sought relief to farmers, victims of hurricanes and floods and rebuild military bases.

The measure must now go to the Republican-controlled Senate, which has been logjammed for months over aid to hurricane-battered Puerto Rico.

The House measure passed 257-150 over the opposition of most House Republicans who said it should also include the Trump administrations $4.5 billion request for stepped up humanitarian aid and law enforcement along the U.S.-Mexico border.

Since the House passed a smaller disaster assistance bill in January, Midwestern floods have added billions of dollars to the growing list of disaster needs, while a rising wave of Central American migrants seeking refuge from violence in their countries is requiring additional billions of dollars to house and care for thousands of migrants.

The $14 billion House bill passed in January has been held up in the Senate by a fight between President Donald Trump and Democrats over aid to Puerto Rico. Trump is feuding with Democratic officials on the island and falsely claims that Puerto Rico has already received $91 billion in aid.

The bill the House passed Friday added $3 billion to the earlier House bill to help Midwest states such as Iowa and Nebraska recover from this springs floods. It was then successfully amended on the floor several times by lawmakers in both parties who added $1.9 billion to the measure, chiefly to rebuild military bases in Nebraska and Florida and deliver more flood aid for the Midwest.

The House bill passed Friday did not include the $4.5 billion the White House wanted in emergency funding for the U.S.Mexico border.

Trump had spent time Thursday tweeting that House Republicans should vote in opposition of the BAD DEMOCRAT Disaster Supplemental Bill which hurts our States, Farmers & Border Security. We want to do much better than this. All sides keep working and send a good BILL for immediate signing!

Despite the presidents pleas, 34 Republicans broke with Trump to support the House bill.

It seems almost certain that Senate Republicans will amend the House-passed bill to include the $4.5 billion Trump wants for the border.

Chuck Grassley, Iowas senior senator, said Wednesday that rolling border-related funding into the disaster bill would likely make it more difficult to pass a measure that already struggling to move forward.

Sen. Joni Ernst, R-Iowa, said, It would make it much harder to get passed  thats why I would like to see (the $4.5 billion in emergency funding for the U.S.-Mexico border) as a separate package. Wed like to just take a straight up disaster aid bill.

Last week, a bipartisan group of governors from 10 states  including Iowa and Nebraska  sent a letter to Trump and congressional leaders urging support for disaster relief. They noted that while preliminary measures had moved forward in both chambers, it would be fitting for Washington to show greater urgency.

Unfortunately, any hopes for urgency will likely be thwarted if Republicans, at Trumps urging, insist on adding border funding to disaster legislation.
Home Search ICH By Finian Cunningham



May 11, 2019 " Information Clearing House " - As the world again marked the annual Victory Day against Nazi Germany this week, one thing seems more evident with each passing year  Russia holds the highest honour for celebrating this event.



The commemorations in Russia in terms of people numbers and ceremonial splendor far excel similar public events held across Europe and North America. Even though, in theory, those latter countries were allies which defeated Nazi Germany in May 1945



Why have Victory Day celebrations seem to have become more subdued in Europe and North America with each passing year, while in Russia, 74 years on, the Great Patriotic War is remembered and revered with undiminished passion?



Russias President Vladimir Putin delivered a rousing speech dedicated to the sacrifices of the war dead in front of multitudes attending Moscows Red Square. There was also an impressive military parade honoring the fallen heroes, followed by a breathtaking fireworks display, and marches held across all Russia in towns and villages for the Immortal Regiments. Tired Of The Lies And Non-Stop Propaganda? Get our FREE Daily Newsletter Meanwhile, tellingly, an article posted on the BBC website was headlined: What is VE [Victory in Europe] Day?



One reason for the difference is because Russia and other Soviet nations paid a far greater human price of suffering in the defeat of Nazi Germany. The memory of the horror is seared into Russian families. And, likewise, so too is the memory of resistance and ultimately the glory of defeating a monstrous enemy  at times against all the odds of victory.



Take the Nazi siege of Leningrad (St Petersburg). For over two years the people of that city endured starvation and cruelties that hardly anyone in Western Europe or North America could imagine. Yet the Nazi barbarity was finally overcome, the city was liberated by the Red Army, and Russian composer Dmitri Shostakovich who was trapped in the besieged city wrote an internationally renowned symphony heralding the vanquishing of that trauma.



The later final defeat of Nazi Germany in May 1945 was indeed a liberation for all of Europe. But that victory was indisputably due to the resilience and fortitude of Russian and other Soviet citizens. All told, the Soviet people lost about 27 million from Nazi war depredations, including from extermination operations and atrocities inflicted on whole villages. That number is incomparably greater to what other European countries incurred. Yet, in spite of the massive onslaught, it was the Soviet people who rose to the occasion to push back the Nazi invaders all the way to Berlin where the Third Reich was eventually buried in its war bunkers.



Just one more figure is enough to tell the story. Some 90 per cent of all Nazi army casualties during World War II were inflicted in the East fighting against the Soviet nations. That tells you how and where the Nazi war machine was terminated.



There are several current consequences from that horrific war that are still felt today.



One is that Russia will never allow itself to be invaded and threatened as it was by Nazi Germany in June 1941. Russias defense forces and weapons are perhaps the best in the world. No wonder Russia is vehemently opposed to NATO expansionism. How would Americans or British feel if the shoe was on the other foot?



Secondly, in a paradoxical way, because Russia suffered such infernal hardships from war, it is perhaps the most peace-loving of all modern nations. In President Putins speech this year, he once again extended a hand of friendship and cooperation to others to strengthen global security. That is in spite of the fact that the US and its NATO allies have continually insulted and provoked Russia with slanderous claims, military saber-rattling and economic sanctions.



A third consequence is that Western nations who claim to have defeated Nazi Germany  thereby trying to undermine Russias honorable place in that event  have at the same time an evident historical amnesia. This is not to belittle the sacrifices of hundreds of thousands of ordinary soldiers from the US and Britain who gave their lives in the fight against Nazi Germany. Nevertheless, the boastful claims of Western leaders and media is belied by the diminishing memorials to the Victory in Europe.



The truth is Victory in Europe was predominantly a victory by the Russian and Soviet nations. After all, several of the European countries are guilty from their ruling establishments collaborating with Nazi Germany, as in France, Norway, Poland, and others.



The concomitant of that duplicitous reality is that victory celebrations across Europe  except for Russia  tend to become somewhat hollow and muted with time.



Another reality  one that is shameful and concealed by Western establishments  is that American and British finance capital was very much instrumental in bankrolling the rise of Hitlers Third Reich. US corporations such as Ford, ITT, General Motors and Du Pont made fortunes from investing in Nazi Germany during the 1930s, making full use of slave camps for cheap labor, before the outbreak of the war.



The ambiguous relationship between Western capitalism and Nazi fascism is testified in todays cozy alliance between Washington and the Neo-Nazi regime that seized power in Ukraine. The disgusting veneration by politicians in Kiev for Nazi collaborators and their vile blood lust against the ethnic Russian people in Eastern Ukraine are never objected to by governments in Washington or the European Union.



Russia knows the evils of fascism because it stared this force in the face and defeated it 74 years ago. That world-changing event will never be forgotten nor taken for granted.



The Western countries  who by contrast did comparatively little to defeat Nazi Germany  are the same ones today who feel entitled to wage covert and overt wars for regime change around the world. One may argue, therefore, that the battle against fascism has never ended. Nazi uniforms, soldiers, guns and tanks may have been buried, but the mentality of aggression, superiority, lawlessness and impunity is very much alive. Thankfully, however, Russian vigilance and courage is also alive today. Finian Cunningham has written extensively on international affairs, with articles published in several languages. He is a Masters graduate in Agricultural Chemistry and worked as a scientific editor for the Royal Society of Chemistry, Cambridge, England, before pursuing a career in newspaper journalism. He is also a musician and songwriter. For nearly 20 years, he worked as an editor and writer in major news media organisations, including The Mirror, Irish Times and Independent. This article was originally published by " Sputnik News " - Do you agree or disagree? Post your comment here ==See Also== 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 Russias Ongoing Victory Day 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.
The HTC U11+ was released over eighteen months ago and has yet to receive a single major OS update. In fact, the company's 2018 flagship, the U12+, hasn't received a major update either. The Taiwanese company has finally published concrete information on its plans to update those devices, though.

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Last month, we published a piece on HTC's failure to release the Pie update to any of its non-Android One phones, including its flagships from well over a year ago. The company appears to have taken heed, though, and has now released a concrete schedule for its Pie rollout.

The Taiwanese company officially posted on Twitter that its flagship line would receive the Pie update very soon. The HTC U11, released about two years ago, will get the Pie update later this month. The U11+, released in late 2017, will start getting the update in late June, while the U12+, HTC's flagship for last year, will get the Pie update in mid-June.
Wells Fargo names Riley to Presidents/Leaders Club

Wells Fargo Home Mortgage recently named Shawn Riley, home mortgage consultant, to its 2019 Presidents/Leaders Club. This recognition is based on exceeding sales in 2018 and for providing outstanding customer service.

Riley has been with Wells Fargo for 13 years and has been in the financial services industry for 20 years.

Wenspok Companies expands into Nebraska

SPOKANE, Wash.  Spokane-based Wenspok Companies announced Thursday the acquisition of seven Wendys restaurants, expanding their reach into Nebraska. Wenspok is one of the largest multi-unit Wendys franchisees in the Pacific Northwest.

To date, there are a total of 40 restaurants under the Wenspok Companies umbrella. The company plans to break ground on two more restaurants and one to two more remodels in 2019.

As a company, Wenspok works to give back to the public through volunteering donations and cultivating partnerships with local schools and other non-profit organizations. For more information, visit wenspokcompanies.com.

Peard joins Dawson PPD as manager of finance and administration
LINCOLN  Volunteer motorcyclists will travel across the state Wednesday through Saturday for the 12th annual Pony Express, an effort to raise awareness about childrens mental health. The ride will finish in a ceremony at the Nebraska State Capitol at 1:30 p.m. Saturday.

The ride focuses on the message that mental health is fundamental to overall health, according to a press release from the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services.

The bikers, most of whom are members of the Fraternal Order of Eagles and called Eagle Riders, will kick off their ride in Scottsbluff on Wednesday.

During the ride, they will reenact the mail-delivery service of the venerable Pony Express by picking up letters about childrens mental health written by youth, their families and other supporters.

The letters will be delivered to state employees at the State Capitol.
A three-judge Nebraska Court of Appeals panel, led by Chief Judge Frankie Moore of North Platte, will hear oral arguments in 10 cases next week at the Lincoln County Courthouse.

Judges Riko Bishop of Lincoln and Michael Pirtle of Omaha will join Moore on the panel, which will meet at 1:30 p.m. Tuesday and 9 a.m. Wednesday in the third-floor district courtroom.

No North Platte or Lincoln County cases are on the panels docket, which includes cases from Buffalo, Custer, Franklin, Furnas, Phelps and Valley counties.

The docket, including links to brief descriptions of the cases, may be viewed at supremecourt.nebraska.gov/courts/court-appeals/call.

Formed in 1991, the six-member Court of Appeals hears direct appeals of most cases from the states lower courts to relieve the docket of the seven-member Nebraska Supreme Court.

Parties may petition the Supreme Court to hear their appeals directly or review the appeals courts findings, according to the Supreme Court website.

Two types of appeals always go directly to the high court: cases involving a laws constitutionality and criminal cases involving death or life imprisonment.
North Plattes incoming county judge has been assigned to handle the case of an off-duty police officer charged with drunken driving in an April traffic collision.

Judge-designate Joel Jay of Chappell, who will be sworn in May 31, will preside at a June 6 entry of plea hearing for North Platte Police Officer Sarah Jones, according to the Lincoln County Court office.

Jones, 28, was charged Monday with two first-offense misdemeanors of reckless driving and driving under the influence of alcohol with a blood-alcohol content of 0.15 or greater.

The charges stem from a two-vehicle wreck early April 19 on U.S. Highway 83 near the North Platte River bridge. Jones, who was off duty at the time, has been assigned to nonpublic administrative support duties in the Police Department as her case proceeds.

Because of Jones position as a peace officer in Lincoln County, the County Attorneys Office and County Judge Kent Turnbull have recused themselves from handling her case.

Keith County Attorney Randy Fair, who has been appointed special prosecutor, filed the charges against Jones.
Layne Groseth of North Platte, who became North Plattes public service director in January, has received his Class B license as a city street superintendent from the Nebraska Department of Transportation.

Groseth successfully completed his license examination April 5 before the state Board of Examiners for County Highway and City Street Superintendents, NDOT officials said in a press release.

Mayor Dwight Livingston chose Groseth, who grew up southeast of North Platte, from a field of 13 applicants to succeed the retiring Wes Meyer. He started work Jan. 7, five days after the City Council unanimously confirmed his hiring.

Groseth, who graduated from Maxwell High School in 1988 and the University of Nebraska at Kearney in 1992, served as city administrator in Albion from 1994 to 2000.

He worked in the private sector in the Omaha area before joining the Union Pacific Railroads Bailey Yard diesel shop in 2007 as a mechanical supervisor.

As public service director, Groseth oversees the citys street, sanitation, parks and cemetery departments.
National Police Week is this week, and the public is invited to several events.

The North Platte Police Department will host the annual area Law Enforcement Memorial Service at noon Wednesday in Iron Horse Park south of the U.S. Highway 83-Interstate 80 interchange.

Area law enforcement officers will pay tribute to officers who have died in the line of duty.

North Platte Police Chief Daniel Hudson will be the keynote speaker.

Donations for the Lincoln County Law Enforcement Memorial will be accepted.

A barbecue at the park will follow the ceremony. The public is invited.

On May 19, the North Platte police and fire departments will host a First Responder Picnic from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Cody Park Pavilion.

Hot dogs and chips will be served, and the public can meet local police officers and firefighters.

Residents also are invited to tour the police department during the week, according to a Facebook post from the department.

To schedule a visit, call 308-535-6789 and ask for Officer Beth Kerr.
DEF LEPPARD Announce EXIT 111 Festival Appearance For October

Def Leppard 2019

Def Leppard have been announced to play a new festival in Manchester, TN this October on their 2019 American tour.

The show takes place on 12th October 2019 in Manchester, NH.

The event runs from 11th to 13th October at Great Stage Park which is also the site of the annual Bonnaroo Music Festival.

The first visit to this city since April 2017 on the 2017 North American tour.

Other acts playing the event include ZZ Top, Guns N' Roses, Ghost, Cheap Trick, Blackberry Smoke and Megadeth.

Tickets are currently on sale.

Visit the Tour News section. For more news on future tour plans.

Def Leppard - Exit 111 Festival 2019

The first time at this festival.

Press Release Quotes

The Exit 111 lineup is out! Organizers unveiled the full lineup on Tuesday, which includes Guns N' Roses, Def Leppard, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Slayer, ZZ Top, Deftones, Ghost, Megadeth, Coheed & Cambria, Lamb of God and Mastodon.

A new three-day rock festival is slated to take place on the same grounds as Bonnaroo this fall.

The Exit 111 Festival will be held at Great Stage Park in Manchester, Tennessee this October 11-13.

Related News - RICK ALLEN On DEF LEPPARD Playing Rare Songs At Las Vegas Residency

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Related News - RICK ALLEN Says DEF LEPPARD To Dig Into Past For Las Vegas Setlist

Related News - RICK ALLEN Says DEF LEPPARD To Play Rare Songs In Las Vegas/RRHOF

Related News - VIVIAN CAMPBELL Wants PETE WILLIS To Attend DEF LEPPARD RRHOF Induction

Related News - VIVIAN CAMPBELL On His Respect For Steve Clark/DEF LEPPARD's RRHOF Induction

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Students fire off streamers as Sweet Caroline played to close out the morning commencement ceremony for the class of 2019. The ceremony, which took place May 11 at Hilton Coliseum, honored graduates for both the spring and upcoming summer term.
Voters unseated Orr at the next election.

Both governors, by the way, were Republicans.

So, you see, theres practically no political upside to heeding rural Nebraskas cries for a long-term, gimmick-free commitment to lower property taxes as much as possible.

State leaders plead that theyve got too many statewide needs to fund with state dollars. Thats largely true.

They also claim its entirely local governments fault  er, our fault  if property taxes go up. Given their past parsimony with state aid, and the long list of unfunded federal and state mandates on local governments, that has never been true.

What could we do to reduce local spending, which Ricketts says is the only sure route to property tax relief?

We could consolidate four or five dozen counties into a handful of counties the size of Cherry County. Affected county-seat towns would deem that their death warrant. But we could do that.

We could combine even more school districts. We could abolish extracurricular activities, close more school buildings, hire fewer teachers, have fewer and larger classes.
I was diagnosed with cancer in December 2017. I want to thank so many people who have touched my life over these last 17 months.

Dr. Shawn Murdock is so caring, funny and an awesome person. He lights up the room when he walks in. His job is not always easy.

At the Callahan Cancer Center I met the most caring, warm and amazing Dr. Demytra Mitsis. She will always have a special place in my heart. She is a beautiful, unique doctor.

During all my tests I was lucky to meet Dr. Ladd Lake. His sense of humor is infectious.

I then was introduced to my surgeon Dr. Michael Simonson. What a great guy. Very informative on whats going to happen.

Finally the day comes when you start your treatments. You walk in and Deb greats you with a smile. In the waiting area you are greeted by great volunteer Carol. Youre quickly called back for labs, doctor visit and treatment.

These incredible nurses make sure you understand everything thats going on, and make sure you and your spouse are comfortable. These nurses are the most remarkable people I have ever met.
Willie and Inge Culberson met in 1952 after Willie enlisted in the U.S. Air Force two years earlier and was stationed in Frankfort, Germany during the Korean War. Inge was a German citizen working in Frankfort.

They discovered while dating that their birthdays fell on the same date which seemed like a lucky omen. The happy couple married not once, but twice, both in Germany and at the Rhein-Main American Air Force base to assure all would be smooth sailing legally when they got to the U.S.

The trip here was anything but smooth as they traveled 10 days on a troop ship rocked wildly by hurricane Hazel with their first of 2, newborn daughter Linda on board. Things finally did smooth out as they approached land seeing the Statue of Liberty, knowing solid ground and life in America were just ahead.

Four years later a second daughter, Carol, was born.

One of the proudest days in Inge's life was when she was sworn in to receive her American citizenship and the right to vote.

Willie has enjoyed 33 years of retirement from his supervisory position at USS Gary Works.

They celebrate 65 loving years together May 15 with family and friends.

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Sunny start gets cheaper

Whether you start your day with a cup of coffee or a glass of orange juice, your morning breakfast budget is likely getting cheaper. Coffee and orange juice futures have tumbled to multiyear lows as supply outweighs demand for both commodities.

Wholesale coffee prices are under 87 cents per pound, the lowest level since 2005, and half of what the market fetched in 2016. Global supplies have been rising after producers expanded production over the last decade on hopes of rising demand; the expansion of coffee groves is now grinding prices lower.

Meanwhile, frozen concentrated orange juice futures fell to 90 cents per pound, the lowest level in nearly a decade. OJ is suffering from shifting consumer demand toward other fruit juices and away from sugary beverages in general.

Both coffee and OJ are also affected by a weak Brazilian currency, the real. A falling real encourages Brazilian coffee and orange producers to sell their goods on the international market, pushing prices lower worldwide as they seek to get their hands on more valuable currencies, like the U.S. dollar.

This same phenomenon has sunk sugar prices lower as well, as Brazil is the worlds largest producer of all three commodities.

Opinions are solely the writers. Walt and Alex Breitinger are with Breitinger & Sons LLC, a commodity futures brokerage firm in Valparaiso. They can be reached at (800) 411-3888 or www.indianafutures.com. This is not a solicitation of any order to buy or sell any market.

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Holding a series of roles of increasing responsibility with the city, he oversaw Gary's economic development efforts, business incentives and real estate acquisition.

He helped court private developers, such as to bring a housing development to the Memorial Auditorium site downtown, and had been working to potentially bring a lakefront hotel or restaurant to Lake Street Beach in the Miller neighborhood.

He is leaving to move closer to family on the West Coast but will stay with the city on a part-time basis through September to finish Gary's update to its comprehensive plan and to oversee the transition, according to the news release.

Gary native A.J. Bytnar was appointed to replace Van Dyk. He has a decade of experience in the public and private sectors, serving in different roles at Fishers, the Lake County Department of Planning and the Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority. He has served as the city planner for Hobart and director of planning and development for Lowell.

An Andrean High School and Ball State University alumnus who's lived in Miller, Bytnar also has worked in private real estate development, including for Edward Rose and Sons in Carmel.

Im excited to officially join the City of Garys team and want to thank Mayor Karen Freeman-Wilson and Joe Van Dyk for presenting this opportunity," he said. "I am honored to take over the role as Director of Redevelopment and will work hard every day to achieve the citys vision.

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Dan Wilburn of LPL Financial was recently ranked 41st in Indiana on a Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Advisors list. Wilburn has provided financial services in Northwest Indiana for 26 years. He works at R.B. Smith Co. in Valparaiso. The company also recently welcomed Sam Shaw, a certified financial planner and lifelong Valparaiso resident.

Binika Henderson of Heritage Real Estate Services in Merrillville was featured in the Indiana Edition of Top Agent Magazine in December 2018.

Dr. Tia Dorn has joined LaPorte Physician Network as a family medicine physician. Dorns office is located at the LifeWorks Campus, 3777 N. Frontage Road, Suite 400 in Michigan City.

The National Trial Lawyers has named Brian Custy of the Custy Law Firm in Valparaiso to its Top 100 Civil Plaintiff Trial Lawyers in Indiana list.
When Snow, a 5-year-old German Shepherd-Huskie mix (hence the name), checked into the Conrad Hotel in Indianapolis, a plush dog bed awaited her, along with bowls filled water and food, and, for the discriminating dog  which she is  a scarf to tie around her neck bearing the hotel's name.

After all, what well-groomed canine doesnt want the world to know where she is staying?

Pet-friendly places abound in Indianapolis, says Nate Swick, communications coordinator for Visit Indy, who offered a long list of restaurants and hotels that cater to pets, including The Alexander Hotel and The Omni Severin Hotel, which, like the Conrad, are located downtown.

Of course, Snow and other pets dont want to just hang in their room but also want to get out and see the sights.

The 33 Wisemen in Broad Ripple has a dog-friendly patio plus a menu with dog food from Three Dog Bakery  a local establishment.

Calvin Fletchers Coffee is 100 percent pet-friendly both inside and out, and West Fork Whiskey, where all the spirits are 100 percent distilled from Indiana grain, is dog-friendly inside.
'Role model to all of us'

Sweeney said Read also advocated in getting more women involved in the conservation movement.

"As we saw in 'Shifting Sands,' she loved to acknowledge and brag on the impact women had on the efforts to protect the Dunes. Just six weeks ago I was visiting with the Reads at their home. We talked about the Porter County chapter and all the good things we have going on. I mentioned that apart from Herb, all of our subject experts were women. We talked about other things we could do if our chapter was bigger and we had more money and more members. Charlotte looked right at me and said, 'You need to get more women,'" Sweeney recalled.

Natalie Johnson, executive director of Save the Dunes, is one of the women who was inspired by Read.

"She told us you don't have to be quiet; we have a voice," Johnson said. "She was so smart, so educated. She always had her facts at hand. She is a role model to all of us."

Johnson said she and other millennials in environmental advocacy use Read's philosophy and methods as the industry's standards and strive to follow Read's example.

"Her wisdom and perseverance are admirable. We want to attain those same goals," Johnson said. "She set a very high bar and provided a model of don't back down, don't take no for an answer and to work together for the people of the Region."

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Police closed the Indiana Toll Road to all westbound traffic by the Calumet Avenue exit in Hammond after a seven-vehicle crash.

Six vehicles and a pick-up truck wrecked about 3:40 p.m. Sunday near the 5.1-mile marker not far from the Illinois state line, according to Indiana State Police. The crash resulted in an unspecified number of personal injuries but none were life-threatening.

The crash also resulted in a secondary crash after traffic backed up.

"The problem in this area is that there is construction on the Indiana Toll Road from the 10-mile marker to the Illinois State Line which takes traffic down to one lane," the Indiana State Police said in a news release. "The crash westbound occurred in the only lane of traffic opened."

Tow trucks at the scene moved vehicles, and police were working to get traffic moving. Indiana State Police were urging people to stay away from the area and find alternate ways to get where they're going.

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VALPARAISO  The city's redevelopment commission is considering expanding public transit to Chicago.

During its regular meeting Thursday night, Executive Director Stu Summers presented a concept for a service called Transit Connect that would have city buses head up to the Duneland or Ogden Dunes South Shore Line train stations.

The current inter-city bus system, ChicaGo Dash, heads directly to downtown Chicago but only a few times during the morning and the evening.

The new route would start at the bus stop on the corner of Indiana and Michigan avenues in Valparaiso and stop at the city's downtown transit center before heading to one of the two South Shore Line train stations.

These buses would run between 9 a.m. and around 2 p.m., and between 6 p.m. and about 9 p.m. The morning and mid-afternoon service would be round-trip while evening routes would only head from the train back to Valparaiso.

Summers said this could add riders who work late and help commuters during family emergencies.
There are more than 130 districts across the state with some in Lake, Porter and LaPorte counties. Porter has more than most, with about eight active districts in all or part of the county as of 2018.

Many of these eight are assisted by attorney David Hollenbeck, who also works with the city of Valparaiso among other local government bodies.

Hollenbeck argues they are a classic form of grassroots governance that is highly accountable to residents.

These people don't get elected to go off to Washington, these are their neighbors, he said.

That's the irony of people saying 'I've never heard of you for 30 years.' 

Either way, many are unaware of them and often are surprised to find out they exist.

Porter County Commissioner Jeff Good knew of their existence through real estate work but didn't know the specifics on how they functioned until he was elected in 2014. Good said residents were even less aware.

When I got into office, my first year, all of a sudden I get a lot of these calls on complaints, he said.
"We think these resolutions are really powerful, although they're non-binding, because they raise awareness and educate the public, and hopefully can lay the groundwork to make more resources available to those people who potentially struggle with pornography," she said.

Any future steps to restrict access to pornography have to be handled carefully to avoid running afoul of the First Amendment, said David Boaz, executive vice president of the libertarian-leaning Cato Institute.

"When you declare it as a public health crisis, people see that as a blank check for the government to do something about it," he said.

Utah was the first state to pass an anti-porn resolution in 2016. In the years since, lawmakers have passed bills tightening up filters on wireless internet at public libraries and getting out information to parents about controls available at home, said Republican Rep. Todd Weiler, the effort's sponsor.

Another new state law lets parents sue pornography makers if their kids need treatment for problems related to porn use, though it wasn't immediately clear whether anyone has made a legal challenge through it.

"We're trying to shed a light on an issue that some people don't think it's OK to talk about," he said

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As a reporter for The Times and co-editor of Get Healthy magazine, Giles Bruce has reported extensively on health care in Northwest Indiana for 4 1/2 years. He has interviewed countless Region medical professionals in that time, including nurses. He has worked intensively to bring to the fore and find solutions for the Region's critical health challenges, such as infant mortality and opioid addiction, promoted a physically active lifestyle and analyzed the business of health care and its impact on health outcomes. In doing so, hes received a fellowship provided by the University of Southern California's Center for Health Journalism, which enabled Bruce to expand his infant mortality research beyond the Region and to uncover . His investigative reporting uncovered a broader range of causesthan state health leaders wanted to acknowledge, including environmental pollution and limited access to healthy food, medical care and transportation in many Indiana communities.
"She decided to get away from him. She had found another place and was going to move out that following Monday," Mozelle said. "I really, truly believe he found out she was leaving, and that led to her death.

"I don't know if it was planned out or a spur-of-the-moment thing, but it was something that should have never happened."

Authorities officially ruled the case a murder-suicide.

Longing for mom

Now Noah and Layla must grow up without their loving mother, who poured her heart and soul into raising her children, Mozelle said.

It's been hardest on Layla, who had a close bond with Asia.

"There's not one day that passes that Layla doesn't mention something about her mom," Mozelle said.

For weeks after Asia's death, Layla would wait for her mother to get off work, pick her up from Granny's house and take her to school.

But Asia was no longer coming.

"She would cry in the morning because she missed her mom," Mozelle said. "She was having a hard time in school. She was going through a lot.
Fleming Begaye Sr., a Navajo code talker in World War II who was honored at a White House ceremony in 2017 that turned political when President Trump mocked Senator Elizabeth Warrens claims of Native American ancestry, died on May 10 in Chinle, Ariz. He was 97.

His death was confirmed by his granddaughter Theodosia Ott.

Mr. Begaye and two other former code talkers, Peter MacDonald and Thomas Begay, were being honored in the Oval Office for their participation in a top-secret program in which American forces in the Pacific communicated in coded messages in the Navajo language.

The Japanese were unable to break the code, and the code talkers were credited with helping to secure the Allied victory in the Pacific.

The honorees, wearing their Marines uniforms along with turquoise and silver, hallmarks of Navajo culture, were alongside Mr. Trump when he derided Ms. Warren without mentioning her by name.
Wed see the shadow of someone hitting; wed hear the scream, then silence  suffocating silence.

MOUNIR FAKIR, a Syrian dissident, describing what he saw guards do to prisoners at Military Hospital 601.
Its become something of a recent tradition at Saturday Night Live for the annual pre-Mothers Day broadcast to feature a tribute of sorts from current cast members to their real-life moms. That custom was upheld in this weekends episode, hosted by Emma Thompson and featuring the Jonas Brothers as musical guests. But for her opening monologue, Thompson (who said her daughter, Gaia Wise, was in the audience) was joined by two other moms with long histories at S.N.L.  former cast members Tina Fey and Amy Poehler, who offered a little language lesson to help children decode what their mothers might be saying to them.

For example, Thompson said, When you ask your mother what she wants to do for Mothers Day and she says  

Fey: Just to relax in the backyard, maybe a massage. Thompson: What shes actually asking is  Poehler: How does one buy weed?

Or, Thompson said, When your mother sees what youre wearing and says  
As the shows anchor, Robinson, who had a brief stint as a cast member on Saturday Night Live, is a sweetly vulnerable, baggy-eyed presence whose typical pivot moves from banal boredom to infinite exasperation. He has an intensity suited for the macabre, but he tunes it to a comic frequency. Turn the sound off and you can still tell that his sad sacks are doomed, from his variety of slumps, a perpetually furrowed brow and, often, a ludicrous fake mustache.

The roots of his breakout were planted two years ago when Netflix presented The Characters, a series of showcases for comedians, including 30 minutes of Robinson, who played fragile neurotics with anger issues. He did a wonderful impression of the abrupt and operatic unraveling of a Sinatra-like charmer who turns into a sniveling, despairing depressive after a single lost bet. But his most affecting character was a melancholy worker bee completely undone by a crank call from a colleague. Robinson made this seem real and ridiculous, poignant and preposterous. In his new show, he returns to the theme of minor jokes causing major wounds with sketches in which a magicians banter and a whoopee cushion prove to be nearly existential.

He specializes in men completely unable to roll with the punches. Instead they get angry and stubborn, digging in and completely ignoring the message in the title, I Think You Should Leave. This may sound like a parody of emotional snowflakes, but Robinson isnt out to mock his characters (the show actually makes you sympathize with them) so much as to summon humor in just how frustrating small embarrassments can feel.

The show is produced by the comedy troupe the Lonely Island (one of its members, Andy Samberg, stars in an episode). But its comedic aesthetic owes much less to Lonely Islands slick musical parodies than to the gonzo grotesqueries of Tim and Eric Awesome Show Great Job (Tim Heidecker, half of the team behind that Adult Swim hit, stars in one of the more conventionally funny sketches in I Think You Should Leave, playing the worlds most insufferable charades player). Tim and Eric DNA shows up in the squishy sound design, the rapid-fire editing and throwback graphics as well as some of the casting, which mixes actors with people who look as if they had stumbled off the subway.
LAS VEGAS  On a recent very warm Saturday afternoon, just a few blocks northeast of a string of ramshackle chapels offering Elvis-themed weddings on Las Vegas Boulevard, the novelist Tommy Orange was discussing the critical reception given to There There, his polyphonic novel about contemporary Native Americans.

Orange was speaking at the third annual Believer Festival, three days of performances, panels and parties that are part of a burgeoning literary scene here. As high-low splits go, it is a tough scene to beat.

With irregular regularity, various places in the United States that are not the Big Obvious Centers start throwing off a more concentrated number of cultural sparks: Austin, Tex.; Seattle; Chapel Hill, N.C.; Atlanta. Las Vegas might not seem the most obvious place to join this list. The Strip is still, and ever shall be, as Joan Didion described it, bizarre and beautiful in its venality and in its devotion to immediate gratification. But a recent infusion of money, people and The Believer, a literary magazine, have kindled an already present bookish community into a steadier flame.

The hub of this resurgence (or, to coin a term, surgence) is the Black Mountain Institute, a literary center that operates out of the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. When Joshua Wolf Shenk was named the executive and artistic director of the institute in 2015  after the retirement of Carol Harter, who founded B.M.I. in 2006  he was not planning to also become the editor in chief of a magazine. But soon after beginning his tenure, Shenk talked to The Believer, then published by McSweeneys and based in San Francisco, about cooperating on a live event in Vegas.
2. The Mueller report continued to be a flash point between the White House and Congress.

Days after the House Judiciary Committee voted to hold Attorney General William Barr in contempt after he refused to hand over the full special counsels report, the chairman of that committee said Robert Mueller would not testify this coming week as lawmakers had hoped. A new date has not been set. Above, Mr. Mueller recently in Washington.

As the constitutional showdown continues, President Trump and his team are essentially trying to call what they see as the Democrats bluff. The message: Impeach or move on.

Separately, the White House is said to have asked a key witness in the Mueller report, former White House counsel Donald McGahn , to declare that the president never obstructed justice. He declined. At least twice.
Artificial intelligence is also playing a crucial role in agriculture.

In Australia, for example, warmer weather and a decline in rainfall because of climate change has caused a significant drop in the production of wheat and other crops such as canola and sugar cane; the country contributes about 12 percent of the total wheat traded globally, according to its federal scientific research agency, the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization. And the decline is coming at a time when more food, not less, is needed to feed a growing world population.

One of the ways to attack this problem is to genetically modify the crops to increase genes that are stronger in yield, quality and disease resistance.

Artificial intelligence and machine learning come into play here as a way to do this much more rapidly and effectively than humans. While an enormous amount of agriculture information is already available, the trouble is in analyzing it.

Ten years ago, I would have been crying in the corner at the thought of how to analyze all the data that is coming online, said Ben Trevaskis, who works for the research agency. There is no way we can ever do this manually.

Using data such as the genetic history of Australian wheat varieties, artificial intelligence can decipher the relationships between genes, growing conditions and crop performance. It can then rapidly combine thousands of genes into different varieties. For example, there is a 12-year lag between the discovery of new genes and traits and their use. The hope is to reduce that to two or three years.
Storms seem stronger and hit beyond the regular rainy season from December to April.

In March, Cyclone Idai ravaged southeastern Africa in the worst extreme weather event to occur so far this year, according to the United Nations International Strategy for Disaster Reduction. As the cyclone made landfall on March 14, heavy rain and unusually strong winds pummeled Beira and other parts of central Mozambique, as well as neighboring Malawi and Zimbabwe. At least 2.8 million people in the three countries were affected.

The storm killed 598 people in Mozambique and as of early April injured more than 1,600 because of falling trees and debris, according to the government. More than 130,000 people across the country were displaced.

In Beira, about 300,000 people who live in flimsy housing in crowded, haphazard settlements are especially vulnerable to natural disasters. Dirty, stagnant floodwaters also breed mosquitoes and deadly diseases. In Mozambique, there were about 6,600 cholera cases and nearly 15,000 malaria cases in one province, as of April 22.

About six weeks later, Cyclone Kenneth hit northern Mozambique, killing at least five people and destroying nearly 30,000 homes. It was the first time that two cyclones have struck Mozambique in the same season.
Tracy Maria Williams and Andrew Seth Durham were married May 11 at the Rivermill Event Center in Columbus, Ga. Judge Gil McBride, chief judge for the Chattahoochee Judicial Circuit and friend of the brides family, officiated at a ceremony that incorporated Vietnamese wedding traditions.

Ms. Williams, 28, is an assistant district attorney at the Bronx district attorneys office. She graduated from Emory University in Atlanta with highest honors and received a law degree from Boston University.

The bride is the daughter of Tam T. Williams and Ellis L. Williams of White Plains. Her father, who is retired, retired from the Army in 1985; he achieved the rank of first sergeant and served in the Vietnam War. He was last stationed at Fort Benning, in Georgia, where he worked for the Civilian Service as a logistics management specialist and military training instructor. The brides mother, who is also retired, worked for the Civilian Service, managing uniform alterations and logistics at Fort Benning. She then started Evetts, a dry cleaning and alterations company based in Hamilton, Ga.

Mr. Durham, 33, is an assistant district attorney at the Brooklyn district attorneys office. He graduated magna cum laude from the College of Charleston in Charleston, S.C., and received a masters degree in Latin American and Caribbean studies from N.Y.U. He received a law degree, magna cum laude, from Tulane.
So the trial will have to settle two questions at the heart of the case: Was the maneuver Officer Pantaleo used a chokehold? And, if so, was the officer justified in using it to subdue an unarmed man during a low-level arrest?

On Thursday, the Police Department judge overseeing the trial said that prosecutors must prove that Officer Pantaleos actions went beyond a violation of departmental rules and constituted a crime  an unusually high bar.

Video of the fatal encounter was recorded by Ramsey Orta, a friend of Mr. Garners who is expected to testify at Officer Pantaleos trial. It captured Mr. Garner telling officers in street clothes to leave him alone after they approached him outside a beauty supply store on July 17, 2014, not far from the Staten Island Ferry Terminal.

Mr. Garner had repeated encounters with the police and believed that he was being harassed.

This stops today, he told the officers before they moved to arrest him over accusations that he was selling untaxed cigarettes. As one officer tried to grab Mr. Garners hand, he slipped free. Then Officer Pantaleo slid one arm around Mr. Garners neck and another under his left arm and dragged him to the ground. On the pavement, he begged for air.

The medical examiner ruled his death a homicide and said he died from a chokehold and the compression of his chest from lying prone. The findings are a crucial issue in the trial and Officer Pantaleos defense lawyer plans to dispute them.

Stuart London, the police union lawyer representing Officer Pantaleo, said the technique his client used was the seatbelt maneuver taught in the Police Academy, not a chokehold. He plans to argue that Mr. Garner, who was overweight and severely asthmatic, died because of poor health.
Under Mr. Zapatero, Mr. Rubalcaba held different ministerial jobs, most significantly that of interior minister, which again put him at the heart of Spains struggle against ETA.

In 2006, a significantly weakened ETA declared a cease-fire, but then broke the truce a few months later, when Basque terrorists bombed the parking lot of Madrids airport, killing two people. Mr. Rubalcaba then coordinated efforts to dismantle ETA, with the Spanish police arresting several ETA leaders, often in cooperation with its counterpart in neighboring France. ETA declared another cease-fire in October 2011, and then formally disbanded last year, ending one of Europes longest terrorism campaigns, which had killed more than 800 people.

But by 2011, Spain was sinking into a banking crisis and facing record unemployment. An increasingly unpopular Mr. Zapatero handed over the leadership of the Socialists to Mr. Rubalcaba, in the run-up to another national election, forecasting that the leadership change could save the Socialists. Referring to Mr. Rubalcabas past as a champion sprinter in college, Mr. Zapatero said that somebody who is a sprinter and has been capable of running 100 meters in just over 10 seconds is capable of winning elections in 10 months.

But in November of that year, the Socialists suffered a humiliating defeat, and the Popular Party returned to office with a parliamentary majority.

Even so, Mr. Rubalcaba survived a challenge to his Socialist Party leadership, narrowly defeating Carme Chacon, who had been the defense minister in Mr. Zapateros administration. Two years later, after voters once more shunned the Socialists in the elections to the European Parliament, Mr. Rubalcaba withdrew from politics. He returned to academia, teaching chemistry at the Complutense, one of Madrids major universities.

Mr. Rubalcaba is survived by his wife, Pilar Goya. The couple did not have children.

Mr. Rubalcabas death coincided with another election campaign, as Spain holds municipal, regional and European Parliament elections on May 26.

After hearing that Mr. Rubalcaba had suffered a stroke, Pedro Sanchez, the Socialist prime minister, cut short a trip to Romania to visit Mr. Rubalcaba in the hospital. The Socialist Party suspended its election campaign activities on Saturday to respect the day of mourning for Mr. Rubalcaba.

Mr. Sanchez said that Mr. Rubalcaba was an example of commitment to the cause of democracy and freedom in Spain, to which he dedicated his whole life. Mr. Zapatero wrote that Mr. Rubalcaba was essential and decisive in ending terrorism in Spain.
Arthur Zitrin, a leading bioethicist who sought to discipline doctors who administered lethal injections to condemned prisoners, died on Saturday at his home in Great Neck, N.Y. He was 101.

The cause was chronic lung disease complicated by a stroke, according to his son, Richard, a lawyer and a professor of legal ethics at the University of California Hastings College of the Law.

In 2005, after a state board dismissed his complaint against a doctor who had performed an execution, Dr. Zitrin filed a lawsuit demanding that the Georgia Composite State Board of Medical Examiners punish any doctors who help carry out capital punishment.

The Georgia courts dismissed his lawsuit, arguing in 2007 that Dr. Zitrin was not an aggrieved plaintiff. But the issue, which developed only when states sought more humane methods of applying the death penalty, percolated.
Peggy Lipton, the angel-faced actress who starred in The Mod Squad and made a television comeback in the Twin Peaks series, died on Saturday in Los Angeles. She was 72.

Her death was confirmed by her daughters, the actresses Kidada and Rashida Jones. Ms. Lipton received a diagnosis of colon cancer in 2004.

She was 22 when she achieved instant stardom on the ABC police drama The Mod Squad (1968-73), one of the first prime-time series to acknowledge the existence of the hippie counterculture and an early example of multiracial casting.
To the Editor:

Re Big Tobaccos Latest Ploy, by Alex Bogusky (Op-Ed, May 6):

We applaud Mr. Bogusky for refusing to work with Juul. E-cigarette companies exploit a loophole the Food and Drug Administration has delayed closing despite the youth vaping epidemic.

Juul used social media and flavors to send a message of a cool lifestyle choice to teenagers. Now almo st 3.6 million of them are vaping. We hear from parents every day whose children, sometimes as young as 12, didnt understand that they were choosing nicotine addiction.

Theres another loophole: Congress ban ned broadcast cigarette adv ertising in 1970, but there are no restrictions on e-cigarettes. While Juuls Make the Switch floods airwaves  possibly breaking F.D.A. rules with implicit, unproven modified risk tobacco product claims  vape ads appear on homework websites.

(In Massachusetts, Attorne y General M aura Heal ey used state laws to halt several co mpanies internet sales.)
To the Editor:

Either They Kill Us or We Kill Them (front page, May 5) tells the micro story of gangs and violence in a Honduran neighborhood.

I just returned from Honduras with 75 religious leaders, looking at the systemic economic and state violence that enables the gangs to thrive. The corruption and collusion between state actors and organized crime are stunning.

Tony Herna ndez, a former Honduran congressman and brother of the president of Hond uras, stands trial for large-scale drug trafficking and weapons charges in New York after being arrested by the Drug Enforcement Administration.

The latest report from the High Commissi oner for Human Rights says organized crime has infiltrated Honduran government a gencies and the broader political arena. This is why 53 members of the United States Congress are co-sponsors of H.R. 1945, the Berta Caceres Human Rights in Honduras Act.
Own the center-left. Own the mainstream.

This is the advice  some might even call it a warning  that House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has been drilling into her caucus of late. If Democrats want to send President Trump packing in 2020, she told The Times recently, they must resist being pulled toward the hard, partisan fringes in ways likely to turn off the middle.

Along with a slow and steady course on oversight  no impeachment talk, please!  the speaker is pressing a policy agenda more evolutionary than revolutionary. Democrats dominated the midterms, she said, with a simple message of better health care, better jobs and less swampy politics. We did not engage in some of the other exuberances that exist in our party.

For a clearer definition of exuberances, see: the Green New Deal, Medicare for All and abolishing Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

Ms. Pelosis is a cautious prescription  one that, in addition to frustrating the less patient elements of her party, clashes with her longstanding image as a crusading San Francisco liberal. This incongruity flows partly from the fact that her caricature was always just that, a partisan construct Republicans used to fire up their base. But it also reflects the political landscape in which the speaker now finds herself the nations most powerful Democrat.
WELLINGTON, New Zealand  Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern of New Zealand will attempt this week to use the terrorist attack that killed 51 Muslim worshipers in Christchurch mosques in March to demand that the biggest internet platforms do more to stamp out violent and extremist content.

Ms. Ardern will be in France with President Emmanuel Macron to sign an agreement they crafted called the Christchurch Call that asks the social media giants to examine the software that directs people to violent content, and to share more data with government authorities and each other to help eradicate toxic online material, according to officials from New Zealand and France involved in drafting the proposal.

The accused gunmans use of social media to live stream his rampage in New Zealand and to share a hate-filled manifesto crystallized the vulnerability of internet platforms to extremist and violent views.

Ms. Arderns effort adds momentum to a global push to curb the power of the worlds largest internet platforms.
MONTCLAIR, N.J.  The spectacle begins promisingly, provokingly, in Romeo Castelluccis Democracy in America: with a crowd of female dancers in gold-trimmed white bobbing around the stage, each carrying a furled white flag. They look like the most glamorous drill team youve ever seen, their long-skirted coats like a runway reinterpretation of a World War I officers dress uniform.

The first time they arrange themselves to unfurl the flags, the block letters on them spell out the title of the show, borrowed from Alexis de Tocquevilles 19th-century anatomization of our young nation. Interspersed with further dancing come more, anagrammatic messages: COCAIN ARMY MEDICARE (the drug misspelled, but you get the idea); DECAY CRIME MACARONI.

It appears, then, that Mr. Castellucci, the Italian auteur, has something pointed to say. But while the show, very loosely inspired by Tocqueville, does pay off with hallucinatory visuals and aural overload  a combustible hallmark of Mr. Castelluccis work  it doesnt contribute much to our American moment of self-scrutiny.

Presented by Peak Performances through Sunday at the Alexander Kasser Theater at Montclair State University here, Democracy in America is filled with striking tableaus. Mr. Castellucci  who directed and designed the show, and wrote its text with Claudia Castellucci, his sister  layers scrims to blur the action behind them. Softly lit, his scenes often have the smeary quality of a painting, or a nightmare.
Calling a truce was not so easy, though.

It takes no time at all to pick up the bitterness among some of the laid-off Times-Picayune employees who have landed at The Advocate, and still feel that they were unceremoniously kicked aside. Or the irritation among journalists who stayed on at The Times-Picayune, and who see a streak of self-righteousness in the attitude from their rivals that journalism is somehow more pure if its delivered on paper every day. The entry code to a certain keypad at The Advocates bureau in New Orleans is, to those in the know, a vulgar swipe at the competition.

But last fall, Mr. Shea and Mr. Georges both sensed that something had changed at Advance. The Newhouses suddenly seemed open to some kind of deal.

Literally, I spent six months with the most sophisticated people in the top of the food chain in New York, Mr. Georges said in his office, where a double magnum of champagne sat on his desk, sent by a local banker in congratulation.

At the end, he and his wife, Dathel, had a deal. The paper and the website were now theirs.

In a time of crisis, you can pack up and go, or you can double down, Mr. Georges said, comparing his embrace of a seven-day printed paper to residents refusal to abandon New Orleans after Katrina.

The journalists losing their jobs at The Times-Picayune are now polishing resumes, looking at their finances and gathering for drinks at the Howlin Wolf, a bar across the street from their office.

On the day last month when Pulitzer Prize winners were announced, The Advocate put up a paywall for the first time, limiting the number of articles nonsubscribers can read free online. With the end of a six-year battle and one big paper left in town, the journalists of New Orleans now turn to the real newspaper war: surviving in the news industry at all.
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There was little reason to predict those differences when the two men served as law clerks to Justice Anthony M. Kennedy starting in the summer of 1993. We were in the middle of everything, Justice Kavanaugh said in a 2017 interview, when he was still an appeals court judge.

The two clerks had already known each other for more than a decade, having attended Georgetown Preparatory School in North Bethesda, Md., together. Justice Kavanaugh, now 54, was in the class of 1983. Justice Gorsuch, 51, was two years behind him.

As justices, though, the two men can be a study in contrasts. Gorsuch is clearly more willing to sweep with a broader brush, appears less concerned about precedent and does not seem to have the same pragmatic streak that we see a little bit in Kavanaugh, Professor Adler said.

Justice Gorsuch is a formalist who is committed to the interpretive tools of originalism, which looks to the meaning of the Constitution when it was adopted, and textualism, which focuses on statutory wording. He is suspicious of arguments grounded in pragmatism and impatient with lawyers who will not address him on his terms.

We hear a lot about what makes sense in this room, Justice Gorsuch said at an argument last month over whether a criminal statute was unconstitutionally vague. Im curious about what the law is.

When he failed to get a satisfactory answer, he dismissed the lawyer. Off you go, he said.

That same day, in a statute of limitations case, Justice Kavanaugh indicated that he was inclined to take account of what makes sense. If the law is murky and we can choose one path or another reasonably as a matter of law, wouldnt we choose the more orderly, practical approach? he asked.

Ross Guberman, an authority on legal writing and the author of Point Taken: How to Write Like the Worlds Best Judges, said that Justice Gorsuch possesses the showier writing style.
After months of pressing urgently for a deal with China, Mr. Trump abruptly shifted course in the past week, stung by what he viewed as its attempt to renege on key parts of a draft agreement. The president declared he was ready to prolong the standoff with Beijing because the cost of a trade war is much higher for the Chinese, with their huge numbers of exports to the United States, than it is for Americans.

Talks with China continue in a very congenial manner, Mr. Trump said Friday on Twitter. There is absolutely no need to rush  as Tariffs are NOW being paid to the United States by China of 25% on 250 Billion Dollars worth of goods & products. These massive payments go directly to the Treasury of the U.S.

He went even further in a subsequent tweet, claiming that tariffs would bring in FAR MORE wealth to our Country than even a phenomenal deal of the traditional kind  a statement that seemed to undercut his administrations contention that China has robbed American companies of billions of dollars through coercive practices like the forced transfer of technology and unfair licensing agreements.

There is no doubt that China is being buffeted by the tariffs, which could soon apply to virtually everything it exports to the United States. Mr. Kudlow said economic growth in China would slow down as its exports diminished. He argued that the effect on the American economy would be modest  only a 0.2 percent reduction in growth  even if Mr. Trump extended tariffs across the board, as he has threatened to do.

You got to do what you got to do, Mr. Kudlow said. In my judgment, the economic consequences are so small but the possible improvement in trade, and exports, and open market for the United States  this is worthwhile doing.
LAS VEGAS  Pete Buttigieg, the mayor of South Bend, Ind., on Saturday directly confronted one of his biggest vulnerabilities as a contender for the Democratic presidential nomination: running as a white man who has led a life of relative privilege at a time when many in his party are eager for a woman or a minority candidate to become their next leader.

Speaking at a fund-raiser for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender causes, Mr. Buttigieg drew on his own experiences as a gay man in a predominantly straight society. But he also rejected the idea that there are equivalencies in the forms of discrimination experienced by different minority groups and individuals.

I may be part of the L.G.B.T.Q. community. But being a gay man doesnt even tell me what its like to be a trans woman of color in that same community, let alone an undocumented mother of four or a disabled veteran or a displaced autoworker, he said at the event, hosted by the Human Rights Campaign.

Mr. Buttigieg recalled the experiences of several historically oppressed groups and the political movements that brought greater social and political equality, including Latino farm laborers, black civil rights activists and the modern gay rights movement that grew out of the Stonewall rebellion in Greenwich Village. He called for the beginning of a new form of American solidarity among people who understand that they live in a society that sees us for what makes us all different.
As two nurse practitioners, Nicholas Wedel and Laura Johnson, pointed out in The Journal of Nurse Practitioners, Vulvar health is one aspect of womens health that is often not discussed, even though up to 20 percent of all women will experience significant vulvar symptoms at some point in their lives.

Yet, they added, when left untreated, vulvar lichen sclerosus can cause significant physical, emotional and sexual discomfort. It can also result in irreversible destruction of genital tissues and, in rare cases, squamous cell carcinoma.

Women with lichen sclerosus who responded to an international survey had this to say:

I love my husband and want to be with him sexually and when we try, the pain is unbearable. It feels like cut glass is inside me.

My late diagnosis at age 58 was devastating. So much marital heartbreak could have been avoided.

Sex is not in my vocabulary anymore. The pain is unbearable and is increased when urinating or defecating.

A mother whose daughter from age 4 had splits and tears in her skin from lichen sclerosus said her child was unable to sleep due to intense itching and burning, and was terrified to use the restroom lest she experience another tear and more pain.

An affected woman echoed the girls plight. She said, It makes me not drink the fluids that my body needs because I dont want to pee. I have literally screamed when I go.

Heres what is important to know about these two chronic diseases.

Neither lichen sclerosus nor lichen planus is a deadly condition. Nor are they contagious or transmitted sexually. The conditions do not have an established cause or definitive cure. Lichen planus may disappear spontaneously or following treatment, but lichen sclerosus rarely improves without proper treatment that should be continued indefinitely.
OUAGADOUGOU, Burkina Faso  Gunmen killed a pastor and five congregants at a Roman Catholic church in northern Burkina Faso on Sunday, the authorities said, in the second attack on Christians in two weeks in a nation increasingly overrun by jihadists.

Congregants were leaving the church around 9 a.m. local time in the town of Dablo, about 124 miles from the capital, Ouagadougou, when about 20 men circled them and opened fire, leaving at least six dead, according to a government statement.

These terrorist groups are now attacking religion with the macabre aim of dividing us, the statement said.

The mayor of Dablo said the attackers burned the church, looted a pharmacy and some others stores and left. A government spokesman said the gunmen also destroyed all places serving alcohol.
HAVANA  Chanting Long live a diverse Cuba and carrying rainbow flags, Cuban gay rights activists held an unauthorized pride parade in Havana this weekend despite a warning against it by the Communist government, which called it subversive, in a highly unusual show of civil disobedience in the one-party state.

More than 100 Cubans marched from Havanas Central Park to the seafront boulevard before being stopped by dozens of security officials.

At least three activists were arrested by plainclothes police officers, and others were ordered to disperse because the march did not have an official permit.

Activists had called for their own parade after the state-run National Center for Sex Education, or Cenesex, last week abruptly canceled its 12th annual conga against homophobia, Cubas equivalent of gay pride.
KABUL, Afghanistan  Murtaza Ahmadi was one of those Afghans who somehow never seemed to suffer from the long war.

No one in his family perished on the front lines with the army or the police, or disappeared for years with the Taliban only to come back in a plywood coffin. No one close to him had the bad luck to be where a bomb went off or to get caught in crossfire, relatives said.

Mr. Ahmadis luck suddenly ran out in March. No bomb or gun was involved, but he was targeted nonetheless  for the bundles of cash he handled in his job every day, and for the 6-year-old daughter more precious to him than any of that.

Earlier in the war, Mr. Ahmadi had moved to Kabul, the capital, from his home province of Kapisa, north of the city. He was never a wealthy man, but he found a good job as one of the money changers in the Sarai Shahzada market in Kabul, where men with rubber bands around fat wads of notes hawk their exchange rates in the open air, their loud voices clamoring into unintelligibility.
The attack was claimed by the Baluchistan Liberation Army, a separatist group that has attacked security forces and Chinese installations in the past, including the Chinese Consulate in Karachi last year.

Pakistani officials said that the attackers had intended to target and take hostages but were denied entry into the main hall by hotel security guards, which forced the gunmen to take the stairs leading to upper floors.

Members of the army, navy and the police were able to get the guests in a safe area soon after the attack, which started around 4:45 p.m. Saturday, and held the attackers to a fourth-floor corridor. The attackers destroyed hotel CCTV cameras and planted explosive devices at entry points leading to the fourth floor, officials said. Security forces made special entry points to get into the fourth floor, shot down all terrorists and cleared the planted I.E.D.s, the military statement said.

The separatist group claimed that four people had carried out the attack, but Pakistani officials disputed that figure, saying only three attackers had been involved. The military released pictures that it said showed their bodies in the wreckage of the hotel corridors.

Baluchistan is the largest of Pakistans four provinces, and although sparsely populated it is rich in mineral and natural resources, including copper, gold and natural gas. Ethnic Baluch have long demanded greater financial autonomy and freedom from the federal government, and some separatist groups, including the Baluchistan Liberation Army, have vowed to create a separate homeland for the Baluch.

China, a close ally of Pakistan, is investing heavily in Baluchistan, and a deepwater port in Gwadar is one of its primary investments in the country. China is estimated to have spent around $62 billion on the so-called China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, a project that is part of Chinas Belt and Road Initiative, a $1 trillion chain of infrastructure development programs stretching across about 70 countries.

Since the initiative began in 2013, Pakistan has served as its flagship site. China has used the partnership with Pakistan, a strategically located and nuclear-armed neighbor, to advance its own military and economic interests. Its plan for Gwadar includes a large special economic zone for Chinese companies.
BUDAPEST  George W. Bush dodged it. Barack Obama refused it. But on Monday President Trump will grant Viktor Orban, Hungarys far-right prime minister, his first private audience with a president at the White House since he met Bill Clinton there in 1998.

Back then, Mr. Orban was a young centrist who praised Mr. Clinton for helping Hungary to escape Russian influence by joining NATO, but today he is a doyen of right-wing nationalists on multiple continents. He has enfeebled democratic institutions, strived to achieve a Hungarian ethnic homogeneity and pulled his nation closer to the opponents of American influence, Russia and China.

His welcome at the White House is seen by Mr. Trumps critics as emblematic of the presidents preference for strongman leaders who seek to undermine the liberal international order.

This visit is par for the course in terms of this administrations interest in aligning itself with autocrats and would-be autocrats, said Robert G. Berschinski, a former deputy assistant secretary of state under Mr. Obama, now a senior vice president at Human Rights First, a watchdog group.
In 2014, after seizing large parts of Syria and Iraq, the Islamic State surrounded the Kurdish town of Kobani in northern Syria, along the Turkish border. To fend off the assault, the United States armed the regions main Syrian Kurdish militia while bombing heavily from the air.

The strategy worked, and the United States found a new partner in Syria, the Kurdish militia known as the Peoples Protection Units, or Y.P.G. The militia was a Syrian offshoot of the Kurdistan Workers Party, or P.K.K., which has long fought for Kurdish autonomy in Turkey.

Unlike Syrias Arab rebels, the Kurds were happy to fight the Islamic State instead of the Syrian government. And as a secular movement, they raised no concerns that they might harbor sympathies with Islamist extremists.

With backing from the United States and its allies, the group pushed the jihadists from other parts of Syria and built ties with other militias. In 2015, under prompting from the United States, it rebranded itself as the Syrian Democratic Forces  a mix of Kurdish, Arab and other fighters.

In the process, Mazlum became essential to the United States.

We tend to go to Mazlum for everything, said one American official who has worked with the militia leader. But the partnership suffered a blow in December when President Trump said he was withdrawing the 2,000 American troops from eastern Syria.

Since then, American plans have changed repeatedly, most recently calling for a drawdown to 1,000 troops followed by a reassessment. Mazlum said he hoped the United States would remain to help take on the Islamic State fighters who have gone underground and to oversee a restructuring of the S.D.F. into an internal security force.
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Vanderharr became pinned under the last car, Brueggemann said. The car was lifted by several people at the scene, freeing Vanderharr.

Medical helicopters were unavailable to fly Vanderharr and Ramsey to a hospital because of storms in the area. Several other people suffered minor injuries during the incident, but they all either refused treatment or were treated at area hospitals and released, Brueggemann said.

Adam Gullion posted on Facebook that Vanderharr is in the intensive care unit. He is in a medically induced coma and on a ventilator, Gullion said.

He currently remains in the ICU with a severe brain injury, Gullion wrote. He sustained multiple skull fractures, brain bleed and swelling. Unfortunately, monitoring and time is all they can do right now as no surgery will help.

Vanderharr also suffered a broken leg that will need surgery, Gullion said, but nothing will be done about the fracture until the brain injury improves.
In an amendment, Wayne proposed that school districts complete a consolidation feasibility study in cases where two or more high schools from different school districts compete in one or more extracurricular activities as a single team.

Wayne said he introduced the measure, which he ultimately withdrew under an agreement with colleagues, to spur 30 minutes of discussion on the floor of the Legislature and build interest in a legislative study to be headed by State Sen. Mike Groene of North Platte, chairman of the Education Committee. The study would look at the best options to encourage consolidation, where practical, for consideration during the 2020 legislative session.

Senators acknowledged the political difficulties if lawmakers would move toward making consolidation mandatory, rather than voluntary. But if discussions at the Legislature on the issue next year are as thoughtful as the one state senators held last week, Nebraskans will be well served.

Two senators offered cautionary notes about cost savings. State Sen. Lou Ann Linehan of the Elkhorn area, chairwoman of the Revenue Committee, praised the discussion but cautioned that the consolidation possibilities shouldnt be exaggerated. Twenty-seven Nebraska counties already have only one school district.
Five charred to death as private bus catches fire in Karnataka's Chitradurga

Accident caught on camera: Bus rams into dumper truck in Mumbai, 5 seriously injured

15 killed after Bangalore bound SRS travels bus hit vehicle in AP's Kurnool district

India

oi-Madhuri Adnal

Kurnool, May 12: Fifteen people were killed several others were injured after a speeding bus crashed into an SUV in Andhra Pradesh's Kurnool district today.

Banglore bound SRS travels volvo bus has hit a toohfan transport vehicle coming from the opposite side near Veldurthi check post.

News agency PTI reported that the bus, going to Bengaluru from Hyderabad, crashed into the SUV as it tried to avoid collision with a two-wheeler. The police said that the collision was so strong that 10 people died on the spot.

Himachal Pradesh: 12 dead as bus falls in 200-feet deep gorge in Chamba

Police said that all the people who died in the accident were related and were returing home after attending a wedding. They were from a village in Telangana. Some of the bus passengers received minor injuries.

The injured were immediately rushed to Kurnool General hospital for treatment.

On learning about the incident, the Dhone DSP, S Khader Basha and his team rushed to the spot and indulged in rescue operations.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu condoled deaths in the accident. "Authorities have been ordered to provide immediate treatment to to the injured. I express my deepest condolences to the families of the deaf," he tweeted.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's office's tweeted on his behalf, "The road accident in Andhra Pradesh's Kurnool is deeply unfortunate. My thoughts are with the bereaved families. I hope the injured recover quickly."

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Story first published: Sunday, May 12, 2019, 12:48 [IST]
54-year-old Celebrity jumbo Ramachandran opens Thrissur Pooram festival in Kerala

India

oi-Madhuri Adnal

Thrissur, May 12: The opening of the famed Thrissur Pooram festival on Sunday was attended by more than 10,000 people after the district administration revoked its ban on parading the Kerala's tallest elephant 'Thechikkottukavu Ramachandran' in the famous festival.

Thrissur Pooram is an annual temple festival of Kerala which will take place on May 13 this year. Thechikottukavu Ramachandran, the tallest elephant in Kerala, has long been the centre of a controversy.

Collector-headed panel to take call on ban on Celebrity jumbo from Thrissur Pooram

On Saturday, Thechikkottukavu Ramachandran' was given conditional nod to participate in the famous Thrissur Pooram temple festival in Kerala.

The decision eventually ended the debate that began in April after the administration banned the elephant from the festival citing its ill health and violent behaviour. The 55-year-old elephant has trampled upon 14 people since late 1990s and is blind in one eye.

The last time Ramachandran went out of control was just three months ago, on February 8, when he trampled upon two people at a housewarming ceremony in Thrissur district. Despite his notoriety, the jumbo enjoys a massive fan following thanks to his imposing physique. Fans have created at least 10 Facebook pages for him.

The clearance to the government was given after a team of three veterinarians conducted the medical examination of the 54-year-old elephant.

The team had also submitted a report to the Thrissur collector TV Anupama stating that the elephant was fit to participate in the "vilambaram" ritual as part of 'pooram'.

After the Kerala high court on Friday refused to intervene in the matter, the state government had sought legal opinion from Additional Advocate General Renjith Thampan on the matter.

He had advised the government that the tusker can be permitted for participating only in 'pooram' festival with certain restrictions.

The main event of the 'pooram' begins with the 10.5-foot tall elephant pushing open the southern entrance gate of the ancient Vadakkumnathan temple here, with the idol of 'neithilakkavilamma' atop it, symbolising the start of the festivities.

Thrissur Pooram stares at crisis after Govt bans Kerala's most-loved elephant

The annual 'pooram' festival, considered as the mother of all temple festivals in the state, is known for its colourful fireworks extravaganza and display of caparisoned elephants.

Meanwhile, Thrissur, the state's cultural capital, is under a thick security cover with 3,500 policemen being deputed on duty till May 14. People staying in lodges and hotels would be under surveillance.

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Story first published: Sunday, May 12, 2019, 15:40 [IST]
Centre mandates Air Suvidha portal for ease of travel: All you need to know

Air India asked to prepare FY19 financials

India

oi-Oneindia Staff

By Anuj Cariappa

New Delhi, May 12: The civil aviation ministry has told Air India that it should prepare 2018-19 financials for itself and its subsidiaries by end of June as the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) has decided to speed up the disinvestment process of three of its wings, according to an official document.

After a botched attempt to sell Air India in May last year, a panel led by Finance Minister Arun Jaitley had decided in June to scrap the stake-sale plan for the time being. It was then decided to infuse more funds into the carrier and cut down debt by raising resources by selling land assets and other subsidiaries.

Air India cautions employees on interaction with media

Air India has a total debt burden of around Rs 55,000 crore.

On April 1 this year, a meeting was held in the PMO under the chairmanship of Nripendra Misra, the principal secretary to the prime minister, to discuss matter regarding strategic disinvestment of Air India and its subsidiaries.

"A meeting was held on April 1 under the chairmanship of the Principal Secretary to PM in which it was, inter-alia, decided to speed up the process of disinvestment of AIATSL, AIESL and AASL," civil aviation secretary Pradeep Singh Kharola told Air India's Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) Ashwani Lohani in a letter dated May 6.

Air India Air Transport Services Limited (AIATSL), Air India Engineering Services Limited (AIESL) and Airline Allied Services Limited (AASL) are subsidiaries of the national carrier.

Kharola said that in order to proceed with disinvestment process of Air India and its subsidiaries, audited financials for 2018-19 will be required.

"I would, therefore, request you to kindly get financials of Air India and its subsidiaries for the financial year 2018-19 finalised by end of June," Kharola said.

Aviation secretary also said that since the accounts for 2018-19 would form the "basis of bidding", it is necessary that they are prepared with "utmost caution so as to reflect the correct financial status".

He added that contingent liabilities must be thoroughly verified. Moreover, he added that "account receivables" and "account payables" must be verified and confirmed from the other parties.

"A physical verification of the inventories need to be done so as to ensure that the value of inventories shown on the balance sheet matches with the assets physically," Kharola told Lohani.

After facing backlash over appointment of sacked Pilot as regional director, AI suspends decision

The secretary also told Air India CMD that a list of all pending litigations have to be drawn up.

As a precursor to sale of Air India, the Cabinet on February 28 had approved setting up of a special purpose vehicle (SPV) -- Air India Assets Holding Limited-- to transfer Rs 29,464 crore worth loans of the national carrier and its four subsidiaries.

The four subsidiaries which have been transferred to the SPV are AIATSL, AASL, AIESL and Hotel Corporation of India (HCI).

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Story first published: Sunday, May 12, 2019, 7:46 [IST]
State vs national issues: Key lessons for the BJP to learn in Jharkhand, Maharashtra, Haryana

Article 370 will be scrapped if BJP returns to power: Amit Shah

India

oi-Vikas SV

Shimla, May 12: Asserting that Article 370 will be scrapped for sure if the BJP returns to power, Amit Shah on Sunday lashed out at the Congress on the issue of national security.

Addressing a rally at Chogan Maidan in Himachal Pradesh's Chamba district, Shah pointed out that Congress leader Sam Pitroda said instead of air strikes, "we should talk to militants".

Shah said the Manmohan Singh-led Congress government did nothing when Pakistan beheaded five Indian soldiers but under Modi rule air strikes were carried out in Balakot.

[Omar Abdullah slams Arun Jaitley for advocating repeal of J&K's special status]

Shah was campaigning in support of Kangra BJP candidate Kishan Kapoor and Hamirpur sitting MP Anurag Thakur. Citing former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah's comment that there should be another prime minister for the state, Shah, as per a PTI report, said, "All this indicated their mindset but if the BJP comes to power again and Modi becomes prime minister, Article 370 will be removed for sure."

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has in its manifesto promised the abrogation of Article 370 and annulment of Article 35A. Both have been contentious issues and parties in Jammu and Kashmir have warned against meddling with these provisions.

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Story first published: Sunday, May 12, 2019, 17:33 [IST]
All political parties in Goa in cahoots with BJP: Mahua Moitra

TMC moves privilege motion against Justice Gogoi, says he is in contempt of Rajya Sabha

Who is Firhad Hakim? Know Kolkata's New Mayor Age, Education, Family and Other Details

BJPs Bharati Ghosh convoy vandalised, blames TMC workers behind the attack

India

oi-Madhuri Adnal

New Delhi, May 12: Bharati Ghosh, BJP's candidate from West Bengal's Ghatal constituency, was in tears on Sunday morning after being heckled at a polling booth. Ghosh alleged that she was pushed by some women supporters of the Trinamool Congress when she went to a polling station in her constituency.

Bharti Ghosh, was stopped from entering a booth at Keshpur by TMC cadres. Bharti had allegedly wanted to sit at the booth and was stopped from doing that by the TMC polling agent, leading to a scuffle where both sides engaged in pushing.

Later in the day, Ghosh's vehicles were vandalised, reported ANI. BJP has blamed TMC for the action.

Here is analysis of 2019 Lok Sabha candidates

Polling is being held in Ghatal along with seven other Lok Sabha seats in West Bengal in the sixth round of the seven-phased election on Sunday.

Ghosh was the superintendent of police in West Midnapore district for six years from 2011 to 2017 in which her constituency is located.

Violent clashes have been reported in West Bengal in almost all the phases of the general elections.

Earlier in the day, at least ten supporters of the Bharatiya Janata Party were injured after they were beaten up allegedly by some TMC men under Daspur police station area of the Ghatal constituency.

Ghosh is facing Bengali cinema's superstar and Trinamool Congress (TMC) member of Parliament Dipak Adhikari alias Dev in the Ghatal parliamentary constituency.

The votes will be counted on May 23.

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Story first published: Sunday, May 12, 2019, 13:02 [IST]
Buddha Purnima 2019: Date, importance, significance of Vaishakh Purnima

India

oi-Madhuri Adnal

New Delhi, May 12: Buddhists around the world today are gearing up for Buddha Purnima 2019, or Vesak, which falls on May 12th this year.

Buddha Purnima marks the birth anniversary of Siddhartha Gautama, who later became Gautama Buddha, the founder of Buddhism.

The auspicious day is celebrated with much fervour in Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Nepal, Korea, Indonesia, Laos and Malaysia. Since it falls on the full moon day (Purnima), the occasion is referred to as Buddha Purnima in India. Devotees gather on this day and remember the teachings on compassion and non-violence that Buddha espoused.

'Peace creates Unity', monk's reason for Buddha statue in Gujarat

During Buddha Purnima, or Vesak, dharma wheel symbol is commonly seen, which is also known as dharma chakra. The wheel has eight ribs, representing the great teachings of Gautam Buddha.

Significance of Buddha Purnima 2019:

Buddha Purnima or Vesak is of great significance for the entire world as the message of Buddha reached various parts of the world. On this day, the Buddhists all over the world commemorate the significant events of Buddhism, i.e. the birth enlightenment and passing away of their spiritual leader. People of various countries visit the holy shrines of Buddha and there are a lot of pilgrims who come to visit his Birth Place and the Mahabodhi Tree.

How is Buddha Purnima 2019 celebrated?

On Vesak or Buddha Purnima, people dress in white clothes and distribute kheer as, according to the legend, a woman named Sujata once offered Gautam Buddha kheer on this day only and since then it has become a tradition.

Foods to celebrate Buddha Purnima 2019

On Buddha Purnima, the statue of Buddha is placed in a basin filled with water and decorated with flowers. In India, Buddha Purnima is celebrated by paying a visit to common Viharas, where Buddhists observe a longer than usual and full-length Buddhist sutra, which is similar to a service. As mentioned earlier, Buddhists refrain from eating non-vegetarian food. Kheer is one of the most widely prepared delicacy of the day. Hard and pungent spices are also avoided in the preparation, so are ingredients like onion and garlic.

Happy Buddha Purnima 2019!

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Story first published: Sunday, May 12, 2019, 12:40 [IST]
Delhi police tries to stop AAP presser in vain

India

oi-Oneindia Staff

By Anuj Cariappa

New Delhi, May 12: Delhi Police on Saturday intervened to stop a presser by AAP candidate Balbir Singh Jakhar, saying it was a violation of model code of conduct, but he went ahead with it after which the police informed the Election Commission. Defending his action, the AAP said its west Delhi candidate has not made an appeal for vote or displayed the party symbol at the press conference which was held only to issue clarification regarding a video being circulated in which Jakhar's son Uday claimed that his father paid Rs six crore to Arvind Kejriwal for contesting from the west Delhi seat.

As soon as the press conference was about to start, three policemen entered the AAP headquarters at ITO and told AAP functionaries to stop the event but they did not pay heed. After this, the cops tried to video record the proceedings but they were not allowed inside and the door was shut.

BJP, Congress will win 'zero' seats in 6th phase, says Akhilesh Yadav

A senior police officer said they came to know about the press conference following which they went to the premises to caution AAP functionaries that they cannot hold a press conference during the 48-hour silence period prior to polling as it is a violation of the model code of conduct.

The officer said they have informed the Election Commission (EC) about the developments.

At the press conference, Jakhar denied his son's claim and said they had estranged ties.

Angry with the police action, the Aam Aadmi Party alleged that BJP candidates too were holding press conferences and asked "why the same rules do not apply to all parties".

Asserting that there was no violation of the code of conduct, the party said it had covered its symbol and had made no appeal to vote but just gave a clarification.

The AAP also contended that the police should have brought an official order from the EC that the press conference cannot take place.

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Story first published: Sunday, May 12, 2019, 11:16 [IST]
TMC delegation to meet Election Commission in Delhi today; To request for early bypolls in Bengal

EC declares bypolls to seven Rajya Sabha seats in six states

Bypoll: EC notice to Assam minister for 'give and take' remark

EC issues notice to Giriraj Singh

India

oi-Vikas SV

Patna, May 12: A show cause notice was issued to Union Minister Giriraj Singh for violating the Model Code of Conduct during a speech he gave in Begusarai on April 24.

Th Election Commission issued the notice for the Union Minister's controversial remarks against the Muslim community.

He had said that members of the community need land even after their death for the burial of their mortal remains.

[At Begusarai, will the Bhumihars back Kanhaiya Kumar or Giriraj Singh]

"I would like to say, Giriraj Singh's ancestors died and were cremated. You need a yard of land even after you die, for the burial of your mortal remains. If you say you cannot chant Vande Mataram, this nation will never forget you," Singh, a BJP andidate from Begusarai, said at an election rally on April 24.

The firebrand BJP leader has courted controversy on a number of occasions on account of his outbursts.

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Story first published: Sunday, May 12, 2019, 22:38 [IST]
Strokes are the fifth-leading cause of death for adults in the United States and the number-one cause of disability. (creative commons/c la ms)
Meet Major DP Singh, a living example of the phoenix that a soldier truly is

Jammu: Suspicious youth detained outside Army camp

India

pti-PTI

Jammu, May 12: A youth was detained and handed over to police for investigation after he was found moving suspiciously outside a military station here, a defence spokesperson said on Sunday.

The youth was confronted by the Army outside the main gate of Sunjuwan military station, a sprawling camp in the outskirts of the city which was targeted by a three-member suicide squad of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terrorists in February last year.

"A suspicious movement by a young man was noticed in close vicinity of Sunjuwan Military Station Army Gate around 1310 hours on Saturday. The movement of young man loitering in close vicinity of Army Gate was closely monitored by the alert Army personnel on duty," the spokesperson said.

[Former Pak army soldier arrested along border]

Following the drills and procedures, he said the army personnel asked the individual to prove his identity. "The individual failed to prove his identity. Subsequently, he was handed over to local police at the Channi Himmat police station for investigation and further necessary action," the spokesperson said.

PTI
Mamata govt nearing its "expiry date", says BJP, terms attack on Ghosh as 'act of frustration'

India

oi-Vikas SV

New Delhi, May 12: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Sunday came down heavily on the Trinamool Congress (TMC) over the attack on its candidate Bharati Ghosh in West Bengal and said the conduct of the Mamata Banerjee-led party shows that her government is nearing its "expiry date".

Bharati Ghosh, BJP's candidate from West Bengal's Ghatal constituency, was in tears on Sunday morning after being heckled at a polling booth. Ghosh alleged that she was pushed by some women supporters of the Trinamool Congress when she went to a polling station in her constituency. Bharti Ghosh, was stopped from entering a booth at Keshpur by TMC cadres. Bharti had allegedly wanted to sit at the booth and was stopped from doing that by the TMC polling agent, leading to a scuffle where both sides engaged in pushing.

The party also demanded that the Election Commission take suo motu cognisance of matter. Ghosh was allegedly attacked twice by locals on Sunday when the former IPS officer tried to visit polling stations in Ghatal Lok Sabha constituency, where she is the BJP candidate, when polling was underway there. One of her security guards was injured in stone pelting while Ghosh herself suffered minor injuries when a group of women allegedly attacked her when she tried to take a BJP agent inside a polling booth at Keshpur area in the morning.

[BJP's Bharati Ghosh convoy vandalised, blames TMC workers behind the attack]

Union minister and BJP leader Prakash Javadekar said, "Stones were pelted on her car and she was also injured. Instead of taking action against the goons, Ghosh's movements have been restricted and her car, which was vandalised, has been seized by the local administration. This is unacceptable. The TMC goons are engaged in unabated violence against the BJP. This is an act of frustration."

The state CEO has sought reports from the West Midnapore district magistrate about the incidents. Javadekar also claimed that in Jhargam Lok Sabha constituency, the body of a BJP booth president has been recovered.

Demanding that poll observers should ensure proper deployment of central forces for smooth voting, the Union minister said, "Mamata (Banerjee) says there is an expiry date for the prime minister. But the way they are conducting elections, the amount of frustration, and with the imminent defeat of the TMC, there is an expiry date of the Mamata government."
Yogi Adityanath didn't take dip in Ganga as he knows rivers are not clean: Akhilesh

After I-T raids on SP leaders, petitioner questions Centre for not sending Mulayam & Akhilesh to jail

Not just me, world says BJP is dangerous for democracy: Akhilesh Yadav

India

oi-Oneindia Staff

By Anuj Cariappa

Gorakhpur, May 12: Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav Saturday said the world has now started saying the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party is dangerous for democracy.

"Today the world has started saying that the BJP is dangerous for democracy. The world's biggest magazine has written that these are the very people who have divided society," Yadav said, referring to the cover story of the Time magazine.

"BJP people were talking about 'achhe din', which did not come. The very foundation of BJP is based on lies and hatred and the alliance will rock it," he said.

6th phase LS polls: 21 with pending crimes against women, 83 women in fray

Addressing rally for Ram Bhuwal Nishad, the alliance candidate from the prestigious Gorakhpur seat, Akhilesh said the BJP, which ran the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, has been wiped out off Uttar Pradesh by the people in the five phases of polling so far.

"Polling in Gorakhpur is slated for the seventh phase. This is the phase of the alliance. I do not see BJP opening its account," he said.

The SP president said the prime minister is charging the previous governments with encouraging terrorism and the Uttar Pradesh chief minister is also talking about the same. He wanted to know how can the government tackle terrorism, if the ruling party is scared of a dismissed jawan.

"If they save the people from stray cattle that would be a big thing. Leave alone terrorism," he said, claiming in the past two-three months, 11 people had lost their lives in Lucknow in stray bull attacks.

"There have been similar incidents in other parts of the state as well. The chief minister is responsible for it. For this, case needs to be lodged against the government," he said.

Attacking Chief Minister Yogi Adityanth, Akhilesh said, "He is calling me 'goondon ka sartaj' (king of goons) but it seems that he has not seen the copy of cases against him and his Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya.

"If he can get a look at it, he will find that all those sitting here on the dias will together not have as many sections listed against their names in court cases as these two have."

Lok Sabha polls 2019: Stage set for penultimate phase; Sheila Dikshit, Akhilesh, Digvijaya in fray

Referring to Suresh Thakur, alias Yodha, a Yogi Adityanath lookalike, Akhilesh said "I met this Yodha and brought him here for you all. He resembles him (Yogi) when seen from a distance. Next time, he (Yogi) will be out (of Gorakshpeeth) and he (Yodha) will be in."

Clad in saffron robes, Yodha attracted huge crowds at Yadav's meeting.

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Story first published: Sunday, May 12, 2019, 10:08 [IST]
Is PM Modi hiding something from the people on Omicron? Kharge on latest address to nation

PM Modi to address nation in 2021's last edition of 'Mann Ki Baat' today

Opposition mocks Modi for Cloud, rain and radar comment on Balakot airstrike

India

oi-Madhuri Adnal

New Delhi, May 12: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has once again come under sharp criticism and ridicule from opposition leaders for remarks he made on clouds and radar during a recent TV interview.

Narendra Modi in an interview to a media house recently, said that he had suggested that clouds and rain could prevent Pakistani radars from detecting Indian fighter planes during the Balakot air strike.

I first reviewed the operation at around 9-9:30 PM. The problem we faced was that of bad weather. It had rained heavily that day. I am amazed people who criticised me didn't take notice of this fact."

PM Modi tells young voters,'Your participation makes polls even more special'

Modi, then, explained how his inputs helped execute the operation. "At around 12, we had second thoughts about the entire thing," he said, adding, "we had doubts if we would be able to go."

"I said the overcast conditions could actually help. This weather and rain could help our aircraft escape the radar," Modi said.

Soon after the interview Modi's comment became a point of criticism and ridicule by the opposition. And social media users made it a talking point.

The Opposition wasted little time in attacking. Congress tweeted:

Jumla hi fekta raha paanch saal ki sarkar mein,

Socha tha cloudy hai mausam,

Nahi aaunga radar mein. pic.twitter.com/xDeOg4Yq5K  Congress (@INCIndia) May 12, 2019

National Conference chief Omar Abdullah took to Twitter and made light of Modi's claims. In an acerbic tweet, Abdullah wrote:

Pakistani radar doesnt penetrate clouds. This is an important piece of tactical information that will be critical when planning future air strikes. https://t.co/OBHwEJfGSW  Omar Abdullah (@OmarAbdullah) May 11, 2019

CPI (M) general secretary Sitaram Yechury, though, had a critical take on Modi's claims.

Modi's words are truly shameful. Most importantly, because they insult our Air Force as being ignorant and unprofessional. The fact that he is talking about all this is itself anti-national; no patriot would do this. pic.twitter.com/jxfGmdmlx7  Sitaram Yechury (@SitaramYechury) May 11, 2019

The Balakot air strike by the Indian Air Force was a befitting reply to the dastardly attack carried out on the Central Reserve Police Force jawans in Pulwama by terror groups operating from Pakistan. Considered as one of the deadliest attacks in recent times, 40 CRPF personnel were martyred in the incident on February 14, 2019.

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Story first published: Sunday, May 12, 2019, 16:22 [IST]
PM Modi, Mayawati indulge in war of words over Alwar gang rape

India

pti-PTI

Kushinagar/Deoria/Lucknow, May 12: A full-scale war of words broke out on Sunday between Narendra Modi and Mayawati over the Alwar gang rape incident with the prime minister accusing the BSP supremo of "shedding crocodile tears", a charge trashed by her as his "dirty politics".

Addressing election rallies in Kushinagar and Deoria in eastern Uttar Pradesh, Modi mounted a scathing attack on the BSP supremo and dared her to withdraw support to the Congress government in Rajasthan if she was really serious about the incident. Hours after his remark, Mayawati charged the prime minister with doing "dirty politics" over the gang rape of a Dalit girl in Alwar and demanded his resignation for incidents of Dalit atrocities in the past.

"In the wake of this (Alwar) incident, Modi is doing dirty politics. The BSP will for sure take an appropriate political decision in the absence of stringent and proper legal action in the case," Mayawati said in a press note responding to the prime minister's challenge to her to withdraw support to the Congress government in Rajasthan.

The Congress government in Rajasthan has been accused by both the prime minister and the BSP supremo of brushing the case aside for political gains. After Modi's barb, Mayawati retorted with a list of incidents on which she said the prime minister should take moral responsibility and resign from his post.

"The BSP will take a required political decision soon, but why is PM Modi not taking moral responsibility for the incidents in the past, such as Una flogging incident, Rohit Vemulla case or other cases pertaining to Dalit atrocities? Why is he not resigning?" the BSP press note issued in Lucknow said.

[Congress, Samajwadi Party betrayed Mayawati: PM Modi]

On April 26, the gang rape victim was travelling with her husband on a motorcycle when the accused stopped them and took them to an isolated place off the road. They allegedly beat the husband and raped her in front of him, threatening them of dire consequences. Her husband claimed that he had approached Rajasthan police on April 26 after the incident, but an FIR was filed on May 2.

He had alleged that the police did not take action saying that they were busy with elections. Addressing election meetings in Kushinagar and Deoria in eastern Uttar Pradesh, Modi said, "Please do not shed crocodile tears. If you are serious, why don't you withdraw support to the Congress government in Rajasthan."

BSP has given support to the Congress government in the state. Expressing concern over the gang rape of the Dalit woman, Mayawati had on Saturday alleged that the Congress government in Rajasthan did not let the matter come to anyone's notice by "terrorising" the victim's family until the completion of the polling process there.

"Under these circumstances, the victim and her family will not be able to get proper justice. The BSP appeals to the Supreme Court to take notice for ensuring prompt justice and strict punishment to the accused," she had said.

Hitting out at the BSP chief, Modi said, "Even the Congress government wanted to suppress the incident involving a Dalit woman as the party thought 'hua toh hua' (So what, it happened)."

His reference was to Congress leader Sam Pitroda's "hua toh hua" remark about the in 1984 anti-Sikh riots, which raised a political storm over the weekend. Continuing his tirade at the opposition, the prime minister said, "The biggest example of how the 'mahamilawat' (highly adulterated) SP-BSP-Congress alliance actually works is Rajasthan."

"When the (Lucknow) guest house incident happened, the entire country was pained. What is the reason that you are not feeling pain now. If you are so honest about the dignity of the daughters, then you should immediately write a letter to the Rajasthan Governor and withdraw your support to the Congress government," he said.

"A Dalit daughter is gang-raped and there is a government of the Congress and 'naamdaar' (dynast). And the Rajasthan government is not a dispensation which enjoys full majority. It is working with the support of BSP. It is busy in hushing up the matter," Modi said.

In the infamous Lucknow guest house incident in 1995, armed Samajwadi Party cadre had assaulted the BSP supremo when she was having a meeting there. Attacking the Congress, the prime minister said, "The Congress which chants nyay, nyay, nyay, its naamdaar (dynast) has been silenced by the rapists. Today, the daughters of Uttar Pradesh are asking Behenji (Mayawati), and Behenji you have to answer why you have not withdrawn your support to the Congress government (in Rajasthan). You are shedding crocodile tears by only indulging in issuing statements."

"To punish those who commit crime against women, this chowkidaar of yours had made provisions for the capital punishment. If the intention of the Congress government was right, it would not have suppressed the Alwar incident, but they have only one answer 'hua toh hua'. Be it corruption, price rise or the 1984 anti-Sikh genocide, their answer is 'hua toh hua'," he said.

Polling for the Lok Sabha seats in Rajasthan took place in two phases on April 29 and May 6.

PTI
Air Pollution: You want to ban industries in Pakistan? Court asks UP govt

Submit date of cured people in mental asylums says SC

India

oi-Oneindia Staff

By Anuj Cariappa

New Delhi, May 12: The Supreme Court on Friday asked chief secretaries of four states and administrators of two union territories to provide in four weeks the data of people who have recovered from mental illness and are fit to go home, but languishing in hospitals.

The top court said the data should be provided to the Centre to enable it to prepare a roadmap for setting up rehabilitation homes for such people.

A bench of justices D Y Chandrachud and Hemant Gupta has asked the chief secretaries of Arunachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Nagaland and Telangana to furnish all the relevant details to the ministry of social justice and empowerment for formulation of a proper roadmap.

Will content on Netflix, Amazon be regulated? SC to decide

It also asked administrators of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu to furnish the details in four weeks to the Centre.

Petitioner advocate Gaurav Kumar Bansal informed the court that there was non-compliance of its last order and some states have not provided the necessary data to the Centre.

The counsel appearing for the Centre also submitted that four states and two Union Territories have not yet submitted the requisite details.

The bench said that if the chief secretaries and administrators fail to comply with the direction to furnish the data in four weeks then it may be constrained to ask them to appear in person before it.

The court had on February 25 directed chief secretaries of all the states and union territories to hold a meeting in four weeks with the Union health secretary to chalk out a roadmap for setting up rehabilitation homes for people who have recovered from mental illness and were fit to go home but are languishing in hospitals.

It had directed the Union ministry of health and family welfare to appoint a nodal officer to conduct the meeting.

It had said that the data provided by the states must include a roadmap regarding setting up of rehabilitation homes and based on it the Union ministry will prepare a report to be submitted in the court.

Bansal in his plea has said that around 10,000 people, who are fit to be discharged, are forced to live in different mental hospitals and institutes due to social stigma.

On October 3 last year, the court had sought reports from all the states and union territories on the status of setting up rehabilitation homes for people with mental illness.

Bansal had earlier said that except for few, many states and UTs have not complied with the order of July 10, 2017, in which they were asked to implement the guidelines prepared by the Centre within one year period.

States and UTs which have filed their response include Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Meghalaya, Punjab, Nagaland, West Bengal, Telangana, Tripura, Delhi, Puducherry and Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

The court had taken on record the guidelines for the state governments for setting up rehabilitation homes for persons living with mental illness framed by the department of empowerment of persons with disabilities of the Union ministry of social justice and empowerment.

Mediation committee files interim Ayodhya report in SC , granted further time till Aug 15

The court had asked the Union ministry to circulate the guidelines to all the state governments and UTs with a direction to implement them within one year.

It had also directed the state governments to comply with the provisions of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016.

Earlier, the court had favoured framing of a uniform national policy to deal with those suffering from mental illness and their release from hospitals after being cured.

It had said that the issue concerned figured in the concurrent list of the Constitution and hence the Centre also has the authority to frame norms.

The PIL filed by Bansal has raised the issue of release of about 300 people from various mental hospitals in Uttar Pradesh, alleging they were still languishing there despite being cured of their ailments and most of them belonged to poorer sections.

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Story first published: Sunday, May 12, 2019, 10:44 [IST]
Condolences pour in for Group Captain Varun Singh, only survivor of Gen Bipin Rawat's crash

Wouldn't like to pre-empt any findings of Court of inquiry as it is a very fair process: IAF chief on chopper

US hands over Apache Guardian attack choppers to IAF

India

oi-Oneindia Staff

By Anuj Cariappa

New Delhi, May 12: US aerospace major Boeing has handed over first of the 22 Apache Guardian attack helicopters to the Indian Air Force, nearly three-and-half years after a multi-billion dollar deal for the choppers was sealed.

Senior IAF officials said the addition of AH-64E (I) Apache helicopter is a significant step towards modernisation of the force's chopper fleet.

The helicopter has been customised to suit IAF's future requirements and would have significant capability in mountainous terrain, they said.

IAF intercepts Georgian Cargo plane from Karachi, forces it to land at Jaipur

"The first AH-64E (I) - Apache Guardian helicopter was formally handed over to the Indian Air Force at Boeing production facility in Mesa, Arizona, the US on May 10," IAF Spokesperson Group Captain Anupam Banerjee said.

The AH-64E Apache is a leading multi-role attack helicopter and is flown by the US Army.

The IAF had signed a multi-billion dollar contract with the US government and Boeing Ltd in September 2015 for 22 Apache helicopters. The first batch of these helicopters is scheduled to be shipped to India by Jul this year.

"Selected aircrew and ground crew have undergone training at the training facilities at US Army base Fort Rucker, Alabama. These personnel will lead the operationalisation of the Apache fleet in the IAF," the IAF said in a statement.

It said the helicopter has been customised to suit the IAF's future requirements and would have significant capability in mountainous terrain.

"The helicopter has the capability to carry out precision attacks at standoff ranges and operate in hostile airspace with threats from ground," the IAF said.

It said the ability of these helicopters, to transmit and receive the battlefield picture, to and from the weapon systems through data networking makes it a lethal acquisition.

"These attack helicopters will provide significant edge in any future joint operations in support of land forces," the IAF added.

You have made IAF jets your 'own taxi': Congress to Modi

Additionally, the Defence Ministry in 2017 approved the procurement of six Apache helicopters along with weapons systems from Boeing at a cost of Rs 4,168 crore for the Army. This will be its first fleet of attack choppers.

Fuselages for this Army order will be produced by Tata Boeing Aerospace Limited, a joint venture between Boeing and Tata Advanced Systems in Hyderabad.

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Story first published: Sunday, May 12, 2019, 12:17 [IST]
State vs national issues: Key lessons for the BJP to learn in Jharkhand, Maharashtra, Haryana

WB poll violence continues in 6th phase: Firing, clashes leave one killed, many injured

India

oi-Madhuri Adnal

Kolkata, May 12: Incidents of sporadic violence were reported from Midnapore constituency where the saffron party's state unit chief Dilip Ghosh is engaged in a high profile battle with Trinamool Congress' Rajya Sabha member Manas Bhunia.

At least four Trinamool Party activists had to be hospitalized after being attacked with sharp weapons allegedly by BJP supporters. The condition of one person was critical. Meanwhile, a number of saffron party supporters got injured in the constituency's Datan area following a clash with Trinamool workers.

Earlier in the day, major clashes were also reported in the early hours of Sunday in Medinipur's Kanthi Lok Sabha constituency's booth number 23 and 24 in Paschimbar area. A few rounds of firing took place and two people have been injured. BJP has claimed the individuals named Ananta Gucchait and Ranjit Maiti are party workers.

Meanwhile, ahead of polling in the sixth phase of Lok Sabha elections, a BJP worker Raman Singh was found dead on Saturday night in Gopiballabpur, Jhargram. The BJP has blamed the ruling Trinamool Congress for Singh's death. However, the Trinamool Congress has denied any links to death. BJP leader Kailash Vijayvargiya alleged that Trinamool workers entered his home and killed him, as per reports.

6th phase LS polls: 21 with pending crimes against women, 83 women in fray

Two other BJP workers Ananta Guchait and Ranjit Maity shot at last night at Bhagabanpur in East Medinipur. Apart from Jhargram, Tamluk, Kanthi, Ghatal, Medinipur, Bankura, Bishnupur, Purulia are voting today. In Jhargram, Lalgarh Prulia and Junglemahal, the Trinamool had lost ground to the BJP in the rural poll last year.

In Kanthi Mardhara area, body of a TMC worker was also recovered. According to reports, Sudhakar Maiti, the TMC worker, had gone to visit a relative in a hospital on Saturday night. However, he didn't return home after that. Later, the police were informed and his body was recovered from Kanthi.

West Bengal has witnessed a violence and clashes on polling days in the previous phases of voting. Several Trinamool and BJP workers have been injured in clashes in many parts of the state.

Eight seats in West Bengal are voting in the Phase 6 elections on Sunday. Tamluk, Kanthi, Ghatal, Jhargram, Medinipur, Purulia, Bankura and Bishnupur are voting today.

A total of 59 seats across the country are voting in the elections today as polling nears end in the 7-phase Lok Sabha elections.
Wilayah of Hind: ISIS announces new terror group for India

India

oi-Vicky Nanjappa

New Delhi, May 12: Wilayah of Hind is the new group that has been established by the Islamic State, which would specifically target India. The ISIS claimed that it has established a new province in India following clashes between terrorists and security forces in Kashmir on May 10.

The announcement was made by the terror group through its news agency, Amaq.

A senior Jammu and Kashmir police officer has rejected the claim.Rita Katz, director of the SITE Intel Group that tracks Islamic extremists, said: "ISIS declares its new "Hind Province" while claiming clashes with Indian forces in Amshipora".

Why is the Islamic State roping in Malayalam, Tamil speaking recruiters

"Of course, the establishment of a 'province' in a region where it has nothing resembling actual governance is absurd, but it should not be written off," she said on Twitter.

ISIS did not elaborate on the branch's geographical remit as it mentioned the name of its new branch in a low-key announcement.The announcement of the new branch is seen as part of ISIS' strategy to give the impression of strengthening its global affiliations following the territorial losses in the Middle East.

Such a strategy was highlighted by ISIS chief Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi in the past.The brief ISIS statement of May 10 via the messaging app Telegram said that the Islamic State militants using machine guns had clashed with the Indian security forces in the village of Amshipora in Kashmir's Shopian district, killing or injuring a number of them.

The ISIS Caliphate is dead, but ideology has become stronger today

The statement, however, did not mention when the alleged clashes occurred.Media reports on May 10 said that one militant was killed in clashes with security forces in Kashmir's Shopian district. ISIS began claiming attacks against Indian security forces in Kashmir since November 2017 without any branch affiliation.

Prevously, ISIS attacks in Kashmir were linked to its so-called Khorasan Province branch, which was set up in 2015 to cover "Afghanistan, Pakistan and nearby lands".

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Story first published: Sunday, May 12, 2019, 6:13 [IST]
Sri Lanka won't be allowed to be used for 'any activity' against India: President Rajapaksa

6 days after wedding, woman dies on honeymoon, husband banned from leaving Sri Lanka

International

oi-Madhuri Adnal

London, May 12: A newly-wed British Indian man is stuck in Sri Lanka after his wife died from a mysterious illness at a hotel in the country on their honeymoon.

Khilan Chandaria is not under arrest or facing a charge, but has been stopped from leaving Sri Lanka since his wife Usheila Patel, 31, died on Apr 25.

Chandaria, a 33-year-old phone shop owner from north-west London, has not been arrested or charged in connection with his wife's death but is not being permitted to return to his home in the UK.

Passengers find pilot & co-pilot of their flight to be mother-daughter duo; delighted

"A post-mortem said she died from dehydration, obviously from vomiting," said Chandaria, who had also noticed a weird "smell" in their hotel room before the suspected food poisoning.

While Chandaria had initially been free to leave Sri Lanka, he refused to leave until his wife's body has been released.

He has now been banned from leaving until a government report into the death can be prepared.

The couple was married in London on April 19 before flying off on honeymoon four days later. They had been staying at the five-star beach resort called Amari in the southwestern coastal city of Galle in Sri Lanka. They were scheduled to fly to Maldives on the second leg of the honeymoon.

But they both fell ill and were "feverish and vomiting blood" after consuming some food and drinks at the hotel. They were rushed to a hospital after they called for help to their hotel room. Patel was pronounced dead at the Karapitiya Hospital in Galle on April 25.

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Story first published: Sunday, May 12, 2019, 11:32 [IST]
Hong Kong: Consensus reached on pig cull

The Government has reached a consensus with pork traders over the cull of pigs at Sheung Shui Slaughterhouse where a pig tested positive for African swine fever (ASF).

At a meeting between Under Secretary for Food & Health Chui Tak-yi, and live pig buyers and meat trade representatives today, three points were agreed on.

Dr Chui said after the meeting that a consensus was reached on first, starting the culling and disinfection process as soon as possible, and if everything goes smoothly, the whole process will start tomorrow and be completed in one week.

The Government will also communicate with the Mainland's General Administration of Customs and co-operate with the buyers and traders to resume the live pig supply to Tsuen Wan Slaughterhouse as soon as possible.

Thirdly, it was agreed that the Government will continue to discuss with the pig trade, refining the scope of the live pig cull at the slaughterhouse in case ASF is detected again.

Representatives of the Food & Environmental Hygiene and Agriculture, Fisheries & Conservation departments also attended the meeting.

This story has been published on: 2019-05-12. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
Nothing short of apology will do, says Amarinder Singh on British PM's 'regret' on Jallianwala

Theresa May to set date for resignation

International

oi-Oneindia Staff

By Anuj Cariappa

London, May 12: Theresa May could be forced to set an exact date for her resignation as Conservative Party leader to make way for a new British Prime Minister in the coming days, a senior Tory MP has said.

Sir Graham Brady, who chairs the influential backbench 1922 Committee of the Conservative Party, told the BBC that he expects a "clear understanding" of May's departure timetable once she has met the committee on Wednesday.

"It would be strange for that not to result in a clear understanding (of when she will leave) at the end of the meeting," said Brady.

'Deeply regret': Theresa May fails to apologise again for Jallianwala Bagh

The 1922 Committee has asked for "clarity" about her plans for the future, and she "offered to come and meet with the executive", he said.

May has already announced back in March that she would step down as British PM once the Brexit process has been finalised but the pressure from within her party has only mounted for her to actually name a specific end date for her tenure.

On why the PM had so far been unwilling to set a date to step down, Brady said: I don't think it's about an intention for staying indefinitely as prime minister or leader of the Conservative Party.

"I think the reticence is the concern that by promising to go on a certain timetable, it might make it less likely she would secure Parliamentary approval for the withdrawal agreement, rather than more likely."

A massive backlash against the Conservatives from voters in local elections earlier this month and fears of a similar drubbing in the European Parliament elections on May 23 have led Tory MPs to intensify their efforts to remove May as leader.

Nothing short of apology will do, says Amarinder Singh on British PM's 'regret' on Jallianwala

The UK was due to leave the European Union (EU) on March 29 but the deadline has now been pushed back to October 31 after Parliament has repeatedly rejected May's withdrawal agreement from the 28-member economic bloc.

Cross-party talks with Opposition Labour Party are ongoing in an attempt to arrive at a consensus that could pass through the UK Parliament, and meanwhile May's leadership woes continue to dominate headlines.

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Story first published: Sunday, May 12, 2019, 7:30 [IST]
Biography

Atul Bora is the incumbent MLA of Bokakhat constituency in Assam and the Minister of Agriculture. He's a member of Asom Gana Parishad and the president of the party. As party president, he severed ties with BJP over the Citizenship Bill that contrives to provide citizenship to minorities (of Hindu origin) who migrated to India from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh. He contested and won the assembly election from Bokakhat constituency by defeating Arun Phuka of INC with a 59 percent vote share.
B. G., Opalesque Geneva:

The Helium Rising Stars Fund, which follows an event-driven, special situations strategy, returned +3.4% in April in its GBP share class (3.2% in its CHF class), and announced that its largest fund holding had received a cash offer.

The fund's co-investment adviser, ISP Capital, reports in a monthly update seen by Opalesque on 10th May that the largest holding of the fund, London-based financial advice firm Lighthouse Group, received a cash offer from Intrinsic, a subsidiary of the wealth management company Quilter. The offer price is not very generous, but in the present guarded climate and continuing Brexit caution, other bidders appear reluctant to engage. If the takeover goes through, it would be a third large takeover for the fund since inception, with an investment profit in this case of more than 5m ($6.5m).

Alliance News and others reported the same day that Lighthouse' investors had approved the 46.2m cash takeover by Quilter. Quilter - part of Old Mutual Ltd until June 2018 - made a 33 pence per share cash offer for Lighthouse which represented a 25% premium to its share price at the time. Shares in Lighthouse were 1% lower at 32.66 pence and Quilter' shares were up 0.5% at 143.90p on 10th May.

The Cayma......................

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Pharma Excipients Market Research Report 2019 - 2025 | Top Key Players - Archer Daniels Midland (ADM), BASF, DOW Chemical Company, Evonik, J.M. Huber Corporation, ABITEC Corporation

Pharma Excipients Market Research Report 2019 - 2025

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Up Market Research published a detailed report on Pharma Excipients Market. The report provides an in-depth overview of industry and competitive landscape, covering multiple market segments and elaborates market outlook and status to 2025.Get Exclusive Free Sample Copy Of This Report @The report highly exhibit on current market analysis scenario, upcoming as well as future opportunities, revenue growth, pricing and profitability.Pharma Excipients Market research report delivers a close watch on leading competitors with strategic analysis, micro and macro market trend and scenarios, pricing analysis and a holistic overview of the market situations in the forecast period. It is a professional and a detailed report focusing on primary and secondary drivers, market share, leading segments and geographical analysis. Further, key players, major collaborations, merger & acquisitions along with trending innovation and business policies are reviewed in the report. The report contains basic, secondary and advanced information pertaining to the Pharma Excipients Market global status and trend, market size, share, growth, trends analysis, segment and forecasts from 20192025.The scope of the report extends from market scenarios to comparative pricing between major players, cost and profit of the specified market regions. 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 Pharma Excipients Market analysis & forecast 2019-2025 is segmented into Product Segment, Application Segment & Major players.Global Pharma Excipients Market Segmentation Includes:Region-wise Analysis covers: North America Europe China Japan India Southeast Asia Other regions (Central & South America, Middle East & Africa)The Major players include: Archer Daniels Midland (ADM) BASF DOW Chemical Company Evonik J.M. Huber Corporation ABITEC Corporation Cargill Eastman Chemical Company AkzoNobelProduct Type Analysis: Polymers Alcohols Minerals Sugar OthersApplication Analysis: Oral Solid Dosage Forms (OSDF) OthersGet Exclusive Free Sample Copy Of This Report @Pharma Excipients Market 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.Key Reasons to Purchase:- To gain insightful analysis of the market and have a comprehensive understanding of the Global Pharma Excipients Market and its commercial landscape.- Learn about the market strategies that are being adopted by your competitors and leading organizations.- To understand the future outlook and prospects for Pharma Excipients Market analysis and forecast 2019-2025.Avail Discount On This Report @Customization of the Report:UpMarketResearch provides free customization of reports as per your need. This report can be personalized to meet your requirements. Get in touch with our sales team, who will guarantee you to get a report that suits your necessities.About UpMarketResearch:The UpMarketResearch () is a leading distributor of market research report with more than 800+ global clients. As a market research company, we take pride in equipping our clients with insights and data that holds the power to truly make a difference to their business. Our mission is singular and well- defined  we want to help our clients envisage their business environment so that they are able to make informed, strategic and therefore successful decisions for themselves.Contact Info:Name: Alex MathewsEmail: Alex@upmarketresearch.comOrganization: UpMarketResearchAddress: 500 East E Street, Ontario, CA 91764, United States.
Marine Winch Market 2019 | Worldwide Market Outlook 2025 | Major Manufacturers - MacGregor, Rolls-Royce, Ingersoll Rand, TTS, ACE winches, Huisman Group, IHC Hytop B.V, Fukushima Ltd

Marine Winch Market

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Up Market Research has added the latest research report on Marine Winch Market Forecast to 2025 to its huge pool of market research reports database. The most up to date report comprises the latest trends that influence the market competition in the forecast period.Get FREE Sample Copy Of this Report @The Marine Winch Market Report 2025 provides a regional analysis of the market. The regional analysis focuses on manufacturers, suppliers, segmentation according to the application, major players, customers, and furthermore. The competitive data type analysis includes capacity, market share, profit margin, market growth, consumer consumption, imports, exports, revenue, and etc. Marketing strategies, manufacturing processes, policies, industry chain that are changing the wave of the market are also catered in the report.The market research reports also include detailed information about the major players. The information provides gross profit, revenue, business distribution, the share of the market, and etc. Along with the major players, the development of the market in the focused region is also tailored in the report.The whole detailed report includes:1) Basic overview of the market2) Marine Winch Market by Type3) Marine Winch Market by Application4) Marine Winch Market by Major playersMajor Players included: MacGregor, Rolls-Royce, Ingersoll Rand, TTS, ACE winches, Huisman Group, IHC Hytop B.V, Fukushima LtdMarket Segmentation:By Type: Manual, Electrical, HydraulicBy Application: Marine Engineering, Hoisting Freight, FishingThe Marine Winch Market is a competitive market. This report will help to resolve all the market-related doubts and assist the business to grow in the competitive sphere. All the data represented in the reports are validated by the prominent professionals and analysts of the market.Enquire More About This Report at:In addition to this, the report outlook will give the guidance to Tier1, Tier 2, and Tier 3s CEOs and CMOs to expand their roots in the industry and get ready for the future. It will also interest the individual readers around the world to know the inside-out of the industry. The tailoring of the market report involves a proper research methodology that includes primary research, interviews with the leading executives of the industry, and data analysis by the research analyst at the company.Going forward to the developments of the market, vendors landscape will provide a key development to the market worldwide. The market report will also provide the companies that are bombarding the market with unrelated products, companies with the same products but different geographical location, and popularity of the application according to the regions. During the study of the report, you will get to know about the segments that will act as a driver and restraints for the market growth.The Global Marine Winch Market is necessary to understand the major players competition related to the products. It is witnessed that the new competitors in the market are the former executives or managers of the major players in the market. Therefore, the report will help to have deep insights and discover the new and existing opportunities of the market.The Global Marine Winch Market was valued at $XX Million. It is anticipated that the market will throttle at a CAGR of XX.X% between 2019 and 2025.Avail Discount On This Report @This report includes CAGR, Cost Structure, Competitive analysis, Sales analysis, Top Players, and future growth insights.If you have any special requirement related to the report, the dedicated team will tailor the report as you wantThe value marked as XX is the confidential values of the market. To know about the values or any queries related to the report, fill in your information and our business development executive will get in touch with you.Major 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 FREE Sample Copy Of this Report @About Up Market Research:The UpMarketResearch () is a leading distributor of market research report with more than 800+ global clients. As a market research company, we take pride in equipping our clients with insights and data that holds the power to truly make a difference to their business. Our mission is singular and well- defined  we want to help our clients envisage their business environment so that they are able to make informed, strategic and therefore successful decisions for themselves.Contact Info:Name: Alex MathewsEmail: Alex@upmarketresearch.comOrganization: UpMarketResearchAddress: 500 East E Street, Ontario, CA 91764, United States.
Anti-bacteria Coating Market 2019 | World Market Analysis 2025 | Market Leaders  Akzonobel, BASF SE, PPG Industries Inc., Nippon Paint Company Ltd

Anti-bacteria Coating

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As per the latest research study published by Up Market Research, Global Anti-bacteria Coating Market is estimated to grow at a healthy CAGR % in the coming years. The research report showcases qualitative and quantitative estimations by the industry analysts. The report documents first-hand data, post verification from the industry experts along with each industry manufacturers by the market valuation.Request Free Sample Copy Of this Report @Anti-bacteria Coating Market report also gives an extensive analysis of market share, latest industry trends and forecast data analysis with respect to sales revenue, market growth, and demand and supply scenario.Furthermore, the report also evaluates the key opportunities available in the market and outlines the factors that are and will be driving the expansion of the industry. Growth of the Global Anti-bacteria Coating Market has been forecasted for the time period 2019-2025, taking into consideration the previous sales patterns, the market growth drivers, current and future trends specific to particular regions and globally.This research study also presents the market competition landscape and a corresponding detailed analysis of the major vendor/manufacturers in the market.The key manufacturers covered in this report: Akzonobel BASF SE PPG Industries Inc. Nippon Paint Company Ltd. Dupont Royal DSM RPM International Inc. Dow Chemical Company Sherwin-Williams Company Diamond VogelThis report provides the details about the global as well as regional volume, market share, size and gross margin of the competitor companies. It also analyzes noteworthy trends, emerging value of CAGR and present as well as future developments in the industry.Anti-bacteria Coating Market report also provides a realistic valuation of the region specific market and offers a place for key contributors to find potential regional growth opportunities.Region wise analyses of the top producers and consumers, focus on product capacity, production, value, consumption, market share and growth opportunity in below mentioned key regions; North America - U.S., Canada, Mexico Europe - U.K., France, Italy, Germany, Russia, Spain etc. Asia-Pacific - China, Japan, India, Southeast Asia etc. South America - Brazil, Argentina etc. Middle East & Africa - Saudi Arabia, African countries etc.For More Information On This Report, Please Visit @By product type Segmentation: data from 2014 to 2019; and forecast to 2025 Silver Coating Copper Coating OthersBy application Segmentation: data from 2014 to 2019; and forecast to 2025 Building & Construction Food & Beverages Wood & Furniture Medical OthersRequest Free Sample Copy Of this Report @Research objectives and Reason to procure this report: To study and analyze the global consumption (value & volume) by key regions/countries, product type and application, history data from 2014 to 2018, and forecast to 2025. To understand the structure of Anti-bacteria Coating Market by identifying its various subsegments. To better understand the industry leaders/manufacturers, by outlining and analyzing their sales volume, value, market share, market competition landscape, SWOT analysis and development plans in the near future. To receive comprehensive information about the key factors influencing the market growth (opportunities, drivers, industry-specific challenges and risks). To analyze competitive developments such as expansions, agreements, new product launches, and acquisitions, mergers in the market. To strategically outline the key players in the market and extensively analyze their growth strategies.Avail Discount On this Report @All possible factors that can influence the market are already included in this research study and have been accounted for, evaluated in detail, verified through extensive primary/secondary research, and investigated to get the concluding quantitative and qualitative data. The market size for key players and sub-segments is normalized, and the effect of inflation, economic downturns, along with regulatory & policy changes or other factors are accounted for in the market forecast. This data is collated and added with detailed inputs and analysis from Up Market Research and presented in this exclusive report.About UpMarketResearch:The UpMarketResearch () is a leading distributor of market research report with more than 800+ global clients. As a market research company, we take pride in equipping our clients with insights and data that holds the power to truly make a difference to their business. Our mission is singular and well- defined  we want to help our clients envisage their business environment so that they are able to make informed, strategic and therefore successful decisions for themselves.Contact Info:Name: Alex MathewsEmail: Alex@upmarketresearch.comOrganization: UpMarketResearchAddress: 500 East E Street, Ontario, CA 91764, United States
Mulberry Silks Market 2019 by: Anhui Silk , Wujiang First Textile , Wujiang Wanshiyi Silk , Zhejiang Jiaxin Silk , Sichuan Nanchong Liuhe (Group) Corp

Mulberry Silks

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Global Mulberry Silks Market Report provides analysis of Market Status, Market Growth, Market Share and Size, Segmentation and Opportunity. The advanced research and development facilities, and innovative developments by the companies are driving the growth of the industry.It also identifies the competitive landscape of industries to understand the competition at domestic as well as global level. Report also analyzes significant trends, emerging value of CAGR and present as well as future development.Request for the sample copyThe Top key players covered in this study Anhui Silk Wujiang First Textile Wujiang Wanshiyi Silk Zhejiang Jiaxin Silk Sichuan Nanchong Liuhe (Group) Corp Shengkun Silk Manufacturing Jiangsu Sutong Cocoon & Silk Jinchengjiang Xinxing Cocoon Silk Wensli Group China Silk Corporation Entogenetics, Inc Bolt Threads Inc Spiber Technologies Amsilk GmbH Kraig Biocraft LaboratoriesMarket Segment by Product Type Wild Growth Mulberry Silk Artificial Rearing Mulberry SilkMarket Segment by Application Textile Industry Cosmetics & Medical OtherInfluence of the Mulberry Silks market report: What will the market growth rate of Mulberry Silks market in 2026? What are the key factors driving the global Mulberry Silks market? Who are the key manufacturers in Mulberry Silks market space? What are the market opportunities, market risk and market overview of the Mulberry Silks market? What are sales, revenue, and price analysis by types and applications of Mulberry Silks market? What are sales, revenue, and price analysis by regions of Mulberry Silks industry?Enquire before purchase@:Table of contents:1 Study Coverage1.1 Huangjiu(yellow Wine) Product1.2 Key Market Segments in This Study1.3 Key Manufacturers Covered1.4 Market by Type1.4.1 Global Huangjiu(yellow Wine) Market Size Growth Rate by Type1.4.2 Mijiu1.4.3 Huadiao jiu1.4.4 Shaoxing wine1.4.5 Hong lu jiu1.4.6 Other1.5 Market by Application1.5.1 Global Huangjiu(yellow Wine) Market Size Growth Rate by Application1.5.2 Online Store1.5.3 Supermarket1.5.4 Direct Store1.5.5 Other1.6 Study Objectives1.7 Years Considered2 Executive Summary2.1 Global Huangjiu(yellow Wine) Production2.1.1 Global Huangjiu(yellow Wine) Revenue 2014-20252.1.2 Global Huangjiu(yellow Wine) Production 2014-20252.1.3 Global Huangjiu(yellow Wine) Capacity 2014-20252.1.4 Global Huangjiu(yellow Wine) Marketing Pricing and Trends2.2 Huangjiu(yellow Wine) Growth Rate (CAGR) 2019-20252.3 Analysis of Competitive Landscape2.3.1 Manufacturers Market Concentration Ratio (CR5 and HHI)2.3.2 Key Huangjiu(yellow Wine) Manufacturers2.4 Market Drivers, Trends and Issues2.5 Macroscopic Indicator2.5.1 GDP for Major Regions2.5.2 Price of Raw Materials in Dollars: EvolutionContinued!About usWe have a strong network of high powered and experienced global consultants who have about 10+ years of experience in the specific industry to deliver quality research and analysis.Having such an experienced network, our services not only cater to the client who wants the basic reference of market numbers and related high growth areas in the demand side, but also we provide detailed and granular information using which the client can definitely plan the strategies with respect to both supply and demand side.Canada Office:302-20 Misssisauga Valley Blvd, Missisauga, L5A 3S1, TorontoContact UsEmail- info@supplydemandmarketresearch.comWebsite-Phone Number: +1-276-477-5910
A 62-year-old man sought in connection with a series of alleged sex assaults on children 23 years ago walked into the Oregon City Police Department on Friday and surrendered, the FBI reported Saturday.

Wayne Arthur Silsbee was wanted for his alleged involvement in multiple incidents of sexual assault involving girls who were between the ages of 8 and 10 at the time.

Wayne Silsbee has turned himself in to @OCPolice. He was wanted for his alleged involvement in multiple incidents of sexual assault. Authorities are asking for anyone who has had past contact with Silsbee to call the Oregon City tip line: 503-496-1616.https://t.co/OEyBHuv8X0 pic.twitter.com/UbGNjbPmXf  FBI Portland (@FBIPortland) May 12, 2019

The alleged assaults occurred between September of 1995 and April of 1996 in Clackamas County, agents said. Silsbee was acquainted with each of the victims, having either babysat for them or taken them to various events.

Silsbee faces charges of first-degree sodomy, first-degree sexual abuse, endangering the welfare of a minor, and first-degree unlawful sexual penetration. An arrest warrant for Silsbee was issued in Clackamas County in 1996. That same year the FBI obtained a federal arrest warrant charging him with unlawful flight to avoid prosecution.

Silsbees first appearance in court will be at 3 p.m. Monday.

Authorities are asking for anyone who has had any contact with Silsbee over the last 23 years to call the Oregon City tip line: 503-496-1616. Detectives believe he most recently lived in Nebraska. Silsbee also has had ties to Springfield, Missouri; the San Francisco Bay area of California; Colorado; Arizona; and northwestern Washington State.

--Tom Hallman Jr.

thallman@oregonian.com; 503 221-8224

@thallmanjr
Police have been sent to the 4500 block of Northeast 125 Place following reports that a man fired gunshots at people in two cars following a fight just after 6:30 p.m. Saturday.

The vehicles drove away and the occupants have not contacted police.

The suspect left the area on foot, and officers are looking for him, the Portland Police Bureau reported. Police have not issued a description of the man.

The bureaus Gun Violence Reduction Team responded to assume the investigation.

-- Tom Hallman Jr.

thallman@oregonian.com 503 221-8224

@thallmanjr
The University of Oregon looks like an unlikely candidate to bankroll opposition to Governor Kate Browns efforts to control greenhouse gases.

The 23,000-student public university is home to academics studying climate change and its impacts. The schools climate plan calls climate change an imminent threat, one requiring fast and effective governmental action. When the United States withdrew from the Paris Agreement, university President Michael Schill pledged the school would be a climate leader.

But along with Oregon Health and Science University, UO is a member of the Alliance of Western Energy Consumers, a group lobbying to kill the governors climate change agenda. One of the energy groups leaders during a recent interview cast doubt whether greenhouse gases are causing the earths temperatures to rise. Its a position at odds with the findings of scientists worldwide.

OHSU pays the group $21,000 in annual membership dues. UO, which joined the group last November, pays $13,000, records show.

Corporations including Microsoft and Intel are also members. All have taken prominent public stances on the need to act on climate.

Zack Barnett, a University of Oregon spokesman, downplayed the universitys involvement.

Our relationship with AWEC is purely to aid in projecting costs for natural gas as we navigate price fluctuations in the energy market, he said. The political positions of AWEC do not reflect those of the University of Oregon.

But hundreds of pages of internal documents show that university administrators were aware of the energy groups opposition to Browns climate plan and knew it would be controversial.

The Climate Investigations Center, a fossil fuel industry watchdog, obtained the records from the universities through public records requests and provided copies to The Oregonian/OregonLive.

When University of Oregon officials released the records, they deleted references to the groups opposition, asserting attorney-client privilege. But OHSU provided some of the same documents without redactions.

The Alliance of Western Energy Consumers' legislative updates released by the University of Oregon (left, redacted to obscure the group's opposition) and by OHSU, which provided the full document.

In them, the energy alliance lists Oregons emerging cap-and-trade bill as a major threat. When the bill was delayed in 2018, the alliance called it a political victory, the records show.

Correspondence between UO officials and the energy alliance shows the university was concerned about how its membership would appear.

In a January email, the University of Oregons utility manager, Tony Hardenbrook, said he wanted to be sure the universitys name wasnt included in any position statements about legislation, citing internal strife over the schools membership.

Given our status as a quasistate entity and funding from the State of Oregon, there were concerns with the optics of our membership, Hardenbrook wrote. This is most acute with Oregon legislation. We would like to pursue a membership that does not put UO at odds with the elected officials in Salem.

John Carr, a former PacifiCorp executive who leads the alliance, assured Hardenbrook the university wouldnt be identified in lobbying materials. Youre a valued member of AWEC, Carr told Hardenbrook.

Reached by The Oregonian/OregonLive, Hardenbrook said he was happy to discuss the schools participation in the alliance. But he said he first needed authorization from university public relations officials. I have nothing to hide, Hardenbrook said.

The university refused to allow Hardenbrook to be interviewed by The Oregonian/OregonLive.

The Alliance of Western Energy Consumers was formed in 2018 after a merger between the Industrial Customers of Northwest Utilities and the Northwest Industrial Gas Users.

Ed Finklea, the groups natural gas director, told The Oregonian/OregonLive that the groups primary focus is ratepayer advocacy before public utility commissions, the state agencies that decide how much utilities can charge their customers.

Energy-intensive businesses, including paper mills and large factories, are members because of the groups advocacy with regulators deciding gas and electric rates, he said. Were skilled at keeping them down, Finklea said. Thats why people join our group.

He said the carbon fight were in the midst of and lobbying in general is not our mission as a group.

Nonetheless, the energy customers alliance has made itself a major voice on the issue recently.

It has lobbied at least one Oregon newspapers editorial board, celebrating a resulting editorial in the Eugene Register-Guard critical of the effects of the cap-and-trade bill on businesses.

When the group meets jointly with the Northwest Gas Association next month for its annual conference at Skamania Lodge, its keynote speaker will be Alex Epstein, a self-described industry persuasion consultant who proposes to combat what he calls mild climate change by burning more fossil fuels.

Epsteins views put him in the position of denying scientific findings about the forces reshaping a planet now regularly experiencing its warmest years on record.

Epstein has lauded President Trumps appointment of former U.S. Environmental Protection Agency director Scott Pruitt, widely reviled by environmental advocates for his efforts to gut clean air and water regulations, as great for industrial progress and human flourishing.

Finklea said Epstein was invited to speak because hes a thought leader.

He said the group wanted a provocative speaker whod make a stink, not someone to tell us this isnt happening. Were well aware of the environmental impacts of energy.

But Finklea also questioned those impacts. Of the record levels of carbon dioxide in Earths atmosphere and the 1 degree Celsius of warming documented since the 19th century, Finklea said: They correlate. Whether the one caused the other, we dont know.

Scientists unequivocally say human activity is driving the global increase in temperatures.

Firefighters monitor a backfire while battling the Delta Fire in the Shasta-Trinity National Forest, Calif., south of the Oregon state line in September 2018. Climate change is expected to increase the risk of wildfires in Oregon. (AP Photo/Noah Berger)AP -WR

Brendan Adamczyk, a University of Oregon junior who is co-director of the Climate Justice League, a campus advocacy group, said he was stunned to learn his university was financially supporting a group opposing state climate bills.

If theyre still giving money to them, they cant control where it goes, Adamczyk said. Hearing theyre working against state initiatives, consciously or unconsciously, they should not be funding that group.

The groups top legislative priorities in Oregon include opposing bills that would:

Change the existing Oregon Global Warming Commission to the Oregon Climate Change Commission with a budget of $1 million from the states general fund. The commission tracks greenhouse gas emissions and Oregons progress reducing them.

Require the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality to create a program to monitor the impacts of the states greenhouse gas regulation.

Create the Oregon Climate Authority. Brown proposed giving the standalone agency responsibility for overseeing the cap-and-trade bills implementation.

Finklea said his organization opposes those bills because it doesnt think that regulatory solutions are going to be as effective as incentivizing or innovating.

A spokeswoman for Brown said the governor has sought out and solicited feedback from around the state on HB 2020 -- the cap-and-trade bill -- and understood that the universities did not have a position on the bill.

A 2017 Intel policy calls for the company to influence the development of sound public policies to address climate change. Linda Qian, an Intel spokeswoman, said it would be impractical and unrealistic to expect that our company, stockholders, and stakeholders will agree with every issue that a politician or trade association may support.

Like the University of Oregon, OHSU and Microsoft said theyre members of the energy consumers alliance because of its expertise with utility rates. All distanced themselves from the groups position on climate legislation.

An OHSU spokeswoman said the school has not taken a position on the cap-and-trade bill and relies on AWEC to provide analysis of rate impacts of energy regulation so that we can plan for future utility costs.

Microsoft said the alliance doesnt speak for the Washington state tech giant on the issue of cap-and-trade. We belong to a number of industry and business organizations and rarely agree on all positions taken, said Lucas Joppa, Microsofts chief environmental officer. This is one example, as Microsoft is not opposing the Oregon Legislatures climate-change related initiatives.

Microsoft came under shareholder pressure to abandon its participation in another organization, the conservative American Legislative Exchange Council, a national group that pushed bills to reverse states renewable energy goals.

The company left ALEC in 2014.

 Rob Davis

rdavis@oregonian.com

503.294.7657; @robwdavis

Visit subscription.oregonlive.com/newsletters to get Oregonian/OregonLive journalism delivered to your email inbox.
Despite last weeks drama in which Senate Republicans refused to show up at the Capitol, theres little doubt that a $2 billion tax package for education investments will soon pass. While some legislators have their beefs with House Bill 3427, few question the need for more money to support Oregons students, from pre-kindergarten through high school. Senate Republicans need to end the drama, return to the Capitol and vote this bill in.

The real mystery that remains however, is how officials can ensure this huge infusion of cash is spent smartly, effectively and accountably. With local school officials controlling most district decisions and a state education department with a spotty track record of holding them accountable, thats not a given.

Fortunately, the bill, which dedicates much of a new business tax to grants for K-12 districts, recognizes that business as usual is a recipe for failure. The legislation, which reflects the extensive work done by a bipartisan legislative committee, attempts to set up a more accountable structure for issuing money to districts. Districts would submit plans detailing how they will spend funds  such as adding mental health services, increasing the school year, or offering new classes  to improve graduation rates, decrease chronic absenteeism and improve the educational outcomes for historically underserved students. The bill also significantly increases resources for the education department to vet plans, check progress and provide assistance to districts to help them meet their goals. And it requires annual audits from districts and reporting by state education officials.

The bill provides an excellent start. But as numerous examples throughout state government show  from failures to report deaths of children in state custody to allowing companies to pollute on expired permits  written requirements alone arent enough. Ensuring accountability relies not just on policies but on people with the commitment and support to ask questions, verify claims, follow up and demand improvements, if needed.

Provided the bill becomes law as expected, here are a few ideas that administrators, legislators, school board members, superintendents and community members should consider for ensuring this massive investment of public dollars is spent for students needs.

Plan now. The Student Success Act money isnt expected to be available for school districts until the 2020-2021 school year. That gives districts time to thoughtfully plan  with the communitys input  how to best use those dollars in true, evidence-based ways to help students. While reducing class size is always a popular idea, districts and communities must honestly weigh if a one- or two-student reduction in class size will be as meaningful as hiring reading specialists in the early years, funding science and technology classes for middle schoolers or increasing counselors for ninth-graders.

Include local oversight in the accountability matrix. The bill already requires districts to include the public in assessing its greatest needs. School boards should go one step farther and create a community oversight panel for their district, composed of residents with expertise in financial, educational and equity strategies. While a school board should ideally provide such oversight, a committee created solely to bird-dog the districts implementation of its plan and share that information with the public would allow for closer scrutiny and transparency than a school board might provide.

Similarly, rely on regional networks of employees or contractors to help keep districts accountable. The Department of Education will add a new team for administering and managing districts grants and ensuring they are meeting their agreements. Rather than park them all in Salem, the agency should look to selectively hire or contract with people in other parts of the state who can regularly check in with far-flung districts  helping create a culture where accountability and follow-ups are considered routine.

Continue with initiatives to improve districts operational sophistication. The state is already working with districts on providing fiscal management training for administrators, strengthening district business practices, and emphasizing transparency, Deputy Superintendent of Public Instruction Colt Gill told The Oregonian/OregonLive Editorial Board. Improving the professionalism and transparency of the states 197 K-12 school districts helps them not only deliver on any Student Success Act plans, but on serving students in general.

Look into expanding the state board of education to include publicly elected members. Currently, all voting members are appointees of the governor. Including members who owe their seats to the public can help ensure that the board is keeping the needs of students first  something it failed to do when it allowed school districts to abandon minimum requirements of classtime for high school students.

And of course, enact pension reforms. Its clear that legislators and the governor are finally recognizing the crisis of the pension systems unfunded liability. Without changes  including requiring public employees to share some of the burden of funding their own pensions  schools will be devoting more and more of these new dollars to pension debt. The expected passage of this bill can be transformative for an educational system currently known for its second-to-worst graduation rate. Failing to reform the pension system would be an unforgivable betrayal of students who need leaders to show the political courage to put them first.

-The Oregonian/OregonLive Editorial Board

Editorial Agenda 2019 Transform education for students benefit Keep Oregon solvent Work toward more evenhanded justice in Oregon Put Portland on the right track ________________________ Read more about the editorial board's priorities for 2019.
By Jennifer Margulis

Jennifer Margulis, Ph.D., of Ashland is a science writer and author of Your Baby, Your Way: Taking Charge of Your Pregnancy, Childbirth, and Parenting Decisions for a Happier, Healthier Family.

The Oregon House recently approved House Bill 3063, which would take away religious and philosophical exemptions to vaccinations. If the Senate passes this bill, and Gov. Kate Brown signs it, a child who is missing just one vaccine may no longer attend public school, private school, day care or Head Start. The Oregon Health Authority and trade organizations for doctors and nurses that support this bill insist that it  saves lives. I disagree.

I'm an Ivy League-educated, award-winning science writer and book author. I've been researching and writing about childrens health for more than 15 years. Ive spent thousands of hours researching issues related to childrens health, and Ive interviewed hundreds of doctors, parents and public health officials.

Everyone in America has the same goal: We want children to be healthy. We want them to survive and thrive. So we have to ask the question: How will mandating every vaccine on the current state schedule as a prerequisite for children to go to school in Oregon help improve our childrens health?

The answer is it wont.

Fear sells. The idea that Oregons vaccination rates are too low and that unvaccinated children are dangerous is a great way to incite fear. But if we want to help children be healthy, we have to look at facts.

Only 2.6 percent of children starting kindergarten in Oregon are entirely unvaccinated.

The higher number that youve heard is misleading. Any child who is fully up to date on his vaccines except for one is considered unvaccinated by the Oregon Health Authority. So if parents decide not to do just the vaccine for hepatitis B (which is a sexually transmitted disease), their child can get an exemption. That leads to the false impression that our children arent adequately vaccinated for infectious diseases.

Oregons vaccination rates for infectious diseases are very high, well above the thresholds we need to protect children and adults. The recent clusters of measles in Washington and Oregon prove that our states community immunity is excellent. Since January, there have been 74 cases of measles reported in Washington. In Oregon, there have been 10 cases which, of course, is 10 too many. I lived in west Africa, where I worked on a child survival project. Ive seen firsthand what can happen when a malnourished child who doesnt have access to proper hygiene is exposed to an infectious disease. No one wants to see a return of any infectious diseases, and we shouldnt downplay the potential severity of measles. But its also important to keep in mind that not a single measles infection that we know of this year has spread in an Oregon school.

Theres no question that measles is highly contagious, which is why its heartening that all of the measles cases in Oregon apparently have been resolved without incident in the past four months and currently there are no active cases, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Our state population is about 4 million people. The fact is that in the past seven years, you have been twice as likely to be struck by lightning in Oregon than to die from measles.

The majority of Oregonians voluntarily choose to get the measles vaccine. During the recent scare, many families who had previously chosen not to vaccinate decided to vaccinate. Education works. Oregonians are smart. Oregonians make good decisions for their children and their families. And they deserve the right to make those decisions in the privacy of a doctors office.

We arent having a crisis of unvaccinated children in this state. Thats a fear-based talking point thats not grounded in facts. But we are having a crisis of government overreach, one that threatens the medical freedom and the privacy of every Oregonian.
By Herman Baertschiger, Jr. and Cliff Bentz

Baertschiger, R-Grants Pass, is the Senate minority leader. Bentz, R-Ontario, is a state senator representing District 30.

Legislators should use every tool available to protect their constituents. When the majority party proposes laws that place Oregonians at risk, one of those tools is the refusal to provide a quorum.

The requirement that a quorum be present before a body can act is to assure that action is based on more than just a few opinions. In the Senate, a body of 30 people, a quorum consists of no fewer than 20 senators. There are 18 Democrats and 12 Republicans in the Oregon Legislature.

This tactic is justified because the Democrats corporate activity tax and cap and trade tax are inequitable, regressive and damaging at every level. Other bills brought by Democrats restrict personal freedoms and are equally extreme. Topping this off is the Democrats willingness to pass a $2 billion gross receipts tax before stopping the real harm that the Public Employees Retirement System continues to wreak upon Oregon childrens educational opportunities. Essentially, the Democrats are pouring $2 billion of your money into a bucket with a huge PERS hole in it. Yes, if ever there were a time to step out and say stop, it is now.

The Republican senators decision to walk out should be understood for what it is: a predictable response to legislation that is seriously flawed. Or, to quote our Democratic governor, Kate Brown, who was the Senate Democratic Leader in 2001 at the time of a Democratic boycott: Under certain circumstances, its fair to say we would use all tools available to us and stage a similar boycott.
Bamako, Mali (PANA) - Malian Prime Minister Boubou Cisse Saturday called on cultural forces of the nation and all stakeholders to find relevant solutions to save the academic year
BLOOMINGTON  Barry Reilly has been named Superintendent of Distinction in the Corn Belt Region for his work at Bloomington District 87.

I am certainly humbled and honored to be recognized by my peers, Reilly said. There is no greater honor. I have great respect for the work all of us do on a daily basis.

Reilly was given the award last week in Springfield at the Illinois Association of School Administrators (IASA) luncheon, sponsored by Horace Mann Companies, where 21 superintendents from across the state were recognized.

After 29 years as an educator and nine as superintendent in Bloomington, Reilly was nominated for the honor by his fellow superintendents and administrators in the Corn Belt Region, which is comprised of McLean, Livingston, Ford and Iroquois counties.

These extraordinary individuals truly provide exceptional leadership that elevates the success of students in their districts and are difference makers in their communities, said Brent Clark, executive director of the IASA.

Those who nominated Reilly praised a number of achievements in his career, including the completion of a major fine arts addition at Bloomington High School and placing artificial turf on the multipurpose field  part of an $8-million project  without increasing the district tax rate.

Those things are kind of extra special  but there are things happening in our schools every day that Im very proud of, said Reilly.

Reilly said the school board, staff and many others involved with the district make these accomplishments possible, not him alone.

In January, Reilly also was named Administrator of the Year by the Illinois Music Education Association for the districts dedication to the fine arts program.

Im really proud what weve been able to do with the facilities for the fine arts program, he said, in recognition of the growth in the drama, music and art departments.

Contact Kelsey Watznauer at (309) 820-3254. Follow her on Twitter: @kwatznauer.

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BLOOMINGTON  The 911 system for Bloomington is back on line.

The system, which had been down since early Sunday morning, was restored around 3:20 a.m. Monday, said the Bloomington Police Department.

The 911 system for for Normal and McLean County also was down most of Sunday, but was operating that evening.

The 911 system went down early Sunday morning, according to Blake Mowery, the 911 supervisor for McLean County. He said crews worked throughout the day to fix the system, which started working again around 7:45 p.m.

We noticed around 2:30 a.m. that we were having some issues with some calls and by 3 a.m., the whole system was down, Mowery told The Pantagraph. We have our technical people working on it, but we understand there are multiple areas in Illinois also experiencing issues.

Illinois State University police tweeted at 8:20 p.m. Sunday that its 911 service had been restored.

Non-emergency numbers issued earlier in the day could still be used.

Earlier Sunday, several first responder agencies took to social media to help spread the word.

Surrounding counties did not appear to be affected.

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BLOOMINGTON  Robotics teams from across the state headed to the Interstate Center this weekend to see how their creations measured up at the annual Illinois 4-H Robotics Competition.

Teams spent the last four months preparing for the competition by building two small robots based on the theme STEM Bot.

Almost 50 teams, representing 350 kids, put their bots to the test to see if they were capable of completing a variety of tasks, including knocking Newtons apple out of a tree, replacing a bad heart with a new transplant, drawing a circle, debugging a computer and completing a circuit.

Competitors were between 8 and 18 years old in this entry-level robotics experience, said Judy Bingham of the University of Illinois, which organized the event.

All of the judges were fellow robotics club kids, between the ages 13 and 21, who may have been former competitors or taking a break from the major regional competitions.

We need a little bit of hope and a whole lot of luck, said 16-year-old Roux Starr during one of his teams practice runs.

On their final run, Starr and the rest of Loco Robo, which is based in Lincoln, earned about 70 points after their bot got stuck placing the bad heart in the biohazard area of the board.

The Trinity Trailblazers from DuPage County were a bit more successful. Like many other teams, their robot used sensors to follow taped lines on the playmat, and completed nearly every task it was programmed for, though it did forget to drop its pen afterward.

For the Trailblazers six-member team, testing their robot in a big competition is nerve-wracking for some and just awesome for others.

The Gearheads traveled from Clinton County with several supportive parents, like Sharon Ritzheimer, whose son Alex has participated for three years.

Its kind of neat that certain people get assigned certain things so its like putting all of their individual pieces together, she said.

Because of the nature of the competitions, robotics teams are able to bring together kids with a lot of different skills and interests so they each can focus on mat design, construction and engineering, communication or programming, like 12-year-old Alex.

Theres no arguing, theres no nothing  theres just We need to this, well how about if we try this, Ritzheimer said of the Gearheads collaboration. When its done right, it is truly a team effort.

After each teams bots were tested, the kids were interviewed about the robots features and how they helped to accomplish each task, how they performed and what went right or wrong during the final run through.

Contact Kelsey Watznauer at (309) 820-3254. Follow her on Twitter: @kwatznauer.

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WASHINGTON  Take the little black box that's about the size of a fist. Plug it into the data port that in most cars sits under the dashboard. It'll record how far your car is traveling.

Using that information as a potential tool for raising taxes to fund infrastructure is an idea that Democrats and Republicans are seriously discussing.

In Oregon, reading the box is how the state calculates a driver's road usage, which in turn is used to figure a tax on miles traveled. This sort of tax, if expanded nationwide, could be a big way governments pay for all those infrastructure improvements that the White House and Congress are striving to fund.

"That's where we're headed in the future," Rep. Peter DeFazio, an Oregon Democrat who chairs the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, said of the idea.

States all over the country are experimenting with different plans, searching for a way of replacing or at least reducing reliance on the gasoline tax. DeFazio supports a nationwide pilot program, and Rep. Sam Graves of Missouri, top Republican on the committee, likes the idea of a vehicle mileage fee.

The gasoline tax is widely seen by economic and transportation experts as a 20th-century anachronism. Vehicles are becoming more fuel efficient, if they're using gasoline at all.

"Everyone understands the gas tax is unsustainable," said Rep. Pramila Jayapal, a Washington Democrat who testified at the committee's infrastructure hearing to urge consideration of a road user fee.

The federal gas tax has been 18.4 cents a gallon and the diesel fuel tax has been 24.4 cents a gallon since 1993. The nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office estimates that revenue from the taxes will drop at a rate of about 1 percent a year over the next decade because of better vehicle fuel efficiency and slower growth in miles traveled.

There is support at the White House and in Congress to raise the gas tax. But even nearly doubling the tax would bring in $515 billion over the next 10 years, far short of the $2 trillion President Donald Trump and Democratic congressional leaders are seeking for an infrastructure package.

So lawmakers are looking for new, out-of-the-box ideas.

"We're going to spend a lot of political capital to do whatever we do whether that's a gas tax or whatever," Graves told McClatchy.

"So my thought is if we're going to spend all that political capital and then we're going to have to turn right back around and change something because the gas tax is so regressive, let's spend the capital and do something different," he said.

Big hurdles remain. To some Republicans, the usage fee is another tax the public does not want.

"Uniformly, they're opposed to it," said Rep. Paul Mitchell, a Michigan Republican and committee member said of his constituents.

Rep. Ben Cline, a Virginia Republican, represents a district that includes Interstate 81, a major north-south route widely used by trucks and tourists. He called the usage fee: "intrusive." Mitchell agreed, saying "It has a Big Brother quality to it.,"

Supporters counter that argument by saying today's electronic devices already can pinpoint where someone is and what they're doing.

"Your car today probably has all of the sensing systems that know exactly where you are at any time," said Rep. John Garamendi, a California Democrat and committee member. "Your cell phone is doing the same thing."

The more vexing questions involve whether such a program can work on a large scale, whether it would be unfair to people in rural areas who travel long distances, and how much revenue it could generate. DeFazio wants such concerns addressed in a nationwide pilot program.

States have been trying out pilot programs, with some federal help. The most extensive so far has been in Oregon, where by most accounts, the state has successfully implemented its OReGO system. But it's limited to 5,000 vehicles.

Launched in July, 2015, volunteers for the program contact private sector contractors certified by the state's transportation department. The private agencies manage drivers' accounts, provide them with the plug-in devices, and send statements each month for miles driven.

Drivers are charged 1.7 cents a mile. Since they are still paying the state's fuels tax at the pump, the bill includes a credit of 34 cents a gallon.

A 2017 report by the state's transportation department found relying on fuel taxes "is simply not sustainable," though it offered no estimate as to how much more could be raised with the usage tax.

What's important at the moment, the report said, is that the OReGO system works, and "since the explosive adoption of smartphones, people are less concerned about privacy and data security."

The Federal Highway Administration in February gave Oregon $950,000 to study ways to expand the system. The state will work with several others, including California and Washington, to share ideas that several states could also use.

The federal government has given a total of $39.9 million in innovation grants for 22 projects in 10 states since the grant program began in fiscal 2016. Missouri got $1.78 million in February to look at "innovative strategies," including a vehicle registration fee.

Missouri's gas tax is 17 cents a gallon, and the state also charges owners of electric vehicles $75 a year and hybrid owners $37.50 annually. The state considers the gasoline tax a true user fee, since only 3 percent of what's collected goes to administrative costs.

But projections are that gas tax collections will shrink, so state officials are looking at alternatives such as having vehicle owners pay a graduated rate based on the fuel efficiency of the vehicle.

Owners of an electric vehicle, which uses no gasoline or diesel fuel at all, could pay a rate set by the legislature, now estimated to be between $175 and $210, to attain parity with the revenues from traditional gasoline- and diesel- powered vehicles. A vehicle that has a miles-per-gallon rating estimated at 29 MPG or less would pay the current flat rate of around $24.

There are potential obstacles, said Michael DeMers, director of innovative partnerships and alternative funding for the Missouri Department of Transportation.

Is it fair to charge people a tax on miles they drove out of state? One answer to all this, said DeMers, is set up a national system to tax road usage.

All these experiments are the way to build support for a gas tax alternative, said Jayapal. "We're not quite at the place where we've gathered all the information to say 'OK, we're ready to expand it,'" she said, "but the first stage has already happened. Now what's the second stage and then the question is, what's the final stage?"

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Although we live in a country where organized religion is mostly out of vogue, there are still plenty of people who are familiar with the teachings of Christ  and who can't square them with how supposedly God-fearing Republicans inhumanely view migrants and refugees at the U.S. border.

"The rejection of Christian teaching on this issue (of immigration) is pretty much a job requirement in the Trump administration," noted Washington Post columnist Michael Gerson in a piece citing examples of Republican hypocrisy on the issue. "Evangelicals insist on the centrality and inerrancy of scripture and condemn society for refusing to follow biblical norms  and yet, when it comes to verse after verse requiring care for the stranger, they don't merely ignore this mandate; they oppose it."

But are we painting Christians with too broad a brush?

That's certainly the opinion of the Evangelical Immigration Table, which bills itself as a broad coalition of evangelicals who advocate for immigration reform that is consistent with biblical values.

Members include Leith Anderson, president of the National Association of Evangelicals; Shirley Hoogstra, president of the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities; and Samuel Rodriguez, president of the National Hispanic Christian Leadership Conference. They want to make sure their fellow Christians know that it is both possible and practical to use the Bible as a guide in approaching immigrants and immigration policy.

"We have the science and the technology to both have a secure border and to have legal immigration  we can do both," says Anderson in one of the group's videos, which is titled "Pro-Security, Pro-Compassion."

In that same video, Jo Anne Lyon, the global ambassador for the Wesleyan Church, says, "Yes, secure the national borders, but we want borders that are secured, not closed."

Another of the organization's videos is titled "Making Things Right: Establishing a Path Toward Legal Status." It advocates giving citizenship to immigrants who are currently living in the shadows. "(An) earned legalization process, paired with improvements to border security, is supported by more than two-thirds of American Evangelical Christians according to a poll from LifeWay," Hoogstra said.

Along with the videos, the Evangelical Immigration Table released an e-book titled "Thinking Biblically About Immigrants and Immigration Reform." It suggests that the Bible  which the e-book calls the "ultimate authority" for evangelical Christians  should be a guide not just for policy, but personal encounters:

"While applying biblical principles to public policy inherently requires some prudential determinations, biblical teachings about how to interact with immigrants themselves leave less space for differences of interpretation: We're called to love our neighbors (Luke 10:27) and to make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19), regardless of where we land on public policy."

Driving its point home, the e-book starts off by underscoring how many of the most prominent Bible characters were themselves immigrants, forced across borders just to find food. It goes on to cite numerous passages showing that vulnerable groups of people, like immigrants, were "objects of God's particular concern."

This would be the precise moment for the cynic to engage in finger-pointing and recriminations about the many ways and times that Bible verses are taken out of context (or not) to delegitimize particular groups, such as gay, lesbian or transgender people.

But to what end?

These evangelical Christians, who feel they've been miscast or misrepresented, are clearly trying to extend an olive branch not only to their detractors but to those who might find solace in the Bible and are ambivalent about the immigration issue.

These videos are nicely produced, and the e-book is a fine resource that is also humane. It calls for a "bipartisan solution on immigration that respects the God-given dignity of every person, protects the unity of the immediate family and establishes a path toward legal status and/or citizenship for those who qualify and who wish to become permanent residents."

Ultimately, however, while enlightened evangelical Christians preach about the Bible to fellow Christians, they need to also contact elected lawmakers who dehumanize immigrants or stand with a president who wants to be even harsher to the women, children and men who arrive at our border fleeing political turmoil, violence or economic freefall.

It's not enough to preach to the choir on the issue of immigration.

Evangelical Christians, please take an outspoken leadership role and help cool the heated rhetoric in far-right, anti-immigrant camps. Especially with those who put the power of their political pulpit toward dehumanizing immigrants and those who care about them.

Esther Cepeda's email address is estherjcepeda@washpost.com, or follow her on Twitter: @estherjcepeda.

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Wow! As if we didnt 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 couldnt remember anything he was asked about his contacts with Russia) and, now, it turns out hes 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. Hes a terrible businessman.

Add $2 trillion to the national debt for tax cuts for the 1 percent? No problem. After all, he didnt 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 Trumps 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 cant 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 cant 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.

Lets not get lost in Trumps swamp. Lets 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. Dont 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 wont be in office; lets work to see that justice then will be done.

Contact McFeatters at amcfeatters@nationalpress.com.

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Mothers deserve more than a day every 12 months. Twenty-four hours isnt enough for such a daunting title with just three letters  Mom.

The website Salary.com calculates how much a mother would be paid if it were a paying gig: it works out to $143,102 a year in compensation for stay-at-home moms and $90,223 for working ones.

That seems low for such an all-encompassing, 24/7 job. After all, what other job requires the diverse and demanding skills of judge, janitor, housekeeper, caregiver, teacher, grief counselor, fashion consultant, personal shopper, chauffeur, therapist, chef, tutor, event planner, academic adviser, dish washer, nutritionist, tailor, nurse, laundry manager, referee and (on really bad days) plumber all in one shift, and occasionally all at the same time?

Moms are dozens of unofficial titles, many taken for granted.

And, that's only for the first 18 years. Motherhood doesnt end when a son or daughter hits 18. It's a lifetime investment.

For non-moms, the job can seem overwhelming, simultaneously requiring both spines of steel, open hearts and the emotional improv skills of a Second City performer. As the abolitionist Harriet Beecher Stowe is quoted as saying, Most mothers are instinctive philosophers.

Or to put another way, to quote the jurist Oliver Wendell Holmes: Youth fades, love droops, the leaves of friendship fall; a mothers secret hope outlives them all.

Thats why moms get top billing above all others.

Sure, dads and other family members do their part rearing families and keeping houses in order. And every family is a little different  there are adopted families, mixed families, every other kind of family  all with their own roles and dynamics, just as there are single moms, married moms, working moms and guardian moms who arent blood relatives.

But by and large, there is one mom of the house, whether by birth or otherwise, who runs the show and has her hand on the controls. Theyre the ones juggling life in this hectic modern age. Theyre the ones with just the right tone, organizational skills and optimistic outlook to make this crazy world seem OK.

That need doesnt go away when children become adults. The world needs moms. We all need them.

Mary Towles Sasseen, of Henderson, Ky., gets credit for founding Mothers Day in the 1880s, although it seems curious it took that long for humans to realize we should recognize the everyday miracle that is motherhood.

Society places so many unfair expectations on moms, along with countless sacrifices  professional goals delayed, careers altered, dreams deferred. Moms carry the load, weather the storm and keep the faith.

Every mom deserves to be honored this Mothers Day.

And how should we show our appreciation? Flowers are nice. Cards never hurt. But a more appropriate gift might be five words that should be used liberally and frequently all year long: Thank you, I love you.

Thank you for all you do, have done and will do, moms.

Yours is a tough job. We cant imagine anyone else doing it.

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Patna: Hitting back at the Congress leaders who had been crying foul over the Karnataka controversy wherein the Governor invited the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to form the new government despite it not having the required numbers, senior BJP leader Shahnawaz Hussain, at a press conference in Patna on Thursday, said that the only party that has a history of 'murdering democracy' was Congress and the BJP did not need a lecture from its leaders.

In an apparent reference to the Emergency imposed by the then Prime Minister Mrs. Indira Gandhi in the '70s that is indisputably regarded as a black spot on the history of modern India, the former Union Minister slammed the Congress saying there was only one party in the country that had literally killed democracy in India and that was the Congress Party.

"We don't need lecture from those who have a history of murdering democracy in the nation," he said.

Saying the BJP had emerged as the single largest party in Karnataka Assembly elections and therefore, there was nothing wrong or undemocratic about the Governor of Karnataka inviting the BJP to form the new government in the state.

"Yeddyurappa has already been sworn in and now he has to prove the majority within next 15 days. I am confident it would not be a problem and chances are the BJP would not even need 15 days to prove the majority," the former Civil Aviation Minister said.

Continuing to take shots at the Congress, Hussain said that first the Congress leaders woke up all the judges in the middle of the night to seek their opinion and when that did not go in their favor, they tried to use force to stop Yeddyurappa who was on his way to take oath at the Governor's house.

"It is clear that Congress, with the help of Janata Dal  S, were trying to grab power through the back door," the party spokesperson said.
Patna: Mothers represent God on the earth. This was the message of the Rotary club of Patna Aryas and the young students of Tender Hearts High School located in Rajendra Nagar on the occasion of Mother's Day celebration on Friday.

The program included many activities and contests including the best-dressed mother, best story- telling mother, and the best dancing mother.

While Sushama, Shreeshsa was adjudged the best story-teller, Shabina and Sangeeta were given the best-dressed mothers. Ruby and Khushboo were awarded for being the best dancers.

Besides the children of the school and their parents, others present on the occasion included Rotarian Principal Shiwani Bhargava, Priyanka, Anita, Supria, and founder of the school Premlata Bhargava who, in her vote of thanks speech, said that children were like a heap of clay who are given proper shapes by their mothers.

School director and Rotarian Rajiv Bhargava highlighted the importance of kids' first school as their home away from home and their first teachers as their own mothers and fathers.

Bhargava also announced the commencement of the 10-day summer camp that opens on May 20th featuring events like swimming, acting, dancing, yoga, skating, and arts and craft. Other events include training in gymnastic and martial art and a day-long trip to the water park in Patna.
A Massachusetts man is facing federal charges in the brutal attack Saturday of two Appalachian Trail hikers that left a man dead and a woman hospitalized with severe stab wounds, authorities said Sunday.

James Louis Jordan, 30, was taken into custody after Wythe County, Virginia, sheriff's deputies located him along the trail in southwestern Virginia, by tracking an SOS signal triggered by one of the victims, officials said.

The U.S. attorney's office in Western Virginia said in a statement Sunday that Jordan will be charged with murder and assault with intent to murder in connection with the attack. He is scheduled to appear in court in Abingdon, Virginia, on Monday.

"The whole Appalachian Trail community of hikers and volunteers is profoundly sickened by the horrific and deadly attack Saturday morning," said Suzanne Dixon, president of the Appalachian Trail Conservancy.

The names of the victims have not been released, but law enforcement described a horrific scene that involved multiple agencies in a combined effort along the famed scenic trail. It is high season for "thru-hikers" traveling the length of the trail, which stretches along 2,100 miles from Georgia to Maine. Hikers typically begin around spring and trek north.

The one-mile length of the trail that passes through Wythe County Sheriff Keith Dunagan's jurisdiction - about 350 miles southwest of Washington, D.C. - is extremely rural and full of hikers this time of year, authorities said.

Many began their trek in Georgia in March and early spring and would have traveled 500 miles by the time they reached southwestern Virginia, said Brian King, a spokesman for the Conservancy.

Dunagan's deputies were the first to encounter Jordan, several yards from the scene of the attack Saturday. The victims had reported that a man wielding a large knife, accompanied by a dog, had threatened a group of four hikers camped out late Friday night.

Jordan allegedly pursued a pair of hikers who fled north, but they eluded him. Those two reached sheriff's deputies in nearby Bland County, and reported the nighttime attack, authorities said. The other two hikers fled south, but were unable to escape and Jordan alleged chased and caught up with them, authorities said.

Dunagan said the male victim managed to trigger an SOS signal on his phone and the mobile service provider alerted deputies to his location, just north of the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area. The woman - who suffered defensive wounds and was severely injured by the stabbing - escaped.

"She pretended to be dead and when (Jordan) walked away after his dog, she took off running," Dunagan said.

The woman found help in another group of hikers she encountered six miles away in Smyth County, Virginia, and was transported to the nearest trauma center, the sheriff said.

The Wythe County's Sheriff's Office tactical team traveled four miles into the woods to locate the wounded man's SOS signal. They initially came across walkers who described a knife-wielding man known as "Sovereign" who roamed the trail with a dog.

While authorities were talking to the group, a dog ambled over to the camp. Deputies followed the animal, who led them back to Jordan, and he was taken into custody. Investigators later found a 20-inch knife nearby along the trail and soon thereafter, discovered the male victim.

Jordan, who authorities think is "Sovereign," was well known to the community of hikers on the trail. Recent news reports of incidents in Tennessee, North Carolina and Georgia describe a man threatening and chasing other hikers with a machete or large knife.

King, of the trail conservancy, said they had heard of the man through alerts shared between hikers and on Trek, a well-read blog that posts frequent updates about life on the Appalachian Trail.

"He had a reputation because of his belligerence with other hikers in Tennessee and Georgia," King said. "With smartphones, word gets around very quickly."

A Bristol, Tennessee, television station reported that Jordan pleaded guilty to drug and other charges after confronting hikers with a knife near the North Carolina border in late April. He was sentenced to probation, fined and released from custody.

Unicoi County, Tennessee, Sheriff Mike Hensley told local news stations at the time that Jordan had been causing problems on the trail and was a "threat" to hikers. Hensley could not be reached Sunday.

Homicides are rare on the Appalachian Trail, according to statistics; the last time the trail was the scene of a homicide was in 2011 when a man was found strangled in Virginia. That case remains unsolved. More than 3 million people hike the trail each year and most hikers take care of one another, King said.

"It's a community like any other. Anyone who loves the trail feels like this is an attack on them," he said. "The trail is extremely safe but it's not absolutely safe."

The section of the trail where the attack occurred has since been reopened by authorities.
A Harrisburg man and a York man are behind bars after police in New York say they killed a 32-year-old man during a home invasion last week.

Michael J. McVicker, 46, of Harrisburg, and Curtis G. Cuttino, 40, of York, have been charged with felony counts of second-degree murder in connection with the deadly home invasion that left Brian Argro dead in Apalachin, New York, the Binghamton Press & Sun-Bulletin is reporting.

According to the report, a 20-year-old woman called the police and said the two men banged on the door around 5:55 a.m. that day, and once inside, they shot Argro after a struggle.

Both were arrested later that morning. Police took Cuttino into custody about a half hour later on Route 434 in Owego, and they arrested McVicker at a bus terminal in Monticello around 10:39 a.m., according to reports.

Both are being held in the Tioga County jail.

Police have not said what, if anything, was stolen from the home, and they are still trying to unravel a motive.

Investigators do not believe this was a random crime, reports indicate.
A Penn State Beaver professor is accused of holding two women against their will while he was driving for Uber Saturday morning in the Pittsburgh area.

Thats according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, which reported that Richard Lomotey, 36, of Monaca was driving the women about 1:30 a.m. from Homewood to Penn Hills, according to police.

Lomotey is an assistant professor of information sciences and technology at Penn State Beaver, the paper reported, adding that he also is a part-time instructor at the University of Pittsburghs School of Computing and Information.

One of the women told police that Lomotey commented on their good looks and said he wanted to get with them," the Post-Gazette reported.

According to the paper, police said Lomotey attempted to lock the women in his car, but they were able to escape uninjured.

Police were eventually able to identify Lomotey through his Uber profile and driving records, the paper reported.

Online court documents show that Lomotey faces two felony charges of kidnapping, as well as lesser charges of false imprisonment and harassment.
Two decades ago then Governor Tom Ridge worked hard to fulfill a campaign promise. He wanted to provide school choice to less privileged kids through a school voucher program.

The goal of the Ridge plan was to allow children from less economically fortunate families, trapped in schools they wouldnt choose to attend, to go to schools they wanted. He used the often repeated slogan that a childs education shouldnt be dictated by their zip code.

The legislature wasnt ready to go as far as a voucher program, but they did something many believe was even better: The Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC).

For almost twenty years, EITC has provided scholarships empowering hundreds of thousands of low and middle income students to attend the school that is the best fit for them.

The success stories powered by the EITC are endless. Not only have school children benefitted in innumerable ways, the program has also saved at least $1 billion for Pennsylvanias public schools.

Despite the fact that tens of thousands of scholarships are given, demand still far exceeds supply. Although the allocation for the program has grown over the years and eligibility has been expanded by raising the household income threshold, there are thousands more who want to be included.

Last year scholarship organizations were forced to reject 50,000 applications. Thats how popular the EITC is.

This week the Pennsylvania House of Representatives did something about it. Several Democrats joined the Republican majority to pass legislation nearly doubling the EITC, increasing it by $100 million.

The bill also expands eligibility, raising the family income level to allow more middle class families to participate. It also guarantees that a student with a scholarship will keep it even if his familys economic circumstances change.

The bill that passed the House still needs Senate approval and the governors signature.

Sadly, Governor Wolfs spokesperson has described the program as an unfunded mandate. Thats political spin that defies even the most creative imagination. Nothing is further from the truth.

Each year the biggest item in the states budget is spending for education. The commonwealth currently dedicates more than $11 billion to primary and secondary education in public schools. When additional local spending is added, Pennsylvania taxpayers are providing more than $30 billion.

The EITC is a tiny fraction of state spending on education, accounting for less than 2 percent. The problem is that, although EITC funding has increased, it hasnt grown fast enough. More than incremental increases are needed to keep pace in helping those children who want and deserve it.

Thats another of the benefits that House Bill 800, the legislation that moved through the House, provides. Beyond increasing the allocation and expanding eligibility, the legislation adds an escalator provision that automatically increases the annual cap by 10 percent whenever 90 percent of the current limit is reached.

The escalator provision not only helps to meet the demand to help Pennsylvanias children, it takes additional funding out of the political mix in which it finds itself every June. Too often EITC has been a bargaining chip in other budget discussions. It deserves to be funded on its own merit.

Finally, there are safeguards built into the bill to ensure that children are the direct recipients of the advantages of the donations. It requires that 90 percent of the donations be spent directly on students and their education rather than being eaten away by administrative costs.

One of the biggest benefits of school choice is allowing parents to determine what is best for their children. For many its a public school, but for others it may be a parochial school or other private school, a charter school, vocational school or homeschooling.

Pennsylvania has been a national leader in education and school choice. Putting the latest initiative into law will continue that tradition and ensure that every Pennsylvania child has the opportunity to achieve his or her fullest potential through the school that is best for them.

PennLive Opinion contributor Charlie Gerow is the CEO of Quantum Communications in Harrisburg. His Donkeys & Elephants column appears this week opposite former Pa. Lieutenant Governor Mark S. Singel.
Pennsylvanias commitment to public education goes back to 1824 when a law called for establishing schools in which all children should be admitted and taught without regard to social or financial status. That law was voluntary, and few localities could afford that investment on their own.

It was not until Governor George Wolf, a progressive Democrat, called for a state-funded school system that things began to happen. In the 1833-34 legislative session, a joint committee explored the subject and passed the Free School Act with strong bipartisan support.

It was not long before citizens discovered that providing education for all would not be easy or cheap. The threat of new taxes cased a mutiny in the very next session. The House was flooded with petitions asking for a repeal of the law and Free Schools seemed doomed.

It was in this atmosphere that Thaddeus Stevens, a young Representative from Lancaster, rose to give his famous Free Schools Speech on April 11, 1835.

So cast our votes that the blessing of education shall be conferred on every son of Pennsylvania; shall be carried home to the poorest child of the poorest inhabitant of your mountains so that even he may be prepared to act well his part in this land of freemen.

On the strength of his arguments, the legislature abruptly halted the repeal effort and, in fact, increased funding for the public school experiment. Pennsylvania took its place as the leader in education and went on the enshrine the principle of a thorough and efficient education for all children in its constitution.

Today, education accounts for about 25 percent of the states expenditures. We spend about $15,000 per student per year.

These are staggering numbers that critics say may not meet the criteria of being efficient.

There have been movements to alter the current structure of public education. Governors Thornburg and Ridge fought for a voucher alternative that would allow parents to move students into private settings. Charter Schools and other options have been added to the mix.

Recently, a creative way of bringing corporate support to education came in the form of the Education Investment Tax Credit (EITC) Program. EITC provides tax credits to eligible businesses contributing to a Scholarship Organization, an Educational Improvement Organization, and/or a Pre-Kindergarten Scholarship Organization that is identified by the state Department of Community and Economic Affairs.

The set aside for this program is now $160 million, and the House recently passed a bill to increase that amount to $260 million, with an annual escalator of 10 percent.

Companies can get tax credits for supporting scholarships to schools of their choice. A win-win deal, right?

The problem, of course, is that every dollar set aside for tax credits is one dollar less that the state has to spend on education or any program.

One House Democrat pointed out that, while EITC is well intentioned, we are getting to the point that it is becoming a budget buster  especially with the escalator clause. Another points out that, at a time when the commonwealth has 185 school districts that are still underfunded, the legislature should be looking into investing the money into those established schools and students.

Another argument of concern is that EITC monies go primarily to non-public schools that may or may not be accommodating low-income students. In fact, recent analyses show that up to 90 percent of the money is being spent in settings outside of the public school system. By raising the income threshold for families receiving support to $90,000, the new House bill guarantees that there will be less money  not more  for low to moderate income families.

Education Chairman Jim Roebuck notes that this flies in the face of Pennsylvanias traditional support for all students  a tradition that goes back to the early 1800s and has served us well.

The House vote on expanding EITC was 111-85. This is considerably closer than most expected. Even the Governor has weighed in with his reservations about moving too fast and impacting on his signature efforts to increase funding to public schools.

Still, alleviating companies of a portion of their tax burden makes economic sense. Also, there is something very rational about allowing those companies to spend a portion of their tax dollars as they see fit.

Like most good ideas, the EITC program is one that requires thoughtful oversight and balanced implementation. As the legislature moves into negotiations on the overall budget, I suspect that a compromise on the amount of this tax credit allocation will emerge.

Mark S. Singel served as the 27th lieutenant governor of Pennsylvania from 1987 to 1995, alongside Gov. Bob Casey. He was acting governor from June 14 to Dec. 13, 1993, when Casey got sick. This column serves as the liberal counterpart to Charlie Gerow as part of the Donkey & Elephants series of contrasting opinions.
Student loan rates will decrease by more than half a percentage point starting July 1. (Dreamstime/TNS) Read more

(Bloomberg)  Your rich Uncle Sam is calling in his chips.

The U.S. government stepped up collections on delinquent student debt to $2.9 billion last year  or an average of $1,000 from 2.9 million former students and their cosigners, according to the Treasury Department. And the trend continues. In the first six months of fiscal 2019, which started Oct. 1, collections totaled $3.3 billion.

Graduating students are usually granted a six-month grace period before making loan payments. Hypothetically, a member of the Class of 2019 with $50,000 in loans would owe about $550 per month over the next decade  or $20 daily. (Assuming 6% annual interest and a 10-year term.)

Key Insights

The Treasury Department may withhold federal income tax refunds, Social Security payments (including Social Security disability benefits) and moreState tax refunds may be also withheld and applied toward repayment of a loanState drivers licenses or other state-issued licenses may be confiscatedA borrowers employer may be ordered to withhold up to 15% of disposable pay to collect defaulted debt without a court hearingWithholding garnishment continues until a defaulted loan is paid in full or removed from defaultCosts associated with collecting defaulted federal student loans, including the cost of placing a loan with a private collection agency, can also be added to the balance dueCollection costs such as processing fees and costs associated with potential civil litigation can also be added

Read more on student loan policy

To contact the reporter on this story: Alex Tanzi in Washington at atanzi@bloomberg.net

To contact the editors responsible for this story: Kristy Scheuble at kmckeaney@bloomberg.net, Vincent Del Giudice

2019 Bloomberg L.P.
The Rev. Jay Speights made an accidental discovery last year: He is an African prince. After a DNA test revealed ties to the Allada kingdom in Benin, Speights contacted the people's king. Within months, he was on a plane to the small West African country, where he was crowned, given "prince lessons" and told about his history -- and how his family ended up in the U.S. Read more

It was about 4 a.m. when his phone buzzed with a message from far away. He read it once, twice, three times before he woke his wife to tell her the news.

"I'm a prince," he whispered as she blinked herself awake. "A prince."

The Rev. Jay Speights, an interfaith pastor in suburban Rockville, Md., could hardly believe the words as he formed them in his mouth. Him? A prince? He grew up in New Jersey (a proud 1970 graduate of Camden Catholic High School). He lives in an apartment. He does not even own a car.

Speights, 66, had spent much of his life wondering about his forebears, probing public records until the trail went cold. Like many black Americans who are descendants of slaves, Speights could find little written evidence of his familys history. In April, he turned to a DNA test from Ancestry in the hope that something, somewhere might turn up.

He was identified as the distant cousin of a man named Houanlokonon Deka  a descendant of a royal line in Benin, a small nation that once housed West Africas biggest slave port. At the urging of a friend, he ran his DNA data through another database that looks for matches between African Americans and Africans who have taken such tests.

Within minutes of entering his information into the database, Speights said, the website lit up with a result. It said "royal DNA."

Four hundred years after the first enslaved Africans arrived in colonial Virginia, Speights is grappling with his newfound identity as the descendant of slaves and the African kings who put them in chains. His internal reckoning serves as a conduit for discussion in the United States over the impact of slavery and racism, and the struggle to find a path forward as a nation of former enslavers and the enslaved.

A complicated history

The history of the Atlantic slave trade, colonialism, and enslavement are really violent histories that led to families being torn apart, histories and cultures being stolen from many individuals, and huge harms to African Americans, said Deborah Bolnick, an anthropological geneticist at the University of Connecticut. DNA testing has been used as a tool to help them start to recover that loss.

The king from whom Speights is probably descended was one of several who captured and sold slaves  typically members of rival tribes or captives of war  to European merchants, who then loaded them onto ships bound for Brazil, Haiti, and the United States.

Speights said the more he learned, the more questions he had. But he was not sure how to contact a man who could be his sixth or eighth cousin and lived an ocean away.

A few months later, a Vodun priest from Benin visited the New Seminary in New York, where Speights serves as executive director. During the visit, Speights said, he brought up his DNA discovery. One of the men in the Benin contingent perked up at the mention of his ancestral family name, Deka.

"I know your king," the man said. "Here is his phone number."

The king of Allada hung up the first time Speights called.

"You don't cold-call a king, I guess," Speights said.

The second time, King Kpodegbe Toyi Djigla passed the phone to his English-speaking wife, Queen Djehami Kpodegbe Kwin-Epo. Together, the couple serve as the traditional leaders of Allada, a state in central Benin and the historic home of the Allada kingdom.

The queen asked Speights to send her photos of his parents and grandparents. She inquired about his motivations  what did he want from them?

His response was simple: answers.

"You are a descendant of King Deka, 9th King of Allada who ruled from 1746 to 1765," she wrote in a message over WhatsApp. "We will be delighted to welcome you to your home, dear Prince."

Welcome to prince school

In January, Speights boarded a plane in Virginia and landed in Benin 36 hours later. The family pictures he had sent to the queen were plastered on big blue posters hung throughout the airport.

Welcome to the kingdom of Allada, land of your ancestors, the posters said in French.

As he stepped outside, Speights said, he saw what looked like a festival. Hundreds of people dancing and playing instruments and singing. It took him several minutes to realize it was a welcome party  for him.

I thought, Wow, this is serious,  Speights said. I thought I was going to go, hang out with the family, do some sightseeing. But this was something else.

He spent the next week in what he calls prince school, learning local customs and visiting various sites and dignitaries. He was enthroned by the king, given white lace robes to signal he is a holy man, and several crowns. At night, an armed guard kept watch outside his hotel door. During the day, local journalists followed him around with cameras.

Speights is the first member of the Allada kingdom and the Deka clan to return to Benin from the African diaspora, he said.

But he is not the first royal descendant to be identified in the United States, said Benjamin Agon, the attache for cultural affairs at the Embassy of Benin in Washington.

As DNA tests have grown more popular, Americans claiming Benin lineage have begun to show an increased interest in the country, Agon said. Tourism has grown as a result.

For black Americans such as Speights, answers to DNA tests can provide a sense of history that was erased by the transatlantic slave trade.

Popular commercial DNA tests such as those from Ancestry and 23andMe typically offer results based in broad geographic regions. Other organizations, including DNA Tested African Descendants  the service Speights used  have stepped in to fill gaps and connect individuals directly.

Despite scientific advances, geneticists and anthropologists caution that drawing conclusive answers from such tests can be tricky and warn users against re-forming their sense of identity around what might be little more than an educated guess. Yet, American test-takers and those from the countries identified in their DNA matches have hurried to embrace one another.

The number of newfound descendants has reached such a critical mass that the Benin embassy is planning to host a reception, where American descendants of the tribes and kingdoms of Benin can meet and be "introduced to the community," Agon said.

"After they are accepted by the royal family, many of them are given a mission to accomplish," he said. "Once they go back to their other country, they have to do their best to find other people that are just like them."

A sense of healing

How the royal ancestors of Speights and others ended up in the United States remains somewhat of a mystery.

Benin's hesitance to fully acknowledge its role in the transatlantic slave trade has long been fraught with tension. When pressed, Speights said his relatives in Benin told him members of the royal family would not have sold their own people to slave merchants, but they could not explain how his ancestors wound up aboard a slave ship.

"No matter who did what, we all ended up the same way," he said. "In chains."

In Benin, there was a tree that once stood near the city's historic slave port from which more than a million people were shipped to the Americas. Before they departed, West African men and women would walk around the trunk up to nine times to shed the life they were leaving behind and accept the bondage into which they had been sold.

It was called the "tree of forgetting." Today, the tree is gone, but a historic marker remains.

As his newfound relatives watched, Speights walked around the marker nine times in reverse.

With each turn, he thought about his father, who died never knowing the truth of his family's history. He thought about his grandfather, who grew up in the segregated South. He thought about his ancestors, who were chained and beaten, carried to a foreign place and sold as property.

He was angry, he said. And hurt.

When he finished his walk, he felt something else, too: a sense of healing.

I thought about how much they survived  and what it means for me to return to this place, to restore our family, he said. I cant tell you what that felt like in my heart.

Now, Speights said, he plans to go back to Benin every year. He wants to bring his brother and daughters and wife.

He has accepted "princely duties," which include promoting the kingdom and helping bring clean water and electricity to the community where his relatives live.

He will continue his search for the missing years in his family history. He is working to facilitate an interfaith dialogue on the evils of slavery and help other members of royal families in Benin conduct DNA tests.

"This was the most beautiful thing I have ever done," he said. "I am the descendant of slaves. I am the descendant of a family who was involved in the slave trade. And I'm just starting to make sense of that."

Before he left Benin, Speights said, the king gave him a new name: Videkon Deka.

It means the child who came back.
Jamar Tucker was shot dead in Langhorne Borough on May 10, 2019, according to the Bucks County District Attorney's Office. Read more

A 36-year-old man from Trenton was fatally shot Friday in Langhorne Borough, according to the Bucks County District Attorneys Office.

Prosecutors said in a news release that Jamar Tucker was killed in the early morning hours Friday  which court records indicate was his birthday  and that his body was discovered on the 300 block of South Bellevue Avenue. An autopsy determined Tucker died of a gunshot wound, prosecutors said.

They did not offer further details about the killing or identify any suspects. But they said they were searching for Tuckers black 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee. The car had a New Jersey license plate with the tag T69HDG, prosecutors said.

The Trentonian reported that Tucker was an up-and-coming rapper from the city.
An unidenitified woman died in a rowhouse fire Saturday morning in the Olney section of Philadelphia, according to fire officials.

Capt. Derek Bowmer said that the blaze began inside a home on the 5700 block of North Sixth Street around 7 a.m. Companies arrived within two minutes and had the fire under control in about 15 minutes, Bowmer said.

Firefighters who entered the house afterward found a woman dead inside, Bowmer said. He did not name the woman or provide other identifying details, such as her age.

Fire Commissioner Adam Thiel tweeted that three other people had been rescued from the house during the fire.

Neighbors told TV news crews that the victim was a mother of two children.
It all began with a car stop over a flat tire. By the time the episode in North Philadelphia around Temple Universitys campus was over Saturday night, a police officer had been dragged by a fleeing car before he shot the driver, who police say had a gun.

Police provided the following account:

At 10:49 p.m. Saturday, two uniformed Philadelphia Highway Patrol officers pulled over a northbound black Toyota Camry on the 1800 block of North Broad Street  between Montgomery Avenue and Norris Street  because the rear tire on the drivers side was flat, creating a hazard for other motorists. The Camry stopped in the center lane of Broad Street and the officers approached it on foot, one on each side.

The officer who asked the 26-year-old driver for his license and registration detected the odor of marijuana coming from inside the Camry. He opened the drivers door and frisked the driver, feeling and then seeing the handle of a gun in his front left pocket.

The other officer came around to that side and both struggled with the driver for control of the gun. The motorist then shifted the Camry into drive and accelerated.

One officer fell, landing on his back and left elbow. The other, still gripping the Camry, was dragged a few feet up the block as the vehicle continued north on Broad Street, Police Capt. Sekou Kinebrew said Sunday.

The driver pulled out a gun and pointed it at the officer, who then fired his weapon twice, hitting the driver once in the right forearm, police said.

The officer let go of the Camry, which continued north, striking a marked SEPTA police vehicle, occupied by two transit officers, which was northbound on Broad near Norris.

The Camry driver then ran from the vehicle. He was apprehended in a rear alley near the 2000 block of North 15th Street by responding Philadelphia Police officers, Kinebrew said.

During a search of the alley Sunday morning, police found what they believe is the drivers gun.

Police have not identified him, saying only that he was treated at Temple University Hospital for a gunshot wound to his right forearm. Kinebrew said Sunday afternoon that the man had been released from the hospital and was in police custody. He was expected to be charged by Monday morning, at which time his name would be released, Kinebrew said.

One of the SEPTA officers in the car also was treated at Temple, Kinebrew said. The two Highway Patrol officers did not require medical treatment.

Staff writer Julie Shaw contributed to this article.
Pomp and triumphant circumstance: College graduation is a milestone in anyones life, and no more so than for Annette Cruz, 45, whose academic career was twice interrupted when she battled breast cancer, which then spread to her lungs. With help and encouragement from daughter Thatyana Morales, 22  also a Temple student  Cruz returned to the university a third time and at last finished her bachelors degree in English. The cherry on top: She and Thatyana, who has just completed a degree in computer information systems, graduated together on May 9.

Our readers come through: After reading in The UpSide about Hosts For Hospitals (the nonprofit that pairs local residents with patients from out of town who need Philly-area lodging), ten readers contacted the organization about becoming hosts  and one has already lodged a patient family. Says Hosts executive director Mike Aichenbaum, The continuing response from your readership is amazing. Imagine, if each of ten new hosts (so far) lodge three families a year for five years  this story will have helped 150 patient families!

High-five a vet: On May 18, the Zallie family, who own and operate seven ShopRite stores throughout South Jersey, will host their eighth annual Luncheon to Honor Veterans. Six vets, nominated by their local VFW post, will be lauded at each of the seven supermarkets, and the public is invited to join them from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. for a hot buffet prepared by ShopRites catering staff. For more details, go to @zalliesown on Twitter or Instagram.

Building their marriage: Ned Kolpan, 32, and bride-to-be Elizabeth Zuckerman, 31, want to say their vows beneath a chuppah with personal meaning when they marry on June 29 at TheArts Ballroom in Center City. So the Trenton couple is erecting the structure themselves  out of thousands of Knex building toys, cherished treasures from Neds childhood. Years ago, he started saying he wanted to build a chuppah one day from his Knex. Now hes gone and done it," says Neds dad, former FOX29-TV reporter Gerald Kolpan.

 Ronnie Polaneczky
From left to right, Dylan Clairmont, Anya Slepyan, Tiffany Wang, Moey Rojas and Kenny Mai, display messages on food trays as they take part in a hunger strike at Swarthmore College in Swarthmore. Among other demands, they wanted the administration to ban fraternities. The protest ended Friday. Read more

After three women filed a highly publicized federal complaint against Swarthmore College in 2013 alleging that administrators mishandled their sexual-assault cases, the elite liberal arts school in Delaware County took decisive action. There were internal and external reviews, a handful of new hires, and umpteen policy and procedure revisions.

Still, six years later, the school made headlines again for its handling of campus sexual misconduct. This time, in April, it was after the Phi Psi fraternitys purported internal documents were leaked  meeting minutes showing men there, between 2012 and 2016, had made jokes about sexual assault and referred to rooms in the neighboring frat as a rape attic and a rape tunnel. After national outrage and a five-day sit-in, both organizations voluntarily disbanded April 30.

Almost two weeks later, on Friday, the schools president, Valerie Smith, announced in an online post to students: Fraternities and sororities will no longer exist at the College.

Activists celebrated, but many who said the behavior at those fraternities was an open secret still criticized school administrators, wondering: What took them so long?

Greek life at Swarthmore

The houses, once occupied by Phi Psi, which was not nationally affiliated, and Delta Upsilon, which was, sit next to each other on Swarthmores campus, steps from the main dining hall. Constructed at the fraternities expense at the start of the last century, the houses came under college ownership several decades ago with a provision theyd be leased back to the groups that paid for them, school spokesperson Alisa Giardinelli said.

Theyve served more as clubhouses than residences. At Phi Psi, largely composed of members of the lacrosse team and their friends, just one member lived in the house.

The groups were a big part of the social scene, though. Of Swarthmores approximately 1,500 students, a couple hundred might have been partying at the fraternity houses on any given night  mostly first-years from Swarthmore and nearby Bryn Mawr and Haverford Colleges.

Anya Slepyan, a sophomore who advocated for the closure of the fraternities by joining a hunger strike, explained that freshmen at Swarthmore tend to be self-contained, particularly in the first semester.

Its this honeymoon period where youre going to college parties, and everyone is so excited even though there are warning signs, she said.

To have open parties in the houses, the fraternities obtained permits from the school. Events were patrolled by public safety officers, who dont carry guns and cant arrest, and monitored by the SwatTeam, a student-led organization that promotes safety at events with alcohol.

In a 2013 federal Title IX complaint alleging that the school mishandled their sexual-assault complaints over the previous four years, two female students alleged that they had been raped by men associated with Phi Psi and Delta Upsilon, setting off calls from activists then that Swarthmore stop leasing on-campus houses to the fraternities.

Morgin Goldberg, a senior who organized this years protests, says she told various administrators at least 20 times over her four years that the bedrooms and basements should be locked during parties, as shed heard that women were sexually assaulted in them.

That sentiment is reinforced on a Tumblr page created this year by Swarthmore students. It includes dozens of anonymous stories recounting both old and recent experiences at Swarthmore fraternities, some of which describe sexual assault in those rooms.

Most current and former Phi Psi fraternity members have been publicly silent. Some have hidden their social-media profiles. Of dozens contacted by The Inquirer, none would speak on the record.

In a message to students, Smith said the school hadnt identified any current students involved in the creation of the leaked documents or the specific behavior described.

Before it disbanded, the fraternity wrote on Facebook: "All our current brothers were in high school and middle school at the time of these unofficial minutes, and none of us would have joined the organization had this been the standard when we arrived at Swarthmore.

The schools response

Since the U.S. Department of Education in 2013 launched an investigation into the school, Swarthmore has taken more than 40 steps to improve sexual-misconduct reporting and response, Giardinelli said. In addition to the policy updates, the school created a Title IX house, where new coordinators and liaisons work. It beefed up sexual-assault prevention programming and facilitated consent workshops, including with fraternity members.

The school also changed how it adjudicates sexual-misconduct complaints, hiring third-party investigators, one of whom was retired state Supreme Court Justice Jane Greenspan.

Since then, reports of sexual misconduct on campus have drastically increased, according to the schools annual crime reports, something experts say can be a positive sign a school has a friendly reporting environment.

Then in 2018, the school, in response to student requests, decided to close and lock the single upstairs room in each fraternity house during events, Giardinelli said. But students who attended parties at the fraternity this year  although those who spoke to The Inquirer didnt visit those rooms  said they werent aware the school had done so. The basements, which activists also deemed unsafe, were open.

Around the same time, a committee recommended that Smith consider a moratorium on fraternity leases while a new task force studied the issue further. (It was this task forces eventual recommendation that led to Fridays decision.) But then Smith declined to shut their doors, saying the school had existing policies for responding to allegations of misconduct.

We were trying to trust students in their reporting that these were not safe spaces, said Jeremy Seitz-Brown, a 2018 Swarthmore grad who sat on the committee. In hindsight, a year or more of some of these issues could have been prevented.

Title IX, the federal civil rights law protecting people from discrimination based on sex in education, doesnt explicitly require that a school close a physical space or disband an organization because there were multiple reports of sexual assault, according to Colby Bruno, senior legal counsel at the Victim Rights Law Center.

But, she said, it does require that schools identify patterns, assess the culture, and make sure that if there are any patterns, that they basically break up the pattern.

With a crime like rape and sexual assault, pattern, schmattern. You hear more than one [complaint] and you better be on them like white on rice.

This isnt about Swarthmore

Swarthmore has hired Christine Wechsler, an attorney at Elliott Greenleaf and a former prosecutor who has conducted grand jury investigations, to review the leaked documents. The school hasnt said how long the review will last.

Swarthmore Borough Police Chief Raymond Stufflet said no one has filed a report related to the documents and, having not seen an unredacted version of them, the department hasnt launched an investigation.

Colleges have in recent years tried to rein in fraternities, particularly in Pennsylvania after high-profile examples of hazing. Harvard and Amherst College have ended single-gender organizations like fraternities and sororities in the last five years.

We were participating in a national outcry, said Mia Ferguson, one of the Swarthmore alumni who filed the 2013 complaint. "This isnt about Swarthmore. Swarthmore isnt the only institution that has Greek life that promotes really violent behaviors.
The house is located in the Village of Vincentown, which is part of Southampton Township in Burlington County. Read more

Thomas Jordan was looking for a new way to spend his time after his divorce.

I was looking for a project that would keep me busy, focus my energies and interests, and allow me to apply my carpentry habit, he said.

He found a two-bedroom Colonial in the Village of Vincentown in Burlington County.

I needed a place to live, and this one found me at the same time I was looking, he said. It mostly kept me out of trouble.

After he purchased the home in 2015, there was more than enough work to be done to keep him busy.

The house was just the right size for what I needed, and for the size project I was looking for, he said.

He and his father did all the renovations except for the electrical and heater installation. Their work included stripping paint off nearly the entire house  inside and out  as well as building a new deck, installing a sprinkler system and replanting the entire back yard.

We spent just as much time noodling out a plan as executing it, Jordan said. But we both love that part and it brings us together.

The renovations also included an entire kitchen upgrade, moving and painting cabinets, adding a dishwasher, and putting in butcher block countertops.

It came together so well, Jordan said, I think Im the only dude on Pinterest.

Jordan grew up just down the street from the 1,152-square-foot home in the village, which is part of Southampton Township, so he was already smitten with the neighborhood when he moved in.

Like a lot of folks who live here, I just love this little town, Jordan said.

The home was built in 1890, but his family history goes back longer than that in Vincentown.

When my folks sold their home in 2000, it was the first time the house was owned by someone outside of our family, he said.

Project complete, Jordan is on to at least one more spot.

My wife and I were married on March 29, 2018, and weve decided we should probably live together, he joked.

Since she lives in the Mount Airy section of Philadelphia, the couple is staying there while they consider a new property together.

Weve been spending time looking for the next great place that needs the right owner at the right time, he said. My hands and back need a bit of rest before the next one.

The house is listed for $169,900 with Richard Jordan at BHHS Fox & Roach.
Mathias Siljander Wins the Coolbet Open Tallinn Main Event

May 12, 2019 Jason Glatzer

After finishing in third place at the last Coolbet Open Main Event, Finland's Mathias Siljander got the win he was hungry for by shipping the Spring-edition of the 2019 Coolbet Open 550 Main Event at Olympic Park Casino and the Hilton Tallinn Park for 60,100.

The tournament attracted 521 entrants to generate a 252,685 prize pool. The vibe was amazing throughout the event and Coolbet couldn't be more thrilled about the amazing turnout for its live event.

"A year ago, we hosted the very first Coolbet Open where we saw a prize pool of 206,125 and had 425 entries," said Coolbet CMO Ervin Jarvlepp. "For this event, we hoped to at least match those figures. It seems that players appreciate what we've been doing as all our expectations have been exceeded with 521 entries a prize pool of 252,685!"

Final Table Results

Place Name Country Prize Prize (USD) 1 Mathias Siljander Sweden 60,100 $66,851 2 Anders Auset Norway 40,200 $44,716 3 Mats Albertsen Norway 25,100 $27,920 4 Adam Shriki Israel 19,200 $21,357 5 Chriss Jonassen Norway 14,200 $15,795 6 Erik Lovgren Sweden 10,150 $11,290 7 Pyry Kekalainen Finland 7,610 $8,465 8 Tarmo Tammel Estonia 5,605 $6,235 9 Fan Chunsan China 4,150 $4,616

The third and final day began with Finland's Johnny Lindroos in the lead. Siljander entered the day near the top of the pack with a fourth-place stack among the 34 hopefuls battling it out for the title.

Lindroos suffered a bad beat midway through the day when he lost most of his stack to Norway's Chriss Jonassen with his aces not holding against his opponent's tens. The rest of his stack was dusted off to Jonassen when his ace-six suited ran into his opponent's aces to go out in 15th place for 2,350.

Coolbet Open Main Event Final Table

The final table began after Sweden's Erik Lovgren eliminated Norway's Martin Nygaard in tenth place for 4,150. Lovgren jammed with ace-ten and beat his opponent's jacks after an ace hit the flop.

When the final table began, Lovgren and Norway's Anders Auset were tied for the chip lead with Siljander and Norway's Mats Albertsen closely behind.

A big buzz filled the room as if players knew history was about to be made. Albertsen won the last Coolbet Open Main Event for 60,510, while Siljander took third in that same event for 26,700. As fate would have it, the two players swapped places in this year's first Coolbet Open Main Event.

Shortly after the final table began, China's Fan Chunsan, who lives in nearby Latvia, was ousted in ninth place for 4,350 after his ace-seven couldn't hold against Auset's king-jack.

A short while later, Estonia's Tarmo Tammel took a bad beat to exit in eighth place for 5,605 when his jacks couldn't hold against Siljander's sevens.

Finland's Pyry Kekalainen was next to go in seventh place for 7,610. The Finn was short on chips and unsuccessfully jammed eight-six suited against Auset's king-queen.

Siljander then took the lead before he became a one-man wrecking crew taking out three straight opponents.

He first took a big chunk out of Lovgren's stack after the duo played a big pot with most of the betting on the river where Siljander had trips with king-nine and Jonassen had an overpair with pocket jacks. Siljander dusted the rest of Lovgren's stack when his pocket jacks bested Lovgren's pocket sixes to send him to the rail in sixth place for 10,150.

Siljander wound up building his stack to more than half the chips in play before he eliminated Jonassen in fifth place for 14,200. Jonassen was low on chips after losing a big pot to Auset when his eights proved to be no good against jacks. A short while later, Jonassen jammed a short stack with eight-three and didn't get there against the Siljander's queen-jack suited.

Israel's Adam Shriki entered the final table as the short stack. He wasn't ever flush with hands but managed to ladder up to fourth place for 19,200. Shriki's time eventually ran out even though he got it in good for 12 big blinds with pocket deuces only to lose to Siljander's ace-deuce.

Siljander entered the three-way action with more than double the chips of Auset and Albertsen combined. It was Albertsen that was unable to hang on after almost a full blind level was played. He got it all-in with queen-nine and was eliminated in third place for 25,100 after Auset's ace-queen held.

This left Siljander with a 2:1 chip advantage over Auset to start heads-up play. Auset was able to narrow the gap but never take the lead. Siljander then applied the pressure and eventually had a nearly a 6:1 chip advantage when the final hand took place.

The final hand began simply enough with Auset raising the button with eight-four and Siljander calling with ten-five. The ten-eight-four flop gave Siljander top pair but Auset had the better hand with two pair. Siljander check-jammed his opponent and got a call. The tournament ended after a seven came on the turn followed by a six on the river to give Siljander the straight and the title.

Mathias Siljander and Anders Auset

Auset left far from empty handed as not only did he take home 40,200 and a runner-up trophy for his impressive second-place finish but he also won a trophy and a prize of 4,305 for shipping the Coolbet Open 220 Warm-Up on the first day of the festival.

Meanwhile, Albertsen and Siljander became part of Coolbet Open history as becoming the only players to not only reach the podium twice in a Coolbet Open Main Event but even appear at a final table.

More history will be made at the next Coolbet Open festival returns to the Olympic Park Casino and the Hilton Tallinn Park on Nov. 13-17

*Photos courtesy of Natalie Black/Coolbet Open.
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By Amanda Becker

CHILLICOTHE, OHIO (Reuters)  At a veterans hall in the mostly white, working-class town of Chillicothe, Ohio, U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren spoke to about 200 people on Friday about her plans to fight the opioid epidemic, Washington corruption and economic inequality.

Warrens decision to campaign in Ohio  a state President Donald Trump won by eight percentage points in 2016  so soon in the Democratic presidential nominating battle is telling.

Ohio does not host one of next years early nominating contests. Yet there is growing consensus among Democrats that a nominees ability to beat Trump in November 2020 is the number one priority  and Warren aims to convince voters there and elsewhere that she has broad enough appeal to do it.

I believe that if youre running for president of the United States you ought to be running for president of all the people and not just spend your time in a handful of so-called battleground states, Warren told reporters at an earlier stop on Friday in Kermit, West Virginia, a solidly Republican state.

Party strategists and voters are divided over what type of candidate is best positioned to take on the president.

Some believe it is critical to have a nominee who can win back the working-class, white voters who supported Barack Obama but then handed Trump victories in formerly blue states in the Midwest like Ohio, Michigan, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin. Others say a candidate who can drive turnout by appealing to young, minority and first-time voters is the best path to the White House.

Ed Rendell, a former Democratic governor of Pennsylvania, thinks moderate candidates like former Vice President Joe Biden or U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar would be best at wooing back working-class voters in the non-urban areas of his state.

Warrens progressive policies  she backs free college tuition, a wealth tax and Medicare-for-all healthcare  make her an easy target for Trump to accuse her of being a socialist, Rendell said.

But he agrees with other Democrats who say where candidates stand on the issues may not be the deciding factor for voters.

Ive never seen voters more single-minded than on the issue of beating Donald Trump, Rendell said, adding he would work to win Pennsylvania for whoever emerges as the nominee.

HIGH STAKES

Recent opinion surveys show electability topping issues for many Democrats.

In a Monmouth University poll of 987 likely Democratic primary voters conducted May 2-7 in New Hampshire, which hosts the second nominating contest, 68 percent said they would choose a candidate they did not agree with on most issues if the individual were a stronger candidate against Trump. Just 25 percent said they would pick the candidate they agreed with on most issues but who would have a hard time beating Trump.

Forty-nine percent of Democrats in an Ipsos online poll of 960 adults taken April 29-30 said the ability to beat Trump in the general election is the most important factor in choosing a primary candidate, ahead of policies on healthcare, jobs and the environment.

Democrats view this not as a regular election but as an existential election for the country. The stakes are high. Each candidate is trying to show how they will take on Trump, said Ben LaBolt, a former spokesman for Obamas re-election campaign.

Ideally, a candidate will emerge like Obama who can appeal to a wide swath of Democratic voters, he said.

With just 3 percent of Democrats in the Ipsos poll picking Warren as the candidate most likely to beat Trump, the Massachusetts senator has work to do. Forty-six percent chose Biden as the strongest Trump opponent, and 25 percent said they did not know who was best positioned from the field of 22 Democrats running.

Ohio Democratic Party Chairman David Pepper rejected the idea that only a moderate Democrat can make inroads there. As a roadmap, he pointed to Senator Sherrod Browns re-election in 2018, when he won by a higher margin than in 2012 when Obama was on the ballot.

Brown, like Warren, focuses on themes of income inequality and creating an economy that protects and benefits middle- and working-class households. Pepper said that economic message resonates in rural and suburban areas, even if other parts of a candidates platform are more liberal than voters would typically support.

These are the places that responded to Donald Trump saying lets make America great again,' Pepper said of Chillicothe. A ticket that includes that kind of candidate like Sherrod Browns did and can hold down losses in rural parts of the state and suburbs and energize our urban core  that combination is the ticket that will win Ohio.

In largely rural Ross County, where Warren met with voters on Friday, Trump got roughly two-thirds of the vote in 2016.

But Chillicothe Mayor Luke Feeney, a Democrat, said the party should not count it out.

I told her Ross County is definitely in play in 2020 and Chillicothe is definitely in play in 2020 and the state of Ohio is a swing state in 2020, not a red state, Feeney said as he introduced Warren at her event.

Retired teacher Kathleen Burgess, 70, was in the crowd. She said Warrens early call to impeach Trump pleased her as a progressive voter, but she thought Warrens economic policies also would appeal to swing voters in the state.

By advocating for free public college and healthcare, those are kitchen table issues for working-class people, Burgess said.

(Reporting By Amanda Becker; Editing by Colleen Jenkins and Steve Orlofsky)
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We know that the Philippines, Kuwait, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia are among the foreign governments booking large blocks of rooms at the Trump International Hotel with the hopes and intents of currying favor with the President. And we know that foreign lobbyists, particularly from Saudi Arabia, are doing the same.

And we know that Trumps Mar a Lago resort is raking in American taxpayer dollars by the boatload every time he vacations and holds official government dinners and events there. He flaunts this practice shamelessly and flagrantly, making no bones about it.

These facts have motivated Senator Richard Blumenthal, among 200 democrats, to sue Trump for violating the Constitutions Domestic and Foreign Emoluments clause. Most basically, these clauses are designed to prevent anyone occupying the Presidency from exploiting the power and influence the accompanying the office to enrich oneself.

And, of course, Trumps conversations with Russia regarding his pursuit of a vainly self-named tower in Moscow continued, he purportedly acknowledged, through his presidential campaign up until the November 2019 election day.

I worry theres a lot we dont know, though, in terms of the extent to which Trump is really abusing his office to accumulate wealth at the expense of the nations population he is supposed to serve.

Let me explain what Im talking about by presenting the following incidents:

*A Bloomberg headline from May 6 reads: Trump Trade Tweets Send Grain Markets Driving to 42-Year Low. In the tweet, Trump threatened to escalate the trade war he is waging with China.

*On April 26, CNBC published a story with the following headline: Top OPEC, Saudi officials didnt discuss lowering oil prices with Trump: report. Trump had tweeted earlier that day, Spoke to Saudi Arabia and others about increasing oil flow. All are in agreement. This tweet caused oil prices to tumbleand oil stocks with them.

Consider Trumps power to influence the market just through his tweets. The stock market, we all know, is a sensitive and volatile instrument that swiftly and strongly responds to rumors, whispers, and reports without taking time to verify the truth of any utterances. Elon Musk was fined $20 million by the Securities and Exchange Commission for tweeting about the possibility of taking his company, Tesla, private.

There is no such sanction for the President, who could very well be using the Presidency not so much as a bully pulpit but as a market-moving pulpit from which he, his businesses, and his circle of cronies could easily benefit.

Trump has without question showcased his tendency to use the Presidency to further his interests, even at the expense of our nations population and security.

Indeed, the expense to people in the United States clear. While Trump, for example, sees no rush to ink a trade deal with China, U.S. farmers in the meantime are experiencing their lowest incomes ever and declaring bankruptcies in record numbers.

That he is manipulating markets to enrich himself and those around him must be considered a distinct possibility. And that he is formulating policy with this agenda is a possibility we must also entertain.

Heres a scenario:

Trumps family members and others ensconced in his inner circle short the oil or soybean markets knowing the President is about to announce a policy direction that will certainly impact those commodities on the market, sending prices lower.

These are quick millions, maybe billions.

That he seemingly lied about his conversation with officials in Saudi Arabia and others, who were never identified, distinctly raises this possibility.

Its certainly not rocket science to figure out how to profit from the Presidencys power and influence to move markets and acquire wealth.

Did anybody see Vice? Dick Cheney and his cronies sure knew how to exploit positions in the White House to craft policies, pass legislation, and conduct massive wars to accumulate personal wealth at the expense of taxpayers in the United States.

And if the person in the office lacks an ethical discipline . . . ay caramba!

How much more than we know is Trump abusing his office to accumulate wealth for himself at taxpayer expense? I just dont think we really know.
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A trade group is warning that Trumps trade war with China is going to cost 400,000 US manufacturing workers their jobs.

Trumps trade war is hurting US workers

Bloomberg reported:

The tariffs will drive down exports, and suppress job gains for the industry by as much as 400,000 over 10 years. It will also invite China to hit back at American businesses, farmers, communities, and families, said Kip Eideberg, vice president of government affairs for the Association of Equipment Manufacturers, which represents more than 1,000 U.S. makers of farm, construction and mining machinery.

With producers already struggling with falling commodity prices, additional retaliatory tariffs on U.S. agricultural exports will have a chilling effect on equipment manufacturers, Eideberg said in a statement after the penalties went into effect.

Trumps tariffs are killing farmers

Farmers, who were already economically struggling are being hammered by Trumps tariffs. Demand is low, prices are low, and debt is high for US farmers. The Trump administration has not proposed another aid package for farmers. The nations farmers are growing frustrated and impatient and suggesting that if Trump doesnt come through with the trade deal that he promised, they may not support him in 2020. Farm bankruptcies are surging in Wisconsin, Minnesota, Montana North, and South Dakota. Trump won four of these five states in 2016 and is unlikely to win that many again if farmers keep going out of business.

Trump doesnt understand how tariffs work

The heart of the problem is that thinks China is paying the tariffs:

.The process has begun to place additional Tariffs at 25% on the remaining 325 Billion Dollars. The U.S. only sells China approximately 100 Billion Dollars of goods & products, a very big imbalance. With the over 100 Billion Dollars in Tariffs that we take in, we will buy..  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 10, 2019

Trump lost a billion dollars over a decade because he cant do math. The US doesnt make any money on tariffs. China is not paying tariffs to the US government. Tariffs are taxes on consumers. When China retaliated against farmers for Trumps tariffs, demand was reduced for US farm products. Higher taxes and less demand does not equal more money for the United States government. It is a disaster for farmers and farm equipment manufacturing.

The trade war is killing the US economy, and if the Midwest turns on Trump, it will be one of the biggest reasons why he loses.

For more discussion about this story join our Rachel Maddow and MSNBC group.

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Rep. Adam Schiff (D-CA) responded to Trumps claim that America will reelect him in 2020 by saying thats not going to happen.

America cant take four more years of Trump

Rep. Schiff responded to Trump on ABCs This Week, Thats not going to happen, and I dont think this country could survive another four years of a president like this who gets up every day and tries to find new and different ways to divide us. He doesnt seem to understand that a fundamental aspect of his job is to try to make us a more perfect union, but thats not at all where hes coming from, and hes going to be defeated. He has to be defeated because I dont know how much more our democratic institutions can take of this attack on the rule of law.

Video:

House Intelligence Committee Chair Rep. Adam Schiff says Trump "has to be defeated" in 2020. "I don't think this country could survive another 4 years with a president like this who gets up every day trying to find new and inventive ways to divide us" https://t.co/GlcWTIu29g pic.twitter.com/7WO1MwTLOv  ABC News Politics (@ABCPolitics) May 12, 2019

Adam Schiff was right

The political energy in this country is focused on defeating Donald Trump. Our body politic has institutionally reacted to Trumps corruption like it is trying to reject a bad organ to save itself. Trump can bluster and claim that he is going to be reelected, but so far, the energy is not there. His crowds are straggling out of his rallies while he is still talking. Trump has done nothing to expand the electoral map, as swing states that he carried in 2016 are showing signs of slipping away from him in 2020.

Hisgreat economy hasnt been good for working people. Healthcare is an issue that is on everyones minds, and the nation seems ready to move on from Trump and back to stability.

For more discussion about this story join our Rachel Maddow and MSNBC group.

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Trump is now offering to bribe farmers by having the government buy their crops as the trade war is putting them under.

Trump is worried about losing farmers

Trump tweeted:

We are right where we want to be with China. Remember, they broke the deal with us & tried to renegotiate. We will be taking in Tens of Billions of Dollars in Tariffs from China. Buyers of product can make it themselves in the USA (ideal), or buy it from non-Tariffed countries  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 12, 2019

.We will then spend (match or better) the money that China may no longer be spending with our Great Patriot Farmers (Agriculture), which is a small percentage of total Tariffs received, and distribute the food to starving people in nations around the world! GREAT! #MAGA  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 12, 2019

Trump campaigned against foreign aid. He has complained about foreign aid as president, but now that his trade war is pushing farmers to bankruptcy, the president suddenly wants to use taxpayer money to buy the crops and give them away as foreign aid.

Donald Trumps desperation is transparent, as Mr. Capitalist is now proposing a socialist program to bribe farmers so that they dont give him the boot in 2020.

Trump is lying about China paying for tariffs

The President Of The United States is still falsely claiming that China is paying the tariffs. Even his economic adviser, Larry Kudlow, admitted on Fox News Sunday that US businesses and consumers are paying the tariffs. The American people are paying these tariffs, which are failing so badly that Trump is now spending more money to cover up his failure.

Trump is in way over his head. He is losing to the Chinese. He is losing farmers, and he is on pace to lose an election next year.

For more discussion about this story join our Rachel Maddow and MSNBC group.

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Fox News Sundays Chris Wallace got Trump economic adviser Larry Kudlow to admit that China does not pay tariffs, as Trump falsely claims.

Fox News destroys Trumps China pays tariffs lie

Wallace said, Its not China that pays the tariffs, its the American importers, the American companies that pay what in effect is a tax increase, and often times passes it on to US consumers.

Larry Kudlow answered, Fair enough. In fact, both sides will pay. Both sides will pay.

Wallace continued, If its a tariff on goods coming into the country, the Chinese arent paying.

Kudlow said, No, but the Chinese will suffer GDP losses and so forth with respect to a diminishing export market and goods that they may need.

Chris Wallace hammered on, I understand that, but the president says that China pays the tariffs. They may suffer consequences, but its US businesses, and US consumers who pay, correct?

Kudlow conceded again, I dont disagree with that. Again, both sides will suffer.

Video:

Rep. Justin Amash (R-MI) has been the lone Republican voice in Congress who is making this point:

Every time you hear about U.S.-imposed tariffs, remember that they are taxes on Americans. @POTUS is boasting that he loves collecting big taxes on Americans. https://t.co/E2HP4pHLMC  Justin Amash (@justinamash) May 12, 2019

Trump doesnt know how tariffs work

It is par for the course for a president who lost a billion dollars in a decade to not know how tariffs work. Trump thinks that the money is coming from the Chinese when it is coming from American businesses and consumers. Trump isnt hurting China as much as he is hurting the United States. Farmers are going under due to Chinas tariff retaliation. Farm equipment manufacturers are projected to lose 400,000 jobs.

Trump isnt winning. America is losing, and even his top economic adviser cant ignore the reality that Trump is lying about China paying tariffs.

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A new poll of the South Carolina Democratic primary has Joe Biden leading Bernie Sanders by 31 as Pete Buttigieg as the biggest upward mover besides Biden.

Joe Biden Gains 14 points in South Carolina

The Post and Courier-Change Research Poll found:



Biden is preferred by 46 percent of likely S.C. Democratic primary voters, up 14 points from a month ago, according to a Post and Courier-Change Research Poll released Sunday. Bidens post-announcement bump in South Carolina is higher than in other parts of the country, pollsters said.

Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders sits second at 15 percent, with California Sen. Kamala Harris following at 10 percent. Their numbers have held steady in three S.C. polls taken since February. South Bend, Ind., Mayor Peter Buttigieg continued his remarkable rise, landing fourth, at 8 percent in a tie with Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren. Buttigieg did not register with voters in the first S.C. poll taken nearly three months ago.

Former vice president Biden has a deep organization in South Carolina, so the fact that he is doing so well there isnt a total surprise. Bidens strength is a signal that Democrats want a frontrunner, and are looking to avoid a long protracted primary fight. There is an eternity until voters go to the polls in South Carolina, but Bidens strong showing is an indicator that Democrats want to focus on beating Trump.

Bernie Sanders Struggles In The South, And Watch Out For Kamala Harris

Bernie Sanders ran poorly in the South in 2016, and so far in 2020, nothing has changed for the senator from Vermont. Sanders is stumping in the South next week, but he has been beating his head against that wall for four years and has made little progress. The Bernie Sanders message doesnt seem to play as well in that part of the country. Kamala Harris along with Elizabeth Warren have both put together organizations in South Carolina that make them a threat challenge Biden. Harris especially has the potential to rise to second in the state, and she is worth keeping an eye on in the weeks to come.

Pete Buttigieg Has gone from zero to tied for fifth

Pete Buttigieg continues his march toward the upper tier. The Buttigieg rise could be a reflection of a polling lag that is carrying over from his increase in national media attention, but outside of Biden, no one has seen their support grow more in South Carolina than Buttigieg. Mayor Pete is running a good campaign, and should his support continue, he will be in the 2020 primary longer than most people could have imagined.

The rest of the field is struggling to break through with only Sen. Cory Booker (4%) polling more than 2%.

South Carolina could be Joe Bidens to lose, but beneath Biden is a fascinating race that will shape the rest of the Democratic primary for 2020.

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Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-SC) is upset that no one cares about his effort to get Hillary Clinton to cover up for Trump.

Limdsey Graham is upset because the media wont spread his bogus Trump cover story

After Graham hit all off the oldies on bleach bit and Hillary Clinton, he complained, Well, what have we learned? That the media could care less about anything that is about Clinton. They just want to get Trump, so the reason why you havent heard anything about this is that the media never reports it, but were at a stage now, Muellers report is in, no collusion, no obstruction, now its time to go back and look at how all this started.

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The reason why no one is reporting on Grahams cooked up conspiracy theory is that it is bogus. Sen. Graham is trying to discredit the Mueller investigation, dismiss the action and behavior of Donald Trump while blaming everything on Hillary Clinton.

No one cares about Hillary Clinton scandals because Hillary Clinton is not the president. Graham and Trump are still trying to distract attention away from the potential crimes of this president by blaming Hillary Clinton. Trump and his enablers have not evolved away from the 2016 campaign.

Lindsey Graham is crying because his effort to abuse his power as Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman to run a cover-up operation for Trump is failing. Graham cant hide Trumps crimes behind Hillary Clinton. The media isnt buying it, as for the first time the focus is on Trump and Senate Republicans are failing to help him.

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Rep. Seth Moulton (D-MA) said that the House should be holding the debate on impeaching Trump, even if they dont vote on it yet.

Transcript via Fox News Sunday:

WALLACE: Now, there is an argument that Democrats would be in a stronger legal position to get access to documents, to get access to current and former advisors of the president, if you were to open a formal impeachment proceeding  not say you necessarily are even going to impeach the president, but open it and seek all of that under the impeachment  which, as you talked about in the Constitution, its in the Constitution, impeachment.

MOULTON: Right.

WALLACE: Do you support that?

MOULTON: I do. In fact, I supported it last year. I think we made a mistake as a part by waiting until the Mueller report came out.

The fact of the matter is that this is our constitutional duty. And a lot of people make the argument that its not a politically opportune time for us to proceed with this, to have this debate. Dont forget, Congress does two things, we debate things and then we vote on them. Im not saying we should vote on impeachment yet. We dont even have the full Mueller report. But lets have that debate. I called that  for  for that a year ago and we should be discussing it because its our constitutional duty.

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Impeachment is what Trump wants, so Democrats shouldnt give it to him

Trump is trying to bait Democrats into impeaching him because he cant run on his record or his personality, so Donald Trump wants to mobilize Republicans and run on being that Democrats tried to impeach. Attorney General Barr is refusing to turn over any Mueller evidence until Trump is impeached because he is trying to sucker Democrats into taking the next step.

The fastest way for Democrats to screw up the 2020 election would be to impeach Trump now. Impeachment should be used as a last resort. Democrats will win their court cases against Trump. They will get the evidence, and they can do this while keeping impeachment in their back pockets for later.

Trump wants impeachment, which is why Democrats should hold off on giving it to him until they have no other choice, or the evidence leads them there.

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SNL perfectly captured the way that Sens. Mitch McConnell, Lindsey Graham, and Susan Collins twist and bend to support Trump.

SNL captured Mitch McConnell perfectly

When asked about Trumps escalating trade war with China, McConnell answered that there was no collusion. On the question of whether he would support Trump if Mueller testified that he committed obstruction of justice, SNLs McConnell said, Well, we need a leader whos willing to do what hes got to do to win. Graham said, the best way to uphold the law is to be above it, and Susan Collins said that she would write a strongly worded email and send it to her draft folder.

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They went through several hypotheticals including one where Trump married AOC and enacted the Green New Deal. Republicans grumbled but would still support Trump. There was absolutely nothing that Trump could do to lose their support.

Republicans are a joke, and the nation is watching

Senate Republicans and the endless rationalizing of Trump is not going unnoticed. A Saturday Night Live parody is a signal that a political perception has crossed into the cultural mainstream. The idea that Senate Republicans are joined at the hip to Trump is a dream come true for Democrats who have their eyes on taking back the Senate in 2020.

The constant rationalizing, explaining, and refusal to act as a co-equal branch of government has put Mitch McConnell on the sinking Trump ship without a lifeboat. Senate Republicans arent fooling anyone, and if Trump goes down to defeat in 2020 he is taking fake moderates like Susan Collins, and his most potent enabler in Congress, Mitch McConnell, down with him.

Look closely at the SNL parody, and you can see the sketching of the end for the Republican Party.

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Republicans keep trying to close the Russia investigation, but Trump ripped it back open with a Mothers Day rant.

Trump tweeted:

Think of it. I became President of the United States in one of the most hard fought and consequential elections in the history of our great nation. From long before I ever took office, I was under a sick & unlawful investigation concerning what has become known as the Russian.  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 12, 2019

.Hoax. My campaign was being seriously spied upon by intel agencies and the Democrats. This never happened before in American history, and it all turned out to be a total scam, a Witch Hunt, that yielded No Collusion, No Obstruction. This must never be allowed to happen again!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 12, 2019

Nobody calls the investigation the Russian hoax outside of Donald Trump, who has been trying to make the hoax thing happen for years and it will not catch on.

If the investigation is over, as Republicans want the country to believe it is, and it is not, why is Donald Trump still talking about it? If something is over, it is done and gone, yet here is Trump ranting and raving on a holiday about an investigation that is Republicans want to sell as finished.

Trumps Mothers Day Meltdown was telling

Trump has not once mentioned Mothers Day on his Twitter account. It is only a matter of time before someone from his staff tweets Happy Mothers Day for him, but the presidents rant was telling. Trump and the Republicans think that they are going to run against the Democratic nominee in 2020, but Trump cant stop himself on the Russia investigation. It is likely that he is going to spend his 2020 reelection campaign ranting about hoaxes and no collusion until November 3rd.

The Republican Party is trying to sweep the Russia investigation under the rug, but Trump wont let them. The president is set to self-destruct, and there is nothing that anyone can do to stop him.

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British economist John Maynard Keynes famously wrote in 1923, in a tract on monetary policy, In the long run, were all dead.

Economists have debated the significance of this wry theoretical phrase. Some have critiqued him, along with other economists who sought to moderate the austerity policies of governments during times of intense economic retraction, as not caring about the future or future generations. They accuse Keynes of being willing for short term benefit to enact policies that would damage the economy in the longer term, leaving ruinously burdensome debt, for example, that would debilitate the future economy for following generations. One critic even went so far as to suggest that because Keynes was gay and didnt have children, he simply didnt care about the future and could afford to adopt a recklessly short-termist approach to the economy.

Putting aside the fact that its laughable for capitalist economists to accuse anyone else of dangerously short-term thinking, as Ill discuss below, I take Keynes to mean by this historically lightning-rod statement that, simply put, an economy is successful only if it serves the needs of those living within it.

In other words, we might understand his position as propounding that people dont exist for the economy but rather the economy exists for people. If now and then, as has been an historical inevitability with capitalism, the economy experiences a sharp downturn, a whole generation can actually be sacrificed, subject to a life of austerity, waiting for the indifferent market to correct and revitalize. Keynes didnt cotton to such thinking.

What is the point of sustaining an economic system that doesnt meet peoples needs but offers, indeed ensures, them suffering?

Keynes enduring quotation has been in my mind lately because Trump has stubbornly persisted in his strategy of imposing tariffs on China, despite the damage his actions have inflicted on American lives, insisting in the long term this trade war will reap benefits for the American economy.

The short term negative impacts on the lives of those living in the United States has been devastating. Farmers incomes are the lowest in generations, and bankruptcies among farmers are hitting record highs. In economic terms, they are dying.

And, frankly, for the soybean farmers dying in the short term, even if they survive for the long terma survival that is severely in doubtthe long term promises no relief. Indeed, what these farmers anxiously presage is that the relationships they have carefully cultivated in Chinese markets are permanently ruined beyond repair.

But its not only in this area of the economy that we see Trump inflicting death in the short term such that the long term does not even matter. Trumps version of Keynes precept might aptly be written thusly: In the short term, Im doing all I can to kill you so you dont have to worry about the long term. Not pithy, I know, but I think it captures Trumps character and practice.

Take one of his recent actions with regard to environmental policy. Last February Trump signed a resolution to repeal an Obama-era regulation known as the stream protection rule, which mandated strict guidelines for coal mines dumping their waste to ensure that in fact they were not polluting water sources and poisoning streams. Study after study highlights the deleterious and even deadly impact on peoples health coal companies dumping practices had caused in destroying 2,000 miles of streams.

Nonetheless, even in the wake of former Michigan Governor Rick Snyders authoritarian policies that led to the poisoning of Flints water supplies, Trump and the Republicans had no problem reversing policy put in place to protect and preserve human life in a most basic way, by ensuring clean and safe water. They had no problem creating conditions that threaten and undermine human life to serve coal companies and, supposedly, to save jobs and help the economy. Again, in the short term, people will die or have their health severely compromised before the long term arrives, and the very conditions that make human life possible are allowed to be severely compromised.

Of course, Trumps own government scientists issued a report on climate change last November, focusing on both its environmental and economic impacts, highlighting the need for urgent short-term action to ensure our long-term survival. Among many alarm bells sounded, the report warns,

Extreme weather and climate-related impacts on one system can result in increased risks or failures in other critical systems, including water resources, food production and distribution, energy and transportation, public health, international trade, and national security.

It attributes the many floods and wildfires in recent years, increasing in frequency and intensity, on humanly-caused climate change, underscoring the urgency of action and the limited window of time we have in which to enact policy and change behavior to preserve the very basis of our lives.

Just as with the tariffs and the China trade war, in which there is no rush, on this economic issue of climate change and of the environment overall, there is no short-term urgency.

And yet, in many ways, what need now are short-term actions to keep alive our long-term prospects.

A recent study concluded that raising the minimum wage could decrease suicide rates by ten percent, saving 1,230 lives annually.

This is one example of how in the short term, we are all dead; and an example of how short-term thinking and action are necessary.

Maybeno, absolutely its not in the end an issue of short or long term but a matter of respecting and working to create and implement policies that support life.
The construction of the Nord Stream 2 pipeline from Russia to Germany under the Baltic Sea hit a snag last month when Denmarks Energy Agency asked the project developer Nord Stream AG to submit a third permit application for a new route southeast of Bornholm. The request triggered a forceful reaction from Nord Stream AG, which was established to build and operate the Gazprom-owned prospective pipeline. The company had already submitted two route applications and environmental impact assessments, but there has been no decision by the Danish Energy Agency.

In an April 15 press release, Nord Stream AG accused the Danish government of a deliberate attempt to delay the projects completion.

The company also warned that, in the case of a delay of the project, lack of access to competitive gas supplies will increase price levels throughout Europe. European families and industries will foot the bill of at least 20 million euros  for every day of delay.

Nord Stream AGs press service doubled down on its assertions, telling the Russian daily Izvestia: If the gas pipeline is built by the end of 2019 and commissioned in 2020, European families will get access to a lower cost gas source and save 8 billion per year. This will happen due to the fact that prices will decrease by 13 percent.

The claim that 20 million euros will be lost for each day of delay  which, according to the companys calculations, comes to 8 billion euros a year -- is supposed to convince the European public to support what many energy experts view as the Kremlin's geopolitical pipeline project.

The claim, however, is false.

The numbers cited by Nord Stream 2 AGs press service were apparently derived from a report commissioned by the company in 2017 to study the effects of the Nord Stream 2 pipeline. The Institute of Energy Economics (EWI) at the University of Cologne found that if Nord Stream 2 were available, less liquefied natural gas (LNG) would need to be imported to the EU, which would lead to lower import prices for LNG. As LNG is the marginal source of supply in the EU, the report says, this would decrease gas prices in the EU.

The report adds: When Nord Stream 2 is available, Russia can supply more gas to the EU decreasing the need to import more expensive LNG. This concept is essentially the main premise of the study. It assumes that LNG is expensive and the less Europe imports it, the better off the European consumer would be. However, there are at least three main problems with the reports assumptions.

Wrong Assumptions

First, LNG imports are not necessarily more expensive than Russian pipeline gas. In fact, the LNG price significantly dropped this winter and, in April, reached $4.92 per million metric British Thermal Units (mmBTU) because of lower demand in Asia. The LNG prices have pushed down Russian gas prices from $8.8 mmBTU in October to about $5 mmBTU now. However, Russian gas prices remain higher in countries with fixed price contracts with Gazprom that are exclusively dependent on Russian energy.

Secondly, Russian gas prices began decreasing in Europe before Nord Stream 2 construction started, precisely because LNG supplies flooded the European market and reached some countries that had been exclusively dependent on Gazprom deliveries.

Thirdly, the report dismisses the fact that the Nord Stream 2 pipeline will not import any new Russian gas to Europe; it will simply divert Gazproms current transit through the Ukrainian route to Nord Stream 2.

The study concedes that the Ukrainian transit route, which currently carries the bulk of Russian gas exports to Europe and Turkey (93 bcm in 2017), is included only conservatively in the methodology used to calculate the impact of Nord Stream 2  envisioned to be used for the transit of only 30 bcm or less a year. 

LNG Prices Going Down

Natural gas prices in Europe have been going down this year not because Gazprom is building two new pipelines under the Baltic and Black seas, but because the continent has been flooded with LNG since last fall. LNG has been coming from a number of suppliers, including the United States. A mild winter in Asia has driven gas prices to a three-year-low level and caused LNG shipments to be redirected to Europe, pushing down the prices there as well.

European natural gas prices in April were as low as in the summer of 2016, when gas prices were affected by plummeting oil prices. Energy experts say LNG has allowed natural gas to become a global commodity that can easily move from one continent to another depending on demand, similar to the way oil is traded. Natural gas has been freed from an old regime of rigid contracts with fixed destinations, the Financial Times wrote.

While Russia continues to build gigantic pipelines to Europe and Turkey, LNG will drive gas prices in Europe in the future, according to Niall Trimble, managing director of oil and gas consultants The Energy Contract Company.

Gazprom vs. LNG

Commenting on the putative 8 billion euro potential savings for European gas consumers if Nord Stream 2 is built, Anders Aslund, a Senior Fellow at the Atlantic Council, told Polygraph.info that the Russians are constantly coming up with bizarre numbers to protect and expand their gas market share. The cost of Russian natural gas is indeed lower than LNG, but who benefits from it? Only the producers, not the consumers, Aslund said. Gazprom can be more flexible with the sale prices, but it is not.

Gazprom is not building its project in order to save European consumers money; in fact, it is building it to maintain and entrench its positions on the European markets right at the time when Europe is seeing more options and more liquidity, Agnia Grigas, a nonresident senior fellow with the Atlantic Council's Eurasia Center, told Polygraph.info. She added that the Nord Stream 2 project is Gazproms way of fighting against the competition, an attempt to lock the European market by tying it to Russian pipelines in order to preempt alternative gas supplies.

I certainly dont expect gas prices to drop; on the contrary, in countries where Gazprom has established positions, gas prices tend to rise, said Grigas.

Lithuanias experience demonstrates this: as soon as Vilnius started planning to build an LNG regasification terminal at Klaipeda, Gazprom had to decrease its prices in Lithuania.

Kremlins Mega Pipeline

The Nord Stream 2 pipeline, which is currently under construction, would run in parallel to the existing Nord Stream 1 pipeline from Russia to Germany on the Baltic seabed. If completed, it would double the systems total capacity to 110 billion cubic meters (bcm) per year. This would equal 70 percent of Russias natural gas exports to the EU, all slated for direct delivery through a single transit route to one country, Germany.

Russia is the largest exporter of natural gas to the European Union. Russia has about a 36-percent share of Europes natural gas market. In 2018, it delivered 156 bcm of gas to the EU via pipelines through Ukraine, Belarus and Germany. Russia supplied 43 percent of the total EU gas import of 363 bcm. The Ukrainian transit route delivers the largest share of these exports; in 2017, it transmitted 93.5 bcm to Europe and Turkey, which was reduced to about 86.8 bcm in 2018.

However, several European countries and the United States have opposed the pipeline, seeing it as a political project designed to bypass Ukraine as a transit country, divide the EU and undermine the budding LNG market in Europe. In addition, the pipeline will undercut the main principles of European energy security developed after the gas crisis in 2009 and aimed at curtailing dependence on Russian energy and promoting the diversification of energy sources.

Moscow claims that the project is purely commercial, designed to meet increasing gas demand and decreasing gas production in Europe. But its demand estimates seem exaggerated as the BP forecasts that European energy consumption will actually decrease by 13 percent in 2040, with gas demand also decreasing by 3.7 percent. Europe's gas import ratio will rise, however, from 75 percent to 88 percent.

Furthermore, Gazprom does not need another 55-bcm pipeline when it has almost 100 bcm of currently unused export capacity to the EU, about 40 percent of its transmission capacity to Europe is not utilized.

Nord Stream 2 advocates, such as former U.S. Ambassador Richard Burt, a managing partner with McLarty Associates, which lobbies for the pipeline in Washington, claims that this enormous extra capacity is needed for winter peak demand, denying there is intent to eliminate Russian gas transit via Ukraine.

However, Alan Riley, a Senior Fellow at the Institute of Statecraft, London, and Senior Fellow at the Atlantic Council, is categorical about the effect on Ukraine: If Nordstream 2 comes into operation, then the Brotherhood pipeline will see a collapse in gas flows transited across Ukraine.

The Trouble in Denmark

Following the request for a third route that was eventually submitted, Nord Stream AG CEO Matthias Warnig cautioned the board of his company that the process of appealing Denmarks decision could take years, wrote the Polish website BiznesAlert.pl after obtaining the letter. While an appeals process is ongoing, Denmark can put on hold a decision on any other alternative route proposal.

Such an outcome would inevitably delay the completion of Nord Stream 2. Moscow had hoped to eliminate or reduce to a minimum Russias gas transit via Ukraine by January 2020, Russias energy minister Alexander Novak indicated in an interview for Gazeta.ru in February. But if Nord Stream 2 is delayed or canceled, Gazprom will have to continue using the Ukrainian route past 2019.

Faced with that possibility, Nord Stream 2 AG has launched a PR campaign of statements and interviews to argue that if the pipeline is not completed by the end of 2019, Europe will pay a lot more for natural gas and if it is built on time, European families can save 8 billion euros a year.

However, we find this claim that Nord Stream 2 would save consumers money to be false.
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The Wednesday lunch group from Two Rivers United Methodist Church, an openly LGBTQ-affirming congregation, met at Wasabi restaurant on Daniel Island Wednesday, Feb. 20, 2019 and used a puzzle, which was missing one piece, as an illustration for their lesson. Wade Spees/Staff
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Now that he's formally entered the race, former Vice President Joe Biden widened his lead in South Carolina among 2020 Democratic presidential candidates, according to a new poll.

Biden is preferred by 46 percent of likely S.C. Democratic primary voters, up 14 points from a month ago, according to a Post and Courier-Change Research Poll released Sunday.

Biden's post-announcement bump in South Carolina is higher than in other parts of the country, pollsters said.

Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders sits second at 15 percent, with California Sen. Kamala Harris following at 10 percent. Their numbers have held steady in three S.C. polls taken since February.

South Bend, Ind., Mayor Peter Buttigieg continued his surprising rise, landing fourth, at 8 percent in a tie with Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren. Buttigieg did not register with voters in the first S.C. poll taken nearly three months ago.

The next two candidates, New Jersey Sen. Cory Booker and former Texas congressman Beto O'Rourke, took big hits this month in the crucial early-primary state.

Booker, one of the most frequent visitors to South Carolina, saw his support cut in half, to 4 percent.

O'Rourke, who drew large crowds in his first swing in South Carolina, sits at 2 percent, tied with entrepreneur Andrew Yang  down 7 points from a month ago. Their numbers also have dipped nationally, Change Research pollsters said.

Meanwhile, excitement in South Carolina about a possible run by former Georgia House Minority Leader Stacey Abrams has cooled off. Support for Abrams, who ran in a hotly contested governor's race last year, slid to 1 percent from 7 percent in April despite her not ruling out a presidential bid.

The latest Post and Courier-Change Research Poll surveyed 595 likely S.C. Democratic primary voters online from May 6-9 and has a margin of error of plus or minus 4 percent.

Biden remains the dominant candidate in South Carolina, a state where the former senator has developed deep ties. He delivered eulogies at funerals for S.C. Sens. Strom Thurmond and Fritz Hollings and often vacations near Charleston.

"He's always been popular in South Carolina and always maintained good relationships here, so people were really excited about him getting in," said Kenneth Glover, chairman of the Orangeburg County Democratic Party.

It also doesn't hurt that Biden has a reputation as a moderate in a state where Democrats can run more conservative than other parts of the country, Furman University political scientist Danielle Vinson said.

"He's not in the scary wing of the party," she said.

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The latest poll shows Biden leads the field among men and women and in all regions of the state. He also is tops among black voters, who account for close to two-thirds of Democratic primary voters in South Carolina.

His only weak spot is among younger voters ages 18-34. They prefer Sanders, whose progressive stances on health care and economic reform appeal to millennials.

Biden, who entered the race April 25, also is seen as the most likely candidate to do the one thing many Democratic voters want most  beat Republican Donald Trump.

Nearly nine out of 10 of those polled believe Biden has the best chance to topple Trump. Sanders was the only other candidate to win support from a majority of those polled. Harris and Warren were each considered potential Trump-beaters by about one-third of voters.

"Voters figure, 'We know a white man can win the presidency,' " Vinson said. "Biden seems to be the safe choice."

That belief apparently hurts candidates such as Harris and Warren, who are trying to become the first female president and have impressed voters who have come out to their events.

Biden remains the smartest, toughest and most likable candidate with the highest name recognition and largest favorability, according to the poll.

That's a powerful combination opponents will need to chip away over the next 42 weeks. But a national politician with nearly five decades of experience has an advantage in a field that has grown past 20 candidates.

"There's so many of them, it's hard to stick out," Vinson said.

In Orangeburg County, one of the state's largest Democratic strongholds, Glover said he's beginning to hear more chatter about Warren, who has been trying to make inroads in the state. She rose slightly from the last S.C. poll.

Booker also continues to work hard in the county, Glover said. He delivered the commencement address at South Carolina State University on Friday and opened a campaign office Saturday.

"It's getting busy," Glover said.
The New York Times went in pursuit of the racial angle in the case against former Minneapolis Police Officer Mohamed Noor for the July 2017 killing of Justine Ruszczyk in John Eligons A Black Officer, a White Woman, a Rare Murder Conviction. Is It Hypocrisy, or Justice? The premise of Eligons story is that Noor was somehow the victim of racial prejudice. Although the premise of the story is framed as a question, this is a story you dont really have to read to know the answer.

PJ Medias Jack Dunphy addresses Eligons story in Whos the Victim When a Somali Muslim Police Officer Shoots an Innocent White Woman? The NYT Thinks It Knows. As Dunphy points out, by the way, Eligons Times profile states that that he is a national correspondent covering race, and that he documents the nuances of Americas struggle with race issues, from the protest movement over police violence to the changing face of the nations cities and suburbs. Race is his nuanced beat.

In his story Eligon discusses the other local officer-involved shootings in which the officer was acquitted. That is the norm for these cases. Why was this case different? Dunphy does a good job addressing the premise of Eligons story and distinguishing Eligons comparators from the Noor case.

Covering the case on Power Line, I referred to the irreducible (nonracial) facts of the case. I think that is what distinguishes this case from the others. Good luck finding a statement of the irreducible facts of the case in Eligons analysis. He strolls quite a distance from the facts to turn his premise into a thesis.

Having attended the trial every day, I am struck by Eligons omission of any discussion of the jury in the Noor case. It is the jury that decides these cases. Is there any evidence that the jury was guilty of racial prejudice against Noor?

Eligon acknowledges in passing the diverse racial composition of the jury but passes it by because it belies the premise of his story. Every local media organization carefully tracked it during jury selection. I would bet that even Times reporter Mitch Smith tracked it during his few days in court at the trial in the reserved seat that the Times ultimately forfeited as a result of disuse.

Unfortunately, Smith quickly disappeared from the courtroom after jury selection. Eligon might more usefully have put out an APB on Mitch than pursue the obligatory racial angle of his story.

Its a shame that Eligon abruptly drops the racial composition of the jury after he mentions it. How diverse was it? Even if he couldnt turn to Mitch Smith for help, Eligon could have sought assistance from the the Minnesota media. The Star Tribune tabulated the racial composition of the jury here, as did KARE 11s Lou Raguse here with Lous characteristically close attention to detail on display.

As the Star Tribune reported, There were six [of the 12 jurors] who appeared to be people of color on the panel, four of them immigrants. The jury included a female obstetrician-gynecologist who described herself as a person of color. She said she has been second-guessed and mistaken as a nurse or lab technician because of other peoples implicit bias. The jury also included a Native American man and four who immigrated to the United States who were all nonwhite as well: two Filipino men, an Ethiopian man, and a Pakistani woman. (Four white alternate jurors were dismissed before the jury began deliberations.) The verdict arrived at by the jury was of course unanimous.

Did Noors race have anything to do with the jurys verdict? If it did, I think it would have worked to his benefit, but a look at the jury strongly suggests that it didnt hurt him. Raguses interview with one of the jurors on the deliberations shows the jurys focus on the irreducible facts of the case in light of the applicable law. Eligons story is complete and utter baloney, Times style.

JOHN adds: Eligon wonders what would have happened if the races of the parties had been reversed. I can answer that question. If a white officer had shot a 40-year-old black woman in her pajamasthe very woman who summoned the police with a 911 callas she approached his squad car, because he irrationally perceived her as a threat, not only would the officer have been convicted, there would have been anti-police demonstrations in every city across America.
Many Trump supporters are incensed at Sen. Richard Burr for issuing a subpoena for Donald Trump Jr. to return and testify before the Senate Intelligence which Burr chairs. Here are the facts relating to the subpoena, as I understand them:

The Senate Intelligence Committee is conducting an intelligence investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election. It is not conducting a criminal investigation, as Robert Mueller was. However, it is exploring many of the same events and actions as Mueller because they relate to Russias interference.

As part of its investigation, the Committee interviewed Donald Trump Jr. and Jared Kushner, among many others. It reserved the right to call both back if further investigation revealed inconsistencies in their testimony or, more generally, the need for additional questioning.

Pursuant to this understanding, the Committee called Kushner back and he testified. It also called Trump Jr. back, but apparently he balked. Hence, the subpoena.

It seems to me that Burr serves two of his interests by issuing the subpoena: furthering his Committees investigation and maintaining some level of bipartisanship on the Committee.

As to the first interest, it is the job of Committee members to determine which witnesses it will interview. When a witness wont cooperate, a subpoena is the normal recourse. Otherwise, the Committee loses control over its investigation.

Its true that Trump Jr. testified once, but an effective investigation may require that certain witnesses be recalled and, as I understand it, the Committee reserved the right to recall Trump Jr. and Kushner. As noted, Kushner did come back to answer more questions  no fuss, no muss.

The need to recall witnesses to probe discrepancies in testimony seems obvious. If Trump Jrs testimony runs counter to evidence the Committee has since uncovered, its perfectly legitimate to bring him back for follow-up questioning. It would be irresponsible of the Committee not to explore, and if possible clear up, discrepancies in testimony before it writes its report.

I should also note that Burrs Committee isnt overstepping normal bounds. For example, unlike the House Intelligence Committee, Burr isnt demanding anything unlawful, such as making grand jury material public. He isnt even demanding anything unusual. He just wants Trump Jr. to answer questions.

One argument raised against the subpoena is that Mueller has already found no collusion and Majority Leader McConnell has declared the matter closed. In fact, Burrs Committee hasnt found evidence of collusion, and the Senator has said so.

But Trump Jr.s testimony is relevant to the broader issue of Russias attempts to interfere in the election, which is what Burrs Committee is investigating. And while the issue of criminal conduct under the collusion rubric is closed (or should be), Burrs broader investigation into Russian interference isnt. Nor did McConnell say it is. To the contrary, he has said that the Committees work will proceed and that a report will issue soon.

There may also be a question of whether Trump Jr. testified truthfully to the Committee. If there is some question about this (and Im not saying there is), it would certainly be legitimate for the Committee to follow up. Indeed, protecting the integrity of the Committees processes would seem to demand that it do so.

Barrs other interest is in maintaining a decent level of bipartisanship on the Committee. In a well-functioning country, members of both parties would be able to cooperate on congressional intelligence committees. If theres any subject matter less suitable to partisan wrangling, I cant think of it.

Until fairly recently, the House Intelligence Committee was a model of bipartisanship, and the nation was better for it. Democrats, in their quest to resist President Trump, have blown that up. The House Committee is now a farce.

This hasnt happened on the Senate side. Reportedly, every vote by the Committee so far in connection with the Russia investigation has been unanimous. As Mitch McConnell says, this Intelligence Committee in the Senate, unlike the Intel Committee in the House, has not descended into partisan bickering; its been a largely bipartisan effort.

Burr would like the bipartisanship to continue. But if he allows Trump Jr. to stiff him on testifying, it wont. Democrats will argue that the president, not the chairman, is calling the shots. They will be right.

Burrs interest in maintaining bipartisanship is understandable. However, standing alone, I dont think its reason enough to subpoena Trump Jr.

The Democrats have declared war on President Trump. Being in the minority, Democratic Intelligence Committee members play the cooperation game, but sooner or later (and almost certainly if/when they become the majority), Burrs good will wont count for much. In all likelihood, the Senate Committee will follow the sad path of its counterpart on the House side, though perhaps not to the same nauseating degree.

Quite apart from considerations of bipartisanship, however, Burrs primary interest  furthering his Committees investigation and not being dictated to by witnesses  justifies the subpoena to Trump Jr., in my opinion.

I hope the matter can be resolved without much difficulty, and that Mitch McConnells characterization of the dispute as just a blip will prove to be accurate.

Below, Trey Gowdy does a good job of explaining why Burr wants to reexamine Trump Jr.


The Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) says state governments are right to demand a review of the revenue sharing formula of the Federation Account.

Shettima Abba-Gana, the outgone acting chairman, said this while speaking with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja.

He, however, said that reviewing the formula was not the solution to states and Local Government Areas (LGAs) quest for increasing their revenue.

Under the current sharing formula, the federal government takes the lion share of 52.68 per cent from the Federation Account.

The 36 states are allocated 26.72 per cent, while the balance of 20.60 per cent is given to the 774 LGAs.

Reviewing the formula is not an easy process and I am not particularly sure whether the review of the revenue sharing formula is the best solution for states.

This is because the formula itself is based on a foundation and that is the constitution that has given the federal exclusive functions and states and LGAs concurrent functions.

Unless you move functions from one tier to another, it will be very difficult to just transfer funds boldly to another tier.

According to him, the magnitude of what the states are requiring may not be necessarily easy without some constitutional amendments to look at what the concurrent and exclusive functions of the states, LGs and Federal Governments are.

Mr Abba-Gana, however, said that what the RMAFC always advocated was getting more revenue that would be enough for the three tiers to share.

He added that even the federal government itself required more funds, especially with the current security situation in some parts of the country and the demand for infrastructure which also required funding.

So what the RMAFC has always advocated for is to get more revenue, we have always been pushing that the Product Sharing Contracts (PSCs) be reviewed to increase the governments take.

We have always pointed out that production from Joint Venture Contracts (JVCs) has gone down from one million barrels per day to about 800,000 barrels per day.

It is the most profitable venture and that one has gone down, we need to get it back to be able to improve the funding to the federation account which definitely will benefit all tiers of government.

The former chairman said that through the review of the PSCs and enhancement of the JVCs, and the states going to do some more work on their Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), it would uplift revenue across board.

This, he said, was more important than trying to share from a cake that was presently not enough or was shrinking.

On the review of the PSCs, Mr Abba-Gana said it was an ongoing process that had been done in the past and was last reviewed in 2008.

In 2014 we did one and former President Goodluck Jonathan did not grant us leave to present it to him as should be done constitutionally and since then we have not done another one.

Though we have indicated that we need funds to do another one because we need to update it and do some travelling and research to be able to get current economic social realities before we can make anything like the new revenue-sharing formula.

That is being considered now and whenever funds are available, the commission will start the process again to review what was done in 2014 and from what I am hearing, the present administration is serious about it.

PSC is an arrangement used in the upstream sector for the exploration and development of petroleum resources and was adopted by Nigeria for the exploration and development of the offshore and inland basin.

The RMAFC had said in 2018 that the nation lost about 21 billion dollars in revenue in the last 20 years to non-review of the PSCs.

Also, President Muhammadu Buhari gave approval to the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) to enable it to undertake a review of all PSCs between it and its various partners to reflect the current realities in the industry.

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RMAFC was established to monitor accruals into and disbursement of revenue from the federation account, review from time to time, the revenue allocation formula and principles in operation to ensure conformity with changing realities. (NAN)
Ogbonna Uchenna-Aju, a medical practitioner who was kidnapped on May 3 in Cross River by unknown gunmen, has regained freedom, the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports.

Mr Uchenna-Aju was kidnapped while on transit from Ogoja Local Government Area to his house in Obudu Local Government Area in the state.

The announcement of his release is contained in a communique signed by the Chairman of Nigerian Medical Association, South-South zone, Agam Ayuk, and the Secretary, Ezoke Epoke, after its general emergency meeting held on Sunday in Calabar.

The association said that Mr Uchenna-Aju was released safely on May 9 through the efforts of the state government, security agencies and the media.

Arising from the meeting and taking into serious consideration the healthcare needs of Cross Riverians, the NMA in Cross River has suspended the notice of total and indefinite withdrawal of medical services across the state.

The association has also directed all its members across the state to resume work immediately.

The association will keep to her January 8th, 2018, resolution in the event of the kidnap of a doctor or dependents which says that `the NMA will henceforth withdraw all medical services without any notice anytime a doctor or dependent are taken captive in future.

The association implores the state government and security agencies to do more to safeguard lives and property in the state. (NAN)

GNO/IS
FG must rescue medical practice from police, emigration- NMA

The Nigeria Medical Association (NMA) says the countrys health sector is heading for a catastrophe unless the federal government urgently halts the current rate of emigration of medical and dental practitioners.

NMA in a communique issued by its President, Frances Faduyile, and Secretary-General, Olumuyiwa Odusote, at the end of the bodys 59th annual general conference held in Abuja, also condemned the rate of alleged criminalisation of Nigerian doctors by the Nigerian police.

According to the communique, government at all levels should as a matter of urgency, prioritise healthcare, show better political commitment to health, and pay better and competitive wages to revamp the ailing sector from total collapse.

Breastfeeding can prevent 13% infant mortality  Expert

The Technical Advisor, Policy and Advocacy, Alive & Thrive, Toyin Adewale-Gabriel, said if 90 per cent of mothers can practice exclusive breastfeeding, about 13 per cent of infant mortality can be prevented.

Mrs Adewale-Gabriel said that `52 per cent of all the diseases affecting children in Nigeria were caused by malnutrition.

She said if the nation can address malnutrition through appropriate infant and child feeding habit, We will be able to increase childrens safety in Nigeria.

How ulcer patients should observe Ramadan  Expert

A Consultant Plastic Surgeon with the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital (UITH), Ismail Adigun, says ulcer patients can observe Ramadan fast by avoiding foods that cause them problems.

Mr Adigun said that ulcer patients should be able to realise the type of food that precipitates the ulcer in them.

He advised people to reduce the consumption of hot, spicy and acidic-content foods as they tend to irritate the digestive tract.

According to him, the best alternative for ulcer patients who want to fast is to vary their food intake throughout Ramadan to include all the essential nutrients such as carbohydrates, proteins, fat, vitamins and fibres.

Consumer protection agency warns against use of carbide to ripen fruits

The use of calcium carbide and other chemicals to force the artificial ripening of fruits is injurious to human health, the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has said.

The FCCPC, which is formerly the Consumer Protection Commission (CPC), said on Friday it received credible information of the use of these chemicals on fruits, vegetables and other food items by sellers.

The Commission noted, in particular, the use of calcium carbide to hasten the ripening process of oranges, bananas and mangoes.

Calcium carbide (CaC2) is a chemical compound containing arsenic and phosphorus, scientifically proven to contain harmful carcinogenic properties.

#PHC4UHC: Etsu Nupe laments medical tourism among Nigerians

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 the 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.

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Senate summons minister over state of facilities in teaching hospitals

The Senate has summoned the Minister of Health, Isaac Adewole, for briefing on the current state of healthcare facilities and services in Nigerian teaching hospitals.

This was one of the resolutions made after a deliberation on a motion titled Alarming report on poor quality of services in Nigerian Teaching Hospitals. The motion was sponsored by David Umaru (Niger East).

Leading the motion, Mr Umaru lamented the widespread cases of poor electricity supply, obsolete medical equipment, decayed infrastructure and other factors which, he said, have made it extremely difficult for Nigerian teaching hospitals to provide tertiary healthcare to patients.

NAFDAC seizes 401 cartons of expired soft drinks in Minna

The National Agency for Food and Drugs Administration and Control (NAFDAC) in Niger, said it confiscated 401 cartons of expired assorted soft drinks in a warehouse in Minna.

The State Coordinator of the agency, Anikoh Ibrahim, said that the expired soft drinks included: 376 cartons of Amstel Malt, 17 cartons of Coca-Cola and eight cartons of Maltina.

He said that the agencys operatives, acting on a tip-off, swooped on the warehouse, located behind Kasuan Gwari in Chanchaga Local Government Area of the state and confiscated the products.

Mr Ibrahim explained that when such products expire in the custody of a businessman, by law, he is expected to label them expired item and pack them at a designated place and inform the agency.

Nigerian bushmeat eater brings monkeypox to Singapore

Singapore has reported its first ever case of monkeypox, claiming it was brought in by a Nigerian who contracted the rare virus by eating bushmeat at a wedding party.

The man who brought in the virus arrived in Singapore on April 28, the city-states health ministry (MOH) said in a statement.

The 38-year-old developed symptoms two days later and is currently isolated at an infectious disease centre in a stable condition, the ministry said.

At least 23 individuals who had been in close contact with the man had been traced, and those who are in Singapore will be quarantined and monitored for 21 days as a precaution, MOH said.

China builds 158 Internet hospitals to curb congestion

Chinas medical authority said that 158 Internet hospitals had been built, to address congestion in large urban hospitals amid digital tide.

Mao Qunan, a director of the National Health Commission, said at the second Digital China Summit that 19 provinces, or over half of Chinas provincial-level regions, had established provincial tele-medicine platforms.

The central government has also earmarked 99 million U.S. dollars in special funds to add tele-medical and other equipment in primary-level health institutions in impoverished counties.

The commission is now working to realise online services in secondary and tertiary hospitals, he said.

China boasts of 4m registered nurses

The number of registered nurses in China exceeded 4 million at the end of 2018, rising to 3 nurses per 1,000 people, the National Health Commission has announced.

Registered nurses make up nearly 50 per cent of the countrys healthcare professionals, said Jiao Yahui, an official with the commission, at a press conference ahead of International Nurses Day, which falls on May 12.

The nursing services have been improved as a growing number of medical staff now has the expertise, Jiao said. He added that almost 70 per cent of nurses hold junior college degrees or above.
Nigerias 36 states and the federal capital territory, Abuja, have pocketed or diverted over N15 trillion federal allocation meant for local governments areas in the last 12 years, depriving the nations third tier of government funds for desperately needed developmental projects, data analysed by Dataphyte has shown.

Although that amount was allocated to the 774 local government areas in the country, there is no public information on what portion each local government received.

Local governments are a fundamental part of Nigerias political system, and should be closest to the people than the states and federal government. Yet, for years, revenues that should go to them have ended up with their state governments. This has happened because there is no real autonomy for that level of government, and its heads are often hand-picked by state governors.

Data analysis

Based on analysis of the 12-year data sourced from the websites of the National Bureau of Statistics and the Office of Accountant-General of the Federation, about N15.5 trillion (N15,505,489,701,816) has been transferred to the 36 states and the FCT on behalf of the 774 local government councils of the country.

Based on available data, an average of N20 billion accrued to local governments in Nigeria between 2007 and 2012, with the least council having a total of N12.8 billion and the highest having N56.3 billion.

The monthly LGA transfer is the statutory allocation distributed by the Federation Account Allocation Committee. While Abuja Municipal with the highest allocation has had a monthly average of N391.1 million or an annual average of N4.69 billion, Ifedayo local government in Osun State, with the least allocation, received a monthly average of N88.56 million or an annual average of N1.06 billion.

Lagos, Abuja LGs top earners list

Based on the analysis, the top 20 LGAs in the recipient list were Abuja Municipal  56.32bn, Alimosho  52.16bn, Kosofe  49.96bn, Mushin  49.31bn, Oshodi-Isolo  48.85bn, Ojo  47.49bn, Ikorodu  46.43bn, Alkaleri  45.46bn, Surulere  45.16bn, Agege  43.14bn, Ifako-Ijaye  43.03bn, Shomolu  42.02bn, Ajeromi-Ifelodun  38.98bn, Ikeja  38.96bn, Lagos Mainland  38.74bn, Gwagwalada  36.64bn, Lagos Island- 35.49bn, Kwali  35.30bn, Kuje  34.94bn, and Nassarawa (Kano State)  34.25bn.

While the bottom 20 on the list in descending order were Igueben  14.64bn, Isin  14.62bn, Ogori/Magongo  14.62bn, Bomadi  14.50bn, Ogo Oluwa  14.45bn, Ewekoro  14.39bn, Ede South  14.37bn, Nkwerre  14.35bn, Ukwa East  14.31bn, Udung Uko  14.31bn, Patani  14.30bn, Ila  14.18bn, Ondo East  14.18bn, Kwaya Kusar  14.15bn, Atakumosa West  14.09bn, Ijebu North-East  13.86bn, Ola-oluwa  13.84bn, Remo North  13.76bn, Ilejemeji  13.03bn, and Ifedayo  12.75bn.

ANALYSIS: How Nigerian state governments pocketed N15.5 trillion LGA allocations in 12 years. [CREDIT: George Kaduna]

As revealed in the chart above, 13 out of the 20 top receiving local governments are from Lagos alone.

A further drill down shows that not less than 15 of the 25 local governments that receive the most from the distribution in the last 12 years are from Lagos. The obvious reason for this perhaps is the population preference given to the allocation of resource revenue. A prominent principle used in sharing FAAC is the population of the local and state governments in the country.

However, only eight of the 13 local governments from Lagos would qualify on a nominal basis because they are among the 20 most populated local governments. It is unclear the rationale that drove the inclusion of the other five.

Some of the 20 most populated local governments like Nasarawa, Maiduguri, Ifo, Port-Harcourt, Ado-Odo/Ota, Surulere (Oyo State), Bauchi, Obia/Akpor, Jos North, Idemili North, Igabi did not make the list for other reasons only the RMAFC can explain as the commission

The general notion about federal allocation is that aside from population factor, 13 per cent derivation, a concession given to oil-producing states, determine how much more a state and its local government get compared to counterparts.

An interesting insight from the analysis, however, reveals none of the local governments from the oil-producing states made the top 20 receivers list even when the local governments are among the most populous. For instance, the 2006 population census puts Port-Harcourt (538,558) and Obia/Akpor (462,350) local government in the 11th and 16th most populated local governments in Nigeria respectively.

Port-Harcourt, the capital of Rivers State, only made the bottom of the top 25 while Obia/Akpor was down at 42nd as per top earners. So why did these local governments not make the top earners list?

Possible reasons

The oil-producing states, especially those in the Niger Delta have continued to describe the nature of federal allocation to their regions as unfair and inequitable given the fact the revenue mainstay, crude oil, comes from their regions.

In a recent report, the governor of Bayelsa, Seriake Dickson, expressed the frustration that his state, as well as other Niger Delta states, are not given the control of their resources among other Federal controls such as oil licencing.

Though the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) strives to provide data on federal allocation about two months after the disbursement, the data tend to assume every Nigerian understands how the allocation committee came about the values.

NEITIs Fiscal Allocation and Statutory Disbursement, FASD, on the other hand tries to show the aggregate breakdown as seen in the image below. However, it can be assumed that the values of this criteria change, and citizens and policymakers at least at the local government leveldo not have supporting documents to help them understand the recurring breakdown.

The implication is that the 774 Nigerian local governments are forced to rely on assumptions from historical data when factoring federal revenue into their budget planning, as they lack supporting documents that explain the decision making process federal allocations.

As much as anyone can extrapolate based on the 40 per cent equality share and 30 per cent population quota, the data used to determine other criteria such as school enrollment, amount of rainfall, water supply spread, amount of internally generated revenue, on a rolling basis is not known to the public. Even the population figure is not a clear indicator of federal distribution as its unclear whether FAAC is working with the 2006 Census figure or adjusts this on an annual basis.

Nigerias 1999 constitution empowers the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) to allocate revenue to the three tiers of government.

The challenge posed with assuming the rationale for sharing necessitates a proactive approach from RMFAC to publish the proportion and rationale for allocating FAAC and when it changes, should oblige itself to make the information available to the public.

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According to an expert, Adetunji Ogunyemi, lopsidedness in the constitutional division of legislative jurisdiction and the allocation of tax powers, coupled with the failure to develop the best and accepted principles and criteria for the vertical and horizontal distribution of revenues remain the most contentious and intractable challenge in Nigerias post-independence.

State Governments and impunity

There has been controversy about the moral standing of state governments to receive and manage LGA allocations from FAAC. The FAAC makes transfers of the statutory allocation of local governments to their respective state governments.

This is in accordance with the 1999 constitution of Nigeria which established the Federal Accounts Allocation Committee (FAAC) and the Joint Allocation and Accounts Committee (JAAC) for the pooling and distribution of Local Government Revenue among state and local governments.

However, federal allocations to local government, for the most part, are just additional revenue for the state governments who then determine how to redistribute in terms of developmental projects across local governments.

It is very clear, to the agitation of civil society, that the state governments are neither transparent nor accountable about the redistribution of FAAC to the municipal executives and legislators with statutory mandates. This is especially worrisome given that state governments always have a hand in local government allocations. Only the governor of Bayelsa has claimed not to touch the local governments allocation for his state. The statement is yet to be verified.

Nearly all the 774 local governments executives never got the exact amount distributed to them and many times accuse their state governments of misappropriating the funds received on their behalf while also interfering in the running of the affairs at the grassroots level.

This is contrary to Nigerias legal framework that makes it mandatory for the state governments to allocate 10 per cent of its internally-generated revenue to the local councils.

An OECD report decried how state governments have taken over most local government functions in order to justify spending funds earmarked for councils in the Joint Revenue Account, and funds from the Federation Account do not reach the local level.

This is largely because most resources are owned and managed by the federal government, and almost all states and local governments rely on allocations or shares from federal revenues.

Two other positions Mr Ogunyemi noted consistently trouble the realisation of fiscal federalism are illegal custody and disbursement of federally collected revenue and the refusal to act upon audit reports by prosecuting indicted federal officers who deal corruptly with the federations treasury.

Section 162 (6), (7) and (8) of the 1999 Constitution offer some directions as to the legality of the state government to withhold or deduct from the local governments share of the allocation.

(6) Each State shall maintain a special account to be called State Joint Local Government Account into which shall be paid allocations to the local government councils of the state from the Federation Account and from the government of the state.

(7) Each State shall pay to local government councils in its area of jurisdiction such proportion of its total revenue on such terms and in such manner as may be prescribed by the National Assembly.

(8) The amount standing to the credit of local government councils of a state shall be distributed among the local government councils of that state and in such manner as may be prescribed by the House of Assembly of the State.not for the other.

A recent report indicated the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit, (NFIU) promised to go after banks who pay local government allocations to state governments.

Though this sounds like a step in the right direction, the dilemma lies with the legal rights for NFIU to dictate how governments exercise their constitutional mandates of resource distribution.

Way forward

A key development in social accountability arena of Nigeria is the use of public data to demand accountability and unearth corruption in the Nigeria budgetary and procurement process.

Civil society organisations including PTCIJ, PPDC, ICIR, Connected Development, BudgIT, and Value for Money, working with the media have used available data to expose corruption and equip citizens to demand service delivery in their various communities.

It is important therefore for the RMAFC, working with state governments, to provide accessible, accurate and descriptive details of monthly revenue distribution across the states and the 774 local governments of Nigeria.

The auditor -general at the federal and state levels need to beam light into revenue disbursements and spending across the country and ensure the audit report is available to the public and anti-corruption agencies

There is need for deliberate and timely interventions to address issues of local government autonomy in the country.

There is hardly any local government budget in the public space, which may allude to the lack of any municipal level of budget planning and implementation. This hampers grassroots development and constitutes the usurping of the constitutional role of local governments by state and federal governments of Nigeria.

Closely related is the need for civil society advocacy and citizen education to drive grassroots demand for transparency and accountability in the disbursements and management of local government allocation. This would involve the publishing of statements of account showing receipts of transfers into local governments accounts and monitoring the implementation at the level of councillors and caretaker committees.
A former Nigerian president, Goodluck Jonathan, has repeated his claim that he did nothing wrong when his government brokered the controversial Malabu oil deal.

A statement by Ikechukwu Eze, media adviser to the former president, described the allegation Mr Jonathan acted corruptly and may have received bribes as recycled falsehood that is blatantly dishonest, cheap, and predictable.

Mr Jonathan was reacting to a fresh claim by the Nigerian government filed in a London court last month.

In the court filing, obtained by this newspapers London partners, Finance Uncovered, the Nigerian government accused Mr Jonathan and other officials who worked in his government of bribery and corruption.

In the same filing, the government is also seeking about $3.5 billion in damages from oil giants Eni and Shell over the controversial Malabu oil deal.

The court documents, seen by PREMIUM TIMES, show that the government also alleged that the Malabu deal was corrupt and not done in the interest of Nigeria.

The government accused Eni, Shell, Malabu and other defendants of, among others, fraud or/and bribery, dishonest assistance and unlawful means of conspiracy.

Long-running Scandal

The controversial Malabu scandal involves the transfer of about $1.1 billion by oil multinationals, Shell and ENI, through the Nigerian government to accounts controlled by a former Nigerian oil minister, Dan Etete.

Prosecutors alleged that half the money ($520 million) went to the accounts of companies jointly controlled by Abubakar Aliyu, popularly known in Nigeria as the owner of AA oil, and Mr Etete. Anti-corruption investigators and activists suspect Mr Aliyu fronted for top officials of Mr Jonathans administration, as well of officials of Shell and ENI.

The transaction was authorised in 2011 by Mr Jonathan through some of his cabinet ministers, and the money was payment for the block, considered one of Nigerias most lucrative. Although Shell and ENI initially claimed they did not know the money would end up with Mr Etete and his cronies, evidence has shown that claim to be false.

Shell later admitted it did know the money would go to Mr Etete. Shell, Eni, Mr Etete, Mr Aliyu and several officials of the oil firms are being prosecuted in Italy for their roles in the scandal.

Mr Jonathan is not under any probe on the matter.

Fierce rebuttal

In the statement released by Mr Jonathans aide Saturday evening, Mr Eze said although there is nothing new in the fabricated bribery claim which he had debunked in the past, the former president will continue to restate the facts.

Former President Goodluck Jonathan did not ask for or collect any bribes, neither has he been charged for asking or collecting bribes, neither will he ever be charged with asking for or collecting bribes, because such never happened, the statement read in part.

He argued that this particular dispute predated the Jonathan administration and survives it, adding that Mr Jonathan is a 61-year-old who, throughout his life, has never opened an account, nor owned property outside Nigeria.

The fact remains that as recent national events continue to vindicate former President Jonathan, and as the world continues to celebrate him, those who are insecure will feed such propaganda to their media agents to feed their inferiority complex, the statement said.

In fact, we expected something like this ever since it was announced that former President Jonathan would lead the Election Observation Mission of the Electoral Institute for Sustainable Democracy in Africa to South Africas national and provincial elections.

We are well aware that this claim was intentioned to eclipse the goodwill and positive reports of former President Jonathans diligent engagement in South Africas national and provisional elections.

The fact that most major media houses in the country refused to republish this falsehood bears out our conviction that Nigerians can no longer be deceived by hollow and diversionary claims of corruption, in the face of worsening state of affairs in the country.

Mr Eze said that beyond the wave of conjecture, former President Jonathan was not linked, indicted or charged for collecting any monies as kickbacks or bribes from ENI by the Italian authorities or any other law enforcement body the world over.

Rather than reacting specifically to why Mr Jonathan authorised his ministers to sign the deal and transfer such funds to an ex-convict, Mr Etete, Mr Eze said: It bears repeating that the documents relating to the transactions and decisions of the Federal Government on the Malabu issue, during the Jonathan administration, are in the relevant government offices, where they are accessible.

We would like to point out that all the actions taken by the Jonathan administration in relation to activities in the oil industry were legally conducted by relevant Nigerian government officials and were carried out in the best interest of the country.

Finally, at the risk of sounding like a broken record, we will like to point out that whether in office or out of office, former President Jonathan still does not own any bank account, business or real estate outside Nigeria. It, therefore, beggars belief that so much useful energy is channelled by dark forces into this futile bid to bring down a man whose political ambition was not and still is not worth the blood of any citizen.

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In its new claims, the Nigerian government said that the controversial block was undervalued even at the time it was sold in 2011 under the Jonathan presidency.

Last month, a consultant who stood as witness before an Italian court in Milan faulted the valuation of the controversial block by the oil giants, Eni and Shell.

The new claim, dated April 8 and signed by Jonathan Cary, was filed against 14 defendants, including Shell, Eni, Malabu and their respective subsidiaries.
Ahead of the special meeting of the Governing Council of the University of Lagos (UNILAG), Akoka, scheduled to hold on Monday and Tuesday, PREMIUM TIMES has obtained extracts from the report of the councils sub-committee on the review of the institutions expenditure.

The report has indicted the vice-chancellor, Oluwatoyin Ogundipe, and two of his three deputies- Folashade Ogunsola and Oluwole Familoni.

Also indicted are the universitys former vice-chancellor, Rahamon Bello; former registrar, Taiwo Ipaye; immediate past bursar and his successor, Lateef Odekunle and Lekan Lawal respectively; former deputy vice-chancellor, Duro Oni; former directors of works, Niyi Ayeye and Adelere Adeniran; head of procurement unit, James Akanmu; dean of students affairs, Ademola Adeleke; director of academic planning, L.O Chukwu, and the director of foundation programme, Timothy Nubi.

But the committee absolved two important members of the universitys current management  a deputy vice-chancellor, Ben Oghojafor, and the registrar, Oladejo Azeez, of any wrongdoing.

Perhaps coincidentally, Mr Azeez is a member of the audit committee.

Wale Babalakin

Ahead of the formal presentation of the report, the registrar, on the instruction of the governing council chairman, Wale Babalakin, had queried all the indicted university officials. The vice-chancellor received three separate queries.

Audit Findings

The nine-member sub-committee of the council led by a lecturer of Chemistry at Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi, Saminu Dagari, which audited the universitys expenditure between May 2017 and September 2018, said the institutions current regime of approval is open to serious abuses.

There was consistent, brazen, manifest and gross mismanagement of university finances by past and current management, the report said in part.

The report added that the current regime of approval has been characterised by contract award without recourse to due process, payment without valid contracts and approvals, contract overpayment, contract splitting by vice-chancellors and tenders board, over-budgetary spending, frequent official travels, and expenditure without due approval by the governing council.

The report also accused the universitys internal audit units of gross lapses, dismal failure, and abuse of the institutions internal control mechanisms.

In the case of frequent travels, the report accused the university management of spending multimillion naira on travels, sometimes without approvals. The vice-chancellor is reportedly guiltier in this respect. His two deputy vice-chancellors are also accused of this.

Other members of the committee that produced the report are Yomi Kasali, Oladejo Azeez, Dora Osoata, Adepeju Adefowope, Adebayo Olaleye, Adeoluwa Folami, Daniel Asigwuike, and Gbenga Adefarakan.

Committees recommendations

To curb what it described as excesses of the approving authorities for finances in the university, the committee recommended a monthly or quarterly approval limit for all approving authorities; reorganisation of expenditure control and internal audit units, and that process of revenue and expenditure should be automated for transparency.

The report also urged the council to take appropriate sanctions against all those indicted of financial mismanagement.

Current contractors engaged in janitorial and maintenance services should be paid all their outstanding monies and subsequently disengaged. This is because they are beneficiaries of management wanton and consistent abuse and violation of financial regulations such as absence of tenders board or council approval, absence of evidence of renewal of valid contracts, manifest overpayment and contract splitting, the report said.

Also, against the advice of the Bureau of Public Procurement, which said the universitys tenders board, based on the Procurement Act, is placed under the chairmanship of the vice-chancellor, the committee said the universitys Act supercedes the Procurement Act.

It, therefore, recommended that the governing council should take total control of the universitys finances and that the chairman of the governing council should chair the tenders board from now on.

Stormy session awaited

Meanwhile, strong indications have emerged that if the special session holds as planned, it may be very stormy.

PREMIUM TIMES is aware of efforts by some council members to seek postponement of the meeting. They accused the council chair of premeditated plan to achieve a sinister agenda.

The registrar had on Thursday evening issued a notice of an emergency meeting to the 17 members of the council.

According to the notice, Mr Azeez said he was acting on the instruction of the council chairman to convene the meeting. However, apparently noting that the conditions required for an emergency council meeting had not been met, the registrar issued another notice few hours after, and changed the meeting from emergency to a special meeting.

On the agenda of the meeting is for members to officially receive and discuss the Dagari-led committee report, to discuss the report of a panel set up to investigate the circumstances surrounding the collapse of the institutions library under construction, to discuss the pro-chancellors actions taken on the audit report, and to consider the recommendations of the two reports.

But those seeking postponement of the meeting have argued that the report of the audit committee to be debated was just sent to them by 5 p.m. on Friday and that the accompanying evidences were not attached as required.

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We were asked to go to the registrars office to peruse the attachments. So, how do we do that when the registrar will not sleep in his office? Will the office be opened on Saturday or Sunday? Even if it will be opened, is that the ideal way of doing things? This is a report that has been with the chairman for weeks, and which he has even acted upon, a member said.

Doctored minute

Some members of the council have also accused the registrar of doctoring the minute of the governing council meeting held in March. They claimed that some clauses which were never discussed have been inserted into the minute to justify the action of the council chair, especially on the queries issued to the indicted individuals.

For instance, there was nowhere we discussed that the council chair should act on the report without first presenting the report to the council. That has been inserted, and members wont take such a case of forgery lightly, a council member told PREMIUM TIMES.

The members also accused the audit committee of incompetence, bias and vindictiveness.

According to them, the registrar is a member of the audit committee and he would not be expected to have indicted himself.

Prof. Oluwatoyin Ogundipe Vice Chancellor. University of Lagos  UNILAG [NAN Photos]

Meanwhile, some lecturers in the university have told PREMIUM TIMES that the committees decision not to indict the third deputy vice-chancellor, Mr Oghojarfor, was to make him the acting vice-chancellor when Ogundipe is suspended.

There is a reason for this claim. In the queries issued to the two other deputy vice-chancellors, they were accused of frequent travels and with approval above the limit of the vice-chancellor. But Oghojafor has also travelled in a similar circumstance. He was in China and was also in the US recently. So how come, he wasnt issued query? It is a game plan my brother, a lecturer, who does not want to be named, said.

The source added that Mr Oghojafor was the chairman of the sub-committee that reviewed the composition of the tenders board and wrote to the BPP.

So, he has been doing the bidding of the council chair, and he needed to be rewarded, he said.

Committees Expenditure Questioned

Some governing council members have also questioned the expenditure of more than N7 million by the audit committee, set up in September 2018.

According to documents obtained by our newspaper, the chairman of the committee spent N3,811,481 on accommodation and feeding during the course of the committees work, while about N1.24 million was paid to him as sitting allowance.

Documents also reveal that other members of the committee shared a total of N2,790,000 on sitting allowances while Mr Kasali received another N40,000 as transportation allowance. There was also the second tranche of N600,000 paid to the committee members.

Meanwhile, efforts to get the reaction of the committee chairman, Mr Dagari, were unsuccessful as his mobile telephone numbers were not reachable and text messages sent were not replied. Also, messages sent to his WhatsApp were delivered but not read since Friday, May 10.
The Friday appointment of four additional emirs in Kano State by Governor Abdullahi Ganduje has significance beyond the perceived move by the governor to get at the controversial Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II.

Before the governors action, Kano  as a geographical and cultural entity  has maintained single rulership since the establishment of the Sokoto caliphate in 1804. It was, therefore, no surprise that Mr Gandujes action generated anxiety and anger in equal measure.

Speaking to State House correspondents on Friday, Mr Ganduje defended his governments swift creation of four additional emirates.

It is not vendetta, I am not against him (Mr Sanusi). In fact, he is supposed to be reporting to the local government chairman according to the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the governor was reported as saying.

But even as Mr Ganduje struggled to defend the happenings in the state, the actions of his government, in partnership with the Kano State House of Assembly, have left no room to take the governors words.

It is public knowledge that Mr Ganduje has barely had a good relationship with Mr Sanusi for most of the last four years.

Mr Sanusi was appointed Emir of Kano in 2014 by Mr Gandujes predecessor, Rabiu Kwankwaso. Mr Ganduje was then Mr Kwankwasos deputy.

But since the coming of Mr Ganduje as governor in May 2015, the emir and the governor have been in a frosty relationship.

In 2017, what appeared like an engineered plot by the government to remove the emir through a probe of the emirate councils finances was only halted after a series of high-level interventions to save the traditional ruler.

However, not many people thought that only two years down the line, the same animosity would crop up, leading this time to the controversial decision to whittle down Mr Sanusis influence.

With the creation of four more emirates, Mr Sanusis reign over 44 local governments has been drastically cut down to only eight.

A Law In Three Days

Early on Monday, the news came that the state House of Assembly had sat to read a letter from some unknown persons seeking the assemblys request to create four new emirates. The letter proposed first class emirs for Gaya, Rano, Karaye and Bichi. It means having four more emirs with the same status as Mr Sanusi.

In an unprecedented move, the assembly immediately constituted a committee asking it to report back the next day on the issue. By Wednesday afternoon, the Assembly had passed the amendments into the Emirs (Appoints and Deposition) Act, splitting the emirate into five.

Later that evening Mr Ganduje signed the amendments into the law, making it arguably the fastest law in Nigerias democratic history.

The governor then went ahead to give effect to the new law by appointing four additional emirs on Friday.

The new law reinvigorated three thrones that were in existence before the Fulani Jihad of 1804 which subsumed them under Kano as the recognised emirate in the region. These were Karaye, Rano and Gaya. The law also created a new seat in Bichi, which is enthroned to the Kano ruling house.

The governor, therefore, elevated the heads of the institutions in Rano, Gaya and Karaye to first class emirs, as provided by the law, and appointed Aminu Bayero, a son of late Emir of Kano, Ado Bayero, to head Bichi.

Additionally, the amendments changed the pattern of emirate councils in all the five emirates. The exclusivity of choice of council members by the emir is changed, making local government chairmen, secretary to the state government and five appointees of the governor into the councils.

The Sanusi-Ganduje Fiasco

The cold war between Governor Ganduje and Emir Sanusi has been long coming.

Mr Sanusi came to the position from his former position as the governor of Nigerias Central Bank.

He attained fame and notoriety after his open accusations against the hen Goodluck Jonathan administration on the management of the countrys oil revenues.

He was fired from the job in a controversial manner, which generated widespread condemnation, including from the then All Progressives Congress (APC), Mr Gandujes party.

Mr Sanusi came into his new role as a traditional ruler with the same attitude.

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He generated controversies with his utterances, often criticisms directed at governments policies and actions.

At least on two occasions, Mr Sanusi passed a harsh verdict on Mr Buharis economic policies as it relates to foreign exchange, alleging at one point that the government was breeding corruption.

When Mr Ganduje travelled to China in 2017 to ink a $1.8 billion light rail agreement with China EXIM Bank, the emir used the rostrum at the Kaduna investment summit to tongue-lash the decision.

At the end of the day, what do you benefit from it? Your citizen will ride on a train and when you ride on a train, in northern Nigeria, in a state like Kano or Katsina, where are you going to? You are not going to an industrial estate to work. You are not going to school? You are not going to the farm. You borrow money from China to invest in trains so that your citizens can ride on them and go for weddings and naming ceremonies, he said at the time.

Insiders say Mr Ganduje took those criticisms with no excuses. He saw the criticisms first against Mr Buhari, on whose political goodwill he wanted to run again for office, and against himself as an affront. He decided to deal with the critic within.

When the Kano Public Complaints Anticorruption Commission went after the emirate councils finances, it was clear to all that the governor had risen to axe Mr Sanusi.

While the probe was on, the government ordered its halt citing intervention by prominent Nigerians and reconciliation between the governor and the emir.

The 2019 politics

While the dust from the 2017 removal threats was yet to fully settle, politicking for the 2019 elections began in earnest.

Through rumours and leaked conversations, it was widely believed that Mr Sanusi had no space in his heart for Mr Ganduje and President Buhari. Those who peddled the perceived stance of the emir back it up with his past utterances.

Not one to keep his traducers guessing, the emir changed the pattern of his criticism by passing veiled comments and innuendos.

In the build-up to the polls, Mr Sanusi addressed a sermon that was widely reported in which he was only short of calling out Messrs Buhari and Ganduje.

In what many interpreted as an indirect de-campaigning of Mr Buhari, the emir charged electorates to go after competent candidates, arguing that those who have only integrity as their selling point should not be trusted with public office.

In the same sermon, the emir lampooned politicians he described as selfish who promoted brigandage to achieve their political goal, charging people to reject such individuals. Governments fixers in Kano did not take the comments lightly.

Perhaps sensing what was cooking, the emir, in an address at the Mambayya House in Kano after the elections, said persons in positions like him should not turn heads at wrongs because of fear of losing their posts.

You will do wrong and emir would keep quiet because he is scared that he could be removed. This is what kills the land. Positions are never permanent. Every emir should know this. If emirship is for life I wouldnt have become the emir, there was someone before me.

Divided House

The events of the last week have sown the seed of divisions among the states traditional ruling elite.

The state government may have initiated the project to cut down the emirs powers and influence but it is obvious that it has supporters from the system, beyond the immediate beneficiaries who have accepted the newly created positions of first class emirs.

However, of more concern to many Kano indigenes is the possible discord that segregation may cause from what was a hitherto homogenous community. Political and development issues may sooner or later take the colours of the five emirates if they successfully stand.

Although a court on Friday ordered the government not to proceed with naming the new emirs, Mr Ganduje said the appointments had already been concluded before the court order.

With the fiasco shifted to the court, and with the state government proceeding with its probe into the emirates finances, Mr Sanusis travails as Kano emir is expected to continue.
Frank Kokori is no longer the nominee to head the board of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF), the presidency has said.

In a statement on Sunday, President Muhammadu Buharis spokesperson, Femi Adesina, said the position of the labour minister, Chris Ngige, that a new person had been appointed to chair the NSITF board, had the backing of Mr Buhari.

Mr Ngige has been involved in a kerfuffle with the Nigeria Labour Congress over the board of the agency.

PREMIUM TIMES reported how Mr Ngige, for about two years, refused to inaugurate the board of the NSITF, which had been announced by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo in 2017.

Mr Osinbajo, then in his position as acting president, had named Mr Kokori the chairman-designate of the board.

The NLC insisted that Mr Kokori must be sworn in as chairman of the board of the NSITF.

The crisis between Mr Ngige and the NLC got worse last week during a protest by the labour union in front of the residence of the minister.

Thugs loyal to the minister attacked the labour leaders and journalists with stones and bottles. The thugs also seized the phones and money belonging to a PREMIUM TIMES journalist who was covering the violence.

In his statement on Sunday, Mr Adesina said the presidency has noted with deep concern and regrets, the events that culminated in a skirmish at the private residence of the Hon. Minister of Labour and Employment, and condemns it, in its entirety.

Minister of Labour and Productivity, Chris Ngige

Mr Adesina also confirmed Mr Ngiges earlier statement that Mr Kokori has been nominated for a separate position.

Read Mr Adesinas full statement below.

NSITF CHAIRMANSHIP: FACTS OF THE MATTER, BY PRESIDENCY

Following the disagreement between the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment and the leadership of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) over the appointment of the Chairman of the board of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF), the Presidency wishes to clarify as follows:

A. That the NSITF is a hundred percent, Federal Government of Nigeria owned insurance parastatal, under the supervision of the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, designed for the role of insuring workers (employees) in the public and private sectors. The organization is empowered by law to implement the Employee Compensation Act (ECA) 2010 with mandate to insure workers and pay them compensation for accidents, deaths and injuries in the course of work.

B. The NSITF was bedevilled and riddled with corruption between 2012  2015, which resulted in a colossal loss and mismanagement of about N48 billion out of the total N62 billion contributions during the said period. These were contributions by the Employers  viz government and the private sector for payment of compensation to workers and even to Employers for loss of man-hours by their workers. This fraud has been investigated by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the last Chairman and some members of the former board and some officials of the NSITF are presently being prosecuted by the EFCC.

C. All actions taken by the Honourable Minister of Labour and Employment towards the resuscitation and repositioning of this ailing agency, including the Administrative Panel of Inquiry into the affairs of NSITF and the suspension of the inauguration of the board in 2018 were part of the special work plan approved for the Honourable Minister by Mr. President.

D. The appointment of the Chairman of this board, which is in consonance with Sec. 4(a) of the NSITF Act CAP N88 of 2004 was also approved by Mr. President since 23rd July, 2018 on the recommendation of the Hon. Minister. Mr. Austin Enejamo-Isire, a Chartered Accountant, Fellow, Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) and renowned Insurance expert, Senior Member, Chartered Institute of Insurance of Nigeria (CIIN), Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) and Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN) was approved by Mr. President for this position. Also approved by Mr President were the Managing Director and three Executive Directors who had assumed duties since 18 April 2017.

Others also approved as Non-Executive Directors are two (2) members to represent the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), two members to represent the Nigerian Employers Consultative Association (NECA) and one (1) member each to represent the Central Bank of Nigeria and the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment. Members of this board are to be formally inaugurated at 9 a.m. on Monday, May 13, 2019 by the Hon. Minister of Labour and Employment at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa, Aso Rock, Abuja.

E. Comrade Frank Kokori, our respected veteran labour leader has Mr Presidents immense respect and has also been appointed on the recommendation of the Hon. Minister of Labour and Employment to chair the board of Michael Imoudu National Institute for Labour Studies (MINILS), a diploma awarding labour institution.

Finally, the Presidency has noted with deep concern and regrets, the events that culminated in a skirmish at the private residence of the Hon. Minister of Labour and Employment, and condemns it, in its entirety. However, in the spirit of reconciliation, the Presidency appeals for calm from the NLC and the Ministry of Labour and Employment officials, as there are ongoing efforts to reconcile the NLC leadership with the Ministry of Labour and Employment, led by their Minister who has doggedly been fighting the cause of Nigerian workers whenever their issue is discussed by government, the latest being the enactment of the new National Minimum Wage Act 2019.
President Muhammadu Buharis appointment of an inexperienced 27-year-old into the board of Independent Corrupt Practices and other Related Offence Commission (ICPC), one of the countrys topmost anti-graft agencies, has stirred up a debate among Nigerians about her eligibility to occupy the position.

Many Nigerians on social media have either expressed support or disagreement with the appointment of Hannatu Mohammed, a graduate of Pharmacy from the Ahmadu Bello University (ABU).

According to a resume of Ms Mohammed, posted on the ICPC website, she was born on March 20, 1992. She completed secondary school in 2008. She was admitted to study Pharmacy at ABU in 2009 and graduated with a Bachelor of Pharmacy degree in 2014.

While she was a student of the university, she did her industrial attachment at H-Medix Pharmacy and Stores in 2012.

After graduating, she worked at the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) from 2014 to 2015 before doing her mandatory national youth service at a clinic of the Independent National Electoral Commission.

Between 2017 and 2018, she worked at Green Forest Pharmacy while volunteering at a not-for-profit, Orphans and Women Support Foundation (OWSF).

Ms Mohammed is currently enrolled in a Master of Business Administration (MBA) programme at ABU.

Section (f) of the ICPC act allows for the appointment of a youth who is not younger than 21 and not older than 30 into the board of the commission. The act was silent on the experience required for anybody within the age bracket to be appointed into the board.

Many of those opposed to Ms Mohammeds appointment pointed at her inexperience, saying a more experienced youth within the stipulated age should have been considered.

She wasnt employed into ICPC with that CV. She was made a board member. There are so many people with Ph.Ds in the required fields & other qualifications, with many years of work experience, that it is hard not to see challenges with this appointment.  Igala Alan Shore (@I_Am_Ilemona) May 12, 2019

The only way I see this working is if she is to dispense drugs to other board members. Else what record does she have in anti corruption? Or even criminal law or organizational corruption? Good a young person was appointed but to what end? Sometimes we need to read btw d lines.  akpa idoko (@akpaidoko) May 12, 2019

Another nepotic and incompetence appointment, this is the reason why this country will never move forward. What experience is she bringing to ICPC? INTERGRITY my foot.  AnyaEjiAfuzo GCFR (@Dozie70) May 12, 2019

Very cheeky situation. What experience, capacity, does she bring to the position? Such rogue appointments are regressive and only bring shame to the nation. #shalomnigeria  Rosemary Oneke Takor (@takorrosemary) May 11, 2019

Buhari can govern from London for the rest of his 2nd term.. After all the law doesn't say he must be in Nigeria. That's the logic being used to defend the ICPC appointment.  Gege (@nigeriasbest) May 12, 2019

Others however pointed at the ICPC act while arguing that there was nothing wrong with the appointment.

Anybody above the age of 21 and below the age of 30 can be an ICPC Board Member. Even a Youth Corper, a completely illiterate apprentice mechanic or a Househelp. They are on the board to represent the youth. Thats what the lCPC Act says. https://t.co/D2XRVRG4cQ  Dr. Joe Abah (@DrJoeAbah) May 12, 2019

Have you ever thought about whether the Act did not necessarily want people with smashing CVs and antecedents? Have you ever thought it may have intended for shoe-shiners and barrow-pushers be Board Members if ICPC to keep other Board members real? I sense prejudice here.  Dr. Joe Abah (@DrJoeAbah) May 12, 2019

Buhari was insulted and castigated for not appointing young people in his admin. He listened and appointed this young lady. Sadly, the same young people are now faulting and criticizing her appointment despite the clarity of ICPC act on appointing a young person in the board https://t.co/lrk0fWhLKG  Musa Ahmed (@Kempez2017) May 12, 2019

The result of a Twitter poll composed by a former director general of the Bureau of Public Service Reforms (BPSR), Joe Abah, indicated that most Nigerians would not mind if they were the one appointed into the board of the commission.

If the law says that ANYBODY can be appointed into a position, no qualifications or experience necessary, and it was YOU that was appointed, would you complain that they didnt get someone with 2 PhDs and more experience than you for the sake of the country? Please vote:  Dr. Joe Abah (@DrJoeAbah) May 12, 2019
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) says it is not aware of the report it has marked some properties allegedly belonging to Senate President Bukola Saraki in Lagos.

According to the report by PUNCH on Sunday, the houses are located at 15a, 15b and 17 MacDonald Road, Ikoyi area of the state.

The report said the commission decided to place inscriptions EFCC, Under Investigation in red on the walls and the fences of the houses that they believe Mr Saraki purchased from the Presidential Implementation Committee for the Sale of Government Property through shell companies.

However, the marked houses have been the subject of Mr Sarakis arraignment at the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT), which he won in 2017.

The EFCC spokesperson, Toni Orilade, told PREMIUM TIMES that he was not aware of the marking of the properties belonging to Mr Saraki.

I am not aware of the marking, when I get information in respect thereof, I shall communicate with you immediately, he said.

But Mr Saraki, in a statement by his media aide, Yusuph Olaniyonu, on Sunday, said the agency was only investigating what it had once probed.

Mr Saraki tagged the agency as being mischievous.

Our attention has been drawn to the fact that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has marked certain property belonging to Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, obviously under the claim that they are subject of investigation.

The action of the EFCC only reinforced our earlier stated position that their current investigation is mischievous, contrary to the tenets of the rule of law and only aimed at settling scores. This position is founded on the fact that these same buildings were the subject of earlier investigations by the EFCC as well as the case initiated by the Federal Government at the Code of Conduct Tribunal. Also, the case went all the way to the highest court in our country, the Supreme Court of Nigeria. In that case, Dr. Saraki was discharged and acquitted because the courts believe the government has no case, the short statement reads.

Recent probe

The recent effort by EFCC to probe Mr Saraki started when the agency wrote a letter to the Kwara State Government demanding a breakdown of Mr Sarakis income, as well as his entitlements as governor of the state.

The anti-graft agency said it is investigating Mr Saraki for an alleged case of conspiracy, abuse of office, misappropriation of public funds, theft, and money-laundering.

Before being elected to the Senate in 2011, Mr Saraki was the governor of Kwara State between 2003 and 2011.

In reaction, Mr Saraki had in a statement on Wednesday described recent moves to probe him as politically-motivated and a witch-hunt.

Mr Saraki said the anti-graft agency was only investigating matters that were already settled.

The EFCC in its reply on Wednesday said the investigation of Mr Saraki is driven by overarching public interest and due process of the law.

The anti-graft agency also urged the former Kwara state governor not to be shaken so long as he has no skeletons in his cupboard.

The commission has a sacred mandate to rid the country of corruption and corrupt elements and restates its unflinching resolve to achieve these, no matter whose ox is gored, the statement partly reads.

Mr Saraki, a leader of the main opposition party, PDP, left office as Kwara governor in 2011.
The Deputy President of the Senate, Ike Ekweremadu, says he will retire from the Senate in 2023.

As such, the lawmaker said that he will no longer seek re-election to the Red Chambers.

Mr Ekweremadu, who represents Enugu West in the National Assembly, announced this on Sunday in Enugu during his 57th birthday celebration.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the senator, who is completing his fourth tenure in the NASS, was re-elected for a fifth term during the just concluded general elections.

The lawmaker said it was time to quit the legislature, adding that his remaining time in the NASS would afford him time to complete ongoing projects in his constituency.

He said that a new breed politician with shared visions would take over from him at the expiration of the fifth term.

Mr Ekweremadu said that his 16 years sojourn in the NASS had been immensely beneficial to his constituents as it had been a harvest of projects.

He thanked President Muhammadu Buhari for his support through the various projects being executed in his constituency.

Mr Ekweremadu, who traced his political evolution from his time as president general of his town union, said that his political career had not always been smooth.

He said that his life had been a product of divine grace having passed through political persecution and vicissitude of life.

I have been scorched and bruised and in all of these, God protected me. This will be my last time as a senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, he said.

Mr Ekweremadu said that he may have offended some people in the course of his political career, adding that such people should forgive him.

Earlier, the Chairman of the occasion, Emmanuel Chukwuma, described the lawmaker as a perfect gentleman.

Mr Chukwuma said that Ekweremadu had provided leadership at all levels of his political life.

NAN further reports that the occasion also marked the 25th wedding anniversary of the lawmaker with his wife, Nwanneka Ekweremadu.

(NAN)
As Nigerians continue to grapple with multi-faceted security crises in different parts of the country, the Buhari administration has released some measures being taken by the police and security forces to address the challenges.

Violent crimes, especially armed robbery, banditry and kidnapping, have taken a heavy toll on the country in recent weeks. Both the affluent and average citizens have been wantonly abducted for ransom in several states. Armed bandits have also held several states in the northwest to a standstill, and armed robbery remains prevalent.

President Muhammadu Buhari has been criticised for not handling the crises with the seriousness they deserve. The president said the challenges were numerous and difficult to combat and blamed some community leaders for being complicit in the chaos.

He, however, promised to do his best to impose resolve the challenges.

In a statement on Sunday, presidential spokesperson Femi Adesina listed efforts currently underway to address the crises.

Read Mr Adesinas full statement below.

These are no doubt times of great security challenges for our country, and the President Muhammadu Buhari-led government is not leaving any stone unturned to restore sanity and calm.

For the records, below are some of the security initiatives taken between January and now, for the safety and security of Nigerians:

 Operation Puff Adder (Nigerian Police), Operation HARBIN KUNAMA 3 (Nigerian Army) and Exercise Egwu Eke 3 (Nigerian Army) have all been launched in 2019, to complement the existing Operations Sharan Daji (launched in 2016 by the Nigerian Army) and Diran Mikiya (launched 2018 by the Nigerian Air Force). All of these operations are focused on tackling banditry and criminality in the North West of Nigeria.

 Operation HARBIN KUNAMA 3 was launched on 1 April 2019 to ensure the complete defeat of the bandits fleeing military operations in Zamfara and escaping into Kaduna, Katsina, Kano, Niger and Sokoto States.

 Hundreds of kidnappers and bandits have been arrested or killed since January, several camps/hideouts destroyed; and hundreds of hostages rescued. In a two-week operation in February (lasting from Feb 4 to Feb 14), 80 hostages were freed by the Nigerian Army, with 37 bandits killed.

 Aerial bombardments of bandits camps have been intensified in recent months. A new Air Force Base  the 271 Nigerian Air Force Detachment (271 NAF Det)  was commissioned at Birinin Gwari in Kaduna State in May 2019, to complement the 207 Quick Response Group (QRG) established in Gusau, Zamfara State, in 2017.

NIGERIAN POLICE:

Between January 2019 and the 1st week of May, 2019, a total of 270 suspected kidnappers, 275 suspected armed robbers, were arrested and 105 assorted weapons plus a large cache of ammunition recovered by the Nigerian Police within the states of the North West and North Central Nigeria.

 April 5- The Nigerian Police launched Operation Puff Adder, a multi-agency strategy, in collaboration with the Nigerian Armed Forces and the Department of State Services (DSS), tailored towards ridding the Kaduna  Abuja Expressway, Kogi, Katsina, Niger and Zamfara states of all forms of crimes and criminality- kidnapping, armed robbery, cattle rustling, amongst others.

 April 9- Police operatives attached to Operation Puff Adder arrested three notorious criminals involved in the kidnap of Channels Televisions staff, Mr. Friday Okeregbe- Hanniel Patrick, Abdulwahab Isah and Salisu Mohammed.

 April 10- Officers of the Operation Puff Adder killed nine notorious criminals on the Abuja-Kaduna Expressway. 6 Ak47 Rifles, 1 Pump Action Gun, 1,206 Rounds of Ak47 Ammunition, 7 Magazines, 28 Cartridges And 158 Expended Shells were recovered from the criminals.

 April 16- Operatives attached to Operation Puff Adderarrested one Mallam Salisu Abubakar, 48yrs old, a native of Dutsinma LGA, Katsina State. The Mallam, is a self-confessed spiritual father of kidnappers terrorizing Abuja-Kaduna expressway and parts of other North-West/North-Central states.

 Following the arrest of the kidnappers spiritual father, Police detectives attached to Operation Puff Adder, arrested 18 notorious kidnappers and armed robbers at different times and places across the country. A total of twenty- two (22) AK 47 rifles, five (5) locally fabricated pistols and a cache of live ammunition were recovered from the bandits.

 May 5- Operatives from Operation Puff Adderrescued unhurt 27 kidnap victims including 5 Chinese nationals. The Chinese citizens who were earlier kidnapped on 15th April, 2019 in Bobi, Niger State, were safely and successfully rescued from a forest in Birnin Gwari, Kaduna State, following painstaking investigative efforts, including both air and ground surveillance. Two of the kidnappers died from injuries sustained during exchange of gun fire with the Police in the course of the rescue mission. Twenty-two other kidnap victims were rescued in Zamfara State and other parts of the country.

NIGERIAN ARMY:

 8 January  The Army flagged off Exercise EGWU EKE III in 8 Division Nigerian Armys area of responsibility at 1 Battalion, Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State.

 2 February- Troops of 8 Division of the Nigerian Army on Exercise EGWU EKE III, in conjunction with other security agencies recovered dangerous weapons from criminals and political thugs in Sokoto State. This has really contributed immensely to a peaceful security situation in the state.

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 15 March- Troops of 72 Special Forces Makurdi, deployed at Yelwata, in Guma LGA, which is a border town between Benue and Nasarawa states, while on patrol along Yelwata-Kadarko road engaged armed robbers in a gun battle, which resulted in the elimination of one of the armed robbers, while others took to their heels. The suspects were dressed in military desert camouflage and robbing motorists along the road.

 13 April- Troops conducting Operation Sharan Daji in Zamfara State killed 23 bandits and arrested 18 suspected informants, cattle rustlers, kidnappers and logistics suppliers to armed criminals in the state.

 20 April- Troops on Operation HABIN KUNAMA III, based on credible intelligence about bandits movements in Kirsa and Sunke in Anka LGA, Zamfara State, continued with the clearance operation into the hinterland to clear the brigands, arresting 18 informants and recovering arms and motorcycles.

 22 April- Troops of 72 Special Forces (SF) Battalion Makurdi deployed for internal security operation in Katsina-Ala LGA, Benue State, averted a terrible clash between two Tiv clans-Shitile and Ikyora in the early hours of that day. They exterminated 5 mercenaries, recovered arms and ammunition.

 May 8- A patrol team of 1 Division of the Nigerian Army raided a bandits den at Gonan Bature East of Rijana and Kasarami farm house in Chikun LGA, Kaduna State. The abandoned Kasarami farm house was reportedly forcefully occupied by criminals and had been used as a shelter and a place where victims of kidnapping were kept.

 May 8- Troops on Exercise HARBIN KUNAMA III arrested a notorious logistics supplier for bandits crouching between Jibia-Batsari axis -one Marwana Abubakar was arrested at Kwashabawa village in Jibia LGA, Katsina State.

 May 8- Troops of 311 Artillery Regiment successfully conducted a raid operation on a suspected facility in Kontagora township, Niger State. During the raid, some weapons were discovered and recovered.

NIGERIAN AIR FORCE:

 19 January- The Nigerian Air Force deployed a fighter aircraft, along with support equipment, and a detachment of Special Forces (SF) personnel to Sokoto to further boost anti-banditry operations in Northwest Nigeria under Operation DIRAN MIKIYA. The deployment is aimed at adding value to the efforts to deal with the spate of insecurity in some parts of Sokoto State and the border areas between Zamfara and Sokoto States.

 7 February- The Air Task Force (ATF) of Operation DIRAN MIKIYA intensified the bombardment of armed bandits hideouts in Zamfara State and environs, after several camps being used by the bandits to launch attacks against innocent civilians were identified.

 21 February- The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) provided a mobile Jet A-1 fuelling facility to enable the refuelling of NAF Helicopters that would operate out of the 23 Quick Response Wing (23 QRW) Nguroje. This will further enhance security on the Mambilla Plateau.

 12 March- In continuation of efforts to enhance security in Kaduna State and its environs, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), working with other security agencies, intensified aerial surveillance over identified hotspots and flashpoints in the state while sustaining its air patrol along the Abuja-Kaduna Highway. Some of the areas covered in the surveillance missions include Gonin Gora, Kajuru, Kujama, Kasuwar Maganin and surrounding settlements.

 31 March- A Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Special Forces (SF) Team operating in Zamfara State successfully repelled attacks by armed bandits who attempted to invade Hayin Mahe and Hayin Kanawa Villages in Gusau Local Government Area.

 8 April- The Air Task Force (ATF) for Operation DIRAN MIKIYA renewed air offensive against armed bandits in Zamfara State and its environs. The air strikes are aimed at flushing out the bandits from their hideouts in Sububu, Rugu and Kagara Forests, amongst others, whilst ensuring the protection of the lives and properties of citizens in Northwest Nigeria.

 9 April- The Air Task Force (ATF), Operation DIRAN MIKIYA neutralized dozens of armed bandits in Sector 2 Area of Operation in Zamfara State and also supported surface forces to move into the attacked areas to mop-up the fleeing survivors and recover their weapons. Some of the bandits fled across the border into Niger Republic.

 13 April- The Air Task Force (ATF) for Operation DIRAN MIKIYA destroyed some logistics stores belonging to bandits at a location within Kagara Forest, Zamfara State. Some of the armed bandits who had fled their camps as a result of NAFs earlier air strikes had relocated some logistics items, including fuel, motorcycles and local arms-making equipment, to another location within Kagara Forest.

 16 April- In response to reports that high profile armed bandits were gathering around Rafi and Doka villages of Mada District in Gusau Local Government Area (LGA) of Zamfara State, which is under the Area of Responsibility (AOR) of the 207 Quick Response Group (207 QRG), a Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Special Forces (SF) Team was dispatched to the area to secure the 2 settlements.

 22 April- The Air Task Force (ATF) for Operation DIRAN MIKIYA neutralized about 10 armed bandits at Sububu Forest area in Zamfara State. This was achieved while the ATF was responding to a request for close air support by ground troops of Sector 7 Area of Responsibility of Operation SHARAN DAJI, who had come into contact with armed bandits in Shinkafi Local Government Area (LGA).

 4 May- NAF commissioned the 271 Nigerian Air Force Detachment (271 NAF Det) at Birinin Gwari in Kaduna State. The Detachment was established to serve as support Base and a blocking force for troops in Operations DIRAN MIKIYA and SHARAN DAJI.

It is the constitutional duty and responsibility of government to safeguard lives and properties. The Buhari administration remains committed to this, and despite recent spikes in the spate of crime and criminality, the evildoers will be beaten, and badly, too. The ravening clouds can never be victorious. Soon, they shall no longer possess the sky.
A Nigerian Navy personnel has been found dead while undergoing training for a study tour at the Armed Forces Command and Staff College, Jaji.

It was not immediately clear when the naval officer, a lieutenant commander, passed on, but his body was discovered on Sunday morning, according to military sources. PREMIUM TIMES has withheld the officers identity to allow the military the needed time to formally notify his loved ones.

Military sources said the officer was amongst those undergoing training at the top military facility in Kaduna State ahead of a study tour of Africa. He was scheduled to depart Nigeria on Sunday morning alongside other colleagues approved for the tour.

His absence was, however, immediately noticed, prompting his colleagues to look around for him. His body was found in his room at September 26 Block, PREMIUM TIMES learnt.

The room was padlocked from the outside, but his remains were found soaked in blood with a stone by the side. This has prompted his colleagues to suspect homicide.

Military sources also said his remains had started decomposing as of Sunday morning, fuelling suspicion that he might have been killed since Friday. An inquiry has been launched, PREMIUM TIMES learnt.

When contacted, the Navy spokesperson, Suleiman Dahun, said he is not aware of the development.

In the meantime, the remaining contingent would proceed on the Africa study tour, sources said.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has withdrawn a certificate of return issued to Peter Nwaoboshi.

The electoral umpire gave the document to Ned Nwoko following a court ruling that recognised Mr Nwoko as the genuine candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party in Delta North Senatorial District elections held on February 23.

Mr Nwoko received the certificate on Friday and PREMIUM TIMES saw an electronic copy on Sunday evening. INECs action came a month after the Federal High Court ruled that Mr Nwoko was cheated during the PDP primaries for the senatorial district.

Ahmed Muhammed, the presiding judge, held that Mr Nwoko scored 453 votes to beat Mr Nwaoboshi, who came second with 405 votes.

Mr Nwaoboshi, who was first elected to the Senate in 2015, immediately appealed the ruling. The electoral commission, however, decided to comply with the subsisting judgement of the Federal High Court and returned Mr Nwoko elected.

Ned Nwoko

Mr Nwoko, 59, was a member of the House of Representatives between 1999 and 2003. He recently took Nigerias social media by storm when he announced his marriage to Nollywood actress, Regina Daniels.
If Ekele Franklin, the 15-year-old boy who emerged the overall best candidate in the 2019 Unified Tertiary Matriculations Examination (UTME), is denied admission into his university of choice  University of Lagos  because of age, he could very well walk into another school to start his studies.

That is because a private school, Gregory University, Uturu, in Abia State, has offered the Nigerian teenager a straight admission.

Franklin scored 347 in the UTME.

Ishaq Oloyede, the registrar of the Joint Admission and Matriculation Board (JAMB), who mentioned Franklins score while announcing the release of this years UTME results, said the teenager, who is from Imo State, may not be offered admission because of age.

The Chancellor of Gregory University, Gregory Ibe, has directed the university to offer immediate admission, as well as tuition-free scholarship to Franklin, the university spokesperson, Ogbonnaya Ogwo, said in a statement made available to PREMIUM TIMES, Sunday afternoon.

Gregory University has also offered admission and scholarship to Emmanuel Chidebube, a 16-year-old boy from Abia, who came second with a score of 346 in the UTME.

Mr Ibe, a professor, appealed for the removal of age-limitation in the admission process in the Nigerian university system, the statement said.

Such limitation, the chancellor said, is a stumbling block placed on the way of specially gifted children in the country.

The courses the two teenagers want to study at the university are unknown for now.

But Mr Ibe urged the parents of the two teenagers to go ahead and commence their registration in any programme of their choice in the university.

Gregory University, named after a Catholic Pope, was founded in 2012.

The university, according to information on its website, has eight colleges, which includes medicine and health sciences, engineering, environmental sciences, agriculture, natural and applied sciences, and a college of social and management sciences.

Others are law and humanities.

Gregory University, on its website, says its vision is to be a world-renowned university noted for the high quality of its academic and research programme as well as its professionals, practical and entrepreneurial capacity development.

The universitys chancellor, Mr Ibe, said on the website that the school has modern state-of-the-art studios, well-equipped laboratories, stacked libraries, and uses sophisticated teaching aids and ICT solutions to empower scholars with the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities that make them stand out in the global world.
The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has sent an open letter to the Kano State Governor, Abdullahi Ganduje, urging him to use his good offices and position to: publicly reject life pensions and brand-new vehicles for lawmakers bill passed by the Kano State House of Assembly, and to prevail on the members of the House to immediately drop the bill, and to honour their fiduciary duties imposed by the Constitution of Nigeria 1999 (as amended) and Nigerias international anti-corruption obligations.

The organisation urged Mr Ganduje to: prevail on the lawmakers to subordinate their own interests to the public good, live on fair and equal terms with their fellow-citizens, and not to use their legislative powers to convert public resources to their own benefit. Should you assent to the bill as passed, SERAP will take legal action nationally and internationally to hold your government to account and ensure that you uphold the solemn trust committed to you by the people of Kano.

In the letter dated May 10, 2019, and signed by SERAP deputy director Kolawole Oluwadare, the organisation said: This bill represents law-making in the interest and personal satisfaction of the lawmakers, which flagrantly offends the principles of legal justice and the rule of law. The lawmakers ought to subordinate their own interests to the welfare of the people of Kano. By passing the life pensions and medical trips abroad bill, the lawmakers have invariably bought at their own sales, and violated their sacred trust.

The organisation also said: This bare desire by the lawmakers of the Kano State House of Assembly to pass a bill to award to themselves life pensions, foreign medical trips and brand-new vehicles every four years is oppressive, and violates the obligation of impartiality to the people of Kano they are elected to serve and the ideals of fiduciary government. The bill, proposed by Baffa Baba Dangundi, is a textbook case of diversion of public resources to private purposes.

The letter read in part: Rather than passing bills to divert public resources for personal benefits, the lawmakers should pass legislation that will urgently address the chronic problem of over 3 million out-of-school children in Kano (the highest in Nigeria) and ensure immediate payment of outstanding pensions and workers salaries, given that your government has already received N21.7 billion from the Paris Club debt refund, and also reportedly received in 2018 N84.2billion from the Federation Accounts Allocation Committee (FAAC).

Government is a trust for the benefit of the governed, and members of the Kano State House of Assembly ought to be guardians of justice, general good and public interests. There is indeed a duty on the lawmakers to subordinate their own interests to those they are supposed to serve. But rather than acting as the servants of the people, the lawmakers have acted in a self-serving way and pushing to enrich themselves at the expense of the people of Kano.

All public officials including lawmakers must act consistently with the purposes of the governmental trust: the good of the people and the security of their persons, liberty, and property. The purpose of any governmentwhether federal or stateis to promote the interest of the entire society, in this case, the people of Kano, and not the interests and welfare of a few in the House of Assembly. The lawmakers should pursue the happiness and prosperity of the Kano people with fidelity.

If assented to, the bill would lead to a misuse of trust property and threaten to affect the welfare of the people of Kano by diverting public funds from development and provision of access to quality education, clean water and healthcare to the personal benefits of members of the House of Assembly.

Assenting to the bill would also have serious consequences for the people of Kano and would breach your fiduciary duties including your duty to take reasonable care in the management of public funds and the duty to account. This means that you should strive to work in accordance with the purposes of your offices, and to manage public funds competently and for the public good.

SERAP, therefore, urges you to be loyal to the public interest by rejecting the bill and prevailing on the members of Kano State House of Assembly to immediately drop the bill. By doing this, you will follow in the footsteps of your Bayelsa State counterpart, Seriake Dickson, who recently turned down a bill seeking life pension for the states serving and former lawmakers.

Rejecting the bill would also mean you will uphold the solemn trust committed to you by the people of Kano, and the fiduciary duties imposed on your government by the Nigerian Constitution and Nigerias international obligations and commitments.

SERAP notes that the proposed bill gives the presiding officers the privilege to earn life benefits following the expiration of their tenure. In addition, the officers would enjoy medical trips once in 12 months and choice vehicles every four years.

According to the bill, There shall be paid pension to person(s) who held office as speaker and deputy speaker equal to the emoluments of a serving speaker and deputy speaker. The speaker and deputy speaker shall, on completion of their terms, be entitled to a grant of pension for life by the state.

The bill also provides that there shall be provided for the speaker and the deputy speaker a brand-new vehicle to be bought by the state government every four years. There shall be provided for the speaker and the deputy speaker medical expenses either home or abroad depending on the nature of the illness.
A group of African American scholars has written to President Patrice Talon of Benin, demanding a rerun of the countrys controversial parliamentary elections.

The academics, numbering 50, said Mr Talon suppressed oppositions participation in the election by colluding with the electoral commission to disqualify his most potent challengers, leaving only two political parties that support his ambition.

Henry Gates Jr., Wole Soyinka, Jacob Olupona, Ropo Sekoni, Catherine Coquery and Francis Affergan were amongst the 50 African scholars of worldwide repute who penned the strongly-worded letter to Mr Talon last week.

They praised Benin as a country of rich African culture and civilisation that has allowed opposition to flourish over the past 30 years of uninterrupted constitutional democracy.

Today, however, this democratic model is in great danger, the academics said against the backdrop of April 28 parliamentary poll. They described the election as particularly turbulent and marked, in some places, by deadly violence.

The election was widely boycotted by voters because Mr Talons control of the two parties on the ballot effectively meant they had no opposition figures to elect.

About 27 per cent of the five million registered voters took part in the parliamentary poll to fill 83 seats, according to official data. Some independent estimates put the turnout at barely 10 per cent. Even supporters of the president also reportedly boycotted the exercise.

An amendment to the electoral code in September 2018 required a political party to deposit about $424,000 to express interest in taking part in parliamentary elections.

The Constitutional Court also belatedly imposed a letter of conformity from political parties, which further complicated chances of the opposition.

Mr Talon was elected in 2016, even though his predecessor, Boni Yayi, supported a different candidate. He touted himself as a friend of farmers and promised a stronger economy and democracy.

Barely three years into his reign, however, complaints are mounting that Mr Talon, 61, was cracking down on civil space in a country once seen as a model for democracy on the continent.

While the international community weighed how to respond to the looming political crisis in Benin, African academics said they can not remain helpless in the face of the deterioration.

They urged Mr Talon to reverse the draconian constitutional amendment that rendered opposition participation in elections more stringent  and to desist from further acts that could erode the countrys democratic gains.

We respectfully appeal to the democratically elected President, Patrice Talon, to courageously invalidate the results of these highly contested elections, the academics said. We ask President Talon to call new elections on a new basis that guarantees, instead of excluding it before hand, the effective participation of the opposition in an open and transparent national competition.
Troops have killed four Boko Haram jihadists in a clearance operation, tagged Operation Hard Strike at villages in Borno State, the military authorities announced on Sunday.

The army spokesman, Sagir Musa, made the announcement in a statement sent to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja.

Mr Musa said that troops had cleared Surdewalla, Ranwa, Baladayo, Sabon Gari and Shetimeri villages, where the jihadists previously operated in.

He said that during the operation, a makeshift shelter, erected by the jihadists was destroyed by troops and that soldiers deployed at the Forward Operation Base in Gajigana, ambushed terrorists attempting to infiltrate the town.

Unconfirmed number of terrorists were exterminated and two soldiers were wounded during the encounter. The soldiers are stable and currently receiving treatment in a military hospital, he said.

Musa said that the armys 177 Task Force Battalion in collaboration with Civilian JTF also cleared Mboa, Mboa-Kura, Yarchida, Bombula, Tshata and Bamzir villages.

He said that one AK 47 rifle, three magazines, 50 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition and one magazine bandolier were recovered from the terrorists.

There was no casualty on the troops or the Civilian JTF, Mr Musa stated.

He thanked people who provided information that led to recent successes of the troops, pleading with the public to continue to report terrorists in their localities to army locations or other security agencies.

Boko Haram fighters have waged a decade long war on Nigeria in a bid to carve out some areas of the country to enforce strict Islamic code.

The war has claimed at least 28,000 people with millions forced to flee. (NAN)
A tense atmosphere on Sunday enveloped the northern Nigerian city of Kano, as supporters of Emir Lamido Sanusi trooped to the airport to welcome their beleaguered traditional ruler.

Hundreds of Kano residents matched towards the airport on Sunday afternoon in a solidarity demonstration for Mr Sanusi, whose emirate was divided into five by the state government during the week.

Rumours have also spread that supporters of Mr Sanusi were bracing for a clash with pro-government sympathisers in downtown Kano. The police have also been accused of attempting to prevent a large crowd from receiving the former governor of Central Bank.

The police commissioner, Mohammed Wakili, told PREMIUM TIMES he did not order a restriction on protesters, so long as they conduct their activities peacefully.

Governor Abdullahi Ganduje on Wednesday signed an amendment to the states traditional ruler and chieftaincy laws. The amendment established an additional four emirates to the ancient Kano Emirate.

The law has been widely deemed controversial, amidst insinuations Mr Ganduje initiated it to settle scores with Mr Sanusi in an alleged feud between both of them.

The governor denied all allegations of vindictiveness, saying he took the steps to streamline traditional roles and make them more efficient.

On Friday, the Kano State High Court granted a temporary order for the suspension of the law, following complaints from Peoples Democratic Party lawmakers that the House of Assembly shunned extant parliamentary procedures to ram the bill through.

Mr Ganduje dismissed the court order as belated, saying he had already announced emirs for the newly-created units before learning of the pronouncement shortly after PREMIUM TIMES broke the news Friday.

Mr Sanusi left for England days before his domain was broken up, and did not witness the drama that preceded or followed it. He returned on Saturday night, but flew into Abuja and not directly to Kano.

He is, however, expected to arrive Kano by 4:15 p.m., according to palace sources. His return has been widely anticipated amongst Kano residents, especially those in disagreement with the state governments move.

Hundreds of people are trooping to the airport now, Sani Sadiq, a top Kano politician with close ties to the palace, told PREMIUM TIMES on Sunday. We are expecting our emir to arrive and we are very happy about it.

Mr Sadiq said there would be a jubilation procession from the airport to the palace once the emir touched town.

It was not immediately clear how Mr Sanusi would respond to what transpired while he was away. He has been largely mum about the issue. Reports that the court order was obtained by his proxies were stridently denied to PREMIUM TIMES by the Kano PDP lawmakers.

We are only against the illegal acts that were perpetrated in pushing the law, Minority Leader Rabiu Gwarzo told PREMIUM TIMES on Sunday, emphasising a position he had previously enunciated to this newspaper on Friday.
A group claiming to be speaking for the people of Wudil has rejected the inclusion of their community in the newly created Gaya Emirate. The group pledged the allegiance of the people to the Kano Emirate under Emir Muhammad Sanusi ll.

The state government broke the Kano Emirate into five last week when Governor Abdullahi Ganduje signed into law an amendment to the states law on chieftaincy affairs as passed by the State House of Assembly.

But addressing journalists on Saturday after the Wudil Joint Stakeholders Meeting, the Chairman of the group, Yawale Idris, said Wudil town has a different historical background from Gaya, hence they cannot be under the new emirate.

We didnt solicit for it in the first place and when the government decided to create the new emirates, the people of Wudil were not consulted. Therefore, we are sure that the new law, if allowed to persist, will no doubt erase our long-preserved historical background and the people of Wudil will not allow that to happen.

We believe the traditional institution has a long history and that is what gives us our identity. We are the Jobawa and we want Governor Ganduje to know that.

This is also to state here that all stakeholders in Wudil pledge their loyalty to Kano and not Gaya emirate, he said.

According to him During the Jihad of Shehu Usman Danfodio, five Fulani clans from Kano were presented with Jihad flags, which are Sullubawa (Emir Sanusis clan), Jobawa (rulers of Wudil), Yolawa (rulers of Dawakin Tofa), Danbazawa (rulers of Dambatta) and Gyanawa (rulers of Gabasawa).

So for Gods sake, why would the government demean us and merge us with Gaya? Honestly, we will not accept this, Mr Idris said.

The secretary of the group, Sani Wudil, said the people of Wudil were not consulted before taking the creation of the new emirate.

He lamented that Neither Kano State Government nor state Assembly consulted Wudil community before taking the disastrous decision.

The forum promised to communicate the position of the people to the state government. It vowed to pursue the issue through all legal means to ensure that the interest of the Wudil community prevails.

The group urged the community to remain calm and not to take laws into their hands.

PREMIUM TIMES reported that the bill for the creation of four new emirates in Kano was signed into law by Governor Ganduje on Wednesday. They are Rano, Gaya, Bichi and Karaye.
The Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Usani Usani, has inaugurated the completed 6.55 kilometres Atimbo  Akpabuyo road constructed by his ministry.

Speaking during the inauguration in Calabar, Mr Usani said the Atimbo  Akpabuyo road links Calabar to Bakassi Local Government Area through Akpabuyo Local Government Area and was constructed by two contractors simultaneously for quick completion.

He said the rehabilitation of the road was imperative in order to ease the suffering of the people who constantly use it.

According to him, the plan of the present administration was that every local government in the nine Niger Delta states have at least one project.

He charged residents of Atimbo community in Calabar Municipality Local Government Area to prevail on the concerned authorities to contribute their quota to development.

According to him, if every segment of government contributes its quota, the nation would achieve more in terms of development.

As the federal government goes on to intervene in different areas, I wish we all understand that there is a limit to which it can intervene in all sectors of our public lives.

Constitutionally, there are provisions for exclusive list items and concurrent list items which means every tier of government-federal, state and local, has its own responsibility.

As you urge us to do more, l also urge you to urge the state, LGAs and private sector to carry out their own commitments because we are all supposed to be partners in progress, he said.

Similarly, the Paramount Ruler of Calabar Municipal, Patrick Inok, lauded the efforts of the minister for the rehabilitation of the road.

Mr Inok said the road would enable farmers to bring out their produce to the market, adding that this would translate to economic benefit for the people of the state.

He, however, appealed to the minister to look into the rehabilitation of roads in the hinterlands of the state as this would make it easier for movement of persons and goods.

While extending his appreciation to President Muhammadu Buhari, the paramount ruler appealed to the minister to do more in terms of infrastructural development in the state.

In his remarks, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Niger Delta affairs, Aminu Bisalla, noted that the ministry enjoyed the cooperation of the youths and people of Atimbo Community while the project was on.

The permanent secretary, who was represented by Mrs Lauren Braide, said the project was a testament of the Federal Governments commitment to developing the Niger Delta.

He advised the community to support the maintenance of the road for the benefit of the people and the state at large. (NAN)
The Police Command in Anambra said it has arrested 95 suspected cultists and three suspected members of an armed robbery syndicate in the state.

The commands Police Public Relations Officer, Haruna Mohammed, a superintendent of police, disclosed this in a statement in Awka on Sunday. He said that the suspects were nabbed between May 4 and Saturday.

Mr Mohammed said the arrests were the result of intensive raids on criminal hideouts in various communities carried out by the commands Special Anti-Cult Unit (SPACS) to stem the tide of cultism in the state.

He said that 32 of the suspects were released after screening, while 28 were charged to court and 10 placed under police supervision for being under-age.

The spokesman added that 25 suspects were under investigation and that the suspected cultists were arrested at Okija, Ekwulobia, Nteje, Awkuzu, Nkpor-Uno, Ifite-Awka, Oko, Nanka, Enugwu-Ukwu, Nimo and Nise communities.

On May 10, at about 4.30 p.m., police detectives attached to Isiuwulu Division arrested a three-man robbery syndicate  Friday Okpe, 24; Peter Ochai, 21 and Chukwuebuka Okafor, 23.

The suspects had on April 19 conspired and snatched a bag belonging to one Mercy Anekwe, containing the sum of N15, 000 and a Canon Xpro valued at N75, 000.

Also in the bag was a TECNO 66I telephone valued at N7, 800 and a power bank valued at N3, 500, he added.

Mr Mohammed said that the robbery victim was inside a commercial tricycle along Limca Road, Nkpor, near Onitsha, when she was robbed.

He said that Mercys SIM card was later recovered from the suspects, adding that efforts were on to recover other stolen items and prosecute the suspects.

He further said that four persons were arrested for alleged conspiracy, kidnapping, extortion and obtaining under false pretence, the sum of N1.4 million from their victim.

On May 6, Rita Madubuonu, 30, reported at Inland Town Division, Onitsha, that sometime in 2012, her brother, Chinedu Madubuonu, got missing and all efforts made to locate him proved abortive.

However, she was later contacted via phone call in 2013 by one Caroline, surname unknown, that her brother was at Owerri Prison and that his release will be secured only if she made payment into two bank accounts.

Preliminary investigation revealed that the complainant was deceived by the syndicate and used as a conduit to extort money from her under false pretence of securing the release of her missing brother, whose whereabouts is still unknown, he said.

Mr Mohammed listed the names of the four suspects in connection with the alleged crime as Obierika Tochukwu, 40; Godstime Okhae, 26; Chinedu Madufor, 20 and Celestine Chukwuemeka, 35.

He said that the suspects defrauded their victim of N1.4 million, which she deposited into their bank account in various instalments between 2013 and 2016.

The case has been transferred to State Criminal Investigation Department (CID) for discreet investigation, he added.

(NAN)
The police in Ogun State have arrested three suspected members of EIYE confraternity allegedly in possession of a female pant tied with charms.

The spokesperson of the police in the state, Abimbola Oyeyemi, disclosed this to journalists on Sunday in Abeokuta, the state capital.

He said the suspects were arrested on Friday during the initiation of some cultists in Agbowa area of Ogijo in Sagamu Local Government Area of the state.

Mr Oyeyemi said the divisional police officer of Ogijo Division, Muhammed Baba, led a police team to the hideout of the cultists to arrest them.

In continuation of its war against cultism and other violent crime, men of Ogun State police command on Friday 10th of May 2019 stormed an initiation hideout of the dreaded EIYE Confraternity in Agbowa area of Ogijo where three members of the group were arrested.

The DPO Ogijo Division, CSP Muhammed Suleman Baba, while leading his men of OPERATION PUFF ADDER on routine patrol, got information about the hideout of the cult group where they usually initiate new members and the place was subsequently stormed and three members of the group were arrested.

The police spokesperson said the arrested suspects have confessed their membership of EIYE confraternity. He named them as Olagboye Abidemi (32), Olasemojo Michael (28) and Wasiu Waheed (23).

He said the police recovered from the suspects, items, including one jackknife, one blood-stained silver knife, one female pant tied with charms and other assorted charms.

Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police in the state, Bashir Makama, has ordered the transfer of the suspects to the anti-kidnapping/cultists section of the State Criminal Investigation and Intelligence Department for discreet investigation.
The Ekiti State Government has said it is now ready to conduct the registration of herdsmen in its territory to ensure the safety of farmers and their produce, as well as other residents.

The Coordinator of the State Anti Grazing Task Force Marshals, Sola Durodola, who spoke to journalists on Saturday in Ado Ekiti, said the move became necessary to prevent herdsmen-farmers clashes in the state.

Mr Durodola explained that the registration of the herdsmen would assist the government to know their number and be able to trace any act of criminality carried out by any of them in any part of the state.

He further disclosed that herdsmen would be made to fill forms in which they would give information about themselves, after which they would be given codes by the government.

Government will not fail in its duty to ensure the security of lives and property and this is to assist us to differentiate law abiding herdsmen from criminals, Mr Durodola said.

Modality for the registration of herdsmen will soon be out and we want every stakeholder to cooperate with the government to ensure that peace reigns in our state.

No herdsman will be allowed to kill our people, destroy farm produce and attack innocent farmers in pursuit of their trade.

The registration of herdsmen was introduced by the Ayo Fayose administration following repeated clashes between farmers and the herders.

Meanwhile, the task force has arrested one Tunde popularly called, J Spanner for allegedly threatening to kill forestry guards in Ekiti West Local Government Area.

The suspect has since been handed over to the police for further investigations.

Speaking on the development, Mr Durodola disclosed that one single barrel gun with six live cartridges was recovered from the suspect.

He alleged that Mr Tunde had been terrorizing forestry guards working against illegal felling of trees in Ekiti West council area.

He said that the forestry guards had complained to his office that their lives were at risk, which made him lead other marshals to the area where the man was apprehended.

He used the forum to caution those engaging in illegal activities at government forestry reserves across the state to stop such act or face the full wrath of the law.




Duo-pianists Sylvia Hong and Michael Rector / Courtesy of Michael Rector



By Anna J. Park



Pianist duo Sylvia Hong, 37, and Michael Rector, 37, first met at the Oberlin Conservatory in Ohio when they were both freshmen majoring in piano in 2000. Since then, they have been together for almost two decades, continuing their music studies together at Vancouver Academy of Music and the University of Maryland. Later, Hong received a Graduate Performance Diploma from Peabody Conservatory of Music and Rector received a doctoral degree from the Manhattan School of Music.



They married in 2011, and from the following year, they began performing together as a duo. They won the 2nd prize at the Ellis Duo Competition in 2013, one of the major events for two-piano teams, and have toured extensively in the U.S., Korea and Europe.



"There were many things in common between us as we were both piano majors. We also shared our own music world with each other as well as challenges. We got to understand each other better and our hearts opened and we got married. Since we are both pianists as wife and husband, we understand each other better," Hong said during a recent interview with The Korea Times.



Rector also said one of the great advantages of performing as duo-pianists is by practicing together, not only their musicality improves but also their personal relationship as a married couple becomes stronger.



"Even when practicing, we help each other working in perfect harmony. Otherwise, it would take far more effort in performance.  Now that we spend so much time together on our journey, our relationship is even more intimate than ever. Playing music with someone you love and respect is a joy. Not that we agree on everything all the time; that close connection forces me to be a better musician and a better person," Rector said.





Sylvia Hong, left, and Michael Rector practice piano pieces at a practice room in Korea. The photo was taken in 2013, ahead of their performance with the Suwon Philharmonic Orchestra. Courtesy of Michael Rector



The two pianists arrived in Korea last week for their upcoming concert at the Far East Art Hall, Friday. During the concert, the couple will present three piano duet pieces: "Divertissement a la hongroise" which is Shubert's piano work on four hands, as well as Copland's "Suite from Billy the Kid," and Ravel's "La Valse," both repertoires specially made in duo arrangements. Each of them will also play a solo piece; Hong will play Godowsky's "Symphonic Metamorphoses on themes by Johann Strauss," and Rector will play Debussy's Etudes V and XI.



"The Schubert is an original composition for four hands at one piano  Schubert is really the first serious composer for four hands and still the greatest. The other two pieces  Ravel and Copland  are transcriptions of orchestra pieces that the composers created themselves for concert performance. Both work beautifully as piano music," said Hong.



"Mostly we wanted to pick music that we love, and that we felt we had something special to say by playing it. Beyond that, there's a kind of ballet theme in the program. La Valse and Billy the Kid are both transcriptions of ballet scores. Sylvia's solo piece features some well-known waltzes and the Debussy pieces I'm playing have strong choreographic elements in my imagination," Rector said.





Michael Rector, left, and Sylvia Hong laugh during their practice session. Courtesy of Michael Rector



The pianist couple are also educators; both currently teach at the University of Wisconsin in Green Bay. Rector is a music professor there, and Hong is teaching as a lecturer. She is also a special artist professor at Belhaven University. Rector stressed both performing and teaching are equally important and precious to them.



"Teachers should be patient and love their students and always try to understand the students. It is a together project, not just a one-man show. Teaching requires far more responsibility than performing," Rector said.



He added the element of a genuine, special connection that teachers need to build with their students led him to the profession.



"I'm not sure that the best musicians are always the best teachers, but the more experience I have the more convinced I am that the best chamber musicians are in fact the best teachers. That element of communication in music making is really at the center of why I chose this profession. When I am on the stage as a musician, I can just focus on myself. However, when it comes to teaching, it is a different story because we should be connected to each other and it is not just my part," he said.





Sylvia Hong and Michael Rector pose for the photo during their master class in Korea, a few years ago. Courtesy of Michael Rector
Instead, Peruto suggested that Carlin-Krafts invitation to her condo was a ploy to get cocaine for free, and that the budding model was rip-roaring drunk when the fight broke out.

This is not a whodunit, Peruto said. This was a what was done and why.

He said Harris was high on cocaine, marijuana, and K2 during the encounter, and panicked when Carlin-Kraft wouldnt stop screaming for him to leave. Harris repeated blows to her face and the strangulation were to keep her quiet, he added.

After the murder, Harris behavior  changing into Carlin-Krafts clothes and leaving her condo by jumping off a rear balcony  was the mark of a man whose brains are scrambled.

Ringwood told jurors that Harris not only was conscious in his actions, but also that he lied when he said the two shared cocaine inside the apartment. A medical examiner found only alcohol in Carlin-Krafts system at the time of her death.

This man beat, bound, and strangled Christina Kraft in her home, and did so with intent, so that she couldnt come into this courtroom to tell you what he did to her, she said. Everything he did was to silence that truth.
Shuster , Dr. Gilbert, - 84, of Millville, NJ, passed away May 3rd. Dr. Shuster is survived by his sister Arlene, son, Adam, daughter, Marci, four grandchildren, Kenny, Josh, Andie and Beau. Born May 7, 1934 in Philadelphia, Gil proudly served as a Captain in the Air Force and graduated the University of Pennsylvania, School of Dental Medicine. Gil met his beautiful wife of 54 years, Sandy, through a mutual friend, and settled in Millville, where they opened a dental practice and raised their family. His practice was a fixture on 2nd street for five decades, as Gil became one of the more prominent dentists in the region. A lifelong Eagles fan, Gil loved sports, politics, good food, wine, talking about his grandkids and sitting around a table with friends and family. In later years, Gil enjoyed spending time and having a Coors Light with friends at the local Texas Roadhouse. In recent weeks as his health declined, Gil moved to California to be near his daughter's family, where he died surrounded by love, just shy of his 85th birthday. Dr. Shuster will be laid to rest, Friday, May 10, in a private family service in Los Angeles, CA. A family service in Philadelphia will be held at a later date.
As matters currently stand, each resident of New Jersey is on the hook for $18,116 to cover its debt and pension liabilities. For a family of four, make that $72,464.

Thats far and away the largest per person debt and pension liability in the nation. The people of Pennsylvania and New York, for example, are liable for less than $3,000 each, according to Merritt Research Services figures.

New Jerseys debt and obligations for worker pension and health coverage are more than its residents can handle. State government doesnt even pay enough on that debt and those employee benefits promises to keep its $200 billion liability from growing, yet such spending is already crowding out that on crucial public services such as transportation and education.

Now state leaders are negotiating the states next fiscal year budget that begins in July. Gov. Phil Murphy primarily would raise taxes and rely on one-time fixes to put off addressing New Jerseys looming financial crisis. Senate President Steve Sweeney would reduce spending by starting to implement reforms recommended by his bipartisan task force on restoring fiscal responsibility. Residents and businesses should hope Sweeneys leadership prevails.
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.




ASHKELON, Israel, May 12, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- American Jewish Committee (AJC), following a long tradition of offering support for Israel's emergency needs, made a donation today to the Barzilai Medical Center in Ashkelon. AJC CEO David Harris presented a check to Barzilai CEO and Medical Director Dr. Chezy Levy for the purchase of x-ray equipment.

The AJC donation comes in the wake of the relentless assault a week ago by Hamas and Islamic Jihad, which fired 700 rockets from Gaza into southern Israel. Barzilai, located in Ashkelon, is the main hospital in the country's south, servicing Jews and Arabs alike, including, notably, patients from Gaza.

"The Jewish and Arab doctors and medical staff at Barzilai, only eight miles from the Gaza border, are literally on the front lines," said Harris, who has visited the hospital during previous rocket attacks from Gaza. "I've personally witnessed the remarkably caring and compassionate treatment administered to all patients, even combatants from Gaza. It's not something you'd necessarily see everywhere else in the world. You'll see it in Israel."

During the latest attack, the Barzilai Medical Center treated 150 people, three of whom died. A fourth Israeli was killed by a rocket that struck his home. Hospital administrators told AJC that rocket fragments littered the hospital grounds, and one rocket hit the roof of the oncology wing.

In 2014, during the last major confrontation between Hamas and Israel, AJC funds helped Barzilai purchase an anesthesia machine for its emergency room.

In 2012, during a Hamas escalation of firing rockets into Israel, an AJC grant enabled Barzilai to purchase a mobile x-ray apparatus and a plasma sterrad sterilizer.

And a large AJC delegation visited Barzilai Medical Center in 2009, during Operation Cast Lead, when Israel entered Gaza, four years after its total withdrawal from the coastal strip, in an effort to stop Hamas rockets attacks. Following that visit, AJC provided a grant to purchase emergency medical equipment for the hospital's trauma center.

https://www.ajc.org/news/ajc-donation-will-provide-equipment-for-barzilai-medical-center-after-hamas-attacks

SOURCE American Jewish Committee

Related Links

http://www.ajc.org


WASHINGTON, May 12, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- This Friday, President Donald J. Trump will address the National Association of Realtors at the Realtors Legislative Meetings & Trade Expo in Washington, DC.

WHAT: President Trump Speaks to NAR during Realtors Legislative Meetings & Trade Expo



WHEN: Friday, May 17, 2019; 2PM  3:00PM



WHERE: Marriott Wardman Park Hotel, Marriott Ballroom, 2660 Woodley Road, NW, Washington, D.C.



CONTACT: Mantill Williams, [email protected] or 202-383-1128, mobile: 202-329-1857

"The National Association of Realtors is honored to welcome President Donald J. Trump to our annual Legislative Meetings & Trade Expo in Washington," said NAR President John Smaby, a second generation Realtor and broker at Edina, Realty in Edina, Minnesota. "As thousands of Realtors descend on Capitol Hill to highlight our support of the housing industry, private property rights and policies that ensure the American Dream is accessible to everyone in this country, we know there are countless opportunities for collaboration between NAR and the Trump administration. While we hear how we can work together to secure these priorities and promote real estate in America, Realtors also look forward to showing the President 'Who We R' and what we care about as Realtors."

Throughout the week, Realtors will attend educational sessions, participate in forums and discuss key legislative and regulatory issues with Members of Congress, regulatory agency officials and top industry leaders.

To secure press credentials, please contact Mantill Williams, NAR VP of communications at [email protected] or 202-383-1128, mobile: 202-329-1857. For a full conference schedule, visit www.nar.realtor/midyear.nsf.

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


"Howard was built to be a dream factory for a people  a place where you can come and be a pastor, a nurse, a teacher, an engineer, a social worker, a physician, a scientist a lawyer, a place where if you had the grit and the toughness and the intellect then your lesson plan could become a dream plan, and that's what's happening today," Reed told the assembled graduates and their families.

Reed served two terms as the 59th mayor of the city of Atlanta from 2010 to 2018. He earned his Bachelor of Arts and Juris Doctor degrees and an honorary Doctor of Laws from Howard University. He applauded the Class of 2019 for their decision to become a part of Howard's rich legacy of leaders.

"We are the place where if you are an African American lawyer, there is a one-third chance you graduated from Howard. If you are an African American physician, there is a one-fifth chance that you went to Howard. We are a place that has a unique ability to take raw talent, energy, and grit and weave it into a beautiful mosaic. In fact, I am looking at it right now," said Reed.

He encouraged the new graduates to get busy making their dreams a reality without delay.

"Take full advantage of your physical capacity. I know that as you sit there with your future ahead of you, you feel like you have all the time in the world. You don't," Reed stated emphatically. "Excellence, greatness, and passion are where the grind is. Do not squander your physical capacity to work all day and work all night when needed."

Howard University awarded 2,293 degrees, including 309 master's degrees, and 114 Ph.Ds. More than 400 students received professional degrees in law, medicine, pharmacy and dentistry. Howard University has the only dental and pharmacy colleges in the District of Columbia. The 2019 graduates represent 42 states and 43 countries; 194 graduates are from the District of Columbia.

The youngest graduates are 20 years old (receiving bachelor's degrees in political science, finance, and biology). The oldest graduate is 72 year and received a doctor of education degrees. Sixty-seven percent of the total 2019 graduates were women.

This year's Commencement Convocation marks the commemoration of Howard University's 151st graduating class. Howard University President Dr. Wayne A. I. Frederick said the ceremony was made possible because of "countless and fearless leaders" in the past who pursued justice, equality and education.

"Howard University continues to be a national treasure, not only because of our legacy, but also because of what is taking place in our country today right now," Dr. Frederick said. "Our core values of excellence, leadership, truth and service are at the center of Howard's faithfulness to our primary task  to develop scholars and professionals who drive change while engaging in scholarship that provides solutions to contemporary global problems."

President Frederick said this weekend marked 24 years since his own graduation from the Howard University College of Medicine. Howard University is America's No. 1 institution for producing Black applicants to U.S. medical schools.

"Howard University was the only place in the world where I could fulfill my dreams," he said. "No one at Howard ever questioned my capacity or my abilities, and this is the HBCU difference. I think this is why HBCUs are more critical today than ever before."

Among the excited graduates stood Olumide Olulade, who graduated first in his class in the College of Medicine. Olulade followed the path to Howard through the example of family members. His brother graduated with a Howard medical degree in 2008. His mother graduated from the Howard University College of Pharmacy in the class of 1977. On this Mother's Day weekend, he was able to give his mother the gift of his graduation. He plans to pursue a career in interventional radiology.

"My mother is the reason I went to medical school. When I finished my Ph.D. and was working as a researcher, she got sick. I realized in that moment that I couldn't help her at all," said Olulade, who describes that moment as a turning point. "I decided that I wanted to be able to be at the bedside helping people who get sick. I think research is amazing, but I realized I wanted to be directly engaged in care."

During the ceremony, Howard University bestowed honorary degrees upon distinguished leaders in the fields of finance, higher education and dentistry. The recipients include: First Data Chairman and CEO Frank Bisignano, honorary Doctor of Humane Letters; Xavier University of Louisiana President Emeritus Norman C. Francis, J.D., honorary Doctor of Humane Letters; Senior Scholar-in-Residence Emerita, Office of the President and CEO of the American Dental Education Association Jeanne C. Sinkford, D.D.S., Ph.D., honorary Doctor of Science; and Historian and former Howard University Provost Michael R. Winston, Ph.D., honorary Doctor of Humane Letters. Reed was awarded the Presidential Medal of Achievement.

About Howard University

Founded in 1867, Howard University is a private, research university that is comprised of 13 schools and colleges. Students pursue studies in more than 120 areas leading to undergraduate, graduate and professional degrees. The University operates with a commitment to Excellence in Truth and Service and has produced four Rhodes Scholars, 11 Truman Scholars, two Marshall Scholars, one Schwarzman Scholar, more than 70 Fulbright Scholars and 22 Pickering Fellows. Howard also produces more on-campus African-American Ph.D. recipients than any other university in the United States. For more information on Howard University, visit www.howard.edu.

Media Contact: Alonda Thomas, [email protected]

SOURCE Howard University

Related Links

http://www.howard.edu


Grab a cuppa and read the horoscope for December 26, 2021 right here. 

Some sun signs are in for a rough start today. Find out in your horoscope today

Aries Horoscope: The day looks hopeful today. Your mentor has guided you, so keep that advice in mind, wherever you go. Money is plenty in your hand, so, a carefree splurge on a home makeover is fine. Your mental corner is at peace now, and you have an inner inspiration to get into new streams of thought. Try them, discuss with your friends and they will show luck and happiness.

Taurus Horoscope: Your generous feather will fly by all those whom you love. You love to share many things from your precious treasures with your siblings and cousins. It is a time to enjoy the victory of your relative. Get your party shoes on and be ready to swag.

Gemini Horoscope: Plan hard, and really hard to make those dreams see the face of reality. Conflicting thoughts, and personal urges to wander away will come up, but hold on in there. You need to control and set your focus on your work. Be practical- as you need money to move on in life.

Cancer Horoscope: Your foes are acting like your cuddly friends, but they are ready with their daggers. You need to act smart and not fight. Be soft, and watch what you do and say. Keep your personal plans of studies, or career growth, or buying a house of property to your family only. A third person could misuse it, as they are not happy with your recent success.

Leo Horoscope: Dress right today, as that will help you build an impression in life. A casual meeting with your friends will come up, but that will help you meet people who may be able to guide you in life. Health is something you need to take care of. You have become a couch potato, so spring up and get your fitness shoes on track.

Virgo Horoscope: A day of unexpected joy is what you can expect today. It could be a good news from a relative, or a lottery that you may have won. Dont forget to be thankful for the happy moments that come by. Creativity is required for a project that you must do in the next few days. So, brush up your skill and engage in your work in the best way possible.

Libra Horoscope: You may have the up and down mood game rolling over you today. You could never quite pinpoint the reason, but it is an after effect of a party hangover and a silly fight that surfaced during that time. Understand that you cannot bring the arrogant under your control. So, quit these petty quarrels and find a balance between all your relationships.

Scorpio Horoscope: You have achieved a lot in life, and that is because of your determination. But there has been a slice of selfishness which made you reach the top. You have chosen to ignore the family all this while. This needs to change or else your karma may strike back at you one day. Visit your family, and gift them things that they need now.

Sagittarius Horoscope: Your wish to travel out far will come true soon today. A pleasure trip with your buddies can be arranged, and you will indulge some quality time in good food and music. Work alone will never let you appreciate life. Understand the joy of being social. You will tend to clear out a lot of misunderstanding, and that will help build better friends for a lifetime.

Capricorn Horoscope: You think a lot and that is what cause you to cry. Relax and let go of what cannot be controlled. You need to move on from a broken relationship. It hurts your parents deeply, but tell them it is perfectly fine. Be more social on the virtual front, but never jump into a relationship. The time hasnt come yet. Exercise is necessary as your mental health has reduced quite a bit.

Aquarius Horoscope: A number of choices are knocking your door today. You remain confused as a hundred odd suggestions from all corners seem to flood your ears. Do not take a hasty decision, as that will serve to be right for you. Your finance is in a critical condition, so it would be wise to watch over that. Leave your judgments aside, and take help from elders in these matters.

Pisces Horoscope: Cheerfulness and laughter will fill your life today. Your love life will see happiness, and you both will plan on how to move on life. Family members are with you, so ask guidance. Keep loans at bay, as they will be difficult to meet now. Do now worry too much about unforeseen expenses. All problems will be cleared out as time and destiny allows.

Did we pique your curiosity about your future? Read your detailed Horoscope and Rashifal to know more,
The view of Korean Pavilion, themed "History Has Failed Us, But No Matter," at the Venice Biennale 2019 / Courtesy of Arts Council Korea



By Kwon Mee-yoo



The 58th International Art Exhibition of La Biennale di Venezia 2019 opened last week focusing on embracing voices of minorities.



This year's Venice Biennale is helmed by American curator Ralph Rugoff, and Rugoff presenting the theme "May You Live in Interesting Times."



Rugoff only invited living artists to the main exhibition, held at Arsenale and Giardini, to best reflect how artists of today are reacting to and experimenting in the fast-paced, complex times. Overall, 42 out of 79 artists taking part in the main exhibition are women. This is the first time in the event's 142 year history that more than half of the participating artists are women.



This year, all Koreans at the Venice Biennale are women. The Korean Pavilion is curated by Kim Hyun-jin and three participating artists Jung Eun-young, also known as siren eun young jung, Jane Jin Kaisen and Nam Hwa-yeon. At the main exhibition, the works of three Korean women artists Lee Bul, Suki Seokyeong Kang and Anicka Yi are on view.



Kim Sun-jung, president of the Gwangju Biennale Foundation, was part of the five-member jury who picked the winners of the Golden Lion at this year's Venice Biennale, adding another Korean woman's power to the contemporary art's biggest event.





Nam Hwa-yeon's "Dancer from the Peninsula" / Courtesy of Arts Council Korea



Korean Pavilion



Under the title "History Has Failed Us, But No Matter," the four women created a fissure in Western-oriented, male-dominated modern history.



Curator Kim said the exhibit will highlight women who fought against history and emphasize gender diversity as a driving force to reread and write history. The Korean theme is related to the main theme as the artists inquire into the marginalized lives of women in East Asia, who have often been neglected in history.





Jung Eun-young's video "A Performing by Flash, Afterimage, Velocity, and Noise" / Courtesy of Arts Council Korea



Jung, winner of the Korea Artist Prize 2018, presents a video "A Performing by Flash, Afterimage, Velocity, and Noise." The artist, who has been researching "yeoseong gukgeuk" (female-only theater) for over a decade, sheds light on the performers of marginalized genres such as transgender musicians, lesbian actresses and drag kings.



"Community of Parting," a two-channel video by Kaisen, born on Jeju Island and adopted by Danish parents, is a reinterpretation of the Korean folktale "Princess Bari." Often told as a tale of filial duty, Kaisen saw it as a border of life and death and juxtaposed with female diaspora in the process of modernization.



Nam's "Dancer from the Peninsula" revolves around legendary Korean dancer Choi Seung-hee (1911-1969), who lived a controversial life of being pro-Japanese during the Japanese colonial era and later defecting to North Korea.



The Korean Pavilion was included in the top pick of the pavilions by British auction house Christie's and included in the "10 International Pavilions To Visit" by Hong Kong Tatler.





Suki Seokyeong Kang's "Land Sand Strand" on view at the main exhibition of Venice Biennale 2019 / Courtesy of the artist



Strength of Korean women



Lee Bul unveiled a large-scale sculpture "Aubade V" at the Arsenale. The four-meter-tall monument-like sculpture is made with materials from demolition of guard posts in the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) between North and South Korea. Complete with LED screens that references Morse Code and the International Code of Signals, Lee questions the vanity of ideology and monument.



Two other works by Lee, including "Scale of Tongue" are on display at the Italian Pavilion.



Lee was the artist of the Korean Pavilion in 1999 and invited to the main exhibit of the Venice Biennale in 1999 and 20 years later, becoming the first Korean artist to be invited to the world-famous art event twice.



Kang's "Land Sand Strand" and "Grandmother Towers" were handpicked by Rugoff for the exhibit. Composed of sculptural objects those are activated with performances, Kang's works are based on "hwamunseok," or Korean traditional sedge mat.



"Land Sand Strand" is a metaphor to numerous individuals like grains of sand, strolling through sculptures to view the scenery around them and meditate on their contemporary life. The activation manual is inspired by "chunaengmu," a type of Korean traditional dance named after spring nightingale. "The drawings in the manual correspond to the movements during the activation," Kang said.



At Giardini, Kang presents "Grandmother Towers," which began as an abstract portrait of the artist's grandmother, who survived harsh times in Korea's modern history. "This symbolizes a woman who is standing firm on her feet, not falling down. They might look fragile, but they can stand on their own," the artist said.





Anicka Yi's "Biologizing the Machine (tentacular trouble)" on view at the main exhibition of Venice Biennale 2019 / EPA-Yonhap



Korean-American Yi presented an installation "Biologizing the Machine (tentacular trouble)." Known for relating biological materials in her artwork, Yi's yellow lanterns on view at the Arsenale filled with animatronic moths and dropping water are reminders of the origin of life.



The Venice Biennale 2019 runs until Nov. 24.





Yun Hyong-keun's "Burnt Umber & Ultramarine" on display at Palazzo Fortuny / Courtesy of the Estate of Yun Hyong-keun and Laziz Hamani



Yun Hyong-keun in spotlight



In addition to the national pavilion and main exhibition, Korean contemporary art is also presented at collateral events.



Renowned "dansaekhwa" (Korean monochrome painting) artist Yun Hyong-keun's first international retrospective is held at Palazzo Fortuny.



Presented as a collaboration between the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, Korea (MMCA) and the Civic Museums of Venice, the exhibit features over 60 works of the late artist whose "dark and poignant paintings that magnificently capture the shattered national psyche of the time."





Lee Kang-so's exhibition "Becoming" at Palazzo Caboto / Courtesy of Gallery Hyundai
Patna, May 12 : Voting began for eight seats in the Bhojpuri-speaking north Bihar belt on Sunday amid reports of a freak incident in Sheohar where a voter was injured by a stray bullet fired from a home guard's rifle. There was also delay in polling at some booths due to EVM glitches.

In the first hour, long queues of men and women were seen outside the booths under a summer sun as heat wave surged through the area.

According to officials, more than 1.38 lakh voters would decide the fate of 127 candidates in Gopalganj, Siwan, Maharajganj, East Champaran, West Champaran, Valmiki Nagar, Sheohar and Vaishali constituencies.

The Sheohar voter was seriously injured as the bullet hit him in the stomach, said a district police official. The voter fell down at the polling booth and was rushed to a hospital.

Heavy security arrangements have been made with three helicopters requisitioned to provide air cover to the forces. The India-Nepal border has also been sealed.

"In the initial polling, women in large number were seen standing outside polling booths. They aimed to escape the scorching sun and hot winds (loo) later in the day," a poll official said.

Reports of problems with Electronic Voting Machines were received from several booths in Darbhanga, Begusarai, Samastipur and Munger. So far voting though has been peaceful, the official added.

Stakes are high for the ruling BJP-led NDA is high in the penultimate phase as it aims to retain all these seats it won in the last elections.

For the opposition's Grand Alliance, its a win-win situation as it eyes to gain some seats with nothing to lose.
New Delhi, May 12 : Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) President Amit Shah on Sunday appealed to voters to vote in large numbers to help form a "strong government again".

The current BJP government at the Centre has made the country proud and freed it from the politics of "dynasty" and "appeasement", he said on Twitter as polling went on in 59 Lok Sabha constituencies across seven states.

Shah added that every single vote had transformed India from being a terror-stricken country to one that enemies were now scared of.

This is the sixth and penultimate round of the seven-phase electoral exercise.
Chandigarh, May 12 : Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar on Sunday cast his vote at a polling booth in Karnal city and appealed to the voters to participate in the world's largest festival of democracy by exercising their franchise as early as possible.

On Sunday morning, the Chief Minister travelled by the Shatabdi Express from Chandigarh to his hometown Karnal.

"Departing from Chandigarh to Karnal for the sixth phase of Lok Sabha elections today," Khattar said in a tweet.

"I am quite excited about the vote and all of you should go to your respective polling booth with full enthusiasm and ensure your participation," he added.

Voting was on for the 10 Lok Sabha seats of Haryana amid tight security in the penultimate phase of the ongoing general elections.
New Delhi, May 12 : Former Union Minister Shakeel Ahmad, suspended by the Congress for contesting the Lok Sabha polls as an independent from Madhubani, has said the partys action against him was harsh and he contested as the candidate of the Grand Alliance was "weak" to defeat the BJP.

He also said that the Congress, which is contesting nine of the 49 seats in Bihar, should have contested at least 12 seats in the state as part of alliance.

"Congress got less seats. It should have got at least 12 seats. The negotiations should have been done in a better way. It led to demoralization in Bihar Congress," Ahmad told IANS in an interview.

He said the sole purpose of alliance was to defeat the BJP but ticket from the seat was given to a weak candidate of a new party.

"The candidate who was put up by a totally new party was too weak to contest against BJP. So I decided to contest independently," he said.

Ahmad, a former MP from Madhubani, said his information was that the state Congress leaders who were negotiating with RJD did not seek this seat "under the influence of an RJD leader".

However, Congress President Rahul Gandhi tried at the eleventh hour to get the seat for the party but it was too late.

Ahmad said suspension was not expulsion and he had not left the Congress. "I was in Congress, I am in Congress and I will remain in Congress throughout my life."

Ahmad said that Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) had also put up a candidate at Chatra in Jharkhand against the common candidate of the alliance in the state.

He said he had requested the party that he should be given the party symbol or its support to fight as an Independent.

"I did not get support and was suspended on the eve of polling day," Ahmad said.

He said the party has a right to take action. "But in these circumstances when other partners of the alliance are openly going against alliance ethos and putting up candidates directly and indirectly, it looks harsh. And that too on the eve of polling day," he said.

Asked if the suspension had damaged his prospects, he said there was a mixed response.

"It had a little bit demoralising effect on my well wishers but it was reported in the media that it was done under pressure from (RJD leader) Tejashwi Yadav. So certain sections of the society became sympathetic to me," he said.

Asked about his chances of winning, Ahmad said: "All I can say at this juncture is that I am in the contest".

The Congress is contesting the Lok Sabha polls as part of Grand Alliance that includes Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and Vikassheel Insan Party (VIP) among others.

In Madhubani, the alliance candidate was Badri Purve of fledgling VIP.
Kolkata, May 12 : A BJP activist was killed in West Bengal's Jhargram district early on Sunday as a number of violent incidents and clashes rocked the state in the sixth phase of the Lok Sabha polls.

Eight parliamentary constituencies spread across five districts in West Bengal voted on Sunday.

A BJP activist, Ramen Singh (30) from Jhargram constituency's Gopiballabpur, sustained a grievous head injury after allegedly being hit with an iron rod. He was rushed to a hospital where he was declared dead, police said.

The BJP accused miscreants backed by the Trinamool Congress for the crime.

Incidents of sporadic violence were reported from Midnapore constituency where the saffron party's state unit chief Dilip Ghosh is engaged in a high profile battle with Trinamool Congress' Rajya Sabha member Manas Bhunia.

At least four Trinamool Party activists had to be hospitalized after being attacked with sharp weapons allegedly by BJP supporters. The condition of one person was critical.

Meanwhile, a number of saffron party supporters got injured in the constituency's Datan area following a clash with Trinamool workers.

Former IPS officer and BJP candidate from West Midnapore district's Ghatal, Bharati Ghosh, was stopped from entering a polling booth by a group of women Trinamool Congress workers who accused her of influencing the voters.

Ghosh accused the ruling party of organised violence and demanded that the offenders be immediately arrested.

"I am a candidate. I can always enter a polling booth. Those who are trying to stop me should be arrested. They (Trinamool) is resorting to organised violence against me," Ghosh said before leaving the spot.

Later, bricks were pelted on her convoy near Keshpur, injuring one of her security guards.
New Delhi, May 12 : Amid the row over functionality of its database, the Ministry of Corporate Affairs is working on the Version 3 of MCA-21 database, which will address many current flaws in this online registry.

The new MCA-21 V 3.0 will have features like single source of truth, ease of doing business, e-adjudication, online compliance monitoring, all aimed at improving the authenticity and comprehensiveness of corporate It may also make the current registrar of companies (RoC) appear obsolete.

"A new version is coming. Version 3 will be a front-runner that would take a year from now to take shape as the process of selection of vendors could be started only by September after the formation of the new government. After that, tests and migration of the MCA-21 platform to a new version will start," MCA sources said.

"The Version 3 will ease process of filing details as single source of truth will ensure that common information will automatically get updated over various forms. Second, the entire e-adjudication process will go online. This will ensure that nobody is required to go to a RoC. Everything will be on the front-end where entire e-adjudication and then online compliance monitoring would be done. So if anyone is not complying with the law, e-notice will automatically get generated and reach him", the MCA sources added.

MCA 21 which was under revamp to a new version has found itself under a controversy over utility of the enrolled companies under the database. Government's sample surveyor NSSO has doubted the veracity of these listed companies saying 21 per cent of these from MCA-21 database were "out-of-coverage" meaning they were either not operating. Another 12 per cent of companies could not be found putting a question mark on accuracy of GDP data that switched to verifying corporate data using MCA-21.

MCA-21 is an initiative under Ministry of Corporate Affairs storing all registered companies that file accounts online with MCA.

The government has already said there would not be any impact on the GDP data, saying that appropriate adjustments are made at aggregate levels.

This follows doubts over the GDP numbers after a survey report of NSSO showed over a third of the companies on the Ministry of Corporate Affairs' MCA-21 database and used in computing India's GDP could either not be traced or were wrongly classified or non functional.

(Anjana Das can be contacted at anjana.d@ians.in)
Sultanpur, May 12 : Violence erupted n Sultanpur in Uttar Pradesh early on Sunday when supporters of BSP candidate Chandra Bhadra Singh a.k.a. Sonu Singh clashed with supporters of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate Maneka Gandhi.

Supporters of Sonu Singh claimed that the BJP candidate's supporters were distributing money in villages in Dhanpatganj area after midnight. When they tried to stop, the BJP supporters clashed with them.

Over a dozen persons from both sides were injured and several vehicles were also damaged.

Sultanpur Superintendent of Police Anurag Vats said that he was apprised of the incident and investigations into the allegations were underway.

BJP candidate Maneka Gandhi has also spoken to Vats about the incident and demanded action against Sonu Singh.

Sonu Singh, meanwhile, told this correspondent that his men were beaten up when they tried to stop the BJP supporters from distributing money.

"I am sending a complaint to the EC," he said.

Polling is being held in Sultanpur on Sunday.
Los Angeles, May 12 : Actor Jake Manley will star opposite actress Bella Thorne in "Southland".

According to variety.com, the film is about a diner employee named Arielle who dreams of a better life outside of her small Florida town. After falling for a young parolee named Dean, she convinces him to return to his criminal ways.

With the goal of becoming famous, Arielle and Dean start to promote their law-breaking exploits on social media. Things escalate into robbery and lead to a murder.

The movie is written and directed by Joshua Caldwell. Its production will start in September.

Manley currently appears on the Netflix horror series "The Order" and is part of the ensemble cast of Roland Emmerich's "Midway". He will also be seen in "A Dog's Journey" with Dennis Quaid and Josh Gad.
Mumbai, May 12 : Actor Rajkummar Rao is looking forward to collaborate with Janhvi Kapoor for the first time in "Rooh-Afza", a horror comedy.

Rajkummar spoke on the sidelines of a shoot for Bhamla Foundation's anti-air pollution song "Hawa aane de" here on Saturday.

Janhvi has expressed her admiration for Rajkummar's work many times.

Asked if he is excited to work with Janhvi in the film, he said: "Yes, of course... I am also very excited to work with her. I think Janhvi is a great girl, a wonderful actress and a good friend. So, I think we will have a lot fun while shooting for the film. It is a very quirky script and I am looking forward to be with her."

Rajkummar will also be seen in Ekta Kapoor's "Mental Hai Kya", which also stars Kangana Ranaut. The film will release on July 26 and it was going to clash with Hrithik Roshan-starrer "Super 30". But Hrithik urged the producers to change his movie's release date to avoid a 'media circus' due to his public feud with Kangana.

Commenting on the development, Rajkummar said: "The decision of releasing the film is not in my hand as it is in the makers' hands, so they have decided release date of the film."

Rajkummar said that he didn't have any knowledge about the issue as he was shooting for a film in Haryana.

"I have just returned from Haryana where I was shooting under 44 degree Celsius and there was no mobile network connectivity and time for me to read the news. So, I don't have any idea what has happened. Ekta madam has given an official statement and Hrithik Sir has given an official statement, so what can I say about it? It's their decision."

Produced by Dinesh Vijan and Mrighdeep Singh Lamba, "Rooh-Afza" will be directed by debutant Hardik Mehta.

The shooting will start in Uttar Pradesh in June and the film is slated to release on March 20, 2020. This will be Rajkummar's third collaboration with Vijan after "Stree" and "Made in China".
Wellington, May 12 : UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres arrived in New Zealand's city of Auckland on Sunday for a three-day visit with a focus on climate change.

Guterres is visiting New Zealand for the first time in his role as UN Secretary-General. He previously visited the country as the UN High Commissioner for Refugees.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern was expected to meet the UN chief later in the day.

Guterres will visit both Auckland and Christchurch, including making a keynote speech at the Auckland University of Technology on Monday, Xinhua news agency reported.

The Secretary-General's visit is the first leg of his tour to the Pacific region to see how climate change is impacting the region.

On Wednesday, the New Zealand government submitted to the Parliament the Zero Carbon Bill which outlines the country's plan over the next 30 years on climate change and aims to reduce greenhouse gases to net zero by 2050.

Ardern said she was "looking forward to welcoming Secretary-General Guterres to New Zealand and discussing the issues that matter most to us and our region".

"The UN is the forum where we collectively address the global challenges we face, including climate change and international security," she said.

New Zealand strongly supports the role of the UN in upholding the international rules-based system and ensuring all voices are able to be heard, Ardern added.

Guterres will take part in a climate change and agriculture event in Christchurch on Tuesday as well as pay tribute to the victims of the March 15 terrorist attack which claimed 50 lives.




An aerial cityscape view of downtown Singapore / gettyimagesbank

FSS should be allowed to open offices in key markets abroad



By Kim Bo-eun




New Delhi, May 12 : With more and more Indians going online and generating never-heard-before kind of data, hackers have turned their focus on a country with over 450 million smartphone users and more than 550 million Internet users.

The country has 366 million Internet subscribers in urban locations and 194 million in rural areas, says the latest report by Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI).

According to Sophos Senior Security Advisor John Shier, organisations are struggling with phishing and other user-focused attacks in India.

"Most people don't believe that computer-based training (CBT) is effective and are looking for ways to improve their defenses against users being tricked into inviting malicious attackers into their network," Shier said in a statement.

A KPMG report in April revealed that nearly 86 per cent of the consumers in India are concerned about eavesdropping of their conversations or theft or misuse of their messages through their devices.

"The proliferation of connected and IoT devices will have a cross-sector impact on areas around data security and privacy. In response to this, regulators will need to establish mandatory data security requirements," said Atul Gupta, Leader-IT Advisory and Cyber Security Leader, KPMG in India.

Around 87 per cent of the consumers are concerned that retailers will misuse or improperly distribute their information.

According to Gauri Bajaj, Director, Cybersecurity (APAC), Tata Communications, the adoption of cyber security remains a key challenge.

"The recent spate of cyber attacks only highlight the security risk that takes place both within and without the organisation. It is imperative that employees are sensitised to the risk of security breaches and trained to respond in such a scenario," Bajaj said.

Not just phones, wearable devices like smartwatches are the next frontier for cyber security.

"The future of wearable tech in the world of AI and predictive technology will be highly individualized, data driven and analytics intensive. One of the bigger applications of this will continue to be in the healthcare and fitness sector.

"However, what is key to make this happen is also building a holistic ecosystem that tracks, guides and designs individualized plans for each individual, at a low cost," said Vishal Gondal, CEO and founder GOQii.

It isn't enough to have an IT security team and having a strong culture around security is the next step in maturity for security awareness programmes, say experts.

"Use a unique, complex password for banking and other financial online accounts. For others, use a password manager to keep them organised and readily available. Use Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) when available to provide an extra layer of security on accounts," Shier said.

Be wary of clicking on emails from unknown sources or deals that look too good to be true.

Cyber criminals use look-alike spam to lure in victims with links to bogus websites. Businesses should train employees on how to "spot a phish".

"Use a layered business security strategy to provide protection at multiple levels to avoid attacks from different angles. Be wary of IoT devices on any network. Change factory default passwords immediately out of the box," the Sophos executive added.
Chandigarh, May 12 : Haryana on Sunday witnessed only 31.53 per cent voting till 1 p.m. for the state's 10 Lok Sabha seats, an election official said.

As of 1 p.m. the highest voter turnout was recorded in the Bhiwani-Mahendragarh seat at 37.66 per cent, followed by Sonipat, Hisar and Sirsa, the official told IANS.

Voting began at 7 a.m. for the Ambala, Kurukshetra, Gurugram, Faridabad, Hisar, Sirsa, Karnal, Sonipat, Bhiwani-Mahendragarh and Rohtak constituences.

Congress leader and sitting MP Deepender Hooda accused Minister of State for Cooperatives Manish Kumar Grover of booth capturing in Rohtak.

Long queues of voters were seen outside polling booths across the 10 seats in the morning. By the afternoon, most of the booths looked deserted as temperatures began to soar.

Election officials expect that the turnout is likely to increase just hours before polling ends at 6 p.m.

In the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, the polling percentage was 73 per cent, higher than 68 per cent in 2009.

Polling was delayed in some booths in Yamunanagar, Mahendragarh and Gohana towns due to Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) malfunctioning.

At polling booth number 84 in Gohana, the faulty EVM could not be rectified till 10 a.m., hence only two votes were cast in three hours.

Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, former Chief Minister and Congress candidate from Sonipat Bhupinder Singh Hooda, Union Ministers Rao Inderjit Singh, Krishan Pal Gurjar and Birender Singh and Indian skipper Virat Kohli were among the early voters in the state.

Khattar, who took a train from Chandigarh to Karnal city to cast his vote, appealed to the voters to participate in the world's largest festival of democracy by exercising their franchise as early as possible.

Rao Inderjit Singh, Gurjar and Hooda were among the 223 candidates, including 11 women, whose fate will be sealed by the over 1.80 crore voters.

The Bharatiya Janata Party, Congress, the Om Prakash Chautala-led Indian National Lok Dal (INLD) and its breakaway faction the Jannayak Janata Party (JJP) are the main political parties in the fray.

The BJP won seven of the 10 Lok Sabha seats in 2014 with a vote share of 34.7 per cent as compared to 17.21 per cent in 2009 when it failed to win any seat.

The then ruling Congress lost eight of the nine seats it had won in 2009 and saw its vote share declining to 22.9 per cent as compared to 41.77 per cent five years back.

The INLD, which won two seats in 2014, increased its vote share to 24.4 per cent from 15.78 per cent in 2009.
Agra, May 12 : When Akhilesh Yadav was the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister, he set a Guinness world record for planting 50 million saplings in a day. Not to be outdone, last year (2018-19) the present Chief Minister, Yogi Adityanath, set a target of nine crore saplings by August 15.

He had announced that trees rich in medicinal properties and of religious significance will be planted across the state.

What was the net outcome? We do not have reliable statistics on how many saplings survived and how funds were utilized, said a retired forest department official.

"It was an exercise carried out in haste without adequate preparations. The result was most saplings died a premature death."

This year, the Uttar Pradesh government plans to break all records. The target is to plant 22 crore saplings at a cost of Rs 1,000 crore.

For Agra alone, the target is 28.50 lakh saplings. All government departments have been allotted targets and the state nurseries are busy preparing saplings.

Each year pompous claims have been made by authorities, but the green cover in Uttar Pradesh remains a dismal 9 per cent, against the national goal of 33 per cent.

A green activist in Agra said: "These are paper trees to be found only in files of the government. The ground reality is different."

Take the case of Agra which is fast turning into a vast wasteland, said eco-activist Shravan Kumar Singh.

"The large-scale construction work going on all around has denuded the landscape of green cover. More roads, more houses, more public projects means reduced space for greenery. The 10,600 sq km eco-sensitive Taj Trapezium Zone has a green cover from precariously low at 1.28 per cent in Mathura district to 6.26 per cent in Agra," according to Singh.

The issue is not how many saplings you plant each year. Our concern should be to ensure their growth and protect them for at least three years, said Agra Development Foundation Secretary K.C. Jain.

In a letter to the Chief Minister, Jain suggested that the period of planting saplings should be two months and not just one day.

"Also, we must ensure that a large variety of species particularly suited to local conditions are preferred. Bio-diversity must be encouraged."

More importantly, if 22 crore saplings have to be planted this year at a gap of at least 10 feet, do we have the space in Uttar Pradesh for such a huge campaign, asked green activist Ranjan Sharma.

"We have seen how callously this whole exercise was conducted in a day. So many saplings were found in open areas or thrown in dust bins. Why should funds be squandered in this way?" asked Shailendra Singh Narwaar, a green activist.

Harvijay Bahia, a leading shoe exporter and a passionate tree planter, has successfully developed half a dozen blocks of trees, Neem Vaatikas.

"I make elaborate preparations, involve locals and provide basic infrastructure, then personally monitor the progress. That is how you see clusters of trees in Kendriya Hindi Sansthan, in St. Peter's College, in Kar Kunj colony."
Kushinagar : , May 12 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said that the Army cannot wait for clearance from the Election Commission to take action against terrorists.

The Prime Minister, while referring to the killing of two terrorists in Shopian in Jammu and Kashmir, said: "They (the terrorists) were standing in front (of the soldiers) with bombs and guns. Would my jawans go to the Election Commission to ask for permission to shoot? Since I came to Kashmir, every second or third day, clean-up operations are taking place."

He further said that the 'lotus' was all set to bloom in the country again. "The 'mahamilavati' group is now frustrated and desperate because the people are voting for a strong government and a strong nation," he said.

The BJP has built its campaign around the theme of nationalism and national security which no political party has opposed. Howver, political parties have objected to the Prime Minister referring to 'my soldiers' on the social media.

Earlier, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath had been pulled up by the Election Commission for referring to the Indian Army as 'Modiji ki sena'.

Last week, the Election Commission gave a clean chit to the Prime Minister for several speeches where the armed forces, the terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama and the airstrike at Pakistan's Balakot were mentioned.
Amaravati, May 12 : Jana Sena Party (JSP) chief and actor Pawan Kalyan on Sunday held a meeting with the party leaders to review the party's prospects in Andhra Pradesh Assembly and Lok Sabha elections held last month.

At the meeting held at Jana Sena Party (JSP) office at Mangalagiri in Guntur district, Pawan assessed the poll prospects with the party candidates and senior leaders.

He gathered feedback from the candidates about the polling trend, the public response to the party's campaign and the prospects in their respective constituencies.

The actor asked the party candidates and leaders to be vigilant during the counting of votes on May 23. He directed them to keep a close watch on the entire counting process and also on counting of VVPAT slips.

Pawan also urged the party leaders to continue working for strengthening the organisation, irrespective of the poll results.

Party leader Madasu Gangadharam said the party would focus on strengthening the organisation in all the villages for the local body elections. He asked the party functionaries to focus on the village level issues.

Elections to 175-member state Assembly and 25 Lok Sabha constituencies were held in the first phase on April 11.

The JSP contested 140 Assembly seats, leaving 35 for its allies -- Bahujan Samaj Party (21), Communist Party of India (7) and the Communist Party of India-Marxist (7).

The JSP fielded candidates in 18 Lok Sabha constituencies while BSP contested three seats and CPI and the CPI-M two seats each.
Agartala, May 12 : Over 55 per cent voting was reported at 168 polling stations till 2 p.m. during re-poll on Sunday in the Tripura West parliamentary constituency, election officials said.

According to the Deputy Inspector General of Police (Southern Range) Arindam Nath, voting in 26 Assembly segments was peaceful with no major incident reported from anywhere in the constituency.

Voting began at 7 a.m. and will continue till 5 p.m.

A total of 141,251 voters, including 69,328 women, are eligible to exercise their franchise. Thirteen candidates, including a woman, are in the fray.

Over 7,000 security personnel belonging to central paramilitary and Tripura State Rifles have been deployed to ensure free and fair re-poll. Returning Officer Vikas Singh said at the polling stations only paramilitary troopers were deployed.

"Braving soaring summer temperatures, people exercised their franchise with huge number of paramilitary troopers guarding the vote areas," Singh told IANS.

Singh, the District Magistrate and Collector of the West Tripura district, said in view of the rising temperature and humidity, the administration had arranged temporary sheds and drinking water for voters.

According to the Meteorological Department, in the past one week the maximum temperature has been hovering around 38 degree Celsius, four-five degrees above the normal.

Police spokesman Subrata Chakraborty said no untoward incident was reported from anywhere in the poll-bound areas spread across four districts. "Snags in voting machines halted polling in few places for a while, but these were corrected soon," Chakraborty told IANS.

The Election Commission (EC) decided to conduct re-poll in 168 polling stations in 26 Assembly segments due to electoral malpractices during voting in the first phase on April 11.

Allegations of malpractices, intimidation and violence forced the EC to appoint former Deputy Election Commissioner Vinod Zutshi as Special Observer and the poll panel removed Returning Officer Sandeep Mahatme and Additional Director General of Police (Law and Order) Rajiv Singh.

An unprecedented number of election officials were suspended and a large number of FIRs were filed by the Assistant Returning Officers against micro observers, polling officers and political activists who either indulged in malpractices or remained mute spectators during this period.

Meanwhile, the Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) and the Congress are seeking directions from the Supreme Court to hold fresh polling in the entire Tripura West Lok Sabha constituency.
Mumbai, May 12 : Actress Deepika Padukone, who was in New York for the Met Gala earlier this week, ensured she took out time to meet veteran actors Rishi Kapoor and Neetu Kapoor, parents of her former beau Ranbir Kapoor.

Neetu called Deepika "adorable", and took to her Instagram page to share three photographs from their meeting. They are all smiles and huddled up in the pictures.

"Such a fun evening with adorable Deepika Padukone. Gave lot of love and warmth," Neetu wrote.

Her daughter Riddhima Kapoor Sahni commented with heart emojis in the comments section.

Rishi has been in New York for several months for treatment. Just last month, his brother Randhir Kapoor said Rishi will be back in the India in a few months, amid reports that he is now "cancer free".

Neetu has been by Rishi's side, and keeps fans updated with photographs of some of their special moments. Various Bollywood stars, including Aamir Khan, Priyanka Chopra Jonas and Anupam Kher have met Rishi in New York.
Kolkata, May 12 : A BJP worker was killed in West Bengal's Jhargram district amid widespread violence in the sixth phase of polling on Sunday which saw the saffron party's candidate from Ghatal and former IPS officer Bharati Ghosh seek refuge inside a temple after being chased by Trinamool Congress supporters.

Reports of violence, clashes between political workers and intimidation of voters multiplied as voting progressed in the eight Lok Sabha seats spread across five districts in West Bengal which went to the polls on Sunday.

A BJP activist, identified as Ramen Singh (30) from Gopiballabpur in Jhargram constituency's, sustained grievous head injury after being hit with an iron rod. He was rushed to a hospital where he was declared dead, the police said. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) later accused that miscreants backed by the Trinamool Congress were behind the crime.

In West Midnapore district's Ghatal, BJP candidate Bharati Ghosh was forced to take shelter inside a temple beside the Keshpur police station after being heckled and chased by Trinamool supporters, who accused her of instigating disturbance in the area.

Rapid Action Force (RAF) and the police had to resort to lathi charge to dispurse the crowd. She was later rescued and given shelter in the Keshpur police station.

The mob led by Trinamool Congress supporters got infuriated after one of her security guards allegedly opened fire, reportedly injuring a Trinamool worker.

Ghosh, a former IPS officer and once a trusted lieutenant of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, was earlier stopped by the police from moving around in her vehicle without permission.

"I sought permission and it was given. Now, they are denying it. My car has been seized and it was a ploy to deter me from moving around the constituency," Ghosh said.

Later, bricks were pelted on her convoy near Keshpur, injuring one of her security guards as her car, along with some other vehicles belonging to the media, were vandalised.

Ghosh alleged that she was assaulted by the agitating Trinamool supporters.

Her security personnel claimed that they had to fire in the air in a bid to control the situation and to save their own lives. However, a Trinamool worker was allegedly injured in the firing.

Earlier in the day, Ghosh was also stopped from entering a polling station by a group of women, said to be Trinamool workers, who accused her of influencing the voters.

However, Ghosh accused the ruling Trinamool Congress of organised violence and demanded that the offenders be immediately arrested.

"I am a candidate. I can always enter a polling booth. Those who are trying to stop me should be arrested. They (Trinamool) are resorting to organised violence against me," Ghosh said before leaving the spot.

Refuting her allegations, Trinamool leader and state Minister Firhad Hakim said, "She was instigating violence in the area and was threatening our workers. She was trying to enter the booth with his agent who was an outsider. Usually, agents sitting in the booths are locals and an outsider is not allowed."

In another incident, bombs were allegedly hurled targeting her convoy in Jhetla area.

Incidents of sporadic violence were also reported from the Midnapore constituency where the saffron party's state unit chief Dilip Ghosh is engaged in a high-profile battle with Trinamool Congress' Rajya Sabha member Manas Bhunia.

At least four Trinamool activists had to be hospitalised after being attacked with sharp weapons allegedly by the BJP supporters. The condition of one person was critical.

Meanwhile, a number of BJP supporters got injured in the constituency's Datan area following a clash with the Trinamool workers.
New Delhi, May 12 : Former Union Minister Shakeel Ahmad, suspended by the Congress for contesting the Lok Sabha elections as an Independent from Madhubani, has said the partys action against him was harsh and that he contested the polls as the candidate of the Grand Alliance was "weak" to defeat the BJP.

He also said that the Congress, which is contesting nine of the 40 seats in Bihar, should have contested at least 12 seats in the state as part of the alliance. "Congress got less seats. It should have got at least 12 seats. It led to demoralisation in Bihar Congress," Ahmad told IANS in an interview.

He also alleged that "people brought from outside" were given tickets on some seats.

Ahmad said the sole purpose of the alliance was to defeat the BJP, but in Madhubani the ticket was given to a weak candidate of a new party. "The candidate who was put up by a totally new party was too weak to contest against the BJP. So I decided to contest independently," he said.

Ahmad, a former MP from Madhubani, said that he had information that the state Congress leaders who were negotiating with the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) did not seek this seat "under the influence of an RJD leader". However, Congress President Rahul Gandhi tried at the eleventh hour to get the seat for the party but it was too late by then.

Ahmad also said that he was suspended, not expelled, from the party and that he had not left the Congress. "I was in Congress, I am in Congress and I will remain in Congress throughout my life," he said.

Ahmad also said that the RJD had put up a candidate in Chatra in Jharkhand against the common candidate of the alliance in the state.

He said he had requested the party that he should be given the party symbol or its support to fight as an Independent. "I did not get support and was suspended on the eve of the polling day," Ahmad said.

He also said the party had a right to take action. "But in these circumstances, when other partners of the alliance are openly going against the alliance ethos and putting up candidates directly and indirectly, it looks harsh. And that too on the eve of polling day," he said.

Asked if the suspension had damaged his prospects, he said there was a mixed response.

"It had a little bit of demoralising effect on my well-wishers, but it was reported in the media that it was done under pressure from (RJD leader) Tejashwi Yadav. So certain sections of the society became sympathetic towards me," he said.

Asked about his chances of winning, Ahmad said he was not in the habit of making tall claims. "All I can say at this juncture is that I am in the contest," he said.

The Congress is contesting the Lok Sabha polls in Bihar as part of the Grand Alliance which includes the RJD and the Vikassheel Insaan Party (VIP), among others.

In Madhubani, the Grand Alliance candidate is Badri Purve of the fledgling VIP.
New Delhi, May 12 : Online classifieds marketplace Quikr on Sunday announced a partnership with Rocking Deals for offering offline services to its customers.

As per the tie-up, Quikr will sell its products at the Rocking Deals' retail store at Mathura Road in Delhi-NCR. Rocking Deals plans to open two to three more such stores in the country.

"This will be Quikr's first 'experience zone' in a metro which will offer customers a touch-and-feel experience for Quikr Assured products in Rocking Deals retail store at Mathura Road in Delhi-NCR.

"As a part of the tie-up, Quikr will initially offer Quikr Assured refurbished products in two categories including furniture and large appliances," a joint-statement by Quikr and Rocking Deals said.

Commenting on the partnership, Yuvraj Singh, founder and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) at Rocking Deals, said: "Rocking Deals will provide an exclusive space to Quikr at our largest upcoming retail store in Delhi-NCR where it will cater to the growing demand seen on the platform and to offer touch-and-feel experience to its consumers."

Quikr has already launched QuikrBazaar franchisee stores for categories including furniture, electronics and appliances in the Tier-II towns of Karnataka and Telangana.




North Korea has been extremely sensitive about the international community criticizing its human rights violations and holding leader Kim Jong-un accountable. / AP-Yonhap
London/San Franciaco, May 12 : Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg has rejected the call for breaking up his company, saying the size of Facebook was actually a benefit to its users and for the security of the democratic process.

In an interview with French broadcaster France 2, Zuckerberg dismissed the claim made by his long-time friend and Facebook co-founder Chris Hughes that it is time to break up Facebook as Zuckerberg has yielded "unchecked power and influence" far beyond that of anyone else in the private sector or in the government.

"When I read what he wrote, my main reaction was that what he's proposing that we do isn't going to do anything to help solve those issues.

"So I think that if what you care about is democracy and elections, then you want a company like us to be able to invest billions of dollars per year like we are in building up really advanced tools to fight election interference," Zuckerberg told France 2 while in Paris to meet with French President Emmanuel Macron.

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," wrote Hughes, who during his freshman year at Harvard University in 2002 was recruited by Zuckerberg for Facebook.

Zuckerberg said that Facebook's budget for safety this year is bigger than the whole revenue of the company when it went public earlier this decade.

"A lot of that is because we've been able to build a successful business that can now support that. You know, we invest more in safety than anyone in social media," reported TechCrunch, quoting Zuckerberg.

Hughes wrote that Zuckerberg has surrounded himself with a team that reinforces his beliefs instead of challenging them.

"Mark is a good, kind person. But I'm angry that his focus on growth led him to sacrifice security and civility for clicks," he wrote.

In a separate opinion piece in the NYT on Sunday, Nick Clegg, who is the Vice President for global affairs and communications in Facebook, said that success should not be penalised.

"Facebook shouldn't be broken up but it does need to be held to account," Clegg wrote.

"Hughes maintains that lawmakers merely marvel at Facebook's explosive growth and have overlooked their own responsibility to protect the public through more competition.

"This argument holds dangerous implications for the American technology sector, the strongest pillar of the economy. And it reveals misunderstandings of Facebook and the central purpose of antitrust law," Clegg argued.

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.

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 which involved 87 million users.

The Facebook case is being looked at as a measure of the Donald Trump administration's willingness to regulate US tech companies.
New Delhi, May 12 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi seemed quite popular among first-time voters in Delhi as most of them hailed his foreign policies, nationalism and reforms in education, besides his "love for the youth".

Among the capital's new voters IANS spoke to, the Prime Minister was no less than a hero.

First-time voters Dinesh and Sanjay voted for Modi due to the way foreign countries have started "respecting" India.

"We have voted looking at the respect India is getting in foreign countries. Modi has travelled to several countries and he has brought investment, which will start yielding results in coming days," said the residents of Motilal Nehru Marg.

For 21-year-old Akarti, no politician loves the youth as much as Modi. "Where in the world do you see a Prime Minister addressing the students before the board examinations? Modi is the one. No politician can love the youth as much as he does. He takes out time from his busy schedule to talk to students, to meet them so that he can address their issues," said the B. Com student living in Burari.

Priyanshu Rai, a first-time voter from Mayur Vihar, was impressed with the Modi government as it focused on skill development. "I voted on the issue of education and development. The (central) government is not just focusing on education but skills as well. They have prepared the ground for students to develop skills. I have voted for Modi," said the 21-year-old B. Tech student.

On being asked if unemployment is not an issue for him, 22-year-old Naman Gupta said jobs were available, but "those lacking skills will not get it and cry about it".

"My parents always say hard work is the key. Without studying or doing hard work if people cry there is no job, it's their issue. The government will only let the hardworking people in the system. Look how much hard work Modi is doing at this age. He is an icon. We should learn from him and support him," said the resident of Bhajanpura.

However, there were also a few who said "blind faith" in any political party can be "scary".

"You don't hire a person without checking his or her background or just because he or she is from a certain city, community, religion or caste. How can we vote and appoint someone as the area's head and in turn the country's head on this basis? I am voting for the candidate having a good track record not just on the name of one man. The blind faith in one party or man can be scary. At least look at the track record," said 19-year-old Vaibhav.

For 12th pass Varun, lack of jobs were an issue. "I have two siblings. I am the youngest. My father is the only earning member in the house. Both my siblings graduated three-four years ago. They are preparing for government jobs. If there were jobs, my father could have got some help. I am voting for change this time," said the resident of Shahdara.

All seven constituencies in Delhi went to the polls on Sunday with counting set for May 23.
Jerusalem, May 12 : Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday announced the establishment of a new Jewish settlement in the occupied Syrian territory of Golan Heights, honouring US President Donald Trump.

In March, Trump had officially recognized Israel's annexation of the Golan Heights, a part of Syria that has been under Israeli military occupation since the Six-Day War of 1967.

"I promised that we would establish a community named after President Donald Trump. I would like to inform you that we have already selected a site on the Golan Heights where this new community will be established and we have started the process," Netanyahu said at the beginning of the weekly Cabinet meeting via a Twitter post.

He said he was going to ask President Reuven Rivlin for an extension of the period to form a coalition after winning April's general elections, Efe news reported.

Netanyahu's request came due to a busy holiday season following the Israeli election that delayed negotiations with the parties to make up the ruling coalition government.

In addition, he said that Israel will commemorate the first anniversary of the opening of the US Embassy in Jerusalem, which will be completed soon with the transfer of the official residence of the Ambassador David Friedman.

"This week we will mark one year since the opening of the US Embassy in Jerusalem. The official residence of the US Ambassador to Israel is also moving to Jerusalem. Thus, in effect, the Congressional decision will be implemented," Netanyahu added.

Trump's recognition of Israeli sovereignty over the Golan has been controversial since the UN Security Council on December 17, 1981, unanimously adopted Resolution No. 497, which rejected the Israeli annexation of the Golan Heights, considering it as "null and void and without international legal effect".

Even before Trump's recognition of Israeli annexation of the Golan Heights, his support for Netanyahu was seen as connected to the US administration's Middle East peace plan.

Most of the 26,000 members of the Druze religious community in the Golan Heights have refused assimilation into the Israeli state and nearly all of them boycotted Israel's first-ever attempt to hold municipal elections in the territory in October 2018.

International media outlets reported that around 20,000 Israeli settlers currently live in the Golan Heights.
Ranchi, May 12 : Four people were killed on Sunday in Jharkahnd's Giridih district when some men were unloading explosives from a motorcycle, police said.

The incident took place in Pandanatand village when Siraj Ansari along with Jabbar Mia were unloading the explosives.

The explosives suddenly went off, killing three people instantly and injuring three others, one of whom died while being given medical treatment.

A police officer said the explosives were to be used for blasting the rocky surface to make a well.
Lucknow, May 12 : Sporadic violence, scuffles and allegations of vote rigging marked the sixth phase of the Lok Sabha elections in Uttar Pradesh in which polling was held on 14 seats.

The voter turnout was recorded at 50.6 per cent at 5.p.m., which was comparatively lower, mainly due to intense heat wave conditions prevailing in the eastern parts of the state.

The highest voter turnout was in Ambedkar Nagar where 55.24 per cent polling was recorded. The lowest turnout of 46 per cent was in Phulpur.

The 14 seats that went go to polls in the sixth phase are Sultanpur, Pratapgarh, Allahabad, Phulpur, Ambedkar Nagar, Shravasti, Dumariaganj, Basti, Sant Kabir Nagar, Lalganj, Azamgarh, Jaunpur, Machhlishahr and Bhadohi.

A total of 177 candidates contested in these 14 constituencies, where 2.53 crore people were eligible to vote at 16,998 polling centres.

Reports of violence came from Azamgarh where the convoy of Samajwadi Party leader Durga Yadav was attacked on Sunday evening. Samajwdai leaders lodged complaints of polling officials casting fake votes and also preventing elderly voters from casting their votes.

The Samajwadi Party lodged complaints with the Election Commission in this regard.

Samajwadi Party President Akhilesh Yadav is a candidate from Azamgarh and he is pitted against BJP candidate and Bhojpuri star Dinesh Lal Yadav Nirahua.

In Jaunpur, violence was reported when a man was seen wiping his shoes with a BJP flag. BJP supporters beat up the man which led to clashes, and the police had to resort to lathi-charge to disperse the mob. Polling was not affected during the incident.

In Sultanpur, tension prevailed throughout the day after BJP candidate Maneka Gandhi accused her BSP rival Sonu Singh of 'terrorising' voters. Sonu Singh, who came face to face with Maneka Gandhi at one point, said that he was being unnecessarily targeted by the ruling BJP.

In Bhadohi, BJP MLA Dinanath Bhaskar allegedly beat up a presiding official in the Aurai Assembly segment after accusing the officer of deliberately slowing down the polling process.

Allegations of booth capturing by BJP supporters in Phulpur were leveled by the other candidates. When the police tried to remove the BJP supporters form the polling station, they pelted stones in which two policemen were injured.
Mumbai, May 12 : Mother's Day on Sunday turned out to be an occasion for Bollywood celebrities to share heartfelt moments and memories of their mothers with their fans.

Anupam Kher, Sonam Kapoor, Rishi Kapoor, Karan Johar and Alia Bhatt were some of the celebrities who took to their Instagram or Twitter accounts to ensure a post dedicated to their mother.

Veteran actor Anupam, who keeps treating his social media family with 'Dulari Rocks' videos of his mother, tweeted: "Every day is a Mother's Day, says mom... I agree with her. Mothers need to be celebrated 365 days."

Rishi, who is in New York for medical treatment, and his niece Karisma shared family pictures to mark the day.

The veteran actor chose a photograph in which his late mother Krishna Raj Kapoor is seen seated surrounded by her three sons - Rishi, Randhir and Rajiv. He titled it "Lasting memories". In another post, he shared a black-and-white photograph in which he is seen dancing with his mother, who looks her impeccable and elegant self.

Karisma took to Instagram to share a photograph in which she is seen holding nephew Taimur Ali Khan, and also seen in the frame are her mother Babita and sister Kareena.

"Coz family is everything. Happy Mother's Day. Strong moms."

Actresses Sonali Bendre and Sonam Kapoor made sure to acknowledge the support of their respect mothers and mothers-in-law.

Sonali tweeted: "As I've realized, life doesn't come with an instruction manual... it comes with a mother. That's all the assurance a child needs, no matter how old they grow up to be. I'm blessed to have twice the assurance in the form of my Aai and my Mom in my life - Happy Mother's Day.

Sonam wrote two seperate Instagram posts.

In one, she shared her childhood photograph with her mother Sunita Kapoor, and captioned: "Happy Mother's Day to the most loving and special person in my life. You are my strength and grace, my heart and courage. Mom, I love you so much, one day a year doesn't even begin to sum up how important you are to me and to our whole family."

For her mother-in-law, Sonam wrote: "Happy Mama's Day to the most elegant, kind and loving person I know... I love you mom. Thanks for being so selfless. Anand and I are together because of your prayers and blessings. Love you lots."

Alia and Janhvi Kapoor also chose childhood photographs to pay tribute to their moms, as did superstar Aamir Khan.

"My happy place," Alia captioned the cute picture with her mother Soni Razdan, while Janhvi, daughter of late actress Sridevi, posted: "Cherish them, listen to them, give them all the love in the world. Happy Mother's Day."

"Ammi and me. Best Mom in the world," tweeted Aamir with a black and white photograph from his younger days.

Filmmaker Karan Johar shared a sweet picture in which he is seen kissing his mother Hiroo Johar on her forehead, and wrote an "Avengers: Endgame" inspired message for her.

"Mothers are superheroes that fight the infinite wars for their children and make sure there is never an end game in their lives! Happy Mother's Day to my superhero! Love you so much mom," he wrote.

Actress Shraddha Kapoor shared a series of photographs, and wrote: "My mommy, my life, my everything. Your selfless love, your magic, the way that you do anything that you do, inspires me to want to be just like you."

Shilpa Shetty Kundra made sure to get her mother and son bitten by the fitness bug.

"This is how our Mother's Day started... 'Family that does yoga together stays healthy together'. Happy Mother's Day to all those wonderful, strong, multitasking supermoms. My wish and prayer for you all is that you are in the pink of health, always. Take care of yourself to be able to take care of your family."
Mumbai, May 12 : Celebrity chef-turned-filmmaker Vikas Khanna will join a masterclass 'Life through a Different Lens' with Academy Award-winning actress Julianne Moore and others at the 72nd Cannes Film Festival.

Khanna will walk the red carpet of the gala on its opening night on May 14, and he will take part in the masterclass a day later with Moore, German film director Werner Herzog, actor Xavier Dolan and others.

This will be followed by a special screening of his directorial debut movie "The Last Color" at Marche Du Film Section at the film jamboree on May 16. Khanna will also be a part of 'Power of Imagination - In Conversation with Vikas Khanna' at the India Pavilion.

Talking about his itinerary at the gala this year, Khanna said in a statement: "I am looking forward to walking the red carpet at the opening night of the 72nd Festival De Cannes. I feel honoured to be a part of 'Life through a Different Lens' along with Julianne Moore and other eclectic filmmakers and artists inspite of just being one film old.

"I feel humbled to see the love and appreciation that the film 'The Last Color' has been receiving on international platforms. Cannes Film Festival holds a special place as the journey of 'The Last Color' began in Cannes with its first look being launched last season, and here I am back for the special screening of the movie."

"The Last Color", featuring veteran actress Neena Gupta, was a part of the opening night of the Atlanta India International Film Festival, and will also be showcased at the closing night at New York Indian Film Festival (NYIFF) on Sunday. A special pink carpet has been created celebrating Mother's Day at NYIFF with pink scarves for all attendees and everyone to wear a touch of pink celebrating motherhood.

"Mothers Day is the perfect occasion and resonates with our movie 'The Last Color'," Khanna said.
Guwahati, May 12 : Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal on Sunday inspected the 33 highlands created in the Kaziranga National Park for sheltering wildlife during floods and asked the authorities to ensure safe shelter, adequate food and treatment to for animals who could be affected.

The Chief Minister visited the Agaratoli range of the park and directed the Forest Department to keep adequate quantity of foodstuffs ready for the animals.

"No animal of the park should die during floods due to scarcity of food and medicines. The Forest and Veterinary Departments must put in joint efforts to work out a strategy to ensure that no animal dies due to these reasons during floods," the Chief Minister said.

He also asked the park authorities to create amenities for the tourists, including revamping roads in the Agoratoli range.

While the Kaziranga National Park authorities have stopped the jeep safari inside the park from May 1 this year, the tourist season will come to an end on May 16. The park will be reopened for tourists on November 1.

The Chief Minister also directed officials to take steps for making the entire stretch of the National Park more attractive for tourists including the 1.2 km Sohola Beel in the Agaratoli range.

He also asked the Forest Department to prepare exclusive profiles for Kohora, Bagori and Agoratoli ranges, which, according to him, would serve as ready reckoners for both domestic and foreign tourists.

Sonowal also asked the Forest Department and local administration to use the services of people living in fringe areas of the park for creating a common platform where the tourists would get the taste and feel of local delicacies, customs, culture, traditions and way of life.

"At the same time, the park authority must ensure that the presence of tourists do not affect the natural habitat of the flora and fauna," he said.

He also reiterated the need for constructing a helipad near the national park for the convenience of tourists and assured all government help in this regard.
Islamabad, May 12 : At least five people lost their lives in a terror attack targeting a five-star hotel in Pakistan's port city of Gwadar in Balochistan province, the Army's media wing said on Sunday as it announced the conclusion of its clearance operation of the establishment.

Four hotel employees -- three staffers and a security guard -- as well as a Navy soldier were killed, while six people, including two Army captains, two Navy soldiers and two hotel employees were injured as gunmen stormed the Pearl Continental hotel on Saturday, the ISPR said in a statement.

The attack was claimed by the outlawed Balochistan Liberation Army and the clearance operation at the hotel continued until late at night.

The Army on Sunday announced that security forces had completed the operation at the hotel in which all three terrorists were killed, Dawn online reported.

According to authorities, the gunmen attacked the hotel in Gwadar with the intention of taking hostages, but they were challenged by the hotel's security guards.

Staff raised the alarm "denying them entry into the main hall and the terrorists went to the staircase leading to upper floors", the ISPR said, adding that the armed men "kept firing indiscriminately" and killed four hotel employees.

According to the ISPR, the gunmen were barricaded in a corridor on the fourth floor by the swift arrival of the Pakistani armed forces. Army and Navy officers then proceeded to evacuate residents of the hotel and the staff.

Authorities said the terrorists had made the CCTV cameras dysfunctional and planted IEDs at all entry points leading to the fourth floor. But the security forces "made special entry points to get into fourth floor, shot down all terrorists and cleared planted IEDs".

Prime Minister Imran Khan termed the attack as a bid to "sabotage prosperity" in the area.

A hotel spokesman said there were no guests (at the time of the attack) and few staff were present due to Ramzan. However, earlier reports said that hotel guests had been evacuated safely.

The terror group said that the hotel -- the centrepiece of a multi-billion dollar Chinese project -- was selected in order to target Chinese and other investors.

The hotel sits on a hilltop overlooking the Gwadar port on the Arabian Sea, which is being developed by China as part of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, a network of roads, rail lines and pipelines between the two countries.
Mandalay: Myanmar Airline's Embraer E190 aircraft (ERJ-190LR) from Yangon to Mandalay which made an emergency landing after its front landing gear failed to deploy at Mandalay International Airport, on May 12, 2019. The aircraft landed with its nose Image Source: IANS News

Mandalay: Myanmar Airline's Embraer E190 aircraft (ERJ-190LR) from Yangon to Mandalay which made an emergency landing after its front landing gear failed to deploy at Mandalay International Airport, on May 12, 2019. The aircraft landed with its nose Image Source: IANS News

Naypyitaw, May 12 : A Myanmar National Airlines plane with 89 people on board made an emergency landing at Mandalay International Airport on Sunday, with only its rear wheels after the front landing gear failed to deploy.

The Embraer 190 aircraft skidded down the runway at the airport before grinding to a stop. The pilot managed to land the plane on its nose, causing no injuries to the dozens of passengers and crew on board.

Captain Myat Moe Aung circled the airport twice to allow air traffic controllers to determine if the landing gear was down, the airline was cited as saying by the BBC.

The aircraft had departed from Yangon and was approaching Mandalay when the pilot was unable to extend the front landing gear. He followed emergency procedures and burned excess fuel to reduce the aircraft's weight, according to the airline.

A video of the landing showed the plane landing on its rear wheels before the nose touched down on the runway. The plane skidded for about 25 seconds before it stopped.

The incident was the second aviation accident in Myanmar this week.

On Wednesday, a Biman Bangladesh Airlines plane skidded off the runway when it landed in bad weather at Yangon International Airport, injuring 17 people.
Lee Na-geum, mother of Kwon Dae-hee who died from "ghost surgery" in September 2016, protests in front of the National Assembly, Seoul, April 8, to call for CCTV installation in hospital operating rooms. Kwon died while receiving jaw surgery done by a doctor operating on multiple patients at once. /Courtesy of Korea Alliance of Patients Organization



By Bahk Eun-ji



Doctors who employ people without medical licenses to perform "ghost surgery" will face prison terms, according to the health ministry and Rep. Kim Sang-hee of the Democratic Party of Korea, Sunday.



The ruling party lawmaker submitted a revision bill to the Medical Act recently in an effort to secure patients' safety and rights by eradicating ghost surgery, a practice where a patient's surgeon is replaced with an unlicensed employee or other person in the operating theater without the patient's knowledge after anesthesia is administered.



The revision plan follows several cases where patients died after receiving surgery from unqualified people, including a medical equipment salesman.



According to the revision bill, doctors will face up to three years in prison or 30 million won ($25,460) in fines if they allow unlicensed people to perform medical activity or have a medical staff member carry out any procedure beyond their legal qualification.



Currently, such doctors are not being punished  only the "ghost surgeons" can get up to five years in prison or 50 million won in fines. Punishments for doctors include license suspension or up to one year of a hospital shutdown.



The lawmaker also proposed another revision bill to suspend the business or revoke the license of companies manufacturing, importing, selling or leasing medical devices if officials of the companies order or urge sales staff to perform ghost surgery on behalf of "client" doctors.



In May last year, an orthopedic surgeon in Busan ordered a medical device salesman to perform shoulder surgery, and the patient died. At another orthopedics hospital in Paju, Gyeonggi Province, a patient died while receiving spine surgery by a medical device salesman in November. Another patient there died after surgery by a doctor whose license had been revoked.



After the series of accidents, the Korean Medical Association, a doctors' group, announced self-reform measures, demanding strong punishment for surgeons and hospitals that violate the Medical Service Act and abandon medical ethics.



Patients' groups have also called for the protection of patients' rights to ensure safe surgery, such as installing surveillance cameras inside operating rooms to prevent ghost surgery.



"Medical institutions can save on huge labor costs if they make unlicensed medical device salespeople perform surgery instead of surgeons, but it is the patients who are harmed," said Ahn Ki-jong, president of the Korea Alliance of Patients Organization. Ahn urged hospitals to install surveillance cameras inside operating rooms.



The group also called on the authorities to name the doctors and hospitals caught for ghost surgery and to take administrative action.










Kolkata, May 12 : From a BJP worker getting killed in Jhargram to party workers sustaining bullet injuries and candidates getting heckled -- widespread violence again marred the sixth phase of Lok Sabha elections in West Bengal on Sunday.

But despite the clashes, 79.93 per cent of the 1,33,56,964 voters exercised their franchise till 5 p.m. in the eight constituencies spread across five districts which went to the polls in sixth phase, the Election Commission said.

Tamluk recorded the highest polling percentage at 82.99 per cent, followed by Bishnupur (81.90 per cent), Jhargram (81.68 per cent), Ghatal (80.35 per cent), Kanthi (80.06 per cent), Purulia (78.64 per cent), Midnapore (78.17 per cent) and Bankura (75.68 per cent).

There are 83 candidates in the fray in the penultimate phase of polling in the state which is voting in all the seven phases of the staggered Lok Sabha elections. For the BJP, which is aiming to make it big in the state, the sixth phase is perhaps the most crucial one as its includes four constituencies with sizeable tribal population, a section the party has been wooing.

Violence was reported from various parts of the state even before polling began and a middle-aged BJP activist was killed in Jhargram district in the tribal heartland of the state.

Ramen Singh (30) from Gopiballavpur sustained grievous head injury after being hit with an iron rod. Singh was rushed to a hospital where he was declared dead, the police said. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) later accused that miscreants backed by the Trinamool Congress were behind the crime.

In West Midnapore district's Ghatal, BJP candidate and former IPS officer Bharati Ghosh was forced to take shelter inside a temple beside the Keshpur police station after being heckled and chased by Trinamool supporters, who accused her of instigating disturbance in the area. Ghosh was rescued by the security personnel after nearly two hours.

The mob led by Trinamool Congress supporters got infuriated after one of her security guards allegedly opened fire, injuring a Trinamool worker in the arm.

Locals alleged that Ghosh herself had directed her security guards to fire at the mob near a polling station after her convoy was stopped by a group of agitators.

"Voting was going on peacefully. But Ghosh came in a convoy of nearly 15 cars and tried to intimidate the voters. When the locals tried to stop her, she asked her security personnel to fire at them. One Trinamool supporter received bullet injury in his hand," a local said.

Denying the allegations, Ghosh accused the state administration of deliberately stopping her convoy to heckle her and impede her from visiting the polling booths.

"If my security guard has opened fire, the police should lodge an FIR against him, check his gun and match the bullet that has been fired. But why are they stopping me? As a candidate, I am entitled to travel across the constituency and visit the polling stations. It is a conspiracy by the state administration as I am trying stop the Trinamool from rigging," Ghosh said, adding that she was not happy with the role played the Election Commission.

Ghosh was earlier stopped from entering a polling booth in Ghatal by a group of women, said to be Trinamool Congress workers, who accused her of influencing the voters.

Later, bricks were pelted on her convoy near Keshpur, injuring one of her security guards, as her car, along with some other vehicles belonging to the media, were vandalised.

Her security personnel claimed that they had to fire in the air in a bid to control the situation and to save their own lives.

Ghosh also alleged she was assaulted by the agitating Trinamool supporters.

Meanwhile, Deepak (Dev) Adhikari, the actor-turned-politician and the sitting Trinamool MP from Ghatal, visited to the house of party worker injured in the firing and accused his rival Ghosh of trying to trigger unrest in the area.

"She (Ghosh) has been trying to cause unrest in the area by intimidating the locals for the last few days. But not a single Trinamool activist said anything to her. Today she did the same, but the villagers in Keshpur resisted. I do not want this. Polling should happen in a peaceful manner," Adhikari said.

In East Midnapore's Kanthi, shots were fired by unidentified assailants which injured two BJP activists -- Ananta Guchit and Ranjit Maiti -- who were rushed to a hospital in Kolkata. The saffron party has blamed the Trinamool-backed miscreants for the incident.

Incidents of violence and clashes were also reported from Midnapore, where BJP's state unit chief Dilip Ghosh is engaged in a high-profile battle with Trinamool Congress Rajya Sabha member Manas Bhunia.

At least four Trinamool workers had to be hospitalised after being attacked with sharp objects allegedly by the BJP supporters. The condition of one person was said to be critical, Bhunia said.

The Trinamool workers also staged a protest demonstration against Dilip Ghosh, who was denied entry into some polling booths in Rampura area where alleged proxy voting by Trinamool supporters was reported.

In other incidents, a Trinamool camp office in Belda in West Midnapore district was ransacked allegedly by BJP workers, leaving four Trinamool workers injured.

Meanwhile, a number of BJP supporters received injuries in Datan in East Midnapore following a clash with some Trinamool workers.

In Kanthi, the body of a Trinamool worker, Sudhakar Maity (40), having serious injury marks on the head was recovered hours before the voting started on Sunday.

While Trinamool leader and state Minister Suvendu Adhikari said that it was a case of accident, the party's local leaders accused BJP supporters of killing Maity.

"The body of Sudhakar Maity was found with injury marks on the back of his head. The cause of death would be ascertained after the post-mortem," the police said.

A total of 770 companies of central forces have been deployed in the state's tribal heartland, as well as for the seats in Junglemahal, once a hotbed of Maoist activities.

The remaining nine of the 42 Lok Sabha constituencies in the state will vote in the seventh and final phase on May 19. The votes will be counted on May 23.
New Delhi, May 12 : In an embarrassing goof-up, Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's husband Robert Vadra on Sunday used the flag of Paraguay instead of the Tricolour to spread awareness about the Lok Sabha elections on social media, inviting ridicule from netizens.

"Our right our strength !! Everyone must step out n vote...we need all support, to create a combined future for our loved ones, n for a secular, safe productive future of our country," Vadra tweeted with a joined hands emoji, the Indian Parliament and a Paraguayan flag, along with a photo of his inked finger after casting his vote.

The tweet, which became the butt of jokes on social media, remained for over four hours on his Twitter page.

Soon after the goof-up, Vadra was mercilessly trolled on social media, following which he deleted the tweet.

A user said, "Robert Vadra Declared Himself A Paraguayan Citizen On 12th May, 2019".

Another sarcastically asked, "Voted for BJP right?"

Though Vadra posted a correct caption on his Facebook page, he however failed to check the offending flag while posting it on Twitter.

Hours later he deleted the tweet and posted the screenshot of his Facebook post which had the Indian flag in the caption.
New Delhi, May 12 : Model polling booths -- an initiative of the Election Commission -- were the centre of attraction for the electorate across Delhi who turned up at these booths to exercise their franchise.

Cool air blowing from special air coolers at the entry gate and one rose being gifted to each voter surprised all, leading them to feel it was an arrangement similar to any festive occasion.

Besides, colourful tents covering the entire distance from the entrance gates to the polling booths established inside the school buildings was also a soothing experience for the voters.

Unlike the usual polling booths, garlands were hanging on the entry gates and carpets were laid on the ground making it a unique experience for the voters when they arrived at these model booths at 7 a.m. to cast their votes.

Chairs for taking rest, special volunteers for helping voters to find their right polling stations, coffee vending machines, health kits, waiting area and creche facilities for the kids coming with the electorate were among the other unique initiatives at these booths.

Of the 13,816 polling stations established at 2,700 locations in all the seven parliamentary constituencies in Delhi, 70 were model polling booths -- one in each assembly constituency -- to attract thousands of voters. There are over 1.43 crore voters on Delhi's electoral rolls. Of the total electorate of 1,43,16,453, 78,73,022 are male and 64,43,431 female, while 669 belong to the third gender.

The model polling stations also offered clean drinking water facilities.

Arvind Gupta, a police officer deputed at the Ashok Nagar model polling booth in East Delhi parliamentary constituency, told IANS: "Such booths are not less than a small festive arrangement. People really enjoyed it, specially those who turned up after 10 a.m. They felt relaxed with the cool air and a rosy welcome at the entrance of the booth after facing the scorching heat outside."

"Chairs in the waiting area and cold drinking water facility are really a good step," said Priyanshu Rai, a first time voter from Mayur Vihar Phase III.

Darpana Vaish, a resident of GD Colony, told IANS that she had never seen such facilities in any polling station ever before.

Model booths are aimed at attracting voters to encourage them to cast their votes, Anganwadi employee Vibha Upadhyay, who was deputed at the Bharti Public School polling booth in East Delhi, told IANS.

Upadhyay was deputed at the booth to handle the creche facility for the kids accompanying the voters.

Showing a list of 54 voters who handed over their kids to her before going to exercise their franchise, Upadhyay said: "A group of our team members are taking care of these children. We note down names, contact numbers, voter ID card details of each voter who leaves his or her child here in this temporary creche."

A group of three Class 12 students of a government school in Vasundhara Enclave -- Devyani, Anshul Shiva and Anuragini Bhargav -- who were active volunteers at the Bharti Public School model booth, said they were given a one-day training before their deployment at the booth.

"We were given training in sign language to help those voters who have a hearing problem. Besides, we were trained how to help other voters," they said.

(Rajnish Singh can be contacted at rajnish.s@ians.in)
Agartala, May 12 : Around 77 per cent of the 141,251 voters cast their votes during the re-polling at 168 polling stations in the Tripura West parliamentary constituency on Sunday, election officials said.

In the troubled-marred polling on April 11 in the first phase of the Lok Sabha election, 83.15 per cent turnout was recorded.

According to Deputy Inspector General of Police, Southern Range, Arindam Nath, voting in the 26 Assembly segments was peaceful with no major incident reported from anywhere in the constituency.

Voting began amidst unprecedented security at 7 a.m. and formally ended at 5 p.m.

A total of 141,251 voters, including 69,328 women, were eligible to exercise their franchise to choose between 13 candidates, including a woman, in the fray.

Over 7,000 security personnel from central paramilitary forces and the Tripura State Rifles were deployed to ensure free and fair re-poll.

Returning Officer Vikas Singh told IANS that only paramilitary troopers were deployed at the polling stations, and voters braved soaring summer temperatures to come and cast their ballots.

Singh, the District Magistrate and Collector of the West Tripura district, said in view of the rising temperature and humidity, the administration had arranged temporary sheds and drinking water for voters.

According to the Meteorological Department, in the past one week the maximum temperature has been hovering around 38 degree Celsius, four-five degrees above the average.

Police spokesman Subrata Chakraborty said no untoward incident was reported from anywhere in the poll-bound areas spread across four districts. "Snags in voting machines halted polling in few places for a while, but these were corrected soon," Chakraborty told IANS.

The Election Commission ecided to conduct re-poll in 168 of the total of 1,679 polling stations of the constituency due to electoral malpractices during voting on April 11.

Allegations of malpractices, intimidation and violence forced the EC to appoint former Deputy Election Commissioner Vinod Zutshi as Special Observer and remove Returning Officer Sandeep Mahatme and Additional Director General of Police (Law and Order) Rajiv Singh.

An unprecedented number of election officials were suspended and a large number of FIRs were filed by the assistant returning officers against micro observers, polling officers and political activists who either indulged in malpractices or remained mute spectators during this period.

Meanwhile, the Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) and the Congress have approached the Supreme Court for fresh polling in the entire constituency.
New Delhi: 111-year old Bachchan Singh, said to be Delhi's oldest voter. (Photo: IANS) Image Source: IANS News

New Delhi: 111-year old Bachchan Singh, said to be Delhi's oldest voter. (Photo: IANS) Image Source: IANS News

New Delhi, May 12 : Bachan Singh is among the millions who voted in the capital on Sunday in the penultimate phase of the general election, but he is unique because of his vintage.

At the ripe old age of 111, Bachan Singh is Delhi's oldest voter.

His house is within 100 metres of one of the biggest drains in Nihal Vihar in west Delhi.

The road to his house is made of construction debris, and large potholes around the house have turned it into a breeding ground for mosquitoes.

Bachan, who was a carpenter and only talks in Punjabi, claims to be a staunch Congress supporter, and identifies himself as a follower of the non-violence movement initiated by Mahatma Gandhi.

He has been voting since the first election in the country after independence in 1951 and he had voted for the Congress then.

"In the first election of the country, I voted for Congress as it was the only political party which had sworn to fight against poverty, but politically, things have not changed much," said Bachan in Punjabi, translated by his grandson Gurcharan Singh.

Bachan, a Namdhari Sikh, is fluent in Urdu and Punjabi and proudly hails his ancestral connection with Pakistan.

The family has traditionally voted for the Congress because the country's first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru "supported Namdhari Sikhs at the time of partition".

According to his family, he believes in the ethos of non-violence, but often expressed grief that the same has disappeared from the existing political discourse.

In allegiance to non-violence, Bachan throughout his life only wore white clothes - kurta-pyjama, with a white turban.

On Sunday, special arrangements were made by the Election Commission to facilitate the centenarian's visit to the polling station in Sant Garh.

"He was ferried to the polling station in a car and then, inside the booth, a wheelchair was arranged and the officials escorted him to the voting machine. It made him feel very special," said his grandson, Gurcharan, who is also a professional carpenter.

As usual, clad in a white kurta-pyjama with a white turban, Bachan seemed to be unhappy, as he was late for voting.

"He has never been late to vote. On voting day, he would be the first to cast his vote. Until a few years ago, he used to ride a bicycle, but after a paralysis attack last year, his speech and body movement has been limited," added Gurcharan.

But surprisingly, on Sunday at the polling booth, he could fairly identify the Congress symbol on the electronic voting machine.

"I have voted for the party with whom I identify myself," said Bachan, despite his impaired speech.

The younger generation in his family support the Aam Aadmi Party, saying its councillors have undertaken many infrastructure-related initiatives, and believe the party should be given a chance to govern at the Centre.

(Sumit Saxena can be contacted at sumit.s@ians.in)
Kollkata, May 12 : Amid "sporadic violence" that left 26 people injured, firing by central forces at five places, and lodging of FIRs against two BJP candidates, West Bengal's Chief Electoral Officer Aariz Aftab on Sunday said the sixth phase of Lok Sabha elections in the state passed off "peacefully".

An FIR was lodged against the BJP's Ghatal constituency candidate, former IPS officer Bharati Ghosh and her security personnel for allegedly firing four rounds in Dugachia causing an injury to a person while another FIR was lodged against the BJP state President and Midnapore candidate Dilip Ghosh for creating disturbances, causing law and order issues, Additional Director General, Law and Order, S.N. Gupta said.

"Barring some sporadic violence in Ghatal constituency, overall voting has been very peaceful in this sixth phase Lok Sabha elections," Aftab told reporters.

Gupta said central forces had to fire at five places, including at Dugachia, in order to control the situation.

"An FIR was lodged against Ghatal constituency candidate and her security personnel for allegedly firing four rounds of bullets at Dugachia at Keshpur. Bakhtiar Khan, who was injured in the firing, lodged the complaint. Another FIR was lodged against Midnapore candidate Dilip Ghosh after the public at Rampuria area lodged a complaint against him for creating disturbances," he told reporters.

A suo motu FIR was lodged against some miscreants who created violence and disturbances in two booths at Gudgoria Primary School in Keshpur under Ghatal constituency, Gupta said.

Incidentally, Bharati Ghosh was stopped from entering these two polling booths by a group of women, said to be Trinamool workers, who accused her of influencing voters.

Overall 26 people were injured in the phase of polls and three of them have bullet injuries, Gupta said, adding that 16 vehicles have been damaged.

"Some 16 persons have been arrested so far," he said.

Apart from the Dugachia incident, central forces opened fire in a clash at Bhagabanpore-Sabang area. Two persons were injured and they were admitted to the NRS Medical College in Kolkata.

"In late afternoon, central forces had to fire during violent incidents at East Kidnapper's Mayna, Jhargram's Gopiballavpur and Kalabagan in Bishnupur in order to control the situation," he said.

Aftab said a person identified as Sudhakar Maity in Kanthi died on Saturday night "due to an accident".
New Delhi, May 12 : Representatives of 20 election bodies from across the world witnessed the ongoing Lok Sabha elections in Delhi and around, the Election Commission said on Sunday.

"Heads and representatives of 20 Election Management Bodies (EMBs) from across the world, namely Australia, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Fiji, Georgia, Kenya, Republic of Korea (South Korea), Kyrgyzstan, Malaysia, Mexico, Myanmar, Romania, Russia, Sri Lanka, Suriname, United Arab Emirates, Uzbekistan and Zimbabwe and International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (IDEA) have arrived in New Delhi to witness the ongoing General Elections," the poll panel said.

"More than 65 such delegates have been invited by Election Commission of India to join the Election Visitors Programme," the poll panel said.

The delegates visited various polling stations in North West Delhi, East Delhi, Chandni Chowk, South Delhi as well as Gurugram in neighbouring Haryana through the day to see the polling in action and the festive air that surrounds polling.

They visited some polling stations which are managed entirely by women polling staff as also some model polling stations with the best of facilities for the voters.

On May 11, the eve of elections to the sixth phase, the delegates visited South Delhi, East Delhi, Chandni Chowk, West Delhi and Gurgaon Parliamentary constituencies to get a glimpse of the poll preparedness activities, dispatch of polling parties and the massive logistic arrangements put in place to ensure a free, fair and festive elections.

Thereafter, the delegation visited the India International Institute of Democracy and Election Management (IIIDEM), the new training and research campus of the EC located at Dwarka which has the capacity to train close to 900 personnel at one go.

They interacted with the polling officials and understood the procedures and processes that make our elections so credible and transparent, the EC said.
Kolkata, May 12 : West Bengal BJP President Dilip Ghosh on Sunday said that the central forces had "every right" to open fire in adverse situations, adding that the miscreants attacking the security personnel should be "shot on the chest".

Violence marred the sixth phase of Lok Sabha elections in the eight parliamentary constituencies in the state on Sunday in which at least 26 people were injured and 16 vehicles were damaged.

The central forces opened fire in five places, injuring three persons, including one in Ghatal Lok Sabha constituency's Keshpur area, where BJP candidate Bharati Ghosh's convoy came under attack, causing head injury to one of her security personnel.

"There have been constant attacks on Bharati Ghosh and her body guards. Stones were pelted on her car. Even one of her security personnel was injured. So if their (central forces) lives or people's lives are under threat, they should fire. I think the miscreants should have been shot on the chest, not on feet," Ghosh said.

"The central force personnel carry guns for security reasons and they are entitled to use them in adverse situations. Those are real guns, not toys," Ghosh added.
Bhopal, May 12 : A turnout of 60.48 per cent was recorded in eight Lok Sabha seats of Madhya Pradesh which went to polls in the penultimate phase of the seven stage general elections on Sunday, amid stray incidents of violence.

In Bhind, top candidates were placed under restraint to ensure smooth polling.

Eight constituencies went to polls in the state's third phase, including the high-profile Bhopal constituency where former Chief Minister Digvijaya Singh faced the BJP's Sadhvi Pragya Singh Thakur, and Guna from where Congress General Secretary Jyotiraditya Scindia is contesting.

According to the state Chief Electoral Officer, the highest turnout was recorded in Rajgarh at 68.9 per cent, followed by Vidisha with 66.35 per cent and Guna at 65.11. The lowest voting was in Bhind at 51.59 per cent.

Bhopal recorded 61.71 per cent voting.

Polling percentages in the other constituencies was Morena with 54.36 per cent, Gwalior at 56.39 and Sagar at 60.61 per cent.

Polling was brisk in all eight seats with long queues of voters forming since the morning. Some instances of EVM malfunctions were reported but soon rectified by poll officials. There were reports of booth capturing or clashes in Alampur area of Bhind and Khurai in Sagar.

Several incidents were reported from polling booths in Bhind, after which the district administration confined the candidates of the Congress, the Bharatiya Janata Party and the Bahujan Samaj Party at a official guest house. Several other Congress and BJP leaders were also restrained.

More than 14,400,000 voters were eligible to decide the fate of 138 candidates, including 14 women. A total of 45,053 security personnel, including 85 companies of central paramilitary forces and 30 of state armed police, were deployed to ensure free and fair polling.

This phase was straight battle between the BJP and the Congress. The polls are a major challenge for the former as it had lost power in the state last year after 15 years.

Apart from the most keenly-watched Bhopal constituency, other major contests included Guna, where Scindia, who has been representing the seat since 2002, faces his former aide K.P. Yadav, who has now switched over the BJP. Yadav was Scindia's aide till January last year.

In Morena, which is the birthplace of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and a BJP stronghold, the party has fielded Union Minister Narendra Singh Tomar against the Congress' Ram Niwas Rawat.

In Rajgarh, Congress' Mona Sustani was pitted against BJP's Rodmal Nagar, Vivek Sejwalkar of the BJP is taking on Ashok Singh of the Congress in Gwalior, and the contest in Vidisha, which was earlier held by Union Minister Sushma Swaraj, is between the BJP's Ramakant Bhargava and the Congress' Shailendra Patel.

In Bhind and Sagar, there are new faces on both sides. Sandhya Rai of the BJP is pitted against Devasish Jararia of the Congress in Bhind, while Rajbahadur Singh (BJP) faced Prabhu Singh Thakur (Congress) in Sagar.
New Delhi, May 12 : Among its other initiatives, the Election Commission (EC) on Sunday made special arrangements for the handicapped people as well as centenarian voters across Delhi during the sixth phase of Lok Sabha elections.

The EC also deployed Accessibility Observers (AO) for the elections to ensure maximum participation by people with disabilities and those who are above 90 years of age.

By appointing civil defence personnel, the EC ensured that all the handicapped persons and centenarian voters could use the vehicles positioned to help them visit their nearby polling stations to exercise their franchise.

At least three to five civil defence personnel were deployed in each of the 13,816 polling stations established at 2,700 locations in all the seven parliamentary constituencies in Delhi.

Two to three wheel chairs were available at every polling booth while a four-wheel vehicle was arranged to pick and drop the handicapped and centenarian voters of the area covering maximum number of polling stations.

The handicapped and centenarian people, as per the information shared by civil defence staff Ajit Kumar Singh, were even telephoned a day before polling to inform them about the vehicle arrangements.

Food was also arranged for the handicapped persons in some polling booths, Singh, who was on duty at the Bharti Public School polling booth in Mayur Vihar Phase III, told IANS.

"We contacted the family of every handicapped and centenarian voter on Saturday over telephone, asking them to avail the vehicle facilities being provided by the Election Commission if they needed it. We brought the handicapped voters to their respective polling booths and dropped them home after they cast their votes," Singh said.

Asked about the number of civil defence staff deployed in each polling booth, Singh said the numbers varied as per the need. "However, three to four civil defence staff were deputed in each polling booth. Our booth had five persons, including two women," he said.

Another civil defence staff at Ghazipur polling station, Anuj Saxena, said that wheelchair facility was provided by the EC for many elections held in the past, but the vehicle facility was a new initiative.

"The move is aimed at encouraging the handicapped and centenarian voters to exercise their fundamental right. The EC's aim is to give such voters special attention so that they could feel how important they are for the government."

Of the 1.43 crore voters in Delhi, there are around 2,000 handicapped voters and 90 voters above the age of 100 years.

(Rajnish Singh can be contacted at rajnish.s@ians.in)
Freed French hostages Patrick Picque and Laurent Lassimouillas stand next to a South Korean hostage as they talk to the media upon their arrival at the Villacoublay airport, in Velizy-Villacoublay, France May 11, 2019. Francois Guillot/Pool via REUTERS



A South Korean woman, who was rescued by the French military after nearly a month of captivity in the western African country of Burkina Faso, remains in good health, Seoul's foreign ministry said Sunday.



The Korean woman in her 40s was one of the four hostages freed from a militant group in the African nation after being held hostage for 28 days. Two French tourists and the Korean national were airlifted on a special plane and arrived in Paris on Saturday. Two French soldiers died in the rescue operation.



"A military hospital in France conducted medical checkups on her and said there is no particular problem with her health. The hospital said it plans to discharge her after conducting psychological treatment and monitoring the progress," a ministry official said.



The official said the woman talked with her family in Korea by phone and will return home as soon as possible if she has no health problem.









South Korean Ambassador to France Choi Jong-moon relayed to French President Emmanuel Macron President Moon Jae-in's expression of thanks for rescuing the Korean national and his condolences for the French victims, the ministry added.



The foreign ministry is considering raising a travel alert level in the region where the kidnapping occurred.





Unnamed freed South Korean hostage w walk on the tarmac after being welcomed by French President Emmanuel Macron at Villacoublay's military airport, west of Paris, France, Saturday, May 11, 2019. French President Emmanuel Macron greeted three ex-hostages liberated in Burkina Faso on French soil Saturday, one day after a pre-dawn military operation freed them but cost the lives of two French special forces officers, as well as four "terrorists."(Francois Guillot/Pool Photo via AP)





French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian and French Defence Minister Florence Parly walk alongside freed French hostages Patrick Picque and Laurent Lassimouillas and a South Korean hostage as they arrive at the Villacoublay airport, in Velizy-Villacoublay, France May 11, 2019. Francois Guillot/Pool via REUTERS
Gurugram, May 12 : Over 58 per cent turnout was recorded in the Gurgaon Lok Sabha constituency on Sunday amid minor scuffles, officials said.

The voting percentage was recorded at 58.31 per cent till 8 p.m., with the maximum turnout in Rewari assembly segment at 70.56 per cent followed by Nuh at 70.24.

Ferojpur Jhirka and Punhana segments, which also come in Nuh district, recorded 70 and 63.37 per cent turnout, respectively.

In Gurugram district, the Sohna segment led at 68 per cent, followed by Gurugram assembly seat with 66 per cent polling, Pataudi (SC) with 53 and Badshahpur at 44 per cent.

The Bawal (SC) segment, in Rewari district, saw 64.36 per cent polling.

A scuffle was reported at two booths in Punhana in Nuh district after a large number of outsiders who did not have vote there created ruckus inside polling premises," Gurugram Deputy Commissioner and Returning Officer Amit Khatri said.

"Due to this, the voting was stopped for some time but resumed shortly afterwards as security forces took control of the situation. We have registered two separate FIRs in these two places and efforts are on to nab offenders," he said.

There was heated exchange of words between a woman BJP leader and a Congress leader in Farrukhnagar sub town after they reached the polling booth at the same time and confronted each other.

While polling officials said that the overall turnout was below expectations as they had estimated it to reach 70 per cent, a large number of voters had complained that voter identity cards had not reached their houses.

Such a situation arose with many voters of upscale DLF phase 2 in Gurugram. The official concerned had the new voter I-cards with him at a polling booth located at American Public school but residents did not find their names in the voter list.

"My entire family has recently applied for voter I-cards. The officials claimed that the I-cards would reach my house. As this did not happen, we, still, reached the polling booth with an expectation of our names could be in voting list. My entire family is disappointed with the fact that I did not find our names in voter lists," said Samir Arora, a resident of Aakashneem Marg of DLF phase 2.

"The craze of voting rights increased in last couple of elections, especially after 2014. I came straight away from Mumbai to vote in Gurugram," said Bollywood actor Ravi Jhangu of "Zila Ghaziabad" fame, whose native place is Daulatabad village here.

He also said that the a large number of residents are not pleased with the performance with incumbent MP Rao Inderjeet Singh but wanted to give second chance to Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
New Delhi, May 12 : The Election Commission on Sunday censured Union Minister Giriraj Singh for his remarks made last month and warned him to be careful about his public utterances.

The Chief Electoral Officer of Bihar had forwarded the copy of a video clip of a speech made by Singh in Begusarai from where he is contesting on a BJP ticket to the EC.

The EC said Singh has violated the directions of the Supreme Court and the provisions of the model code of conduct which state that there will be no appeal to caste or communal feelings for securing votes.

Singh had made the remarks directed at the Muslim community. The Commission was informed that an FIR was lodged against him in this connection.

Condemning the remarks, the poll panel in its order warned Singh "to remain careful in his public utterances during the currency of model code of conduct."
Kolkata, May 13 : Amid "sporadic violence" that left 26 people injured, firing by central forces at five places, and lodging of FIRs against two BJP candidates, West Bengal's Chief Electoral Officer Aariz Aftab on Sunday said the sixth phase of Lok Sabha elections in the state passed off "peacefully".

An FIR was lodged against the BJP's Ghatal constituency candidate, former IPS officer Bharati Ghosh, and her security personnel for allegedly firing four rounds in Dugachia causing an injury to a person while another FIR was lodged against the BJP state President and Midnapore candidate Dilip Ghosh for creating disturbances, causing law and order issues, Additional Director General, Law and Order, S.N. Gupta said.

"Barring some sporadic violence in Ghatal constituency, overall voting has been very peaceful in this sixth phase Lok Sabha elections," Aftab told reporters.

Gupta said central forces had to fire at five places, including at Dugachia, in order to control the situation.

"An FIR was lodged against Ghatal constituency candidate and her security personnel for allegedly firing four rounds of bullets at Dugachia at Keshpur. Bakhtiar Khan, who was injured in the firing, lodged the complaint. Another FIR was lodged against Midnapore candidate Dilip Ghosh after the public at Rampuria area lodged a complaint against him for creating disturbances," he told reporters.

A suo motu FIR was lodged against some miscreants who created violence and disturbances in two booths at Guthgoria High School in Keshpur under Ghatal constituency, Gupta said, adding that more complaints are expected to be lodged.

Incidentally, Bharati Ghosh was stopped from entering these two polling booths by a group of women, said to be Trinamool workers, who accused her of influencing voters.

Aftab said one presiding officer of one of the two concerned booths was removed "due to negligence".

Overall 26 people were injured in the phase of polls and three of them have bullet injuries, Gupta said, adding that 15 vehicles have been damaged.

"Some 16 persons have been arrested so far in specific cases," he said.

Apart from the Dugachia incident, central forces opened fire in a clash at Bhagabanpore-Sabang area. Two persons were injured and they were admitted to the NRS Medical College in Kolkata.

"In late afternoon, central forces had to fire during violent incidents at East Kidnapper's Mayna, Jhargram's Gopiballavpur and Kalabagan in Bishnupur in order to control the situation," he said.

Several clashes between workers of political parties were lodged in Midnapore town and Garbeta Aftab said a person identified as Sudhakar Maity in Kanthi died on Saturday night "due to an accident".

He also said an EVM including VVPAT was broken in a booth at Saltora in Bankura constituency and a decision regarding re-poll would be decided after scrutiny.

An EVM had fallen during mock poll at a booth at Sutahata in East Midnapore district due to some scuffle, but voting was conducted after replacing the machine, he said, adding that a complaint regarding issuance of VVPAT slip in favour of particular candidate in a booth at Khandokosh in Bishnupur was found to be "baseless".
New Delhi, May 13 : The Election Commission on Sunday applauded senior citizens, women and persons with disabilities, who came out to vote.

"As a nation, we feel very proud that many centenarians came out and voted, signalling that the past, present and future of this country has been secured," an Election Commission official said.

The official thanked all in the field including booth level officials and volunteers who facilitated voting by senior citizens and people with disabilities, as well as security personnel deployed in the pooling booths for making "extraordinary efforts" to ensure safety and confidence of voters.
Dubai, May 13 : Four commercial ships were "subjected to sabotage operations" near the UAE territorial waters in the Gulf of Oman, east of emirate Fujairah, UAE Foreign Ministry announced.

The ministry said in a statement on Sunday that the concerned authorities have taken all necessary measures, and are investigating the incident in cooperation with local and international bodies, Xinhua reported.

The statement, tweeted by the official news agency WAM, said that there had been no injuries or deaths on board the vessels as well as no leakage of harmful chemicals or fuel.

It called on the international community to assume its responsibilities to prevent such actions by parties attempting to undermine maritime traffic safety and security.

The ministry also described as "baseless and unfounded" rumours earlier Sunday about incidents taking place within the Port of Fujairah, saying that operations within the port were underway as normal, without any interruption.
Washington, May 13 : US President Donald Trump and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping are likely to meet in Japan next month during the G20 economic summit amid rising trade tensions between the world's two largest economies, a senior White House official has said.

There is a "strong possibility" that the two presidents will hold talks on the sidelines of the conference in Osaka, Efe news quoted White House chief economic advisor Larry Kudlow as saying during a TV programme on Fox News on Sunday.

Negotiators failed last week to reach an agreement to end the trade war that began in 2018 with Trump's decision to impose a 10 percent tariff on $200 billion worth of goods from China, which retaliated with levies on $60 billion worth of US products.

"There were constructive conversations," US Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin told reporters last Friday as his bid farewell to Chinese Vice Premier Liu He, the leader of the delegation that traveled from Beijing to Washington for the two-day round.

At 12.01 am last Friday, between the first and second sessions of those talks, the US raised the tariffs on affected Chinese imports from 10 per cent to 25 per cent.

"China deeply regrets that it will have to take necessary countermeasures," the Chinese government said in a statement after the higher tariffs took effect.

Though both sides spoke of their readiness to continue the negotiations, Mnuchin acknowledged Friday that no further talks were scheduled.

Hours after Liu left Washington, Trump announced that he had ordered US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer to draw up plans to extend tariffs to an additional $300 million worth of Chinese imports.

Kudlow said Sunday that while there were "no concrete, definite plans" for the resumption of discussions, the Chinese have invited Mnuchin and Lighthizer to Beijing.

"The talks will continue," Kudlow told Fox's Chris Wallace. "I will say this: There is a G20 meeting in Japan toward the end of June next month and the chances that President Trump and President Xi will get together at that meeting are pretty good."

"We were moving well, constructive talks - and I still think that's the case," Kudlow said. "But the problem is, two weeks ago in China, there was backtracking by the Chinese."

The Trump administration increased the tariffs because Beijing was resisting the idea of enshrining in Chinese law some of the concessions Beijing has offered, such as measures to respect the intellectual property of US firms operating in China, the White House adviser said.

"Things seemed to be taking too long, and we can't accept any backtracking," Kudlow said on Fox. "We don't think the Chinese have come far enough, we will wait and see."
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Each of these whiskies are handcrafted for the American outdoorsman to honor their legacy of wildlife stewardship and conservation across the United States. Sportsmen have always, and will continue to, play a pivotal role in the health and vitality of wild places, wild things, and the opportunity to enjoy them.

These whiskies that are sure to make the namesakes of the club, Daniel Boone and Davey Crockett, proud are now available to outdoor lovers across the state of Florida.

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Photo Contest The buds of spring are popping into leaves, so, grab a camera and enter your best shots.

Franklin County Visitors Bureau is calling all picture takers to Franklin County PA for the Franklin County Visitors Bureaus Photo Contest. The buds of spring are popping into leaves, so, grab a camera and enter your best shots. The Franklin County Visitors Bureau (FCVB) is seeking a shot of the new 11/30 Visitors Center for the cover of its 2019-2020 Franklin County Visitors Guide. The new 11/30 Visitors Center is located at 15 South Main, on the southwest corner of Chambersburgs square and next to Central Presbyterian Church. The photographer of the shot selected for the cover image will win $250. Photos of the 11/30 Visitors Center must be submitted by May 20, 2019.

In addition to the cover photo for the Franklin County Visitors Guide, FCVB is seeking cover images for:



On the Move in Franklin County Rec Guide

Franklin Fresh Food & Dining Guide

Franklin County Military Trail of History

Franklin County Wedding & Event Planner

The photographer of the cover image for these publications will win $100. All photos for these publications must be submitted by July 15, 2019.

Photographers can opt to be part of the Franklin County 11/30 Visitors Center Photography Exhibit by submitting an 8x10 print. FCVB will be displaying submitted photos, beginning May 20 and running through July 20, 2019. So, not only is there a chance to win hundreds in cash, it is an opportunity to showcase your photography at the 11/30 Visitors Center.

Details, rules, and necessary forms of the FCVB 11/30 Visitors Center Photography Contest are available online here or by calling 866.646.8060 or 717.552.2977.

The Franklin County Visitors Bureau invites all to explore history, arts and architecture, recreation, natural beauty, fresh foods and the warm hospitality of communities like Chambersburg, Greencastle, Mercersburg, Shippensburg, and Waynesboro. Franklin County PA is located just north of the Mason Dixon Line and is an easy drive from Washington DC, Philadelphia, and Pittsburgh. Plan a visit at ExploreFranklinCountyPA.com, contact 866.646.8060, or stop at the new Franklin County 11/30 Visitors Center in downtown Chambersburg.
The UAE authorities reveal in their treatment of these men just how unwilling they are to reform their unjust state security apparatus. These men deserve, at the very least, to be treated humanely and to receive a fair trial

Families of eight Lebanese Shia nationals detained in the UAE have started an online petition, and called on the Emirati government to grant a fair trial to their family members held in solitary confinement and denied access to legal and consular support for over a year. The group are due to be sentenced on 15th May 2019 at Abu Dhabi Federal Appeal Court under case number 32/2018.

Concerns about the welfare of the group, seven of whom held senior positions at Emirates Airlines for around fifteen years, have grown steadily since their arrests between December 2017 and February 2018, when they were accused of forming and financially supporting a cell with links to Hezbollah.

Since that time, the groups families have not been allowed to see the defendants charge sheets or any other case files, while the groups lawyers report being forbidden from discussing the case in any detail with the families and were not allowed to meet their clients in person or speak to them even after they had submitted their notice of defence.

Lebanese government officials told families that the Emirati government did not respond to multiple requests from them seeking reasons for detention and details of the charges. Until recently, the Lebanese government maintained silence over this case and made no public comments or announcements. In a Ramadan message to the UAE leadership on Tuesday, Lebanese Foreign Minister Gebran Bassil called for the eight to be granted amnesty.

The detainees, most of whom do not know each other, were not formally informed of the charges against them until 27 February 2019 in the second session of their trial, and still have not been presented with any evidence to support the case against them. The groups lawyers have suggested that the prosecutions case is almost entirely based upon verbal accounts coerced from the group during their incarceration.

Human Rights Watch called on the Emirati government to grant a fair trial and ensure that no statements obtained under duress are used as evidence of guilt. Amnesty International issued an urgent action and later said in a press release that the terrorism trial is unfair and based on fabricated confessions obtained under torture.

In accounts that bear striking similarities to that of Matthew Hedges, the British academic falsely accused of spying by the Emirati government, at least three of the detainees report being forced to sign documents while blindfolded and under duress. One of the defendants has said he was forced to sign a blank piece of paper. On 3 April 2019, two of the detainees told the court during the fourth hearing of their trial that they had been subjected to torture.

A family member of one detainee said: His teeth were all broken, and his ear looked mangled. He said it was from all the beatings he got to the face. He said that after he fell unconscious one time, they continued to kick him. For five days, he wasnt allowed to sit or sleep. He was chained and his eyes were covered. Until this day, when he leaves his cell, he is blindfolded.

Sarah Leah Whitson, Middle East Director at Human Rights Watch, said: The UAE authorities reveal in their treatment of these men just how unwilling they are to reform their unjust state security apparatus. These men deserve, at the very least, to be treated humanely and to receive a fair trial.

In 2016, one Emirati and two Lebanese men were handed life sentences, while four others were jailed for 10 to 15 years under similar charges of establishing a cell linked to Hezbollah and disclosing UAE government's secrets. At least one of the convicted men reported being severely tortured and forced to confess.

Emirati prisons are notorious for their primitive conditions and violence, and the detainees families report seeing signs of severe psychological distress in their relatives behind bars. With the detainees final hearing fast approaching, the families are urging Western media to help raise awareness of their plight and maximise the chances of a fair trial.
The world famous Cannes Festival sees Harkness Screens hosting an afternoon reception alongside Qalif Solutions and the CST

The event allows film makers, cinemas and cinema technologists to share their experiences and learn more about the Harkness contribution to the festival.

For over 12 years the screens trusted to present the directors masterpieces. have been those of Harkness supplied from their French Demospec Manufacturing Facility. The screens are positioned across Cannes to ensure and guarantee the image quality; traditionally the screens are Matt Plus; specifically engineered to provide laser speckle free presentation. Over recent years the Demospec Manufacturing Team have introduced PWT Screens from RealD and in the last few months the revolutionary white gain screen, Perlux HiWhite.

However, there is more to Harkness contribution to Cannes and that can be seen in the screen monitoring and image quality technology that Cannes Film Festival deploy. Harkness Nicolas Chiovini leads the team with colleagues from Qalif Solutions in support of the CST teams (Commission Superieure Technique de limage et du son) that lead the technical direction of the festival. Over the festival 1800 screenings will use the Harkness technology to give the best in presentation quality.

This year's event is being hosted by Eric Martin, and he welcomes attendees to meet with friends and colleagues on Saturday 18th May

About Harkness Screens

Harkness Screens is the world's leading screen technology company, specialising in the design and manufacture of projection screens and supporting technologies for cinema and live events. From single-screen independent theatres to large multiplexes to large format immersive theatre experiences or live events, Harkness supplies thousands of screens every year helping provide outstanding presentation experiences to audiences around the world.

With global reach, Harkness is regarded as the world leader in cinema and has screens in more cinemas worldwide than any other manufacturer. With its industry leading 2D and 3D screen brands (Perlux HiWhite, Clarus XC and Spectral) along with an innovative range of presentation monitoring tools, digital surveying services and suite of cinema design and specification apps, Harkness continues to lead the way in screen technology for cinema.

Founded in 1929, Harkness has manufacturing facilities in the USA, UK, France, India and China and combines unrivalled experience with the latest technology and production methods to provide innovative solutions to the companys key markets. http://www.harkness-screens.com
By Yi Whan-woo





Park Chuen-wook
Matthew P. Manning, CPA It is a pleasure to welcome Matt to our Executive Team. His experience and professionalism are a perfect match for Fenstermaker."

Matthew P. Manning, CPA has been named Chief Financial Officer of C. H. Fenstermaker & Associates, L.L.C. As the newest member of the companys Executive Team, Mr. Manning will oversee all financial aspects of the organization and work to promote the firms long-range strategic plan.

This announcement was made by company President, Charles Fenstermaker, stating, It is a pleasure to welcome Matt to our Executive Team. His experience and professionalism are a perfect match for Fenstermaker. We look forward to working with Matt to move the company forward and anticipate his contribution to our strategic plan.

Most recently, Mr. Manning served as Treasurer & Director of Planning for Waitr, Inc. In this capacity, he was responsible for managing the companys treasury function and banking relationships and also managed the companys annual budgeting and financial projections. Prior to joining Waitr, Mr. Manning held various positions at Stone Energy Corporation including Controller, Finance Manager, Planning Team Lead and Internal Audit Manager during his ten years with the company.

Mr. Manning attended the University of New Orleans where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Accounting Degree in 2000. The same year, he successfully completed the CPA Examination and he is licensed in the State of Louisiana. He is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the Louisiana Society of CPAs.

Mr. Manning has been a member of the United Way of Acadiana Education Vision Council since 2015, is a former member of the Ascension Episcopal School Board of Trustees and served as President of the Council of Petroleum Accountants Societies Acadiana Chapter in 2006 and 2007.


It is with great sadness that we report Steven Swartz, President of South Coast Surety suddenly passed away on May 8, 2019. Steven stood out in the surety and insurance industry for nearly 40 years. His knowledge of surety and his ability to put customers first was unparalleled.

Equally important to Steven was his community. Steven was the seated mayor of San Clemente and had previously served on the City Council since 2016. Steven served as Member and Chairman of San Clemente Beaches Park & Recreation Commission, an original member of San Clementes Coastal Advisory Committee, and a member and previous president of San Clemente Sunrise Rotary Club.

A leader in the industry, his knowledge, ability to communicate, and genuine affability will be greatly missed. Many of the staff at South Coast are not just employees, they are family. They will work diligently to pick up the mantle and carry forward Stevens vision for the company. Kelly Specht, vice president of operations, will continue in leading day to day operations as she has for the past three years. Kelly expressed, We are devastated by our loss. What he meant to us cant be put into words. She continued, We want to reassure our clients we will handle their accounts with the same care and attention Steven always expected from us. He would want nothing less.

Steven had a passion for explaining how surety works and tirelessly worked building the South Coast brand throughout southern California. The greatest testament we can give Steven is to pick up where he left off and continue his legacy, Kelly explained.

South Coast Surety is a subsidiary of General Indemnity Group, Boston, MA. Future South Coast Surety leadership will be the focus of GIG moving forward. Customers should know that there are no personnel changes slated and that we will take our time in deciding the best course of action. Michael Scholl, President of GIG stated, There is no replacing Steven, thats not possible. We will instead take our time deciding the best way to move forward ensuring we continue to grow the company he built.

Charitable donations are being accepted in Stevens name at Autism Speaks (http://act.autismspeaks.org/site/TR/FYW/General?px=5086718&pg=personal&fr_id=4479) and San Clemente Sunrise Rotary Club (https://fundly.com/honoring-steve-swartz).

Questions, comments and condolences can be sent to Kelly Specht, VP, South Coast Surety at 1060 Calle Cordillera, Suites 101-103, San Clemente, CA 92673.
This is a golden opportunity for buyers to purchase USDA foreclosed multi-family properties at auction and bid their price.

Warner Realtors & Auction Company has found success in the past with selling U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) foreclosed properties throughout New Jersey using online only auctions. They have now been selected by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to conduct an online only auction event for two multi-family properties in Pennsylvania. The auction consists of a 34-Unit Senior Apartment Building in Berlin Borough, PA and a 32-Unit Senior Apartment Building in Salisbury Borough, PA. Warner Real Estate & Auction Company will be selling both multi-family senior apartment buildings through an online auction, with starting bids of $100,000, beginning at 8:00am (EDT) on 05/30/2019 and ending at 10:15am (EDT) on 06/05/2019.

Photos, property details and terms of sale can be found on the auction website WarnerRealtors.com.



Online Only Auction: 34-Unit Senior Apartment Building at 100 Berlin Manor, Berlin Borough, PA.

Online Only Auction: 32-Unit Senior Apartment Building at 70 Grant St, Salisbury, PA.

According to Rich Warner, president and founder of Warner Real Estate and Auction Company, This is a golden opportunity for buyers to purchase USDA foreclosed multi-family properties at auction and bid their price. Both properties are currently rent-restricted and subsidized senior apartments. However, the properties will be sold out of program so there is an incredible opportunity to create value with market rents. Best of all, the entire auction process will take place online, so it couldnt be more convenient for buyers.

Closing will be on or before 30 days from the conclusion of the online auction, at 10:15am (EDT) on 06/05/2019. Properties are being sold in AS IS condition with no contingencies. The property inspections are Wednesday, May 29th from 12 noon to 1:00pm. Detailed property information packages, property descriptions, video tours, are available online at WarnerRealtors.com.

Warner Real Estate and Auction Company is a New Jersey and Pennsylvania licensed real estate broker and auctioneer specializing in the sale of commercial, investment, land and residential properties. To learn more about Warner Real Estate and Auction Company, visit: WarnerRealtors.com.
GoQuest Media has secured exclusive rights to distribute Turkish drama series Brave and Beautiful in Kenya, Nigeria, Ghana and Uganda, following a deal with Swedens Eccho Rights.





Produced by Ay Yapim, Brave and Beautiful stars Tuba Buyukustun, Kivanc Tatlitug and Tamer Levent.The story begins when Cesur Alemdaroglu (Kivanc Tatlitug) returns to Korludag, a small town outside of Istanbul, to exact revenge on Tahsin Korludag (Tamer Levent) who he believes killed his father. However, he didnt expect to fall in love with his beautiful daughter Suhan Korludag (Tuba Buyukustun).The hit series (101 x 45 mins) has won several Turkish television awards, received the Silver Bird Prize for Serial Drama at the Seoul International Drama Awards 2017, and been nominated for Best Telenovela at 2018s International Emmy Awards.With the increasing popularity of Turkish drama, we are particularly excited about offering this highly successful series. We believe that the African TV market continues to have terrific growth potential and are confident that Brave and Beautiful will be a huge hit in the region, said Jimmy George, vice president sales & acquisitions at GoQuest Media Brave and Beautiful first aired on Star TV in Turkey in November 2016. The series has since been sold to over 80 territories around the world, most recently Spain and Uzbekistan. Brave and Beautiful has also proved popular in the Middle East and S outh America
Find a great selection of commercial real estate, manufactured homes, timeshares and more for Sale

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Written by: Diana West



Brilliant! Hat tip Vlad Tepes. As Vlad says, four of the most awesome minutes of TV of all time -- starring Rasmus Paluan, with support from the unbelievable faces (masks) of his political competitors (including the Prime Minister at the other end of the stage), all of them dazed, frozen, perplexed to hear the truth broadcast to Denmark in prime time.

Will it make a difference? At least the air is clear.
Starting in July, foreign students could have to pay about seven times more for health insurance premiums under a revised law requiring them to join the state health insurance system if they stay in South Korea longer than six months.



So far, most foreign students have used private health insurance policies that cost about 100,000-110,000 won ($85-$94) a year. But under a revision to the National Health Insurance Act set to take effect on July 16, all foreigners, including students, must join the state insurance system if they stay six months or longer.



State health insurance premiums are about 678,000 won a year.



The law was revised to prevent foreigners from abusing the state insurance system. There have been cases in which foreigners entered the country and joined the system by paying a small amount in insurance fees with the aim of getting expensive treatment.



Universities have called for students to be exempt from the law.



"It would be a big burden for students from developing countries," a university official said, adding that even though the state insurance system offered greater benefits than private policies, most students in their 20s would nott need extensive health care.



The education ministry said it would ask the health ministry to exempt foreign students from the mandatory subscription to the national health insurance system.



Health ministry officials said they would conduct a review if there was an official request from the education ministry, but added that such an exemption should have been included when the law was revised. (Yonhap)




By Elizabeth Kwiatkowski, 05/12/2019



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Dylan Barbour will be one of the bachelors competing for Hannah Brown 's heart this year on 's fifteenth season.Dylan is a 24-year-old tech entrepreneur from San Diego, CA.Dylan will be hoping to win Hannah's time and affection after the Alabama beauty queen failed to find lasting love with Colton Underwood on The Bachelor's 23rd season earlier this year.Will Dylan make a big impression on Hannah and capture her interest, or will he get lost in the shuffle of her 30 Night 1 bachelors?Fans will find out whether Dylan survives the first cut when premieres Monday, May 13 at 8PM ET/PT. Until then, let's learn a little bit more about this handsome suitor.Below is a list of 5 facts Reality TV World has compiled about Dylan Barbour - ABC teases that Dylan has a giant smile as well as a heart of gold.- Dylan is the co-founder of a fitness company that allows people to work out while donating food to those in need.- Dylan enjoys driving his boat, scuba diving and cooking up a big meal.- Most of bachelor's friends are women.- Dylan has two tattoos -- a palm tree on his ankle and a heart with roses on his chest for his mom and dad.Click thelink below to see some additional photos of Dylan!Interested in more The Bachelor news? Join our The Bachelor Facebook Group

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Elizabeth Kwiatkowski is Associate Editor of Reality TV World and has been covering the reality TV genre for more than a decade.
IMAGE: Security personnel escort BJP's Ghatal candidate Bharati Ghosh after she was allegedly attacked during the sixth phase of Lok Sabha polls, in West Midnapore, on Sunday. Photograph: PTI Photo

Bharatiya Janata Party candidate Bharati Ghosh was allegedly attacked twice by local people when the former Indian Police Service officer tried to visit polling stations in her Ghatal Lok Sabha constituency on Sunday when the sixth phase of polling was underway there.

One of her security guards was injured in stone pelting in one of the two incidents of attack.

The state Chief Electoral Officer has sought reports from the West Midnapore district magistrate about the incidents.

Ghosh suffered minor injuries when a group of women allegedly attacked her when she tried to take one BJP agent inside a polling booth at Keshpur area in the morning, officials said.

Following this, bombs were hurled and stones were pelted towards the former IPS officer's convoy when she was going to visit another booth at Dogachia in Keshpur after receiving complaints of rigging there.

One of her security guards was injured and a vehicle was damaged in the stone pelting following which the security officers restored to lathi-charge, the officials said.

It was also alleged a Trinamool Congress worker was injured in firing by central forces who were with the BJP candidate who, however, denied the charge.

IMAGE: A BJP member shows injury sustained after an alleged attack by TMC workers during the sixth phase of Lok Sabha elections, in Burdwan, on Sunday. Photograph: PTI Photo

"This is a deliberate attempt by the Trinamool Congress to stop me. They attacked me and I am injured. That my security guards have fired is an absolute lie," Ghosh told PTI when contacted.

A senior election official said, "We have sought a report from the district magistrate over the alleged attacks on the BJP candidate. Once the report arrives, we will take the necessary step."

The state CEO also sought a report after Ghosh was seen videographing inside a polling booth at Pikurda in Keshpur.

State minister and TMC leader Firhad Hakim claimed that the BJP restored to violence when the polling was going on in a peaceful manner.

"This is nothing but a ploy to disturb the peaceful polling process. When the BJP is losing its ground in West Bengal it is trying to create an atmosphere of violence. Both the candidates of BJP, Bharati Ghosh and Dilip Ghosh, are trying to disrupt peace on the polling day. They have nothing to do. Both know that people have rejected them," Hakim told PTI.

Ghatal's sitting MP Deepak Adhikary of the Trinamool Congress claimed that local people resisted because of Ghosh's bad attitude towards them.

"She is a former IPS officer and knows what to do and what not to. She is trying to break the law. I will ask her and every other candidate as well as the voters to stay calm. Polling should happen peacefully," Dev told PTI.

BJP state president Dilip Ghosh said this is not for the first time that Bharati Ghosh was attacked.

"Since the TMC failed to stop her politically, it is trying to physically harm her," he said.

The Election Commission has deployed a total of 770 companies of central forces in the eight Lok Sabha seats, including Ghatal, where polling is underway.
IMAGE: Congress candidate for Bhopal seat Digvijay Singh interacts with voters at a polling booth during the sixth phase of Lok Sabha polls, in Bhopal, on Sunday. Photograph: PTI Photo

Congress leader Digvijay Singh on Sunday expressed regret over not being able to cast his ballot in Rajgarh district of Madhya Pradesh, which is over 130 km away from state capital Bhopal where he is locked in a key contest with Bharatiya Janata Party candidate Pragya Singh Thakur.

"I regret that I could not reach Rajgarh to cast my ballot. Next time, I will ensure that my vote is registered in Bhopal," Singh told ANI.

Throughout the day, he visited various polling stations in Bhopal to track the voting, sources said.

Earlier in the day, he was seen outside a temple.

When asked whether he will go to cast his vote, he replied, "I will see. I will try to reach."

The former Madhya Pradesh chief minister also urged people to exercise their franchise in large numbers.

"Go in large numbers and cast your vote. Vote without fear," he said.

The Congress leader is facing Thakur, a 2008 Malegaon blast case accused, among other candidates.
By Kim Rahn





The National Human Rights Commission of Korea has recommended the government change the law to provide childcare allowance to migrant children. / Gettyimagesbank
The UP CM didn't deign to attend the actor's nomination.

Aditi Phadnis reports from Gorakhpur.

IMAGE: Ravi Kishan, actor and the Bharatiya Janata Party candidate for the Gorakhpur Lok Sabha seat, right, with Ajay Singh Bisht, currently the Uttar Pradesh chief minister and the MP for Gorakhpur from 1998 to 2017.

Walking into the campaign headquarters of Ram Bhuyal Nishad, the Samajwadi Party candidate for the Gorakhpur Lok Sabha seat, at 7 am is slightly unsettling. The venue is someone's vacant home. The air is thick with the smell of stale sweat. Scores of men can be seen rushing in and out of toilets in various stages of undress. There are no women.

The Nishad (boatmen) community is nearly 300,000-strong in Gorakhpur. "Their job? They fish by day and drink by night," says an upper caste Bharatiya Janata Party leader, guffawing.

The Nishads consider themselves scheduled caste, though they are counted as other backward class, which puts them in the same category as the Yadavs. Socially they are far lower on the caste ladder than the Yadavs.

In the room, there is no difference of opinion on one issue: 'The biggest struggle for the Nishad community is the right to '<samman' (self-respect)," says Ram Bhuyal. A crowd of burly men standing around shout in agreement.

Ram Bhuyal, called 'mantriji' by dint of the fact that he was made minister for fisheries in the Mayawati government when she was the chief minister, has been in both the SP and the Bahujan Samaj Party. He knows the structure as well as the working of the two groups intimately.

He is keen to talk, but his workers say it is time to go. As he strides out of the room, he flags political issues: The new All India Institute of Medical Sciences is nothing more than a useless pile of bricks (not quite true, as the OPD is already functional) and in any case it is there only because of the grace of Akhilesh Yadav, the SP president and former chief minister who sanctioned land for it. He is bundled into a waiting vehicle by a crowd of fierce-looking men and driven off to a meeting.

By contrast, Ravi Kishan, Bhojpuri and Hindi film actor, strolls in wafting a cloud of some exotic after-shave. His campaign office is in the basement of an upscale mall and is decked up like a wedding hall complete with huge wreaths of paper roses and carnations in lurid colours.

A crowd of mostly young volunteers trails after him. He looks exhausted and puffs out his cheeks and exhales when the local MLA and his minder, Radhakrishna Das Aggarwal, chides him about all the things that are wrong with his campaign.

"You must get back into the city before 6 pm. That way you can meet people and supporters in the city, instead of wasting your time lurching around in the dark in the villages," Aggarwal is telling him.

Ravi Kishan looks at the milling crowds, briefly shuts his eyes, and then squaring his shoulder, invites me to an ante room for an interview.

The anteroom soon fills up with people, but he ignores them. He got to know on April 14 that he was the BJP nominee for the Gorakhpur seat and left shooting in Kochi (with Mr Bachchan and Chiranjeevi Sir) to do 'seva' in Gorakhpur.

He began life as an actor in Ramleela (he played Sita) in his home town of Jaunpur in 1991 and then, from small film parts, was offered bigger roles until he came to be known as the biggest actor in Bhojpuri cinema. He has done a stint in Big Boss and has made his way into Hindi, Telugu and Tamil industries.

He could have lived anywhere, had anything... why the hot, dusty and exhausting business of politics and elections? From him it doesn't sound like a cliche. "I don't know politics, only the pain of the people. I am a country boy. I wanted to give something back," he breathes.

What is he? A millionaire? A billionaire? And doing this? He nods to both. "Somewhere along the line, I felt I was getting lost. Thanks to a great man like Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath (born Ajay Singh Bisht), I found my way," he says.

Adityanath didn't deign to attend his nomination. "But his blessings are with me. He will be coming here to campaign for me," he says.

Kishan may have his heart in the right place, but he is seen by the BJP workers as an object of some amusement. When he moved into temporary digs after he started his campaign, he insisted that state of the art gym equipment be installed in a spare room.

He is a fanatic about working out. And gyms are a promise to his electorate, along with a place of pride to actors and 'kalakars'.

"We are creative people. We are artists. I am determined to counter the campaign that we are just 'naachne gaane wallah". He says. "Not everyone can be a doctor or an engineer or an IAS officer. Any form of art is a job. Actors are sensitive people. They are not brainless, as people often think."

His campaign punchline is: "Zindagi jhund ba! Gathbandhan ke mooh band ba (Life is a mess/and the Grand Alliance has its mouth shut).'

It leaves BJP workers a bit confused and bewildered ("is jhund even a word?" one of them asked another). But the people roar in approval.

"Everyone wants a piece of me," Kishan says in a sudden panic. "They want my hands, my clothes, my shoes... they're touching me, feeling my presence."

But when asked about what the Nishad community might feel about him, his reply is pure politics. He stands up and says grandly: "I am an actor. I have no caste".
'In his election speeches, Nitish has been parroting Modi, praising him like never before.'

M I Khan reports from Patna.

IMAGE: Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar with Prime Minister Narendra Damodardas Modi at an election rally. Photograph: PTI Photo

Ahead of the final two phases in the Lok Sabha election in Bihar, one thing is clear: Chief Minister Nitish Kumar repeats Prime Minister Narendra Damodardas Modi's chosen phrases and words like 'nationalism', 'terror', 'surgical strike', 'Pakistan' to seek votes for National Democratic Alliance candidates.

At each of his election meetings, Nitish Kumar reiterates, 'Modi ne Pakistan par surgical strike kar duniyabhar mein Bharat ka samman badhaya hai (By the surgical strikes on Pakistan, Modi has enhanced India's prestige in the world).'

Another set piece in Nitish's speeches these days is that under Modi, India has acted strongly against terror.

"In his election speeches, Nitish has been parroting Modi, praising him like never before, lauding his role and making everything sound as he is seeking votes in Modi's name, certainly not in his own name," says Amit Kumar, a political observer in Patna.

Amit Kumar, who has been studying Nitish Kumar after he first came to power in Bihar in November 2005, says the chief minister has surprised observers by his speeches this election cycle.

During the Lok Sabha polls in 2014 and Bihar assembly polls in 2015, Nitish Kumar sought votes in his name.

"This is the first time he is wooing voters in Modi's name. This is the first time Nitish Kumar is playing the Modi card after realising that his own popularity has fallen and his political credibility is at a low," Amit Kumar points out.

Political activist Ranjeev notes that Nitish Kumar speaks more about the Modi government's development model than about his own government in Bihar.

"'Under Modi's rule, Bihar has prospered in all directions. Modi has helped to develop Bihar.' This is what Nitish tells people during campaigning," says Ranjeev.

Nitish Kumar reminds audiences at his rallies that if Modi returned to power, Bihar would witness more development, more growth. The chief minister is silent about Modi's promises to Bihar made during the 2014 election campaign. Nitish Kumar was then one of Modi's opponents,

The sixth phase of the Lok Sabha election ends on Sunday, May 12, but Nitish Kumar's Janata Dal-United has not released its election manifesto so far.

Tejashwi Yadav, leader of the Opposition in the Bihar assembly, has repeatedly taunted the JD-U for not releasing its election manifesto, asking if Nitish Kumar had accepted the BJP's manifesto as the JD-U's own.

JD-U leaders say the decision not to release a manifesto is to avoid controversy. The JD-U disagrees with the BJP's positions on Article 370 and 35A, the Ram temple in Ayodhya and triple talaq.

Nitish Kumar has repeatedly said the JD-U favours consensus on the Ram temple and triple talaq issues.
Congress party president Rahul Gandhi, who has been busy campaigning for the Lok Sabha elections, Friday shared a photo of himself trying to fix something on his helicopter in Himachal Pradeshs Una.

IMAGE: Rahul Gandhi's image has garnered a lot of positive feedback, with many praising the Congress president for his simplicity. Photograph: Rahul Gandhi/Instagram

On Friday, as he travelled to Himachal Pradesh for a rally, an unexpected challenge emerged. In Una, the helicopter that he was travelling in developed a glitch and Rahul Gandhi himself, got down to fix it.

Rahul Gandhi took to Instagram to share the moment, along with a message about team work. "Good teamwork means all hands to the deck! We had a problem with our helicopter in Una, HP today, that working together we quickly fixed. Nothing serious, thankfully," he wrote with a picture of him lying on the ground and looking at the helicopter with full concentration.

Rahul Gandhi's post received over 1.08 lakh likes, with people praising him for his humility and simplicity.

"Hats off sir. We believe in you and support you," one Instagram user wrote.

"Kudos, stay safe," another user posted.

Interestingly, Rahul Gandhi's father, former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi was a trained pilot. He also worked with Air India.

Himachal Pradesh will be going to poll on May 19, the seventh and final phase of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. The results will be declared on May 23.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi's remarks over Balakot air strikes during an interview have sparked a controversy with Communist Party of India-Marxist general secretary Sitaram Yechury writing to the Election Commission accusing the PM of violating the poll code by sharing operational details of a 'sensitive' defence mission in a television interview to influence voters.

In an interview on Saturday, Modi had said he approved the Indian Air Force's cross-border mission in Balakot, Pakistan, despite inclement weather and against the advise of experts as he felt cloud cover would hide the Indian fighter jets from Pakistani radar.

Modi said he relied on his 'raw wisdom' to dispel the doubts of the defence experts who had planned the mission.

"I am surprised that the country's pundits who abuse me never figured this out," he said, referring to rain on the night of the air strike.

Modi's comment was tweeted from the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party's official Twitter handles. However, it was deleted after it became butt of a joke by Twitterati.

Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah was among the first to mock the PM over his comment.

'Pakistani radar doesnt penetrate clouds. This is an important piece of tactical information that will be critical when planning future air strikes,' he tweeted.

Soon after the BJP tweet was deleted, Abdullah said, 'Looks like the tweet got lost in the clouds. Luckily there are screen shots floating around to help.'

Yechury also tweeted saying, 'National security is not something to be trifled with. Such an irresponsible statement from Modi is highly damaging. Somebody like this cant remain Indias PM.'

Congress's Sanjay Jha said, '#EntireCloudCover is a blockbuster clip. It will be used in the Indian Institute of Science as a case-study.'

In his letter to the EC, Yechury has alleged Modi's statements were in clear and deliberate violation of the guidelines which were re-issued and reiterated by the Commission before the first round of polling, making it clear that the armed forces, which belong to all of India, cannot be a subject for hyperbolic and false claims by any party.

The CPI-M general secretary said, "This interview wherein Modi gave out operational details of a sensitive military mission, with a purpose to influence the voters during the silent period of the campaign needs to be recorded and acted upon by the Commission.

"It appears that Modi is mocking the Election Commission by violating all rules, codes and guidelines with impunity with damaging consequences for our democracy, of which the Election Commission is the custodian. We hope that you will uphold the prestige, honour and credibility of the Election Commission and initiate action against Modi," he said.

Yechury further said based on the poll body's recent decisions on BJP leaders and Prime Minister Narendra Modi making alleged poll code violations earlier, it was 'widely perceived' that Modi was being treated as though he was outside the purview of the Model Code of Conduct.

Yechury further lashed out at Modi for continuing to use the armed forces in his speech.

In an election rally in Kushinagar in Uttar Pradesh on Sunday, the prime minister is reported to have said, "Today terrorists were killed by our Army in Kashmir.

"Now some people are worried as to why did Modi kill the terrorists when voting is underway? An armed terrorist is attacking, do my jawans go to the Election Commission to seek permission to kill him?"

'Note: He (Modi) claims that he killed the terrorists not our armed forces!' Yechury said.

The Left leader pointed out that similar 'violations' have been brought to the notice of the EC earlier too.

"The commission, however, seems to think that Modi and Shri Amit Shah are above the electoral process and the Model code of Conduct does not apply to them. This has been noted by myriad cartoonists, newspaper editorials and commentators.

"I hope that the Election Commission will now prove them wrong and initiate prompt and suitable action against Modi," he said.

Meanwhile, former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Mehbooba Mufti on Sunday described Modi's remarks as 'painfully embarrassing'.

Mehbooba wondered whether the prime minister authorising the operation in bad weather by overruling the advice of the Indian Air Force led to the strikes 'failing' to hit the intended target.

'No secret that Balakot strikes failed to hit the intended target. Was it because PM overruled the advice of IAF & authorised airstrikes in bad weather?' Mehbooba asked in a tweet.

'Cloud cover logic is painfully embarrassing. Remind me again, why is RG (Congress president Rahul Gandhi) derided as Pappu? #cloudonradargone'.

The People's Democratic Party president said the BJP's ability to 'suspend logic' in its quest to win another term is 'mind numbingly fatuous', adding that the armed forces do not deserve this.

'I was raked over the coals for questioning veracity of Balakot strikes. But seeing Pak media & journos troll PM on cloud gaffe is awfully embarrassing,' Mehbooba added.

With inputs from Agencies
IMAGE: Prime Minister Narendra Modi addresses during an election campaign rally for the Lok Sabha polls, in Sonbhadra, on Saturday. Photograph: PTI Photo

As campaigning for Lok Sabha polls entered its final phase, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday predicted the defeat of the opposition parties, saying the people were voting for an effective government.

"Opposition parties will fall flat in polls. This is because people are voting for an effective and honest government," he said at an election rally in Kushinagar and later in Deoria in eastern Uttar Pradesh which go to polls in the last phase on May 19.

Attacking the Samajwadi Party-Bahujan Samaj Party alliance, Modi said he had been the chief minister of Gujarat more than the terms of Akhilesh Yadav and Mayawati combined as Uttar Pradesh chief ministers, and there was no blot of corruption on him.

"Now these people have started demanding a certificate of my caste. I never indulge in caste politics and by your blessings, it was never needed. But when they are demanding a certificate, I tell them that I may have been born in an extremely backward caste, but my dream is to make India a front-runner (in the world).

"To all casteist leaders I would like to say my only caste is poor, my only identity is poor. I have faced poverty, felt its pain and came out of poverty. And with the blessings of the poor, I have got the opportunity to serve the country," Modi said.

"I held the post of chief minister of Gujarat for a long time and the post of prime minister has been given by you. But neither I nor my family ever misused the post or the power.

"I have been CM for a longer time when compared to the combined stint of 'bua' (Mayawati) and 'babua' (Akhilesh Yadav)," he said.

Modi said he never transformed the poverty of his family to richness.

"The post of power was used to serve the poor and work for their welfare and interest. Those who are demanding my caste certificate, they have accumulated wealth and property for themselves when they were in power.

"I have been the CM of Gujarat and prime minister for five years and my record is an open book, which is in front of the entire country," he said.

Hitting out at BSP chief Mayawati for her remarks on the Alwar gang rape case, the prime minister asked her 'not to shed crocodile tears' for the victim.

"If you are serious, why don't you withdraw support from the Congress government in Rajasthan," he asked.

Even the Congress government wanted to suppress the incident involving a Dalit woman, he said, adding that the party thought 'hua toh hua', a reference to Sam Pitroda's remark on 1984 anti-Sikh riots.

Hitting out at the opposition, Modi said, "The biggest example of how the 'mahamilawat' of SP-BSP-Congress actually works is Rajasthan.

"A Dalit daughter was gang-raped and there is the government of Congress and 'naamdaar'. And the Rajasthan government is not a government which enjoys full majority. It is working with the support of BSP. It is busy in hushing up the matter."

Intensifying his attack on the Congress, he said, "The Congress which chants nyay, nyay, nyay, its naamdaar has been silenced by the rapists.

Today, the daughters of UP are asking Behenji (Mayawati), and Behanji you have to answer why you have not withdrawn your support to the Congress government (in Rajasthan). You are shedding crocodile tears by only indulging in issuing statements.

"When the (Lucknow) guest house incident happened, the entire country was pained. What is the reason that you are not feeling pained. If you are so honest about the dignity of the daughters, then you should immediately write a letter to the Rajasthan Governor and withdraw your support from the Congress government," he said.

"To punish those who commit crime on women, this chowkidaar of yours had made provisions for the capital punishment. If the intention of the Congress government was right, it would not have suppressed the Alwar incident, but they have only one answer -- 'hua toh hua'. Be it corruption, price rise or the 1984 anti-Sikh genocide, their answer is 'hua toh hua'," he said.

Referring to the encounter in Shopian district of Jammu and Kashmir on Sunday morning, Modi wondered, "Will our jawans take EC's (Election Commission's) permission before opening fire at militants? Opposition ne kya khel bana rakha hai? (What drama is the opposition enacting)."

In both Kushinagar and Deoria, he said it was surprising that opposition parties were saying that elections were on and the security forces were opening fire on militants.

"In the morning when reports and news come, I learn that terrorists have been gunned down in Kashmir. Now some people are perturbed over the fact that when polling is going on today, then why did Modi kill the terrorists? They (terrorists) are standing with guns toting, will my jawan go to seek the permission of the Election Commission whether I should fire at the terrorist or not.

"Since, we have come to power every second-third day, terrorists are killed. This safai abhiyaan is my work," he said.

Seeking votes, he said it was time to make the victory historic in such a way that the 'mahamilawat' (grand adulterated) people stop thinking about facing the people in future.

He also said, "They are unable to understand why the people of the country are showering their love on the chowkidaar... It is for the fight against terror that the country is voting for the BJP and Modi. Those who used to threaten India have fallen flat, they are feeling afraid."

Modi said the SP and the BSP were incapable of taking on terrorists.

About the Congress, he said, "Congress ne pahley jawan ka sar katwaya (jawan was beheaded during Cong rule), now the party has become 'vote katwa' (vote cutter)."
Its advanced Longbow radar picks up enemy armoured vehicles and then destroys them with anti-tank missiles, air-to-surface rockets or a chain gun that sends 625 rounds per minute ripping into the targets.

Ajai Shukla reports.

IMAGE: Air Marshal Aravindra Singh Butola speaks at the handing over ceremony at the Boeing's helicopter production facility at Mesa, Arizona.

Boeing handed over to the Indian Air Force on Friday, May 10, the first of the 22 Apache attack helicopters that India had contracted to buy in September 2015 for about $3 billion at current prices.

Air Marshal A S Butola travelled to Boeing's helicopter production facility at Mesa, Arizona, to attend the handing over ceremony, alongside US government officials.

The IAF is buying the latest version of the Apache, designated the AH-64E (I) Apache Guardian. The first batch of four-six helicopters will be shipped to India in July, said the defence ministry.

The Apaches are being acquired through a hybrid contract. The helicopter itself has been contracted through a 'direct commercial sale' with Boeing. However, the radar and assortment of weaponry including missiles, rockets and cannon bullets, are being acquired directly from the Pentagon through a 'foreign military sale'.

The Apache is widely acknowledged to be the world's most lethal combat helicopter, having flown about a million mission hours in conflicts from the First Gulf War in 1991 to the ongoing fighting in Afghanistan.

It can operate by day or night with equal effectiveness, flying just metres above the ground and sheltering behind trees and sand dunes.

Its advanced Longbow radar picks up enemy armoured vehicles and then destroys them with anti-tank missiles, air-to-surface rockets or a chain gun that sends 625 rounds per minute ripping into the targets.

Designed to operate as the airborne component of a highly mobile, armour-heavy strike corps, the Apache has been dubbed the 'flying tank'.

'The ability of these helicopters to transmit and receive the battlefield picture to and from the weapon systems through data networking makes it a lethal acquisition,' said the defence ministry on Saturday.

Ground combat experts said the Apache should have been a straightforward buy of a premier tank-killing platform for the Indian Army's three strike corps, instead of joining the IAF fleet.

Then defence minister A K Antony, after deciding that the new Army Aviation Corps would fly the army's tactical support helicopters, succumbed to IAF pressure and allocated them the Apache.

Consequently, the 22 Apaches, distributed between two IAF squadrons, will have the wartime role of 'suppression of enemy air defences (SEAD)'.

This refers to the US doctrine of destroying enemy air defence radars and missile batteries near the border, allowing fighter aircraft to cross into enemy airspace undetected.

Army aviation specialists reject this notion, arguing that the relatively slow-flying Apaches would be quickly picked up by Chinese or Pakistani surveillance radars and then shot down by their dense defensive network of anti-air missiles, guns and fighter aircraft.

They point out that the US army could use Apaches for SEAD only in highly asymmetrical conflicts like Iraq, where the US enjoyed overwhelming air superiority.

Acknowledging the Indian Army's need for the Apache, the defence ministry has kicked-off a separate procurement of six Apache Guardians for the army's strike corps.

Last June, the US Congress was notified about the proposed sale of six AH-64E Apache helicopters to India for about $930 million.

These are for the first of the three Apache units planned for the army's three strike corps. Each squadron will have 10 helicopters and a 30 per cent reserve in depots to replenish losses caused by accidents or casualties.

Separately, the IAF and army are acquiring the Light Combat Helicopter, designed and developed by Hindustan Aeronautics, which is now close to being operationally certified.

The lighter LCH is optimised for providing supporting fire to infantry soldiers in high altitude combat. The heavier, bigger Apache is more suited to mechanised warfare in plains terrain.

There is no 'Make in India' component or transfer of technology in the Apache deal. The helicopter is to be built entirely in the US, then defence minister Manohar Parrikar informed the Lok Sabha on November 28, 2014.

However, the US army is providing training at Fort Rucker, Alabama, to IAF pilots and maintenance personnel who will operate the Apache fleet.
Park Un-jong, chairwoman of the Anti-Corruption and Civil Rights Commission (ACRC), speaks in an interview with The Korea Times and Hankook Ilbo at her office in Seoul on May 8. She underlined the need to build a culture of integrity across society to root out corruption. Korea Times photo by Seo Jae-hoon



Marking the second anniversary of the Moon Jae-in administration, The Korea Times, jointly with the Hankook Ilbo, interviewed Cabinet ministers to review his government's policies on tackling corruption to create a more just society, as well as other pending issues. This is the first of the interviews.  ED.



By Lee Min-hyung



The end goal of the nation's anti-corruption policy drive should be to establish a culture of integrity in the private sector, but the ongoing government-led institutional reforms focus mainly on the public area, according to Park Un-jong, chairwoman of the Anti-Corruption and Civil Rights Commission (ACRC).



"The government has carried out anti-corruption policies with a focus on the public sector, so there is still much to be desired in the private one," she said in an interview with The Korea Times and its sister paper, Hankook Ilbo.



For this reason, there still remains a practice of offering illegal kickbacks in some types of business, she said.



"Government-driven institutional reforms are not sufficient to root out such practices," Park said. "What we need is to foster a culture of integrity across the society by taking related measures, such as education reinforcement. The media should also pay more attention to the issue."



The practice of providing illegal kickbacks has for decades been one of the key social problems that remains unsettled, despite growing calls to tighten legal measures to put an end to it. For instance, some drug manufacturers make headlines after being caught offering kickbacks to doctors.



The ACRC was established in February 2008 with a view to protecting the public's rights and establishing a transparent and corruption-free society. Park has served as the head of the commission since taking office in June 2017.






Berlin is celebrating the 70th anniversary of the lifting of the Soviet blockade that strangled the German capital in the years following World War II and sparked the Berlin airlift, the biggest postwar humanitarian operation of its kind.

Officials and guests, including some U.S. soldiers who helped with plane missions that dropped small packages of sweets attached to tiny parachutes to West Berliners, will meet on May 12 at the Tempelhof airfield to commemorate the date.

U.S. Colonel Gail Halvorsen, known as the "Candy Bomber" for coming up with the idea of dropping candy to those inside the blockade area, attended the celebrations.

"If you lose your freedom, you'll never get it back," Halvorsen, now 98, told students as part of the events commemorating the end of the Soviet move.

The blockade started on June 24, 1948, when Soviet leader Josef Stalin cut off all road, rail, and water routes through communist East Germany into the western portion of the divided city.

His aim -- to conquer what was an enclave inside the Soviet-controlled east. It was the culmination of tensions between the Soviet Union and the Western powers that shared in Germany's postwar occupation.

But two days later, the first planes carrying much-needed supplies began flying in from West Germany. It was the beginning of the Berlin airlift -- the biggest humanitarian operation of its kind.

Over the next year, U.S. and British planes made nearly 300,000 flights, delivering more than 2 million tons of food, fuel, and other supplies in order to keep over 2 million people alive.

U.S. and British planes used an air corridor less than 2 kilometers wide to fly from Celle in to Berlin. Any plane that strayed from that airspace risked the Soviets' wrath.

In May 1949, the Soviet blockade was lifted -- though the Allies' flights continued for several more months.

With reporting by AFP, AP, Deutsche Welle, and the BBC
YEREVAN -- Former Armenian President Robert Kocharian is set to go on trial on May 13 on charges of overthrowing the constitutional order during the final weeks of his decade-long rule that ended in April 2008.

Kocharian is accused of illegally ordering security forces to use force against opposition supporters who were protesting against alleged fraud in a disputed presidential election in February 2008.

Eight protesters and two police officers were killed when security forces quelled the two days of protests that began on March 1, 2008. The crackdown came after Kocharian declared a three-week state of emergency.

The 64-year-old ex-president, who served as president from 1998 to 2008, has remained in pretrial detention since his arrest in December.

Kocharian denies any wrongdoing, saying that the accusations are part of incumbent Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian's political "vendetta" against him.

Pashinian, a former opposition lawmaker, was swept to power last year after leading protests that ousted Kocharian's former ally and successor, Serzh Sarkisian.

Pashinian played a key role in the 2008 protests and spent nearly two years in prison because of it.

He has strongly defended the criminal case against Kocharian and denied orchestrating it.
Lithuanians are voting in the first round of a presidential election on May 12. The front-runners among the nine candidates are Prime Minister Saulius Skvernelis, former banking economist Gitanas Nauseda, and former Finance Minister Ingrida Simonyte. All of them voted in Vilnius on May 12, except Nauseda, who cast his ballot in advance voting on May 10. The winner will succeed Dalia Grybauskaite, who has completed her maximum two terms in office.
Officials Russia's Rostov region have opened a criminal investigation hours after a gas explosion at an apartment building killed an adult and a child.

The explosion on May 12 in the Kamensky district of Rostov damaged several apartments in the building, which is at risk of collapsing, district officials said.

Two other people were seriously injured and were taken to the hospital, they added.

The TASS news agency reported that investigators have seized documents relevant to the case from the gas company that provides service to the area.

In January, five people were killed in the Rostov region when a natural-gas explosion partially destroyed a residential building in the town of Shakhty.

With reporting by TASS
SKOPJE -- Stevo Pendarovski has been inaugurated as the new president of North Macedonia, calling for "reconciliation" in a deeply divided society.

In his inauguration speech before parliament on May 12, Pendarovski promised he will serve all citizens and said, "It is time to heal open wounds from our recent past and to really start civil reconciliation."

"There are so many divisions, especially political," he said.

The swearing-in ceremony was attended by the presidents of Albania, Bulgaria, Serbia, and Kosovo, as well as Pendarovski's predecessor, former President Gjorge Ivanov.

Pendarovski told lawmakers that the country will have to tackle two priorities: economic development and the fight against "corruption, crime, and nepotism."

He said he will lobby European Union leaders to approve the opening of North Macedonia's accession talks in June.

Pendarovski, backed by North Macedonia's ruling Social Democratic Union (SDSM), won the presidential election runoff on May 5 with nearly 52 percent of the vote.

Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova, the candidate favored by the main conservative opposition VMRO DPMNE party, had 45 percent.

Turnout was less than 47 percent.

Pendarovski, a former political-science professor, has strongly supported the so-called Prespa deal signed with Greece last year to change the country's name.

Siljanovska-Davkova has been critical of it, though the opposition has said it would not cancel the accord. She is also a strong proponent of EU and NATO integration.

The signing of the historic agreement with Greece changed the country's name to North Macedonia and ended a decades-long dispute that had blocked the Balkan state's path to NATO and the EU.

Ivanov, who ended his second and last five-year presidential term on May 12, was a fierce opponent of the deal.

With reporting by AP
U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo is expected to meet on May 14 with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in Russia's Black Sea resort city of Sochi, after canceling a planned visit to Moscow on May 13 in order to join talks about Iran with European officials in Brussels.



Pompeo's Russia visit -- his first as the top U.S. diplomat -- comes amid persistent tensions between Washington and Moscow.



The Sochi talks will be the highest-level of formal discussions held between U.S. and Russian officials since July 2018, when President Donald Trump and Putin held a one-on-one meeting in Finland.



The State Department has said that topics for the Putin-Pompeo talks will include arms control, the crisis in Venezuela, and the conflicts in Ukraine and Syria, as well as Iran.



All of those issues are areas where Washington and Moscow are at direct odds with one another.

"The starting point we have to have when we discuss our policy toward Russia...is to acknowledge frankly that Russia has taken a series of aggressive and destabilizing actions on the global stage," a senior State Department official told reporters on May 10.

'Modern Reality'

The official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, added that Pompeo's trip was "an opportunity to make those points clear to the Russian government and what our expectations are and [to] see how to forge a path forward."

Arms control will be high on the agenda of the talks, in particular an "arms-control agreement that reflects modern reality," according to the official.

In February, the United States suspended participation in the 1987 Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty because of what it says is Russia's development and deployment of a missile system that violates the pact.

Moscow, which denies the accusation, later followed suit.

The INF Treaty banned the United States and Russia from developing, producing, and deploying ground-launched cruise or ballistic missiles with ranges between 500 and 5,500 kilometers.

Moscow and Washington have also been gearing up for talks on how and whether to extend the 2011 New START treaty, the only U.S.-Russia arms control pact limiting deployed strategic nuclear weapons.

It is set to expire in February 2021 but can be extended for five years if both sides agree.



Trump has called the New START treaty concluded in 2010 by his predecessor, Barack Obama, a "bad deal" and "one-sided."

Trump spoke with Putin by phone last week and said they discussed the possibility of a new accord limiting nuclear arms that could eventually include China.

But Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, who met with Lavrov in Sochi on May 13, said his country wasn't interested in negotiating a nuclear arms-control treaty with the United States and Russia.

Wang told reporters after the meeting that China "has no interest" in being part of such a treaty. He said China kept its arsenal of nuclear weapons at "the minimal level to ensure the defense policies."
Thousands of protesters turned out for a 23rd-straight weekend march on May 11 in Belgrade. The rallies have been going on in the Serbian capital since December 2018, when they started in condemnation of an assault on an opposition politician. The protesters later added demands such as the resignations of Serbia's leading officials and neutrality of the public radio and television broadcaster. The May 11 march ended at a "free zone" -- a tent pitched by the protesters a week ago.
University students, officials, and lecturers in Tajikistan are being pressured by the state to serve as online trolls to counter opposition figures and other government critics, according to documents and personal testimonies obtained by RFE/RL.

The campaign involves hundreds of people being recruited to work for "response factories" to set up multiple fake social-media accounts to be used as a platform for pro-government activities, according to five sources who spoke to RFE/RL. The so-called response factories are part of a government effort to counter what it calls an online "smear campaign" that it alleges is orchestrated by the opposition and which it claims employs its own fake social-media accounts.

Their activities primarily include sharing and "liking" material that discredits government critics, taking part in social-media debates to attack opposition figures, and promoting state propaganda. For their efforts they are provided no compensation, and failure to comply could result in repercussions, they say.

The five -- all of them university students or lecturers who spoke on condition of anonymity out of fear of repercussions -- alleged they received orders from their university administrations and the Education and Science Ministry, which they claimed in turn received instructions from law enforcement agencies.

One told RFE/RL that the recruits were required to provide their bosses with detailed accounts of their everyday activities with screenshots of their posts, "likes," and comments.

Another estimated the number of "recruits" at around 400 across the country of some 9 million.

"Each of them have about 10 fake social-media accounts, so in total there are some 4,000 'people' actively engaged in social-media debates...trying to manipulate public opinion," the source claimed.

The pool of "recruits" is divided into several smaller teams described as "information-analysis groups," according to those who spoke to RFE/RL. Each group has its own team leader.

RFE/RL's Tajik Service obtained copies of several letters or instructions the sources said were e-mailed to the heads of schools and universities and to the "information-analysis groups."

A copy of one such letter alerts recipients of a planned statement by Muhiddin Kabiri, the leader of the banned Islamic Renaissance Party, to be livestreamed on Facebook and YouTube.

The letter, titled: Attention! Attention! Attention!, was sent to heads of schools and universities in April. "Kabiri goes live again this evening at 20.00," the letter states, calling on recipients to be "active during the interview" and to prepare questions and comments.

Kabiri, who lives in self-imposed exile in Europe, is the main target of the campaign, the recruits said.

Another letter obtained by RFE/RL notes public anger over an announced plan by the government in March to raise prices for Internet services.

That letter was titled: Urgent! Confidential!, and sent to directors of schools, colleges, and universities and the heads and members of information-analysis groups.

"As we all know, certain groups ... are trying to use the Internet price hike as a pretext to urge Dushanbe residents, especially the young, to stage protests. They are planning rallies in coming days in the capital," says the undated, unsigned letter. To "prevent such undesirable action," the letter stresses, requires a "full-scale effort."

It issues concrete instructions to defend government policies, including condemning calls for protest rallies, and calling for peace and stability "through social media, especially Facebook."

The letter suggests that "knowledgeable scholars use their experience and skills" to publish relevant articles to aid the effort. It goes on to instruct recipients to report any suspicious activities to authorities, including calls for protests they notice on social media.

The unpopular move to raise Internet prices for smartphone users was subsequently reversed by President Emomali Rahmon in April amid growing public anger.

The government frequently blocks social media and independent news websites. Many Internet users in the country complain of slow Internet speeds.

Official Denial

When contacted by RFE/RL, the Education and Science Ministry acknowledged sending one letter to students, but denied that it had any role in an alleged government effort to recruit trolls.

"We sent a letter [to students] but it wasn't aimed at creating troll farms. The letter was sent at the height of the period when many young people were joining terrorist and extremist groups like the Islamic State," spokesman Ehson Safarzoda said.

"In the letter, we noted that universities need to set up [antiextremist] propaganda groups to organize discussions with students," he told RFE/RL.

It is unclear whether the letter Safarzoda refers to was among those obtained by RFE/RL. However, one letter, which featured an Education and Science Ministry letterhead and was signed by Deputy Education Minister Rahmatullo Mirboboev, addresses concerns over the spread of extremism in society. It calls for efforts to prevent young Tajik from joining "extremist and radical parties and movements."

Dated February 6, 2019, the letter instructs the heads of the schools and the information-analysis groups to prepare articles under the rubric We Against Extremism!

The individuals who spoke to RFE/RL said instructions and letters sent by the ministry came frequently, and were far from a one-off occurrence.

Unpaid Trolls

The five described how they were instructed to use any means online, including bad language and fake photos, to attack government critics and activists.

In addition, they were often required to write articles for various publications, one recruit claimed, describing it as one of the most undesirable tasks. "A student, or a biology teacher...they know nothing about writing [political] articles," he said. "Other activities include trying to hack various accounts, creating fake pages to impersonate someone else...and sending threatening letters to certain people."

The five individuals who spoke to RFE/RL said that recruits had to do trolling on their own time, with no financial compensation or any other incentives from authorities. "I am fed up spending all day writing bad articles about someone or to like and comment on Facebook posts," said one recruit employed by a Tajik university.

However, another said, they had little option but to comply. "Refusing to do it entails the risk of losing your job, and they also use all sorts of ways to bring you into disrepute," he said.

Another said that he had left his job and was now leaving the country.
The United Nations says the first day of the withdrawal from western Yemen of Iranian-backed Huthi rebels from two of the three Red Sea port facilities they've vowed to evacuate under a peace deal has gone according to plan.

The UN has been monitoring the withdrawal from the Red Sea port facilities of Saleef and Ras Isa, which the rebels have held since 2014. The UN monitors plan to report to the Security Council about the situation on May 15.

"All three ports were monitored simultaneously by United Nations teams as the military forces left the ports and the coast guard took over responsibility for security," a UN statement on May 12 said.

The UN statement comes a day after the Yemeni government accused the rebels of "staging a new ploy" by faking the withdrawal.

Provincial Governor Al-Hasan Taher told AFP the rebels were handing the ports "to themselves without any monitoring by the United Nations and the government side."

The UN says the Huthi rebels announced late on May 10 that they would unilaterally redeploy their forces out of three Red Sea port facilities over four days beginning on May 11 -- potentially opening the way for the delivery of humanitarian aid needed to prevent a famine that threatens millions of people.

Under the redeployment pledge, Huthi militants said they also would move out of Yemen's main Red Sea port of Hodeidah by the end of the day on May 14.

Under the peace agreement, signed in Stockholm in December, pro-government forces in Yemen also are expected to leave positions around the outskirts of Hodeidah during the initial redeployment before a second phase in which both sides withdraw their troops further.

But the UN has not specifically mentioned any reciprocal redeployment by the pro-government forces, which have the support of a military coalition led by Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

The coalition alleges that the Huthis have been using Hodeidah as a landing point to smuggle weapons supplied by Iran. The Huthis deny those charges.

The UN committee's chairman, Lieutenant General Michael Lollesgaard of Denmark, has said the Huthi redeployment must be followed by "the committed, transparent, and sustained actions of the parties to fully deliver on their obligations."

With reporting by Reuters, AP, and AFP


These are questions and answers from an interview The Korea Times and its sister paper, Hankook Ilbo, conducted with Park Un-jong, chairwoman of the Anti-Corruption and Civil Rights Commission (ACRC).  ED.



By Lee Min-hyung





Park Un-jong, chairwoman of the Anti-Corruption and Civil Rights Commission

Q: This May marks the second anniversary since the Moon administration took office. Could you evaluate how well the government has carried out its anti-corruption policies over the past two years?



A: Anti-corruption reform has topped the list of the state management for the past two years. The Moon administration started these efforts amid hopes to build a transparent society. For this reason, I think anti-corruption reform is the calling of the times. To meet public expectations, we have overhauled anti-corruption policies across the country and eradicated many unfair practices on public demand. One noteworthy achievement can be a restoration of anti-corruption systems in government agencies. We have improved related laws, corrupt hiring practices and the Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI). But there still remains much to be desired over whether an anti-corruption culture has settled down across society.



Q: What is the role of the ACRC when dealing with the issue of corrupt hiring practices?



A: My view is that corruption in recruitment has a lot to do with the credibility of state-run organizations, so the issue must be discussed. With the Moon administration entering its third year, what is important is to create substantive changes that the public actually feels. Anti-corruption policies need to take root across the society, so the public can actually feel that society has become more transparent. To do so, we have picked nine projects related with anti-corruption, such as the eradication of university admissions corruption, tax evasion, receiving government subsidies in an illegal manner and corrupt hiring practices. On top of that, we are coming up with legal measures to prevent civilians from providing gifts to government officials.



Q: President Moon pays attention to the CPI. Could you elaborate on the index?



A: Transparency International, a Berlin-based nongovernmental organization, releases the CPI of 180 countries across the world annually. In February, the organization unveiled the 2018 CPI, and South Korea received three more points in the index, compared with a year ago. (The nation scored 57 points out of 100 on the 2018 CPI, ranking 45th of 180 countries.) I think this is a positive signal in that the nation's CPI had remained in a range of the early to mid-50s for the past five years. The 2018 index, however, served as a turning point for upward momentum. I know that the figure is still not sufficient to meet the public's expectations, but we are going to continue the anti-corruption reforms.



Q: South Korea is getting better scores in the index, but the nation's figure stands at a low end among OECD member nations. South Korea ranked 30th among 36 OECD member countries in the 2018 CPI. What kind of efforts do we need to make to drive up the ranking?






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Former South Kingstown Superintendent Bob Hicks was appointed by the school committee to serve at interim superintendent while Kristen Stringfellow is out on administrative leave.
A legal showdown looms over the fate of the Petersburg treasurers powers after the City Council narrowly approved a measure this month to strip duties from the elected officials department.

By a 4-3 vote, the council on Tuesday approved an ordinance to make the citys collector of taxes, currently the city manager, responsible for depositing local funds with banks and providing council members with regular reports on the state of the treasury.

The move is the citys administrations latest attempt to shift duties from the treasurers office, which had been a source of controversy before the current treasurer, Ken Pritchett, was elected in 2017.

Pritchett, who succeeded a former treasurer convicted of embezzling public funds, has drawn criticism from city officials who say his office is behind in balancing the books. Pritchett says he has brought in outside help to address problems that predate him.

The prospect alone of shifting power to the city manager drew a rebuke from the Treasurers Association of Virginia, which penned a letter to the city dated May 6 saying the citys charter and state law mandates that the treasurer, Pritchett, is the custodian of city funds.
City planners first proposed redesigning the waterfront into a more cohesive experience in 2011, convinced that they could spur the creation of new gathering places  and, not incidentally, pay for it by allowing new hotels and housing.

Opponents staged demonstrations and fielded challengers for the City Council and mayor. After a civic battle that lasted several years, including a raucous 11-hour council meeting, multiple legal challenges, a do-over vote and a mayoral election in which the waterfront was the major issue, the new riverfront began to take shape.

Alexandria could spend as much as $120 million on new infrastructure, landscaping and services at the waterfront, an investment that city officials say they will recoup over the next 20 to 30 years from taxes generated by the development.

In all, 70 townhouses and 26 condominiums are planned on the site of the old Robinson Terminal South. Seventy percent of the townhouses have been sold, for prices starting from $1.2 million. So far, three townhouses are occupied.

We bought this thinking it will be our permanent home, said Gloriana Echeverria Martin, 40, who moved from Washington in January, with her husband, Alonso Garza Zorrilla, and their dog, Lucy.
In a speech that lasted about half an hour, Pence drew a direct line between religion and the strength of the country. He asked graduates to remain faithful to themselves, Libertys principles and God as they enter their careers.

America has always been a nation of faith and as our first vice president, John Adams, said, our Constitution was made only for a moral and religious people; it is wholly inadequate to the government of any other. So, just know as you strengthen your foundation of faith and the foundation of faith among the American people, you will be strengthening the foundation of America itself, he said.

Pence said the Class of 2019 will enter the job market amid a period of sustained job growth.

Unemployment is at a 50-year low, and there are more Americans working today than ever before in the history of this country, he said. And this year, for the first time ever, there are more job openings in America than there are Americans looking for work. Thats good timing, Liberty.

LU President Jerry Falwell Jr. awarded Pence an honorary doctorate of laws for what he called Pences nobility of character, among other virtues.
Virginia, perhaps more than most states, is in love with its history. Our state capital has an entire street devoted to those we have deemed worthy of being enshrined in bronze. In truth, though, were only in love with some of our history, because theres a lot of our history that was decidedly unlovable. That raises a troublesome question: What should we do about those parts of our history that we arent so proud of?

Those who venerate Confederate statues say we shouldnt erase our history and on that score, at least, theyre right. But what about those parts of our history that have already been, if not erased, at least not officially remembered?

A lot of Virginia history tends to end at Appomattox and then flip ahead a century or so until we get to the present day, as if nothing much happened in between. Actually, a lot happened in between, and some of it wasnt very pretty. To really understand our history, we need to understand all of it, which means we need a better understanding of the ugly history of racially motivated murders we commonly call lynchings.
A Korean woman arrives at the Villacoublay Air Base in the southwest of Paris, Sunday, along with French President Emmanuel Macron on her right. She was rescued about a month after having been taken hostage by armed militants in the West African nation of Burkina Faso. AP-Yonhap



By Lee Min-hyung



An unnamed Korean woman arrived at a French air force base, Sunday, about a month after having been taken hostage in the West African nation of Burkina Faso, according to Korea's foreign ministry.



"The Korean national arrived safely at around 1 a.m. Sunday (KST) at the base and she was taken to a military hospital for a medical examination," a ministry spokesman said. The French medical authority said they did not find any health problems, so she will leave the hospital soon.



She was among the four former hostages rescued by French Special Forces last week from militants in the African country. Two French soldiers died while carrying out the rescue mission in northern Burkina Faso.






New owners of Viva La Cupcake in South Roanoke have some new plans for the business, including a new name.

Levi Buck and his wife, Brunella Salazar-Gonti, acquired the longtime cupcake shop about 10 months ago. Viva La Cupcake was previously in Grandin Village and opened a location at 2123 Crystal Spring Ave. in 2016. The Grandin location has since closed. Buck and Salazar said they spent the first few months evaluating the business before making any changes. They are still keeping the cupcakes, but adding other specialty desserts, many with an international flair.

Salazar is originally from Peru, and she and Buck both love to travel and want to share some of the desserts and sweet treats they've discovered around the world. They have already rolled out Peruvian-style cookies and other desserts in small batches and plan to do that more regularly going forward.

As a result, the shop is getting a name change. Its new name is Pastel, which means "cake" in Spanish. The building, which is next to Fork in the Alley, has been renovated and the owners plan to add a counter and new decor to give it an intimate, higher-end atmosphere. Buck said he plans to add coffee from Roasters Next Door, a new coffee shop in Wasena, and some of its juices, and wants to keep a lot of the new additions local.

All desserts will be made from scratch and will change frequently. This includes desserts like semla, a traditional Swedish sweet bun, and alfajores, a South American soft cookie. Pastel also is handling bridal parties and baby showers, allowing guests to rent out part of the shop.
Three much-anticipated new stores have opened in the New River Valley Mall in Christiansburg.

Ulta Beauty, which opened May 1, followed the arrival of Kirkland's and HomeGoods a few weeks earlier. A celebration for all three stores was held over the weekend at the mall, with festivities continuing into Sunday. All three tenants are located near Dick's Sporting Goods in the area where J.C. Penney used to be before it closed in 2017.

The three stores were big gets for the mall, which has been a major retail hub for the New River Valley but has had to deal with struggling retailers, along with other malls, in the past few years.

Ulta is a cosmetic and beauty supply store and Kirland's is known for its home decor, gifts and furniture. HomeGoods, a discount home furnishing store, is the largest of the three new shops, taking up more than 22,000 square feet of space.

The stores join a new Planet Fitness and Dish Network call center that opened at the mall last year. These are the only Ulta, Kirkland's and HomeGoods locations in the Christiansburg area.
Roanoke-based Brown Edwards accounting firm is adding another practice to its growing company.

It is acquiring the Roanoke and Lynchburg offices of Cherry Bekaert effective June 1, according to a news release. Cherry Bekaert partners Randy Burton and Richard Hedley in Roanoke will join Brown Edwards, as will most of the staff in both offices. A significant number of Cherry Bekaerts clients are expected to transition to Brown Edwards as well, the release said.

This acquisition not only solidifies Brown Edwards position as the largest firm in these markets, with 15 partners and 92 professional staff between the two offices, but also allows the Cherry Bekaert clients more local resources and access to immediate and local decision making, Brown Edwards CEO Jason Hartman said in the release. As Brown Edwards continues to grow throughout the region, we feel these acquisitions demonstrate a firm commitment to the Roanoke and Lynchburg communities, our business and individual clients, and our employees in the area.

Brown Edwards provides assurance, tax and business advisory services to clients in Virginia, West Virginia, North Carolina and Tennessee. It has more than 350 employees and is one of the largest 100 firms in the country by revenue.

In Roanoke, the acquisition will result in an additional office for Brown Edwards in the Wells Fargo tower downtown, while the Cherry Bekaert office in Lynchburg will move to that city's Brown Edwards office, according to the release.

"Through the efforts of many in our community, we are seeing great things happen in our local economy," Cherry Bekaert Partner Randy Burton said in the release. "As evidenced by this investment by Brown Edwards, we are both committed to furthering and supporting that impact. I am excited that our team is joining Brown Edwards as our combined efforts will continue advancing our business ecosystem benefiting us all.
Saturday, thousands of seniors in Blacksburg will don caps and gowns and take the final stroll of their undergraduate lives. Many will head out of town with Virginia Tech sheepskins, mostly broke and with butterflies in their stomachs about the future.

At least a handful will leave with some money in their pockets. They earned it Friday afternoon, in a theater at the universitys Squires Student Center. For the past few months, theyve been planning and plotting enterprises in something that may be the biggest thing since the development of the World Wide Web.

You may have heard of the blockchain. Its one of the hottest areas of computer science right now. For the past 10 years, its primary utility has been as the backbone of cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin.

Although likely unintended, cryptocurrencies have made buying heroin, guns and fake IDs simple and anonymous on the Dark Web.

But blockchain technology has almost endless applications for good, too  in health, art, housing, politics, economics  you name it.

Friday, five student teams put some of those on display in a mostly-empty hall before an international panel of experts. The 20 students, most of whom but not all were seniors, collected prizes totaling more than $28,000 in the Virginia Tech Blockchain Challenge.

Along the way, they treated a handful of curious onlookers to glimpses of the future. The breadth of potentially disruptive technology they displayed staggers the mind.

Broadly speaking, blockchain technology uses decentralized networks to process and store data securely and transparently. Its a foolproof way to document the creation and ownership of intellectual property, or to log financial transactions, or anything time-sensitive, in a way that can be easily verified by anyone.

The student projects were more narrowly focused on building specific blockchain applications that provide value to Virginia Tech and its students, faculty, alumni and staff.

Imagine: A digital application that allows a professor in a 200-student lecture hall to take attendance with the press of a button. Imagine how much lecture time that saves, over the thousands of lectures that occur at Virginia Tech during just one semester. Team JW and the Blockchain Bois demonstrated that.

Or consider: An apartment complex, rigged with solar panels, that automatically pays rent credits to tenants based not only on the amount of power their dwelling produces, but also on how much water and electricity tenants conserve. In the most extreme scenario, one could earn money by living in an apartment rather than paying rent.

That was the thrust of a demonstration by Eco1ogic , a three-member graduate-student team in the competition. (The other 17 student competitors were undergrads.)

This is just a glimpse of how powerful the blockchain can be, said judge Raphael Gaudreault, chief technology officer for Eva, a blockchain-based ridesharing startup in Montreal, Quebec, that launched five weeks ago and has 300 drivers. There are new business models that have never been thought of in the past.

For yours truly, who earned a bachelors degree in English 35 years ago, the competition featured some bewildering buzz-terms. Among them were smart contracts, quantum cryptography and permission structures. Another was IPFS, which  no kidding  stands for InterPlanetary File System.

Thats not a term borrowed from an Isaac Asimov science-fiction novel. Dan Larimer, chief technology officer for Block.one, a two-year-old Blacksburg-based blockchain startup, said the IPFS is actually a real thing.

I wasnt the only one bowled over by the sky-high level of discussion during the two-hour program.

Another was Mary Guy Miller, director of the Roanoke-based Regional Accelerator and Mentoring Program, which helps early-stage technology companies grow. She was among the invited panel of experts.

Miller holds a masters from Virginia Tech in information sciences, as well as a doctorate in instructional design. Decades ago, she founded Interactive Design and Development Inc., a Blacksburg-based tech company. During the two-hour program Friday, Miller dated herself by recalling that when she was in graduate school, IBM had just come out with its second-generation personal computer  the first PC with a hard drive.

I realized sitting here that I could go back to school, Miller said. Theres so much exciting technology.

The competition was organized by Kirk Cameron, a professor in Techs Computer Science Department who has spearheaded the universitys blockchain-education efforts. It was funded by Block.one, which a year ago gave the university $3 million to help students build blockchain skills. Block.one software developers also served as mentors for the student teams.

Originally, there was supposed to be one $7,500 prize to a graduate-student team, one $7,500 prize to the top undergrad team and three $2,500 honorable mentions. But after the presentations, the judges found themselves flummoxed at picking just two top finishers. So instead they chose three.

JW and the Blockchain Bois  which came up with Attend.it, the class attendance-taking invention  won $7,500, plus a $750 premium for best social media presence on campus. That four-student team featured the only female student in the contest, Jiayi Wang.

Eco1ogic also scored $7,500, as did HokieChain, a five-student team that developed a blockchain-based version of something Tech students use every day now, their Hokie Passport cards. One advantage of HokieChain is that it allows for students to pay each other, rather than merely at dining halls, bookstores and Blacksburg merchants.

Two $2,500 honorable mentions went to Soundbin, a three-student team that developed a media distribution service that connects music fans directly with the artists they idolize. It could allow artists to sell music without using middlemen such as iTunes. That could easily lead to cheaper music for fans and more money for the artists.

The other honorable mention went to VotingBlock, a five-student team that developed a blockchain election-voting system. It would allow for reliable, private and secure balloting that could eliminate the possibility of human counting errors and deliver real-time results as votes are cast.

Congrats to all the competitors. These kids are on the cutting edge of the technology that soon may form the backbone of the internet.

Larimer, a Floyd County native, told the crowd that blockchain technology has potential way beyond that.

He sounded more than a bit idealistic in predicting that blockchain could one day secure life, liberty, property and justice for all.

If youre skeptical, thats understandable. Twenty years ago, if you told me people would one day buy used cars on the internet, sight unseen, I would have called you crazy. Friday, there were 113,412 vehicles listed on ebay Motors, and thats only one of many used-car websites.

And consider this: A year ago Block.one made international headlines as $4 billion poured into the company in a matter of days, after it auctioned off a billion units of its own digital currency.

That suggests no small number of smart people are betting Larimer might be right.

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Blacksburg attorney Jonathan P. Fisher, who built a reputation as a tenacious DUI defender with television ads and a heavy caseload, will himself be the defendant in four upcoming cases.

Fisher faces misdemeanor citations in Roanoke, Montgomery County and Salem tied to failing to appear for his clients hearings. In another Salem case, filed last month, Fisher is charged with contempt of court for not delivering a clients driving record to a judge.

Additionally, Fishers former advertising agency last month sued for unpaid bills that it says run into tens of thousands of dollars.

All of this comes on the heels of a March 19 hearing in Floyd County Circuit Court, where a judge fined Fisher $100 for being late and imposed $500 in civil sanctions for Fishers swearing at a prosecutor and threatening to sue the commonwealths attorneys office.

It follows five other contempt of court charges that were dismissed or deferred.

The volume of such citations that Fisher has faced is remarkable, several lawyers said.

Thats an extraordinary number of contempt charges.  Ive just never heard of that many contempt charges against one attorney, said Tom Scott, who for years has taught professional responsibility classes at the Appalachian School of Law, and who is a current member and past chairman of the Virginia State Bars disciplinary board.

Professional responsibility classes are where would-be lawyers get a grounding in what is expected in the legal world. Joyce Janto, who teaches at the University of Richmond School of Law, agreed with Scott that getting to court on time is just a basic requirement.

The first rule, 1.1, is competence. And competence means you represent your client. And if youre not showing up, not doing things, youre not representing your client, Janto said.

Fisher said last week that he expects to come through the latest tempests as he has through others in his life and emerge better both professionally and personally.

I think its kind of been a blessing because its led me to be a little bit introspective, Fisher said.

In a half-hour discussion of his legal problems, Fisher said that he found the citations embarrassing but did not blame the judges, who he said expressed personal concern for him.

And Fisher said that he did not think judges held his schedule problems against his clients. Fisher said he still is winning dismissals of intoxicated driving cases.

Fisher also said the situation had helped him with his own health issues.

Fisher has osteogenesis imperfecta, also known as brittle bones disease. He walks with forearm crutches and said he has sustained more than 50 broken bones.

Fisher said that all the physical injuries have left him with post-traumatic stress disorder that affects him in many ways.

The recent problems with judges, Fisher said, prompted him to reach out to Lawyers Helping Lawyers, a nonprofit that since 1985 has aided Virginia attorneys in dealing with substance abuse or mental health problems.

Jim Leffler, the organizations clinical director, noted that the rate of addiction and mental health issues for attorneys is two to three times that of the general population. He compared Lawyers Helping Lawyers to an employee assistance program, providing assessments and referrals and organizing support groups.

Fisher said that through Lawyers Helping Lawyers, he attended group sessions with a mental health professional.

Im not afraid for people to know that, Fisher said, adding that he has found the sessions so beneficial that he has suggested them to other lawyers.

On the public record for Fishers show cause/failure to comply case in Roanoke Circuit Court, a note was recently attached to explain the delay of a hearing last month. In an apparent reference to Fisher, the defendant in the case, the record says Def. Needs Time To Complete Rehab.

Fisher said that must be a reference to the Lawyers Helping Lawyers sessions.

Theres no rehab. Thats just not correct, Fisher said.

There is no substance abuse issue for him to deal with, Fisher said.

A Fairlawn native, Fisher earned a bachelors degree in history from Virginia Tech in 1998, then graduated from Penn States Dickinson School of Law in 2001, according to the biography on his website. He claims to have defended more than 15,000 criminal and traffic cases, and since 2006, has emphasized intoxicated driving and traffic defense. His website offers a free e-book on defending against DUI charges and notes that Fisher is a certified alcohol breath device operator.

Fisher said that the recent spate of problems began last fall when a broken arm prompted him to take time off for recovery and an associate who handled some of the casework left. Schedule problems began to snowball, he said.

He said he also fell behind on his advertising bills. Fisher said he anticipates settling with Florida-based Gray Television Group.

Roanoke attorney Richard Greenberg, who is representing Gray, said Friday that the lawsuit he filed April 15 seeks a total of $38,336 plus $5,000 attorney fees and interest. Greenberg said that he and Fisher were in discussions but that the case was not yet resolved.

Fisher said that after months of frequently trying to delay cases or racing between courthouses, he hopes to soon have a more manageable schedule.

Fisher said the Lawyers Helping Lawyers sessions have made him think about how attorneys often focus on their clients at a cost to themselves.

Youve got to take care of your own self or you cant take care of other people is an insight hes recently gained, Fisher said.

One way he plans to take better care of himself is to reduce the number of cases he handles, Fisher said.

On the contempt of court charges, Fisher faces a May 21 trial in Roanoke Circuit Court and a June 20 trial in Salem Circuit Court, both appeals of earlier contempt convictions in the cities General District Courts.

He has a June 10 hearing in Montgomery County General District Court tied to a failure to appear on Jan. 9, and a June 11 hearing in Salem General District Court where he faces a contempt charge for not producing a North Carolina mans driving record in a speeding ticket case.

Fishers past contempt cases include deferred dispositions last year in Pulaski and Botetourt counties, and dismissed contempt charges in Roanoke County in 2018, Botetourt County in 2014 and Roanoke County in 2011.

Fisher said that he will not appeal the March conviction and sanctions in Floyd County, which stemmed from arguments he had with prosecutors over a plea agreement.

These things happen but its OK, Fisher said. Its going to get better.

Staff writer Neil Harvey contributed to this article.

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CHRISTIANSBURG  The office of the magistrate is the door to the court system. Its where warrants for arrests and searches are issued, and where the initial decision is made to set bail for an arrested person  or to make them wait behind bars for resolution of their charges.

But in Montgomery County, that door is located away from the rest of the countys legal offices. The magistrates office is not in the jail, as it is in Roanoke and many other localities. Instead, Montgomery County magistrates are down the street about a block from the cluster of jail, sheriffs office and courthouse in Christiansburg.

Its an isolation that has alarmed officials for years and which the county may soon end  possibly by fast-tracking a building renovation expected to reach into seven figures.

That is a public safety issue  we need to make this change, Montgomery County Supervisor Chris Tuck said recently about relocating the magistrates.

Sheriff Hank Partin, long a champion of moving the magistrates office, said the present situation is just asking for something to go wrong. Its horrible, Partin said.

n n n

It is just before 10 p.m. on a rainy Friday when a Christiansburg police officer brings the nights first arrestee into the Montgomery County magistrates office.

The handcuffed man seems in a good mood, all things considered, and he wants to talk: about his love for beer and wings, about the drunken driving charge for which Rob Keller, the magistrate who is working an all-night shift, is completing the paperwork  and about Cody Ryan Drain, who achieved a measure of regional notoriety earlier this year by escaping from custody in the parking lot of this very magistrates office.

The man holds up his cuffed wrists and laughs. Cody didnt have these, he guesses, then adds that he went to school with Drain years ago.

Beside the man, the police officer leans down to look through the Plexiglas window that separates magistrate from suspect. The officer turns to the arrested man. Were you rooting for Cody? he asks.

The man looks more serious. No, he says. I wasnt rooting for him.

Moments later, Keller finishes the arrest paperwork, issuing an arrest warrant after questioning the officer and ruling that a charge is justified.

Then its time for a bond decision. The magistrate explains that because the arrested man has been cooperative, has long ties to the region, and lacks a recent criminal record, he will not have to post bail before being released. He will, however, have to sober up.

The officer leads the man outside to a police vehicle, which will carry him down the block and around a corner to the Montgomery County Jail.

n n n

In coming weeks, the Montgomery County Board of Supervisors expect to take up the details of upcoming capital projects, sorting out priorities among a list that includes a new county maintenance garage, converting the former Riner fire department into a home for the rescue squad  and moving the magistrates.

A plan that has been discussed since at least last fall would relocate the magistrates from their rented quarters on South Franklin Street, where they have been for six years. Their new site would be the former sheriffs office building, a few parking spaces away from the jail.

I personally think that having the Magistrates Office as close to the jail as possible would be the ideal location, due to safety and security concerns, Supervisor Mary Biggs wrote in an email.

Supervisor Steve Fijalkowski expressed similar thoughts, writing in an email, I am a retired police officer who worked in Montgomery County. The benefit of having the Magistrates Office as close to the jail as possible would be the best case scenario.

The catch, of course, is that the former sheriffs office needs significant renovation before it can be returned to use.

Tuck, Biggs and Fijalkowski, along with supervisors Darrell Sheppard and Sara Bohn, said decisions on whether to go ahead with a renovation have to wait on a report from engineering consultant Thompson and Litton.

County supervisor April DeMotts did not respond to messages asking for her thoughts on the magistrates and the capital projects list.

Last fall, supervisors asked Thompson and Litton to work up new cost estimates for converting the former sheriffs office into space for both the magistrates and for the countys court services personnel, who now are housed in a former church that the county owns at the corner of Christiansburgs Radford Road and Depot Street.

The cost for renovating the sheriffs office was estimated at $1.3 million in 2016.

If the court services unit moves, its present home could be sold and the money put toward renovation costs at the former sheriffs office, officials have said. The court services property has an assessed value of $407,100, with about half the value being the land.

Similarly, bringing the magistrates back to a county-owned facility would save the $77,350 that the county now pays in annual rent.

Partin has talked for years about the potential for trouble at the magistrates present location. Sooner or later some bad dude or dudette is going to take advantage of the relative isolation, Partin said.

In the offices present location, deputies or police officers  and whoever they are detaining  wait in the parking lot for a turn with the magistrate. Often the people coming and going from the Subway restaurant next door are closer than other law enforcement officers, Partin said.

And an arrest may draw others besides the officer and arrestee.

I know of so many occasions when mad family or mad friends have shown up at the magistrates office after an arrest, Partin said. And theyre right there in the room next to the officer.

As for Cody Drains escape in December, which has not yet come to trial, Partin said that having the magistrates office located closer to the sheriffs office might have stopped it.

Drain was waiting for a codefendants arrest to be processed when he allegedly squirmed from the back seat of a deputys vehicle into the front and sped away, not to be recaptured for days.

If the incident had occurred in the parking lot between jail and sheriffs office, rather than around the corner and down the street, there would have been more officers in close proximity or possibly right around the vehicle to prevent an escapee from getting very far, Partin said.

n n n

The two women arrive just before midnight, the older woman in a red jacket, the younger in a pink raincoat. The older woman tells Keller that she phoned earlier and he says he remembers.

Its her husband, the older woman says. When she married him a year and a half ago, he was off drugs. But now she thinks he is using methamphetamine and Xanax and has left their home  except that when shes at work, he returns and takes items that are hers or that she has a stake in, she says.

Her fathers coin collection is missing, as is a lawnmower that was bought in both their names  and on which $600 still is owed, she says.

She says she plans to talk to a divorce attorney on Monday. In the meantime, I dont want him to carry all my stuff off and sell it for drugs.

She asks the magistrate to issue a protective order banning her husband from their home.

Keller asks the woman if there has been any physical violence or if her husband has threatened her. She says that he has not.

Keller asks if the woman told her husband to bring back the missing items. She says she sent him a text earlier in the night but he has not replied.

Keller says that given the lack of physical violence or threats, he cannot issue a protective order. And since only hours have passed since she asked her husband to return her property, and due to the overall complications of the situation, she cannot take out a warrant against her husband, at least not yet, Keller says.

Like it or not, Keller adds, when two people marry and live together, it becomes less cut and dried who has rights to a particular piece of property. It may take a civil lawsuit to resolve things, perhaps as part of the divorce process, Keller says.

If it does escalate to violence or threats of violence, thats a different ballgame and the women should return, Keller says.

The women nod and walk back into the rain.

n n n

For years, the Montgomery County magistrates were housed in the back of the Courthouse Annex, the old building that stands on South Franklin Street between the present and former sheriffs office facilities.

In 2013, mold problems prompted the county to move the magistrates to their present location in a building that once was The Medicine Shoppe drugstore.

Partin recalled that at one point, the magistrates were to have new offices in the new county Public Safety Building, created by a nearly $12 million conversion of the former county courthouse. But when the Public Safety Building was completed in 2015, it had space for the sheriffs office and the regional emergency dispatch center, but the magistrates no longer were part of the plan.

The county also opened a new $26.8 million courthouse in 2012 with officials saying it was built for room to grow  but no magistrates office was located in that facility either.

Supervisor Todd King, who became chairman of the board this year, last fall advocated putting the magistrates in the currently unassigned third floor of the Public Safety Building.

But other supervisors and Partin countered that this was space for future sheriffs office needs, and that there were security issues with having arrested suspects  or even just people seeking protective orders or other magistrates services  traveling back and forth in the surrounding law enforcement and dispatch offices.

King said last month that since autumn, he has talked to law enforcement officers who have convinced him that the former sheriffs office would be a better location than the third floor of the Public Safety Building.

Like the other supervisors, King said that he would have to see the cost estimates before he could make a final decision.

But King said that details aside, he saw moving the magistrates as an important step.

Id like to move everything closer to the courthouse, plus get out of paying rent, King said.

The supervisors soon will schedule a long work session to discuss capital projects and decide which to tackle first.

The magistrates themselves will give no official opinion on a possible relocation, said Wayne Frye, who supervises magistrates in a region stretching from Montgomery County to Virginias southwest tip.

n n n

Its 2 a.m. when a sheriffs deputy walks a beefy young man into the magistrates office. The 18-year-old is disheveled, with blood spattered down a torn T-shirt printed with a Montgomery County schools slogan: Graduate With a Plan!

Behind deputy and teen comes the young mans father, looking upset.

The deputy tells Keller that the teen lives with his grandmother and was acting crazy, shouting and breaking things. The grandmother called the teens father, who came from Radford to try to calm him. Instead, the teen reportedly punched the dad.

The deputy says there was a 911 call and when he arrived, he found the teen with a bloody nose and mouth. The officer wants to charge the teen with domestic assault and public intoxication, and the father has requested a protective order barring his son from coming near him.

Keller questions the officer, then prints out warrants for the two charges. He issues the protective order.

As with the other intoxicated people that officers have brought in on this night, Keller says it will be up to the jails staff to decide when they are sober enough to be safely released. The teen will not have to post bail, Keller says.

The deputy leads the teen back outside and to his vehicle. They start the trip toward the jail.

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A Massachusetts man faces federal charges in the brutal attack Saturday on two Appalachian Trail hikers that left a man dead and a woman hospitalized with severe stab wounds, authorities said Sunday.

James Louis Jordan, 30, was arrested early Saturday after Wythe County sheriffs deputies located him along the trail in southwestern Virginia, by tracking an SOS signal triggered by one of the victims, officials said.

The U.S. Attorneys Office for the Western District of Virginia said in a statement Sunday that Jordan, of West Yarmouth, Massachusetts, is charged with murder and assault with intent to murder in connection with the attack.

Federal charges against Jordan will be officially filed Monday morning in U.S. District Court in Abingdon, the release said. His initial court appearance also is scheduled for Monday.

The whole Appalachian Trail community of hikers and volunteers is profoundly sickened by the horrific and deadly attack Saturday morning, said Suzanne Dixon, president of the Appalachian Trail Conservancy.

The names of the victims have not been released, but Wythe County Sheriff Keith Dunagan said no one involved was local.

It is high season for through-hikers traveling the length of the famed scenic trail, which stretches along 2,100 miles from Georgia to Maine, and has a short stretch through the western tip of Wythe County. Hikers typically begin around spring and trek north.

The one-mile length of the trail that passes through Wythe County is extremely rural. It runs adjacent to Interstate 81 and is full of hikers this time of year, authorities said.

Many hikers begin their trek in Georgia in March and early spring and would have traveled 500 miles by the time they reached southwestern Virginia, said Brian King, a spokesman for the Conservancy.

Dunagans deputies were the first to encounter Jordan, several yards from the scene of Saturdays attack.

It had been reported that a man wielding a large knife, accompanied by a dog, had threatened a group of four hikers camped out late Friday night.

Jordan allegedly pursued two of the hikers, who fled north, but they eluded him. Those two reached sheriffs deputies in nearby Bland County and reported the nighttime attack, authorities said.

The other two hikers fled south but were unable to escape, and Jordan allegedly chased and caught up with them, leading to the attack, authorities said.

Dunagan said the male victim managed to trigger an SOS signal on his phone, and the mobile service provider alerted deputies to his location, just north of the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area.

The woman  who suffered defensive wounds and was severely injured by the stabbing  escaped.

She pretended to be dead and when [Jordan] walked away after his dog, she took off running, Dunagan said.

The woman found help in another group of hikers she encountered 6 miles away in Smyth County and was taken to the nearest trauma center, the sheriff said.

The Wythe County Sheriffs Office tactical team traveled 4 miles into the woods to locate the wounded mans SOS signal. They initially came across walkers who described a knife-wielding man known as Sovereign who roamed the trail with a dog.

While authorities were talking to the group, a dog ambled over to the camp. Deputies followed the animal, who led them back to Jordan, and he was taken into custody without incident.

Investigators later found a 20-inch knife nearby along the trail and soon thereafter, discovered the male victim.

The trail was closed Saturday from the Mount Rogers National Recreational Area headquarters to near Groseclose  an approximately 24-mile stretch, according to a post from the Appalachian Trail Conservancys Facebook page. The trail since has reopened.

I commend local law enforcement in Wythe and Smyth Counties for mobilizing successful rescue and tactical operations in this remote region, U.S. Attorney Thomas Cullen said in the release. Thanks to their efforts, the suspect was safely apprehended and a seriously wounded victim received critical medical care. We will continue to work with our state and local partners to bring the perpetrator of this senseless and brutal attack to justice.

Jordan, who authorities think is Sovereign, was well known to the community of hikers on the trail. Recent news reports of incidents in Tennessee, North Carolina and Georgia describe a man threatening and chasing other hikers with a machete or large knife.

King, of the trail conservancy, said they had heard of the man through alerts shared between hikers and on Trek, a well-read blog that posts frequent updates about life on the Appalachian Trail.

He had a reputation because of his belligerence with other hikers in Tennessee and Georgia, King said. With smartphones, word gets around very quickly.

In late April, Jordan pleaded guilty to charges of drug possession and criminal impersonation (for giving deputies a fake ID), stemming from a confrontation with a group of hikers in Unicoi County, Tennessee, near the North Carolina border. He was sentenced to probation, fined and released from custody.

Unicoi County Sheriff Mike Hensley said Sunday that Jordan had been causing problems in different communities along the trail, running people out of hostels and threatening hikers with violence.

Witnesses related that Jordan had said: It would be a bad day for hikers on the trail.

Hensley said he knew Jordan was a threat, but hikers refused to press assault charges and testify against him in court. So his deputies charged him with what they could.

I did everything in my power to get this guy off the trail, Hensley said Sunday. And I took him off the trail, I did. But the courts deemed something else.

We have never had but just few instances concerning the Appalachian Trail and I take it very seriously, he said. I am an outdoorsman and a country boy, I love this trail and these mountains. Ive been active in supporting and protecting the people of the trail all my life.

Odie Norman, publisher of the Hiker Yearbook, said he met Jordan shortly after his Tennessee arrest. He had been tracking the reports about a man and his dog, interviewing hikers on video to post online and collecting information to report.

He thinks Jordan first appeared on the trail in Hot Springs, North Carolina, where he allegedly pulled a knife on other hikers at a shelter commonly used by trail walkers.

I knew that it was getting dangerous for people on the trail and it was getting dangerous for him, Norman said in a telephone interview Sunday. He was scaring a lot of people and there was a lot of misinformation going around about him. People were in defense mode when they saw him.

Norman said he met Jordan in Roan Mountain, Tennessee, on May 3, and offered to buy him lunch. He said it was clear to him Jordan was mentally ill.

Jordan told him he was on a mission to protect the mountain people from the infiltrators trying to steal their insurance, Norman said. He said the mountain people are good people but at night, the infiltrators would come. His mind was not normal.

Norman soon learned that Jordans dog was a service animal and that he had family in Maryland. He said he decided to drive Jordan about 30 miles northwest to Johnson City, Tennessee, and bought him a bus ticket. He said he wasnt sure what other options he had.

I was scared. My plan was to get him off the trail and send him somewhere else, Norman said. Now I wish that there couldve been a place for him to check into for a mental assessment. He had at least one full contact with police and that did nothing.

Appalachian Trail hikers are a well-connected community of athletes, enthusiasts and outdoorspeople who stay in close online contact, Norman said. His two videos about Jordan on Facebook garnered a combined 26,000 views and his website chronicles hiker life with photographs from nearly 2,000 people.

Even though this happened, its still one trail. Its the same people. Its the worlds longest skinniest community, he said. We knew. We knew to avoid him.

Homicides are rare on the Appalachian Trail, according to statistics; the last time the trail was the scene of a homicide was in 2011 when a man was found strangled in Amherst County. That case remains unsolved. More than 3 million people hike the trail each year, and most hikers take care of one another, King said.

Its a community like any other. Anyone who loves the trail feels like this is an attack on them, he said. The trail is extremely safe, but its not absolutely safe.

Roanoke Times reporter Tiffany Holland contributed to this report.
By Donald Nuechterlein

Venezuela has been a challenge to U.S. foreign policy for more than a hundred years. President Theodore Roosevelt sent the Navy there in 1903 to warn Britain and Germany against attempting to settle a debt crisis by blockading Venezuelan ports after a German gunboat bombarded a coastal city. Roosevelt also announced a new U.S. policy: the U.S. would intervene to prevent outside powers to enforce economic claims against Caribbean countries. This reinforced the 1823 Monroe Doctrine.

U.S. presidents intervened regularly in Caribbean countries in the 1910s and 1920s, resulting in charges of U.S. imperialism in Congress and Latin America. After World War II, the policy continued but as anti-communist measures during the Cold War. Leftist governments suspected of pro-Moscow leanings were overthrown with U.S. help in Guatemala in 1953, in the Dominican Republican in 1965, in Chile in 1974, Grenada in 1983, and Panama in 1989. A similar effort to topple a leftist government in Cuba failed in 1961. Both Republican and Democratic presidents had sponsored these interventions.

Political stakes. Venezuelas current political and economic crisis constitutes a major test for U.S. foreign policy, and for Donald Trumps presidency. The reasons are clear: Russias Vladimir Putin hopes to establish another client state in the Caribbean. It supplements Russias strong influence over Cuba, another client whose security was guaranteed when the U.S. pledged not to invade the island following the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis. Venezuelas socialist regime, headed by Nicolas Maduro, is dependent on Russian and Chinese political and economic support and on Cubas influence over his military.

Putins game plan in Venezuela seems clear. He assumes Washington is reluctant to send forces to support the designated new president, Juan Guaido, because most Venezuelans and those across Latin America would deplore American imperialism. It would give Maduro a rallying call to Venezuelans to resist. Theres a resemblance here to how Putin managed to cement his hold on another client state, Syria, in 2014 after President Barack Obama failed to follow through on threats to use force in Syria if President Bashar Assad used chemical weapons. Putin then sent his military forces to subdue the opposition and keep Assad in power. In return, he acquired a new airbase on the Mediterranean.

Policy options. Here are three courses of action the Trump administration could adopt to deal with unfolding chaos in Venezuela.

The least confrontational policy would be: Wait for Venezuelas population and military to conclude their economic situation is desperate and Maduro must be ousted. Thats the preferred policy of those who believe time is on the side of Juan Guaido and his democratic supporters. Its also the preference of those who think any form of military intervention by the U.S. would give Maduro and his military a reason to stay in power and resist the American imperialists.

A second option would be more confrontational: Send U.S. cargo ships loaded with food and medicines and escorted by the Navy to stand off Venezuelas ports and offer to deliver large quantities of necessities when the population ousts Maduro. This course is favored by those who say U.S. policy should emphasize humanitarian help, not military power; but it would signal Moscow and Havana that the U.S. is prepared to send forces to aid a popular uprising.

The third option would be military intervention. It would be triggered by Cuban or Russian actions designed to turn Venezuela into a protectorate under Havanas and Moscows control. President Trump and Secretary of State Pompeo reportedly warned Russian leaders last week that the U.S. would respond militarily to their intervention. This message seems to have registered in Moscow and military action is not contemplated. But it leaves open how long Maduro can remain if his military decides time is running out for them.

Congress and the U.S. public show little interest in a confrontation over Venezuela, as their energies are absorbed with the 2020 presidential election. Americans seem complacent these days and not interested in foreign policy. Its a troubling mood for those who view international politics as a dangerous game in which the U.S. must defend its vital interests.

Nuechterlein is a political scientist and author who lives near Charlottesville. E-mail him at nuechtd@cstone.net
Virginia is rocketing into the upper echelons of one high-growth field.

The verb, by the way, is a literal one. Last month, a rocket blasted off from Wallops Island on Virginias Eastern Shore, carrying nearly 4 tons of supplies for the International Space Station, 40 live mice who were probably wondering what in the world was happening to them, and a bunch of other science experiments.

In a larger sense, though, the rocket  launched by Northrop Grumman on a contract with NASA  was carrying part of Virginias future economy, as well.

If youre wondering why rockets are launching from Virginia, then we have a lot of catch-up to do. Rockets of some sort have been launching from Wallops Island since 1945  mostly small ones, and certainly none with a human crew. Still, were talking more than 16,000 launches  many of them sub-orbital flights, but one in 2013 put a satellite in orbit around the moon, the first time an American lunar mission was launched anywhere other than Cape Canaveral. The resupply missions to the space station are a recent development, but they build on a long history of Virginia as a spaceport.

That has a fancy ring to it, doesnt? Spaceport. The state of Virginia thinks so, too. It thinks of space not as the final frontier, but as a form of economic development. Thats why way back in 1995  when George Allen was governor  Virginia set up the Virginia Commercial Space Flight Authority to promote an aerospace industry in the state. Virginia Space, as its called, now runs the Mid-Atlantic Regional Spaceport. Thats by far the best acronym in the business. It shows up on caller ID simply as MARS. The United States has launched rockets from just five locations, and only two of those are on the East Coast  Cape Canaveral and Wallops Island.

Virginia has high hopes for the aerospace industry, though, and when were talking about space, high is a very relative term. Even low-earth orbit is 1,200 miles up there. Once, the only entities launching things into space were NASA and the military  and the Russians. Now private companies  such as Elon Musks SpaceX  are building their own rockets and signing up customers who want things launched into space. And the list of communications companies who want into space is growing. There are close to 2,000 active satellites now spinning around the planet (and even more inactive ones), with more on the way.

Not surprisingly, Florida and California are home to a lot of those aerospace industries. But Virginia counts itself home to 280 aerospace companies  and about 28,000 aerospace employees. It would also like to see more. And thats where we come back to that bunch of science experiments we talked about earlier.

Those science experiments included 64 small  very small  satellites that represent both a breakthrough in technology and an investment in Virginias future aerospace workforce. ThinSats, as theyre called, are about the size of a slice of bread.

Glossary terms: ThinSats and CubeSats. The former are about the size of a slice of bread; the latter are cubes about the length of your cellphone. The rocket last month carried 60 ThinSats and four CubeSats.

Now, heres where things get interesting: Those ThinSats and CubeSats were built almost entirely by students  from college students down to elementary students. (Theres a kit involved; theyre not shopping for parts at the local hardware store).

The ThinSats came from 70 schools in nine states, but a disproportionate number came from Virginia  and a lot of those came from Southwest Virginia. Five were in Wise County  Eastside High, Coeburn Middle, L.F. Addington Middle, St. Paul Elementary and Union Primary. The others: New River Community College, Bland County High in Bland, Lebanon High in Russell County, John I. Burton High in Norton, Patrick County High in Patrick County, plus a home schooling group in Washington County. The CubeSats came from Virginia Tech, the University of Virginia, Old Dominion University and Hampton University.

Many of the schools in far Southwest got involved through the cheerleading of Jack Kennedy, the Wise County clerk of court  a longtime space enthusiast who has been a member of Virginia Spaces governing board. This end of the state, we tend to get neglected, says Jane Carter, the Wise County science teacher who coordinated the involvement of most of the far Southwest Virginia schools. They werent neglected here.

The ThinSats didnt last long, only about two and half days before they burned up on re-entry. Theres a lot of drag on low-earth orbit. But during their short life most of them managed to transit some interesting data about a part of space that isnt that well-known yet. The CubeSats will last longer, maybe two years. The ThinSats were flung out of the Antares rocket itself; the CubeSats are currently in storage at the space station and will be deployed sometime this summer. For NASA, this is a great way to build up a database of information about a little-explored region of space. For Virginia Space, which funds the ThinSat program with some private companies, it serves another purpose. This helps get students interested in science, and helps build an aerospace talent pool for the future.

Jonathan Black, director of the Aerospace and Ocean Systems Laboratory at Virginia Tech, puts it this way: A whole bunch of space companies are headquartered in the commonwealth and they all need to hire people, so the state is trying to encourage people to get interested in that, so they can get relevant college degrees and experience and build the workforce.

Relevant example: OneWeb, which wants to create a space-based internet network, is headquartered in Arlington. But its factory for building the satellites is in Florida. Maybe that makes sense now, given Floridas long history with space, but why couldnt Virginia compete for future aerospace manufacturing facilities? Having a workforce with more aerospace skills would help. So thats why students at Virginia Tech have spent the past three years working on their CubeSat. And why students in the coalfields have been working on ThinSats  both before they went up and now analyzing the data that has come back down. Youre from the Appalachian Mountains, but youve put something in orbit and your names are attached to it, Carter says.

Thats pretty heady stuff. Its also how the future gets changed down here on earth.
Richmond police investigate death of VCU administrator

A woman found dead in a Stratford Hills home Thursday has been identified by Richmond police as Suzanne A. Fairman, a 53-year-old administrator at Virginia Commonwealth University.

Police responding to a welfare check in the 7400 block of Tanglewood Road just after 11 p.m. found Fairman unresponsive in the home. She was pronounced dead at the scene.

Fairman was the operational administrator for Virginia Commonwealth Universitys academic learning transformation lab and graduated from the VCU School of Business, according to a university website.

Police did not say how she died but described her as a victim. The medical examiner will determine the cause and manner of death.

VCU governing board votes first tuition freeze since 2001

Virginia Commonwealth University students are getting some tuition relief.

The Richmond universitys governing board on Friday voted to freeze tuition for students for the first time in nearly 20 years. The unanimous vote comes after the General Assembly included in its budget money for an across-the-state tuition freeze.

We think its the right thing to do, President Michael Rao said before the vote.

The university hasnt had a tuition freeze since 2001.

State legislators this year set aside $57.5 million in incentives to keep Virginias public colleges from raising tuition, giving students and their families relief after a decade that saw tuition increase nearly 80 percent. VCUs share of the state influx was $6.8 million.

We did really well with the General Assembly, said Chief Financial Officer Karol Gray.

This year, in-state students at Virginias public colleges are paying an average of 5 percent more in tuition and mandatory fees, according to state data. Tuition has gone up at least 4 percent every year since the Great Recession, a downturn that saw states across the U.S. slash education spending.

At VCU, tuition and mandatory fees have more than doubled since the 2008-09 school year, from $6,779 to $14,490 this year. Tuition at the Richmond school went up 6.4 percent this year alone. VCU graduated nearly 5,000 students on Saturday.

Rape cases in Eastern Virginia may be linked, authorities say

NORFOLK  A Virginia man is charged with raping a woman in case that police say is similar to other attacks in the state.

The Virginian-Pilot reports Powanzieo Tyran Rashadd Griffin of Chesapeake is charged with raping a woman in Norfolk.

A Virginia Beach detective says in court documents that police believe her attack was part of a chain of six rapes that occurred in Norfolk, Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, Newport News and Williamsburg between April 2017 and January.

In an interview with the newspaper, his lawyer, Eric Korslund, said Griffin vehemently denies he raped anyone.

In at least two of the cases, the women decided not to pursue charges.

Griffin is being held at the Hampton Roads Regional Jail without bond and has a court appearance scheduled for next month.

Chesterfield County selected for addicted inmate program

Chesterfield County has been selected as one of 15 localities in the U.S.  and the only one in Virginia  to participate in a national program backed by the U.S. Department of Justice to expand medication-assisted treatment for jail inmates who are addicted to opioids.

Five county officials representing the sheriffs office, the courts, community corrections and mental health services will receive scholarships to attend training sessions in Washington beginning in August and receive expert guidance on how to overcome barriers to providing opioid treatment for inmates  while they are incarcerated and after they are released.
By Mahmood Elahi



This refers to the op-ed: "Political engineering of summit," by Lee Seong-hyon, published in The Korea Times on May 1.



Lee Seong-hyon might have missed the real picture when he writes: "Today, Trump's hands are tied, his maneuvering room to reach out to North Korea is reduced by the reality of domestic politics. This line of thinking leads to the bad news that a third summit may not be on the horizon any time soon. The good news is that if Trump wins the election next year, he will be again in an adventurous mode and surely desire another rendezvous with Kim."



He seems not to realize that Trump is now in an unassailable position. With the U.S. economy growing at a crisp 3 percent and unemployment at an all-time low at 3.5 percent, even the Democrats have difficulty in criticizing Trump for the economy.



Even Democratic hopeful Bernie Sanders seems to endorse Trump when blasting the Democratic frontrunner Joe Biden for supporting the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) which Trump opposed as a "job killer." Sanders is even trying to woo some of Trump's anti-free trade supporters.



With left-leaning Democrats embroiled in an ideological infighting and the Republicans united, Trump doesn't need North Korea as an electoral issue. He will concentrate on the economy.



He might continue to praise Kim to keep him engaged. But he will not agree to any lifting of sanctions. In fact, Kim might have missed an opportunity to get some lifting of sanctions in return for some symbolic denuclearization. After the election, Kim will be left in the wilderness.



In the second Trump presidency, the emphasis will be on stricter denuclearization of North Korea. Trump is likely to offer economic incentives to North Korea. He might allow the two Koreas to increase their cooperation. But he will insist that sanctions can only be lifted if North Korea takes concrete steps toward denuclearization.



With the Democrats defeated, Trump will have a free hand in dealing with North Korea. He will not have to bother about Congressional opposition to his policies. It will be all about executive actions.



However, a victorious Trump might be tempted to win some moderate Democratic support to his agenda. Denuclearization of North Korea might emerge as a bipartisan issue and Democrats might join Trump in imposing stricter sanctions on North Korea.



If Trump is re-elected, he is likely to re-impose stricter sanctions on North Korea.





Mahmood Elahi (omega51@sympatico.ca) is a freelance writer in Ottawa.


Would you let a stranger eavesdrop in your home and keep the recordings? For most people, the answer is, Are you crazy?

Yet thats essentially what Amazon has been doing to millions of us with its assistant Alexa in microphone-equipped Echo speakers. And its hardly alone: Bugging our homes is Silicon Valleys next frontier.

Many smart-speaker owners dont realize it, but Amazon keeps a copy of everything Alexa records after it hears its name. Apples Siri, and until recently Googles Assistant, by default also keep recordings to help train their artificial intelligences.

So come with me on an unwelcome walk down memory lane. I listened to four years of my Alexa archive and found thousands of fragments of my life: spaghetti-timer requests, joking houseguests and random snippets of Downton Abbey. There were even sensitive conversations that somehow triggered Alexas wake word to start recording, including my family discussing medication and a friend conducting a business deal.

You can listen to your own Alexa archive at https://amzn.to/2Bvpoqj. Let me know what you unearth.

For as much as we fret about snooping apps on our computers and phones, our homes are where the rubber really hits the road for privacy. Its easy to rationalize away concerns by thinking a single smart speaker or appliance couldnt know enough to matter. But across the increasingly connected home, theres a brazen data grab going on, and there are few regulations, watchdogs or common-sense practices to keep it in check.

Lets not repeat the mistakes of Facebook in our smart homes. Any personal data thats collected can and will be used against us. An obvious place to begin: Alexa, stop recording us.

False choices

Eavesdropping is a sensitive word for Amazon, which has battled lots of consumer confusion about when, how and even who is listening to us when we use an Alexa device. But much of this problem is of its own making.

Alexa keeps a record of what it hears every time an Echo speaker activates. Its supposed to only record with a wake word  Alexa!  but anyone with one of these devices knows they go rogue. I counted dozens of times when mine recorded without a legitimate prompt. (Amazon says it has improved the accuracy of Alexa as a wake word by 50% over the past year.)

What can you do to stop Alexa from recording? Amazons answer is straight out of the Facebook playbook: Customers have control, it says  but the products design clearly isnt meeting our needs. You can manually delete past recordings if you know exactly where to look and remember to keep going back. You cannot actually stop Amazon from making these recordings, aside from muting the Echos microphone (defeating its main purpose) or unplugging the darn thing.

Amazon founder and chief executive Jeff Bezos owns The Washington Post, but I review all tech with the same critical eye.

Amazon says it keeps our recordings to improve products, not to sell them. (Thats also a Facebook line.) But anytime personal data sticks around, its at risk. Remember the family that had Alexa accidentally send a recording of a conversation to a random contact? Weve also seen judges issue warrants for Alexa recordings.

Alexas voice archive made headlines most recently when Bloomberg discovered Amazon employees listen to recordings to train its artificial intelligence. Amazon acknowledged some of those employees also have access to location information for the devices that made the recordings.

Saving our voices is not just an Amazon phenomenon. Apple, which is much more privacy-minded in other aspects of the smart home, also keeps copies of conversations with Siri. Apple says voice data is assigned a random identifier and is not linked to individuals  but exactly how anonymous can a recording of your voice be? I dont understand why Apple doesnt give us the ability to say not to store our recordings.

The unexpected leader on this issue is Google. It also used to record all conversations with its Assistant, but last year quietly changed its defaults to not record what it hears after the prompt Hey, Google. But if youre among the people who previously set up Assistant, you probably need to readjust your settings (check https://myaccount.google.com/activitycontrols) to pause recordings.

Im not the only one who thinks saving recordings is too close to bugging. This month, the California State Assemblys privacy committee advanced an Anti-Eavesdropping Act that would require makers of smart speakers to get consent from customers before storing recordings. The Illinois Senate recently passed a bill on the same issue. Neither is much of a stretch: Requiring permission to record someone in private is enshrined in many state laws.

They are giving us false choices. We can have these devices and enjoy their functionality and how they enhance our lives without compromising our privacy, Republican Assemblyman Jordan Cunningham, the bills sponsor, told me. Welcome to the age of surveillance capitalism.

It sees you when youre sleeping ...

Inspired by what I found in my Alexa voice archive, I wondered: What other activities in my smart home are tech companies recording?

I found enough personal data to make even the East German secret police blush.

When Im up for a midnight snack, Google knows. My Nest thermostat, made by Google, reports back to its servers data in 15-minute increments about not only the climate in my house, but also whether theres anyone moving around (as determined by a presence sensor used to trigger the heat). You can delete your account, but otherwise Nest saves it indefinitely.

Then there are lights, which can reveal what time you go to bed and do almost anything else. My Philips Hue-connected lights track every time theyre switched on and off  data the company keeps forever if you connect to its cloud service (which is required to operate them with Alexa or Assistant).

Every kind of appliance now is becoming a data-collection device. My Chamberlain MyQ garage opener lets the company keep  again, indefinitely  a record of every time my door opens or closes. My Sonos speakers, by default, track what albums, playlists or stations Ive listened to, and when I press play, pause, skip or pump up the volume. At least they only hold on to my sonic history for six months.

And now the craziest part: After quizzing these companies about data practices, I learned most are sharing whats happening in my home with Amazon, too. Our data is the price of entry for devices that want to integrate with Alexa. Amazons not only eavesdropping  its tracking everything happening in your home.

Amazon acknowledges it collects data about third-party devices even when you dont use Alexa to operate them. It says Alexa needs to know the state of your devices to enable a great smart home experience. But keeping a record of this data is more useful to them than to us. (A feature called hunches lets you know when a connected device isnt in its usual state, such as a door thats not locked at bedtime, but Ive never found it helpful.) You can tell Amazon to delete everything it has learned about your home, but you cant look at it or stop Amazon from continuing to collect it.

Google Assistant also collects data about the state of connected devices. But the company says it doesnt store the history of these devices, even though there doesnt seem to be much stopping it.

Apple does the most admirable job operating home devices by collecting as little data as possible. Its HomeKit software doesnt report to Apple any info about whats going on in your smart home. Instead, compatible devices talk directly, via encryption, with your iPhone, where the data stays.

Who really benefits?

Why do tech companies want to hold on to information from our homes? Sometimes they do it just because theres little stopping them  and they hope it might be useful in the future.

Ask the companies why, and the answer usually involves AI.

Any data that is saved is used to improve Siri, Apple said.

Alexa is always getting smarter, which is only possible by training her with voice recordings to better understand requests, provide more accurate responses, and personalize the customer experience, Beatrice Geoffrin, director of Alexa privacy, said in a statement. The recordings also help Alexa learn different accents and understand queries about recurring events such as the Olympics, she said.

Noah Goodman, a computer science and psychology professor at Stanford University, told me its true that AI needs data to get smarter.

Technically, it is not unreasonable what they are saying, he said. Todays natural language-processing systems need to rerun their algorithms over old data to learn. Without the easy access to data, their progress might slow  unless the computer scientists make their systems more efficient.

But then he takes his scientist hat off. As a human, I agree with you. I dont have one of these speakers in my house, Goodman said.

We want to benefit from AI that can set a timer or save energy when we dont need the lights on. But that doesnt mean were also opening our homes to tech companies as a lucrative source of data to train their algorithms, mine our lives and maybe lose in the next big breach. This data should belong to us.

What we lack is a way to understand the transformation that data and AI are bringing to our homes.

Think of Downton Abbey: In those days, rich families could have human helpers who were using their intelligence to observe and learn their habits, and make their lives easier. Breakfast was always served exactly at the specified time. But the residents knew to be careful about what they let the staff see and hear.

Fast-forward to today. We havent come to terms that were filling our homes with even nosier digital helpers. Said Goodman: We dont think of Alexa or the Nest quite that way, but we should.
He was arrested as he prepared to fly as first officer on Flight 5523 from Louisville to Charlotte, North Carolina, Martin was indicted by a grand jury in the November 2015 murders of Calvin and Pamela Phillips of Pembroke and their neighbor, Edward Dansereau. Calvin Phillips was found shot to death in his Pembroke, Kentucky, home on Nov. 18, 2015. The bodies of Phillips wife, Pamela, and their neighbor, Edward Dansereau, were later discovered a few miles away in a cornfield inside her burned car. After the murders, Martin moved to Christian County, Ky., and was living in North Carolina at the time of the indictment. American Airlines said in a statement that it is cooperating in the investigation.

Our team was made aware of the indictment this morning after his arrest at Louisville International Airport. We have an unwavering commitment to the safety and security of our customers and team members, and we will provide any investigative assistance possible to law enforcement throughout their investigation. Relatives of Calvin and Pamela Phillips had offered a $100,000 reward to help solve the case. Crystal Staley, spokeswoman for the Kentucky Attorney Generals office, said prosecutors could not yet discuss a possible motive. Today is an indictment and there will be many steps from here, the attorney general said.
Captain Amarinder Singh

Chandigarh, May 12: Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Sunday ridiculed Harsimrat Kaur Badals allegations of the Congress government in the state disrupting her poll rallies, and said it was the wrath of the people that they were venting against the sufferings meted out by the SAD on them for 10 years. Expressing surprise that the Akali leader was facing protests only in some villages and not all over the states, Captain Amarinder said the anger of the people who had been victimised for 10 years by the Badals and their cronies was now finding voice.

The fact that Harsimrat was prevented from entering a village in her own constituency only showed that Karma was catching up fast with the Badals, who had made the people of Punjab shed tears of blood over their decade-long misrule, he added. Trashing Harsimrats charges of misuse of official machinery by the Congress government to sabotage her campaign, Captain Amarinder said the Akalis had sabotaged their own prospects with their misdeeds, including their attempts to polarise the people with sacrilege cases.

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They had put the entire official machinery in motion prior to the Assembly elections but had been routed in the polls by the wrath of the people, he said, adding that the same people had not forgotten or forgiven the Badals for the devastation wreaked on them over a decade. Harsimrat had failed to do anything for any section of Punjabs people even as union minister in the Modi cabinet, which the people of Bathinda could see, said the Chief Minister.

Harsimrat Kaur Badal

She had the audacity now to seek votes from those very people whose lives she and her family had ruined, she said, adding that it was but natural that the people were protesting and not willing to hear her dish out more propaganda and falsehoods. The protest by farmer union, the Bargari Morcha and others, who had prevented Harsimrat from entering a village to address an election rally, was clearly a sign of the anger of the people, which she, in her arrogance, was refusing to acknowledge.

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Did she really expect the people to welcome her with open arms after what the Badals did to them, Captain Amarinder asked, adding that both Bargari and the farmer suicides extremely grave issues, for which Punjab and its people could never forgive the Badals. The anger of the farmers was justified, said the Chief Minister, considering that despite Harsimrat being part of the Modi government, and SAD being an ally of Modis BJP, nothing had been done for the farming community all these years.

Even the Swaminathan Commission report, the only long-term solution to the woes of the farmers, was put on the backburner by the BJP-led NDA at the Centre, he pointed out. Despite this, the Badals had been shamelessly shedding crocodile tears for farmers, even attempting to instigate them against his government, which had initiated the farm loan waiver scheme in the face of extreme financial constraints, the Chief Minister noted, adding that the sins of the Akali first family were catching up with them.

Warns Badals That Their Karma Was Catching Up With Them

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Dubbing Harsimrats dharna as another piece of theatrics from a family that is known to indulge in street politics and drama to win elections, Captain Amarinder said these tactics failed to woo voters in 2017 and will not help the Badals connect with them this time, too. The Chief Minister said that given the outrage of the people, who did not need any encouragement and incentive to throw out the Badals, neither the Congress party nor his government needed to soil their hands by resorting to cheap tactics like obstructing their rallies or misusing official machinery.

These are the resorts of the Akalis, who have no respect for any democratic institution or for the people of Punjab, he declared. Elections are won on performance, which his government and the Congress in Punjab had already showcased, the Chief Minister said, advising Harsimrat and the rest of the Badals to start packing their bags. Your sins are catching up with you and you will soon have no place to hide, he warned them.
Luxembourg's annual Octave pilgrimage begins and lasts for two weeks as of Sunday 12 May. But what is this religious tradition seemingly unique to the Grand Duchy all about?

The Octave marks one of Luxembourg's most significant annual religious celebrations and honours Our Lady of Luxembourg ( Our Lady of Luxembourg, Maria Mutter Jesu, Consolatrix Afflictorum, Patrona Civitatis et Patriae Luxemburgensis), the patron saint of the Grand Duchy. The celebration is one steeped in Luxembourg's history, but also slightly transcends the religious connotations with its popular two-week market.



Whilst the Octave officially begins on Saturday 11 May, the pilgrimages start on the Sunday.

When and what

The Octave celebration takes place on the third Sunday following Easter and lasts two weeks. The tradition is one in which pilgrims from all over Luxembourg flock to the Notre-Dame Cathedral in the capital throughout the two weeks. The tradition ends after two weeks with the Octave procession: the statue of the Virgin Mary is taken through the streets of Luxembourg City (and is especially dressed for the occasion), often accompanied by public figures including the Grand Ducal family.

Throughout the two weeks, there will also be a host of masses organised for the period. Some pilgrims also come from the surrounding areas outside of Luxembourg, notably the Luxembourg province in Belgium, the Eifel region in Germany, and the Lorraine area in France. This is possibly due to the tradition existing longer than Luxembourg's current borders.

Pilgrims arriving in the capital form processions towards the Cathdral whilst praying. For the duration of the Octave period, the statue of the Virgin Mary stands on a special votive altar.

History

The Octave celebration's history is closely linked to the Jesuits. The Jesuit college in Luxembourg was founded in 1603, at the beginning of the century which would mark the roots of the Octave pilgrimage and procession. Starting in 1613 and lasting until 1621, the Jesuit Church was built. This is a key moment as that church later became the Notre Dame Cathedral in Luxembourg City.

The Octave celebration's history is deeply affected by major events that occurred in the surroundings areas in the 17th century - both the Thirty Years War (1618-1648) and the Plague (1626-1636) had effects on the population of Luxembourg, which coincided with the Jesuit mission to make Catholicism attractive to the population. This also had a component of countering the rise of Protestantism.

The roots of the pilgrimage go back to 1624, when students from the Jesuit carried a wooden statue of the Virgin Mary in front of the city walls on the Glacis. At this point, the statue received its title of Consolatrix Afflictorum (Comforter of the Afflicted). Some forty years later, the provincial council chose the Virgin Mary/Comforter of the Afflicted to be the country's patron saint as a means to protect the people from a further outbreak of the plague. The Jesuits transferred the wooden statue of Mary from the Glacis chapel to the then-Jesuit church, now the Notre Dame Cathedral. The church became a cathedral in 1870 when Luxembourg became a bishopric.

In 1921, an extended Octave celebration took place as the belated 250th anniversary of the election of the patroness upon the initiative of Bishop Pierre Nommesch - the actual anniversary was in 1916 and the Octave celebration did not take place due to the First World War. At this point, the Octave took place over two weeks rather than one week.

The Oktavmaertchen



The market's history returns to that of the pilgrimages, with pilgrims heading to the market for food and drink or to buy trinkets and ornaments after mass. Today, the market remains a cornerstone of Luxembourg's festivities, with many taking advantage of the market stalls and food on offer.

The market, which takes place on Place Guillaume II every year, is similar to local Kiermes festivals, except larger. On average, 90,000 people take advantage of the market. For those of us fond of Gromperekichelcher, the market is yet another opportunity to feast on the tasty snack.

The market is open for the duration of the celebration from 8am to 10.30pm each day.
With international flight crews criss-crossing the world, communicating in a common language is of vital importance. But it doesn't always seem to work.

Despite English being the most spoken language globally, air traffic controllers still struggle with foreign pilots unable to communicate clearly.

Experts believe that several hundred lives have been lost due to communication and language issues.

This is because multiple aircraft can be tuned on the same radio frequency, and thus pilots need to know what instructions aircraft around them are receiving.

A tragic accident linked to language miscommunication occurred in 1977 on the Canary Islands, where two 747 aircraft - one Pan Am, one KLM - collided on the runway. Ready for take-off, the KLM pilot had communicated to the tower in a heavy Dutch accident: "We're now at take-off", or "We're uh...taking off". The tower did not understand the message, and a simultaneous radio communication from Pan Am confused the situation for the controller. Later accident reports concluded that the use of non-standard phraseology during this critical moment contributed to the accident. 538 passengers were killed, making it the worst crash in aviation history.

In a bid to improve safety standards, the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) finally set standards in 2008 for English requirements, but it hadn't actually planned to do so.

None of the 185 member countries of the ICAO had troubles with the English standard, apart from three airports: Charles de Gaulle in France, and Ottawa International and Montreal-Dorval International, both in Canada.

These three airports wanted to communicate exclusively in French. As a result, the ICAO had to write up an international law.

Interestingly enough, many aeronautical terms used in aviation are derived from French, such as the distress call "Mayday", which is derived from "m'aider", French for "help me". Nonetheless, the standard of English has increased immensely over the past decade.

Aviation English around the world

According to AeroSavvy, a popular aviation blog written by an experienced airline pilot, there are regional variations in the level and use of English.

In Canadian province of Quebec, air traffic controllers speak both French and English to pilots, and pilots can reply in either. This can make it confusing for international pilots that don't understand French. If a pilot greets the controller in French, this is a sign he prefers to speak it over English.

In China and Taiwan, controllers and pilots speak Mandarin to Chinese colleagues, and English to international pilots. Languages switch back and forth, making it challenging for crews to fly into busy airports when controllers rattle off instructions in both languages. Asian pilots frequently struggle with English.

Both France and The Netherlands can be challenging due to the occasional heavy accent. Pilots have said they need two pairs of ears to make sure they understand everything when flying into Paris or Amsterdam.

India's pilots and air traffic controllers are known for their quick instructions, and frequently western pilots have to ask them to slow down and repeat instructions.

The need to speak English was challenged by German pilots before the regulation, as a Pan Am 727 flight overheard the following conversation at Munich airport. Lufthansa (in German): Ground, what is our start clearance time?

Ground (in English): If you want an answer you must speak in English.

Lufthansa (in English): I am a German, flying a German airplane, in Germany. Why must I speak English?

Unknown voice from another plane (in a British accent): Because you lost the bloody war!
By Ricardo Hausmann



CAMBRIDGE  One of the slogans of the Harvard Union of Clerical and Technical Workers is, "We can't eat prestige." In other words, the university should not get away with paying low wages just because it is prestigious to work there.



But while prestige may not be nourishing, it is sustaining. In fact, the logic behind prestige, and its relation to technology and to people's identity, may have everything to do with the rise of populism and with the perils of populist policies.



Prestige is in our genes. According to biological anthropologist Joseph Henrich, it evolved because we are a cultural species, in the sense that our individual survival depends on acquiring the knowledge that resides in the collective brain. We acquire it through imitation, but we need to decide whom to imitate. Numerous scientific studies have shown that we tend to imitate people who are perceived to have prestige, a sense that develops very early in childhood.



Henrich suggests that this is the outcome of an evolutionary game in which prestige is payment for the generosity with which the prestigious share their knowledge. We share alpha-male dominance with our primate cousins, but prestige  a form of "payment" that predates money, wages, and stock options  is quintessentially human.



While prestige solved a problem that has been with us throughout our evolution, it has had to interact with the technological changes of the past half-century. In particular, the rise of what economists call skill-biased technical change  the reliance of modern technologies on highly skilled workers  has led to growing wage differentials between skill levels.



In his new book "The Future of Capitalism," Paul Collier argues that this increased wage inequality has changed the self-perception of the highly skilled: Their professional identity has gained greater salience than their sense of themselves mainly as members of the nation.



Using a model of human behavior proposed by George Akerlof and Rachel Kranton, Collier argues persuasively that the satisfaction conferred by one identity relative to another  say, the profession over the nation  depends on the esteem with which others regard that identity.



As wage differentials grew, and the highly skilled shifted the focus of their identity from nationhood to profession, the value for all others of maintaining their national identity decreased. The low-skilled were trapped in a less valuable national identity.



This dynamic, according to Collier, explains the vote for Brexit in Britain and the rise in right-wing nationalism in other rich countries: It is concentrated among lower-skilled inhabitants of more rural, less ethnically mixed environments where traditional national identity is still dominant.



It also explains declining trust in elites: Because members of the elite identify primarily with their more global professional identity, they are perceived as caring less about their reciprocal obligations with the rest of the nation. Delegating choices to experts is passe, because experts no longer care about the rest of us.



Rising wage differentials may destroy the equilibrium proposed by Henrich. If the prestigious are already very well paid, and are not perceived as being generous with their knowledge, prestige may collapse. This may be another instance of the incompatibility between homo economicus and community morality emphasized by Samuel Bowles in his book "The Moral Economy": the self-interested, transactional behavior that defines the market is not acceptable in the family or the community.



The collapse in the prestige equilibrium can do enormous damage to a society, because it may break the implicit contract whereby society uses critical skills. To see why and how, look no further than what has happened in Venezuela.



In 2002, then-President Hugo Chavez's left-wing populist rhetoric targeted the national oil company PDVSA. The company was already a state-owned enterprise, so nationalization was not the issue. For Chavez, the problem was PDVSA's meritocratic culture: to succeed in the company, political connections were of no use. What the company valued most was the knowledge needed to manage a complex organization.



Social barriers to entry at PDVSA were low, because Venezuela had a 50-year history of free university education and decades of generous scholarships to study abroad, especially in oil-related fields. But once in, advancement was merit-based. A similar culture developed in the power sector, the central bank, universities, and other entities that were critical for state capacity.



The populist revolt equated knowledge with privilege and threw it out the window. When the merit culture was threatened, the company went on strike, and more than 18,000 workers  over 40 percent of the company's labor force and almost all of its senior management  were fired. As a result, there was a spectacular collapse in the performance of the oil industry and, eventually, in all the other institutions affected by the war on expertise, leading to the catastrophe that is Venezuela today.



The lesson is clear. Given the requirements of today's technology, dismissing expertise as privilege is dangerous. But because gaining expertise takes time and effort, it is not freely accessible to "the people." The only way to sustain it is through an implicit prestige market: The experts are supposed to be generous with their knowledge and committed to the nation.



Society "pays" them back by according them a social status that makes their position desirable, even if wage differentials are compressed, as they often are in the public sector (and were in Venezuela at the time of the lethal attacks on expertise).



The alternative to populism is an arrangement whereby experts demonstrate authentic public spiritedness in exchange for society's esteem, as often happens with military leaders, academics, and doctors. A well-functioning prestige market is essential to reconciling technological progress and the maintenance of a healthy polity.





Ricardo Hausmann, a former minister of planning of Venezuela and former chief economist of the Inter-American Development Bank, is director of the Center for International Development at Harvard University and a professor of economics at the Harvard Kennedy School. He has recently been appointed as governor of Venezuela at the Inter-American Development Bank by Interim President Juan Guaido. Copyright belongs to Project Syndicate (www.project-syndicate.org).


Let's pay more attention to abused children, elderly



In Korea, May is known as family month. Koreans celebrate Children's Day on May 5, and then comes Parents' Day on May 8.



For many working families, however, family month is not always happy. Some parents with young children feel burdened by the additional costs that go into buying gifts, in addition to planning events for their own elderly parents. Despite this, most people feel blessed for being able to show thanks to their loved ones. But for some people, family is the root of all kinds of troubles. This family month has been marred by some heartbreaking news stories involving abuse among family members.



Sadly, a lot of the abuse involving children is mainly at the hands of their parents. A recent survey showed that 70 percent of perpetrators of child abuse are the parents. Recently, a teenage girl in Gwangju was murdered by her stepfather. What was even more shocking was that the girl's mother was also involved.



The circumstances leading to the girl's death show the lack of assistance for domestic abuse victims. It was later reported that the girl had to move in with her mother in elementary school because she was abused by her biological father. It is hard to believe that a young girl, abused by her own father and then killed by her stepfather, was unable to find protection or guidance early enough in her community or her school.



Sometimes, children are forced to die with their parents who decide to end their own lives due to financial and other troubles. On May 5, Children's Day, when many children are on family outings or go shopping for special gifts, a family of four was found dead in a rented car in Siheung, Gyeonggi Province. During the police investigation, some family members of the couple, who were in their mid-30s, testified that the parents of two pre-school age children were struggling with extreme debt. Household debt is a common issue for many families in Korea and it is a very sad thing to see innocent children becoming victims in such tragedies.



It is also frustrating for many to see the increasing number of abuse stories coming not just from inside the homes but also from schools or caretakers. For a long time, Korean youths have suffered physical or mental abuse from some of their teachers. And lately, the lax state of babysitting services with unprofessional and abusive carers has also aroused public indignation.



The education ministry is planning measures for next month to strengthen the protection of children from various abuses. It is important to teach children how and where to reach out for help when they face dangerous situations in their homes, schools and communities. It is equally important to strengthen the punishment for perpetrators of child abuse.



During family month, it is also timely to pay more attention to the abuse suffered by the elderly in their homes. Surveys have shown that elderly abuse, much like child abuse, is often caused by family members and the number of cases is rising consistently. Elderly abuse will become a more serious social issue as Korea swiftly becomes an aged society.



Children and the elderly are two of the weakest components of Korean society. They need to be taken better care of with tailored-made polices that will promote their wellbeing and safety.


The banging jolted Bryan Carmody awake. Outside his San Francisco home Friday morning, the longtime journalist saw a throng of police officers with a sledgehammer, trying to break down his front gate.

Carmody told the eight to 10 officers he would only let them in with a search warrant. Police confirmed a judge signed off on their barging into his home. Then the officers drew their guns and scoured his residence. When police left, they carted away his notebooks, computers, cameras, phones and even his fiancees iPod from her college days.

I knew what they wanted, Carmody told The Times. They wanted the name.

A few weeks before, he said two San Francisco police officers  a sergeant and a lieutenant  knocked on his door and cordially asked him to identify the source who shared a confidential police report into the Feb. 22 death of San Francisco Public Defender Jeff Adachi.

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Of course, I politely declined, Carmody said of the visit from police last month. He had the same response Friday.

After police came into his home, officers handcuffed him for six hours as they collected his equipment. A receipt certifying his release from custody confirms he was handcuffed from 8:22 a.m. to 1:55 p.m. The search warrant for his home said officers were investigating stolen or embezzled property.

It was unclear whether he was handcuffed because of the guns he says he legally owns. Carmody said the guns were locked in a safe, and he said that over the hours-long search, it was evident officers didnt view him as a threat. At one point, some police took off their bulletproof vests on account of the heat, he said.

While he was shackled, officers got a second warrant to search his newsroom, where police seized a thumb drive, CDs and, inside a safe, the sought-after police report about Adachis death.

Carmody, 49, said he has not shared the name of his source with anyone, and no markings on the document could be traced to the person who provided it.

Fellow journalists in the Bay Area and beyond were outraged by the search of Carmodys home and office. And the incident provided a new wrinkle into the evolving aftermath of the unexpected death of Adachi, who left behind a legacy of championing civil rights.

Initial reports said the 59-year-old public defender had been traveling when he suddenly had a heart attack.

Carmody remembers his goal as a reporter on the story was to figure out where exactly Adachi died. But soon, salacious details emerged that were difficult to confirm. There were leaks happening all over the place, he recalled. He ultimately obtained an incident report that detailed Adachis final moments.

The San Francisco Chronicle also obtained a copy of the report, but not from Carmody.

The document, as reported by KGO-TV in San Francisco, detailed that shortly before his death, Adachi had dinner with a woman named Caterina who was not his wife, then returned to an apartment he arranged to use for the weekend. The woman called 911 for emergency medical help, and Adachi was taken to the hospital, where he died. Later that night, officers went to the apartment and found alcohol, cannabis-infused gummies and syringes believed to have been used by the paramedics, the San Francisco Chronicle reported. Photos of the apartment circulated online by KTVU and other outlets.

Carmody said he called up his clients and sold the fruits of his newsgathering, which included the police report. He told the Chronicle that he sold the package to three TV stations.

Amid a public mourning, city officials chastised police for allowing the details of a confidential report to end up in the headlines. The police launched an internal investigation into the reports leaking, which led to Fridays raid at Carmodys home.

The citizens and leaders of the City of San Francisco have demanded a complete and thorough investigation into this leak, and this action represents a step in the process of investigating a potential case of obstruction of justice along with the illegal distribution of confidential police material, police spokesman David Stevenson said in a statement Saturday to The Times.

The citys public defenders office, which Adachi once led, said in a statement that all of the criminal justice and City Hall leaders agree that the release of police reports in this fashion is wrong and we hope that the truth of who leaked the police report will emerge so that it doesnt happen again.

The FBI was not involved in the search. Katherine Zackel, a spokeswoman for the agency, said two agents were present solely to interview the journalist.

To Carmody and his attorney, the raid smacks of impropriety and an invasion into the work of a professional reporter.

Its designed to intimidate, said his lawyer, Thomas Burke. Its essentially the confiscation of a newsroom.

Burke, a partner with Davis Wright Tremaine who has previously represented the Los Angeles Times, said under usual circumstances, journalists would receive a subpoena and retain an attorney to help secure protections. That process also is efficient for detectives, he added, because of the time and resources required to search through phones, hard drives, computers and notebooks.

So much information has nothing to do with the purpose of their investigation, Burke said. If you are looking for one piece of information, thats why you issue a subpoena.

The affidavits that police used to search Carmodys home were filed under seal, so its unclear what investigators told the judge to secure the warrants. Burke said he did not know whether the judges were aware Carmody was even a journalist.

The search has brought Carmodys business, North Bay News, to a halt. As a freelance videographer for nearly three decades, he works through the night to supply the locations, video, images, and on- and off-camera interviews that feed the beast of local TV news. The search warrant documents show police collected check stubs from Fox, Disney and CBS, among others.

He estimates that police hauled off between $30,000 and $40,000 worth of equipment, along with personal photos. Without functional equipment, he cannot work  so his friend Aaron Lee started an online fundraiser to collect donations.

Carmody is insisting on protecting his sources identity. And he swears he never paid the person for the police report. No, he said, not even a cup of coffee.
Philippine President Rodrigo Dutertes name is not on the ballot, but Mondays midterm elections are seen as a crucial referendum on his rise to power with a brutal crackdown on illegal drugs, unorthodox style and contentious embrace of China.

Nearly 62 million Filipinos have registered to choose among 43,500 candidates vying for about 18,000 congressional and local posts in one of Asias most rambunctious democracies.

The most crucial race is for 12 seats in the 24-member Senate, which Duterte wants to fill with allies to bolster his legislative agenda. That includes the return of the death penalty, lowering the age for criminal liability of child offenders and revising the countrys 1987 constitution primarily to allow a shift to a federal form of government, a proposal some critics fear may be a cover to remove term limits.

Opposition aspirants consider the Senate the last bastion of checks and balances given the solid dominance of Dutertes loyalists in the lower House of Representatives. Last year, opposition senators moved to block proposed bills they feared would undermine civil liberties.

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Dutertes politics and key programs, including his drive against illegal drugs that has left more than 5,200 mostly urban poor suspects dead, have been scrutinized on the campaign trail and defended by close allies running for the Senate, led by his former national Police Chief Ronald dela Rosa, who first enforced the crackdown when the president took office in mid-2016.

Aside from the drug killings, Dutertes gutter language and what nationalists say is a policy of appeasement toward China that may undermine Philippine territorial claims in the South China Sea, have also been hounded by protests and criticism.

This is very much a referendum on his three years of very disruptive yet very popular presidency, Manila-based analyst Richard Heydarian said. Are we going to affirm or are we going to reject the 2016 elections? Was that an aberration and historical accident that we have to fix, or is this actually the beginning of the kind of new era or new normal?

A May 3-6 survey by independent pollster Pulse Asia showed 11 of Duterte-backed senatorial candidates and four other aspirants in the winning circle, including only one from the opposition. The survey of 1,800 respondents had a margin of error of plus or minus 2.3 percentage points.

Duterte himself remains hugely popular, topping ratings surveys with about 70 percent approval.

While the election survey strongly indicated a favorable outcome for Duterte, there was a probability that the result could still change given the considerable number of undecided voters and narrow leads of some candidates.

Divided, cash-strapped and without a unified leader, opposition aspirants are fighting an uphill battle to capture the few number of Senate seats they need to stymie any hostile legislation. Many Filipinos seem more open to authoritarianism due to past failures of liberal leaders, Heydarian said. Such a mindset has helped the family of former dictator Ferdinand Marcos to make a political comeback.

Among many dirt-poor Filipinos, however, the concern is day-to-day survival.

Martial law is scary but were more afraid of dying in hunger, Arturo Veles, a jobless father of six, told The Associated Press.

Wiping away tears, Veles spoke outside his familys shanty in the humid squalor atop Smokey Mountain, a long-closed dumpsite in Manilas Tondo slum that remains a symbol of the countrys appalling poverty. His asthma-stricken wife, Agnes, said that not one congressional candidate had treaded the fly-strewn and trash-littered path to their cluster of crumbling huts, probably because of the smell and filth.

Arturo Veles said the poor always suffer the most, indicating he and his wife would not vote for administration candidates. They only see the poor, those using and selling drugs. Thats the only thing they see, not the depth of our poverty.

Village guard Jose Mondejar, who lives in a Tondo community heavily festooned with elections streamers and posters, said Dutertes anti-crime campaign has reduced daytime robberies by drug addicts of passing cargo trucks by about 70 percent in his neighborhood.

Criminals once even opened fire on our village hall because we were cracking down on them, he said. Now you can walk around here without being pestered. Dutertes campaign has worked.

___

This story has been corrected to reflect that the first name of former national police chief is Ronald, not Roland.

Copyright 2019 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Prince Harry and Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, have released a photo of their newborn babys feet to mark Meghans first Mothers Day as a mom.

The image posted Sunday on Instagram showed Meghans hand cradling the feet of her son, Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor, with a bed of spring flowers below serving as the background.

The text reads: Paying tribute to all mothers today - past, present, mothers-to-be, and those lost but forever remembered. We honor and celebrate each and every one of you.

The post also included lines from a poem called Lands by Nayyirah Waheed: my/mother/was/my first country;/ the first place I ever lived.

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Mothers Day was celebrated Sunday in the United States, Canada and many other countries. Britains Mothers Day was on March 31 this year.

Copyright 2019 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Democratic presidential candidate Pete Buttigieg described Saturday his public coming out as a gay man in 2015 and how the exclusion he experienced made him conscious of what it means to belong and the need to overcome divisions.

The 37-year-old described a crisis of belonging in this country experienced by LGBTQ people, women, immigrants, people of color, people with disabilities, workers and more and the need for hopeful and audacious voices to unite people in a changing time.

What every gay person has in common with every excluded person of any kind is knowing what its like to see a wall between you and the rest of the world and wonder what its like on the other side, Buttigieg said as he gave the keynote address Saturday night in Las Vegas at a gala for the Human Rights Campaign.

The mayor of South Bend, Indiana, made the appearance at the LGBTQ civil rights group event while making his second campaign swing this year through Nevada, which is third in line to cast votes for the Democratic presidential nomination next year.

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Despite having held only one public office leading a community of about 100,000 people, the mayors name recognition and popularity have surged as he has jumped into the race for the White House.

Id be lying if I didnt admit that were a little surprised too at the speed of this trajectory, he said.

As a sign of the mayors rising visibility, President Donald Trump this week mocked Buttigieg at a rally and likened him to Mad magazine mascot Alfred E. Neuman in an interview with Politico.

Buttigieg said Saturday that 20 years ago, if someone told his teenaged self that that in 2019, hed wake up to reports that the president of the United States was apparently trying to get his attention, he would have wondered what you were talking about. Let alone if you told him that the president somehow pronounced his name right.

Buttigieg could become the first openly gay presidential nominee from a major political party. He is competing in a crowded field of Democratic candidates that includes former Vice President Joe Biden leading the pack and drawing heavily on his connections to President Barack Obama.

Buttigieg appeared to hint at Bidens allusions to the Obama administration Saturday night when he said the country cant and wont move backward.

Democrats cant take us back to 2008 or 1998 any more than conservatives can take us back to the 50s, he said.

The former Naval intelligence officer also described his decision while serving as mayor and preparing to deploy to Afghanistan to publicly come out as gay.

I was seized with the awareness that I could be killed in action at the age of 33, a grown man and an elected official, with no idea what it was like to be in love, he said. I knew that I had to be who I am.

He noted that the op-ed article he published where he announced he was gay came when Vice President Mike Pence was serving as Indianas governor  a fact that drew boos from the crowd.

The audience of about 750 members and supporters gave Buttigieg two standing ovations, including when his husband, Chasten, joined him on stage and they embraced at the end of his speech.

Before Buttigieg appeared on the stage at Caesars Palace, he met earlier Saturday with members of Nevadas Asian American Pacific Islander Democratic Caucus in Las Vegas.

Copyright 2019 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.


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By Jason Lim



It's called deplatforming when social media giants such as Facebook and Twitter ban certain individuals or groups from using their platforms to engage with followers or friends. Facebook recently deplatformed InfoWars' Alex Jones, ex-Breitbart News editor Milo Yiannopoulos, white supremacist Paul Nehlen and anti-Islamic activist Laura Loomer. It also banned Louis Farrakhan, the Nation of Islam leader whose fiery rhetoric was controversial long before social media was a thing.



In a statement, Facebook said, "We've always banned individuals or organizations that promote or engage in violence and hate, regardless of ideology The process for evaluating potential violators is extensive and it is what led us to our decision to remove these accounts today."



Conservatives, including President Donald Trump, accused the tech giants of having an anti-right bias. Donald Jr. tweeted the following on May 3:



"The purposeful & calculated silencing of conservatives by @facebook & the rest of the Big Tech monopoly men should terrify everyone. It appears they're taking their censorship campaign to the next level. Ask yourself, how long before they come to purge you? We must fight back."



While a bit alarmist, Donald Jr. is asking a fundamental question that echoes back to the First Amendment that states, "Congress shall make no law...abridging freedom of speech." Ah, but can Facebook?



There are two ways of looking at this question. One is whether Facebook is a platform or a publisher. Vox published a very informative article by Jane Coaston on this topic.



She writes, "If Facebook is a platform, it then has legal protections that make it almost impossible to sue over content hosted on the site. That's because of Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act."



The 1996-passed act reads in part, "No provider or user of an interactive computer service shall be treated as the publisher or speaker of any information provided by another information content provider."



"But if Facebook is a publisher," she continues, "then it can exercise editorial control over its content  and for Facebook, its content is your posts, photos, and videos. That would give Facebook carte blanche to monitor, edit, and even delete content (and users) it considered offensive or unwelcome according to its terms of service  which, to be clear, the company already does  but would make it vulnerable to the same types of lawsuits as media companies are more generally...



"So instead, Facebook has tried to thread an almost impossible needle: performing the same content moderation tasks as a media company might, while arguing that it isn't a media company at all."



But is the platform vs. publisher line still a viable legal construct in the social media age? As Facebook itself seems to indicate with its often-contradictory claims, Facebook is both. And more. It's impossible to shoehorn into yesterday's legal judgment today's social behavior driven by real-time capabilities to engage with unlimited numbers of people not bound to any traditional social-political boundaries.



Facebooks of the world are ubiquitous enough in their reach and powerful enough as enablers of communications as to make the platform vs. publisher dichotomy obsolete. They have become the universal medium for human social behavior that makes deplatforming a form of social (and economic for some) death.



The hegemony of its reach and punitive nature of its "punishment" imparts a certain responsibility for governance that balances the legitimate equities of multiple stakeholders. But what type of governance would work for this new type of self-organization that we have invented?



To me, the deplatforming issue should be tackled from a more fundamental place. Ultimately, this debate boils down to the same question that American society has struggled to answer ever since it was enshrined in the Constitution: what types of speech should be protected under freedom of speech? This question, in turn, becomes a definition game of what is obscene, which is not protected.



The U.S. courts have attempted to answer this question, from Roth v. United States in 1957 to Miller vs. California in 1973, which led to the Miller test for obscenity. What's important in the Miller test is that it allows for community standards rather than a national standard to determine what's obscene. It also baselines obscenity to what the "average person" of that community finds offensive. In other words, obscene is what the "average" person of a "community" finds offensive. Not what moderators or Facebook executives find offensive.



While defining these terms are fraught with ambiguities, it does lead to a potential answer to how Facebook should "decide" on whom to deplatform. Why not put it up for a vote? Facebook could even pick the members of a "community" that can vote on certain topics and people, as long as those boundaries are drawn in a fair, inclusive, and transparent way. Let the community decide. While not perfect, voting on who goes and stays could be the best way to police itself and continually define the acceptable social norms of a social-media state. It's certainly better than some faceless executive making what is essentially a life-or-death decision for some.





Jason Lim (jasonlim@msn.com) is a Washington, D.C.-based expert on innovation, leadership and organizational culture.


By Chang Se-moon



No, I am not talking about rapid increases in minimum wages, required conversion of part-time workers to full-time workers, controlling processing fees of credit cards, excessive controlling of working hours of employees, blind support of unions that prompt plant closing, and more.



Practically, all sensible economists in Korea have voiced a unanimous opinion on these policies that have led to more harm than good.



What I am talking about relates to changes in the types of businesses that are rapidly becoming a reality.



Today's article is based on the March 13 email I received from the U.S. Census Bureau, titled "What Is a Business." This article was written by Andrew W. Hait who is a statistical economist at the Census Bureau.



The latest data show that "more than three-fourths of U.S. businesses may be run out of someone's home and have zero employees."



In Korea, traditional businesses are facing excessive pressure from rising labor costs and abusive unions. These businesses have a strong motivation to outsource self-employed businesses with no employees, hoping to replace full-time employees.



Self-employed businesses that have no employees are called non-employer businesses or non-employers. They are not employers since they have no employees.



Last October, the U.S. Census Bureau released a new report with data on non-employers. This report challenges the notion of just what is a business.



According to the report, there were 7.8 million businesses that employed almost 127 million people with over $6.4 trillion in annual payroll, or "about $50,769 per employee."



The report also showed that in 2016, there were almost 25 million non-employer businesses, representing "more than 76.2 percent of all businesses." These businesses were self-employed with no paid employees.



The report also shows that the number of self-employed businesses is growing at a faster rate than businesses that have paid employees.



In the U.S., between 2012 and 2016, non-employer businesses "increased by more than 2 million, a 9.1 percent increase. In the same period, the number of employer businesses increased by 4.4 percent."



The report finds that the self-employed, i.e., non-employer businesses are more popular in certain industries.



One example cited relates to beauty salons. Employer beauty salons had 435,796 employees in 2016, while there were 730,782 self-employed people in the same industry. No less than 62.6 percent of the total number who worked in this industry were self-employed in 2016.



Note that rapidly advancing technologies will allow many workers to have "the capacity to utilize their skills to work as independent contractors." Further, "while it is likely that these non-employer businesses do not offer the benefits that employers do, the average revenue of many of these businesses helps offset the difference."



The study cites earnings of the self-employed tend to be higher than employees who perform the same types of work.



One interesting question relates to how this trend affects the future labor market. This question is significant to the Korean economy, since many businesses in Korea may be looking for types of work that can be done by the self-employed, rather than full-time employees. There are several benefits of this approach of outsourcing non-employers.



First of all, to the extent that the substitution of full-time employees by outside self-employed workers is feasible, these businesses can stay away from labor-management problems that appear to be daily occurrences in Korea.



Secondly, as the economy slows and sales decrease, these businesses can easily terminate any contracts with the outside self-employed, unlike the cumbersome process of laying off full-time employees. No long-term commitments are needed in utilizing outside self-employed workers.



Thirdly, the outside self-employed will have an added incentive to being efficient, since they can easily be replaced by other self-employed people.



In the fourth place, businesses can stay away from rising costs of fringe benefits when these businesses are working with outside self-employed, who are independent contractors. As the economy grows, fringe benefit costs tend also to increase. Fringe benefits include health and life insurance, paid vacations, and more that are paid on top of base salaries.



In the fifth place, government regulations on minimum wages, limited number of working hours per week, and others do not apply to contracts with outside self-employed, assuming that overly aggressive political leaders do not extend their controls to these self-employed businesses.



Finally, from the view of local economic development officials, it is important to encourage the growth of the self-employed, since these officials can "leverage the skills of their workforce via non-employers" when they try to recruit large employer businesses.



It is important to recognize the importance of education, including vocational and technical in nature, for the self-employed to grow.



It is also important to understand that the more the government tries to regulate private sector industries, the harder these industries will be looking for types of work that can be done by outside contractors.





Chang Se-moon (changsemoon@yahoo.com) is the director of the Gulf Coast Center for Impact Studies.


Scientists know that age and weight are risk factors in the development of cancer. That should mean that whales, which include some of the largest and longest-lived animals on Earth, have an outsized risk of developing cancer.

But they don't. Instead, they are less likely to develop or die of this enigmatic disease. The same is true of elephants and dinosaurs' living relatives, birds. Marc Tollis, an assistant professor in the School of Informatics, Computing, and Cyber Systems at Northern Arizona University, wants to know why.

Tollis led a team of scientists from Arizona State University, the University of Groningen in the Netherlands, the Center for Coastal Studies in Massachusetts and nine other institutions worldwide to study potential cancer suppression mechanisms in cetaceans, the mammalian group that includes whales, dolphins and porpoises. Their findings, which picked apart the genome of the humpback whale, as well as the genomes of nine other cetaceans, in order to determine how their cancer defenses are so effective, were published today in Molecular Biology and Evolution.

The study is the first major contribution from the newly formed Arizona Cancer and Evolution Center or ACE, directed by Carlo Maley under an $8.5 million award from the National Cancer Institute. Maley, an evolutionary biologist, is a researcher at ASU's Biodesign Virginia G. Piper Center for Personalized Diagnostics and professor in the School of Life Sciences. He is a senior co-author of the new study.

The study found that nature has beaten cancer in countless ways across the tree of life, Tollis said, and researchers can use that information to help find potential new targets for preventing cancer in humans, like using the whale version of a protein that can stop cell proliferation to develop drugs that shrink tumors in humans.

"Our goal is not only to get nature to inform us about better cancer therapies, but to give the public a new perspective of cancer," Tollis said. "The fact that whales and elephants evolved to beat cancer, and that dinosaurs suffered from it as well, suggests that cancer has been a selective pressure across many millions of years of evolution, and it has always been with us. Our hope is that this may change people's relationship with the disease, which can be painful and personal. It also helps provide even better appreciation for biodiversity. In our current sixth mass extinction, we need all the reasons for conservation that we can get."

Why whales?

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At its most basic, cancer occurs when body cells divide and mutate. Cell division is normal in living creatures, as are body cell, or somatic, mutations. Most of the time, somatic mutations are either harmless or the body is able to fix those mutations. When it doesn't, that can lead to cancer.

Beyond that foundation, cancer gets much more complicated. For all of the research being done on all types of cancer and all types of organisms, there are still more questions than answers. However, age and body size are well-known risk factors in people. Tollis said one explanation for this is that cancer risk overall is a function of the number of cell divisions that occur over the lifetime of an organism.

"This is driven by somatic evolution -- genetic changes that occur when body cells copy their genomes, divide and produce daughter cells," he said. "The longer you live, the more cell divisions you have and the higher chance that a cancer-causing mutation will occur in the genome of the descendent cells. Similarly, larger individuals are made of more cells, which also increases the chance of cancer-causing mutations."

Knowing this, it's worth looking at whether whales, which live longer than most mammals on the planet and have a much higher percentage of body fat, are more likely to develop cancer. They aren't. This phenomenon, known as Peto's Paradox, is what Tollis and his team studied. How do whales defy these well-known risk factors? In earlier research, ASU's Carlo Maley investigated alternate mechanisms responsible for cancer suppression in elephants.

Methods and conclusions

The team worked under a federal research permit to obtain skin samples from an adult female humpback whale off the coast of Massachusetts. This whale, named Salt, is well-known to researchers and whale watchers alike. She was cataloged by the Center for Coastal Studies in the mid-1970s and selected for this study because her life history is among the most well-documented of any individual humpback whale. The team sequenced and assembled Salt's genome, which requires extracting DNA from skin tissue, fractioning it into smaller bits and put through a DNA sequencer that produces almost 2 billion short sequences. Then they put those sequences back together into a genome assembly that spans about 2.7 billion base pairs. (By contrast, the human genome is about 3.1 billion base pairs long.) They also sequenced RNA, which helps in the process of finding the precise coordinates where genes lie in the genome.

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The team then compared the humpback whale genome to those of other mammals including other ocean giants like the blue whale, fin whale, bowhead whale and sperm whale. They expected to see a lot of differences, but also a few similarities, particularly with the parts of the genome that perform important functions. They also looked for parts of the genome that had evolved to help whales adapt to their environment.

What they found was that some parts of the whale genome have evolved faster than in other mammals. These parts of the whale genome contain genes that control the cell cycle, cell proliferation and DNA repair, which are essential for normal cell function. In human cancers, many of these genes are mutated. The whale genome also evolved many duplications in tumor suppressor genes.

"Nature is showing us that these changes to cancer genes are compatible with life. The next questions are, which of these changes is preventing cancer, and can we translate those discoveries into preventing cancer in humans?" said Carlo Maley, a cancer evolutionary biologist from ASU's Biodesign Institute and one of the two senior authors, who started this project in 2011 with Per Palsbll, a marine mammal conservation geneticist from the Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences at University of Groningen, in collaboration with Jooke Robbins from the Center for Coastal Studies.

"This suggests that whales are unique among mammals in that in order to evolve their gigantic sizes, these important 'housekeeping' genes, that are evolutionarily conserved and normally prevent cancer, had to keep up in order to maintain the species' fitness," Tollis said. "We also found that despite these cancer-related parts of whale genomes evolving faster than other mammals, on average whales have accumulated far fewer DNA mutations in their genomes over time compared to other mammals, which suggests they have slower mutation rates."

This slow rate of change may also limit whales' exposure to cancer-causing somatic mutations.

This study builds on research that the ASU team has done finding lower rates of cancer in elephants, another mammal that is large and can live a long time but doesn't have much in common genetically with whales. Both species arrived at the same result -- cancer suppression -- through different mechanisms. The same is likely true of extinct giant dinosaurs; although scientists have found evidence of cancer in dinosaur fossils, this group of organisms includes the largest animals ever to walk the earth and thus they probably had efficient cancer suppression as well.

Next steps for Tollis and his team will be to better understand the cancer suppression phenotype using experiments with whale cell lines, which will provide important functional validation of the team's genomic results. That will be the first step in generating whale-derived human cancer drugs. They also are looking at other animals, such as bats, tortoises and crocodilians, to see how these varied long-lived species suppress cancer. The humpback whale genome also will serve as the basis for studies by other team members on whale mutation rates and other adaptations taking advantage of a collection of the 9,000-plus DNA samples collected from free-ranging humpback whales curated by Palsbll's team.

This research is supported by the Arizona Cancer Evolution Center, which is funded through a five-year grant from the National Institutes of Health, with additional funding by the University of Groningen.
Latte, cappuccino or short black, a morning coffee is an essential for many people looking to kick start their day. But while the humble coffee may be a vital feature of the daily grind, how much is too much?

While the pros and cons of drinking coffee have been debated for decades, new research from the University of South Australia reveals that drinking six or more coffees a day can be detrimental to your health, increasing your risk of heart disease by up to 22 per cent.

In Australia, one in six people are affected by cardiovascular disease. It is a major cause of death with one person dying from the disease every 12 minutes. According to the World Health Organization, cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death, yet one of the most preventable.

Investigating the association of long-term coffee consumption and cardiovascular disease, UniSA researchers Dr Ang Zhou and Professor Elina Hypponen of the Australian Centre for Precision Health say their research confirms the point at which excess caffeine can cause high blood pressure, a precursor to heart disease.

This is the first time an upper limit has been placed on safe coffee consumption and cardiovascular health.

"Coffee is the most commonly consumed stimulant in the world -- it wakes us up, boosts our energy and helps us focus -- but people are always asking 'How much caffeine is too much?'," Prof Hypponen says.

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"Most people would agree that if you drink a lot of coffee, you might feel jittery, irritable or perhaps even nauseas -- that's because caffeine helps your body work faster and harder, but it is also likely to suggest that you may have reached your limit for the time being.

"We also know that risk of cardiovascular disease increases with high blood pressure, a known consequence of excess caffeine consumption.

"In order to maintain a healthy heart and a healthy blood pressure, people must limit their coffees to fewer than six cups a day -- based on our data six was the tipping point where caffeine started to negatively affect cardiovascular risk."

Using UK Biobank data of 347,077 participants aged 37-73 years, the study explored the ability of the caffeine-metabolizing gene (CYP1A2) to better process caffeine, identifying increased risks of cardiovascular disease in line with coffee consumption and genetic variations.

Prof Hypponen says that despite carriers of the fast-processing gene variation being four times quicker at metabolising caffeine, the research does not support the belief that these people could safely consume more caffeine, more frequently, without detrimental health effects.

"An estimated three billion cups of coffee are enjoyed every day around the world," Prof Hypponen says.

"Knowing the limits of what's good for you and what's not is imperative.

"As with many things, it's all about moderation; overindulge and your health will pay for it."
Mary Howard has been named director of early childhood and elementary education. She has served as principal of Lake City Early Childhood Center since 2014 and also served as the districts early childhood supervisor since 2018, the release said. She served as principal of Olanta Elementary in 2013 and as an assistant principal at Main Street Elementary and Scranton Elementary.

Ned Blake has been named director of alternative school and student services. He currently serves as the districts interim director of alternative school and also served as a special education administrator, according to the release from the district. Blake served as principal of Lake City High School from 2014 to 2018. He was principal of J. Paul Truluck Middle School from 2010 to 2014. He also was an assistant principal at Ronald E. McNair Middle School and J. Paul Truluck Middle.

Dr. Fred Moore has been named principal of Lake City Early College High School. Moore served as the districts hearing officer from 2017 to 2019 before temporarily filling an assistant principal position at the high school. He was the director of special services for Williamsburg County School District from 2015 to 2017 and also served as that districts director of adult education, the release said. He also has served as principal at Kingstree Senior High School, North Charleston High School, Hunter-Tyler-Kinard High School and McCormick High School.
Almost every department in this school had some way of helping me and assisting me, Murray said. These courses, and those instructors, they were the best. They taught it to me in a way I was able to apply to myself. They were patient with me with my vision. I was given accommodations for testing.

While at Florence-Darlington Technical College, Murray learned about devices and aides that could substantially assist her efforts in the classroom and at home. More specifically, Murray carries around an electronic magnifying device that zooms in to only a few words at a time and allows her to read.

Im a person that loved to read, Murray said. I was a bookworm, so I loved to read. To realize that you cant read anymore, you know thats kind of devastating. Not only that, but people take for granted how much you have to read during the day.

Florence-Darlington Technical Colleges Online College enabled her to take classes at home, where she had a 55-inch television that alleviated the strain of reading a few words at a time on the handheld magnifying device.

Those classes online were everything that I needed, because I was able to blow up the stuff as much as I needed to, Murray said.
How much would the tolls cost?

Under an amendment to the state budget proposed by state Sen. Richard A. "Dick" Harpootlian, the tolls would cost $2 each, thus it would cost $8 to go from Georgia to North Carolina or vice versa.

Harpootlian has said that between 65 and 75 percent of the traffic on Interstate 95 is not local to South Carolina, meaning the people are traveling through the state and are not from or visiting the state.

Harpootlian, a Democrat, is South Carolinas newest state senator, having won a special election held on Nov. 6, 2018, to represent Senate District 20. The district includes northwestern Richland County and a line running through eastern Lexington and into western Richland counties.

There could be some push from the Senate and the House to collect funds from people using but not paying for the roads.

How much revenue would that raise?

The feasibility study estimates it will take $500 million to replace the four bridges. According to the study, it would take 35 years of tolls to pay off the bonds that would be issued to fund the bridge replacements.
Another tool we hope will give Johnsonville an economic boost is our new website. Residents, visitors and potential industrialists can visit cityofjohnsonville.com and learn about the city and what we have to offer. A new Business section gives demographics and other information on economic development, and local businesses can learn about obtaining or renewing a business license or joining our local Chamber of Commerce.

Water customers can pay their bills online through the website and visit the Residents page to get more information on area churches, local festivals, educational opportunities and things to do in the region. Links of Interest are included to offer easy access to websites of local utilities, government agencies and nonprofit organizations.

Water service was expanded several years ago to include the Vox community west of town. The project added more than 250 new customers to the water system. We continued the expansion this past year to include approximately 25 more customers in the Whispering Pines area of Vox.

Future plans for Johnsonvilles infrastructure include further expansion and improvements to the sewer system.
Harry Scott, a former ManuFirst SC student at FDTC, completed the program and received multiple job offers within two weeks.

I learned a lot of stuff about manufacturing even though I had experience in manufacturing before I learned a lot in that program, Scott said.

Scott said that after completing the program, he felt very confident in starting a job in manufacturing. He said the program put him at the top of the list for job applications.

Scott is now working as a full-time pre-batch coordinator with Ruiz Foods in Florence.

Last year, a group of technical colleges got together and decided to make a grant available for colleges to get funds to launch the program.

Holland said the college decided to start the program because of the presence of manufacturing in the area. FDTC was one of five colleges in the state to receive the grant money last fall to start the program, Holland said.

Florence is a manufacturing center because were right at the crossroads of I-95 and I-20 and were halfway between New York and Miami, Holland said. Strategically for manufacturing products and getting them out the door, were in a good location.
An ultra-conservative culture warrior is not the right person to lead the state Commission on Higher Education (CHE).

But, hey, this is red South Carolina, where some folks apparently think that a past editor of a neo-Confederate journal who got a Ph.D. in government and international studies is a good choice to be a finalist to lead the state agency with oversight for new college programs.

Hmmm. Wonder if this means someone wants more God in public liberal arts education?

The state Commission on Higher Education, which has oversight of new buildings and programs, got in hot water last year after state lawmakers learned the agencys president and executive director got a raise of almost $91,500 to $257,767 a year. Lawmakers squawked. The president and the agencys board chairman eventually stepped down.

That led CHE to post a vacancy on its website. Five dozen people applied and, according to media reports, six semifinalists were interviewed. Three became finalists, including

an assistant commissioner of a similar agency in another state and a higher education lawyer with 20 years of experience in education law and ties to the Palmetto State.
Just like any 301(3) nonprofit, we depend on citizenry and business support to carry on our tasks of helping/protecting our citizens.

Heres how YOU CAN HELP: Throughout May, you have the opportunity to help us meet our $350,000 fundraising goals and support of the South Carolina State Guard. You can do this by visiting participating establishments or by donating online throughout the month.

For a minimum donation of $1 (or $5 or more!) to the Boots on the Ground #SCSGBoots campaign, your name or the name of a loved one will be placed on boot cutouts, which will proudly be displayed at participating establishments during May.

Additionally, you can make a secure online donation through the South Carolina State Guard Mission & Operations Support Foundation website at scsgmops.org or visit us on Facebook at @SCStateGuard to donate there via one of the posted Donate buttons. Additional information can be found at sg.sc.gov/newsroom/?p=387.

For further I formation or ways you can help, contact:

LTC Scott Malyerck, Public Affairs Office, South Carolina State Guard.
He made the statement while attending a ceremony in Hanoi on May 11th to celebrate the 60th founding anniversary of 919 Transport Air Force Regiment, the predecessor of Flight Crew 919, which is Vietnam Airlines today.



From a regiment in the past, Flight Crew 919 has now become a core unit of the 4-star airline, he said, adding that it has been taking the lead in applying the worlds most advanced technology, training and managing over 1,000 pilots, including foreign ones, to operate a series of new generation aircraft to transport passengers and goods safely.

Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc presents second-class Independence Order to Flight Crew 919 (Photo: VNA)

The PM expressed his pleasure at the increasing number of Vietnamese pilots in Vietnam Airlines, accounting for up to 75 percent.



Vietnam Airlines can fully master the world's most advanced aircraft generations such as Boeing 787 and Airbus 350, he said proudly.



The PM recalled the historical achievements of the Vietnam civil aviation in 2011 when Vietnam Airlines and Flight Crew 919 conducted 10 flights by Boeing 777 on 14 consecutive days, safely transporting over 3,000 Vietnamese citizens to return home and nearly 13.5 tonnes of relief goods in a campaign to save Vietnamese workers from Libyas civil war.



While stressing the role of Vietnam Airlines and the civil aviation sector in the countrys new period of economic development, the Government leader asked the airline to exert more efforts to realise the goal of making tourism a spearhead economy, accounting for over 10 percent of the national gross domestic product (GDP).



He asked the airline to ensure the maintenance of flight safety and provision of high-quality human resources.



The PM also assigned the State Capital Management Committee at Enterprises and the Ministry of Transport to focus on directing Vietnam Airlines in the process of equitisation and restructuring to guarantee efficiency and prevent negative phenomena.



On the occasion, he presented the second-class Independence Order to Flight Crew 919.



Vietnam Airlines, a member of SkyTeam alliance, is operating 90 domestic and international air routes. /.
The Pamiat Azova, a Russian warship in Japan, circa 1895.



By Robert Neff



In the 1890s, Russian sailors were a tough, hard-drinking lot but, surprisingly in Korea, there weren't that many violent encounters between native Russian sailors and the residents of the ports. But the same couldn't be said for the non-native Russian sailors. Like many of the Western countries, Russia's navy was made up of several different nationalities.





Koreans aboard a Russian ship, circa 1900 (Diana Nars Collection).
Lawyers and free speech advocates are wrangling over whether San Francisco police were right to raid a journalists home Friday  the latest jolt from a leaked report on the February death of Public Defender Jeff Adachi.

The incident has raised concerns that city officials have lost sight of journalists rights in their haste to solve a case that embarrassed the city. Some observers wondered whether the judges who signed the warrant were aware the search targeted a journalist.

Somebody screwed up royally, said David Snyder, executive director of the First Amendment Coalition in San Rafael, who called the raid outrageous.

At the heart of the dispute is a report that included photographs and details about what happened at the Telegraph Hill apartment where Adachi lost consciousness on Feb. 22 after spending the day with a female companion.

The Police Department drew sharp reprimands from city politicians after the report showed up on television newscasts and in print only hours after Adachi, 59, collapsed and later died. It rattled City Hall, creating a new drama that overtook the news of Adachis death. The public defender was a key figure for local progressives but also a vocal critic of the police, leading some to say the reports unauthorized release was politically motivated.

Police immediately started a probe, which led investigators to freelance videographer Bryan Carmody, who says he received the report on Adachis death from an unidentified source inside the Police Department. He sold it to three television news stations, but wouldnt identify them.

Officers showed up at the door of his Outer Richmond District home two weeks ago and politely asked me to tell them who my source was. I declined to do that, Carmody said.

On Friday morning, at least 10 police officers and two federal agents used a sledgehammer to enter Carmodys home. They also searched his vehicles and his office in the Western Addition, taking check stubs, CDs, USB drives, computers, cell phones, notebooks and the original leaked police report. Carmody said he was handcuffed and detained for seven hours as officers grilled him, asking for passwords to his cell phones and computers, the name of his source, and whether the source had been compensated.

Im positively clear on that  literally not a penny, not even a cup of coffee, Carmody said.

A copy of the warrant obtained by The Chronicle shows it was signed by two Superior Court judges  Victor Hwang and Gail Dekreon  but does not list a probable cause for the search.

In a statement released Friday, David Stevenson, a Police Department spokesman, characterized the searches as one step in the process of investigating a potential case of obstruction of justice, along with the illegal distribution of a confidential police report.

Debating the issue on social media Saturday, attorneys pointed to precedents in which police obtained warrants to seize the work of independent journalists. In some cases, attorneys managed to retroactively quash the warrants and get the materials back.

Same must happen here, tweeted David Greene, civil liberties director of the Electronic Frontier Foundation of San Francisco.

Theodore Boutrous, a First Amendment lawyer in Los Angeles, said that clearly Carmody should not have been the focus of the Police Departments investigation.

They have a legitimate reason to find out who leaked information among themselves, but they should be searching in their own backyard, Boutrous said. He urged City Attorney Dennis Herrera to press the case and recover Carmodys possessions.

Carmodys lawyer, Thomas Burke, agreed that the police went too far.

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The warrant and seizures were highly improper, he said. Burke has represented The Chronicle and its parent company, Hearst Corp., in other cases.

Burke called the police and district attorneys office Friday night, demanding that they freeze all the information confiscated from the search and not review any of the data on Carmodys cell phones or laptops. He said he is still waiting for a response.

Snyder, the First Amendment Coalition director, said hes mystified by the judges decision to sign the warrant, which he said violates the California Shield Law. It protects journalists who refuse to disclose their sources or turn over other materials associated with news gathering.

Its a chilling sign that the San Francisco Police Department had such low regard for journalists rights, Snyder said.

But another civil liberties attorney, John Hamasaki, said this isnt the right case to hold up as a cause celebre.

Theres a reason that other news outlets were not targeted and raided, said Hamasaki, who is also a San Francisco police commissioner. Its because theres a difference between reporting and hawking a stolen item.

He added: Theres no First Amendment protection for profiting off the tragic death of Jeff Adachi.

Rachel Swan is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: rswan@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @rachelswan
Samsung Electronics' Galaxy S10 smartphones / Courtesy of Samsung Electronics



By Baek Byung-yeul



Samsung Electronics is narrowing the smartphone market share gap with the league leader Apple in North America, as its latest premium smartphone Galaxy S10 succeeded in appealing to consumers there.



According to a report from Singapore-based industry tracker Canalys on Friday, Samsung enjoyed robust selling of its smartphones in the first three months of 2019, shipping 10.7 million to the North American region to be placed second following Apple, which shipped 14.6 million smartphones.



The figure is a 3 percent increase year-on-year while Apple experienced a 19 percent drop. The increased shipments also lifted Samsung's market share from 23.2 percent to 29.3 percent while Apple witnessed its market share slide from 40.3 percent to 40 percent.



LG Electronics ranked third after shipping 4.8 million smartphones in the first quarter of 2019, a 24 percent decrease year-on-year, but it still holds the third largest market share with 4.8 percent.



The industry tracker said smartphone shipments in the first quarter there hit a five-year low as a total of 36.4 million smartphones were shipped, an 18 percent decrease year-on-year. But Samsung stood out in the gloom thanks to the Galaxy S10 smartphones.



Among the smartphone models, Samsung's two Galaxy S10 variations  the S10+ model that has a 6.4-inch screen and S10e with 5.8-inch screen  tied for second place as best-selling smartphones, selling 2 million respectively. They were followed by Apple's iPhone XR, which sold 4.5 million.



The report said Samsung could narrow Apple's lead in the first quarter as the Korean firm "scheduled an earlier launch date for the S10 series and more than doubled shipments over the S9 series in their respective launch quarters."



Vincent Thielke, an analyst of Canalys said, Samsung's strategy to bring real differentiation to its Galaxy S10 devices worked well to improve its performance in the North American region.



"Its triple camera, ultra-wide-angle lens, hole-punch display and reverse wireless charging all raised consumer interest. While these technologies are not new, Samsung is among the first to bring them to the United States in a mass-market smartphone, and the appeal of such new features will be important for other launches this year," the analyst said.



Stating that Samsung greatly benefited from strong promotion efforts of mobile carriers that provided a series of promotions such as a buy-one-get-one-free offer or discount offer when purchasing the Galaxy S10e, the analyst said Samsung may face difficulties in boosting its smartphone sales.



"Samsung also benefited from carrier promotions in Q1, which used the Galaxy S10e as an incentive. But it will come under pressure later in 2019 as other vendors, such as OnePlus, follow suit with new features, while Google starts expanding into additional channels and price bands, and ZTE attempts to re-establish its footprint at the low end," Thielke said.


Its lunchtime at Reddits office in San Francisco, and several dozen women have convened over salads and sparkling water to learn about their changing bodies. Theyve invited San Francisco startup Modern Fertility, which makes a home testing kit that measures hormones related to fertility, to lead a sex-ed class for grown-ups.

Erin Burke, head of research at the startup, asks the women: What is a hormone?

I know what one feels like, Reddit employee Cookie Arader quips.

A conversation like this might not have happened even five years ago. In the workplace, many women delay, even dread, sharing their plans to start a family, partly because of the penalty on motherhood, whats known as the maternal wall. A landmark study from Cornell a decade ago showed that mothers are less likely to be recommended for jobs, and are seen as less competent, than childless women. In 2014, an analysis of data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics found men often see a bump in pay after the birth of their first child, while womens wages shrink with each kid.

And theres often hesitation about sharing fertility and pregnancy plans because many women experience miscarriages or have trouble conceiving.

But a growing number of women, especially in tech, are bringing the discussion about family planning out of the gynecologists office and into the workplace  sometimes even when applying for jobs. They may be encouraged by the fact that tech giants are offering more benefits to prospective mothers, such as subsidies for egg-freezing, fertility testing, in vitro fertilization and surrogacy, as well as longer maternity leaves. Support on social media and the #MeToo movement also may be motivating women to open up on once-taboo subjects.

Tian Lee, a senior manager of public relations at San Francisco startup Zendesk, said she found other women struggling to conceive at the company. They became their own social network.

Lee, 35, remembers wrapping up a meeting in late 2017 when her doctor called. A blood test revealed that the cluster of cells inside her had stopped growing, a common phenomenon known as a chemical pregnancy. It was Lees third pregnancy loss in about a year. She sat in the stairwell, crying, but with a colleague to lean on.

People dont talk about infertility because it makes them feel like they are broken, like theres something wrong with them, when in reality, its actually what makes you human, said Lee, who today has a 9-month-old daughter.

Some women have asked employers for education on the topic. Modern Fertility says it has seen more requests from tech companies, including Slack, Envoy, Reddit and Cloudflare, wanting to bring hormone lunches to their offices. The program has grown to a few events a week, according to a spokeswoman. The startup also hosts hormone nights in its Mission District office, featuring wine and cheese and a slideshow on what hormone levels say about fertility. Its not entirely altruistic: The company sells $159 finger-prick blood tests that measure various hormones, including one related to the number of eggs a woman has left.

The workplace might seem like a surprising site for these discussions. But as women focus on their careers and postpone having children until they are in their 30s and 40s, biological imperatives assert themselves, Burke of Modern Fertility noted.

The more we talk about that, the better it is for everybody, she said.

Katelin Holloway, vice president of people and culture at Reddit, said she did not want to tell colleagues at a former job that she was trying to have a baby. I was petrified that it would stunt my career growth, she said.

One night, Holloway was working late when she stood up from her desk to find her pants soaked with blood. Shed had a miscarriage. A female janitor rushed to her side, then washed out her clothing while Holloway sat on the toilet, sobbing. You have to come to work the next day and put on a smile and pretend nothing happened, she said. There is no miscarriage leave.

When she joined Reddit in 2016, Holloway, now a 37-year-old mother of two boys, knew immediately what kinds of programs she wanted to put in place. According to Holloway, Reddit gives all employees $18,000 to use on family planning expenses, such as egg-freezing, testing from Modern Fertility, sperm banking and adoption fees. An employee group for women asked Reddit to bring a hormone lunch to the office, and several dozen more workers watched a live stream of the discussion.

In job interviews these days, many women ask about maternity benefits, just as they would about vacation time and health insurance. Thats a huge change, says Joan C. Williams, a professor of feminist legal theory and employment law at UC Hastings.

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Twenty years ago, it would have been risky to disclose a pregnancy to an employer, Williams said. Now, some women, especially Millennials, dont feel the need to be silent: They feel entitled not to be discriminated against based on motherhood, Williams said. Women might discuss their plans to have children to gauge if the person hiring is someone they want to work for.

Rachel Kim, who runs public relations at SutherlandGold Group in San Francisco, began a job hunt in 2015 with an explicit message for recruiters: I was a mother, and I wasnt going to hide it, said Kim, 36. In fact, she wanted another baby. Before she accepted a job at the San Francisco human resources startup Gusto, she asked to speak with a female employee who had children to help her vet the company.

Still, plenty of women avoid discussing fertility and early pregnancy in the workplace. Its common to wait until after the first trimester to announce a pregnancy, even among friends, because of the high risk of early miscarriage.

Sara Mauskopf, who left a job at Postmates to start Winnie, a San Francisco company that helps parents find day care and other resources, did not tell her team when she was trying to conceive through in vitro fertilization in 2017. The timeline is so unknown, and the outcome is so unknown, said Mauskopf, 34.

When she did tell co-workers at the end of the first trimester that she was expecting her second child, a girl, she said she knew the news would be accepted and even celebrated.

She has also tried to set an example for future moms at the office. She tries to leave at 5 p.m., after an eight-hour workday, and doesnt work weekends. She tells employees not to respond to late-night Slack messages, though she might send them if shes up with her kids or breastfeeding.

Being a mother, she said, is a superpower.

Melia Russell is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: melia.russell@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @meliarobin
Farah and Victor Makras, the sort of chic and well-dressed people youd see in pictures of cultural events and openings, and their equally photographed buddy Sonya Molodetskaya, opened the Makras Marina Boulevard home one evening last week for a cocktail party celebrating the 15th anniversary of the business of Drew Altizer, the photographer who tells them to put down their Champagne glasses and smile.

Surrounded by socialites, Altizer is the most popular guy at any party, and its not only because hes nice (which he is) and has photos published in The Chronicle. Anyone who dresses for an event hoping to be asked Who are you wearing? wants to be close to him, to pose for him, to be immortalized among the thousands of society figures pictured on his website ... and wants for him, please, to kindly dispose of any picture that makes him/her look bad.

He is San Francisco, said Victor Makras of the honoree. He is a gentleman. He is a professional. We all know him, and yet we dont. Makras noted that virtually everybody in this room is successful, but the side of Altizer that many of the boldfaced names  Nancy Bechtle, Norman and Norah Stone, Denise Hale, Maria Shrem, Helen Raiser, Nancy Levin, Fred Livingston, Jennifer Biederbeck, Daru Kawalkowski  at the party dont see, said Makras, is that in addition to taking pictures that appear in such publications as the Nob Hill Gazette and The Chronicle, he takes care of everyone, including small nonprofits, at prices they can afford. Tom Kelly, said to be Altizers first client, hired him to take pictures of a Project Inform event.

Altizer himself said the room is full of all my bosses, meaning the subjects of his pictures, graciously crediting his staff for taking really good care of me. Addressing everyone there, he said, See you tomorrow, because he knew, as everybody in the room did, that tomorrow is another party.

The man who usually sits next to me at the movies and I agreed that Chinatown Rising, Harry and Josh Chucks documentary about the 12 blocks between Bush and Broadway, Kearny and Stockton, was a terrific movie. But of course, on the way home from the Castro Theatre, where it was shown on opening night of CAAMFest, there was something to debate. Theres always something to debate.

The man thought that something lighter  an adventure story, a comedy, perhaps  would have made a more appropriate festival opener. I, on the other hand, was particularly moved by the seriousness of the subject, especially its depiction of a Chinese American community motivated to reject submissive stereotypes, and especially the movies implied present-tense call to arms.

Although the program described the movie as a love letter to San Franciscos vibrant Chinatown, this isnt a look into the fortune cookie factory. Much of the movie focuses on issues  strife at San Francisco State University, a bitter debate on school busing, the International Hotel evictions, gang violence, fights with Nob Hill residents objecting to new housing that would block their views  that, in some form or other, are still around.

All of the people who testify in the film, heroic veterans of battles of the 1970s, are Chinese American; there are no Caucasian rescuers. At the end of a Q&A, Harry Chuck, whose collection of clippings and films of the era is the backbone of the film, noted that the activists hadnt won every battle.

You cant win them all, he said. Long live the I-Hotel.

 Matt Regan suggests that Lombard Street, much in the news these days, should be renamed Wavy Pavey. And as long as the subject  sort of  is Wavy Gravy, his close pal, Larry Brilliant says that Gravy has been married to Jahanara for 52 years; and the occasion for Brilliant to report that is his own anniversary, the 50th with his wife, Girija. And they said that hippie relationships would never last, says Brilliant, an epidemiologist, philanthropist and TED Prize winner whose long-ago travels in Asia with Gravy were a prelude to wiping out smallpox there.

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 Ladies, weve all embraced the term mansplaining, and now comes Jeannie Wolitzer to add a word in the same area: manopolizing, as in manopolizing the conversation.

 Describing the black bars that cover the redacted parts of the Mueller Report, Coral Reiff says those are the scratch n sniff parts.

PUBLIC EAVESDROPPING

You can have a million dollars today and not be a millionaire.

Man to man, overheard at the Palo Alto YMCA by Robert Rubino

Leah Garchik is open for business in San Francisco, 415-777-8426. Email: lgarchik@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @leahgarchik
A concept image of Volkswagen's electric minivan I.D. Buzz / Korea Times fille



By Baek Byung-yeul



LG Chem's recent lawsuit against SK Innovation has been triggered by a fierce competition for orders of batteries for electric vehicles (EVs) of Volkswagen, according to a lawsuit document, Sunday.



In a petition filed to the Delaware District Court in the United States on April 29, LG Chem claimed SK Innovation's win of Volkswagen's EV battery order has imposed restrictions on its lithium-ion battery business.



"SK Innovation's win of Volkswagen's U.S. market EV battery business significantly constrains LG Chem's ability to sell EV battery products to Volkswagen for the U.S. and makes it more difficult for LG Chem to partner with Volkswagen for the supply of EV battery products for the next generation of vehicles," LG Chem said in its petition.



It added the value of the actual and potential customer contracts and associated revenue lost due to SK Innovation's "wrongful conduct" will exceed $1 billion.



Regarding the petition, an SK Innovation official said, "We don't think we have to respond as what LG Chem claimed in the lawsuit is groundless."

The official added, "Every contract order SK Innovation won including the contract that LG Chem mentioned in the lawsuit filed with the U.S. court was possible based on the company's technological capabilities and management knowhow."




By Kwak Yeon-soo







Homeplus was fined 45 million won ($38,290) for abusing its power in deals with smaller suppliers and ordered to take corrective action, the Fair Trade Commission (FTC) said, Sunday.







According to the antitrust authority, Homeplus coerced its suppliers to move into stores with less retail space while reorganizing workplaces in Gumi, North Gyeongsang Province, from May to June in 2015. At that time, the retail giant did not provide proper compensation.







The FTC also said it learned that Homeplus passed on the renovation cost worth 87 million won to smaller suppliers, which is an unfair trading practice.







The FTC official explained that Homeplus' actions are a violation of Act on Fair Transactions in Large Franchise and Retail Business Article 17(8), which prohibits the tenant from altering the store's location, area, or facilities without justifiable reason during the term of the contract.







"The change in store location should proceed after reaching an agreement through sufficient discussion. The tenant should also present its objective standard on compensation," an FTC official said.







Homeplus has 142 large discount stores across the country and reported annual sales hitting 6.6 trillion won in 2018.


Ubers much-anticipated stock market debut arrived Friday with all the promise of a backfiring gypsy cab. The companys $82.4 billion initial public offering was enough to mint a few billionaires and fuel its continuing quest to turn a profit, but Wall Streets tepid reaction betrayed the unshakable suspicion that Uber and its ilk have been taking us for a ride in more than the literal sense.

The taxi disrupters chief rival, Lyft, which benefited from a contrast with Ubers over-the-top corporate crudity but relies on much the same questionable business model, also suffered an underwhelming IPO in March. It followed that act last week by revealing that its hemorrhaging money at an even faster clip than Uber.

The San Francisco companies were the twin taxis of the apocalypse for traditional cabs, which were all but asking for someone to make their obsolescence official. Thanks to them, urban and suburban transportation has become dramatically more accessible and convenient across the country and globe. So what went wrong?

Their reliance on gig work, a staple of Silicon Valleys success, is one source of strain. It was evidenced by Wednesdays strike by Uber and Lyft drivers, including a demonstration in front of the formers Market Street headquarters.

The companies built their customer bases with cheap fares on the backs of drivers who earn an average of $10 to $12 an hour and are treated as independent contractors rather than employees, which deprives them of benefits and protections and forces them to rely on a fluctuating cut of fares for all expenses. Incredibly, Uber acknowledged in a Securities and Exchange Commission filing ahead of its IPO that it expects drivers to grow more disgruntled because it plans to reduce their incentives.

The gig work model is under increasing pressure not just from the workforce but also from policymakers. In a ruling last year, the California Supreme Court set a strict standard for independent contractor status that frowns on tech companies creative reclassification of de facto employees. The Legislature is considering further action.

A new study quantifying the companies broader impact could help justify further government intervention. Conducted by San Francisco transportation official Joe Castiglione and University of Kentucky researchers, and released on the day of the strike, it found that traffic delays in the city increased 62% over the first six years of the decade and attributed nearly two-thirds of that to Uber and Lyft. Such data could strengthen the case for local taxes on ride-hailing and congestion pricing affecting all private vehicles.

Its remarkable that the companies have imposed such burdens on public and human resources without making money. Uber blew nearly $2 billion last year, while Lyft lost more than half as much in the first quarter of this one. It didnt help the latest IPO that Uber doesnt seem to know how it will turn that around, though it is ramping up other lines of business such as food delivery and vehicle automation.

The greatest force for the companies success or failure is, of course, their customers. Ubers SEC filing noted that it lost hundreds of thousands of customers in days after the #DeleteUber movement took off on social media, driven by revelations of profiteering, sexual harassment and other excesses at the company. Not that most of the defectors forswore such services altogether: Lyft gained many of the customers Uber lost. The question is whether the tech taxis will remain harder for customers to resist than they are for the companies, drivers and cities to sustain.

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.
When Google released its now distinctive digital assistant in 2016, it was already in danger of being an also-ran.

At the time, Amazon had been selling its Echo smart speaker, powered by its Alexa voice assistant, for more than a year. Apples Siri was already 5 years old and familiar to most iPhone users. Googles main entry in the field up to that point was Google Now, a phone-bound app that took voice commands but didnt answer back.

Now the Google Assistant  known primarily as the voice of the Google Home smart speaker  is increasingly central to Googles new products. And even though it remains commercially overshadowed by Alexa, it keeps pushing the boundaries of what artificial intelligence can accomplish in everyday settings.

At its I/O conference last week, 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.

Although voice assistants have spread across smartphones and into cars and offices, they are most commonly found in the home, where people tend to use them with smart speakers for simple activities such as playing music, setting timers and checking the weather. Amazons Echo devices maintain a strong lead in the market, according to eMarketer. It estimates that 63% of all U.S. smart speaker users will talk to an Amazon device this year, compared with 31% that will use Google. Apples HomePod is a mere afterthought, lumped in the other category which has a combined 12%.

More broadly, though, the competition is much more difficult to assess. Google claims that its Assistant is now available across more than a billion devices, although many of those are smartphones whose owners may never have uttered the Assistants wake-up phrase, OK Google.

Google Assistant doesnt record users commands by default  differing from Alexa  but recording must be turned on to access some of Assistants features, including a popular one that allows it to recognize different users by voice.

Amazon and Google may one-up each other on different features, but the real measurement is how well theyve achieved those goals, said Gartner analyst Werner Goertz.

Amazons deep ties in shopping make Alexa the go-to assistant for adding items to your grocery list or putting in a quick re-order of dish soap. Googles decades of deep search technology make it the leader in looking up or answering questions you might have and personalizing its responses based on what else Google knows about you from your previous searches, your movements or your web browsing.

All that, of course, reinforces Googles key advertising business, which is based on showing you ads tailored to your interests.

At first, the Assistant on Home mostly just acted as a vocal search engine; it could also carry out a few additional tasks like starting your Spotify playlists. Over time, however, it has added dozens of languages, teamed with more than 1,500 smart home companies to control lights, locks and TVs, and learned to identify members of any given household by voice.

It has also expanded the number of apps and other companies it works with and moved into Google Maps as a way to test people while driving.

Both Google and Amazon plan further expansions. Last year, Amazon unveiled a number of home gadgets with Alexa built in, including a smart microwave. At the CES gadget show this year, it showed off a phone-connected device that brings Alexa to cars.

Google countered with updates to its expanding Android Auto system, which got Assistant capability last year.

As Assistant and Alexa get smarter, faster and more personalized, analysts expect their reach to become broader and more ubiquitous. The speakers, said eMarketer analyst Victoria Petrock, are getting people used to talking to their devices. Eventually, she says, if you can speak to your microwave and TV and lights directly, you wont need the speakers  except maybe to play music.

In these emerging areas Google is hoping to outflank rivals with its strong inroads with Android smartphones and cars. But it faces competition in many of these areas not just from Amazon, but also Apple and Microsoft.

Rachel Lerman is an Associated Press writer.
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 efforts, which will use a combination of artificial intelligence and human reviewers to try to protect its youngest users from harassment and pain.

It is part of a larger attempt by Instagram and parent company Facebook to clean themselves up. Both have struggled to contain a flood of toxic behavior, extreme content and misinformation.

Instagram is particularly vulnerable because of its young user base. About 70% of American teenagers use the service, according to the Pew Research Center. And 42% of cyberbullying victims ages 12 to 20 reported being bullied on Instagram, according to a 2017 survey by British anti-bullying organization Ditch the Label.

Instagram has discussed how to fight bullying for years, but there is a renewed focus. Last year, the Menlo Park company announced an effort to use AI to label instances of bullying within photos. This year, it said it would begin testing features for improving teenagers mental health, including the ability to hide like counts on posts.

There are a lot of teens using Instagram, so we actually see new behaviors and words all the time, and we need to work quickly to understand if these new trends are harmful, said Bettina Fairman, Instagrams director of community operations.

These efforts are still unproven, and, like any Facebook-related promises, theyre best taken with a heaping handful of salt. But Instagram seems to be more aggressive about this than Twitter and Snapchat.

If you want to stamp out bullying, you first have to know what forms it takes. So late last year, Instagram began assembling focus groups of teenagers and parents and gathering feedback about what types of unwanted behavior they encountered.

Some were predictable  like rating users attractiveness on a 1-to-10 scale, a practice that Instagram already prohibits  while others were more unexpected. Some teens reported feeling bullied when their exes showed off new boyfriends or girlfriends in a menacing way  for example, by tagging the jilted ex in the photo to trigger a notification and rub in the fact that they had moved on to someone new.

Instagram came up with a name for this category of bullying  betrayals  and started training an algorithm to detect it.

One of the things we learned early on is that how we were defining bullying in our Community Guidelines doesnt necessarily capture all the ways people feel like theyre being bullied, said Karina Newton, Instagrams global head of public policy.

Not all of these behaviors necessarily violate Instagrams rules. The company has not yet decided where to draw every line; for now, it is just trying to understand bullyings many forms and teach machines to flag them for human reviewers, who then decide whether they violate the rules.

Facebook and Instagram already use AI to detect various types of off-limits content, including nudity, child exploitation and terrorism-related material. But classifying bullying is a bigger challenge, because it often depends on the context.

One example: a photo of two teenage girls that was posted with the caption love you hoe.

Normally, Instagrams systems would pick up on the derogatory word hoe and flag the post to a human reviewer. But in context, its clear that the user meant it as a term of endearment, so the correct action would be to leave the post up.

Or consider a hypothetical photo of a teenage couple at the beach, with the caption Wish you were here, Amanda!

Normally, that post would be bland and inoffensive. But you can imagine contexts in which it would constitute bullying:

Are the people in the photo mocking Amanda for being the only senior not invited to Beach Week? If so, it could constitute intentional inducement of FOMO.

Is Amanda the ex-girlfriend of the boy in the photo, being taunted by the new girlfriend? If so, it could be classified as a form of betrayal.

Is there a whale in the background that is tagged as Amanda, as a cruel joke about her weight? If so, it could be classified as an insult.

Its odd to realize that this planetary-scale AI surveillance system for detecting and classifying various forms of teenage drama is both technically possible and, sadly, maybe necessary. It should make us all question whether a single company should have so much power over our social relationships, or whether any service of Instagrams size can be effectively governed at all.

But if you have to have an Instagram-size service, there are arguments in favor of using AI to seek out bad behavior, rather than wait for users to report it. One reason, Instagram executives say, is that teenagers often dont report bullying. Some fear social repercussions or retaliation, while others fear that their parents will take away their phones.

Eventually, the company hopes its AI will be good enough to identify and remove all types of bullying on its own, without the need for human review. But that day may be distant, especially outside the English-speaking world, where it has fewer moderators and less local-language data available to train algorithms.

Our algorithms arent yet as good as people when it comes to understanding context, Fairman said.

Instagrams critics probably wont be satisfied that, after making billions of dollars and contributing to what researchers say is an epidemic of teenage depression and anxiety, the company is now trying to dismantle the culture of social media bullying it helped to create.

Its about time, honestly, said Jim Steyer, CEO of Common Sense Media, a San Francisco nonprofit watchdog group that advocates better protections on childrens technology. This has been a huge issue for years, and most of these companies buried their heads in the sand until they were under pressure to do something about it.

Instagram has a multitude of serious problems on its hands  including anti-vaccine misinformation and rampant hate speech and extremism  and building AI to detect bullying is probably a more convenient challenge than rethinking the ad-driven business model and design issues that encourage antisocial behavior in the first place.

But better too little, too late, than nothing, ever. Using AI is a step toward giving young people an easier time navigating 21st century adolescence. For their sake, lets hope it works.

Kevin Roose is a New York Times writer.
WASHINGTON  The U.S. is awaiting retaliation from China over increased tariffs after talks in Washington ended without a deal on trade, the presidents chief economic adviser said on Sunday.

Larry Kudlow also told Fox News Sunday that President Trumps plan to raise tariffs on Chinese goods across the board could take months to take effect.

Call it a couple of months. Call it three months. I dont know. That will take some time and then of course the presidents going to have to make the final decision on that, Kudlow said.

The United States began raising tariffs on $200 billion in Chinese imports from 10% to 25% on Friday after American officials accused Beijing of backtracking on commitments made in earlier rounds of negotiations.

Talks in Washington broke off on Friday without a deal on trade, but both sides have indicated that future talks are likely.

I think that China felt they were being beaten so badly in the recent negotiation that they may as well wait around for the next election, 2020, to see if they could get lucky & have a Democrat win, Trump tweeted Saturday.

Beijing retaliated for previous tariff hikes by raising duties on $110 billion of American imports. And officials have targeted American companies operating in China by slowing customs clearance and stepping up regulatory scrutiny.

Sen. Rand Paul, R-Ky., told ABCs This Week on Sunday that he advised the president to finalize a trade deal with China soon, because the longer were involved in a tariff battle or a trade war, the better chance there is that we could actually enter into a recession because of it.

The two 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 tariff war is compounding the pain felt by many Chinese companies. They are already enduring stiffened resistance in the United States and Europe to Chinese acquisitions of technology through joint ventures with foreign companies or, with financing by state-run banks, outright purchases.

Chinas leaders are reluctant to yield; they need higher-tech industries to keep incomes rising. Many producers of textiles, shoes and toys have already migrated to Vietnam, Cambodia and other lower-cost economies.

The tariff war was sparked by years of growing U.S. trade deficits with China and by complaints  by the Trump administration and many independent trade experts  that Beijing was engaging in predatory and illicit practices, including the theft of technology. The first U.S. penalties targeted high-tech Chinese goods that American officials said benefited from improper support from Beijing. Its impact spread as Trump extended tariff increases to Chinese exporters of handbags, furniture and other goods.
One could not select a more serene location for a homicide. On July 17, 1982, a womans body was found in a meadow in the mountains that run along the border between California and Nevada, not far from Lake Tahoe.

Footprints revealed that she and her killer had strolled half a mile or so from the road to an area known as Sheeps Flat. It appeared that she was seated on a log when she was shot in the back of the head.

I found that unusual, said Len Iljana, who was a deputy at the Washoe County Sheriffs Office at the time.

For years, he and his colleagues tried to identify the woman. They circulated news releases that stated she was in her 20s or 30s, was 5 1/2 feet tall and had hazel eyes and brown hair, which she wore in a bun at the time of her death. The quality of the dental work suggested she might be European. Her last meal was a salad. None of that led anywhere.

The team became desperate enough to explore leads from psychics, he said.

On Tuesday, more than 36 years after she died, the Washoe County Sheriffs Office announced her name: Mary Edith Silvani, born Sept. 29, 1948. Detectives also believe they now know who killed her.

These two puzzles of identity were solved with genetic genealogy, a technique that puts a name to DNA with the help of relatives on genealogy sites. Over the past year, the method has been used to advance dozens of cold cases. This is the first time officials have announced in one fell swoop that the technique has been used to identify an adult victims body as well as the persons killer.

The role that a group of volunteer sleuths played in the investigation is a bit different from that in other recent cases. The role played by infidelity and adoption is very much the same.

Naming the victim

In February 2018, investigators in Nevada heard about a method for identifying DNA developed by Colleen Fitzpatrick, a physicist turned forensic genealogist. They contracted the DNA Doe Project, an organization founded by Fitzpatrick and Margaret Press, a mystery writer and software developer.

The pair assigned about a dozen volunteers to the case. Some are in their 20s, some are in their 70s, Press said of their pool of regulars, and some are grandmothers, some are former law enforcement.

After uploading the victims DNA to GEDmatch, a genealogical database, the group had a list of relatives to work with. Each volunteer was assigned to build a tree around one match. Whenever volunteers ran into trouble, they knew they could throw it out to others who would pounce on it like a bunch of sharks, said Ruth Foreman, a retired human resources director who served as a team leader for the group.

One common reason to do a DNA test is to find a parent, so many people on genealogy sites are adoptees. One close relative of Silvanis fell into this category. The volunteers helped identify her mother. From there, they quickly arrived at a couple who seemed as if they could be the victims parents: John and Blanche Silvani of Detroit.

A relative said the Silvanis had one son and two daughters. The volunteers found that in 1982, the year Mary Silvani was killed, the son, Charles Silvani, jumped off a parking structure in San Diego and died. His life had been troubled for years: In 1972, he killed a bar owner in Fresno, California.

A tip from a man claiming to be Mary Silvanis nephew revealed that there was another brother, Bob, whose profile page on the Internet Movie Database revealed mostly pornography projects from the 1970s, according to Cheryl Hester of Frisco, Texas, a volunteer charged with taking screenshots of his face. They never looked at the camera, she said. It was awful.

Eventually property records led to a former neighbor of John and Blanche Silvanis in Detroit. He clarified that the couple had two sons and one daughter  not one son and two daughters. That meant Sheeps Flat Jane Doe had to be Mary Silvani, who was 33 at her death. Had she lived, she would be 70.

Detective Kathleen Bishop of the Washoe County Sheriffs Office located a 1974 misdemeanor arrest for loitering in Detroit. The fingerprints matched.

Finding the killer

The DNA Doe Project seeks to identify only bodies, not killers. Fitzpatrick leads a separate organization, Identifinders, that tracks down suspects.

Upon uploading a DNA profile to GEDmatch that had been extracted from semen discovered at the scene, Fitzpatrick identified a second cousin living in Texas. From there, Hester, who honed her genealogical skills by helping Vietnam War babies find their fathers, took the lead. She eventually identified a man who seemed likely to be the suspects father. Family records showed he had one son.

Law enforcement was dispatched to collect discarded DNA when the son left his house. But he never emerged, Fitzpatrick said, because he had recently died.

That was not the end. Investigators located a son of the newly deceased man in a criminal database. It ruled out his father as the killer. What did that mean? It meant the deceased man had a half brother, one he might not have known about.

Confused? Actually, discrepancies between families as defined by records versus by DNA are common. Follow any family line long enough and you are will encounter at least one nonpaternity event, to use genealogists polite term. Sometimes they involve infidelity.

Critics of this new approach to cold cases warn that sooner or later confusing family records will lead to the wrong person. Forensic genealogy has misled the police before. But for defenders of the approach, its complexity is part of the reason they say critics are overreacting: Even though most Americans DNA is now identifiable, you cannot simply upload DNA into a machine that will single out a name.

Sometimes, to get from point A to point B, you must build a tree containing 16,000 people. That is what Hester did. Eventually, another critical match emerged, and a 90-year-old relative agreed to upload DNA.

That led to James Richard Curry, born in Texas in 1946. The more Hester read, the more excited she grew. He had confessed to three homicides around the time of Silvanis death and went after people he knew. He killed himself in January 1983, but his children offered their DNA, providing investigators with the confirmation they needed.

The team was elated. And frustrated. Mary Silvani had a name, but she was still just a collection of facts. She was born in Pontiac, Michigan, to a mother who spent her life in and out of mental hospitals and a father who died when she was 16, leaving her homeless. She may or may not have had a baby whom she gave up for adoption in Detroit. She never had a drivers license, as far as the team could tell. She was never reported missing. She wore a blue bathing suit under her Lee Rider jeans, hinting at plans to swim on the day she died.

Mary Silvanis nephew, Robert Silvani Jr., 53, was the closest living relative located. He barely knew his own father and had never met his aunt.

She gets to be remembered now, he said, adding that, in a family with the background mine has, hes grateful anytime something works out.

This article originally appeared in The New York Times.
SAN FRANCISCO (BCN)



A statement issued Sunday by the Northern California chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists "condemns the recent raid by law enforcement of freelance journalist Bryan Carmody, in an apparent attempt to identify the confidential source who provided Carmody with a copy of a police report detailing the circumstances of former San Francisco Public Defender Jeff Adachi's death.



"During the search, law enforcement officers seized documents, notes and a slew of digital devices from Carmody's home and office."



Carmody said on Twitter at 8:27 p.m. Friday that police and FBI agents raided his home and business to try to get him to divulge a confidential source.



"I will not," Carmody said in the tweet. Carmody's tweet was tied to a news story about raid and the leaked report.



Police said Friday that a search warrant was served in connection with an ongoing criminal investigation regarding the Adachi police report, which they maintain was released illegally.



The search was "one step in the process of investigating a potential case of obstruction of justice along with the illegal distribution of a confidential police report," police said in a statement later Friday.



"California's Shield Law protects journalists from being held in contempt for refusing to disclose their sources' identities and other unpublished/unaired information obtained during the news gathering process," SPJ NorCal's Freedom of Information Committee, noting that state law "provides that 'no warrant shall issue' for any item protected by the Shield Law.



"The Freedom of Information Committee is seeking more information on the raid, including why these laws were not adhered to. That this search was carried out weeks after Carmody declined a request from San Francisco police to divulge his sources shows an alarming disregard for the right to gather and report on information."



According to an official with the San Francisco Public Defender's office during a Board of Supervisors committee hearing April 18, a freelance photographer allegedly offered a TV news station confidential police information about the death of Adachi in exchange for money.



"Journalists should consider the motivations of anonymous sources and news organizations should disclose when content has been provided by outside sources, whether paid or not," the SPJ chapter said in its statement. "While there may be legitimate questions on the circumstances surrounding the reporting of Adachi's death, the seizure of any journalist's notes or other reporting materials sets a dangerous precedent."





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RICHMOND (BCN)



Opponents of Richmond's development deal for the city's Point Molate property will hold a community forum at 11 a.m. May 19 at the East Bay Center for the Performing Arts, 339 11th St. at Macdonald Avenue.



The City Council approved an exclusive negotiation agreement April 23 with Irvine, California-based developer SunCal to develop the 270-acre site at a historic former winery near the foot of the Richmond-San Rafael Bridge. SunCal was selected from four development firms that submitted proposals. The company is also the developer of the former Naval Hospital Oakland site known as Oak Knoll.



The developer selection is the latest step in a long saga that started in 1997 and has recently accelerated due to the settlement in April of a lawsuit over a previous development plan for the property.



The lawsuit was filed in 2011 by Upstream Point Molate, LLC and the Guidiville Rancheria, a Mendocino County-based Pomo tribe, after Richmond voters rejected a proposed casino at Point Molate. A federal judge said no to the casino, but required that any profits from development there be split between the city and the casino developers.



The city's Point Molate Reuse Plan calls for at least 670 residential units and preservation of at least 70 percent of the 270 acres at Point Molate, a one-time U.S. Navy fuel depot sold by the federal government to the city for $1 in 2003, as open space.



The forum "challenges Richmond mayor's deal to sell off last undeveloped Bay Area headland to (a) Southern California company for high-risk luxury housing," according to an announcement by event organizers with the Point Molate Alliance (www.ptmolatealliance.org).



The forum will include speakers, discussion panels and action workshops, as well as an alternative proposal for the site.





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The San Pablo Avenue Multimodal Corridor Study of prospective improvements for transit, pedestrian and bicycle access and safety along San Pablo Avenue between downtown Oakland and Hilltop in Richmond, will be discussed Tuesday night at a public meeting in El Cerrito.



Many changes are expected for the San Pablo Avenue corridor over the next few years, and this study is designed to help identify a coordinated network of transportation facilities along the length of this regional artery thoroughfare to serve current and future users.



The study is funded by the Alameda County Transportation Commission and the Contra Costa Transportation Authority. All cities, counties and transit agencies along this stretch of San Pablo Avenue are participating in the study.



The meeting will be held at 7 p.m. Tuesday at El Cerrito City Hall, 10890 San Pablo Ave. at Manila Avenue. Anyone who uses the San Pablo Avenue corridor, or who lives along or near that main street, is encouraged to attend, or respond to an online survey about the study. That link is https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/SPACorridor .





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A 28-year-old San Jose woman was arrested on suspicion of felony DUI and vehicular manslaughter after a crash on State Route 17 in Santa Clara County early Saturday morning left a teenager dead, authorities said.



Ashley Marie Oliver, 28, was driving a Chrysler minivan in the wrong direction on southbound SR 17 just south of Redwood Estates shortly after 2 a.m. when she crashed into a Toyota Corolla carrying five passengers ages 17 and 16, according to the California Highway Patrol. A 16-year-old boy riding in the backseat of the Corolla died, and three other passengers suffered major injuries that are not considered life threatening, CHP Officer Ross Lee said.



Oliver was treated at the hospital for injuries that were not considered serious, then booked into Santa Clara County Jail.



Fire crews responded just after 2:11 a.m. to the crash, according to a Santa Clara County Fire Department news release. Both vehicles were found with major damage and facing northbound in the southbound lanes of the highway.



Crews extracted two trapped individuals, including the fatal victim. The other was taken to a trauma center, along with four others who were injured in the crash, the fire department said.



The fatal victim has not yet been identified by the Santa Clara County medical examiner's office. The passengers in the Corolla were from Fremont, Lee said, and some may not have been wearing seatbelts at the time of the crash.





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.
Sharjah Asset Management (SAM), the investment arm of the Government of Sharjah, won the prestigious Retail category Award at the fifth edition of the International Business Excellence Awards, which was held, with the Support of the Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED) last week, at the Intercontinental Dubai Festival City.

Commenting on the victory, Chief Asset Management Officer Mohammed Bin Essa said, We are delighted to win this distinguished award that acknowledges our commitment towards creating a competitive economy for the emirate and recognises our efforts to generate new projects that attract more people to invest and visit the emirate of Sharjah throughout the year. SAM retail projects such as Souq Al Haraj and Souq Al Jubail contribute positively toward Sharjah economy

This award motivates us to put in more hard work and effort, and to reach out to more individual and corporate investors locally, regionally and internationally, he added.

Sharjah Asset Management, an innovative international government-owned investment company with a diverse corporate presence, with a network of government and commercial partners and a strong portfolio of globally based investments.

SAM offers services across leading international markets and assists with various classes across the investment spectrum.

At the International Business Excellence Awards of 2019, some of the worlds most prominent companies competed to win the awards that are distributed at about twenty-two categories acknowledging the various aspects of business excellence. Each year the awards are organised to support organisations and businesses as a vehicle for sharing expertise in best practices and promoting continuous improvement, learning and personal development. Recipients of the awards undergo a stringent assessment process, led by a large panel of independent and impartial business professionals that identified the various strengths, leadership strategies and operations undertaken by the multiple applicants at their organisations.

The International Business Excellence Awards recognises business excellence from across the world by highlighting the achievements of individuals and organisations that have tirelessly worked towards implementing significant initiatives for the success of their companies.

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At the meeting, Mr. Liem underscored Vietnams consistent policy of treasuring the traditional relations and all-round cooperation with China.

He noted that the policy has been reflected through many visits by senior leaders of Vietnam and China to each other country, including the trip of Vietnamese Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc to China in April to attend the second Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation.

Briefing the guest on the citys recent socio-economic development, he said that the visit of the Shanghai delegation takes place as the two cities are celebrating the 25th anniversary of bilateral friendship and partnership, which is expected to help bolster their ties.

Vice Chairman of the Ho Chi Minh city Peoples Committee Le Thanh Liem (R) presents a souvenir to Deputy Mayor of Chinas Shanghai city Peng Chenglei (Photo: VNA)

Noting that the two cities have regularly exchanged delegations and fostered collaboration in education and training, Mr. Liem proposed that in the coming time, the two sides will continue to boost cooperation in the field.

Peng said his visit aims to further promote cooperation between Shanghai and Ho Chi Minh city in particular and between Vietnam and China in general.

Vietnam and China are good neighbours and friends, he said and called on the two sides to actively conduct delegation exchanges and visits to increase friendship and mutual understanding.

He expressed his impression on the development of Ho Chi Minh city and said the city and Shanghai share a lot of similarities in terms of position, importance, and central economic role to their nations.

Therefore the development of the bilateral relations will actively contribute to reinforcing and enhancing the two countries ties.

Shanghai wants to study cooperation opportunities with Ho Chi Minh city in the field of agriculture, especially developing green and high-quality agriculture.

It is also willing to boost collaboration with Ho Chi Minh city in personnel training and other fields of mutual interest, he said.

Mr. Liem said Ho Chi Minh city is interested in developing green and high-tech agriculture and willing to partner with Shanghai in this realm.

The southern economic hub is also keen to share experience with Shanghai in building financial and trade centres./.
DAMASCUS, Syria  Insurgents fired rockets into a government-held Christian town in northwestern Syria on Sunday, killing six people, including five children who were playing near a monastery and wounding several others, state media and a local priest said.

State TV said the shelling caused widespread damage to the town of Suqailabiyah. It said the dead also included a 35-year-old woman.

State news agency SANA said Syrian troops retaliated by firing shells toward insurgents positions on the southern edge of Idlib province, the last major rebel stronghold in the country. Al Qaeda-linked Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, or HTS, is the main insurgent group in the area.

Priest Maher Haddad said by telephone from Suqailabiyah that a rocket struck near a group of children, instantly killing five and wounding others. He said the woman was killed in a nearby street by a separate rocket.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, an opposition war monitor, said the government shelling of a rebel-held village to the north killed one person and wounded others.

The insurgent enclave has been rocked by a wave of violence since April 30, killing and wounding dozens while forcing some 150,000 people to flee their homes in rebel-held areas. Idlib is home to some 3 million people, many of them displaced from other parts of the country.

Syrian troops have been on the offensive under the cover of air strikes for days, capturing several strategic locations and villages.

Albert Aji and Bassem Mroue are Associated Press writers.
COLOMBO, Sri Lanka  The Catholic Church in Sri Lanka held the first regular Sunday Mass since the Easter suicide bombings of churches and hotels killed more than 250 people.

Military forces and police armed with assault rifles patrolled the streets leading to churches and stood guard outside the compounds. Everyone entering was required to produce identity cards and was body-searched.

Volunteers were stationed at the gates of churches to identify parishioners and look for suspicious individuals.

Parking was banned near the churches, and officials requested worshipers to bring along only minimum baggage.

Seven suicide bombers struck two Catholic and one Protestant church and three luxury hotels on Easter Sunday. The Islamic State group claimed responsibility for the attacks, carried out by a local radicalized Muslim group.

Sunday services were canceled in the two subsequent weekends for fear of more attacks, leaving the faithful to hear Mass via live TV transmission from the Colombo residence of Archbishop Malcolm Ranjith.

Church authorities are also considering reopening church-run schools Tuesday if they are confident security will be adequate.

President Maithripala Sirisena said last week that 99% of the suspects in the Easter attacks have been arrested and their explosive materials seized, and it is safe for tourists to return to the Indian Ocean island nation.

Police say two previously little-known radical Islamist groups  National Towheed Jamaat and Jammiyathul Millathu Ibrahim  conspired in the attacks. Officials say Zahran Hashim, a vitriolic preacher from the countrys east, may have led the attackers and was one of the bombers who died in the blasts.
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Page Content

A number of bills making their way through the California Legislature would affect workers and employers in the Golden State, which means that HR professionals will feel the impact if they become law.

Several bills that address workplace training to prevent sexual harassment are on the table, as is legislation about salary reporting. If 2018 was the year of #MeToo, then the California Legislature's current session might be dubbed #MeToo Part II, said Michael Kalt, government affairs director for the California State Council of the Society for Human Resource Management and a partner at Wilson Turner Kosmo in San Diego.

Some workplace bills that fizzled out last year are back as a Democratic supermajority in the state Senate and Assembly continues to flex its political muscle. A supermajority gives the party enough voting power to override a veto.

[SHRM members-only resource: California Labor and Employment Law Overview]

The state's new governor, Gavin Newsom, is also a Democrat, but, because he's a business owner, some employers hope he will be sympathetic to employers. Still, his top priorities, according to his website, include "standing up for California values that are under attack from Washingtonfrom civil rights to immigration."



Here are some of the top employment-related bills that employers and human resource professionals should be watching this session.

1. #MeToo, Redux



A Senate bill that seeks to clear up some murky aspects of the state's sexual-harassment-prevention training requirements has no opposition and therefore is likely to sail through the legislature.

California requires businesses with at least five employees to provide harassment training to workers and managers every two years, but the 2018 law, which took effect in January, raised questions about the deadlines for doing so.

The pending legislation sets a Jan. 1, 2021, deadline and explains that employers that conduct training in 2019 don't have to repeat the training for two years thereafter. The clarification is helpful, but it doesn't alter what HR professionals and business leaders should have already been doing to comply with the current law, said Heather Sager, an attorney with Vedder Price in San Francisco.

For example, employers should ensure that the training meets the new requirements and includes "classroom or other effective interactive training and education" or uses an interactive online training program created by the state's Department of Fair Employment and Housing.

2. Independent-Contractor Test

The California Supreme Court's Dynamex decision last year unnerved many employers that rely on independent contractors. The court created a three-pronged "ABC" test to determine whether workers should be classified as employees or independent contractors. The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals recently held that the new testwhich makes it difficult to classify workers as contractorsapplies retroactively.

More than 8 percent of California workers were classified as independent contractors in 2016, according to a UC Berkeley Labor Center analysis.

AB 5 seeks to codify the Dynamex test, while AB 71 would apply a more flexible standard. Many gig workers who pick up jobs through smartphone apps and other online technologiessuch as those who drive for ride-hailing servicesare classified as independent contractors. But if gig workers don't meet the ABC test, they should be classified as employees and paid at least minimum wage and overtime premiums.

In the past, legislators could not have anticipated a business model that allows passengers to use a phone app to hire and pay a driver, Kalt said, so they are playing catchup to regulate taxi-like enterprises such as Uber and Lyft. "Technology is outpacing the law," he said.

In contractor-classification matters, Sager said, "nine times out of 10, both employees and employers are happy with the situation and don't want to change it." Astute HR professionals, however, should proactively conduct internal reviews of employee classifications. If necessary, they should make adjustments to protect their employer from potential litigation, she said.

3. Arbitration Agreements

The purpose of AB 51 is to prevent businesses from silencing workers who have experienced discrimination and colleagues who have witnessed the misconduct. The bill states that employers cannot require employees to "waive any right, forum or procedure" for employer violations of the California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA).

"It's a really broad bill that would severely restrict the use of arbitration agreements in California," said Robin Largent, an attorney with Carothers DiSante & Freudenberger in Sacramento. Former Gov. Jerry Brown vetoed a similar bill last session, noting that it is pre-empted by the Federal Arbitration Act. Should Newsom sign it, a court challenge would certainly follow, Largent said.

4. Pay-Data Reports

If SB 171 becomes law, California employers with at least 100 workers would have to submit reports to the state detailing workers' earnings and job categories identified by race, ethnicity and sex starting in 2021. Similar legislation fizzled out last year, but a battle over pay-data collection has been brewing in Washington, D.C.: A federal judge recently ordered employers to report expansive EEO-1 pay data by Sept. 30. The dispute headed to court after the current administration nixed the Obama-era requirement.

Proponents of the California bill say pay-data reports force businesses to confront and correct disparities based on race, ethnicity and sex. Opponents say the numbers can be easily manipulated to bolster unsubstantiated claims of pay inequities.

"From a political standpoint, it seems like valuable data to gather," Largent said. "But do state agencies have the ability to provide meaningful analysis and reporting to make it useful? Are they really going to be able to synthesize it in a useful way?"

5. Statute of Limitations

Many employers didn't like AB 1870, which was vetoed last year, and they feel the same way about an identical bill this year, AB 9. The legislation would extend the statute of limitations from one year to three years for workers to file a FEHA claim. Similarly, AB 403 would give workers three yearsrather than the current six monthsto sue for alleged violations of the California Labor Code.

A robust economy and a greater willingness among younger workers to change jobs complicates efforts to track down witnesses, and recollections about motivations or actions from years ago can be murky at best, Sager said. Under the proposed limitations periods, it would be "very, very difficult to have reliable evidence at your fingertips," she added.

6. Expanded Family Leave

Jennifer Siebel Newsom, the governor's wife, has shown support for SB 135, which would allow workers at companies with at least five employees to take up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave to care for sick relatives. Current federal and California laws provide such benefits only to employees at businesses with at least 50 workers. And California's New Parent Leave Act protects baby-bonding leave for employees at businesses with at least 20 workers.



The California Chamber of Commerce has opposed the bill. Compliance could be a challenge for small businesses, where a lengthy absence by a single worker can significantly affect operations, Kalt noted.

June D. Bell, a regular contributor to SHRM, covers legal issues for a variety of publications. Contact her at june@junebell.com.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Congratulations to the finalists who made it to the Staten Island Advance Taste-off, the final leg of our annual recipe contest. The judging took place at College of Staten Island, Willowbrook, on April 7, a balmy, Sunday afternoon.

The contest was held in conjunction with CSIs Savor the Flavor fundraiser, a sprawling tasting event with over 40 restaurants in attendance.

The order in which you see these contestants and their recipes here in this story are exactly the order in which they were tasted. They placement was intended to keep judges palates as fresh as possible in the progression of sampling 14 consecutive dishes. For the first time in our contest there were no categories (i.e. entrees, appetizers, etc.) to leave it more open-ended for the cook over the contests submission period -- which began in November and ended in March.

Judges at the Taste-off were: former Cookbook competitors and Staten Island cooks Dr. Adrienne Ferretti, Anne and Jon Young; Kansas City Barbecue Society certified judge/Steak Cookoff Association judge Maryann Piazza; our homegrown Where Staten Island Eats and Drinks Facebook superstar Brendan Valentin, and my husband David Cavagnaro who is culinary director at New Ventures Charter School in Bloomfield.

I participated in and supervised the judging -- which considered taste for 50 percent, appearance as 20 percent, texture at 15 percent and originality at 15 percent. Winners of the contest garnered the highest percentages with that system.

Our Grand Prize winner this year is Vincenza Papa, a Westerleigh resident, and second prize is awarded to Sonia Cogliandro of Grant City, a two-time Grand Champ in our contest.

I would like to thank my wonderful colleagues at the Advance who came to administer the event, including Susan Santorelli, the newspapers production support supervisor. Special thanks to Advance Publisher Caroline Diamond Harrison; SILive.com Content Director Gail Lubin and Executive Editor Brian J. Laline, who also helped out with our Food Summit panel of restaurateurs and beverage industry mavens with a (sometimes heated) discussion of doing business these days in the City of New York.

Also kudos to our fine photographers Derek Alvez and Alexandra Salmieri and to the dynamic CSI staff.

And thank goodness for retired Advance education reporter and long-time staffer Diane Lore, who returned to help write the Cookbook, including interviews and profiles of our winners and finalists.

Finally, a big hug to all the competitors who worked so hard on their dishes, all beautifully composed and a delight to sample.

So for now, I give you a taste of the Advances 46th annual contest. . .one cook and recipe at a time.

-- Pam Silvestri

Michael Koltosky of Meiers Corners with Veal Saltimbocca at The Staten Island Advance Cookbook Taste-off and Savor the Flavors, held at the College of Staten Island, Willowbrook. April 7, 2019. (Staten Island Advance/Derek Alvez)Staten Island Advance

MICHAEL KOLTOSKY: Music teacher is also a hit in the kitchen

A music teacher with the Department of Education, who is currently assigned to the School for Civic Leadership in Graniteville, Koltosky, 28, said hes had an interest in cooking since junior high school.

This is the first time hes entered the cookbook competition.

Koltosky said his recipe was inspired by a ravioli dish he enjoyed with my girlfriend, Francesca, during a lovely date at a restaurant in Brooklyn called Barano.

The dish, called doppio ravioli, is essentially a ravioli that is divided in half, each half containing a different flavor. I applied this idea to veal saltimbocca," he explained.

"Rather than serve the dish with its traditional sauce of white wine and lemon, I chose to serve the veal with one integral and one non-integral sauce. The integral sauce is a sherry-walnut cream sauce and the non-integral sauce is a gorgonzola cream sauce. The savory-sweet flavor of the walnut sauce combines nicely with the salty-richness of the gorgonzola sauce.

What is fun about this dish is that you can eat the veal with each sauce separately and then combine a bite with both sauces to see how the flavor profile changes, Koltosky said.

For those allergic to walnuts, or nuts in general, the walnuts can be left out. You can also choose to only make one sauce.

Koltosky serves the dish with a fresh mozzarella caprese salad, topped with a balsamic reduction, as an appetizer or side dish.

RECIPE: VEAL SALTIMBOCCA (DOPPIO)

INGREDIENTS:

For the veal:

Veal cutlets pounded thin.

Corn starch or flour for dusting.

Sage leaves

Imported prosciutto

Vegetable oil

Toothpicks

Salt

Pepper

For the Walnut-Sherry Cream Sauce:

1/3 cup sherry wine

 cup heavy cream

2 teaspoons fresh parsley

2 teaspoons fresh chives

1 teaspoon fresh tarragon

Toasted walnuts

Salt

Pepper

For the Gorgonzola Cream Sauce:

 cup milk

 cup heavy cream (optional)

10 sage leaves (optional)

Small container of imported gorgonzola (gorgonzola cremificata if you can find it)

2 tablespoons butter

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

Salt

Pepper

For the fresh mozzarella caprese:

1 slice fresh mozzarella per guest

Chopped plum tomato

1 cup balsamic vinegar

Salt

DIRECTIONS:

Get the veal prepared for cooking. If the butcher has not pounded the veal thin, cover the veal in plastic wrap and pound with the back of a pot or skillet. The veal must be thin for it to cook through quickly. Once it is thin, cut the veal into pieces about the length of your middle finger. The exact length is not important.

Thoroughly dry the veal. Place one or two sage leaves onto the veal (the sage should run almost the whole length of the veal), then place a slice of prosciutto over the sage. Use the toothpicks to fasten the prosciutto to the veal, which will hold the sage onto the veal as well. Be careful to not let much prosciutto fall over the edge of the veal. If there is more prosciutto than veal, the pieces will not look as appetizing when the dish is finished. Once all the veal is assembled, move on to step two.

Begin the gorgonzola cream sauce. This sauce can be sustained over low-heat while the rest of the dish is composed, and it takes longer than the rest of the components.

Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Once the butter is done foaming, add the flour and whisk aggressively. Cook for about one minute. The mixture will become clumpy and look like wet flour, but do not let it turn very brown.

Add the milk (it is better if the milk is hot, but it is ok if it is not. Let it sit at room temperature for a little so that it isnt refrigerator cold, and continue to whisk until the mixture is no longer clumpy. Add the cream, if using. Bring to just boiling then let this reduce a bit at and simmer. Once it can coat the back of a spoon, add the gorgonzola and mix until smooth. Lower the heat to as low as possible, if you overcook the cheese it may become stringy or oily.

Once the mixture is smooth, add the sage leaves and let them infuse into the sauce, if using. After about ten minutes, you may salt and pepper the sauce to taste.

At this point, it is a good idea to begin reducing your balsamic vinegar. Make sure you are using imported balsamic vinegar from Modena to ensure the best result. Take half a cup of balsamic vinegar, put it into a pot, and reduce by half. When it can coat the back of a spoon, the sauce is complete.

Now you can cook the veal. Do not use a non-stick pan for sauteing the cutlets; you want the meat drippings to stick and caramelize on the bottom of the pan. To ensure that the sauteing occurs properly, do not crowd the pan but do not leave much room either. ( If you crowd the pan, the meat will steam instead of saute, but if you leave too much room in the pan, the meat may not brown.)

Lightly salt the side of the veal that does not have prosciutto. Work in batches and dredge the veal in corn starch or flour (I prefer corn starch for this). Shake off the excess and place the veal in the pan non-prosciutto side down for three minutes. Flip each piece after three minutes (or whenever it is browned) and cook for another 5 to 10 seconds. (If you cook the prosciutto too much, it will become crispy.)

Once a batch is done, put it on a plate and add the pepper. Continue with each batch, adding the batches to the plate and peppering accordingly.

When all batches are done, pour off the remaining oil, and dump the juices that collected on the veal plate back into the pan. It is time to make the walnut-cream sauce.

To make the sauces from sauteed meats, place the pan that the meat was sauteed in over medium heat. Make sure all the oil is poured off, and any large bits of burnt meat or whatever else is already picked out and thrown away. Add the sherry to the pan and with a wooden spoon scrape the caramelized bits off the bottom and sides of the pan. The alcohol will dissolve these bits with the help of the wooden spoon, and all that flavor will become the base for the sauce.

Let this reduce for a couple minutes, no more than three, and then add in the cream. Let the cream reduce for a couple minutes as well and then turn the heat to as low as possible. Add the herbs and toasted walnuts and let this infuse over low heat for another two minutes. Salt and pepper to taste. The sauce is now ready to be served.

To plate and serve, place four pieces of the veal on each plate. Separate the veal into two groups of two. Ladle one sauce onto one group and one sauce on the other. If using the mozzarella caprese as an appetizer, place one slice on a plate, cover the slice with chopped tomato, and then drizzle the reduced balsamic vinegar over it. If using it as a side, you may add it to the plate with the veal. (If using as an appetizer, you can serve the veal with a pasta accompaniment, such as a spaghetti with a brown butter garlic sauce.)

Jennifer Lamonica of Bay Terrace made Coconut Chardonnay Chicken Wings at the Staten Island Advance Cookbook Taste-off at the College of Staten Island, Willowbrook, on Sunday, April 7, 2019. (Staten Island Advance/Alexandra Salmieri) Alexandra Salmieri

JENNIFER LAMONICA: Finalist used sponsor Shop Rites unique chardonnay in recipe

It was her husband Freds impromptu visit to the Shop Rite supermarket in New Dorp that inspired the recipe for Jennifer Lamonicas coconut chardonnay chicken wings, she says.

My husband was in ShopRite, walking around near the deli and cheese area, and came across this bottle of Coconut Chardonnay wine, said Lamonica, gesturing to the colorfully-labeled bottle displayed at her station during the Taste-off. He got all excited and called me up to ask if he should pick it up. I said of course because I knew I was going to incorporate it into my recipe.

Lamonica, who had been experimenting with various sauces for chicken wings, decided to add the wine to her latest batch, reasoning that it would keep the chicken wings moist, yet not lose the taste.

The recipe was a hit, not only with her husband, but with her two grown sons, Frank and James.

Im a tester, I love to experiment and create my own recipes. I stay away from cookbooks and recipes on-line, she said.

Lamonica, 57, who lives in Great Kills, has been cooking and creating her own recipes since her 20s. She works at her culinary creativity in between her job as a home health aide. She also teaches belly-dancing.

She said she frequently shares her recipes and cooking tips with her clients. Sometimes we dance; sometimes we cook.

RECIPE: COCONUT CHARDONNAY CHICKEN WINGS

INGREDIENTS:

2 1 /2 pounds chicken wings, washed and patted dry

1 pack onion soup mix

1 /2 cup all-purpose flour

1 /4 cup light soy sauce

3 tablespoons butter

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat over to 425 Fahrenheit. Place wings in a large bowl, pour soy sauce over them and toss, add onion soup and massage in with hands, sprinkle flour on to wings and toss.

Melt butter on a large baking sheet, lined with tin foil. Place wings on prepared sheet and bake for 30 minutes, turn over and bake for 15 more minutes.

In small batches transfer wings to the sauce in the skillet and coat evenly.

Place on a serving plate and serve warm. Sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired.

For sauce add two tablespoons of coconut oil to skillet, warm for a minute, add garlic, cook for a minute, add wine and let reduce for 10 minutes. Add the coconut milk corn syrup and salt, pepper, garlic powder. Simmer for 5 minutes or until sauce thickens.

Vincenza Papa made Oxtail Barley soup at The Staten Island Advance Cookbook Taste-off at the College of Staten Island, Willowbrook, on Sunday, April 7, 2019. (Staten Island Advance/Alexandra Salmieri) Alexandra Salmieri

VINCENZA PAPA: Grand Prize winner put her Italian spin on a classic diner soup

Vincent Papa procrastinated on submitting a recipe to the Staten Island Advance Cooking Contest. Yet just a few hours before the deadline the West Brighton resident finally shipped off her entry form. She is the Grand Prize Winner of the contest, an honor that comes from high marks on her Beef Oxtail Barley Soup.

Fairly inexpensive to produce with a rich, beefy flavor, the soup riffs on a classic beef barley formula. It is something Papa constructed after her husband saw it on a diner menu and decided to order it.

But that very soup concoction -- and the barley itself -- werent things with which Papa was familiar. Born in the United States, she was raised in Italy from 8 to 15 years old. Stew, on the other hand, was something very much a part of her food lexicon. When she made the dish at home she told her husband, Michael, she would make the soup with one contingency: The dish would not be made with beef chuck.

I used beef oxtail, browned them so all the juices came out on the bottom. He thought it was the best beef barley soup hed ever had, she said. And then she tested it on her father. He loved it too.

Now my dad calls it the beef and meat stew,' she said with a laugh.

A hairdresser by trade, Papa left the business when she learned her husband had cancer. While he underwent chemo treatments she made and sold elderberry syrup, something she discovered also kept her children healthy.

Passionate about food, she now hosts a blog on Facebook called SI Whats On Your Dinner Table?

ECIPE: BEEF OXTAIL BARLEY SOUP

INGREDIENTS:

1 tablespoon olive oil

2 pounds oxtail

Kosher salt

Fresh ground pepper

2 cups chopped leeks (2 leeks)

2 cups diced carrots (4 carrots)

1 cup chopped yellow onion

1 cup diced celery (2 ribs)

2 garlic cloves, minced

2 sprigs fresh thyme leaves

10 cups beef broth

1 to 2 cups pearled barley

Grated pecorino Romano cheese (optional)

DIRECTIONS:

Heat oil in large pot. Add the oxtails, 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of pepper. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally for 10 minutes until browned on outside. Remove oxtails and put to the side.

Add the leeks, carrots, onion, celery and garlic to the fat and juices in the pot and cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally for 10 minutes, until vegetables start to brown. Tie the thyme sprigs together with kitchen string and add to pot.

Return the oxtails to the pot and add the broth, 1 teaspoon of salt and 1 teaspoon of pepper. Raise the heat high until boiling. Lower the heat , cover and simmer for 1 hour. Discard the thyme bundle and skim off the fat. Pull oxtails out of soup and let cool. Once cooled, pull apart beef from bone and place back in soup.

In another pot bring 4 cups of water to boil. Add 1 teaspoon of salt to flavor the water. Add barley and simmer for 30 minutes. Drain , set aside.

When the soup is ready, add barley and cook the soup for another 15-20 minutes, until the barley is tender. Depending on the saltiness of the stock, the soup might need more salt to taste. Serve in bowl, adding cheese to top off the soup.

-- Vincenza Papa

Ishrat Quereshi of West Brighton made Vegan Shami Kebabs at the Staten Island Advance Cookbook Taste-off at the College of Staten Island, Willowbrook, on Sunday, April 7, 2019. (Staten Island Advance/Alexandra Salmieri) - - Alexandra SalmieriAlexandra Salmieri

ISHRAT QUERESHI: Her vegan dish hits all the bases

Ishrat Quereshi said she began experimenting with developing vegan recipes a few years ago, to satisfy her daughters appetites

Both my daughters are vegan, and I wanted to make sure they would always have something good and healthy to eat, explained the 73-year-old mother of two daughters and two sons.

Her recipe for vegan shami kabobs -- incorporating carbs and protein -- covers all the bases. It turned out to be a hit with the whole family, she explained. Encouraged by her family, she decided to enter the recipe in the Advance Cookbook competition for the first time.

Her no-egg recipe uses panko breadcrumbs, chick peas, and boiled potatoes. Its the starch from the potatoes that helps bind the ingredients together, while the chick peas provide protein, she explained.

The West Brighton resident is a native of Pakistan, and lived in London before coming to the United States in 1980 and settling on Staten Island with her husband, Javed.

Trained as a fashion designer in London, for a time she ran her own boutique in West Brighton. As her children grew up she switched careers to enter the banking field. She worked for JP Morgan Chase for 24 years before she retired in 2017.

Her husband and children are now encouraging her to write her original recipes down in a cookbook that they refer to as Ishs Dishes.

RECIPE: VEGAN SHAMI KABAB

This recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and 40 minutes to execute.

INGREDIENTS:

1 pound medium size potatoes

1 can (15.5 ounce) Goya chickpeas

1 medium onion, finely chopped

3 scallions, including the green parts, finely chopped

1 green chillies, seeds removed according to taste, finely chopped

1/4 cup finely chopped cilantro

3/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon chilli powder

1 teaspoon cumin powder

1 teaspoon whole cumin seeds

1 teaspoon coriander powder

1 teaspoon whole coriander seeds

2 teaspoons mango powder

Panko breadcrumbs

DIRECTIONS:

Boil potatoes until cooked. Peel the potatoes and mash with a hand masher.

Drain the chickpeas and rinse. Mash the chickpeas with a hand masherIn a large bowl toss in all the ingredients, except breadcrumbs. Mix ingredients well.

Make medium size balls and roll them in the breadcrumbs. Flatten balls into patties In a non stick pan add 2 tablespoons of cooking oil. Shallow fry each side on medium to high heat until golden brown. Remove from pan and cool for 5 minutes Serve while warm.

Basabi Chatterjee of Manor Heights with Roll from the Soul at The Staten Island Advance Cookbook Taste-off and Savor the Flavors, held at the College of Staten Island, Willowbrook. April 7, 2019. (Staten Island Advance/Derek Alvez)Staten Island Advance

BASABI CHATTERJEE: Puts her heart and soul into her recipes

Tender, flavorful filet of sole is the heart of Basabi Chaterjees light fish recipe, which she calls her Roll from the Soul.

I like to put my heart and soul into every dish, and since Im using lemon sole, I thought it would be fitting," she explained.

Fish dishes are usually a tough sell around the family dinner table, Chatterjee noted. There arent too many young people who can say they love to eat fish, she laughed.

Her recipe uses filet of sole, rolled and stuffed with spinach, and finished with a white lemon sauce. The spinach adds protein, and keeps the fish moist and flavorful. I tried to create a healthy meal all around.

Chatterjee began trying out recipes in her native India. Nowadays she tries her recipes out on her husband, whom she playfully refers to as her guinea pig.

And she is no stranger to the Advance Cookbook competition. This is the third time one of her recipes has wound up among the finalists.

RECIPE: ROLL FROM THE SOUL

INGREDIENTS:

 cup olive oil, (8 tablespoons)

1 teaspoon cumin seeds

 teaspoon crushed red pepper

8 ounces frozen spinach, thawed

 cup frozen peas, thawed

1 tablespoon sea salt

 teaspoon paprika

 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

1 teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon roasted garlic paste

Cooking spray

6 lemon sole, washed and dried

DIRECTIONS:

Heat 3 tablespoons oil in a skillet on medium-high. Add cumin seeds, crushed red pepper, and spinach to the skillet and cover. Allow to cook for 5 minutes.

Add peas and sea salt, stir and cover again for another 5 minute. Remove from heat. Let cool.

Preheat oven the oven to 400-degrees.

Spice Mixture: In a bowl; mix the paprika, cayenne pepper, black pepper and garlic paste. Mix well to combine.

Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil and cover with cooking spray.

With a brush spread the spice mixture on each fillet and place on the prepared cooking sheet.

With a brush spread the spice mixture on each fillet and place on the prepared cooking sheet.

Place about 2 tablespoons of the spinach near the edge of one end of each fillet, flatten spinach with a spoon and roll the fish with two hands. Make sure spinach doesnt spill out of the roll

When all fillets are rolled; reduce the oven temperature to 375-degrees and bake the fish for about 15 to 20 minutes until it gets golden brown. Let cool for 5 minutes and serve.

Joseph Czerniawski of New Springville with Indian Butter Chicken at The Staten Island Advance Cookbook Taste-off and Savor the Flavors, held at the College of Staten Island, Willowbrook. April 7, 2019. (Staten Island Advance/Derek Alvez) Staten Island Advance

JOSEPH CZERNIAWSKI: Marine honed his culinary skills in the service

When the call went out last fall for readers to submit their favorite original recipes to the 2019 Advance Cookbook competition, Joseph Czerniawski was one of the first to respond.

The first time he entered, his tasty recipe for Indian Butter Chicken caught the attention of judges at the April 7 Taste-off, who designated him a finalist.

Czerniawski said his recipe was inspired by a dinner he and his wife enjoyed at a friends wedding. My wife just loved the taste with the spices, so I decided to come up with a recipe for her that hopefully would incorporate the same tastes, he explained.

Indeed, his recipe incorporates cumin, turmeric, garam masala, paprika, chili powder, garlic and ginger paste. But the secret ingredient, he said, are blended San Marzano tomatoes, in a sauce that helps keep the chicken thighs moist and tender. Needless to say, it was a hit with his wife.

Czerniawski said he acquired a taste for Indian spices and foods while serving in the Marines. He was stationed in Japan from 2004 to 2008, where he fine-tuned his cooking skills. Today, the New Springville father of two toddlers, ages 3 and 5, works as an operating engineer with Local 15 of the International Union of Operating Engineers.

RECIPE: INDIAN BUTTER CHICKEN

(Yields 4 servings)

INGREDIENTS:

1 red onion, halved and finely chopped

6 to 8 boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into pieces

2 tablespoons garlic, finely crushed into paste

2 tablespoons ginger paste

12 teaspoon fine sea salt

12 teaspoon chili powder

1/2 teaspoon paprika

1 12 tablespoons lemon juice

2 tsp baking soda

12 teaspoon garam masala

12 teaspoon ground turmeric

1 teaspoon ground cumin

3 tablespoon butter for sauteing

For the sauce:

1/2 piece naan bread crumbled up for sauce

1/2 cup butter cut into cubes

Large can of San Marzano tomatoes blended smooth

1 tablespoon sugar

1 teaspoon chili powder

1 teaspoon garam masala

1/2 teaspoon paprika

1 cinnamon stick

1 cup heavy cream

2 tablespoon maple syrup

DIRECTIONS:

Cut chicken into bite-size pieces.

Combine spices with chicken pieces and baking soda in bowl with garlic and ginger paste and marinate for a few hours to overnight. Brown chicken over high heat in Dutch oven with 3 tablespoons butter then move to bowl. Add chopped onion, 1 tablespoon butter and saute for 5 minutes or until softened. Add 4 tablespoons butter and saute onions till butter is melted then add sauce spices and cinnamon stick and mix well with onions and butter.

Add tomato sauce, naan breadcrumbs and simmer till thickened, scraping up browned chicken bits and mixing into sauce. About 10 to 15 minutes.

Mix in last 4 tablespoons butter then add heavy cream and chicken and any juices from bowl. Salt, to taste. Simmer for 30 to 45 minutes until chicken is cooked through. Turn heat off and mix in maple syrup. Serve over white rice with naan bread on the side.

Louis DeFeo of Annadale with Cornbread Stuffing with Sausage at The Staten Island Advance Cookbook Taste-off and Savor the Flavors, held at the College of Staten Island, Willowbrook. April 7, 2019. (Staten Island Advance/Derek Alvez)Staten Island Advance

LOUIS DeFEO: He brings traditions to the table

Traditions are important to Louis DeFeo, a 37-year-old Annadale father of three. So, he thought, what better way to establish family traditions than in the kitchen? he thought.

Thats the idea behind DeFeos family recipe for cornbread and sausage stuffing.

I thought about Thanksgiving, the holiday that pulls everyone around the table, and I thought how could I add to the meal, he explained. I wanted to come up with a stuffing that could be served with the meal, but could also be enjoyed with leftovers, or as a side dish with any meal.

The secret to his recipe, he told judges, are the fresh, chopped sage leaves, spices, and the peeled and diced apple, added to the cornbread and sausage mix. I was going for something sweet, moist and savory, he said.

The taste impressed judges at the Advance Cookbook Taste-off, and earned him a well-deserved place on the list of finalists.

DeFeo, who works as a community liaison with Con Edison, and his wife, Jessica, started cooking together after they married. He said he looks forward to involving his three children -- 5-year-old twin girls, and his 5-month-old son -- in the kitchen, and teaching them the family culinary traditions.

RECIPE: CORNBREAD AND SAUSAGE STUFFING

INGREDIENTS:

4 boxes cornbread mix

1 large white onion, chopped

4 ribs celery, chopped

1 bunch fresh parsley, chopped

10 fresh sage leaves, chopped

2 large frozen breakfast sausages

1 to 2 cans chicken broth

1 stick butter

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 teaspoon poultry seasoning

1 apple, peeled and chopped

DIRECTIONS:

Make the cornbread a couple days ahead and uncover. Saute sausage until lightly brown, in a large, deep pan. Remove sausage and reserve until later.

Melt one stick of butter in the same pan. Add onion, celery, parsley, sage, salt, pepper, apple, seasoning. Saute until soft and add sausage back in mixture. Add broken up cornbread back in the mixture and mix well. Add enough broth to moisten the mixture; do not make too wet. Bake in the oven at 350-degrees until hot.

Ronette Fanning of Great Kills with Pizza Rustica at The Staten Island Advance Cookbook Taste-off and Savor the Flavors, held at the College of Staten Island, Willowbrook. April 7, 2019. (Staten Island Advance/Derek Alvez)Staten Island Advance

RONETTE FANNING: Daughter pays culinary tribute to her mother and grandmother

Nostalgia may have been the word of the day when Ronette Fanning and her family gathered around the table for the Easter Sunday meal a few weeks ago.

An important part of the meal were dishes prepared from recipes handed down by Fannings own mother, Sara Cognetta -- also a 2019 Cookbook finalist (Beer Cake Between Friends) -- as well as her beloved nonna.

One of those dishes, no doubt, was pizza rustica, the rich and creamy Italian cheese and meat pie traditionally made for the Easter season. Fanning has been making the dish the last eight years, taking over from her mom, who used to make the dish from her mothers recipe.

Fanning, of Great Kills, a high school biology teacher, starts shopping for the ingredients just before preparation, so that all are fresh. The recipe uses five different meats and four types of cheese.

Just before all is done and ready for the oven, comes Fannings favorite part. She finishes the top with rosettes made from leftover scraps of dough. I love to finish it off with the rosettes. Its my way of putting my signature on it, she said. Mangia.

RECIPE: NONNAS PIZZA RUSTICA

INGREDIENTS:

For Pie Crust:

2 cups all-purpose flour

2/3 teaspoon baking powder

1/3 teaspoon salt

3 tablespoons shortening

1 egg

1/2 cup ice cold water

For Filling:

1/4 pound diced pepperoni

1/2 pound ham, cubed

1/2 pound salami, diced

1/2 pound prosciutto, chopped

1/2 pound American cheese, cubed

1 pound shredded whole milk mozzarella cheese

2 pound sausage meat, cooked, browned, and drained

6 eggs

3 pounds whole milk ricotta cheese

1/4 cup grated cheese

DIRECTIONS:

For Pie Crust:

Sift dry ingredients together. Blend shortening into sifted flour with a fork. Mix the egg with the cold water and add it to the flour. Mix until a ball is formed. Refrigerate at least 4 hours in advance.

For Filling:

Combine ricotta, American cheese. Add eggs one at a time, beating after each with a wooden spoon. Add cooked and drained sausage, pepperoni, ham, salami, prosciutto, mozzarella, and grated cheese.

Pastry Dough:

Remove the ball from the refrigerator, divide the ball into two equal parts. Use one for the bottom to line the pan, the other to top. Prepare the pastry by rolling out with a dash of flour on your cooking surface, and line a deep dish lasagna pan with the dough, making sure to work the dough up the sides of your pan to create a bed for your filling. Once the bottom and sides are covered seamlessly, prick the pastry with a fork. Pour the filling mixture into your pastry lined pan.

Roll out your second ball of dough to blanket the top of your pie. Trim, leaving a 1/2-inch overhang. Fold the dough under and back for thickness. Use excess dough to decorate the top of the pie. Brush with egg wash and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Cut half inch slits in the top to allow steam to escape.

Bake in a pre-heated 400- degree oven for the first 15 minutes. Lower the temperature to 325 degrees and bake 45 minutes more. Remove and let stand 5 minutes before serving hot.

This tastes best if made the night before, cooked, and refrigerated. Remove 1 hour before, serve at room temperature.

Sara Kabatsky of Eltingville made Key Lime Cream Puffs at the Staten Island Advance Cookbook Taste-off at the College of Staten Island, Willowbrook, on Sunday, April 7, 2019. (Staten Island Advance/Alexandra Salmieri) Alexandra Salmieri

SARA KABATSKY: Gluten-free food never tasted so great

Words that could sum up the general flavor tenets of Sara Kabatskys food are clean and defined. We know her cooking from challenges like the Advance Cookbook contest when she landed the Grand Prize slot in 2017 for a handsome, over-the-top delicious Gluten Free White Cake. The Eltingville resident, who dabbles in food styling and gluten-free occasion cakes for friends, also established a blog called GFMadeEasy.com.

We caught up with Kabatsky at the annual Lighthouse Museum chowder contest this past year where she entered a vegan borscht. She told the Advance, My love of cooking and baking started early in life, taking a natural path to the journey I find myself on today. I became passionate about this new path so that I could become a mentor, helping other people with the allergy to gluten I was experiencing.

Once again, her gluten-free creation stunned not only for its bright citrus flavors but for its well-balanced flavors, a feat without the flour.

RECIPE: KEY LIME CREAM PUFFS

INGREDIENTS:

For the lime curd

1/2 cup key lime juice or limes

1 tablespoon key lime or lime zest

1/2 cup of sugar

6 egg yolks Here is a use for your leftover egg whites

3/4 cup butter, cut into pieces

For the choux shells

4 ounces milk

3 ounces water

6 tablespoons unsalted butter

1/2 cup sorghum flour

1/4 cup brown rice flour

1/4 cup tapioca flour

2 teaspoons sugar

1/2 teaspoon xanthan gum

1/2 teaspoon salt

4 eggs + 1 for egg wash

For the Stabilized Whipped Cream

1 cup heavy whipping cream

14 cup confectioners sugar

1 tablespoon arrowroot starch

DIRECTIONS:

For the lime curd

In a medium saucepan, whisk together the lime juice, lime zest, sugar and egg yolks.

Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-low heat. Stirring very frequently, until the mixture begins to thicken.

Stir in the butter, and continue stirring until it is melted, and the mixture is thick enough to hold the indent of the whisk.

Allow to cool for 5 minutes or so, stirring every so often, transfer to a jar or other glass container. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours - or for best results overnight.

For the choux shells

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a small bowl, thoroughly combine the sorghum flour, brown rice flour, tapioca flour, sugar, xanthan gum and salt.

In a medium saucepan combine the milk, water and butter. Turn on medium heat until the butter melts and the mixture is boiling. Turn off the heat.

Stir in the flour mixture all at once using a wooden spoon. Keep stirring until the dough has come together in the pan. Transfer to a large mixing bowl.

Using a hand mixer, or stand mixer, start mixing the dough on low to release any extra steam and cool slightly.

Add one egg at a time, being sure to incorporate thoroughly. The batter should be able to hold its shape.

Using a pastry bag fitting with a large nozzle (1/2 inch), pipe equal rounds of dough onto the parchment lined baking sheet. Gently pat down any peaks in the dough with moistened fingers.

Combine the last egg with about 1 tablespoon of water. Brush the tops of the cream puffs with the egg wash.

Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the eclair shells are golden brown.

Remove from oven and using a wooden skewer or toothpick, poke a small hole in the top to release steam. Allow to cool completely.

For the stabilized whipped cream

Whip the cream until soft peaks form, add in the powdered sugar and arrowroot starch.

Whip at high speed until stiff.

Assemble the puffs

Using a sharp knife, carefully slice the top third of the puff off. You should have a nice cavity to add your filling to.

Transfer the curd and the whipped cream into two separate pastry bags fitted with a 1/4 inch nozzle.

First fill each puff with about 2 teaspoons of the curd, followed by about 2 teaspoons of the whipped cream. Return the top to the puffs. Sprinkle with powdered sugar to serve.

Sara Cognetta Great Kills made Beer Cake between friends at the Staten Island Advance Cookbook Taste-off at the College of Staten Island, Willowbrook, on Sunday, April 7, 2019. (Staten Island Advance/Alexandra Salmieri) Alexandra Salmieri

SARA COGNETTA: Its all about food, family and friends

Whenever Sara Cognetta gets together with friends, she never arrives empty-handed.

I like to bring a little something, preferably something sweet, that we can all nosh on and enjoy, she said.

It was the recipe for one of those dishes, she calls Beer Cake Between Friends, that she submitted to the 2019 Advance Cookbook, and that earned her a place as a finalist in the Cookbook Taste-off April 7 at the College of Staten Island.

The bundt cake recipe, which she described as rich and decadent, relies on sour cream and beer -- in this case, a dark ale -- enhanced with chocolate chips and nuts. (Which are optional if allergic.) The beer also serves a practical purpose in the recipe -- the yeast in it helps the dough rise, she explained.

Cognetta, who has been baking for several decades, adapted many of her recipes from her late mother-in-law Lucy Cognetta. She shares her love of cooking and baking with her daughter, Ronette Fanning -- also a 2019 Cookbook semifinalist (Pizza Rustica), and her two grandchildren.

RECIPE: BEER CAKE BETWEEN FRIENDS

INGREDIENTS:

Batter:

4 cups flour

2 cups granulated sugar

2 sticks butter

4 eggs

4 ounces beer ( dark ale)

1 pint sour cream

1 tablespoon vanilla

2 teaspoons baking soda

2 teaspoons baking powder

2 tablespoons chopped Orange zest

Layer and topping:

1/2 pound chocolate chips

2 cups shelled walnuts

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

DIRECTIONS:

Pre heat oven to 350 degrees. In a bundt pan, spray lightly with nonstick spray, then dust with flour to coat.

For the batter, cream butter and sugar. Add eggs one by one. Add sour cream, vanilla, and orange zest. Sift together dry ingredients and add into the wet ingredients. Add the beer and gently fold into the batter In a separate bowl, mix together the chocolate chips, nuts, sugar, and cinnamon.

Starting with the batter, ladle enough batter to coat the bottom of the bundt pan. Then add about 3-4 tablespoons of the layer/topping mixture. Continue alternating until all batter is used. Finish off the top of the cake with the remainder of the topping mixture (Do not add more to the top, as a heavy top layer will cause the cake to sink and remain doughy in the center.)

Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes in a pre-heated oven at 350 degrees. After 1 hour, turn the oven down to 325 for the remaining 15 minutes. After 1 hour and 15 minutes, use a long wooden skewer in the center to test. If the skewer comes out clean, the cake is done. If it has wet batter or cake stuck to the skewer, leave it in the oven a few minutes longer. Test at 2 minute intervals for fineness to ensure the cake doesnt dry out.

Let cake cool completely before attempting to remove it from the bundt pan. Can be made two days in advance.

Virginia Ledwon of Tottenville with Nana's Rosettes at The Staten Island Advance Cookbook Taste-off and Savor the Flavors, held at the College of Staten Island, Willowbrook. April 7, 2019. (Staten Island Advance/Derek Alvez) Staten Island Advance

VIRGINIA (GINI) LEDWON: Inspired by family traditions

Tradition and family are all-important to Virginia (Gini) Ledwon, so the Tottenville grandmother takes her recipes learned from her own mother, and passes them along to her own children and three grandchildren, who call her Nana.

If youre Italian, you know the importance of food, especially certain foods for the holidays, she explained. For years she prepared her mothers pizza rustica -- the rich Italian meat and cheese pie -- for the Easter holiday, as well as the honey-coated struffoli pie of marble-sized fried dough balls for Christmas.

But it was her recipe for Nanas Rosettes -- light, crispy sweets -- that earned Ledwon a spot as a finalist in the Advance Cookbook Taste-off on April 7 at the College of Staten Island. Plates piled high with the lacy treats caught the attention of judges.

Also displayed at her station was a photo of her late mother, Angelina Mauriello, and another photo of her own three grandchildren.

Catching the eye of the curious, Ledwon also had on display her mothers Depression-era cast-iron forms that she now uses to cut out the lace-like rosette patterns from the pancake-like batter. Not only do I use my mothers recipes, in this case Im still using her tools. Hopefully theyll last for another generation, she said.

RECIPE: NANAS ROSETTES

(makes 3 dozen)

INGREDIENTS:

2 eggs

1 tablespoon sugar

1  cup flour

1 tablespoon vanilla extract

4 cups oil (canola)

1 cup confectioners sugar

Almond confetti for garnish

Rosette irons

Red or green food coloring, optional for holidays

DIRECTIONS:

In a shallow bowl; mix eggs, sugar, flour, and vanilla extract. It will be similar to pancake batter.

Refrigerate for 2 hours for extra crispy Rosettes. (optional)

Heat about 2 inches high oil in a large electric frying pan set at 365-degrees.

Heat desired shape Rosette iron in oil a few minutes. Drain on paper towel. Quickly and carefully dip hot iron into batter mixture almost to the top but do not cover the iron.

Submerge coated iron in hot oil for one to two minutes until Rosette loosens and is golden. Carefully scrape off iron if needed with a knife. Turning once until both sides are golden. Remove using slotted spoon, placing each Rosette upside down onto paper towels.

Pancake stack Rosettes on a platter, dusting each layer with confectioners sugar.

Garnish with Almond confetti.

Farrah Calderas Gingerbread Biscotti at the Staten Island Advance Cookbook Taste-off at the College of Staten Island, Willowbrook, on Sunday, April 7, 2019. (Staten Island Advance/Alexandra Salmieri) Alexandra Salmieri

FARRAH CALDERA: Loves seeing people enjoy her desserts

Ask Farrah Caldera whats the best part about cooking and baking, and shell tell you its the reaction from people whove tasted one of her culinary creations.

I love to see people react to something Ive made. I love that I was able to create something they can enjoy, said the Tottenville mom of two.

After trying out recipes for brownies and assorted cookies, which she sells through Etsy, Caldera decided to marry a personal taste for gingerbread with a recipe for biscotti. The result was a snappy, flavorful holiday treat that went over well with family and friends.

When the call went out for submissions for the 46th annual Advance cookbook, they urged her to submit the gingerbread biscotti recipe. As luck would have it, it was the first time she entered a cookbook competition. Caldera was named as one of the finalists who presented at Taste-off.

Accompanying her to the Taste-off to offer moral support and help was her family: husband Mike, mom, Donna Caputo, and children Anthony, 13, and Gianna, 15. Impressed by the event, and the reaction to her creation, Caldera said shell definitely be submitting some of hers original recipes for next years cookbook.

RECIPE: GINGERBREAD BISCOTTI

(Makes 24 biscotti)

INGREDIIENTS:

1/4 cup oil

3/4 cup brown sugar

2 eggs

2 teaspoons vanilla

2 tablespoons molasses

2 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

1 teaspoon salt

1 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

3/4 teaspoon nutmeg

1/2 teaspoon ground cloves

Powdered sugar

DIRECTIONS:

Mix oil, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla and molasses in a bowl.

In a separate bowl mix flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg and cloves. Combine dry ingredients with wet ingredients and mix well.

Spread dough on parchment paper on baking sheet to about 1/2 inches high by about 4 to 6 inches wide log. Sprinkle powdered sugar over entire log.

Bake in 300-degree oven for 30 minutes. Cool on rack. Slice into about 1/2-inch-wide cookies

Place cookies on baking sheet and bake for another 8 to 10 minutes per side at 275-degrees. Cool on rack.

Sonia Cogliandro of New Dorp made Shortbread Chocolate Ganache Bars. The Staten Island Advance Cookbook Taste-off at the College of Staten Island, Willowbrook, on Sunday, April 7, 2019. (Staten Island Advance/Alexandra Salmieri) Alexandra Salmieri

SONIA COGLIANDRO: Second place winner presents three cookies baked into one bar

Born in Bologna, Italy, Cogliandro lived in the Bronx before settling in Brooklyn in the mid-'70s, eventually establishing her home in Grant City. She learned how to cook from her grandmother  handmade pastas, sauces like Bolognese and other classic savory dishes. She learned how to bake from an uncle who was a pastry chef back in the Old Country. And shes always loved art.

Such a background partially paints the backdrop to this Cookbook veteran, who joined the contest for the first time in 2015 with potato balls rolled with rice and Gorgonzola cheese. A year later, she took not only the Grand Prize but the Peoples Choice Award, a prize bestowed that year by Taste-off attendees delighted with the dish. Her creation was a peanut butter-on-chocolate bar that melted in the mouth, according to tasters.

I love to draw. But I think baking is my passion more than anything, Cogliandro enthused. She works full-time for DiCarlo Food Service, a food distributor based in Long Island. In her spare time she bakes elaborately decorated cupcakes and cookies for friends and family.

Baking is in my blood, she confessed.

This years entry combines three cookies in one. As Sonias history shows, she always tries to top herself.

RECIPE: RICH SHORTBREAD CHOCOLATE GANACHE BARS

For the cookie crust:

2 cups unsalted butter, softened

1 cup sugar

1/2 cup brown sugar

3 3/4 cups all purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon salt

For the caramel:

1 1/2 cups sugar

10 tablespoons butter

3/4 cup heavy cream

1 tablespoon fine sea salt

Cookie chips:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

1/2 cup sugar

1 cup brown sugar

3 tablespoons heavy cream

1 1/2 tablespoon pure vanilla extract

1 1/2 cups all purpose flour

pinch of salt

3/4 cup mini semisweet chocolate chips

Chocolate Ganache:

2 cups dark chocolate chips

1 1/2 cups heavy cream

1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract

Step by step directions:

For the crust:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Coat a 9 x 13 baking dish with cooking spray. For the cookie beat butter and sugars for 3 minutes until light and fluffy. Add in flour and salt and mix on low until just combined. Press the dough into prepared pan. Bake for 40 minutes until are slightly browned. Let it cool.

For the caramel:

Once you start the caramel sauce you have to pay close attention so you dont burn it. To begin, heat the sugar over medium high heat in the bottom of a heavy 3 quart saucepan. When the sugar starts to melt, start whisking the sugar. The sugar will clump up, but keep whisking. it will continue to melt. When sugar is melted, stop whisking. You can swirl the pan to move the sugar around.

Continue cooking the sugar until it reaches a deep amber color. Make sure you watch the pan very closely. this is where it is easy to burn the caramel.

As soon as the sugar reaches the dark amber color, carefully add the butter. Whisk until butter is melted. If the sugar gets stuck to the whisk, you can switch to a wooden spoon.

Remove the pan from the heat and slowly pour in the heavy cream. Whisk until cream is incorporated and caramel is smooth. Whisk in the sea salt.

Let the caramel sauce cool for 15 minutes in the pan.

Pour half of the caramel mixture over the cookie crust. Refrigerate at least 3 hours. The caramel should be firm.

For the cookie chips:

Beat butter and sugars on medium speed for 3 minutes until light and fluffy. Add heavy cream and vanilla and mix well. Add flour, salt and mix on low speed until just incorporated. Stir in the mini chocolate chips. Spread cookie chips on top of caramel layer into an even layer. Refrigerate while you prepare the chocolate ganache.

For the chocolate ganache:

Place chocolate chips in a bowl. In a saucepan whisk together the heavy cream and vanilla to a simmer over medium heat. Pour over the chocolate chips and let sit for 5 minutes, then whisk until completely smooth. pour the ganache over the cookie chips layer and chill until set, about 2 hours.

Cut in to bars and enjoy!

Laura Cammarata of Port Richmond made Caramel Pie at the Staten Island Advance Cookbook Taste-off at the College of Staten Island, Willowbrook, on Sunday, April 7, 2019. (Staten Island Advance/Alexandra Salmieri) Alexandra Salmieri

LAURA CAMMARATA: Desserts are much more fun

Not only does Laura Cammarata like to cook, but, she loves to experiment with her recipes.

I just love to experiment, says the Port Richmond grandmother, who bakes and cooks in between her nursing shifts at Staten Island University Hospital. She especially enjoys baking, because it gives her an opportunity to be even more creative.

Desserts are just more fun for me," said Cammarata, a three-time winner in past Advance Cookbook competition, who has entered her recipes just about every year since the cookbook was created 46 years ago.

This year her recipe for Carmel Pie was among the 15 finalists in the 2019 Advance Cookbook Taste-off. (One contestant was not able to attend.) Judges were impressed with her no-bake creation that combines a chocolate graham cracker crust with a caramel filling. But her favorite part of the recipe, she confided, is creating the caramel flowers that decorate the top of the pie.

With her at the Taste-off was her husband, Anthony. For many years the couple owned and operated Tonys Market, on Morningstar Road in Elm Park. While her husband manned the counter, Cammarata did the cooking and planned the menu.

RECIPE: CARAMEL PIE

(Serves 6 to 8)

INGREDIENTS:

Chocolate pecan crust:

2 cups crushed chocolate graham crackers

3/4 cup chopped pecans

1/2 cup melted butter

Filling:

1 envelope Knox gelatin

1/4 cup cold water

1 3/4 cups heavy cream, divided

1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla

11 ounce bag of caramels (use 24 caramels)

2 tablespoons salted butter

DIRECTIONS:

To prepare crust, preheat oven to 350-degrees. In a small bowl combine all crust ingredients and press into the bottom and sides of a 9-inch pie pan. Bake for 10 minutes. Cool completely before filling.

To prepare filling, sprinkle gelatin over water in a small pot, let stand 1 minute. Stir over low heat until gelatin is dissolved, about 3 minutes. Stir in 1 cup of cream. Heat just to boiling, then pour into a food processor. Add chocolate chips, and process until melted. Blend in another 1/2 cup of cream, add vanilla and eggs, until smooth. Pour into large bowl. Cover and refrigerate about 15 minutes, or until thickened.

In the meantime, combine caramels, remaining 1/4 cup cream and butter in a small pot. Simmer over low heat, stirring continuously until melted and smooth. Pour into prepared crust, let stand about 10 minutes. Beat thickened gelatin mixture until smooth, and pour over caramel layer.

Refrigerate about 3 hours, or until firm. Garnish with caramel flowers. To make the flowers, press down caramel with with fingers until thin, and roll into a flower.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y  Staten Islanders can witness firsthand the latest capabilities of todays maritime services when Fleet Week New York gets underway on Wednesday, May 22, as the Parade of Ships moves through New York Harbor.

Fort Wadsworth will provide a perfect spot for ship viewing from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., as U.S. Navy, Marines and Coast Guard vessels travel through the harbor, marking the beginning of the 31st annual week-long celebration.

HELICOPTER LANDING

The fun actually begins on Staten Island before the Fleet Week kickoff. On Tuesday, May 21, Miller Field in New Dorp will be the site of the second-annual helicopter landing, from 10 a.m. to noon.

The event will feature a fast rope demonstration conducted by a team of U.S. Navy Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) members from Virginia Beach, and Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron NINE (HSC-9), known as the Tridents, from Norfolk, Va. After the demonstration, various helicopters will be available for tours.

Additionally, the U.S. Fleet Forces Brass Band will perform, military, informational and Navy Diver displays will be available and a performance by the U.S. Coast Guard Silent Drill Team will take place.

Fleet Week activities on Staten Island include public ship tours, a music festival and a Coast Guard demonstration. The ships will depart on Tuesday, May 28.

This year, about 2,600 sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen will participate, as will five U.S. Navy ships, three U.S. Coast Guard cutters, four U.S. Naval Academy (USNA) Yard Patrol boats (YPs), one Military Sealift Command ship, and two Royal Canadian Navy vessels will participate.

STATEN ISLAND TOURS

Free Ship tours will be held at various locations throughout the city and New Jersey, including at the the USS The Sullivans Homeport Pier in Stapleton.

Tours will take place on Friday, May 24, to Monday, May 27, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Ships visiting the borough include:

Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer USS Jason Dunham (DDG 109), from Norfolk, Va.

Freedom-class littoral combat ship USS Milwaukee (LCS 5), from Mayport, Fla.

Keeper-class cutter USCGC Katherine Walker (WLM 552), from Bayonne, N.J.

Medium endurance cutter USCGC Campbell (WMEC 909), from Kittery, Maine

Guests will not be permitted to bring electronic smoking devices. Additionally, all guests over the age of 18 will be required to show a valid photo identification. Strollers and baby carriages are not permitted on the ships. Guests are encouraged to wear comfortable clothing, avoid high heels and open-toes shoes and necklaces that may get caught on the ships industrial equipment.

COAST GUARD

A U.S. Coast Guard search and rescue demonstration will be visible for visitors to Staten Island Homeport on Saturday, May 25, from noon to 12:30 p.m.

MUSIC FESTIVAL

On Sunday, May 26, The Fleet Week Music Festival will be held in the Flagship Brewery, 140 Minthorne St. Local bands will perform from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. during the free event.

OFF-ISLAND

Additional events will be held in other boroughs, including ship tours, Navy Band concerts in Manhattan, a performance by the U.S. Coast Guard Silent Drill Team at the South Street Seaport ( Friday, May 24, noon to 12:30 p.m.) and a diving performance by the U.S. Navy divers in a dive tank in Times Square (Thursday, May 23, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.)

View a complete schedule here.

SOCIAL MEDIA

You can also Like FleetWeekNewYork on Facebook, check out photos on their Instagram @fleetweeknyc or Follow @FleetWeekNYC on Twitter. Join the conversation on social media using the hashtag #FleetWeekNYC.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Actress and former Staten Islander Alyssa Milano ignited social media on Friday when she called for a sex strike in response to an abortion bill passed in Georgia which bans abortions after six weeks.

On Twitter, Milano wrote, Our reproductive rights are being erased. Until women have legal control over our own bodies we just cannot risk pregnancy.

JOIN ME by not having sex until we get bodily autonomy back. Im calling for a #SexStrike. Pass it on, Milano wrote.

Our reproductive rights are being erased.



Until women have legal control over our own bodies we just cannot risk pregnancy.



JOIN ME by not having sex until we get bodily autonomy back.



Im calling for a #SexStrike. Pass it on. pic.twitter.com/uOgN4FKwpg  Alyssa Milano (@Alyssa_Milano) May 11, 2019

While Milano received support from an abundance of women in the comment section of the Tweet, it drew the ire of some who claimed her message would only be received from like-minded people who often have like-minded partners.

Some commenters claimed that her post was feeding into a counter-intuitive narrative of abstinence.

I think your an awesome actress & I love your work but my goodness this is a dumb movement- the ones that will follow are like minded people with likely like minded partners! Feeding into the no sex no abortion narrative is exactly what you are doing   Linlou 1308 (@Linlou1982) May 11, 2019

Milano created the post after Georgia Governor Brian Kemp signed one of the nations most restrictive abortion laws, restricting women from getting an abortion after a fetal heartbeat is detected, which could be as early as six-weeks into a pregnancy -- before some women even know they are pregnant, the Associated Press reported.

If the new law is not blocked in court, it will take effect beginning Jan. 1, 2020.

Milano, whose credits include Whos The Boss? and Wet Hot American Summer: Ten Years Later, is also an actress in Charmed, which is filmed in Georgia.

Georgia joins Mississippi and Ohio in having signed restrictive abortion legislature. Laws in the latter two states, if they are not blocked by a court, are set to begin in July of this year.

According to the Associated Press, Mississippi Gov. Phil Bryant signed a bill in March which banned nearly all abortions after a fetal heartbeat can be detected. Mississippi has only one abortion clinic.

In Ohio, Gov. Mike DeWine signed a similar bill in April, banning abortions after a fetal heartbeat can be detected, the Associated Press reported.

Milano previously placed herself on the forefront of social progress when she accused film producer Harvey Weinstein of raping her.

Milano took to Twitter and encouraged women to write me too if they have been sexually assaulted or harassed to present the magnitude of the issue of sexual assault.

Milano received over 65 thousand responses to the tweet.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Police are searching for an 11-year-old girl that went missing in Stapleton Saturday evening, according to an NYPD spokesman.

At approximately 5:15 p.m., police initially responded to a report of a missing girl in the vicinity of Warren and Fulton Street in Stapleton, police said.

Authorities said the child was last seen wearing a black and grey shirt, black jean shorts, with mismatched shoes on (one Nike sneaker, one Timberland boot).

At approximately 6:35 p.m., NYPD Aviation joined K-9 units and are currently searching near Vanderbilt Avenue and Bay Street.

NYPD vehicles canvass the area near Vanderbilt Avenue and Bay St. for a missing 11-year-old girl. (Staten Island Advance/Shane DiMaio)

Traffic on Vanderbilt and Bay was temporarily delayed as police canvassed the neighboring streets.

It remains unclear who the child was with when she first went missing.

Earlier today, police asked for the publics help locating a missing 15-year-old from Staten Island.

This is a breaking news story; check SILive.com for more details as they are made available.
Update: The missing 15-year-old has been found.

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Police are still searching for two missing Staten Island children -- an 11-year-old boy from Stapleton and a 15-year-old girl from New Brighton.

The police are continuing to search for 11-year-old Alex Ruiz of Warren Street, Stapleton, according to an NYPD spokesman.

Ruiz has a history of running away from home, according to a source with knowledge of the investigation. The source said he got into a dispute with his mother before he was reported missing.

The Advance previously reported that police were searching for a missing 11-year-old girl.

Police responded to the report of the missing 11-year-old on Saturday at about 5:15 p.m. in the vicinity of Warren and Fulton streets. At approximately 6:35 p.m., NYPD Aviation joined K-9 units, and were searching near the Vanderbilt Avenue and Bay Street area.

Police described Ruiz as a 5-foot, 130-pound boy with black hair and brown eyes, police said. He was last seen wearing a black and white tie-dye shirt, with black shorts, according to police.

The investigation is ongoing, according to an NYPD spokesman.

The city Police Department is also seeking assistance in locating a missing 15-year-old girl from New Brighton.

Police could not provide any updates on the missing girl, America Cruz, who was last seen on May 8 at 8 a.m., leaving her Pine Street residence on the way to school.

People with information are encouraged to contact the NYPDs Crime Stoppers Hotline at 1-800-577-8477 (TIPS) or 1-888-577-4782 (PISTA) for Spanish. The public can also submit their tips by logging onto the Crime Stoppers website or by texting their tips to 274637 (CRIMES) then entering TIP577. All calls are strictly confidential.

This is a breaking news story; check SILive.com for more details as they are made available.

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Forty-three per cent of Indigenous Australians suffer full or severe financial exclusion compared to 17 per cent of the non-Indigenous population. "I once asked a bloke in Brisbane if he had any super, and he said no quite confidently. It turned out he had $37,000 across four different accounts. The highest amount of money weve ever found for someone is $750,000," Ms Young said. "Nothing less than a dedicated five-day-a-week service is needed at the moment." Internal change Chief executive of the Australian Institute of Superannuation Trustees Eva Scheerlinck said "things are changing internally" in the sector.

Loading "More funds are doing cultural awareness training with frontline staff. Theres work that might be going on in relation to kinship issues within the insurance claims department of super funds," Ms Scheerlinck said. AustralianSuper was the first profit-to-member fund to launch a dedicated contact centre for Indigenous customers in April 2018. It has since developed a seven-part radio program titled "Australian Super Made Easy" in two Indigenous languages that first aired in April. The fund has up to 100,000 Indigenous members, which is more than any other, and its hotline receives approximately 500 calls a week, surpassing internal expectations. AustralianSuper also introduced a flagging system for Indigenous customers in February, which has begun to collect information on location, age and contributing employers so it can better tailor its communications efforts.

"It's a real worry, and I think its quite damning, that no bank, no superannuation fund, can tell you how many Indigenous customers they have. It says to me they dont know their customers," Ms Young said. ANZ said it now provides flexibility for Indigenous members to use referee statements from a community elder for identification, and NAB said it would roll out redeveloped cultural awareness training to front-line employees in coming months. Loading But most financial services still have informal methods for determining Indigenous membership and make inferences based on the census. "We recognise this is limited so we are currently exploring culturally sensitive ways to increase our ability to gather data and insights," super fund HESTA executive Neil Saxton said.

The Commonwealth Bank's Indigenous Customer Assistance Line was one of few services referenced as exemplary during the royal commission and there has been some follow-through: HESTA and Westpac introduced specialised phone services in late 2018, and ANZ and CBUS launch theirs this month. NAB, AMP and other super funds are still yet to develop a service. Tailored products needed Commissioner Hayne also said "a telephone service, no matter its efficacy, is not capable of solving all of the issues impeding access". Financial products tailored to Indigenous customers are needed to protect people from predatory practices such as payday lending, Ms Young said.

"That industry is a poverty trap. They make profit out of the poorest in society because the banks are not providing products and services." Of the major four banks, only NAB offers small no-interest loans to individual Indigenous customers. ICAN's Mr Davis said NAB's Good Shepherd Microfinance partnership, which has provided 16,000 no and low-interest loans to Indigenous Australians at a value of $15 million since 2015, has "immediate flow-on effect". He wants to see community finance hubs established in remote settings to offer Indigenous Australians the best financial products for their needs. "We could easily fix this, if there was investment from the finance sector and government collectively to set up these hubs and get the relevant providers to work within them," he said.

'Huge potential' Ms Young is seeking $1.5 million in funding for the First Nations Financial Centre initiative. "Financial services are genuinely a bit lost about how to engage with Indigenous Australia. Im getting phone calls day in and day out from them now, asking for help," she said. That industry [payday lending] is a poverty trap. They make profit out of the poorest in society because the banks are not providing products and services. Amanda Young, First Nations Foundation chief executive The organisation met with stakeholders including the tax office, major banks and the business council at a roundtable late March to consider the proposal.

Westpac, AMP and ANZ each told the Herald and Age they were open to the concept, while accounting body CPA Australia and consumer advocacy group CHOICE have formally committed support. Shadow treasurer Chris Bowen said it was in "constructive talks" with the First Nations Foundation and the centre had "huge potential". The Coalition said it was "working with stakeholders to address the difficulties that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people face" but did not specifically comment on the proposal. Ms Scheerlinck said, in her experience, reform relied too much on "key people to drive it" and "when those people move on, things fall over". "Theres got to be a better way to keep momentum going and thats going to require some kind of funded body that has ideally bipartisan support of government," she said.
Taking out computer-generated investment advice could make sense for more than 1 million Australians, says robo-adviser Six Park, after the Hayne royal commission further damaged the reputation of the financial planning sector and raised its costs.

Traditional face-to-face financial advice businesses face tighter curbs on fees and tougher disciplinary rules as a result of the Hayne royal commission, and some experts have predicted this could give to a boost to the nascent robo-advice sector.

Robo-advice is tipped to grow in popularity following the Hayne royal commission's scrutiny of face-to-face advice. Credit:Robert Banks

Six Park, a "robo-adviser" founded by former Future Fund board member Brian Watson, says its conservative estimate is that 1.1 million people, some of whom are currently advised by a human, could be suited to robo-advice.

It comes as rival Stockspot says the royal commission could already be having some impact, after it posted the strongest four months of inflows between January and April.
I have been to some truly epic parties around this city, country and planet over the years thanks to this job.

Grand entrance ... Lady Gaga arrives at the Met Gala. Credit:AP

I've found myself holding Liza Minnelli's ash tray out the back of a heaving marquee at Flemington as she sucked away on a Camel. I hobnobbed with Ivana Trump at a cocktail party in a swanky Park Avenue penthouse a few years back and dined at the Playboy Mansion with Hugh Hefner as he slurped on ice cream and jelly in his pyjamas. And there was that time I sipped champagne with Kylie Minogue and her mum in a Bellevue Hill garden overlooking Sydney Harbour and compared notes on growing gardenias and finding "Mr Right".

But there are still a few party invitations I would dearly love to receive, and one to the Met Gala Ball in New York is definitely among them.
It is here where the heart of One Nation beats, among the acreages that make up the rich farmlands of what is known as "Australia's Salad Bowl". Liberal National Party incumbent Scott Buchholz, sitting on a safe margin of 9.6 per cent in the division of Wright he has held since its creation in 2010, will almost certainly be returned at the election. Mr Buchholz said there was "no such thing as a safe seat", saying the big issues for the diverse seat of Wright ranged from water security and health to the National Broadband Network. But the incredibly diverse seat, which takes in parts of the Lockyer Valley, Scenic Rim, Logan and Gold Coast councils, has large pockets of One Nation support. At the 2016 federal election, the Lockyer Valley booths of Forest Hill, Hatton Vale, Helidon and Laidley were among those where One Nation polled better than the LNP, while at Glenore Grove, the party received 42.44 per cent of first preference votes.

In state politics, One Nation has previously held the seat of Lockyer, which mirrors the Lockyer Valley part of Wright, with MPs Peter Prenzler in the late 1990s and Bill Flynn in the early 2000s. At the last state election, One Nation got 34.38 per cent of the vote in Lockyer, even higher than in Mirani in central Queensland, where the party's candidate Stephen Andrew actually won the seat. Senator Hanson herself ran for Lockyer at the 2015 Queensland election, losing by fewer than 200 votes. Several voters spoke of their support for One Nation at the Gatton pre-polling booth. Credit:Felicity Caldwell As even one Labor supporter points out: "When she walked down the main street of Laidley, it was like she was Elvis Presley."

One Nation and Labor did not respond to requests for interviews with their candidates. Steve Crawford, who says immigration is one of the biggest issues for him this election, in addition to "all this environment crap", says Senator Hanson "stands up for what I believe in". "She believes in our country," he says. "They [other politicians] think too much about who they can please from overseas, she doesn't, she just wants to please Australians." Steve Crawford says One Nation stands up for what he believes in. Credit:Felicity Caldwell

One Nation supporters are focused on "Pauline" and do not mention the party's House of Representatives candidate Chris O'Callaghan. Bright orange election signs in the region instead spruik the Queensland Senate team of Senator Hanson, Malcolm Roberts and Steve Dickson, who resigned after the signs and ballot papers were printed. Supporters are not concerned by the revelations uncovered by the Al Jazeera documentary of meetings with the US gun lobby and footage of former Queensland leader Dickson in a strip club, describing it as "bullshit", "entrapment", "a hoax" and "a stitch-up". However, it remains to be seen how successful the party will be at the ballot box next weekend, with an Ipsos poll putting One Nation's primary vote on 5 per cent, while a News Corp poll on Saturday had the party on 9 per cent. And despite Wright voters admiration for Senator Hanson, they cannot cast a vote for her personally this election, as she secured a six-year term in 2016 and is not up for re-election until 2022.

One Nation volunteer John MacDonnell tells voters the Lockyer Valley is Pauline Hanson's "home territory". Credit:Felicity Caldwell Patiently waiting under an orange tarpaulin outside the Gatton pre-polling booth, One Nation volunteer John MacDonnell leaps out of his chair and smiles as he hands out how-to-vote information, pointing out people must number at least six boxes above the line on the Senate ballot paper. Some take his photocopied sheet and quietly share their support after he tells them this is "Pauline's home territory". "We love her," two women aged in their 40s reply. Mr MacDonnell says Senator Hanson has "the guts to say what everyone thinks", his comments mirroring a billboard bearing Senator Hanson's beaming face by a field of crops in the town of Grantham, where the scars of the 2011 floods, which claimed 12 lives, remain.

The 79-year-old says big issues for voters in the area are the inland rail route, water security, the economy and Adani, which wants to build a coal mine more than 1100 kilometres away in the Galilee Basin. "They're worried about jobs," he says. "Adani is an issue. They want it as soon as possible, as big as possible. "The locals here would vote for any party that said 'we would build Adani'." Truck owner-driver Tony, who voted for "all the conservatives" in the Senate, including One Nation and the LNP, also listed progressing the Carmichael mine as a major issue.

A Pauline Hanson billboard stands next to the road at Grantham in the Lockyer Valley. Credit:Felicity Caldwell "At the end of the day, we need jobs, and you couldn't find anyone more pro-Adani around because there's so many jobs up there," he said. But not everyone is sticking behind One Nation. Loading Gatton tiler Rod Smith ran for One Nation in Wright at the 2016 federal election during its resurgence, securing the party's highest House of Representatives primary vote in the country, with 20.90 per cent.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison has outlined a major plan to help younger Australians buy their first homes in an election campaign launch that triggered a response within hours when Labor vowed to match the policy.

Mr Morrison said a re-elected Coalition government would set up a scheme to offer loan guarantees for first home buyers so they could buy their properties with deposits of just 5 per cent of the price.

Labor moved quickly to match the idea and avoid a political fight over housing affordability, after the government presented its plan as a better way to help young home-buyers than Labor's proposal to scale back tax concessions on negative gearing.

The government proposal is a significant departure from previous attempts to help younger people trying to get into the housing market, requiring $500 million in guarantees and possibly more over time.
Scott Morrison's personal energy could not conceal the fact that he is leading a government and a party showing every symptom of exhaustion.

His skills as a spruiker could not overcome the fact that he lacks a program to spruik.

Scott Morrison launching the Liberal Party's campaign launch. Credit:Dominic Lorrimer

His lovely family could not disguise the fact that the Liberal family was missing all its former prime ministers.

Nor could his celebration of the women in his life compensate for the absence of women in his leadership team.
Big wave surfer Ross Clarke-Jones eyes the future and discusses his evolving life goals Credit:BT Financial Group

At age 52, Ross Clarke-Jones shows no signs of slowing down. Hes still tackling the most dangerous waves on the planet with as much passion as he did 30 years ago  but with a little more wisdom.

Being in my fifties, I know myself and Im proud to be who I am, he says. I feel like I have more passion and energy than kids half my age; Im enjoying my surfing and my life more than ever.

Clarke-Jones grew up in Terrigal, on the New South Wales Central Coast. He used to gaze out to the big surf breaks on the horizon and wish he was there, away from his mothers watchful eye. At 12, I defied her to go out there, he recalls. That first wave felt like it was 20,000 feet and I knew this was what I wanted to do.

Translating his passion into a career wasnt easy. In the early years, he didnt enjoy competing.
Clark Kirby is Graham Burke's choice to succeed him as Village Roadshow chief executive. Illustration: John Shakespeare Credit:

What better way to crown a new chief executive than stuffing investors into a swank hotel, filling them with cocktails and taking them for a spin on the Green Lantern?

This column has catalogued in painstaking detail the litany of recent issues at entertainment group Village Roadshow -- from ostentatious purchases of wine from its chairmans vineyard to the total destruction of value at its Hollywood movie studio.

Village Roadshows chief executive Graham Burke -- a man who is no fan of turning right into the economy cabin on QF11 to Los Angeles -- has decided that come December he will step down from the job hes had for three decades.

Burke has said he wants Clark Kirby, the operator of Village Roadshows theme park business and son of company chairman Robert Kirby, to replace him.
Scott Morrison with his wife Jenny, mother Marion and daughters Abbey and Lily. Credit:Dominic Lorrimer

Prime Minister Scott Morrisons crowning moment at the Coalitions campaign launch was when he stressed in simple, resonant terms that the very reason economic growth and fine fiscal management matter is they are about providing wellbeing and opportunity for everyone.

From that unimpeachable cornerstone, he then presented an argument that only the Coalition can be trusted to deliver the best economic and budgetary outcomes for the nation.

We urge fiscal constraint in this final week of the campaign  both sides recognise the need to accumulate an economic buffer for Australia, as global economic and political risks mount.

Mr Morrisons launch certainly was not an attempt to buy victory. That is partly due to an ingrained desire to run a strong set of books, and partly because hes already made his big hip-pocket pitch with his recent budget and his 10-year tax-cut plan; he cannot afford to earmark much more money before damaging his credibility.
Bit of a squeeze

John Cameron, the barn-storming pilot who flew under the Harbour Bridge yesterday, also flew under the Gladesville Bridge, which has only an-80-foot clearance above the water. It was a bit of a squeeze. But it was just there a nice thing to fly under, said Mr Cameron. His flight was to commemorate the death of one of Australias pioneer pilots, Sid Marshall, who, in 1934, was the first man to fly between Papua New Guinea and Australia.

Great Scott, a rip-off

Thieves stole a truck after loading it with 25,000 rolls of lavatory paper in Smithfield at the weekend. The rolls, in 416 cartons, were valued at $5,500 and were stolen from a Bowler-Scott warehouse on McCredie Road. Police said the thieves forced a wire door at the rear of the warehouse, loaded the goods on to a truck parked in the grounds and drove away. In another robbery, cigarettes valued at $6,000 were stolen from a warehouse in Marrickville.

Chemists' plan to curb smoking

Customers will soon be asked to put out their cigarettes before entering chemists' shops. Members of the NSW Pharmacy Guild will display notices asking people not to smoke in pharmacies out of consideration for the comfort and health of others, according to the guild president Mr P. I. Harding. The guild represents about 1,900 pharmacy proprietors in NSW. Mr Harding said the guild opposed the sale of tobacco products in pharmacies.
I look forward to Zali Steggalls article next week titled My sister, a woman of conviction. Balanced journalism is good journalism. - Judy Townsend, Bateau Bay I am an ageing Australian who would describe myself as socially left and economically in the centre. I am doing my bit to get Steggall elected not as part of some conspiracy of the left, as Christine implies, but for two simple reasons.

Tony is divisive. He rejected co-operation on important issues when leader of the Opposition and PM purely for political gain. He has also divided the once impressive Liberal Party.

Secondly, Tonys tactics as a fighter appal me. He runs campaigns against Zali, painting her as a Labor stooge. This is not politics, it is simply scare tactics based on falsehoods. - Peter Nixon, Belrose Forster concludes that the voters of Warringah have some hard thinking to do. I can assure Ms Forster that, as for me, there was never any necessity for hard thinking. The issues surrounding Abbott are perfectly clear. - John Boutagy, Mosman Forsters potpourri on her brothers political achievements damn with faint praise. We in Warringah do know what well get with Abbott and thats why we are ready for a change. - Rosemary Russell, Mosman I am shocked that you have allocated space to an appallingly biased rant. When I engage with the media, I want to read truthful copy, not unethical rubbish. I dont expect I will be spending much more money or time on reading your newspaper. - Beth Pottinger, Brookvale

Ive been a reader of the Herald since high school. I am in my late 20s and the Herald is still one of my primary news sources. I am disappointed you published this piece, one weekbefore the election. You have lost a long-time reader. - Otto Reitano, Lane Cove Forster says Rob Oakeshott was elected as a National before betraying his constituents to hand government to Labor. He was elected as a National only in the NSW Parliament. He was elected as an independent to Federal Parliament. Oakeshott and Tony Windsor supported Julia Gillards Labor government only after consultations with Forsters brother. Both were so revolted by what he had said that they refused to have anything to do with him. - Grant Agnew, Coopers Plains (Qld) Morrison overstepping the mark Scott Morrison has looked into the pot and seen nothing (Morrison targets first home buyers in new scheme to lower deposit requirement, smh.com.au, May 12). If he is to keep himself on his opportunistic throne, he has to deflect from this emptiness. As the distraction, he has chosen himself, a task to which he has warmed alarmingly. He uses the words me, my, mine and I a lot. This is not the language of a good government. Rather of despotism. He threatens us, like a vengeful god, If you dont vote for me, youll go to Labor hell. He forgets Australians dont much like self-aggrandisers. - Diana King, Balmain

It seems we are witnessing the birth of the Morrison Party or maybe the ScoMo Party.

- Arthur Hennessy, Gymea Bay I have been genuinely impressed by Morrison. I believe he will make a very good leader of the opposition. -Kevin Burke, Baulkham Hills Skip the alarmist raid It appears that the media do not realise that tax is good, and pays for our roads, schools and hospitals, and much else besides. How else can one explain the pejorative term raid in the headline (Labor raid on top end of town to yield $154b, May 11-12). We should be applauding, not condemning, if we want a fairer society. - Peta Colebatch, Pretty Beach

How about: 100 per cent of Australians will be hit by inaction on climate change. - Marion Wood, Mosman The Coalitions mantra that Labor cant manage the economy is its biggest lie of all.

We now have a government that has overseen years of wage stagnation and whose solution is to give big tax cuts to large corporations and personal tax cuts that favour the wealthy. It seems to be bent on furthering the divide between rich and poor in Australia. - Michael van Ewijk, Milton Our taxing times Can Labor define the top end of town? Is it a family earning annual pre-tax income of $200,000 that has little wealth, a sizeable mortgage, education debt and non-tax deductible childcare fees? Or is it a retiree couple that owns their home, a holiday house, $3.2 million in superannuation and has other annual income of $40,000 and pays zero tax? Labor has not thought tax issues through. Politicians have a poor understanding of the integration of taxation and superannuation.

The current franking credit policy can well be considered as over-generous. However targeting SMSFs in pension mode is not the appropriate remedial action. Halving the rate of franking credits for all superannuation funds will raise far more tax revenue and is non-discriminatory. - Graeme Troy, Wagstaffe

Im one of those self-funded retirees whose income will materially decline due to dividend imputation changes if Labor should win the election. All I can honestly say is that its about time, and thanks for the free ride until now. Ive watched my three sons struggle to get into the housing market, and in many other ways have a much harder time of it than my generation did. With luck, Labor will reset the playing field in time for my grandchildren and their generation to have better lives. - Charles Kent, Hunters Hill Bill Shorten does not appear to understand the meaning of the words gift (a present) and subsidy (reduce the cost of something). He frequently uses these words instead of refund (reimburse) when he talks about franking credits relative to Australians whose taxable income is below the tax threshold of $18,200 or is exempt from tax on super because they are over 60. He also appears not to understand that shareholders own their companys profit and how the ATO, rightly, has regard for that fact when dividends are paid. Shortens policy will have a negative impact on capital formation and as a consequence a similar impact on economic growth, which is what good government is all about. It is also discriminately unfair. - Ian Cooke, Alstonville The cladding issue Its time Australia follows Britain in replacing cladding on multi-storey buildings (UK to replace combustible cladding on apartments, May 10-11) and eliminate a huge burden for owners who bought their units when it was not illegal to have cladding. In my own building, there was an indeterminate material in the street-front awning, no cladding on the facades and the so-called experts already milked us more than $5000 without even giving a judgment on whether the material in the street-front awning can cause or spread fire! The NSW government should have put it in the legislation that the final verdict/judgment on fire safety on the street-front awning is left to the owners corporation, not these so-called experts who are treating it as money spinners with zero benefit to owners. - Nookayyasetty Grandhi, Hornsby

Ubers crushing debut Why would anyone buy shares in a business that has never made a profit and is down the gurgler for $US12 billion? (''Tough week to go public. Billions wiped away as Uber flops on its Wall Street debut, May 10-11). This disruptive business model has ruined the lives of people who want to be in regulated businesses. Airbnb has disrupted affordable housing. Are we that selfish as a society that for our own convenience we throw other peoples lives out the window? - Robert Franzos, Murwillumbah Figure an indictment

Paul Ramsay left a will of an estimated $3.5 billion made through the Ramsay Health Care empire, Australias largest private hospital company (Instant millionaires but glaring omission in will, May 10-11). What does that say about the dreadful impact of privatisation of health care and in other industries and its effect on people  mostly in need  and the economy. - Fergan OSullivan, Artarmon Tactics game changer Im not a fan of Trump politics, but I think his hardball tactics with the Chinese government are a smart move (Xi calls for US, China accord, May 10-11). For years they have toyed with international players on intellectual property and political freedoms with no one willing to take a stand. Hardball may just be the way to go. Trump cant be wrong all the time, just most of the time.

Frank Gasparre, Eastwood The end in sight

At last. The final week. This feral election is almost over. - Lyndsay McAuliffe, Epping Voting is complicated enough without having to identify candidates who have withdrawn since the ballot papers were printed. Perhaps the Herald could assist us by publishing the names of those who have withdrawn so we dont waste our votes? - Richard Manuell,

Frenchs Forest Behind Bris Vegas

Ken Johnston (Letters, May 10-11) queries the origins of the preposterous nickname Bris Vegas. My memory involves Wayne Gosss Labor government promoting the conversion of the historic Treasury Building into Brisbanes first casino in 1992. Conservationists protested this tawdry misuse of a public institution via spirited renditions of the amended Elvis anthem: Viva Goss Vegas. In only a few days, however, the anti-casino Goss Vegas had transmogrified in the popular press into Bris Vegas. - Peter Skinner, St Lucia (Qld) Talk is not cheap No wonder my Foxtel subscription is so expensive. No fewer than five commentators covering one rugby league game! - Eric Scott, Bondi Junction
A 26-year-old man has been arrested over the alleged murder of a man found dead in a Gold Coast home.

Coffs Harbour police arrested Coskun CJ Marius, 26, on a Queensland arrest warrant on Sunday afternoon, two days after 38-year-old Gold Coast man Dre Nova was found dead.

A man found dead in a home with horrific injuries has been identified as Gold Coast father, Dre Nova. Credit:Nine News Queensland

Queensland detectives are expected to seek his extradition from NSW to the Gold Coast in a Coffs Harbour court on Monday.

Mr Nova's body was discovered in a lounge chair at an address on Markwell Avenue, Surfers Paradise, with a head wound among other significant injuries, according to police.
The savage bashing of Gold Coast mother Tara Brown, 24, by her estranged partner came less than a week after she sought police help to protect her from him. Credit:.Facebook/Tara Brown Foundation for Domestic Violence Relief No crime figures have increased more than DVO breaches during the past decade in Queensland. But Queensland Womens Legal Service CEO Angela Lynch said the increase could be a good thing if it meant more women were seeking help, police were prioritising the issue and courts were issuing more orders. "That is a phenomenal increase but it probably reflects the landscape in Queensland and the prioritisation of this issue in the past few years," she said. There is probably still an under-reporting of the amount of breaches that do occur, because we still have many women and clients who come to us and inform us of difficulties in getting police to take breach action or take the matters seriously.

"The domestic violence orders do require the back-up of police to take breach action to be really effective." Ms Lynch said even the act of obtaining an order could be a meaningful symbol for a lot of victims. "It signifies in a public way, for the first time, the system acknowledging what she has been through," she said. Once an order was made, it was up to police to crack down on breaches, which could escalate quickly. "Perpetrators are always testing those orders out and sensing what they can get away with," she said.

"They will often start with smaller breaches just to see how far they can push things. "If the police don't take action they will move on to larger breaches and push the boundaries of those orders." And for some, a DVO does nothing to stop an attack. Last year, Brock Wall was sentenced to two terms of life in prison after murdering his ex-girlfriend Fabiana Palhares with an axe and jumping on her stomach to kill their unborn child at their Varsity Lakes home in 2015. Wall had two domestic violence protection orders made against him at the time.

Another Gold Coast woman, Tara Brown, was bludgeoned to death by the father of her child, Lionel Patea, in 2015 with a 7.8-kilogram metal fire hydrant cover. Ms Brown had been hiding from him at a safe house and friends' homes since taking out a domestic violence order just days earlier. A Queensland police spokesman said the service responded to about 246 domestic violence incidents every day, or 10 each hour. "Through the Domestic, Family Violence and Vulnerable Persons Unit, the QPS continues to improve the delivery of policing services to those in our community affected by domestic and family violence," he said.

"Statistics demonstrate victims are accessing their right to protection and safety, and are gaining the courage and confidence in the system to report incidents of domestic and family violence to police." Across Queensland last year, the Mount Isa police district recorded the highest rate of domestic violence order breaches. For every 100,000 people, there were 2092 breaches in Mount Isa  more than double the rate in Townsville, which had the second-highest breach rate in the state. River and Nyobi Hinder died in a Mount Isa caravan blast that also killed their father, Charlie Hinder. I think that Mount Isa has been identified as a domestic violence hot-spot in Queensland. There are serious issues of domestic violence in that community, exacerbated by a range of other issues as well," Ms Lynch said.

Four years ago, the mining town in north-west Queensland was home to one of the most horrific acts of domestic violence the state has ever seen. Police believe Charlie Hinder, 39, rigged two nine-kilogram LPG gas canisters as a makeshift bomb, blowing up his caravan and killing himself and his two children. Body parts were strewn across the road in the blast that shocked a town usually so used to explosions from the mines. A specialist court was expected to rotate to Mount Isa by the end of 2019 to deal with the high rate of domestic violence. May is domestic and family violence prevention month.
Principals fear technical glitches will plague the rollout of NAPLAN Online this week after students struggled to log on to the platform during recent practice tests.

Pen-and-paper tests have been sent to the more than 900 Victorian schools taking part in NAPLAN Online in case the system fails.

And some schools have warned students against accessing the internet during testing periods due to concerns about limited bandwidth.

Philip Cachia, the principal of Our Lady Help of Christians School in Brunswick East, said he was not feeling confident about the online test after his students experienced technical glitches. Credit:Justin McManus

About 50 per cent of Australian schools are expected to sit the online test from Tuesday, up from about 15 per cent last year.
A new South West marine park that encompasses one of the region's favourite salmon spots has "confused" WA fishers after it was revealed community consultation for the project closed over a decade ago.

The Ngari Marine Park currently includes most of the southern half of Geographe Bay and extends around Cape Naturaliste and Cape Leeuwin to Flinders Bay near Augusta.

Ngari Capes Marine Park. Credit:DBCA

Plans for a new marine park, which would span five kilometres from east of Augusta and cover the entire Capes region, were first flagged over a decade ago but the new management zone was only put in place in April last year.

The new marine park was given a 12-month grace period for fishers to familiarise themselves with the new rules in the area, before it was formally implemented last month.
An elderly Mandurah woman has been reunited with a nine-year-old girl who she says "saved her life" following a dog attack and a serious medical episode last week.

Dianne Isgar, 75, put the word out last week that she wanted to thank four girls who came to her rescue moments after her dog was mauled at Frasers Landing in Coodanup last month.

Bonny with her injuries. Credit:Mandurah Mail

Ms Isgar was walking her two dogs Lilly and Bonny when a large bull terrier, allegedly with no lead, charged at the two dogs.

Ms Isgar managed to pick up Bonny before the dog attacked, but it still jumped and latched onto her stomach.
Asylum seekers were frisked before they came ashore. They removed their shoes, emptied their pockets, and were told they were in the custody of Australian authorities. Then, they were taken to waiting buses that ferried them to detention centres dotted around the island  one for single men, others for families. On April 2, 2013, Kosar Kalantari stepped onto the pier at Christmas Island with her husband Eric Mohammadi and young son Hossain. They were sunburnt, trembling, hungry and exhausted after three days at sea on a creaking wooden boat. Kosar had thought she wouldnt make it. As a stranger ran her hands up and down Kosars legs, the young woman was oblivious to Wolter, who stood on the cliffs above, training his camera on her family. First taste of Australia: Kosar Kalantari, her son Hossain and her husband Eric Mohammadi in the photograph taken on Christmas Island and published in Fairfax newspapers in 2013. Credit:Wolter Peeters In his photograph, which was published in Fairfax newspapers and websites across the country, Kosar and Eric stand mute, in the same clothes they have worn for three days.

Their little boy, 2 years old and pot-bellied, looks up at his mother as if searching her face for clues about what is happening to them. He looks very, very small. When Kosar, Eric and Hossain landed at Christmas Island, Australia was in the grip of a political crisis over border protection. More than 3300 people had been intercepted on boats headed for Australia in the first three months of 2013, and Julia Gillards Labor Party was in a panic. The monsoon season, which had slowed the boats to a crawl from November to February, was over. Many more would soon be coming. Asylum seekers offloaded from the HMAS Melville at Christmas Island's Flying Fish Cove on Easter Sunday, 2013. Credit:Wolter Peeters In late March and early April, Wolter and I spent a week on Christmas Island, reporting on the growing crisis for The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald. In that week alone, more than 1000 asylum seekers arrived.

The government was rattled, the opposition was ramping up its attacks on Labor, and hundreds had drowned trying to reach the safety of Australia. Two months later, Kevin Rudd would wrest the prime ministership back from Gillard and in July he would announce that no asylum seekers who tried to make it to Australia by boat would ever settle in this country. The people affected by the change would be used, in Rudd's words, to "send a message to people smugglers around the world that the business model is basically undermined". Spirited and beautiful Kosar, her handsome husband Eric and sweet little Hossain were among the last boat people to have any hope of a life in Australia.

You might expect the family to feel like the lucky ones in a refugee lottery. You would be wrong. A life interrupted In late 2017, months after Kosar tracked down Wolter's mobile number, she and Eric agreed to meet us for lunch at their new home in Brisbane's outer suburbs. Kosar, Eric and Hossain, now seven, have been in this house for about a week. An enormous fruit bowl groans under the weight of oranges, avocados, pears and tropical fruit, a testament to never going hungry again.

Eric, who suffers from crippling shoulder pain every time he speaks of the 17 long months the family spent in detention after landing on Flying Fish Cove, leaves most of the story to Kosar. At home: Eric, Kosar and Hossain in Brisbane. Credit:Wolter Peeters Kosar and Eric - born Ali - are from Ahvaz, a city of 1.1 million in the south-west of Iran. Kosar, who often goes by Kate in Brisbane, is Persian. Eric is Kurdish. The pair met after Kosar's mother and sister were killed in a horrific car accident. Still numb with grief, she began to spend more time with this gentle man, whose sister had been a close friend of her sister's. Soon, they were married. Over time, Eric  a mechanical engineer by trade  built up his own business, trading in gold. The business was in partnership with the government, and the family enjoyed an affluent, middle-class lifestyle. But as a Kurd, Eric says, the odds were stacked against him. His business was hit with a 45 per cent government-imposed tax. Then, it became a 50 per cent tax and 70 per cent. Finally, he received a letter from authorities accusing him of defrauding the government and ordering him to report to the police station in 11 days.

They had less than two weeks to abandon their old lives and find a way to get out of the country. It didnt matter where. "The first week we were looking to go to Germany, and the second week we found somebody to help us to go to Indonesia and then to Australia," Kosar says. Loading A people smuggler in Tehran told them they must first buy plane tickets to Indonesia. He would do the rest. The couple had days to sell their house, and everything in it. They sold their house for cash and didn't collect the money until the day they were due to fly to Tehran, to catch a connecting flight to Jakarta.

At Jakarta, airport officials separated them from other travellers and forced them to hand over cash. "They said, 'give us money; we know youre going to Australia'," Eric says. One official scribbled on a piece of paper, and handed it over. It read: "$500 each". They thought they would be in Jakarta for five days. Instead, they found themselves trapped there for four months, while the people smugglers gave them one excuse after another. Running out of money after buying tickets for a boat that never seemed to materialise, they had to sell their watches and jewellery, including their gold wedding rings. And the lies from the people smugglers kept coming. "I'm going to organise the best ship for you," one told the family.

When they finally saw the boat that would bring them to Australia, Kosar thought it was a shuttle that would take them to the real boat further out at sea. "The wood creaked when you put your foot on it," she recalls, shuddering.It had cost them $11,000. Loading There were 48 people on board, including the Indonesian crew. "One [was] maybe 15, 16 years old," Eric says. Frightened, the couple conferred. But they decided to go ahead. "We just need life," says Kosar. "We dont need money; we just need life."

The waves were terrible. Hossain soon became ill. After a day, many more people were sick. They grew convinced they would die. On the second day, they saw an aeroplane. They weren't sure whether it had even seen them. On the third day, the Australian Navy intercepted their boat. As everyone rushed to meet their rescuers, they were warned to stay in their places. A boat that had come before theirs had capsized, they were told, when all its passengers pushed to one side to meet the bigger boat. A pregnant woman and a three-year-old boy had drowned. At the first detention centre on Christmas Island, Aqua, conditions were cramped. There were 800 people, Kosar says, and two toilets. I want people to know that we are not coming to take anything from other people Kosar Kalantari

After Christmas Island, the family was sent to Curtin detention centre in the Kimberley region for 2 months. Then, they were transferred to Leonora in the Goldfields region of WA for more than seven months. Kosar suffered a miscarriage. She wore the same clothes day in and day out. She made an attempt on her life. "I didnt want to be alive anymore," she recalls, numbly. "But it didnt stop anything." Next, the family bounced north to a low-security detention facility in Darwin. Finally, after 17 months in detention, the family was released into community detention in Woodridge, a tough neighbourhood in Brisbane. They were frightened to leave the house at night. The family left their shoes outside, and they were promptly stolen. After everything they had endured, this petty act of unkindness threatened to break them. Kosar recalls her reaction: "All the time I spent in detention, to come here?" Kosar tried again to take her own life. She had been pregnant, although she hadn't realised it. She lost the baby.

In hospital recovering from her miscarriage, and more vulnerable than shed ever been, Kosar had a visit from Linda Truscott, a member of the Seventh Day Adventist Church in Eight Mile Plains. Perhaps, thought Kosar, God could help her. She and Eric  who had abandoned his Islamic faith some 15 years earlier  started walking to a local church every week. Of Linda and her husband Paul, a medical specialist, she declares: "they are my family". Kosar (far right) and Eric with friends pastor Andre van Rensberg (far left) and Linda Truscott at their home in Brisbane. Credit:Wolter Peeters Kosar and Eric miss the country of their birth, and the family they had to leave behind.

But both remain deeply troubled by what they experienced in detention. And while they have worked hard to build a life in Australia, it remains precarious. Under laws introduced by the Morrison government, Kosar, Eric and Hossain can never convert their temporary protection visas, which give them three years' security in the country and work rights, into permanent residency. New life: Kosar, Eric and Hossain at home in Brisbane. Credit:Wolter Peeters Should Bill Shorten's Labor win office, it has promised to give certainty to the family, and others like them. Today, Eric has his own business plastering and labouring, and Kosar works as a carer in an aged care facility. She wants to become a nurse.
London: The Brexit Party has overtaken the Conservatives in national polling for the first time, with Nigel Farage predicted to win 49 seats in a general election, a bombshell poll reveals.

The ComRes survey for the Telegraph (London) found that if a general election campaign led by Theresa May took place now, it would put the Tories on course for their worst result in history  apparently confirming the fears of Conservative MPs and activists in uproar over the Prime Ministers handling of Brexit.

Nigel Farage's Brexit Party has surged in the polls. Credit:PA

Labour would become the largest party by a margin of 137 seats, allowing Jeremy Corbyn to lead a minority government as the Tories fell to third place in terms of vote share.

The survey results were echoed by a second Opinium poll in the Observer, which showed that Farage's new Brexit Party has more support in the Britain for this month's EU elections than the Conservatives and Labour combined.
London: The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have paid tribute to all mothers as Meghan's native United States, Australia and other countries mark Mother's Day.

Prince Harry and Meghan posted a picture of baby Archie's feet on their official Instagram account, writing: "Paying tribute to all mothers today - past, present, mothers-to-be, and those lost but forever remembered.

"We honour and celebrate each and every one of you."

The "lost but forever remembered" was widely interpreted to be a reference to Harry's mother, Diana, who died in a Paris car accident in 1997.
Jerusalem Prosecution witnesses from a private investigation into the mental health of alleged child sex offender Malka Leifer will have to deliver evidence in writing, the Jerusalem District Court has ruled.

Leifer's case has been delayed again with the next hearing is set for May 15.

Accused child sex abuser Malka Leifer (right) pictured in February last year. Credit:AP

Her extradition trial is determining whether the former principal of an ultra-Orthodox Jewish girls' school in Melbourne should be returned to Australia to face court on 74 charges of child sex abuse.

A private investigation carried out in December 2017 provided video footage countering the defence's claim that Leifer is mentally unfit to stand trial, instead showing she was fully functional in her daily life.
PHILIPSBURG (DCOMM):--- From May 26 until May 29, Europeans elect a new European Parliament. These elections are important for countries associated with the European Union (EU), such as Sint Maarten.



The Cabinet of the Minister Plenipotentiary of Sint Maarten will be organizing an information session, including a debate and Q&A session with candidates, for the European election on May 17 in The Hague. This event will also be live-streamed via Facebook.



The event will be moderated by Sint Maarten student Sakir DeCastro and will be held between 3.30pm and 6.00pm at the Huis van Europa, Korte Vijverberg 5, Den Haag. Registration is possible via This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. . At the Huis van Europa, a show of ID is mandatory.



Early April, Minister Plenipotentiary Jorien Wuite urged Sint Maarteners eligible to vote to register for the European elections. By hosting this information session, she hopes to increase the participation of Sint Maarteners.



Minister Wuite emphasized that engaging and following political developments that directly or indirectly affect our country is of utmost importance for every Sint Maartener. Moreover, our aim is to get young Sint Maarteners studying in the Netherlands involved in the process.



Minister Plenipotentiary further highlighted that Sint Maarten students spend their formative years in the Netherlands. Through this platform, the Minister said they would like to support them in getting acquainted with fundamental issues and enable them to bring that knowledge and experience back with them when they return to Sint Maarten.



Additionally, our goal will be to inform them, and everyone interested, about the significance of the EUs relationship with Sint Maarten and the other Caribbean parts of the Kingdom. Finally, we would like to give everyone present the opportunity to ask questions and voice their opinion about the future of the EU, Minister Wuite said in a statement over the weekend.



Several experts will provide introductions about the European elections and the importance of the Caribbean element within the EU.



Marno de Boer (political correspondent for the Trouw newspaper) will bring everyone up to speed on the most pressing issues during these elections. Gohar Karapetian (lecturer Constitutional Law at the Rijksuniversiteit Groningen) will address the significance of the European Union for Sint Maarten and the other Caribbean territories within the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

Carol Voges (senior policy advisor at the Cabinet of the Minister Plenipotentiary) will elaborate on OCT (Overseas Countries and Territories) representation in the EU.



After the introductions, the candidates present will debate several EU issues pertaining to the Caribbean parts of the Kingdom. Thus far, 50PLUS, CDA, ChristenUnie/SGP, D66, Denk and Partij van de Arbeid, have confirmed their attendance.



Sint Maarten has the status of an OCT, as do the other Caribbean countries and special municipalities within the Kingdom of the Netherlands.



OCTs enjoy a special relationship with the EU. For instance, Sint Maarten can benefit from special trade agreements and funding out of the European Development Fund. This amounts to around 1.5 million euro on an annual basis.



The upcoming European Parliamentary elections are very relevant for the OCTs. Due to the upcoming departure of the United Kingdom from the EU, twelve out of twenty-five OCTs, among which Anguilla and the British Virgin Islands will no longer be part of the OCT association with the EU.



For the remaining OCTs, it is of crucial importance that the new members of the European Parliament are aware of the OCTs position, in particular, their historical and special relationship with the EU.



This will become even more relevant in the upcoming period, as the European Parliament will vote on regulations on financial support for the OCTs.
Children of all ages woke up this morning and ran over to see if Santa tasted the cookies they left for him on Christmas Eve.




Chapter Eighty-Eight was written by Deirdre Shaw and was directed by Stuart Gillard. Jane (Gina Rodriguez) and Michael (Brett Dier) head to Montana to explore their feelings away from their memories. The episode features some great musical and artistic flourishes/gimmicks  something Ive been missing a bit this season.As the episode opens, Jane calls an emergency family meeting and is surprised that both Xo (Andrea Navedo) and Alba (Ivonne Coll) are completely on board and think its a great idea! By the next morning, Jane has convinced herself its a terrible idea, but Xo is there, bright and early to convince her its not. And just another shout out to the show and Navedo for their realistic portrayal of Xos illness. You dont just get over chemo or cancer  it takes a toll.Janes biggest problem? What to pack. None of them have any idea what to wear on a ranch! I loved Jane having to rely on Brokeback Mountain (probably her best choice), Little House on the Prairie (no), and a telenovela (NO!), and then Rogelio (Jaime Camill) arrives with wardrobe! I loved him thinking that his lavender cowboy hat was too masculine! And his alternative for Jane is naturally even worse  but gives us the weeks title card  Little Jane on the Prairie  Telenovela Edition!Michael  the love interest  shows up with his trusty dog Bo  and is a bemused by Janes luggage  but he also remembers her color-coded packing lists Michael also reassures her that there are no expectations about her coming to Montana  plenty of hope  but no pressure. Almost inevitably, they have the trip from Hell  as everything that can go wrong does. Jane is not happy when she finds out that Michael is off the grid which will make it very difficult to call Mateo (Elias Janssen). Shes even less happy when she sees where Michael lives  and its pretty horrible! Until Jane wakes up the next morning and can actually see where she is.Michael arranges for Jane to use the landline in the main house to call Mateo, and he calls Alba to give her the number there. He also plans a picnic for them, which is cancelled by Michaels nasty foreman, Rick (Bo Kane). Jane insists on helping Michael with his chores in order to get to know his world. Michael introduces her to the horses  Shelby, Ginger, and Banjo. While the hay fight was fun, I have to agree with the Narrator (Anthony Mendez) that the shower scene was totally hot!Jane meets Michaels fellow ranch hands and friends at the nightly camp fire  honestly, this doesnt really happen on working ranches  but lets go with it. Its only when Keith (Rick Malambri) asks if Janes going to move out to Montana to become a ranch wife that she finally starts thinking about the reality of it all. Of course theres no way that Rafael (Justin Baldoni) is going to want to move to Montana! I know the pain of having that one cell phone bar disappearing just as you need it, so I felt Janes frustration in trying to connect with Xo  and again, what if she were living there permanently???Meanwhile, Rick pressures Michael on whether hes staying of leaving. He ridiculously gives Michael 48 hours to decide. Naturally, they both lie about what they are feeling, but Keith spills the beans about the deadline to Jane. The two finally come clean about how they are feeling. Michael finds them a third option  they try a long-distance relationship before making any drastic decisions. Jane admits that she feels guilty about Rafael. But telling the truth does make her feel better.When the prize bull gets loose, it naturally ends up on villain Charlies (Haley Lu Richardson) property, who turns out to be a woman. She helps Jane get the bull  to get her to shut up and go away. Michael and Jane end up camping out under the stars  with snacks. And to her credit, Jane, who hates camping even with a tent, does go with the flow. When Jane asks Michael if he could ever see himself living in Miami again, hes honest and says he doesnt know. But he tells her that hes happy there right then with Jane. Jane sees how he can love it. And the two share a special moment before falling back to sleep.Charlie wakes them up  with a gun  and accuses Michael of having stolen her prize chickens. Jane makes a stirring defense for Michael, only for him to admit that he lied  Bo ate the chickens. He lied so she wouldnt shoot his dog. Jane acts as mediator, suggesting that Michael replace the PRIZE chickens. Charlie agrees, and Michael decides that hes ready to come back to Miami. He wants to give up everything for Jane because he loves her.And up until this very moment, Ive been really impressed with how the show didnt make me fall out of love with Michael, but made me fall in love with Rafael  who had changed from the rich, spoiled, bad boy, into the working class good guy  that Michael was. But as much as Gina Rodriguez delivers a terrific performance, I was not happy with her deciding that her guilt over Rafael was love. What about guilt for Michael. He not only gave up his whole life for her  he also had his whole life ripped away from him because of her  and Rafael. Other than Keith, he appears to be surrounded by horrible people! As always, Brett Dier delivers a wonderful performance.Michael tells Jane that he just wants her to be happy  would Rafael give up his happiness for Jane? I dont think he would And when Jane gets back to Miami and goes to Rafael and pours her heart out, he tells her that he cant trust her and its too late. I love Justin Baldoni  but I dont think Ill ever trust Rafael! Jane, however, tells Xo and Alba that shes going to fight for Rafael.I really liked the gimmick in this episode. I felt the ranch characters were all a bit too stereotypically drawn and wooden. I liked that we got an entire episode with just Michael and Jane  and Rodriguez and Dier really deliver tremendous performances. But Ill make no secret that I am back to being firmly #TeamMichael  even though Jane has decided to abandon the better man. And because he IS the better man, he will do what Rafael is not  hell support Janes decision. I think that the show had done a really great job in shifting viewer loyalty  and they blew it here. We still have 12 episodes to go, but they are going to have to fight hard to get THIS reviewer back on side.
WATERSIDE

Warm weather is coming and SoundWaters is offering free kayak or stand up paddle board rentals on Long Island Sound May 18 and 19.

Single and double kayaks and paddle boards will be available for free one-hour rentals from noon to 6 p.m.

The launch site is Boccuzzi Park at 200 Southfield Ave. (formerly known as Southfield Park) on Stamford Harbor.

Kayak and paddle board rentals will be available all summer on Saturdays and Sundays, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. through Labor Day. Book online in advance to avoid waiting. Single kayaks and paddleboards rent for $30 per hour. Double kayaks rent for $45 an hour. To book a kayak or board in advance, visit SoundWaters.org/rentals.

GLENBROOK

The Glenbrook Neighborhood Associations annual spring cleanup will be Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon, at Glenbrook Train Station, on the Crescent Street side.

The group welcomes volunteers and families to help spruce up the train station and nearby streets. For more details, visit glenbrookassn.com.

HUBBARD HEIGHTS

J.M. Wright Technical School will host its fourth annual car and motorcycle show at Scalzi Park, 120 Bridge St., May 19 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The show serves as a fundraiser with all proceeds going to the Parent Faculty Organization, which offers scholarships, provides students assistance and supports teachers and various program within the school.

Pre-registered vehicles cost $15; $20 at the door. General admission is $5; free from children under age 13.

All cars, motorcycles and truck are welcome this year. Awards will be given in multiple categories.

There will be a 50/50 raffle and drawing prizes. Sound City Music will provide the tines and there will be food options on site.

Sarah Edwards, the former driver of Queen of Diamonds II jet dragster, is the guest of honor. She will be available for autographs and photo ops.

For more information, visit jmwrighttechpfo.org, email info@jmwrighttechpfo.org or call 203-973-7456. The rain date is June 2.

NORTH STAMFORD

The Stamford Chorale will present Music for a Sunday Afternoon on May 19 at 4 p.m. at St. Francis Episcopal Church, 2810 Long Ridge Road.

The concert will include the works of Brahms and Verdi, selections from the Great American Songbook and traditional spirituals.

Eric Trudel is the director of the community chorus, which is celebrating its 70th year. Cihan Yucel is the pianist and Charles Widmer will be the tenor soloist.

The nonprofit group receives funding from Stamfords Community Arts Partnership Program.

Tickets are $20. A reception will follow the concert.

For more information, email thestamfordchorale@gmail.com , call 203-359-0659 , or visit thestamfordchorale.org.

NEWFIELD

The Academy of Information Technology won GreatSchools 2019 College Success Award along with 41 other high schools in Connecticut.

The award, given by the national nonprofit GreatSchools, honored 1,722 schools across 25 states this year that have have a successful track record of graduating students who later enroll in two or four-year college. The award also celebrates high schools that produce students who are prepared for college-level coursework and continue on to their second year of college.

AITE was the only Stamford school to receive the award. Nearby Darien High School and Greenwich High School were also named.
NEWTOWN  A new book by the trauma team leader who guided the Sandy Hook response says every town needs a mental health recovery plan like the one built here in the upheaval of grief.

Its a road map that outlines the lessons we learned with the takeaway that in the wake of so many tragedies, Sandy Hook gives us a better understanding of whats important to focus on, said Melissa Glaser, a psychotherapist whose new book, Healing a Community, recounts the 21 months that she directed the federally funded Newtown Recovery and Resiliency Team.

The book, which identifies the complications and institutional barriers that set back recovery and multiplied Newtowns trauma over the slaying of 26 first-graders and educators at Sandy Hook School, comes at a time of heightened awareness about the deep reaches of mass shootings on communities.

The high-profile suicide of a Sandy Hook father who lost his daughter in the 2012 massacre, and the suicides of two teenagers who attended the Florida high school where 17 students and staff were killed in 2018, made national headlines last week.

The suicide of Jeremy Richman ended the story of a man who had turned his grief into good by advancing research about the roots of violence in the brain. His wife, Jennifer Hensel, said he succumbed to a grief he could not escape.

Glasers book, which is written for clinicians, also comes at a time when local leaders are assessing the recovery effort in Newtown, where a four-person center for townwide health and wellness was established after federal funding ran out for Glasers trauma team in 2016.

Nelba Marquez-Greene, whose daughter was among the children murdered at Sandy Hook School, said last week that well-meaning people still dont understand the depth of grief families of loss suffer in Sandy Hook.

Everyone wants so desperately for you to be okay  that you can never, ever say youre not, Marquez-Greene tweeted. This culture is grief averse and our victim support service structure sucks.

Newtowns top elected leader said a community wellness survey is being conducted to gauge where mental health services are working and where more resources are needed.

The town also is interviewing candidates for a new administrator, whose duties will include overseeing the Newtown Center for Support and Wellness, which replaced the federal trauma team.

Newtowns wellness

The successor agency we have now took some of the lessons we learned from the recovery and resiliency team, said Dan Rosenthal, Newtowns First Selectman. But we are always in the business of constant improvement because people change, and because if we ever said there was nothing more we could do, that would be frightening.

Glasers book, which came out in mid-February, treats the lessons learned here as cautionary tales in the hope that other communities confronting a tragedy can anticipate the obstacles and maximize recovery.

Among the biggest obstacles Glaser discusses are complications caused by media scrutiny, the young age of the victims, the brutality of the crime, the polarity of the political debate about guns, and conspiracy extremists.

Glaser also revisits the pain, anger and despair that the massacre brought to Newtown, while documenting the healing, compassion and hope families embraced, in part because of the six-member trauma team.

In doing so, Glaser had to balance the need to obscure certain details to preserve confidentiality with the need to reveal as much detail as possible to be a useful case study that other communities could duplicate.

We were very careful not to expose anybody, Glaser said of the risk she took by writing the book. We knew there was a lot of valuable information that was important to share.

Pat Llodra, the former First Selectman, who led the towns recovery before, during and after the trauma teams work in Newtown, said she had only read excerpts from Glasers book.

This was unchartered territory and trauma with deep emotional pain, Llodra said last week. Mrs. Glaser brought skills and professionalism to the work of the recovery and resiliency team, and I will be forever grateful to her for the efforts she put forth for our town.

A case study

Glasers book devotes nearly a whole chapter to describing the effect local politics had on the trauma teams effort to reach as many of Newtowns 28,000 people as possible with the message that help was available.

Glaser did so, she said, not to point fingers and even less to suggest that political leaders were willfully resisting professional help. Rather, Glaser said, her intent was to prevent leaders in other communities unfortunate enough to be in a situation such as Newtowns from needlessly setting back treatment efforts by setting unreasonable timetables for recovery.

Leaders need to build trauma recovery plans that last 10 to 15 years, Glaser said. Leaders also need to understand what recovery looks like, she said.

Recovery from a complicated trauma such as Sandy Hook is not a return to normal, Glaser writes, but a return to life that is not dominated by post-traumatic stress symptoms.

Glaser notes school administrators in Newtown were slow to recognize the need teachers had for more recovery services than they were being offered.

Mary Ann Jacob, who was an assistant librarian the day the gunman shot his way into Sandy Hook School, agreed with Glasers assessment.

Services were blocked for us by people who were not in the building that day, Jacob said. (Administrators) had an obligation to engage the people in the building and find out our needs, and they dropped the ball.

Teachers did eventually receive extra services, at the urging of Glaser.

Llodra said Newtowns administration put great heart in trying to respond to the many challenges and issues that arose through the trauma.

One benefit of retrospective vision is acknowledging that some other decisions and choices could have been made which might have better served the recovery process, Llodra said.

Glasers book follows similar efforts by leaders in town to distill lessons from the Sandy Hook massacre to make classrooms safer and to manage post-traumatic stress in police departments after mass shootings.

Former schools Superintendent Joe Erardi delivered a report to the state in 2016, for example, that called for better early identification of students with mental illness and for social and emotional learning curriculum.

Similarly, former police Chief Michael Kehoe contributed to a 2016 U.S. Department of Justice manual about lessons from the Sandy Hook massacre called Preparing for the Unimaginable.

Glaser said she hopes no one in charge of recovery after a community tragedy has to face her dilemma again.

I didnt have a roadmap, she said. There was nothing to help me.

rryser@newstimes.com 203-731-3342
Westhill High School's students in the Agriscience program held their annual Dog Wash fundraiser on May 11, 2019 at the schools Agricultural Science and Technology Education (ASTE) Center in Stamford, Connecticut.

Students in the school's program were able get first hand experience on pet care and grooming techniques on furry clients. Students bath, trim nails, cleaned ears and blow dry about a dozen dogs of all sizes during the event.
As a candidate, Gov. Ella T. Grasso was always just Ella.

Neighbors, pols, relatives and former aides of Ella T. Grasso dotted the room. At a folding table in the back sat her old paper boy, Carl Schiessl, the kid who grew up to take her seat in the Legislature. The former newsboy and state lawmaker left elective politics 20 years ago, a reminder of how quickly time passes and memories fade.

It was a modest party for Grasso on Friday, the 100th anniversary of her birth. Held in the Old Judiciary Room of the State Capitol, about half the attendees were from Windsor Locks, the factory town on the Connecticut River where her immigrant parents settled and she was born, three months after the end of World War I.

None of the governors who followed Grasso attended. Neither did the leaders of the General Assembly, the Democratic state chair or, for the most part, the latest generation of women to walk in her footsteps. The author of a Grasso biography, Lt. Gov. Susan Bysiewicz, presided, rightfully holding up Grasso as a trailblazer.

She was twice elected governor, resigning in her second term.

Grasso was the first woman elected governor of any state without following a spouse into office and only one of 13 women in Congress during her first term in Washington. But the trail she blazed has proven surprisingly hard to follow, even in Connecticut.

Bysiewicz read the current statistics, all improvements from Grassos time, but still underwhelming: Today, nine of the 50 governors are women, 102 of 435 members of the U.S. House, 25 of 100 U.S. senators, and 27 percent of the Connecticut General Assembly.

She was a woman ahead of her time, said Susanne Grasso, her daughter.

Dying from ovarian cancer, Grasso resigned as governor on Dec. 31, 1980.

Grasso was a touchstone for women in politics  and reporters writing about the opportunities and challenges for them. Bysiewicz read aloud an answer she gave when asked about the prospect of her or any woman being elected to the White House.

I will not be president, because I do not aspire be president, Grasso said. But I am sure that a woman will be president. When, I dont know. It depends. I dont think the woods are full of candidates.

Hillary Clinton lost the presidential race in 2016. But by Bysiewiczs count, six of the 22 Democrats looking at the Democratic nomination for 2020 are women.

Barbara Kennelly, a success as a member of the U.S. House and a failure as a candidate for governor, told the gathering there was much to celebrate in the life of Grasso, a protege of Kennellys father, John M. Bailey.

But later, she acknowledged seeing little to celebrate in the numbers recited by Bysiewicz.

One hundred and two, woo hoo, Kennelly said sarcastically of the number of women in the House, where Kennelly held significant leadership posts.

Kennelly ran for governor in 1998, becoming the first woman nominated for governor by the Democrats since Grasso. She lost to John G. Rowland, a Republican whose resignation in 2004 made Lt. Gov. M. Jodi Rell governor. Rell was elected to a full term in 2006.

Bysiewicz explored a run for governor last year, opting instead to become Lamonts running mate. She is now one of 15 women holding the office of lieutenant governor in the U.S.

Grasso was elected to the General Assembly in 1952, as secretary of the state in 1958, and to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1970 before winning her first gubernatorial race in the post-Watergate election of 1974, a good year to be a Democrat.

Educated at Mount Holyoke College, one of the prestigious Seven Sisters for women shut out of the Ivy League, Grasso played well in the mens club of 1950s and 60s politics, cussing with the best, seeing and seizing opportunities. Her status as a woman seeking the governors office was so novel that she won the endorsement of pro-choice Democrats, even though Grasso opposed abortion.

State Sen. John A. Kissel, R-Enfield, a lawyer who represents Windsor Locks and has long been the top Republican on the Judiciary Committee, said an overlooked element of Grassos legacy was her disregard for the seniority ladder that men had long climbed through the trial courts to the state Supreme Court.

In 1978, Grasso nominated Ellen Ash Peters, a Yale law professor, to the Supreme Court. Never again would a governor rigidly look at seniority as a qualification for the high court. Grassos successor, William A. ONeill, would elevate Peters to chief justice.

At the back of the room Friday, there was sheet cake and political memorabilia, all of it branded as Ella.

Ella. She makes a difference.

Were proud of Ella.

Ella works harder.

On an aerial tour of the state after a crippling blizzard in 1978, Grasso saw one word cry for help carved in the snow: E-L-L-A.

One of the radio reporters in a trailing helicopter was Bernard Kavaler, who later became an aide to Lt. Gov. Joseph J. Fauliso, among others. When they landed, Kavaler coaxed Grasso over to a pay phone, the only way she could speak live to an audience on WPOP-AM, the all-news station that employed Kavaler.

Kavaler was in the audience Friday. So was Grassos old press secretary, Larrye deBear, and a few other former aides, and a large contingent from Windsor Locks. When Kissel asked how many were from Grassos hometown, hands shot up and Kissel smiled to see so many constituents.

U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal said he saw an audience composed of people from different places and different eras, all sharing memories of Grasso, some more colorful than others. He told a story about driving to work in the blizzard of 1978, disregarding Grassos order for everyone to stay off the highways.

About noontime, the phone rang. And as youve probably heard, Ella Grasso was accustomed to making her own phone calls. She was on the other end of the line and proceeded to berate me, Blumenthal said. Smiling broadly, he added, In the strongest possible words. Im not going to repeat.
When a radical plan to replace the states income tax with a payroll tax landed in Gov. Ned Lamonts office earlier this week, his staff set to work vetting the idea.

But even with the Capitol abuzz with the possibility, its unlikely to go anywhere during this legislative session with less than a month remaining, several other major proposals on the table and a growing list of questions  but not answers  about what such a drastic change in the states tax structure would mean for Connecticut residents.

(President Donald) Trumps tax bill, where you cant deduct state and local taxes, is costing us billions of dollars so were trying to find ways to get some of that money back from the feds, Lamont said following a press conference on infrastructure improvement in Hartford Friday morning. Its a big complicated bill. I appreciate the intent behind it. Were going to have to study this really hard. We cant rush it into this cycle.

Even so, key members of the governors policy team, the states Office of Policy and Management and the Department of Revenue Services are in the process of vetting the idea, and legislative leaders are discussing the issue with the tax-writing Finance, Revenue and Bonding Committee and plan to meet to discuss the proposal further on Monday.

The plan, written by the nonpartisan Connecticut School Finance Project and first reported by Hearst Connecticut Media, would replace most of the state income tax with a payroll tax, creating a new way to raise capital for the state and providing most of Connecticuts taxpayers with a break on their federal taxes. While it sounds easy enough, the list of hurdles is long and would likely involve long conversations with the federal government as the plan is essentially a way around the $10,000 cap on a widely utilized personal income tax deduction for state and local taxes known as SALT. And those conversations take time.

Obviously it involves a whole change in the way we collect revenue, said state Senate President Pro Tempore Martin Looney. It sounds promising as a way to help reduce peoples federal taxes as well by reducing income by 5 percent and replace it for many employees. Proponents claim it would be a tax cut for everyone, in theory.

He said that consequences would include 5 percent reductions in Medicaid and Social Security payments. Plus, negotiated union contracts would have to receive support by public-employee groups.

You just cant reduce a union contract by 5 percent. These are complex questions.

Jared Walczak, a senior policy analyst at the Tax Foundation, a D.C.-based nonpartisan think tank, said the plan is worth considering because no state has ever done it before, but cautioned Connecticut leaders on the risks involved  especially what would happen if the SALT cap is ever lifted or expires.

Payroll taxes are common, but no one has ever done a high rate payroll tax as an alternative to an income tax before, Walczak said. Theres a first time for everything, including good ideas. But this is a major overhaul that is primarily being driven by the goal of federal tax avoidance. Its a risky proposition unless they can dot all their Is and cross all their Ts and it doesnt seem like theyre there.

New York state launched an optional payroll tax, but Walczak said the only businesses to opt in have been small operations with exclusively high-income earners like hedge funds and law firms, where its easier to get a small group of people to understand the complexities of cutting their gross salary in order to gain an overall tax cut.

Sen. James Maroney, D-Milford, a member of the Finance, Revenue and Bonding Committee, said he too thinks the idea merits discussion, but as the self-employed founder of Milford-based First Choice College Placement his list of questions is long. It is unclear how the payroll tax would be administered for Connecticut residents who are self-employed.

It would depend on the way youre self-employed because if you are paying the pass-through entity tax, which the state created in the last budget to help alleviate the impact of the SALT, you may not then be subject to the payroll tax, he said. But I need to check on that.

After meeting with the Connecticut School Finance Project earlier in the session, Maroney sent the proposal to his father, a retired accounting professor. Maroneys father sent his son questions about the idea, which the senator passed on to the nonprofit.

I think our state has been definitely impacted by the elimination of the SALT deduction and so we are looking for ways to help alleviate that burden on our residents, Maroney said. If it works, its a win-win, where it will help the state and it will give a tax break to residents.

Another member of the Finance, Revenue and Bonding Committee, Steve Meskers, D-Greenwich, said the proposal to move to a partial payroll tax seems to be a very good one. He believes the residents of Greenwich and Fairfield County would appreciate the change because they were hit hard by the change in the SALT cap. Although some of the very wealthy residents in his district would be paying more to the state under this proposal, he believes those constituents would still support it because they would see a net tax savings due to reductions in their federal tax burden.

But Meskers, like other lawmakers, has questions about how the proposal would work: he wants feedback on the idea from municipalities and the states biggest employers. He wonders how it would affect people who live in Connecticut and work in another state or vice versa.

I think I would prefer to see a tax break than no tax break, he said.

kkrasselt@hearstmediact.com; 203-842-2563; @kaitlynkrasselt
An American Airlines pilot was arrested at the Louisville International Airport on Saturday in connection with a 2015 triple murder in Kentucky.

Christian Richard Martin was indicted in the killings of Calvin Phillips, Pamela Phillips and Edward Dansereau in Pembroke, Kentucky.

Calvin Phillips was found shot to death inside his home in November 2015. His wife, Pamela, and their neighbor, Dansereau, were found dead in a nearby cornfield inside a burned-up car.

Officials said Martin left Kentucky following the murders and was living in North Carolina at the time of the indictment.

The victims' family members released the following statement:

"Nov. 18, 2015, Cal Phillips, Pam Phillips and Ed Dansereau were brutally extinguished beyond recognition from family. Every day, we are haunted by what was done to them and haunted further that someone was still free to do as they wish, beyond the civility of mankind or laws of our nation. We are overwhelmed with this positive step towards resolution for people we love dearly; Cal and Pam Phillips and Ed Dansereau, and the hundreds of friends, family, neighbors, coworkers and others deeply affected by their brutal end. We look forward to justice in court, and we look forward to a verdict to bring an end to this terror, and a fresh start at healing."

A special prosecutor was assigned to the case after Attorney General Andy Beshear met with the family's son, Matt, who was concerned the case had stalled.

"I hope this is a day that brings some justice to these families," Beshear said. "There are many steps from here, but we hope this is one example of when you never stop seeking justice, when you never give up, that we can truly get important results for these families."

A spokesperson with American Airlines released a statement regarding the arrest:

All of us at American Airlines and PSA Airlines are deeply saddened to have learned about these allegations from 2015. Our team was made aware of the indictment this morning after his arrest at Louisville International Airport. We have an unwavering commitment to the safety and security of our customers and team members, and we will provide any investigative assistance possible to law enforcement throughout their investigation.

The spokesperson confirmed Martin had worked for PSA Airlines as a Bombardier CRJ First Officer since January 2018. He has been placed on administrative suspension pending the outcome of the investigation, which includes the suspension of all travel privileges.

Martin was charged with three counts of murder, arson, attempted arson, burglary and tampering with physical evidence.

Martin was being held in the Christian County Detention Center.
United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut John H. Durham indicted former New Haven resident Gary Joseph Gravelle, also known as Roland Prejean, for numerous malicious incidents of intimidation that mentioned use of explosives and bio-toxins, and for threatening to kill President Donald Trump, according to a release from the Department of Justice.

According to the indictment, 51-year-old Gravelle has identified as a member of the white separate organization American Knights of Anarchy, or AKA.

The indictment charges Gravelle with 16 counts, variously, of maliciously conveying false information about explosives, false information and hoax as well as threats to the president. The threats impacted communities across Connecticut, including New Haven, Groton, Hartford and Old Saybrook, and the cities of Seattle, Wash., and Burlington, Vt.

Per the indictment, the crimes took place in September 2018, when Gravelle sent out a series of emails and made phone calls threatening to detonate bombs at several New Haven locations, including the Fellowship Place (called Fellowship House in the document), the Continuum of Care and the Connecticut Mental Health Center. He made similar threats toward the Abraham A. Ribicoff Federal Building in Hartford, Old Saybrook Center, the First Bristol Federal Credit Union in Bristol, the Federal Detention Center, SeaTac, in Seattle and Burlington International Airport, the court document alleges.

Many individuals were victim to Gravelles bluffs, among them probation officers, a district judge and numerous employees at the aforementioned locations, according to the indictment.

During the same time period Gravelle also sent out letters containing a white powder he claimed was anthrax, incidents which the Register previously reported. One of them targeted the Middletown synagogue Congregation Adath Israel.

No injuries were reported in relation to the parcels, and at least two appeared to contain baby powder, the Associated Press reported on September 5.

The indictment details several of these cases: the Islamic Center of New London, located in Groton, received such a letter, which also held a piece of paper with the words You Die  and Anthrax is an acute infections disease caused by the spore-forming bacterium Bacillus anthracis , a category A agent.

Per the court document, Gravelle made a threat to President Trump that resembled the other anthrax scares: in his letter, he included a white powder and the words, I, Gary Gravelle, ... as a faithful soldier of the AKA, am coming to KILL Donald Trump ....

Authorities initially arrested Gravelle on charges of violating a federal supervised release, according to a release from last September stated. In July 2013, Gravelle was sentenced to 70 months in prison and three years of supervised release for mailing numerous threatening letters, the release said.

The latest charges could come with a century-long prison sentence, based on the maximum sentences cited in the new release.

According to the release, U.S. Attorney Durham stressed that an indictment is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

The release thanked numerous agencies for their help with the investigation.

The U.S. Attorney extends his appreciation to the U.S. Bureau of Prisons, Connecticut State Police, Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, and many local police and fire departments for their assistance in this matter that directly affected various communities, including departments from Bristol, Guilford, Groton, Hartford, Middletown, New Haven, Old Saybrook and Southington, Yale University, and Burlington, Vermont.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Peter S. Jongbloed is prosecuting the case, per the release.

meghan.friedmann@hearstmediact.com
When Jair Bolsonaro left the army under a cloud some 30 years ago, he staked his subsequent political career on his image as a former soldier who promised to restore order to Order and Progress, the slogan that military-minded Positivists emblazoned in 1889 on the national banner. Yet since he has ascended to the presidency, perhaps the most enduring paradox of the new Brazil is how the senior military men Bolsonaro has tapped for his Cabinet as symbols of respectability and political tensile strength are now in jeopardy of forfeiting both.

National polls rank the armed forces as Brazil's most trustworthy institution, trumping the judiciary, the media, private companies and political parties. Their aura only brightened during the recent serial corruption scandals that have sent dozens of crooked executives and politicians to jail. Bolsonaro parlayed the military's cachet into votes and then recruited its members for his Cabinet.

True, he picked mostly retired officers, but no one missed the message when he handed the keys to three- and four-star generals. Besides Vice President Hamilton Mourao, a retired four-star general, and the presidential spokesman, former or active military officers hold eight of 22 ministries, "more than in any other civilian government," said Getulio Vargas Foundation political scientist Octavio Amorim Neto. And that's not counting the environment ministry, where military officers hold 15 top jobs.

So omnipresent were the military, many analysts fretted for the country's tender democracy, which was rehabilitated just three decades ago. Brazil has had seven constitutions since the monarchy, and all but two of them reserved a specific role in national politics for the armed forces, says historian Jose Murilo de Caravalho, a scholar of the role of the military in Brazilian politics.

Happily, the fears proved overblown. "After 100 days of the new government, it's clear that the Armed Forces are not a threat to democracy," said Amorim. Paradoxically, the military has been a steadying influence on government, counterbalancing Bolsonaro's ideologues and ruling out armed adventures. Consider that Mourao and fellow Cabinet generals quashed talk vented by the United States of joining an invasion of Venezuela, and nixed transferring the Israeli embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, so reassuring Brazil's clients and allies in the Arab world. They also overruled government climate skeptics to ensure that Brazil remains in the Paris Agreement on climate change. The more credible menace, however, is to the military's own reputation.

When Bolsonaro took office in January, 62 percent of Brazilians surveyed favored the idea of a government marbled with career military officers. "Brazilians like the idea of a militarized government. It's the fantasy of law and order," said Amorim. "Besides, after leading peacekeeping missions in Haiti, the armed forces returned as national heroes." By last month, however, such public enthusiasm had fallen to 49 percent.

That tumble mirrors the 16 percent drop in overall approval for Bolsonaro's government. Overblown expectations are partly to blame, but so is the government's conspicuous underperformance. Despite talk of pivotal reforms and a free-market renaissance, Latin America's biggest economic engine is still running on fumes, with 13.5 million people jobless and industry at a standstill. The proposed overhaul of the money-gobbling pension system, the cornerstone of any recovery, is creeping along in Congress.What prosper instead are partisan hype, political intrigue and palace clashes. Together, they have corroded government authority and lit up social media. Key military ministers haven't helped by stooping to the occasion, dueling on Twitter with the president's three outspoken sons and Olavo de Carvalho, a scatological online philosophy teacher with a habit of trolling men in uniform. Their choice targets to date: Mourao and fellow retired general Carlos Alberto Santa Cruz, whose ministry coordinates government affairs. "Sack Santa Cruz" (#foraSantaCruz) was a Brazilian trend-beater on Twitter recently. Even former army commander Eduardo da Costa Villas Boas weighed in, saying Carvalho didn't deserve the attention, but then dedicating an entire interview to dressing him down as a "Trotsky of the right." Carvalho parried by calling Villas Boas, who suffers from a degenerative disease, a "sick man stuck in a wheelchair."

Some analysts see method in the penchant of Bolsonaro and his closest confederates for rhetorical mayhem. He won the presidency by energizing Brazil's closet conservatives fed up with talk of gender equality, racism, rights for gay and human rights. "If he suddenly turns into a moderate and pushes pension system or tax reform, he loses traction," Political scientist Fernando Schuler, of the Sao Paulo business school Insper, told me.

Far better, Schuler says, to distract the rightwing voter base with the culture wars-tweeting about golden showers during Carnival or supposed leftist ideology in the classroom-while the technocrats push the wonk's agenda and the military ministers play the adults in the room. "Theatrics and diversionary tactics are a specialty of populist leaders and Bolsonaro is no different," Schuler said.

Perhaps so, yet guerrilla politics make for dicey government, and can provoke reputational backlash. Last week, Bolsonaro decided to cancel his trip to New York after several institutions, citing his objectionable politics, withdrew their offer to host a Brazilian-American Chamber of Commerce soiree, where he would have been guest of honor.

The fallout could be especially onerous for the Brazilian military. "Since the return of democracy, the military returned to the barracks, concentrated on becoming a professional fighting force, and until very recently steered clear of political debate," said the historian Carvalho. "I thought we'd settled all that." And yet as Brazil lurches from controversy to controversy, the pull of the political arena only grows.

There's a precedent for leaning in. In the 19th century, when Brazil was a constitutional monarchy, the ruling emperors assumed the mantle of the nation's "moderating power," who had ascendancy over and settled disputes among the judiciary, legislators and governors. The armed forces fancied themselves ever since as moderators in uniform, definitively stepping back only after the 1988 constitution restored electoral democracy.

It took a massive corruption scandal which peaked under back-to-back leftist governments-the last of which sponsored a truth commission into unspoken military misdeeds-to draw the brass back over the political red line. When Bolsonaro emerged, they were primed to reclaim a place in power, where they remain vigilant.

"We stand with you, win or lose, but not to sink," one former general recently told Bolsonaro in a private meeting of senior military advisers, the political newsletter Tag Report wrote. The warning was hard to miss. "The armed forces are aware of the risk of a failed government," said Amorim. "That could have consequences, including that of taking a more central role in politics."

No one is predicting a return to martial rule. Yet as the Bolsonaro government struggles, the military's presence in government-"mission creep," as Amorim puts it-is already growing. For now, constitutional democracy is likely to emerge unsmirched. The Brazilian men and women in olive green should be so lucky.

- - -

Margolis is a Bloomberg Opinion columnist covering Latin and South America. He was a reporter for Newsweek and is the author of "The Last New World: The Conquest of the Amazon Frontier."
About one year after students across America walked out of school to protest gun violence, the Connecticut Supreme Court dealt a stunning blow to the gun industry by ruling that families of those killed at Sandy Hook Elementary School could proceed with a lawsuit against Remington, the company that made the gun used to kill their loved ones.

The families argue that Remington violated Connecticuts unfair trade practices act with an unlawful marketing campaign to sell civilians assault weapons the company promoted for offensive, military-style missions, lauding their military-proven performance and touting them as the ultimate combat weapons system.

It remains to be seen whether a jury will ultimately agree that such ads helped prompt the Sandy Hook shooter to use the weapon for the purpose it was designed for  killing large numbers of people in a short amount of time. But, crucially, the decision means the families can have their day in court and a chance to persuade a jury. Thats how our civil justice system works when it comes to unscrupulous marketing  whether its guns or tobacco and drug companies lying about whether cigarettes or opioids are addictive.

Given the toll of gun violence in America  nearly 40,000 deaths and more than 100,000 non-fatal shootings per year  scrutiny of gun industry advertising and the role it plays in fueling that violence is welcome. And its not without precedent.

During the 1990s, as the industry promoted irresponsible and dangerous conduct that put kids at risk, academics and advocates petitioned the Federal Trade Commission to intervene. One egregious ad from Beretta that caught their ire depicted an unlocked pistol on a bedside table, next to a photo of a mom and two kids, and urged gun buyers to Tip the odds in your favor. Other similar ads also depicted unlocked guns in the nightstand, despite the clear danger to children when loaded guns are left unattended. The complaints to the FTC got the industrys attention and curbed the most egregious ads promoting irresponsible gun storage.

But questionable advertising tactics continue today, and before the Connecticut Supreme Courts decision, the industry showed all signs of believing it could operate with impunity. Besides selling the tacti-cool vision of civilians aping military combat techniques, the industry touts guns as the simple  and only  solution for safety in a dangerous world. These ads suggest that if someone just buys the right gun and ammo, she can protect herself and her family, at home or on the go, just as well as an army ranger or experienced police officer.

Notably absent from gun industry ads is any information about the challenges of using a gun for self-defense under the stressful conditions of armed confrontation  challenges that can lead even trained law enforcement in gunfights to miss their mark more than 80 percent of the time. And nowhere to be found in gun industry ads are acknowledgments of well-established social science showing that the presence of a gun in the home is associated with significantly increased risks of suicide, intimate partner homicide and unintentional shooting.

Omitting this data from advertisements promotes the industrys bottom line, which depends on convincing more people to buy and carry guns, and to believe that firearms in the home make it more safe, not less. That social science disproves the industrys big lie is evidently not enough. A generation ago more than half of all Americans believed having a gun in the home made it less safe, but today more than 60 percent of Americans believe guns make a home safer  twice as many as think they increase risk.

Parallel to the misinformation campaign it wages with misleading ads are the gun industrys efforts to block research that shows the truth about gun violence. After a landmark 1993 study found that having a handgun in the home tripled the risk that someone would be killed there, the gun lobby scrambled to scuttle further research and convinced Congress to enact restrictions on gun research that have blocked federal research for more than two decades.

Fortunately, an unprecedented coalition of doctors and public health experts has teamed up this year in a concerted push to provide meaningful federal support for gun violence research. And the state Supreme Court decision opened the door to using our civil justice system to police the worst abuses in firearm marketing and the most deceptive gun advertisements.

The gun lobbys survival rides on promoting the illusion that our safety depends on carrying guns wherever we go, and keeping unlocked, loaded guns at the ready in our homes. Now, regulators and victims of gun violence have a tool to hold gun companies accountable when they promote those myths through unethical, illegal advertising. Its time to hold the gun industry accountable for its lies.

Adam Skaggs is chief counsel at Giffords Law Center to Prevent Gun Violence, which urged the Connecticut Supreme Court to allow the families false advertising claims to proceed.
I f you thought a flight to Istanbul was the only route to a traditional Turkish hammam, put down your passport. Because the UK town of Harrogate is home to one of the best-preserved original Victorian Turkish Baths in the world, and you can get the full steam-cleaning spa treatment from as little as 19.

Turkish steam baths  AKA hammams  peaked in popularity in the UK back in Victorian times, when Harrogates vast baths complex was built. The towns springs had marked it out as a must-visit spa destination several centuries before that, but it was the opening of The Turkish Baths in 1897 that really sealed the deal.

With hydrotherapy pools, peat baths and even resident doctors on-hand to cure all sorts of ailments, the complex drew spa-seeking visitors from far and wide  including a long list of Royals. Fast-forward to 2019, and its one of just seven remaining 19th-century baths that have survived the passing centuries. Three of those are in the UK, but Harrogates is easily the most complete and fully functioning.

The pristine conditions on show today are thanks to several cash injections and some painstaking restoration work. The baths underwent a 1 million refurbishment in 2004, when the buildings incredible interiors were revealed and restored from beneath layers of uninspiring plasterboard. The baths received a further 300,000 investment from Harrogate Borough Council last summer, which means now is a great time to go.

Its the interior that hits you  followed by the steam  when you first step foot inside the grand complex on Parliament Street. All Moorish arches, Italian terrazzo and mosaic floors, and colourful glazed brickwork, its simultaneously like stepping back in time and stepping into somewhere altogether more exotic than Harrogate. Youre given a couple of towels as you go in, and once youve switched into swimwear in the old-school Victorian changing rooms (bring a pound for the lockers), a member of staff explains how everything works.

The key is to see the experience as a stage-by-stage process  a multi-level ritual designed to heat, cool, cleanse and repeat. You can dip into the steam room and hot rooms for as long as you can bear the heat, then delve feet-first into the plunge pool to cool down before starting all over again. The whole process takes between 1.5 and 2 hours, and prices for a session start from 19 on weekdays. There are ladies-only sessions dotted throughout the timetable, and swimwear is optional at these.

Visit Harrogate

While the buildings charm lies in its authentic Victorian decor, the list of spa treatments is bang up to date. Signature treatments include Fit for a Queen and Fit for a King  a separate mens and womens back exfoliation and scrub finished with a prescriptive facial for 79. Theres also a list of NEOM treatments starting from 50, and a contemporary spa room to relax in, which you can book alongside a session in the baths for an extra 10.

The most popular choice with visitors, though, is the traditional hammam treatment  better known as an old-fashioned Turkish rub-down. For 15 minutes and 15 youre exfoliated from head to toe, then massaged into a soapy, foamy lather before everythings washed off. Teamed with an hour or so in the baths, itll leave you feeling squeaky clean and incredibly virtuous. You might even be able to resist the lure of afternoon tea at Bettys just up the road on your way out. But lets face it: its unlikely.

Visit Harrogate

Where to stay

If youre staying in Yorkshires most famous spa town and in the mood for more pampering, bed down at Rudding Park just outside of town. The hotel won Best New Spa in the UK in the Good Spa Guide 2017 thanks to its gorgeous rooftop spa and garden.
A 14-year-old boy has been rushed to hospital after being stabbed near a primary school in north-east London.

Police and paramedics were called at about 4.10pm on Saturday to reports of a stabbing in Walthamstow.

An air ambulance was also scrambled to North Countess Road, a short distance from Roger Ascham Primary School.

They found a boy, believed to be 14, at the scene. He was taken to an east London hospital.

A spokesman for Scotland Yard said his condition was not life-threatening.

A crime scene was put in place and there have been no arrests.
P olice have launched an investigation after a man's body was found in a wheelie bin behind a Waitrose supermarket in north London.

Photos posted on social media show a blue and white forensic tent at the scene in Tollington Road, Islington, after the discovery was made on Saturday afternoon.

Officers were called to the road, a short distance from the Emirates Stadium and Holloway Road Tube station, just before 4pm.

A crime scene remained in place on Sunday morning.

The death is being treated as unexplained, a Met Police spokeswoman said.

She told the Standard: Police were called to Tollington Road, Islington, shortly before 4pm on Saturday to reports of a man's body found in a wheelie bin. Officers attended.

"Road closures have been put in place at the scene.

Detectives are working to establish the man's identity.
T he mother of Ella Kissi-Debrah, who died of an asthma attack believed to be linked to air pollution, told a climate rally her daughter died a very horrible death.

Hundreds of mothers, fathers and families with babies and children took to the streets of central London to demand urgent action on climate change on Sunday.

Rosamund Kissi-Debrah, whose daughter died in 2013, told the crowds she was too heartbroken to be angry.

"If you deal with air pollution it means you will also deal with climate change.

"Everyone here needs to be bothered about the impact of air pollution.

Ella Kissi-Debrah, whose death was linked to unlawful levels of air pollution. / PA

"My daughter died a very, very horrible death.

"If you live near a main road you should be angry. I'm too heartbroken to be angry."

Crowds of protesters carrying banners, flags and placards marched from Hyde Park Corner to Parliament Square as part of the Mothers Rise Up march.

The rally was led by 11 11-year-olds to represent the 11-year window to act on the climate emergency and accompanied by three giant prams with large globes sitting inside them, two painted like the earth and another painted brown as if scorched.

Elliott Powell was one of the youngsters leading the march and told the crowds sitting in Parliament Square he did not believe he had a future right now.

Protesters hold up placards as they gather for a march calling for action to combat climate change organised by the climate campaign group Mothers Rise Up. / AFP/Getty Images

He added: "We need action now and it's really distressing because the Government isn't helping.

"We need to act now before it's too late."

TV presenter Konnie Huq, comedian Shappi Khorsandi and lawyer and activist Farhana Yamin also addressed the crowds at the rally.

Ms Huq told the crowds that the march had been organised by mothers in between changing nappies and dropping children off.

She added: "The reason we are here is because of the youth strikes - the young people have been putting us to shame and it's time for us adults to take responsibility."

Mothers Rise Up co-founder Catherine Webb told the crowds that after seeing the youth strikes she felt like parents were failing their children.

The mother-of-two warned that people were "sleepwalking towards a cliff with our babies in our arms".

She added: "We want what every mother, what every parent, wants: we want what's best for our kids."
N igel Farage angrily lashed out at the BBC today because he was grilled on his controversial previous statements on the NHS, climate change and foreigners rather than Brexit.

The Brexit Party leader branded the interview with Andrew Marr ludicrous and the most ridiculous interview of my life as he was asked if stood by the comments.

It comes after a poll suggested that his party would earn more votes than Labour and the Conservative Party combined in the upcoming European elections.

Mr Marr argued that Mr Farage should be scrutinised because he is an important figure who is trying to lead an insurgent party to try and replace the main parties.

Brexit Party leader Nigel Farage was not happy with Andrew Marr's line of questioning / REUTERS

He asked: Do you still want to replace the NHS with a private insurance system?

Mr Farage replied: I never did, I would like to take the burden off the NHS.

But the MEP quickly added that the interview was boring and questioned why they werent talking about the sea change currently occurring in British politics.

Despite this Mr Marr continued his line of questioning and brought up a series of other past remarks made by Mr Farage.

Nigel Farage was asked about a series of controversial statements he has made in the past / REUTERS

They included views that worrying about global warming would be the stupidest thing in human history; on legalising hand guns; on saying he felt uncomfortable hearing foreign languages on trains; on stopping people with HIV from coming to the UK; and on admiring Vladimir Putin.

Mr Farage said: "What is wrong with the BBC? Youre just not interested arent you?"

"This is absolutely ludicrous. Ive never in my life seen a more ridiculous interview than this," he said.

"You are not prepared to talk about what is going on in this country today.

"Youre in denial, the BBCs in denial, the Tory and Labour parties are in denial. I think youre in for a bigger surprise on Thursday week than you can even imagine."

Labours Jon Ashworth later attacked Mr Farage for dodging questions on his record and failing to put forward any manifesto.

The shadow heath secretary said: "Nigel Farage doesn't want to stand on his record, because his record is one of wanting to privatise the NHS, it's on big tax cuts for the very rich and penalising working people in this country.

Also Sunday mornings interview, Mr Farage argued that the Prime Minister "has wilfully deceived us" over Brexit.
T he shadow Brexit secretary has warned that without a second referendum, up to 150 Labour MPs would reject a Brexit deal.

Sir Keir Starmer said more than two-thirds of the party's 229 MPs could reject a deal in his first major interview since talks with the Government began almost five weeks ago.

Speaking to the Guardian ahead of another meeting on Monday, Sir Keir said he doubted any agreement that was not set to be ratified by a public vote would pass through Parliament.

"A significant number of Labour MPs, probably 120 if not 150, would not back a deal if it hasn't got a confirmatory vote," he said.

"If the point of the exercise is to get a sustainable majority, over several weeks or months of delivering on the implementation, you can't leave a confirmatory vote out of the package.

British-German musician Simon Wallfisch plays the cello outside the Houses of Parliament in London before his monthly musical performance to protest Britain's exit from the European Union. / AFP/Getty Images

"I've made it clear that at this stage, at this 11th hour, any deal that comes through from this Government ought to be subject to the lock of a confirmatory vote."

The issue of a confirmatory referendum has been an internal battleground within Labour ranks, with Sir Keir pushing for one but shadow business secretary Rebecca Long-Bailey, also part of the negotiating team, less keen.

But Sir Keir highlighted how the party lost 200 lost seats in this month's council elections, which he said were a sign Labour was losing the trust of Remain as well as Leave voters.

With less than two weeks before the European elections, the shadow Brexit secretary urged Labour Remainers tempted to vote for the Lib Dems or Change UK that only Jeremy Corbyn's party could deliver a fresh referendum.

"There is concern in leave areas about whether some of our voters might vote for other parties, but I think there is an increasing concern that some of the Labour Remain voters might not vote Labour," he said.

"It is very important that we learn those lessons."

Sir Keir, who was a human rights lawyer for 20 years, said he believed the European election was more than a proxy Brexit vote, but about the UK's values "of dignity, equality and non-discrimination".

"I did not think in my lifetime we'd actually be having an argument about those values," he said.

"It's really important we make the case that this is not the country of Nigel Farage and Tommy Robinson.

Nigel Farage's Brexit Party is slated to win 34% of the vote in European Parliament elections, according to new poll. / PA

"That intolerance and hatred and division is not representative of our country. If they win, that is what they are representing."

But talks are running out of time if any Brexit deal is to be agreed without UK MEPs having to take their seats in Brussels, and Theresa May is also under pressure from Tory MPs to reveal this week when she will quit.

Brexit "cannot be divorced" from the Tory leadership battle, he said, suggesting Mrs May could not set a date without making things "even more tight".

Sir Keir said he would not be afraid to pull the plug on talks as early as this week if Mrs May did not budge on her red lines, saying "I do think we do probably in the coming days need to make that assessment".

On Sunday, Gavin Williamson described Mrs May's Brexit talks with Labour as a "grave mistake".

The former defence secretary, who was sacked over the Huawei leak, said pressing ahead with the talks will have "fatal" consequences.

Writing in the Mail on Sunday, he labelled Mrs May as "politically naive" for going into fruitless negotiations which he claimed were bound to fail.

The former Cabinet minister had estimated there were "up to 80" Labour rebels who want another referendum and predicted a "number of defeats".

Urging Mrs May to ditch talks, he said: "The Prime Minister needs to recognise that futile efforts to pull off this Labour deal are damaging us all.

"It is a grave mistake for any Prime Minister to fail to recognise when a plan will not work and it is fatal to press on regardless.
T wo boats carrying 26 suspected migrants - including eight children - have been rescued off the coast of Kent.

Border Force was alerted by a fishing vessel to one boat that was carrying 14 people - three men, three women and eight children - in the early hours of Sunday morning.

A second small boat carrying 12 adults and heading towards Folkstone was also later intercepted by Border Force officials.

Both groups of people were transported to Dover and both incidents were caught on camera.

Two incidents in which boats carrying suspected migrants were intercepted on Sunday were caught on camera. / Sky News

Fisherman David Catt, who witnessed the rescue, told Sky News: "We were heading out into the Channel to go fishing when we spotted a small vessel in the distance.

"When we got closer we could see there were about five adults and eight children in there - some of them couldn't have been more than two years old.

"It's a nice sunny day and conditions are calm, so it would have been a good time to make the crossing. But it's still very cold out there and the poor children were soaked through and so cold.

The people on board the boats presented themselves as Iraqi and Iranian nationals.

They were medically checked and four people were transferred to hospital.

The others will now be interviewed by immigration officers.

A Home Offices spokeswoman said: Anyone crossing the Channel in a small boat is taking a huge risk with their life and the lives of their children.

Since the Home Secretary declared a major incident in December we have agreed a joint action plan with France and increased activity out of the Joint Coordination and Information Centre in Calais.
T he Duchess of Sussex has posted an adorable photo to Instagram to celebrate her first Mothers Day with son Archie.

The image of Los Angeles-raised Meghan holding her sons feet was shared on the royal couples account on the American date for festivities.

It was captioned: "Paying tribute to all mothers today, past, present, mothers-to-be, and those lost but forever remembered.

"We honour and celebrate each and every one of you."

It continued: This is the first Mothers Day for the Duchess of Sussex.

Quote from lands: my mother was my first country; the first place I ever lived.

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

While Mother's Day is celebrated in the UK in March, it was held on Sunday in the States, as well as in Canada, New Zealand, Australia, South Africa, Kenya and Japan.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex's first son, who is seventh in line to the throne, was born weighing 7lb 3oz on Monday.
M eghan Markles estranged half-sister Samantha has begged the duchess to let the pair's father visit baby Archie, saying being excluded is like a dagger through the heart.

In an interview with The Mirror, Samantha said Thomas Markle was left saddened when the first pictures of Meghan and Prince Harrys son were revealed to the world last week.

She said she excitedly called him up after the first family pictures were released but that it was "a sad moment for him".

He should have been involved, she said. Being excluded is like a dagger through his heart.

And poor Master Archie is not getting to know a creative, loving person.

The Queen and Prince Philip are introduced to Archie as Meghan's mum Doria Ragland looks on (Chris Allerton/SussexRoyal ) / Chris Allerton/SussexRoyal

Meghan's mother Doria Ragland was pictured with the royal couple as they introduced Archie to the Queen and Prince Phillip, and Samantha said she wished Ms Ragland had stepped in to make sure Mr Markle was there.

She could have said get your dad out here. But sadly there seemed to be a lack of effort, she said.

Royal baby: Harry and Meghan's son makes first appearance

Adding that she believed Archie has the Markle nose, she continued: I would like to say congratulations to Meghan on the birth, but also tell her that to have excluded dad is wrong.

He is a doting granddad and hes been great with all his other grandkids. He buys toys, plays creative games, hes funny and nurturing and communicative with them."

"[Archie] isn't just a Mountbatten-Windsor child, he's a Markle too, she said.

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

Mr Markle, 74, who has had a tumultuous relationship with Meghan, offered his congratulations to the royal couple on Monday after they announced the birth.

He told The Sun: I am proud that my new grandson is born into the British royal family and I am sure that he will grow up to serve the crown and the people of Britain with grace, dignity and honour.

God bless the child and I wish him health and happiness, and my congratulations to my lovely daughter Duchess Meghan and Prince Harry, and God Save the Queen.

Meghan Markle and Thomas Markle / PA/Reuters

Harry and Meghans first child, who is seventh in line to the throne, is Mr Markles sixth grandchild.
A plane was forced to make a dramatic emergency landing using only its rear wheels after the front landing gear failed to deploy.

The Myanmar National Airlines plane was attempting to land at Mandalay International Airport on Sunday when it encountered difficulties.

The plane touched down on its rear sets of wheels before the plane's nose tilted down to scrape the runway, sending off a shower of sparks as it slowed to a stop.

All 82 passengers and seven crew members aboard Flight UB103 from Yangon were declared safe.

A passenger records on her phone as firefighters attend to the scene at Mandalay International Airport / NAY MIN

Kyaw San, a spokesman for the airport, said the pilot informed the control tower before landing that he was unable to pull down the nose wheels.

A statement on the airline's Facebook page explained that the plane's EICAS - Engine Indicating and Crew Alerting System - indicated a failure of the front landing gear to deploy.

The pilot tried a backup emergency procedure to pull down the wheels but that was unsuccessful.

The aircraft did two fly-bys past the tower for air controllers to check visually whether the wheels had deployed.

Smoke enters the cabin as passengers wait to evacuate after Myanmar National Airlines flight UB103 landed without a front wheel / NAY MIN

The captain followed emergency procedures to dump fuel to reduce the landing weight, and made a safe landing at 9:09 a.m., said the statement.

Video apparently was shot by one of the passengers and posted online showed an urgent but orderly evacuation of the passengers and crew.

Passengers were seen walking away from the plane across the airfield, several of them smiling.

Flight operations at the airport were temporarily suspended, and allowed to resume after about 2 hours for smaller aircraft.
A ssassin drama Killing Eve dominated this years BAFTA TV Awards, picking up the coveted Best Drama Series gong.

Phoebe Waller-Bridges gripping series won three out of a possible six gongs, with Jodie Comer, who played Villanelle, crowned Best Actress.

A tearful Comer fought off competition from Keeley Hawes (Bodyguard), Ruth Wilson (Mrs Wilson) and her co-star Sandra Oh.

On collecting the gong she said: Wow thank you so much BAFTA. Im the only one who has turned on the water works. I want to thank Stephen Graham. If I didnt owe you a pint before, I do now.

Emotional: Actress Jodie Comer (James Veysey/BAFTA/Shutterstock) / Rex Features

She continued: I would love to dedicate this award to my nana Francis who sadly passed away the first week of filming so you never got to see Villanelle. She was the life and soul of everything.

Her co-star Fiona Shaw, who plays Carolyn Martens, also picked up her first BAFTA for Best Supporting Actress. Ben Whishaw won the male equivalent for his role in A Very English Scandal.

Benedict Cumberbatch was crowned Best Actor for his role as Patrick Melrose in the BBC series of the same name, which also scooped the award for Mini Series.

Award winners: Fiona Shaw, Phoebe Waller-Bridge and Jodie Comer (David Fisher/BAFTA/Shutterstock) / Rex Features

Im very used to being a bridesmaid  not the bride, Cumberbatch said. I breathe rarefied air because its a gift what we get to do as actors.

Id like to thank my wife Sophie and our family youre my rock.

Ant reluctantly comes on stage when I'm a Celebrity wins award

The BAFTA for Entertainment Programme was awarded to Britains Got Talent for the second year running, while Im A Celebrity Get Me Out of Here! received the Reality & Constructed Factual gong.

Ant McPartlin joined Declan Donnelly on stage to accept the awards, a move which angered some viewers who argued he should not have celebrated with the cast and crews of both shows following his one year hiatus from TV.

EastEnders was awarded the BAFTA for Soap & Continuing Drama while Bodyguard won the Virgin Must See Moments gong for the shock death of Julia Montague, played by Keeley Hawes.

Male Performance in a Comedy Programme went to Steve Pemberton for Inside No. 9 while Jessica Hynes took home the female equivalent for There She Goes. The BAFTA for Scripted Comedy was won by Sally4Ever.

Piers Morgan joked he was not happy with being snubbed twice in one night after Good Morning Britain lost out to Channel 4 in the News Coverage category.

The broadcaster tweeted a gif of Jack Nicholsons character in The Shining throwing pots and pans on the floor alongside the caption: We lost. In fact, we lost twice in the same category. But Im taking it really well.

Graham Norton returned to host the proceedings, and took a swipe at Danny Bakers recent firing from BBC Radio 5 Live.

BAFTA TV Awards 2019 red carpet: In Pictures 1 /57 BAFTA TV Awards 2019 red carpet: In Pictures Susanna Reid at the BAFTA TV Awards 2019 PA Jodie Comer winning Best Actress at the BAFTA TV Awards Rex Features This Morning's Holly Willoughby PA Jodie Comer and Benedict Cumberbatch with their Best Actress and Actor awards Getty Images Ant and Dec return to the BAFTA red carpet PA Leading Actress nominee Keeley Hawes PA Fiona Shaw, Phoebe Waller-Bridge and Jodie Comer Rex Features Ant McPartlin and Declan Donnelly Dave Benett Line of Duty's Martin Compston Dave Benett Fleabag creator Phoebe Waller-Bridge Dave Benett Red carpet presenter Clara Amfo Dave Benett Former Gogglebox star Scarlett Moffatt Dave Benett Red carpet presenter Jordan North Dave Benett Gareth Malone Dave Benett Red carpet presenters Clara Amfo and Jordan North Dave Benett The duo have received two nominations for Saturday Night Takeaway and Britain's Got Talent PA Leading Actor nominee Benedict Cumberbatch PA Sheridan Smith PA Konnie Huq and Charlie Brooker EPA Damien Lewis and Helen McCrory PA Lee Mack and Rob Brydon PA Bandersnatch star Will Poulter PA Britain's Got Talent judge David Walliams with mother Kathleen Getty Images This Country star and co-creator Daisy May Cooper PA Steve Coogan PA Fleabag star Andrew Scott PA Kayte Walsh and Kelsey Grammer PA Jodie Whittaker PA Suranne Jones PA The Great British Bake-Off's Prue Leith PA Billie Piper PA Line of Duty star Martin Compston PA Former TOWIE star Megan McKenna PA I'm A Celebrity runner-up Emily Atack PA Killing Eve showrunner and Fleabag creator Phoebe Waller-Bridge PA Leading Actress nominee Jodie Comer PA Good Morning Britain presenter Susanna Reid Getty Images Radio host Maya Jama PA Leading Actress nominee Ruth Wilson PA Strictly Come Dancing judge Shirley Ballas PA Marvin and Rochelle Humes PA Strictly Come Dancing presenters Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly Getty Images Matt and Luke Goss are nominated in the Factual Documentary category PA

Full list of winners:

Drama Series

Killing Eve, BBC1

Leading Actor

Benedict Cumberbatch, Patrick Melrose, Sky Atlantic

Leading Actress

Jodie Comer, Killing Eve, BBC1

Mini-Series

Patrick Melrose, Sky Atlantic

Comedy Entertainment Programme

A League of their Own, Sky One

Supporting actor

Ben Whishaw, A Very English Scandal, BBC1

Supporting actress

Fiona Shaw, Killing Eve, BBC1

International

Succession, Sky Atlantic

Live Event

Royal British Legion Festival of Remembrance, BBC1

Factual Series

Louis Therouxs Altered States, BBC2

Current Affairs

Myanmars Killing Fields (Dispatches), Channel 4

Short Form Programme

Missed Call, Real Stories

Single Drama

Killed By My Debt, BBC3

Single Documentary

Gun No. 6, BBC2

News Coverage

Cambridge Analytica Uncovered, Channel 4

Features

Who Do You Think You Are?, BBC1

Entertainment Programme

Britains Got Talent, ITV

Specialist Factual

Suffragettes with Lucy Worsley, BBC1

Scripted Comedy

Sally4Ever, Sky Atlantic

Male Performance in a Comedy Programme

Steve Pemberton, Inside No. 9, BBC2

Female Performance in a Comedy Programme

Jessica Hynes, There She Goes, BBC4

Special Award

Nicola Shindler

Reality & Constructed Factual

Im A Celebrity Get Me Out of Here!, ITV

Soap & Continuing Drama

EastEnders, BBC1

Sport

2018 World Cup Quarter Final: England v Sweden, BBC1

Virgin Medias Must-See Moment (voted for by the public)

Bodyguard  The bomb during Julia Montagues speech

Entertainment Performance

Lee Mack, Would I Lie To You?, BBC1

Bafta Fellowship
The two sides reached the consensus during a working session that forms part of a high-ranking VFF delegations working visit to Singapore from May 7th to 11th.

Vice President and Secretary General of the VFF Central Committee Hau A Lenh spoke highly of the PAs role in helping the Peoples Action Party to promote social consensus and in serving as a bridge linking the ruling party with people.

He noted the VFF values its cooperation with the PA, adding that the two organisations share many similarities in their operations and goals which include improving peoples living standards.

The working session between the Vietnam Fatherland Front delegation and representatives of the National Community Leadership Institute of Singapore on May 8th (Photo: VNA)

The official asked the PA to continue helping enhance the cooperation between Singaporean agencies and businesses and Vietnam in all spheres, especially defence, security, economy, trade, investment, and education-training. He also called for more coordination to organise exchanges and cooperation activities within the framework of ASEAN and other multilateral forums.

The over 12,000 Vietnamese people in Singapore have greatly contributed to local society and the two countries relations. Meanwhile, Vietnam has also become increasingly attractive to Singaporean investors.

Lenh asked the PA to help promote the provision of favourable conditions for the Vietnamese community in the country, adding that Vietnam will also ensure optimal conditions for Singaporean businesses activities.

For his part, PA Chief Executive Director Desmond Tan applauded the two organisations cooperation, saying that culture and arts are the most effective way to boost mutual understanding between the two peoples.

As culture is an important cooperation aspect, the two sides will increase sending arts troupes to each others festivals, including the Hue Festival of Vietnam or the Chingay Festival of Singapore, he noted.

At the session, the two sides agreed to organise annual delegation exchanges so as to share experience, step up cooperation in training community workers, and increase people-to-people exchanges, thus enhancing the countries friendship.

As part of the visit, the VFF delegation also paid a courtesy call to Sam Tan, Minister of State for Singapores Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Social and Family Development. They also visited the National Community Leadership Institute and outstanding community clubs of Singapore./.
Nicole R. Martinez, 30, was sentenced to five days jail and fined $50 on a charge of possession of marijuana.

Colby Mendoza Jr., 28, was fined $159 on a charge of driving under suspension and no valid registration.

Shani Gray, 49, was sentenced to 12 months probation, 18 months license revocation and fined $955 on a charge of driving under the influence.

March 8

Angelic M. Mendoza, 27, was fined $200 on a charge of licensing a vehicle without liability insurance.

Fiona Santos, 17, was fined $124 on a charge of no operators license

Angelia Cross, 28, was fined $250 on a charge of possession of an open container.

Fabian D. Lerma, 33, was fined $225 on charges of no valid registration and no proof of insurance.

March 12

Edgar Gurrola, 23, was sentenced to six months license revocation, 20 days jail and fined $625 on a charge of driving under the influence.

Darius L. Medina, 18, was sentenced to 7 days jail and fined $106.46 on two counts of criminal mischief.
SCOTTSBLUFF  Regional West Medical Center will join hospitals throughout the country in celebrating National Hospital Week, May 12 to 18. The theme this year is, Celebrating Hope and Healing.

National Hospital Week celebrates the hospitals, health systems, and the men and women who support the health and well-being of their communities. From providing treatment and comfort to the sick, to welcoming new life into the world, hospitals are central to a healthy and optimistic community.

National Hospital Week is a celebration of our health care team and their successes. This year we are celebrating our 95th anniversary, which is extra special, said John Mentgen, president and CEO of Regional West Health Services. Were extremely proud of each member of our health care team and recognize the important role they play in providing exceptional services to our patients and our communities. Our providers and staff concentrate on making a difference in the lives of the patients we are honored to serve. We are fortunate and appreciate having them as part of our health care team.

National Hospital Week dates back to 1921 when it was suggested by a magazine editor who hoped a community wide celebration would alleviate public fears about hospitals in the wake of the Spanish flu outbreak, which killed more than 600,000 Americans. The celebration succeeded in promoting trust and goodwill among members of the public and eventually spread to facilities across the country.

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On October 11, 2008, Wayne married his soulmate, Jessica Popkes at Erie, Colorado. They moved to Fort Drum, New York. Shortly after, he was deployed to Afghanistan while Jessica was expecting their first born child. Following his discharge they moved to Sioux Falls, South Dakota where they purchased their first home. They finally settled in Morrill, where their family continued to expand, to include their three additional much loved children. As a family they enjoyed camping and fishing with friends and loved ones. Movie and pizza night were a special time with the kids. Wayne and Jessica loved to travel and were always adding destinations to their bucket list. Anyone who knew them, knew their love was fierce and strong.
The road to a new budget is one step shorter now. On May 8, the Legislature opened debate on the seven bills that comprise the next biennium budget. This budget applies to two calendar years beginning on July 1 of this year and ending on June 30 of 2021.

Before the bills could go to the floor, it had to pass through many hands over the course of four months. Special thanks go to the other eight members of the Appropriations Committee, Committee Clerk Brittany Bohlmeyer, the Governors budget office led by Gerry Oligmueller, and the Fiscal Office of the Legislature. Without the hard work and late nights of everyone involved, the budget would not have come together. Now the rest of the Legislature will join us in the effort to fund several important priorities for the state.

After the budget proposal was completed by the Committee, it was advanced to General File on May 2. Currently, the budget is working its way through the three-step process that any bill goes through  General File, Select File and Final Reading. The budget is comprised of Legislative Bills 293 through 299. You can track the progress of these bills by going to the Nebraska Legislature website and searching for them in the bill search bar.
 Bobby Ray Duncan Jr., probation violation, 91 days active, credit for 14 days served; probation violation, 120 days active, credit for eight days served.

 Laronza Deyuan Hart, assault inflicting serious injury, credit for 84 days served.

The following cases were heard in Iredell County District Court on May 2 by Judge Dale Graham.

 Hunter Shalee Hyland, possession of marijuana paraphernalia consolidated with possession of marijuana up to  ounce, six months unsupervised probation

 Jessica Lynn Sterrett, misdemeanor probation violation, probation extended 24 months; probation violation, probation extended 24 months

 Crystal Lane Styers, probation violation, 15 days active, credit for 10 days served.

 Joseph Tiralli, misdemeanor larceny, 45 days suspended, 18 months supervised probation.

 Harvey S. Turner, misdemeanor probation violation, 60 days active, credit for 17 days served.

The following cases were heard in Iredell County District Court on May 3 by Judge Dale Graham.
May 12-18 is National Police Week. It is a time to celebrate those in our community who serve and protect us. It is a time to celebrate those who go to calls when others would be afraid to go. And it is a time to remember and honor those who have lost their lives doing just that.

We owe so much to those officers, those who respond to that call, go to that crime scene, conduct that traffic stop and put other peoples safety before their own. Heroes who work every day at a dangerous job and, at times, a thankless one.

I started writing this last Friday (May 3) because I thought it was important to remind people how important our law enforcement officers are to us and because I wanted to say thank you. It is now with a heavy heart that I continue to write it. Now one of our heroes has been taken away by a senseless act of violence. And he was not just one of our heroes, he was also a member of our law enforcement family. He was one of our own.

Officer Jordan Sheldon had been at the Mooresville Police Department for six years. He was 32 years old, and he had a K9 partner, Ramon. On Saturday, May 4, 2019, Officer Sheldon was gunned down during a traffic stop in Mooresville. Officer Sheldon died serving and protecting us. Officer Sheldon died a hero.
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Chairman of the National Liberal Party ( PNL, the Opposition, ed.n.) Ludovic Orban stated on Saturday that the organization of the Liberals' regional electoral rally in the Union Square in Iasi, around the statue of Prince Alexandru Ioan Cuza, was not randomly chosen as it has ample historical connotations but also because it is the place where the May 9 counter-manifestation took place, against the Social Democratic Party (PSD, major at rule, ed.n.) rally.

"Ceausescu's communists united the courageous young people who have ridden us of the communist regime by taking to the streets, the hooligans. Iliescu [former Romanian president, sent to court by the military prosecutors in the "December 1989 Revolution criminal file" for crimes against humanity, ed.n.]'s communists united the beautiful and free young people who came to the University Square, the golani [rascals, the name given to protesters by ruling party, ed.n.]. Dragnea [PSD leader, ed.n]'s communists called those who came to the rally on August 10 thugs and junkies. Dragnea's communists dared to come to Iasi and call the free people of Iasi who took to the streets again to protest against the misfortune brought upon Romania's head by this clique of lowlifes who is mocking Romania, punks," Ludovic Orban told the people who came on Saturday afternoon in the Union Square in Iasi at the electoral rally organized by PNL.With regard to the rally organized by PSD on May 9, Ludovic Orban said that, like Cuza, he kisses on the cheeks the Romanians who "have the courage to respond to these people without virtue.""Alexandru Ioan Cuza, when Goodman Ion Roata came to him and complained about a boyer spitting in his face, kissed him on the cheek. I kiss on the cheek all the people of Iasi who had the courage to fight against the red plague and tell Dragnea that he has no place at Romania's helm. I kiss on the cheeks all the Romanians who have the courage to respond to these people who lack honour, education and common sense and their 7 years at home [saying in Romania: a well-bred man is said to have had his 'first seven years at home', ed.n.] that they have to step down," the PNL leader added.He criticized PSD leader Liviu Dragnea, accusing him of lack of patriotism."What kind of patriot is Dragnea if he did not come on January 24 in Iasi alongside the people of Iasi and of Moldavia to celebrate the Union of the Principalities? What kind of patriot is Liviu Dragnea if on March 27 he did not set foot in Chisinau to celebrate the Centennial of the Union with Bessarabia? What kind of patriot is Dragnea and his clique if on November 28 they did not set foot in Bucovina to celebrate the Centennial of Bucovina's Union with Romania? What kind of patriot is Liviu Dragnea who on December 1, 2018, when we celebrated 100 years since the Greater Union, did not set foot in Alba Iulia, the capital of the Union? They are not patriots, they are traitors of the nation and the country, and they are the people who want to destroy Romania. They are the people who want to keep us in servitude and servility. There is only one force to defeat the red plague. This force is PNL," Orban said in his speech.For the first time in the electoral campaign, President Klaus Iohannis went on the stage placed in front of the Unirea Hotel. Also present were Raluca Turcan, Theodor Stolojan, Daniel Fenechiu, Vasile Blaga, Siegfred Muresan, Rares Bogdan, Gheorghe Falca, as well as leaders of the PNL organizations in the region of Moldavia.
Foreign Affairs Minister Teodor Melescanu will attend the Foreign Affairs Council (FAC) meeting in Brussels, the agenda of the meeting of the heads of the EU member state diplomatic missions featuring current topics such as Libya the situation in the Sahel.

"The Romanian Minister will also participate in a series of actions that take place in the context of the tenth anniversary of the creation of the Eastern Partnership (EaP): the 10th Meeting of the Foreign Ministers of the EU Member States with their counterparts in the EaP states followed by an informal lunch and a concert at BOZAR, Center for Fine Arts (May 13) and the High Level Conference on EaP (May 14), informs the Foreign Affairs Ministry (MAE) in a press release sent to AGERPRES on Sunday.According to the cited source, scheduled on Tuesday is a joint session of European Union Member State Ministers responsible for Foreign Affairs, Defence and Development with counterparts of the G5 Sahel countries (Burkina Faso, Chad, Mali, Mauritania and Niger), the rotating presidency of the G5 Sahel and the G5 Sahel Joint Force commander.
President Klaus Iohannis on Saturday called on people to vote on May 26 in a speech given at the National Liberal Party (PNL, the Opposition, ed.n.) electoral meeting in Iasi, referring to the need to rid the country from "criminals" perched at top of the state."

"What do we do since we are in a country which is, we say, a European, democratic country? What should we do? We cannot use the same methods because we are not thieves, we are Romanians who want to move forward with our country. And then what do we do? It's simple: you have to go to the polls. This vote, some say, the same who were here the day before yesterday and tried to humiliate you, at home, don't worry, it didn't come off. They are the ones who say, sirree, this thing with the elections, the referendum, just stories. They don't matter, not the European Parliament elections, not the referendum, this is what that band trying to get hold of Romania is saying. Nothing could be further from the truth, your vote, the Romanians' vote matters. The day before yesterday we had a summit at the heart of the country. We brought Europe to Romania. All the European leaders came to Romania, and then we learned something important and I want to say it today: in Europe, Romania matters. The Romanians' vote matters. Our place is in Europe, you are Europe," the head of state said in front of the few thousand people participating in the PNL meeting in the Union Square in Iasi.He added that losing the independence of justice means losing Romania's chances of having motorways, hospitals and schools.The president went on to say that the issue of the rule of law in Romania has become very complicated because "we have an offender who has perched at the top of the state" and others "have some prosecutors on their trail.""We have a problem over the past two and a half years when we talk about justice, rule of law and, more recently, the problem has become very complicated because we have a criminal who has perched at the top of the state. This can't be! And you, and those behind me, and I want simple things in Romania, a fair justice, an independent justice, nothing complicated. It's just that they do not want this because they have little issues. Some are somewhat convicted, others have some prosecutors on their trail, and then they surely say, 'Sirree, why don't we climb at the top of the state and bend the laws. My dears, it's sad but true, that's exactly what PSD [the Social Democratic Party, major at rule, ed.n] is doing. For two and a half years they have been trying to bend the laws Not for you ... Rest assured! (...) Only for themselves so that they can get away. If we lose the independence of justice, if we lose fair justice, then we lose the chance for motorways, then lose the chance for hospitals, we also lose the chance to have schools and kindergartens for our children, then we start to lose money. After all, if we let them ruin our country, then, dear ones, it's not them who will pay. We will pay. Romanians will pay. That's why I'm telling you: this cannot be! "the president stated, addressing the PNL members and supporters.Attending the PNL rally in Iasi were also the party leader, Ludovic Orban, the party first vice-chair, Raluca Turcan, the secretary general, Robert Sighiartau, the candidates for the elections to the European Parliament Rares Bogdan, Theodor Stolojan, Siegfried Muresan, the head of the Suceava County Council, Gheorghe Flutur and other representatives of the Liberal leadership.
Prime Minister Viorica Dancila made the call on Sunday for the return to common sense and traditions and told the inhabitants of Satu-Mare, present at the The gathering of sheep Sheep Festival in Huta Certeze that they are "an example for many."

"It is not the insults, not the booing that make us better Romanians. The true Romanians are the people who base their attitude on arguments, they are the people who carry the tricolour flag in their hearts, who are hardworking and respectful. I, as Prime Minister of Romania, believe in these Romanians and I believe this is Romania's future," premier Dancila said.Alongside Prime Minister Viorica Dancila, on stage were Minister of Finance Eugen Teodorovici, Defense Minister Gabriel Les, but also Corina Cretu and Daniel Constantin, as well as representatives of the local authorities.
Updated at 11:55 a.m. Monday

FRANKFURT, Germany  Bayer said on Monday its Monsanto unit, which is being investigated by French prosecutors for compiling files of influential people such as journalists in France, likely did the same across Europe, suggesting a potentially wider problem.

The program, which was run out of Brussels, was aimed explicitly at Europe, excluding the United States and other regions, a spokesman said.

French prosecutors said on Friday they had opened an inquiry after newspaper Le Monde filed a complaint alleging that Monsanto  acquired by Bayer for $63 billion last year  had kept a file of 200 names, including journalists and lawmakers in hopes of influencing positions on pesticides.

On Sunday, Bayer acknowledged the existence of the files, saying it does not believe any laws were broken but that it will ask an external law firm to investigate.

Its safe to say that other countries in Europe were affected by lists ... I assume that all EU member states could potentially be affected, Matthias Berninger, Bayers head of public affairs and sustainability, told journalists on Monday.
Missourians have until Wednesday to weigh in on the state's proposed rules and business license applications for its budding medical marijuana industry.

The draft rules and regulations are available on the website of the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, the agency tasked with regulating the medical marijuana industry. Officials published the drafts in recent weeks and asked for feedback online; the rules will be finalized by June 4.

DSS also announced Friday that it would license up to 10 medical marijuana testing facilities; state law requires at least two testing facilities.

Missouri will approve at least 60 commercial growers, 86 facilities that manufacture marijuana-infused products and 192 dispensary licenses  24 dispensaries for each of Missouris eight congressional districts.
UPDATED at 10:30 a.m. Monday with mugshot of Jamal Rhodes

OFALLON, Mo.  A woman was shot and killed Saturday night and a man with a history of domestic violence was charged with her murder, authorities said.

Police answered a 911 call in the 200 block of Casalon Parkway about 8 p.m. Saturday and found Catherine Rhodes, 29, had been shot. Paramedics tried to revive her but she died of her injuries.

Jamal Rhodes was arrested and charged with first-degree murder. Court records said he lived at 209 Casalon Drive; police believe the couple was married.

He also was charged with armed criminal action and being a felon in possession of a firearm. In 2012, Rhodes was charged in St. Charles County with second-degree domestic assault, which is a felony. He was sentenced to four years in prison. Lt. Michael R. Grawitch, commander of the OFallon Police Departments criminal investigation section, said Catherine Rhodes appears to have been the victim in that 2013 domestic assault case. He is currently being held on $500,000 bond.

His address matches that of the Casalon apartment complex, near the Main Street exit from Interstate 70.

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After the investor became suspicious, he spoke to state regulators, as well as the prosecutor and the federal agents involved in the Stenger investigation.

The state order says that in 2015 and 2016, Rallo convinced two investors from Wildwood, two from St. Louis, one from OFallon, Mo., and one from Utah to invest. The investors ranged in age from 37 to 58 and each put in between $83,000 and $400,000, the order says, for a total of $1.3 million.

Rallo later told them their money went to a Utah company that was then sold. He said the money was mismanaged, and told some that the company was declaring bankruptcy, the order says.

Investors collectively received interest payments totaling about $37,000, the order says.

Rallo told state regulators that a former president of the Utah company never made payments to the investors, and that new owners made payments for six months before saying they could no longer do so, according to the order. Rallo became CEO of the Utah company in October 2017 and intended to move to Utah to oversee operations, the order says.
UPDATED at 10:15 a.m. with victim's name, additional detail

ST. LOUIS  A man from Charlack died Saturday in St. Louis after losing control of his car and crashing into a vacant building near Minerva Avenue and Goodfellow Boulevard, police say.

The building collapsed onto the car, trapping the driver, Craig Phillips. Phillips died at the scene.

The crash site is in the city's Hamilton Heights neighborhood of St. Louis, which is northeast of the Delmar Loop.

Phillips, 31, lived in the 5600 block of Leverette Avenue in Charlack. Police say Phillips had been speeding west on Minerva in a 2005 Pontiac Grand Prix. The vehicle crashed in the 5800 block of Minerva Avenue about 6:15 p.m. Saturday.

Accident-reconstruction investigators with the St. Louis Police Department are handling the case.
A 16-year-old Florida girl who was badly burned in a 2017 New Year's Eve bonfire accident has died, according to her mother.

Layne Chesney was 14 years old and a star softball player when the accident happened in Fort Pierce.

Layne's mother, Leigh Ann Wirz Chesney, told CNN that Layne died Friday morning.

A few days after the accident, Layne's mother told CNN affiliate WFOR, that her daughter and friends were roasting marshmallows that night at a friend's backyard.

"When the flames went out, one of the children or her -- I'm not sure of the story -- accidentally or purposefully put more gas onto the fire to make it higher," Leigh Chesney said. "An explosion occurred. She was engulfed in flames."

People tried to put out the fire. Despite their efforts, Layne had third-degree burns over 95% of her body, her mother said. She said only the soles of Layne's feet were not burned.
(CNN) -- Retired Supreme Court Justice John Paul Stevens accused President Donald Trump of exceeding his presidential powers in an interview published Thursday, telling The Wall Street Journal that the President "has to comply with subpoenas."

Stevens' remarks come as the court battle over Trump's financial records ramps up, with Judge Amit Mehta overseeing the first hearing in the standoff between the Democrat-led House Oversight Committee and the President next week. The committee has subpoenaed Trump's long-standing accounting firm Mazars USA for several years' worth of the President's financial statements, and the President has sued the committee and Mazars to block the firm from complying.

Asked about the modern political landscape, Stevens told the Journal, "I think there are things we should be concerned about, there's no doubt about that."

"The President is exercising powers that do not really belong to him," Stevens added. "I mean, he has to comply with subpoenas and things like that."
More than 65 million Americans were disenfranchised in 2016. The Russians did this, and they did not fire a shot. Another way to say this is that American democracy lasted 243 years until a foreign power held sway. Republicans, since 2016, have focused their attention on Hillary Clinton as if she were to blame for our democracys undoing. In addition, Republicans blame American institutions such as the FBI and CIA. House Democrats in 2019 are beginning their investigations starting with what we have learned since 2016. But todays news is about re-arguing the Mueller report.

My comment would be for Congress to act like Tony Messenger  the Post-Dispatchs latest Pulitzer Prize winner. Tony won the Pulitzer for following the money in Missouri courts. If Tony were to investigate the 2016 election and the Russians, it seems clear he would ask questions about following the money. This same model was used by the Post-Dispatch to unmask former St. Louis County Executive Steve Stenger.
From December 19th through December 26th we will be granting free access as a gift to our readers presented by McBride Homes
Discretionary income in Tauranga has risen according to the PwC Competitive Cities report that has been released.

Infrastructure New Zealand chief executive Stephen Selwood says the report also underlines the urgent need for the Government to deliver affordable housing and efficient transport systems in our growing cities.

He says PwC compared the performance of 11 Australasian growth cities over the last decade and found that households in successfully growing Australian cities have enjoyed significant improvements in discretionary income, relative to New Zealand.

Discretionary income is the money left over after tax and spending on housing, transport and other essentials. It provides an insight into the quality of life in each city, says Stephen.

According to the report, discretionary incomes in Tauranga, Hamilton and Queenstown increased by around $60-$70 per week.

Perth, Brisbane and Adelaide households each saw increases of between $300 and $400 per week over the ten years from 2008-2018, says Stephen.

New Zealands top performing city, Wellington, saw median household discretionary income increase by $137 per week, or around one-third that of Perth.

Even Christchurch, which experienced a devastating series of earthquakes in the assessed period, saw discretionary income increase by $124 a week.

Auckland was the only city to experience both increasing costs and flat income growth. Sydneys equivalent growth in the cost of living was offset by rising real incomes. Weaker income growth in Tauranga, Queenstown, Hamilton and Melbourne, on the other hand, was ameliorated by smaller growth in the cost of living.

The reason for New Zealands weaker performance is not explained by Australias higher economic and therefore income growth.

It is in the cost of living that we have struggled.

High urban land prices have increased the amount households and businesses must spend on accommodation and rent. In addition, increasing congestion combined with higher transport taxes and fares have pushed up travel costs, not only for households, but for the producers and sellers of goods and services thereby making our economy less competitive.

New Zealands failure to manage growth is seeing the standard of living fall further and further behind Australias attractive second tier cities.

The Governments well-being budget, urban growth agenda and plans for fundamental review of our planning laws and local government structure and funding have the potential to address systemic problems across New Zealand.

Bi-partisan political support will be needed to enact major reform of our deficient planning, governance and funding system which is the root cause of the problems we are facing.

Meanwhile, decisive action is now required to address immediate growth pressures.

Increasing the supply of land is one critical response. Urban land must be made more affordable in sufficient quantities to attract investment and enable scale.

The other critical element is servicing that land with infrastructure so that homes and businesses can be delivered. Plans to enable private financing of infrastructure for housing development need to be accelerated.

A step change in the supply of serviced land is urgently needed. With the construction sector operating at close to capacity, productivity improvements are the only real option to deliver the infrastructure and homes New Zealand needs.

Clarity of the project pipeline, policy certainty and development at scale are the three essential elements to lifting construction sector productivity and encouraging investment in capital, skills and expertise in New Zealand and from overseas.

There really is no time to waste. New Zealand households are already paying $200 per week more than households in Perth to cover the inflated cost of housing. Without urgent action we risk another brain drain simply because our housing markets do not function.

New Zealand can materially and significantly lift real incomes, reduce the need for Government transfers and enhance liveability by resolving the growth crisis. This is the Budget where things must start to happen, says Stephen.


Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and Housing and Urban Development Minister Phil Twyford have announced today that Budget 2019 will turn around the lives of more than a 1,000 long-term homeless people by helping them into permanent homes  the largest government investment ever in addressing chronic homelessness.

Jacinda Ardern said Budget 2019 is breaking the cycle for long-term homeless people by giving them a permanent, warm and safe home, and support services to help address the causes of homelessness.

Jacinda Ardern said Budget 2019 is breaking the cycle for long-term homeless people by giving them a permanent, warm and safe home, and support services to help address the causes of homelessness.

Jacinda Ardern said Budget 2019 is breaking the cycle for long-term homeless people by giving them a permanent, warm and safe home, and support services to help address the causes of homelessness.

Housing is a basic human right and allows people to live with dignity," says the Prime Minister.

Housing is a basic human right and allows people to live with dignity," says the Prime Minister.

Housing is a basic human right and allows people to live with dignity," says the Prime Minister.

We are committed to tackling homelessness. Thats why we have made it an investment priority for the second year in a row by boosting support for the internationally-acclaimed programme Housing First even further.

We are committed to tackling homelessness. Thats why we have made it an investment priority for the second year in a row by boosting support for the internationally-acclaimed programme Housing First even further.

We are committed to tackling homelessness. Thats why we have made it an investment priority for the second year in a row by boosting support for the internationally-acclaimed programme Housing First even further.

Housing First is all about breaking the cycle," says Jacinda. "It recognises that most long-term homeless people have a number of complex problems such as mental health issues and addictions; and that they have a much higher chance of addressing them once they are housed.

Housing First is all about breaking the cycle," says Jacinda. "It recognises that most long-term homeless people have a number of complex problems such as mental health issues and addictions; and that they have a much higher chance of addressing them once they are housed.

Housing First is all about breaking the cycle," says Jacinda. "It recognises that most long-term homeless people have a number of complex problems such as mental health issues and addictions; and that they have a much higher chance of addressing them once they are housed.

It turns lives around by housing them and then connecting them with health and social services such as mental health counselling, budgeting advice, and drug and alcohol addiction treatment.

It turns lives around by housing them and then connecting them with health and social services such as mental health counselling, budgeting advice, and drug and alcohol addiction treatment.

It turns lives around by housing them and then connecting them with health and social services such as mental health counselling, budgeting advice, and drug and alcohol addiction treatment.

Thats why Budget 2019 is continuing to invest in Housing First and funding 1,044 new places. This will raise the number of people the programme can help to 2,700, says Jacinda.

Thats why Budget 2019 is continuing to invest in Housing First and funding 1,044 new places. This will raise the number of people the programme can help to 2,700, says Jacinda.

Thats why Budget 2019 is continuing to invest in Housing First and funding 1,044 new places. This will raise the number of people the programme can help to 2,700, says Jacinda.

Research by He Kainga Oranga at the University of Otago in collaboration with Hamiltons Housing First provider The People's Project has shown the homeless people they help have high mental health needs.

The research conducted shows that in the five years prior to being housed, the first 390 people seen by The People's Project in Hamilton had spent 10,440 bed nights in mental health facilities. This rate is over ten times that of the general population. These people also have high health needs generally, with 55,230 prescriptions being filled in the five years prior to being housed. Some of the most common prescriptions were for antipsychotic and antidepressant medications.

The People's Project website In addition to these outcomes below, they've also provided assistance to another 227 people with advice and guidance to help find a home. Of the 25 households, the site states that of the adults who had been rough sleeping in Tauranga, single males account for just over two-thirds of the people they work with, and one-third are single females. for Tauranga, shows that there are 51 active clients, with 25 people housed, and 72 per cent remaining housed.of the adults who had been rough sleeping in Tauranga, single males account for just over two-thirds of the people they work with, and one-third are single females.

The site states: " Housing stock in Tauranga is our biggest challenge. All our clients would move into a home today if the housing was available. Many clients qualify for and are on the register for public housing, but demand for public housing in Tauranga is very high. That's why private landlords are an incredibly important partner. We sincerely thank the Tauranga landlords who are supporting The People's Project."

The People's Project Tauranga team

The Green Party see the Government's action on homelessness as an encouraging step.
Ninety-five per cent of boaties had enough lifejackets for everyone on board and 83 per cent were wearing them when required, provisional results released on Friday from the No Excuses safe boating campaign show.

Lead Maritime Officer for the project Matt Wood said the campaign targeted high risk behaviours including failing to carry and/or wear lifejackets, unsafe speed and breaches of navigational safety rules.

Matt says said Kiwi boaties did themselves proud when it came to lifejackets and No Excuses demonstrated the value of having a consistent nationwide campaign to encourage safe boating behaviour.

There were a total of 182 infringements issued and 502 warnings given. Common reasons infringement notices were issued included people not showing a dive flag  despite having divers in the water, not having observers when towing and not having lifejackets on board or failing to wear them when required.

The 2018/19 campaign saw 3,531 interactions with boaties and ran from 20 October 2018 until 31 March 2019, involving 13 Regional Councils and the Taupo Harbourmaster.

The majority of No Excuses interactions were positive, Wood said. Boaties were glad to see the No Excuses teams educating and  where required  enforcing the rules.

Hawkes Bay Harbourmaster Martin Moore said his team was impressed by local boaties behaviour and it showed safety messages were creating positive change. He said the team was met with a warm welcome and expressions of gratitude for their efforts to make sure boaties made it home in one piece.

Wood said the organisations involved in No Excuses had a shared interest in keeping boaties safe on the water.

You could say were one big team working together. A huge thank you to the councils and Harbourmasters that were involved in this years campaign for their efforts. Their work makes Kiwi boaties safer and  hopefully  saves lives.

The organisations involved in No Excuses 2018/19 are Auckland Transport, Waikato Regional Council, Bay of Plenty Regional Council, Taranaki Regional Council, Department of Internal Affairs (Lake Taupo), Hawkes Bay Regional Council, Greater Wellington Regional Council, Tasman District Council, Nelson City Council, Marlborough District Council, Environment Canterbury, Queenstown Lakes District Council, Otago Regional Council, and Environment Southland.
State gives grant for Farmstead Park restoration in Upper Moreland Township
One power outage is due to a car crashing into a power pole on Sunday afternoon, and it has been reported that a tree has come down this evening in Matapihi, with trees in the power lines.

The cause of the power cut in Oropi is from the strong winds. The cause of the other outages is unknown at this stage.

A strong northerly has been blowing since earlier in the evening with wind speeds up to 46 km per hour and gusts up to 67 km per hour.

Tauranga Airport is recording 77km per hour winds. Flight NZ 8262 from Wellington was delayed and had to circle before attempting to land at Tauranga Airport. Flight NZ8502 from Christchurch also had to circle before attempting a landing. Flight NZ NZ5145 to Auckland was cancelled. Auckland to Rotorua Flight NZ8159 was diverted back to Auckland.

Four power outages earlier in the evening grew to six, as suburbs across Tauranga were hit with power cuts

Matapihi has 274 properties without power due to a tree coming down onto power lines. Power went off at 8.56pm and is expected to be restored by 1.56am on Monday May 13.

Tauranga City has 44 properties affected by a power cut. Power went off at 7.43pm and is expected to be restored by 12.43am on Monday May 13.

Omokoroa still has 238 properties without power, after a vehicle struck a power pole on Sunday afternoon on Omokoroa Rd near Beach Grove. Power is expected to be restored by 9pm.

Omanawa has 368 properties without power. Power went off at 7.43pm and is expected to be restored by 12.43am on Monday May 13.

Oropi has 643 properties without power. Power went off in Oropi at 7.54pm and is expected to be restored by 12.54am on Monday May 13.

Paengaroa has the largest number of properties affected with 3550 properties without power since 8.39pm. Power is expected to be restored by 1.39am on Monday May 13.

Flight NZ8262 from Wellington circling over Tauranga as winds gust up to 77 km per hour at Tauranga Airport

The strong northerly is expected to die down towards midnight with a heavy shower of rain expected around 10pm.
The United States Justice Department has identified the man they believe is responsible for a deadly attack on the Appalachian Trail in Wythe County Friday night.

Thirty-year-old James L. Jordan, of Yarmouth, Massachusetts, was charged with one count of murder within a special maritime territorial jurisdiction of the United States and one count of assault with intent to murder within a special maritime territorial jurisdiction of the United States.

Wythe County Sheriff Keith Dunagan said Saturday that a man in Wythe County and a woman in Smyth County were attacked with a large knife sometime between Friday night and Saturday morning.

The man, who has not been identified, died from his injuries and the condition of the woman is not known at this time.

The Wythe County Sheriff's Office's tactical team responded to the trail in the wee hours of Saturday morning after they received an emergency cell phone signal from someone on the trail.

A multi-agency investigation with the Smyth County Sheriff's Office, the United States Forestry Service and the Virginia State Police ensued.
ABINGDON, Va.A Massachusetts man faces a federal murder charge following attacks reported Saturday morning on the Appalachian Trail in Southwest Virginia.

James L. Jordan, 30, was charged with one count of murder within the special maritime territorial jurisdiction of the United States and count of assault with the intent to murder within the special maritime territorial jurisdiction of the United States.

The U.S. Attorney's office said the arrest followed a deadly stabbing incident that occurred along the trail in Wythe County that left one person dead and another person severely injured.

The victims have not been identified.

Jordan, who goes by the name "Sovereign," is expected to appear in federal court in Abingdon on Monday.

Jordan was previously arrested after apparently threatening hikers last month in Unicoi County, Tennessee. He was convicted, but received probation and was released.

The investigation into the attacks on the trail is ongoing, federal authorities said.
One way to reduce stress and lower adrenaline releases is to practice gentle-cattle handling techniques. Cattle that are crowded, separated from herdmates, or exposed to facilities that can injury or cause pain will be under stress. Interestingly, when handling cattle, the first place you can make a difference is to be quiet. Yelling at cattle causes a greater adrenaline release than striking them. In fact, the release of adrenaline from using loud voices and loud noises when handling cattle is surpassed only by using an electric prod or hot shot.

As producers, we need to observe the cattle and be patient. Look around the corrals for corners where cattle can be injured or for protruding nails or bolts that can cause cuts or bruises. Walk your corrals from the back to the front and then from the front to the back, and try to place yourself as the cows and observe how they work though a corral system.
SYRACUSE, N.Y. -- A house fire near Syracuse University shut down two blocks of Euclid Avenue as crews battled a fire that spread from the houses basement Saturday night.

No one was home at the time of the fire and no one was injured, according to deputy fire chief Jeffrey Kite.

A call about the fire at 115 Roosevelt Ave. was made to the Onondaga County 911 dispatch center at 8:48 p.m., dispatch logs say.

A woman walking her dog saw smoke pouring into the street from the house, called 911 and tried ringing the houses doorbell, multiple neighbors said.

Because the fire started in the basement and likely sat unattended for a greater length of time, much of the house filled with smoke, Kite said. Firefighters had to knock out multiple windows on the second floor to ventilate the house.

The house did have working smoke detectors.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation.

The fire department had to shut off utilities to the house, so two people will be displaced and are being aided by the Red Cross, Kite said.
Is college worth it?

If youre heading to graduation today at Syracuse University, this is probably the wrong time to ask. You and your son or daughter have already sunk tens of thousands of dollars into a college education. Now you have to hope the expense and years of toil will pay off.

Well, todays graduates can do more than hope. They can take the value of a college education to the bank, says labor economist Mary C. Daly, a Maxwell School doctoral graduate who will deliver the commencement address at todays Carrier Dome ceremony.

Dalys insights into the value of education are more than academic; they come from hard, personal experience.

As a teenager growing up in Missouri, Daly dropped out of high school after a family crisis. A chance encounter led her to a mentor, who suggested Daly obtain her GED. Then, the mentor suggested she try college, and even paid for her first semester at the local state university campus. Daly went on to earn a masters degree at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and a doctorate at Maxwell.

Mary C. Daly is president of the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco. (Provided photo)Provided photo

Daly is now president and CEO of the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco, one of 12 regional banks in the Fed system. Her job is to monitor economic conditions in the western United States and to conduct research that helps businesses and individuals make good economic decisions. Before rising to the top job in October, Daly was head of research for the bank.

A 2014 report Daly co-authored with Yifan Cao showed that a graduate of a four-year college earns a salary premium of about $20,000 a year over someone with a high school diploma. The longer a college graduate is in the workforce, the bigger the premium. The extra earnings are enough to pay off the cost of a college education in nine to 17 years, depending on the cost of attendance. After the break-even point, the wage premium is money that can be spent or saved. Over a lifetime of work, the higher earnings add up to a net return in the hundreds of thousands of dollars. And that doesnt begin to count the intangible rewards of higher learning.

Dalys and Caos research also shows that going to college improves a persons chances of moving up the economic ladder. This is especially true for lower-income students. Dividing income distribution into five equal groups, or quintiles, they calculated that college graduates from the bottom 20 percent are over six times as likely to reach the top 20 percent than those who dont go to college.

For the American Dream to be revitalized, we have to be more intentional about educating our population, Daly told the Washington Post. Right now, were leaving a lot of talent on the table. Were just leaving people less educated than they could be.

Daly argues that too few Americans are getting college degrees -- only 37 percent of 25-to-29-year-olds hold one  when, in the near future, more jobs will require a bachelors degree than a high school diploma.

The economists bottom line is this: Yes, that diploma will pay off. A four-year college education is an appreciating asset, offering a shot at upward economic mobility, a cushion from economic shocks and a lifetime of higher earnings.

The challenge, for many, is getting to college in the first place. Dalys journey from GED to Ph.D. doesnt happen every day -- but it could happen more often if college were more affordable and if more young people had mentors who believed in them.

About Syracuse.com editorials

Editorials represent the collective opinion of the Advance Media New York editorial board. Our opinions are independent of news coverage. Read our mission statement. Members of the editorial board are Tim Kennedy, Trish LaMonte, Jason Murray and Marie Morelli.

To respond to this editorial: Post a comment below, or submit a letter or commentary to letters@syracuse.com. Read our submission guidelines.

If you have questions about the Opinions & Editorials section, contact Marie Morelli, editorial/opinion leader, at mmorelli@syracuse.com
Liverpool High School students attended their junior prom Saturday evening, May 11, 2019. The event had an Enchanted Forest theme and was held at the Holiday Inn in Liverpool.

Our gallery of photos can be found above.

Want to buy a photo?

As youre browsing the gallery, look for the BUY IMAGE link to order high-quality reprints and other products.

More prom photos

See all photo galleries from proms, senior balls, and other formals around Central New York.
Students of Madison Central School attended their junior prom Saturday evening, May 11, 2019. The event was held at Delta Lake Inn in Rome.

Our gallery of photos can be found above.

Want to buy a photo?

As youre browsing the gallery, look for the BUY IMAGE link to order high-quality reprints and other products.

More prom photos

See all photo galleries from proms, senior balls, and other formals around Central New York.
Students of Rome Free Academy celebrated at their junior prom Saturday, May 11, 2019. The event had an Under the Stars theme and was held at Theodores in Canastota.

Our gallery of photos can be found above.

Want to buy a photo?

As youre browsing the gallery, look for the BUY IMAGE link to order high-quality reprints and other products.

More prom photos

See all photo galleries from proms, senior balls, and other formals around Central New York.
Syracuse University today bestowed 7,118 degrees on students from its 13 schools and colleges.

The class of 2019 crossed the graduation stage in a ceremony that began at 9:30 a.m. in SUs Dome.

This years speaker was 1994 alumna Mary Daly, the president and chief executive officer of the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco.

This is SUs 165th commencement. SU broadcast the event on a live stream for those who want to watch at home.
Chris Hughes, who co-founded Facebook with Mark Zuckerberg fifteen years ago, published a compelling argument for its destruction in the New York Times three days ago. Fundamentally, his argument is that Facebook will continue to falter and cause pain if its monopoly is allowed to persist, and Zuckerberg has the power to do whatever he likes.

Underpinning his thesis is the premise that Facebooks woes have been caused by a focus on revenue and clicks causing management to ignore risks and employees to ignore questionable moral practices. This has only been permitted by the market, Hughes believes, because of Facebooks brutal tactics to quash, purchase or copy competitors.

When I read what he wrote, my main reaction was that what hes proposing that we do isnt going to do anything to help solve those issues, Mark Zuckerberg told France Info while in Paris yesterday. So I think that if what you care about is democracy and elections, then you want a company like us to be able to invest billions of dollars per year like we are in building up really advanced tools to fight election interference.

Zuckerbergs argument mirrors that of Nick Clegg, Facebooks vice president for global affairs and communications, who's formally responded to Hughes in his own New York Times editorial. In my view  and that of most people who write about technologys impact on society  what matters is not size but rather the rights and interests of consumers, and our accountability to the governments and legislators who oversee commerce and communications.

Clegg agrees with Hughes that Facebook needs more regulation and needs to do a better job  if he thought otherwise, hed be crazy. But breaking up the company doesnt fundamentally stop Russian agents from gaining political influence, terrorists from broadcasting violence or white supremacists spreading hate. He points out the obvious: fixing those things requires money, money only Facebook has. The resources that we will spend on security and safety this year alone will be more than our overall revenues at the time of our initial public offering in 2012. That would be pretty much impossible for a smaller company.

Security errors, like the Cambridge Analytica scandal or the recent discovery that Facebook stores thousands of passwords in plain text format are no less preventable in a smaller company nor one whose executives wield less power. Poor content management, like the decision to define newsworthy content as anything relating to politics, crime or tragedy, is likely to be even more rampant when executives cant step in to change things easily.

Clegg also argues that Facebook doesnt have a monopoly, almost all of our revenue comes from digital advertising, and most estimates say Facebooks share is about 20 percent of the United States online ad market, which means 80 percent of all digital ads happen off our platforms.

While Facebook incorporates many of the largest social networking apps, each competes with several others. The blue app as pure Facebook itself is called, along with Instagram, compete with YouTube, Snapchat, Twitter, Pinterest and the newcomer, TikTok. Whatsapp and Messenger compete with and lose to Apples iMessage, WeChat, Line, and Skype. Cleggs argument is at its weakest here, as he fails to mention that Facebook apps dominate in specific regions, where entire cultures are shaped by Facebooks algorithms.

In ways, both Hughes, Zuckerberg, and Clegg are right. Facebooks mistakes have disastrous consequences, more regulation might help but there simply isnt a solution to fixing it right now.
A meteor streaked through the night sky in Chicago, and many were able to witness the sky event. Some were even able to capture the phenomenon through their home security cameras.

Meteor In Chicago

At about 11:45 p.m. last Friday, several people witnessed a meteor flying over the skies of Chicago, and naturally, many took to social media to share the footage they captured of the event. For instance, in the north suburban area of Riverwoods, some residents were able to capture the event with their security cameras, while a police officer in the west suburbs of Woodridge also captured the event with a dash cam.

Just realized I caught the meteor over Chicago on my front door cam! pic.twitter.com/KPpCEDb1qQ  ORDGeek (@ORDGeek) May 11, 2019

A meteor is a rock from space that enters the Earths atmosphere. Just as in the Chicago sighting, the shooting star that people see when this phenomenon happens is due to the rock heating up as it enters the atmosphere. When it does, and when the conditions are right, people on land see the bright light, which is actually from the extremely hot air around it and not from the rock itself.

Evidently, such events happen all the time, but they are not always noticed, especially during the day.

Meteors, Meteoroids, And Meteorites

The difference between a meteoroid, a meteor, and a meteorite is actually not a matter of what they are, but of where they are. As a matter of fact, it is typically the same object that is merely called different names depending on its state or where it is at the moment.

Simply put, when the object is still in space, whether it is as small as dust or as large as small asteroids, it is called a meteoroid. The moment that it enters the Earths or even another planets atmosphere at high speeds and burns up as a shooting star, it is then called a meteor. Finally, if it survives the atmosphere and ends up on land, it is called a meteorite.

It is estimated that about 48.5 tons of meteoritic material fall on the Earth every day, but most of them are vaporized in the atmosphere.

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Early College Academy senior Normandie Cormier was accepted into 139 colleges, at last count, and has received almost $9 million in scholarship offers this year, including several national awards and at least 17 full ride offers.

For the Acadiana teen the accomplishment is a moment of joy and relief, the result of a childhood of dedication, struggling against bullying and managing immune system complications that required hospital stays and patience.

Its also a stepping stone to the future Cormier has worked hard to build for herself and an example of the success that can come with hard work and persistence, she said.

While her number of acceptances and scholarship offers is impressive, she wants people to feel empowered by her experience more than anything, she said.

I feel like many students in this area dont know where to look for opportunities and dont know where to go, Cormier said. I want to make sure they know that staying the course, following your dreams and working hard will get you far.

In the fall, Cormier will enroll at Xavier University of Louisiana in New Orleans to complete her bachelors degree on a pre-med track, with the end goal of becoming a surgeon. She said shes wanted to be a surgeon for years, a statement in line with the teens laser focus and sense of self-possession.

She said she feels a calling to the profession, a desire to serve and a sense of familiarity after her years of experience as a frequent hospital patient.

At 2 years old, Cormier developed an immune system disorder that set off a chain reaction of health complications, including ever-changing allergies, a skin condition that makes Cormier weak and fatigued, severe asthma and other health issues.

+21 'Something special': Louisiana choir teacher surprised with national Teacher of the Year prize This weeks nasty weather didnt deter supporters of Lafayette High School choral teacher Holly Grefe from gathering to surprise Grefe as she 

Cormiers mother, Chantelle Gary, said she struggled to understand why this was happening to her once healthy toddler. The single mother said her childs frequently changing diagnoses numbed her, but she knew she had to keep going.

At the beginning I wasnt sure of myself. I was unsure of how to take care of a child with a chronic illness, Gary said. I prayed, but I didnt understand what was going on. Why my child?

Even with her health complications, Cormier wasnt deterred from living her life and the family focused on fostering a positive environment in their home, her mother said.

The 18-year-old said she remembers being a happy child, always excited to learn and engage in school. She, her mother and now 12-year-old brother, Payton, were always laughing, and Cormier and her mother would sing songs Gary originally sang to her daughter in the womb.

They also started every day with prayer, offering thanks and asking the Lord to allow them to be a blessing to others, the duo said.

Her positive and resilient attitude was challenged in middle school, when Cormier decided to leave her Catholic elementary school to enroll in a public middle school for sixth grade, she said.

She was the quiet new student, always raising her hand in class and battling illnesses that made her stand out to her classmates, Cormier said. She was targeted by bullies who verbally harassed her, rallied classmates to mock and laugh at her, and even pulled her hair and made other physically aggressive attacks, she said.

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I felt alone and like I couldnt be myself, Cormier said.

Gary made the decision to homeschool Cormier and her brother, who was diagnosed with epilepsy at 7 years old. Several years before, she left her job to pursue self-employment, operating different businesses and using her social work background to privately consult and counsel.

She said she knew homeschooling was the best option for her children. It was an unusual educational path at the time and only a skeleton support system existed in the area, but Gary set out to teach her children everything from entrepreneurship to literacy in global issues.

She stressed the importance of self-sufficiency, priority setting and ownership, she said.

I wanted to be a parent that if I were no longer here my kids could still flourish, Gary said.

Armed with her mothers lessons, Cormier decided to go back to school for high school. She enrolled in Lafayettes Early College Academy, graduating Thursday with a high school diploma and an associate degree from South Louisiana Community College.

She knew the decision was a practical approach with the planned years of medical school ahead of her, she said.

Throughout high school, the teenager chose to use her experiences to benefit others, starting four small businesses and initiatives focused on tutoring, youth service work, female empowerment and youth entrepreneurship. The common focus is to help people feel empowered in different areas, especially young women, she said.

Each day she encourages her mentees to look beyond her personal successes to achieve even more for themselves, she said.

Shine your light. Its OK to be smart, its OK to be confident, its OK to be who you are, Cormier said. I feel like so many girls feel powerless or unable to express who they are in the space that theyre in.

Cormier said she plans to continue spreading that message as she takes her next steps in life.

When she set out on her college application process, she never intended to receive the response she did. She decided to send out as many applications as possible, mainly through the Common Application and the Common Black College Application, to maximize her opportunity to receive financial aid and a potential full ride, Cormier said.

The goal was to avoid student loan debt or placing extra financial burdens on her single mother, she said. The flood of positive responses and support was mind-blowing, she said, and even broke a Guinness World Record for scholarship offers made to one individual.

It shows that anything is possible, Cormier said.

This was an amazing experience. Im glad I went through this, that I applied myself and went for what I wanted in life. I feel happy, she said.
The racial makeup of the East Baton Rouge Parish Metro Council is proving to be a hot-button issue as city-parish leaders discuss proposed revisions to the parish's Plan of Government, including a restructuring of the 12-member council.

The revisions under discussion include changing the Metro Councils composition from one in which a dozen members each represent single districts to a group made up of 10 council members from single-member districts and two at-large members selected by voters parishwide.

Councilwoman Donna Collins-Lewis, who chairs the committee currently reviewing the city-parish's local constitution is pushing back on the idea. The committee is drafting amendments that would need voter approval before they are enacted.

Collins-Lewis, who is black, noted the difficulty that black candidates have in winning a parishwide election. She said the proposed change would make it likely that the same white, Republican majority that has reigned over the Metro Council since she was elected 11 years ago would continue to dominate local government.

"Ive seen the votes down racial lines. If the council was more balanced in terms of race or (political party), it would be more balanced in terms of working together," Collins-Lewis said. "But when you have a majority on the council that doesnt need the other people to get things passed, that creates an issue."

Separate Baton Rouge city council? Councilwoman Donna Collins-Lewis not in favor Metro Councilwoman Donna Collins-Lewis, in an appearance Monday before the Baton Rouge Press Club, distanced herself from a proposal to dissol

Adam Knapp, president and CEO of the Baton Rouge Area Chamber, said he believes the 2005 election and consecutive reelections of former Mayor Kip Holden, a black man, followed by the 2017 election of current Mayor-President Sharon Weston Broome, a black woman, proves Lewis' theory wrong.

Holden and Broome are the only African Americans who have been elected to serve in one of East Baton Rouge's five parishwide positions since 1990, according to the Louisiana Secretary of State's Office.

But Local political pollster John Couvillon, president of JMC Analytics and Polling, said there were several black men who won city court judge seats in majority white districts during the 1980s  a time when African Americans made up less than 30% of the parish's population.

Couvillon also noted that when Holden was first elected, the black electorate in East Baton Rouge was approximately 35%.

"To me that's a polite rebuttal against the notion it's nearly impossible for a black candidate to win in white majority electorate," Couvillon said. "It's hard, but not impossible."

According to the most recent population estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau, 48% of the parish's population is white and 46% is black.

Knapp, who sits on the Plan of Government committee and proposed adding the at-large seats, believes having two members on the council focused on the needs of the entire parish instead of just constituents in specific districts will bring the perspective and balance the governing body currently lacks.

Knapp said the at-large structure seems to work great in most cities of comparable size that BRAC has visited during trips to see how they are organized and what policies and practices are working well for them.

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"Thats an important voice to have in the mix in addition to single-member district representatives," he said. "Adding one or two members to speak on behalf of the parish, in a sense, also brings in the voice of the mayor to the conversation, who is also elected parishwide."

When the topic was discussed last week during the Plan of Government committee meeting, Knapp told Collins-Lewis even though his proposal to add at-large seats wasn't intended to shift the racial dynamics of the Metro Council, the idea doesn't shut the door on more African American representation on the council.

The current proposal the committee is considering states that one of the at-large seats can only be filled by a qualified elector who lives in the parish and the second has been designated for a qualified elector who lives in the city.

The council will pick from the two at-large members to serve as its mayor pro-tem and vice president pro-tem, the current draft reads.

Collins-Lewis would prefer if the election for the Baton Rouge designated at-large seat was confined to just voters within the city limits instead of parishwide. Doing so would better increase the chances of the seat going to a black candidate in the majority-black city.

Discussions over the racial dynamics of the city-parish and the Metro Council flared up last year when Collins-Lewis and three other black Democrats on the council tried to block Councilwoman Denise Amoroso from serving in her late husband's District 9 seat in the hopes of evening the party and racial makeup of the council. Tara Wicker, the fifth black Democrat, ended up joining the council's Republican members to appoint Amoroso.

+16 Denise Amoroso takes late husband's Baton Rouge council seat amid contentious debate The contentious battle over who should fill Buddy Amorosos Metro Council seat ended Thursday evening as his widow, Denise Amoroso, secured th

A few months later, the NAACP tried pushing the idea of breaking up the city's government structure into separate city and parish councils, although that idea did not appear to gain any traction. NAACP officials have said the current city-parish government structure hurts residents who live within the city limits, especially the black community, who don't get the attention and dollars that City Hall devotes to the whiter and/or more affluent parts of the parish.

Wicker, who was present during last week's committee discussions, said she sees both sides in the argument. She said she favors adding another black member to the Metro Council but does not agree with this idea of having a parishwide election for the at-large seats prevents us from having a sixth seat on the council."

The committee's discussion around the topic was left open-ended with members deciding to revisit the issue at later meetings.

All of the proposed changes to the Plan of Government will have to gain Metro Council approval before it is presented to voters for a final say. Collins-Lewis wants to get the revised plan to voters on the November ballot. To do so, the committee's recommendations will need to be approved by the Metro Council by Aug. 14.

The shakeup of the Metro Council, if approved by voters, probably wouldn't take effect until after the 2020 census cycle so that new districts can be drawn based on the most current population data.

"We've been trying to keep the rest of the council abreast of everything so that we don't get to the end of this and the (seven-member majority) says 'no' to everything we present," Collins-Lewis said. "Too many people have given up their time to take a serious look at this. It has been since 2007 youve seen any significant changes. Thats why were taking such a deep dive."

Editor's note: This article was changed on May 13, 2019, to delete a sentence that incorrectly stated federal approval would be required in order to redraw council district lines.
It was the normal early morning chaos at the Lillis-Hilferty household in New Orleans.

Nine-month-old Teddy, sitting in a high chair, was tossing as many Cheerios onto the floor as he was plopping into his mouth.

Claire Marie, nearly 3, was watching "Sesame Street," half-playing with a doll and half-talking with her mother, state Rep. Stephanie Hilferty, who had just donned a tan jacket over a black-and-white dress and was leaving for Baton Rouge. She needed to be there for a 10 a.m. committee meeting.

Michael Lillis, her husband, casually dressed in a polo shirt and shorts, was trying to keep order as she rushed to get ready.

Hilferty kissed them goodbye, one by one. But Claire Marie had other ideas, in the way that little girls do. She led her mother into another room. She had an important matter to discuss: her upcoming birthday party.

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Two minutes later, the plans settled, Hilferty kissed her daughter again, slipped through a sliding glass door and climbed into her SUV to drive to the State Capitol, where she represents the lakefront neighborhoods in Jefferson and Orleans parishes, straddling the 17th Street Canal, that constitute District 94 in the state House.

Hilferty, 33, a Republican, is only the fourth legislator in the 207-year history of the Louisiana Legislature to give birth while in office and only the second one to become a mother during one of the Legislatures 60-day or 90-day sessions.

There likely will be more, as societal norms evolve and more and more women run for office.

You can have a young family and a career, Hilferty said while the speedometer hit 80 mph as she raced home at the end of a recent days legislative session. I dont think Im that much different than the families and moms in District 94. A lot of them are two-income households. I cant say Ive seen any direct comments about me being a young mother.

In all, 23 of Louisianas 144 legislators today are women, down from a high of 25 in 2005, according to Trin Johnson, who heads the Louisiana Legislative Womens Caucus.

That means Louisiana lags behind most other states, with women holding only 16 percent of the legislative seats, ranking 44th among the states, according to an analysis by Rutgers Universitys Center for American Women and Politics in New Jersey.

In the U.S. Congress, women hold a record high 24 percent of the 535 seats. They also hold 29 percent of legislative seats across the country.

The #MeToo movement and anger over President Donald Trump and what were seen as his sexist comments fueled a big jump in the number of women who ran and were elected in 2018, according to Jean Sinzdak, associate director of the Rutgers center.

Voters have expectations of what traditional elected officials look like, Sinzdak said. Some of that status quo has been disrupted in the past couple of years. Once one breaks through, it makes it easier for others to follow in their footsteps.

A womens group allied with the Louisiana Democratic Party is making a push to elect more women in this falls legislative elections. Republicans are recruiting candidates through their womens clubs.

Were working against hundreds of years of societal and systematic barriers to being able to have a seat at the table and even have the possibility of being in the state Legislature, said Melanie Oubre, the executive director of Emerge Louisiana, which was founded in 2017 to train and recruit female Democratic candidates.

Its a foreign concept to a lot of women in Louisiana," she said. "They havent been in the conversations or been in the rooms. Even with all the new recruitment groups, men still get asked to run more than women. We have an image of what our leaders are because thats what theyve looked like. Its going to be an uphill battle.

Louisiana has had one female governor, Kathleen Blanco, from 2004-08, and New Orleans now has its first female mayor, LaToya Cantrell.

The first woman to be a member of the Louisiana Legislature was Doris Lindsey Holland from St. Helena Parish, who in 1936 was elected to succeed her husband, Thomas, who died while in office. As recently as 1975, only 1 percent of Louisiana legislators were women. In all, 82 women have served in the Legislature, compared to more than 2,000 men who have served in the House alone since 1880, available records show.

Hilferty is soft-spoken but firm when she needs to be, interrupting the governors executive counsel, Matthew Block, at a recent legislative hearing on proposed changes to the states Industrial Tax Exemption Program to ask for specifics.

Proposed teacher pay raises boosted in Louisiana's $30B budget passed by House; see next steps Around this time last year, a divided Louisiana House was wrestling with a state budget that threatened to shutter hospitals, cut popular scho

She has aligned with the moderate Republicans who will sometimes vote with Gov. John Bel Edwards, a Democrat. She sponsored one bill passed by the Legislature that created a task force to study how to improve operations at New Orleans beleaguered Sewerage & Water Board and another that created a task force to study how to improve the states early childhood education program.

I think prior to having kids, youre maybe not aware of how much brain development occurs before age 3, Hilferty said. I saw it with Claire Marie. You say something one time, and she makes a connection.

She is sponsoring a bill this year that would license non-hospital birthing centers. Rebekah Gee, the secretary of the Louisiana Department of Health, recently called Hilferty during her morning commute to thank her for pushing the bill.

On other key issues, Hilferty has a 100 percent anti-abortion voting record, according to Louisiana Right to Life. She voted in 2018 for the bipartisan renewal of .45 percent of the expiring 1 percent sales tax that ended the states fiscal problems and voted with almost all other Republicans to elect Rep. Taylor Barras, R-New Iberia, as the House speaker over the governors choice, Rep. Walt Leger III, D-New Orleans.

Hilferty is running for re-election this fall, with one male Republican and one female Democrat challenging her.

She grew up near Lake Pontchartrain in Metairie and graduated from Dominican High School in New Orleans. After attending Loyola University, she began work as a commercial real estate broker in Jefferson Parish. She and her husband Michael, an attorney who practices independently, moved to Lake Vista in New Orleans, and she became president of the neighborhood property owners association.

In 2015, she attended a neighborhood crime prevention meeting one evening.

Our former representative (Nick Lorusso) was there and made a joke that the state was broke, Hilferty said. I thought: 'How can you make a joke?' That made me start looking at the race. I thought we needed more proactive leadership.

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Louisiana Senate backs strict limits on 'abhorrent practice' of jailing victims unwilling to testify State senators unanimously voted to put strict limits on prosecutors ability to jail victims of sexual assault or domestic violence who are r

Ive always been engaged  whether its school leadership or neighborhood associations. This was kind of a logical step.

Jefferson Parishs top political consultant, Greg Buisson, agreed to run her campaign, and Hilferty proved to be an active campaigner. She promoted the need for better results from spending on crime, infrastructure and creating jobs and investment.

Hilferty thumped Lorusso, winning 56 percent of the vote. Just as Lorusso was, she is the only Republican legislator who lives in New Orleans.

Hilferty discovered that she was pregnant six weeks before the election.

I didnt deliberately try to hide it, she said.

It was a different era, 26 years earlier, when Suzanne Krieger became pregnant while serving as a state representative from Slidell.

Krieger kept quiet, fearful of possible repercussions.

A lot of people at that point didnt think women should be serving in the Legislature and then have a baby in office, she said in a recent interview, adding that these people thought maybe you should be staying at home.

Her daughter Adele was born in November 1993  the first baby born to a sitting legislator in Louisiana.

In January 1994, Krieger attended her first legislative committee hearing, out of session, with Adele.

I took her up to my seat and put the baby bottles on my nameplate, Krieger said, relishing the memory. All my colleagues on Appropriations came over to see me. They asked: 'Where did this baby come from? You must have adopted it.' 

As she explained that she had gained only 16 pounds during her pregnancy, the other legislators oohed and aahed over Adele. Krieger was so excited that she drove over to the Governors Mansion, uninvited.

Gov. (Edwin) Edwards was very gracious, she said. He invited us in and rocked her. She had a great day.

Krieger had less success requesting a modification in the ladies room at the State Capitol that would create space for her to change Adeles diapers there. It didnt happen.

I had to drive back and forth 90 miles to my home in Slidell so I could take care of Adele, Krieger said. Weve come a long way since then.

Adele graduated from Loyola law school on Saturday.

Then-Rep. Jalila Jefferson-Bullock holds the distinction of being the first legislator to give birth while the Legislature was in session. That occurred in 2006 when she gave birth to her son, Torey Bullock Jr.

In an email, Jefferson-Bullock, then a Democrat from New Orleans and now a law professor at Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, said Torey is a thriving seventh-grader.

State Sen. Beth Mizell, R-Franklinton, welcomes the new era.

When she worked for Pan American Life Insurance Co. in New Orleans in the 1970s, Mizell had to provide her employer with a statement that she was taking birth control. They didnt want me to get pregnant and take off time from work, she said.

Mizell won election to the state Senate in 2015 from Washington Parish and now heads the Legislative Womens Caucus.

Women can make the choice to stay at home with their children, or run for office or start a business, Mizell enthused outside of the Senate chamber on Thursday. Its all part of the options we have now. Isnt it great?

Claire Marie Lillis, Hilfertys daughter, was born in May 2016, while the Legislature was in session. Hilferty took two weeks off  she did not receive her legislative pay during that period  and then brought her newborn onto the House floor.

Shes very excited to see you guys, Hilferty said into the House microphone and laughed as she cradled Claire Marie, who was half-asleep and unaware of the fuss as her mothers colleagues crowded around and snapped photos with their phones.

Nothing against yalls bills, but this is the best thing thats happened all session, Rep. Johnny Berthelot, R-Gonzales, said to the others.

Hilferty gave birth via a Caesarean section, which meant that she could not drive for eight weeks. She and Michael rented an apartment in Baton Rouge for the remainder of the legislative session. One legislative colleague drove her to and from the Capitol, and another yielded his prime parking spot to her.

An aide to the House speaker let Hilferty nurse and pump milk in her office. (The Capitol does not have a room for that.) Hilferty brought a little ice chest to the Capitol to keep the bottled milk fresh.

Now, Hilferty mostly drives back and forth daily between New Orleans and Baton Rouge when the Legislature is in session.

If we work late, Ill stay in Baton Rouge, she said. Claire Marie is usually OK with it. She recently realized that Mommy has two jobs. Last night, I arrived at 9:30 p.m. Claire Marie was in her pajamas and waiting for me, playing with Michael.

Their mothers provide care for the children during the workday. Helping matters is that Hilferty and Lillis both have flexible work hours.

Hilferty sometimes takes her children to neighborhood association meetings, and she plans to campaign with them this fall.

Its certainly a balancing act, she said. My family and kids will come first. I try to make a conscious effort to carve out time for them and make sure Im fulfilling my legislative duties. To do that, you peel back the other pieces of your life, movies or whatever. You let that fall by the wayside. I dont think thats unusual for parents.

She paused to laugh. I dont have the cleanest house, she added.
It would clearly be unfair not to refund $6 million in fees unlawfully extracted from the people of Orleans Parish.
A few minutes after the Louisiana Senate on Monday overwhelmingly rejected allowing a statewide vote to abolish the death penalty, senators ran through their sanctity of life speeches again then approved one of the strictest bans on abortion.

The juxtaposition of voting to kill adults and protect unborn babies wasnt serendipity. It was parliamentary performance art planned by the chief sponsor of Senate Bill 112, Baton Rouge Republican Sen. Dan Claitor, a former New Orleans prosecutor. When I put it (SB112) on the agenda, I made sure it would come up right before Milkovich, he said, referring to Sen. John Milkovichs Senate Bill 184, which would forbid procedures to end a pregnancy after the detection of a fetal heartbeat, usually around six weeks after conception and often before a mother knows shes pregnant.

I believe its an inconsistent vote, Claitor said during an interview later in the week.

The proposal to let voters end the practice of government executing criminals was defeated on a 13-25 vote, while Milkovichs anti-abortion measure advanced on a vote of 31-5.

Proposal to let public vote on death penalty shot down in Louisiana Senate The Louisiana Senate rejected a bill to let the public vote on whether to abolish the death penalty, dealing another blow to an ongoing effort

Of the 39 state senators, only Claitor; Regina Barrow, D-Baton Rouge; Gerald Boudreaux, D-Lafayette; Page Cortez, R-Lafayette; Eric LaFleur, D-Ville Platte; Fred Mills, R-Parks; and Dan Blade Morrish, R-Jennings, voted in favor of both bills.

Claitor soft-sold his religious faith and moral views that were the real reasons for his efforts.

Instead, Claitor said he put on his Republican hat and tried to persuade fellow fiscal conservatives that they would jettison any other government program that cost so much  about $15.6 million annually  and yielded so few results. Only three Louisiana inmates have been executed this century, one of whom had to volunteer. Claitor points out that the 65 men and one woman currently sentenced to death are more likely to die of natural causes or be exonerated.

If this one wasnt the death penalty, wed have pulled such a program long ago, he said. All that aside, when the government is involved in killing people for retribution, and thats all this is, it cheapens life and makes society more violent.

Cost of Louisiana's death penalty is $15.6 million per year, new study says A new analysis on the cost of the death penalty in Louisiana puts the total price for taxpayers over the past decade at a minimum of $15.6 mil

Claitors performance art, however, underscores Catholicisms consistent ethic of life ideology that opposes abortion, capital punishment, assisted suicide, and euthanasia.

Thirty years ago, Pope John Paul II reversed doctrine dating back to the Middle Ages by saying that modern prisons all but negated the limited exemption of society protecting itself that allowed for church-sanctioned executions. Pope Francis took it a step further, writing that the death penalty is "against the inviolability of life and the dignity of the human person, which contradicts God's plan for man and society.

Sen. Claitor wanted people to look at the contrast, the irony, said Will Hall, director of public policy for the Louisiana Baptist Convention, headquartered in Alexandria. He had testified on both bills.

During committee hearings, Hall testified that the group that oversees 1,600 churches and 500,000 Baptists generally is against abolishing the death penalty and for tightening access to abortions.

Basically, Hall told The Advocate, the difference is a baby is innocent and an adult who has committed murder is not. The government is to protect the people, promote the general interest of people and to punish the wicked, he said.

Baptists want capital punishment to be fair and rare. The Bible unequivocally allows for the death penalty, Hall said, citing Luke 22;35-38.

Other passages include Genesis 9:56, and Leviticus 20:127.

More importantly is Romans 13:34, which is about a Christians duties to governing authorities. If you do wrong, be afraid, for rulers do not bear the sword for no reason. They are Gods servants, agents of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer.

As is often the case in Louisiana, politics trumps religious and moral considerations.

Southern Baptists are the second largest denomination, behind Louisianas 1.3 million Catholics. But when coupled with other denominations and evangelicals, Protestants account for about 60% of the states population.

Though abolishing the death penalty was shot down, promoters of capital punishment arent rushing to fix the current stall in executions: finding the chemicals necessary for lethal injection.

All the posturing aside, that problem could be fixed, arguably, with a bill that would add a firing squad to lethal injection in the law on the allowable method to execute the condemned.

Louisiana lawmakers seek to mask sources for execution drugs in secrecy in bid to jump start death penalty Death penalty supporters in the Louisiana Legislature are trying to shroud the source of the state's execution drugs in secrecy, a move intend

Pro-death penalty legislators are pushing a measure that would make secret from the people paying the bill the purchases of the necessary chemicals. Theyre not really rushing it. House Bill 258 cleared committee on Tuesday but wont get a vote by the full House until May 20. That would allow only 11 days, if the schedule remains unchanged, to clear the Senate before the Legislature adjourns June 6.
Flames and smoke rise as the spire on Notre Dame cathedral collapses in Paris, Monday, April 15, 2019. Massive plumes of yellow brown smoke is filling the air above Notre Dame Cathedral and ash is falling on tourists and others around the island that marks the center of Paris. (AP Photo/Diana Ayanna) ORG XMIT: TH165
Recently, two 8-foot-tall black cylinders popped up on a street corner about a block from Ken Caron's home, pushing the street signs that stood there a few extra feet higher and leaving the French Quarter resident puzzled.

What were those things, and what were they doing in the Quarter?

As Caron and many other residents would soon learn, the cylinders were some of the first placements of the backbone for new 5G wireless devices aimed at boosting smartphone speeds throughout New Orleans.

Hundreds of such devices  including dozens in and around the French Quarter, according to a review of permits authorizing their construction  were approved by city officials last week as part of agreements to bring the emerging technology to the city.

In approving the deals, New Orleans became the latest city in the U.S. to aid companies like Verizon and AT&T in their race to implement 5G, the worlds most advanced wireless technology that is estimated to eventually make web browsing at least eight times faster for consumers.

It also became the latest city to be roiled by a debate over the cylindrical, or in some cases robotic-looking, devices placement on street signs or utility poles near homes and businesses.

For the technology to work, the equipment needs to be close to street level. But some residents have safety concerns. Others say they're plain ugly.

Its just monstrous, said Caron, who said the tubes pushed the one-way and stop signs at Burgundy and Gov. Nicholls streets a full story into the air. It doesnt belong in the oldest residential neighborhood in the state.

Other than Caron, the president of the Vieux Carre Property Owners, Residents and Associates organization, others have said the devices are too close to their homes and that they had no voice in their placement.

In a nutshell, 5G is made possible by "small cell" networks that have a shorter range than traditional cell towers and are made up of nodes that must be placed closer together and nearer to the ground in order to work.

The small cells can increase bandwidth in dense urban areas that may not have the space for more large towers. Because the cells are nearer to consumers, the cellular service that users receive tends to be swifter.

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Telecom companies have promised 5G devices in at least some markets this year.

Staffers in Mayor LaToya Cantrells administration and on the City Council, who have worked for years on a rewrite of the citys code governing the new technology, said it could mean swifter downloads of data in technologies the city is already using, such as its real-time crime camera network. It might also lead to more advanced technologies, like gunshot sensors.

"We are expecting that 5G will allow us to deliver more information faster so that we can use that information to make real-time decisions, similar to the way adding more lanes to a highway eliminates congestion," said Kimberly LaGrue, Cantrell's chief information officer.

But the rules for installing the devices are different from what residents might expect. Unlike zoning changes or additions to private property, which require public hearings, the small cell nodes are being installed on public right of ways, which means the city is able to control more of the process.

LaGrue said that each device is reviewed by 10 different departments to ensure that its design matches the neighborhood in which it was placed. The device near Carons home in the French Quarter, for example, appears different from one affixed to a utility pole at First and Constance streets in the Irish Channel. In that location, a cluster of boxes, wires and cones point downward from near the top of the pole.

While residents can contact the Department of Parks and Parkways or Safety and Permits if they are concerned about the devices, their placement is approved by the city wholesale and is not subject to the individual reviews that property owners seeking to make significant changes to their properties would be subject to, said Keith Lampkin, chief of staff for City Councilman Jason Williams, and Erin Spears, head of the council's Utilities Regulatory Office.

Still, Harvey Stern, who opposes the devices chiefly because he is concerned about the effect they may have on people's safety, said that process robs the public of its right to have a say in the devices's placement. This is a public land use issue, that the public wont get to opine on, Stern said.

Residents in other cities have criticized the devices for similar reasons. Though the publics exposure to the radio frequencies the devices emit has been raised by some groups, Williams, the council president, cited statements from the American Cancer Society and the World Health Organization that there is no conclusive evidence that the existing cell phone towers cause cancer.

The International Agency for Research on Cancer has identified radio frequencies as possibly carcinogenic to humans  a label also given to components found in coffee.

Caron, for his part, isnt worried about potential health problems: From what Ive read, thats not a big concern, he said.

More problematic, he said, is a process that does not give him and other residents enough say in the devices design and placement.
Attorneys for Irvin Mayfield and Ronald Markham have asked a federal judge to toss out statements that Markham made to a state auditor during an investigation of the New Orleans Jazz Orchestra.

The auditor coordinated with federal authorities when he secretly recorded Markham talking about the orchestra's finances, the defense lawyers told U.S. District Judge Jay Zainey at a hearing Thursday.

Zainey deferred ruling on the defense's motion to block Markhams statements from being used at a trial. But the dispute has provided a window into the tactics investigators used during their lengthy inquiry into financial dealings by Mayfield, a trumpeter who founded and for years led the orchestra, and Markham, his business partner.

Prosecutors allege the pair raided $1.4 million from the New Orleans Public Library Foundation, where they were board members and for several years chaired the organization, and spent much of it on the orchestra or themselves.

The hearing was also a reminder that the wheels of justice are turning  slowly  toward a trial. Mayfield and Markham, who were first charged 17 months ago, are currently set to face a jury on Sept. 30.

The original 19-count indictment against Mayfield and Markham included allegations of conspiracy, wire fraud, mail fraud, money laundering conspiracy, money laundering and obstruction of justice. Prosecutors have since added additional counts.

A trial date has been repeatedly delayed as defense attorneys sift through thousands of documents turned over by the government. Zainey could decide to push the date back yet again.

The hearing last week centered on statements that Markham gave to an agent for the Louisiana Legislative Auditor's Office in September 2016 and October 2017.

In the second interview, weeks before his indictment, Markham spoke at length about the New Orleans Jazz Orchestras sometimes shoddy record-keeping and the funds it received from the private library foundation  the cash transfers that became the basis of government claims that the musicians pilfered money from the foundation.

The agent, Brent McDougall, never disclosed that he was working closely with the FBI and thus violated Markhams rights to privacy and against self-incrimination, Markhams lawyer says.

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Assistant U.S. Attorney Theodore Carter III dismissed Markhams crocodile tears. He said Mayfield and Markham were well aware that the feds had been circling them since 2013.

McDougall was also totally within his rights to ask Markham questions about private funds the orchestra took from the library foundation, since it was also receiving money from the state, Carter said.

He was required to look at that. ... We have private funds and public funds flowing through NOJO, Carter said. He never once acted outside the scope of his legislative authority.

But Sara Johnson, a lawyer for Markham, said it appeared that McDougall was acting in the place of the feds during the interview. She pointed to a series of meetings and emails he exchanged with an FBI agent.

In one email, the federal agent praised her state counterpart's good work.

If hes just conducting his own audit, he doesnt need to be doing any of that, Johnson said.

Johnson asked the judge to allow her to put McDougall on the stand to quiz him about his contacts with the feds, and to prevent the earlier interviews from being used at a trial. Mayfields attorney has joined in the motion.

Zainey said he would issue a ruling on whether McDougall will be brought into court after further briefing.
An Orleans Parish Sheriffs Office firearms instructor has requested whistleblower status with the state Ethics Board after alleging fraud in the New Orleans jail's training division.

The five-year veteran claims that other instructors told jail deputies to sign forms incorrectly claiming they had gone through the training necessary to receive $500 a month in extra state pay, potentially defrauding the state of tens of thousands of dollars by falsifying public records.

A top official at the Sheriffs Office said the allegations are being investigated  but the instructor told the Ethics Board he believes the investigation is being twisted around to focus on him.

The instructor, Paul Feyerabend, has also notified the Louisiana Commission on Law Enforcement.

While the Sheriffs Office has opened an investigation of its own, its not clear whether another agency will step in to independently investigate the instructors claims. But if they are substantiated, they could represent a serious blow to an agency that has desperately sought to beef up its ranks and its employees pay in the face of a staffing shortage.

Top brass at the Sheriffs Office have made a frantic effort to hire and train new deputies while holding onto old ones. In 2018, the jail hired 126 new employees  and lost 201.

While the jail says it has improved its retention rate this year, deputies continue to leave.

The Sheriffs Office also fired 16 employees for misconduct in the first four months of 2019, according to records obtained by The New Orleans Advocate.

Now, Paul Feyerabend, a firearms instructor whos been at the agency since 2014, has brought an allegation against his fellow trainers. The longtime lawman said in a written complaint that other employees in the division decided to cut corners and falsify documents when they were up against a deadline in December.

He said a significant number of deputies at the jail had not completed their annual in-service training last year, jeopardizing their ability to receive $500 a month in state supplemental pay. The pay, which is designed to prop up sheriffs budgets around the state, depends on deputies being certified by the state Council on Peace Officer Standards and Training.

The Sheriffs Office has made POST-certifying its deputies a top priority to improve employee pay.

Feyerabend claims six instructors  a majority of the training division's staff  falsified training records showing that deputies had completed their yearly training.

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His complaint does not allege that the jail deputies committed misconduct. He said some of the deputies said instructors told them they were signing roll sheets for classes they had already attended.

Feyerabend said that after he went through the proper channels to report the misconduct, his boss in the training division retaliated against him by ordering him transferred to the jail itself, a much less desirable posting.

He also claimed that while the Sheriffs Office opened an investigation, he now seemed to be its focus rather than the instructors he accused of misconduct.

In his letter to the Ethics Board, Feyerabend described that move as business as usual in the (Sheriff's Office) culture of abuse.

Based on the nature of my complaints (both retaliation and felony crimes), it seems as if the department takes neither matter seriously, and that they are prepared to take action to obstruct the truth from being told, he added.

However, the independent compliance director at the jail, Darnley Hodge Sr., said an investigation into Feyerabends complaint is ongoing. He declined to comment further.

Emails attached to Feyerabends letter suggest his complaint about training records was not his first. Earlier, he was involved in a tiff with another instructor over the proper firing stance at the shooting range.

A Louisiana Commission on Law Enforcement official, Bob Wertz, confirmed that the commission received a complaint about the Sheriff's Office's training division. Wertz said the commission, which oversees POST certification, told the complainant to take his concerns to the Orleans Parish District Attorneys Office, since the commission has no law enforcement powers on its own.

If confirmed, however, the allegations could jeopardize the ability of the Sheriffs Office to run its own training program.

The training instructors accused in Feyerabends letter to the Ethics Board either could not be reached or did not respond to requests for comment.
The Queensland Government has reacted angrily to suggestions by Prime Minister Scott Morrison that his government "saved" the World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef.

In his 2019 federal election campaign launch in Melbourne on Sunday Mr Morrison thanked his party's two previous environment ministers for their efforts.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison says his government has 'saved the Great Barrier Reef.' Credit:Fairfax Media

"We have saved the Great Barrier Reef - well done to Greg Hunt particularly on his work when he was Environment Minister - taking it off the endangered list," Mr Morrison said.

"Weve invested record funds in researching and protecting its future thanks to Joshs [Frydenberg] time as environment minister," he said, before going on to commend current Environment Minister Melissa Price.
The husband of a woman who went missing while hiking near Bluff Knoll in the Stirling Ranges about four days ago is hopeful his wife is still alive.

Lorjie Tonguia Bautista, 38, was due to take part in a one day trek up Bluff Knoll and did not sign in to the mountains visitors register when she arrived at the location on Tuesday.

She was last seen about 4am on Tuesday, and staff at the local holiday park where she was staying raised the alarm when she had failed to return by Thursday.

A search operation of 50 police and state emergency service volunteers, tracking dogs, a drone and thermal imaging equipment commenced, and entered into its fourth day on Sunday morning.
Jonathan Ananda By

Express News Service

The central government and industry regulator Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) may have given the go-ahead for in-flight connectivity services over Indian airspace late last year, but no firm has begun offering them yet. This may change soon, however, with several developments over the last few weeks indicating that service providers are getting close to a roll out.

While the first in-flight connectivity licence was issued to satellite communication market leader Hughes Communication India only in February this year, nearly three months after the government gave the green light, the subsequent months have seen a flurry of licence issues. After Hughes, satellite service providers like Tatanet Services, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Nelco; Bharti Airtel subsidiary Indo Teleports Limited (ITL) and state-run Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd (BSNL) have all been granted 10-year licences by the Department of Telecom. Sources also say that several other telecom and satellite communication majors like Reliance Jio, Ortus Communications and Cloud Cast Digital have made applications.

More recently, the top two market leaders in the Indian Very Small Aperture Terminal (VSAT) industry  Hughes Communication India and Bharti Airtel  have announced plans to merge their two businesses together. VSAT services are used to provide satellite-based telecom and internet access to individuals and enterprise users, especially banks and their ATM touchpoints.

However, VSAT is also the backbone of in-flight services across the world and experts say that the impending merger of Hughes and Airtels VSAT businesses will create a giant entity capable of taking on rivals in the sector, both existing and new like Reliance Jio.

According to TRAIs market report for the quarter ended December 2018, the number of VSAT subscribers in India stood at 2.87 lakh, growing by 1.96 per cent. Hughes Communications controlled the lions share of the pie (35.89 per cent market share), followed by Bharti Airtel (27.7 per cent) and Tatanet Services (23.51 per cent). Post merger, the new company is set to hold nearly 64 per cent of the market.

Industry observers say that the VSAT market is currently rather minuscule compared to the larger telecom industry, at around Rs 900-1,000 crore a year. However, the rollout of in-flight services has the potential to open up the segment, and ongoing consolidation is a sign that companies are gearing up to take on the new market, say insiders. The Hughes-Airtel combine can be formidable because they can leverage what economies of scale are there. Secondly, with Jio also an aspirant, incumbent market leaders will need to find ways to counter Jios financial muscle. Consolidation is one way to do that, said a senior industry executive.

For their part, Hughes and Airtel say the combined entity will benefit from enhanced scale, improved operational efficiencies and wider market reach. (We) will be well positioned to leverage the demand for secure connectivity in a rapidly growing digital economy, an Airtel statement said.

Combining the proven capabilities of both companies, added Ajay Chitkara, director and chief executive officer, Airtel Business, the partnership will bring synergies to the forefront for the benefit of customers. Post the merger, Hughes will hold 67 per cent stake in HCIL, while Airtel will have a 33 per cent stake.

The in-flight services market is expected to rise sharply. Euroconsult, for instance, says that over 23,000 commercial aircraft will offer such services to fliers by 2027 globally, from just around 7,400 in 2017.
Prime Minister Scott Morrisons crowning moment at the Coalitions campaign launch was when he stressed in simple, resonant terms that the very reason economic growth and fine fiscal management matter is they are about providing wellbeing and opportunity for everyone. From that unimpeachable cornerstone, he then presented an argument that only the Coalition can be trusted to deliver the best economic and budgetary outcomes for the nation.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison at the Coalition campaign launch in Melbourne on Sunday. Credit:Dominic Lorrimer

We urge fiscal constraint in this final week of the election campaign  both sides recognise the need to accumulate an economic buffer for Australia, as global economic and political risks mount. Notwithstanding Mr Morrisons promise to add $1 billion to the $3 billion Victorian road link pledged in the budget, his launch certainly was not an attempt to buy election victory.

That is partly due to an ingrained desire to run a strong set of books, and partly because he has already made his big hip-pocket pitch with his recent budget and his 10-year tax-cut plan; he cannot afford to earmark much more money before damaging his credibility.

He did make a serious pitch to help first-home buyers with their deposits, an idea sufficiently appealing to be matched wholesale by Labor later the same afternoon. In an election pitched to the aspirations of ordinary Australians, it is surprising that it has taken so long for housing affordability to become an election issue. Its good to see both parties are willing to tackle it, although economists warn that many of these mechanisms can drive up prices.
Dakar, Senegal: Gunmen killed at least six people at a Catholic church in the West African nation of Burkina Faso on Sunday and then torched the worship space, town officials told local reporters.

Smoke can be seen rising in the distance from an Islamic extremist attack in 2018. Credit:AP

The attack during morning Mass occurred in the country's restive north, where militants linked to the Islamic State and al-Qaeda have recently gained ground.

A priest was among those killed.

Militants also set ablaze nearby shops and a medical clinic, according to the BBC.
WARSAW: Thousands of Polish nationalists marched to the US embassy in Warsaw, protesting that the US is putting pressure on Poland to compensate Jews whose families lost property during the Holocaust.

The protest took place on Saturday amid a dramatic rise in anti-Semitic hate speech in public life in Poland and it appeared to be one of the largest anti-Jewish street demonstrations in recent times. It also comes as far-right groups are gaining in popularity, pressuring the conservative government to move further to the right.

Protesters, including far-right groups and their supporters, say the US has no right to interfere in Polish affairs and that the US government is putting "Jewish interests" over the interests of Poland.

Polish nationalists march on the US Embassy, in Warsaw, to protest a push for Poland to compensate Jews whose families lost property during the Holocaust. Credit:AP

Poland was a major victim of Nazi Germany during World War II and those protesting say it is not fair to ask Poland to compensate Jewish victims when Poland has never received adequate compensation from Germany.
Washington: Former vice-president Joe Biden's 2020 rivals and a group of progressive environmental organisations are attacking him as being weak on climate change, a sign of the central role global warming is shaping up to play as an issue in the Democratic primary.

The criticisms are based on a yet-to-be-released plan outlined in a Reuters report in which one person advising Biden characterised the Democratic front-runner as seeking a "middle ground" on policies to reduce planet-warming emissions.

Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden says he will find a middle ground on climate change policy. Credit:AP

Additional details in the report described Biden's forthcoming policy as likely to include reinstating Obama-era regulations on automobiles and coal-fired power plants, while leaving a role for nuclear energy and natural gas in the US energy mix. The emerging policy has sparked criticism among Biden's political rivals and has left supporters worried that he is underestimating the passion on climate change, particularly among Millennials who have embraced the Green New Deal, an ambitious resolution calling for an end to fossil fuels.

"There is no 'middle ground' when it comes to climate policy," Senator Bernie Sanders tweeted.
Community newspapers from across the province gathered to celebrate the Manitoba Community Newspapers Association's 100th annual newspaper awards on Saturday.

Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 12/5/2019 (958 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Community newspapers from across the province gathered to celebrate the Manitoba Community Newspapers Association's 100th annual newspaper awards on Saturday.

The Carillon was named as the best overall newspaper in its circulation class and earned second place awards in its class for layout and design, along with its editorial page.

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Columnist Michael Zwaagstra, who authors his Think Again column in the paper on a weekly basis, was honoured with a first place award in the best columnist category of the awards competition.

The newspaper's Christmas issue also took first place honours as the top Christmas issue of 2018.

Reporter Jordan Ross was the winner of three writing awards; two second place awards for First Nations coverage and health coverage, as well as a third place award for best tourism story.

Editor Grant Burr received a third place win in the best editorial category.

The paper's bi-monthly special section, Agriculture Now, received third place honours in the best agricultural section competition.

The Swan Valley Star and Times won the night's biggest honour as the best all-around newspaper in the province.
Gurbir Singh By

Express News Service

The newspaper is dead and news in the future will be consumed in little digital packets of 60 words or tweets of 280 characters. This is a popular myth based on surveys of upper class youth who have stopped reading newspapers, disconnected their Tata Sky connections, and largely rely on Netflix or Amazon Prime for their media consumption.

The truth is fortunately quite the opposite. The recently released data by the Indian Readership Survey (IRS) for first quarter of the calendar year 2019 shows that India continues to buck the international trend of a contracting print media.

As many as 425 million people read a daily newspaper in Q1 of 2019 compared to 407 million in 2017, a rise of 18 million or a healthy growth of 4.42 per cent over one year. As a percentage of the population, this means 39 per cent (53 per cent in urban areas) of the people are consuming news through a newspaper.

Magazine readership, long thought to be dead, has actually grown since 2017 by 9 million, up to 87 million from 78 million. Even English newspapers, for which readership had earlier declined, have scored a rise between 5 and 20 per cent.

CARNAGE IN THE WEST

These figures are amazing, especially when pitted against the carnage in western markets. Print, and news consumption in general, began dropping from the mid-1990s.In the United States, weekday print circulation (not readership) has shrunk from 60 million in 1994 to 35 million combined print and digital circulation in 2018. Advertising revenue too has fallen drastically from $65 billion in 2000 to around $19 billion in 2016, while newsroom employment fell nearly 40 per cent between 1994 and 2014.

In Britain, newspapers have declined in circulation steadily by 6 to 10 per cent annually since 2005, and there are no less than 200 local and regional titles that have disappeared or stopped publication over this period. The disappearing print media has caused such concern that Prime Minister Theresa May described it as a danger to democracy.

This does not mean that people in these western markets are turning to the digital editions of newspapers. The trend is in fact towards a decline in news consumption in general and a preference for abbreviated news content such as Twitter or mobile news alerts.Pew Research showed that in Q4 of 2017, for the top 50 US daily newspapers, there was an average of 11.5 million monthly unique visitors, less than the 11.7 million for 2016. This was the first year of decline compared to an increase of 18 per cent in 2015 and 21 per cent in 2016.

AD REVENUES FLAT

In India, though print media has performed well, the concern is ad revenue continues to stagnate. According to Magna Global, a division of media agency group IPG Mediabrands, print media ad revenue grew 5.6 per cent in 2018 to Rs 22,121.9 crore on the back of elections in six states; and the agency predicts that the current Lok Sabha elections, and the greater reliability of print media in an age of fake news, will take it up to Rs 22,423.3 crore in 2019.

However, considering a four-month long election season, preceded by a near-war with Pakistan, a growth of just 1.4 per cent in ad revenue is not sensational.Unfortunately, over the last decade, print medias share in the overall advertising spends has declined from about 30 per cent to about 18 per cent. This is hurting as the cover price of newspapers and magazines contribute nominally, while advertising makes up 90 per cent of the revenue.

There are various reasons for this scenario. Advertising on digital platforms has grown rapidly to about Rs 15,000 crore a year. Theres also the glitz and glamour of broadcasting and OTT platforms that print cannot match.

The biggest problem has been the ever-changing currency  How do advertisers gauge the reach of print? Over the years, the currency changed from ABC circulation figures to readership figures; and then there was competition between IRS and National Readership Survey (NRS), with the latter collapsing.

Now with IRS establishing itself with a steady sample size of 2.5 lakh, the next step would be to gauge readership for both print and online together as is done in western markets. As it is, IRS data shows that the online readership for newspapers is 12 percent in towns and cities with population of 50 lakh and above.

If substantial investments are made in news gathering and technology for real-time delivery of news by print media groups, we can still envisage quite a few years of robust growth.
Longtime Central Intelligence Agency operative and former chief of counterintelligence James Jim Olson released a book rooted in his experiences earlier this year, and on Tuesday, he will host an issues forum at the George Bush Presidential Library and Museum.

Olsons book  To Catch a Spy: The Art of Counterintelligence  was written both for the general public and for current and future practitioners of counterintelligence.

I feel strongly that we are not doing enough now to protect our country against espionage being conducted by foreign intelligence services against the United States, Olson said in a phone interview Thursday. Were being bombarded by foreign intelligence services that are trying to steal our secrets, our technology, and they are getting into our databases.

Currently, Olson works as a professor of the practice at the Bush School of Government and Public Service of Texas A&M University.

My book was designed, first of all, to familiarize the American public to the nature of the threat, Olson said. It also offers some prescriptions to how we can do a better job in the future.
College Station police and four other local law enforcement agencies will be hosting the 32nd annual Law Enforcement Memorial Service in College Station on Wednesday.

The event will take place starting at noon at the American Pavilion of Veterans Park in College Station. A service will be held to honor fallen law enforcement members and will include an address from Brazos County Sheriffs Chief Deputy Jim Stewart.

This free event is open to the public, and refreshments will be provided.
In secondary campuses, both intermediate schools and SFA Middle School are expected to exceed 100% capacity in the 2019-2020 school year. Bryan High School is expected to hit that level in the 2022-2023 school year. Rudder High School and Davila Middle School both show they will remain below the 100% capacity level through 2028.

The high school levels, though, do not include those students attending MC Harris or Bryan Collegiate High School campuses, so some of the students included in BHS or Rudder High School numbers will not attend classes at those campuses.

All of the information presented during last weeks workshop, along with an updated facility study set to be presented next month, will be taken into consideration as the district determines what needs to be done for the future of the district, Whitbeck said.

In addition to the demographic and facility surveys, she said, the two other key factors will be whether state legislators choose to fund full-day pre-kindergarten and how to address the size of the districts intermediate schools.
By Express News Service

Industry regulator Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) is moving forward in its efforts to enable Television-Set Top Box (TV-STB) interoperability, with the watchdog stating this week that it is examining possible solutions for the problem. TRAI expects to make some headway with cooperation from the industry by the end of this year.

In a statement on Friday, TRAI said that it has begun discussing downloadable Conditional Access System (CAS) based solution to implement STB interoperability. The authority conducted a workshop on the same this week.

Interoperability is a matter of importance for TV consumers in India, since STBs are tied to the respective service providers currently. When a consumer wants to change the service provider, they are forced to invest in a new STB which adds a substantial cost burden. Older STBs also remain unused after such a transition.

Now that TRAI has rolled out a new framework for TV services allowing consumers to pay only for channels they wish to see, the regulator believes that this choice also entails offering freedom to avail better service offerings.

As a logical next step towards this objective, Trai has been exploring the important issue of interoperability of STB....Interoperability of STB is also desirable for creation of open and competitive market bringing in advantage of volume of scale and consumer preference, Trai said.

TRAI is now working with system integrators, vendors, CAS providers and other stakeholders for technical discussions and detailed consultations will be followed by a Proof-of-Concept test. It also hopes that the involvement of the industry stakeholders would help in developing acceptable solution for STB interoperability by the year-end.

Speaking at the workshop, TRAI Chairman R S Sharma asserted that consumer interest remains the focus of the authority.
According to College Station police, around 1:20 p.m. Saturday, officers were dispatched to a home in the 1800 block of Potomac Place. Two people had been arguing, and at one point, police said, 37-year-old Christopher Bernard Thompson punched the victim in the face before drawing a butcher knife and issuing threats. No one was stabbed nor cut, police said.
By Laura Black

Special to The Eagle

The day I went shopping for an outfit to wear to my daughters wedding, my mother died.

For months, Mom had been under hospice care for end-stage Parkinsons disease. I flew from Baltimore to Miami to be with her on her 86th birthday in late March. When I arrived, she was propped up in her wheelchair, staring at an old episode of Dancing with the Stars.

Hi, Mom, I said as I bent over to kiss her. So, how are you doing?

She didnt respond but shot me a look that said, I spend my days in diapers alternating between the bed and the wheelchair, I cant feed myself and I cant remember my caregivers names. And you ask, how Im doing? Really? I felt embarrassed, like when I was an overweight 8-year-old asking her for a second dessert.

For the next two days I sat with her but gave up on conversation. Instead, I resorted to a unilateral commentary on Dancing with the Stars.
Actress Lisa Sheridans Cause of Death Is Revealed, Reports Say

Halt and Catch Fire and CSI actress Lisa Sheridan died in her home in New Orleans, according to reports earlier this year. Over the weekend, it was reported that her cause of death was natural, adding that she succumbed to complications of chronic alcoholism.

The Orleans Parish Coroners Office confirmed to People magazine on May 10 that her death was not a suicide as was previously reported. She was 44.

In the autopsy report, obtained by gossip website Radar Online, its said that Sheridan had a reported history of benzodiazepine abuse. The pills used for problems with anxiety and insomnia, according to the Mayo Clinics definition.

Sheridan also suffered a remote brain injury after a fall. The report noted that she had hyperinflated lungs.

Her manager, Mitch Clem, confirmed the actresss death to People magazine at the time, saying she didnt kill herself.

We all loved Lisa very much and are devastated by the loss we all feel, Clem told the magazine.

Sheridan died on the morning of Feb. 25 at home and in her apartment in New Orleans, he also said.

We are waiting for a coroners report on cause of death, he said.

He continued: The family has unequivocally confirmed that this is not a suicide. Any suggestion to the contrary is absolutely, 100 percent unfounded.

According to Variety, Sheridan went to Carnegie Mellon School in Pittsburgh and had more than 30 television credits in her career.

She appeared in The Mentalist, The 4400, Without a Trace, and Diagnosis: Murder.

Halt and Catch Fire Actress Lisa Sheridans Cause of Death Revealed https://t.co/1l4tzM1skF  People (@people) May 10, 2019

Donna DErrico, her co-star on Only God Can, confirmed her death on Facebook.

I am sitting here stunned. Lisa and I filmed a movie together 5 years ago and became very close on set and remained close friends after filming ended. Its so rare to find kind, gentle souls like hers in this industry, this cityeven this world, DErrico had written on Facebook.

Describing Sheridan as genuinely sweet and gentle, DErrico said she brought a sweetness and bright energy to any room she happened to walk intoeven in her darker times.

She included a photo of the two together.

I had just spoken with her and everything seemed great and she seemed happy and in good spirits. Everyone who knew her loved and adored her. Goodbye and goodnight sweet angelI will miss you terribly. Please send up prayers for her family, the actress wrote.

Other details about her death were not revealed.

The actress was born in Macon, Georgia, in 1974. She attended Carnegie Mellon School of Drama in Pittsburgh.
Chinese Vice Premier Liu He (L) shakes hands with US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer (R) alongside US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin (C) after trade negotiations in Washington, D.C., on May 10, 2019. (Saul Loeb/AFP/Getty Images)

Chinese State Media Blames US for No Agreement, Tells Youth to Prepare for Hard Times

After the latest round of U.S.-China trade talks ended on May 10 with no agreement, Chinas state-run media ramped up its propaganda efforts to portray the United States as an adversary, blaming it for the lack of progress in negotiations, while also warning citizens to brace for hard times ahead.

Washington tried to bring up terms that either harmed the sovereignty and dignity of China, or that were seriously unequal and unrealistic. Those requests have made the negotiations more difficult, read one of two editorials published by Global Times, a hawkish newspaper published under the Chinese Communist Partys mouthpiece, Peoples Daily, on May 12.

The Disputes

After the talks concluded, Phoenix Television, a Hong Kong-based pro-Beijing broadcaster, published the transcript of an interview by Chinese state media with Chinese Vice Premier Liu He, who headed the Chinese trade delegation.

In the interview, Liu said there were three unresolved disputes between the United States and China, first noting that the Chinese side wanted all tariffs to be eliminated.

The second was about Chinas promise to buy more goods from the United States. According to Liu, the two sides had differing views on the trade volumes.

The third, Liu said, was because China believed the agreement lacked balance. Every nation has its dignity, he said.

Meanwhile, U.S. officials and a Reuters report, citing U.S. government and private sources, said that China had reneged on drafted commitments to change its laws to resolve core complaints that caused the United States to enact punitive tariffs last year, such as theft of U.S. intellectual property and trade secrets; forced technology transfers; competition policy; access to financial services; and currency manipulation.

Addressing that U.S. claim, Liu said China thought it was normal to make changes before a final deal.

Liu also denied that China has been stealing U.S. trade secrets. China is a trustworthy country, he argued.

In recent months, U.S. prosecutors have charged a growing number of Chinese companies, hackers, and spies for allegedly stealing intellectual property from U.S. firms. Others already have been sentenced.

Even as trade discussions were about to start in Washington, the Global Times issued an editorial on May 9, contending that the United States had ill intentions.

The editorial likened the forthcoming trade negotiations in the U.S. capital to the events of Hongmen Banquet, a famous incident from Chinese history in which a banquet was prepared in an attempt to assassinate the guest.

Reiterating previous statements, the Global Times said the dispute was the result of unreasonable requests from the U.S. based on the wrong understanding that the U.S. is naturally the privileged side in the bilateral relation because of its national power.

Getting Ready for the Worst

But in another May 12 editorial, the Global Times admitted that the newly announced tariff increase to 25 percent on $200 billion worth of Chinese goods would bring the worst scenario for China to handle.

The tariff war is now being fought at the highest possible level, the article stated. At this stage, we are preparing ourselves, progressively, for this worst scenario mentally and strategically, alluding to the fact that the Chinese economy could suffer as a result of the trade dispute.

The editorial described Chinas negotiation strategy as fighting while negotiating, noting that China will stay resilient despite the odds.

To defend Chinas sovereignty and dignity, and safeguard the long-term development of the Chinese people, nothing is unbearable for China, it read.

The newspapers editor-in-chief, Hu Xijin, also published a May 7 article on WeChat, a popular Chinese social media platform, calling on Chinas young generation to be prepared for boisterous storms down the road.

He wrote that Chinas young people under the age of 30 grew up in a peaceful environment without war or significant turmoil. But in the next 10 to 20 years, they will spend their lives in the midst of intermittent or continuous, intense fights between U.S. and China, he said.

He portrayed the United States and Western countries as adversaries who are trying to hijack us as we walk on our path.

Beijings Agenda

In a separate editorial from May 7, the Global Times revealed Beijings true agenda: [Hopefully] the trade war will bring chaos to the American society, and as a result, American voters will send another president to the White House in the 2020 election.

President Donald Trump seemed to have predicted that in a May 11 Twitter post: I think that China felt they were being beaten so badly in the recent negotiation that they may as well wait around for the next election, 2020, to see if they could get lucky & have a Democrat win  in which case they would continue to rip-off the USA for $500 Billion a year.
A worker controls the production line of the silicon chips which used for making photoelectric board product at the plant of Tianwei Yingli Green Energy Resources Co., Ltd on June 24, 2009 in Baoding, China. (Feng Li/Getty Images)

China Sets New Tax Policy for Chip, Software Industries After US Tariff Increase

Soon after U.S. President Donald Trump announced that his administration would boost tariffs on Chinese imports, Beijing initiated a new policy to push domestic development of Chinas integrated circuit and software industries.

These high-tech sectors are part of Beijings Made in China 2025 strategy to turn the country into a high-tech manufacturing superpower.

But since December 2018, when Chinese leader Xi Jinping and Trump agreed to a trade truce during the G-20 summit in Argentina, Beijing has kept quiet on the policy.

This is the first indication of Beijings countermeasures, which the Ministry of Commerce had warned of following Trumps announcement.

Meanwhile, Chinese scholars welcomed Trumps hardline stance in negotiations with China.

Chinas New Policy

The executive committee of Chinas State Council, a cabinet-like agency, initiated a policy during its May 8 meeting to provide tax relief to the integrated circuit (IC) and software industries. The policy would apply to all types of enterprises, including foreign-invested companies.

ICs make up semiconductor chips that power almost every electronic device and are one of Chinas largest import categories by value.

Because Beijing has continued to lag in terms of domestic manufacturing of the most advanced electronic chips, the state has tried to aggressively fund research and development.

According to the new policy, any IC company whose products are 0.8 microns (a micron is one-millionth of a meter) or less, can apply. As chips are reduced in size, they become more powerful and advanced.

If approved by the local tax bureau, the companies wont need to pay an annual tax on their profits, which by Chinese law is fixed at 25 percent, for the first two years. In the following three years, the companies would only pay half that rate.

For IC companies whose products are 0.25 microns or smaller, or their total registered capital is more than 8 billion yuan ($1.17 billion), a further tax reduction can be requested after the initial five years, paying only 21.25 percent of its profits.

Furthermore, for the second category of companies, if its operating period is longer than 15 years (Chinese companies apply for the number of years when it registering for their business licenses), the company can enjoy the first five years tax-free, and then only pay the half-rate for the next five years.

Chinese Scholars Support Trump

Since the start of the U.S.-China trade war in March 2018, many Chinese scholars and netizens have expressed their support for Trump online and in interviews with overseas media.

After the U.S. administration issued a tariff hike on $200 billion worth of Chinese goods, they praised the action.

A businessman in Shanghai who was identified only by the surname Lu told Radio Free Asia (RFA), which is partially funded by the U.S. government, on May 11 that he and his friends in business believe that Trumps policy will force the Chinese regime to follow international rules, which can bring a more-lasting peace and prosperity to Chinese society and economy.

The current trade talks benefit our private sectors. In the long term, it will create a balanced U.S.-China economy, which will benefit China, Lu said.

Lu complained that a private company faces discrimination in China: most government resources, bank loans, and government subsidies are given to state-run enterprises. A private company has less support while it often pays more taxes to the government.

Another man, identified only by the surname Tan, told RFA that many educated Chinese choose to access free information by breaking through the Great Firewall, Chinas internet censorship apparatus that includes blockading foreign websites. They make up a growing number of Chinese who support Trumps actions in the U.S.-China trade dispute.

They are Chinese who agree with universal values, and support the U.S. government to increase the tariffs, said Tan, who is from Hunan Province.

But the great majority of Chinese can only access propaganda published by the Chinese Communist Party.

They believe what the authorities say, which is that U.S. capitalism is trying to suppress Chinas rise [by increasing tariffs], Tan said.
After US Tariff Increase, Hong Kong, and Taiwanese Firms Plan to Move Production From China

Hong Kong and Taiwan businesses are planning to pull some of their production from China after the U.S. administration announced that roughly $200 billion worth of Chinese-manufactured goods would receive a tariff increase to 25 percent from 10 percent.

The new tariff rates went into effect May 10, after President Donald Trump announced the unexpected move five days earlier on Twitter. In subsequent remarks, U.S. officials said that China had reneged on commitments made during previous rounds of negotiations.

Meanwhile, two days of trade talks in Washington ended May 10 with no agreement.

After the meetings concluded, Trump said on Twitter that tariffs may or may not be removed depending on what happens with respect to future negotiations.

Thousands of Chinese products will be taxed at 25 percent, including furniture, telecom equipment, plastics, seafood, and auto parts.

Many of these products are made by Hong Kong and Taiwanese companies that for a long time have had manufacturing facilities in China, because of its cheap labor. Now, these companies are relocating some production to avoid the added costs related to U.S. tariffs.

Hong Kong

Lau Tat-pong, one of the honorary chairmen of the Hong Kong Small and Medium Enterprise Association, has operated factories in Dongguan since 1989, an industrial city in southern China. He is in the business of paint and aluminum products.

In a recent phone interview with the Hong Kong-branch of the Chinese-language Epoch Times, Lau explained that he had been thinking about moving some production to countries in Southeast Asia since the start of the SinoU.S. trade war. However, Lau said he hadnt made any moves, instead hoping that a trade deal would soon be reached.

Now, I must move, Lau said after the increase went in effect May 10. A week ago, I was still hoping that the 10 percent tariff would be removed, he said.

Lau said his U.S. customers so far have been footing the bill for the 10 percent tariffs, but he speculated that his customers might not be willing to pay, with the increase to 25 percent.

He added that the manufacturing sector in China could take a serious hit, because countries in Southeast Asia will become more cost-competitive, while supply chains in those countries will become more mature, as more companies pull their production out of China.

Many tech manufacturers, such as suppliers to U.S. tech giant Apple, have already made plans to move production to Vietnam, Malaysia, the Philippines, and elsewhere, from China, after U.S. tariffs were first announced in March 2018.

Meanwhile, Kit Sze, who is in the watches and packaging business, has found thriving business because he moved his factories to Cambodia years ago from Dongguan.

Speaking to the Hong Kong bureau of the Chinese-language Epoch Times on the phone on May 9, Kit said he has received more calls recently from U.S. clients and expects to take more orders from American companies in the future.

Taiwan

Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen held a press conference on May 10 following a high-level national security meeting to address Taiwans strategies in the face of the latest increase in U.S. tariffs.

She said that the existing triangular trade modelTaiwanese companies accepting orders from U.S. clients, fulfilling the orders by manufacturing the products in China, and exporting the products to the United States from Chinawould likely change as a result of the trade war, according to statements posted on the website of the presidents office.

Tsai added that her government will speed the process of helping Taiwanese companies return to the island, while setting the goal of signing a bilateral trade agreement with the United States. She concluded that the majority of exports to the United States, now with products with the label Made in China, will soon be replaced by high-quality products that are Made in Taiwan.

Taiwans Ministry of Economic Affairs launched a welcome back program in January, which provides incentives for Taiwanese companies to return home, such as free rent for the first two years, favorable bank loans, and access to tax consultation.

Taiwans Central News Agency (CNA) reported that 52 Taiwanese companiesthose that are based in Taiwan but have operations in Chinahave pledged to invest on the island with a total investment value of over 279 billion New Taiwan dollars (about $9 billion) since the beginning of this year, citing data from the Ministry of Economic Affairs.

Tsai said that figure has already surpassed the governments target of NT$250 billion, adding that she will raise the new target to NT$500 billion.

Among the companies returning to Taiwan is Yageo, an electronic component manufacturing company. According to CNA, Yageo will invest 16.5 billion New Taiwan dollars (about $533 million) to procure new equipment and expand existing factories on the island.

Meanwhile, Hsieh Chih-tong, chairman of Taiwanese furniture maker Shane Global, said that the company acquired a furniture maker in Thailand in the second half of last year, with the goal of minimizing the costs associated with U.S. tariffs, according to a May 7 article by Hong Kong daily newspaper Apple Daily. Hsieh added that the company was thinking about acquiring a factory in the United States, as well as setting up a new facility in Cambodia.

The 25 percent tariffs will now force many Taiwanese clothing and bag makers in China to either shut or move their production to Southeast Asia, if they havent moved already, said Zhuo Qing-ming, chairman of the Taiwan Regional Association of Filament Fabrics Printing Dyeing and Finishing Industries, according to a May 11 interview with Taiwanese broadcaster FTV.

Zhuo explained that these textile makers, who mostly export to the United States and enjoy a current gross profit of about 10 to 20 percent while manufacturing in China, wouldnt be able to continue their business with 25 percent tariffs tacked onto their products.

In the face of more tariffs, Aaron Yeh, deputy chairman of accounting firm KPMG Taiwan, suggested that Taiwanese companies consider moving production to Indonesia from China, according to a Liberty Times article.

The Indonesian government last year began offering new tax exemption programs to foreign companies investing in 18 sectors in the country, including steel, petroleum, and telecommunications, Yeh said.
Christian R. Martin. a pilot for an American Airlines subsidiary was arrested on May 11, 2019, in the 2015 shooting deaths of three people in Kentucky, the state attorney general announced. (Christian County, Kentucky, Detention Center)

Airline Pilot Arrested in Kentucky on Charges of Triple Homicide

A pilot for an American Airlines subsidiary has been arrested in connection with the shooting deaths of three people.

Kentucky Attorney General Andy Beshear announced in a statement on Saturday, May 11, that Christian R. Martin has been indicted on multiple charges including murder.

A Christian County grand jury indicted Martin on Friday for the 2015 slayings of Calvin and Pamela Phillips, and Edward Dansereau.

Martin has been charged with three counts of murder, one count of arson, one count of attempted arson, burglary in the first degree, and three counts of tampering with physical evidence.

He was arrested early Saturday morning at the Louisville International Airport with the help of the United States Marshals Service, Christian County Sheriffs Office, and Louisville Metro Police.

Martin was living in North Carolina at the time of the indictment for crimes committed in Kentucky.

Witness Ashley Martin of Elizabethtown, Kentuckynot related to the suspect in any waywas at the airport when the pilot was arrested.

She described the situation to WDRB-TV as very tense.

It was like something you would totally see in a movie, she said.

Triple Homicide

According to the attorney general, the indictment relates to events that occurred either on or around November 18, 2015, when Calvin Phillips was found shot to death in his Pembroke home.

Phillipss wife, Pamela, and their neighbor, Edward Dansereau, were found several miles away in a cornfield, dead inside a burned car.

Relatives of Calvin and Pamela Phillips had offered a $100,000 reward to help solve the case. Family members said Saturday they had an overflowing of emotion, sincere relief, and absolute gratitude to all those who have worked diligently on this case.

Every day, we are haunted by what was done to them and haunted further that someone was still free to do as they wish, beyond the civility of mankind or laws of our nation, the family members of the victims said in a statement. We look forward to justice in court, and we look forward to a verdict to bring an end to this terror and a fresh start at healing.

Beshear said he hoped justice would be served.

I hope this is a day that brings some justice to these families, Beshear said. There are many steps from here, but we hope this is one example of when you never stop seeking justice, when you never give up, that we can truly get important results for these families.

The pilot has been suspended from his job by his employer, PSA Airlines, Fox News reported.

American Airlines told Fox News in a statement it is cooperating in the investigation, and that Martin had been a pilot for PSA Airlines since January 2018.

All of us at American Airlines and PSA Airlines are deeply saddened to have learned about these allegations from 2015, an American Airlines representative told Fox News. Our team was made aware of the indictment this morning after his arrest at Louisville International Airport. We have an unwavering commitment to the safety and security of our customers and team members, and we will provide any investigative assistance possible to law enforcement throughout their investigation.

A Christian County circuit court judge has ordered Martin held without bond.

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 BJSs CVS, 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 (pdf).

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, from 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.

While the overall rate of violent crime has seen a steady downward drop since its peak in the 1990s, there have been several upticks that bucked the trend.

Between 2014 and 2016, the murder rate increased by more than 20 percent, to 5.4 per 100,000 residents, from 4.4, according to an analysis of FBI data. The last two-year period that the rate soared so quickly was between 1966 and 1968.

Property Crime

The property crime rate fell by 50 percent between 1993 and 2017, according to the FBI, and by 69 percent according to BJS.

According to the FBIs preliminary figures for the first half of 2018, property crime rates in the United States dropped by 7.2 percent compared to the same six-month period in 2017.

As with violent crime, the FBI survey only takes into account crime reported to the police, while the BJS figures include reported and nonreported crime.

Public Perception About Crime

Despite falling long-term trends in both violent crime and property crime, opinion surveys repeatedly show Americans believe that crime is up.

The vast majority of Gallup polls taken since 1993 show (pdf) that over 60 percent of Americans believe there is more crime in the United States on a national scale compared to the previous year.

Pew Research surveys show similar findings. A survey in late 2016 revealed that 57 percent of registered voters said crime in the nation as a whole increased since 2008, despite both FBI and BJS data showing double-digit drops in violent and property crimes.

Perceptions differed on a national versus local level.

Surveys of perceptions of crime levels on a local scale showed that fewer than 50 percent of respondents in every single Gallup survey (pdf) done since 1996 believed that crime in their area had risen compared to the previous year.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Hamdi Ulukaya, founder, chairman and CEO of Chobani, speaks at the National Retail Federation conference in N.Y., on Jan. 16, 2018. (Mark Lennihan/File Photo via AP)

Company Comes to Aid of Students Offered Jelly Sandwiches

PROVIDENCE, R.I.The yogurt company Chobani plans to pay the school lunch debts of low-income families with students attending a district that made headlines by announcing children who owe money would get cold sunflower butter and jelly sandwiches instead of a hot meal, the mayors office confirmed on Friday, May 10.

The office of Warwick Mayor Joseph Solomon said it is coordinating with Chobani to accept nearly $50,000, the amount owed by low-income families with children in Warwick Public Schools.

Chobani founder and CEO Hamdi Ulukaya tweeted Thursday that as a parent, the news broke his heart. Access to nutritious food should be a right, not a privilege, he said.

as a parent, news of #WarwickPublicSchools breaks my heart. every child should have access to natural, nutritious & delicious food, so @Chobani is doing our small part to help pay this debt business must do its part.. our responsibility as members of community. who will join us? pic.twitter.com/6HOTjDE4CX  Hamdi Ulukaya (@hamdiulukaya) May 9, 2019

Chobani was but one of the businesses and organizations that offered to donate money to the district, officials said.

Warwick Public Schools had said it was owed $77,000 and couldnt assume more debt, sparking a public backlash and upsetting the mayor, who asked the school committee to reconsider. It later reversed the decision.

The district includes 19 schools. About 1,650 students owed money as of last Friday, and about 70% of those students are not enrolled in the program for free or reduced-price lunches, according to the school committee.

The mayors office is trying to plan an event to accept the donation formally, spokeswoman Courtney Marciano said, and there has been an outpouring of support from across the country.

School leaders are working with attorneys on a way to accept donations to help settle lunch debt after local restaurant owner, Angelica Penta, said the district twice turned down the offer of $4,000, school board Chairwoman Karen Bachus said.

They dont want parents getting upset if their childs lunch gets paid for, but if they are going through hard times they may need help, she wrote on Facebook. I come up with several different ideas and they were all shut down. Please if anyone has any ideas how we can stop this please let me know.

Penta was one of many people who weighed into the intense debate on social media.

While some labeled it as food shaming the poor, other parents encouraged each other to help settle any outstanding debts with donations.

About $14,000 was collected from families with outstanding balances this week, after the cold sandwich policy was announced, Bachus said.

Leaders are trying to find a balance between being fiscally responsible and ensuring all students get a healthy, nutritious lunch, she said.

Chobani, based in Norwich, New York, said the company is also looking to donate yogurt to the schools, a spokesman said.

Solomon and state Rep. Joseph Shekarchi, majority leader of the Rhode Island House, said they want to work with Chobani to bring attention to food insecurity among students nationally.

By Jennifer McDermott

Epoch Times reporter Simon Veazey contributed to this article.
Key Meeting at Origin of Russia Probe Wasnt Set-Up, Australian Ex-Diplomat Says

News Analysis

Former Australian ambassador to the UK Alexander Downer has denied that the purpose of his 2016 meeting with George Papadopoulos, then-adviser to the presidential campaign of Donald Trump, was to entice the aide to talk about Russian meddling in the 2016 U.S. presidential election.

I didnt go to the meeting thinking he was going to even mention Russia in that context like the election campaign, Downer told Sky News Australia in recent interview. I had no idea what he would say.

Papadopoulos has alleged that the Downer meeting was a set-up.

The notion that Downer randomly reached out to me just to have a gin and tonic is laughable, Papadopoulos said in a Sept. 10, 2018, tweet. Some organization or entity sent him to meet me.

In his book, Deep State Target: How I Got Caught in the Crosshairs of the Plot to Bring Down President Trump, Papadopoulos argues that Trumps opponents tied to the U.S., Australian, and UK intelligence community orchestrated for Papadopoulos to receive a rumor of Kremlins having dirt on then-candidate Hillary Clinton, and then dispatched operatives, including Downer, to extract the rumor from him and use it as evidence of supposed conspiracy between Trump and Russia.

Downer denied that the FBI or any intelligence service asked him to meet with Papadopoulos.

Somebody who is a former foreign minister and Australian high commissioner, or ambassador, in London is hardly going to be somebody whos used by intelligence services to collect information, Downer said, with a chuckle. That would never happen. That simply isnt how those kind of operations work.

Downers assertion seems to gloss over the known hand-in-glove relationship between diplomacy and intelligence. A secret cable sent out by Clintons State Department in 2009, for instance, tasked diplomats to collect a plethora of information from their interactions with United Nations officials. The cable, published in 2010 by Wikileaks, indicates that intelligence collection by the diplomatic corps was already common practice at the time and, if anything, expanding.

Downer, later in the interview, even called himself somebody who is part of the Five Eyes intelligence community. Five Eyes is the agreement on sharing signals intelligence between the United States, the UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. The alliance has been criticized for opening a way for the countries foreign intelligence agencies to spy on their own citizens by outsourcing the task to each other and then sharing the results.

Downer also is connected to the intelligence community through the private sector.

Between 2008 and 2014, he sat on the advisory board of London-based Hakluyt, a security firm founded and staffed by former UK intelligence officials.

While Downer had to leave the firm before joining the Australian diplomatic corps, he continued to attend the firms functions, including client conferences, News Corp Australia Network reported in January 2016.

Origins Story

The Downer-Papadopoulos meeting is allegedly the crucial moment that prompted the FBI to begin a counterintelligence investigation of people in the Trump campaign, which only ended in March. As concluded by special counsel Robert Mueller, who took over the probe in 2017, investigators didnt establish that any collusion between Trump and Russia occurred.

Papadopoulos opened up to Downer in May 2016 during a night of heavy drinking at Kensington Wine Rooms in London, The New York Times reported in December 2017, based on information leaked by four current and former American and foreign officials.

In his final report, Mueller said that on May 6, 2016, Papadopoulos suggested to a representative of a foreign government that the Trump Campaign had received indications from the Russian government that it could assist the Campaign through the anonymous release of information that would be damaging to candidate Clinton.

The foreign government, presumably Australia, conveyed this information to the U.S. government on July 26, 2016, the report stated, four days after Wikileaks started to release emails allegedly hacked by Russians from the server of the Democratic National Committee (DNC).

Alarmed by Papadopoulos supposed foreknowledge of the Wikileaks release, the FBI launched the probe.

But there are a number of problems with this portrayal of the events.

Issues

First, Downer described the meeting to the media multiple times and never mentioned any indications of Russians offering assistance to Trump.

He said that there was no suggestion that there was collusion between Trump or his campaign with Kremlin, neither in what Papadopoulos said, nor in what he reported to Canberra. All we did was report what Papadopoulos said and that was that he thought the Russians may release informationmight release informationthat could be damaging to Hillary Clintons campaign at some stage before the election.

Papadopoulos said he doesnt remember ever saying that to Downer. He was sentenced to two weeks in prison for lying to the FBI, but this was not one of the lies the bureau held against him. Media blamed his lack of recollection on excessive drinking that night, but both Papadopoulos and Downer denied getting drunk.

It was only for an hour, and it was at six oclock in the evening, so it was certainly not as the New York Times claimed, an alcohol-fueled evening, Downer said, confirming the two of them and Downers counselor, Erika Thompson, had a gin and tonic.

Different Date

Another issue is that both the Australian government and Papadopoulos said the meeting took place on May 10, not May 6. He has said this on many occasions long before the Mueller report came out, and told The Epoch Times via Twitter that his lawyers will look up the relevant records.

And here is the Australian govt confirming the Downer meeting took place on May 10. pic.twitter.com/f7sxdXi6QQ  Techno Fog (@Techno_Fog) May 8, 2019

The difference is important because, on May 9, former Judge Andrew Napolitano aired a rumor on Fox News that theres a debate going on in the Kremlin  about whether they should release the 20,000 of Mrs. Clintons emails that they have hacked into.

For all Downer knew, Papadopoulos could have just mentioned what he heard on the news.

Papadopoulos said Thompson reached out to him on May 6 to arrange the Downer meeting, but he denied mentioning to her anything about information damaging to Clinton and there hasnt been any public information suggesting otherwise. Moreover, he said he didnt meet Thompson that day. The meeting was arranged through messages, he said. Thompson would, therefore, have had a record of the communication. The Mueller report doesnt refer to any such record.

In fact, the rumor about Russians hacking Clinton has been online at least since May 6, 2016, when it was posted on the blog WhatDoesItMean.com, which is not considered a reliable source of original reporting. The article was already up around 1:30 p.m. London time so, theoretically, Papadopoulos could have stumbled upon it before meeting Downer even if the meeting took place on May 6.

Yet, Papadopoulos actually had heard the rumor from a different source and there lies another problem.

In early March 2016, right after landing his job with the Trump campaign, Papadopoulos was urged by his employer at the time, the London Centre of International Law Practice (LCILP), to attend a conference at the Link Campus University in Rome. There, on March 14, he met Maltese academic Joseph Mifsud, whose job was to attract foreign students for the university and who was also listed on the LCILP website as a board adviser.

Mifsud invited Papadopoulos to London under the pretext that he could help him arrange an official meeting between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. Papadopoulos thought such a meeting would be a boon to Trumps campaign promise to improve relations with Russia.

But it was a sham. Mifsud had mingled with Russian academia as part of his job and had some government contacts in the country, but he was apparently in no position to broker a Putin audience. The girl he introduced to Papadopoulos as a relative of Putin was actually just a student at the Link Campus who, prior to that, worked for a liquor wholesaler in St. Petersburg, according to Russian journalist Alexander Kalinin, who researched her background.

During their second meeting in London on April 26, 2016, Mifsud, who had just returned from a trip to Russia, said to Papadopoulos, I have information that the Russians have thousands of Clinton emails, Papadopoulos later told CNN.

Yet Mifsud told the FBI that was a misunderstanding.

The Mueller report states that when the FBI questioned Mifsud on Feb. 10, 2017, he denied that he had advance knowledge that Russia was in possession of emails damaging to candidate Clinton, stating that he and Papadopoulos had discussed cybersecurity and hacking as a larger issue and that Papadopoulos must have misunderstood their conversation.

The report portrays Mifsud as a Russian cut-out, but ignores his extensive ties to high-level Western politicians and government officials, including many tied to national security and intelligence.

Rep. Devin Nunes (R-Calif.) questioned this apparent omission in a May 3 letter to the heads of the FBI, CIA, NSA, and the State Department.

If Mifsud has extensive, suspicious contacts among Russian officials as portrayed in the Special Counsels report, then an incredibly wide range of Western institutions and individuals may have been compromised by him, including our own State Department, Nunes said.

If, on the other hand, Mifsud wasnt a counterintelligence threat, Nunes said, then that would cast doubt on the Special Counsels fundamental depiction of him and his activities, and raise questions about the veracity of the Special Counsels statements and affirmations.

The Mueller report says that Mifsud falsely stated that he hadnt seen Papadopoulos since March 24, 2016.

Yet theres no sign the FBI tried to reinterview Mifsud or charge him with lying. The report says that the agents couldnt question Mifsud effectively because Papadopoulos lied to them.

Papadopoulos indeed lied about his contacts with Mifsud in a January 2017 FBI interview. But after he was arrested on July 27, 2017, he has extensively cooperated with the Mueller probe.

Mifsud was, at the time, still publicly approachable. The Italian newspaper La Repubblica managed to interview him as late as October 2017, when he attended a conference on cyber threat intelligence held at the Link Campus.

After that, he disappeared from the public eye, but was still living in Rome until May 2018 in an apartment apparently provided by Link Campus, according to an April 18 report by Italian list Il Foglio.

Its not clear where hes been since.
NEW YORKThe coolest new show on Broadway in 2019 is the revival of a 1943 musical. Social media mavens have hashtagged this production #SexyOklahoma. This, despite traditionalists who think the Rodgers and Hammerstein Organization should be ashamed for giving permission to produce this gimmicky travesty.

I sat next to a couple of boys who didnt look old enough to cut up their own meat. I ventured to ask them what the appeal of the current incarnation of Oklahoma! is.

Its, like, so politically correct and politically relevant in every way. And, like, the music is amazing!

Politically relevant is, of course, code for hatred of everything that America stands for.

Oklahoma! was the first collaboration of Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II, and it catapulted the pair to prominence. The duo went on to write many of Broadways most famous mid-century musicals. Since it opened in 1943, Oklahoma! has been performed countless times all over the world. The movie adaptation in 1955 won an Academy Award.

The Fish-y Production

In his Broadway debut, director Daniel Fish has taken on a musical that brought joy and a sense of pride and identity to an American nation that, 75 years ago, was at war with foreign powers. Fish has reconceived a work whose hallmark is optimism; he wishes to transmogrify it into a mirror for our age of doubt and anxiety.

The American way, according to the Book of Political Correctness, is that long-standing American legacies such as patriotism and tradition must be exhumed and re-examined with beady-eyed skepticism, if not downright disgust. (Aunt Eller, after all, makes her corn bread not from scratch but out of a box! Onstage!)

The production takes place under a blaze of glaring house lights that designer Scott Zielinski keeps on most of the time. When we are required to be disturbed, the dialogue occurs in Stygian darkness.

Set designer Laura Jellinek has nailed blond plywood panels to the theaters walls and the floor of the thrust stage. The seven-member orchestra sits in a shallow pit cut out of the floor. Its an Ikea-type set. The walls feature serried ranks of shotguns. Theres chili cooking in red slow cookers on the refectory tables that parenthesize the stage. The ceiling beams are bedecked with dollar-store bunting.

The cast members are licorice allsortsall sizes, shapes, and colorswearing denim (Terese Wadden did the costumes) and cowboy boots.

All this is part of the Fish-ified deconstruction: to strip everything down, to dismantle the Americana, and show us rag-mop reality. The cerebral remastering is intent on showing us that the bright golden haze on the meadow Curly sings about was delusional. Worse, it was probably based on white privilege.

More Fish Bait

Oklahoma! which Rodgers and Hammerstein adapted from Lynn Riggss 1931 play Green Grow the Lilacs revolves around two love triangles. In one, a cowboy and a farmhand vie for the affections of a farmers daughter. In the other, a cowboy and a Persian traveling salesman are both involved with Ado Annie, one of Laureys friends and the towns good-time girl.

The action takes place in Oklahoma Territory, just before official statehood.

Now, just when I was thinking that Fish scarcely changed a word of Oscar Hammerstein IIs original book and lyrics and perhaps this wasnt an act of plunder, but of reclamation, I was slapped in the face with a wet fish, as it were.

In the central romantic triangle, among the lovers Laurey (Rebecca Naomi Jones) and Curly (Damon Daunno), and the outsider Jud (Patrick Vaill), Fish presents us with a plot twist that departs dramatically from the original script.

I wont divulge this blasphemous liberty taken here, but the lines between sex and violence, already blurred in this gun-toting universe, are now redrawn to reflect Fishs political ideology. It is obviously designed to cast Curly and the other pioneering folk in a klieg light that is not only deeply unpleasant but also clearly shows their hatred for outsiders, the appalling way they treat women, and how they eschew justice for kangaroo courts, and so on.

But the Remaining Lyricism Prevails

The play opens and closes with Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin. At the end of the musical, Curly and Laurey are married, Jud is dead, and the whole cast is singing Everythings goin my way. The theatrical actions that unfold between those joyful moments of dawning light one could describe as Daniel Fish trying his darndest to dislodge, if not entirely dismantle, the American myth.

Yet the shows lyricism is what works beautifully.

Damon Daunnos Curly, for example, shines when he is allowed to sing a ballad more slowly and melodically.

The star of the show is an adorable, dimpled, blond beauty, Ali Stroker, who plays Ado Annie. Her voice has a rare sweetness, and her comic timing is perfection.

Physically, Ali Stroker may be in a wheelchair, but handicapped she isnt. She rides her wheelchair as though she was riding herd on a pony. She has so much charisma that she could sell it by the pound. When she belts out I Caint Say No, there is no heart left uncaptured in the theater.

There are those who complain bitterly that this vulgarized version of Oklahoma! was designed for kids who have never heard of the old-fashioned Oklahoma! and ticket buyers who hate musicals in general. Whatever. This Oklahoma! is a box-office phenomenon.

Sometimes cynicism is an inoculation that just doesnt take: The cast got a standing ovation. It may not have been Fishs intention, but I think he has introduced a whole new audience to the joys of mid-century musicals.

Frankly, I put it down to the music. No matter what Fishs political message may have been, in the end it was the music that captivated theatergoers.

As the boys said: Like, the music is amazing!

Oklahoma!

Circle in the Square Theatre

1633 Broadway

New York

Tickets: 1-800-Broadway or OklahomaBroadway.com

Running Time: 2 hours, 45 minutes (one intermission)

Open Run

Jani Allan is a South African journalist, columnist, writer, and broadcaster.
Photo provided by German department store retailer Breuninger shows a customer using Alibaba's Alipay at the store in Dusseldorf, Germany, June 29, 2018. (Xinhua/Breuninger)

SHANGHAI, May 11 (Xinhua) -- Thomas Derkseu, a 30-year-old German, has three identities: a graduate in East Asian studies, a foreign son-in-law and an online celebrity with millions of followers on China's social media platform.

Thomas settled in China four years ago, and he is better recognized to crowds of fans as a fluent Chinese speaker who creates funny video clips telling his anecdotes on China.

He recently created a video clip about the popular Chinese mobile products such as Xiaomi and Huawei in Germany as he said more Germans, especially the younger generation, increasingly perceive Chinese products as innovative.

A revolution of globalized Chinese consumer brands is taking place. Perceptual improvements are powered by progress from manufacturers across China's high-tech industries, from mobile payments to artificial intelligence.

China announced in 2017 that May 10 was China Brand Day and the 2019 China Brand Day series, an exhibition inviting indigenous brands to showcase the cutting-edge technology, products and services kicked off Friday in Shanghai, the second such event held in the city.

Nearly 200 Chinese brands joined the event, to be concluded on May 12, and share their experiences in going global.

"Branding strategy is one of the priorities during the shift for Chinese brands to become world power players," said an official with the National Development and Reform Commission, co-host of the event.

LOCALIZATION STRATEGY

In Thailand, a market dominated by Japanese cars for decades, it is not easy for latecomers to stand out. A car-maker MG from China found its niche in the market by developing an in-car infotainment system that supports Thai language, bringing immediate results in sales.

The system, along with MG's consistent quality, helps the Chinese car-maker become the 7th best-selling car brand in Thailand.

Cars made in China are not only top sellers in the southeastern Asian country, but also across in Britain, New Zealand, Australia, the Middle East and Indonesia.

SAIC Motor, the parent company of MG, is one of the competitive Chinese players that have gained popularity in overseas markets.

In 2018, SAIC Motor's exports of vehicles and overseas sales surged to 277,000, up 62.5 percent year on year, accounting for nearly a quarter of the total overseas sales of Chinese car brands.

"The priority of taking a company global is to earn a reputation and then boost the sales," said Yang Xiaodong, president of SAIC Motor International Corporations. "Localization is the key to establishing a reputation in a strange market and SAIC Motor has always sought to manufacture vehicles and offer after-sale services that cater to the local demand."

SAIC Motor has done exactly what it said, setting up a sophisticated value chain of research and development centers, manufacturing bases, sales and supplying centers and financial companies in its bullish international marketing drive.

Like SAIC Motor, more and more Chinese automobile companies have sped up the efforts to expand their businesses globally in recent years.

According to Shanghai customs, more than 70 Chinese car makers exported their vehicles to over 70 countries and regions via the ports in Shanghai last year, with the total amount reaching 230,000 units, making up about 67 percent of China's total vehicle exports.

TRENDSETTING SERVICES

"With just a few clicks of the mouse, and 10 days of patience, I can have a box of light bulbs delivered to the front door from China that help me save on my electric bill by over 90 percent," said Faisal Saleh, a young man from Dammam, Saudi Arabia.

The e-commerce platform Damman referred to is the AliExpress of China's online retail behemoth Alibaba, making cross-border sales and fast delivery possible for millions of buyers around the world.

As of September, last year, AliExpress's home and abroad users have snowballed to 150 million.

"This year marks the third year for our 'local to global' strategy," said Wang Mingqiang, general manager of AliExpress. "This strategy is intimately connected to Alibaba's broader globalization strategy."

During the annual online shopping bonanza on Nov. 11, China's online retail sales exceeded 300 billion yuan last year, up about 27 percent and a record high, the Ministry of Commerce said.

The double 11 online retail market in China is becoming increasingly international. AliExpress is inviting businesses from other countries to grab a slice of the huge market.

The company not only helps facilitate overseas business owners to sell their goods on its platform, but also share its wisdom of efficient delivery services.

"We want to promote a level playing field for small and medium-sized businesses at home and abroad in global competition," Wang said. "The sales of local products at AliExpress will also boost local economy and create job opportunities."

Mobile payment services are also taking root abroad. According to a recent research released by Nelson, a marketing consultancy, the number of outbound Chinese tourists using mobile payments has surpassed tourists who pay by cash.

The spike in Chinese mobile payment users has caught the attention of overseas business owners since the convenient payment boosts their numbers of customers and revenues.

Alipay, Alibaba's mobile payment platform, has built business relations with over 250 financial institutions abroad to provide online payment service for foreign sellers and the service of mobile payment for Chinese tourists as well as locals.

Thanks to its global expansion, Alipay's users has totaled 1 billion, making it the world's most-downloaded non-social mobile application.

COMMON PROSPERITY

Sri Lanka welcomed its first railway open to traffic on the early morning of April 8, after over 70 years without railroad transport.

This is the first railway project built by a Chinese company under the Belt and Road Initiative. Thus far, the island nation has developed a sophisticated transport system of land, sea and air.

Over the years a number of countries and regions, especially those participating in the Belt and Road Initiative, have benefited from the investment and expertise of Chinese companies to upgrade their infrastructure and beef up the local economy.

The China-Maldives Friendship Bridge, the first cross-sea bridge in the Maldives, was opened to traffic in August last year. The Montenegro highway, the biggest infrastructure in the terrain-challenged country, was completed last July, and Belarus has started to develop its car manufacturing sector with the help of Chinese expertise.

In the German city of Duisburg, China Railway Express has increased from three trains per week to 35 to 40 per week right now, stimulating the growth of port industry and creating more than 6,000 jobs.

According to the Ministry of Commerce, Chinese investors completed non-financial investment totaling 15.7 billion U.S. dollars in 1,416 foreign companies in 138 countries and regions in the first two months of 2019.

6

1

[ Editor: Zhang Zhou ]
By PTI

CHENNAI: Foreign currency worth Rs 9.60 lakh was seized from a 58-year-old passenger at the airport here Sunday.

Acting on a tip off, officials at the departure terminal intercepted the man bound for Singapore and recovered 14,000 US dollars concealed in his baggage, an official release said.

Investigation is on, it said.
A ramshackle compound in the desert area of Amalia, N.M., on Aug. 10, 2018. A similar compound has been discovered in Alabama with links to the same group of accused terrorists. (Brian Skoloff/File via AP)

FBI Uncovers Terror Training Camp in Alabama

FBI investigators have found a training compound in Alabama linked to a group of suspected homegrown terrorists.

An FBI search warrant described the property in Macon County, Alabama, as a makeshift military-style obstacle course, according to a report by the Sinclair Broadcast Group.

Identified in reports as a homegrown Islamic terror compound, it allegedly belongs to a group led by 40-year-old Siraj Wahhaj, an imam indicted on federal charges related to firearms violations and terrorism.

Breaking: The FBI has uncovered a terror training camp in Macon County, Alabama. The group responsible for the camp was led by Siraj Wahhaj. Wahhaj managed a New Mexico terror compound uncovered last year, which trained children to carry out attacks. pic.twitter.com/fGhArw02yU  Porter Medium (@PorterMedium) May 11, 2019

Terror Charges

Wahhaj and four other suspects, Jany Leveille, 36, Hujrah Wahhaj, 38, Subhanah Wahhaj, 36, and Lucas Morton, 41, face a range of firearms and terrorism-related charges amid accusations they conspired to support planned attacks on U.S. law enforcement officers and other government employees.

Federal prosecutors commented in March about the charges against Wahhaj and others in a new indictment that brought fresh terror-related allegations.

The superseding indictment alleges a conspiracy to stage deadly attacks on American soil, U.S. Attorney John Anderson said in a written statement. These allegations remind us of the dangers of terrorism that continue to confront our nation.

Charging documents allege Wahhaj and others were conducting weapons training with assault rifles at a ramshackle compound in New Mexico, where children were being trained to commit school shootings.

He poses a great danger to the children found on the property as well as a threat to the community as a whole due to the presence of firearms and his intent to use these firearms in a violent and illegal manner, prosecutor Timothy Hasson wrote in court documents.

The New Mexico compound, located on the outskirts of Amalia, a tiny town near the Colorado border, is reportedly similar to the one FBI agents found in Alabama.

In an interview with Sinclair, former FBI agent Tim Fuhrman warned of the increasing threat of domestic terror that exists in every region of the United States and affects all walks of life.

Just because youre in a small town or a small state does not mean you might not potentially have individuals engaged in the types of activities that would call into question threats to national security, Fuhrman told the outlet.

The FBI is currently pursuing 850 domestic terrorism investigations, Assistant Director for Counterterrorism Michael McGarrity said May 8 while speaking to the House Homeland Security Committee, according to CNN.

The FBI assesses domestic terrorists collectively pose a persistent and evolving threat of violence and economic harm to the United States, McGarrity said.

The FBI encourages citizens to protect themselves against terrorism by remaining aware of their surroundings, refraining from oversharing personal information, and reporting suspicious activity.

Missing 3-Year-Olds Death

The remains of 3-year-old Abdul-Ghani Wahhaj were found at the New Mexico compound, where authorities found 11 malnourished children, guns and ammunition, and a firing range.

The search of the compound was sparked by an investigation into the whereabouts of the missing 3-year-old, who was Siraj Wahhajs son and had suffered seizures.

Prosecutor John Lovelace said the boy died during a religious ritual intended to cast out demonic spirits, Reuters reported.

The boy stopped breathing and soon died during a ceremony, prosecutors said. Wahhaj had placed his hand on the boys head and was reciting verses from the Quran just before the boy began suffering seizures and foaming at the mouth. He was soon dead.

Wahhajs 15-year-old son recounted to officials that one of the adults told him the spirit of the dead boy would return as Jesus to direct the group on where to carry out the violent attacks they were allegedly training for.

Prosecutors said Jany Leveille, Wahhajs wife, led the group and was the one who spread the belief that the boy would be reincarnated to attack banks, schools, and government agencies, USA Today reported, citing an FBI agents testimony.

Jany had a message from God that they needed to leave and head to New Mexico and that Abdul Wahhaj, once the demons were expelled from his body through religious rituals, that he would become Jesus and once he became Jesus, he would instruct the others on the property, the family, what corrupt institutions to get rid of, FBI agent Travis Taylor, who interviewed two of the oldest children, testified.

Kidnapping charges were brought against Leveille, Hujrah Wahhaj, Subhana Wahhaj, and Lucas Morton in connection with the childs abduction and subsequent death.

They potentially could have faced the death penalty if convicted of abducting the child because authorities said it resulted in the boy dying.

Prosecutors said in a filing ahead of a court hearing in April that they wouldnt seek capital punishment against the four suspects.

The Associated Press and Reuters contributed to this report.
Former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani arrives for the funeral service for former President George H. W. Bush at the National Cathedral in Washington, on Dec. 5, 2018. (Alex Edelman/AFP)

President Trumps Lawyer Giuliani Cancels Ukraine Trip

President Donald Trumps attorney Rudy Giuliani canceled a trip to Ukraine on May 11, saying he changed his mind after learning that his planned meetings were set up by a group of Ukrainians who are enemies of Trump.

Giuliani originally planned to travel to Ukraine to push the nations leaders to carry out two investigations: one into presidential candidate Joe Biden and his son, Hunter Biden, and another into the origins of the TrumpRussia probe.

As vice president, Joe Biden boasted that he forced Ukraine to sack its top prosecutor. At the time of his firing, the prosecutor was reportedly investigating alleged corruption by a company at which Hunter Biden was a board member.

Im not going to go because I think Im walking into a group of people that are enemies of the president, in some cases, enemies of the United States, and in one case, an already convicted person who has been found to be involved in assisting the Democrats with the 2016 election, Giuliani said.

I think this was a setup, he added later.

Giuliani identified the convicted person as a gentleman by the name of Leshchenko, a reference to Serhiy Leshchenko, a member of the Ukrainian Parliament. In response to Giulianis comments, Leshchenko clarified that he was never convicted of a crime.

A Ukrainian court ruled in December last year that the release of a black ledger by Leshchenko and another Ukrainian official amounted to interference in the 2016 presidential election in the United States. The ledger detailed financial transactions by then-Trump-campaign Chairman Paul Manafort. Manafort resigned from the campaign when the ledger surfaced.

Before Giuliani canceled his trip, Democrats attacked Giulianis plan, saying it amounted to an attempt to solicit foreign help to influence the 2020 election. Giuliani dismissed the criticism in an interview with Fox News on May 11.

The reality is this has nothing to do with the election of 2020. The election of 2020 is a long time from now. And if I wanted to meddle in that electionwhich I dontI could have held this for a year and dropped it right before the convention, Giuliani said.

The reality is I came about this by accident investigating Ukrainian collusion with Democrats to affect the election and also to create a false narrative against the president, he added.

Speaking about the Ukrainian collusion with Democrats Giuliani specifically pointed to an alleged January 2016 meeting at the White House during which, Obama administration officials reportedly asked Ukrainian officials to revisit an investigation into payments to American citizens from Ukraines Russia-backed Party of Regions. The FBIs investigation of the payments previously led to Manafort, but the bureau dropped the investigation in 2014 without charging him.

Giuliani added that he canceled the trip to avoid adding the perception of politicizing the matter.

I will get out of it. In order to remove any political suggestion, I will step back and watch it unfold, Giuliani said.

Giuliani first revealed his plans to The New York Times on May 9. At the time, he defended the decision as legal and proper.

Were not meddling in an election, were meddling in an investigation, which we have a right to do, he told the newspaper.

Theres nothing illegal about it, he added. Somebody could say its improper. And this isnt foreign policyIm asking them to do an investigation that theyre doing already and that other people are telling them to stop. And Im going to give them reasons why they shouldnt stop it because that information will be very, very helpful to my client, and may turn out to be helpful to my government.
Hospital Sued for Leaking Information to Womans Alleged Rapist

A woman in Kansas filed a lawsuit on May 8 against a local hospital claiming that one of its staff leaked her personal health information to her alleged rapist who later attacked her a second time.

The lawsuit is filed against the Atchison Hospital in northeastern Kansas and one of its former X-ray technicians, Janet Rawson Enzbrenner, reported NBC News.

The plaintiff, whose identity will not be disclosed in this report, alleges she was sexually assaulted on May 27, 2017, and had a rape kit administered by hospital staff, according to the civil complaint cited by NBC News.

A woman filed suit against a Kansas hospital, claiming an employee there leaked her private health information to her alleged rapist  who then sexually assaulted her a second time. https://t.co/vyS3ENzLly  NBC News (@NBCNews) May 10, 2019

A rape kit is a sexual assault forensic exam that preserves possible DNA evidence that can help to provide appropriate medical care to the victim, according to the Rainn.org.

During the course of medical care, the woman disclosed the name of her alleged attacker to Enzbrenner.

The civil action filed by the plaintiffs attorney, Trevor Wohlford says that Enzbrenner gained access to plaintiffs individually identifiable health information and then contacted the plaintiffs alleged assailant and advised the man that [the] plaintiff had accused him of sexual assault.

The woman mentioned that during the course of the next few months, the alleged rapist continuously harassed her through text messages, social media, and phone calls, and sexually assaulted her again on Nov. 4, 2017.

Hospitals Response

Just two days before the second alleged assault, the victim wrote a letter about the breach of privacy to the hospitals CEO, John Jacobson, who replied: This employee  did access some of your health information and apparently did disclose it to another individual without your permission.

Atchison County Attorney told NBC News on Friday that no charges had been filed in regard to the alleged rapes. Prosecutors have declined to elaborate on why.

The reasons behind whether and how Enzbrenner knew the alleged rapist are also not clear.

While we are limited with what we can share related to this situation, we are deeply disturbed by the actions of this former employee, Jacobson said.

In fact, when we were made aware of the situation, we took immediate steps to investigate, and within two days, we terminated this individuals employment.

Woman Sexually Assaulted on Flight

An Indian tourist who sexually assaulted a woman while she was asleep on a flight from Mumbai to Manchester was sentenced to one year in prison on May 9.

Hardeep Singh, 35, a native of Hoshiarpur in Indias north, was traveling to the United Kingdom on a six-month tourist visa, reported the Daily Mail.

The incident happened in February this year when he got on a Manchester-bound flight and sat next to a woman in her twenties.

Singh tried to be friendly with the woman and tried to engage her in a conversation, but the woman felt uncomfortable.

As the lights went off and everyone including the cabin crew and the victim fell asleep, Singh sexually assaulted the woman who woke up horrified.

The assault lasted for about 15 minutes after which the woman was able to escape and report the matter to the cabin crew who was to isolate the man from all women for the rest of the flight.

Singh was arrested on suspicion of sexual assault as he disembarked from the flight at Manchester airport.

From the outset of the flight, Singhs behavior was despicable, Detective Constable Catherine Evans of GMPs Airport Team told Daily Mail.

Evans said that Singh took advantage of the woman being 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, she said.

She said Singh waited for the right time.

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, she said.

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, Evans said.

Singh was jailed for a year on Thursday at the Minshull Street Crown Court and will be deported to India once released.

Were pleased with todays sentence and hope the woman can move forward knowing that hes 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, Evans said.
House Dems Pick Imam With Anti-Israel Views to Give Opening Prayer in Congress

The imam who was invited by Democrats to give the opening invocation in Congress has a long history of promoting an anti-Israel and pro-Palestinian rhetoric.

Imam Omar Suleiman, 33, a popular Imam from Texas and founder of Yaqeen Institute for Islamic Research, was invited by Rep. Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-Texas) to deliver the opening prayer for Ramadan on the House floor on May 9, according to a statement from the institute.

We pray for peace, not war. Love, not hate. Benevolence, not greed. Unity, not division. And we commit ourselves to not betraying our prayers with actions that contradict them. Let us be for truth, no matter who, or for is against it, Suleiman said during his prayer. And justice, no matter who, or for it is against. And hope no matter what obstacles lie ahead.

Multiple media reports have uncovered a number of anti-Israel statements Suleiman has made in the past, where he sided with Palestines intifada or uprising against Israel and referred to Israels military operations as massacre[s].

How befitting that the 3rd Intifada starts on the 27th night of Ramadan as worshippers are denied prayer in Masjid Al Aqsa, a post from 2014 read, when the Gazan War broke out, reported The Jerusalem Post.

God willing on this blessed night as the 3rd Intifada begins, the beginning of the end of Zionism is here. May Allah help us overcome this monster, protect the innocent of the world, and accept the murdered as martyrs. Amen, he added.

In another post from 2015, which has since been deleted, Suleiman said, Last year Ramadan was marked by Israels massacre of innocent Palestinians, according to the Washington Examiner.

In 2014, he referred to the conflict between Israel and Palestine as not a war but an occupation, according to another post that has been deleted.

Israel-Palestine is not a war. Its an occupation of a people that has resulted in decades of humiliation/oppression, he wrote.

According to the Investigative Project on Terrorism (IPT), Suleiman spoke outside the White House at a rally in 2017 against Americas decision to recognize Jerusalem as Israels capital and move the U.S. embassy there.

Your recognition means nothing to us, he said, according to IPT. Your maps mean nothing to us, your embassy is as illegitimate as the occupation it seeks to legitimize. Our land is our land, our dignity is our dignity. Our determination is our determination. Our boycott is our boycott. Our Aqsa [the holy mosque in Jerusalem] is our Aqsa. Our Palestine is our Palestine.

Moreover, Suleiman has come to Democratic Rep. Ilhan Omars defense for several anti-semitic comments that she made earlier this year.

1. Im not feeling the, I know she said some hurtful stuff but messages surrounding @IlhanMN Omar from some of those claiming to support her. She never accused American Jews of double loyalty or used any anti-semitic words. She spoke to AIPACs crazy influence in DC. 2. and how politicians are expected to be uncritical of our relationship with Israel even as it continues to expand its occupation and pass more apartheid laws, Suleiman wrote on Twitter.

2. and how politicians are expected to be uncritical of our relationship with Israel even as it continues to expand its occupation and pass more apartheid laws  Omar Suleiman (@omarsuleiman504) March 6, 2019

Omar came under fire for perpetuating anti-Semitic tropes on Twitter, where she implied that a prominent pro-Israel lobby group, the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), paid off U.S. lawmakers for supporting Israel. Later, she prompted more outrage when she alleged that some politicians in Washington who supported Israel have dual loyalty.

The freshman congresswoman subsequently apologized for the social media posts after attracting criticism from both Democrats and Republicans. Additionally, the House passed a watered-down resolution in March that was meant to censure Omars comments but failed to mention the congresswomans name.

In a statement to the Daily Caller, Rep. Lee Zeldin (R-N.Y.) said it was totally unacceptable that House Speaker Nancy Pelosi allowed Suleiman to give the prayer on May 9.

He has a long, documented history of comparing Israel to the Nazis and calling them terrorists, supporting the Muslim Brotherhood, inciting violence calling for a Palestinian intifada and the end of zionism, and far more. This was a terribly bad call, Zeldin told the news website.
A missing Oakland 3-year-old has been found safe after an amber alert was issued on May 11, 2019, following reports of a suspected kidnapping. (Oakland Police Department)

Missing 3-Year-Old Found After Amber Alert Issued, Suspect in Custody

Oakland Police have announced that a 3-year-old girl abducted in a carjacking has been found and the suspect is in custody.

The Oakland Police Department posted an update on the case on May 12, saying in a tweet that the little girl was found safe shortly before 2 a.m. Sunday morning.

OPD located missing 3-year-old child who was reported taken during a carjacking. Child is safe. The suspect in the carjacking has been taken into custody.

OPD located missing 3 year-old child who was reported taken during a carjacking. Child is safe. The suspect in the car jacking has been taken into custody. pic.twitter.com/niKs1KgKLj  Oakland Police Dept. (@oaklandpoliceca) May 12, 2019

Earlier, California Highway Patrol issued an amber alert in connection with the childs disappearance with an urgent request for anyone with information to call 911.

AMBER Alert  Alameda and Surrounding Counties

The child was taken by an unknown suspect from Oakland, CA, in a 2005 Silver Mercedes Sedan  License Plate  8GIY743.@oaklandpoliceca IF SEEN, CALL 911 pic.twitter.com/dIRreraUOa  CHP  Alerts (@CHPAlerts) May 12, 2019

She had been abducted at around 8:10 p.m. on Saturday, May 11, by an unknown suspect as she was inside a silver 2005 Mercedez-Benz sedan.

Police described the suspect is a black male with a beard in his 40s who was last seen wearing a red beanie, a red shirt, and black pants.

No details were immediately available on the charges the suspect could face in connection with the incident.

Missing Children

There were 424,066 missing children reported in the FBIs National Crime Information Center in 2018, according to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC). Under federal law, when a child is reported missing to law enforcement they must be entered into the database. In 2017, there were 464,324 entries.

This number represents reports of missing children. That means if a child runs away multiple times in a year, each instance would be entered into NCIC separately and counted in the yearly total. Likewise, if an entry is withdrawn and amended or updated, that would also be reflected in the total, the center notes on its website.

Unfortunately, since many children are never reported missing, there is no reliable way to determine the total number of children who are actually missing in the U.S., NCMEC (National Center for Missing & Exploited Children) added.

In 2018, the center said it assisted officers and families with the cases of more than 25,000 missing children. In those cases, 92 percent were endangered runaways, and 4 percent were family abductions.

The center said that it participates in the Amber Alert Program, which is a voluntary partnership between numerous entities including broadcasters, transportation agencies, and law enforcement agencies. The Amber Alert Program issues urgent bulletins in the most serious child abduction cases.

According to the NCMEC, to date, 941 children have been successfully recovered as a result of the Amber Alert Program.

The center notes that of the more than 23,500 runaways reported in 2018, about one in seven were likely victims of child sex trafficking.
Paul Preston, founder of New California State movement, speaks at the Placer County town hall meeting in Rocklin, Calif., on May 8, 2019. (Nathan Su/The Epoch Times)

New California State Movement Slams Socialism, Upholds Constitution

ROCKLIN, Calif.Over 60 Placer County activists for the New California State movement joined a town hall meeting on the evening of May 8, criticizing the states high taxes and push towards socialist policies.

The New California movement is a statewide grassroots effort to break most of Californias rural areas away from the current state, forming a new state. So far, representatives from 47 of the 58 counties in California have joined the movement. Fractions of 5 other counties have also joined.

The movement claimed its independence on Jan. 15 last year and claims to be following a constitutional process similar to what West Virginia followed in breaking away from Virginia in 1861.

Paul Preston, the founder and president of the movement, explained that the claim of independence was a public notification process to inform the public that they started the constitutional process of forming the new state.

The attendees at Wednesdays meeting discussed a series of topics including tax policies, Americas founding principles, the current border crisis, Second Amendment rights, the right-to-work law, and election fraud.

Lower Taxes

California had the highest personal income tax rate in the United States in 2018 at 13.3 percent, according to TurboTax.

Russell Wyluda, a retired general contractor who hosted the New California meeting, read a list of 30 hidden taxes that many Californians dont realize they are paying, including hazardous waste disposal fees, hazardous waste environmental fees, hazardous waste generating fees, integrated waste management fees, and more.

Wyluda said that many functions of the agencies that charge fees under different names overlap, causing residents to sometimes pay multiple fees for similar services.

A threefold pamphlet passed around at the meeting bore a quote from Thomas Jefferson: I predict happiness for Americans if they can prevent the Government from wasting the labors of the people under the pretense of taking care of them.

The pamphlet also stated that the New California will target a sales tax of 5.2 percent.

California has the nations highest sales tax base rate of 7.25 percent, according to the Tax Foundation, an independent tax policy nonprofit. The total local sales tax can go as high as 10.5 percent (the rate in Santa Fe Springs in Los Angeles County), according to a report from the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration.

Protecting Liberty

The interpretation of the constitution really changed after the Civil War, said Donald Wilson, a historian and the author of St. Andrews American Revolution, at the event.

Wilson said that nowadays very few people have read what the founding fathers wrote.

He said in a speech that many people who were against Adolf Hitler turned around to support the European Union, but the ideas for a unified Europe were first proposed by the Nazi government in 1941.

Because we know so little about World War II, we forget that national socialism is [what] Nazi stood for, said Wilson.

He said that the evils of national socialism were not the national part, but the socialism part.

Stalin, Lenin, Marx, or Hitlerall the collectivists think the same way, he said. The way [the socialists and collectivists] seek to destroy your liberty is to destroy your country.

He said the U.S. border is important for protecting the culture, liberty, and independence of the United States. He also believes that Lenin, Stalin, and Hitler were part of a continental European tradition that started with Alexander III of Macedon, also known as Alexander the Great, in ancient Greece.

Make no mistake about it, we [Americans] came here not to be Europeans, he said.

Wilson said thats why the U.S. government was designed to have separation of powers. The founding fathers wanted to establish the rights of people, not the rights of government.

In his speech, Wilson said that the people can override a presidents veto and amend the constitution. In the worst case, when a tyrant is out of control, people will have the power to throw out the tyrant, he said.

That is what the Second Amendment is about, Wilson said.

The Constitution

We follow the Constitution Article IV Section 3 and Section 4, and we follow Article VI. We also follow the Declaration of Independence, and we follow the Bill of Rights, said Preston when describing the process of establishing a new state from an existing state.

Article IV Section 3 of the U.S. Constitution specifies the process of establishing a new state from an existing state.

Article IV Section 4 guarantees a republican form of government in every state and protects each state against invasion and domestic violence.

Article VI of the Constitution is the supremacy clause, which states that the U.S. Constitution is the supreme law of the land.

Preston said that the 1964 Reynolds v. Sims Supreme Court case destroyed the republican form of government on the state level, but the New California state movement will have the first opportunity to use the 10th Amendment to challenge the case.

The U.S. Supreme Court ruled in the Reynolds v. Sims case that, unlike in the elections of the U.S. Senate, state electoral districts must be roughly equal in population. The ruling changed the forming of State Senate districts from a regional-based model to a population-based model.

That decision has caused urban areas with denser populations to gain more representation in state legislatures.

There are 40 State Senate districts in California. As an example of the result of the case, District No. 1 represents nine full counties and two partial counties in mostly rural areas, while Los Angeles County is represented by 14 Senate districts.

The main reason for the New California state movement is that the rural areas of California are underrepresented in the state legislature. The movement has reflected one of the major causes of the American Revolution: no taxation without representation.

The 10th Amendment of the Constitution reserves the powers not delegated to the federal government to the state-level governments and people.

Since the movement expects to establish the first new state since the Reynolds v. Sims case, the 10th Amendment will be handy for the new state to challenge the 1964 Supreme Court case using the new states own constitution.

The new state would also take over the entire national border currently belonging to California. Using Article IV Section 4, which protects states against invasion, the movement aims to meet the challenges of the current border crisis.

In order to establish the new state, the movement has to overcome some difficulties. The U.S. Constitution requires that the formation of a new state from an existing state must be approved by the legislature of the existing state. What motive the California legislature would have for lettings the rural areas form a new state is not clear.

In addition, the U.S. Senate must approve the forming of the new state. Doing so would likely require 60 votes to bring the matter before the Senate for a vote. This would require, as the Senate is currently constituted, several Democrats to vote to create a new, likely Republican, state and to diminish the electoral power of California, which gives their party a significant advantage in presidential contests.

These difficulties are often brought up at New California meetings, but the movement continues to grow in membership.

Business Friendly

Paul Taylor is one of the main leaders of the New California movement. He was a U.S. Senate candidate in 2018.

Taylor, who is retired as a successful businessman, wants the new state to be innovative and business friendly. He said that the new state will be a right-to-work state with much less regulatory restrictions on businesses.

The right-to-work law refers to state laws that prohibit union security agreements between companies and labor unions. The U.S. Supreme Court in 2018 held five-to-four that non-union government workers cannot be required to pay union fees as a condition of working in public service, citing the workers First Amendment rights.

Taylor said he is a Christian constitutional conservative nationalist who believes the divine should inspire great governance.

The government shall rest on the shoulders of Jesus Christ, he said.

Taylor emphasized that the movement welcomes all people of different faiths who respect the values of America first, the U.S. Constitution, and traditional family values.
Notre Dame cathedral as it burns in Paris. Notre Dame Cathedral's melted roof has left astronomically high lead levels in the plaza outside and adjacent roads. Paris police say lead levels from the roof were found to be between 10 and 20 grams per kilogram of ground  between 32 and 65 times the recommended limit by French health authorities of 0.3 grams per kilogram. On April 15, 2019. (AP Photo/Thibault Camus)

Notre Dames Melted Roof Leaves Astronomical Lead Levels

PARISNotre Dame Cathedrals melted roof has left astronomically high lead levels in the plaza outside and adjacent roads.

Paris police say lead levels from the roof were found to be between 10 and 20 grams per kilogram of ground  between 32 and 65 times the recommended limit by French health authorities of 0.3 grams per kilogram. The areas closest to the cathedral are currently closed.

The statement Thursday 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 wash hands frequently.

Hundreds of tons of lead were used in Notre Dames frame, as well as the church spire that burned and collapsed.

Notre Dames Long History of Damage and Repair

Of all the French Gothic buildings, it is perhaps the Notre Dame cathedral of Paris, with the aid of Victor Hugos written word, that has most captured our collective imaginations. This eight-century-old monument is one of the most famous examples of the Gothic cathedral and demonstrates the invention of the flying buttress.

One of the first examples of French Gothic architecture, the style that turned stone buildings into worlds of light, color, and soaring heights, was the Basilica of Saint-Denis. It was Abbot Suger, one of the most prominent patrons of Gothic architecture, who directed the design and construction of the basilica in the 12th century. Cathedrals in Reims, Amiens, and Chartres followed suit. And with feats of engineering, they made use of pointed arches and flying buttresses to give parishioners a glimpse into eternity.

At the Heart of Paris

Some believe the cathedral sits on hallowed ground. Before Notre Dame, before Christianity, the site was home to a temple for Jupiter, as an ancient pillar discovered on the grounds suggests. Over the next several centuries, several sacred buildings took its place, one after the other. Today, a small bronze star on the ground in front of the cathedral marks Paris Point Zero, supposedly the center of the city, from which all distances to other French cities are calculated.

In 1160, Maurice de Sully was appointed bishop of Paris. The Romanesque structure standing at the time was far too small for the growing population of the city, and Sully had the basilica demolished to build a cathedral dedicated to the Virgin Mary.

Three years later, Pope Alexander III laid the first stone in the presence of King Louis VII, but it would be nearly two centuries before Notre Dame cathedral was completed in 1345.

The church was to be built in the Gothic style, following in the footsteps of Suger. Pointed arches reaching upward and flying buttresses that spread out like lacework allowed these buildings to soar higher, creating a sense of openness. The support system of these structures allowed the heavy stone to be set thinner, and in slivers, allowing for more glass and more light.

The construction of Notre Dame began with the choir and ambulatories (the backmost area of the church), and by the end of the century, the western facades were nearly built. In 1225, the first rose window, on the west facade, was completed. It is the smallest of the rose windows, some of the most famous features of Notre Dame.

By the middle of the 13th century, the invention of the flying buttress allowed for the north and south rose windows to be much larger in size. The south rose, gifted by King Louis IX, stretches more than 14 yards in diameter, with additional detailing around it measuring more than 20 yards.

In 1323, French theologian John of Jandun wrote, In fact, I believe that this church offers the carefully discerning such cause for admiration that its inspection can scarcely sate the soul.

Modifications and Renovations

Over the next several centuries, as with many great churches, the building was modified to better fit the style of the times, and it also suffered wear and tear that went unrepaired.

Then during the French Revolution in 1793, Notre Dame suffered severe damage when revolutionaries melted down the great bells to make canons, replaced a statue of the Virgin Mary with one of their icon, Liberty, and beheaded the figures of biblical kings, mistaking them for figures of the French monarchy.

When Napoleon Bonaparte took power, he gave the cathedral back to the Catholic Church. In 1804, he crowned himself emperor of France there, with Pope Pius VII officiating.

By this time, the cathedral was still in use but in a very poor state. In 1831, Victor Hugo published his novel Notre-Dame de Paris (The Hunchback of Notre Dame), and its enormous success shone a light on the battered monument.

Beside each wrinkle on the face of this old queen of our cathedrals, you will find a scar, wrote Hugo.

The people called for the renovation of the cathedral, and the city arranged a commission to select which architects would work on the project. Hugo eventually sat on the commission that chose architects Jean-Baptiste-Antoine Lassus and Eugene Viollet-le-Duc to do the job.

The architects worked to restore the statues that had been left smashed after the French Revolution. They rebuilt the original medieval spire and replaced the bells, designed new stained glass windows, and updated many other details. It was this 25-year renovation that added the famous gargoyles of Notre Dame, along with other mythical beasts, as symbols to ward off evil as well as to serve as spigots to divert rainwater in small streams of the building.

The spire is the one that was recently damaged by fire. The original had been removed in 1786 because it could not withstand the wind, and Viollet-le-Duc created a new one that was taller300 feet tallstronger and decorated with statues of the apostles.

In More Recent Times

New renovation projects have been sorely needed since the mid-19th century.

Air pollution covered the cathedral in soot and grime, decorative features were falling off, and stained glass windows were once again damaged.

Some medieval windows were broken in the 1944 liberation of the city during World War II and subsequently replaced with modern designs. In 1963, the facade was finally cleaned, in time for the cathedrals 800th anniversary. For its 850th anniversary in 2013, four of its bells were melted and recast to sound like the original bells.

The latest renovation was a languorous project in search of funding. The government, which owns the property, had budgeted 2 million euros ($2.2 million) annually for its upkeep. But the Catholic Archdiocese of Paris, which uses the cathedral, found that this sum covered only basic repairs and that additional funds were needed to fix greater structural issues.

As of 2017, the goal was to raise more than 100 million euros ($114 million) over the following 5 to 10 years. However, in the aftermath of the fire this month, individuals and organizations have together pledged about $1 billion.

Beyond maintenance, though, there is the talk of a redesign.

The fire resulted in the collapse of the cathedrals 300-foot spire. Two days later, French officials announced an international architectural competition for the design of a new spire. French Prime Minister Edouard Philippe said in a tweet that this would allow the examination of whether the spire should be rebuilt or adapted for the times.

President Emmanuel Macron told the press, We will rebuild Notre Dame even more beautifully, and I want it to be completed in five years.

The Epoch Times staff contributes to this article
Photos Show Last Time Maleah Davis Was Seen Alive Outside Texas Apartment

New photos show the last time missing 4-year-old Texas girl Maleah Davis was seen alive outside of her familys apartment.

The girl was seen with her mothers ex-fiance, Derion Vence, walking into the family apartment in Houston, ABC13 reported. She was not seen walking out.

Her mother left town for a funeral on the same day, on April 30.

This is heartbreaking to see, especially on #MothersDay. Surveillance pics show the last time sources say Maleah Davis was seen alive. She was wearing a pink tutu and walking into her apartment with her moms ex-fiance. Police say she never came out again. https://t.co/OwSM1roTDV pic.twitter.com/IqzZOFfEoz  Pooja Lodhia (@PoojaOnTV) May 12, 2019

Investigators said that Vence wasnt seen with Maleah after that morning, according to the report.

Days later, cameras captured Vence leaving the apartment with his 1-year-old son and a laundry basket with a trash bag inside. The laundry basket was found with a gas can that Vence had reported stolen.

Cadaver dogs were taken to Vences vehicle and other vehicles in the parking lot. Both dogs reacted to the suspects trunk, indicating that they had sensed human decomposition in the vehicle, ABC13 reported.

Drops of blood were also seen in the hallway of the bathroom in the apartment.

Vence was arrested and his bond was set for $999,9999 for tampering with evidence in the case, officials said.

Police have not yet confirmed if the girl died. Investigators, however, dont believe she is alive.

Asked if police believe Vence killed Maleah, Houston police spokesman Kese Smith said, At this point in time those are the charges we have filed and I cant say any more than that, according to The Associated Press.

Vence, 26, told police last week that men in a pickup truck abducted him, Maleah, and his 1-year-old son before freeing him and the boy. But Sugar Land police, who initially interviewed him, said his story kept changing and didnt add up.

Houston police said Saturday that some of those claims were false.

His story turned out not to be the case, including the fact that there was that blood evidence in the apartment linked to Maleah, Smith said.

IS SOMEONE ELSE INVOLVED? Police believe Darion Vence was dropped off at Methodist Hospital by someone driving the same Nissan belonging to Maleahs mom. Its the car Vence claimed was stolen. Right now only Vence is charged. #Abc13https://t.co/PgjFTb1QrH pic.twitter.com/7DjCoN2g32  Stefania Okolie (@StefaniaOnABC13) May 11, 2019

Maleahs mother Brittany Bowens, said through a spokesman that Vence is her former fiance. Bowens appeared outside her apartment Friday as Quanell X, a local civil rights activist, addressed reporters on her behalf. Quanell X said that Vence had abused Maleah and that Bowens believes Vence harmed the girl.

Police have described Vence as Maleahs stepfather. But Quanell X said that Vence and Bowens were recently in a fight and she broke off their engagement.

This week, Maleahs biological father, Craig Davis, spoke out for the first time about the disappearance.

Im not putting the blame on anybody, local news outlets quoted Davis as saying. I just need the questions that arent answered to be answered. There are so many unanswered questions. Its not for the public to answer to them for me. Its not for the police to answer them for me. Its not for the news to answer them for me. Its for Derion to answer for me.

Maleah has been described as an African-American female with black hair and brown eyes, standing approximately 3 feet tall and weighing between 30 and 40 pounds.

For those with information about the case call HPD Homicide at 713-308-3600 or @crimestophou at 713-222-TIPS.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Rep. Matt Gaetz on Spygate, Barr Hearings, and the Attempted Coup Against Trump

With the Mueller investigation concluded, just how are the recent activities of the House Judiciary Committee effectively impeachment in drag, in the eyes of committee member Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.)?

And why was he prevented from speaking at the last hearing involving Attorney General William Barr, the one Barr himself declined to attend?

In this episode of American Thought Leaders, Epoch Times senior editor Jan Jekielek sits down with Gaetz to explore a range of issues related to the origins of the Russia collusion investigation against candidate Donald Trump, including the significance of the upcoming release of the 55 Russia investigation transcripts from the House Intelligence Committee.

Jan Jekielek: Now that we know that the Mueller report basically told us theres no Russia collusion, the attorney general foundbased on what he found in the reportthat there was no obstruction, a lot of people are actually going further behind the scenes. Thats something weve been reporting on for a while. And, actually, youve been very interested for some timeweve been watching that. Before I jump into that, what people call Spygateor SetUpGate is another moniker that Ive heardI wanted to talk about this House Judiciary Committee hearing where you were basically cut off. What do you think that was all about?

Rep. Matt Gaetz: Well, something very strange is going on in the House Judiciary Committee. Theyre actually trying to have impeachment in drag. They dont want to call the hearings impeachment hearings, but they want to make them look and feel as much like impeachment as possible, despite the lack of underlying evidence that would support it.

So at the last hearing, I had a series of questions about the processes and procedures that the committee was using, and the extent to which they departed from our normal practices. And they really were an effort by the committee to dress up oversight activity to be as negative toward the president as possible.

I couldnt even get recognized by the committee chairman to ask those legitimate procedural questions, because I think whats happening with my Democratic colleagues right now is that theyre so flummoxed with the lack of underlying facts to support what theyve been saying to the American people for the last two years that theyve lost control over their management of the House of Representatives.

Mr. Jekielek: Impeachment in drag. Thats quite the imagery. So, actually, we had a headlineand this is very aproposHouse Democrats Plan Contempt Vote on Attorney General Barr  for Following the Law. And so I think you get whats being suggested here. Do you agree?

Rep. Gaetz: Thats clearly whats happening. General Barr is stuck between the law and a group of angry Democrats trying to justify their lies over the last two years.

You know, the attorney general is not allowed to release information if that information is linked to grand jury activity in the absence of court approval to do so. And so Democrats have now made a demand that he do that. The law doesnt allow him to do that. And theyre using this to manufacture a constitutional crisis in their mind or discord between the executive and legislative branch. Theyre literally trying to go and pick fights where none need occur, because the attorney general has already released 92 percent of the Mueller report. Even more is available to Chairman [Jerrold] Nadler, if hed like to go review it. He hasnt taken the opportunity to do that.

Theyre trying to make it look like this great source of discord, but its this mouse of an issue that roars like a lion.

Mr. Jekielek: Can [Barr] even be held in contempt for refusing to break the law?

Rep. Gaetz: Congress can hold anybody in contempt that theyd like to for any purpose. And, as a matter of fact, Eric Holder was held in contempt because he refused to show up. He refused to produce documents and answer questions about [Operation] Fast and Furious, a terrible scandal that was uncovered by Republicans in Congress who were engaged in diligent oversight. Here, it would be very bizarre for the legislative branch of government to hold someone in contempt in the executive branch of government when, if the person in the executive branch did what Congress wanted, he could potentially be in trouble with the judicial branch of government. And so, again, it is a manufactured crisis.

Heres what we ought to do. We ought to take the Mueller findings on collusion at face value. We ought to take the legal analysis from Americas top lawyer, the attorney general, on obstruction at face value. And then weve got to figure out how in the world this happened. How did we get to a point where political opposition research supplied by a known liar British spy, funded by political opponents, overseen by Obama officials in the White House, and then polluted by Russians trying to undermine the American electionhow [did that become] the fuel for an investigation that really should have sputtered out very quickly?

I think thatll tell the true story of where we need to make reforms in this country so that this never happens again.

Mr. Jekielek: So the attorney general has been saying that hes bringing together a number of disparate existing investigations, I think, with the IG (inspector general), FBI, and some others. And hes getting [FBI Director] Christopher Wrays cooperation in doing this. Can you speak to that a little bit further?

Rep. Gaetz: Yeah. There are a number of different people in our government looking at the origins of this investigation. The Senate Intelligence Committee is engaged in that work, [and] individual Republicans in the Congress are continuing that effort that really uncovered a lot of the institutional bias that you saw over the last two years exposed. And then youve got, as you said, the inspector general and [U.S. Attorney John] Huber.

Huber was appointed by Rod Rosenstein to really investigate these leaks and how it is that the FBI and Department of Justice transitioned from investigatory prosecuting entities to public relations management firms. They really seem to be obsessed with the media and what the media could do for them in enhancing their particular view of facts as they saw them, or utilizing the media to reinforce the bias that had so badly infected the senior levels at the FBI and Department of Justice.

That interplay, I think, could be very dangerous for the American people, if we dont find a way to stop our investigators from thinking that theyre political hacks.

Mr. Jekielek: All these attacks are basically inherently politicized, right?

Rep. Gaetz: Well, the attacks on the attorney general are. I think that the critique that we have of systems that allowed a secret court to review evidence from a known liar polluted by Russians is not political, because it could happen to either side. I think thats what my Democratic colleagues dont really get. Russia, China, Iran, North Koreathe countries that are trying to undermine democracy globally are going to continue to try to attack U.S. elections with a variety of different tools.

And rather than having our Democratic colleagues so obsessed with President Trumpprobably the one guy we are certain did not collude with a foreign government because of the investigation that went into himinstead of focusing on him, lets focus on our broader resiliency and what we can do to make sure that were prepared for those attacks and that we dont allow unelected people who think they know best to become susceptible to use information developed by Russia to undermine our faith in the outcome of our election.

Mr. Jekielek: So you were one of the first people to talk about this IG leak report that you mentioned earlier. Any updates on that for us?

Rep. Gaetz: No updates, other than what the inspector general has shared with me. Youll recall when the inspector general published his review of how the Hillary Clinton investigation was handled, he was very critical of the way that people tended to migrate from the Clinton investigation onto the TrumpRussia investigation at the FBI and then subsequently onto the Mueller probe.

But, during that report, he articulated concern over members of the media providing tickets to sporting events or concerts or other gifts to people in the FBI to get information. And what weve now seen on the other side is that you had a lot of people at the FBI who were super eager to control the public discourse on an investigation, more so than they were actually doing the investigating, the stuff we hired them to do.

So we should see this summer, I think, the results of the IGs work. And my expectation is that mainstream media news outlets will have a lot of explaining to do regarding their very nefarious undermining of the work of the FBI and Department of Justice.

Mr. Jekielek: Fascinating. So, this summer  Its hard to wait, right? So tell me a little bit more about what you and folks that youre working with have been investigating?

Rep. Gaetz: Its really troubling to us that any authorization for intelligence collection would occur in this country as a consequence of politics. Intelligence collectionspying, whatever you want to call itreally is one of the strongest tools our government has, and it should be used very sparingly. And when we see Peter Strzok and Lisa Page texting about POTUS wanting to be notified about everything, or the White House is running this, regarding their efforts to poke and prod at the Trump campaign, it raises concern that it wasnt a legitimate investigative inquiry, but rather a desire to undermine a political opponent that led to the investigation beginning.

We are certain that it is not an open question that fueled this investigation. According to the testimony even of Andy McCabe, no friend of the president, this dossier that was developed by Christopher Steele, a British spy, was the essential element that kept our investigators engaged in a pursuit of the president and his campaign. That dossier was never disclosed as having been authored by a liar, funded by political opponents, and then polluted by Russians who wanted to undermine our election. I really think that that ought to be the focus of our work now going forward: How do we become more resilient to those types of attacks in the future?

Mr. Jekielek: So youre actually looking into trying to make sure that these sorts of things cant happen again already?

Rep. Gaetz: Yeah.

Mr. Jekielek: Fascinating. We have a number of columnists and a number of journalists that are working on this exact issue. They are very curious and have lots of questions. For example, do you have a sense when all the 55 transcripts from the House Intel Committee will be released? Do you have any idea?

Rep. Gaetz: I dont, but I have encouraged the director of national intelligence publicly to release those transcripts, and heres why thats such an insightful question. The very people that oversaw the beginnings of this investigationthe very people who may have engaged other Western intelligence operations to spy on the Trump campaign, to entrap the Trump campaign, to try to run intelligence of the Trump campaignthose people gave testimony under oath before the United States Congress. And while I dont know what lies within those transcripts, its my belief that they will be very illuminating as to the thoughts and methodologies that were used to take this unprecedented act of spying on a rival campaign. And so Ive encouraged the director of national intelligence: Lets get these out in the public. And the four Im most interested in: Comey, McCabe, Clapper, and Brennan.

Mr. Jekielek: Got it. You mentioned you were speaking with Huber, but what about Horowitz or Mueller, even, have you been speaking with them?

Rep. Gaetz: Ive spoken with Mr. Horowitz, but Ive not spoken with Mr. Mueller. And its my expectation that he will be before the Congress, and hes got to answer some pretty serious questions about how he assembled his team. I mean, how in the world do you go and hire the very people who were defending Hillary Clinton in court against public disclosure lawsuits to then go and pursue Donald Trump? And even the inspector general, a Democrat appointed by President Obama, said that the HR policies of Robert Mueller to go and take the people that had been working on the Clinton investigation and use them to go after President Trump was beyond any appropriate rationale for staffing that operation.

Mr. Jekielek: Do you know [whether] The Horowitz Report, the bigger report, has been delivered to its subjects or responses?

Rep. Gaetz: I dont know where Mr. Horowitz is in that process. Again, his expectation is that his report would be released later this summer. But it is frequently the case that these reports get pushed back because just as theyre about to become public, you can often get new whistleblowers with new facts and new information that can inform on the results. Thats what happened when Horowitz was investigating the Clinton email scandal and how a yellow brick road was paved for her by the Department of Justice to alleviate any consequence. He continued to get more and more information that showed us how really unfortunate that played out.

Mr. Jekielek: Are you aware of any other investigations that arent, basically, out in the open?

Rep. Gaetz: Well, youve got the Senate Intelligence Committee thats investigating, obviously, as well. But based on the information we are now obtaining about the potential involvement of other Western intelligence services in undermining the Trump campaign, I would not be surprised if, in the very near future, we have to have a review of what other three-letter agencies were involved and with whom did they speak.

Mr. Jekielek: And now that Rod Rosenstein is retiringbasically stepping downdo you think hell be called to testify?

Rep. Gaetz: I dont know if Democrats plan to do oversight over private citizens. Its typically the case that when were doing legitimate oversight, its with the people who are engaged in the operations of government, so that our policy can inform on the work that theyre doing. So I dont expect Mr. Rosenstein to be before the Congress, but frankly, with Democrats infected with impeachment fever, you never know who theyre going to try to bring before the grand circus that has become the House Judiciary Committee.

Mr. Jekielek: Youd mentioned that a number of reports are coming in the summer. I think those may actually be the bombshells that weve been waiting for. I dont know. But where do you expect things will go over the next few months?

Rep. Gaetz: I think the attorney general is going to have to make the initial binary decision about prosecutable offenses or not prosecutable offenses as it relates to the people that fueled these investigations and potentially made misrepresentations to the court. There are also actions that can be taken by the FISA court, if they feel as though they were lied to, if someone engaged in prosecutorial misconduct. And so whether its peoples professional licenses or whether its, in fact, a prosecution of a crime, I think the attorney generals got to make that binary decision. And our job is to do everything we can to take the information we find and to put it into the public square. I think that weve had a lot more intelligent discussion about what really has gone on here as a consequence of seeing the emails and text messages and reflections of bias that seemed to drive a lot of the activity against the president.

Mr. Jekielek: Its been said that basically the process of these last two years essentially of the Mueller report and all of the media coverage of it and all the leaks, in a sense, I think Victor Davis Hanson said this, that its kind of backfiring actually. Its provided a lot of evidence that there were things that happened that werent quite right.

Rep. Gaetz: Youre right. And it has also backfired in that it really accomplished a lot of Putins objectives. I know that many of my colleagues want to know when Robert Mueller came to the conclusion that the Trump campaign did not collude with Russia. Because if you think about it, every day that Mueller continues his investigation after arriving at that fundamental conclusion, is a day that hes doing Putins bidding because it has Americans questioning whether or not their president is a Russian agent. That was baloney at all times. And the fact that we allowed that to continue to impair the presidents ability to use all of the tools that comes with the presidency to lead the free world is a real travesty.

Mr. Jekielek: Theres still a ton of confusion about that from what I seeif you read the major headlines and things like that.

Rep. Gaetz: And, you know, its not Republicans who set the expectations as to the outcome of these investigations, right? You had Democrats literally calling the president of the United States a Russian agent. When my colleagues and I stepped forward and said that this was a coup being attempted by senior people in our government, elected by nobody, to destabilize the presidency, I had the mainstream media acting like I was wearing a tinfoil hat. But the reality is that was true. Andrew McCabe came out and said: Yeah, we were out there counting noses to see if we could access the 25th Amendment to undo the results of a democratic election in the United States. Thats the type of dynamic that I hope we can get beyond in our politics going forward.

Mr. Jekielek: So do you think thats at all possible?

Rep. Gaetz: You know, I have been listening frequently to the commentary of professor Alan Dershowitz. And his view political viewpoint isnt minehes a liberal, Im a conservative. But he makes an argument about decriminalizing our politicsthat we can have political disagreements, we can be angry and passionate about the results of an election, but when every election has to result in sort of a round of criminal indictments, it draws too closely together our criminal code and our vibrant political discourse.

Mr. Jekielek: It just makes it a lot less meaningful  when a real crime is committed.

Rep. Gaetz: Yeah, we dont want this to be the new normal, but weve got to get to a bipartisan solution set here. The challenges we have with foreign interference in elections are too big for either one party to solve on their own. We actually need to be rowing in the same direction on this one.

And thats why its so frustrating for me [that] when we find Democratic ideas that are good ideas and we try to champion them, Democrats back away from their own agenda. [Rep.] Adam Schiff, himself, had a bill to reform the secret court process to have more open transparency regarding the views of the judges, to publish opinions down the road, to develop a sense of legal doctrineall things that are good ideas. And when I went to co-sponsor  or when I went to introduce, I should say, Schiffs legislation, he would not co-sponsor his own bill.

Mr. Jekielek: Fascinating. I didnt know that.

Rep. Gaetz: It really ripens in our mind whether or not Democrats really even want to solve this problem or whether their objective is solely to demagogue it. Because they cant argue with the policies of the Trump administration right now. We have 3.2 percent growth. It is twice what the Obama administration expected for our country during this time, from a growth standpoint. So we are humming as a country. We are hot as an economy. And so, Democrats have to try to delegitimize the man because they cant argue with the policies that are lifting up the dreams of the American people.

Mr. Jekielek: And I guess youre arguing that the beneficiaries of all the madness are these foreign intelligence services?

Rep. Gaetz: Yeah. I dont think that its good for the country that you had a 22-month investigation that raised a doubt in the minds of many as to the presidents allegiance to the country he was elected to lead. Think about what was going on during these moments in time. Youve got the president trying to denuclearize North Korea. When he took office, you had, at times, tests only a few weeks away from each other, and North Korea was rapidly enhancing their capabilities.

Now, to box North Korea in, youve got to be able to work with Russia and China, otherwise, they undermine our sanctions regimes. And so hes there trying to work with Russia and China to box in North Korea to denuclearize the Peninsula. And, meanwhile, hes having to fight off these completely baseless accusations that he is an agent of the Russian government. That wasnt good for our country, and I think the people responsible for perpetrating these lies need to be held to account.

This interview has been edited for clarity and brevity.

American Thought Leaders is a new Epoch Times show available on Facebook and YouTube.
Police officers and clinic escorts stand outside of the Planned Parenthood of Metropolitan Washington during a protest vigil in Washington on Jan. 17, 2019. (Zach Gibson/Getty Images)

Republicans Ask GAO How Many Tax Dollars Go to Planned Parenthood

WASHINGTONA huge group of Republicans in the Senate and House of Representatives joined in signing a letter to Comptroller General Gene Dodaro asking that he update a 2018 study by the General Accounting Office (GAO), which he heads, that found Planned Parenthood receives more than $500 million in federal tax money every year.

Taxpayer funding of abortion must end, Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) said in a joint statement on the May 10 letter. A growing majority of Americans agree with this fact.

Blackburn said public opposition to tax-paid abortions is the underlying reason we are requesting this report, so that we have verified figures of every taxpayer dollar going to big abortion entities such as Planned Parenthood.

Rep. Vicky Hartzler (R-Mo.) said, Planned Parenthood boasts of performing more than 321,000 abortions a year, while also receiving over half a billion dollars in taxpayer funding.

American citizens should know exactly how many of their hard-earned tax dollars go to support this organization and the abortion industry at large, which is why an updated report from the GAO will be so valuable.

The congressional auditing agency reported last year that more than $1.6 billion in federal money went to Planned Parenthood (PP), its international affiliate, and the similar abortion-provider Marie Stopes International during the fiscal years 2013 to 2015.

National Planned Parenthood affiliates received the majority of this funding, approximately $1.5 billion, or about $500 million annually. Other abortion providers received the remainder of the funds, according to the joint statement.

In their request, the 121 co-signers of the letter to Dodaroincluding 28 GOP senators and 93 Republican representativesasked GAO to update its data for the three named organizations for the years 2016 to 2018.

The letter further requested that GAO also compile data for the four of the largest additional abortion provider networks in the United States, as well as for the more than 13,500 Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHC).

Concerning the FQHCs. the letter asked that GAO compile detailed statistics on the number of people served, types of visits provided, and preventative services provided through the facilities, and noted that the centers provide comprehensive life-affirming care to women and children that excludes abortion.

There are two FQHCs for every one PP clinic, according to the letter.

The four additional abortion providers include PP competitors Family Planning Associates, American Womens Services, All Women Health Centers, and Whole Womans Health.

This report will provide needed transparency on taxpayer funding for groups that promote or perform abortions, Rep. Pete Olson (R-Texas) said in the joint statement.

We must shine a bright light on how every federal dollar is allocated. Since coming to Congress, Ive fought for the sanctity of life and accountability in government spending. Im pleased our request has strong support from both our House and Senate colleagues and look forward to reviewing the completed GAO report, Olson said.

Federal funding of abortions has been illegal since Congress adopted and President Gerald Ford signed into law the Hyde Amendment in 1976.

The measure banned spending tax dollars to pay for abortions except in cases of rape or incest and to save the life of the mother.

Democrats controlled both chambers of Congress when the measure was approved. It was named after its chief advocate, Rep. Henry Hyde (R-Ill.).

Pro-abortion groups have lobbied for the repeal of the Hyde Amendment virtually since the moment it was signed into law, and they succeeded in narrowing its application slightly from 1981 to 1993.

The Democratic National Committees 2016 platform was the first of the partys policy statements during presidential elections that explicitly called for repealing the Hyde Amendment.

In their letter, the signers asked GAO to provide for each of the abortion providers:

The amount of federal obligations and disbursements to and the expenditures of federal funds by each of these organizations in each fiscal year.

The federal agencies (such as the Administration for Children & Families and any other agency or sub-agency that funds activities that Planned Parenthood may provide) funding sources (e.g. block grants), and programs associated with these federal funds (including Medicaid and Title X).

How these funds were made available (e.g. direct or pass-through funding).

Federal tax dollars are mostly banned from being used for abortions but states arent prevented from using money they receive under Medicaid to pay for the procedure.

In New York, for example, nearly 43,000 abortions were paid for by state officials using Medicaid funds in 2014, according to LiveAction, a pro-life advocacy group.

There was a slight decrease in tax-funded abortions in New York the following year, LiveAction said, dropping to 42,549, but the percentage of all abortions in the state in 2015 that were tax-funded increased from 47 percent to 49 percent.
By PTI

NEW DELHI: Delhi Chief Minister and AAP supremo Arvind Kejriwal said post-elections they would be ready to back any party, except the BJP, that supports full statehood for the national capital.

The AAP national convenor, in an interview to PTI, said their only aim is to stop the Modi-Shah duo from coming back to power and for that they will support any party. "We will support those who grant full statehood to Delhi. Our only aim is to stop the Modi-Shah duo from coming back to power. We have absolutely no problem with whoever comes at the Centre," Kejriwal said.

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has made the demand of full statehood for Delhi its poll plank. The party says that a slew of issues, including expansion of health and education infrastructure, remains unresolved as it does not lie in the hands of the Delhi government.

ALSO READ| Kejriwal sends legal notice to Gautam Gambhir for tweets

Kejriwal claimed that people are "extremely happy" with the work of the AAP in Delhi, especially in the fields of education, health, water, electricity, road, sewage. "But the people of Delhi are also seeing how hurdles are being created in the work of the Delhi government because it is not a full state. People this time will vote to remove those hurdles from the path of the Delhi government," he said.

The chief minister said once the demand of full statehood is realised, it would help in fast-tracking development works in the national capital. If Delhi gets full statehood, the city government would be able to deliver thousand times more than what it has done till now, he claimed.

Kejriwal alleged that the BJP MPs are not "loyal" to the people of Delhi. "People in Delhi should think that if all the seven candidates of the BJP win then they will not be loyal to the people of the national capital.

ALSO READ| At stake in Delhi: Prestige for BJP, survival for AAP, redemption for Congress

If tomorrow, metro fare rises your BJP MPs cannot raise their voices, they cannot raise their voice against sealing. AAP is Delhi's party so if something happens to the people of Delhi then AAP will raise voice for the rights of people in Parliament," he said.

Kejriwal said the voice against the Centre's "wrong" policies could be raised only when Delhi MPs are from a different party than those in power in the Centre. People of Delhi would benefit more by electing AAP candidates as they can raise issues faced by city residents in Parliament more effectively than the national parties like the BJP and the Congress, he said.

READ| Sheila Dikshit engages in friendly Twitter banter with CM Kejriwal on poll eve

The chief minister claimed there is a "very strong" anti-incumbency against the BJP in Delhi as its MPs did nothing for the people here. The BJP had won all the Lok Sabha seats in Delhi in the 2014 general elections.

Giving individual examples, Kejriwal said there is a lot of "negativity" against incumbent BJP MP from New Delhi Meenakshi Lekhi, who, he claimed has done nothing for the constituency. "She insulted the people of her constituency so people want to defeat her," he said.

FOLLOW OUR ELECTION COVERAGE HERE

About Delhi BJP chief and its North East Delhi MP Manoj Tiwari, Kejriwal said, "He has done nothing except dancing and singing in the last four years." The works of Pravesh Sahib Singh Verma, who is an MP from West Delhi, is also being questioned by the people of his constituency, he claimed, adding that in South Delhi people are "tired of hooliganism" of BJP MP Ramesh Bidhuri.

The AAP national convener claimed that BJP candidate from North West Delhi seat Hansraj Hans would lose comprehensively.

Appealing to the people to vote for ending the "obstructions created by the BJP-led central government", Kejriwal accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of not delivering any of the promises made by him in the run up to the 2014 Lok Sabha polls. "Modiji cannot say I built schools, hospitals, brought down electricity tariff, ensured drinking water supply."He failed in every sector. He has not delivered anything," he alleged.
Shooting Reported Near Trump Resort in Florida, 1 Dead

A shooting was reported near a Trump Resort in Sunny Isles Beach, Florida, on May 12, according to reports.

WSVN in Miami reported that the shooting was road rage-related. It took place near a car rental business.

Sunny Isles Beach Police said the shooting took place at the Alamo Rent A Car along Collins Avenue, which is right across the street from the Trump International Beach Resort, the report said.

Three people were shot in the incident, the report said.

According to WPLG, a man was killed and a woman was injured. Paramedics rushed the injured woman, 19, to Aventura Hospital and Medical Center. Her condition is not known.

A witness said they heard around seven or eight gunshots.

Sunny isles shooting around Trump international. Heard 7-8 shots fired  Yan Schechter (@yanschechter) May 12, 2019

Other witnesses said that police returned fire.

Police are looking for a silver GMC Yukon with Florida license plate BNE 3360. Three suspects were reportedly involved in the incident.

Other details about the incident are not clear.

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.
Stepfather of Missing 4-Year-Old Maleah Davis Arrested

The man who reported that a 4-year-old Texas girl had been abducted from him last weekend was arrested near Houston on May 11 and police say they found blood in his apartment linked to the girl.

Derion Vence was arrested without incident at his brothers home in Sugar Land, Texas, about 22 miles southwest of Houston, a statement from Houston police said. He was charged with tampering with evidence.

Update: Current booking photo of suspect Derion Vence #hounews pic.twitter.com/8WueclRVI6  Houston Police (@houstonpolice) May 11, 2019

Vence told police last Saturday that men in a pickup truck abducted him, 4-year-old Maleah Davis and his 2-year-old son before freeing him and the boy. But Sugar Land police, who initially interviewed him, said his story kept changing and didnt add up.

Houston police said Saturday that some details of his story turned out to be false. Vence reported his silver Nissan Altima was taken in the abduction but a surveillance video showed that vehicle was used to drop Vence off later at a hospital, where he reported the abduction, police said.

Blood evidence obtained from Vences apartment has been linked to Maleah, the Houston police statement said.

Vence also was observed carrying a full laundry basket from the apartment, police said. That basket was later found in the trunk of the Nissan along with a gas can.

Maleahs mother Brittany Bowens, said Vence is her former fiance. Bowens appeared outside her apartment Friday as Quanell X, a local civil rights activist, addressed reporters on her behalf.

Quanell X said that Vence had abused Maleah and that Bowens believes Vence harmed the girl.

Police have described Vence as Maleahs stepfather. But Quanell X said that Vence and Bowens were recently in a fight and she broke off their engagement.

Child Protective Services removed Maleah and her brothers from the home Vence and Bowens shared in August after the girl suffered a head wound, but the children were returned in February, according to an agency spokeswoman.

Maleahs Mother Pleads for Her Return

Bowens told CNNs Nick Valencia on Friday she doesnt believe Vence and that he bears some responsibility for the girls disappearance.

At a news conference later, community activist Quanell X said, The mother did not want to believe, by any stretch of the imagination, that this man is capable of what is obvious that has taken place here.

Bowens did not speak during the news conference. She cried and covered her face as she stood next to the activist.

Quanell X told reporters that he has seen video surveillance from a neighbors camera that shows Vence leaving the apartment with a bottle of bleach and a laundry basket with a garbage bag in it. CNN has not seen the video.

CNN affiliate KTRK aired an image from the camera that purportedly shows Vence carrying a laundry basket with a dark garbage bag. According to Quanell X, Vence told Bowens that he was cleaning the apartment.

WHAT IS IN THE BAG? #MaleahDavis mom claims this is surveillance video of Darion Vence walking out of the apartment with a garbage bag in a laundry hamper. https://t.co/x6jm3LGfLz pic.twitter.com/ndK14UWv8h  FOX 7 Austin (@fox7austin) May 11, 2019

While speaking with reporters, the activist made explosive allegations against Vence and said Bowens was going to meet with police Friday to share information disclosed at the news conference.

Allegations of Abuse

Maleah and her two brothers were taken from their home and placed with a relative after allegations of abuse last year, the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services told CNN.

Bowens said the children had not been abused, and that Maleahs head injury, which led to the allegations, was only discovered after a number of hospital visits. Maleah was first treated for a strange lethargy, and a week later, she fell and cut her head while sitting at a table. The doctors discharged Maleah without performing a CT scan, Bowens said.

Maleah had a seizure five days later, and thats when doctors discovered bleeding on the left side of her brain and operated on her, Bowens said.

Child Protective Services showed up a few days later, Bowens said.

They didnt find anything because were not those kinds of people, she said.

But authorities soon placed Maleah and her two brothers with relatives, where they stayed until a judge ordered them to be returned home in February.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
A Huawei logo is pictured during the media day for the Shanghai auto show in Shanghai on April 16, 2019. (Aly Song/Reuters)

US Firm Accuses Huawei of Enlisting Chinese Professor to Obtain Its Tech

A U.S. startup company is accusing Chinese telecommunications gear provider Huawei of enlisting a Chinese university professor working on a research project to improperly access the startups technology, according to court documents filed last week.

California-based CNEX, which is developing technology to enhance the performance of solid-state drives in data centers, has been locked in a dispute with Huawei Technologies Co. since 2017. In a new set of counterclaims filed in federal court in Texas last week, CNEX claimed that Bo Mao, a professor at Xiamen University, asked for one of the companys circuit boards as part of a research project.

The company alleges that it required Mao to sign a strict non-disclosure obligation about the circuit board. But CNEX claimed that, unbeknownst to it, the university was working with Huawei and alleged that after the component was sent to the professor, technical details about its products ended up in Huaweis hands.

Huawei took CNEXs proprietary and trade secret information and shared it with the personnel developing Huaweis (solid-state drive) controllers, in violation of representations made to CNEX and restrictions placed on the distribution of CNEXs technical information, the startup said in the filing.

Neither Huawei nor Mao returned a request from Reuters for comment.

Huaweis gear has been largely shut out of the United States since 2012 because of concerns the technology could be used for espionage. The company has said the concerns are unfounded.

The Chinese companys CFO, Meng Wanzhou, 47, the daughter of Huaweis billionaire founder, Ren Zhengfei, was arrested at Vancouvers airport in December on a U.S. warrant on charges that she conspired to defraud global banks about Huaweis relationship with a company operating in Iran. Meng has said she is innocent and is fighting extradition in a Canadian court.

CNEXs allegations last week are the latest in a trial dating to 2017. One of CNEXs co-founders, Ronnie Huang, had worked for a Huawei subsidiary in Texas, but left in 2013 and later helped found CNEX.

In 2017, Huawei sued CNEX and Huang, alleging that the startups inventions were related to work Huang had done at Huawei and that it had a right to the patents under a contract that Huang signed. CNEX, in turn, alleged that Huawei was seeking to use the court case itself to obtain deeper access to the startups technology through the discovery process.

Last week, the court denied Huaweis claims to ownership over CNEXs patents, ruling that California law, which gives workers broad leeway to leave their employers and create new companies, applied to that part of Huangs contract. CNEX still faces claims from Huawei that Huang improperly recruited his former Huawei co-workers to join his new company.

By Stephen Nellis
The U.S. Department of Justice seal is seen on a lectern ahead of a press conference at the Department of Justice building in Washington, DC on November 28, 2018. (MANDEL NGAN/AFP/Getty Images)

US Prosecutors Says Conflict of Interest Disqualifies Huawei Lawyer in Meng Wanzhou Case

Huawei Technologies Co. lawyer James Coles prior work at the U.S. Department of Justice created conflicts of interest that should disqualify him from defending the Chinese company in a case of alleged bank fraud and sanctions violations, U.S. prosecutors said in a filing on May 10.

Last week, the prosecutors filed a motion to disqualify Cole, who served as deputy attorney general, the No. 2 official at the Justice Department, between 2011 and 2015. But the motion was sealed and classified, and prosecutors did not make public the reasons behind the move.

There is a substantial risk that Cole could use confidential factual information obtained while serving as DAG to materially advanceHuaweis current defense strategy, the prosecutors said, according to a redacted copy of the U.S. motion filed on Friday in U.S. District Court in Brooklyn, New York.

Cole was not immediately available for comment. But in a statement, Huawei said the filing motion sought to strip the company of counsel of its choice while concealing the facts on why.

The Justice Departments motion to disqualify Jim Cole makes a mockery of the adversarial process, the statement said.

The case against Huawei, the worlds largest telecommunications equipment maker, has ratcheted up tensions between Beijing and Washington as the worlds top two economic powers try to negotiate a trade deal.

The companys chief financial officer, Meng Wanzhou, daughter of Huaweis founder, was arrested in Canada in December at the behest of U.S. authorities for her role in the alleged fraud. Meng has said she is innocent and is fighting extradition.

In Fridays filing, U.S. prosecutors said Coles representation of Huawei poses irresolvable conflicts of interest.

As deputy attorney general, Cole personally supervised and participated in aspects of an investigation that caused the conflicts, the prosecutors said in the filing.

Details of that probe were redacted, but the filing said the Huawei prosecution is substantially related to the matter.

The prosecutors said Cole possessed information from his government work related to his Huawei representation that he could not reveal, and this created the risk that he would rely on the information in breach of his duties to the Justice Department.

Secondly, because the nature of the conflict is classified, the prosecutors said, Huawei cannot obtain enough information for them to waive any conflict.

The case against Huawei and Meng accuses them of conspiring to defraud HSBC Holdings and other banks by misrepresenting Huaweis relationship with Skycom Tech Co., a company that operated in Iran, putting the banks at risk of penalties for processing transactions that violated U.S. sanctions laws.

Huawei has said Skycom was a local business partner. The United States maintains it was an unofficial subsidiary used to conceal Huaweis Iran business.

U.S. authorities claim Huawei used Skycom to obtain embargoed U.S. goods, technology, and services in Iran, and to move money via the international banking system.

Last month, prosecutors said they planned to use information obtained through secret surveillance in the Huawei case.

Cole entered a not guilty plea on behalf of Huawei and its U.S. subsidiary at the Brooklyn court on March 14.

By Karen Freifeld
Woman Crouched Over Her 3-day Old Baby as Her Husband Kicked Her on Face and Head

A man has been arrested after he beat his wife over an argument as she crouched over their three-day-old baby in the United Kingdom. The mother is now encouraging others to report domestic violence to authorities.

Just three days after giving birth to her daughter, Kerry Armstrong was beaten up by her husband, Gary Peoples, who then continued to assault Armstrongs 13-year-old daughter, reported BelFastLive.

Armstrongs older daughter from a previous marriage entered the room as her mother was being hit. Peoples then seized her and pushed her against the wall.

Belfast man Gary Peoples jailed for brutal attack on his wife days after she gave birth https://t.co/tAxRVEgw7O pic.twitter.com/K0stUZrWHM  Belfast (@BelfastCityNews) May 11, 2019

The prosecutor told the judge that Peoples initially prevented Armstrong from leaving the house, but she escaped and drove to her mothers home. Her brother informed the police about the attack.

The incident happened on Oct. 2, 2017, and Armstrong, a playgroup leader from East Belfast, told BelFastLive that she could never forgive Peoplesshe was left with two black eyes, bad swelling, and bruises on other parts of her face, and had to protect her infant daughter with her own body.

40-year-old Peoples admitted to the assault and was jailed for 20 months. Since then, Armstrong has been encouraging victims of domestic violence to report their cases to authorities and said she was grateful that the judiciary system delivered her justice.

It has been quite a long time since this happened and it has been hard to get to this point, Armstrong told BelFastLive after the arrest.

Beyond criminal evil guy!Would you let your husband do this to you after days of giving birth?Play group leader Kerry Armstrong, from Belfast, was attacked by her husband at their home just  https://t.co/O9l0roe81H via @MailOnline  Carol Dijkhuyzen (@Carolbaut) May 11, 2019

At times I just wanted to give up but I was determined to go through with it on behalf of other women who have suffered and who are still suffering from the effects of domestic violence, she said.

She thanked Womens Aid, an organization that works against domestic violence. Without their help and counseling and without the help of other domestic violence sufferers whom I have met and befriended, I couldnt have gone through with it, she said.

The defense barrister said that there was no record of any previous domestic violence between the couple and the violence strained their relationship.

He said that Peoples hasnt seen his 18-month-old daughter since the incident and that hes remorseful and ashamed.

There was a very short romance before the marriage. Both parties brought their own children from previous relationships to the table, the defence barrister said.

It was the meshing of two families which raised issues about relationships between the respective children and stepchildren, he said.

He said it was an out-of-character incident and Peoples will have to carry its burden for his whole life.

Tensions were at times running high and the defendant bottled things up. He did not deal with things appropriately and he snapped, he said.

Judge McCaffrey described the impact of the assault on the mother and the child as abhorrent.

The message must go out that people who commit such crimes will receive condign punishment, she said.

In fact, the National Domestic Violence Hotline says the time when a person tries to leave their abuser is often the most dangerous for a victim of abushttps://t.co/xdvZJrfVzX  Make It Our Business (@MakeItOurBiz) May 10, 2019

The Gravity of Domestic Violence

Most of the domestic violence cases go unreported and one in four women experience it during their lifetime, according to New-Hope.org

More women get injured due to domestic violence than collective figures for women getting injured in accidents, rapes, and muggings, according to the organization.

A woman suffers violence every nine seconds in the United States. Women ages 20 to 24 are at the greatest risk of becoming victims of domestic violence, it said.
For the past couple of years, Robert Schulten has spent roughly three days a week outside of area package stores.

He spends three hours handing out samples of gins and vodkas among other products  to hopefully drum up extra business for his company, Asylum Distillery.

If I was a brewery, I could open my doors and have people come to me, he said. Distillers such as himself are trying to gain parity with the brewing industry, in which taprooms can drive on-site business.

As it stands, there is a bill to streamline the states craft alcohol market that lawmakers have said would include a piece that would allow distillers to sell cocktails from their businesses. That bill is still alive and moving through committees, but Schulten said he is worried that the final draft may leave distillers out once again.

Sen. Kevin Witkos, R-Canton, who originally proposed the legislation, said in a March interview with Hearst Connecticut Media that he was drafting a new craft cafe permit that would allow distillers  along with brewers and wineries  to sell their products and other Connecticut-made brands.

Witkos hasnt responded to multiple calls from Hearst Connecticut Media on the status of the proposal, but industry experts say the final draft will open the door for distilleries to serve drinks on premises.

From my conversations with Witkos and everybody (involved) in the working draft ... the distillers are going to be able to serve cocktails, said Phil Pappas, executive director of the CT Brewers Guild.

Pappas said he expects that the updated bill language will be available in the coming weeks.

The fight continues

Its been three years since the state opened the market up for distilleries to manufacture, store, bottle and sell their liquor for off-site consumption.

While that was a start, Schulten said, he had hoped to open a tasting room in downtown Bridgeport last year. Long-standing state laws barred him from selling alcohol for on-site consumption, killing his plans in the process, he said.

Schultens stymied efforts led to an unsuccessful push last year by Bridgeports legislative delegation to have the law changed.

The Bridgeport distiller said he worries if the bill isnt finalized by this session, distillers may simply move operations to more welcoming states.

The model that is being executed in Connecticut is not viable for distilleries, Schulten said.

Schulten and others around the state have maintained that they are at a disadvantage to brewers and some of the wineries who are able to serve drinks by the glass in taprooms. Experts say having the option to sell a glass or bottle directly to consumers onsite is connected to the industrys growth.

Since the state law granted the brewery industry that right seven years ago, the industry has grown from a dozen to more than 90 businesses, making Connecticut a destination for the growing cadre of craft beer drinkers.

Not only has it been a tourist attraction, but the states craft beer market has also exploded into a $718 million industry in a state that has suffered from longstanding economic woes.

As weve seen with the brewing industry, having that full taproom experience provides the consumer a much better experience and full circle experience, Pappas said, adding that facility tours coupled with samples of the drinks after has developed the appeal of local breweries.

You really get a unique experience when you go in, he said. Thats heightened by learning directly from the people who make it. ... Is a win-win for everybody.

Bringing in tourists

Distillers have argued that craft spirits could experience a similar surge if they were able to have taprooms.

The national distillery industry has seen an uptick in activity in recent years, with 1,835 operations nationwide and states like California and New York leading the pack, according to a study by the American Craft Spirits Association. The craft spirits market reached $3.7 billion in sales last year.

State officials said they see the expansion of the local craft spirits market as a potential boon for the tourism industry.

In Connecticut and across the globe, the demand for local and authentic experiences  including food and beverage experiences  is growing, said Randall Fiveash, director of the state Office of Tourism, which released recent a tourism economic impact study on Monday showing that spending by the states visitors on food and beverages jumped more than $110 million in 2017, reaching $2.3 billion.

Tourism produced $15.5 billion in total business sales in 2017, according to the study  which was produced by Tourism Economics, an Oxford-based research firm. Officials said the numbers represent a 5.5 percent increase in total business sales from 2015.

Connecticut wineries, breweries and, now, distilleries are part of that growth and we expect they will continue to be a big tourism draw for the state, Fiveash said.

David Kooris, deputy commissioner of the states Department of Economic and Community Development, said the craft sprits and beer industrys impact on tourism has also proven its worth to economic development.

It seems as though parity amongst these offerings is appropriate, and anything that we can do to bolster a homegrown industry, to attract visitors and to further foster amenities in our communities  thats a great thing, he said.

Jordan.grice@heasrtmediact.com
BRIDGEPORT  The 11 people arrested after a demonstration on the second anniversary of police fatally shooting a 15-year-old boy have been released, after each posted a $5,000 bond.

Meanwhile, police used prepared statements Friday to give their account of what happened Thursday night, including the detention of a Hearst Connecticut Media reporter, who was was handcuffed and taken to police department in a squad car after shooting video of the scene from the sidewalk on Fairfield Avenue.

In the video, journalist Tara ONeill is heard identifying herself as a news reporter before she was taken into custody. She was later released without any charges.

Those who were charged  with inciting a riot, interfering with police and second-degree breach of peace  have arraignments scheduled in Superior Court in two weeks.

All 11 of us are home safe. Thank yall. I love yall. We love yall. I dont got much words but power to the people, Kerry Ellington, one of those arrested, posted on Facebook. The system protects the local police collective bargaining agreement, the police union contracts, and the system values it over black and brown lives The system needs to be held accountable on a local, statewide and federal level. On all levels. State sanctioned violence must end. Its not okay.

Jayson Negron was shot by Bridgeport Police Officer James Boulay on May 9, 2017, after a brief pursuit in a stolen vehicle, according to a report by Waterbury States Attorney Maureen Platt.

She said Negron had turned the wrong way down a one-way street and put the vehicle in reverse as Boulay approached and pulled open the drivers side door. Platt said the door hit Boulay and he fired his gun into the vehicle, fatally shooting Negron and wounding his passenger.

Boulay was cleared of any criminal wrongdoing by Platt.

Police Chief Armando Perez did not immediately return calls for comment on Friday. Police released a summary of the incident report.

At approximately 8:10 p.m. the remaining protesters at Walgreens became increasingly agitated and threw a bottle at officers on scene, the report said. Officers stayed in position and looked for recognizable Bridgeport community members who could assist in a dialogue. No one was visible. Another glass object was thrown at an officer, and the crowd remained agitated and yelling obscenities at the police officers.

For public safety purposes, BPD informed the unruly protesters that they had five minutes to disperse due to the unruly assembly, the report continued. The crowd did not comply and continued to be unruly and grew louder. Officers moved in fairly quickly to maintain safety and detained 12 individuals. All of the individuals detained we arrested because they did not comply or disperse.

While at BPD headquarters, an arresting officer was advised that one of the detainees was a member of the press. The reporter, wearing plain street clothes and no clearly visible identifying markers other than an ID name badge, was released without a summons, as she was not part of the organizers, the summary continued.

Arrested were Ellington, of New Haven; Thomas Bostian, of New Haven Britney Brevard, of New Haven; Jenna Fu, of Bridgeport; Kiana McDavid, of Hartford; Sam Morbidelli, of New Haven; Kacey Perkins, of Fairfield; Sarah Pimenta, of Milford; Brenna Regan, of Fairfield; Maria Sandoval, of New Haven, and Michael Merli, of Bridgeport.

The Connecticut Daily Newspapers Association condemned ONeills detention.

The CDNA and its member papers across the state place its full support in Tara ONeill and CDNA Member, Hearst Connecticut Media, said Chris VanDeHoef, the organizations executive director. Arresting a reporter who is covering a public protest, on a public sidewalk, shows a blatant disregard for the First Amendment. The city of Bridgeport Police Department needs to evaluate how it trains its officers on interacting with a working reporter while on duty. Arresting a working reporter for covering police actions has a chilling effect on the First Amendment. We praise Ms. ONeill and her dogged reporting and hope the City of Bridgeport works harder to appreciate our nations First Amendment Rights.

Bruno Matarazzo, president of the Connecticut chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists, issued the following statement:

The fact that Bridgeport police found it appropriate to arrest a reporter is disturbing. Tara ONeill was reporting on Thursdays protest to write a news story. She was not a participant, and identified herself as a reporter when an officer handcuffed her. The fact that someone can be arrested in Bridgeport for the lawful exercise of a First Amendment right is chilling.
She said she chose to retire now because she wanted to go out at the top. Browning echoed Grupes comments and said she still wants to experience life and spend time with her family while she still can.

Browning said she wants to be available for her mother and mother-in law. She also wants to travel and learn to play the violin once she retires.

I got my grandpas violin and I want to learn how to play it, she said. I want to learn how to quilt, too. I have a whole list. We will see if it gets done.

Grupe said the Friday after school adjourns for the summer, she and her husband plan to travel to Mexico for a week. Once they return from vacation, she plans to spend time with her mother and grandchildren.

On April 29, Grupe was diagnosed with breast cancer and she underwent her first chemotherapy treatment last Wednesday. She said her cancer is very treatable and should be fully cured within a year.
This was the worst Ive ever seen for destruction. A tornado cuts a narrow swath for a few miles. This came up from north of here and went all the way to the Missouri and Mississippi rivers, he said.

Neither he nor his neighbors along the river were prepared for the never-seen-before event.

The explosion of water and ice took away 56 of his calves, nine Angus cows and a Charolais bull. There are some we are not going to find because they got sanded over or washed downstream, Panowicz explained.

In an interview a week after the flood, he said hed probably sell his remaining cows and get out of the cattle business. Now the plan is to continue for a year or two to build back his herd.

Panowiczs biggest concern for the rest of this year is having enough properly fenced grazing land for his remaining cattle. He estimates that 160-175 acres of his 460 acres of pasture  state school lease acres are 75 percent of the total  are unusable. That includes 50-60 acres of a grassland he owns north of the meadowlarks fencepost thats buried in sand averaging 2 feet deep.
By Express News Service

KOCHI: Spectrum of the Seas, the largest and the most advanced cruise liner to call in India arrived at Kochi on Thursday. The Bahamas ensign cruise ship arrived at Kochi with 4007 tourists from around 70 countries.

Spectrum of Seas was docked at the Ernakulam Wharf of Cochin Port Trust at around 6 am. As many as 45 counters were set up at the temporary passenger facilitation hall to provide immigration clearance to the arriving tourists. District Tourism Promotion Council (DTPC) arranged 170 auto-rickshaws and 105 taxi trips as Kochi heritage old city tour package for the arriving tourists.

Similarly, Singarimelam and Mohiniyattam were performed to welcome the guests. The tourists also visited Alappuzha. DTPC and India Tourism jointly arranged various programs for the tourists who arrived with the Spectrum of the Seas. All facilities were arranged at Ernakulam Wharf to ensure good tour experience, S Vijayakumar, Ernakulam DTPC Secretary said.
EDWARDSVILLE  All 13 of Madison Countys 13 associate judges have been recommended in a recent Illinois State Bar Associate poll except Associate Judge Jennifer Hightower.

Hightower received 62.6 percent of votes cast by attorneys as to whether she meets acceptable requirements for office. A rating of 65 percent is needed to meet the associations standard for recommended.

In the poll, judges are rated in eight categories, including, meets acceptable requirements for office. She was rated relatively poorly for legal ability, at 58 percent, and temperament, at 62.9 percent. Hightower could not be reached for comment.

She was rated 77.6 percent for integrity, 68 percent for impartiality, 75 percent for court management, 86 percent for health and 77.4 percent for sensitivity to diversity.

She was appointed by the judges of the Third Circuit on Aug. 25, 2015, to serve a term that expires this year.

The poll is based on 189 ballots of 528 mailed. Lawyers were asked to vote only on judges of whom they have knowledge.

The poll is for the associate judges in the Third Judicial Circuit, which includes Madison and Bond counties. Madison is by far the most populated of the two counties in the circuit.

The highest rated judge was Steve Stobbs, who was rated at 97 percent for meets acceptable requirements for office.

In addition to Hightower and Stobbs, other associate judges and their ratings for meets acceptable requirements for office are Philip B. Alfeld, 93 percent; Thomas W. Chapman, 87 percent; Ronald J. Foster Jr., 94 percent; Clarence Harrison, 95 percent; Janet R. Heflin, 83.6 percent; Barry Julian, 78 percent; Anthony R. Jumper, 95 percent; Martin J. Mengarelli, 95.6 percent; Neil T. Schroeder, 96.3 percent; Maureen D. Schuette, 93 percent; and Ronald R. Slemer, 94 percent
EDWARDSVILLE  Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Chancellor Randy Pembrook, Ph.D., conferred degrees upon 2,601 graduates during the spring 2019 commencement exercises Friday and Saturday, May 10-11 at the Vadalabene Center.

Pembrook congratulated the graduates on their hard work, persistence, and focus that propelled them to degree completion. Your wide array of backgrounds, experiences and perspectives have made SIUE a better institution during your time here, he said. We hope you will return often to campus to update us on your successes and to enjoy the ongoing vibrant campus environment that is SIUE.

Saturday morning began as School of Education, Health and Human Behavior (SHHB) students received their undergraduate degrees.

SEHHB student speaker Laycee Thigpen, a non-traditional student from Belleville, received a bachelors in early childhood education. She recognized that people now view her fellow graduates as experts to be relied upon. As an expert, we have to remember to see the individual, she said. Each child we may work with, each family we may support, each client we come in contact with needs us to see them as an individual - an individual that has weaknesses but is filled with so many strengths. It is important for us, as the experts, to see the wealth of knowledge that each person brings to the table.

Department of Teaching and Learning graduates, parents are counting on you to love, protect and teach their child, and see the assets that they possess. Department of Psychology graduates, people are counting on you to promote mental health awareness and advocate for those who feel like no one understands them. Department of Applied Health graduates, people are counting on you - people who feel discouraged about their current health condition and need your individualized care, your knowledge, and your attention to live an improved quality of life. People are counting on you!

In the first College of Arts and Sciences session at noon, student speaker Amy Yates, another non-traditional student from South Roxana, earned a bachelors in sociology with a specialization in diversity and social justice. Yates realized that the world can experience change if everyone does their share to help.

Fellow graduates, we have been privileged enough to attend a university that encourages and emphasizes compassion and inclusion, Yates said. We may come from different backgrounds, have different experiences, and different talents and goals.

Even though our majors are all different, from philosophy to music to political science and everything in between, there is one thing we all have in common - everyone in this room today has the ability to make a difference. So, lets show the world what SIUE graduates are made of, and as Gandhi said, be the change you want to see in the world.

More Information MORE SIUE spring 2019 commencement exercises held Friday and Saturday are available online at siue.edu/tv See More Collapse

Later Saturday afternoon, the School of Pharmacy combined its traditional hooding ceremony with commencement in the Morris University Centers Meridian Ballroom. Student speaker Sonja Bromann, of Glen Ellyn, earned a doctorate in pharmacy.

Bromann acknowledged the impact of the faculty, family and friends gathered for the ceremony. Perhaps most significantly, weve learned how to be a pharmacist simply by being raised and influenced by the very guests in this room, she said. Your love and support have shaped us along the way. We will only be as good a pharmacist as we are a compassionate human.

The welcome that we show neighbors and new family members will also be shown to our patients, as they are a neighbor where they live. The respect and dignity that we give to our superiors and officials will also be given to our patients, as they are valued in their life. The patience and forgiveness we give children will also be given to our patients, as they are a child to someone. And the understanding that we offer to those we hold most closely to us will also be afforded to our patients, as all people deserve care without judgment.

On behalf of former SIUE President Earl Lazerson, his son, Paul Lazerson, received an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree at the Saturday evening ceremony for the second session of CAS students and the School of Engineering. Earl Lazerson served as SIUEs president for nearly 14 years. He joined the SIUE faculty in 1969 and taught mathematics until he assumed the role of interim University president in 1979, and then permanently in 1980.

Lazerson was committed to making SIUE an engine for economic development in the region. He worked diligently to create the Leadership Council Southwestern Illinois as a regional chamber of commerce and the Southwestern Illinois Development Authority, which was established as a financial tool for job creation.

Litchfield native Kristin Ishmael, a transfer student who earned a bachelors in biological sciencesmedical sciences specialization, was the final student speaker. She spoke of lifes unexpected twists, turns and changes.

We type-A people plan everything down to the minute, she said. But, instead of crying or grimacing in pain and annoyance when life takes longer or chooses a different route than expected, or when obstacles bar our path, I urge you to embrace it. You cant predict the things life will teach you about yourself and about others. You never know when something better than you could ever have expected or imagined will come along.

There were a lot of life lessons, some of them learned the hard way, and even though I wouldnt say this path has always been easy or fun, that leap of faith three years ago ended up changing my life completely and for the better.

Earlier Friday morning, student speaker Kelly Pfaff, of Sandwich, who earned a bachelors in economics and finance, addressed the School of Business. She pointed to Professor Mary Anne Pettits enthusiasm and passion for changing Pfaffs perspective on a business career. I didnt expect to grow to care about this school and community in the way that I have, and be thankful for it providing so many of the things that make my life happier, she said. I know now that if you keep moving with clarity and a willingness to change and grow, youll make it by alright. Youll find yourself happy in where your life is headed, excited by what lies beyond.

The School of Nursing combined its traditional pinning ceremony with commencement Friday afternoon. Student speaker Jessica Schnebly, of Springfield, earned a doctor of nursing practice degree with a family nurse practitioner specialization.

Schnebly encouraged her peers to pack their moral compass for their careers. Your journey into the world of nursing will be rewarding and enriching, she said. You will be stepping into the role of trusted ally to your patients. In fact, public opinion polls show that nurses are rated as one of the most trusted professions. People believe nursing to be of the most ethical and honest professions. This is because nurses provide more than just physical care for patients.

At all levels, nurses provide patient education and help patients make informed decisions. Nurses exhibit strong advocacy in order to maintain quality care and protect patients rights. Nurses provide emotional support to patients and their loved ones.

The Graduate School concluded the first day with Granite City native Lindsay Doolittle, a non-traditional student who earned a masters in English, serving as the student speaker. The Graduate School ceremony included all graduate students except those in the Schools of Nursing and Pharmacy.

Doolittle described her children as being the inspiration for her educational pursuits. Achieving something more for myself was something I never thought was possible, she said. When my boys were little, I felt that my lack of college education was holding me back from higher paying jobs to support us. At the time I started my undergraduate degree at SIUE, I was a freshly divorced single mother  scared, yet determined to make something of myself.

After graduating in 2012 and beginning my teaching career, I felt as if something missing. I started reading about masters programs and all of the courses that went along with the programs. I realized I missed being in school, learning new things, discussing readings with my peers, and challenging myself academically. Seven years later, my four children have once again been a source of inspiration as they are in school themselves and can see the power that a good education brings to an individual.
Morgan County

Sheriff

ARRESTS, CITATIONS

 Donald R. Morgan, 78, of Indiana was booked into the Morgan County jail at 4:29 p.m. Saturday on charges of driving under the influence and illegal possession or transportation of liquor.

Jacksonville Police

ARRESTS, CITATIONS

 Sharon A. Washington, 57, of 804 S. Diamond St. was booked into the Morgan County jail at 12:56 a.m. Saturday on charges of fleeing police, driving with a revoked or suspended license, operating an uninsured motor vehicle, expired registration, and speeding.

 Justin R. Stone, 32, of 2184 Strawn Crossing Road was booked into the Morgan County jail at 5:10 a.m. Saturday on charges of driving with a revoked or suspended license, and operating an uninsured motor vehicle.

 Marian L. Scribner, 63, of 556 Duncan St. was booked into the Morgan County jail at 11:39 a.m. Saturday on charges of no drivers license or permit, operating an uninsured motor vehicle, and improper registration or title.

ACCIDENTS

 William C. Smith, 59, of White Hall was cited for failure to yield after police say the vehicle he was driving hit a vehicle driven by Kaitlyn D. Baker, 23, of Murrayville when both vehicles were turning on West Morton Avenue at Tendick Street at 12:08 p.m. Saturday.

Chapin Police

ARRESTS, CITATIONS

 Dylan M. Baer, 19, of 820 Jefferson St. in Beardstown was booked into the Morgan County jail at 4:37 a.m. Saturday on charges of driving under the influence, illegal consumption by a minor and speeding.

Compiled by Rosalind Essig
URBANA, Ill. (AP)  The University of Illinois is planning to name its Micro and Nanotechnology Lab after an engineering visionary who created the first practical LED.

Professor Emeritus Nick Holonyak Jr., a UI engineering alumnus, found a new alloy in 1962 that would emit light in the red segment of the visible spectrum.

Energy-saving LEDs, or light-emitting diodes, are now universal and are used in everything from flashlights and electronics to spacecraft.

UI trustees will vote next week on whether to name the UI Micro and Nanotechnology Laboratory in Holonyaks honor, the News-Gazette reported.

All the technologies that came to light and distinguished the University of Illinois over the years as a leader in the transformation of the microelectronics industry started in Holonyaks lab, Provost Andreas Cangellaris told the trustees at a meeting Monday.

UI College of Engineering officials said that very few graduates in UIs 152-year history have had as much influence as the Franklin County native.

He changed the world, said his long-time collaborator, UI engineering Professor Milton Feng.

Holonyak credits the school and John Bardeen, a globally celebrated engineer and a two-time Nobel laureate who he studied under as a graduate student, for transforming his life.

The greatest thing they ever did was find the money, when there was no money, to bring John here, Holonyak said. When I came here, I didnt know how Id be changing the world. I didnt know where we were going. Someone had to make an investment in what we were doing. This is a remarkable place.
By Express News Service

BENGALURU: From frozen idlis that did not work out due to its inconsistency 15 years ago, Maiyas Restaurants Pvt Ltd launched a family-pack rice idli on May 9, which is priced at Rs 100 for a pack of 10. Through the advanced process of nanotechnology, fermentation is not required and thus, idlis stay fresh and soft for almost 24 hours, said Dr P Sadananda Maiya, owner and the man behind the special technology.

The product was launched by chief guest Justice M N Venkatachalaiah, former Chief Justice of India. Dr Maiya and Rama Rao, president, National Education Society addressed the gathering. Two types of idlis are available, one with high protein content and another without it. The target for non-protein idlis are diabetic patients, who have a limit to their protein intake.

Initially, we want to expand this product to the whole of Bengaluru. People can also purchase the product from food delivery companies like Swiggy and Zomato from tomorrow.In a month, I am planning to open 20 kiosks throughout the city, so that people can have easy access to healthy idlis, said Dr Maiya.

Justice Venkatachalaiah said he was glad to be a part of the launch and added, Fresh idlis are appealing to all, and in a few years, we dont know where the world will come to, but having such healthy food items will actually make the world a better place to live.
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Linkedin Andreas Harsono (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Sun, May 12, 2019 08:36 959 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa873784f82 3 Opinion Indonesian-films,film,film-awards,kucumbu-tubuh-indahku,Memories-of-My-Body,#movies,Garin-Nugroho,banned-movie Free

The Indonesian film Kucumbu Tubuh Indahku (Memories of My Body) is winning awards and accolades around the world. But at home in Indonesia, few may get to see this evocative masterpiece because of an overblown call to censor it. Its creator, Garin Nugroho, knew the film would be provocative because of its political content, but its the LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender) content, not politics, that is proving controversial. Although the Film Censorship Board (LSF) approved the film, local Islamist leaders from Java to Kalimantan and Sumatra have effectively prevented its screening.

Garins film covers a period in the late 1960s, when Gen. Soeharto came to power and the army and anticommunist militias killed more than 1 million left-leaning activists. Back then, censorship was common. Authoritarian rule tolerated only one television station and one radio channel, both under government control.

In the 1980s, Soeharto was at the peak of his power. With a tight grip on the country, he positioned his generals to control almost all government ministries.

Soehartos fall in May 1998 opened the gate to democratic rule and the freedom of expression, but this freedom also enabled political Islamists to flex their muscles. Over the last two decades, Islamists have pushed the government to increasingly adopt legal provisions based on the sharia. Many of these regulations discriminate religious or sexual minorities.

Indonesia has been engulfed by a government-driven moral panic about gender and sexuality since early 2016. Politicians, government officials and state offices have issued anti-LGBT statements, calling for a criminalization of or cure for homosexuality, and for censorship of information related to LGBT individuals and activities.

Garins main character in the film is a boy named Juno, who grows up as an orphan and experiences many painful episodes in his life. His father, enduring distress, disappears after seeing the massacre of many suspected communists. Juno moves from one relative to another. He is gay.

Juno is a composite character based in part on the life of a real-world dancer named Rianto, who also plays in the film. Rianto was born in 1981 in a village in Banyumas in Java. Rianto, from a young age, learned a Javanese folk dance called lengger, a traditional cross-gender dance in which the feminine and masculinity overlap, as the filmmaker describes it. Rianto is now an established dancer with his own dance studio in Tokyo, teaching Japanese to play the gamelan, the percussive music form from Bali and Java, and to dance Javanese dances.

The film was released in Indonesian theaters on April 18, but local officials immediately banned it in Depok, Bekasi, Garut, Bogor (West Java), Palembang (South Sumatra), Pontianak and Kubu Raya (West Kalimantan), as well as Balikpapan (East Kalimantan). The ban came after three petitioners used change.org to ask the government to ban the film, apparently on the basis of the movies trailer, contending that it was an LGBT-promoting film. The abovementioned local authorities immediately cancelled screenings in their cities.

We worry that the younger generation, who are looking for their identities, will imitate the [LGBT] behavior in this film, wrote one of the petitioners, Rakhmi Mashita.

In Kubu Raya, Regent Muda Mahendrawan decreed that the film was against religious values and would drive young people to accept deviant sexual activities, stressing that he regretted that the Censorship Board had approved the film.

Masduki Baidowi of the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI), the semiofficial state Islamic institution, supported those local initiatives, calling on the government to ban the film nationwide. The bad influence of LGBT people is a hot topic lately, he said. The MUI closely follows this development in a bid to protect Muslims from the negative impact of the LGBT movement.

In Pontianak, a Malay youth paramilitary organization attacked a World Day Dance festival soon after the films ban there, claiming that the dances promoted LGBT lifestyles. They beat a campus lecturer and some students, claiming that the tight shirts worn by male dancers from the local university  and dancing femininely  were incompatible with Indonesian culture.

In fact, the dance lengger is mentioned in Serat Centhini, a 12-volume compilation of Javanese tales and teachings, published in 1814. It contains verses on sexuality, including overlapping femininity and masculinity. Serat Centhini depicts Java in the 17th century.

Since 2017, police across Indonesia have raided saunas, nightclubs, hotel rooms, hair salons and private homes on suspicion of LGBT activities. Militant Islamists often tip off police or accompany them during these raids. Police have also initiated social media monitoring to target LGBT groups. The governments failure to halt arbitrary and unlawful raids by police and militant Islamists on private LGBT gatherings has derailed public health efforts to curb HIV in men who have sex with men.

The film has no gay sex scenes and no kissing. In fact, it invites young Indonesians to contemplate how rich traditional ethnic culture must fight to survive imported cultures and religions, including Islam, that have entered Indonesia.

It used to be common to see LGBT characters in Indonesian movies and television. But in February 2016, the Indonesian Broadcasting Commission banned the broadcast on television and radio of information related to LGBT people, calling the ban a protection for children and adolescents that are vulnerable to duplicating deviant LGBT behavior. The statement contradicted the commissions own 2012 Guidelines for Broadcast Practice and Standard for Broadcast Programs, which prohibit programs that stigmatize people of certain sexual orientation and gender identity.

Local governments in Indonesia are obliged to respect national laws and institutions, which includes supporting local artists and promoting artistic development. The government is required under international law to protect the right to freedom of expression for artists like Rianto and Garin. Its sad that an accomplished dancer like Rianto openly and proudly represents Javanese traditions in Tokyo when his own story is censored at home in Pontianak, Palembang and Balikpapan.

By censoring a beautiful film like Memories of My Body, these local governments are discriminating sexual minorities and denying all Indonesians an opportunity to enjoy their rich culture. Indonesian culture and art will suffer a great setback with the restrictions on this film  putting the rights to security, privacy and free expression for LGBT Indonesians once again under threat.

***

The writer is a researcher for Human Rights Watch.

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not reflect the official stance of The Jakarta Post.
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Linkedin Ni Nyoman Wira (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Sun, May 12, 2019 07:09 959 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa873767d98 1 Art & Culture Purwakanthi,dance,surakarta,at-america Free

A dance performance is more than just moving your body in such an aesthetical way, but this branch of performance art can also be a universal language that connects different cultures.

The United States Embassys cultural center in Jakarta, @america, held an event on May 7 entitled Celebrating International Dance Day: Cultural Diplomacy Through Dance. The event featured presentations from members of Purwakanthi, a community of Javanese dance enthusiasts.

Yurita Riri Yuzwar, one of the speakers that night, explained how her passion for dancing had enabled her to make friends with people from other countries. It happened when she studied in the US in 1996 at American University in Washington DC, where she studied for four months before being transferring to Georgia State University in Georgia.

Yurita Yuzwar (center), a member of the Purwakanthi community, discusses her experience in the United States during "Celebrating International Dance Day: Cultural Diplomacy Through Dance" at @america in South Jakarta on May 7, alongside Yoesi Ariyani (right), cofounder of Purwakanthi, and Primastuti Handayani (left), the event's moderator and member of Purwakanthi. (JP/Ni Nyoman Wira)

I participated in a lot of cultural events, especially in Washington DC, Riri told The Jakarta Post after the event. Its not only limited to Indonesia-related events, such as Independence Day, Kartini Day or Mothers Day but there were also international events that involved people from different countries.

Riri also said dancing can overcome language barrier among students. When I studied in Atlanta, students often held international events as well. We didnt know each other back then, but when the event started, we could get to know other students, said Riri, adding that she could make friends with students from Japan, Korea, India and Thailand.

Read also: Purwakanthi seeks to preserve classic Surakartan Javanese dances in Jakarta

Riri joined Purwakanthi in 2016 as she was interested in learning Javanese dances. Purwakanthi was established in 2013 with just nine members, having grown since then to 80 members from various backgrounds, including journalists, high school students and doctors. The Jakarta-based community specializes in classic Javanese dance from Surakarta.

The community participated in World Dance Day at the Surakarta Art Institute (ISI) in Central Java on April 29. Held for 24 hours, the event gathered thousands of dancers from different provinces in Indonesia.

Audience members take part in a dance workshop by Purwakanthi at @america in Pacific Place shopping mall, South Jakarta, on May 7. (JP/Ni Nyoman Wira)

Yoesi Ariyani, cofounder of Purwakanthi, said 18 dancers had been brought to World Dance Day. We presented golek sukoretno and bedhaya sapta argo. Each dance was performed by nine dancers, said Yoesi, who was also a speaker, adding that bedhaya sapta argo was 12 minutes long.

Performing in a public event is important for the community as such an event can assess the competency of the dancers.

Yoesi said anyone who appreciated Javanese culture was welcome to join Purwakanthi. The community does not divide its members based on age or dancing skills. (mut)
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Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, May 13, 2019 01:03 958 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa87377dc84 1 People los-angeles,united-states,Barack-Obama,Obama-Boulevard Free

Los Angeles has renamed a stretch of road to honor former United States president Barack Obama. The nearly 4-mile strip, previously named Rodeo Road, is now called Obama Boulevard, as reported by CNN.

Obamas first rally in Los Angeles was held at Rancho Cienega Park on Feb. 20, 2007. It is situated on Rodeo Road, across from W. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard.

Its official - Rodeo Rd. is now #ObamaBlvd. For every child who will drive down this street and see the name of the first Black President of our country, this boulevard will serve as a physical reminder that no goal is out of reach and that no dream is too big. pic.twitter.com/uxVvc9wipZ  L.A. City Council President Herb Wesson (@HerbJWesson) May 5, 2019

For every child who will drive down this street and see the name of the first Black President of our country, this boulevard will serve as a physical reminder that no goal is out of reach and that no dream is too big, said city council president Herb Wesson on Twitter.

Read also: Obamas top the Trumps as America's most admired people

The motion to rename the stretch of road was first made in 2017. It was approved in August 2018, 10 years after Obama officially became the Democratic Partys first African-American presidential nominee in August 2008.

The district where the road is located is where we can also find roads honoring the countrys former presidents, such as Washington Boulevard, Adams Boulevard and Jefferson Boulevard. (sop/wng)
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Linkedin (Agence France-Presse)  Sun, May 12, 2019 20:06 958 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa87377b669 2 Entertainment Disney,marvel,movies,film,superheroes Free

Disney CEO Bob Iger expects to unveil a new batch of Marvel Cinematic Universe projects before long, as Phase Three closer Spider-Man: Far From Home heads to theaters in July.

Want to know which Marvel movies are coming next? Disney CEO Bob Iger is not ready to talk about it just yet, but says that more information is coming northern Summer 2019, according to Variety.

That timeline places a more detailed Marvel Cinematic Universe announcement or series of announcements near or shortly after the release of Julys Spider-Man: Far From Home and before the debut of streaming service Disney+ in December.

Speaking to investors during a regular quarterly earnings call, Iger teased huge opportunities and many many different directions that we can go, something that might relate to the Spider-Man: Far From Home trailer.

Until then, there is already a fair amount of information about seven MCU projects in various states of development.

Read also: Robert Downey Jr. thanks fans for Marvel career

Sequels to Black Panther, Doctor Strange, a third Guardians of the Galaxy, an origin story for Avengers character Black Widow, and debuts for stellar superhuman race The Eternals and supreme martial artist Shang-Chi are all on the go, while a second Captain Marvel seems likely.

Of those, Black Widow and Shang-Chi are expected to begin filming in 2019.

Separately, Marvel Studios has announced theatrical releases for a total of eight mystery projects, setting out its intentions for May and November of 2020, February, May and November of 2021, and then February, May and July of 2022.

Meanwhile, Disney+ is to become the destination for Captain America spin-off The Falcon and the Winter Soldier and speculative animated series What If? in 2019, Avengers: Age of Ultron spin-off WandaVision and Thor character solo outing Loki in 2020, and an undated Hawkeye series.

Topics : Disney marvel movies film superheroes
In an effort to modernize the art scene, renowned guitarist Doddy Hernanto has unveiled an art exhibition showcasing sketches that feature hidden texts and animations that visitors can view through a mobile augmented reality (AR) app.

In the Putih di Atas Hitam (White on Black) exhibition, which will run until May 17 in Malang, East Java, visitors are able to view 23 hand-drawn sketches and manipulate them digitally through the SnapCard AR app to uncover the meaning behind each piece.

Doddy, also known as Mr. D, said he had been compiling 110 manually drawn works of art since last year when he began working on the concept of the exhibition. He said he had always been excited about the possibility of merging digital technology with hand-drawn art.

Ive seen my colleagues who work in the fields of science and engineering creatively use the SnapCard app to present their research findings. I immediately thought that it would be amazing if the art scene could also be merged with AR, he said.

At the exhibition, visitors are able to view 23 hand-drawn sketches and manipulate them digitally through the SnapCard AR app to uncover the meaning behind each piece. (JP/Aman Rochman)

Read also: Seven Indonesian sketchers you should follow on Instagram

Since the general public cannot fully comprehend the message conveyed through certain paintings, artists now have the option to digitally embed their intended messages within their artwork through AR, Doddy added.

Among the highlights of the exhibition is a sketch of Indonesias founding father Sukarno that features an animated salute when viewed through SnapCard.

Another notable work is a sketch of a roaring tiger, which reveals various social media logos when viewed through the AR app. The sketch symbolized the publics tendency to give credence to misinformation circulated through social media platforms, Doddy said.

Guitarist Doddy Hernanto shows his sketches at the art exhibition. (JP/Aman Rochman)

The exhibition was well-received by members of the public who viewed it as a refreshingly modern twist on the traditional art exhibition.

Fifty-five-year-old Yuli Trianto enthusiastically toyed with her mobile gadget as she viewed various works of art in the exhibition.

This is my first time enjoying art through a mobile app, which allows me to better understand the artists intentions and messages, she said. (rfa/kes)
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Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Sun, May 12, 2019 13:30 958 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa87376e57a 4 Entertainment Bantar-Gebang,landfill-facility,humanitarian-aid,kpop Free

Two members of South Korean boy group NCT Dream have made headlines as they visited Bantar Gebang landfill in Bekasi, West Java.

NCT Dream members Jaemin and Jeno collaborated with nongovernmental organizations Good Neighbors International and Gugah Nurani Indonesia (GNI) Foundation to volunteer for humanitarian and environmental causes at the landfill.

GNI fundraising manager Stephanie Dass said footage of the activities would be featured on the Global Dreams Come True Project The Best Day show which was slated to air on South Koreas MBC TV on Monday.

Read also: Leonardo DiCaprio posts Bantar Gebang landfill photo on Instagram

NCT Dream has especially been sympathetic toward issues concerning Indonesian children who dropped out of school to immediately make a living, Stephanie said on Friday as quoted by kompas.com.

Jaemin and Jeno gave a surprise to a couple of children from Bantar Gebang, who had to drop out of school due to their unfortunate circumstances, she added.

In addition to Bantar Gebang, Jaemin and Jeno would also visit several other locations in Bekasi, she said.

We also aim to provide aid to underage workers in other locations, Stephanie said. (rfa/kes)
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Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Sun, May 12, 2019 12:42 958 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa873776544 1 National riot,prison,prison-break,Riau Free

The Riau Police are still searching for 14 inmates who escaped after a riot broke out in Siak Sri Indrapura Penitentiary in Riau early on Saturday.

According to Riau Police spokesperson Sr. Comr. Sinarto, almost half of the penitentiary's inmates attempted to escape amid the riot, which broke out following a drug raid by the prison authority.

He said the police managed to thwart some of the attempts and arrested some of the inmates who fled. As of Sunday, 14 inmates remained at large, he added.

However, as inmates had set fire to the guards office and burned the inmates database amid the riot, the police are having difficulty identifying the escaped inmates.

"We have yet to identify the escaped inmates because their database was burned in the fire," Sinarto said on Sunday, as quoted by tempo.co.

The Siak penitentiary holds a total of 648 inmates.

He added that the Riau office of the Law and Human Rights Ministry had evacuated 615 inmates to several penitentiaries and prisons spread across four regencies or cities in the province: Bengkalis, Pekanbaru, Bangkinang and Dumai.

"Fifty-six members of the Riau Police's Mobile Brigade (Brimob) guarded the evacuation process," Sinarto said.

The riot broke out after a prison guard reportedly hit one of the inmates who was found consuming drugs following a raid by the prison authority. The incident angered other prisoners, who then damaged the penitentiary and set fire to the guards' office. (ars)

Rizal Harahap in Pekanbaru contributed reporting.
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Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Sun, May 12, 2019 15:38 958 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa87377468c 1 City Istiqlal-Mosque,anies-baswedan,jakarta,governor,renovation,landmark Free

The governments plan to renovate Jakarta's iconic Istiqlal Mosque in Pasar Baru, Central Jakarta, is welcomed by Jakarta Governor Anies Baswedan who has said he would ease the administrative process for the project.

It is reported that the Public Works and Housing Ministry, which is in charge of the project, has allocated Rp 577 billion (US$40 million for the renovation.

We will ease the process of all permits as long as everything is in accordance with the regulations, Anies said on Saturday, tempo.co reports.

Anies went on to express hope that the Istiqlal Mosque could become one of the capitals tourist destinations, by ensuring its renovation project was in line with the National Monument (Monas) revitalization plan.

The city administration has allocated Rp 150 billion to revitalize the Monas area.

Istiqlal Mosque management head Asep Saepudin said he was thankful for the governors promise.

I hope that in the future, Istiqlal Mosque will be prettier and better, as Indonesian citizens and especially Jakarta residents have been looking forward to, he said. (vla)
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Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Sun, May 12, 2019 18:17 958 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa873779c36 1 National Red-Cross,PMI Free

The West Pasaman chapter of the Indonesian Red Cross (PMI West Pasaman) is in short supply of blood as it struggles to find donors during Ramadan.

"It's getting harder for us to meet the blood demand," PMI West Pasaman chief Ridawarsa said in Simpang Empat subdistrict, West Pasaman, on Sunday, as quoted by Antara.

He said that, in the first week of the fasting month, demand for blood had reached 200 bags. Usually, the blood banks at the region's two hospitals would register weekly demand of around 150 bags.

The lack of space to hold a public blood donation drive in the evening posed a challenge for the blood transfusion unit of the PMI West Pasaman.

"Even the blood supplies we collected before Ramadan are running thin," Ridawarsa said.

As a result, the PMI West Pasaman often had to ask PMI Padang and Bukittinggi in West Sumatra to help cover its needs for blood, Ridawarsa said.

Aside from that, the PMI West Pasaman is also relying on the "on call" blood donation program, in which the PMI would collect donors' phone numbers and call them once their donation was needed.

To meet demand, Ridawarsa said, the PMI West Pasaman was planning to attract donors at places of worship.

Ridawarsa expressed hope that the public would lend them a hand in times of emergency.

"Hopefully, there will be more people willing to donate their blood for those in need," he said.

A blood shortage is common during the fasting month, as it is widely believed that donating blood invalidates the fast and weakens the human body, according to the PMI. (ars)
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Linkedin Asip Hasani (The Jakarta Post) Blitar, East Java  Sun, May 12, 2019

Tarawih is a night prayer commonly performed by Muslims during the fasting month of Ramadan. They spend at least 10 to 30 minutes every night performing it together in mosques or prayer rooms.

But Mambaul Hikam Islamic boarding school in Udanawu, Blitar, East Java, has a unique tradition of holding a very express tarawih prayer, spending only 10 minutes or less.

The Jakarta Post visited the school's mosque on Thursday evening and found out there were a lot of people from inside and outside the city joining the prayer in the mosque as they were curious about the fast tarawih.

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Kaushani Banerjee By

Delhi-based artist Ashim Purakayastha has built a hut-shaped installation using 350 stones albeit cement. The jhuggi, as he calls it, is a work-in-progress and represents the lament of the underprivileged sections of society who lack a permanent shelter, thus leading to encroachment in cities. The metaphor doesnt end there for the stones of the hut are often used as savage weapons. The installations underlying themes are violence, discrimination and poverty in our society.

They are also the crux of the fight Mahatma Gandhi led during his lifetime. I am not a Gandhi bhakt and this work only means to juxtapose non-violence and violence. I was born in Assam where violence and identity crisis is an ongoing problem. Their effect on my conscious mind has channelled my internal protest into my work, says the artist. Gandhi has arrived in Venice, the city of lovers. For six months, it will be the city of art lovers. La Biennale di Venezia, better known as the Venice Biennale, with its 124-year legacy is the Olympics of the art world.

Its not just a big career opportunity for international artists, but also changes the way the world sees their countries. The 58th edition of the event, which opened on May 11 in the Italian city, continues till November 24 with more than 90 countries bootstrapping to secure their position at this global art pageant. The theme for this year is May You Live In Interesting Times and India is returning only for the second time after a eight-year hiatus. Unlike other art fairs, a biennale has no direct commercial proposition for visitors.

It simply allows artists

and curators to present contemporary art and render public discourse on socio-political issues. Thus it is apt that Mahatma Gandhis 150th birth anniversary has been selected as the theme at the India Pavillion put together by The Union Ministry of Culture, Kiran Nadar Museum of Art (KNMA) and Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and is curated by Roobina Karode. This participation is special as it is a commemoration of 150 years of Mahatma Gandhi who is revered in India as the Father of the Nation. Haripura Panels created by artist Nandalal Bose at the behest of Mahatma Gandhi shall be on display at the India Pavilion. His works are among the national treasures from the collection of National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA), New Delhi, says Adwaita Charan Gadanayak, Director General NGMA.

Gandhis message is undoubtedly Indias medium at Venice. Shakuntala Kulkarni uses cane highlights in her mixed media installation titled Body of Armour to highlight Gandhis partiality to indigenous materials. Jitish Kallat brings Gandhis ideas on friendship and non-violence to the world through Covering Letters. These are a few of the Gandhi themes exhibits this year at the Biennale.

While critics have called the theme a trump card, there is no denying that the Mahatma has evoked global interest for nearly a century. The pavilion aims to revisit his many facets that continue to inspire, provoke and challenge viewers, intellectuals and artists. On taking India to this global platform, Arun Goel, Secretary, Ministry of Culture, Government of India, says, The 58th Venice Biennale will help put Indian artists and art on the world map. Gandhiji is an intrinsic part of our nations history and the curated presentation Our Time for Future Caring is a call for understanding Gandhijis ideas as a solution to modern day complexities. The exhibition weaves together contemporary artworks of eminent artists and portrays physical acts like the charkha, fasting, protest and self-restraint which are relayed as allegory, reflections and narratives.

Missing in action

The last time India actively participated at the Venice Biennale was in 2011, when works of alternative artists such as Zarina Hashmi, Praneet Soi, Gigi Scaria and The Desire Machine Collective (Sonal Jain and Mriganka Madhukaillya) were displayed. The debut show organised by Lalit Kala Akademi and curated by Ranjit Hoskote was titled Everyone Agrees: Its About to Explode. But the following year Indian art went incognito. On the 2011 theme Hoskote says, It is evident that a nation is the product of the political and cultural imagination of its people. Its an administrative, juridical and territorial entity, but is also an entity materialised through the accretion of mythologies of identity and self-assertion. And increasingly, as diverse internal energies manifest themselves and a polyphony of voices begins to emerge from within the nation, it becomes transformed into an array of fragments, each casting illumination on a possible whole. This understanding was what inspired the title of the pavilion.

But why did India disappear from the Venice Biennale after 2011? A no-show for eight years has prompted questions about our cultural ambitions. Purkayastha says, Perhaps we were not ready then. But we should now celebrate the opportunity to showcase our work at the Venice Biennale. There are so many biennales held all over the world. In fact, Kochi Biennale brings together great artists across the world in our own country.

Another plausible reason for Indias disappearance from the Venice Biennale could be the absence of a driving personality. Poet and cultural advocate, Ashok Vajpeyi, who was one of the driving forces behind the 2011 pavilion, retired as chairman of Lalit Kala Akademi in December that year. But reasons can go only so far since pavilions from smaller countries such as Angola, Azerbaijan, Indonesia and Tuvalu showed off their artistic vitals while India was MIA. Our long-standing absence from a platform like Venice Biennale, even when much smaller countries manage to participate, represents continuous neglect by successive Indian governments. I hope this time is not just a one-off instance. I hope the Gandhi theme inspires the government to participate more productively in the art and culture of the country, wishes Kallat.

For arts sake

Malaysia debuts in Venice this year. Kuala Lumpur-based gallery owner Wei-ling Lim has crowd-sourced her way to the international stage with the support of the new Prime Minister Mahathir bin Mohamad. The Indian government may be confused over promoting its cultural ambitions but the private sector (such as KNMA) has taken up the cause. The collaboration between government and public institutions is the primarily factor behind this years success. According to reports, the foundation has contributed `6 crore. Disseminating and engaging with South Asian contemporary art on the global art map has been KNMAs mandate. We have supported, sponsored, and curated international exhibitions of contemporary and modern artists since 2010. It is an honour to represent some significant works by eminent Indian artists, says Kiran Nadar, Founder and Chairperson, KNMA.

The artworks on display will emphasise historical moments (such as Boses Haripura Congress Panels that were commissioned by Gandhi) and encourage contemporary critical thinking connected to Gandhism (such as Shakuntala Kulkarnis Of Bodies, Armour and Cages). The India Pavilion is an important milestone as it brings together for the first time the Ministry of Culture and private art institutions to showcase Indian art to an international audience. Projects like these raise interest and change perceptions. The theme this time is of utmost relevance in a world divided by many conflicts. The Mahatma espoused peaceful resolutions and this presentation will draw attention to his noble philosophy, says Tarana Sawhney, Chairperson, the CII taskforce on art and culture.

On display

The eight artists chosen to display the timelessness of Gandhis philosophies in todays world are not all alive: they include MF Husain along with Rummana Hussain and GR Iranna. Artists Shilpa Gupta and Gauri Gill will also be arriving to participate in the exhibition at the Central Pavilion, which is part of the main biennale. Mahatma Gandhis life was his message. Gandhian values have always been an intrinsic part of the Indian ethos. Art is nothing but an expression of a nations culture. It is, therefore, befitting that in the year we express his moral principles through art. The installations and art works are an expression of the universal Gandhian values of truth, non-violence, compassion towards fellow beings and nature, self-reliance, simplicity and sustainability, says Nirupama Kotru, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Culture, Government of India.

On the selection of artists, Nadar says, These are significant Indian modern and contemporary artists from across India whose work reflects strikingly different responses to Gandhis figure and philosophy. We havent chosen too many modernistic works.The first work on display is Haripura Panels by Bose (the posters he created for the Haripura Congress held in February 1938). These works will be shown in Europe for the first time on loan from the National Gallery of Art, followed by Kallats poignant video installation, Covering Letter, which will also be on display in Europe for the first time, featuring a letter from Gandhi to Hitler, projected onto fog, in July 1939, just weeks before the start of World War II.

In the letter Gandhi makes a radical appeal for peace, anticipating the brutal bloodshed that the impending war would unleash. In the spirit of his doctrine of universal friendship he begins the letter with the salutation, Dear Friend urging Hitler to resist reducing humanity to a savage state. Audiences walk through the screen of descending mist, simultaneously inhabiting and dissipating the moving text. Kallat describes the letter as a space for self-reflection; a petition from one of the greatest proponents of peace to one of the most violent individuals who ever lived. The work can be read as an open letter from the past destined to carry its message into our turbulent present, well beyond its delivery date and intended recipient.

At the centre of this work is the viewer. Every visitor brings in different personal, social and historical experiences to the work, in a way altering its meaning. To illustrate, just two days prior to the work being exhibited at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, Donald Trump was voted to power at the end of a very toxic and divisive election. This development completely altered the reading of Covering Letter. I often can say that Gandhis words to Hitler seem equally addressed to anyone, at any given point in time as it allows one to self-reflect and introspect, says Kallat about Covering Letter.

Acclaimed artist Atul Dodiya, who is also part of the pavilion refers to Gandhi as an artist of non-violence and continues to reinvent and probe Gandhis legacy in his work. His Broken Branches consists of cabinets and was created in 2002 after looking at a set of works in the Gandhi Museum in Delhi. There are nine wooden cabinets with hand-coloured framed photographs, used artificial limbs, tools, found objects and billboard paintings. This is the first body of cabinets that I made. We see a lot of violence in the world. My work tries to focus on ideology of tolerance. When I created this in 2002, the world was facing the aftermath of the 2001, he says.

Purkayasthas display would be of miniature stamps titled Farmers and a 6x16 ft canvas showcasing stones that he has been collecting since 2015 along with a hut-shaped installation titled Shelter made of stones. Irannas Naavu (We Together) is a mixed media work of many padukas (wooden sandals) that stand as a symbol of unity in spirit as well as a testimony to a certain belief that builds on the principles of non-violence. MF Husains Zameen created in 1955-56 is in the format of a long continuous frieze and reads like a mural. Rummana Hussains works through painting, sculpture, mixed media video installations and photography represent other thought processes of the leader.

Kulkaranis Of Bodies, Armour and Cages is a suit made out of cane for a womans body. Gandhiji was a supporter of indigenous goods thus my work represents that facet. After making the body suit with cane sourced from Guwahati. I put it on and walked on the streets. My team made a video of it. For a moment, the crowd stopped and stared at me. The suit was meant to deflect the gaze but I was also attracting peoples gaze. The costume was meant to represent protection and break down the notion that only men can wear armours. The projection film along with the costume will be on display. The viewer has to stand in the middle while the film projects from four sides. It is an uncomfortable watch and is meant to be that way to symbolise how women face discomfort on a daily basis, says Kulkarni about her work.

Indian galleries and art fairs are trying to bring art to the Indian mind and homes. In a nation of living art, where villages have murals on houses and festival flower arrangements on their yard, a dedicated approach to promoting art in an organised manner is yet to catch on. Dodiya feels a huge gap between viewers and artists. He says, We have a long way to go. Indian art is doing well. Diverse art events are happening without any great government support. But every state in India should have its own modern art gallery, since only the big cities of Delhi, Mumbai and Kolkata have one each. We need to involve art critics, art historians along with the audience.

Modern art is perceived as complex by the uninitiated since there is not enough information on styles and artists. We need more programs on television, write-ups and reviews on art. In Europe, parents take children to galleries but such a culture doesnt exist in India. Unlike Indias film industry, and the most internationally recognised film genre being Bollywood, the countrys contemporary art field is yet to enjoy the international creative acclaim it deserves. Indian artists such as SH Raza, Husain and Bharti Kher, who sell for millions and are preferred by critics, are few and far between. Perhaps, Venice will be the turning point India needs to mark its unabashed arrival on the global art scene.

Nandalal Bose (1882-1966)

One of the pioneers of the nationalist-modern Indian art, Bose adorned the original manuscript of the Constitution of India. He made linocuts commemorating Gandhis Dandi March in 1930, and designed Haripura Congress posters on Gandhis invitation which will be shown at the Biennale.

Jitish Kallat

Kallats works span painting, photography, drawing, video and sculptural installations. The 45-year-olds mid-career retrospective Here After Here was curated by Catherine David and organised at the NGMA, New Delhi in 2017. He served as the curator and artistic director of the second edition of the Kochi-Muziris Biennale 2014. His works have been part of the Havana Biennale, Gwangju Biennale, Asia Pacific Triennale, Fukuoka Asian Art Triennale, Asian Art Biennale, Curitiba Biennale, Guangzhou Triennale and the Kiev Biennale and are included in collections at the NGMA, the Museum of Contemporary Art in Los Angeles, and the Singapore Art Museum. At the Venice Biennale, Kallat has turned a historical letter into a piece of contemporary art titled Covering Letter.

MF Husain (1915-2011)

Maqbool Fida Husain is a canonical figure in post-independence Indian art. In 1947, he joined aritsts such as FN Souza and SH Raza to form the Progressive Artists Group. In 60s, he painted the epics, Ramayana and Mahabharata; the latter was displayed at the Sao Paulo Biennale where Husain was a special invitee along with Pablo Picasso. He was honoured with Padma Shri and later in 1973 and 1991 with Padma Bhushan and Padma Vibhushan. Husains Zameen (above) created in 1955-56 was chosen for the Biennale.



G R Iranna

Irannas works are part of collections at NGMA, David Robert Collection, London; KNMA; Chester & David Hurwitz, USA; and Bharat Bhavan, Bhopal. Iranna was presented with the National Award from the Lalit Kala Academy and the AIFACS Award, at the show 50 Years of Art in Independent India in 1997. Naavu (above), which features wooden slippers, symbolises unity in spirit has been chosen this year.

Rummana Hussain (19521999)

Her artistic expression involved installations, performances, videography and activism. The shattered dome-like shape of a mosque is a recurring spectral motif in her sculptures and drawings such as Conflux (1993) which will be seen at the Biennale. Living on the Margins, performed by Hussain in 1995 at the National Centre for the Performing Arts, Mumbai, is among the first contemporary performative works in India.

Shakuntala Kulkarni

Kulkarnis style lies at the intersection of many disciplines though her initial training in visual arts stems from mural painting. She showcased Of Bodies, Armour And Cages (above), which is part of the India Pavillion this year, in 2012 at KNMA, Delhi and CSMVS Museum, Mumbai, besides And When She Roared The Universe Quaked, 2007 at Chemould Prescott Road, Mumbai and Dhaka Art Summit, Bangladesh in 2016.



Ashim Purkayastha

Born in Digboi, Assam, Purkayastha voices concerns around societal reactions triggered by the economy and politics. His work also focuses on issues faced in the northeast of India. His acrylic on postage stamps (set of 100 postage stamps), 23 x 25 cm, titled Farmers (left) has been chosen for the India Pavillion along with other installations.


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Linkedin Sausan Atika (The Jakarta Post) Tangerang  Sun, May 12, 2019 17:29 958 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa873778d4b 1 City Tangerang,ride-hailing-application,ride-hailing-service,commuter-line,commuter-trains,traffic-accident,traffic-fatality Free

Sausan Atika

The Jakarta Post/Jakarta

An app-based taxi was hit by a train at a railway crossing in Kampung Kandang, Jatake Village, Tangerang Regency, Banten, on Saturday afternoon.

South Tangerang Police criminal unit head Adj. Comr. Alexander Yurikho told The Jakarta Post on Sunday that the accident occurred at an ungated railway crossing on Saturday afternoon at 1 p.m.

The car was a red Kia Picanto that was carrying a family from Kampung Kandang to ITC Serpong Mall in South Tangerang.

"When the family was traveling to ITC Serpong Mall using an app-based taxi, the car was hit by a commuter train on the Maja-Tanah Abang route at a crossing. It dragged the car for about 100 meters, Alexander said in a written statement.

The car then bounced off and rolled over to the right side of the railway, he added.

Of the eight people inside the car, four have been declared dead, namely Anis Amalia, 25, Nadia, 7, Adinda Putri Anisa, 4 and 5-month-old Patia.

Four other passengers were injured, namely Maya, 17, Veni, 13, Yana, 49 and the driver identified only as 43-year-old DS.

The four bodies have been taken to their family. The injured are being treated at the Hermina Hospital and Medika Hospital, both in South Tangerang.

The police plan to dig deeper into the case.

But our main concern, for now, is the victims recovery, he said.
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Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Sun, May 12, 2019 13:30 958 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa87376d642 4 Business sunk-fishing-ships,Vietnam,China,Thailand Free

In the period from 2014 to 2019, the Indonesian government sunk 539 foreign fishing ships operating illegally in Indonesian waters, 55 percent of which came from Vietnam, an official from the Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Ministry has said.

Other ships came from China, Thailand, Malaysia and other countries, an expert staff member in the Anti-Illegal Fishing Task Force (Satgas 115), Yunus Hussein, said recently as quoted by kompas.com.

He said most of the fishing ships were seized in the exclusive economic zone, which was still the subject of dispute among the countries.

Indonesia could not send those fishermen to jail for being involved in illegal activities in the exclusive zones, Yunus said, adding that instead, they were only required to pay a fine, which they could not pay if they had no money.

The official said the Indonesian authorities could prosecute those who operated illegally in Indonesian territory.

Yunus said only a few Indonesian fishermen were arrested in the exclusive economic zone because most of them operated in Indonesian territory that was still rich in various kinds of fish.

However, Yunus added that many of the Indonesians worked for foreign ships such as those owned by businessmen from Taiwan and Thailand. He said most of them were victims of human trafficking for forced labor. They were treated inhumanely, he added.

He said the Foreign Ministry had a citizen protection directorate general that had the authority to deal with the issue, while the Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Ministry had limited authority to protect the rights of those Indonesian fishermen. (bbn)
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Linkedin Jusuf Wanandi (The Jakarta Post) Beijing  Mon, May 13 2019

Since 2013, when it was launched by President Xi Jinping in Kazakhstan and Jakarta, the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has developed very fast. Initiated by China, it was meant to assist developing countries in need of building infrastructure, which needs much funding and investment. But since its inception, the BRI has undergone changes to become a common endeavor of many countries and international organizations for joint cooperation in infrastructure projects.

Immediately after its inception, it was recognized that the BRI should be broadened beyond infrastructure development, and include cooperation on trade, finance and people-to-people relations to get off the ground effectively. As the program has become very big and all-encompassing, it has become a global effort.

At the Second BRI Forum held on April 24 to 26 in Beijing, 126 countries and 29 international organizations signed BRI cooperation agreements. This, indeed, marked an important development

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Linkedin Dian Septiari (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, May 13 2019

The Malaysian Attorney Generals Office (AGO) has promised Indonesian officials that it would speed up the appeal process against a recent Penang High Court decision to acquit the abusive employer of deceased Indonesian worker Adelina Sau of a murder charge.

Malaysian Attorney General Tommy Thomas had given the reassurances to Indonesias Manpower Minister Hanif Dhakiri, who was in Malaysia for a working visit on Friday.

Last month, the court cleared Malaysian S. Ambika of murdering Adelina, who died in hospital in February last year after succumbing to wounds allegedly inflicted by her employer.

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Linkedin Istu Septania (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, May 13 2019

Hosts of iftar: Moroccan Ambassador to Indonesia Ouadia Benabdellah (right) and his wife Hind Mrabat are pictured during an iftar event with Moroccan and Indonesian citizens at his residence in Jakarta recently.

Indonesia, home to the worlds biggest Muslim population, has a particular way of observing the fast during the holy month of Ramadan and of celebrating Idul Fitri. Is it the same way that Muslims observe Ramadan and celebrate Idul Fitri all over the world?

Mostly it is the same in general, but every country has its own traditions. Just look at Muslim-majority Morocco, a North African country that has strong Arab influences.

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Linkedin Ni Nyoman Wira (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Sun, May 12, 2019 21:00 958 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa87377be29 1 Activities Maritime-Museum,jakarta,Kota-Tua,Historia-Indonesia-Community,Museum,history,culture Free

It may be common to visit a museum in daytime, but what if you had the chance to explore history in the middle of the night?

The Historia Indonesia Community invited the public to roam Jakarta's Maritime Museum in North Jakarta from just before midnight on April 27 to 2 a.m. the next morning. Built by the Dutch in three phases from 1652 to 1771, the museum is the oldest building still standing in Jakarta.

Erected to store spices and commodities like steel and textiles by the Dutch East Indies Company (VOC), the museum features artefacts of Indonesias maritime history, including ancient boats, preserved sea turtles and squid, statues of famous seafarers and photos of Indonesian maritime heroes.

On Jan. 16, 2018, fire engulfed parts of the museum. The museum was reopened for the public a week later, but several parts were still heavily damaged by the fire.

The Menginap di Museum (Sleepover at the Museum) event drew 100 participants from Jakarta and Bandung. The community said around 1,000 people had signed up, but only 100 were selected because of the limited space.

Museums are sometimes considered places where spirits reside. According to Historia Indonesia Community founder Asep Kambali, some people are intrigued to prove that there is something more than artifacts. During the event, he said, With regard to any sensation [participants experience during the event], each is on their own. Everyone has a different ability to sense [spirits]. The main theme that we offer here is historical objects.

Participants listen to some introductory words before roaming around the Maritime Museum in North Jakarta in the middle of the night. (JP/Ni Nyoman Wira)

To open the event, participants were briefed on the museums history dating back to the Dutch colonial era. Asep shared stories on the importance of spices at the time. Minutes before 11:30 p.m., the participants were divided into four groups, each accompanied by a guide to explore the museum. Almost all of the lights inside the building were turned off and the participants, who had been asked to wear black clothes, could only rely on their flashlights.

Asep, who is also a historian, said he aimed to offer a different experience. It was held at midnight with [almost all of the] lights off, because I wanted to attract people first, he said in a phone interview on May 1. Its a way for them to learn to love Indonesia, learn about history and find out about national heroes.

Asep Kambali, founder of Historia Indonesia Community, briefs visitors on the museum's background and the spice business before the guests explore the building on April 27, at the Maritime Museum in North Jakarta. (JP/Ni Nyoman Wira)

Read also: Seven interesting facts about Maritime Museum in Jakarta

Visitors look at a painting of Admiral Malahayati from Aceh, who defeated Dutch explorer Cornelis de Houtman. (JP/Ni Nyoman Wira)

The visitors were then escorted to different parts of the building and the guides shared lots of information on the lengthy process of handling spices before they were shipped to Europe, on the buildings construction and on Admiral Malahayati from Aceh, who managed to defeat Dutch explorer Cornelis de Houtman.

Exploring the museum at night certainly felt special. With the noise of the day having died down, the guide's stories easily seeped into our minds and left a lasting impression.

Into the darkness: Participants and guides explore Jakarta's Maritime Museum in the early hours of April 28. (JP/Ni Nyoman Wira)

Emil, one of the participants from the West Jakarta subdistrict of Grogol Petamburan, said she felt pleased to join the tour, as she gained knowledge and new friends. Usually students come here for school trips, but the sensation at night is different, said Emil at the end of the activity. Some rooms [in the museum] appealed to me because theyre so dark, but its hard to take photos.

Levin, a participant from Kelapa Gading in North Jakarta, said she loved antique buildings. The event was fun, but I think the museums collections are somewhat lacking in variety, Levin explained through an instant message on May 1. But those who like vintage buildings will enjoy the night's ambiance there.

With Menginap di Museum, Asep wished to make people aware that the Maritime Museum was also part of the citys Kota Tua area. I suggest [the government] build a path that connects the Jakarta History Museum with the Maritime Museum, allowing people to walk along the Kali Besar to get here, he said.

A guide shows visitors an ancient boat displayed at the Maritime Museum in North Jakarta. (JP/Ni Nyoman Wira)

The Menginap di Museum tour has been offered since 2009 as an extension of the communitys Jelajah Malam (Nightly Adventure), where participants visit historical places at night. The initial Menginap di Museum took place at the Bank Mandiri Museum in West Jakarta.

In connection with the fasting month this year, the community plans to travel to various mosques of Indonesia, including the Al Alam Marunda mosque in Cilincing, North Jakarta, which was built in the 1500s, and Istiqlal Grand Mosque in Sawah Besar, Central Jakarta, built in 1961. (wng)
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Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, May 13, 2019 03:04 958 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa87377e633 1 News Dubai,travel-fair,tourism,United-Arab-Emirates,Arabian-Travel-Market Free

A phinisi boat and Lombok architecture were among the highlights of Indonesia's pavilion at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) held in Dubai from April 28 to May 1.

In a bid to further promote Indonesian tourism in the United Arab Emirates city, the Tourism Ministry also equipped the 496-square-meter pavilion with promotional materials showcasing the beauty of Raja Ampat, Lake Toba, Bali and Mount Bromo.

Hosting more than 3,285 exhibitors from 141 countries and aiming to attract more than 120,000 visitors, the 2019 ATM included not only a travel fair but also business meetings.

Read also: Dubai's 'Quranic Park' draws on Islam's holy text

Up to 85 industries from Indonesia participated in ATM Dubai, which include tour operators, hoteliers and tourism agencies from Jakarta, West Java, Central Java, Bali, West Nusa Tenggara and Aceh," said Nia Niscaya, one of the ministry's deputies for marketing development in a statement.

Indonesia also promoted its wide variety of coffee, herbal drinks and batik to visitors. Traditional dance and music performances and shows by the Jember Fashion Carnival were also presented to entertain the crowd.

During a gala dinner themed "Lombok Night" on April 29, representatives from 15 Indonesian industries met with those of about 85 industries from Middle Eastern countries to discuss potential cooperation and business opportunities. (sop/kes)
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Linkedin (Agence France-Presse)  Sun, May 12, 2019 14:03 958 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa87376f328 2 News Japan,travel,Kamakura,tourism,destination,Tourist Free

The coastal city of Kamakura, in Japans Kanagawa Prefecture, has passed an ordinance asking visitors not to eat while walking. This seaside resort, situated around 50 kilometers from Tokyo, is famous for its giant Buddha statue.

After Kyotos etiquette guide for tourists in 2017 teaching visitors the dos and donts of behavior in the city, the Japanese city of Kamakura has published an official ordinance asking visitors not to eat while on the go.

Japans coastal city of Kamakura, not far from Tokyo, is famous for its giant seated Buddha statue. Image: SeanPavonePhoto/IStock.com via AFP Relaxnews

This coastal destination is popular with Tokyo residents looking to escape the crowds of the Japanese metropolis for a weekend and take a welcome breather by Sagami Bay. Many foreign visitors also take the train to visit Kamakura and its many temples, which date back to the 12th century and bear witness to the importance of the city in the Middle Ages. Travelers notably come to see the bronze seated Buddha statue dating from 1252, which weighs 122 tonnes and stands 11 meters tall.

Read also: Foreign tourist groups not welcome at some Japanese tourist sites: Report

In issuing the ordinance, Kamakura is above all seeking to combat trash and stop leftover food waste littering the citys most popular thoroughfares. However, the authorities are not issuing fines or citations for those who fail to abide by the request, CNN reports.

Kamakuras ordinance is reminiscent of the Italian authorities decision to ban eating in the street in the historic center of Florence last year. Unlike the Japanese city, those flouting the Florence ban risk fines of up to 500 (over P29,000). The Tuscan capital actually followed Romes example, while Venice and Verona passed laws preventing the opening of new takeaway food outlets.

Topics : Japan travel Kamakura tourism destination Tourist
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Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Sun, May 12, 2019 11:06 958 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa87376b9e9 4 News Ragunan-zoo,Idul-Fitri,IdulFitri,destination,travel Free

During the Idul Fitri holiday, Ragunan Zoo in Pasar Minggu, South Jakarta is among the destinations in the capital city that usually welcome a large number of visitors.

However, based on Gubernatorial Decree No. 63/2018, the zoo will be closed to the public on the first day of Idul Fitri.

Spokesperson Ketut Widarsana told Antara that the management was still waiting for official announcement from the Jakarta administration regarding the exact date of the closure. Based on the current calendar, Idul Fitri falls on June 5 and 6.

Read also: Jakpost guide to Ragunan Zoo

Therefore,we havent yet [specifically] mentioned the [closure] date, Ketut said, adding that the peak visiting period was estimated to occur on June 8 and 9.

Ketut suggested that visitors prepare the JakCard issued by Bank DKI with enough balance to enter the zoo, "which allows them to avoid spending a long time waiting in line, he said. (wir/kes)
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Linkedin Dyaning Pangestika (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Sun, May 12, 2019 18:55 958 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa87377a37e 1 News airline-ticket,Airlines,Indonesia,airfare-surge,price-war Free

A Twitter hashtag that was apparently created to justify soaring airfares has sparked a backlash from social media users who find the online campaign inconsiderate.

The hashtag #TiketPesawatTidakMahal (AirfaresAreNotExpensive) went viral after social media influencer Rr. Mahayu Koesoemo posted a thread on her Twitter account @rrmahayukd under the #TiketPesawatTidakMahal hashtag. On her Twitter account, Mahayu argued that the airfare hike is logical as airlines have to cover their operational costs.

All this time, airlines have sold tickets at low prices to attract consumers. As consumers, we grew to depend on low prices even though revenue from promo tickets cannot cover airlines actual expenses, she tweeted on May 8.

Mahayu told The Jakarta Post that she initiated the hashtags with her friends who are working in the airline industry.

"I started this hashtag because I have plenty of friends who worked in the airline industry, and we had a conversation regarding this topic [airfare hike] before," she said on Saturday.

Many netizens disagreed with Mahayus argument and proceeded to rant under the hashtag in retaliation to her tweets.

One of the examples is Twitter user Rifi Fazrina, who said that social media influencers who promoted the hashtag did not know the reason why people complained about the airfare hike.

Those influencers who promoted #tiketpesawattidakmahal massively, mostly argue that we have to find another travel option. Dont you think that we thought of that already?  Rifi Fazrina (@fifazrina) May 11, 2019

Those influencers who promoted #TiketPesawatTidakMahal massively, mostly argue that we have to find another travel option. Don't you think that we thought of that already? Rifi said on her account @fifazrina.

Another account belonging to Oky said the hashtag was out of depth and self-centered.

people who are on #TiketPesawatTidakMahal are totally out of depth. so self-centered and only put on their own shoes.  Oky Oktavian Asha (@okyoktavianasha) May 11, 2019

"People who are on #TiketPesawatTidakMahal are totally out of depth. So self-centered and only put on their own shoes," Oky said on his account @okyoktavianasha.

Despite the influx of angry tweets, some have responded to it with a joke.

#TiketPesawatTidakMahal if you didnt buy one, Twitter user @kuybahagia tweeted on Sunday.

Read also: Lowering domestic airfares

Transportation Minister Budi Karya Sumadi has faced public pressure to lower airfares after several budget airlines stopped special offers a few months ago, which lead to a sharp increase in domestic airfares.

On Thursday, Budi confirmed that the price ceiling would be lowered by 15 percent to make sure that airlines lower their fares.

That [15 percent] is the range of the cut. We will finalize it and report it to the Office of the Coordinating Economic Minister next Monday, he said.

On Saturday, general secretary of the Indonesia National Air Carriers Association Tengku Burhanudin said airfares were not calculated based just on operational costs, but also tax and insurance fees.

We have to include value-added tax, the passenger service charge and Jasa Raharja mandatory dues, Tengku said as quoted by tempo.com.

Separately, secretary to the Coordinating Economic Minister Susiwjono Moegiarso said that the airfare hike was caused by duopoly since the airline industry is currently being controlled by Garuda Indonesia Group and Lion Air Group.

If one of them raise the price, the other will follow suit, Susiwijono said.
Anirban Ganguly By

The election campaign for 2019 is reaching its final lap. The unmistakable undercurrent is for Narendra Modi. I am observing the campaign from West Bengal, one of the most difficult states in terms of electioneering and voting. People across the state are connecting to Modi. The vast electorate, especially in small town West Bengal, is clear on the narrative of national security; the need to have an uncompromising security policy for India, the need to oppose those who call for Indias disintegration or are ambivalent when Indias sovereignty is challenged and borders are violated.

This is an emotion that motley groups of limousine liberals who are now peregrinating across West Bengal, will scarcely understand or recognise.It is clear that the ordinary Bengali sees in Modi an alternative. He is making them think and look for alternatives. To the middle class Bengali, Modi is intriguing; they see his hard work, they appreciate his one-pointed focus on development, and they feel he does the right thing by resolutely focusing on his goal of pushing India ahead. Even those who are opposed to his politics, grudgingly admit his commitment to Indias vikas.

There is also a section, the generation that dutifully voted the Left and retains a mild nostalgia for the Jyoti-babu era, now looks to Modi, and finds him interesting and inspiring in certain respects. His commitment to Indias growth and his unrelenting attack on Mamata Banerjees nepotistic tendencies impress them.

There is something interesting happening in West Bengal. Though the state has now outdone Bihar and Uttar Pradesh in poll violence, one sees, for the first time, the ordinary voters protesting and resisting any attempts by lumpens of the ruling party to snatch away their democratic right and voice. The Trinamool Congress (TMC) seems to be rattled. Internal feuds, uncertain electoral prospects, the rise in Modis popularity, the tenaciousness of the BJPs workers on the ground, the huge turnout that Modis public meetings attracts is unsettling the ruling TMC. Mamata Banerjees public utterances are increasingly getting intemperate, attendance in her public meetings are thinning and there is a clear sense that the ordinary voter is fatigued with the intrusiveness of the party, the rampant syndicatism and the brazen attempt by the ruling party to control and regulate their daily lives that has begun irking them.

Observers who are occasional visitors to West Bengal, who especially come during elections, have no actual sense and understanding of the political climate of the state. They cannot understand the extent to which the ruling TMC goes to ensure that opposition politics does not have space in the state. Attacks on opposition activists, especially those belonging to the BJP, the politics of fear and hate, the politics that displays disdain for religious sentiments of the Hindus, the politics that tolerates no other view, dominate the public sphere of the state today. In a sense, West Bengal, especially the hinterlands, is fast turning into a fascist gulag in which you are safe and free as long as you toe the line of the ruling dispensation.

Essentially a party that grew out of the anti-Leftism, the TMC is not bound by ideology and does not comprise workers and cadres trained and guided by a larger ideological orientation and direction. Once in power, party satraps divided the state among themselves, each fiercely protecting their turf and zones. The Left parties could not recover from the shock of defeat, while a large section of the lumpens that it patronised and also kept on leash, switched over to the TMC, where there was no brakes as long as you professed allegiance to Didi. Political intolerance, brazen nepotism, factional feuds and an overwhelming atmosphere of fear at all levels are the expressions of TMC rule. Modi symbolises the hope of being liberated from this asphyxiating state of being.

Twitter: @anirbanganguly

Anirban Ganguly is Director, Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee Research Foundation, Member of Policy Research Department, BJP and National Co-Convener of Library and Documentation Department, BJP
Amar Bhushan By

Never before a parliamentary election was fought exclusively on the issue of an individual. Narendra Modi, stubborn and passionately driven to build India of his vision, is that individual. His self-belief in his victory is either reckless or sheer bravado. Or, maybe he has an uncanny sense to read the pulse of the electorate. A lesser mortal would have quit this brutal race even before it began. Sample the odds he is faced with.

The entire Opposition, including the Congress and its allies, TMC, TDP, RJD, BJD, SP, BSP and CPI(M), are fiercely opposed to Modi, fearing an existential threat to their brand of politics and inheritance. His allies have reservations over some of his policies. His ministers and MPs resent that they have to make do with only their salary and work overtime in their constituencies to deserve nomination to contest elections again. His seniors fume that he has not only ignored them but has also denied tickets in most cases to their family members.

An overwhelming number of Muslimsapproximately 14 percent of the electoratehave pathological hatred for him because they believe he would subjugate them under a Hindu Rashtra. Their political surrogates are furious that Modi has fielded Sadhvi Pragya, a terror accused, to contest against Digvijay Singh, her tormentor and a mascot of pseudo secularists in Bhopal. They do not care to know that she is not legally barred from contesting polls.

It is not only politicians who abhor Modi. Liberal intellectuals who control our social behaviour and thinking process hate him, for he has rendered them irrelevant. Journalists and political commentators who shape public opinion are frustrated over losing their entitlements. A section of artists and authors, feeling aggrieved over assault on freedom of expression, are actively campaigning against him. The separatists, Naxalites, secessionists and terrorists are desperate to see his back because he has struck hard at their finances and support they receive from Maos elite troopers living in cities.

Brokers, contractors and unscrupulous businessmen who used to crowd Delhis power corridors find doors shut on their free access to government offices. The real estate sharks who cheated home buyers and helped politicians and officials park their black money find him insufferable. Small and medium traders are unhappy paying taxes and operating with restricted supply of black money in the market. Bureaucrats hate serving under him because he has made them accountable and work hard. Farmers, pro-reservation groups, students and jobless youths are furious that he has not met their aspirations.

The northeastern states are hugely offended by his citizenship bill. Above all, he is yet to fully breach the barriers of caste and community loyalties that have remained a time-tested recipe for the likes of Akhilesh Yadav and Mayawati to win elections.So, where does Modi get votes from? Does he love living dangerously with peoples trust in his work and leadership or is he playing with a political death wish? Answer to this is what makes the May 23 results significant than any before. amarbhushan@hotmail.com
Mid-Michigan school districts are seeing a decrease in school bus drivers, leading to some struggles in finding future staffing.

Bus drivers are on the critical shortage career list at the Michigan Department of Education (MDE). Drivers have made annual appearances on the critical shortage lists.

The shortage has been affecting several areas of the state and across the country.

A November 2018 survey by School Bus Fleet magazine revealed that 91 percent of respondents said there was a bus driver shortage within their school district. In Mid-Michigan, three districts have been struggling with their future with school bus drivers.

Critical shortage laws allow a retiree to return to work to fill a school-based position that is desperate need of staffing while still receiving their pension, according to the MDE website. The laws indicate that a someone hired in the position as a result of the critical shortage may not be in the position for more than three years.

Mt. Pleasant Public Schools are always looking for drivers, according to Superintendent Jennifer Verleger.

Its a job posting that we always seem to have open, she said. Were lucky to have a good group of drivers, but theres still a need.

In order to incentivize prospective drivers, the district is pay for drivers to get certified in order to drive the buses, according to Verleger and MPPS Transportation Director Dee Kenny.

There is a shortage of bus drivers, said Kenny. Training new drivers is one of the main issues when it comes to bringing in new drivers.

School bus drivers in Michigan are required to have a commercial drivers license with a passenger (P) endorsement and a school bus endorsement (S), according to the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) website. In addition, you need to have a physical taken as well as an approved background check, according to Kenny.

Testing has gotten harder for new drivers over the years, with more tests and stricter requirements for those tests, Kenny said. She also said that she understands the strictness, because it is meant to make the student passengers safer.

Its getting harder and harder to be able to get where you need to be to drive the bus while only making around $15 an hour, She said. Its not just the bussing industry, its the trucking industry as well.

If a driver would to be hired without their CDL, it would take them roughly six weeks before they would be ready to drive a bus, Kenny said.

Another issue is the pay offered for the drivers, according to Kenny. In the MPPS district full-time drivers work around 180 days a year at $18,000 to $20,000 per year.

Its a great job for someone looking to supplement their income, she said. Its a job that requires you to like kids, sporting events and much more.

A lot of planning is done for extracurricular trips, but the main priority is making sure the district has enough staffing to bring the students to and from school, according to Kenny.

While MPPS has enough full-time and substitute drivers to run efficiently, two drivers will be retiring after the end of this school years. The full-time drivers manage the routes while the substitutes tend to manage field trips, according to Kenny.

For Ashley Community Schools, their main issue is looking for substitute drivers, according to Transportation Director Mike Brown.

Right now, we got it covered with full-time drivers, he said. We can afford to have anyone get sick because it is really hard to find subs.

The biggest struggle for finding subs is the number of hours that those drivers may be offered, according to Brown. Since the full-time drivers use the most of their time, the substitutes will have a hard time finding hours when they start out.

While Brown has had interviews with several prospective drivers, he said that the district is looking for someone who can commit. Another struggle is putting new drivers through the training process, much like Mt. Pleasant.

The Department of Transportation is pretty tight with their training, as they should be since its the safety of our children, he said.

Ashley Community Schools sends their prospective drivers to Humphreys Driver Training & Testing in Owosso to get their CDL, Brown said. He said that the changes in legislation might change what the schools will be able to do in terms of training drivers.

The district has five full-time drivers for their routes, but they could use two dependable substitutes plus a few more to be fully covered, according to Brown.

When there are no substitutes available, the district must use an alternate route that incorporates several routes, leading to the doubling-up of students in the bus, according to Brown. The alternate route has been used several times because they have lacked proper coverage many times before.

Another option they have utilized is having a bus route run an hour late, Brown said. This is usually done during a long-term absence, like a broken leg.

One of the suggestions that Brown offered was to allow for substitutes to be shared between districts. Ashley and Ithaca share a substitute driver.

Ithaca Public Schools Transportation Director Brandi Bupp also said that the lack of substitute drivers stems from a lack of hours, but also a split shift and a lack of help on the buses.

Alma has paraprofessionals or aides on their bus in the afternoon, she said. Our school district does not.

Like Mt. Pleasant and Ashley, Ithaca provides CDL training for their prospective drivers, according to Bupp.

Bupp has started driving routes herself, even though that is not her primary job, she said.

Ithaca could use another two to three substitute drivers in order to be properly covered, Bupp said. The district might need more full-time drivers either in the coming Fall or the following Fall, depending on what the drivers will do as a result of critical shortage laws.
Ravi Shankar By

Soft targets are venting machines for anyone with a five-seconds-of-fame grudge. One such object of public aggression, social media contempt, nasty jokes and media distaste is Arvind Kejriwal. Last week, a disgruntled AAP member slapped him during a road show in Delhi. His reason: AK was not respectful enough of the Indian Army. At last count, the Delhi chief minister has been attacked 11 times with chilli powder, shoes, sandals, rotten eggs and iron rods. Yet his public meetings pull big crowds and he is invited for road shows and dharnas by his compatriots in non-BJP ruled states. How did a soft target like AK become a serious national player?

The truth is that he is not a soft target. AK has cracked the VIP code, which signals the transformation of an elected politician into a top banana in legislature or government. In every election, these high muckamucks sweat it out by mingling with voters sans deo and aftershave, shaking their work-worn hands with promises and panaceas. Once the show is over, they are no longer homies in the hood, but exalted representatives who speed by in luxury cars and SUVs followed by convoys bristling with radio antennae and menacing security men with guns who wave other vehicles aside for the VIP to pass.

They travel Business and First Class free on Air India, further adding to the decrepit airlines losses and public expenditure. Not all MPs or MLAs visit their constituencies; when they do, they are not easily accessible to their voters who wait outside their palatial mansions seeking help from the government. Only those recommended by panchayat heads or pradhans with enough vote power get a brief audience with the political nabob.

Many of these big cheese dont spend their development fundsroads in many constituencies are broken worse than the dreams of their voters. Hospitals are underfunded, children and teachers do not attend school and drinking water is a pipe dream. But not in Delhi now. Kejriwals cachet is his image of accessibility. He drives a down-market car, wears oversize shirts and off-the-shelf trousers, eschews Christian Louboutin shoes and Cartier sunglasses. He does not have the threatening look of a puissant neta. In the feudal Indian psyche, a leader is someone who has the power to hurt. And looks like it. Adoration and fear are sides of the same coin.

The other soft target is called Indias pappu who seems to have inexplicably acquired sudden clarity of aggression. Taunted for years by his foes and mocked in private by his partymen, Rahul Gandhi is on a roll this poll. But AK and he are poles apart: Rahuls pedigree protects him while AKs lack of a famous surname is his armour. Between them, win or lose, these two soft targets are giving both opponents and allies a hard time.
Walt Disney Co.s Avengers: Endgame held on to the top spot in North American theatres for a third-straight weekend, another milestone in its march to surpass 2009s Avatar as the highest-grossing movie in history.

The Marvel superhero film brought in $63.1 million in U.S. and Canadian theatres this weekend, Comscore Inc. estimated Sunday in an email. That was enough to fight off newcomer Pokemon Detective Pikachu from AT&T Inc.s Warner Bros., which brought in $58 million. Analysts were predicting about $70.7 million in revenue for Endgame over the three days. It needs to top $2.79 billion worldwide to beat Avatar.

Key Insights

The superhero films hot pace has predictably cooled as big openers tend to do. Sales for last years Marvel hit Avengers: Infinity War declined by 46 per cent in its third weekend, also over Mothers Day. Still, the Disney film is only the second movie to lead the box office for three straight weekends this year. The Universal Pictures movie Glass held the top spot for four weeks in late January and early February.

At 1 hour and 40 minutes, the PG-rated Detective Pikachu offered a shorter option for parents with kids too young to sit through three hours of Endgame. The film was expected to bring in $56 million, according to analysts at Box Office Pro.

The Hustle, starring Anne Hathaway and Rebel Wilson, brought in $13.5 million, short of the $15 million analysts were predicting. The film is being distributed by United Artists Releasing, a joint venture of Megan Ellisons Annapurna Pictures and Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, which is also a producer of the picture.

Two other films opened in wide release. STX Entertainment came out with Poms, about a group of women who form a cheerleading squad in their retirement community, and Disneys Fox Searchlight division released Tolkien, about the author of the Lord of the Rings trilogy.
Canadas changes to its cannabis licensing requirements may make the countrys persistent pot shortage worse, not better, according to some in the industry.

The Canadian government said last week that it will now require applicants for cannabis cultivation, processing or sales licenses to have a fully built site before they apply. The goal is to alleviate the huge backlog thats built up since Canada legalized recreational pot in October. About 614 applications were waiting in the queue as of March 31, according to a Health Canada spokeswoman.

Meanwhile Canada is dealing with a nationwide shortage of pot that has led some provinces like Ontario to restrict store openings.

I think the fact that you now have to fully build out your site before you even apply means that people are going to build very small initial phases to try to mitigate risk and minimize the amount of money that has to be spent, cannabis lawyer Trina Fraser, partner at Brazeau Seller Law, said in a phone interview.

Once an initial site is licensed, producers can then expand it by applying for amendments to their license. This could simply push the backlog from the licensing queue to the amendment queue, she said.

Raising Capital

That could actually exacerbate the supply problem because its going to be difficult for those producers to expand and grow fast enough to meet demand, Ottawa-based Fraser said.

In response, Health Canada says it approves new licenses almost every week, bringing the total to 175 licensed sites across Canada, up from 132 when pot became legal last year. There are now more than 600,000 square meters of space under active cultivation, enough to produce about 1 million kilograms of cannabis per year, matching the quantity of cannabis consumed in Canada.

The regulatory approach to cannabis has been designed specifically to encourage a diverse range of large and small participants from across the country, including through the creation of new micro- and nursery-class licenses, said Eric Morrissette, a spokesman for Health Canada, in an emailed statement.

The changes will likely discourage new entrants, according to Deepak Anand, a former vice president at consulting firm Cannabis Compliance Inc. whos now chief executive of Materia Ventures, a global cannabis supply and distribution company.

Raising capital has been challenging, and this is going to make it even more challenging, Anand said. I think it really disincentivizes micro-cultivators and processors to be setting up and applying for licensing, and I think thats quite unfortunate because this is going to impact small businesses significantly.

Big Winners

The winners will be the large, established producers that already have licenses in place and have the expertise and capital to build out new sites if they want to expand, Anand said.

Thats the view of Greg Engel, CEO of Organigram Holdings Inc., a Moncton, New Brunswick-based licensed producer.

Its great to see Health Canada make this move because it does prioritize companies and facilities that are closer to bringing product to market, Engel said. From a resourcing perspective, it allows them to focus on the applicants who have facilities or have access to capital.

More than 70 per cent of applicants who passed Health Canadas initial paper-based review over the past three years have not yet demonstrated they have a completed facility that meets regulatory requirements. This indicates many of them will never get a facility up and running and the government wasted its time in reviewing their initial applications.

Unclear Edibles

Engel said Organigram currently has 47,000 kilograms of production capacity licensed and expects that to reach 113,000 kilograms by the end of the year. The company hasnt seen any major delays to its licensing so far because it does all its growing in the same Moncton facility, meaning each phase of expansion is an amendment to the existing license, not an entirely new license.

When Fraser, the cannabis lawyer, is approached by clients who are looking to enter the space and want to know how long it will take to get licensed, she now tells them to think in terms of years, not months.

The situation may get even worse when Canada legalizes cannabis edibles, beverages, extracts and topicals later this year. This will require many producers to build separate sites for extraction, production and packaging of the new products, adding to the licensing backlog. And after all that, it may turn out that consumers arent particularly interested in the new products, Fraser said.

Everybodys got their own idea of what the demand is going to be, and some are going to be right and some are going to be wrong, she said. We have a lot of experimentation in that regard ahead of us before we have what Id consider a mature, stable market.
PEMBROKE, Ont.Soldiers from a Canadian base in Petawawa were deployed Saturday to protect infrastructure in the nearby city of Pembroke  one of several communities threatened by historically high water levels on the Ottawa River.

Maj. Adam Graham said one of the first priority assignments for his unit, which numbered about 64, was protecting the water treatment plant near the rivers edge.

So weve dispatched some soldiers down to that location to help conduct flood mitigation measures, such as primarily sandbagging certain elements of that facility to ensure that theres no issues with the towns water supply as a result of flooding, Graham said in a phone interview.

Soldiers were later assigned to assist provincial crews with the construction of a sandbag wall at a partially flooded waterside park, downstream from the water purification plant.

The city declared a state of emergency on Thursday and followed that with requests for assistance from Canadas military and from the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry.

Heather Salovaara, the communitys emergency information officer, said the ministry sent 21 people in four crews in addition whose work was co-ordinated with the soldiers from Petawawa.

Pembroke itself has a population of 16,200, but an estimated 75,500 people living within a 40-kilometre radius depend on the city as a service centre.

Graham said it will be community officials that decide on what tasks are given to his soldiers as conditions change.

Salovaara said in an email that the community is expecting rain next week and will monitor water level predictions from the Ottawa River Regulating Committee.

They take into account a number of things, such as open dams, rainfall, snow melt north of us, and more, Salovaara said in an email.

Other communities in Ontario, Quebec and Atlantic Canada have already been affected by spring flooding during recent weeks due to rain and melting snows.

As it turned out, Pembroke experienced sunny, warm weather on Saturday.

Its perfect weather for flood mitigation, Graham said Saturday afternoon with a laugh.

However, additional rain could raise already high water levels on the Ottawa River, which flows past Pembroke, Ottawa and other communities on its way toward the Island of Montreal, about 350 kilometres southeast of Pembroke.

Were going to assess the requirements of the city, in concert with ... emergency management officials and well take it day by day, Graham said.

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Scarce and precarious. Torontos rental situation constitutes a state of emergency for frontline housing workers. But policy researcher Jeremy Withers says he is more angry than discouraged.

A housing policy researcher, who is working on his PhD, Withers said other cities are doing a better job of creating affordable homes using policies like inclusionary zoning and non-profit ownership of buildings that would otherwise be bought up by predatory landlords.

He helped organize a conference Saturday by the University of Toronto School of Cities designed to set the stage around the citys next-decade housing policy called HousingTO 2020-2030, an action plan being formulated this year.

The event was also about mobilizing activism, he said. Its an important moment at the beginning of a new term of city council, for housing activists to grab the attention of new councillors and others, who may not be on board with some potentially beneficial policies.

The conference called Affordable Housing Lessons for a New Decade of Housing Policy in Toronto drew about 200 housing workers, activists, policy-makers and academics. Based on a show of hands, more than half of the participants were struggling to afford housing or worried about eviction themselves.

Because so many people are locked out of home ownership theres a huge influx of affluent renters and yet theres no new stock of rental being built, Withers said. Were hearing the term housing crisis a lot right now because these issues are suddenly affecting middle income renters  middle income people who felt entitled to home ownership.

But the housing crisis isnt new for many people being squeezed hardest now, he said.

People on the low-income spectrum, racialized communities, Indigenous communities, they have been experiencing this crisis for many decades, centuries. When we target so much of our resources and discussion towards the middle income . . . were leaving so many people, who have experienced the real brunt of this crisis, behind he said.

U of T adjunct professor Philippa Campsie called for a culture change around renting. Other countries seem to take rental as normal. This second-class citizenship  we need to address this. Tenants vote. We treat them as expendable, she said.

It is also time to make room for rooming houses on the shelter spectrum, she said. Campsie has studied the history of Toronto rooming houses, including the 1989 Rupert Hotel fire that killed 10 men downtown and a Scarborough rooming house fire last year that killed an 18-year-old female student and injured another tenant.

Since amalgamation, Toronto has failed to develop a cohesive rooming house policy that allows for licensed rooming houses across the city, said Campsie. Rooming houses are places where tenants may rent a room with a bathroom or kitchen but never both and they pay their rent individually rather than as a group. But the failure to harmonize the rules means there are huge tracts of the city where they are not allowed  places like Scarborough and North York, she said.

That drives the rooming houses underground where they are invisible and beyond the jurisdiction of fire and public health inspectors.

There is an urgent need for people to rent just as much housing as they need and they need it in all parts of the city, said Campsie.

Inclusionary zoning, a policy that forces developers to devote a percentage of their projects to affordable housing, comes up for city consultations this summer but the final policy targets will likely be delayed due to changes recently announced by the province in its sweeping housing Bill 108, said Torontos inclusionary zoning project manager Deanna Chorney.

It limits the zoning policy to areas of about 500 metres to 800 metres around major transit stations. The province is committed to identifying those transit zones in its Growth Plan by 2022, she said.

Richard Drdla, a policy consultant and housing advocate, called the provincial bill a disaster that will limit how much affordable housing the city can build.

The idea of inclusionary zoning, which started in U.S. cities, is to embed affordable housing in all areas of the city, he said.

Councillor Mike Layton (Ward 11 University-Rosedale), the only politician to speak at the conference, said it will take two years to put inclusionary zoning in place.

If Bill 108 is any indication, developers are whispering in the ears of government in Ontario and telling them what to write, he said.

He added that the city cant get out of the business of building affordable housing. We cant get out of the business of regulating tenants and landlords.

Because 76 per cent of Canadian rentals are at least 36 years old, its critical those buildings be retrofitted into healthy places, said Graeme Stewart, director of the Centre for Urban Growth and Renewal and a principal with ERA Architects.

He cited the federal Liberal governments $1.3 billion commitment over 10 years to Toronto Community Housing Corp., as a bright spot with much of that money likely to be invested in renewing existing affordable rentals.

It cost $100,000 to retrofit a rental unit, compared to $250,000 to build a new one, he said.
Ontarios highest court will hear a Crown appeal this week of a retired Chatham violin teachers acquittal by a judge who believed his evidence that he measured female students breast area not for a sexual purpose but to help them play better.

A year ago, Superior Court Justice Thomas Carey found Claude Trachy not guilty of numerous sexually related offences, including indecent assault, sexual assault and sexual interference, for alleged incidents involving more than 20 complainants who were his pupils decades ago.

Evidence in the trial in the southwestern Ontario city centred on Trachys practice of measuring the breast area of some of his preteen and teenage female students, above and below their clothes. In some instances, he took moulds of their shoulders and chest areas.

Now 73, Trachy testified that his intent was to help the students play better by being properly fitted for shoulder rests on their violins or violas.

Trachys practice of measuring the breast area didnt include his male students.

The Crown argued Trachys actions were for his own sexual gratification.

The women, who now range in age from mid-30s to 65, all agreed that they generally felt uncomfortable exposing their breasts but, at the time, trusted Mr. Trachy to be conducting himself in their best interests and for the purpose of advancing their ability to play the violin, Carey wrote in his judgment.

The judge said he accepted Trachys evidence that any touching of his female students was not done for any sexual purpose and that his intentions were to help his female students play better.

In 1993, Trachy was found guilty of two counts of sexual interference relating to two sisters who were his students. He received a 60-day intermittent sentence. Carey heard no evidence about that case.

In a factum filed with the Ontario Court of Appeal in Toronto, where the case will be argued Tuesday, the Crown states Carey improperly acquitted Trachy based on a fundamental legal error which infused the entire trial  that the case could be settled by addressing a single issue: whether or not the respondent had a sexual purpose.

The trial judge was unable to provide a legal objective rationale for acquitting Trachy and a proper consideration of the evidence should have led relentlessly to convictions, it states.

The appellate court should impose findings of guilt, wrote John Patton, a lawyer with the Ministry of the Attorney General.

Trachy began teaching violin in 1960 and taught approximately 1,100 students until his retirement in 2009. The charges related to his interactions with female students in the 1970s, 80s and 90s.

Handling the appeal on behalf of Trachy is defence lawyer Matthew Gourlay, a partner with the high-profile Toronto law firm Henein Hutchison.

In his factum, Gourlay argues the Crown has no proper basis to appeal. Trachy was acquitted of the sexual offences alleged against him because the trial judge affirmatively believed his account of the relevant interactions with his violin students decades ago, the document states.

In particular, the trial judge believed that the touching alleged by the Crown and conceded by the respondent was done for genuine (if in retrospect misguided) pedagogical reasons and that an objective observer would not have perceived the circumstances as sexual.

Gourlay writes that the Crown disagrees with the result but that does not provide a proper basis for a Crown appeal under the Criminal Code.

Though framed in terms of legal error, the Crowns appeal amounts to a thinly disguised claim of unreasonable acquittal, a ground of appeal that does not exist in Canadian law, his factum says.

It is not for the appellate court to retry the case or substitute its credibility assessments for those of the trial judge, the factum continues. Nor did the judge misapply the law, he argues.

During the trial in Chatham, Trachy explained that measuring the relevant dimensions of their bodies was necessary to achieve a proper fit, Gourlays factum states.

Trachy referred to a book The Physiology of Violin Playing, which describes the impact of body development on playing an learning. Trachy told court he got the idea of measuring under the clothes from illustrations in the text of a male violinist holding a violin while shirtless.

After being charged in 1991, Trachy ceased measuring students.

He brought to court several shoulder/chest rests and chin rests as well as his own violin with which he demonstrated in court what he viewed as the proper way to play the violin or the viola.
WASHINGTONA yearlong trade war between the United States and China is proving to be an initial skirmish in an economic conflict that may persist for decades, as both countries battle for global dominance, stature and wealth.

Progress toward a trade agreement nearly collapsed this past week, with both sides hardening their bargaining positions. And even if a trade deal is reached, it may do little to resolve tensions between the worlds two largest economies.

The United States is increasingly wary of Chinas emerging role in the global economy and the tactics it uses to get ahead, including state-sponsored hacking, acquisitions of high-tech companies in the United States and Europe, subsidies to crucial industries and discrimination against foreign companies.

The Trump administration has begun trying to limit Chinas economic influence in the United States and abroad, warning about Chinas ambitions in increasingly stark terms. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo compared Chinas ambitions to Russia and Iran in a speech in London on Wednesday, saying Beijing poses a new kind of challenge; an authoritarian regime thats integrated economically into the West in ways that the Soviet Union never was.

The United States has been erecting barriers to limit Chinese investment in U.S. companies, re-examining the kinds of technology that can be exported to China and restricting Chinas role in building Americas next-generation telecommunications networks, while also discouraging other countries from using Chinese equipment.

The FBI has increased its scrutiny of Chinese researchers in the United States over fears they may be acquiring intellectual secrets. A Justice Department initiative is targeting commercial espionage of U.S. technology, and this year, the United States unveiled a sweeping indictment of Chinese telecom giant Huawei and its chief financial officer, Meng Wanzhou, over accusations of stealing trade secrets and evading U.S. sanctions on Iran.

China, whose ambition is to dominate industries of the future, is pushing back. A column on Saturday in the Communist Partys Peoples Daily newspaper stated, The United States is again waving the club of tariffs after misjudging Chinas strength, capacity and will, further escalating trade friction between our two countries.

The piece was written under the pen name Zhong Sheng  the voice of China  a name used when the paper publishes comments on foreign affairs that are authoritative.

Restraining Chinas ambitions and methods is a tricky task  and there is concern that the Trump administrations effort is creating a new red scare, fuelling discrimination against China and its citizens that could ultimately hurt the United States. As many as 30 Chinese professors have had their visas to the United States cancelled in the past year or been put on administrative review, according to Chinese academics and their American counterparts.

Weve got decades of painful negotiating with China ahead, said David Lampton, a China scholar at Stanford University. Lampton said a trade deal, if reached, would do little to resolve the bigger conflict. Its just a skirmish in an ongoing battle.

Chinese negotiators returned to Beijing over the weekend without a trade agreement and with even larger economic barriers between the two countries. The Trump administration raised tariffs on $200 billion (U.S.) in exports Friday and said it would move ahead with the legal process of taxing another roughly $300 billion of products at the same 25 per cent rate.

The two countries could yet come to an agreement that opens opportunities for businesses and rolls back the levies they have placed on each other. Both U.S. and Chinese officials said Friday that they would continue to talk and could meet in Beijing next month. Liu He, Chinas vice-premier, called the failure to reach a deal just a small setback in the talks between two countries, while Trump, in a tweet, described the talks as candid and constructive.

While a trade deal could calm some tensions and establish more goodwill between the two nations, it is unlikely to achieve many of the ambitious goals that the administration has set for itself. Trumps advisers, in particular the U.S. trade representative, Robert Lighthizer, have been focused on what the administration calls Chinas practices of economic aggression.

But the administration has struggled to address the immensity of the problems in the text of a trade deal. People close to the talks say that the negotiators appear powerless to force any changes that arent in Chinas interest.

Liu, who is leading Chinas team in the trade negotiations, hinted at that uphill battle in a video statement released by the official Xinhua News Agency.

Now both sides have reached consensus in many respects, but frankly there are also areas of disagreement, he said. We believe that these are major matters of principle, and any country has its own important principles  we cant make concessions on matters of principle.

Despite punishing tariffs on nearly half of Chinese exports to the United States, Beijing is still resisting many of the most significant changes the administration seeks. It has been reluctant to roll back subsidies for advanced manufacturing industries or to make public commitments to stop cybertheft.

Instead, a trade deal between the two countries seems more likely to bring change around the margins  tens of billions of dollars of soybean purchases, some tariffs lifted and changes to the text of Chinese laws or regulations that the country might ultimately disregard, particularly once another administration occupies the White House.

This is a decades-long endeavour, said Robert Daly, director of the Wilson Centers Kissinger Institute on China and the United States. This cant be waved away over cake at Mar-a-Lago.

Many in China have sought to avoid a trade conflict, which could have a larger impact on their economy than the United States. But they have long thought the United States would have a difficult time accepting a true peer in economic, technology and military power, so consider the management of conflict with the United States to be an inevitable result of their own rise.

While the Trump administration accused China of breaking a trade deal, Chinas resistance to the emerging terms stemmed from its belief that the United States was asking too much and offering too little in return. Many of the changes the United States seeks would limit what Chinese officials regard as a tried-and-true approach of using tens of billions of dollars from state-owned banks and government investment funds to turn previously small industries like car production or solar panel manufacturing into the largest industries of their kind in the world.

And the Chinese view some of the Trump administrations demands as infringing on their sovereignty and giving America too much power over its economy  including requiring it to codify changes through legislation in the National Peoples Congress. To the increasingly nationalistic public in China, the U.S. requests are reminiscent of a 19th-century history of unequal treaties forced on the country by foreign powers.

In the United States, Chinas unwillingness to bow to Americas demands is uniting lawmakers like the Democratic Senate leader, Chuck Schumer, and Republican Sen. Marco Rubio.

While U.S. companies have long hankered for access to Chinas growing market, their position has begun to shift as they see Chinas practices and treatment of foreign companies. A survey released by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce in China in February showed that the majority of its members favoured retaining tariffs on Chinese goods while trade negotiations continued.

Chinas own experts say that the Beijing leadership has been caught off guard by the pace of change in U.S. perceptions of Sino-American relations.

Even if there is some kind of agreement between Xi and Trump, in the long run the strategic bilateral relationship is already in trouble, said Zhang Jian, a professor in the School of Government at Peking University, referring to President Xi Jinping. There is no coming back, even if there is a deal.

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CANBERRA, Australia - Australias prime minister on Sunday officially launched his conservative coalitions campaign less than a week before an election in an extraordinarily personal presentation.

Scott Morrison is his governments third prime minister in the administrations six years in office and still remains relatively unknown to many Australians, who he is asking for a third three-year term when they vote on Saturday next week.

The coalitions launch in the city of Melbourne at a convention centre included recorded interviews with Morrison family members that covered his wife Jennys diagnosis with endometriosis, their 14-year failed battle to conceive through IVF before having their two daughters naturally, and Jenny Morrisons brothers struggle with multiple sclerosis.

Morrison, a policemans son, also spoke of his modest upbringing in Sydney and sharing a bedroom until he was in high school with an older brother who was studying at university.

Lifes about what you contribute, not what you accumulate. Thats what mum and dad have taught me, Morrison told a gathering of government ministers and supporters of his Liberal Party.

Morrison was joined on the stage by his mother Marion Morrison, his wife and daughters Abbey, 11, and Lily, 9. He said his father John Morrison was too frail to attend. Morrison gave his mother and wife bouquets of flowers to acknowledge Mothers Day in Australia.

Morrison also outlined government policies including support for first-home buyers to help them enter the housing market.

The government argues that the centre-left opposition Labor Partys policy of reducing tax breaks for landlords would steepen a current downturn in house prices in major cities.

Morrison described the election as a choice between him and opposition leader Bill Shorten as prime minister.

The choice between a government that knows how to manage money, has returned the budget to surplus and will now pay down debt, Morrison said. Or Bill Shorten and Labor, whose reckless spending and higher taxes will put all of that risk at the worst possible time.

The government in April outlined an economic plan that would balance the books in the next fiscal year for the first time in 12 years. Labor has promised to deliver bigger budget surpluses by reducing tax breaks for landlords and some shareholders.

The bitter divisions within the Liberal Party that thrust Morrison into power in August last year were still evident at the launch on Sunday.

None of the three surviving former Liberal prime ministers attended. John Howard is Australias second-longest serving prime minister who spent 11 years in office until his government was defeated at elections in 2007. Tony Abbott spent three years in office before he was dumped by party colleagues in 2015 in the face of dismal opinion polling. He was replaced by Malcolm Turnbull, who was similarly dumped by colleagues last year.

By contrast, three of the four surviving Labor prime ministers attended Shortens Labor campaign launch a week earlier. The oldest, Bob Hawke, 89, sent his apologies.

Morrison is hoping his personal charisma will persuade people to vote for his Liberal Party candidates, but opinion polls suggest they prefer Labor despite misgivings about Shorten as leader.

Shorten is a former labour union leader who turned 52 on Sunday. Morrison is a former tourism marketer who turns 51 on Monday. Both were first elected to Parliament at the 2007 election that ended Howards government and decades of relative political stability.

Shorten addressed a campaign rally in Melbourne on Sunday in which he focused on Labors pledge to reduce Australias greenhouse gas emissions by 45% below 2005 levels by 2030. The government has committed to reduce emissions by 26% to 28% in the same time frame. Climate change did not feature in Morrisons launch.

Opinion polls suggest that climate change is a growing concern for voters, but is a divisive policy issue among the conservatives who are split between those who give priority to reducing emissions and those who want the lowest possible power prices.

There are now six days to win this election, end the chaos and change the country for the better, Shorten said in his own Melbourne seat.The only way the Liberals will learn to take climate change seriously is to lose this election.
By PTI

NEW DELHI: Senior BJP leader Prakash Javadekar on Saturday accused the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) of dropping anti-corruption crusader Anna Hazare like a "hot potato" after coming to power.

A day ahead of the Lok Sabha polls in Delhi, Javadekar showed a purported video of Hazare, in which the activist claimed that Delhi Chief Minister and AAP supremo Arvind Kejriwal after coming to power has not once met him.

Hazare, in the video, can also be heard saying that "power and money can make people do anything. Earlier (during the anti-corruption movement) he (Kejriwal) used to say that he will not take salary.His mind has distracted since he got power." The AAP emerged from Hazare's anti-corruption movement in 2011, but when they got power "they dropped Hazare like a hot potato", Javadekar alleged.

In late 2012, Kejriwal and a number of other leaders of the movement announced the formation of the AAP to fight the 2013 Delhi assembly elections, but Hazare decided not to join them.

ALSO READ| Its going to be a positive pro-incumbency vote: Prakash Javadekar

Javadekar also sought an answer from Kejriwal on claims of AAP West Delhi candidate Balbir Singh Jakhar's son who said the AAP supremo sold the seat for Rs 6 crore to his father. "Today, the AAP and Kejriwal need to answer. His (Jakhar's) son has alleged that Rs 6 crore was paid for getting the ticket and similar charges were levelled during the Rajya Sabha elections. Kejriwal cannot remain silent, he has to answer," he said.

FOLLOW OUR ELECTION COVERAGE HERE

The Union HRD minister also sought an apology from Kejriwal for blaming the BJP for an attack on him during a roadshow. "Everytime he (Kejriwal) gets attacked he blames the BJP, but it turns out that the man behind the attack comes from his own party. So these are the dramatics that he engages into. He should apologise to the BJP," he said.

Javadekar also questioned the silence of Kejriwal over the recent controversy surrounding Congress leader Sam Pitroda's "so what" remark on the 1984 anti-Sikh riots. "The whole country condemned the comments of Pitroda but he remains silent on the issue," he said. Javadekar was joined by Delhi BJP president Manoj Tiwari in attacking Kejriwal, who said he worries about the safety of Jakhar's son.
KORAKOU, Cyprus - Before Cyprus gained fame as the mythical birthplace of the goddess of love Aphrodite nearly three millennia ago, Cyprus was known around the Mediterranean for its perfumes, scents that the mighty queens of Egypt coveted.

What appears to have distinguished the Cypriot fragrances was the quality of the rich olive oil in which the ancient perfumers captured the musky scent of indigenous oak moss, citrusy bergamot and labdanum or rockrose. This was done through a distillation process using clay vases of exacting dimensions.

Perfume is the symbol of life, said Maria Rosaria Belgiorno, a retired professor with Italys National Council for Research whose own archaeological digs on the east Mediterranean island 15 years ago unearthed the oldest perfumery of the Bronze Age.

Perfumes hide the smell of the dead and of decay. They, according to Belgiorno, have a spiritual connection to life.

And that connection is one of the motivations behind a new perfume theme park nestled in Cyprus verdant Solea valley, which allows visitors to recreate those ancient perfumes in the traditional way, with replicas of the ancient clay distillers extracting the scents from the locally grown herbs over an open fire.

Belgiorno says evidence to the popularity of Cyprus fragrances is found in a reference to a Cypriot perfume merchant inscribed on 4,000 year-old tablets found in the ancient Greek city of Thebes. That reference pre-dates the emergence of the deity Aphrodite, meaning Cyprus was famous for its perfumes before it gave birth to the ancients love goddess.

The origins of perfume-making are believed to date back to 5,000 B.C. in ancient Mesopotamia, where archaeological digs in the early 20th century near the city of Mosul in modern-day Iraq turned up the first evidence of such activity.

From there, perfume-making migrated to Anatolia and then to the Mediterranean and beyond, with perfumeries discovered in such diverse places as Sardinia and Slovakia.

It was a long journey to perfumes modern spiritual home in France.

For thousands of years, Cypriots  from the highest echelons of nobility to the average commoner  produced and used perfumes. The popularity of those fragrances carried through the ancient Egyptians to the Templars, medieval Venetian merchants and up to the present. Early on in the last century, famed French perfumer Francois Coty created the perfume Chypre  French for Cyprus  which is one of the seven main perfume groups and the only one that bears the name of a place.

The Italian Research National Council, along with Belgiorno, has teamed up with the Lazarou family that runs a successful herbal business to build the park which rests on a parcel of the familys farmland near the village of Korakou.

The park puts on display a range of working replicas including those from the earliest known perfumery in the Mesopotamian Tepe Gawra settlement, from the Minoan era on Crete  of Minotaur fame  and of course from Cyprus.

Distillers hailing from different areas vary, but are identical in their simplicity and ingenuity. The herbs boil at the bottom with the steam rising to the domed top where it condenses into a liquid that flows through a bamboo reed into vases. The design has proven so successful that distillers identical to those found in Tepe Gawra are now producing rose water in Iran, said Belgiorno.

Although the perfume park was inaugurated late last year and is still a work in progress, word is spreading. A group of University of Cyprus archaeology students led by the universitys archaeological research unit head Vasiliki Kassianidou visited the park for a hands-on demonstration on ancient distillation techniques.

Even a new luxury hotel in Cyprus southern coastal resort town of Limassol will encourage guests to visit the park for a unique experience.

We wanted to show future generations how their ancestors produced fragrances and used herbs for food as well as for medicine, said Yiannoula Lazarou, on whose property the park is built.

That is a spiritual connection to life, too.
LISBON, Portugal - The Latest on mass migration to Europe (all times local):

7:30 p.m.

Cyprus authorities say a police vessel has rescued 14 people believed to be migrants in waters approximately 53 kilometres (33 miles) off the island nations southeastern tip.

The Cyprus Joint Rescue Coordination Center said it received an emergency call Sunday afternoon from a merchant ship that had spotted a small boat off Cape Greco.

The police vessel brought aboard all the passengers, who included a pregnant woman and three children, and took them to the port of Larnaca.

Authorities didnt reveal the nationalities of the rescued passengers or where their boat set sail from.

Cyprus lies around 170 kilometres (100 miles) west of Syrias coast and 230 kilometres (140 miles) west of Lebanon.

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11:50 a.m.

Spanish authorities say 52 migrants have climbed a guarded fence to gain entry into Spains North African enclave of Melilla from Morocco.

An official with the Spanish Interior Ministry in Melilla says four police officer and one migrant sustained light injuries as the group scaled the high fence around dawn Sunday.

The official spoke on condition of anonymity, in line with government rules.

Spains proximity to North Africa has made it a target for migrants trying to reach the European Union. The migrants try to get in either by land via Spains two North African enclaves or by crossing the Mediterranean Sea in small boats.

Spain became the leading entry point to Europe last year, with some 60,000 migrants arriving irregularly, almost all of them by sea.
TEHRAN, Iran - Iranian authorities shut down a reformist magazine that had urged negotiations with the United States, local media reported Sunday.

The weekly magazine Seda was handed a suspension order Saturday by a court in Tehran, the reformist newspaper Arman reported.

Sedas most recent front page had shown a U.S. aircraft carrier fleet and the caption At the crossroads between war and peace.

The magazine called for high-level engagement between the U.S. and Iran, warning that closing the strategic Strait of Hormuz, an occasional Iranian threat, would lead to widespread war.

A third of all oil traded by sea passes through the strait, which lies at the narrow mouth of the Persian Gulf.

Recent U.S. military deployments to the Persian Gulf, including an aircraft carrier strike group, have raised tensions with Iran. Tehran has also begun setting its own deadlines over its unraveling nuclear deal that President Donald Trump pulled America out of a year ago.

The hard-line Iranian newspaper Kayhan criticized Sedas reporting as parroting the voice of Trump through the mouths of reformists.

Also Sunday, Irans parliament held a closed session to discuss recent developments in the Persian Gulf, state TV reported. The head of the elite Revolutionary Guard, Gen. Hossein Salami, spoke about the increased U.S. military presence, but the broadcast did not give specific details.

After the session, a prominent lawmaker said Salami had assured parliament that Irans military is strong enough to deter any U.S. threats, which Salami called psychological warfare.

Heshmatollah Falahatpisheh, who heads the influential parliamentary committee on national security and foreign policy, told the official IRNA news agency that Iran isnt looking to deepen the crisis. He said the U.S. position will weaken with time, and that there are currently no grounds for negotiations with Washington.

On Friday, Iran rejected a request by Trump for talks, after the president said hed like Iranian leaders to call me.

John Bolton, Trumps hawkish national security adviser, announced the deployment of the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier and its strike group on May 5 over troubling and escalatory indications and warnings that still have not been specified. Irans Shiite theocracy views the presence of U.S. forces ringing its country with suspicion.

The U.S. re-imposed sanctions on Iran in November after pulling out of the nuclear deal between Iran and world powers.
DAMASCUS, Syria - Insurgents fired rockets into a government-held Christian town in northwestern Syria on Sunday, killing six people, including five children who were playing near a monastery and wounding several others, state media and a local priest said.

State TV said the shelling just before noon caused widespread material damage to the town of Suqailabiyah. It said the dead also included a 35-year-old woman.

State news agency SANA said Syrian troops had retaliated by firing shells toward insurgents positions on the southern edge of Idlib province, the last major rebel stronghold in the country. Al-Qaida-linked Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, or HTS, is the main insurgent group in the area.

Priest Maher Haddad told The Associated Press by telephone from Suqailabiyah that a rocket struck near a group of children, instantly killing five and wounding others. He said the woman was killed in a nearby street by a separate rocket.

The kids went out to play after some days of calm, Haddad said, since the town had not targeted for days by insurgents who were pushed further north by the Syrian army.

The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, an opposition war monitor, also reported that six people were killed, adding that eight others, including six children were wounded.

The Observatory said government shelling of a rebel-held village to the north killed one person and wounded others.

The insurgent enclave has been rocked by a wave of violence since April 30, killing and wounding dozens while forcing some 150,000 people to flee their homes in rebel-held areas. Idlib is home to some 3 million people, many of them displaced from other parts of the country.

Syrian troops have been on the offensive under the cover of airstrikes for days, capturing several strategic locations and villages.

Sundays deaths are another blow to a cease-fire reached in September between Russia and Turkey. The truce avoided a government offensive on Idlib.

Turkeys official Anadolu news agency on Sunday reported Turkish military deployments in southeastern Kilis province and southern Hatay province, both bordering Syria. The fresh commando and armoured vehicle deployments were to reinforce border units, according to the agency.

The Observatory said that since the latest wave of violence began late last month 297 people have been killed.

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Mroue reported from Beirut.
WASHINGTON - A writer on the verge of releasing her debut novel is facing a backlash after she posted a picture on Twitter of a public transit worker eating on a train and reported details about the woman to her bosses.

Natasha Tynes apologized a day later on Twitter and deleted her post before making her account private, but the publishing house distributing her novel dropped her and her publisher delayed the planned release of the book.

The response to Fridays post was almost immediate, with people upset that Tynes, who is Jordanian American and has called herself a minority writer, would shame a black woman and possibly cause her to lose her job.

Tynes post showed the woman in her work uniform eating on the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority train. The authority doesnt allow drinking or eating on its trains and buses, although officials on Wednesday had advised police officers to stop issuing tickets for those violations.

When youre on your morning commute & see @wmata employee in UNIFORM eating on the train I thought we were not allowed to eat on the train. This is unacceptable. Hope @wmata responds, Tynes wrote.

When the authoritys Twitter account reached out for more information, Tynes replied with the time, the train and the direction it was travelling, The Washington Post reported.

Tynes did something truly horrible today in tweeting a picture of a metro worker eating her breakfast on the train this morning and drawing attention to her employer. Black women face a constant barrage of this kind of inappropriate behaviour directed toward them and a constant policing of their bodies, Tynes publishing house, Rare Birds Books, said in a statement.

Tynes publisher, California Coldblood, also issued a statement, saying we do not condone her actions and hope Natasha learns from this experience that black women feel the effects of systematic racism the most and that we have to be allies, not oppressors.

The publisher said it was postponing the release of Tynes novel while we further discuss appropriate next steps to officially cancel. The novel, They Called Me Wyatt, is about a murdered Jordanian student whose consciousness ends up in the body of a baby boy who as an adult tries to figure out what happened with her death.

When The Associated Press called Tynes on Sunday, she said no thank you, Im not going to comment.

Metro officials didnt respond to questions about whether the employee faced any discipline.

An official with the union for Metro workers said the woman was taking a meal break while going from one job to another.

Metro operators have an average of 20 minutes to consume a meal and get to their next access point to ensure all buses and trains are on time, safe, and ready to serve the riding public, said Barry Hobson, the chief of staff for the Metro workers union, Amalgamated Transit Union Local 689.

Hobsons statement referenced a Wednesday email from the Metro Transit police chief telling officers to stop writing tickets for fare evasion, eating, drinking, spitting and playing music without headphones until further notice.

Understanding this email, our operator clearly was doing no wrong, Hobsons statement said.
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. - An armed group in New Mexico whose leader faces federal firearms possession charges drew national attention last month for detaining asylum-seeking Central American families near the U.S.-Mexico border.

Its not the first time an armed militia patrolled the border amid immigration and racial tensions. Throughout U.S. history, private, armed groups have been hired or appointed themselves to police the U.S-Mexico border for a variety of reasons  from preventing black slaves from fleeing to stopping Chinese immigrants from crossing over illegally.

A look at the history of armed groups patrolling the border:

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SLAVE PATROLS

After the Mexican-American War, slave-hunting groups began monitoring the border between Texas and Mexico and watching for black slaves who had run away.

Slavery had been abolished in Mexico, and slaves from as far as Alabama sought to escape to Mexico through the southern Underground Railroad before the U.S. Civil War.

Historians say the armed horsemen sometimes went into Mexico illegally to try to capture runaway slaves but were met with resistance from the Mexican government and people. Mexico refused to return the slaves who fled there.

University of Texas doctoral candidate Maria Esther Hammack has documented how Mexican Americans helped runaway slaves avoid the patrols and escape to Mexico in the mid-1800s.

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THE TEXAS RANGERS

The Texas Rangers were recommissioned after the U.S. Civil War. Although the group was known for fighting Native American tribes and alleged bandits, historians say it also functioned as a private militia on behalf of wealthy landowners and ranchers concerned about cattle and horse thefts.

During the early 1900s, the Texas Rangers operated with impunity along the Texas-Mexico border on the grounds that they were protecting U.S. residents from Mexican outlaws who would cross over and raid ranches. But, according to historians, the Texas Rangers often attacked Mexican Americans in Texas border towns, raiding homes without warrants, torturing suspects and sometimes killing innocent people.

Tensions were especially high during the Mexican Revolution as refugees attempted to cross over and escape the violence. In 1919, the Texas Rangers executed 15 Mexican American men and boys from Porvenir, Texas, in what would later be called the Porvenir Massacre. None of the Rangers would serve any jail time and the massacre would later lead to reforms.

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CESAR CHAVEZ AND THE WET LINE

After World War II, many Mexican American civil rights leaders openly expressed alarm at the growing number of Mexican immigrants coming into the U.S. illegally. They also felt white businessmen and ranchers used the immigrants to keep the wages of Mexican Americans low because they couldnt unionize. Cesar Chavez, the co-founder of the United Farm Workers, believed white growers used Mexican immigrants as strikebreakers.

In 1973, members of the United Farm Workers under the guidance of Chavezs cousin, Manuel, set up a wet line along the U.S.-Mexico border near San Luis, Arizona, to halt Mexican migration. (The term wet refers to a racial epithet aimed at Mexican immigrants.) Manuel erected 17 tents along a 25-mile (40-kilometre) stretch of the border and had members physically attack migrants. The Yuma Daily Sun newspaper reported that cars were torched, men were beaten with a plastic hose and one man claimed attackers burned the soles of his feet.

Miriam Pawel, in her 2014 book The Crusades of Cesar Chavez: A Biography, wrote that the Mexican labour federation  the Confederacion de Trabajadores de Mexico  broke with the United Farm Workers and denounced the wet lines as a campaign of terror. The labour groups leader, Francisco Modesto, said hundreds of beatings occurred and two men were castrated.

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WHITE SUPREMACISTS

In 1977, then-Ku Klux Klan national director David Duke announced that members of the white supremacist group would patrol the U.S.-Mexico border. He said armed members would assist the U.S. Border Patrol in stopping immigrants from getting into the U.S. illegally.

The U.S. Border Patrol in the 1990s under then-President Bill Clinton, a Democrat, increased enforcement in urban areas like El Paso, Texas, and San Diego, and migrants started shifting their path through the Arizona desert, prompting militias to form. The groups were accused of unlawfully detaining Latinos, and in some cases, physically attacking them.

Among those forming was the Minuteman Civil Defence Corps founded by Chris Simcox and J. T. Ready, a former neo-Nazi. The group urged citizens to take it upon themselves to guard the region.

Glenn Spencer also created the American Border Patrol in southern Arizona and touted it as a shadow Border Patrol. The Southern Poverty Law Center lists the American Border Patrol as an extremist group.

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Russell Contreras is a member of The Associated Press race and ethnicity team. Follow him on Twitter at http://twitter.com/russcontreras .
BOISE, Idaho - Two Boise city parks are being renamed to honour Native Americans from the local past.

The Boise City Council voted unanimously on the name changes Tuesday. With that vote, Quarry View Park will be renamed Eagle Rock Park and Castle Rock Reserve will be renamed Chief Eagle Eye Reserve, Idaho Press reported .

The council also voted unanimously on a resolution that reasserts the citys directives to honour contributions to the area by indigenous people.

Eagle Rock is the traditional name of a balancing rock above Quarry View Park, and significant site for tribes in what is now Treasure Valley. Eagle Eye was chief of a band of 70 Weiser Shoshone who moved to the mountains of Idaho secretly in 1878 instead of relocating to a reservation.

More than a dozen members of various tribes were in the audience when the City Council voted on the name changes.

Lori Edmo, a member of the Shoshone-Bannock tribe, thanked the city.

Its important to honour our ancestors, our tribal elders and our people and let them know that we will never forget them, because this is our homeland, she said.

Boise Mayor Dave Bieter said the name changes are a big step in honouring the history of Idahos indigenous people.

We know this is late in coming, but we also recognize that it is an important thing to do, Bieter said. I hope you dont see this as a culmination of things but another step along the road of a closer and warmer and more fulfilling relationship for all of us.

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Information from: Idaho Press, http://www.idahopress.com
LOS ANGELESFour years ago, a public health nightmare unfolded in California: A person with measles visited Disneyland during the holiday season, likely exposing thousands to the highly contagious disease. Over the next few weeks, more than 145 people across several states and three countries were diagnosed with measles.

In response, California declared war on the disease. Legislators barred parents from opting out of vaccines due to their personal beliefs. The state cracked down on schools with low immunization rates and even took on one of the doctors most popular among anti-vaccine parents in California.

This year, as other parts of the country struggle with measles outbreaks, California is much more protected. Though more than 750 people have been diagnosed with measles in the United States this year, only 42 of those cases, or less than 6 per cent, are in the state, which is home to about 12 per cent of the U.S. population.

To some, California is now a model for the rest of the nation in how to tackle the disease in an era of vaccine misinformation fuelled by social media that has posed a major challenge to maintaining public health.

If the entire continental U.S. instituted Californias current law, I think the U.S. would have a very low risk of measles outbreaks, said Matthew Woodruff, a post-doctoral fellow and immunologist at Emory Universitys Vaccine Research Center, Youre still going to get enclave communities that are going to be at risk, but I think that the fear of (measles) spreading city to city, like its doing now, would be cut drastically. ... California did the right thing.

This years outbreak has been a wake-up call for some communities that have watched with alarm as the disease spread. Californias experience during the Disneyland outbreak was much the same, exposing how the states vaccination rates had fallen as a growing number of parents chose not to immunize their children out of fear of the shots side effects.

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Though Californias law applies to all schoolchildren, it in effect targeted mostly affluent parents who were choosing to opt out of the law because of their personal beliefs, using their resources to fend off vaccination, Woodruff said.

Those communities are still finding loopholes, experts say. But three years after the law took effect, there is evidence that making vaccines compulsory works.

Sen. Richard Pan, D-Sacramento, who wrote the states strict vaccination law, said Californians are still at risk of catching measles when they travel, or from people visiting from other states. The good news is that thanks to what weve done so far, it seems like none of these individual instances have really taken hold in a way where they have blossomed into an outbreak, Pan said.

In 2000, measles was declared eliminated in the United States. At the time, enough Americans were vaccinated against the disease that officials believed it would be very difficult for it to spread here.

But then vaccination rates began to drop as fears of side effects took root, especially in California. One of the most contagious diseases in the world, measles is the first to come back when vaccine coverage falls, experts say. Whereas someone with the Ebola virus is likely to infect two other people, one person with measles can be expected to infect 12 to 18. The only way to prevent an outbreak, scientists say, is to rely on what is called herd immunity.

If enough of the population is vaccinated, a single case of measles wont be able to spread in a community. High vaccination rates protect unvaccinated people too, including babies who are too young to get the measles shot, people who cant get the vaccine for medical reasons and others for whom the vaccine doesnt work. Doctors say roughly 95% of a community needs to be vaccinated to achieve herd immunity for measles. In late 2014, when measles began to spread at Disneyland, Californias rate had fallen below that.

The states measles immunization rate among kindergartners reached a low of 92.3 per cent in 2013, fuelled by parents opting out of vaccines for their children.

So legislators decided to address that. Despite major pushback from some parents, the state passed SB 277, a law that banned parents from citing personal beliefs as reason not to vaccinate their children.

Now parents must have a medical excuse signed by a doctor to get out of vaccines. California, Mississippi and West Virginia are the only three states with such a law.

In the 2017-18 school year, Californias measles, mumps and rubella vaccination rate reached 96.9 per cent, according to state data.

Though the law applies only to schoolchildren, its effects have likely been more widespread, Pan said.

The discussion in the public sphere that took place around SB 277, and then the public health campaign that resulted ... has overall helped increase awareness and increase vaccination rates, he said.

Still, Californias law hasnt been a silver bullet.

Though parents are unable to secure personal-belief exemptions, many have turned to medical exemptions to excuse their kids from their required shots.

In some schools in California, more than 50 per cent of kindergartners still dont have all of their required shots. Half of Californias 58 counties have vaccination rates below the 95 per cent threshold required for herd immunity.

Just because the overall state measles vaccination rate is high, that doesnt mean that schools with low vaccination rates arent at risk, experts say. If it hits one of those pockets, then the outbreak can pick up steam, Pan said.

It seems that some parents have found doctors who will write them suspect medical exemptions from vaccines. Physicians have been accused of writing exemptions because a child has asthma or psoriasis. Though vaccination rates have gone up, so too have medical exemption rates.

I think people are shopping around a little bit for physicians, and theyre finding them, Woodruff said.

California legislators are weighing a bill that would force the state to track each medical exemption, in an attempt to tamp down on fraudulent ones.

Since the 2015 vaccination law was passed, only one California physician has been sanctioned for fraudulently writing medical exemptions. Orange County-based pediatrician Dr. Bob Sears was put on probation last year for excusing a 2-year-old from all vaccines.

The new bill, also written by Pan, 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. Currently doctors can excuse a child from vaccines for any reason they deem appropriate.

In West Virginia, each medical exemption must be vetted by the public health department. That states medical exemption rate is half of Californias.

The so-called physician who, for money, will write these bogus exemptions thats terrible, but nevertheless, we have an overall (vaccination) rate higher than most of the country, said Dr. James Cherry, a UCLA expert on infectious diseases.

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MINOT, N.D. - An imitation B-52 bomber and an oil derrick will be showcased in the proposed Magic City Discovery Center in Minot, according to recently unveiled concept plans.

Mark Lyman, board president of the childrens museum, said the project has raised nearly two-thirds of the $7 million needed for the three-story, 22,000-square-foot (around 2,000-square meter) facility, the Minot Daily News reported.

Lyman added that groundbreaking will happen on a hill just south of the Minot airport once the project has raised 75 to 80% of the intended funding target.

Engineering and Architectural consulting firm Ackerman-Estvold, steered by project architect Paul Breiner, is handling the building design. Chicago-areas MindSplash and POW! from Long Island, New York, are in charge of designing the museums exhibits.

Paul Orselli, chief instigator with POW!, detailed a 35-foot (roughly 10-meter) climbing structure with a B-52 at the top that will be viewed through the multi-story glassed-in atrium.

This will be literally the centerpiece conceptually and physically of the new Magic City Discovery Center, he said. It is framed along themes that are reflective of Minot. So you start at the bottom with things related to the ground and the underground. You move up onto structures that are built on the earth  things like trestles or oil derricks.

There will be three floors in the new building, each with different exhibit galleries, Orselli added.

Becky Lindsay, MindSplash creative director, noted potential features of the central floors Spark!Lab, Math and Patterns, Air Forces and Playscapes exhibits. Potential choices are a tennis ball launcher, homemade bottle rockets, paper airplane launch, a flight tunnel for testing, origami and a Mr. Potato Head house that teaches coding. There will be a Whoosh, comparable to one that was in the temporary museum but much bigger.

It will be very complex, Lindsay said. Things in these galleries will be wonderful for very small kids but also wonderful for the adults.

The second floor will be dedicated to music, a digital play area and building and move displays. The digital exhibit will be deeply engaging and full-body.

We dont want people sitting down in front of a screen, Orselli said. This is a different way to think about digital technology.

The museums lower level will place an emphasis on water, light and originality.

___

Information from: Minot Daily News, http://www.minotdailynews.com
NEW ORLEANS - Mississippi authorities rescued a man clinging to a tree and another man and his 4-year-old child from the roof of a submerged pickup truck as heavy rains caused flooding in the state and in neighbouring Louisiana.

New Orleans residents awoke to flooded streets Sunday and the Mississippi Highway Patrol closed part of a highway due to heavy rains that also may have contributed to a freight train derailment.

A flash flood warning was extended for New Orleans and surrounding parishes until 1 p.m. Sunday as strong storms with heavy rain moved through the area. Photos published in Nola.com|The Times-Picayune showed partially submerged vehicles and people wading through ankle-deep water.

Mississippi Gov. Phil Bryant tweeted on Sunday that he had signed a state of emergency declaration for all areas affected by the storms.

The Sun-Herald reported that first responders worked overnight from Saturday into Sunday, sometimes using boats, to rescue people in northern Harrison County in Mississippi.

County Fire Chief Pat Sullivan told the newspaper that one man was clinging to a tree after floodwaters swept his car off a road and another man and his 4-year-old child were rescued from the roof of their submerged pickup truck.

Sullivan, like authorities in other affected states, urged people to use caution and not to drive through floodwaters.

Flooding caused the Mississippi Highway Patrol to close part of Highway 49 in Stone County Sunday morning, and dozens of residents in Stone and Pearl River counties were forced from their homes by high water, news outlets reported. The flooding may also have contributed to the derailment of a freight train near Lumberton a little after 7 a.m. Saturday.

The derailment, in Pearl River County, happened as the train travelled from Birmingham, Alabama, to New Orleans, said Norfolk Southern spokeswoman Rachel McDonnell Bradshaw. Three of the cars were carrying steel and 25 were empty, Bradshaw said. She said no hazardous materials were involved and no injuries were reported. The cause of the derailment is under investigation, but WLOX-TV quoted authorities as saying the roads near the derailment were flooded over.

The New Orleans Sewerage and Water Board tweeted that more than 2 inches (51 millimeters) of rain fell between 5:15 a.m. and 6:15 a.m., outpacing the citys drainage system.

New Orleans suspended restrictions on parking shortly before 6 a.m. and encouraged residents to park on high ground.

The storms also caused power outages. As of about 9:40 a.m., several thousand Entergy customers were without power across Orleans, Jefferson, St. Charles and East Baton Rouge parishes.
Harpreet Bajwa By

Express News Service

BJPs nationalism is fake. It is not even skin-deep, says former Union minister and AICC spokesman Manish Tewari, in an exclusive with us.

Excerpts from the interview:

Is the nationalism narrative after the Balakot airstrike working to the advantage of the BJP? How is Congress countering this narrative?

This is BJPs pseudo-nationalism, something which the people have seen in the past five years. If the PM was truly the nationalist he claims to be, he would have found five minutes to pay tributes at the memorial of Shaheed Bhagat Singh. His nationalism is fake. Its not even skin-deep. The fact is, they want to use nationalism as a political prop but fortunately the roots of nationalist struggle run so deep in the DNA of the Indian people that they can identify imposters like the PM. We do not need to counter the PM. The more he tries to use armed forces and the operations executed by them for political purposes, the more would it disgust people.

The Congress claimed that six surgical strikes were carried out during its rule but PM Modi dismissed it. What do you have to say?

The PM thinks that the history of India started on May 26, 2014 when he came to power. Its not correct. He is not the first PM to authorise cross border raids. The fact is that since 1998, border actions have been a constant. If PM Narendra Modi feels only he could conduct such strikes, its a measure of his intellectual bankruptcy as well as an insult to the armed forces.

FOLLOW OUR ELECTION COVERAGE HERE

Masood Azhar was declared a global terrorist and the BJP believes the Congress did nothing to get him tagged.

Who took Masood Azhar to Kandahar and released him? BJP is responsible for freeing him and for the creation of his Jaish-e-Mohammad, thereafter. Had the BJP handled the Air India hijack properly and prevented the aircraft from taking off from Amritsar, Azhar would not have been what he is. They could have also ensured some action in Dubai. It was the mishandling of BJP which created Masood Azhar. They should own responsibility.

The BJP is projecting Prime Minister Narendra Modi as the strongman who alone had the courage to take on Pakistan, which Manmohan Singh could not do during his tenure. Do you agree?

The Pakistan policy of the NDA government in the past five years is a pathetic story of flip-flops, about turns, somersaults and back-flips. The PM has sold national interest in the bazaars of Lahore by going uninvited to Nawaz Sharifs home and getting attacked in Pathankot in return. It was for the first time in our history that the ISI was called to examine its own handiwork after the Pathankot attack. PM Narendra Modi has messed up the entire neighbourhood. Messed up diplomatically in Nepal and little Maldives, both of which are now wishing away India. Sri Lanka has slowly and consistently drifted into the Chinese orbit and the Pakistan policy is in smithereens.

Why has the campaign for Lok Sabha seats turned so acrimonious?

This is not something unique to this campaign. The fact is that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has lowered the level of political discourse over the past five years. If you recall, the PM targeted leaders of the Opposition by racking up domestic political issues on his visits abroad as early as 2014, immediately after he became PM. When he uses every forum to take cheap shots on leaders of opposition, the level of discourse was bound to come down. For example, when the national war memorial was inaugurated, he used even that solemn occasion to hit out at Sonia and Rahul Gandhi.

Congress has been claiming that during the NDA rule unemployment has increased with 5 crore jobless persons. If your party or alliance comes to power, what strategy would you have to tackle this problem?

Jobs are created as economy grows. Today, you have a Finance Minister who understands as much about economy as I understand animal husbandry. You have a PM who has bizarre and crazy ideas to run the fiscal and monetary policies of the country.

The Congress has tried to play the soft Hindutva card as it tried to change its pro-Muslim image. Rahul Gandhi had been visiting temples.

We were never pro-Muslim. We are a secular party and so we believe in visiting and paying obeisance at every place of worship which people hold in respect. So it is a manifestation of our belief in secularism.

If the Congress comes to power, Rahul Gandhi has promised each of Indias poorest 20% families would get a minimum yearly income of Rs 72,000? How do you propose to implement it?

It is a minimum guarantee scheme. We will find the Rs 3.50 lakh crore within the budget without raising taxes to fund it.
The moment Anna Lee Fisher had been waiting for came on a hot summer afternoon in 1983. Five years had passed since Fisher and five other women were chosen to become Americas first female astronauts. But she hadnt yet been to space.

Her boss asked to see her in his office. He requested that her husband, who was also in the astronaut training program, come along, too. They sat down at his desk together.

Im thinking, her boss said, of sending Anna.

This was what Fisher, then 33 years old, had wanted. There was only one little thing to consider  and it was currently growing inside her. On the day she was asked to climb into a shuttle and be blasted into the solar system, Fisher was eight and a half months pregnant.

She still didnt hesitate.

I wasnt about to say no, she said last month in an interview with The Washington Post. You dont say no to that offer.

And that was how Anna Fisher became the worlds first mother to go to space. A few weeks after being chosen for a flight, Fisher gave birth to a daughter, Kristin.

She will soon mark the 35th anniversary of her flight, the day she became an inspirational figure to working moms everywhere  including to her daughter. Kristin is now a District of Columbia-based correspondent for Fox News and the mother of a 16-month old girl.

I always grew up thinking I could have a demanding full-time job and be a mom, Kristin said. The example that she set for me, it was never a question. It wasnt until I got pregnant and started thinking about the logistics that I started thinking, How did she do this? 

The answer is something Anna Fisher had to figure out fast. She gave birth to Kristin on a Friday. By Monday, she was back at NASA, carrying the doughnut-shaped pillow that would make it possible to sit down for the team meeting.

She wanted to send a message to her male co-workers and bosses: She might have had a baby, but she was still on the job.

It was worth it just to see the looks on their faces, she recalled.

Fisher had always planned to have a family and even told the selection committee for the astronaut training program of that plan during her interview. She and her husband, Bill, were emergency room doctors in California in 1977 when they applied to NASAs open call for potential astronauts. Bill wouldnt get in for another two years. But Fisher, at 28 years old, made the cut and moved to Houston.

There were six women in the class of 35 new astronauts  all of whom were determined to ensure their male colleagues treated them as equally qualified. Sally Ride, who would become the first American woman in space, went shopping with Fisher for baggy khaki pants so they would be wearing outfits similar to NASAs men. Fisher never wore makeup at work. She attended the astronauts spouses club, so that her colleagues wives wouldnt feel uneasy about a woman working so closely with them.

For 14 months before her flight, Fisher juggled her training and NASA obligations with caring for her new daughter. She and Bill asked her mom for help and hired a nanny. She started pointing out to reporters that the men on her flight were leaving their children behind, too.

At work, she learned how to serve as Capcom, the person in mission control who communicates with the astronauts already in orbit. It was an important role, requiring long, intense shifts  one her commander suggested she might want to give up. Youve got Kristin, youre training, its too much, he said.

Fisher begged him to reconsider, and won. Only when mission control lost the connection with the flight in orbit did Fisher run into the bathroom and pump her breast milk.

They never had pumping rooms or anything like that, Fisher remembered.  It never even occurred to me to ask for one. It never occurred to any of us to ask for special accommodations for anything.

Soon she was assigned the job of designing the crew patch that would represent her teams flight, STS-51-A. She put six stars on it: one for each astronaut aboard, and one for baby Kristin.

In the weeks before her launch in November 1984, she recorded dozens of videos of herself with Kristin. In the days before, she wrote her daughter a letter:

If anything happens to me, just know that I love you so much, it said. Your dad and your grandma will take care of you. And Ill be watching over you.

Her flight was only NASAs second trip using the space shuttle Discovery. She understood the risk she was taking.

On the day she walked out to the launch pad in Florida, her husband used his NASA access to make sure that he, Kristin and Fishers mom could be there to wave goodbye. Then Fisher climbed aboard Discovery and shot into the sky.

Her flight was a seven-day, 23-hour mission, focused on retrieving and dispatching satellites. Unlike todays astronauts, who can call and video conference their children, Fisher had no way of communicating with her family while on board. Instead, she would sit at the window of the spacecraft, looking down at Earth while playing a tape shed brought in her Walkman. It was a recording of Kristin saying, I luh, I luh. I love you.

After travelling 3.3 million miles, Fisher returned safely home. She slipped the letter she had written to Kristin in her jewelry box, grateful her daughter would never have to read it  but prepared to write another the next time she went to space.

Within a month, she was assigned to another flight. Six weeks before it was set to occur, the Challenger space shuttle exploded. One of the six people who lost their lives that day was Fishers friend Judy Resnik, whod joined the astronaut program alongside her.

After the Challenger, the shuttle program ground to a halt, and Fisher took a seven-year leave of absence to raise Kristin and have her second child, Kara.

She returned to NASA in 1996 and went on to become chief of the space station branch and one of the longest-serving astronauts in the agencys history.

Today, 50 American women have been to space, plenty of them moms. Many told Fisher that when they were kids, they wrote to her, and she mailed them a photo and an autograph.

She loved hearing them chatting to each other in NASAs halls, switching effortlessly from talk of spacewalks and mission controls to pediatricians and play dates.

In 2017, Fisher retired from NASA at age 67. The same year, she became a grandmother, and soon found herself helping her daughter navigate the same worries she had when she was a new mom. Kristins job as a Fox News correspondent means she is often asked to go on reporting trips around the country and the world.

She calls me and asks about travelling, Fisher said. I say, Do you remember when I was gone when you were that age? 

Kristin doesnt. She said her mom always asks, Are you glad that I did it? That I took the time away from you, took that risk and went into space? 

And the answer, Kristin said, is unequivocally, Yes. 

I told Kristin to not feel guilty for being away, Fisher said. If youre doing something you love, or youre bringing the money in, youre doing something important for your child.

And when she can, Grandma, or Nana Anna as Clara calls her, comes to babysit while Kristin works. In April, Fisher came to Washington to watch Clara on the evening Kristin and her husband attended the White House correspondents dinner.

They spent the weekend reading some of the books Fisher bought for her granddaughter: Organic Chemistry for Babies and Astrophysics for Babies. Then they went outside for their favourite activity. Fisher plopped Clara into a baby-size swing. She lifted her backward and began to count.

Five, four, three, two, one, she said. Blastoff.

Then she let go and watched her granddaughter swing toward the sky.
HOUSTON - The Latest on the disappearance of 4-year-old Maleah Davis (all times local):

9:50 a.m.

A prosecutor says trained dogs detected the scent of human decomposition in the vehicle of a man arrested in connection with the disappearance of a 4-year-old Texas girl.

Derion Vence remains jailed Sunday on a $1 million bond after being arrested a day earlier on a charge of tampering with evidence, specifically a human corpse.

Vence told police on May 4 that men in a truck abducted him, Maleah Davis and his 2-year-old son before freeing him and the boy. Maleah is still missing.

During a court hearing Saturday night, a prosecutor said dogs trained to find cadavers reacted to the trunk of the car Vence had claimed was taken by the kidnappers.

Police say the vehicle was used to drop Vence off at a hospital, where he first reported the abduction.

___

6 a.m.

The man who reported last weekend that 4-year-old Maleah Davis had been abducted was arrested near Houston in connection with her disappearance and police said they found her blood in his apartment.

Derion Vence, who had lived with Maleah and her mother, was arrested Saturday without incident at his brothers home in Sugar Land, Texas, about 22 miles (35 kilometres) southwest of Houston, a statement from Houston police said. A court document said he was charged with tampering with a human corpse.

Asked if police believe Vence killed Maleah, Houston police spokesman Kese Smith said: At this point in time those are the charges we have filed and I cant say any more than that.
NEW YORK - Costs for cable and video services like Netflix are rising. One alternative is a free service such as Pluto, Tubi or Popcornflix. They have ads and stream shows and movies that tend to be older, like the original Roseanne or Fight Club.

The Associated Press spoke with Bill Rouhana, CEO of Chicken Soup for the Soul, a company that owns Popcornflix and recently bought a majority stake in Sonys Crackle. (It also owns the schmaltzy namesake books.) Questions and responses have been edited for length and clarity.

Q: Why are your video apps free?

A: Netflix did the entire industry a major service by paving the way. Most people have taken to imitating what theyve done. But the statistics have shown clearly that consumers also would prefer to have an option thats free. And thats ad-supported.

Q: Who are your competitors?

A: Its Roku. Its YouTube. Its us. Its Pluto. Its Tubi. YouTube and Roku are about half together. And we are one of the dominant players in the non-Roku-YouTube half.

Q: As a user, I would like ads contained in one spot rather than sprinkled throughout a video. What do advertisers want?

A: They dont want their ad repeated over and over again in the same ad block. And they want to be watched. By having too many ads in a row you give people an opportunity to get up and go. That argues against your preference, which would have been to put them all together.

Q: Yeah, exactly, because then I could just skip them!

A: Exactly why they dont want you to do that.

Q: Whats the right number of ads to show per hour?

A: Its not just how many. Its also when. We havent settled on the right answer yet.

Q: Services like yours arent that well-known. How do people find your stuff?

A: Right now people find us by Googling free movies.

Q: So are most people watching movies rather than TV?

A: No. But Ive noticed thats the way they find us most often. When they get to the sites they start to look around. A lot of them like to watch old TV shows. They feel comfortable. Its amazing to me how many people watch Friends on Netflix.

Q: What do you think of the Federal Communications Commission no longer prohibiting Comcast, Verizon and other broadband providers from interfering with online traffic from video and other services?

A: I havent seen any impact from any of the changes, but I do wonder about it. I can see both sides of that argument. There is a cost of infrastructure, which has to be borne. We have to figure out a way to be sure the guys who are providing the infrastructure can continue to do it.
BEVERLY HILLS, Calif. - The Democrats who want to be president are swarming California, competing for campaign cash and media attention while courting longtime allies of home-state Sen. Kamala Harris on their rivals own turf.

Former Vice-President Joe Biden swooped in to Los Angeles on Wednesday to raise money and snack on tacos with Mayor Eric Garcetti, who has yet to offer an endorsement despite backing Harris in the past. Biden went to three events over two days, including one that netted $750,000 and was attended by Hollywood powerbrokers, as well as Miracle on the Hudson pilot Sully Sullenberger.

Pete Buttigieg met with labour activists and LGBT donors, and promised to vigorously contest California. The mayor of South Bend, Indiana, also attended at least six fundraisers in the Bay Area and Los Angeles, including one hosted by actress Gwyneth Paltrow.

We are consolidating our position as one of the top candidates in the presidential race, he told a sold-out crowd Thursday at a West Hollywood gay bar.

Others who have visited the state include Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders, former Texas Rep. Beto ORourke, Washington Gov. Jay Inslee, Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren, New Jersey Sen. Cory Booker and Minnesota Sen. Amy Klobuchar.

California has long been treated as an ATM by national Democrats, who often dash in and out for lucrative fundraisers. But the state has drawn a more intense focus after the date of the 2020 primary was moved up from June to March, with Harris uniquely positioned to capitalize on her home-state popularity at a make-or-break stage in the race.

Her aides have said California is central to their strategy to win the nomination, and they have promoted endorsements from elected officials as Harris plowed her way through fundraisers.

But what once seemed to be a formidable wall of support appears to have softened.

Harris has trailed others in recent state polls. Susie Tompkins Buell, a Harris backer who was one of Hillary Clintons biggest donors, has held a fundraiser and promoted others for Buttigieg. Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom, a longtime Harris ally who endorsed her, traded praise back and forth this past week with Buttigieg, who said the two were trying to set up a meeting.

I dont think its a slam dunk for anybody, said former Sen. Barbara Boxer. Its not like its a tiny state where everyone knows their senator. Its a very large state with a lot of different communities and so I think its wide open.

Harris campaign aides say they never took her standing for granted. Still, they point to her three statewide victories  once as senator and twice as attorney general  as proof she can win in California. They say Harris has worked hard to line up endorsements from state lawmakers and members of the states congressional delegation, while outraising her presidential competitors in the state.

I am competing for every vote just like I always have because as far as Im concerned you have to earn the votes, Harris told CNNs State of the Union in an interview that aired Sunday.

With months to go until voting begins, the contours of the race are destined to shift.

Many candidates, particularly those who are little-known or have little money, will be at a steep disadvantage. California is not only the most populous, but also one of the most geographically diverse. That makes campaigning difficult  and unaffordable  particularly when it comes to running TV ads in some of the most expensive media markets in the country.

It remains to be seen who will undertake a serious campaign across the state and who will rely mainly on photo opportunities built around fundraising visits.

The reality is its so hard to run for president (here) and raise money ... and what I think you are going to see is this field shrinking from 20 down to five or six, said Steve Westly, a major Silicon Valley donor raising money for Biden who also served a term as the states elected controller. Kamala is popular in California, but I think Joe is going to do surprisingly well on a lot of other peoples turf.

Whoever wins will likely face a muddled result. Though the state offers nearly 500 delegates, they are apportioned based on how candidates perform in each individual congressional district. That will allow even those who do not win to pad their margins.

Were not going to make anyone the nominee, said Dan Schnur, a former Republican strategist who now teaches at the University of Southern California. Were not going to keep anyone from being the nominee, either.

Veteran Democratic strategist Garry South said it was smart strategy for Harris advisers to try to create the impression that she had the state locked up.

I would be saying the same damn thing, he said.

But California voters have not historically favoured state politicians who ran for the presidency. Former Gov. Jerry Brown and former Sen. Alan Cranston, both Democrats, and Republican Pete Wilson, a former senator and governor, performed poorly when they were White House hopefuls.

Other than Ronald Reagan, theyve all fared very badly. Californians just dont fall in love with their politicians, said South, who managed Gray Davis winning campaigns for governor in 1998 and 2002 before voters recalled the Democrat. They elect them like they are hiring a gardener or a plumber: Do the job, do it competently and stay out of my face.

___

Associated Press writer Kathleen Ronayne in Sacramento, California, contributed to this report.
Spending $30 million on fighting the price on carbon, $132 million to break the contract with Washington and Oregon. Losing $1.9 billion in revenue by doing away with cap and trade. Putting labels on gas pumps, changing the motto on the license plates, taking over the TTC, breaking the Beer Store contract at a cost of up to $1 billion to get beer in corner stores. Getting rid of the $6-million man at a cost of $10 million plus.

Meanwhile, he is cutting education, health care, child care, welfare and the minimum wage. He is doing all this for the sake of the folks and the little people. Friends, what is he doing on the environmental front?

Nothing, even though he is the premier of the biggest province in Canada and supported by a group of clapping, hooting adults with no minds of their own.
Deficit hype conceals Ontarios dirty secret, McQuaig, May 9

Linda McQuaig has hit the nail on the head. Ford is slashing budgets to enable tax savings for the wealthy and pain for the rest of us. There are lots of social experiments that expose the weakness of Fords approach.

If you compare California and Kansas and how they changed their tax structures, it is very instructive. Kansas opted to cut taxes accompanied with agony of less social support for the payoff ecstasy of a business boom and California increased rates on the people with the highest income. The result was the California economy roared and its deficit was paid down and there was more money for social programs. Kansas had a flat economy and had less money like Ontario to pay for major endeavors like education.

If you mentioned that plan to Ford, he would shout back leftist, which appears to be his go to argument when confronted with facts. We should not let him get away with a false narrative and lift up the rock to expose his dirty little secret.
Souped-up basements renting for big bucks, May 8

I wanted to provide clarification regarding the article Souped-up basements fetching condo-style rents in Torontos heated housing market on May 8, 2019.

Contrary to the articles claims, the More Homes, More Choice Act does not propose any amendments to the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (The Act). The rules governing evictions for landlords own use and evictions for renovations, demolitions and repairs have not changed since 2017.

The Act permits the landlord to give notice of termination to a tenant if the landlord requires the unit for at least one year for their use, that of a family member or a caregiver. The landlord must provide at least 60 days notice, as well as one months rent as compensation or offer the tenant another comparable rental unit.

In the case of a renovation, the landlord must notify the tenant of their right to move back into the unit at the same rent when the renovations are completed. If a landlord fails to allow a tenant a right of first refusal, they can be fined up to $100,000 per count.
Another year, yet another unsuccessful highly public prosecution.

On Wednesday, federal prosecutors announced a stay of charges against Vice-Admiral Mark Norman, ending a four-year circus that took an untold toll on the reputation, finances and family of a career public servant with an otherwise unblemished reputation.

The decision by the Public Prosecution Service of Canada (PPSC) also had a benefit for the Liberal government. It ended the awkward prospect of a trial, which would have featured a parade of high-level cabinet ministers (current and former) along with their colleagues from the Prime Ministers Office and the Privy Council Office.

Many commentators smell a rat  a desperate measure by a government to save face ahead of an increasingly tight election. I dont share their view.

Credit where credit is due: Normans remarkable lawyer, Marie Henein and her spectacular team, robbed the PPSC of the reasonable prospect of conviction test, which the service needed to proceed.

And while Henein went out of her way to praise the integrity of the PPSC, she was not so kind to the Department of Justice and the government itself.

As Henein put it, No person in this country should ever walk into a courtroom and feel like they are fighting their elected government or any sort of political factors at all.

This whole sorry business raises serious questions as to what is going wrong with the administration of justice in this country.

Time and again, we have seen high-profile prosecutions collapse or defendants decisively acquitted. It is now clear that there are systemic problems that drive these failings, not least of which is the way investigations are prioritized by police agencies like the RCMP.

Most cases pursued by the PPSC are led by RCMP investigators, who seem to take forever. Whats more, when it comes to significant political and corporate securities cases, prosecutors, it seems, are often not equipped with the evidence they need to see the case through.

Consider the RCMPs three-year investigation of Sen. Mike Duffy. Years after his suspension from the Senate, Justice Charles Vaillancourt acquitted Duffy of all counts and criticized the Crown for the deficiencies of their case. Shortly thereafter, the Crown decided not to charge Sen. Pam Wallin after another three-year probe by the RCMP.

We have seen this issue at the provincial level as well. In 2017, Gerry Lougheed and Patricia Sorbara were investigated by the OPP for more than two years for alleged bribery violations of the Election Act. The trial was highly politicized and then-Premier Wynne even travelled to Sudbury to appear as a witness. The presiding judge acquitted both Lougheed and Sorbara by way of a directed verdict, arguing that no reasonably instructed jury could convict based on the Crowns evidence.

It appears there is a common thread that runs from the Senate investigation to that of Mark Norman. Due to the highly publicized and political nature of each, the PPSC and the police forge ahead with cases that will ultimately be abandoned or blown out of the water at trial.

All too often it seems, prosecutors carry on because they are fearful of dropping these high-profile cases. They take the position that it is too risky for them to exercise their prosecutorial discretion, and theyre fond of saying, Thats what we have judges for.

In the process, precious resources are wasted, and untold harm and reputational grief inflicted on those who are accused. Not the least of which is having their lives on hold for years, and the uncertainty that accompanies that.

To be clear, broad prosecutorial discretion is a prerequisite for a healthy criminal justice system. Without wide latitude in exercising that discretion, the Director of Public Prosecutions and her colleagues would be denied the true independence on which we all depend.

But after so many false starts on the part of the PPSC, the question must be asked: at what point does the excuse of a series of unrelated occurrences stop and a troublesome pattern begin?

It is a concern that needs to be raised if the very foundation of our justice system  the publics confidence in its competency, fairness, impartiality and independence  is to be upheld.

Jaime Watt is the executive chairman of Navigator Ltd. and a Conservative strategist. He is a freelance contributor for the Star. Follow him on Twitter: @jaimewatt

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OTTAWAPoliticians are increasingly concerned that social media giants have become so big, powerful and rich that they are effectively above the law  at least in a small country like Canada.

Their concern was on display last week at a meeting of the House of Commons access to information, privacy and ethics committee, where Liberal MPs raked Google over the coals for its decision not to run any political ads during this falls federal election campaign, rather than comply with a new law that requires they keep an online ad registry.

Heres my frustration, Toronto Liberal MP Nathaniel Erskine-Smith told Google Canada representatives Jason Kee and Colin McKay.

You have a company that makes billions of dollars and looks at ... a small jurisdiction in Canada and says, Your democracy doesnt matter enough to us, were not going to participate. But if a big player decided to change the rules, I guarantee that you would follow those rules.

But we are too small for you. You are too big, you are too important and we are just not important enough for Google for you to take us seriously.

Id contest that observation, responded McKay.

He and Kee maintained the decision was strictly a technical one: Google engineers could not, in the short time frame required by the government, come up with a system that would reliably detect partisan and issue-oriented ads during the campaign and ensure they were all archived along with information identifying the source of the ads.

Following the last U.S. presidential election, when a spotlight was shone on the use of social media to spread fake news, sow dissension and manipulate the election outcome, Kee said Google created a template for political ad registries that it used in last falls U.S. midterms and will deploy in India and the European Union. But he said its not compatible with the specific requirements of the Canadian law, about which he said Google was not consulted.

Kee said Google will try to comply with the registry law by the next election in 2023.

It was clear Liberals on the committee werent buying the explanation. It was equally clear their frustration with social media giants extends well beyond Google and the political ad registry.

Quebec MP David Graham accused Google and Facebook of ignoring Canadian copyright law. And another Quebec Liberal, Frank Baylis, linked the ad registry and copyright issues, arguing that Google makes billions by posting ads on content it obtains for free because copyright law doesnt apply to social media platforms.

The minute you start controlling these ads, you move from being a platform to proof positive youre a publisher and once youre a publisher, youre subject to copyright and all that, Baylis said, maintaining thats the real reason Google has opted out of the political ad registry, not this technical mumbo-jumbo offered by the company.

Kee said that was not remotely the case.

Facebook has decided to comply with the ad registry law but the committee had another bone to pick with that company.

It adopted unanimous motions to summon Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg and COO Sheryl Sandberg to appear at the second meeting of the international grand committee on big data, privacy and democracy, which the Commons committee is hosting in Ottawa on May 28. The grand committee involves parliamentarians from Canada, the United Kingdom, Argentina, Belgium, Brazil, France, Ireland, Latvia and Singapore.

The summons came after the Facebook duo failed to respond to an invitation to appear. Zuckerberg has testified at a congressional committee in Washington following last years Cambridge Analytica scandal, in which the personal data of some 87 million Facebook users was improperly shared with the political consultancy firm. But he refused to appear at the grand committees first meeting in the U.K. and has repeatedly ignored invitations to appear before the Canadian committee to discuss Facebooks handling of Canadians private information.

Federal privacy commissioner Daniel Therrien last month concluded that Facebook violated Canadian privacy laws by failing to ensure Cambridge Analytica got clear consent to use individuals personal information. He is going to court to force Facebook  which maintains Canadians were not affected by the scandal and that it has since made dramatic improvements to protect users privacy  to comply with privacy laws.

In an interview, Erskine-Smith noted that social media giants fought against the European Unions general data protection regulation, which imposed strict new rules for protecting individuals privacy and stiff fines for companies that fail to do so. But once the law went into effect, they complied with it because the EU, unlike Canada, is a substantial jurisdiction that they cant ignore.

More recently, he said the giants have professed to be in favour of stronger, government-imposed rules on privacy and the spread of hate and misinformation. And Karina Gould, Canadas minister of democratic institutions, has been signalling that regulations are coming because shes been disappointed by social media platforms efforts to self-regulate.

But said Erskine-Smith: The problem is, unless we have global co-operation in establishing those new rules, were still going to open the door to companies saying, selectively, This jurisdiction is too small, the market isnt large enough to warrant changing our rules so were just going to ignore it.

Digital media expert Taylor Owen said thats certainly true when it comes to regulation of political ads. But he said it will be more difficult to arrive at internationally co-ordinated regulations on harmful speech and competition, where laws are much more nationally specific.

Still, Owen said theres no reason why Canada alone could not beef up its laws, as other countries have done, to impose steep fines on social media giants that violate privacy laws or dont go far enough to constrain disinformation and hateful content. And, judging by the markedly hostile tone MPs in the governing party have adopted lately, he thinks thats coming soon.

Whereas politicians initially embraced social media as a positive means to engage with voters, most western governments, including Canadas, have come to a radically different view, said Owen, Beaverbrook chair in media ethics and communication at McGill Universitys Max Bell school of public policy.

The tone and the attitude of government is fundamentally changing. There is no trust anymore, he said.

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VANCOUVERLegalization may be making it harder for cannabis users to truly understand what theyre putting in their bodies, industry insiders say.

Thats because the legal recreational industry has been limited in terms of what it can tell consumers about the properties of pot, so its turning to catchy  but vague and often meaningless  branding instead.

Cannabis laws have been modelled on those that regulate alcohol, and thats a problem, says B.C. cannabis consultant Ehren Richardson.

Alcohol is  a brand competition more than anything else, said Richardson, who is also the director of a cannabis store that is looking to become a provincially licensed recreational outlet.

Richardson says many of the grey market dispensaries the government is now trying to eliminate focused on the unique chemical and cultural properties of the different strains of cannabis, guiding customers toward the product that was, in theory, best suited for their needs.

But walk into a legal cannabis shop today and you may see brand names such as Bliss or Relax.

There is some information on the strains available. B.C.s provincial cannabis stores provide information such as which terpenes  compounds responsible for cannabiss flavour and aroma, as well as for influencing other compounds in the plant  are dominant in a given strain.

Also listed are the potential range of cannabinoids such as cannabidiol (CBD, a non-psychoactive compound thought to aid in treatment for ailments such as inflammation, pain, and cancer symptoms) and delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC, the compound responsible for the cannabis high) which a user may encounter in their cannabis.

The listed range of THC in a given recreational product, however, can be broad, with some listings only accurate to within 14 per cent.

These broad ranges have come as a shock to many cannabis users accustomed to the precise descriptions provided by grey market dispensaries, said Jamie Shaw, communications director at Pasha Brands, a cannabis brand house aimed at bringing prohibition-era craft growers into the legal stream.

Shaw argues that legalizations overwhelming emphasis on public safety has stifled decades worth of grassroots knowledge developed by generations of growers in Canada, but especially in British Columbia, the home of the world-famous B.C. bud.

Cannabis laws focused almost exclusively on keeping cannabis out of the hands of youth and criminals have created a collateral loss of valuable, anecdotal insight that, advocates say, could help guide, inform and educate customers while the scientific study of cannabis matures.

Cannabis retail workers in the legal market, meanwhile, are entirely prohibited from speaking about the product, Shaw explained.

If I ask the retailer what strains are less likely to (have a particular, undesired effect), theyre not allowed to tell me, because its not a medical product and theyre not allowed to make medical claims about it, Shaw told Star Vancouver.

But she said anyone who uses cannabis deserves access to specific, accurate information, if not expertise, given the complicated ways in which the plants compounds influence one another.

Read more: Disappearing dispensaries drive fears of painful future for cannabis patient suffering from neurological disease

Cannabis contains more than 100 cannabinoids, although few have been studied to the extent THC and CBD have.

Aside from terpenes, cannabis also contains roughly 20 known flavonoids  compounds that influence the aroma, flavour and colour of plants, and may have their own pharmacological effects  some of which can only be found in cannabis.

All of these compounds interact to produce a unique effect  a phenomenon known as the entourage effect  which means two strains containing the same THC to CBD ratio can provide wholly different user experiences.

Noah Kauffman is head of sales for Strainprint, a company that provides a digital journaling service for cannabis users. The Strainprint database allows users to track their personal experience of different cannabis strains, including how much was taken and which way it was consumed.

In the absence of conclusive and widespread science around how unique cannabis strains affect unique users, Kauffman said Strainprint aims to provide a kind of crowdsourced database to help guide consumers toward choices that will more predictably provide them with a desired experience.

Strainprint currently boasts roughly 1.2 million patient-reported outcomes, according to Kauffman, each of which relies on 56 unique data points  meaning their database is built on more than 60 million individual pieces of data.

Kauffman recounted recently looking at seven different cannabis strains, all with the same THC and CBD levels, to see how users reported their effects on muscle pain.

I had seven strains, and there was a downward-angled line for efficacy. So one was really good (at treating muscle pain), and one was really bad, he said in an interview. It was a striking example of how THC and CBD levels provide only a nominal indication of what a particular cannabis strain will do.

This underscores, he added, the importance of what he called terpene transparency  a detailed account of which compounds are present in a strain, and in what amounts.

Such transparency is especially important in the nascent recreational market, through which many newer or less-informed cannabis users are likely to encounter the plant for the first time, said Daniel Laflamme, president and co-founder of Canna Farms, a federally licensed medical cannabis producer.

Canna Farms has developed a simple colour-coding system to inform its clients which terpenes are present in its products, and in which amounts. Laflamme said this allows consumers to make educated decisions.

Having as much knowledge as possible allows cannabis consumers to make better purchasing decisions when purchasing products with known, consistent compositions, he told Star Vancouver in an email.

Failing to provide more detailed information can lead to a lack of brand integrity, he added, noting a strict emphasis on lifestyle appeal is not only a disservice to consumers, but could eventually hurt a companys bottom line. Better informed customers, he argued, are also more loyal.

If you liked the effects of a product last time you used it, you may want to continue buying it, over time becoming loyal to that brand. Repeat positive experiences  builds confidence in the consumer, he wrote.

Product knowledge provides talking points, similar to fine wine or craft beer.  With cannabis, knowing (the granular details) typically provides the consumer with a much greater attachment to the product and (will) lead them, when the results are excellent, to become a loyal client.

Richardson, the consultant, said many cannabis producers and brands have begun to invest heavily in clinical studies to ground anecdotal experience in hard science, which he called a promising thing.

But without more effort by players across the recreational market to move away from lifestyle branding exercises and toward a culture of education, Richardson said he feared hauling the industry completely out of the shadows would prove impossible.

I would like to see more data available from cannabis products in the legal market, because it's going to be important for West Coast consumers to be able to transition to the regulated market, he said.

They need to understand what they're getting themselves into, otherwise they're going to be going back to their old sources.

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Chinese Premier Li Keqiang, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, presides over a symposium on the implementation of reducing taxes and fees in Beijing, capital of China, May 10, 2019. Vice Premier Han Zheng, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, attended the symposium. (Xinhua/Pang Xinglei)

BEIJING, May 10 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Premier Li Keqiang on Friday called for more efforts to implement tax and fee cuts in a bid to let enterprises enjoy concrete benefits and further boost the vitality of market entities.

Li, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, made the remarks at a symposium on the implementation of reducing taxes and fees.

Larger-scale tax and fee reductions are a key measure to improve the business environment and boost the vitality of market entities, which not only contribute to steady economic growth and stable employment but also encourage enterprises to increase investment on innovation and enhance competitiveness, Li said.

As a key task for this year, tax and fee cuts have been carried out and are proceeding as expected, Li said, demanding more efforts to ensure the complete implementation of related policies.

At the meeting, several entrepreneurs shared their opinions and made suggestions on tax and fee reductions.

The tax burden for the manufacturing sector should be lowered significantly and industries which create many jobs such as construction should also see tax reductions.

Li urged efforts to ensure the tax burden for all industries is lowered and micro and small enterprises should see a substantive reduction of their tax burden.

Measures, including stricter market supervision, will be taken to guarantee the effects of tax and fee cuts.

Besides tax and fee-reduction policies, China plans to unveil more measures to deepen reform and opening-up, encourage entrepreneurship and innovation as well as foster fair competition to withstand economic hardship amid downward pressure, he said.

Vice Premier Han Zheng, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, attended the symposium.

[ Editor: Zhang Zhou ]
Fayaz Wani By

Express News Service

SRI NAGAR: While the army has launched a probe into allegations of malpractices in service votes in Ladakh, one of the contesting candidates from the Ladakh Lok Sabha seat has alleged that an Independent candidate, whom he supported in the 2014 polls, lost when the service votes were counted.

He said he has received complaints from some jawans that they are not being provided with postal ballot votes and company commanders ring them up to know their preferences.

It was crystal clear in 2014 the Independent candidate I backed lost the Ladakh LS seat because of service votes. He was leading the BJP nominee by 300 votes, Asgar Karbalai, a candidate for Ladakh seat, said.

He said they (the BJP) recounted the service votes and ensured victory of their candidate by 36 votes.

They are resorting to the same tactic in this election, he said.

READ HERE | Army probe into alleged postal vote scam in Ladakh

In 2014 polls, Thupstan Chhewang of BJP had polled 31,111 votes, while independent candidate Ghulam Raza secured 31,075 votes, losing by just 36 seats.

Asked how he came to know that there were irregularities in the postal ballot of service votes, Karbalai said, We have received complaint from jawans of different units that their company commanders call them on phone to know their preference. They are not sending ballot papers to the soldiers but telling them on phone whom they want to vote and tick themselves on the vote and send them in bulk to the Returning Officer.

The Ladakh Lok Sabha seat polled on May 6.

The ballot papers dont reach the jawans and the company commanders themselves mark the ballot votes on behalf of jawans, said Karbalai, who rebelled against Congress and contested as an Independent candidate.

FOLLOW OUR ELECTION COVERAGE HERE

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President Donald Trump famously declared that he wouldn't lose any voters if he had shot someone in the middle of Manhattan's Fifth Avenue.

If the first two years of his presidency have shown anything, that statement could be amended to say he wouldn't lose votes from Republican senators, who have for the most part, voted in line with the president at every turn, even when it has seemed to conflict with their stated values.

"Saturday Night Live," sensing perhaps the elevated tensions coursing through the capital, took aim at this political phenomenon with a parody on NBC Host Chuck Todd and his Sunday show, "Meet the Press," for "SNL's" cold open.

The three guests?

A trio of Senate Republicans who have occupied particularly prominent positions in the public eye over the last couple of years: Sen. Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (played by a surprisingly convincing Beck Bennett), Sen. Susan Collins (Cecily Strong, who nailed Collins' idiosyncratic style of speaking), and Sen. Lindsey Graham (Kate McKinnon, the faux South Carolina drawl poured on thick).

Todd, played by Kyle Mooney, began with an issue that has bubbled up in the news lately - the lingering questions about a potential trade war with China.

All three of his guests, Todd said, had opposed tariffs in the past. Would they support them as part of the president's agenda now?

"Well Chuck, there's a simple answer to that," McConnell said. "There was no collusion."

"When you have a president who's a financial genius and a business Jesus, like Donald Trump, you just got to trust him," Graham said, a parody of the over-the-top obsequiousness some have ascribed to the senator of late. "This man has lost 100 times more money than I've ever made."

Todd noted that Graham had made a complete 180-degree turn from the independence he had appeared to flash during the presidential contest and early part of Trump's presidency.

"Chuck, I am a man of conviction and principles," Graham said. "Unless he can help me and then it's, 'new Lindsey, who's this?'"

The segment also roasted Collins ruthlessly, skewering her as a woman who espouses beliefs that she cannot bear to stand up for in any substantive way.

"Chuck, I'll be the first to admit that some of the things this administration is doing makes me want to shake my head vigorously and wag my finger once, perhaps twice," she said at one point.

Todd tried suss out whether there was a limit to his guests willingness to back Trump. What if special counsel Robert Mueller III testified to Congress that the president had obstructed justice, he asked?

"I'd have to send a strongly worded email and send it straight to my drafts folder," Collins said.

What if you found out Trump was a Muslim, Todd asked, an apparent jab about Islamophobia in the Republican Party.

"Do we still get those tax cuts?" Graham responded, to Todd's affirmation. "Well then I guess it's salaam alaikum, Mr. President!"

What if he divorced Melania? Married Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez? Todd asked. Slapped you?

Or gave out your personal cellphone number to thousands of strangers who then harassed you? (Oh wait, he did that already with Graham.)

Finally, exasperated by the line of questioning, Todd voiced the question point blank - is there absolutely anything Trump could do to lose your support?

More Information Is there anything Trump could do to lose the GOP? SNL has the answer See More Collapse

His guests thought about the query.

"Let's say hypothetically he got gay married," McConnell said.

"Yeah, to the leader of ISIS," Graham clarified.

"And they had matching diapers fashioned out of the original constitution," Collins chimed in.

Then?

"Oh heck, who are we kidding?" McConnell said. "We'll always be ride or die."
A December fundraising campaign brought in more than $20 million over the course of a few weeks, its thousands of donors united by a common goal: the construction of a wall along the U.S.-Mexico border, oft-promised by President Donald Trump.

Some four months later, a contingent of those supporters is ready to see what their money has built.

The now-famous border wall GoFundMe was conceived by Purple Heart recipient Brian Kolfage, who wrote at the time he was upset by "too many illegals . . . taking advantage of the United States taxpayers," and the "political games from both parties" when it came to border security. Kolfage, a triple amputee, pressed onward despite falling short of his $1 billion goal - launching a nonprofit to build portions of the wall on private land for a "fraction of what it costs the government."

While the majority of donors continue to believe in Kolfage's efforts, the nonprofit's clandestine operations and assurances of progress are insufficient for others. Some have taken to social media, seeking photos, videos - anything - for evidence they aren't being misled.

"I am very disappointed in you Brian Kolfage, where are the progress photographs?" one woman posted to the We Build The Wall Facebook page.

"Quit talking about it and do it," another commented.

"I've been away for FIVE months," one person tweeted in April. "When's the groundbreaking?"

Reporting on the apparent lack of progress on the private wall, published early Friday by the Daily Beast, drew criticism from Kolfage. The veteran called out the story's author, Will Sommer, who indicated he's repeatedly asked Kolfage for proof they were close to a groundbreaking.

"Omg this is PERFECT timing by the liberal rag news site. They are about to look more stupid than @hillaryclinton on election night 2016!" Kolfage wrote. "I guaranteed we would build the wall . . . and I'll leave it at that!"

Kolfage did not respond to an email and message from The Washington Post requesting comment Friday. While the nonprofit has floated various groundbreaking dates in the past, it's not exactly clear when, or if, construction will begin.

"We should be turning dirt on this thing by May 1, June 1 at the latest, according to our experts," Kolfage told Politico in February. In a March 21 interview with American Family Radio, however, the veteran asserted they were going to "start breaking ground" in April.

In the interview, Kolfage said his nonprofit had identified eight locations to build along the border, but failed to name them, stating that his efforts could be thwarted by liberals if they were revealed.

"I wish I could name where it's at, but we can't name it because of the ACLU, these other liberal groups who want to sue us and impede our progress," he said. "But it's actually happening, the process is happening . . . the project is moving forward."

He continued, "But as soon as we start breaking ground, we'll be putting that information out there to show the American people what they're doing."

Kolfage has previously indicated that We Build The Wall Inc. seeks to develop segments of the wall on private property, which he told The Washington Post in January would cost $2 million to $3 million per mile. His GoFundMe says he's visited the border to scope out potential sites and negotiate with private land owners. Kolfage has also enlisted the help of several high-profile politicians, among them former White House chief strategist Stephen Bannon and Kris Kobach, the former Secretary of State for Kansas, who sit on the group's advisory board.

Back in January, Kobach told The New York Times they'd hopefully be breaking ground "within weeks."

Some critics noted Kolfage was accused of shady behavior in the past, including allegations of misusing funds he raised. NBC and BuzzFeed investigations earlier this year alleged that Kolfage peddled false articles and conspiracy theories with the intent of harvesting reader email addresses. The purported scheme would draw people back to his websites and Facebook pages, generating hundreds of thousands in advertising revenue, Buzzfeed reported.

Facebook removed several of the pages he operated last year, according to NBC, in a purge of pages that were used to "drive traffic to their websites." In response, Kolfage created a new campaign, "Fight4FreeSpeech," which also accepts donations.

BuzzFeed looked into Kolfage's previous crowdfunding efforts, which included an initiative to mentor wounded veterans at military hospitals - among them Walter Reed and Brooke Army Medical Center. He raised thousands for the project, according to BuzzFeed, but spokespersons for the medical facilities told the outlet they have no record of him working at the hospitals or donating money.

Asked about the story in January, Kolfage told The Post that BuzzFeed "100 percent lied" and had fabricated the investigation to slander him. He said the money was raised to cover his travel expenses, and that he only used them for that purpose.

On Friday, many supporters of Kolfage called the Daily Beast story fake news intended to stymie donations. We Build The Wall occasionally replied in agreement, reassuring commenters the wall was on its way.

"This is what we call FAKE NEWS," they wrote in a post. "We didn't stop anything and we are full steam ahead. The wall is being built."

As of Friday night, the group said they'll be breaking ground "shortly."

In a separate comment, one woman indicated she'd heard enough.

"Saying it doesn't get it done," she wrote late Friday. "Do it."
Helen Keller remains a sentimental figure in American history, as the blind, deaf girl captured the imagination of the nation.

A similar story unfolded in Jacksonville at the turn of the century.

Emma Kubieck became a sort of celebrity for her progress at the Illinois School for the Visually Impaired in Jacksonville during her short life, as she managed to learn a number of words despite being deaf and blind. Nicknamed the Helen Keller of Illinois, Emma and her heart-tugging story attracted nationwide attention, and her sorrowful death at age 11 in 1907 was reported in papers around the country.

Born in Glen Carbon on New Years Day 1896, Emma  whose name is sometimes spelled Kubicek  lost her hearing and sight at age 3 in a severe bout of cerebro-spinal meningitis. Her father and brother had been killed in a railroad accident, and she was under the care of her mother. However, various accounts imply that her family was somehow unaware of her limitations.

A state government report from 1902 says that for some unaccountable reason, her parents and friends did not discover that she was deaf. Another source referred to her family as Bohemian.

Residents of nearby Edwardsville took an interest in little Emma, and the state Legislature passed a bill to send her to the Illinois Institution for the Education of the Blind  now ISVI  in Jacksonville in 1901. The renowned superintendent of the school, Frank Haven Hall, is credited with her discovery after he was contacted by an Edwardsville doctor.

Emma arrived in Jacksonville on Oct. 6, 1901, and was placed under the care of Helen R. Jordan, a respected kindergarten teacher at the school. Jordan had worked extensively with another deaf-blind girl, Jessie Stewart of Edgar County, for a year, with limited success.

Jessie, who had lost her sight and hearing at 10 months of age, also had minimal senses of taste and smell. The Chicago Tribune reported that Jessie was without imaging power, making the first task  of Mrs. Jordan an almost impossible one  there was too little mind stuff to work upon.

However, little Emma had some of that imaging power, as she had enjoyed sight and hearing for the first three years of her life, and remembered some activities and interests.

Still, teaching the girl proved a struggle. On Emmas first day, Jordan  who had 30 other children to care for  seated Emma at a small wooden table with a box of wooden beads and twine. She soon learned to string the beads before throwing them about the room.

She was subsequently required to pick up each bead and place them back in the box, a task done with a hard struggle and many tears. This process was repeated for a week, but with diminishing intensity. A basket of toys was likewise destroyed before Emma finally settled down.

The word ball was chosen as the first word for little Emma to learn. Jordan reported that while (Emma) held the ball in her right hand the teacher spelled the word into her left hand. Within two weeks, Emma recognized the word as the object.

Doll came next, and was taught in the same fashion. Eventually, a ball and doll were placed on a table, and the name of one was spelled into Emmas hand. A month later, she was able to correctly choose between the two.

The next word was iron, mainly because Emma discovered a flatiron in her toy box and immediately tried to iron Mrs. Jordans dress skirt with it. Only one sign was provided to Emma in the early stages; that of water, which she could use when thirsty.

The 1902 report proudly noted that by Christmas, Emma was one of the happiest and most obedient of children and enjoyed marching with the other pupils in the gymnasium, learning to keep the step by feeling the motion of those next to her. She was also able to perform basic crafts, creating several napkin rings, a bag from beads, and mats woven on a hand-loom.

By her sixth birthday on Jan. 1, 1902, Emma was also able to place seven words, including her name and those of two teachers, in Braille as well as manual alphabet.

Though described as large for her age with a healthy appetite, Emma was apparently a sickly child, and little study was done for the next several months. But from mid-March 1902 until leaving for a brief visit home on May 26, her progress was lauded as uninterrupted and rapid. She eventually was able to copy any spelling of her teacher, who would write words slowly into Emmas left hand, only to have Emma follow, letter by letter with her right.

When Emma left for her break, she could spell 21 words, including longer ones such as radish and banana. She was also able to use a Braille writer, a device invented by Hall, to write five words, including her first sentence, roll the ball. Emma was also able to respond when the words sit, stand, run, and clap were written into her hand. She could also make the sounds of a few letters of the alphabet.

While sorrowfully described as a little soul imprisoned because of her lack of sight and hearing, Emma managed to use her other faculties, including an acute sense of smell that allowed her to recognize people by odor. She could also smell candy, a favorite treat, and had an excellent sense of location.

She was aware when Saturday came, when she would pull out clean linens for her bed. Emma was also able to dress herself and tie her shoes, though was unable to fix her hair.

As Emma progressed, her story drew national attention, and she and Mrs. Jordan were featured in an array of magazines and newspapers. On March 13, 1904, The Chicago Tribune dubbed the girl the Helen Keller of Illinois.

A state report in 1904 lauded Emmas achievements, as she had learned to handle the Braille writer with considerable ease and dexterity thanks to her vigorous, active mind and retentive memory. As a result, concluded the report, Emma sees things with her hands and speaks with her fingertips.

Even more important was her happy disposition that was a source of cheer and inspiration to all about her. Indeed, the report called Emmas progress a veritable light out of darkness, a voice out of silence.

Emma was later a welcomed visitor at a conference of deaf teachers in North Carolina, and was also taken to an exposition in Louisiana, where she conversed with Helen Keller.

Sadly, Emmas health remained frail. She again fell ill in December 1903, and was able to attend school for only three months of that year. But her fame grew, as did her abilities. In early March 1907, she was visited by a delegation of Illinois legislators. She greeted them with an address of welcome on her Braille writer.

Days later, on Saturday, March 9, Emma became ill with what was believed to be a mild cold. Her condition deteriorated rapidly, and she was reportedly in great pain the next day. Pneumonia was finally diagnosed.

Jordan hardly left the bedside of the sick child, who died at the age of 11 around 9 p.m. March 13, 1907. News of her passing made headlines in Los Angeles.

The Chicago Tribune reported that her passing left the students and faculty heartbroken, a sentiment shared by her many inspired followers around the nation.
EDWARDSVILLE  A man who tried to escape capture by hopping on a public transit bus has been sentenced to 6 years in prison on a charge of being an armed habitual criminal.

Carlos Jones, 36, of East St. Louis was allegedly involved in a domestic disturbance Sept. 11. Authorities said that once police were called, Jones and a friend boarded a Madison County Transit District bus in an apparent getaway attempt.

A relative of the domestic violence victim followed the bus and notified police of its location. Police stopped the bus and allegedly spotted Jones slipping a gun to an associate who was sitting across the aisle.

Jones, who has a lengthy police record, pleaded guilty Tuesday to being an armed habitual criminal and was sentenced to six years in prison on the Class X felony. He must serve at least 85 percent of his term. At the time of the incident, Jones was on parole from Western Illinois Correctional Center, where he was serving a term for being a weapon in possession of a weapon.

In exchange for his plea, the state agreed to the minimum six-year sentenced an agreed to drop charges of aggravated domestic battery and unlawful possession of a weapon by a felon.

The armed habitual criminal charge is a Class X felony. In that count, authorities claim he possessed a 9 mm semi-automatic handgun after having been convicted in 2008 of armed robbery and, in 2011 of aggravated battery.

The aggravated domestic battery charge allegedly he grabbed a female household member around the neck, cutting off her breath. The unlawful possession of a weapon charge claims he possessed the semi-automatic handgun after being convicted of felony domestic battery in 2016.

Jones has a record dating to 2002 when he was convicted in St. Clair County of possession of a controlled substance.

He also has convictions for criminal trespass to a residence, stalking, four counts of violation of probation, two counts of possession of a controlled substance, armed robbery, aggravated battery and two counts of domestic battery. He also has eight misdemeanor convictions.
J.B. Pritzker announced his run for governor of Illinois more than two years ago.

From the jump, his campaign pushed a simple policy message: pass a progressive income tax constitutional amendment. Pritzker has been singing the same song throughout his first four months in office. And a group bankrolled by Pritzker called Think Big has spent more than $3 million on TV commercials selling this argument across the state.

But with taxpayer opposition intensifying, the governors vision for a $3.4 billion progressive income tax hike is slipping away.

On May 7, Southern Illinois Democratic state Rep. Jerry Costello announced his resignation from the General Assembly and appointment to a position as the director of law enforcement at the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. He was the lone House Democrat who vocally opposed Pritzkers constitutional amendment. Progressive tax backers saw this as a win.

But the very next day, two courageous House Democrats from the other end of the state publicly voiced their opposition to Pritzkers plan, too. State Reps. Sam Yingling and Jonathan Carroll both pointed out the severe lack of protections for property taxpayers in their districts.

Yingling represents the Lake County communities of Round Lake, Round Lake Beach and Grayslake. Carrolls district straddles Cook and Lake counties, including communities like Northbrook and Buffalo Grove.

The current proposals do not adequately address the crushing burden that our property tax system places on homeowners, Yingling wrote in a May 8 letter to the Chicago Tribune. I will be a no vote unless adoption of a progressive income tax ends the states regressive and abusive property tax system.

Carroll also urged caution.

I am a no on this plan and changing the constitution. Im not opposed to modernizing how we tax in Illinois, but this has to be done right, Carroll said in a statement. The current proposals dont address our oppressive property tax issues.

Yingling and Carroll are right. And there are more Democrats waiting in the wings.

Illinois Policy Institute research shows that even under generous assumptions, any promise of middle-class income tax relief under Pritzkers progressive income tax plan would quickly be wiped out by routine property tax hikes.

Thats because the governors plan for a progressive income tax does nothing to address some of the biggest cost drivers for both state and local governments: pensions and government worker health insurance. Without reforms to those costs, property tax bills will continue to balloon.

So what happens when Illinois lawmakers do the right thing and stand up for taxpayers  specifically homeowners facing some of the nations highest property tax rates?

Theyre attacked by Pritzker.

Those who oppose this plan are siding with millionaires and the very wealthy against everyday Illinoisans, the governors office stated, and they need to offer an alternative that will fix our states long-standing fiscal challenges.

At the time of that response, Pritzker had reportedly not met with either lawmaker to discuss his progressive income tax amendment.

The governor has only himself to blame for opposition to his proposal. Pritzker has not earned the trust of taxpayers who look beyond the fair share rhetoric and see a state that remains unwilling to balance its books  while they pay more in taxes each year.

In an interview with ABC 7 on his first 100 days in office, Pritzker confirmed there were no guarantees against middle class tax hikes should the progressive tax constitutional amendment fall his way.

The governors plan ultimately relies on a political promise that many Illinoisans arent willing to accept.

Apparently, their elected officials arent buying it either.

Austin Berg is a writer for the Illinois Policy Institute. He wrote this column for the Illinois News Network. Austin can be reached at aberg@illinoispolicy.org.
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.

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By PTI

MUMBAI: Chemical leak at an industrial unit in Palghar district resulted in the death of three workers on Sunday, police said.

The incident took place around 4 pm at the unit, a chemical company, in Boisar MIDC of Tarapur, when work of filling the chemical was on, an official said.

After being alerted about the leak, the fire brigade personnel rushed to the spot and launched a rescue operation and the unit was vacated, he said.

"The workers apparently died due to the reaction of the chemical," Janardan Prabhkar, senior inspector of Boisar police station told PTI.

The deceased were identified as Prabhakar Khadse (59), Dattatraya Ghule (25), and Raghunath Gorai (25), an official said.

The exact cause of the deaths will be ascertained after the post-mortem, he said.

"The chemical that had got leaked is being identified," the official said.
Agilent Technologies, Inc. engages in the provision of application focused solutions for life sciences, diagnostics, and applied chemical markets. It operates through the following segments: Life Sciences and Applied Markets; Diagnostics and Genomics; and Agilent CrossLab. The Life Sciences and Applied Markets segment offers application-focused solutions that include instruments and software that enable to identify, quantify, and analyze the physical and biological properties of substances and products, as well as the clinical and life sciences research areas to interrogate samples at the molecular and cellular level. The Diagnostics and Genomics segment consists of activity providing active pharmaceutical ingredients for oligo-based therapeutics, as well as solutions that include reagents, instruments, software and consumables. The Agilent CrossLab segment includes startup, operational, training and compliance support, software as a service, and asset management and consultative services. The company was founded in May 1999 and is headquartered in Santa Clara, CA.

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Rajesh K Thakur By

Express News Service

PATNA: In an unprecedented incident that occurred just an hour before the end of polling, BJP candidate of Bettiah, Dr Sanjay Jaiswal had a narrow escape when an unruly mob of hundreds of local residents

allegedly made an attempt to attack him.

The mob was armed with traditional weapons and had cordoned-off the areas near the house in which sitting MP of Bettiah Dr Sanajay Jaiswal had taken safe shelter with his bodyguards.

FOLLOW OUR ELECTION COVERAGE HERE

The entire incident took place when Jaiswal went to Narkatia on being informed that voters belonging to other communities were allegedly beaten up and prevented from voting by the voters of a particular community. The incident took place near the booths 162 and 163 and Jaiswal alleged some gunshots were also heard from the side of booths.

Jaiswall said, "Had my security guards not opened fires, I would have been lynched till now". He also alleged that senior officials of West Champaran district did not receive his distress calls made on their cell phones.

#WATCH: Narkatiaganj: An attempt was made to attack Sanjay Jaiswal (in red kurta), BJP candidate from West Champaran Parliamentary Constituency, with sticks outside polling booth no. 162, 163. He is unhurt. #Bihar #LokSabhaElections2019 pic.twitter.com/sxL3YWyAT7  ANI (@ANI) May 12, 2019

Meanwhile, chief electoral officer of ECI at Patna, HR Srinivas said the situation was under control and Jaiswal was taken under safe protection by cops. He said the incident would be investigated properly. He admitted that Jaiswal was rescued from mob fury by his security guards, who opened some round of firings.

Concerned SDO and the deputy superintendent of police besides other cops with adequate police forces are camping there, he claimed at Patna based election control room. Meanwhile, Dr Jaiswal again alleged the incident appeared to be meant to eliminate him. Contrary to his statements, some local sources said people were angry at Sanjay Jaiswal as no work of development was done in last five years in the areas.
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Shankkar Aiyar By

The political strategy of alliances in India is frequently reminiscent of the issues faced with telecom services. Often towards the end of a regimes tenure there are call drops the phenomenon when parties perceiving an advantage choose to exit alliances. Not every party has political meteorologists, and therefore often parties are faced with the phenomenon of missed callschoices which result in the parties being on the wrong side of power. To redress this, like for mobile subscribers, there is the facility of number portabilitywhich allows parties to use their seat count to switch sides, choose convenience over conviction.

Proximity sensors and gyroscopes of political parties went aflutter this week when TRS chief and Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao went about seeking meetings and speaking to party leaders to form a non-Congress, non-BJP front. By no means is this a rearguard action. The regional parties see a window of opportunity in their assessment of what the results could throw up on May 23and like astute hedge fund managers, party leaders are going through what investment managers call market and price discovery.

In fact, the most appropriate phraseology for the process is what the market deploysthe filing of the Red Herring prospectus to woo interested parties to invest in an alliance. As with the public issues there were roadshows, in this case meetings in Kolkata and Delhi between regional chieftains. Like with the initial offerings there was expression of interest but no binding offers. Just as investors do before an IPO, the parties chose to await the pricing of the issue, i.e. the Lok Sabha results.

The air in Delhi and in Chennai has been rife with speculation about the why and who of Raos efforts. Be that as it may, there are at least four different track-two processes in progress between regional parties and national parties. The players who will have a punt on futures and options are located in the north, east and the souththe national capital is abuzz with permutations and combinations. The political chefs are scripting an a la carte of recipes even as they await the results which will determine the ingredients of the political risotto.

Every decade since the sixties has seen the emergence of regional power in India. In 1967, the Congress tally came down by 78 seats (with the Swatantra Party and Bharatiya Jan Sangh winning 44 and 35 seats, respectively) and it lost power in eight states to regional coalitionsin Bengal, Bihar, UP, Punjab, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu and Kerala. In 1977, it was a combination of regional and national parties which ousted the Indira Gandhi government after the civil strife and the Emergency. The ouster of Rajiv Gandhi in 1989 was propelled by allegations of corruption in defence deals and drought-triggered agrarian stress. The rise of V P Singh could not have been possible without the heft of Devi Lal, N T Rama Rao, Ramakrishna Hegde and the Left Front. Similarly, the coming together of the ragtag coalition called United Front was made possible by the rise of regional parties, including TDP, SP and the Moopanar-led Tamil Maanila Congress, along with Janata Dal.

These coalitions, however, flailed and failed like a script post the IPOprimarily because there was no binding force beyond the lure of power and pelf. There have been successful coalitions thoughin 1991, 1999 and 2004. In each of these instances, the critical factor was the presence of a political mentor and a common cause that sustained the regime. The 1991 Congress government was a seasonal coalition. Rao deployed economic crisis and the threat of the BJPs rise successfullyboth against insiders and the opposition. The 1999 Atal Bihari Vajpayee regime was sustained by his articulation of nationalism and adherence to consensual coalition dharma. In the 2004 elections, the BJP and Congress together won only 283 seatsstate parties and sub-regional entities won 174 seats. The Congress-led UPA I was a coalition of over a dozen entities and lasted the full term sustained by identity and ideologycommon cause of rights-based entitlements.

Popular perception has it that coalitions are bad for the economic health of the country. Fact is the 1991 reforms were introduced under a coalition, the big tax reforms came under the short-lived United Front regime, the Vajpayee government, a coalition of over 20 parties, pushed spending on education and infrastructure, UPA I delivered three years of 9-plus per cent growth. Indeed, even the Modi Sarkar is a coalition by design if not by default and has delivered on roads, on opening up of sectors, and IBC and GSTeven if with warts and all. The GDP graph across 30 years doesnt show coalitions in a poor light.

Any theory on the failure or success of coalitions depends on the context of necessity and conditions of sufficiency. The cause of worry cannot be the coming together of partiesafter all, a country as diverse as India can and has produced differentiated verdicts. Nor can it be about timing. Political alliances in India are of two kindsthe pre-poll alliance and then the number portability-enabled post-poll alliance. What should worry Indians is a post-paid alliancewhere the sustenance of the coalition depends on which party gets what. It is, after all, the ingredients which make the risotto palatable.

shankkar.aiyar@gmail.com

Shankkar Aiyar

Author of Aadhaar: A Biometric History of Indias 12 Digit Revolution, and Accidental India
The Norristown Police Department is investigating an incident that occurred on May 11, 2019, at a carnival on the grounds of Saint Francis School, Oak and Buttonwood streets.

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The following is a statement released Sunday from Chief Mark E. Talbot Sr.:

On Saturday, May 11th, officers from the Norristown Police Department responded to a call for a large fight between more than 50 juveniles. Officers who responded to the scene attempted to break up the fight but were initially unsuccessful. The crowd ignored all orders by the police and continued to fight. Officers reported being kicked, shoved, and punched and were forced to call for assistance from several surrounding departments. Officers were eventually able to bring things under control but not before making several arrests.

Weve received several videos and social media posts regarding how the officers conducted themselves. A full and thorough investigation is being conducted.

We are committed to uncovering all of the relevant facts and will proceed in a transparent and impartial fashion.

Chief Talbot will also be available at Municipal Hall, 235 E. Airy Street, in council chambers between 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. Sunday to speak with residents He will also provide initial comments and describe the process of the ongoing investigation. Staff will also be on hand to interview anyone who may have witnessed the incident.
Albany

To understand the arrogance of state government in New York, talk with Bob Flagler and his neighbors.

Flagler has lived in his Wood Terrace house for all his 77 years. He has a brother, son and grandchildren living in the neighborhood, which is in Albany but is, in many respects, a place apart, separated from the rest of the city by the Thruway.

A few months back, Flagler and other neighbors noticed something strange going on at the Albany Training Academy. A fence was up and it looked as if some sort of project was starting. What was happening? Nobody knew.

While the land is owned by Department of Corrections and Community Supervision, it is worth noting that the New Scotland Road property, a former seminary, serves as a park for the Normans Kill neighborhood. It includes swimming pool and playground on land leased by the city, and there is  or was, I should say  a softball field and ample open space.

"We had deer. We had turkey," said Flagler, a retired police sergeant. "You'd see a red fox. We had everything."

What the neighborhood has now is a big wound of a construction site. And get this: DOCCS decided to build a $39.4 million, 260-bed dormitory, with 240 parking spots and more on the 38-acre site, without telling the neighborhood or notifying City Hall. That fence? it was the first indication something was happening.

For sure, Flagler and his neighbors are hardly the only folks in Albany concerned about development and its quality-of-life impacts. They aren't the first Capital Region residents to rue the loss of open space.

But typically, developers are required to abide by local zoning and a lengthy approval process that allows for public input. Neighbors might not always be happy with the result, but they can at least voice an opinion. They can prepare for what's coming before a shovel hits the ground.

Not so with state projects. Agencies like DOCCS are exempt from local laws and processes. Input from the community? The state isn't interested. Notify neighbors of what's about to happen in their back yards? Ditto.

"This thing got rammed through," Flagler said. "They said, 'We're the state of New York and we can do whatever we want.'"

That kind of hubris is a familiar story in Albany. It explains the destruction of a neighborhood to build Empire State Plaza, a complex with the all the humility of Benito Mussolini. It explains why the Harriman State Office Campus continues to be an island apart, with plans for private development scuttled.

In 2011, what was then the University at Albany's College of Nanoscale Science and Engineering began constructing the $324 million NanoFabX building along Washington Avenue Extension while refusing to say anything about its purpose, cost, funding or design. As the building rose, a school spokesman absurdly insisted nothing was happening. Don't believe your lying eyes, folks!

Now that's arrogant. And Orwellian.

Special Investigation 147 NY dams are 'unsound,' potentially dangerous Thousands of dams have not been inspected in over 20 years.

The DOCCS project has been in the works for years. The expansion of the academy where corrections officers are tested and trained was funded in the 2013 state budget, and the agency in 2017 told the city's water department and the county health department that it intended to connect a structure to public water and sewer lines. But word apparently never spread to other parts of city and county government.

Brian Shea, chief of staff to Mayor Kathy Sheehan, said City Hall learned about the project as neighbors did. And County Executive Dan McCoy said the following at a recent public meeting: "I had a bunch of neighbors come up to me and say 'What's this all about?' I said to them, 'That's a damn good question. I have no idea.'"

Yes, McCoy lives nearby. Former Mayor Jerry Jennings does, too. Many city cops and firefighters also live in the neighborhood, which has long been known for political power and high voter turnout. Put it this way: If the state won't bother to tell THAT neighborhood what's going on, it isn't to give ANY neighborhood the respect residents deserve.

Last week, members of the Normans Kill Neighborhood Association told me they're scrambling to mitigate feared traffic and storm water impacts. They are trying, for example, to convince DOCCS to move the planned parking lot away from the edge of the property so that runoff doesn't swamp nearby homes.

"We would love to stop the project," said Suzanne Waltz, a member of the group. "But more than that, we would like to see it done responsibly."

More Information Contact columnist Chris Churchill at cchurchill@timesunion.com or 518-454-5442. See More Collapse

So far, little about how the project has proceeded can be described as responsible. Quite the opposite, actually, given that the entire process has been about ducking responsibility to neighbors who deserved the full story long ago.

But that's state government in New York, arrogant as ever and unlikely to change.

cchurchill@timesunion.com  518-454-5442  @chris_churchill
COLONIE -- Shaker High student Madison VanDenburg's next big day is Sunday.

Her fans are poised to help her move into the final three finishers in this season's American Idol.

They hope Capital Region residents will do their part, too.

Starting at 8 p.m., Idol watchers can vote for VanDenburg up to 30 times (up to 10 times each of these ways):

Text '8' to 21523

Download the American Idol app

Vote at www.americanidol.com/vote

Local officials also host a viewing party Sunday evening at Shaker High School. The plans were made public at a Friday press conference by Town Supervisor Paula Mahan and North Colonie Superintendent D. Joseph Corr. They were flanked by students, teachers and posters.

Special Investigation 147 NY dams are 'unsound,' potentially dangerous Thousands of dams have not been inspected in over 20 years.

Mahan and Corr both encouraged Capital Region residents to vote for VanDenburg starting at 8 p.m. Sunday.

If the teen makes it to the Top 3, the town of Colonie and the North Colonie Central School District are planning to host a number of free celebratory events. They'll be announced Tuesday, officials said.

VanDenburg auditioned in October and was one of 40 contestants invited to Los Angeles for the show, which began airing March 3.
ALBANY  A former custodian who has been accused of systematically raping boys at a Catholic elementary school in Albany in the 1970s had allegedly done the same thing years earlier while serving as a priest with a seminary in the Midwest, where he attended college.

Interviews with his former employers and alleged victims, and records obtained by the Times Union, indicate that Eugene Hubert Jr.  a U.S. Army veteran who died in 1997  also immersed himself in maintenance jobs at various schools for nearly 30 years, including at least two Catholic grade schools in Albany.

Many of the positions gave Hubert ready access to young boys, and he apparently used that to prey on them, according to interviews with his alleged victims.

When the details of his past were shared with attorneys for several men who were allegedly abused by Hubert as children, they said it indicates that Hubert may have been a serial pedophile and that there are potentially many more victims.

Jeff Herman, a south Florida attorney who is pursuing claims against the Albany Roman Catholic Diocese  on behalf of some of Hubert's alleged victims at a former Catholic grade school  said he's confident that Hubert had abused other boys.

"His resume reads like a who's who of a pedophile," Herman said. "We've seen this before ... where you get these men who want access to kids that go to places like the Big Brothers, the Boy Scouts and get active. They use their position to groom and seduce these victims."

RELATED STORY: Eugene Hubert Jr.'s resume is a long list of jobs close to children

The case also underscores the challenges of confirming sexual abuse claims that date back decades, when there were little or no electronic records, and allegations were often covered up or never documented, including by police and the institutions that harbored the abusers.

The state's Child Victims Act, passed earlier this year, will allow victims of childhood sexual abuse to file civil claims during a one-year window that will begin in August. Claims for sexual abuse and rape dating back decades had previously been blocked by the state's statute of limitations.

Hubert, who is the target of at least two claims that are expected to be filed against the Albany diocese, was from Essex County and had also worked for the Schroon Lake school district for 16 years until his death at age 54.

Hubert was never married and had no children. He worked for many years at children's summer camps in at least three states; he drove school buses and also volunteered for youth organizations, the employment records obtained by the Times Union indicate.

Hubert is accused of raping at least two boys in the late 1970s when he worked at St. Teresa of Avila school in Albany. The alleged sexual assaults took place at his Delmar home, in the school, and at a summer camp near Paradox Lake in Essex County, where Hubert would also ply boys with alcohol and pornography, they said.

Officials with the Albany diocese said they were not aware that Hubert had also worked at Blessed Sacrament grade school in Albany until the Times Union shared that information with them recently.

The earlier alleged abuse of at least five boys in the Midwest took place around the time that Hubert was a seminarian and attending what was then St. Mary's College in Winona, Minn., from 1968 to 1971. In Winona, records show, Hubert was involved with the Big Brothers, Boy Scouts, Cub Scouts and had been on the board of the local YMCA.

A 58-year-old Winona man and his two brothers have filed claims against the Roman Catholic Diocese of Winona-Rochester, which is about 60 miles southeast of Minneapolis, alleging Hubert sexually abused them when he was involved with a seminary adjacent to the college and went by the name "Brother Gene."

The man, who spoke on the condition of not being identified, said that Hubert had sexually abused him in the seminary's dormitory.

"I was 10 or 11 years old," the man said. He could not recall how he met Hubert. But he and his brothers had been involved with the Cub Scouts at St. Mary's Church in Winona around that time, he said.

The man said he told his mother about the abuse  she is now deceased  and he's confident that she reported it to someone.

"I thought the church shuffled him off to New York," he said. "This guy would just take a bunch of kids camping and stuff. We'd actually go to camp right behind the seminary. ... He had kids sleeping in his tent with him."

An attorney for the Winona-Rochester diocese last week confirmed that Hubert had served as an "order priest" with the Fr. Damien Seminary near St. Mary's College.

"Being that Hubert was not a diocesan priest, but rather an order priest of Fathers of the Sacred Heart, the Diocese of Winona-Rochester has minimal information regarding his background," said Tom Braun, the diocese's attorney. "I can confirm the existence of five civil lawsuits that have been filed against the Diocese of Winona-Rochester and Fathers of the Sacred Heart for sexual abuse allegedly perpetrated by Hubert."

Braun noted that the former Fr. Damien Seminary was "not owned, operated, or affiliated with the Diocese of Winona at any time." He did not say whether the diocese is aware of why Hubert suddenly left the seminary and returned to New York.

Elin Lindstrom, an attorney with Jeff Anderson & Associates in St. Paul, Minn., said the firm is representing the alleged victims of Hubert in that state. She said that for legal purposes dioceses will often make the case they are corporations that are separate from the Catholic institutions within their boundaries, including schools.

"But in reality, a bishop has control over the institutions in his diocese," she said. "So even if 'Brother Gene' is working at Fr. Damien Seminary, he had to have permission from the bishop of the diocese to do that."

Those lawsuits have been filed under seal in U.S. Bankruptcy Court in Minnesota, where the diocese there has sought bankruptcy protection as it deals with dozens of sexual abuse claims.

The allegations against Hubert in Winona mirror the stories of his alleged sexual assaults of young boys who attended Albany's St. Teresa of Avila, where Hubert had worked as a custodian from January 1976 until February 1979.

Special Investigation 147 NY dams are 'unsound,' potentially dangerous Thousands of dams have not been inspected in over 20 years.

It's unclear whether Hubert was fired from St. Teresa's, but his departure was sudden and he remained unemployed for six months after leaving his job at the school, according to New York employment records obtained by the Times Union under a Freedom of Information Law request.

Officials with the Albany diocese, whose records are not public, said they do not have "verified information" to confirm how long Hubert had worked at the former St. Teresa of Avila off New Scotland Avenue or whether he had been fired.

A spokeswoman for the Albany diocese, Mary DeTurris Poust, also said that neither Bishop Edward B. Scharfenberger nor his predecessor, Bishop Howard J. Hubbard, were aware of Hubert's alleged abuse of children in Minnesota or that he had been enrolled in a seminary there.

She said they also were not aware that Hubert had worked at Blessed Sacrament grade school in Albany in 1973. Hubert had attended that school in the 1950s up until he was about age 15, according to the records obtained by the Times Union.

"Bishop Scharfenberger said to thank you for bringing this to our attention," Poust said in a statement. "The diocese will investigate to see what we can find out about this information, which would predate both the current bishop and bishop emeritus' tenure."

St. Teresa of Avila, founded in 1920, and a parish affiliated with it, were closed by the Albany diocese in 2009 and merged with a neighboring school and parish.

In 2012, the diocese had said an internal review board determined that Hubert had likely sexually abused at least one boy there in the 1970s. That alleged victim, 55-year-old Jack Cesare of south Florida, has been an outspoken advocate for the Child Victims Act.

A second alleged victim of Hubert's at St. Teresa's was Stephen J. Erickson, who died last December at age 55 following a battle with cancer.

Erickson's attorney  Jeff Herman of Boca Raton, Fla.  had obtained an emergency court order that month allowing him to take Erickson's sworn testimony for a future lawsuit he said they will file against the Albany diocese on behalf of Erickson's son.

Erickson was deposed in his bed at Albany Medical Center Hospital, days before he died.

In 2012, Erickson  then requesting anonymity  told the Times Union that Hubert gave him a fishing pole and supplied beer and cigars to him and other boys who went to his Adirondack camp. He recalled that Hubert, who drove a yellow Volkswagen, would pick up other boys in Colonie for their trips to a lakeside camp in southern Essex County.

Erickson, who struggled emotionally with the fallout, said that Hubert had raped him multiple times.

The Times Union obtained copies of two photos from Hubert's camp near Paradox Lake, including one depicting Hubert and another young boy.

Schroon Lake schools Superintendent Stephen Gratto said Hubert's personnel records contained no information indicating there had been any complaints of sexual abuse when he worked there from 1981 to 1997.

There were other complaints about Hubert, though, including claims he had eavesdropped on teachers' association meetings, rifled through desks without authorization, and used a racial slur to describe music on a jukebox in the school cafeteria, Gratto said.

Anderson, whose law firm specializes in child abuse claims, said they have "identified many other kids that didn't come forward" and who were allegedly sexually molested by Hubert.

"This guy is a big-time serial predator and we have a lot of information about his (method of operation) and his history," Anderson said. "This guy was really prolific, extremely predatory, a major manipulator and typically very successful at accessing many kids and causing them to live a life of shame and silence."
T J S George By

In the way he lived and interacted with others in everyday life, N R Madhava Menon was a very ordinary man. His extraordinariness came out when his mind opened up. He pioneered a new approach to law education which at once became the standard across the country. The very name he coined, Law School of India University, was novel. So was the concept. His school university did not just pass on law education to students. As Fali Nariman put it, NR was transmitting civilisation to generations. Nariman called him the lawyers master.

For a man who exemplified simple living and high thinking, NR exercised remarkable influence on others. The tributes that came from all corners when he died last week were a pointer to the impact he had made in his own quiet way. Finance Minister Arun Jaitley recalled that I had the privilege of being taught by him. (Strangely, ABVP as an organisation uploaded its tribute, too, although NR had seen to it that he remained apolitical all through his life.) The running thread in the tributes was appreciation for his foundational contributions to law education. For 12 years, he was the vice chancellor of the National Law School of India University in Bangalore. He then established, at the urging of the Supreme Court, the National Judicial Academy in Bhopal. The West Bengal National University of Juridical Sciences followed.

Ironically, he failed to build a similar institute in his home state. He had prepared detailed plans and fellow legal luminary in Delhi, K K Venugopal, had helped raise more than two crore rupees (a big sum in 2002). Unfortunately for them, the states chief minister at the time was A K Antony, whose lifes mission was to avoid controversyand the way to avoid controversy was to avoid taking decisions. India noticed this only when he became defence minister and refused to buy even a toy gun. With Antony smilingly avoiding any decision, the Madhav Menon-Venugopal initiative fell by the wayside. What Karnataka and West Bengal and Madhya Pradesh embraced proudly, Kerala discarded foolishly.

But NRs bond with his home state remained strong, built by his devotion to two individuals, his mother and his first law teacher. Poverty lent unusual power to NRs idolisation of his mother. He was not yet three years old when his father, a modest official in the municipality, died. With the only source of income gone, it was his mothers willpower that gave NR a chance. Mother would often go without a meal while his sisters would give a portion of their food, mostly tapioca, to NR, the only male in the house. As with all middle-class families in Kerala, getting an education was something for which everyone was ready to make sacrifices.

NR got his BSc and BL degrees from Kerala, his LLM and PhD from Aligarh and then an MA from Punjab University. It was the first law degree that influenced him the most and he used to give grateful credit for it to the principal of the law college in Kerala, Dr A T Markose, an icon of his time. NR used to say that it was Markose who made him what he became. Markose died young. NR, after becoming famous, and not knowing exactly how to show his gratitude to his teacher, once organised a posthumous award for Markose and presented it to his four daughters, who were taken to Delhi for the purpose. For NR, human values were important.

The figure of NR supervising the construction of his first school in Bangalore is fresh in my memory. We were walking around the sprawling expanse of Bangalore University when my guide, the late Kannada Editor Y N Krishnamurthy, pointed to a man who was walking towards us, holding an umbrella to protect himself from the sun. When he came close, YNK asked: You are Madhava Menon, right? It transpired that NR was returning to his study after the days inspection of the school buildings progress.

Many years later, I went to NRs house to ask him to prepare a syllabus for the Asian College of Journalism we had started. We were unfamiliar with academic disciplines, I said, but we wanted a professionally prepared syllabus. NR was reluctant at first, saying he didnt know anything about journalism. But two days later, he gave me a notebook in which he had handwritten a detailed course prospectus. The motto NR picked for his school in Bangalore summed up his own philosophy: Dharmo Rakshati Rakshitah. Those who protect Dharma, law, are protected by law.
Washington

China for the first time made clear what it wants to see from the U.S. in talks to end their trade war, laying bare the deep differences that still exist between the two sides.

In a wide-ranging interview with Chinese media after talks in Washington ended Friday, Vice Premier Liu He said that in order to reach an agreement the U.S. must remove all extra tariffs, set targets for Chinese purchases of goods in line with real demand, and ensure that the text of the deal is "balanced" to ensure the "dignity" of both nations.

Liu's three conditions underscore the work still to be done if an accord is to be reached between the world's two largest economies. President Donald Trump's administration told China it has a month to seal a trade deal or face tariffs on all its exports to the U.S.

That threat was made during talks Friday in Washington, hours after Trump upped the ante by imposing a second round of punitive duties on $200 billion in Chinese goods. The talks are under close scrutiny across global financial markets, and U.S. stocks turned positive after negotiators on both sides said the session had gone fairly well.

Liu said both sides agreed to keep talking despite what he called "some temporary resistance and distractions," and to hold future meetings in Beijing. He dismissed the idea that talks had broken down. "It's normal to have hiccups during the negotiations. It's inevitable." China hasn't yet detailed how it will retaliate to the latest increase in tariffs.

Liu also struck a note of defiance. "For the interest of the people of China, the people of U.S. and the people of the whole world, we will deal with this rationally,' the vice premier said. "But China is not afraid, nor are the Chinese people," adding that "China needs a cooperative agreement with equality and dignity."

In a series of tweets that cheered markets, Trump declared Friday that the talks with China had been candid and constructive. "The relationship between President Xi and myself remains a very strong one, and conversations into the future will continue," he said. Further talks are possible, but there's no immediate plan for the next round, according to a person familiar with the negotiations.

Liu's comments reveal a new fault line. Whereas U.S. negotiators previously accused China of walking back on commitments to change laws on technology transfer and other issues, Liu argued that the U.S. team is pushing for bigger Chinese purchases to level the trade imbalance than had originally been agreed.

According to Liu, Presidents Xi Jinping and Donald Trump had achieved an initial consensus "on a number" when they met in Argentina. That "is a very serious issue and can't be changed easily."

The amount of purchases by China should be "in line with reality," according to a commentary by state news agency Xinhua on Saturday. China also sees the removal of all the extra tariffs that have been imposed since last year as a precondition to a deal, whereas U.S. negotiators see retention of some duties as a key mechanism to enforce a deal.

In a statement late Friday, U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer said the administration would release details of its plans for tariffs on roughly $300 billion in imports from China on Monday, setting the process in motion for Trump to deliver on his latest threat.

The lack of progress left major question-marks hanging over the search for a deal on trade  just one source of tensions in a growing geopolitical rivalry that's already shifting supply chains and testing established economic and security alliances.

Trump, who is seeking re-election on the back of a booming U.S. economy, sought to justify his decision to hike tariffs as well as to convince businesses and financial markets that he wasn't walking away from a deal.

"There is absolutely no need to rush," the U.S. president said. In another tweet, Trump proposed a vast new plan to use income from tariffs to buy up the crops of American farmers who've watched their exports to China collapse, and send them to poor countries as aid.

Special Investigation 147 NY dams are 'unsound,' potentially dangerous Thousands of dams have not been inspected in over 20 years.

The presidential good humor hid what people familiar with the discussions say has been an increasingly gloomy mood around the negotiations in recent days.

Before the rebound late Friday, U.S. markets had posted their worst week of the year, as the trade truce that had been in place for months was shattered by the new U.S. tariffs. The S&P 500 recovered from earlier losses Friday, ending the day 0.4 percent higher.

This week's tariff move is likely to have significant short-term consequences for retailers and other U.S. businesses reliant on imports from China. But extending it to all trade would increase the economic and political stakes even further for Trump and American businesses.

Such a step would see price increases on smartphones, laptops and other consumer goods  the kind that Trump's advisers have been eager to avoid, out of concern for the fallout. It would likely provoke further retaliation, and some economists are predicting it could even tip the U.S. economy into recession just as Trump faces re-election in 2020.

This week's talks have also amplified the differences that remain between the two governments as they try to navigate their own domestic politics as well as a growing international rivalry.

Liu's interview underlined the need for any agreement not to be seen as undermining Chinese sovereignty  as the U.S. demand to change domestic laws surely would be.

The text "must be balanced" for the dignity of a country, Liu said, repeating China and the U.S. are "trying to meet halfway" despite different views on some crucial issues.

Securing a trade deal is likely to get harder from here unless outside factors, such as an economic downturn, force a compromise, according to Ely Ratner, a China expert who served in the administration of President Barack Obama and is now director of studies at the Center for a New American Security think-tank.

"The question is can the Chinese come back and offer enough such that Trump can sell it?" he said. "I think it is going to be hard for them to do that in the face of Trump escalating. I think it gets harder as this thing goes on, and it gets harder politically for Trump."
Washington

Three nations that have long defined themselves as bitter adversaries of the United States  North Korea, Iran and Venezuela  decided this past week they could take on President Donald Trump.

Each one is betting that Trump is neither as savvy a negotiator nor as ready to use military force as he claims. Each also poses a drastically different challenge to a president who has little experience in handling international crises, has struggled to find the right balance of diplomacy and coercion and has not always been consistent in defining his foreign policy.

The rising tensions with all three serve as reminders that Trump's constant talk about taking care of problems that he has accused his predecessors of aggravating, or failing to confront, is difficult to convert into real-world solutions.

The confrontation with Iran appears to be the most volatile, with tensions escalating by the day. On Friday, the Pentagon said it was sending another naval ship and Patriot missile interceptor battery to the Middle East, in addition to an earlier dispatch of a carrier group and bombers, because of potential threats from Iran or allied Arab militias.

That standoff has been brewing ever since Trump moved a year ago to pull out of the Iran nuclear deal. Tehran announced a partial withdrawal of its own in the past week, threatening to resume nuclear fuel production unless Europe acts to undercut U.S. sanctions that have devastated Iran's oil revenue.

The announcement put European leaders in the position of choosing between Iran or Trump, whom they blame for destroying a deal that, in their view, was successfully containing the country's nuclear threat.

When North Korean officials determined they were not getting what they wanted from Trump after two summits, they began firing short-range ballistic missiles. The two tests over the past week seemed to signal that if the president does not return to the negotiating table, his personal diplomacy with Kim Jong Un, the North Korean leader, could revert to old hostilities. But Trump appears so invested in making his signature diplomacy a success that he told Politico that he did not "consider that a breach of trust at all"  even though he had said the previous day that "nobody's happy" about the tests.

And in Venezuela, President Nicolas Maduro remains in power despite U.S. efforts to lure military officers to the opposition. Trump is irate that the strategies devised by his national security adviser, John Bolton, and his secretary of state, Mike Pompeo, have failed to oust the Venezuelan leader, aides say.

Trump's problems with all three countries reveal a common pattern: taking an aggressive, maximalist position without a clear plan to carry it through, followed by a fundamental lack of consensus in the administration about whether the United States should be more interventionist or less.

The president's own views are hardly set in stone. White House officials say this keeps enemies off balance, but it has the same effect among allies and within his administration.

As the policies on North Korea, Iran and Venezuela have failed to produce the outcomes he wants, Trump could end up blaming Bolton and Pompeo, both hawks who advocate aggressive postures that have less appeal to Trump.

Against the recommendations of top Pentagon and intelligence officials, Bolton and Pompeo pushed Trump last month to designate an arm of the Iranian military as a terrorist group, the first time the U.S. had done so against a part of another government.

The Pentagon and intelligence officials had warned Iran might retaliate against U.S. troops or operatives in the region.

Their worries may be playing out now: Last weekend, military and intelligence officials said they had determined Iran or partner militias were possibly planning violence against U.S. troops in the region. The secret analysis prompted the Trump administration to speed up the movement of an aircraft carrier strike group and bombers to the Persian Gulf.

After an emergency trip Tuesday to Baghdad, Pompeo said he had discussed with Iraqi leaders "very specific threats we had about Iranian activity that was taking place that put at substantial risk our facilities, our men and women serving in Iraq."

And shredding a nuclear-containment deal that was reached through a yearslong negotiation process by professional diplomats has lead to this past week's reaction by Iran: reawakening of its nuclear ambitions, defying U.S. admonitions that Tehran could not violate the agreement and walk away, even though Washington had.

President Hassan Rouhani's announcement Wednesday that Iran would leave part of the 2015 nuclear deal, despite the urging of European nations to ignore Trump's provocations and stick with the agreement, means Tehran could restart a program to develop a nuclear weapon.

Special Investigation 147 NY dams are 'unsound,' potentially dangerous Thousands of dams have not been inspected in over 20 years.

Sanctions imposed by Washington after its withdrawal from the nuclear deal have helped cripple Iran's economy and curbed its financing for Arab militias, but its nuclear aims remain undeterred.

"I see it being a policy of disruption without any plan for replacement," said Dalia Dassa Kaye, director of the Center for Middle East Public Policy at the RAND Corp., a research group. "We've lost the leverage we might have had by staying in the deal and negotiating stronger terms with European allies by our side."

Mohammad Javad Zarif, Iran's foreign minister, has said the U. S. has failed to show it is a "reliable partner" because of Trump's withdrawal from the 2015 deal and other agreements. If Trump wants to negotiate, Zarif said, he should start by rejoining the Iran nuclear deal.

North Korea has also struggled to negotiate with Trump. After a failed effort in Hanoi in February to get Trump to lift sweeping U.S. sanctions against North Korea, Kim fired his negotiating team.

But Kim has one big advantage. In the absence of careful groundwork by U.S. diplomats, North Korea never had to agree to freeze its nuclear and missile production before entering into talks. That means Kim has added to his arsenal over the past year, making it ever more difficult for Trump to achieve his stated goal of ridding North Korea of nuclear weapons. And the country's 30 to 60 nuclear warheads give it considerable leverage.

That may explain why the Iranians are threatening to resume production.

"The Iranians didn't then and don't now have nuclear weapons," said William J. Burns, a deputy secretary of state in the Obama administration with a 33-year career in the foreign service, who began back-channel talks with Iran in 2013. "The North Koreans have dozens, and they're expanding their capacity to make more."

Burns acknowledged that relying solely on pressure from sanctions to rein in Kim did not work in the Obama years, and said Trump was right to engage diplomatically with the North Korean leader. But he said the lack of structured diplomacy meant North Korea was no closer to embracing denuclearization now than it was at the end of the Obama administration.

Now that an unlikely affinity between Trump and Kim seems to be hitting its limits, each is waiting for the other to get nervous and make a concession.

The push for regime change in Venezuela has run into similar headwinds.

Though U.S. officials supported the opposition leader, Juan Guaido, when he tried to ignite a climactic uprising on the morning of April 30, Maduro managed to rally the support of military leaders. By nighttime, it was clear Maduro would hold onto power.
Albany

Nearly 1,400 undergraduate and graduate students at the College of Saint Rose had their degrees and certificates recognized at the 96th annual commencement on Saturday, May 11.

A total of 1,609 bachelor's degrees, master's degrees, and certificates were awarded to a diverse group of students, who represent a student body hailing from 34 states and 61 countries, according to the school.

A crowd of more than 5,000 people watched at the Times Union Center, while many others viewed the ceremony via livestream from their homes.

Special Investigation 147 NY dams are 'unsound,' potentially dangerous Thousands of dams have not been inspected in over 20 years.

According to the college, commencement speaker and honorary degree recipient Dr. Shirley Ann Jackson, president of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, urged graduates to take time to reflect on the values their Saint Rose education had instilled.

Read more about the ceremony here.
WARREN COUNTY  Lake George is separated from Lake Champlain by just over two miles of waterfalls on the La Chute River, which tumbles through the former mill town of Ticonderoga, a word loosely translated to mean "where the waters meet."

As Town of Hague Deputy Supervisor Steve Ramant notes, you can pull your boat from the waters of Lake Champlain and be ready to launch it into Lake George in the space of about 10 minutes.

Despite their proximity, these two bodies of water could not be more different in terms of invasive species. Lake George is a highly decorated model for fending off nonnative aquatic life that puddle-jumps from lake to lake, taking over and altering ecosystems as they go.

But the international Lake Champlain, connected to a ship route from the Atlantic Ocean to the Great Lakes, hosts a virtual field guide of nonnative species that have hitchhiked on the hulls of unrestricted boats. One fish, the alewife, has altered the lake's fisheries. The most recent invader, the fishhook waterflea, consumes zooplankton and threatens to upend the food web.

Some of Lake George's top defenders worry that two boat launches on northern Lake George could become portals to invasives that they have so diligently tried to keep out.

Both launches, Mossy Point on the lake's east side and Rogers Rock on the west, are short hops to the boat launches on Lake Champlain. And while teams are present during the day to inspect and, if need be, scrub incoming boats of invasives at both, there are no locking gates such as exist at other parts of the lake to prevent boats from entering the water after hours.

"It's a stone's throw from Lake Champlain to Mossy Point," said Eric Siy, executive director of the Fund for Lake George, a not-for-profit, privately funded organization dedicated to the lake's protection. "A boat from Lake Champlain carrying invasives to Lake George is our worst nightmare. These are loopholes that have to be closed."

But the state Department of Environmental Conservation, which would be the entity responsible for providing after-hours gates, remains unconvinced.

"The state has regulations in place to protect water quality and stop the spread of invasive species entering waterbodies," said Erica Ringewald, DEC's deputy commissioner public affairs, in a written response. "In addition, in Lake George, trailered boats must be inspected before launching. Having a gate in place does not alter this regulation, and only inhibits the legitimate and lawful use of the boat launch."

She added that "anglers in particular would be unfairly impacted as they oftentimes access the lake during off hours to avoid other recreational users and find some of the best fishing early a.m. and late p.m. In addition, a gate could have safety implications, preventing timely exit or emergency response."

Hague's Ramant, who is a fisherman himself, doesn't buy it. "I fish that lake all the time in the summer, and no one's on it at 5:30 in the morning," he said. Because "all it takes is one" boat to spread an invasive, Ramant said the convenience of a stray angler here and there is not worth the risk.

Other launches, both public and private, are locked down at night and in the shoulder season, he said, leaving just the two weak links in the north. Ramant said it's mystifying why so much care would be taken to lock up everything else on the lake, while the two northern launches would remain open.

"It's just those two," he said. "We're going to lose this battle unless everything can be controlled."

In terms of aquatic invasives and nonnative species, Lake Champlain outnumbers Lake George 51 to six.

This ratio can be a little deceiving in that not all nonnative species are considered to be invasive. According to Meg Modley, Lake Champlain Basin Program aquatic invasive species management coordinator, an aquatic invasive species must be both nonnative and documented as causing economic, ecological, or human health harm. Of the 51 known nonnative species in Lake Champlain, Modley said, 11 are considered to be invasive.

Four invasives in particular  variable-leafed milfoil, water chestnut, alewife and fishhook waterflea  are found in Lake Champlain but not Lake George. (Lake George, but not Lake Champlain, has a documented population of Asian clams.) But that could change if other nonnative species are, in the future, reclassified.

"We may have some species that are nonnative that sometime soon experts may say have become invasive because they are now able to document harm," Modley said.

Even if a contaminated boat entered the water, transporting an invasive species from one lake to another is not exactly analogous to dropping a match in a dry forest. "The biology of invasions is that most invasions do fail," Modley wrote. "That said, it is possible that a viable strand of Eurasian watermilfoil or variable leaved milfoil could take off if the conditions were right."

Special Investigation 147 NY dams are 'unsound,' potentially dangerous Thousands of dams have not been inspected in over 20 years.

According to Dave Wick, executive director of the Lake George Park Commission, the risk presented by the Mossy Point and Rogers Rock boat launches exists, but is small. The Mossy Point boat-wash hours are 6 a.m. to 9 p.m., and are somewhat shorter at Rogers Rock. He said "exceedingly few" boats are launched after hours, and that those that are seem to be complying with the rules that require them to document their travels and maintain clean boats.

And while fishermen might occasionally launch in the dark, it is unlikely they would, say, put in at 4 a.m. and take out prior to 6 a.m.  meaning that if inspectors didn't see them going out, they would see them coming back in later in the morning. It would be possible for someone to beat the system, but "they would almost have to be trying," Wick said.

He noted that the arguments can become circular, because both sides point to the same evidence, that being the scant number of boats on the water in the wee hours  which can be interpreted to mean that either gates aren't needed because of the lack of traffic, or that so few would be affected that what's the harm in putting up gates?

What is not arguable is the effectiveness of the lake's guardians. The data indicate that the Lake George invasives program has been highly successful. According to its website, the Park Commission instituted a mandatory trailered boat inspection program in 2014, and since that time no new aquatic invasives have gotten into the lake.

Under the program, all trailered boats launched into Lake George must be inspected for invasive species at one of seven regional boat inspection stations. The inspections, and washing if necessary, are free. The inspection takes about five minutes, and if the boat does not arrive clean, drained and dry, a wash may take between five and 10 minutes.

Trained inspectors have spotted 639 boats with invasives since the program's inception, and decontaminated 8,000 boats that did not meet the cleaned, drained and dry standard.

Those who favor restrictions say that it is the meticulous attention to detail  and going the extra mile  that has worked so well in limiting the external threats to the lake. And taking the broader view, environmental groups say the principles that have worked at Lake George should be aggressively applied statewide.

New York "needs to take the success of Lake George and replicate it statewide," said Peter Bauer, executive director of Protect the Adirondacks. Lake George, he said, proves the program can work, even on larger lakes served by multiple jurisdictions. But a unified effort is lacking.

Green groups such as Protect and the Adirondack Council have noted that there is no mandatory exit-washing on Lake Champlain, and the Crown Point boat launch, to take one example, is a half hour north of Lake George, but has no boat-wash facilities at all.

Siy said it is in everyone's best interests to protect all Adirondack lakes, which are central not just to the North Country environment, but to the region's economy. The lack of a state-mandatory program can expose weak links in the chain, including Mossy Point and Rogers Rock, gate advocates believe, and that's a risk that isn't worth taking.

"You don't win a war by just playing defense," Siy said. "Bottom line is we need a mandatory program park-wide and ultimately statewide, to have a fighting chance of winning this war."
(Image credit: Nvidia)

Subsidiaries of Xperi Corp, a company that licenses intellectual property, have filed suit against Nvidia in the U.S. District Court of Delaware for patent infringement. The case hinges on Nvidia's alleged violation of five of the company's patents for technology used in its gaming and supercomputer GPUs.

During the company's Q1 2019 earnings call, Xperi announced that its subsidiaries Invensas Corporation and Tessera Advanced Technologies had filed the suit:

In addition, today we filed a lawsuit against NVIDIA for patent infringement. We believe that NVIDIA is using our patent semiconductor technology in certain of its CPUs and processors and we have been speaking with NVIDIA for several years about taking a patent license. We ultimately could not reach an agreement and we felt that we needed to take this action to defend our intellectual property rights. We filed the case in Delaware Federal Court asserting 5 patents. -- CEO Jon Kirchner, via Seeking Alpha.

(Image credit: Xperi Q1 Investor Slide Deck)

Xperi and its subsidiaries invent and then license a broad range of technologies, like audio and imaging codecs like DTS:X, IMAX, Virtual:X, and has several large clients, like Sony, LG, Samsung, Tencent, and Alibaba.

But more importantly for this topic, the company also licenses semiconductor packaging and interconnect technology IP. The company claims that Nvidia has violated five of its U.S. Patents (5,666,046; 6,232,231; 6,317,333; 6,849,946; and 7,064,005), all of which pertain to semiconductor designs.

Nvidia doesn't spin its own silicon, it contracts with TSMC to manufacture its chips, but Xperi says the onus falls on Nvidia to answer for the alleged patent infringements because the company is responsible for its own architectural designs.

Given that Xperi has sued and won settlements against both Samsung and Broadcom over three of these same patents, there is little doubt the validity of those patents have passed the stiffest of legal challenges. Both Samsung and Broadcom settled with Xperi for undisclosed sums and entered into multi-year patent licensing agreements.

"Yes, there are five asserted patents, three of which were litigated either with Broadcom and/or Samsung. So, I think its IP that we are obviously very comfortable with. We think its broadly applicable to their core GPU and processor offerings. And its our preference to see a resolution to this, but after working diligently for an extended period of time, we felt it was necessary to take this step to help try to close the gap essentially on our respective views," Kirchner said during the earnings call.

We tracked down the company's filing in the U.S. Delaware Court, but proposed damages and/or royalty demands aren't listed yet. Compared to Nvidia with its ~$102.7 billion market cap, Xperi is a rather small company with a cap of ~$1.2 billion. But given the company's successful defense of several of these patents against industry behemoths Samsung and Broadcom, the validity of the patents will be hard to challenge, meaning the case will likely boil down to if Xperi can prove Nvidia is using the patented IP. Nvidia hasn't released a statement yet, but we've inquired with the company and will update as necessary.
Farmers feel like "pawns" being used by Trump over China trade deal: Republican senator President Donald Trump's announcement on Sunday that he will be increasing tariffs on Chinese imports has been making the financial markets nervous. And according to a report by the "Washington Post", it is worrying farmers and some midwestern GOP senators as well. One of those Republican senators is Kansas Sen.

Progressive advocacy offers another argument against the current Administration as foreign policy now starts to impact finances. The note is mostly skewed but still offers a rare bit of big media consideration of Midwest values. Read more:
By PTI

HYDERABAD: A handshake or hug to students before the start of morning classes by the principal of a social welfare school to boost their morale has made them happy and confident and won her plaudits from officials.

The Principal, S Rupa, was inspired by a YouTube video, in which a teacher greets primary school children in this manner.

However, she is not sure of details in the video of where these children or teacher are from.

Rupa, principal of Telangana Social Welfare Residential School/Junior College (Girls) at Addaguduru in Yadadri-Bhongir district, then decided to try out the gestures at a summer camp.

She greeted her students, belonging to backward sections of society, with either a handshake, a hug, a high five or a fist bump. She then took printouts of the signs and pasted it where they could see it.

After seeing the viral of the Palestine teacher uniquely greeting students, Principal of TSWREIS, Addaaguduru, Rupa tried the same. The experience was 'emotional', she said to me. TSREIS schools across are replicating this. pic.twitter.com/qLvhN44HcB  Bala (@naartthigan) May 10, 2019

To add to the surprise element, the children were not told what it was for and were asked to select the signs they liked.

"We asked them to select any. We did not tell them what it is. We were doing it as a surprise for them. They felt happy and some children wanted all four," she said.

Rupa said she greets the children with a hug or a handshake before the start of classes in the morning. Her thoughtful gesture has won her praise from senior officials, who have now decided to implement the practice in all schools, but not every day, for fifth standard children.

"It's a good practice where bonding will be more between teachers and students," Prasanthi, a senior official, said.
She didn't get a lot of what she wanted this session and finishes by blaming the GOP. Here's her argument as we ask our blog community to rate her progress.Read more:
Misha Webb, 41, said she is grateful this Mother's Day. Last month, Webb got a call that her 60-year-old mother was in jail, after police said her car had been swerving and that she failed a breathalyzer test. With $500 of her rent savings, Webb bailed her mom out.
Naming Kansas City Murder Victim

Man found dead after Northland house fire identified KANSAS CITY, MO (KCTV) -- The man found dead after a fire in the Northland has been identified. Officers discovered the body of 35-year-old Matthew Calkins at a home on North Poe last Saturday. Police have not said how he died. They originally went to the house on a report of shots fired.

Midtown Homicide Aftermath

'We don't have answers': Friends mourn Buddies owner killed in unexplained explosion Dozens of friends of Melvin "Lee" Mecker, owner of Buddies gay bar on Main Street in Kansas City, gathered Saturday at Side Street Bar & Grill to celebrate his life. Friends say Mecker died in an April 10 explosion and house fire, but police have not identified the body.

KCMO Throws Away The Key

Kansas City man receives two life sentences for raping girl KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A Kansas City, Missouri, man was sentenced to two life sentences without parole for raping a 13-year-old girl, the Jackson County Prosecutor's Office said Friday. Antoine Ellis, 32, was convicted in March of two counts of first-degree statutory rape and one count of child enticement.

Local Killing Consequence In The Stix

Greenwood man sentenced to life in prison for 2017 murder KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- A Jackson County judge sentenced Patrick Powell to life in prison without the possibility of parole for the 2017 murder of a Kansas City man. Powell, 30, was convicted of first-degree murder and armed criminal action in the death of 52- year-old Rodney Thurber in November 2017.

Inner Suburban Gunfight Redux

Raytown man sentenced to 22 years in Blue Springs shooting KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A Raytown man who pleaded guilty to two charges in connection with a deadly shooting in November 2017 outside a Blue Springs restaurant was sentenced Friday to 22 years in prison. John D.

Po-Po Survival Story

KCPD motorcycle officer shares crash survival story KANSAS CITY, Mo. - May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness month, and Kansas City, Missouri, Police are urging drivers to slow down after one of their own was hit. KCPD Officer Michael Livers has been with the KCPD Traffic Enforcement for two years, with 11 years in the field before that.

A serious and somewhat awful look at Kansas City local life as our homicide count continues to outpace the past 5 yearsproperty crime increases under everybody's radar.And this is thefor right now . . .
Debate: KC mayoral candidates talk $63M luxury hotel, crime, trash and neighborhoods Councilwoman Jolie Justus and Councilman Quinton Lucas squared off in a debate Saturday as they campaign to be elected Kansas City's next mayor. They addressed an array of issues from crime to TIF incentives and housing. The Kansas City Star hosted the debate.

Via social media we notice. Here's the write-up that mostly downplays the pathetic turnout in a contest that is driving most voters away. Take a look at the write-up
Community reacts after city validates petition to keep The Paseo name Neighbors and community groups are reacting after Kansas City validated a petition to return Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard to its former name The Paseo. Michael Patton has lived on the street 38 years. "I enjoy living on The Paseo, but I see the need for Martin Luther King Boulevard to exist in Kansas City," Patton said.

The debate is becoming a uniquely Kansas City affair . . . Factions and longtime leaders in the 3rd District are pushing back against some members of the clergy while Northeast residents lead the effort in a move that is mostly focused on historic preservation. Here's another mainstream report on the ongoing battle for control of local streets.
A Missouri woman who sought treatment at a Kansas hospital after a violent sexual assault has filed a lawsuit against the hospital and one of its staffers, whom she says leaked her personal information to her attacker. Her abuser then sexually assaulted her again, she says.
The Kicks replaced the Juke in the United States, but its not available in Europe as of 2019. Lets find out more about this crossover in the review below.

Keno Kato, the Vice President of Product Planning for Nissan, said, With Kicks, we have developed a compact crossover in the best Nissan tradition, and thanks to the unmatched experience we have in creating vehicles to meet the needs of car-buyers around the world, Kicks will offer best-in-class design, convenience, and technological innovation. And, it will demonstrate Nissans commitment to Nissan Intelligent Mobility. Kicks is a car to confidently take on the city.

The Kicks is Nissans smallest crossover offering in the United States, and its widely based on the 2014 Nissan Kicks Concept that debuted back in 2014 at the Sao Paulo International Auto Show. In essence, the new Kicks CUV is quite similar to the concept, and most of the design cues carry over. As always, the overall design has been toned down a bit because, well, the production models are never as good as the concepts. Major features include a floating roof with a wrap-around visor, a comprehensive infotainment system, and best-in-class rear passenger space.

Exterior

Borrows heavily from the concept

Modern design

V-motion grile

Boomerang-style headlamps

Muscular profile

Two-tone paint option

Boomerang taillights

Sporty rear bumper

On the outside, the Kicks is pretty similar to the Kicks Concept.

In fact, the official debut model is even covered in the same greyish-silver paint, plus burnt-orange-like finish on the floating roof. Of course, it also has Nissans V-motion grille (because it wouldnt be a Nissan without it), and it has boomerang-styled headlights up front. As you can see, those headlights are recessed into the fascia and sit just below the hood. The inner point slants upward to kiss the upper point of the grille. The hood itself is relatively smooth, with a small ridge just before the hood drops at the waistline on each side. Down below, fog lights are integrated into the corners of the fascia, and the air dam sits just above a dominate bottom lip that runs between the two corner cutouts.

As you can see, the burnt-orange finish on the roof wraps around to the sides to create the wrap-around visor effect on the top of the doors.

Moving over to the sides, the rearmost point of the headlight lens transitions into a powerful body line that curves downward, terminating just past the front-most door seam to create a dominate front wheel arch. Another body line runs along the center plane of the door handles and transitions into the front-most corner of the wrap-around taillights. Toward the bottom of the vehicle, another body line runs from door-to-door, slanting upward as it gets closer to the rear. The body cladding on the doors have a light gray insert to give the side more character. It should also be noted that the black cladding that starts at the front of the front wheel arch extends over the arch and across the bottom to wrap around the rear wheel arch. As you can see, the burnt-orange finish on the roof wraps around to the sides to create the wrap-around visor effect on the top of the doors.

The hatch itself is almost hourglass-shaped, with a profile that slumps inward around the taillights

To the rear, the design gets even more interesting. The rear hatch has a short overhang that is painted in the same finish as the roof. A black coloration travels from the rear-most edge of the rear doors and across the rear quarter, transitioning into the black tint that surrounds the hatch window. The taillights are also of the boomerang style, which is frankly a very odd design that features a wide reverse light at the bottom of the lens. The hatch itself is almost hourglass-shaped, with a profile that slumps inward around the taillights and gets wider toward the bottom. The black cladding from the sides continues around back and covers the entire rear fascia. There is another light-grey insert that runs the width of the rear fascia, with rectangular reflectors mounted below it. All told, its a fresh and unique design, as well as a worthy successor to the Juke in the looks department.

But how big is the Kicks compared to the Juke? At 169.1 inches long, the Kicks is a significant 6.7 inches longer.

On the other hand, the Kicks is a half-inch narrower, so it has a different overall stance too. The Kicks is higher too, but only by 1.8 inches, standing at 63 inches tall. Because its longer overall, the Kicks also has a longer wheelbase. It measure 103 inches, which accounts for an extra 3.4 inches compared to the Juke.

2019 Nissan Kicks exterior dimensions Wheelbase 103.1 Overall length 169.1 Overall width 69.3 Overall height 62.4 Track width Front / rear 59.8 / 60.4

Interior

Gliding Wing dashboard

Organic design overall

Digital instrument cluster

Seven-inch touchscreen

Two-tone upholstery option

Most plastic look cheap

Comfortable seats

Trunk larger than the competition

Inside, the Kicks is even more interesting.

It has what Nissan calls the Gliding Wing dashboard, which basically means the rim that curves around the top of the dash transitions perfectly into a styling line on each doors trim. From an inside perspective, it almost gives the feeling that youre sitting inside a bubble. The corner HVAC vents are round and come integrated with the dash, creating a hump on the dashboards surface. There is also another elevated area of the dash with the instrument cluster and center HVAC vents sitting below.

The interior has a two-tone color scheme, with light brown used for the seats, the front face of the dash, and the insert that surrounds the pull handle on the door trims

The instrument cluster itself is something I like to call a hybrid unit. It has a traditional analog needle gauge for the speedometer, but to the left of that, theres a rectangular digital display that serves as a drivers information center for stuff like fuel level and engine temperature. As you can see in the interior images, the instrument cluster is displaying the selected transmission gear in the middle and the fuel gauge to the left, with a temperature gauge just below it. The three-spoke steering wheel adds a bit of sportiness to the cabin with its flat-bottom design. Inside the center, stack sits an infotainment system with a seven-inch touchscreen. The system features physical buttons and a knob on each side of the display. In all honesty, it looks similar to some Chinese brands of aftermarket displays available on popular auction sites.

The rear portion of the center console sits below the seats and features dual cup holders

The interior has a two-tone color scheme, with light brown used for the seats, the front face of the dash, and the insert that surrounds the pull handle on the door trims. The carpeting looks like felt, with a sculpted look and tight lights up front. The rear portion of the center console sits below the seats and features dual cup holders, a small storage cavity, and the hand brake. Farther up, the center console elevates to house the gear shifter and another storage pocket. The HVAC controls are positioned between the center stack and the center console and looks like a futuristic representation of the old-school, dual-knob radios of the past. The same color scheme is carried over in the rear seating area. It looks like the rear seats feature a 60-40 split, but there is also a rear deck behind the seats, which seems rather odd, given the CUV nature of the vehicle.

2019 Nissan Kicks interior dimensions Front 2nd row Head room 40.7 38.5 Leg room 43.7 33.2 Hip room 50.9 49.1 Shoulder room 53.0 53.2

All told, I would normally talk smack about how cheap some of the interior looks, despite the decent fit and finish, but this model will be sitting pretty low in Nissans SUV/CUV lineup. Taking that into consideration, the interior is decent for where this model will sit in the lineup.

Storage room behind the second-row seats is rated at 25.3 cubic feet

When it comes to trunk space, the Nissan Kicks has plenty to offer. Storage room behind the second-row seats is rated at 25.3 cubic feet. Thats significantly more than most big sedans and also notably more than the competition. The Chevy Trax, for instance, offers 18.7 cubic feet. The Honda HR-V and Mazda CX-3 offer less than at 15.8 and 12.3 cubic feet, respectively.

Fold the rear seats down, and cargo room increases to 53.1 cubic feet. Again, this is notably more than the competition. The Honda HR-V offers only 36.2 cubic feet, while the Mazda CX-3 is rated at 42.2 cubic feet. The Chevrolet Trax comes a bit closer with 48.4 cubic feet, but the Nissan Kicks wins by a notable margin.

Drivetrain

1.6-liter four-cylinder

122 horsepower

114 pound-feet of torque

CVT transmission

Less powerful than rivals

Good fuel economy

36 mpg highway

31 mpg city

Available 17-inch wheels higher in trim line

The 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine generates 122 horsepower and 114 pound-feet of torque

The Nissan Kicks features just one engine in the United States. Its a naturally aspirated, 1.6-liter four-cylinder mill thats shared with a wide range of Nissans, including the Qashqai, Juke, Note, and Micra. The unit generates 122 horsepower and 114 pound-feet of torque, routed to the front wheels through a CVT (continuously variable transmission).

2019 Nissan Kicks drivetrain specifications Engine Name HR16DE Cam design DOHC Orientation Transverse Cylinders / configuration 4-cylinder / inline Block / head composition Aluminum / aluminum Displacement (liters) 1.6 (1,598 cc) Horsepower 125 @ 5,800 rpm Torque (lb-ft) 115 @ 4,000 rpm Bore & stroke (mm) 78.0 x 83.6 Compression ratio (:1) 9.8 Spark plugs Platinum-tipped Maximum engine speed 6,500 rpm

Needless to say, the Kicks isnt very powerful, especially when compared to the Juke. The latter also had a 1.6-liter four-banger, but it was turbocharged and delivered 188 horsepower and 177 pound-feet. All told, the Kicks was downgraded by a significant 66 horsepower and 63 pound-feet. Ouch!

Nissan Kicks vs. Nissan Juke Nissan Kicks Nissan Juke Name HR16DE MR16DDT Cam design DOHC DOHC Orientation Transverse Transverse Cylinders / configuration 4-cylinder / inline 4-cylinder / inline Block / head composition Aluminum / aluminum Aluminum / aluminum Displacement (liters) 1.6 (1,598 cc) 1.6 liters / 1,618 cc Horsepower 125 @ 5,800 rpm 188 hp @ 5,600 RPM Torque (lb-ft) 115 @ 4,000 rpm 177 lb-ft torque @ 1,600 -5,200RPM Bore & stroke (mm) 78.0 x 83.6 79.7 x 81.1 Compression ratio (:1) 9.8 10.5:1

The Kicks can return up to 36 mpg on the highway

The Kicks is underpowered when compared to the Honda HR-V as well. Its Japanese rival features a 1.8-liter engine rated at 138 horsepower and 127 pound-feet, so the Kicks falls behind by 16 horses and 13 pound-feet. Its not a colossal difference though. Things turn bad when compared to the Mazda CX-3, which benefits from an extra 24 horsepower and 32 pound-feet with a total rating of 146 horsepower and 146 pound-feet of twist. The Kicks also loses the battle against the Chevy Trax, which comes with a 1.4-liter four-pot that generates 138 horses and 148 pound-feet. Thats an extra 16 horsepower and 34 pound-feet.

Theres is some good news when it comes to the Kicks underpowered drivetrain. It can return up to 36 mpg on the highway. Thats two mpg more than the Trax. It also wins the city economy battle with up to 31 mpg, five more than the Chevy.

Prices

The Nissan Kicks starts from $18,640, for which you get the entry-level S trim. Upgrade to the SV version and the sticker jumps to $20,350, while the range-topping SR comes in at $20,970 before options.

Competition

The Honda HR-V actually started life as the Honda Vezzel in the Japanese market and has the same underpinnings as the Honda Fit. The HR-V is powered by a 1.8-liter four-cylinder that develops 138 horsepower and 127 pound-feet of torque. Its available with a CVT transmission in AWD form, but in two-wheel-drive form, a six-speed manual is available. As of this writing, the HR-V is available in five different trims  LX, Sport, EX, EX-L, and Touring. The LX and Sport trims start at $20,520 and $22,220, respectively. The EX comes in at $23,720, while the EX-L fetches $25,320. Finally, the range-topping Touring model starts from $28,540.

Read our full review on the 2018 Honda HR-V here.

The CX-3 was introduced for the 2016 model year and was designed to slot below the CX-5 as Mazdas subcompact SUV. The CX-3 is offered in three different trims, all of which come with the same engine  a 2.0-liter, Skyactiv-G four-cylinder that delivers 146 horsepower and 146 pound-feet of torque. The lowest trim is the CX-3 Sport, which includes 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, a rearview camera, and the Mazda Connect infotainment system for $20,390. The CX-3 Touring includes rear cross-traffic alert, leatherette-trimmed sport seats with red stitching, and advanced blind spot monitoring. Pricing is $22,475 before options. The range-topping trim is the Grand Touring, which includes 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, automatic climate control, and leather-trimmed seats. It starts at $25,745 before options, taxes, and delivery.

Read our full review on the 2019 Mazda CX-3.

The Chevy Trax was a new offering in the U.S. for the 2015 model year, but it went through a facelift for the 2017 model year, bringing it up to speed with the rest of the subcompacts in the segment. The Trax has a reasonably sporty exterior and upscale interior that should help it against models like the CX-3, HR-V, and Nissan Kicks. Under the hood lurks a shoddy little 1.4-liter, four-cylinder that delivers a miserable 138 horsepower and 148 pound-feet of torque. One could very easily argue that the Trax is underpowered, but it does pull 26 mpg in the city and upward of 34 mpg on the highway, so at least it has that going for it. Just dont expect to tow much more than a dirty teenager on a skateboard. The Trax starts from $20,045 in base LS trim, while the LT version comes in at $21,945. The range-topping Premier model will set you back $26,345.

Read our full review on the 2019 Chevrolet Trax.

Conclusion

What can I really say here? With the SUV craze still in full force, those who cant afford the larger gas hogs are definitely going for the smaller ones. So, with that in mind, it makes sense Nissan would expand its offerings with another subcompact SUV. Overall, the model does have a reasonably sporty appearance outside, and despite the lackluster materials inside, they do have a good fit and finish, so you cant really complain about that. Looking at the pictures, though, I can almost smell the cheap plastic. Aside from the materials, the cabin itself is somewhat pleasing to look at. The first thing I would do is swap out the cheap-looking infotainment screen for a more upscale aftermarket unit, but considering this model starts out well below the $20,000 threshold, you cant really hate on Nissan for the little things. All told, it should be a pretty successful model assuming interest isnt lost to other models like the Rogue.

Love it Sporty exterior Functional, two-tone interior Replaces the Juke with a far more modern package

Leave it Not very powerful Some of the interior materials look cheap



Further reading

Read our full review on the 2014 Nissan Kicks Concept.

Read our full review on the 2017 Nissan Juke.
By Express News Service

VISAKHAPATNAM: This Mothers Day is the best one for 35-year-old Dantuluri Jyothi; she delivered a baby boy through IVF after she lost her 17-year-old son in a road accident last year. Unable to bear the loss, she decided to deliver a baby boy through IVF.

On Saturday, an ecstatic Jyothi and her husband Jaganadham Raju spoke to the media in London IVF, Vizag showing their newborn who was born in February.

According to IVF specialist Dr K Chandra Reddy of IVF London, this is the first case in Andhra Pradesh, which has been managed successfully in spite of several setbacks and challenges faced during the pregnancy.

After a month when Jyothi lost her 17-year-old son Sai Tej Varma, the couple decided to go with the fertility treatment. While Jyothis first IVF failed with age factors, without losing any hope, they went for another chance and were successful.

With advanced age, there were many complications in her pregnancy. At 12 weeks of gestation, Jyothi was presented with unexpected rupture of membranes and ultrasound scan confirmed a live baby with no water around the baby and was treated with injections, Dr Chandra Reddy told TNIE.

The couple moved from Vizianagaram to Vizag. It was a like a miracle at around 20 weeks of gestation (5 months),water around the baby started reappearing, which gave hope to the doctors and the family. Jyothi received steroids for the babys lung maturation at 26 weeks of gestation. In February 2019, a baby boy was born weighing 1.15 kg.
editorial@tribune.com

Ramkrishan Upadhyay

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, May 11

The Election Commission has issued a notice to the Panjab University authorities on a complaint filed by the Congress yesterday. In a communication sent by the District Nodal Officer for Model Code of Conduct to the PU Vice-Chancellor, the university has been asked to furnish a reply within 24 hours clarifying its stand.

The local unit of the Congress, through its advocate Pankaj Chandgothia, yesterday submitted a complaint to the Election Commission regarding a violation of the model code of conduct by the ruling party and its candidate, Kirron Kher, by making election propaganda in favour of the BJP and PM Narendra Modi at an educational institution on May 8 without informing or taking the permission of the Election Commission.

According to the complaint, a Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) leader, Indresh Kumar, gave a long and adulatory speech singing praises for PM Modi and his government at an event held at Panjab University Golden Jubilee Hall, Sector 14, Chandigarh.

At a programme titled, No more Pakistan, the RSS ideologue also said the BJP would form the government again in 2019, the complaint states. He also said there was nothing wrong in PM Modi calling former PM Rajiv Gandhi corrupt.

The complaint says Indresh had also credited the Modi government with declaration of Masood Azhar as a global terrorist and with Balakot air strike. The relating media reports have been attached with the complaint. Besides, an audio CD containing the extract of the speech/election propaganda made by the RSS leader has also been submitted to the EC. The election propaganda was organised without informing or taking the permission of the competent authority of the Election Commission, thus amounts to a gross violation of norms, also because an educational institution (Shiksha kaa Mandir) is being used for political agenda, states the complaint.

Kirron Kher, too, put on notice

The Election Commission has also issued a notice to Kirron Kher on a complaint filed by the Congress for alleged violation of the code of the conduct. The Congress has stated that the BJP and its candidate Kirron Kher are using places of worship for election propaganda. One such violation of the model code of conduct came to its notice at the Sector 52 temple on May 9 around 4 pm, where the BJP workers, wearing the party symbol and logo on big mufflers, were indulging in election propaganda.
editorial@tribune.com

Nitin Jain

Tribune News Service

Ambala, May 11

Polling in one of the most bitterly fought and high-stake general elections to the 17th Lok Sabha will be held in Ambala on Sunday amidst fear that sweltering heat may mar the voter turnout.

However, the administration and politicians are hopeful of heavy turnout in the wake of clear weather forecast for the next 24 hours.

A total of 18,46,727 voters, including 9,84,077 male, 8,62,620 female and 30 transgender, have the right to vote in the Ambala (Scheduled Caste) Reserved Lok Sabha constituency, which comprises 9 Assembly segments  Ambala Cantonment, Ambala City, Kalka, Panchkula, Naraingarh, Mullana, Sadhaura, Jagadhari and Yamunanagar  spread across 3 districts - Ambala, Panchkula and Yamunanagar.

Ambala City has the highest of 2,48,699 voters, including 1,30,689 male, 1,18,007 female and 3 transgender, while Kalka has the minimum of 1,71,036 electorates, including 90,704 male, 80,320 female and 12 transgender, among the 9 Assembly seats under this parliamentary constituency.

Though a total of 18 candidates are in the fray, two-time sitting MP Rattan Lal Kataria, 67, of the BJP and sitting Rajya Sabha MP and former Union Minister Kumari Selja, 56, of the Congress are poised for a direct close contest.

The district administrations have completed all arrangements for polling at 2,045 polling stations, including 287 hypersensitive and 257 sensitive, set up across the constituency at 7 am, which will continue till 6 pm.

Along with 4 companies of paramilitary and state armed forces, comprising 360 personnel, 2,500 Haryana Police cops are put on election duty in Ambala district.

All polling parties reached their respective polling booths in the entire constituency with EVMs.

Strict instructions have been given that no voter or representative or polling agent of any candidate or party will be allowed to use his or her mobile phone inside the polling station. Only presiding officers will be allowed to use their mobile phones, Returning Officer-cum-Deputy Commissioner Sharandeep Kaur Brar told The Tribune.

The borders of the Ambala Lok Sabha seat with Punjab, Chandigarh, Himachal Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh have been sealed and police check-posts have been put up along the borders of all Assembly segments, Ambala SP Mohit Handa told The Tribune.

Slum colonies across the constituency have been kept under strict vigil to check the distribution of liquor, drugs and money for sale and purchase of votes.

Today, the candidates, who were busy till yesterday engaging senior leaders for their public meetings, went around with folded hands and plastic smiles as tiredness could be clearly seen on their faces.

Border sealed

panchkula: Dr Balkar Singh, Deputy Commissioner-cum-District Election Officer, while addressing the media, polling parties had been dispatched to polling booths for Lok Sabha elections to be held in assembly segments of Kalka and Panchkula. He said 82 buses had been arranged for polling parties to reach polling stations. Arrangements have been made to keep EVMs in store room at the counting centres.

He said along with security personnel, flying teams, zonal magistrate, super zonal magistrate and sector officer, would also monitor the voting process.

He said 1,808 presiding officers, additional presiding officers and polling officers had been deployed for polling. To monitor the voting process, 278 micro observers have been deployed on duty, besides 9 squad teams and 6 flying teams have also been deployed.

DCP Kamal Deep Goyal said about 1,500 personnel of the Haryana Police and paramilitary force would be deployed in the district for smooth polling in the district. He said 36 patrol parties would be deployed to monitor law and order situation in the urban and rural areas. All police station in-charge of the district would visit polling centres falling under their jurisdiction.

Goyal said border with the neighbouring states had also been sealed by setting up 22 barricades at the entry points.

Fate hangs in the balance

The fate of both MPs, Rattan Lal Kataria of the BJP and Kumari Selja of the Congress, who are facing each other for the third time, here, hangs in the balance. In a keenly fought electoral battle on issues of development, corruption and nationalism, the ruling BJP and the Opposition Congress are having direct contest in Ambala.

Webcasting

As many as 117 polling centres have been set up for webcasting, of which 50 will be in Ambala district, 25 in Panchkula and 42 in Yamunanagar district. The proceedings at these centres will be telecast live for the assistant returning officers concerned on the polling day while videography has been arranged at all 2,045 polling stations in the parliamentary constituency, Sharandeep Kaur Brar said.

Identity proof must

Voter card is must for voters, who possess it. While those who does not possess voter cards, they must establish their identity through a ration card, employers ID card, driving licence, passport, bank passbook or PAN card.

Deployment of officers

As many as 80 zonal magistrates and 153 sector officers have been deputed in the constituency. Of the total deployment, 38 zonal magistrates and 66 sector officers have been put on duty in Ambala district, 13 zonal magistrates and 35 sector officers in Panchkula and 29 zonal magistrates and 52 sector officers have been deputed in Yamunanagar district.
By Express News Service

GUNTUR: Security has been heightened in and around the city after terrorists targeted churches and luxury hotels on Easter Sunday in Sri Lanka. In the wake of the attacks, Guntur Urban SP Ch Vijaya Rao on Saturday convened a meeting with owners of hotels and malls to take stock of safety measures.

The SP instructed them to install surveillance cameras and hold security checks in accordance with Andhra Pradesh Public Safety (Measures) Enforcement Act, 2013. He urged the stakeholders to maintain vigil.

Apart from surveillance cameras, the management should also deploy baggage scanners and other security checks. As the police cannot be present everywhere, people should be the eyes and ears of the force to help maintain law and order, he said.

The management of private institutions should seek the help of jurisdictional police for deployment of adequate security measures, and they should inform the police about any suspicious activities. He underscored the importance of hotels and lodges to record details of guests with copies of government-approved ID cards.

Door frames and hand-held metal detectors should be put in place at strategic locations. Representatives of various institutions who attended the meeting responded positively and agreed to install or upgrade security measures.

ASPs YT Naidu, S Raghava and Lakshmi Narayana, DSP (Special Branch) Ramanjaneyulu, DSP Ramakrishna, DSP (Traffic) Supraja, DSPs Nizamuddin and Prakash and other participated in the meeting.
gspannu7@gmail.com

Sunit Dhawan

Tribune News Service

Rohtak, May 12

Incumbent MP and Congress nominee for Rohtak Lok Sabha seat Deepender Singh Hooda on Sunday accused Haryana Minister of State for Cooperatives Manish Grover of entering polling booths illegally and intimidating voters during polling today.

Grover and his musclemen entered polling booths without any authorisation and intimidated and threatened polling officials and voters.

We have lodged a complaint in this regard with the Rohtak Deputy Commissioner-cum-Returning Officer, said Deepender Hooda and former Rohtak MLA Bharat Bhushan Batra while talking to reporters here.

They further alleged that the administrative and police officials present at the polling stations did not take any action despite complaints. They have also sought action against a DSP-level officer in this regard.

Meanwhile, Deependers election agent Chander Sen has also lodged a complaint regarding the matter with the Chief Election Commissioner of India, Chief Electoral Officer, Haryana, Returning Officer of Rohtak parliamentary constituency and SP, Rohtak, seeking immediate registration of FIR against Minister Grover.

Rohtak Deputy Commissioner-cum-Returning Officer Dr Yash Garg said the Congress nominee had lodged a complaint with him and it was being examined.

On the other hand, Grover has refuted the allegations. In a media interaction, he accused Batra and his aides of trying to influence the voters at a booth, which, he said, had led to an altercation.
editorial@tribune.com

Deepender Deswal

Tribune News Service

Hisar, May 11

The voters of Balawas village are adamant on boycotting the elections tomorrow. Located about 26 km from Hisar on the Tosham road, villagers are upset with the administration over various issues, including dispute over a common land and water shortage.

They said none of the candidates of any prominent political parties arrived in their village to campaign.

Suresh Kumar, sarpanch of the village, said villagers had warned politicians against arriving in the village till they intervened and resolved their problems.

It is shocking that instead of cooperating with the villagers, the politicians preferred to stay away from the village. This attitude indicates that the politicians have little concern for the grievances of the people, he said.

Anil, another villager, said the entire village was firm on their decision taken on April 28 that nobody would exercise their franchise. We have taken a unanimous decision. I am hopeful that there would be 100 per cent boycott of the elections.

Mukesh Tandon

Tribune News Service

Panipat, May 11

Fed up with the drainage problem, residents of Shimla Mulana village in the district has decided to boycott the elections tomorrow.

Vijay Kumar, president of the Earth Welfare Association and resident of Shimla Mulana village, said that a meeting of the villagers on the water-logging problem was held in a temple in the village on Friday evening. They decided to boycott the elections and also

held a protest rally after the meeting.

He said that the waste water was drained out of fields earlier. The problem occurred after a private builder purchased land in the village and developed a township. Water drainage was blocked after the company in connivance with district administration officers and the police raised a wall, he alleged.

Now, people are facing problems due to water-logging in the village. We have raised the issue with the gram panchayat, district administration and even MLA Mahipal Dhanda, but to no avail, he said.

All villagers, including women and elderly, attended the meeting.

We had boycotted the 2014 General Elections also in protest against the inclusion of our village under the municipal corporation jurisdiction. Only 35 out of around 1,100 votes were polled then and later our village was taken out the Panipat MC jurisdiction, said Vijay.

Sarpanch Pinki said that some villagers held a meeting last evening and protested by raising slogans Hum bhi hain chowkidar lekin vote ka hai bahishkar (we all are watchmen but will boycott voting).

We are trying to solve the problem but it is wrong to boycott the General Election. We all have to vote for nation building, she added.
pardeepdhull@gmail.com

Sunit Dhawan

Tribune News Service

Rohtak, May 12

Polling is going on smoothly at 1,876 polling centres across the Rohtak Lok Sabha constituency. Micro-observers have been deployed at all polling locations in order to ensure fair and smooth polling of votes. Mobile phones are not allowed at the polling stations.

Paramilitary personnel have been deployed at the hypersensitive and sensitive polling centres, while armed police personnel are deployed at all polling stations across the constituency.

17.37 voters will decide the fate of 18 candidates in the fray for the Rohtak Lok Sabha seat, though the main contest is between incumbent MP and Congress nominee Deepender Singh Hooda and BJP candidate Dr Arvind Sharma.

Rohtak Deputy Commissioner-cum-District Electoral Officer Dr Yash Garg said the micro-observers would keep a close vigil on the polling process and report to the General Election Observer appointed by the Election Commission of India.

As many as 206 sector magistrates, apart from the deployment of 63 flying squads, 27 static teams and nine video teams, have been appointed in the constituency, he said, adding that in all, 8,500 polling official have been appointed and provided with 447 GPS-fitted vehicles.

14,820 physically challenged voters have been identified in the constituency and vehicles and volunteers have been arranged to facilitate them.

Rohtak SP Jashandeep Singh Randhawa said 3,300 police personnel had been deployed to ensure the maintenance of law and order. 58 patrolling parties have been deployed to cover all four Assembly segments in the district.

A DSP-level officer has been appointed for each Assembly segment and reserved police force kept at their disposal. Eight companies of the paramilitary forces and armed police have been pressed into service, he maintained.
pardeepdhull@gmail.com

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh/Rohtak, May 12

Both Bharatiya Janata Party and Congress accused each other of voter intimidation and booth capturing on Sunday, even as Haryanas 10 parliamentary constituencies recorded 67.35 per cent turnout.

In the 2014 general election, the overall poll percentage stood at 71.86.

State Joint Chief Electoral Officer Inderjeet Singh said the exact percentage would be known later and those voters who had entered the polling booths before 6 pm will be allowed to cast their votes.

The turnout in seven constituencies crossed 60 per cent, while the poll percentage in Gurgaon, Karnal and Faridabad was less than 60 per cent, the officer said.

Voting got off to a sluggish start but began picking up later on Sunday morning. The state registered 54.66 per cent voting until 5 pm.

Congress leader Deepender Hooda, who is the Congress candidate from Rohtaka seat he currently holdsaccused Haryana Minister of State for Cooperatives Manish Kumar Grover of forcibly entering polling booths in Rohtak and intimidating voters while police remained mute spectators.

He has written to Returning Officer (RO) Yash Garg to demand an FIR against Grover.

Its an arrogance of power that Grover along with musclemen and black cat commandos are freely going inside polling booths in the city and intimidating voters. The law says he cannot enter the polling booth, Hooda said to reporters after he lodged a complaint.

Congress senior leader Bharat Bhushan Batra claimed he got into a heated argument with Grover at a booth in Kathmandi. Batra, a former Rohtak MLA, said: I found the minister, his musclemen and some other outsiders intimidating voters inside a polling booth at Bharti Tek Kanya School in Kathmandi. When I asked him why he had entered a polling booth and asked him to show is an authority letter, he began arguing with me. Then he went away, and did the same thing at another booth. I intervened there as well, Batra said.

The complaint has led to election authorities restricting Grover's movements. The minister has been told to remain in his office until the end of voting.

Grover meanwhile brushed aside the allegations as Congress partys attempt to defame him in the face of an imminent defeat.

I went to the booth on getting information that Batra and his supporters were creating problems to the voters there, he added.

BJP's legal cell lodged a complaint against Congress leader Batra and his supporters election of voter intimidation and booth caputuring later in the afternoon.

Indian cricket team captain Virat Kohli was among early voters who exercised his franchise at a polling booth in Gurgaon. After exercising his franchise, he posted a picture of his inked finger on his Twitter handle.

Voting is your right and responsibility towards nation building. Go vote, he tweeted while urging voters to go out and cast their vote.

Polling was initially slow in Gurgaon and Rohtak but started to pick pace as the day progressed.

Haryana's joint chief electoral officer Inder Jeet said polling was going on peacefully across the state.

He said there were some glitches in EVMs and VVPATs at a few booths early in the morning, but the machines were replaced immediately.

Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar was among the early voters in Karnal while former CM Bhupinder Singh Hooda of Congress, fighting from Sonipat, cast his vote in Kiloi in Rohtak district. The state Congress chief Ashok Tanwar exercised his franchise in Sirsa. JJP candidate and Hisar sitting MP Dushyant Chautala also cast his vote in Sirsa.

Jannayak Janata Party (JJP) leader Digvijay Chautala, candidate from Sonepat, alleged that at booths number 88, 89 and 90 in Jind district, his party symbol (a pair of slippers) was "not clearly visible on EVM machines".

"This is a serious matter and the Election Commission must look into this," Digvijay said.

Enthusiastic voters were seen at several places. A bridegroom went to cast his vote in Mullana in Ambala parliamentary constituency before solemnising his marriage.

At Sirsa and Hisar, voters queued up since early morning to cast their vote. There were reports of a few centenarians also exercising their franchise. Som Dutt, 98, exercised his franchise at a booth in Yamunanagar, Shanti Devi, 92, who reached the booth on a wheelchair, cast her vote in Ambala city.

Clashes were reported in Mewats Neemka after a voter, identified only as Masood, was allegedly not allowed to vote. Villagers allegedly beat up Gajender Verma.

Poll officer Inder Jeet said over 1.80 crore people are eligible to vote in the state.

Altogether, 223 candidates, just 11 of them women, are in the fray.

Prominent among them are Union ministers of state Rao Inderjit Singh from Gurgaon and Krishan Pal Gurjar from Faridabad. Union minister Birender Singh's son Brijendra Singh (BJP) and former chief minister Bhajan Lal's grandson Bhavya Bishnoi (Congress), both political greenhorns, are contesting from the Hisar Lok Sabha seat, where they face JJP's Dushyant Chautala, who is the grandson of former chief minister O P Chautala.

Former Union minister Kumari Selja and state Congress chief Ashok Tanwar are fighting from Ambala and Sirsa, respectively, for the party. AAP state president Naveen Jaihind is contesting from Faridabad. Among the major parties in the fight are the BJP, the Congress and the INLD, which are fighting 10 seats independently. The JJP, which was formed after a split in the INLD six months ago, is contesting on seven seats, while the remaining three seats are being fought by its ally the AAP. The BSP is fighting on eight, leaving two for its ally Loktantra Suraksha Party floated by rebel BJP MP Raj Kumar Saini.

A large number of women were seen in queues at the tastefully decorated 'Sakhi Matdan Kendras', which are exclusively run by women and have been set up in each assembly segment. With agency inputs
vermaajay1968@gmail.com

Modi factor much stronger this time

The Modi factor is much stronger in these elections than it was in 2014. Last time, the BJP won seven of the 10 seats, with Sirsa and Hisar going to the INLD and the Congress winning Rohtak. This time, we are confident we will win all the seats. Former Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda and his son Deepender Hooda will lose badly in Sonepat and Rohtak. The people have made up their mind to punish Hooda for the corruption during his tenure and also for the 2016 Jat quota violence.

In their greed for power, Hooda destroyed the states social fabric and also brought a bad name to the Jat community by instigating his workers to burn properties in Rohtak and other places. The people have decided to vote Narendra Modi back to power with an even bigger margin and also for the BJP in the Assembly elections to be held in October.

Voter will oust both BJP, Congress

The people are determined to defeat both the BJP and Congress in these elections.The manner in which PM Modi and Congress president Rahul Gandhi have campaigned against each other has turned the people against both. The voter expected the BJP to reach out to them on the basis of the work done in five years. Since the party had nothing to show, the PM and senior BJP leaders started a mud-slinging match with Congress leaders.

The INLD will bag the highest number of seats in these elections. This is because the people of the state are aware about the partys pro-people policies, such as old age pension. A coalition government will come to power at the Centre and our party will surely be a part of it. Those who conspired against the INLD will not go unpunished by the voters. They will not win a single seat in these elections.

Will be repeat of 2009 elections

I foresee a repetition of the 2009 elections. The Congress had won nine seats then with only Hisar going to the then Haryana Janhit Congress. The five years of the BJP rule have been disastrous for Haryana. The BJP government lef the state burning thrice in these years  at the time of the arrest godman Rampal, during the reservation stir and during the protest by Dera Sacha Sauda followers.Do they think people will forget that?. Eighty persons have died in police firing in these five years.

CM Khattar is telling lies and misleading voters. After the 2016 violence, he constituted Prakash Singh Committee to fix responsibility. But when the committee held his government responsible for lapses, the CM chose not to talk about the report. Such is the enthusiasm among voters in Sonepat that I dont need to do much. The people are themselves doing everything.

Sea change, we are frontrunners

The last few days witnessed a dramatic change in the poll scene in Haryana with the JJP-AAP alliance emerging as the frontrunner. This is an era of the youth which wants freedom from the present system. The youth know only the Jannayak Janata Party and Aam Aadmi Party understand their aspirations and, hence, will vote for the alliance. The BJP government has ignored the farmers and poor sections, who will now dislodge the party from power.

I have little doubt that we will win the maximum number of seats. Also, the JJP-AAP alliance will be voted to power in Haryana in the Assembly election later this year. Bhupinder Hooda will lose from Sonepat by a huge margin to my brother Digvijay Chautala. Union Minister Birender Singhs son Brijendra Singh will also bite the dust in Hisar, where I will emergr victorious easily.
pardeepdhull@gmail.com

Shimla, May 12

BJP president Amit Shah on Sunday said Article 370 that gives special powers to Kashmir will be scrapped if Narendra Modi is elected as prime minister again.

Addressing his first rally at Chogan Maidan in Chamba district, Shah said former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah said there should be another prime minister for the state, whereas Congress in its manifesto declared it will review AFSPA in Kashmir and amend provisions of sedition law.

All this indicated their mindset but if the BJP comes to power again and Modi becomes prime minister, Article 370 will be removed for sure, he added.

The BJP chief is campaigning in support of Kangra BJP candidate Kishan Kapoor.

Targeting the Congress on the issue of national security, he said the Manmohan Singh-led previous Congress government did nothing when Pakistan beheaded five India soldiers but under the Modi rule, air strikes were carried out in Balakot.

Shah pointed out that Congress leader Sam Pitroda said instead of air strikes, we should talk to militants.

Targeting Pitroda further, the BJP chief said, If you ask a question regarding the 1984 anti-Sikh riots, the Congress says hua to hua. If you ask a question regarding the 26/11 attacks in Mumbai and migration of Kashmiri Pandits, the Congress says hua to hua.

Shah also noted that it was for the first time that the Opposition has not made corruption an issue as it has been wiped out during the Modi government.

Counting various development works done in HP under the Modi government, Shah said, Process is on to set up an international airport at Mandi. It will be done after Modi government comes to power again at the Centre.

Himachal CM Jai Ram Thakur and veteran BJP leader Shanta Kumar were present at the rally.

The Congress has pitted sitting MLA Pawan Kajal against minister Kishan Kapoor from Kangra.

The BJP chief is scheduled to address two more rallies later in the day in HPs Bilaspur and Nahan in support of BJP candidates, Anurag Thakur and Suresh Kashyap from Hamirpur and Shimla Lok Sabha seats, respectively. PTI
editorial@tribune.com

Bhanu P Lohumi

Tribune News Service

Shimla, May 11

Upbeat after the massive response at Prime Minister Narendra Modis rally in Mandi yesterday, BJP leaders are hoping for a landslide victory and claiming that the second rally of Modi in Solan on May 13 will demoralise the Congress.

The turnout was beyond expectations, indicating that the margin of victory will be bigger this time, said BJP chief Satpal Satti.

It also indicates that the people are happy with the governments, he said.

The party had chosen Mandi for the rally to send a clear message to former Union minister Sukh Ram, whose grandson Ashray Sharma is contesting election on Congress ticket from Mandi, that the BJP was capable of winning the election without him.

Sukh Ram had won the Lok Sabha poll from Mandi thrice in 1984,1991 and 1996 and was elected from the Mandi Assembly seat in 1962, 1967, 1972, 1977, 1982, 1988 and 2003. His son Anil Sharma won from Mandi in 1993, 2007, 2012 and 2017 and the seat is pocket borough of the Sukh Ram family.

The situation has changed this time as the BJP is in power. Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur is from Mandi and the ruling party had won nine of 10 seats in the 2017 Assembly poll while the lone Independent is also supporting the government.

It is known fact that the Congress and Sukh Ram cannot match the resources, dedicated cadre and well-organised campaign of the BJP and Modis rally has given a boost to the campaign of sitting BJP MP Ram Swaroop Sharma, seeking re-election.
amansharma@tribunemail.com

Ambika Sharma

Tribune News Service

Nahan, May 12

BJP president Amit Shah on Sunday said they will not compromise with the national security and reiterated the partys resolve to scrap Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir if voted to power again.

Optimistic of the party coming back to power, Shah said Narendra Modi will be elected once again as he had the blessings of the 1.25 billion people of the country. He said even if they do not remain in power they will ensure that Kashmir remained an integral part of the country.

Addressing a poll rally at Nahan in Shimla Lok Sabha constituency, Shah said the Congress had belied the hopes of ex-servicemen by failing to implement the one rank one pension despite remaining in power for 55 years. He said four generations of the Gandhi family had failed to grant the ex-servicemen their due and they had redefined the OROP as one Rahul one Priyanka.

Shah said the people were awaiting a strong government since 1990 which could give a befitting reply to the terrorists as well as to Pakistan which meted atrocities on soldiers.

He evoked Balakot air strikes and said though the whole nation lauded the bravery of the soldiers, the Congress mourned this achievement as it was fearful that its vote bank would be eroded.

Shah invoked the local deities to give a personal touch to his speech and urged the people to ensure the victory of all four BJP candidates in the state, including their Shimla seat nominee Suresh Kashyap who, he said, was close to his heart.

He said only Modis slogan reigned supreme from Kashmir to Kanyakumari and from Kolkata to Kutch. It was not a political slogan but manifest of the heartfelt blessings of the 125 crore countrymen.

He noted that Himachal was Modis own state where immense development had taken place and the central funding was available in the 90:10 ratio. He also dwelt on the developmental initiatives of the state government led by Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur. He said though the Congress had remained in power for 55 years but it was indifferent to the plight of the poor which suffered under their rule.

Targeting Sam Pitroda, Shah said he had questioned the air strikes and had instead said they should talk to the militants.

In his 22-minute speech, Shah urged the voters to vote for electing Narendra Modi as Prime Minister and said each vote was significant.

Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur, Vidhan Sabha Speaker Rajiv Bindal, Shimla seat nominee Suresh Kashyap were among those present on the occasion.
editorial@tribune.com

Tribune News Service

Shimla, May 11

Former Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh today warned the BJP regime not to close down any educational and other institutions opened during his rule as the Congress would oppose any such move tooth and nail.

The entire top brass of the Congress, including Rajya Sabha MP Anand Sharma, party in charge Rajni Patil, Congress president Kuldeep Rathore and former MP Suresh Chandel addressed an election rally in Chopal area of Shimla district.

The decency of the Congress and its leaders must not be construed as its weakness as we will oppose the closure of any institution opened by us vehemently, said Virbhadra. The Congress leaders, while putting up a united show, said the BJP had no contribution in the formation of state and the credit for this went to Indira Gandhi.

Anand Sharma said people had lost faith in democracy since the formation of the Modi-led BJP regime. The PM is not willing to give account of the progress made on the promises he made in 2014 whether it was regarding the creation of 2 crore jobs annually, bringing back black money or tackling agrarian distress, he remarked. He added that demonetisation had broken the backbone of the economy which had taken a severe blow.

Addressing a gathering, Rajni Patil said the two Congress stalwarts, Virbhadra and Sharma, had contributed not just to the development of the state, but also the country. Sensing the defeat, BJP leaders have gone berserk which is reflected in the kind of derogatory language that they are using against their opponents, she said.

Rathore said time had come when the BJP would be shunted out of power as people had realised that the party and their leaders made tall promises but had failed to deliver.

Congress candidate from Shimla Dhani Ram Shandil assured people that he would serve them with sincerity, the way he had done in the Army.
By PTI

BENGALURU: A senior Congress leader said on Sunday that Karnataka BJP chief B S Yeddyurappa was "daydreaming" about coming to power and claimed that around 10 saffron party legislators were in touch with his party.

"From the day we formed the government, the BJP has been trying to (topple the government), it is not something new. From that day they have been giving deadlines (to the government)," state minister B Z Zameer Ahmed Khan told reporters in Hubli.

"A BJP leader has spoken about 20 Congress MLAs; today 9-10 BJP (MLAs) are in touch with us."

Khan's comments come two days after Yeddyurappa had said the longevity of the state government would depend on the stand taken by about 20 "disgruntled" Congress legislators after the Lok Sabha election results.

READ MORE | BS Yeddyurappa's remark triggers slugfest

Khan accused Yeddyurappa for "daydreaming" about coming to power.

"It is true that the BJP people are in touch with us. Not from today, (but) for two-three months, nine-10 BJP MLAs are in touch with us," he said.

Asked about the names of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) legislators who are in touch with the Congress, the minister said: "Let the BJP give the names of 20 Congress people, we will also give the names of nine BJP people."

Claiming that nothing would happen, Khan declared that he would retire from politics if the Congress-Janata Dal (Secular) government falls after the election results on May 23 and challenged the BJP leaders to do the same if the coalition continues.

FOLLOW OUR ELECTION COVERAGE HERE

State Congress chief Dinesh Gundu Rao also hit out at the BJP over its claims and said the results would "shut the mouths" of those speculating about the fall of the coalition government.

"Earlier, too, they (BJP) had said the government will fall after Diwali, then Sankranti. They don't believe in their statements themselves. They don't have the guts, so they are making such false statements," Rao said.

Both the BJP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi are "baffled" as they know their defeat in the polls is imminent, the Congress leader told reporters in Hubli.
pardeepdhull@gmail.com

Tribune News Service

Srinagar, May 12

Two militants were killed in a gunfight in south Kashmirs Shopian district on Sunday morning, the police said.

The gunfight erupted during a cordon and search operation which was launched by joint forces in Hend-Sitapur area of Shopian after an input about the presence of militants.

During the search operation, the hiding terrorists fired on the search party. The fire was retaliated, leading to an encounter. In the ensuing gunfight, two terrorists were killed and their bodies were retrieved from the site of encounter, a police spokesman said.

Pertinently, with the efforts of the police and security forces, it was a clean operation and no collateral damage took place during the exchange of fire, he added.

The identities and affiliations of the slain militants were being ascertained.

Sources, however, said both the slain militants were locals.

Meanwhile, Internet services have been snapped in the wake of the encounter.

The situation in Shopian and neighbouring Pulwama district was reported tense.
editorial@tribune.com

Tribune News Service

Srinagar, May 11

Director General, Railway Protection Force, Member of the Legislative Council and a delegation of the Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry met Governor Satya Pal Malik at Raj Bhawan in Srinagar on Saturday.

An official spokesman said the Director General, Railway Protection Force, Arun Kumar, briefed the Governor about the steps taken for ensuring the protection of the railways passengers and property of the railways in J&K.

In a separate meeting, MLC Ramesh Arora apprised the Governor of issues of public importance.

A delegation of the Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry took up various issues with the Governor. The delegation was led by its president, Sheikh Ashiq Ahmad.

The delegation apprised the Governor of the economic losses suffered due to the frequent closure of the Jammu-Srinagar highway and requested that it be urgently repaired, a spokesman said.

It requested that the Mughal Road be declared a national highway and demanded air connectivity between Srinagar and Jammu on the pattern of the UDAN scheme of the Ministry of Civil Aviation.

The spokesman said the delegation demanded conversion of footbridges on the Jhelum into motorable bridges, crop insurance scheme for the agriculture and horticulture sectors, restoration of the cross-LoC trade, effective measures to prevent and manage floods, making land available for industrial use, common sewage treatment plants to protect water bodies and revival of the carpet industry in the state.

It extended an invitation to the Governor for the upcoming ambassadors meet in New Delhi on May 25.
pardeepdhull@gmail.com

Banihal/Jammu, May 12

Thousands of stranded civilian vehicles, mostly trucks carrying essential supplies to Kashmir, were allowed to run on the Jammu-Srinagar national highway on Sunday, the day restricted for movement of security convoys only.

The normal one-way traffic on the 270-km highway, the only all-weather road linking Kashmir with the rest of the country, was affected since Wednesday following multiple landslides and continuous shooting of stones from the hillocks overlooking the arterial road at Digdole and adjoining areas in Ramban district.

Though the highway was cleared of the debris and the stranded Srinagar-bound vehicles allowed to move towards their destinations Saturday morning, there were still over 4,000 vehicles, mostly trucks, stranded at various places on the highway.

It was decided that only stranded civilian vehicles will be allowed on the highway this Sunday in view of the road blockade over the past couple of days. There will be no movement of security convoys from either Srinagar or Jammu, a traffic department official said.

He said the civilian traffic is moving smoothly and over 4,500 Srinagar-bound vehicles have crossed the Jawahar Tunnel, the gateway to Kashmir Valley, over the past 24 hours after the restoration of the highway.

We are hopeful of clearing all stranded vehicles during the day to allow normal one-way traffic from Srinagar to Jammu on Monday, the official said.

Traffic on the highway is plying alternatively from the twin capitals of Srinagar and Jammu.

On April 7, the governor administration imposed restrictions on civilian traffic on the highway twice a week  on Sundays and Wednesdays  after a Jaish-e-Mohammed suicide attacker rammed his explosives-laden vehicle into a CRPF convoy, killing 40 jawans on February 14.

However, the restrictions on the civilian traffic were completely lifted from Srinagar to Baramulla stretch of the highway earlier this month, while the restrictions along the Udhampur-Srinagar highway were restricted to Sundays from May 23. PTI
shriaya.dutt@tribuneindia.com

Tribune Web Desk

Chandigarh, May 12

B-town diva Deepika Padukone recently attended the Met Gala in New York City and then decided to meet up with Rishi Kapoor and Neetu Kapoor.

Its no secret that Rishi has been undergoing cancer treatment in New York for a while now.

Neetu shared pictures from DPs visit on Instagram and wrote: "Such a fun evening with adorable @deepikapadukone...gave lot of love n warmth (sic)."

Deepika was once dating Ranbir Kapoor. But, later the two separated ways on a bitter note. However, the ex-lovers have moved on. While Deepika is married to Ranveer Singh, Ranbir has found love in Alia Bhatt.

Now, Deepika shares a great bond with Ranbir and a warm equation with his parents.

It was in September 2018 that Rishi left with wife Neetu for US for treatment of an undisclosed illness.

It was only recently that confirmed that he was battling cancer for a year, after his close friend Rahul Rawail took to Facebook to make the announcement that Rishi is cancer-free.
amansharma@tribunemail.com

Kushinagar/Deoria/Lucknow, May 12

A full-scale war of words broke out Sunday between Narendra Modi and Mayawati over the Alwar gang rape incident with the prime minister accusing the BSP supremo of shedding crocodile tears, a charge trashed by her as his dirty politics.

Addressing election rallies in Kushinagar and Deoria in eastern Uttar Pradesh, Modi mounted a scathing attack on the BSP supremo and dared her to withdraw support to the Congress government in Rajasthan if she was really serious about the incident.

Hours after his remark, Mayawati charged the prime minister with doing dirty politics over the gang rape of a Dalit girl in Alwar and demanded his resignation for incidents of Dalit atrocities in the past.

In the wake of this (Alwar) incident, Modi is doing dirty politics. The BSP will for sure take an appropriate political decision in the absence of stringent and proper legal action in the case, Mayawati said in a press note responding to the prime ministers challenge to her to withdraw support to the Congress government in Rajasthan.

The Congress government in Rajasthan has been accused by both the prime minister and the BSP supremo of brushing the case aside for political gains.

After Modis barb, Mayawati retorted with a list of incidents on which she said the prime minister should take moral responsibility and resign from his post.

The BSP will take a required political decision soon, but why is PM Modi not taking moral responsibility for the incidents in the past, such as Una flogging incident, Rohit Vemulla case or other cases pertaining to Dalit atrocities? Why is he not resigning? the BSP press note issued in Lucknow said.

On April 26, the gang rape victim was travelling with her husband on a motorcycle when the accused stopped them and took them to an isolated place off the road. They allegedly beat the husband and raped her in front of him, threatening them of dire consequences.

Her husband claimed that he had approached Rajasthan police on April 26 after the incident, but an FIR was filed on May 2. He had alleged that the police did not take action saying that they were busy with elections.

Addressing election meetings in Kushinagar and Deoria in eastern Uttar Pradesh, Modi said, Please do not shed crocodile tears. If you are serious, why dont you withdraw support to the Congress government in Rajasthan. BSP has given support to the Congress government in the state.

Expressing concern over the gang rape of the Dalit woman, Mayawati had Saturday alleged that the Congress government in Rajasthan did not let the matter come to anyones notice by terrorising the victims family until the completion of the polling process there.

Under these circumstances, the victim and her family will not be able to get proper justice. The BSP appeals to the Supreme Court to take notice for ensuring prompt justice and strict punishment to the accused, she had said.

Hitting out at the BSP chief, Modi said, Even the Congress government wanted to suppress the incident involving a Dalit woman as the party thought hua toh hua (So what, it happened).

His reference was to Congress leader Sam Pitrodas hua toh hua remark about the in 1984 anti-Sikh riots, which raised a political storm over the weekend.

Continuing his tirade at the opposition, the prime minister said, The biggest example of how the mahamilawat (highly adulterated) SP-BSP-Congress alliance actually works is Rajasthan.

When the (Lucknow) guest house incident happened, the entire country was pained. What is the reason that you are not feeling pain now. If you are so honest about the dignity of the daughters, then you should immediately write a letter to the Rajasthan Governor and withdraw your support to the Congress government, he said.

A Dalit daughter is gang-raped and there is a government of the Congress and naamdaar (dynast). And the Rajasthan government is not a dispensation which enjoys full majority. It is working with the support of BSP. It is busy in hushing up the matter, Modi said.

In the infamous Lucknow guest house incident in 1995, armed Samajwadi Party cadre had assaulted the BSP supremo when she was having a meeting there.

Attacking the Congress, the prime minister said, The Congress which chants nyay, nyay, nyay, its naamdaar (dynast) has been silenced by the rapists. Today, the daughters of Uttar Pradesh are asking Behenji (Mayawati), and Behenji you have to answer why you have not withdrawn your support to the Congress government (in Rajasthan). You are shedding crocodile tears by only indulging in issuing statements.

To punish those who commit crime against women, this chowkidar of yours had made provisions for the capital punishment. If the intention of the Congress government was right, it would not have suppressed the Alwar incident, but they have only one answer hua toh hua. Be it corruption, price rise or the 1984 anti-Sikh genocide, their answer is hua toh hua, he said.

Polling for the Lok Sabha seats in Rajasthan took place in two phases on April 29 and May 6.  PTI
uttara@tribuneindia.com

Kathmandu, May 12

Twelve Indian nationals have been arrested for allegedly running an illegal networking business and duping several people in the Himalayan nation, according to media reports.

All 12 accused, belonging to Uttar Pradesh, were arrested from a hotel in Kathmandu on Friday while organising an orientation and training programme to run the illegal networking business for around 300 Nepalis, the Himalayan Times reported.

Networking business, under which money is sent to foreign countries without any legal channel, has been banned by Nepal Rastra Bank.

"Six cases have already been registered against Rashid Nasin, 43, the master mind of the illegal networking business," a spokesperson for the Metropolitan Crime Range DSP Hobindra Bogati was quoted as saying by the paper.

He further said the arrested had lied to people saying that they were operating diamond and jewelery related business. "They were asking the people participating in the orientation to invest USD 1,250 promising them attractive return, he said.

The official said all the suspects have been taken into custody.

He further said the arrested Indian nationals had opened an unregistered marketing company in Nepal named Shine Group International.

"The arrestees have already swindled many Nepalis in the name of the company," the official said. PTI
vermaajay1968@gmail.com

Azhar Qadri

Tribune News Service

Garend Kalan (Budgam), May 11

This quiet village tucked under dense foliage in the central Budgam district of Kashmir hit the headlines on February 27 when India and Pakistan were in a near-war conflict.

Sakeena was inside her home that day when the first of a series of blasts shattered the silence. She fell unconscious. Her cousin, Meema, ran out and saw a helicopter wobbling in the air, its tail on fire. Another cousin, Kifayat Hussain, was in a paddy field.

As the helicopter crashed into the paddy field, six Indian Air Force personnel on board died and Hussain became the only civilian casualty. What was left behind was a mystery  the cause of the crash.

The helicopter crashed around the time Pakistan jets were engaged in dogfights with Indian jets over the Line of Control during a tense standoff in the aftermath of the Balakot airstrikes.

Even two months after the IAF Mi-17 helicopter crash, a key piece of evidence  the black box, which records flight data and conversations  is yet to be found.

Several villagers say police and IAF officials came looking for the black box after the crash. A senior police official confirmed efforts were made to find the black box, but it remained untraceable.

Hussains uncle Ghulam Ahmad Ganai and other villagers claim they handed over everything they found to the police. Sarpanch Ali Mohammad recalls hearing loud blasts and then seeing a blazing helicopter fall.

Several days after the crash, a boy found a pistol and we called the police and handed it over to them, he says.

More than 500 families live in this predominantly Shia village. The only time gunshots were fired here was three decades ago when two militant groups had a fratricidal fight, claim villagers.
vermaajay1968@gmail.com

Aditi Tandon

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, May 11

Just when the Congress thought it was on top of the election narrative, Sam Pitroda touched its raw nerve, the 1984 Sikh carnage, forcing the leadership on the defensive.

It was for the Congress a deja vu moment that brought back bitter memories of pre-election gaffes that undermined the partys poll time spirits, sometimes even prospects.

Veteran Mani Shankar Aiyars chaiwallah jibe on then prime ministerial candidate of the BJP Narendra Modi had done the damage on the eve of 2014 Lok Sabha polls. Ahead of the 2017 Gujarat elections, Aiyar was back with a casteist slur on Modi and the Congress lost the election. This time, Sam Pitroda is repeating history.

Though Congress president Rahul Gandhi last night publicly rebuked his adviser Pitroda in an unprecedented show of displeasure, party leaders are edgy about how the overseas cell chief's hua toh hua remarks about the riots will play out in Delhi elections tomorrow and in Punjab polls in the final phase on May 19.

Privately, Congress leaders admit to the damaging potential of Pitrodas statements in closely fought seats. Congress Anandpur Sahib candidate Manish Tewari today said no one in their sane mind can justify the 1984 Delhi riots. The Delhi riots were reprehensible. No sane person can justify the riots. The irony, however, is that the man raising the issue, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has never ever once apologised for the Gujarat genocide, Tewari told The Tribune.

Congress strategists were also busy factoring in the consequences of Pitrodas statements in Delhi elections where certain segments have a sizeable Sikh population and in Sikh majority Punjab, with many hoping people would have moved on by now.
vermaajay1968@gmail.com

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, May 11

The first US-made Apache AH 64E attack helicopter was formally handed over to the Indian Air Force at the Boeing production facility in Mesa, Arizona, on Friday.

This is the first attack helicopter from the US. The IAF currently uses the Soviet/Russian origin Mi25/Mi35 helicopters. These are tasked with tank formations.

Air Marshal AS Butola represented the IAF and accepted the first Apache in a ceremony at the Boeing facility, where representatives from the US Government were also present, the IAF said today.

The IAF had signed a contract with the US Government and Boeing in September 2015 for 22 Apache helicopters. The first batch of these helicopters is scheduled to be shipped to India by July this year.

Select air and ground crew have undergone training at the training facilities in US Army base Fort Rucker, Alabama. These personnel will lead the operationalisation of the Apache fleet in the IAF. The addition of AH-64E helicopter is a significant step towards modernisation of IAFs helicopter fleet.

The helicopter has been customised to suit IAFs future requirements and will have significant capability in mountainous terrain.

The helicopter has the capability to carry out precision attacks at standoff ranges and operate in hostile airspace with threats from ground. The ability of these helicopters to transmit and receive the battlefield picture to and from the weapon systems through data networking makes it a lethal acquisition.

These attack helicopters will provide a significant edge in any future joint operations in support of land forces.
vermaajay1968@gmail.com

Sushil Manav

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, May 11

In Haryana, which goes to the polls on Sunday, Opposition candidates seem to be pitted against PM Narendra Modi rather than BJP candidates. So strong is the Modi factor that voters say they will be going to the booths to vote for the PM and the party candidate does not count.

Modi, during his rallies in Haryana, rarely sought votes in the name of his candidates, the repeated slogan being Phir ek bar, Modi Sarkar.

Even BJP star campaigners, including BJP chief Amit Shah and CM Manohar Lal Khattar, sought votes in the PMs name, inviting criticism from the Opposition, which claimed the BJP had nothing to show, hence was using Modis name.

BJP leaders, of course, shrug off the charge. When we have a leader like Modi whom the people trust completely, why should we not seek votes in his name? The Congress has a leader who does not have the trust of his own party men. They didnt even want him to campaign, says the CM.

In Sonepat and Rohtak, there is another factor at play  Bhupinder Singh Hooda. The former CM is contesting from Sonepat and son Deepender Hooda from Rohtak. The voters here will vote either for Hooda or against him. Hooda, who was CM during 2005-2014, changed the landscape of the area.

Immensely popular in the area, sharp polarisation after the 2016 quota violence could damage Hoodas chances. The voting pattern will be interesting to watch.
Naushad Bijapur By

Express News Service

BELAGAVI: What was almost a done deal between Karnataka and Maharashtra on releasing Krishna water, now seems to be stuck in the quagmire of politics with the neighbouring state insisting on a reciprocal arrangement.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, who had met his own party leaders from Karnataka on May 3, had promised to release 2 tmcft of the 4 tmcft of water sought on humanitarian grounds. But he has now reneged on his word under pressure from his legislators and allies saying that the water available in Koyna dam will be required for local needs.

Karnataka has sought water from

Koyna dam in Maharashtra

On Saturday, Karnataka Water Resources Minister D K Shivakumar revealed in Hubballi that Maharashtra is unwilling to release water until an agreement is signed by both states on sharing the 4 tmcft of water. The change in stance has flummoxed the Karnataka government.

While the Congress may not want the BJP to claim credit for striking the deal, it will not want to upset locals especially since the bypolls to Kundagol and Chincholi are just round the corner.

When Siddaramaiah was Karnataka Chief Minister, Maharashtra had released 2 tmcft of water to Karnataka after a delegation of BJP leaders, led by former

Union minister H N Ananth Kumar and Umesh Katti, had prevailed upon Fadnavis. But just to prevent BJP from taking any credit for it, the state government did not release of 2 tmcft of water to Maharashtra in return. Sources in the Maharashtra political circles said this could also be a reason for Maharashtra not releasing water this time.

During his campaign visit for the Kundagol bypoll on Saturday, Shivakumar made it clear that Maharashtra was unwilling to release water to Karnataka despite repeated appeals.

The Maharashtra government says it will not release water until we sign an agreement with it. We have asked them to release water first, assuring that the agreement will be signed later, he added.

Maharashtras changed stance ostensibly is due to pressure from local legislators.

Shambhuraj Desai, Shiv Sena Member of Legislative Aseembly from Patan constituency in Maharashtra, shot off a letter to Fadnavis stating, Water available currently in Koyna dam is lesser compared to the corresponding period last year. It was 40 tmcft last year, but currently, the dam has about 34 tmcft. As the state needs water for its people, besides 17 tmcft for power generation, it is not advisable to release water to Karnataka. Several other legislators too have opposed it, sources said.

The Karnataka government also seems to be dragging its feet.

The state government sent a letter recently to Maharashtra Water Resources Department seeking release of water. If the government is serious about it, it should send a delegation of officials and leaders immediately to expedite the process. Otherwise, the drought situation in the state will only worsen, said social activist Ashok Chandargi.

For many years until 2016, Karnataka was paying `3 crore for every tmcft of water released.

Maharashtra would release 4 tmcft of water in phases based on the drought situation and water crisis in Karnataka. Since 2017, Maharashtra has been insisting that Karnataka release 4 tmcft of water back to it from Almatti reservoir and stopped charging for the water released.

The Karnataka government did assure Maharashtra of releasing the water back to it, but both sides did not take any concrete steps to have an MoU on water sharing, sources said.

Former Water Resources Minister Basavaraj Bommai says the present state government is not serious about tackling drought, which has affected a large population in North Karnataka in particular. The Water Resources Minister should sit with his Maharashtra counterpart if he is really serious about tackling drought and find a lasting solution, he added.
rajivbhatia82@gmail.com

New Delhi, May 12

BJP candidate Bharati Ghosh was attacked in West Bengal and a poll officer was allegedly beaten up by an MLA of the saffron party in Uttar Pradesh during the Lok Sabha polls sixth and penultimate phase on Sunday in which over 63 per cent turnout was recorded in 59 seats across six states and the national capital.

Elections were held in 14 seats in Uttar Pradesh, all 10 seats in Haryana, eight constituencies each in Bihar, Madhya Pradesh and West Bengal, four in Jharkhand and seven seats in Delhi where votes were cast by a number of public figures, including President Ram Nath Kovind, Congress chief Rahul Gandhi, UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj.

With todays polling, votes have already been cast in nearly 89 per cent of the 543 constituencies, while the last phase of voting will take place on May 19 for the remaining 59 seats.

The Election Commission (EC) announced 63.3 per cent turnout across the states and Delhi, with West Bengal recording over 80 per cent polling and the national capital registering just 60 per cent.

Union ministers Radha Mohan Singh, Harsh Vardhan and Maneka Gandhi, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav and Congress leaders Digvijay Singh, Jyotiraditya Scindia and Sheila Dikshit as also celebrity contestants Gautam Gambhir, Vijender Singh, Dinesh Lal Yadav Nirahua, Ravi Kishan and Hans Raj Hans were among several prominent faces in the fray.

Delhis saw a dip in its turnout from 65 per cent in 2014, despite a three-cornered contest between the BJP, Congress and AAP with several high profile candidates, while the EC also appeared disappointed at the low polling figure even after its enhanced efforts to draw the voters to polling booths.

Over 80 per cent polling was recorded in eight seats in West Bengal, where BJPs Ghatal candidate and former IPS officer Bharati Ghosh was attacked twice by local people when she tried to visit polling stations in her constituency.

Ghosh suffered minor injuries when a group of women allegedly attacked her when she tried to take a BJP agent inside a polling booth at Keshpur area, officials said.

Following this, bombs were hurled and stones were pelted towards her convoy when she was going to visit another booth at Dogachia in Keshpur after receiving complaints of rigging there.One of her security guards was injured and a vehicle was damaged, they said.

In the politically crucial state of Uttar Pradesh, 54 per cent polling was reported in 14 constituencies. SP president Akhilesh Yadav and Maneka Gandhi are in the fray in the state that sends 80 members to Lok Sabha.

Maneka Gandhi and her rival BSP candidate Chandra Bhadra Singh had a face-off in Sultanpur, with the BJP leader warning him that hooliganism will not work. Singh dismissed her charge.

In Badohi, BJP MLA Dinanath Bhaskar and four others allegedly beat up a presiding officer in the Aurai assembly segment, accusing the official of deliberately slowing the polling process.Poll officials have sought a report on the matter.

In Azamgarh, Akhilesh is trying to retain his father and SP founder Mulayam Singh Yadavs seat against Bhojpuri film star Nirahua of the BJP.

In Bihar, around 59.38 per cent turnout was recorded for the eight Lok Sabha seats.

In Sheohar Lok Sabha constituency, a polling officer was killed at a booth in a freak incident of firing by a home guard before polling started.

A few incidents of malfunctioning of EVMs were reported from various booths, officials said.

Haryana recorded around 66.30 per cent turnout in 10 Lok Sabha seats and officials said no untoward incident was reported and polling remained peaceful in the state.

However, Congress Rohtak candidate Deepender Singh Hooda, who is seeking re-election for a fourth term, accused Haryana Minister and Rohtak MLA Manish Grover of intimidating voters by forcibly entering some polling booths.

Grover, however, rejected the charge claiming that Deepender, who is the son of former CM Bhupinder Singh Hooda, made baseless allegations in the face of imminent defeat.

In Jharkhand, an estimated 64.46 per cent turnout was recorded for four Lok Sabha seat and officials said no untoward incident was reported.

Madhya Pradesh, which recorded 59.96 per cent turnout, saw several heavyweights contesting the polls. Eight constituencies went to polls Sunday.

In Bhopal, Congress veteran Digvijay Singh was locked in a battle with BJP candidate and 2008 Malegaon blast accused Pragya Singh Thakur.

Congress general secretary Jyotiraditya Scindia, who is seeking re-election from Guna seat, is locked in a battle with BJPs K P Yadav, who is contesting his first general election.

Former chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan and his family members exercised their franchise at their native village Jait, which falls under the Vidisha Lok Sabha seat.

Union minister Narendra Singh Tomar, who is the sitting MP from Gwalior, is in the fray from the Morena seat this time.  PTI
vermaajay1968@gmail.com

Ajay Banerjee

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, May 11

Indian Navys decommissioned aircraft carrier Viraat may be in the middle of a political controversy, but the warship itself awaits a future. It is docked at the Naval yard at Mumbai where a few crores are spent each year on its upkeep, lest it sinks and blocks space in the vital yard.

A decision has to be taken to either convert it into a museum or scrap it like Vikrant, the older carrier.

Vikrants scrap was purchased by a leading motorcycle maker, which then recycled the steel to brand the bikes after Vikrants name.

INS Viraat was readied for its final days and was given what is called a decommissioning refit at the Cochin Shipyard in September 2016. The ship was then towed back to Mumbai for a formal decommissioning ceremony.

In March 2016, the Ministry of Defence asked coastal state governments to convey their firm commitment for preserving Viraat and converting it into an Aircraft Carrier Museum.

Some states requested for further information. The liability of maintenance was to be of the state government.

In November last year, the Maharashtra Government okayed a Rs 852-crore plan for Viraat. The ships conversion will see it being moored 7 nautical miles off the Nivati rocks in Sindhudurg, a district that abuts Goa.

Till a decision is made, the Navy has deputed its staff and officers to keep a round-the-clock watch on the hull of the 27,000-tonne behemoth, which was built in 1959 and is now 60 years of age. If it sinks, the salvage operations will cost much more than the present cost of upkeep, said a senior official.
uttara@tribuneindia.com

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, May 12

Prime Minister Narendra Modis comment in a TV interview where he suggested that clouds and rain could prevent Pakistani radars from detecting Indian fighter jets has led to a debate on the social media.

Twitter trended with #EntireCloudCover with experts, including retired IAF pilots, expressing shock at the PM for such remarks.

Opposition parties, including the Congress, took a swipe at PM Modi on Sunday over his remarks, with some leaders terming the statement as ridiculous and false.

The CPM has also moved the Election Commission, alleging that Modi has revealed operational details of a sensitive military mission in a television interview with a purpose to influence voters.

Experts say ground-based radars are not impacted by clouds or rain. The radars pick up heat signatures or moving targets in air. An aircraft engine emits heat and is hence tracked on enemy radars. Radars played a major role in World War II. The British had set up multiple towers to track German air force bombers and provided an early warning of nearly 100 km to ground-based air defence systems.

In an interview by a TV channel on Saturday, PM Modi described the run-up to the airstrikes on Balakot in Pakistan on February 26 saying, The weather suddenly turned bad. There were clouds... heavy rain. There was a doubt about whether we can go in the clouds. By and large the opinion of experts was what if we change the date. I had two issues in mind. One was secrecy... Second, I said I am not someone who knows the science. I said there is so much cloud and rain. There is a benefit. I have a raw wisdom, the clouds can benefit us too. We can escape the radar. Everyone was confused. Ultimately I said there are clouds... lets proceed.

Modis account of the strikes was tweeted from the BJPs official handle, along with this transcript: The weather was not good on the day of airstrikes. There was a thought that crept in the minds of the experts that day of strike should be changed. However, I suggested that the clouds can actually help our planes escape the radars. That tweet is no longer on the BJP timeline.

Taking a dig at Modi, the Congress tweeted, Jumla hi fekta raha paanch saal ki sarkar mein, Socha tha cloudy hai mausam, Nahi aaunga radar mein. (He resorted to rhetoric during his five-year tenure hoping cloudy weather would keep him out of radar).

Congress spokesperson Rajeev Satav said, Modi Ji, I totally understand that you are an expert in planning escape operations including that of Nirav Modi, Mehul Bhai and Vijay Mallya as they were never on your radar. Your #EntireCloudCover remarks speak volumes about your understanding and knowledge of national security.

Painfully embarrassing: Mufti

No secret that Balakot strikes failed to hit the intended target. Was it because PM overruled the advice of IAF & authorised airstrikes in bad weather?... Cloud cover logic is painfully embarrassing. Remind me again, why is RG (Rahul Gandhi) derided as Pappu? #cloudonradargone  Mehbooba Mufti, J&K Chief Minister
vermaajay1968@gmail.com

New Delhi/Noida, May 11

The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) today claimed to have seized record 1,800-kg pseudoephedrine from a house in Greater Noida and arrested three foreigners. The estimated value of the seized chemical, along with 2-kg cocaine, is Rs 25 crore, sources said.

The house belongs to IPS officer DPN Pandey, posted in Lucknow, who said he was shocked and distressed at the recovery. He claimed he had rented out his place through a property dealer.

The NCB made the countrys biggest-ever haul of the narcotics chemical kept outside factory premises after grilling a South African woman who was arrested on May 9 from Delhis IGI Airport for allegedly carrying 24.7 kg of pseudoephedrine.

A Nigerian man and a woman besides the South African have been arrested under relevant sections of the NDPS Act.

Pseudoephedrine is a precursor used for the manufacture of drug methamphetamine used in Europe and South East Asia. The Noida police said the foreigners had not got themselves verified from the local police. A probe would be carried out, said Gautam Buddh Nagar SSP Vaibhav Krishna.

Pandey, an SP in Economic Offences Wing, claimed his tenants had not paid rent for about a year as also Rs 2.73 lakh in power bills.  PTI
vinaymishra188@gmail.com

New Delhi, May 11

Congress leader and Punjab Minister Navjot Singh Sidhu stirred a controversy on Saturday by calling the BJP Kale Angrez (black Englishmen) and likening Prime Minister Narendra Modi to a bride who pretends to do work.

Hitting back at the Opposition party, the BJP said Sidhus utterances were an insult to the nation, which reflected the racist and sexist mindset of the Congress.

Addressing an election rally in Indore, Sidhu said the Congress was the party of Maulana Abul Kalam Azad and Mahatma Gandhi, which fought for Independence from British rule, and urged the people to save the country by voting the BJP out of power.

They (Azad and Gandhi) gave us freedom from the white and the people of Indore will free this country from the Kale Angrez, Sidhu said.

Sharpening his attack on Modi, the Congress leader said: Modiji is like that bride who makes less rotis and more noise so that the neighbourhood thinks that she is working. This is exactly what has happened in the Narendra Modi government.

Sidhus comments were countered by BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra, who reminded the Congress of its senior leader Sonia Gandhis Italy connection.

Sidhu has exposed the mindset of the Congress by calling Hindustanis Kale Angrez. Modi may not be fair, but he has a big heart and takes care of the poor. People love him, Patra said, quoting a famous Bollywood song, Hum kale hain toh kya hua dilwale hain. The BJP leader further said that the Congress should not be arrogant of its Italian colour.

This Italian colour too will fade away on May 23, he said, adding that this was new India where women didnt just exist to make bread at home, but to carry the country forward.

Sidhu has shown the mentality of the Congress, which is racist as well as sexist. This is the reality of the Congress, which has no respect for either Sikhs, Indians or women, Patra said.  IANS

Less work, more noise

Modiji is like that bride who makes less 'rotis' and more noise so that the neighbourhood thinks that she is working. This is exactly what has happened in the Narendra Modi govt.  Navjot Singh Sidhu, cong leader

Italian colour to fade

Sidhu has exposed the mindset of the Congress. Modi may not be fair, but he has a big heart and takes care of the poor. People love him This Italian colour too will fade away on May 23.  Sambit Patra, BJP spokesman
pardeepdhull@gmail.com

Kushinagar/Deoria (UP), May 12

As campaigning for the Lok Sabha polls entered its final phase, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday predicted the defeat of the Opposition parties, saying the people were voting for an effective government.

Opposition parties will fall flat in polls. This is because people are voting for an effective and honest government, he said at an election rally in Kushinagar and later in Deoria in eastern UP, which go to polls in the last phase on May 19.

Attacking the SP-BSP alliance, Modi said he had been the chief minister of Gujarat more than the terms of Akhilesh Yadav and Mayawati combined as Uttar Pradesh chief ministers, and there was no blot of corruption on him.

Attacking the SP-BSP alliance, Modi said he had been the Chief Minister of Gujarat more than the terms of Akhilesh Yadav and Mayawati as Uttar Pradesh chief ministers combined, and there was no blot of corruption on him.

Hitting out at BSP chief Mayawati for her remarks on the Alwar gangrape case, the Prime Minister asked her not to shed crocodile tears for the victim.

If you are serious, why dont you withdraw support to the Congress government in Rajasthan, he asked.

Even the Congress government wanted to suppress the incident involving a Dalit woman, he said, adding that the party thought hua toh hua, a reference to Sam Pitrodas remark on 1984 anti-Sikh riots.

Referring to the encounter in Shopian district of Jammu and Kashmir on Sunday morning, the Prime Minister wondered, Will our jawans take ECs permission before opening fire on militants? Opposition kya khel bana rakha hai? (What drama is the Opposition enacting).

He said it was surprising to note that the Opposition parties were saying that elections were on and the security forces were opening fire at militants. PTI
amansharma@tribunemail.com

Varinder Singh

Tribune News Service

Jalandhar, May 12

Terming the 1984 anti-Sikh riots in New Delhi and elsewhere as Indias first genocide, senior SAD leader and Rajya Sabha member Naresh Gujral has sought to come to the rescue of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, questioning why the then IndiaCEO Rajiv Gandhi not to be blamed for not taking any action against the preprators of the genocide.

Riots are when two parties attack each other. Here hapless Sikhs were pointed out attacked. So, it was a genocide in clear terms, blamed Gujral while talking to The Tribune.

Retaliating the Congress attack against PM Modi on Gujarat riots, Gujral said there was a huge difference between the 1984 anti-Sikh genocide and the 2002 Gujarat riots. No action was taken for three days in case of what I call Indias first genocide in 1984. Not a single shot was fired in Delhi whereas, more than 300 persons had died in police firing in Gujarat. Of the dead in Gujarat, 790 were Muslims and 254 were Hinuds rioters in Modis home state, asserted Gujral.

He said not that the Delhi Police had remained a mute spectator to the killing of the Sikhs, but those leading the rioters were rewarded and protected. Even present Punjab CM and senior Congress leader Capt Amarinder Singh had openly named Jagdish Tytler, Sajjan Kumar and HKL Bhagat. Why the Army was not called out despite such a massive rioting for first three days, questioned Gujral, adding that the then President of India Giani Zail Singh has said his father was not heard despite him being the President.

Recalling those black days, Gujral said his late father IK Gujral, Gen Jagjit Singh Arora and Air Marshal Arjan Singh had repeatedly met the then President Giani Zail Singh and home minister PV Narsimha Rao.

They urged them to call in Army to end the massacre of Sikhs. But, both of them had expressed their helplessness as there were clear orders from the Prime Ministers house not to call the Army. Giani Zail Singh had even complained to my father and others accompanying him that the PM was not taking his call. They had met Rao twice, but he did not come out with any assurance. It was only after 2 pm that Rao had just uttered that he will see, recalled Gujral.

The big question here is why Delhi Police did not act? Was it not dereliction of duty? If it was then who is to be blamed?
editorial@tribune.com

Ruchika M Khanna

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, May 11

The issue of 1984 anti-Sikh riots, one of the most emotive issues in Punjab, has once again came to the fore ahead of the elections, thanks to a callous statement by Congress leader Sam Pitroda. The remark could not have come at a more opportune time for the SAD-BJP.

The stage was, however, set to make this an election issue by the alliance partners earlier this year, although its foundation was laid four years ago, when the BJP-led NDA government had formed an SIT to probe riot cases.

Though it was initially meant to woo the Sikh voters in Delhi (as it was formed just before the Delhi Assembly elections), it is only after two men were sentenced by a Delhi court in the case in November last year and the subsequent conviction of Sajjan Kumar in December, that the saffron party and its ally tried to cash in on the Sikh sentiments against the Congress.

The alliance was not able to use the issue successfully till now. Their effort to give ticket to Jagdish Kaur, a key witness in the case that saw Sajjan Kumar being held guilty, too did not materialise.

The SAD had tried to field her from Khadoor Sahib, but she had reportedly refused because of her old age and failing health. While this plan fizzled out, the Congress narrative against the alliance for trying to save those guilty of sacrilege grew only shriller.

But just one week for the election in the state and the political narrative has been changed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his first election rally in Punjab by using this one statement of a Congress leader believed to be close to the Gandhi family. Jo hua so hua (what he said about the riots) statement by Pitroda has queered the pitch for the Congress, which is now struggling hard to wriggle out, while SAD-BJP leaders are using it as the main arsenal against the Congress. From a position of offence, the Congress has been put on the defensive.

Yesterday, CM Capt Amarinder Singh was the first to react, saying it was shocking. He said it (riots) was a big tragedy and justice had yet not been meted out to the victims.
vermaajay1968@gmail.com

Ravi Dhaliwal

Tribune News Service

Pathankot, May 11

Punjab Chief Minister Capt Amarinder Singh today termed sitting Gurdaspur MP and Congress candidate Sunil Jakhar a future Chief Minister of the state.

Addressing a rally at Sarna in Bhoa Assembly seat, the CM took a dig at BJP nominee Sunny Deol, calling him a debt-ridden former actor who has no stakes in either Gurdaspur or Punjab.

Captain Amarinder, who was forced to travel by road from Amritsar after his helicopter was denied permission to land at the Pathankot Air Force Station, accused PM Narendra Modi of indulging in petty politicking.

Addressing the rally, the CM looked at Jakhar standing by his side and said: Let me tell you something important One day Sunil Jakhar will be CM of Punjab. The MP retorted: No sir, I am happy where I am. To this, Capt Amarinder said: You should know you will be the CM one day.

All three Cabinet ministers of Gurdaspur constituency  Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa, Tripat Rajinder Singh Bajwa and Aruna Chaudhury  were present at the venue. Some MLAs later said the CMs remarks had come as a shot in the arm for Jakhar, who was facing a stiff challenge from the BJP candidate.

In a no-holds-barred attack on Deol, Capt Amarinder said: Deol, who is under Rs 50-crore debt, is from Mumbai and knows nothing about the constituency or its people. He does not even have basic knowledge of the area and has become a sitting duck. Jakhar will send him packing lock, stock and barrel.

Capt Amarinder referred to the Time magazine, which has put Modi on its cover with caption Divider-in-Chief, saying: The magazine decided to put such a caption following the PMs brazen attempts to divide the country on the basis of caste and religion just to further his political ambitions.
pardeepdhull@gmail.com

Parvesh Sharma

Tribune News Service

Sangrur, May 12

A bir of Guru Granth Sahib was found burnt at Hathoa village gurdwara in this district on Sunday. Sangrur SSP Sandeep Garg reached the village along with other senior officers to investigate the matter.

Police were deployed in the village in view of the tension following the incident. Residents discovered the suspected sacrilege incident when the gurdwara priest opened the gate of the gurdwara for morning prayers.

The police were informed and a large number of village residents gathered at the gurudwara, demanding action against whoever was responsible. They suspected someone had played mischief to create a rift in the village, possibly in view of the election.

Our village has called a meeting, as many have called for boycott of the election because they suspect a political conspiracy. We will take a decision after the meeting," Sukhwinder Singh, a resident of the village, said.

SSP Garg said the police had started investigations.

Meanwhile, warning of strict action against those responsible for last nights desecration incident in Sangrur, Punjab Chief Minister Capt Amarinder Singh on Sunday said the divisive forces that had tried to polarise the state ahead of the assembly elections were again rearing their heads and would face the consequences of their horrendous actions.

Directing the Punjab Police to immediately identify and arrest the culprits involved in the burning of bir of Shri Guru Granth Sahib, along with Palki Sahib and Rumalla Sahib, in village Hathoa, PS Amargarh, Capt Amarinder said the deliberate act of mischief was a part of the chain of similar events that had rocked the state in the run-up to the assembly polls.

It was obvious that the same forces that had sought to destroy the states secular and peaceful fabric before the assembly elections were trying, once again, to polarise the Sikh votes in their favour in their desperate bid to win the parliamentary polls, said the chief minister.

The incident, coming just days before Punjab goes to polls, had obviously been perpetrated with an eye on the Sikh vote bank, but this strategy had failed in 2017 and would fail again, he warned.
Student contestants take part in the 2019 "Chinese Bridge" Regional Contest of Chinese Proficiency held in Olomouc, the Czech Republic, May 10, 2019. Mackova Viktoria and Kamensky Samuel, both middle school students from Slovakia, here on Friday won the first two places at the 2019 "Chinese Bridge" Regional Contest of Chinese Proficiency for the Czech Republic and Slovakia. They will represent the two countries to China to compete in the final world-wide contest later this year. (Xinhua/Confucius Institute at Palacky University)

OLOMUC, Czech Republic, May 10 (Xinhua) -- Mackova Viktoria and Kamensky Samuel, both middle school students from Slovakia, here on Friday won the first two places at the 2019 "Chinese Bridge" Regional Contest of Chinese Proficiency for the Czech Republic and Slovakia.

They will represent the two countries to China to compete in the final world-wide contest later this year.

Under the theme of "One World, One Family", nine contestants from middle schools and universities in the two countries demonstrated their Chinese language skills by making a free speech in Chinese, going through a Q&A and performing culture and talents show.

On the occasion, Zhao Changtao, official from Chinese Embassy in Czech Republic, said in the past years, more and more students in the two countries began to learn Chinese and love Chinese culture.

"Chinese Bridge is not only a bridge for visiting China but also a bridge of great opportunity for the future," he said, adding that he hopes there would be more and more bilingual talents in the two countries in the future.

The regional contest was co-organized by the Confucius Institute at Palacky University in Olomouc and the Chinese Embassy in the Czech Republic.

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[ Editor: Zhang Zhou ]
Amit S Upadhye By

Express News Service

HAMPI/ANEGUNDI: For decades now, the ancient ruins at Hampi have attracted tourists from across the world who flock to the former seat of the Vijayanagara Empire, for a glimpse into the Deccans glorious yet troubled past.

Modern-day Hampi thrives with stories from our past. With 1,500 monuments, which have come up across the centuries, the city has a lot to offer any history buff. But a general lack of maintenance and the absence of will by the governments, both in the state and at the Centre, has resulted in a majority of these monuments being left to rot.

The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) takes care of a paltry 55 monuments while the rest are under the care of the State Archaeological Department which focuses on less than 200 structures, leaving approximately 1,245 vulnerable to the vagaries of nature and open to vandals.

Even those under protection cannot boast of airtight security as the recent vandalism incident proved. Five persons, including a popular rap artist, desecrated the Vishnu temple, near the famous Vijaya Vittala temple by pulling down pillars. This incident happened, according to locals, because the security guards posted at Hampi are least bothered about this temple, or many others, that they are tasked with protecting.

Popularly known as the city of ruins, Hampi is derived from the Kannada rendering of Pampa (with the famous sound change from p to h, a turning point in Dravidian language evolution). Pampa was another name for Tungabhadra river, on whose turbulent banks this long chapter in civilisational history unfolded. The history extends to well before 1336 CE when the Vijayanagara empire was founded. Several historians place Hampi as a thriving city under the Mauryan Empire in the 3rd century BCE.

The historic city, which faced off against several aggressors, has perhaps never had so few guards responsible for its safety. Around 200 guards, employed with the ASI, pair up with 200 more, employees of private security agencies, to mount a defence against vandals. However, tourists regularly complain of getting zero assistance from them.

Hampi also is a major draw for many foreign tourists from France, Germany, Israel and many other countries. However, there is no one on site who can speak their language and tell them about the ruins and their history. Experts lay the blame for this at the doors of the Hampi World Heritage Area Management Authority (HAWAMA), one of the major agencies involved in management and conservation.

Locals have many interesting and yet embarrassing tales to narrate. HAWAMA had put up high definition cameras on the hilltops, but within three months, primates attacked the wires, rendering the cameras useless. In another incident, a heritage tour of Hampi, at night was introduced with the audio guide only in Kannada, making it impossible for those from out of the state to use. But there is hope yet for the city that refuses to die. Several individuals are quietly working behind the scenes for Hampis development. Krishnadevaraya, the 19th descendant of the Vijayanagara king and the scion of the dynasty, is one such person. Prince Yaduveer of the Mysore Royal family is another. Both royals were vocal in their protest against the vandalism of the Vishnu temple.

Krishnadevaraya has also proposed a laser-based security system to safeguard monuments across the city. Speaking to The New Indian Express, he said, I spoke to many friends in the tech sector. Laser technology for the safety of monuments is a new idea and can be implemented.

If the same heritage site was in the US or other countries, they would have ensured that the site got its right attention. America may have a short history but we must learn how they take care and popularise native history to visitors, he added.

The scion also pointed out that Hampi was more than just ruins of an ancient civilisation. Hampi is now about just monuments and ruins. There is a religious angle to it. Hundreds of tourists visit Virupaksha temple in Hampi and Anjanadri temple in Anegundi. Its important that authorities ensure sanctity around these places.

Cry for attention

The ASI takes care of 55 monuments leaving the rest for the state archaeology department. So far less than 200 are being cared for by the state leaving around 1,245 monuments undocumented.
singhking99@yahoo.com

Gautam Kaul

If alive, Audrey Hepburn would have celebrated her 90th birthday with her friends recently. Indian audiences of English language cinemas first came to be introduced to Audrey Hepburn through the film Roman Holiday, made in 1952 in which Audrey acted against Gregory Peck who played an American newspaper reporter on a visit to Rome to cover a diplomatic event. Hepburn in this film was an Italian princess who escapes the confines of her conservative castle, and stepped out into the streets of Rome and into a world of carefree freedom and anonymity, only to come in the way of the scooter-riding press reporter, and get befriended. Before the princess is traced back to continue her imperial duties, she has learnt a lot of the American way of life, a thing called freedom and democracy, and of all matters, about love.

Audrey Hepburn offered her cinema audience a different look at Hollywood away from the bosomy Jane Russell, Jane Mansfield and their ilk. She was thin framed, a fact she contributed to her days of starvation living in Holland under a Nazi occupation regime when she suffered privations for days along with her family. Her petit baby face even when she was in her late thirties, charmed young women and influenced them to adopt that Hepburn look of a hairstyle with a shock of trimmed hair covering the forehead, a thin waist line and court shoes.

Hepburn started her career rather indifferently after the War in Europe came to a close. Her mother was from an aristocratic family and her father was from the British diplomatic service. Born in 1931 in Belgium, the family got trapped in the sudden invasion by the Nazis in Holland, and took shelter moving from farm house to farm houses, losing her sisters to capture and being sent to the concentration camp where they died in gas chambers.

Audrey then moved to England, where she continued to be trained as a ballerina. She was noticed by fashion model agents who found her thin frame suited the fashion. She found modelling as a vocation, and featured in some fashion magazines. Her dancing lessons helped her get a role in a Broadway musical called Gigi. It was here that film director William Wyler discovered her and decided she was the one actress to be cast in his next film, Roman Holiday.

The release of Roman Holiday (1952) and its fantastic run in cinema halls worldwide, was enough to get Audrey Hepburn votes for the Best Actress of the Year at the Oscars, at BAFTA, and the Golden Globe. Then began a swift film career which saw Audrey sail through a series of great and memorable films, such as Sabrina (1954), War and Peace (1956), The Nuns Story (1959), Breakfast at Tiffanys (1961), My Fair Lady (1964), Wait Until Dark (1967) just to mention a few.

As Audrey Hepburn moved from one big film to another, picking nominations for the Oscars, or BAFTA or Golden Globe, she kept the Hollywood paparazzi at bay and rejected the managing agents directions to fall in love with the hero of her films. Eventually she came out with a star image of a fun loving Roman Catholic with a no nonsense clean image. Her association with The Nuns Story (1959), a biopic which was filmed in the deep forests of Congo, also helped realise the enormous difference of reality in New York and the jungles of Congo which changed her personality.

Once the flood of offers and script came to thin out, Audrey married Mel Ferrar whom she had met during the shooting of Tolstoys War and Peace (1956). She bore him two sons, and then divorced to marry two more times.

Between 1960 and 1985, Audrey Hepburn took a new role for herself to become a Unicef Ambassador, promoting full time the humanitarian work of Unicef. As the world came to know the tragedy of the birth of Bangladesh, Audrey Hepburn travelled into Bangladesh via Delhi and Calcutta and camped in that country to observe the international relief work underway to resettle the refugees. She visited South American nations which were hit by maladministration, cyclones and earthquakes. She visited South Sudan during a famine and discovered it was all manmade. Finally she decided to move away from all the worldly contacts of fashion and high living and retired to a stately home in Switzerland. The US President, bestowed upon Hepburn the Medal of Freedom for her humanitarian work extended over a long tenure.

Hepburn now detected she was afflicted with a rare form of colon cancer but she moved around on her own assigned social work until a weak body could not bear the strain. She entered hospital for treatment, and a surgical operation, never to return to her home to rest.

Her funeral was largely attended by many of her old associates, European nobility, and family members.

A tearful Gregory Peck read Audreys favourite poem Unending Love, written by Rabindranath Tagore, at her funeral, using it as his tribute to the star which Hollywood had said , was one of the 15 most shining ones in American film history. The Agha Khan represented the Unicef here. She died on January 20, 1993, aged 63 years.
Pravash Pradhan

Pravash Pradhan

BE prepared for FANI reads the message of the Odisha Government with advisories for people of coastal districts. One day before the deadliest super cyclone Fani made a landfall near Puri coast on May 3, the state government had evacuated about 12 lakh people in record time. The pinpoint accuracy of the Indian Meteorological Departments early warnings helped the state authorities to calibrate a well-devised plan to shift people to storm shelters and reduce a major loss to human lives.

The promptness of the local government in thwarting human casualties earned commendation from the UN Office for Disaster Risk Reduction. Even Prime Minister Narendra Modi heaped praises on the state government for its deft implementation of the pre-cyclone evacuation measures.

It will, however, take several years to rebuild infrastructure in the severely cyclone-hit districts of Odisha. It needs thousands of crores to create new infrastructure, rebuild houses and restore livelihood opportunities.

According to government sources, about 1.5 crore people were affected due to extreme super cyclone Fani in Odisha while more than 54 lakh livestock animals and birds were killed. And 5,08,467 houses were damaged in more than 16,000 villages. Only 41 (as on May 9) lives were lost. Apart from this, Fani has severely damaged the ecology by destroying about 50 lakh trees in the coastal districts. More than 80 per cent trees have been damaged in the Puri district alone, making people vulnerable to scorching heat during the summer and adversely impacting the tourism industry in the holy town.

Given the extent of damage, the financial support and relief provided so far have been largely inadequate. Odisha has sought Rs 17,000 crore from the Centre for the relief and restoration works. The Centre has announced a package of Rs 1,341 crore till now. States like Andhra Pradesh (AP), Chhattisgarh, Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and West Bengal (WB) have also extended their support. About 5,000 skilled electricians from neighboring states, especially from AP and WB, have been working relentlessly to restore power supply in Bhubaneswar, Puri and Cuttack.

The challenge is enormous with 75 high power transmission towers, 11,000 distribution transformers and 84,000 km low-tension power lines damaged. It will take a month or two to restore power supply, but we are focusing on emergency restoration system with the deployment of additional manpower and machines to complete it in a fortnight, says Hemant Sharma, State Power Secretary.

It was completely unbearable and unmanageable without water and electricity. I had to leave Bhubaneswar for my native place, along with my family. It will take two to three days more to restore water and power services in the capital city, says Srinibas Mohapatra, a resident of Bhubaneswar.

The super cyclone, with a wind speed of 200-240 km per hour, unleashed mayhem in Puri, not only crippling the tourism industry but also the livelihood of common people. Konark, Pipli and Raghurajpur  main tourist attractions in Puri district have been badly affected.

To add to their woes, people are struggling to withdraw cash from ATMs. The banking system has been completely paralysed in Bhubaneswar, Puri, Khurdha and Cuttack for two-three days after the tragedy due to lack of power and internet connectivity. Only 20 of 273 ATMs are operational at present in Puri district.

Apart from the 1999 severe Super Cyclone which left more than 10,000 dead, the state has faced moderate to severe storms like Phailini in 2013, Hudhud in 2014 and Titli in 2018. There was better preparedness and resilience mechanism to address the post-cyclone restoration works.

The Odisha State Disaster Mitigation Authority was established in 1999, much before the Disaster Management Act passed in 2005. The authority, which was the first of its kind in India, helped in the making of a comprehensive disaster management plan. It has helped the state manage floods, cyclone, tsunami or other natural calamities and brought laurels from different quarters, including the UN.

However, these operations were handled in a relief mode. These were mostly limited to rescue and relief operations. There was hardly any awareness about the preparedness for resilience and restoration.

Learning from the ground is that primarily strengthening and building capacities of local communities towards rejuvenating human, ecological and economic capital is very important, says Pradeep Mohapatra, who had worked with UDYAM and CARE during the 1999 Super Cyclone in Odisha.
Ruchika M. Khanna

Ruchika M. Khanna in Chandigarh

The General Election 2019 has changed the political spectrum in Punjab. From a state having three principal political parties during the 2014 elections, the contest in Punjab this time is between two parties only - the Congress and the SAD-BJP alliance, as fortunes of the Aam Aadmi Party are on the wane. Who emerges as the eventual winner will be known after results are declared on May 23.

The fact that the presidents of all three political parties- the Congress (Sunil Jakhar); the Shiromani Akali Dal (Sukhbir Singh Badal) and the Aam Aadmi Party (Bhagwant Mann)  are in the poll fray substantiates how important this election is for Punjab. Top national leaders from all parties are going to campaign for their candidates in the state this week as the final phase of campaigning ends on May 17.

What will results mean for the Congress

If the fortune doesn't favour the Congress, it is going to affect the position of Chief Minister Capt Amarinder Singh, as it was his will that prevailed in the selection of candidates for the Congress ticket and in the setting the political agenda for the 13 Lok Sabha seats of Punjab. An impressive win would reaffirm his stature and would be a positive referendum for his two-year tenure. In 2014 LS poll, the Congress had won just three of the 13 seats. However, in the 2017 Assembly elections, the tide had turned in party's favour as it stormed to power winning 77 of 117 seats.

For these elections, Amarinder has launched a Mission 13 campaign to win all 13 seats. However, anti-incumbency and divisions within the party are visible in some constituencies. Still, the factors that go in the party's favour are that the AAP has been decimated and people do not yet seem in mood to forgive the Akali-BJP combine over the shoddy probe of sacrilege incidents of 2015. Also, the party has fulfilled two of its main fulfilled poll promises  cheap power to industry and implementing the crop-loan waiver scheme  though not to the extent what was promised. This is getting the government a pat on its back, and giving it an edge over its rivals.

Akalis future at stake

The Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), which is contesting on 10 seats, has played its biggest gamble in this election. If the SAD-BJP combine were to lose either of the Bathinda or Ferozepur seats where the party's first couple (Sukhbir Singh Badal and Harsimrat Kaur Badal) is contesting, it would further decimate the already struggling party. A resurrection may not be possible after that. By winning just two seats of Bathinda (Harsimrat) and Ferozepur (Sukhbir), the party could win the battle of perception and should be back in form for the assembly polls in 2022. If it is able to get more than these two seats (because of anti incumbency against the Congress), it would be indication enough that the worst period for the party is over.

BJP emerging out of Akalis' shadow

Till now, there has been a perception that Punjab is not a priority for the BJP, where the saffron party is contesting just three seats  Amritsar, Gurdaspur and Hoshiarpur. However, in the 2017 state Assembly polls as well as in these polls, the BJP has been actively involved in all aspects of the elections  strategising, campaigning or mobilising support. The very fact that the party has fielded a sitting minister (Hardeep Singh Puri from Amritsar) and a Bollywood star (Sunny Deol from Gurdaspur) speaks of the party's growing interest in Punjab. The Rashtriya Swayamsewak Sangh (RSS) has also been strengthened across Punjab in the past couple of years. It was the RSS cadre that predicted the voters' lack of faith in the Akali-BJP alliance in 2017 and the ensuing debacle in the Assembly polls. This time, too, the cadre is working diligently to drum up support for its three candidates as well as for the Akali candidates, especially in Hindu-dominated and urban industrial areas where Prime Minister Modi enjoys a solid following.

Third front fails to pick up

Even the third front  the Punjab Democratic Alliance, led by Sukhpal Singh Khaira, consisting of several splinter groups, including the Bahujan Samaj Party and Left parties, seems to be lagging behind. The front could not cash in on the initial hype created after the breakaway Akali Dal group led by MP Ranjit Singh Brahmpura joined it. Another front constituent, the Akali Dal Taksali went its own way and ended up contesting just one seat of Anandpur Sahib. If Khaira and Baldev Singh (contesting from Bathinda and Faridkot seats, respectively), were to lose in these polls, they could lose their Vidhan Sabha membership for contesting on another party's, Punjab Ekta Party (PEP) symbol. Byelections in the Bholath and Jaiton Assembly segments that they represent would also be imminent.

Political lines get blurred

Interestingly, a major trend this time has been the fielding of sitting MLAs by all political parties. Till last elections, there were separate candidates contesting the LS and state Assembly polls. But like elsewhere, the lines are getting blurred here, too. The Congress has fielded two sitting MLAs, Dr Raj Kumar Chabbewal and Amrinder Singh Raja Warring. SAD president Sukhbir Singh Badal and Parminder Dhindsa, too, have thrown their hat in the ring; while the BJP's Som Parkash is contesting from Hoshiarpur. Two of PEP's MLAs, Sukhpal Singh Khaira and Master Baldev Singh are also in the arena as is AAP's Talwandi Sabo MLA Baljinder Kaur and Lok Insaf Party leader Simarjit Singh Bains. If any of these MLAs win, a byelection would be imminent in their constituency.

Sacrilege, 84 riots and nationalism main issues

The political discourse for this election is no longer development or serious issues like drug menace or sand mafia that became the bane of the then SAD-BJP government in the 2014 General Election, or the agrarian crisis and the large-scale unemployment that dominated the 2017 Vidhan Sabha election. The drug menace has still not been eradicated and the illegal sand mining under political patronage is still on but suddenly, the ghost of 1984 anti Sikh riots has been pulled out and the SAD-BJP leaders are gunning for the Congress. Speeches are becoming acerbic and level of debate is falling.

The spin doctors in the Congress camp have completely steered the agenda towards the sacrilege issue, while those in the SAD-BJP are harping on nationalism. No one is talking about actual issues being faced by the people like the indebted farmers who continue to take their own lives because of economic distress; the large-scale unemployment and under employment in the state; the desperate measures by the youth to fly to greener pastures; or the ghost of demonetisation that continues to haunt the micro, small and medium industry as well as labourers who were laid off after the economy came to a standstill. No wonder, the electorate is put off and is keeping away from the rallies and election meetings. The voters are not saying much this time but are in a mood to let their votes speak for them. They are very much aware of the problems facing them thanks to the social media, but are unwilling to commit to anyone, giving jitters to the parties and candidates in fray.

The good and the bad

This new awakening among the electorate is the good thing about this election. This election is also about the people's resurgence, but in a more evolved and non-violent way, unlike the violent resurgence of the 1980s. Gone are the days when voters were just herded to rallies and made to swear their allegiance to a particular political party. In the changed order of Punjab politics, the voters are asking questions, seeking answers, and demanding accountability from their representatives. And the politicians are scurrying for cover... not knowing how to react.

The bad thing is that the real issues are getting buried under the din of propaganda  be it religious or sacrilegious. It seems the political parties have turned a deaf ear to their voters' genuine problems. They are drumming up issues that they believe will garner them the votes. No wonder, there is lack of enthusiasm among voters this time round. Most candidates are organising small election meetings, rather than big rallies. This is as much to save expenses and escape the watchful eye of the Election Commission, as also because of the lack of interest shown by the voters.

Whatever the governing and the governed may be doing or feeling, the final results on May 23 will bare all.

Split in AAP costs the party dear

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), riddled with rebellion and defections, is bound to lose its status as the principal opposition party to the SAD-BJP alliance. Since the 2014 LS poll when it won four Lok Sabha seats, it has been on a slide. In the 2017 Assembly polls, too, the party had won just 20 seats, despite there being a lot of hullabaloo around the new party. As of now, other than state chief Bhagwant Mann, who is seeking a re-election from Sangrur, most other candidates seem lagging behind. It was believed after the party's less than expected show in 2017, it would learn from its mistakes and emerge as a credible opposition. But it took less than a year for a rebellion to rise in the party that ultimately led to its split. The breakaway group formed another party, the Punjab Ekta Party. Besides this group, its two other MLAs (Nazar Singh Manshahia and Amarjit Singh Sandoa) defected to the Congress. Thus the party stands little chance of repeating its 2014 performance in Punjab. This, despite the fact, that there is clearly enough space and a strong support base among voters against the two traditional political parties
vinaymishra188@gmail.com

Johannesburg, May 11

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa led the African National Congress (ANC) to victory in Wednesdays election, but a drop in its share of the vote underlines the challenge he faces restoring confidence in his party.

With opponents in the ANC and an emboldened far-left Opposition party, the former union leader turned business tycoon may struggle to deliver on his promises to push through tough reforms.

Africas oldest liberation movement won 57.5 per cent of the parliamentary vote. That was its worst parliamentary result since it swept to power at the end of white minority rule but an improvement on its showing in 2016 local elections.

Ramaphosa worked closely with South Africas first black president Nelson Mandela to end white minority rule in 1994. He replaced scandal-plagued Jacob Zuma as head of state in February 2018 after winning a bitter contest to become ANC leader and convincing top party officials to instruct Zuma to resign.

Ramaphosas first full presidential term should start later this month, after nomination by his partys parliamentary caucus and an inauguration ceremony.

Weve made mistakes, but we are sorry about those mistakes, and we are saying our people should reinvest their confidence in us, Ramaphosa said on Wednesday after casting his ballot in the Soweto township where he grew up.

During the campaign he had crisscrossed the country, trying to convince disillusioned voters to give the ANC another chance.

Many are frustrated that huge racial disparities in income and wealth persist 25 years after the end of apartheid.

During Zumas nine years as president, support for the ANC dropped as economic growth faltered and the partys reputation was tarnished by corruption scandals.

Ramaphosas allies say his efforts to clean up the ANCs image are starting to bear fruit. Ramaphosa was a game-changer for the ANC in this campaign.

Voters trust that he can do things right, said ANC executive member Fikile Mbalula.

Some analysts say the election result means Ramaphosa will be able to fend off a potential leadership challenge from party enemies aligned with his predecessor.

In his first 15 months in charge, Ramaphosa has tried to tackle entrenched corruption and improve governance at struggling state-owned firms like power utility Eskom.

But he has found it difficult to lift the economic growth rate and has been forced into some uneasy compromises in key policy areas like land reform.  Reuters

REFORM DRIVE

In his first 15 months in charge, Ramaphosa has tried to tackle entrenched corruption and improve governance at struggling state-owned firms like power utility Eskom

He has found it difficult to lift the economic growth rate and has been forced into some uneasy compromises in key policy areas like land reform

Nelson mandelas man

Ramaphosa worked closely with South Africas first black president Nelson Mandela to end white minority rule in 1994

He replaced scandal-plagued Jacob Zuma as head of state in February 2018 after winning a bitter contest to become ANC leader and convincing top party officials to instruct Zuma to resign

Ramaphosas first full presidential term should start later this month

Challenges

Unemployment stands at around 27 per cent.

Investment by local and international firms is weak after years of policy missteps and regulatory upheaval

Support is growing for the far-left Economic Freedom Fighters party, which saw the biggest gains at the poll

Could force Ramaphosa into pursuing more radical policies in the next parliament

Skilled negotiator

The successful conclusion of talks to end apartheid, where Ramaphosa negotiated on behalf of the ANC, paved the way for the party to win South Africas first democratic elections. He is said to be a modern thinker.
FOR a second year the occupancy rate at hotels in Tobago over the Christmas holiday seems to be low, as a result of the ongoing battle with the Covid-19 pandemic.

Speaking with the Express yesterday, Tobago Hotel and Tourism Association president Christopher James said, while he does not have the figures from the various hotels, villas and guest houses as yet, the reports the association has been receiving are that bookings are slow.
Heres a collection curated by The Associated Press entertainment journalists of whats arriving on TV, streaming services and music platforms this week.

Movies

Maggie Gyllenhaals feature directing debut, The Lost Daughter, scintillatingly adapts the 2008 Elena Ferrante novel about maternal ambivalence and a holiday in Greece. The film, which begins streaming Friday on Netflix, stars Olivia Colman as a vacationing professor whose interactions with a boisterous, distracting clan (including a young mother in their midst played by Dakota Johnson), recall her own parenting history, seen in flashbacks with Jessie Buckley.
A CHRISTMAS Day shooting on Independence Square, opposite the Brian Lara Promenade in Port of Spain, has claimed the lives of two men.

A third man was injured in the attack and remained in serious condition at the Port of Spain General Hospital last night.

The incident took place around 3.45 p.m. in the vicinity of New City Mall, said investigating officers.
By Express News Service

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan visited the Port of Rotterdam and Wageningen University during his ongoing visit to the Netherlands. Programme manager of Rotterdam Port, Edwin Van Espen, who received the CM, explained to him issues related to inland water transport, flood management, water management and movement of goods. The Chief Minister held discussions with top authorities and representatives of companies who are into port-related activities.

Rotterdam Port through which goods worth 450 million pass annually is the biggest port in Europe and one of the top ports globally.

The Chief Minister, who visited the Agriculture Research Centre of Wageningen varsity situated in Westmaas, was received by Marco Otto, senior advisor, relationship and accounts management. He held wide-ranging discussions with Otto on precision farming, crop diversification, cold storage, farming below sea level, salt water farming in Kuttanad and ecotourism. Wageningen varsity is the foremost academic institution in agriculture and forest conservation, focusing on research in life sciences and natural resources research.

Westmaas is a major research area of plantation crops which has underground water distribution pipes and 16 weather regulated storage cells. Chief Minister also paid a visit to Anthurium Greenhouse.Chief Secretary Tom Jose, Additional Chief Secretary Biswas Mehta and Indian Ambassador to Netherlands Venu Rajamony were with the Chief Minister.
Twenty twenty-two will mark 40 years since I left St Marys College and began my processional journey across the public and private sectors.

My career was nurtured by several people who have all played a role in the man I have eventually become, none more so than Alwin Chow, also a former CIC old boy, like me, gifted by what the Harvard professors called linguistic intelligence.
- Uhuru led Kenyan delegation to the south eastern Asian state where he inked avocado exportation deal

- Prior to this, there were reports the president would table request for SGR loan

- The government clarified the SGR did not feature in their deliberations

- The Head of State jetted back with little pomp and colour has since gone unusually quiet

Kenyans have expressed concern over continued silence of President Uhuru Kenytta and him missing in action after he quietly jetted back home from Beijing, China.

Through #FindPresidentUhuru, the online community sought to know whereabouts of their beloved president who is uncharacteristically silent and out of public sight for nearly two weeks.

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This is further aggravated by the fact that personal social media pages of the Head of State were wiped off the internet under unclear circumstance on Friday, March 22, thus leaving official State House handles which are currently littered with photos of the First Lady Margaret Kenyatta.

"The President is a Symbol of National Unity. When you can't hear from the president especially after unauthorised access to his social media channels and a loan he went to seek was declined, that's enough reason for alarm. Maybe depression has gotten to him," observed Bravin.

For one political analyst and a vocal tweep Mutahi Ngunyi, Uhuru has very little regard for his subjects and was intentionally hiding from the public limelight.

"Silence annoys even the devil. Leading Kenyans is like herding needy cats. Uhuru should give them the contempt card,"he tweeted.

Uhuru led Kenyan delegation to the south eastern Asian state where he inked avocado exportation deal but was received with little excitement.

Prior to this, there were reports the president would seek another loan for the extension of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) from Naivasha to Kisumu.

Though the Foreign Affairs Ministry explained the SGR did not feature during the China visit, the multi-billion project remains core at the heart of every Kenyan.

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 - TUKO TV

Source: TUKO.co.ke
Popular Ghanaian actor and TV host Chris Attoh's wife, Bettie Jennifer has been shot dead.

The 44-year-old woman was killed in Maryland, United States on May, 10 2019, at a car park.

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READ ALSO: Mchekeshaji Njugush achemsha mtandao kwa kusema Wakenya hawawezi kuleta mageuzi

According to Yen.com.gh, Bettie sustained a fatal injury in the head after the incident that occured at around 5.10pm.

According to police reports, the actor's wife was walking out of an office complex when an armed gunman shot and killed her.

READ ALSO: Like mother like daughter: Olive Mugenda's daughter attains PhD from American university

The deceased was walking towards her car at the time of the incident.

Greenbelt police further said Bettie had attempted to run when she spotted the assailant but he fired several times.

One of the bullets hit her and she died on the spot.

TUKO.co.ke understands the suspect was seen fleeing the scene in a blue vehicle following the shooting.

He has been described as a black male with a thin build and was last seen wearing a brown shirt and khaki pants.

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.

Feared to reformed Gangsters of Kariobangi

Source: TUKO.co.ke
Main Street programs across Oklahoma competed for the honor that went to Claremore.

Tulsa organizations won in three categories:

 In the promotion category, Kendall Whittier Ale Trail won creative new event.

 In the design category, The Taproom at Marshall Brewing in Kendall Whitter won for the Best Facade Rehabilitation over $10,000.

 In the economic vitality category, Tulsa Route 66s Red Fork Distillery was honored for Best Adaptive Reuse Project. Heirloom Rustic Ales in Kendall Whittier won the Best New Business. The Business of the Year in the economic vitality category was Marshall Brewing Company.

The Oklahoma Main Street Center has been a coordinating program with Main Street America since 1985.
Dileep V Kumar By

Express News Service

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The state governments plan to switch to e-mobility platform is poised to get a thrust as a high-level delegation from Kerala visits the United Kingdom in June. The four-member team led by Transport Minister A K Saseendran is scheduled to embark on the foreign visit from June 1st to 9th. However, sources said that the visit is subject to clearance from the External Affairs, Finance and Home Ministries. The other members who will accompany the minister were Transport Secretary K R Jyothilal, Transport Commissioner Sudesh Kumar and KSRTC chairman and managing director M P Dinesh.

It was based on an invitation from the UK that the state government decided to send a delegation team there. The invitation was for attending an international seminar. Though the state had given its nod for the visit, the final approval will have to come from the ministries concerned, said Saseendran.

However, the proposal note sent by the state to the Centre mentions that the visit is for exploring the new trends and possibilities in the mobility sector and to learn various transport mobility initiatives adopted by UK.

There are concerns that the Centre might not process the proposal for the foreign visit as the state is required to send the same to the ministries concerned at least three weeks before the scheduled visit. Also, the visit to the UK by the minister and other officers coincide with the 15th session of the Assembly, which will begin on May 27 and last till the second week of July.

When asked, Jyothilal said: The visit has come in the backdrop of a couple of meetings that the state had with the delegation from the UK. And that includes the meeting of British High Commissioner to India Dominic Asquith with Governor P Sathasivam and Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan.

He further added: The high commissioner in his visit to the state in November had expressed interest in cooperating with the state in e-mobility, waste management, skill development, technical education and urban development. Also, some UK based companies had extended their cooperation in the states efforts to switch to e-vehicle platform.

According to the Transport Secretary, the visit to the UK might help the state to get new insights for developing a robust infrastructure for electric vehicles.

Earlier, Finance Minister T M Thomas Isaac in 2019-20 Budget had stated that due to the increase in pollution from diesel and petrol vehicles it has been proposed to encourage registration of electric vehicles. The minister further added that in accordance with State Electric Vehicle Policy, steps will be taken to increase the number of electric vehicles to ten lakh by 2022. The budget also proposed that in the first phase, all the services in Thiruvananthapuram Corporation will be changed to electric buses. Thereby making it the first city in India to have a hundred per cent e-bus service.
If his first crop is successful, Phipps said, the plan is to increase the amount of land dedicated to hemp to 60 to 120 acres. He also plans to share what he learns from his first crop with other farmers so they can also start farming industrial hemp.

None of this may pan out, but this has the potential to bring our farm into the next decade of farming, Phipps said. Because we really are on the cutting edge, we have the opportunity to provide other Oklahoma farmers with some information about an alternative crop they can put in their rotation.

In need of infrastructure

Peverley said some questions still need to be answered before hemp can become a mainstay crop, such as: Where to haul bales of hemp? What is the payment schedule? Where is the market?

It takes no imagination that if you raise several tons youll have to ship it somewhere. We already ship wheat all over the country, but where are we going to ship this? How do we have to handle it? There are a lot of questions I dont have answers to, Peverley said.

There also needs to be a processing plant.
The day after a gunman ran through a midtown shopping center, shooting at least two men at random before a Tulsa police officer shot and killed him, investigators found more bullet holes along his path.

Tulsa Police Sgt. Brandon Watkins said Saturday it appears the gunman, whom police are not yet identifying, began in a neighborhood north of the shopping center near Interstate 44 and Peoria Avenue before making his way to the business area and then the interstate on foot.

Watkins said bullet holes in cars, homes and businesses were found along his path, but investigators are still wading through reports to determine the extent of the damage.

There were so many witnesses and so much going on that were still piecing this together, Watkins said less than 24 hours after the shooting.

The active shooter situation, as described by police, took place just before 7 p.m. on Friday, Watkins said.

The gunman ran south by Cicis Pizza, shooting a man in the shoulder who was outside the restaurant talking on the phone, Watkins said. A couple of doors down at the China Wok, 4971 S. Peoria Ave., he reportedly shot another man in the face.
Two bodies were found in a Pryor home that burned early Sunday, and the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation is investigating.

The fire began about 5:40 a.m. at a home in the 300 block of North Elliott Street, and the bodies were found after the Pryor Fire Department extinguished the blaze, according to an OSBI news release.

The Pryor Police Department contacted OSBI, and the state Fire Marshals Office also responded to the scene.

The bodies had not been identified as of Sunday afternoon.

Pryor is a town of about 9,500 people located about 50 miles east-northeast of Tulsa near Lake Hudson.

Kelsy Schlotthauer 918-581-8455 kelsy.schlotthauer@tulsaworld.com Twitter: @K_Schlott

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That experience really helped to show that if you restrict your way to one way of thinking, then you block out a lot of important information and alternate perspectives, he said.

Hasegawa is headed to the University of California, Berkeley, to study geography and linguistics. Hes particularly interested in how languages develop and change over time.

What to do with this specialization after college remains a mystery, although hes considering a career in political analysis and historical review.

But there are no definite plans yet, he said.

Porter, who won the National Spanish Exam Junior Travel Award in 2018 and is an Advanced Placement Scholar with Distinction, also is a language enthusiast. Her interest ignited after reading about linguistic determinism, the idea that the way you speak shapes the way you think.

She plans to study computer science and linguistics at the University of Oklahoma and wants to work in algorithms, perhaps as a computational linguist.

Another possibility is going to law school to study digital advocacy.
The call came in that he was pointing the gun, Tuell said. Thats a crime. You cant point guns at people.

But, Tuell said, there are laws that allow for concealed carry and open carry of firearms. So if someone has a gun in a holster or a strap, thats legal.

If theyre just carrying on normal everyday activities, it is what it is  someone is exercising their Second Amendment (rights), he said.

Police can question people carrying a firearm as part of an administrative stop. We can detain you, Tuell said. You are not free to leave. Its for the purpose to make sure you have your proper license with you.

When citizens call, police will respond, Tuell said. Those calls have offered an opportunity to explain the law. Education is vital, especially as the laws change Nov. 1, when people will be allowed to carry firearms with no permit.
Along with roll call votes this week, the House also passed the Taiwan Assurance Act (H.R. 2002), to foster security in Taiwan; and the Advancing Critical Connectivity Expands Service, Small Business Resources, Opportunities, Access, and Data Based on Assessed Need and Demand Act (H.R. 1328), to establish the Office of Internet Connectivity and Growth.

HOUSE

Commerce and diplomacy: The House has passed the Championing American Business Through Diplomacy Act (H.R. 1704), sponsored by Rep. Michael T. McCaul, R-Texas. The bill would establish an Assistant Secretary of State for Economic and Business Matters at the State Department, and state that a principal duty of U.S. diplomatic missions to foreign countries is the promotion of U.S. economic and commercial interests in foreign lands. McCaul said of the need for economic diplomacy: If America does not step up its economic engagement in the world, this vacuum will be filled by others, with a potentially devastating impact on American national security. The vote, on May 7, was 400 yeas to 16 nays.
(Update) 6:40 p.m. Saturday: Tulsa police say Arnove was found and is being reunited with her family.

The Tulsa Police Department issued a Silver Alert on Saturday for a 73-year-old woman suffering from Alzheimer's disease.

Jane Arnove was last seen about 11:30 a.m. at her home in the 1400 block of South Marion Avenue. She was heading to a friend's home in the 3300 block of North Martin Luther King Boulevard, but she never arrived, police said.

Arnove was last seen wearing black pants and a dress top and driving a white Lexus RX300, Oklahoma tag GYQ888.

Anyone with information about Arnove's whereabouts is asked to contact the Tulsa Police Department.

Kelsy Schlotthauer 918-581-8455 kelsy.schlotthauer@tulsaworld.com Twitter: @K_Schlott

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Two men were killed in a fiery crash in Ottawa County early Sunday, and Oklahoma Highway Patrol troopers are still trying to piece together what happened.

The crash was reported about 12:40 a.m. on the Will Rogers Turnpike about 9 miles east of Miami, according to an OHP news release.

Troopers said Christopher Bowen, 46, of Miami died at the scene in a 2002 Chevrolet Silverado.

Waylon Humphrey, 32, of Rolla, Missouri, also died at the scene. The vehicle he was in was too burned to decipher its make or model, according to the release.

The cause of the crash is under investigation. Troopers said the seat belts in both vehicles were equipped, but theyre investigating whether either were in use.

The eastbound lanes of the turnpike were closed at mile marker 322 for about 4 hours while troopers investigated the scene.

Kelsy Schlotthauer 918-581-8455 kelsy.schlotthauer@tulsaworld.com Twitter: @K_Schlott

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By Express News Service

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, who is currently on a four-nation tour of Europe, on Sunday visited Anne Frank House in Amsterdam in the Netherlands. He signed the visitors book there.



The Anne Frank House has been an inspiration for all freedom lovers and those who fight oppression and injustice, he wrote in the visitors book.

The Anne Frank House is a writers house and biographical museum dedicated to the Jewish wartime diarist Anne Frank.

It preserves the hiding place at the rear of the 17th-century canal house, known as the Secret Annex, where Anne Frank hid from Nazi persecution with her family and four other people during World War II. Anne Frank did not survive the war but her wartime diary was published in 1947.
Officials in Tulsa County plan to have more than 12,000 sandbags ready by Thursday with the assistance from volunteers ahead of the planned release of the largest amount of water that has run through Keystone Dam in 26 years.

Recent rainfall in Keystone Lakes watershed region had the lake more than 20 feet above normal water levels as of 3 p.m. Saturday, and on Monday, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers plans to release 85,000 cubic feet of water per second.

As of Saturday evening, the dam was releasing nearly 76,000 cubic feet of water per second.

District 2 County Commissioner Karen Keith monitored the lakes water levels all week, alarmed by the amount of water flowing in from the watershed region, but said the sandbagging isnt because residents are in imminent danger; its an effort to be prepared.

Levee Commissioner Todd Kilpatrick invited volunteers to help fill sandbags from 7 a.m. to about 3:30 p.m. Saturday through Thursday at Levee District 12, 1202 E. Pecan St., in Sand Springs.
When its their turn, Republicans will be just as happy to switch roles, as will happen in the coming months when more interesting details arise about the genesis of the Trump-Russia probe. Republicans are no less driven by the temperature of their base. Trump-hating commentators often ask what it will take for Republicans in Congress to abandon the president. The answer is, most will dump him in a heartbeat if his poll numbers among the GOP faithful go south.

But then I stop and chide myself. Maybe Im wrong. Maybe my cynicism runs too deep. I remind myself that I personally know members of Congress who are sincere and do good things for their constituents. I try to tell myself that maybe the Democrats outrage over Trump, Barr and the Mueller report is real. Maybe Pelosi, Schumer, Schiff and Nadler have no motive other than an altruistic, patriotic desire to defend the Constitution from the evil that is President Trump.

Before long, though, my cynicism owns me again. I try to exorcise the demon, but it materializes with every congressional hearing, every Washington news conference, every campaign stump speech. What I see is not good government, just poll-tested show business.
I am a co-author of Senate Bill 252, which would ensure that defendants have an initial court appearance within 48 hours (not including weekends and holidays), so that people who dont need to be in jail arent there, which would save tax money to be invested better elsewhere.

3. Unaffordable money bail punishes families and communities that bear the burden of trying to raise enough money to pay a bondsman. We need to change the system to focus on alternatives to money bail and encourage the players in the criminal legal system to make individualized assessments of the ability of defendants to pay. Remember that many of the people sitting in our jails prior to trial are employed. Do we want them to lose their job? Yes, they got arrested, which is not good, but does that mean they are automatically guilty? No. Again, bail is only supposed to be a mechanism to ensure reappearance in court, which is where we determine guilt or innocence. Bail shouldnt be a sentence in and of itself.
When I am asked how I grew my professional lyric theatre from an annual budget of $400 to just shy of $300,000, I say it is because of the well-rounded education I got at the University of Tulsa.

Where I live in South Carolina, the creative sector is a $9.7 billion industry accounting for 115,000 jobs. For each $1 our patrons spend on tickets, $9 are invested in local restaurants, shops and tourism.

Data reveals my performing arts company has contributed $11.3 million to our local economy.

How can TU insinuate that my degree is not practical or professional?

A survey by the Association of American Colleges and Universities shows that business executives were less likely to hire students who are singularly degree or profession focused.

They saw institutions teaching graduates the skills for entry level jobs but said students did not possess the critical thinking, intellectual capacity and questioning nature associated with a liberal arts degree.

How can TU insinuate that arts degrees do not offer the most in-demand skill sets of the 21st century?
The couple have apparently reached an agreement allowing both mother and father to take part in raising their child.

A two-year boy named Daniel, whom his Danish father had been holding at the Danish embassy premises in Kyiv amid a spat with the child's mother, who is a Ukrainian national, was finally returned to the latter.

It was Ukraine's Foreign Minister Pavlo Klimkin who broke the good news.

"Daniel and his mom are out of the Danish embassy. They are on their way home. The parents concluded an agreement and will further raise their son together. I am thankful to my Danish colleagues, especially my friend [foreign minister] Anders Samuelsen and all who provided assistance from the Ukrainian side. We did everything possible to make sure that the case is settled least traumatically for the child," Klimkin wrote on Twitter.

As UNIAN reported earlier, on May 7, a Zaporizhia-based Ukrainian woman, Anastasiya Malapura, launched a solo rally outside the Danish embassy in Kyiv claiming her son had been "kidnapped" by his father, Danish national Jan Mogensen, and since held at the Danish embassy premises.

The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry intervened, and Foreign Minister Pavlo Klimkin asked his Danish counterpart Anders Samuelsen to help settle a dispute.
As U.S. President Trump and his inner circle appear increasingly focused on Ukraine as a potential tripwire for Joe Biden and other Democrats, officials about to take power in Kyiv are pushing their own message: Leave us out of it.

Supporters of Ukrainian President-elect Volodymyr Zelensky  who is expected to take office in the coming weeks  said in interviews Saturday that they feared they were being pulled into a domestic political conflict in the United States, potentially at Ukraine's expense.

Trump's personal attorney, Rudolph W. Giuliani, said Friday that he was canceling a trip to Ukraine during which he was planning to push for investigations that include Biden's son, Hunter, and his time on the board of a Ukraine gas company, The Washington Post recalls.

Giuliani said he was calling off the trip because there were "enemies" of Trump on the team of Zelensky, a comedian with no previous political experience who toppled President Petro Poroshenko in a runoff election last month.

For Zelensky, U.S. support is critical, WP says. Many Ukrainian officials see U.S. support as a key deterrent preventing Russian President Vladimir Putin from encroaching further on their territory. Western diplomats in Kyiv have voiced concerns that Zelensky, given his lack of political experience, could be outmatched in negotiations with Putin.

Read alsoGiuliani cancels Ukraine trip, says he'd be 'walking into group of people that are enemies of U.S.'  NYT

Serhiy Leshchenko, a Ukrainian member of parliament and a prominent Zelensky backer, said Ukraine was being drawn into a "dangerous game."

A person close to Zelensky, who spoke on the condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the matter, said the president-elects team viewed Trumps interest in the investigations as a domestic U.S. matter and was determined not to let it distract from his agenda.

"This is definitely not our war," the person close to Zelensky said. "We have to stay away from this as much as possible."

The person said Zelensky would rule out using political pressure to lean on Ukrainian law enforcement to achieve any White House aims.

One investigation that has attracted Trump and Giulianis interest involves a Ukrainian gas company on whose board Hunter Biden served while his father was vice president. Trump said Friday that it would be appropriate for him to talk to Attorney General William P. Barr about opening an investigation over the matter into Joe Biden, the current front-runner for the Democratic presidential nomination.

"Certainly it is a very big issue and well see what happens," Trump told Politico.

There is no evidence that Bidens conduct as vice president was improper while his son served on the board of a Ukrainian gas company.

Giuliani also has pushed for Ukrainian officials to investigate unproven allegations that the Democratic National Committee worked with the Ukrainian government in 2016 to dig up incriminating information about Paul Manafort, Trumps former campaign chairman. The DNC has denied those allegations.
Their frequencies are used to broadcast Russian radio stations over them, activists say.

The signal of seven Ukrainian radio stations in 20 settlements across the northern part of the Russian-occupied Crimea is completely or partially jammed, according to a monitoring report by Crimean Human Rights Group.

Their frequencies are used to broadcast Russian radio stations over them, Krym.Realii reports citing the activists as saying.

The monitoring effort covered 13 frequencies of seven Ukrainian radio stations, which had received from the National Council on TV and Radio Broadcasting permits to broadcast in the northern part of Crimea from the Chonhar and Chaplynka villages in Kherson region, located near the de-facto border with the occupied peninsula.

Read alsoKremlin hostages: Five years of Sentsov and Kolchenko's captivity in Russia (Video)

The activists monitored said radio frequencies in 20 settlements of the northern part of Crimea.

The results showed that as of early April 2019, at seven frequencies, it was possible to catch the signal of two of these seven stations (Army FM, Radio Krym Realii, Radio NV, UA Radio Promin (UA:PBC), Meydan FM, Perets FM,Stylne, UA Radio Kultura (UA:PBC), and only in two settlements out of 20 studied," the statement said.

The organization has concluded that Russian authorities in Crimea have deliberately been jamming the signal of Ukrainian broadcasters, including by airing Russian radio stations on the same frequencies.
Joint Forces returned fire following the attacks by Russian-backed forces.

Over the past day, May 11, two Ukrainian troops were wounded in action in eastern Ukraine as Russian-controlled forces 11 times violated the ceasefire.

The Sunday morning report of the Joint Forces Operation headquarters says the enemy five times employed 120mm and 82mm mortars proscribed by the Minsk agreements.

Also, militants shelled Ukraine positions using grenade launchers of various types and opened fire from large-caliber machine guns and small arms.

Following each of the attacks, Joint Forces returned fire.

Read alsoRussian invaders in Donbas force troops of army corps to obtain Russian passports  Ukraine intel

According to intelligence reports, on May 11, enemy losses are 1 KIA and 2 WIAs.

From day start on Sunday, the enemy twice opened fire at the positions of the Joint Forces.

No new casualties among Ukrainian military were reported.

As Joint Forces continue to return fire following enemy attacks, data on losses on the other side of the contact line are being verified.

As UNIAN reported earlier, a Russian mercenary, battalion commander at the 5th separate motorized rifle brigade of the 1st Russian army corps, Evgenij Shabaev (aka "Lun") was killed in Donbas on May 7.
S Godson Wisely Dass By

Express News Service

THOOTHUKUDI (Tamil Nadu): Ruling AIADMK has been trying its level best to retain the Ottapidaram (SC) Assembly constituency while its key opponent DMK is trying to capitalise on the split in AIADMKs vote share due to the Amma Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam (AMMK).

Ottapidaram was once a Congress bastion until Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) wrested power in 1989 Assembly elections. AIADMK has won the seat five times since 1991 elections, including in 2011 when K Krishnasamy of Puthiya Tamilagam (PT) won in alliance with AIADMK.

Ottapidaram is generally a backward and dry region comprising 161 villages. None of the 19 town panchayats of Thoothukudi district falls under Ottapidaram constituency. Puthiyamputhur, despite being a hub of garment manufacturers, remains a village panchayat. Farming and cattle rearing are the main occupations of the majority of people here.

There are 437 industries in Ottapidaram taluk alone located close to Thoothukudi town. It is also a hub of thermal power plants. However, the hinterland of the constituency has remote villages which lack government bus connectivity between villages and suburban parts.

Ottapidaram, nevertheless, has been a part of history for various reasons. It had produced many freedom fighters and a few to be noted are Poligar King of Panchalankurichi Veerapandiya Kattaboman and his commandants Vellaiyathevan and Veeran Sundaralinganar, Thanathipathi Pillai, a minister in Kattabommans cabinet and VO Chidambaram Pillai, popularly called Kappal Ottiya Tamizhan. Vanchi Maniachi railway station located in Ottapidaram is the place where British collector Robert Ashe was shot dead by Vanchinathan.

Agricultural practices in the region have been hit in the past few years owing to poor rainfall and depleting groundwater resources. Vast areas of agriculture lands remain barren due to lack of water for raising crops.

Since the police brutality on Dalit hamlets at Kodiangulam village in the mid 90s, Krishnasamy has became popular among Ottapidaram Dalits.

Ottapidaram residents contend that main issues like drinking water scarcity and water for agriculture needs, shoddy industrial growth and new employment generation have not been addressed even though AIADMK MLAs have been in power for the past 25 years. Theft of groundwater for industrial needs is cited as the main reason for the water depletion.

AIADMK north district secretary and minister for Information and Publicity Kadambur C Raju said Ottapidaram is the fortress of the late AIADMK leader J Jayalalithaa. Voters here are clear on dismissing the rival candidates, he added.

DMK spokesperson KS Radhakrishnan who has been touring Ottapidaram constituency, said that his party will emerge victorious this time because people across the Assembly segment want a change in the State and Central governments. The DMKs manifesto promising farm loan waivers has attracted voters, he said.

Will speed up water scheme

AIADMK candidate P Mohan reiterates that he will speed up drinking water scheme to tackle water crisis permanently and also construct a bus stand. DMK candidate MC Shanmugaiah too says he will expedite the water schemes. AMMK candidate Sundar Raj says he had submitted over 2863 petitions to the Assembly before being disqualified.
Last November, Russia seized three Ukrainian navy ships and captured dozens of sailors, sparking outrage in Ukraine. The case is now being heard at a UN sea tribunal in Hamburg, but Russia has vowed not to show.

A naval standoff between Russia and Ukraine will be heard before an international sea tribunal in Hamburg, Germany, on Friday.

The incident last November saw tensions between Moscow and Kyiv skyrocket after Russia fired on Ukrainian naval vessels near the Kerch Strait, eventually seizing the ships and detaining 24 sailors, according to Deutsche Welle.

The hearing is taking place at the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (ITLOS), where the judges will hear arguments from Ukraine.

Ukraine argues that the navy vessels have immunity under an international maritime convention.

Ukraine has demanded that Moscow drop all charges against its sailors and to release them.

Read alsoRussia changes tone in talks with Ukraine on POW sailors  MFA Ukraine

They've also called for the return of its three naval vessels.

Russia has refused to attend the hearings, arguing that the ITLOS doesn't have jurisdiction over "military activities."

Last November, an incident erupted near the Kerch Strait in the first open military clash between Ukraine and Russia since 2014 when Moscow annexed Crimea.

Russian coast guard ships fired on the Ukrainian vessels as they tried to pass from the Black Sea to the Azov Sea. Russia seized the Ukrainian ships and detained 24 sailors, who are being held in pretrial detention until July.

Ukraine has said its ships were located in international waters when the incident took place. Russia, however, claims that the Ukrainian ships entered Russian territorial waters without permission.

Read alsoU.S. State Department: Russia needs to free Ukrainian crews

ITLOS is a Hamburg-based independent judicial body consisting of 21 judges that was established under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea to deal with maritime disputes. Hearings are open to the public.

The court is set to release a decision by the end of May.

With Russia declining to take part in the proceedings, it not certain that they would comply with the court's findings.
R Pridhvi Raj By

Express News Service

The Congress lies in tatters in Telangana State. No longer does the party inspire anyone. Those who are still sticking with it may soon decide enough is enough. Many of their colleagues have already deserted them. Telangana Congress president N Uttam Kumar Reddy is neck deep in debts, say his supporters. Seniors like V Hanumantha Rao suspect there are TRS moles in the Congress and that catharsis has to take place.

Then there is always a chorus in the party that Uttam Kumar has become deadwood and that he has to be replaced but there are his supporters who maintain that there is no one more capable than Uttam Kumar to lead the party in these days of tribulations. The party headquarters, Gandhi Bhavan, stands like a colossal wreck in spirit, though its brick and mortar structure is intact.

The Congress leaders are not very hopeful of the outcome of the Lok Sabha elections either, in the face of the relentless campaign by the TRS that it is going to sweep all the 16 seats (Hyderabad is left to its ally AIMIM). The defeat of the TRS-backed candidates in the recently held elections to the Legislative Council from one graduates and two teachers constituencies did not cheer up the party. Two of the three seats were won by those who the Congress had backed and the third one was bagged by the candidate who had the support of the CPI as well as the Congress.

For some leaders, the results were like the first stirrings of hope that the lame duck party could acquire some signs of life but they are yet to be seen. The die-hard Congressmen are happy that they are back in the reckoning in the council as till then, the house remained Congress-free after four Congress legislators joined TRS resulting in the merger of the Congress in the pink party but deep inside them, they know they have a long way to go.

Interesting theory

That the strong belief that the party had lost the 2018 Assembly elections because the TRS had tampered with the EVMS had not died down became evident when party leaders were quick in saying that the TRS lost the council elections because ballot papers were used. They say that the Congress performance in the Legislative Council elections vindicated that if polls were held using ballot papers in 2018, the grand old party would have come up trumps.

Party leader Sravan Dasoju put forth an interesting theory that those parties which polled more number of postal ballots had won elections in the past but in the 2018 elections, the TRS polled less number of postal ballots and yet it scored a landslide victory which means that EVMs had been tampered.

Though no one would believe this outlandish theory, it proves one point -- the Congress leaders still believe that the EVMs had been meddled with, instead of making any introspection as to how they could navigate their party through choppy waters and help it stay afloat.

The disconcerting trend of the MLAs deserting the Congress had almost broken the morale of the party. Already 11 MLAs are in the TRS camp now and just two more legislators are needed for the merger of the Congress Legislature Party in the Assembly with the TRS.

Next in the queue

But there is speculation that Sangareddy MLA T Jayaprakash Reddy and Bhadhrachalm legislator P Veeraiah are next in the queue. Jayapraksh Reddys comments that he cannot say if he would be in the Congress or the TRS camp now only makes it amply clear that he is waiting to see who would come to power at the Centre after May 23. If the Congress helms the Centre, then Jayapraksh Reddy might take it easy as it pays to be on the side of the ruling party or he too would be crossing the Rubicon along with Veeraiah.

More than anything, the party needs someone who could inspire its cadres and prepare them for a long drawn out struggle. At present, it is at the mercy of TRS chief and Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao. The party has to blame itself for the predicament that it is in now.
Express News Service By

NEW DELHI: The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) on Saturday claimed to have made the countrys highest seizure of over 1,800-kg pseudoephedrine from a house in Greater Noida. Sources said that the estimated value of the seized chemical is around Rs 25 crore. An arrest of a South African woman from the Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport on May 9 led to the record haul of the narcotics chemical and stimulant. The woman was intercepted by the Central Industrial Security Force for allegedly carrying 24.7 kg of pseudoephedrine.

Pseudoephedrine is a precursor used for the manufacture of Methamphetamine, a drug widely used in Europe and South East Asia.

This is the biggest ever seizure of pseudoephedrine/Ephedrine in India outside factory premises, by any agency as per our records, said NCB, in a statement. A senior NCB officer explained that such large quantities of pseudoephedrine are always found in factories and not in residential or commercial premises.

The womans interrogation led the officials of the Delhi zonal unit of Narcotics Control Bureau to a house in Greater Noida from where a total of 1,818 kg of pseudoephedrine and 1.9 kg of cocaine were seized on May 10.

With sustained interrogation of the South African lady, good analysis of call records/ call location and some prompt investigation, Narcotics Control Bureau team located he house in Greater Noida where the South African lady (carrier) was kept and collected the contraband, read the statement. Two Nigerians, a man and a woman, have been arrested from the house apart from the South African apprehended earlier, officials said.
Express News Service By

NEW DELHI: A day before Delhi votes, the AAP candidate in West Delhi, Balbir Singh Jakhar, was accused on Saturday of paying Rs 6 crore to party chief Arvind Kejriwal in return for a ticket to contest the Lok Sabha polls.

At a press conference, Jakhars son Uday Singh Jakhar said: My father paid Rs 6 crore to Arvind Kejriwal for the seat of MP. I felt like telling this truth as a dutiful citizen of the nation. He did not pay for my higher education when I asked him, to study abroad, but he paid Arvind Kejriwal.

Balbir Singh Jakhar denied the allegation. He said Uday was his son from his first wife, whom he divorced in 2009, and he lived at his mothers home. I do not know where this is coming from. Uday lives at his mothers home. He calls me very rarely once in two months, asking for shoes and clothes. Thats it. I condemn the allegation. I have never discussed with my son anything about my candidature, the AAP candidate said.

Jakhars candidature was the last to be announced by AAP, after it had announced its other six candidates. In his affidavit, Jakhar did not mention Uday as a dependent.

Reacting to the development, Mahabal Mishra, the Congress candidate in West Delhi, said: I request the Election Commission to seriously investigate this matter. People who came into politics by levelling allegations of corruption against others are today themselves neck-deep in corruption.

Uday Jakhar also claimed that his father had wanted to bail out former Congress leader and 1984 anti-Sikh riots accused Sajjan Kumar. He was ready to use that money to give bail to Yashpal Singh and Sajjan Kumar, accused and convicts in the 1984 anti-Sikh riots. He was ready to fight a case for them. He personally told me this Jahkars son said.

The controversy could only dent the image of AAP and Kejriwal in this poll season.

Cops try to stop press conference

Police intervened to stop a presser by Jakhar, saying it was a violation of model code of conduct, but he went ahead with it. The AAP said its candidate has not made an appeal for vote or displayed the party symbol at the event
(@mahnoorsheikh03)

Some people even said that he has been sacked for his rude behaviour with the management.

Islamabad (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News  11th May, 2019) Rumours had been circulating on social media that famous tv host Aamir Liaquat has been fired from PTV.

In a tweet, Aamir Liaquat had hinted towards something bad happening.

This led to speculations and several reports that he might have been fired from the Ramzan transmission.

Some people even said that he has been sacked for his rude behaviour with the management.

However, putting an end to all such rumours, Aamir Liaquat said that ptv viewers will get to see him in Iftar transmission.

He said that he could not host the Sehri transmission due to bad health.

Aamir Liaquat is hosting Ramzan transmission for state-owned PTV this year.

Meanwhile, his first wife Bushra Aamir is also hosting different segments for Ramzan transmissions on various channels, including Hum TV and PTV World.
(@ChaudhryMAli88)

MESRABA (Syria) (UrduPoint news / Sputnik - 12th May, 2019) The Russian Defense Ministry's Center for Syrian Reconciliation delivered more than two tons of humanitarian aid to the settlement of Mesraba, the center's spokesman said on Sunday.

"The leadership of the Center made a decision to deliver food kits, including rice, flour, sugar and canned meat, to the most needy residents of this locality," Alexander Makarenko told reporters.

The locals lined up long before the arrival of the Russian humanitarian mission, he said, adding that disabled persons and women with babies were given a priority.

"The situation with the products is still very complicated. About 500 people urgently need such help. Many people live in poverty, today they get the products. We are grateful to Russia for the help. And we hope that this is not the last such action," Adraan Abdel Hani, head of the Mesraba administration, said.

Considering the difficult humanitarian situation in Eastern Ghouta, the center plans to hold several more humanitarian actions in the suburbs of Damascus in the near future.
Express News Service By

GHAZIPUR: Coming down heavily on the Congress government over the Alwar gang rape case, Prime Minister Narendra Modi charged Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot with covering up the incident to arrest the prospective damage to the party in poll season.

They did not register the case for a week as they wanted to hide the incident from media glare during the polls. Instead of meting out justice to the victim, they were bothered more about their votes. This is their NYAY, said the PM in Ghazipur in eastern UP. The prime minister said that Congress cannot give Nyay (justice) to the daughters of the country.

The crime in Alwar provoked protests across the state after the womans husband said she was raped on April 26 and the police informed on April 30, but the FIR was filed on May 2. The victims husband alleged that the police did not take action saying that they were busy with elections. Rajasthan voted in the Lok Sabha polls in two phases on April 29 and May 6.

BSP supremo Mayawati has urged the Supreme Court to take suo motu cognizance of the incident.

The guilty in the Alwar gang rape case should be hanged till death. The Supreme Court should take immediate action against the Congress government, police and the administration in the state, the BSP chief said.
Somrita Ghosh By

SONIPAT: It has been two years since Mohit Malik, 23, has been out of college. A graduate in political science from Delhi University, Mohit helps his family with farming now. He is also on the lookout for an office job.

I wanted to work in Delhi but the pay I was offered was very low with regard to the expenses I would have had to incur staying in such a big city. I returned to my native willing to work even for low wages but no company here wants to hire, Mohit, who lives at Kheri Mana village in Sonipat added.

Post demonitisation, many firms had to close down leading to acute unemployment in the region, the youth said, and added, Since Sonipat is near to Delhi, many people from the national capital are employed here, leaving no or just menial jobs for us locals.

Narendar from Joshi Jat village alleged government officers demand bribes from people seeking jobs in government departments. Jiske paas paisa ho wo job khareed leta hai (those who have money give bribe and secure jobs). Though the number is less, those who have studied in good colleges also get jobs, he added.

Sumit Tanwar, another resident from the same village noted that most youth are either joining their families in agriculture or else trying their hand in some sport. Being an athlete is the second most accessible profession here as Sonipat is home to many prominent sportspersons, he mentioned.

However some residents of Sonipat have a different take on the unemployment crisis. The youth are not encouraged to pursue further studies after graduation or motivated to make career goals, they opined.

In this election season, another topic that interests the residents of Sonipat is nationalism.

Pakistan ko Modi ne karara jawab diya hai, jawano ne ghuske maara hai. Kya Congress ne kiya thaa? (Modi gave a befitting reply to Pakistan. Army entered their territory to kill them. Did Congress do anything like that?) was Ram Gopal Chauhans first reaction when asked his view on politics.

Even before this reporter could pose another question, Ram Gopal, 55, a resident of Sonipats Aterna village added nothing is more important for a nation than its security. It was necessary to avenge the death of 40 CRPF troopers in Pulwama. Had he (Modi) not reacted, we would have lost hope in him. Pakistan has always encouraged terrorism but in these five years, Modi gave befitting replies, he added.

Surrounding him were three more men who were playing some games in the afternoon sun. When asked about the issues they faced in the village, they claimed the government had failed to provide basic facilities, but had initiated a few significant developments in the region.

Five years is not time enough to bring about major changes. Four years ago, our area got its first primary school. We are also availing benefits of several government schemes, especially the Ujjwala scheme, mentioned Jitesh Singh, 48, a farmer in the same village.

The Pulwama attack and subsequent air strikes in Pakistan seemed to have high resonance among voters in the non-Jat villages in Sonepat constituency.

The previous government lacked strong strategies on national security. However, the Modi government always took immediate action. Many terrorists were killed in Kashmir as well, said 25-year-old Pravesh Khattar, an unemployed Rathdana village resident.

However, Jat villages chose to not harp on the nationalism narrative. In Sisana village, predominantly the hub of Dahiya community, the residents said the BJP was playing the nationalism card to divert the attention of voters from severe issues plaguing the country.

We do have access to news. Why couldnt the Centre provide the number of terrorists killed during Indias air strike after the Pulwama attack? Politicians should realise that voters cannot be swayed anymore by faking news, mentioned 61 year old Ram Kala Dahiya, a farmer.

Not encouraged to have career goals

The youth are not encouraged to pursue further studies after graduation or motivated to make career goals, some residents of Sonipat opined.Government staff or employees in good private companies persuade their children to take academics seriously. Others take little interest in education. Here, many families have large land assets. They sell some portions to the government and the proceeds from the deals allow the youth in these families to sit idle, said a government employee on condition of anonymity.


To celebrate the conclusion of an extensive 10-month renovation of The Shade Tree led by Wynn Las Vegas, volunteers from the resort hosted a special Mothers Day Brunch at the facility to honor the residents (Photo credit: Al Powers / Powers Imagery).

More than 20 Wynn employees volunteered at the event to assist with meal service and set up for approximately 135 women and children of the shelter.

Chef Kelly Bianchi, executive chef of catering and special events for Wynn Las Vegas, created a special menu to commemorate the occasion, which featured glazed ham with brown sugar and mustard chicken apple sausage, scrambled eggs with chives and creme fraiche, creamy mac and cheese, and white chocolate orange French toast with warm maple syrup.

Wynn Las Vegas, with assistance from over 170 community partners, collectively donated more than 15,500 hours of labor and $2.5 million in labor costs and in-kind donations to the Las Vegas-based non-profit organization.
The Child Safety Toolkit was launched at South Tu Liem Primary School in Hanoi

The Child Safety Toolkit launching ceremony was held during the 5th United Nations Global Road Safety Week and was attended by 800 primary school students and teachers.

Public awareness campaigns and education will be used to promote car seats and seatbelt use for children, specifically targeting the behavior and attitudes of parents.The initiative is modeled after FIAs toolkit for child safety in cars, and will advocate for child seatbelt use and car seats to be included in Vietnamese law.

Vietnam does not currently have laws enforcing the use of restraint systems and seatbelts for children, said Luu Xuan Binh, deputy chief of the secretariat of the Hanoi Traffic Safety Committee. As more families make the shift from motorcycle to car, the government and the public sector need to work together to address these growing safety concerns through legislative change.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), road crashes in Vietnam cause an estimated 24,970 fatalities and more than 499,400 injuries each year. Children are particularly vulnerable, with 1,900 children perishing on Vietnams roads each year. Road crashes are the second leading cause of death for Vietnamese children between the ages of 5 and 14. WHO reports that wearing a seatbelt reduces the risk of death among drivers and front seat occupants by 45-50 per cent and the risk of death and serious injuries among rear seat occupants by 25 per cent.

In addition to parent training workshops and government advocacy, AIP Foundation will implement a public awareness campaign on social media and install a series of billboards in busy traffic areas around Hanoi. The campaign will reach approximately 78,440 people.

I see a lot of parents bringing their young children to school in cars, said Ngo Thi Thanh, principal of Nam Tu Liem Primary School. We need to focus on educating them to buckle-up their children.

Hoang Na Huong, managing director of AA Vietnam, stated, The programme aligns with the theme of the 5th United Nations Global Road Safety Week: leadership for road safety. Parents attending the training will become champions to change societys behaviour and protect children.

The Child Safety Toolkit project is funded by the FIA Foundation through the FIA Road Safety Grant Programme to promote and enforce child passenger safety.
More than $500 million in foreign direct investment was poured into Danang in the first quarter this year

Specifically, the city wooed 32 new projects with the total registered capital surpassing $355 million, whereas in the same period last year the city lured in 15 projects with the total registered capital touching $1.352 billion.

Five projects have registered capital expansion with the total capital sum of $114.2 million, while 51 foreign investors either bought shares or contributed capital to local business entities with a total capital of $43.286 million.

Of foreign investment projects, one project in Danang High-Tech Park comes from US-based UAC Group which will be investing in the construction of a SunShine aerospace components factory with $170 million in total investment capital. Three other projects would be based in industrial parks with a combined registered capital of $83 million and 28 other projects will be outside industrial parks and hi-tech parks with the total capital exceeding $102 million.

Total investment and development capital in the city in the first quarter of 2019 was estimated at VND7.454 trillion ($324 million), equal 17.9 per cent of the full-year plan, up 1.1 per cent compared to the same period of 2018.

To date, the city has attracted 323 domestic investment projects with the total investment of around VND97.700 trillion ($4.247 billion) and 716 foreign investment projects with a total investment capital of $3.352 billion.

Total investment and development capital in the city in the first quarter of 2019 was estimated at VND7.454 trillion ($324 million), equal to 17.9 per cent of the full-year target, up 1.1 per cent compared to the same period of 2018.

This included VND1.429 trillion ($62 million) coming from the public sector (down 2 per cent), VND5.376 trillion ($233 million) from the non-state sector (up 1.6 per cent), and VND648.7 billion ($28 million) from foreign entities (up 3.9 per cent).

According to the Danang City People's Committee, in the first quarter of this year, 97 international delegations visited and had working sessions in the city, of which the city leaders received 23 international delegations.

Diverse investment promotion programmes with Japanese partners were successfully hosted, for instance, the networking programme between Danang city and Yamanashi prefecture or the discussions between city leaders and enterprises from the Okayama International Trade Association.

Currently, the city is home to four projects using official development assistance (ODA) capital managed by the city with a total investment capital of about $420.3 million, $328.6 million of which is ODA capital, accounting for 78.2 per cent of the total, while counter-funding capital reached $76.67 million, accounting for 21.8 per cent.

In addition, the city is home to two centrally-governed World Bank-funded projects, including WB5 Disaster Management Project in Danang and the Hospital Waste Treatment Support Project.
Truc Lam Giac Tam Zen Monasty in northern Quang Ninh province (Source: VNA)

On display are 45 photos provided by the Vietnam News Agency (VNA), which are divided into three parts: photos of pagodas from the North to the South, photos of pagodas on islands, and those featuring Vietnamese pagodas abroad.

There are currently more than 14,000 pagodas across Vietnam, most of them are located in the North.

A pagoda in Mekong Delta province of Soc Trang (Source: VNA)

The 16th UN Day of Vesak is taking place at Tam Chuc pagoda from May 12-14. Its opening ceremony attracted the participation of more than 1,650 international delegates from 112 countries and territories across the world and over 20,000 Vietnamese Buddhist dignitaries, monks, nuns and followers.

"Vesak", the Day of the Full Moon in the month of May, is the years most sacred day to the millions of Buddhists around the world. It was on the Day of Vesak two and a half millennia ago that the Buddha was born. It was also on the Day of Vesak that the Buddha attained enlightenment, and it was on the Day of Vesak that the Buddha passed away.

Giac Hoang pagoda in Washington DC, US (Source: VNA)

The UN General Assembly internationally recognised the Day of Vesak in 1999 to acknowledge the contributions Buddhism, one of the oldest religions in the world, has made to humanity.

The UN Day of Vesak was first held in 2001. Vietnam has twice hosted successful celebrations of the UN Day of Vesak in 2008 and in 2014.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has warned that the world is losing the battle against climate change. (Photo: AFP/Alberto Raggio)

In a strong message for action on climate change, Guterres said international political resolve was fading and it was the small island nations that were "really in the front line" and would suffer most.

His visit, ahead of the Climate Action Summit in September in New York will also take him to Fiji, Tuvalu and Vanuatu which are under threat from rising sea levels.

"We are seeing everywhere a clear demonstration that we are not on track to achieve the objectives defined in the Paris agreement," Guterres said on the failure to limit rises to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial revolution levels.

"And the paradox is, that as things are getting worse on the ground, political moves seem to be fading," he added in the joint press conference in Auckland with New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern.

However, he did excuse New Zealand from his accusation, describing Wellington's leadership as "extremely important" after it introduced legislation to become carbon neutral by 2050, although greenhouse gas emissions from its economically vital agricultural sector will not have to meet the commitment.

Ardern called climate change "the biggest challenge" facing the international community and said it would be "gross negligence" to avoid the issue.

During his three days in New Zealand, Guterres will also meet with Muslim leaders in Christchurch to show solidarity following the Mar 15 massacre in which 51 people were killed by a lone gunman who attacked two mosques during Friday prayers.
Overview of opening ceremony of the 16th UN Day of Vesak 2019

Prominent among those at the event were Vietnamese Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc; former National Assembly Chairmen Nguyen Van An and Nguyen Sinh Hung; President of the Vietnam Fatherland Front Central Committee Tran Thanh Man; Myanmar President Win Myint; Indian Vice President and Chairman of the Rajya Sabha (Upper House) Venkaiah Naidu; Nepalese Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli; Chairman of the National Council (Upper House) of Bhutan Tashi Dorji; and United Nations Under-Secretary General and Executive Secretary of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) Armida Salsiah Alisjahbana.

Addressing the opening ceremony, Most Venerable Thich Tri Quang, First Deputy Supreme Patriarch of the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha (VBS) conveyed the message of Supreme Patriarch of the VBS Most Venerable Thich Pho Tue on the occasion of Lord Buddhas birthday.

In his message, VBS Supreme Patriarch Most Venerable Thich Pho Tue welcomed the presence of all international and local delegates, religious leaders, Buddhist dignitaries, monks and nuns to the UN Day of Vesak 2019, saying the event was a precious chance for all people to build up their religious faith and uphold the Lord Buddhas legacy and spiritual values.

He recalled the over 2000-year history of Vietnamese Buddhism, saying that Vietnamese Buddhism supported national liberation revolutions in the past and has laid the spiritual foundation for all aspects of politics, economics, culture and tradition, thus shaping up the national identity and culture.

The VBS has preserved and upheld the essence of Vietnamese Buddhism by making proactive and responsible contributions to the national development. Hosting the 16th UN Day of Vesak showed the VBSs contributions while affirming its role and status in international integration, Most Venerable Thich Pho Tue wrote.

The UN Day of Vesak 2019 aims to contribute to realizing the UNs Sustainable Development Goals, he wrote, expressing his hope that delegates will discuss and reach measures to successfully implement the UNs Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Most Venerable Thich Thien Nhon, Chairman of the VBS Executive Council and head of the Vesak 2019 organising committee, speaks at the event (Source: VNA)

In his speech, Most Venerable Thich Thien Nhon, Chairman of the VBS Executive Council and head of the Vesak 2019 organising committee, highlighted the Buddhist philosophy for building an equal and peaceful society, without classes, wars and hatred.

Lord Buddha has paid the path where the combination of compassion and knowledge makes up an effective solution to conflicts among people, nations, cultures, and religions, he said, reiterated that the Buddhist philosophy continues today and sets the beacon for millions of people around the world.

Most Venerable Thich Thien Nhon stressed the increasing need for upholding the core values of Buddhism in the current unsettled society, saying the Buddhist values help wake up tolerance, selfishness, forgiveness in people, inspire global peace and cooperation amid conflicts, terrorism, wars, inequality, environmental crises, and challenges imposed during the Fourth Industrial Revolution worldwide.

In order to solve current conflicts, a global leadership is required to ensure equality, minimize conflicts among beliefs, economies, cultures, social classes, territories, and environment, he said, adding that Buddhism has the mission to involve in the global leadership, share measures and act to address challenges for global benefits.

He also called on the global Buddhism to unite and embark on global issues, thus inspiring peace and ease pains for all people worldwide.

Most Venerable Phra Brahmapundit, President of the International Council for Day of Vesak (Source: VNA)

Meanwhile, Most Venerable Phra Brahmapundit, President of the International Council for Day of Vesak, expressed his impression on Vietnams great efforts and dedication towards successful celebrations of the UN Day of Vesak.

Most of the time, the UN Day of Vesak took place in Thailand. Vietnam has twice hosted successful celebrations of the UN Day of Vesak in 2008 and in 2014. Thats why we have entrusted the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha and the Government of Vietnam with hosting the 16th UN Day of Vesak celebration 2019, he said.

He expressed his belief that Vietnam would successfully host the UN Day of Vesak this year thanks to thorough preparations, particularly the beautiful landscape, which he described as the best place to host such an event.

Highlighting the theme Buddhism's Approach to Global Leadership and Shared Responsibilities for Sustainable Societies of the UN Day of Vesak 2019, Most Venerable Phra Brahmapundit said the festival was not only a chance for Buddhist followers worldwide to celebrate, but also aims to serve all people by advocating sustainable development, addressing global challenges such as environment pollution, climate change, education, among others.

We gather here today to talk about global issues and how to address them, whether they are conflicts among people, culture, religions, or territories. In the end, we want to send a message of preserving peace, traditional values and the environment for a better future, he said.

According to Most Venerable Phra Brahmapundit, the theme of the UN Day of Vesak 2019 reflects the UNs 17 Sustainable Development Goals. The results of forums, seminars and discussion in the framework of the event will be included in the Ha Nam Declaration.

Vietnamese Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc delivers a speech at the opening ceremony (Source: VNA)

In his speech, Vietnamese Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc welcomed the presence of international delegates, dignitaries, monks and nuns to the event, saying the UN Day of Vesak means beyond a religious and cultural festival to send the long-lasting message of the Lord Buddha on peace, harmony, tolerance and kindness to all people.

He believed the Buddhist philosophy laid a solid foundation for establishing peace, friendship, cooperation among nations, peoples, religions, while serving as materials to build civilization, ensure peace, prosperity and sustainable development.

We are all here to honor the Lord Buddha and uphold Buddhist philosophy to reduce conflicts, sufferings and sorrows, establish peace, friendship, cooperation, and development among nations for the peace and prosperity of all people around the world.

PM Phuc spoke highly of the theme of the UN Day of Vesak 2019, saying it showed the responsibility of Buddhism for the presence and future of the society.

The agenda of the celebration reflects the goals of the UNs Agenda 2030 for sustainability, prosperity, ensuring that no one will be left behind, which the Vietnamese Government has committed to realise, PM Phuc said.

He underlined Vietnams religious diversity, saying Vietnamese Buddhism has a long history, with Buddhist dignitaries, monks and nuns having been standing by the nation through ups and downs. The Vietnam Buddhist Sangha has continuously grown and proven its role in the national development.

Hosting the 16th UN Day of Vesak 2019 once again confirmed Vietnams focus and respect for cultural, ethics values of religions, including Buddhism, while showing its policy on international cooperation and integration, he reiterated.

This is the third time Vietnam has hosted the UN Vesak celebrations, helping to improve Vietnamese Buddhisms role in international integration and affirm Vietnam's position and responsibility for UN activities in all fields.
Tourists visit the Beijing International Horticultural Exhibition in Yanqing District of Beijing, capital of China, May 10, 2019. The Beijing International Horticultural Exhibition has welcomed a large number of tourists from home and abroad since the opening. As of May 9, it has seen more than 500,000 visitors, according to the Beijing International Horticultural Exhibition Coordination Bureau. (Xinhua/Li Xin)

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[ Editor: Zhang Zhou ]
Express News Service By

Express News Service

...over one conference call we decided to set up LOpera here

It is never easy to settle in a new country, where the culture and language is completely different. But it was the love for her son and to see his dreams turn into reality that saw Christine migrate from France and make India her home. Christine lent unconditional support to her son, Laurent, who was on an internship in India, when expressed his wish to open LOpera, a chain of French Boulangerie-Patisserie and Salon de The (tea room), as he missed French flavours in New Delhi.

It was over one conference call we decided to set up LOpera here. We overcame innumerable challenges  the challenge of learning the language, finding manpower, creating a product line and setting up a store. But we did it together, says the co-founder of LOpera. Christine served as the Director of the Office of Public Information of the Bahai International Community in Paris. But I left everything behind in Paris. I cannot be happy if my children are not.

Work has to be lived and life has to be worked at

IF there is one reason Cafe Delhi Heights is so successful, it is because of our mother and her legendary recipes, says Sharad about his mother, Usha, who he claims is the first woman to open a banquet hall by herself  Batra Banquets.

After 6,000 weddings and entertaining over 2.5 million guests for about two decades, Usha decided to open the venture Cafe Delhi Heights with her sons, Sharad and Vikrant, in 2011.

When they came forward with this new concept of a cafe, I thought it was time to change and move forward, reminisces the culinary director of Cafe Delhi Heights  a quirky hangout thats always buzzing. Usha believes in serving simple, yet tasty food. Even today, she moves around her brands kitchens and cafes with a sense of involvement and compassion towards her vision. Work has to be lived and life has to be worked at, she says.

Believing in them along with the respect they bestow on me

Trusting my children and believing in them along with the respect they bestow on me is the key to our familys happiness, says Urmila, mother of Ankit, co-owner of Burma Burma  a contemporary Burmese restaurant with handpicked selection of teas in the capital.

After having spent over two decades in Myanmar Urmila had to migrate to India in the 1970s when the military forcibly took control. But during these years, she acquired detailed knowledge on Burmese food and culture. Now Tea Leaf Salad, Kowni Mow and Durian Ice Cream are her favourite dishes. The dawn of Burma Burma comes from my Burmese roots. My mother has had a great influence expanding the food platter with heady flavours of the Burmese cuisine. Burma is a powerful amalgamation of the two largest forces in my life  my fathers lineage of hoteliers and restaurateurs and the delicious home recipes from my mothers heritage, says Ankit.

But its his mothers guidance, says Ankit, that has helped pave the way for Burma Burma.
Starting at :05 into the hour today's edition features music about, by, and for mothers in honor of Mother's Day. Heather brings artists like Daraa Tribes (Morocco) and ThugOmega (Ghana) present their own songs for this special day, and VOA personalities present other classics like "Sweet Mother" (Prince Nico Mbarga) "Mama I'm Sorry" (Brenda Fassie) and "Koka Bere" (Adja Soumano). Malian Diva Oumou Sangare is our featured guest this week! Reporter Brahms Posthumus interviews her from Yanfolila (Mali) during her International Wassulu music festival, Jono took place. Finally Song of the Week is "Shengerera Mama" by Kenyan singer and businesswoman Akothee. Don't miss it!
Afghan officials are downplaying the significance of the United States diverting funds from its military mission in Afghanistan, as a senior American diplomat has arrived in Kabul for high-level discussions.

Acting U.S. Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan on Friday approved the transfer of $1.5 billion to build barriers on the border with Mexico, including taking more than $600 million designated for beleaguered Afghan security forces, which are struggling to contain Taliban battlefield advances.

We do not see any change in security-related programs and coordination ongoing with U.S. forces, Afghan Interior Minister Massoud Andarabi told reporters in Kabul. He noted Washington remains committed to supporting Afghan security forces and emphasized it is an internal U.S. policy matter as to how and where they want to spend their money.

The private Afghan TOLO News television station quoted a U.S. military spokesman as saying the diversion of funds is part of the plan to reduce expenditures of foreign troops stationed in Afghanistan. Colonel David Butler noted the cost savings move will not impact the effectiveness or the readiness of Afghan security forces to fight terrorism.

U.S. forces in Afghanistan will return $600 million to the Department of Defense. We did this through very close work with the Afghan security forces and with very close work with the Afghan government to make things more efficient and make things better, and we were spending our money on the right things, Butler said. The military spokesman reiterated Washingtons complete commitment to Afghan security forces in their fight against terrorism.

The United States is also holding direct talks with Taliban insurgents to try to promote a political settlement to the Afghan conflict. The latest round of discussions concluded last Thursday, but neither side has reported any breakthrough.

President Donald Trump announced in January progress in the talks with the Taliban could lead to withdrawal of half of some 14,000 American troops from Afghanistan.

Recent reports the Trump administration has decided to accelerate plans to reduce the staff by half at the embassy in Kabul coupled with diverting funds designated for Afghan forces raise questions about a strong future U.S. commitment to Afghanistan, tweeted Washington-based analyst, Michael Kugelman.

Meanwhile, visiting senior State Department diplomat for the region, Alice Wells, held talks with President Ashraf Ghani and discussed matters related to U.S. civilian assistance aimed at strengthening Afghan institutions and promoting Afghan self-reliance.

A presidential spokesman said Ghani and Wells also reviewed efforts the government is making to advance the Afghan peace process, and preparations underway for the presidential elections scheduled for September 28.
The Turkish Embassy in Mogadishu says a Turkish citizen was killed Sunday following an explosion near the citys busy K-4 junction.

The embassy told VOA Somali the victim was an engineer working for a Turkish company.

Witnesses told VOA Somali there was an explosion in the vehicle the victim was riding in. The explosion is believed to have been from improvised explosive device planted in the car.

The al-Shabab militant group claimed responsibility for the attack, claiming the engineer was working at the Turkish military training facility in Mogadishu.

Al-Shabab also claimed a killing in the central Somali town of Galkayo. Major Khalif Nur Shil, commander of joint security forces in the town died from wounds suffered in an attack by gunmen armed with pistols as he left a mosque late Saturday.


VOA Africa's Bagassi Koura contributed to this report.

Gunmen killed six people attending Sunday morning Mass at the Catholic Church of Dablo in northern Burkina Faso, officials and witnesses said.

The priest and five churchgoers were among the victims, a witness told VOA Africa.

"They were about 40 on motorcycles," the witness said of the attackers. "They made everyone lie down, executed five before torching the church."

The attackers set parts of the church and nearby shops on fire before fleeing the scene roughly an hour and a half after they arrived. Multiple injuries have been reported.

Last week, gunman killed five people in a Protestant church in the small northern town of Silgadji.
The lead-up to the May 22 official announcement of the results of the Indonesian presidential and legislative elections has been colored by disbelief, attempts at de-legitimization and denials of loss.

Now two critics of incumbent President Joko Widodo are being charged with treason.

On Friday, Indonesias National Police Criminal Investigation Department released a letter barring former military officer Kivlan Zen from travelling overseas for six months.

[Kivlan] has allegedly committed the criminal act of spreading hoaxes or treason, wrote the departments vice deputy director Agus Nugroho in the letter obtained by VOA. Kivlan will face interrogation on Monday, according to the department.

Our client has never committed treason, Pitra Romadoni Nasution, one of Kivlans attorneys, said Saturday. Pitra said Kivlan was handed the letter at the Jakarta airport as he was leaving for the Indonesian city of Batam.

But Sam Fernando of the Immigration Directorate General said Kivlans travel ban was revoked on Saturday. For the reasons why it was revoked, you can ask the investigators, Sam told VOA.

No specific act was noted in the letter, but the travel ban followed a mass demonstration Thursday that Kivlan, a noted critic of Joko and an ardent supporter of his opponent, former general Prabowo Subianto, had initiated in front of Indonesias Elections Supervisory Agency. The demonstration called for the disqualification of Joko and his running mate, cleric Ma'ruf Amin, because of a number of violations.

Shortly after the election Indonesia media reported "credible" pollsters say Joko won by a wide margin.



Also named as a treason suspect last week was law practitioner Eggi Sudjana, another protest leader, who called for a people power movement to monitor and ensure the win for Prabowo during a speech last month to a crowd in front of Prabowos residence

This may be Gods way to speed up Prabowos inauguration, he said. Eggi has denied that calling for the people power movement is grounds for a treasonous action.

Ace Hasan Syadzily, spokesman for Jokos campaign, said the unwillingness to concede is a part of an attempt to de-legitimize the elections. The structural, systematic and massive violations were in fact committed by them because they spread hoaxes against Jokowi, he said in a written statement, referring to Jokos nickname.

Prabowo Subianto has refused to concede. He said on election day he had won the presidency with 62 percent of the votes. In the 2014 presidential election that was also contested by Joko and Prabowo, the latter accused the formers camp with a series of words that have picked up some degree of social notoriety: the aforementioned Structural, systematic, massive violations.

For the good of democracy, I want to be a good sport, though this time the violations are too much, he told reporters last month.

Law against treason

Arsil, a researcher at the Institute for Research and Advocacy for Independent Courts, told VOA the meaning of treason has been commonly misunderstood. In Kivlans case, he thinks the case of treason is too far off from the law. If, however, he is found to incite violent demonstrations that would result in the toppling of the government, it may be considered treasonous, he said.

Historically, treason charges have been used against supposed separatist groups. In 2015, members of the South Maluku Republic (RMS) separatist movement went to prison on treason charges for raising their flag. The treason itself doesnt have to be over or succeed. It can be a proven intention, as well, Arsil said.

He added treason charges can also been seen as a political tool. It can be interpreted that way, three years ago, there were arrests of several opposition figures to Jokowi ..." Arsil was referring to 10 people who were thought to have incited attempts at a coup.

There have been many attempts at a coup in Indonesian history, the most notable of which was the September 1965 killing of military generals that led to an unresolved genocide of communists or anyone with ties to Indonesias Communist Party.

It was believed the events led Indonesias authoritarian second president, Suharto, to take the presidency from President Sukarno.
Officials in Pakistan say the death toll from the overnight militant raid on a luxury hotel near the China-run strategic port of Gwadar has risen to at least five, including four hotel employees and a Pakistani navy soldier.

Pakistan's militarys media wing says security forces have completed clearance operation at the Zaver Pearl Continental hotel, killing all three terrorists who participated in the attack Saturday. It said two army officers, two naval personnel, and two hotel employees were among those injured during the gunfight.

A separatist group known as the Baluchistan Liberation Army (BLA) claimed responsibility for plotting the attack on the heavily guarded hotel, which is located on a hilltop overlooking the deep-water Arabian Sea port. It is the citys only five-star facility and often hosts senior government officials as well as Chinese visitors, among others.

Prime Minister Imran Khan denounced the deadly raid as part of efforts to sabotage Chinese-funded economic projects, especially those in Balochistan province, where Gwadar is located.

We shall not allow these agendas to succeed. Pakistani nation and its security forces shall defeat them all, Khan vowed, paying rich tributes to shaheeds [martyrs] and injured security personnel, according to a statement issued by his office.

The attack began late in the afternoon Saturday when three heavily armed militants wearing security force uniforms stormed the multi-story hotel, spraying security guards on duty with bullets as they tried to stop them from entering the building.

Pakistani military said personnel of its Quick Reaction Forces, navy and police immediately reached the hotel, secured guests and duty staff, and cornered attackers in within the corridor of the fourth floor. Local officials said a helicopter also dropped navy commandos on the roof of the hotel.

The ensuing gunfight lasted several hours, the military statement said all the attackers were killed. The military noted in its statements that the assailants had made hotel security cameras dysfunctional and planted improvised explosives devices at entry points leading to the fourth floor.

A search operation for others who may have been involved in the attack, local officials said.

The BLA militant group also released pictures of four gunmen through social media accounts, saying they carried out the attack.



In a statement late Saturday, the Chinese Embassy in Islamabad strongly condemned the terrorist attack and praised the Pakistani military for its heroic action.

Beijing has built and operates the massive Gwadar port under a multi-billion-dollar bilateral mega-project, known as China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). The port, described as the heart of CPEC, is located at the mouth of the Persian Gulf and officials anticipate it soon will become a hub of regional commercial and transit activities.

China is also fully funding ongoing construction of an international airport in Gwadar with a landing strip capable of accommodating the biggest aircraft.

Pakistan has deployed specially trained military and paramilitary troops in Gwadar and other parts of Baluchistan for the security of CPEC projects and Chinese experts working on them. Beijing considers CPEC a flagship of its ambitious global Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

Last month, 14 Pakistani security personnel were forced out of passenger buses near Gwadar on the main coastal highway and shot dead in an attack claimed by a different Baloch militant group.

Islamabad alleged the attackers had come from hideouts in border areas of Iran and demanded the neighboring country take action against them.

Baloch militants routinely target security forces and government installations in the most underdeveloped Pakistani province, which is rich in natural resources and gas.
PHOENIX: Paz Lopez was set to spend Mother's Day behind bars. The 42-year-old mother of six had been locked up in a Phoenix jail for the past month on forgery and other charges. She couldn't post her $2,050 bail.

But on Thursday night she walked out and into a car waiting to give her a ride home, thanks to a drive to bail out moms so they can spend Mother's Day with their kids. In a tearful video made immediately after her release, Lopez said it was a privilege that she would now get to see her children. She welled up when speaking about the coming birth of her first grandchild.

"There's just no greater feeling than being a mother," Lopez said. "I'm grateful for both of you to help me be able to spend the day with them and be able to see my grandchild be born."

Lopez had her bail covered by Living United for Change in Arizona, or LUCHA, a social and racial justice group. The organization said they were inspired to do this for a second year by an initiative known as "Black Mamas Bail Out," which is posting bail for dozens of mothers of color for the third straight year.

The effort is organized by the National Bail Out collective, a coalition of various grassroots groups, attorneys and activists nationwide. The campaign hopes to bail out more than 100 women in 35 cities in time for Mother's Day. The objective is not just to reunite families but to push for change in the cash bail system.

Critics contend the nation's courts are unfairly punishing poor defendants by setting high bail for low-level crimes that causes them to languish in jail for months, separating them from their jobs and families. In some cases, they remain locked up until their case is dismissed or they take a guilty plea just so they can get out of jail, albeit with a criminal record. There has been a national push to reform bail by advocates who say incarceration should depend on a suspect's risk to public safety, not the ability to pay.

Mary Hooks, co-director of Atlanta-based Southerners On New Ground, came up with the idea in 2016. She joined with Law For Black Lives, a female-led network of lawyers and legal advocates, to bring together a collective of organizations. It's been difficult at times to get sympathy, she said, because people often think someone sitting in jail pre-trial must have done something wrong.

"We're in a political time right now where 'Barbecue Becky' or anyone else can call the police on someone and you can get arrested instantly for barbecuing," Hooks said, referring to the white woman who called police on two black men using a grill in an Oakland, California, park. The men were not arrested. "This notion 'you're in jail because you've done something horrible,' we have to remind ourselves we have a Constitution that says 'innocent until proven guilty.'"

Jaymeshia Jordan, of Oakland, said she would have faced another 10 months in jail if she hadn't been rescued by a bailout two days before last Mother's Day by Oakland advocacy group Essie Justice Group. Jordan, who declined to say what she was arrested for, faced a $450,000 bail. She had no way of paying even a fraction of that on her own or with a bail bondsman.

"I would have just sat in custody till my case was over," Jordan said.

She was in jail for three months. In that time, her 5-year-old son lost his first tooth and learned how to tie his shoes.

Organizations choose who to assist based on referrals from attorneys and other activists. They don't take into account whether a woman is accused of a violent or non-violent crime. According to the collective's organizers, the mothers they help show up at court at "high rates" but the majority of the money they've handed out for bail hasn't been returned.

LUCHA, the Phoenix group, plans to fund as many bail releases as possible with the $9,000 they have raised. Organizers Nicole Hale said they will offer mothers additional support including court date reminders and rides.

"We don't just hand someone a piece of paper and say 'good luck.' They don't have to go through the system alone," Hale said.

Several studies suggest that bail amounts are set sometimes as much as three times higher for people of color, said Shima Baughman, a criminal law professor at the University of Utah College of Law. Even a $200 bail for a misdemeanor crime can be beyond what's in a person's bank account.

According to a 2018 report from the non-partisan Prison Policy Initiative, roughly 2.9 million women are jailed in the U.S. every year. An estimated 80% are either pregnant or have children.

Women of color are even more heavily impacted, especially if they are working mothers who likely earn lower salaries, according to Baughman. A few days in jail can lead to the loss of a job or child custody.

"When women are the ones that bear most of the burdens in the family, their kids are the ones that are going to suffer," Baughman said. "Because in many families, women are responsible for working outside the home and also for child care, they can face dire circumstances with their children when they are forced to serve even a couple of nights in jail."

Jeff Clayton, executive director of the American Bail Coalition, said some of these Mother's Day bailouts are publicity stunts that don't tackle the larger issue of affordability of bail. It's unrealistic for organizers to call for a cash-free bail system, he added.

"Not to say these people aren't doing good work," Clayton said. "But it's questionable whether saying they're an abolitionist and banning all money bail is really the best solution."

In the past few years, several states have made moves to overhaul their own system including New Jersey, Alaska and New Mexico. There are more than 200 bail reform bills nationwide, according to Baughman. In California, voters next year will decide whether to overturn a law eliminating bail altogether for suspects awaiting trial. Instead, counties would set up their own risk-assessment programs through probation departments.

However, computer algorithms or risk-assessment programs can be biased as well, Baughman said.

Paying for bail has become a growing strategy for local communities to divert the prison pipeline. Last month, rapper T.I. and VH1's "Love and Hip Hop" personality Scrapp Deleon joined with an Atlanta church to help post bail for nonviolent offenders for Easter. They exceeded their goal and raised $120,000. Sixteen men and seven women got to go home.
Forty U.S. states have filed a lawsuit against 20 pharmaceutical companies that make generic drugs, accusing the companies of participating in a scheme to inflate drug prices, sometimes by as much as 1,000%.

"We have hard evidence that shows the generic drug industry perpetrated a multibillion dollar fraud on the American people," said Connecticut Attorney General William Tong. "We all wonder why our health care and specifically the prices for generic prescription drugs, are so expensive in this country  this is a big reason why."

Generic drugs are lower price alternatives to brand name drugs.

The 500-page lawsuit, filed Friday in the U.S. District Court in Connecticut, is seeking damages, civil penalties and actions by the court to restore competition to the generic drug market. The suit accuses Teva Pharmaceuticals of being the mastermind behind the scheme.

"Teva and its co-conspirators embarked on one of the most egregious and damaging price-fixing conspiracies in the history of the United States," the suit said.

Teva Pharmaceuticals, an Israeli company, has denied the allegations and says it will fight the lawsuit.

Other drug companies named in the suit include Sandoz and Pfizer.
Three hostages freed by French commandos from militants in Burkina Faso arrived in Paris on Saturday, expressing sorrow at the deaths of two French

soldiers in the rescue operation.

President Emmanuel Macron welcomed the hostages as they stepped off the French government jet less than 48 hours after French special forces stormed their captors' hideout in a daring nighttime raid.

Two Frenchmen kidnapped while on safari in Benin more than a week earlier, as well as an American woman and a South Korean woman who were being held with them, were liberated in the high-risk mission authorized by Macron.

The American, who has not been identified, was being repatriated separately.

"All our thoughts go to the families of the soldiers and to the soldiers who lost their lives to free us from this hell," Laurent Lassimouillas earlier told reporters as he met Burkinabe President Roch Kabore in Ouagadougou.

The French government identified the two soldiers killed as Cedric de Pierrepont and Alain Bertoncello. Macron will lead a national tribute to the men, both officers in the naval special forces, at the Les Invalides military hospital and mausoleum in Paris on Tuesday.

Lassimouillas also expressed regret over the death of a Beninese park guide, who was shot dead when the two tourists were kidnapped.



Islamist insurgency

French officials said Friday that it wasn't clear who had kidnapped them in Benin but that their captors planned to hand them over to an al-Qaida affiliate in neighboring Mali.

Jihadist groups with links to al-Qaida and Islamic State have expanded their presence across West Africa's Sahel region, a strip of scrubland beneath the Sahara desert, in recent years and taken a number of Western hostages.

France, the former colonial power in the region, intervened in Mali in 2013 to halt an advance by Islamist militants and has kept about 4,500 troops in the Sahel since then.

"France's message to terrorists is clear: Those who want to attack France, the French, should know that we will hunt them, we will find them and we will kill them," Defense Minister Florence Parly said after joining Macron at the Villacoublay military airport outside Paris.

France was doing all it could to secure the release of another French hostage, Sophie Petronin, Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said. Gunmen kidnapped Petronin in December 2016 in the northern Malian city of Gao.
Lithuanians voted for a new president on Sunday with concerns over income inequality and poverty dominating round one of a tight race in the Baltic eurozone state.

Voter turnout tallied at 56.45% at the close of voting on Sunday, according to the Central Elections Commission, which also said it expected to publish partial official results in the night or early on Monday.

Nine candidates are vying to succeed two-term independent incumbent Dalia Grybauskaite. The politician nicknamed the "Iron Lady" for her strong resolve has been tipped as a contender to be the next president of the European Council.

But pre-election surveys suggest only three stand a chance of making it to an expected May 26 run-off that would coincide with European Parliament elections.

Center-left Prime Minister Saulius Skvernelis, conservative ex-finance minister Ingrida Simonyte and independent economist Gitanas Nauseda lead the pack, and each has focused primarily on bread and butter issues.

Simonyte is popular with wealthy, educated urban voters while Skvernelis' populist approach resonates with the rural poor.

Nauseda, an economist, seeks to bridge the rich-poor divide in the former Soviet republic of 2.8 million people, which joined the EU and NATO in 2004.

The country is struggling with a sharp decline in population owing to mass emigration to Western Europe by people seeking a better life.

A recent EU report noted that almost 30 percent of Lithuanians "are at risk of poverty or social exclusion" and that this risk is "nearly double" in rural areas.

"Citizens are thirsty for social justice and seek a candidate who can bridge existing social polarization," Donatas Puslys from the Vilnius Policy Analysis Institute told AFP.

All candidates support EU and NATO membership as bulwarks against neighboring Russia, especially since its 2014 military intervention in Ukraine.

Lithuanian presidents steer foreign policy, attending EU summits, but must consult with the government and the prime minister on appointing the most senior officials.

Rich-poor gap

Robust annual wage growth of around 10% has raised the average gross monthly salary to 970 euros but poverty and income inequality remain among the highest in the EU, largely due to weak progressive taxation.

Unemployment stood at 6.5% in the first quarter of 2019, and the economy is forecast to grow by 2.7% this year, well above an average of 1.1% in the 19-member eurozone.

Brussels has urged Vilnius to use solid growth fueled mostly by consumption to broaden its tax base and spend more on social policies.

A technocrat who warns against deepening inequality and the rural-urban divide, Simonyte has vowed to reduce it by boosting growth further.

Voting on Sunday in Vilnius, Simonyte insisted presidents needed to listen to "different opinions, seek consensus and properly represent Lithuania abroad."



Socially liberal, Simonyte supports same-sex partnerships.

Seeking stronger anti-corruption measures and faster income growth, Raminta Tubinyte said that Simonyte got her vote.

A former police chief named prime minister after the Farmers and Green Union won general elections in 2016, Skvernelis is courting the disgruntled rural poor.

Skvernelis, 48, has labelled his rivals "elitist" and vowed to fight corruption and continue generous spending "to reduce social exclusion and support families".

Voting in Vilnius on Sunday, Skvernelis called the election an "assessment" of his work as PM but refused to speculate if he would step down should he fail to enter round two.

Less polarization



Known for financial acumen, independent candidate Nauseda vows to build a "welfare state" and urges greater social dialogue.

A 54-year-old former banking adviser, he has fans among voters seeking an impartial president who remains above political feuds.

Nauseda said he felt a "huge responsibility for there to be less polarization", after casting his ballot Friday in early voting.

Vilnius University analyst Kestutis Girnius described Nauseda as "moderate and measured on almost all issues, perhaps too finely so, leading to doubts about what he really believes".

Nauseda voter Feliksas Markevicius said he wanted the new president to help emigrants to return to Lithuania.

"We need to improve living conditions because many people are forced to work abroad," the pensioner told AFP after voting in Vilnius.
Undeterred by the soaring summer temperatures across the plains of India, millions of voters lined up in seven states on Sunday to cast ballots in an election that has turned increasingly bitter as the race appears to be getting tighter.



The second to last round of voting completes polling for 483 out of the 543 seats elected of parliament.

Among those who cast their vote Sunday was the head of the opposition Congress Party, Rahul Gandhi. He has been leading an aggressive campaign against Prime Minister Narendra Modi, hoping to improve his partys tally from the all time low it hit in 2014 and emerge as a credible challenger to the Indian leader.

Modi has campaigned on a plank of nationalism saying only a strong government led by his Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) can defend the country, but his opponents accuse him of sidelining major issues that confront the country.

Citing distress in the countryside and unemployment as main issues after emerging from a polling booth, Gandhi said that It was a good fight. Narendra Modi used hatred, we used love. And I think love is going to win.

Gandhis remark comes in the wake of sharp personal attacks that have resonated across campaign rallies in the run up to the last leg of polling.

In the past week, Modi has called Rahul Gandhis father, former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi corrupt number one in a reference to the purchase of artillery guns from Sweden in which he allegedly got kickbacks. The allegations were never proven but dominated political discourse in India during the 1990's as they turned the spotlight on high level corruption in defense deals.



The BJP said Modis remarks were made in retaliation to Rahul Gandhi, who has been saying the watchman is a thief during his campaign speeches. Gandhi alleges that Modi, who calls himself the countrys watchman helped an industrialist make money in the purchase of 36 French fighter jets.

Political analysts and newspaper editorials have slammed the personal barbs saying that the political discourse has hit a new low. Both sides have reached acute polarization, this has become a kind of Games of Thrones confrontation, where it has become a matter of life and death really and that is really worrying, says Ajoy Bose, an independent political commentator.



In Sundays round much attention was focused on the seven prestigious parliamentary seats in New Delhi, where the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party, the rival Congress Party and a small party are locked in an acrimonious fight. The BJP swept all seats in 2014 as it rode a populist wave but a year later, the Aam Aadmi Party won control of the local Delhi government.

At polling booths across the city, voices are sharply divided, with many rooting to give Prime Minister Modi a second term in office and others expressing frustration that the heated election campaign has failed to focus on bread and butter issues that matter to them.



At least Modi has done something which can be seen on the ground. It will give further direction [to the country] for the next decade, says K.S. Murthy, a resident of Delhi.



Dismissing criticism that Modi did not deliver on the development agenda on which he won a resounding victory in 2014, a doctor, Sangeeta, who uses only one name says, They worked only five years. If we will give further time to the government, they will do much better.



But for some others, the appeal of Modi, has dimmed. He promised jobs to the young, but unemployment is growing. That is what we all want, jobs, says Santosh Kumar Jha, a research scholar in Delhi.



Another resident is disillusioned with the big political players but says the Aam Aadmi party has brought development to low income areas. They have built roads, improved schools, says Shahnawaz Khan who works as a driver.



Opinion polls have said Modis party will win the most seats in parliament, but is unlikely to get the clear majority it secured five years ago as it is hurt by issues such as rising unemployment and falling incomes in the countryside.

Exit polls can only be published after the last round of polling that will be held on May 19.



But an array of regional parties, who say Modi is losing ground, have begun holding consultations in hopes of coming together to form an alliance to challenge him if his BJP fails to win a majority.



Modi however exudes confidence about retaining his grip on power. Saying that his government has brought development such as roads and electricity to villages and given benefits to farmers, he told a reporter on Friday, The BJP will win more seats than last time, we will form a government with a clear majority and expand our presence in the country.



The final verdict will come on May 23 when votes are counted after polls concludes on May 19.
Voters in North Carolina's 9th district will head to the polls Tuesday for a special election primary that will decide which Republican will face off against Democrat Dan McCready for a seat in the U.S. House of Representatives.

McCready lost to Republican Mark Harris by just 905 votes in the general election held in September 2018. But the results were never certified because of allegations of absentee ballot fraud.

North Carolina's elections board ordered new elections after allegations surfaced that Harris political operative Leslie McCrae Dowless may have tampered with mail-in absentee ballots.

According to testimony presented to the board, Dowless conducted an illegal "ballot harvesting" operation while working for Harris. Dowless and his assistants helped voters obtain absentee ballots and then gathered up the filled-in ballots from them by offering to put them in the mail.

Dowless' workers in rural Bladen County testified that they were directed to collect blank or incomplete ballots from voters, forge signatures on them and even fill in votes for local candidates. It is generally against the law in North Carolina for anyone other than the voter or a family member to handle someone's completed ballot.

Harris has refused to run in the special election.

There are 10 Republicans running in the primary. If none of them gets 30% of the vote or more, a runoff primary will be held on September 10 and the general election will be moved to November 5.

However, if a clear winner does emerge, the candidate will take on McCready in a general election on September 10.
Stevo Pendarovski has been inaugurated as the new president of North Macedonia, calling for "reconciliation" in a deeply divided society.

In his inauguration speech before parliament on May 12, Pendarovski promised he will serve all citizens and said, "It is time to heal open wounds from our recent past and to really start civil reconciliation."

"There are so many divisions, especially political," he said.

The swearing-in ceremony was attended by the presidents of Albania, Bulgaria, Serbia, and Kosovo, as well as Pendarovski's predecessor, former president Gjorge Ivanov.

Pendarovski told lawmakers that the country will have to tackle two priorities: economic development and the fight against "corruption, crime, and nepotism."

He said he will lobby European Union leaders to approve the opening of North Macedonia's accession talks in June.

Pendarovski, backed by North Macedonia's ruling Social Democratic Union (SDSM), won the presidential election runoff on May 5 with nearly 52% of the vote.

Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova, the candidate favored by the main conservative opposition VMRO DPMNE party, had 45%.

Turnout was less than 47%.

Pendarovski, a former political-science professor, has strongly supported the so-called Prespa deal signed with Greece last year to change the country's name.

Siljanovska-Davkova has been critical of it, though the opposition has said it would not cancel the accord. She is also a strong proponent of EU and NATO integration.

The signing of the historic agreement with Greece changed the country's name to North Macedonia and ended a decades-long dispute that had blocked the Balkan state's path to NATO and the EU.

Ivanov, who ended his second and last five-year presidential term on May 12, was a fierce opponent of the deal.

Some information for this story came from AP.
U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo meets with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov this week, as the two countries clash over a number of issues including Venezuela, Iran, and Russian interference in the 2016 U.S. election.



Pompeo heads to Moscow Sunday, in his first visit to Russia as chief U.S. diplomat.



Top U.S. officials, including Pompeo and Vice President Mike Pence, have accused Russia of working against Venezuelas democratically elected opposition leader Juan Guaido in his attempts to oust embattled President Nicolas Maduro.



The United States accuses Russia of seeking a foothold in the Western Hemisphere through Venezuela.



We are concerned about Russias actions in Venezuela, and we think the support for Maduro is a losing bet. So our support to the Venezuelan people continues, and that will be a subject for the discussion, a senior State Department official told reporters last week.

Pompeo arrives in Russia on Monday to meet with American diplomats at the U.S. Embassy in Moscow before meeting with U.S. business leaders. He will also lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, in honor of those who fought against the Nazi regime.

The secretary of state will then travel to Sochi Tuesday for talks with Putin and Lavrov.

Pompeos trip comes a few weeks ahead of a G-20 summit meeting in Osaka, Japan, which both U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Putin will attend.

It is in our interest to have a better relationship with Russia, said the senior official. When we have concerns, we're going to raise them directly, narrow those differences and find areas we can cooperate.



The official declined to comment on whether a meeting between Trump and Putin on the sidelines of the G-20 summit is being arranged.



The State Department says Pompeo is expected to bring up Americans being detained in Russia, including former U.S. Marine Paul Whelan and Michael Calvey, founder of the Moscow-based Baring Vostok private equity group.

Whelan was accused of espionage, a charge he denies. He is due to be kept in pre-trial detention until May 28 while the investigation continues.

Calvey was detained in February, pending a trial on embezzlement charges that he has denied. He says the case was being used to pressure him in a corporate dispute over control of a Russian bank.

The administration places the highest priority on the safety and the welfare of U.S. citizens overseas. We stand ready to provide all appropriate consular services in cases where U.S. citizens are detained, said the senior official.

Last month, U.S. Ambassador to Russia Jon Huntsman visited Whelan in a Moscow jail. American diplomats have asked Russia to stop playing games, saying Russian officials are likely trying to get a forced false confession from Whelan.



Pompeos trip to Russia also comes as tensions simmer between the two countries over Iran.



The U.S. is strengthening its military presence in the Middle East in what officials said was a direct response to a number of troubling and escalatory indicators and warnings" from Iran.

The USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier strike group and four B-52 bombers have arrived in the Middle East in response to concerns Iran may be planning an attack against American targets.



On Wednesday, Lavrov asked Pompeo to use diplomacy instead of threats to solve issues after Lavrovs talks with Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarifin Moscow.
A senior Iranian Revolutionary Guards commander said on Sunday the U.S. military presence in the Gulf used to be a serious threat but now represented a target, the Iranian Students' News Agency (ISNA) reported.

The U.S. military has sent forces, including an aircraft carrier and B-52 bombers, to the Middle East in a move U.S. officials said was to counter "clear indications" of threats from Iran to its forces in the region.

The USS Abraham Lincoln is replacing another carrier rotated out of the Gulf last month.

"An aircraft carrier that has at least 40 to 50 planes on it and 6,000 forces gathered within it was a serious threat for us in the past but now it is a target and the threats have switched to opportunities," said Amirali Hajizadeh, head of the Guards' aerospace division.

"If [the Americans] make a move, we will hit them in the head," he added, according to ISNA.

Iranian navy commander Rear Admiral Hossein Khanzadi said on Sunday that American forces must exit, according to ISNA. "The presence of the Americans in the Persian Gulf region has reached its end and they must leave the region," Khanzadi said.

Major General Hossein Salami, appointed head of the Guards last month, told parliament on Sunday the United States had started a psychological war in the region, the parliamentary spokesman said.

"Commander Salami, with attention to the situation in the region, presented an analysis that the Americans have started a psychological war because the comings and goings of their military is a normal matter," spokesman Behrouz Nemati said, according to parliament's ICANA news site.

Iran's Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said in a tweet on Sunday that John Bolton had planned the U.S. withdrawal from a 2015 nuclear deal and a more aggressive approach even before the U.S. national security adviser took up his post.

Zarif tweeted a link to a 2017 National Review article by Bolton headlined "How to Get Out of the Iran Nuclear Deal.

"A detailed blueprint for #FakeIntelligence, #ForeverWar and even empty offers for talks-only phone numbers were not included," Zarif wrote.

CNN reported on Friday that the White House had passed a telephone number to the Swiss for contacting U.S. President Donald Trump in case Iranian officials wanted to hold talks.

The Swiss embassy in Tehran represents U.S. interests in the Islamic Republic.
At a Rohingya refugee camp in the town of Coxs Bazar, Bangladesh, 27-year-old Tahera Begum goes door-to-door to talk with her fellow refugees about basic necessities.

We need more sanitary pads and better lighting by the toilets at night, one tells her. Another says her family needs new clothes because most of those they had were torn up by rats.

Those might appear to be relatively minor matters, but taking care of seemingly simple problems is often not so easy in a refugee camp where many families have no income and depend entirely on handouts.

WATCH: Women in Help Female Voices Be Heard

Advocating for camp residents

Since August 2017, more than 700,000 Rohingya Muslims have fled Myanmars Rakhine State for neighboring Bangladesh because of a military crackdown. United Nations investigators say the operation was conducted with genocidal intent. Myanmar denies the accusations and says its security forces ran a legitimate counterterrorism campaign after attacks by Rohingya militants.

Before the recent influx of refugees into Coxs Bazar, there were already more than 200,000 Rohingya whose families fled previous bouts of violence. The refugees now live in overcrowded camps in shelters made of bamboo and tarpaulin. The toilets are shared by many families and can become filthy. Sometimes clean water is scarce in sections of the camps.

Begum is on a camp committee that advocates for the dwellers in meetings with the United Nations refugee agency, or UNHCR. The concerns raised in the committee meetings are relayed to the Bangladeshi government as well as non-government organizations operating in the camps.

Committees provide representation

The UNHCR says it created the committees to give the refugees a place to voice their concerns. While the refugees elect the members, the committees are structured to have an equal number of men and women.

The elected block and camp committees were piloted with equal representation for men and women refugees to ensure that the perspectives of women refugees are heard and considered in all aspects of the humanitarian programs within the camps, said UNHCRs Adam Nord in an emailed statement.

So far the committees exist in only four of the 34 refugee camps, but UNHCR says it hopes to phase them in across all of the remaining camps within the next 12 months.

I wanted to become a committee member because females are needed on it, Begum said. There are some issues that women have that they would not be comfortable talking about to a man.

Day-to-day needs, concerns

At a recent meeting, Begum and other committee members discussed the need for more mosquito nets, fans, pots and pans as well as sanitary pads for women. Members say at some meetings, they also talk about safety concerns.

These committees do not have the authority to pass rules for the camps. Those decisions are made by the Bangladeshi government, but the UNHCR says the committees help the refugee agency, government as well as non-government organizations operating in the camps understand some of the challenges the refugees face on a day-to-day basis.

We hear what the other refugees are saying and we pass it on, said Begum. Conversations with refugees make it clear that women refugees tend to share their concerns with female committee members and the men tend to share their issues with the male committee members.

Patriarchal community

The Rohingya Muslim community remains very patriarchal, with women in many families expected to stay at home to take care of the children and do chores. Workers for several non-government organizations operating in the camps told VOA some refugees resist any change to these norms.

It remains unclear how much of a difference having women on the committees will make toward chipping away at patriarchal patterns.

Ayesha Khatun, a 21-year-old camp committee member, sees herself not only as someone who can help her fellow refugees, but as a role model for young women and girls.

I can help my fellow refugees and impact how others see ways that they can help, too, she said.

As Ayesha Khatun walked around her camp on a recent afternoon, several women approached her to talk about the need for more lights as well as more mats for people to sleep on.

I think she can help us get our requests out, says Shahana Akter, a mother with three children. She also helps us understand decisions camp officials make that will impact us.
The Catholic Church in Sri Lanka held the first regular Sunday Mass since the Easter suicide bombings of churches and hotels killed more than 250 people.

Military forces and police armed with assault rifles patrolled the streets leading to churches and stood guard outside the compounds. Everyone entering was required to produce identity cards and was body searched.

Volunteers were stationed at the gates of churches to identify parishioners and look for suspicious individuals.

Parking was banned near the churches and officials requested worshippers to bring along only minimum baggage.

Seven bombers

Seven suicide bombers struck two Catholic and one Protestant church and three luxury hotels on Easter. The Islamic State group claimed responsibility for the attacks, carried out by a local radicalized Muslim group.

Sunday services were canceled in the two subsequent weekends for fear of more attacks, leaving the faithful to hear Mass via live TV transmission from the Colombo residence of Archbishop Malcolm Ranjith.

Church authorities are also mulling reopening church-run schools Tuesday if they can be satisfied with security.

Suspects arrested

President Maithripala Sirisena told The Associated Press last week that 99% of the remaining suspects in the Easter attacks had been arrested and their explosive materials seized, and it was safe for tourists to return to the Indian Ocean island nation.

Police say two previously little-known radical Islamist groups, National Towheed Jamaat and Jammiyathul Millathu Ibrahim, conspired in the attacks. Officials say Zahran Hashim, a vitriolic preacher from the countrys east, may have led the attackers and was one of the bombers to die.
By PTI

DHAKA: Twenty-three teenage Rohingya girls were rescued after being brought from refugee camps to the capital Dhaka to be sent to Malaysia by air, Bangladesh police said Sunday.

Dhaka police also arrested four human traffickers including a Rohingya couple and recovered over 50 Bangladeshi passports from them on Saturday.

Police spokesman Mokhlesur Rahman said they raided a residence in the northern part of the city and found the teenagers hiding in a room behind a tailoring shop.

"They were promised jobs in Malaysia and brought from refugee camps in Cox's Bazar," he told AFP, referring to the Rohingya settlements in Bangladesh's southeastern coastal district.

ALSO READ | Myanmar frees two Reuters journalists jailed for reporting on Rohingya crisis

The girls -- aged between 15 and 19 -- could have been potential victims of forced prostitution, the official said.

"We have filed cases against the four arrested persons and sent the girls back to their camps in Cox's Bazar," Rahman said.

Abul Khair, local police chief of Ukhiya, where Kutupalong, the largest refugee camp in the world, is situated, said he received the girls and would send them to their homes in the camps.

Some 740,000 Rohingya Muslims fled a brutal military clampdown in Myanmar in August 2017 and arrived in Bangladesh to join another 300,000 already living in the refugee camps.

Desperate for a better life and an economic future, the refugees including in particular teenage girls easily fall prey to human traffickers roaming in the overcrowded camps.

Thousands of the refugees have risked their lives travelling to Malaysia and Thailand -- mainly by boat -- when the Bay of Bengal is calm before monsoon season sets in at the end of May.

Bangladeshi authorities have stopped over 300 Rohingya this year alone from attempting such perilous boat journeys on rickety fishing boats.

Many have also attempted to fly to Malaysia and Middle Eastern countries by procuring Bangladeshi passports and travel documents.

Jishu Barua, an aid worker specialised in human trafficking prevention, said he dealt with 100 cases of human trafficking in the camps in the last six weeks.

"But this figure represents only a small portion of what is actually going on," he told AFP.
More tug-of-war is expected in Washington this week between congressional Democrats, who seek further information and material pertaining to the Russia probe, and the Trump administration, which is eager to turn the page and move on from special counsel Robert Muellers investigation.

For President Donald Trump, the Russia investigation is a thing of the past. Last week, he said so several times, on Twitter and in person.

No collusion, no obstruction, no anything. Two years on a witch hunt, Trump proclaimed addressing supporters Wednesday at a rally in Panama City Beach, Florida.

Democrats beg to disagree.

What we want is to get the facts. We want to do it in a way that is the least divisive to our country and the most productive, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi told reporters at press conference on Capitol Hill Thursday.



House Democrats subpoenaed the unredacted Mueller report and want the special counsel to testify about the investigation and his findings. Attorney General William Barr has refused to hand over the full Mueller report, prompting a House panel to launch proceedings to hold Barr in contempt of Congress.

The Trump administration has decided to say a blanket no. No to any kind of oversight whatsoever. No witnesses, no documents, no nothing  So they are just stonewalling, Rep. Adam Schiff, a Democrat and chairman of the House Intelligence Committee, said Sunday on ABCs This Week program. They want to draw this out as much as possible. And we are going to fight it. We are fighting it.

Republicans accuse Democrats of refusing to accept the Mueller reports bottom line, which was mostly favorable to Trump.

We spent $35 million investigating the president. Their conclusion was [that] there was no underlying crime. This whole kibitzing (agitation) about, Oh well maybe he obstructed justice to try to hide an investigation about something he did not do  this is absurd. And the American people know it, said Republican Sen. Rand Paul, also speaking on ABCs This Week.

Top House Democrats have pushed back against calls for impeachment proceedings against the president, but have warned that the White House could force the issue by impeding congressional oversight going forward.

Every day, they are advertising their obstruction of justice by ignoring subpoenas and by just declaring that people should not come and speak to Congress so that the American people can find out the truth, House Speaker Pelosi said Thursday.

Trump says Democrats efforts will backfire.

And now the Democrats are saying, We want more. ... And actually it is working the other way, because now we have the best poll numbers that we have ever had. It is crazy, Trump told supporters at the Florida rally.

While House Democrats continue to negotiate for Mueller to testify, the Republican-led Senate Intelligence Committee surprised many in Washington by subpoenaing the presidents son, Donald Trump Jr., to testify as part of the panels own probe of Russian meddling in the 2016 U.S. presidential election.
The United Arab Emirates says four commercial ships were subjected to "sabotage operations" Sunday near its territorial waters in the Gulf of Oman.

Authorities gave no details, however, on what kind of sabotage they suspect or to whom the ships belong, other than saying they were of different nationalities.

They say no one was hurt and no chemicals or fuel were spilled from the ships.

The UAE did deny Iranian and Lebanese news reports of explosions at the port of Fujairah and added "media outlets must be responsible and rely on official sources."

The UAE says international bodies are helping with the investigation.

"Carrying out acts of sabotage on commercial and civilian vessels and threatening the safety and lives of those aboard is a serious development," the foreign affairs ministry said Sunday, urging all nations to take their responsibilities to prevent actions by anyone looking to undermine maritime safety.

UAE officials declined to say who they thought was behind whatever happened on the ships.

The U.S. Maritime Administration warned last week of what it calls the "increased possibility that Iran and/or its regional proxies could take action against U.S. and partner interests... by targeting commercial vessels, including oil tankers or U.S. military vessels."

There has been no response from Iran. But the head of parliament's national security committee tweeted "security of the south of the Persian Gulf is like glass."
The U.S. says it expects that China will retaliate with increased tariffs on U.S. exports after President Donald Trump sharply boosted levies on Chinese products headed to the United States.

The president, however, took to Twitter Monday to urge China not to strike back: "But China has taken so advantage of the U.S. for so many years, that they are way ahead (Our Presidents did not do the job). Therefore, China should not retaliate-will only get worse!"

Chief White House economic adviser Larry Kudlow told "Fox News Sunday" that "both sides will suffer" from the escalating trade war between the U.S. and China, the world's two biggest economies.

In the U.S., he said that "maybe the toughest burdens" are on farmers who sell soybeans, corn and wheat to China. But he said the Trump administration has "helped them before on lost exports" with $12 billion in subsidies and that "we'll do it again if we have to and if the numbers show that out."

Trump said on Twitter Sunday "We are right where we want to be with China.

On Friday, he more than doubled tariffs on $200 billion of Chinese goods, boosting the rate from 10 percent to 25 percent, while also moving to impose tariffs on an additional $300 billion of Chinese products, although Kudlow said it could take months for the full effect of the tariffs to be felt. China had previously imposed taxes on $110 billion of American products, but has not said how it might retaliate against Trump's latest increase in tariffs.

Trade talks between the two economic super powers have been going on in Beijing and Washington for months, but they recessed again in the U.S. capital on Friday without a deal being reached.

"We were moving well, constructive talks and I still think that's the case," Kudlow said. "We're going to continue the talks as the president suggested."

Kudlow said Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping are likely to discuss trade issues at the G-20 summit in Japan at the end of June.

The economic adviser renewed U.S. claims that China had backtracked from earlier agreements reached in the talks, forcing negotiators to cover "the same ground this past week."

"You can't forget this: This is a huge deal, the broadest scope and scale.... two countries have ever had before," Kudlow said. "But we have to get through a lot of issues. For many years, China trade was unfair, non-reciprocal, unbalanced in many cases, unlawful."

WATCH: Who will cover the cost?

The U.S. has claimed that China steals technology and forces U.S. companies to divulge trade secrets it uses in its own production of advanced technology products.

On Saturday, Trump suggested that China could be waiting to see if he wins reelection next year, but said Beijing would be "much worse" off during a second term of his in the White House.

"I think that China felt they were being beaten so badly in the recent negotiation that they may as well wait around for the next election, 2020, to see if they could get lucky & have a Democrat win," he said, "in which case they would continue to rip-off the USA for $500 Billion a year."

"Such an easy way to avoid Tariffs?" the U.S. leader said, "Make or produce your goods and products in the good old USA. Its very simple!"
A North Korean cargo ship seized by the U.S. because of suspicions it was used to violate international sanctions arrived Saturday at the capital of this American territory.

The Wise Honest was slowly towed to the port of Pago Pago Saturday morning and docked at the main docking section of the port that afternoon.

The trip from Indonesia took about three weeks, and American Samoa, in the South Pacific, was chosen because of its central strategic location, U.S. Coast Guard public affairs officer Amanda Wyrick said.

We also have a good strong relationship and partnership with the American Samoan government, Wyrick said. With that being said, we also already have the resources that are able to ensure the security of the vessel but most importantly the Port of Pago Pago.

Detained near Indonesia

The ship was detained in April as it traveled toward Indonesia. Justice Department officials announced Thursday that the U.S. had seized the ship.

Asked as to how long the ship will be in the territory, Wyrick said the U.S. Department of Justice is leading the investigation so they will be conducting that. Upon the conclusion of the investigation, the ship will be moved. But the next destination is unknown, she said.

She said she didnt have the exact number of U.S. Coast Guard personnel or people from other federal agencies who have traveled to American Samoa for the investigation.

I do know that, we have a marine and safety security team here from Honolulu, Wyrick said. Were conducting random patrols, also conducting inspection of the vessel and the Port of Pago Pago, keep an eye on things such as security breaches or vandalization of the ship itself.

Protecting the port

Officials are also making sure the port is protected, she said.

We especially in the Coast Guard, we understand the importance of the port. Its a lifeline in getting goods to the islands, Wyrick said. So we want to make sure that were doing everything we can, to make sure that theres absolutely no disruption to the flow of commerce coming in and out.

U.S. officials made the announcement of the ships seizure 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.
A government-funded audit in Zimbabwe has revealed serious irregularities in the redistribution of land seized from white commercial farmers in 2000 and parceled out to indigenous people, some with no knowledge of taking care of productive farms.

According to the state-controlled Sunday Mail newspaper, the National Agricultural Land Audit which was conducted in the countrys 10 districts and 10 provinces between October and November last year and only covers 6 percent of the targeted land, also revealed that some farmers sold the farms and others leased them without government approval.

Tendai Bare, chairperson of the Zimbabwe Land Commission that was in charge of the auditing process which involved over 18,000 farmers, told the newspaper that fraudulent land allocations and other gross irregularities resulted in low agricultural output in the country.

As a result, the commission recommended a thorough clean up exercise to ensure that land is utilized accordingly unlike today in which thousands of farmers are failing to till the land due to lack of financial resources, poor planning and multiple farm ownership, which has resulted in haphazard land tillage, improper record keeping, employment of unskilled managers and different government departments issuing lease agreements and other documents.

Agriculture Minister Perrence Shiri says he has seen the audit report and expects the government to work on it soon. Zimbabwe seized productive white-owned commercial farms in 2000, leaving over 4,000 whites stranded, a situation that angered Britain and other nations tied to white Zimbabweans.

Agricultural expert, Mandla Nkomo, says the audit may result in the transformation of Zimbabwes land reforms, leading to huge investments by local and international business entrepreneurs.

I can say without any equivocation that, as I speak to you Im in The Netherlands, people are aware of the potential of Zimbabwean agriculture, people are willing to participate in reforming Zimbabwean agriculture  What they need is confidence and if this audit can be used as a tool for creating confidence I think it will attract the right kind of partners around the table to move this forward.

We just need to manage the process better and I think people will step up and make sure that we move this forward and remember that the private sector does not mean companies only listed on the New York Stock Exchange, it means people like you and me. We also have a role to play and we can play a role if the right conditions are created for us.
By PTI

LONDON: A man in the UK has been sentenced to life imprisonment for stabbing to death his Indian-origin wife following a row on the Christmas day last year.

Laurens Brand, 47, who was charged with murder, used two kitchen knives to repeatedly stab his 41-year-old wife Angela Mittal in 2018.

He was sentenced to life with a minimum term of 16 years and eight months' imprisonment at a sentencing hearing at Reading Crown Court on Friday.

Angela had suffered 59 stab wounds to her neck and chest and died at the scene at their home in Shinfield, Berkshire.

Sentencing Brand, Judge Heather Norton said: "You stabbed your wife in the bedroom of the family home.

Your attack on her was ferocious. You stabbed your wife no fewer than 59 times.

"At some point in the course of that attack, one knife broke. You left the room, you went to the kitchen, you fetched another knife and then returned".

The court heard that the forensic evidence suggests that the victim was alive and struggling to defend herself through much of that attack.

The judge noted that she would undoubtedly have suffered fear and pain.

"This was a brutal assault carried out by Laurens Brand on his wife, Angela Mittal, during which she suffered 59 separate injuries," said Senior Investigating Officer, Detective Inspector Mike Roddy, of the Thames Valley Police Major Crime Unit.

"Brand subjected Angela to this vicious attack in her own home, a place where she should have felt safe and secure.

Instead of helping Angela, he tried to clean up before calling (emergency) 999.

When he did call, he didn't ask for an ambulance, he asked directly for the police already in the knowledge it was too late for Angela," he said.

The court heard how Brand had physically and emotionally abused his "formerly bubbly and outgoing wife".

The police expressed their sympathy with the victim's family during an "extremely difficult" time.

"I'd also like to commend them on the courage they have shown, especially today when having to explain what the loss of Angela means to them.

It is never an easy time to lose anyone, but in such violent circumstances, in her own home, it is unimaginable," said Roddy.

Her family, including father Bharat and mother Kamla Mittal, paid tribute to Angela, describing her as a popular young lady known for her "sweet and enduring wit".

They said in a statement: "Her life was tragically cut short due to a senseless crime.

"Angela truly lived life to the fullest through the simple pleasures; chatting with friends, spending time and enriching the life of her family and always seeing the brighter side to life.

She had this beautiful talent to bring people together from all walks of life and touch them in a deep and positive way".

They said that Angela was known for her creativity, kindness and big heart and the friendships, generosity and enthusiasm she displayed throughout her life is an "inspiration".

"Angela will be missed beyond words, her love, warmth and beauty will remain alive in her family and friends hearts," the family statement said.
The Arc of McLennan County will have its Boots on the Brazos fundraiser from 7 to 11 p.m. Saturday in the Waco Convention Centers Brazos Room, 100 Washington Ave.

The event will feature a barbecue dinner catered by Eddie Rays Smokehouse and music and dancing with 35 South. Individual tickets are $100. Table sponsorships are available. Attire is casual or Western. For details, call 756-7491 or visit wacoarc.org.

The Arc of McLennan County is a nonprofit that provides services to families of special needs children and those affected by autism.

Go Red for Women

The American Heart Association will have the 2019 Waco Go Red for Women Luncheon on Wednesday at the Baylor Club in McLane Stadium, 1001 S. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.

Tracey Conway will be the keynote speaker. The Emmy-winning actress was completing a live taping of a comedy show when her heart stopped beating and she dropped dead from sudden cardiac arrest. Twenty minutes later, paramedics shocked her heart into beating again. Overcoming 20-to-1 odds, she survived and turned her miraculous recovery into funny yet poignant presentations.
The county has cut its property tax rate four times in the past five years primarily because of higher property values, despite the escalating costs of providing services, Felton said.

Waco Mayor Kyle Deaver has called the cap arbitrary and said the measures do not provide municipal tax relief to residents.

City of Waco spokesman Larry Holze said the city is moving forward with preparing its budget without taking the proposed legislation into consideration. He said the city council is aware of the bills but that no major decisions or alternate plans are being made.

Its business as usual, Holze said.

State legislators said property owners often complain about how high property taxes have risen. Rep. Charles Doc Anderson, R-Waco, said many property owners have downsized or moved out of their homes because they could not afford the taxes. He voted for the property tax reform bills.

In a booming economy, we need to allow cities and counties to prosper and do what they need to do while also funding the schools, Anderson said. We have to try and see if we can be more fair to property owners, and I think these bills are a step in the right direction.
When I went to Baylor I had clear ideas on who was us and who was them. My church sang hymns about everyone being included, but we knew who was in the favored group. On my first day at Baylor, I was shocked that my Spanish teacher was from Mexico  which I literally wrote home about. I met people who were not with us on abortion, alcohol, capital punishment, Catholicism, dancing, guns, Judaism, militarism, politics, racism and women. I became friends with gay people who were smarter, kinder and more Christian than I was. Some of the people I could not picture in my old church were bright, caring and delightful. I wanted people like them to be in the us that I was in. Baylor taught me to love people my old church ignored.

Years ago when my father first expressed his disappointment with my new congregations acceptance of gay people, I said: You shouldnt have let me go to Baylor.

I should point out that not everyone at Baylor sees this exactly as I do. My alma mater is arguing again about gay people. The latest debate is over the request for official recognition of several LGBTQ student groups. The Baylor administration has not granted any of their requests, so more than 3,000 alumni have signed a petition supporting the acknowledgment of these groups.
Creighton says his only motive is to protect history, all history. The problem is that monuments of Confederate heroes dont tell history, they glorify the valor of individuals who, whatever else, violated their sacred oaths and took up arms against their countrymen. And as Sen. Jose Rodriguez noted during debate last week, many of these monuments were erected during times of civil rights movements to further a white supremacist ideology and evoke fear among non-white races. Thats history that too many of us would like to ignore or whitewash.

Committee testimony on the Creighton bill last month confirmed just that. Some testimony offered a robust defense of the secessionists (complete with revisionist history) and condemnation of Lincoln, including one individual who appeared in full Confederate military regalia. Vile language used to describe minorities, Sen. Rodriguez noted, demonstrated this ideology has not yet been eradicated. This bill, however unintentionally, provides comfort to that ideology and hurt to those who suffer from it.

Our take on monuments, schools, parks and streets named for Confederate heroes, or anyone or anything else, remains as it always has been: If the communities in which these are placed accept, tolerate or cherish them, all well and good. If a community finds the cause championed conflicts with community values, then thats the business of that community and no one else, including our state overseers in Austin. Monuments of figures involved in the Confederacy might not attract so much attention and resentment today if more of us worked earnestly for equality and justice and condemned those who encourage the white supremacy and racial strife that presently afflict our nation.
By PTI

COLOMBO: A 47-year old Muslim cleric wanted by the Sri Lankan security forces for using social media platform to air extremist views has been arrested at the Bandaranaike International Airport, a media report said.

The cleric, whose identity has not been disclosed, was wanted for releasing videos in a manner that harms reconciliation in the country and has been remanded till May 14, the Daily Mirror reported.

The suspect, a resident of Vavuniya, was arrested on Saturday at the airport after his arrival from Mecca after performing Hajj.

The suspect had been organising pilgrimage tours to Mecca, the paper reported.

ALSO READ | Won't run away, won't be intimidated, won't resign till I crush terrorism: Sri Lankan President

The arrest of the cleric came days after the Sri Lankan government said the trustees of all the mosques in the country should not engage in or allow any gathering to promote or propagate hatred and also directed them to send the audio recordings of the sermons to authorities.

The government's order was after security forces recovered swords and other weapons from mosques during search operations following the April 21 bomb blasts in which over 250 people, including 44 foreigners 10 of whom were Indians, were killed and 500 others injured.

Security has been beefed up across Sri Lanka after the Easter Sunday attacks on three churches, two of them Catholic, and three luxury hotels.

ALSO READ | Sri Lankan court orders DNA test to verify death of Easter Sunday bombings mastermind

The Islamic State claimed responsibility for the attack, but the government has blamed local Islamist extremist group, the National Thawheed Jama'ath (NTJ), for the bombings.

The security forces are conducting round the clock security operations since the attack in the crackdown on radical Muslims with links to the bombings.
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The world reveres Chien-Shiung Wu for her work that changed scientists understanding of the universe. But to her granddaughter, there was still so much to learn about her private world.
The bad news is, he frequently eats soup for lunch and always at his desk. Amy, the sounds he makes, the slurping of every spoonful and then the scraping of spoon against bowl as he gets near the bottom, is really disgusting, at least to me. It makes the hair on the back of my neck stand up. I really can't take it anymore.
Hutchings has said he is confident the school system would be able to find a contractor that would hire all of the custodians, pay at least $15 an hour and provide benefits. The school district has offered a severance package that would give custodians $1,500 for each year theyve worked, and it encouraged the workers to apply for other roles, such as paraprofessionals or bus drivers.
Cardinal Sfeir was born in the village of Rayfoun, north of Beirut, on May 15, 1920, and studied philosophy and theology at St. Joseph University in Beirut. After being ordained a priest in 1950, he served in several positions within the church before being ordained as a bishop in 1961. Over the next 25 years, he served as patriarchal vicar and secretary to the Maronite patriarchate.
On Thursday, police said, a man confronted two people on the street in the 2500 block of K Street NW about 12:30 a.m. He took property from both at gunpoint, the police said.
Dunagan said that a person had been taken into custody on the trail and that no motive was known. Early accounts of the attack described the weapon as a machete, but the sheriff said it would be better described as a large knife.
By AFP

ISLAMABAD: An attack on a luxury hotel in the southwestern city of Gwadar was a bid to "sabotage prosperity", Pakistani prime minister Imran Khan said Sunday, as police confirmed all the attackers had been killed.

At least one person was shot dead Saturday after gunmen stormed a luxury hotel in the southwestern Pakistani city of Gwadar, the centrepiece of a multi-billion dollar Chinese infrastructure project.

A Baloch separatist group, the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), claimed responsibility for the attack via Twitter.

"Such attempts, especially in Balochistan, are an effort to sabotage our economic projects and prosperity. We shall not allow these agendas to succeed," Khan said in a statement issued by his office.

The Chinese embassy in Islamabad also strongly condemned the incident.

ALSO READ | Four killed as heavily-armed terrorists storm 5-star hotel in Pakistan's Gwadar

Local police said four gunmen who had stormed the hotel, shooting dead a security guard, had been killed overnight by security forces.

"All four terrorists were killed and security forces had taken complete control of the hotel building," a local police official in Gwadar told AFP via telephone.

His account was confirmed by a security source in Islamabad. The military had said on Saturday that there were three gunmen.

Mohammad Aslam, a police official in Gwadar, said Saturday that only staff were present in the building at the time of the attack.

The BLA is one of a myriad of insurgent groups fighting in tightly-guarded Balochistan province, which has been rocked by separatist, Islamist and sectarian violence for years.

'The next Dubai'

The Pearl Continental, part of Pakistan's largest five-star hotel chain, is the only luxury hotel in Gwadar, frequented by foreign and Pakistani business delegations as well as diplomats.

It sits isolated on a ridge overlooking the Arabian Sea port city that was formerly a small fishing village, but now touted by officials as "the next Dubai" thanks to the multi-billion dollar China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

Part of China's Belt and Road initiative, CPEC seeks to connect the western Chinese province of Xinjiang with Gwadar, with the development of the port as the plan's flagship project.

Gwadar will provide China with safer and more direct access to the oil-rich Middle East than the waterway trade route it currently uses through the narrow Malacca Straits.

But it has also drawn its share of attacks -- particularly from separatists who have long complained that residents of Pakistan's poorest and largest province do not receive a fair share of profits from its resources.

The BLA has targeted Chinese workers in Pakistan multiple times, including during a brazen daylight attack on the Chinese consulate in Karachi which killed four people in November last year.

At the time, the BLA branded Beijing "an oppressor".

Balochistan is tightly guarded by the Pakistani military, who have been targeting insurgents there since 2004. The army has been repeatedly accused by international rights groups of abuses there, but denies all allegations.

The attack was the second deadly attack in a prominent Pakistan city this week, after a suicide blast claimed by the Pakistani Taliban at one of the country's oldest and most popular Sufi shrines killed at least 12 people in the eastern city of Lahore.
Homicides are rare on the Appalachian Trail, according to statistics; the last time the trail was the scene of a homicide was in 2011 when a man was found strangled in Virginia. That case remains unsolved. More than 3 million people hike the trail each year, and most hikers take care of one another, King said.
Paige Deloach, 22, of Bowie said she also supports toll lanes on the Beltway and I-270. But she, too, is concerned about the potential for super high tolls that she says would defeat the purpose if theyre too expensive for many motorists to use. Shes also worried about nearby homes  up to 34 that the Maryland State Highway Administration has said might be destroyed along a wider Beltway and up to another 1,500 properties that could lose portions of backyards and other land.
Now, with Democrats hoping to take control of the legislature in November, Favola and Lopez find themselves being contested in the June 11 primary not on their liberal records but over questions of ethics and judgment  Favola for her work as a consultant and Lopez for his previous work with an immigration detention center.
Research shows there has been an erosion of the relationship between those who provide health care and the patients they treat, and specifically an erosion of compassion. Nearly half of Americans believe the U.S. health-care system and health-care providers are not compassionate, one survey found. Numerous studies have reported that physicians miss the majority of opportunities to respond to patients with compassion. Research on the burnout epidemic in health care finds that 35 percent of physicians are so burned out that they have an inability to make a personal connection with patients. This can result in callous or uncaring behavior.
The May 9 Economy & Business article Facebooks second-class workers quietly battle for rights compared the contractor starting salary to the median Facebook employee salary. Talk about comparing apples and oranges. Why not compare contractor starting salaries to those of Facebook executives? It would be just as meaningful. Why wasnt the comparison starting salary vs. starting salary, or average vs. average? Either of those would have provided a fair comparison.
That colorful term refers to the drug-trafficking network that each year flies hundreds of tons of Colombian cocaine from Venezuelan airfields to Central America and the Caribbean for eventual distribution in the United States and Europe  and that includes some of the most senior officials in the Maduro regime. These men are not clinging to power because they are true believers in socialism, or because of their fealty to Vladimir Putin and Raul Castro. They hang on because, in spite of Venezuelas economic implosion, they are still reaping millions  and they are likely to find themselves imprisoned in Venezuela or the United States if they walk away.
By PTI

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has reached an agreement with the IMF on a bailout package under which the cash-strapped country will receive USD 6 billion over three years, according to a top official on Sunday.

The agreement now awaits formal approval by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) board, Dawn news quoted Adviser to Prime Minister on Finance, Revenue and Economic Affairs Dr Abdul Hafeez Shaikh as saying.

Pakistani technical teams have reached an agreement with the IMF on a bailout package, he said.

Pakistan would receive USD 6 billion worth of assistance under the IMF programme over a period of three years, Shaikh told the state-run PTV News.

"The Pakistani authorities and the IMF team have reached a staff-level agreement on economic policies that could be supported by a 39-month Extended Fund Arrangement (EFF) for about USD 6 billion," IMF Mission Chief for Pakistan Ernesto Ramirez Rigo said in a statement.
U.S. officials portray the Hungarian leaders rehabilitation as part of an effort to steer him away from Russia and China, with which his government has been cultivating ever-closer relations. But as the ambassador whom Mr. Trump posted in Budapest, David Cornstein, recently confirmed in an interview with the Atlantic, Mr. Trumps interest in Mr. Orban goes well beyond the tactical. 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, Mr. Cornstein said.
More recently, and more perplexingly, President Trumps nominee for deputy attorney general also refused to answer the question. This is unprecedented territory for a Justice Department nominee during the Trump administration, and it appears to be new ground for a Justice Department nominee in any administration since the watershed decision. Jeffrey Rosen said he could not be expected to go through thousands of Supreme Court opinions and say which ones are right and which ones are wrong. But the deputy attorney general oversees the Justice Departments Civil Rights Division, whose mandate is to enforce the nations civil rights laws and precedent, including Brown. We do, in fact, have a right to know his position.
Five House panels have demanded records involving a decision to stop the relocation of the FBI headquarters to the suburbs of Washington. Democrats believe Trump was involved in the decision to prevent the building - located across the street from the Trump International Hotel - from being replaced by a hotel that could compete for business. There has been no response from any of the agencies from which they have asked for information.
Florida was crucial to Trumps 2016 win and will factor heavily into his bid for a second term. His campaign has broken up the country into nine regions, aides said, each with its own political director. Under this plan, Florida is its own region  the only state with that distinction. It has more electoral votes than any other competitive state, with winning margins that have been slim in recent elections. And about one in six Florida voters is Hispanic.
During your meeting with Vladimir Putin, it is critical that you warn him that any action to interfere in our elections will be met with an immediate and robust response, Schumer said in the letter. President Trumps approach to dealing with President Putin, especially on this vital issue, must change. I urge you to make absolutely clear to President Putin that interference in U.S. elections will not be tolerated.
I know of a big company that told me that the tax cuts specifically helped them but that the tariffs are almost equal in punishing them, Paul said, referring to the Republican-led tax overhaul passed in 2017. The farmers in Kentucky are concerned about the tariffs, and Ive talked to the administration about this. . . . The longer were involved in a tariff battle or a trade war, the better chance there is that we could actually enter into a recession because of it.
The administration also faces another subpoena deadline Friday for Trumps tax returns following the administrations move to refuse access to them. Trump signaled Saturday that he will continue to refuse disclosure of his tax returns because he says he is being audited by the IRS, though that would not preclude such a release. He also suggested that Democratic attempts to force their release would help him win a second term.
But, Booker added, I dont think that a president should be running around pointing at companies and saying breaking them up without any kind of process here. Its not me and my own personal opinion about going after folks. That sounds more like a Donald Trump thing to say  Im going to break up you guys. 
The Pentagon is pushing forward with plans to reduce U.S. forces in Africa by 10 percent over the next three years. Most of the cuts are to come in West Africa. The United States has about 7,200 troops and other personnel on the continent.
By Associated Press

WASHINGTON: A Russian gun rights activist who admitted she was a secret agent for the Kremlin and tried to infiltrate conservative U.S. political groups while Donald Trump rose to power says she believed her notes and analysis would be "valuable" for Russian officials.

Maria Butina, who admitted covertly gathering intelligence on the National Rifle Association and other groups at the direction of a former Russian lawmaker, spoke to National Public Radio in an interview airing Friday.

Butina pleaded guilty to a charge of conspiracy to act as an unregistered foreign agent and was sentenced in April to serve 18 months behind bars. The 30-year-old has been jailed since her arrest in July.

Butina admitted that she had worked with former Russian lawmaker Alexander Torshin to use their contacts in the NRA to pursue back channels to American conservatives during the 2016 presidential campaign. She violated U.S. law because she did not report her activities to the U.S. government.

As part of her plea agreement, Butina acknowledged she "sought to establish unofficial lines of communication with Americans having power and influence over U.S. politics."

In the interview with NPR, Butina admitted that she knew Torshin was providing the information she gleaned to Russia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and said that she was honored to help.

"I said that I would be honored because, well, I am a young woman and there you have people in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs would consider my notes, my analysis, as valuable," Butina said. "It was very pleasant for me. So of course I said, 'Of course, yes.'"

Butina admitted she should have registered with the U.S. government but argued her actions took place out in the open and she wasn't a spy. Her lawyers argued she was simply a student interested in American politics and better U.S.-Russian relations.

"I love both countries, and I was building peace," Butina said in the interview.

Now, Butina is "embarrassed that instead of creating peace by not registering I created discord," something she says she'll carry with her for the rest of her life.

Butina will be deported back to Russia after she finishes serving her prison sentence. She said she has no concerns about returning to Russia because people who know her "know as a matter of fact that I am not a spy nor do I have any secret information."

"I don't think I have any problems or I could have any concerns about my safety," she added. "I don't see that happening."

The charges against Butina were brought by federal prosecutors in Washington, and her case was separate from special counsel Robert Mueller's investigation into Russian meddling in the 2016 U.S. presidential election. Butina said she knew nothing about Russia's efforts to interfere in U.S. elections.
Such antics have colored Philippine elections for decades, but electoral authorities have also been dealing with a new and growing problem: online disinformation and troll armies, which were harnessed to boost Duterte in the 2016 elections. Facebook is widely popular in the Philippines, and social media analytics show that Filipinos spend the most time online in the world  clocking in a daily average of more than 10 hours on the Internet.
In 2002, just as abuse by clergy was emerging as a major story in the United States, Scicluna was elevated by then-Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, the future Benedict, to be the top prosecutor inside the Holy Sees powerful and opaque doctrinal office. Working from inside the city-state, Scicluna heard details about thousands of cases, mostly accusations against diocesan priests. But it was in the higher-magnitude cases  involving mass-scale abuse, or particularly powerful figures  where the church especially struggled, in large part because bishops and cardinals are answerable only to the pope.
Trump administration officials dispute that the president is engaging in any reckless brinkmanship. They point out that Trump and his top advisers primarily voice Washingtons desire for peaceful resolutions to the confrontations with North Korea, Iran and Venezuela, and note that he has reinvigorated the diplomatic track with Pyongyang, brokering the suspension of menacing intercontinental ballistic missile tests. This past week, Trump extended an olive branch to Iran, saying Id like to see them call me, even as his top aides lambasted the country and the U.S. military said it would respond to any attack on American interests with unrelenting force.
Gwadar, once a sleepy fishing village, is now being touted as the next Dubai by Pakistani officials. It is a centerpiece of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor project, which aims to link transport, trade and communications from the Arabian Sea to far western China. Beijing is now the most important economic and political ally of Pakistan.
By Associated Press

DUBAI: Saudi Arabia's security forces killed eight alleged terrorists in a shootout in the predominantly Shiite eastern region of Qatif, a government statement issued late Saturday said.

The Interior Ministry said security forces launched a raid against a suspected militant hideout on the island of Tarot off the coast of the kingdom's Eastern Province, a restive region on the Persian Gulf where most of the country's oil reserves are located.

The statement described the group as a "terrorist cell" and accused them of planning to attack vital installations and security targets.

The Interior Ministry said security forces only opened fire after they were shot at. It did not identify the militants and said an investigation was ongoing.

Videos posted on social media by residents of Tarot showed black smoke rising from residential buildings and the sound of heavy gunfire on Saturday.

Saudi security forces frequently target and clash with Shiite gunmen in the region of Qatif, which saw large protests by minority Shiites in 2011 demanding greater rights and equal treatment from the kingdom's Sunni Muslim rulers.

The kingdom has since targeted many of those protest leaders, including its most iconic figure, Sheikh Nimr al-Nimr, who was accused of national security crimes and executed in early 2016. The Shiite cleric's execution sparked protests by Shiites in Iraq, Pakistan and Iran, and led to the ransacking of the Saudi Embassy in Tehran, which has remained shuttered ever since.

Tensions have likely spiked in recent weeks after Saudi Arabia beheaded 37 men, most of them Shiites, in a mass execution on April 23.

The U.N.'s human rights chief called the mass execution, which included three sentenced as minors, "shocking" and "abhorrent."

The rights group Amnesty International said 11 of the men were convicted of terrorism-related crimes after a "grossly unfair trial." At least 14 others executed were convicted of violent offences related to their participation in anti-government demonstrations in Shiite-populated areas of Saudi Arabia between 2011 and 2012.
One of Facebook's co-founders - and a Harvard classmate of Mark Zuckerberg's - caused a significant stir last week by calling for the giant social network to be broken apart. Then, as if to say 'yes, we agree with this assesment', Facebook quietly dropped another public relations bombshell.

In what looked like an attempt to bury bad news late on a Friday afternoon in the US, Facebook said it was suing South Korean app developer Rankware over mishandling of user data. It hasn't said how many users might have been affected by this apparent privacy breach.

But Facebook doesn't get the benefit of the doubt anymore, and comparisons to the Cambridge Analytica debacle of 2018, which affected tens of millions of users, are already being made.

Chris Hughes, who made a fortune from his involvement in Facebook, earlier in the week used an opinion piece in The New York Times to call for the company he helped found be forced to divest its holdings of photo sharing site Instagram and messaging service WhatsApp.
The Liberal Party ridiculed Kevin Rudd and Wayne Swan for their plan during the depths of the global financial crisis to bankroll the commercial property sector.

A decade on it's time to walk through the front door of the Bank of ScoMo, where every taxpayer in the country is exposed to the vagaries of the $1.9 trillion mortgage property market.

Just a week ago, the Coalition was accusing Bill Shorten of being a communist for his plan to subsidise the wages of childcare workers.

Now, they have gone all Karl Marx by outlining a plan that effectively means the government of the day has an equity share in the private mortgages of home owners.
Bill Shorten has broken with tradition in order to fight local campaigns in key seats this week rather than match Scott Morrison in making a major address to voters from Canberra.

The decision is a sign of Labors confidence in gaining ground against the Coalition as the election campaign enters its final week.

Scott Morrison and Bill Shorten are in a race to the May 18 finish line. Credit:Dominic Lorrimer/Alex Ellinghausen

While the Prime Minister will speak to voters from the National Press Club in Canberra on Thursday, the Opposition Leader will not do the same this week.

Instead, he will make a lightning trip to Perth and then return to the east coast in the hope of defeating Liberal candidates that include at least two ministers.
Bill Shorten will use the largest federal funding injection in public transport history to turbocharge the crucial final days of the election campaign, in a $10 billion promise designed to help snatch up to half a dozen seats from the Morrison government in Victoria.

The Labor leader will attempt to overshadow Prime Minister Scott Morrison's official campaign launch in Melbourne on Sunday by pledging to part-fund the massive $50 billion, 90-kilometre suburban rail loop that helped Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews win last year's state election.

"Dan Andrews and all Victorians need a partner in Canberra and thats what Ill be," Mr Shorten said.

"The suburban rail loop will be a game changer for Australias fastest-growing city. It means faster travel times and more jobs for Victorians."
By IANS

WASHINGTON: Former US Defence Secretary Robert Gates has said that there is a "real risk" that if American troops are pulled out of Afghanistan, the Taliban might retake control of the country.

The Donald Trump administration should ensure that the Afghan government is stable before bringing American forces home, Gates told CBS News. There are currently 12,000 US service members stationed in the war-torn country.

"I think that the circumstances under which you bring them home matter. And I think trying to give the Afghan government the best possible shot at survival is really important for the future of Afghanistan," said Gates, who served as the Defence Secretary under former US President Barack Obama between 2006 to 2011.

Gates outlined potential consequences of the Taliban retaking control of the country, particularly the reduction of women's rights, CBS News reported on Saturday.

Under the Taliban regime before 2001, strict rules were imposed on women as it is against women attending a school or holding jobs.

"So the question is, can you negotiate an arrangement whereby the Taliban agrees to operate under the Afghan Constitution, becomes a part of the political process?" Gates asked.

Asked if the Taliban has interest in joining the government or if it just wants to rule the country itself, Gates said that the Taliban wants to "take over Afghanistan".

"If they agree to any kind of a compromise deal, it's really up to the other Afghans at the end of the day to resist any moves, to get rid of those changes, to go backward, if you will."

His remarks came as the US administration announced it would move $1.5 billion designated for the war in Afghanistan to build a border wall.

The US is currently involved in negotiations with the Taliban to end the 17-year war in Afghanistan, although it has not included the current Afghan government in those talks.

That exclusion from direct talks has caused a rift in relations between President Ashraf Ghani and US special envoy Zalmay Khalilzad. The US recently reached an agreement with the Taliban that in exchange for them agreeing not to again harbour terrorists like Al Qaeda, Washington would withdraw its troops from the South Asian country.

It led to accusations that US President Donald Trump administration is rushing into a "bad deal" that could leave the US-backed Ghani government vulnerable.

Khalilzad wrapped up the sixth round of talks with the Taliban last week and said they made "steady but slow progress".

Gates was asked it was reasonable to compare the US involvement in Afghanistan to the war in Vietnam, which ended with the American troops withdrawal and a subsequent communist takeover of the country.

"I think there's a very real risk of that... a repeat of the government that we have supported being unable to sustain itself," he said.
Mothers Day is bittersweet for women like Amanda Conroy who are navigating motherhood without one of their own.

Its a huge hole in my heart, said Ms Conroy, who was newly pregnant when she lost her mother.

Amanda Conroy with her toddler Augie. Amanda lost her own mother shortly before becoming a mother herself. Credit:Edwina Pickles

Ms Conroy, from Bardwell Park in Sydney, is glad her mother lived to hear the news of her pregnancy, achieved after five years of fertility treatment. By then her mother was in her 80s, frail and in poor health, but still mentally sharp.

I was able to hold her hand and tell her I was pregnant with the twins," Ms Conroy said. The joy in her eyes at seeing our dream come true was so important to me.
Police are under investigation over an operation at a Fitzroy property that left a man undergoing surgery for serious fractures to his arm following an arrest that is being treated as a case of mistaken identity.

Residents say heavily armed officers stormed the apartment attached to gay community bookshop and cafe Hares & Hyenas on Johnston Street about 2am on Saturday while searching for what residents were told was an "armed member of a 'Lebanese' gang".

The raid took place in the apartment above the Hares & Hyenas bookshop and cafe. Credit:Chris Hopkins

A description of the incident was posted on Facebook by bookshop owners Crusader Hillis and Rowland Thomson, who say police were at the wrong property, failed to properly identify themselves and caused serious injuries to another man, Nik Dimopoulos, while restraining him.

"They just stormed into a dark room shining torches and it was impossible to identify them as police. Nik Dimopoulos, thinking that it was an anti-gay home invasion, rushed out the door, downstairs and on to the street where he was forcefully detained. At no time did the police when they were chasing him say 'stop, police' as you would expect," the post said.
A WA boy claimed he broke into a house and stole from an Esperance home last week because he was bored.

The boy, 14, appeared in Esperance Magistrates Court via video link from Banksia Hill Juvenile Detention Centre on May 8.

He was not penalised for his first offence. Credit:Louie Douvis

Esperance senior constable Carolyn Petersen told the court the boy, who cannot be named, trespassed at Castletown Primary School between February 1 and 4 and smashed two windows.

Police found his hand print and arrested him on March 31.
It's the top-secret facility that's set to become the new epicentre of where some of WA's most horrendous crimes and cold cases will be solved.

The head of PathWest's forensic biology department Gavin Turbett shows WA Police Commissioner Chris Dawson how the lab detects fluids like semen on evidence found at crime scenes. Credit:Cameron Myles

We can't tell readers where it is, but WAtoday and Nine News Perth were given rare and exclusive access to the new, high-tech PathWest forensic science lab.

The lab is effectively the headquarters of where DNA breakthroughs in crimes can be achieved and where police can get answers for victims and begin the process of bringing perpetrators to justice.

To ensure the safety of staff and the security of the many crime scene exhibits which flow through the building, very few people apart from those who work there are privy to the centre's location.
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Lombok is like Bali 30 years ago. That statement was repeated to me several times while visiting the Indonesian paradise island smaller than the size of metropolitan Perth. The comparison is something that the Indonesian Government and airline Air Asia want to make internationally through its '10 new Balis' plan. Its an economic tactic to draw tourists who might like the tropical vacation vibe Bali offers without the chaos. Its clever too. Marketing will soon begin in cities that are getting direct Lombok flights, such as Perth. Tourists who love the proximity and cheapness of Bali but dont want to slam five Bintangs for breakfast or arent into the pretentiousness of Byron Bay drop-outs pedalling energy crystal retreats will fall for it hook, line and sinker. Lombok needs tourism to help it recover from the August 5, 2018 earthquake that destroyed thousands of buildings and killed 563 people but to simply describe it as a new Bali does the island a disservice. Its unmistakably Indonesian but with an identity all of its own.

Life's a beach

Our tour guides name was Bobby Dingo, which he proudly exclaims is a nickname hes picked up from Australian visitors from over the years. Hes the first Lombok local I meet and by leaning into Aussie slang I get an early sense of Indonesian hospitality that makes Bali so attractive. The Bali flashbacks continue as he takes us to our first hotel in Kuta in the islands south. Ignore those memories of dancing in cages soaked in arak at the Bounty nightclub, this Kuta is Bali Kutas antithesis. Its chockers with hidden white-sandy bays, quiet resorts, great surfing spots and a quaint little cafe and bar scene that would satisfy even Fitzroys hippest. We were told with the 2021 Moto GP set to race at a new track in Lomboks Mandalika area new hotels and infrastructure are being built to cater for an influx of people and the area will boom in coming years. Im hoping it retains its relaxed charm though.

Tourists and locals gathering to watch the sunset on Bukit Merese Hill in Lombok's south. Credit:Hamish Hastie

Our tour bus trekked off-road delivering us to one of the islands remote southernmost bays. It was lined with beach bars little more than bamboo shacks serving Bintangs and coconuts for visitors to enjoy while they watched the breaks out the back dissipate to nothing on the calm shore. Locals were serenading impossibly tanned-Scandanavian backpackers with questionably pronounced but heartfelt renditions of Ed Sheeran songs while strays played happily around them, sometimes edging close enough for a pat or belly rub. After filling ourselves with coconut water we were whisked to Bukit Merese Hill. By day its grassy geography is used by farmers to graze cattle but in the evening its the perfect spot to watch the sun set over southern Lomboks bays. When we visited there were at least 150 people with the same idea. There was also a group of backpackers listening to Bob Marley and doing Yoga, which intensified as the sun dropped further on horizon. Not my bag, but each to their own. The whole day would have been perfect had it not been for the rubbish lining the beaches and countryside. While not as bad as Bali, Lombok is not immune to Indonesias plastic problem and it hurts to see such gorgeous spots tainted by discarded noodle packets and cups.

Our second location, Senggigi beach didnt suffer that same issue. Situated on the islands eastern coast, it is currently the main tourist strip. Beachfront resorts stretch for several kilometres and the main drag is dotted with bars playing live music with the odd karaoke joint squeezed in between. The Happy Cafe was our temporary local and kept true to its name. Seafood beach-side restaurants offered incredible evening viewing. The sun would set right behind Balis Mt Agung, casting brilliant yellow and orange rays into the sky.

Look inward
FRANKFURT: The leader of Germany's ruling Christian Democrats and heir presumptive to Angela Merkel said she had no ambition to succeed her as chancellor until 2021 ahead of a major test of popularity at this month's European election.

Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer, who last December won a party leadership contest as Merkel - Europe's longest-serving leader - sets the stage for her gradual exit from politics, said she had no desire to accelerate the process.

Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer Credit:AP

"The chancellor and the government are elected for a full term and citizens are right to expect that they take this mandate seriously," Kramp-Karrenbauer told the Welt am Sonntag newspaper in an interview.

"Speaking for myself, I can rule out that I am working in my own interest for a change."
Alyssa Milano is calling on her followers to join her in a sex strike to protest anti-abortion laws - and the response has not been great.

The actress and activist, 46, took to Twitter on Friday to share her idea, which comes after one of the most restrictive abortion laws in the nation was signed in Georgia earlier this week. The "heartbeat bill" makes it illegal to have an abortion after a heartbeat has been detected in the womb - about six weeks into a pregnancy.

"Our reproductive rights are being erased. Until women have legal control over our own bodies we just cannot risk pregnancy," she wrote. "JOIN ME by not having sex until we get bodily autonomy back. I'm calling for a #SexStrike. Pass it on."

The tweet has garnered a lot of attention with over 32,000 likes and 31,000 replies, causing the hashtag to trend on the social media platform.
Columbia Police Department(COLUMBIA, S.C.) -- Slain University of South Carolina student Samantha Josephson, who died after getting into the wrong car, was awarded with a posthumous degree at what would have been her graduation ceremony.

Josephson, 21, died in March after she got into a car she mistakenly thought was an Uber after a night out with friends. After she got into the stranger's car, the child safety locks were activated, preventing her from escaping, and an autopsy found that she died from multiple sharp force injuries, authorities said.

Josephson's parents were in attendance Saturday at the commencement ceremony at the Colonial Life Arena in Columbia, where an empty seat was draped with a cap and gown in Josephson's honor, according to ABC Charlotte, North Carolina, affiliate WSOC. There, University of South Carolina President Harris Pastide presented Josephson with a degree in political science.

During the ceremony, Pastide reminded graduating students of the importance of safety when riding in ride-share cars, leading the audience in a chant of "What's my name?"

"Asking 'Whats my name?' before entering a ride-share vehicle will save lives and must become as automatic to you as putting on your seatbelt when you get behind the wheel," Pastide said.

Last month, Josephson's parents appeared on "Good Morning America," urging for stricter ride-share safety laws.

"I think it's just become such a natural or new phenomenon using Uber," Josephson's mother, Marci Josephson, told George Stephanopoulos on April 15. "We trust people and you can't. You have to change the way that the laws are to make it safer because that's our nature. We automatically assume that we're safe."

The man suspected of killing Josephson, Nathaniel Rowland, has been charged with murder and kidnapping. Josephson's body was found in a wooded area where Rowland recently lived, and her phone was found in his car, police said.

Copyright  2019, ABC Radio. All rights reserved.
Houthi members ride a truck during their withdrawal at Salif port in Hodeidah, Yemen, on May 11, 2019. Yemen's Houthi rebels began on Saturday withdrawal from two ports of Hodeidah Province, eyewitnesses said. (Xinhua)

SANAA, May 11 (Xinhua) -- Yemen's Houthi rebels began on Saturday withdrawal from two ports of Hodeidah Province, eyewitnesses said.

Khalid al-Hawaki, a resident at al-Mina quarter of the port city of Hodeidah, told Xinhua by phone that dozens of military vehicles were seen carrying Houthi militias from the ports of Salif and Ras Issa and arriving at the center of Hodeidah city.

Hodeidah Province, main lifeline entry of most Yemen's commercial imports and humanitarian aid, has three ports along the Red Sea, namely Hodeidah main port for commercial imports, Salif for grain imports and Ras Issa for exporting crude oil.

A UN statement on Friday said Houthi rebels offered to withdraw unilaterally from the ports within four days beginning Saturday.

Mohammed Ali al-Houthi, head of the Houthi Supreme Revolutionary Committee, said his forces' withdrawal will begin at 10 a.m. local time (0700 GMT).

Ahmed al-Zabidy, a witness at Salif port, told Xinhua that a group of local coast guards wearing police uniforms took posts at the port after the withdrawal of Houthi militias, while a UN monitoring team was seen checking the port facility.

However, "it's more likely that the coast guards are loyal to the rebels," al-Zabidy added.

Meanwhile, Muammar al-Eryani, information minister of the Saudi-backed exiled Yemeni government, said the rebels' move apparently aims to "misinform the international community and the UN Security Council."

The redeployment "is inaccurate and misleading," al-Eryani wrote on the Twitter, referring to the coast guards who replaced Houthi rebels as loyalists to the Houthi group.

"The UN envoy Martin Griffiths told the Yemeni government that if the Houthis failed to withdraw from Hodeidah's three key ports within four days, he will brief the Security Council on the facts on May 15," al-Eryani added.

In addition, a government source said the Saudi-led coalition may seek "the green light from the United States to launch a large-scale offensive to recapture Hodeidah from the Iran-allied Houthi rebels."

The coalition, led by Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, intervened in Yemen's conflict in March 2015 to support the internationally recognized President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi after Houthi rebels forced him and his government into exile in Riyadh, capital of Saudi Arabia.

The Stockholm Agreement, the first step toward a comprehensive political solution, was reached in December 2018 and focused on the port city of Hodeidah.

Both Yemeni parties have largely obeyed the cease-fire deal, but failed to withdraw forces from the city.

Hodeidah has been the focus of clashes since 2017.

The government forces have advanced to the southern outskirts of the port city, but the forces have halted a major offensive to recapture Hodeidah since June 2017 to pave the way for peace efforts.

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[ Editor: Zhang Zhou ]
By PTI

WASHINGTON: The US is "banding together" with nations like India, Australia, Japan and South Korea to ensure that the sovereignty of Indo-Pacific nations are protected and that they are not subjected to any coercion, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has said.

His comments came days after the Indian Navy 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.

Pompeo, in his address to the Claremont Institute's 40th Anniversary Gala in Beverly Hills, California, said: "We are banding together with the like-minded nations like Australia, India, Japan and South Korea to make sure that each Indo-Pacific nation can protect its sovereignty from coercion".

"It's part of a greater commitment to a free and open order. You all know this: The distinctive mark of western civilization is the belief in the inherent worth of human beings, with the attendant respect for god-authored rights and liberties. Indeed, the declaration says that 'all men are created equal'. And we ought to help nations protect these first things and human rights as well," he said.

Trump administration's policies, he said, has been a real pivot to Asia.

"The President has taken action to stop China from stealing our stuff. No longer will American companies be forced to hand over their technological crown jewels as the price of doing business in China. When a deal doesn't work for the United States, no deal shall be done, Pompeo said.

The United States, he said, has bolstered its military presence in the South China Sea, and have put nations on notice around the world that the sale of key infrastructure and technology companies to China threatens their national security.

"We have strengthened the group, the entity, that screens Chinese and other foreign investments here in the United States. We are also fighting the battle to make sure that the Chinese Communist Party cannot burrow into the data of billions of internet users through companies like Huawei and ZTE," he said.

The internet of tomorrow must have buried within its Western values and must not belong to China, Pompeo asserted amidst applause from the audience.

Pompeo said putting 'America First' means proudly associating with nations that share its principles and are willing to defend them.

"It's true; we had some earlier comments from Washington's Farewell Address. He warned against permanent alliances, but that same speech praised connections with nations based on policy, humanity and interest.

We have reaffirmed America's historic alliance with the only free nation in the Middle East: Israel," Pompeo added.

The combined show of naval might by the US, the Philippines and Japan on Thursday came 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.
By: Associated Press

May 12, 2019

NEW YORK (AP)  A long-delayed disciplinary trial is scheduled to begin this week for the New York City police officer accused in the 2014 chokehold death of Eric Garner.

Officer Daniel Pantaleo's trial is scheduled to start Monday. Garner was the unarmed black man whose pleas of "I can't breathe" became a rallying cry against police brutality.

Pantaleo could face punishment ranging from the loss of vacation days to firing if he is found to have violated department rules regarding the reckless and intentional use of a chokehold.

A ruling last week requires that the police watchdog agency bringing the case prove not only that Pantaleo violated department rules, but that his actions fit the criteria for criminal charges.

Pantaleo does not actually face criminal charges.

Pantaleo has been on desk duty since Garner's July 2014 death.
By ANI

WASHINGTON DC: US President Donald Trump on Saturday took on the Democrats for their repeated attempts to make his personal and business tax returns public, saying that he is still "under audit" and the voters "did not care" about the issue after he won the 2016 presidential polls.

"I won the 2016 Election partially based on no Tax Returns while I am under audit (which I still am), and the voters didn't care. Now the Radical Left Democrats want to again relitigate this matter. Make it a part of the 2020 Election!" Trump tweeted.

Taking on the Democrats for changing their stance after the release of Special Counsel Robert Mueller's report on alleged Russian collusion in 2016 presidential election, Trump said that there was no "obstruction of justice" from his side.

ALSO READ: Donald Trump's tariffs on China - What are they? How do they work?

"So now the Radical Left Dems don't talk about Collusion anymore, because the Mueller Report said there was No Collusion, they only want to talk about Obstruction, even though there was No Obstruction or No Crime - except for the crimes committed by the other side!" read another tweet by Trump.

The US President's tweets came a day after House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Richard Neal issued subpoenas to Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin and Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Commissioner Charles Rettig for six years of Trump's tax returns.

Neal said that the subpoenas directed the concerned officials to send information in the matter to the House panel on May 17 by 5 pm (local time).

ALSO READ: Donald Trump urges US companies to make products at home

The announcement comes after Mnuchin had rejected Neal's request on April 3 to make public Trump's personal and business tax returns between 2013 to 2018.

After becoming a presidential candidate, Trump has refused to release any details of his tax returns, saying he is under audit.

The Democrats suspect that the tax information could reveal evidence of wrongdoings by Trump. They have made tax information one of their top priorities after taking control of the House in January.

On Monday, Mnuchin had turned down a request from the Democrats to make Trump's personal and business tax returns public.

"I am informing you now that the Department may not lawfully fulfil the Committee's request," Mnuchin wrote in his one-page letter.

Mnuchin said that the request by the Democrats is "unprecedented" arguing that it raises "serious constitutional questions" that could have "dire consequences" for taxpayer privacy.
...trust in the federal governments ability to solve problems is at its lowest point in decades.

by Richard William Graber

This article was originally published on FEE.org. Read the original article.

A recent Gallup report revealed a paradox of todays national political debate: While a number of candidates on the campaign trail say more government will help solve the countrys problems, people increasingly believe government itself is the No. 1 problem. Further, Americans trust in the federal governments ability to solve problems is at its lowest point in decades.

This isnt surprising to those who believe in the power of independent problem-solving. In fact, its encouraging. For if people rely less on their national government, the more important civil society becomes. Its our local institutionsschools, churches, voluntary associationsthat are most likely to guide behaviors and transform lives, not the wishlist of politicians in Washington.

Civil Society Taken for Granted

Americas commitment to civil society has been a hallmark of our countrys exceptionalism. Its the intangible glue outside of government that binds us as a nation. And we must not take it for granted.

Alexis de Tocqueville observed in early 19th century America that one of the countrys most remarkable aspects was the extraordinary participation of citizens in local governance and civil society. With much care and skill, power has been broken into fragments in the American township, so that the maximum possible number of people have some concern with public affairs, he wrote.

Americans are incredibly generous, ranking fifth among 140 countries in the percentage who had volunteered with an organization.

Although America today is vastly different, our strong tradition of local control, can-do attitude, and service to others remains a seminal characteristic of our country. This never stood out to me more than when I was an ambassador in central Europe. It was very clear that donating money or volunteering time was simply not a natural or expected part of the culture.

This observation is substantiated by research. As author Jeremy Beer has pointed out, the value of American philanthropy is equivalent to 5.5 percent of the national GDP, by far the highest in the world. No other country reaches two percent of GDP.

When it comes to volunteering, Americans too, are incredibly generous, ranking fifth among 140 countries in the percentage who had volunteered with an organization. Encouragingly, volunteering in the U.S. has hit a record high, with citizens volunteering nearly 6.9 billion hours, worth an estimated $167 billion in economic value, according to a 2018 report by the Corporation for National and Community Service.

Independent Problem Solving

We often see independent problem-solving in times of crisis. Take, for instance, the Cajun Navy, groups of boat owners who voluntarily assist in search and rescue efforts following natural disasters in the South and have saved thousands of lives. Recently, in my home state of Wisconsin, a farmer formed a Badger army, to bring supplies to Nebraska farmers impacted by flooding.

Or take the need to curtail the opioid epidemic, which is prompting private, voluntary solutions to help overcome drug addiction. One Midwestern company facing a worker shortage has started providing drug treatment programs to potential employees who test positive for drugs but still want a job.

Citizens solving problems and improving their communities are at the heart of The Bradley Foundations mission.

Citizens solving problems and improving their communities are at the heart of The Bradley Foundations mission. Our founders were successful 20th-century industrialists who believed in the richness of community and culture that are the basis of a well-lived life. Today we carry on that legacy by supporting organizations that strengthen the fabric of American society.

Next month, the Foundation will honor distinguished individuals whose achievements reflect the pillars of American exceptionalism, including civil society, when we host the annual Bradley Prizes. We look forward to honoring this years recipients: author and publisher Roger Kimball, historian and journalist Jim Grant, and former federal judge Janice Rogers Brown.

Community and American Exceptionalism

Its worth noting the poignant words of Judge Brown during a speech she once gave to the Federalist Society:

Where government moves in, community retreats, civil society disintegrates, and our ability to control our own destiny atrophies. The result is: families under siege; war in the streets; unapologetic expropriation of property; the precipitous decline of the rule of law; the rapid rise of corruption; the loss of civility and the triumph of deceit.

Its tempting for politicians to offer more government programs as a fix to societys problems. But its families, social clubs, churches, and the like that have a greater and lasting impact on daily life. We must work to improve and sustain civil society in every way we can by encouraging self-governance and engaging in our communities. American exceptionalism depends on it.

This article is republished with permission from the Hill.
BRIDGEPORT  Police caught a 19-year-old man Saturday night accused of intentionally crashing into a cop car and fleeing officers.

Two juveniles were also in the car, which had been reported stolen in Milford, police said.

Bridgeport officers went after the driver after a man told dispatch he was GPS tracking his car that had been taken in Milford, according to a police report.

Officers caught up with the stolen car on Laurel Avenue, where the driver purposely hit the police cruiser and fled, according to police. Cops chased the car through the south end of the city, stopping it at West Avenue and West Liberty Street, police said.

The two juveniles gave up, but the driver ran toward State Street, according to police. The driver, Raheem Dashawn Sumra, was taken into custody on John Street, near West Avenue, police said.

Sumra was arrested on various charges, including risk of injury, reckless driving, larceny in the third degree, run from police, interfere/resist, evading responsibility: serious injury and operation of a motor vehicle without a license.

The juveniles were released to their guardians, according to police. No one was injured.
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One of Editor & Publishers 10 That Do It Right 2021
Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 12/5/2019 (958 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Outer space on stage

Three astronauts set out for Mars in a last-ditch effort to save the human race following earths self-destruction in a new play on now at Prairie Theatre Exchange. Red Earth is the companion piece to Winnipeg graphic novelist GMB Chomichuks new work of the same name. The play runs through Saturday.

Thrones away from home

Are you a Game of Thrones fanatic who doesnt have HBO or doesnt want to watch it alone? The Handsome Daughter (61 Sherbrook St.) will be screening new episodes as they air tonight and next Sunday at 9 p.m. so you wont miss a minute of whats happening in Westeros. Admission is free.

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Indigenous celebration

Manitoba Ahbee  an Indigenous arts, culture, and music celebration  kicks off its 14th annual festival Wednesday at noon with a sacred fire at The Forks Oodena Circle. The celebration continues through Sunday with programming at the RBC Convention Centre, University of Winnipeg, and Club Regent Event Centre.

Get growing

The University of Winnipeg is bringing plants and people together this Thursday with their fourth-annual Biology Plant Giveaway. Approximately 1,500 flowering and seeding plants, all cultivated by students, will be handed out free at the universitys Riddell Hall Atrium, beginning at 11:30 a.m.

Cheer Valour to victory

Did you miss Valour FCs first two home matches? Youve got another chance to get your footy fix Thursday as the new Canadian Premier League team clashes with Hamiltons Forge FC at IG Field at 6 p.m. Tickets start at about $20 and are available through Ticketmaster.

Rockin contenders

Stakes will be high for the five local bands hitting the Park Theatre (698 Osborne St.), stage Friday. All will be looking to snag a spot at this Augusts Rockin the Fields of Minnedosa music festival, along with a number of other prizes. The show begins at 8 p.m.; tickets are $10, available at myparktheatre.com.

The long con

KeyCon  Manitobas largest and longest-running science fiction and fantasy convention  is back for its 36th year, beginning Friday at the Radisson Hotel (288 Portage Ave.). Festivities include an art show, tabletop gaming, a marketplace, film screenings, writing workshops, and more.
I may never think of Winnipeg  and some of my fellow Winnipeggers  quite the same again.

Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 10/5/2019 (960 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

I may never think of Winnipeg  and some of my fellow Winnipeggers  quite the same again.

Last month, Manitoba Health released data that showed only 67 per cent of children born in 2008 received the recommended two doses of measles vaccine. In Fort Garry and parts of St. Vital, it's even lower, at 58 and 55 per cent, respectively.

This is below both the provincial average of 73 per cent, and considerably less than the recommended 90 to 95 per cent rate necessary to achieve the desired "herd immunity" that is necessary to effectively eradicate a highly contagious disease.

Only 67 per cent per cent of Winnipeg children born in 2008 received the recommended two doses of measles vaccine. (Seth Wenig / The Associated Press files)

In the wake of the publication of that data, it seemed that everyone was talking about measles vaccination. That's not hard to understand; similar low-vaccination trends have led to significant measles outbreaks all over the world  including in Canada, where Vancouver Island, Montreal and Ottawa have joined the ranks of affected communities.

Thankfully, Winnipeg has yet to join that list  there have been only a few confirmed cases in recent years  but health officials warn that with our alarmingly low rates of vaccination, we could certainly see an outbreak at almost any time.

Even with data showing that my city has low rates of vaccination, and that my neighbourhood is adjacent to two areas that have dangerously low rates of coverage, this is a hard story for most of us to personalize. When everyone in your family has been vaccinated (we double-checked, just to make sure), it's easy to feel that there is no immediate threat. But then two things happened.

More than 110,000 people, mostly young children, died from measles in 2017.

First, I learned from idle neighborhood gossip the identities of a handful of families who had chosen not to vaccinate their children. The mere discovery of that information was a disquieting experience because I have found that once you hear it, it changes the way you think about people.

Only once have I participated in a longer debate about the anti-vaxxer movement with someone I knew well. Emboldened by a constant flow of dangerously erroneous online information, this person was convinced that vaccines cause autism and often lead to death. She was convinced it was a conspiracy involving government and pharmaceutical companies. And she was completely certain that someone in her family had been fatally harmed by a vaccine.

Measles vaccination rates Percentage of 2008 birth cohort receiving 2 of 2 doses 0 % 50 60 70 80 100 Seven Oaks Inkster Transcona St. James Downtown Assiniboine South St. Vital St. Vital North 55% Fort Garry South 58% Source: Winnipeg Regional Health Authority Measles vaccination rates Percentage of 2008 birth cohort receiving 2 of 2 doses 0 % 50 60 70 80 100 Seven Oaks Inkster Transcona St. James Downtown Assiniboine South St. Vital St. Vital North 55% Fort Garry South 58% Source: Winnipeg Regional Health Authority Seven Oaks Inkster Measles vaccination rates Percentage of 2008 birth cohort receiving 2 of 2 doses Transcona St. James Downtown Assiniboine South 0 % 50 60 70 80 100 St. Vital St. Vital North 55% Fort Garry South 58% Source: Winnipeg Regional Health Authority

No matter how many times I tried to walk her through the history of the issue and the incontrovertible evidence that vaccines are not dangerous, she would not be dissuaded. I saw this friend regularly for several more years but our relationship was never the same. I have my fingers crossed that I do not have to engage in any similar debates with other people I know.

The second thing that happened was reading a recent article in the New York Times describing the impact of a serious measles outbreak on parents of children who are too young to be properly vaccinated. The stories contained in that article were chilling, to say the least.

The Times piece opened with the story of a mother in Troy, Mich.  the site of a major measles outbreak  who recounted her growing anxiety about taking her five-month-old daughter anywhere in public. She talked about how she could no longer run mundane errands without "freaking out" about the possibility that her young daughter's still-developing immune system would be overrun by measles.

Another woman who works in suburan Detroit recounted how, after a day at work, she would not even pick up her baby until she had vigorously scrubbed her hands and changed out of her work clothes.

Low-vaccination trends have led to measles outbreaks all over the world, including Vancouver Island, Montreal and Ottawa. (Gillian Flaccus / The Associated Press files)

Acknowledging that many of the people who choose deliberately to avoid vaccinations often describe it as a personal choice, one mother from San Francisco who has an eight-week-old baby courageously spoke the ultimate truth. "It's not a choice for me, because my baby cannot be vaccinated," she told the Times. "The folks who are choosing not to vaccinate their children or be vaccinated themselves are putting my child in danger."

At first blush, you might accuse these mothers of overreacting to the measles threat. However, to put these stories into proper perspective, let's consider the nature and current impact of measles, and the irrefutable facts about vaccines.

Doctors warn that the measles virus, which lives in the nose and throat mucus of an infected person, is so virulent it can live in the air of a confined space for up to two hours after a carrier has coughed or sneezed. Although virtually eradicated by the year 2000 through the use of vaccinations, measles has made a vengeful comeback thanks to the anti-vax movement: more than 110,000 people, mostly young children, died from measles in 2017.

Simply put, this is one extremely dangerous, extremely nasty virus.

Now on to the truth about vaccines. There is no scientific evidence to support the idea that vaccines are, in and of themselves, harmful. They do not cause autism. One flawed 1998 study that tried to link vaccines and autism has since been soundly denounced and disproven. Meanwhile, the World Health Organization estimates that nearly 10 million lives worldwide were saved by vaccines in the last decade alone.

Health officials believe only a very small percentage of those people who do not vaccinate their children are militant anti-vaxxers. It's more likely that people are lazy, or just generally uncomfortable about the idea of vaccinating their kids because they are surrounded by so much dangerously misguided information. And there are others for whom the decision is faith-based.

For those in the final category, let's be completely clear: although some of the base formulations for vaccines do contain substances that are by religious definition objectionable to some, the world's leading Jewish and Islamic scholars, along with the Vatican, have unequivocally declared vaccines to be acceptable within the confines of their faiths.

Which brings us all the way back to Canada and places like Winnipeg, where through ignorance or unbridled fear, or a misinterpretation of the tenets of their faith, parents are not vaccinating their children. These parents should know that they are not only threatening the lives of their own children, they are also posing a danger to other children too young to be vaccinated.

They should also know the threat they pose to society will, at some point, provoke a rather harsh response from government.

There is no scientific evidence to support the idea that vaccines are, in and of themselves, harmful. They do not cause autism. One flawed 1998 study that tried to link vaccines and autism has since been soundly denounced and disproven.

Ontario and New Brunswick already require proof of vaccination for admission to public schools. British Columbia doesn't go that far, but it does require disclosure of vaccine status. Likely because we have not seen a measles outbreak yet, Manitoba has no policies in place to require children to be vaccinated.

Health officials and physicians' groups are still debating the ethics of mandatory vaccinations, but it's clear that this and other provinces without any measures in place are likely just one major outbreak away from taking a firmer approach.

Misguided anti-vaxxers and misinformed libertarians may continue to argue that it is their choice to forgo vaccinations. But in making that choice, they will also be choosing a future in which they may be ostracized, segregated and shamed because the threat they pose is greater than any principle of personal choice.

When I think about how that future is going to affect the people I know who have chosen not to vaccinate their children, I have only one piece of advice: please reconsider your choice.

dan.lett@freepress.mb.ca

Dan Lett | Not for Attribution A weekly look at politics close to home and around the world that is sent every Tuesday. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement.
Something kicks in for Kelli Thelen when a patient comes through the emergency room doors at Winona Health.

Call it a primal instinct, call it second nature  its a force within her telling her she knows exactly what to do to take control and offer help.

Starting off, of course, there was anxiety, like, How am I going to treat this person, their needs? Thelen said. But it does, it just kicks in. Were here to help, were going to be their first step, and were going to get this person to where they need to be  it brings you an entirely different sense of confidence.

Thelen was nominated for outstanding service in the La Crosse and Winona areas as part of Nurses: The Heart of Health Care, sponsored by the River Valley Media Group honoring those in the nursing profession.

Her dreams of becoming a nurse date back to high school, she recalled, during which she watched episodes of the 1990s television show Trauma: Life in the E.R.

But it wasnt just the dramaticized version of the job she wanted to live out  her mother dealt with chronic illnesses, and she observed visits from first responders with admiration.

It was always pretty incredible, and I always wanted to be a part of that, Thelen said, that they could just stop what they were doing at home and just run out and go help people.

In addition to her 14 years as a nurse at Winona Health, Thelen also serves as a volunteer first responder for her hometown of Rollingstone, Minn. There, as in her job as an ER nurse for the past four years, shes on the front lines.

And in a community as small as Rollingstone  even in one the size of Winona  its challenging to realize that the person in need, in a crisis, is reasonably likely to be someone you know. But that, she said, can also be a good thing.

They see a familiar face, and they say, Im so glad youre here; somebody I know, Thelen said.

Thelen splits her time between Winona Healths ER and intensive care departments. The pace of the two jobs are quite different, she said: the emergency room requires prioritization and thinking on your feet, while the ICU provides opportunities for extended quality time with one or two patients.

It was there, she said, that she encountered a moment that made her truly proud to be a nurse. Helping an elderly woman transition into comfort care, or the care that readies patients for the end of life, she looked around at the room full of family and felt the deep emotions that surface during such a time.

To be able to assure them that their loved one is getting the best care they can, and to exchange hugs even during a time of despair, she said, is powerful.

Ive had patients with full rooms of family, and you can just feel the love, and Ive also had patients where theyre the only one in there. Its just you and the patient, Thelen said. Knowing you can be with that patient so theyre not dying alone  its a difficult feeling, but its also very rewarding.

Thelen said she often hears that she does the job no one else wants to do. And there are days when it certainly feels true, when shes not sure if she has the stomach for something on a given day, or when she needs to take a step back and catch a breath of fresh air with her family, by hiking, bike-riding or canoeing.

But every day, she understands how lucky she is to be a nurse.

There are times when, at the end of a code, it almost still puts me in awe, Thelen said. Im like, We did that! You know, were making a difference in peoples lives.

Kelli Thelen Employer: Winona Health Position: Emergency room and intensive-care unit nurse Years at Winona Health: 14 Fun fact: Thelen also serves as a volunteer first responder for her hometown of Rollingstone, Minn.

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Electronic medical or health records (EMRs) are the computer programs now in almost every doctors office. They have become not a boon  but a bane  for both doctor and patient, and boondoggle to the tune of $36 billion dollars of federal (our) money. This was the assessment of a very well researched article by Erika Fry of Fortune magazine and Fred Schulte of Kaiser Health News called Death by a Thousand Clicks: Where Electronic Health Records Went Wrong in a 2019 issue of Fortune magazine.

And this aint news. An editorial from the Oct. 22, 2015, New England Journal of Medicine by Lisa Rosenbaum, M.D. dissects the issues of EMRs even more clearly. How many of us have been in an office with the doc and the machine with the glass knothole? Who gets the most attention, you or the computer? That is only one of the problems defined by the Clicks research. The term for these computer programs should not be EHRs, as they are sometimes called, but EMRs, because they record not just the state of your health but all of your medical maladies.

A summary article from NPR news service cited five main points made by the lengthy, in-depth Clicks piece. First was patient harm in the form or alarming reports of deaths, serious injuries and near misses (thousands of them) from software glitches and a host of system flaws. A study from the journal Health Affairs calculated 3,243 medication errors were linked to EMR-usability issues at three pediatric hospitals from 2012-2017. Some of the horror stories in the article are shocking, like a 47-year-old woman who had head pain from a brain vessel ready to rupture (aneurysm). The order for a head/brain scan was never sent via EMR to the lab (computer glitch) so it wasnt done. She died.

NPR next lists opportunities for fraud, where the software can be used to overcharge by upcoding, creating fraudulent charges to Medicare and Medicaid. Two software makers have paid a total of over $200 million to settle fraud allegations. I will tell you from my experience with two different Cerner and one Epic computer programs, the up or down coding conflict is far more complex, because it involves coders, who read every single note dictated or typed, and charge what they think it should cost, according to their rules. This is in an era where privacy violations of computer charts result in firings of nurses and other providers. Charges are by diagnosis, visit time and complexity, and procedure codes, which the coders choose, often overrule the providers clicks (key word).

The third issue cited is gaps in interoperability between and among systems. The fantasy was to create a computerized medical history that would be shared seamlessly among computers. But the officials running the program permitted hundreds of competing firms to sell medical records software that was unable to exchange information with other systems! The requirements to be developed and included in the plan were too extensive to get straight in the short time frame allowed before implementation.

The fourth failure was the creation of an incredible time and training burden for doctors to learn the operations, act as data input clerks, and still pay attention to the patients problems. Negatives listed from the 2015 editorial included hours consumed by burdensome data entry unrelated to patient care, small practices bankrupted, massive intrusions into the patient relationship and physicians burning out and retiring early. No other industry has been under a universal mandate to adopt a new technology before its effects are fully understood, and before it has reached a level of usability acceptable to its core users. No computer company has come to docs to ask them what they need. One study showed that of an 11.4 hour workday, 5.1 hours were with patients and 5.9 with the EMR.

The fifth problem listed a web of secrets, meaning the sellers of the electronic records have imposed contract language that constitutes a gag clause to prevent the buyers of the product from speaking out about the safety issues that arise from the disastrous software designs and installations. Some hospitals resist giving and withhold records from injured patients and families. Joe Biden, vice president when the EMR bill was signed, later railed against the infuriating challenge of getting his son Beaus records from one hospital to another for his stage 4 brain cancer.

Seema Verma, the current head of Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, was with her doctor husband, when he collapsed at an airport in 2017 after a vacation. She spent hours calling his Indiana doctors to piece together his records, which should have been in one place. This exposed the grave dangers of the current flawed systems.

Another negative point reported by the TV program 60 Minutes is ransom-ware viruses. These have been attacking many hospital systems with threats to wipe out all EMR records if money isnt paid.

Lastly, from the journal editorial, The purpose of widespread EHR adoption, as envisioned by the Obama administration, was to permit a transition from volume based (how many patients seen) to a value based system. What the computer note would say dictated the quality of care and level of compensation. My personal bias is and always has been that the bloody mess was contrived by the medical insurance companies so they could pay doctors less and their shareholders more. I could be wrong  or not.

Oh, yes. The Clicks article cited an emergency room study which showed 4,000 computer clicks was the average an ER doc makes over the course of a single shift. If it is death by a thousand clicks, would they lose four doctors each shift? Time to shut it down, clickety-split.

Frank A. Bures is a semi-retired dermatologist in Winona.

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Many items Dan Lilla mentioned in a recent editorial in the Winona Daily News (April 14, 2019) are contrary to what he's told me and are not factual. The town board and the fire department did little to nothing to prevent the recent disastrous flood.

When I questioned him regarding a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers study, he downplayed even applying. Instead, he said the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers indicated there isn't enough value in the town to protect and therefore didn't merit applying. Yet, in his editorial, he readily pointed out that the Town of Dodge had applied.

There exists 90 municipal applicants nationwide for the federal interest determination (FID) study under the Continuing Authorities Program, Section 205 Flood Control, administered by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The FID study is 100% federally funded.

The FID study occurs prior to a feasibility study, which requires a 65% federal, 35% sponsor (i.e., the Town of Dodge) cost share. There is no hydrology study.

The town is not high on the list for the FID study nor is it moving up on the list. According to the St. Paul District, it isn't likely the town will be chosen for the FID study.

Reference was made to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Municipal Flood Control Grant Program. This program does not assist with constructing a berm or dike.

There is no study required for program areas of assistance. The program requires a 50% state, 50% sponsor (the Town of Dodge) cost share. The DNR confirmed that the Town of Dodge has not applied.

The Department of Military Affairs, Wisconsin Emergency Management Administration (WEMA) has available flood control grants. Their priority is property acquisition of floodplain structures, not elevating (raising) structures.

The National Weather Service confirmed that moderate flooding in Dodge occurs at 11 feet and major flooding occurs at 12 feet. The NWS issued their first flood warning at 12:05 p.m. on March 12 and their second flood warning (upgrade) at 10:40 a.m. on March 13 for moderate flooding.

The warnings alerted the town board that the Trempealeau River in Dodge was expected to crest at over 11 feet within three to four days. Yet, they simply chose not to take action, wouldn't even discuss sandbagging and neglected to provide notice to residents of the impending flood.

There were many mistakes made by the town board and fire department during the recent disastrous flood. It is my sincere hope the town board and the fire department learn from those mistakes in order to help prevent another community member from enduring what my daughter and I have endured.

As a property-tax payer and long-time community member, my daughter and I have a right to expect better. We have a right to expect to be protected and safe. We have a right to expect a permanent, long-term solution. We have a right to not constantly be in fear of the next flood.

The town board and the fire department must do more. They must do more in making our community and its members safer and better protected. The town board must offer guidance and direction, they must take initiative, in helping to create a stronger community for all of its members.

To be fair and clear, the fire department and town board have helped prepare for and conducted sandbagging efforts with previous floods. And I have always helped with sandbagging for every one of them. But the lack of help and empathy with the March 2019 flood is difficult to understand and fathom.

The next flood is not a matter of if, it is a matter of when. To the town board: What are you doing to adequately prepare our town to be ready and resilient?

Keith Jereczek, Town of Dodge

Keith Jereczek is a Town of Dodge resident.

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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).
The two students will present their findings to the community stakeholders, who will hopefully then implement some changes, they said. Based on their findings, they recommended improving awareness of available services and expanding mental health assistance.

Ayar said Dells nonprofit Beacon House originally asked him to study poverty and homelessness in the area. The first meeting with stakeholders convinced him that a survey was necessary to understand the issue after attendees voiced various assumptions about homeless people.

Despite some pressure to study the Baraboo area, Ayar said hes avoiding that while the issue remains hotly debated since the village of West Baraboo considered allowing homeless shelters in residential districts. He does, however, think a similar study should focus on Baraboo and said he might consider doing one in the near future.

The survey is meant to give community members a foundation of data to work from, he said, possibly giving shelter organizers a better chance of gaining community acceptance. So far, he was struck by the majority of respondents being women, often with children  a finding that contradicts common stereotypes.

This is almost like a humanitarian crisis, he said.
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Ltd., Bell Textron Canada International Inc., Bell Textron Canada Limited/Limitee, Bell Textron Inc., Bell Textron Korea Inc., Bell Textron Miami Inc, Bell Textron Prague a.s., Bell Textron Rhode Island Inc., Bell Textron Services Inc, Bell Textron Supply Center BV, Bell Textron Technical Services Inc., Benzlers, Brazaco Mapri Industrias, Burkland, Cessna Aircraft Company, Cessna Citation European Service Center SAS, Cessna Dusseldorf Citation Service Center GmbH, Cessna Finance Corporation, Cessna Finance Export Corporation, Cessna Mexico S de RL de CV, Cessna Spanish Citation Service Center SLU, Cessna Zurich Citation Service Center GmbH, Citation Parts Distribution International Inc., Cushman Inc., Datacom Technologies, David Brown Group, Doncaster Citation Service Centre Limited, E-Z-GO Canada Limited, Energy Manufacturing, Flexalloy, HBC LLC, Hawker Beech de Mexico S de RL de CV, Hawker Beechcraft Argentina SA, Howe & Howe Inc., Howe and Howe Technologies, Industrial Technology Inc., InteSys Technologies, International Product Support Inc., KSB Annecy SAS, Kautex (Changchun) Plastics Technology Co. Ltd., Kautex (Chongqing) Plastic Technology Co. Ltd., Kautex (Guangzhou) Plastic Technology Co. Ltd., Kautex (Pinghu) Plastic Technology Co. Ltd., Kautex (Shanghai) Plastic Technology Co. Ltd., Kautex (Wuhan) Plastic Technology Co. Ltd., Kautex Corporation, Kautex Craiova srl, Kautex Germany Holding GmbH, Kautex Inc., Kautex Japan KK, Kautex Shanghai GmbH, Kautex Textron (UK) Limited, Kautex Textron Benelux BVBA, Kautex Textron Bohemia spol sro, Kautex Textron CVS Limited, Kautex Textron GmbH & Co. KG, Kautex Textron Iberica SL, Kautex Textron Italia Srl, Kautex Textron Management Services Company de Puebla S. de RL de CV, Kautex Textron Portugal  Produtos Plasticos Sociedade Unipessoal Lda., Kautex Textron de Mexico S de RL de CV, Kautex Textron do Brasil Ltda., Kautex of Georgia Inc., Kaywood Products Corp., Klauke, LCI Corporation International, LLC Textron RUS, Maag, McCord Corporation, Mechtronix, Medical Numerics Inc., Midland Industrial Plastics, MillenWorks, MillenWorks Themed Technologies, MotorFist LLC, OPINICUS Simulation and Training Services LLC, OmniQuip International, Opinicus, Optical Boring Co., Opto-Electronics, Opto-Electronics Inc., Overwatch Systems Ltd., PEINER Umformtechnik, Pirelli Tyres - General Rubber Goods (GRG) division, Premiair Aviation Maintenance Pty Ltd, Progressive Electronics, Ransomes, Ransomes Inc., Ransomes Investment LLC, Ransomes Jacobsen France SAS, Ransomes Jacobsen Limited, Ransomes Limited, Ransomes Pensions Trustee Company Limited, Replacement Part Solutions LLC, Response Technologies LLC, Rotor Blades Limited, Sukosim Verbindungselemente, TRU Simulation & Training Spain SL, TRU Simulation + Training Inc., TRU Simulation + Training LLC, TekGPS Engineering Srl, Textron Airland LLC, Textron Atlantic LLC, Textron Aviation Australia Pty. Ltd., Textron Aviation Canada Ltd., Textron Aviation Defense LLC, Textron Aviation Finance Corporation, Textron Aviation Inc., Textron Aviation Prague Service Center sro, Textron Aviation Rhode Island Inc., Textron Aviation Services de Mexico S de RL de CV, Textron Capital BV, Textron Communications Inc., Textron Far East Pte. Ltd., Textron Finance Holding Company, Textron Financial Corporation, Textron Financial Corporation Receivables Trust 2002-CP-2, Textron Fluid and Power Inc., Textron France Holding SAS, Textron France SAS, Textron Global Services Inc., Textron Ground Support Equipment Inc., Textron Ground Support Equipment UK Limited, Textron IPMP Inc., Textron India Private Limited, Textron Innovations Inc., Textron International Inc., Textron International Mexico S de RL de CV, Textron Limited, Textron Management Services Inc., Textron Motors GmbH, Textron Motors North America Inc., Textron Outdoor Power Equipment Inc., Textron Realty Corporation, Textron Shared Service Centre (Canada) Inc., Textron Specialized Vehicles Inc., Textron Sweden AB, Textron Systems Australia Holding Pty Ltd, Textron Systems Australia Pty Ltd, Textron Systems Canada Inc., Textron Systems Corporation, Textron Systems Electronic Systems UK (Holdings) Limited, Textron Systems Electronic Systems UK Limited, Textron Trading (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Textron UK Pension Trustee Limited, Textron Verwaltungs-GmbH, Turbine Engine Components Textron (Newington Operations) Inc., United Industrial Corporation, Westminster Insurance Company, Williams Machine & Tool, Wuxi Textron Specialized Vehicles Co. Ltd., and Zhenjiang Bell Textron Aviation Services Limited.
The following companies are subsidiares of Dover: Accelerated Production Systems, Acme Elevator, Advansor A/S, Advansor Dover International (Poland) sp. z o.o, Advansor Germany GmbH, Alfred Fueling Systems Holdco Ltd., Alfred Fueling Systems Inc., Alfred Fueling Systems Intermediate Holdco Ltd., All-Flo Pump Company, Anman LLC, Anthony Equity Holdings Inc., Anthony Holdings Inc., Anthony Inc., Anthony International, Anthony International Foreign Sales Corp., Anthony International Holding Company, Anthony Mexico Holdings LLC, Anthony North Holdco Inc., Anthony Specialty Glass LLC, Anthony TemperBent GP LLC, Auto Glanz Solutions LLC, Automatik Grundstucksverwaltungs GmbH & Co. KG, Automatik Plastics Machinery (Taiwan) Ltd., BSC Filters Limited, Background2 Limited, Belanger, Belanger Inc., Belvac Middle East FZE, Belvac Production Machinery Inc., Blackmer, BlitzRotary GmbH, Butler Engineering and Marketing S.P.A., CDS Visual, CEP Liquidation LLC, CP Formation LLC, CPC Europe Inc., CPI Products Inc., Caldera, Canada Organization & Development LLC, Chief Automotive Technologies (Shanghai) Trading Company Ltd., Chippewa Square Captive Insurance Company, Colder Products Company, Colder Products Company GmbH, Colder Products Company LTD, Cook Compression BV, Cook Compression LLC, Cook Compression Limited, Cook-MFS Inc., DD1 Inc., DDI Properties Inc., DE-STA-CO Benelux B.V., DE-STA-CO FRANCE, DE-STA-CO Shanghai Co. Ltd., DESTACO UK Limited, DFH Corporation, DFS Netherlands B.V., DSR BZ Holdings LLC, Datamax International Corp, De Sta Co (Asia) Company Limited, De-Sta-Co Cylinders Inc., DeStaCo Europe GmbH, Delaware Capital Formation Inc., Delaware Capital Holdings Inc., Dover (China) Investment Co. Ltd., Dover (Schweiz) Holding GmbH, Dover (Shanghai) Industrial Co. Ltd., Dover (Shenzhen) Industrial Equipment Manufacturing Co. Ltd., Dover (Suzhou) Industrial Equipment Manufacturing Co. Ltd., Dover Asia Trading Private Ltd., Dover Australia Holdings Pty Limited, Dover Business Services EMEA Limited, Dover Business Services LLC, Dover Business Services Philippines Corporation, Dover CLP Formation Limited Partnership, Dover CR spol s r.o., Dover Canada Holdings ULC, Dover Canada Operations ULC, Dover Corporation Regional Headquarters, Dover DEI Services Inc., Dover Denmark Holdings ApS, Dover EMEA FZCO, Dover Energy UK Ltd, Dover Engineered Products Segment Inc., Dover Europe Inc., Dover Europe Sarl, Dover Fluids UK Ltd, Dover France Holdings, Dover France Participations, Dover France Technologies, Dover Fueling Solutions Segment Inc., Dover Fueling Solutions UK Limited, Dover Germany GmbH, Dover Global Holdings LLC, Dover Holdings de Mexico S.A. de C.V., Dover Imaging & Identification Segment Inc., Dover India Pvt. Ltd., Dover Intercompany Services UK Limited, Dover International B.V., Dover International Operations Inc., Dover International Ventures Inc., Dover International Ventures Tunisia S.a.r.l., Dover International ithalat ihracat ve Pazarlama Limited Sirketi, Dover Italy Holdings S.r.l., Dover Luxembourg Finance Sarl, Dover Luxembourg Participations Sarl, Dover Luxembourg S.a.r.l., Dover Luxembourg Services Sarl, Dover Operations South Africa (Pty) Ltd, Dover Overseas Ventures Inc., Dover Pumps & Process Solutions Segment Inc., Dover Refrigeration & Food Equipment Segment Inc., Dover Refrigeration & Food Equipment UK Ltd, Dover Resources International de Mexico S. de R.L. C.V., Dover Solutions Colombia SAS, Dover Southeast Asia (Thailand) Ltd., Dover Spain Holdings S.L., Dover UK Pensions Limited, Dover WSCR Holding LLC, Dover WSCR LLC, Dover do Brasil Ltda., Dow-Key Microwave Corporation, Dresser Wayne Data Technology (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Dresser Wayne Fuel Equipment (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., EOA Systems Inc., Ebs-Ray Holdings Pty Ltd, Ebs-Ray Industries Pty. Ltd., Ebs-Ray Pumps Pty. Ltd., Em-tec, Espy, Ettlinger, Ettlinger Kunststoffmaschinen GmbH, Fairbanks Environmental Limited, Fibrelite Composites Limited, Fibresec Holdings Limited, Fibresec Limited, Finder, GAL LLC, GIIER LLC, Gala Industries, Gala Kunststoff-und Kautschukmaschinen GmbH, Guangdong Tokheim LIYUAN Oil Industry Technology Limited Company, Highland Park Insurance Company, Hill PHOENIX Inc., Hill PHOENIX WIC LLC, Hill Phoenix Costa Rica Sociedad De Responsabilidad Limitada, Hill Phoenix El Salvador Limitada de Capital Variable, Hill Phoenix Guatemala Sociedad Anonima, Hill Phoenix Honduras Sociedad Anonima, Hill Phoenix Nicaragua Sociedad Anonima, Hill Phoenix de Mexico S.A. de C.V., Hiltap Fittings Ltd., Hydro Systems Company, Hydro Systems Europe Ltd., Hydronova Australia-NZ Pty Ltd, Industrial Motion Control LLC, Innovative Control Systems, Innovative Control Systems Inc., Inpro/Seal LLC, JK Group, JK Group S.P.A., JK Group USA Inc., K S Boca Inc., K&L Microwave DR Inc., K&L Microwave Inc., KPS (Beijing) Petroleum Equipment Trading Co Ltd., KPS Fueling Solutions Sdn. Bhd., KPS Hong Kong Holding Limited, KPS UK Limited, KS Formation Inc., KS Liquidation Inc., KSLP Liquidation L.P., Kiian Digital (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Knappco LLC, Knowles Electronics, LIQAL, Liquip, Liquip International Pty Limited, MAAG, MARKEM FZ SA, MARKEM-IMAJE Corporation, MIP Holdings Inc., MS Printing Solutions, MS Printing Solutions S.R.L., Maag Automatik GmbH, Maag Automatik Plastics Machinery (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Maag Gala Inc., Maag Italy S.R.L., Maag Pump Systems, Maag Pump Systems (US) Inc., Maag Pump Systems AG, Maag Reduction Inc., Maag Service (Malaysia) Sdn. Bdn., Maag Systems (Thailand) Limited, Marathon Equipment Company (Delaware), Markem Imaje Center of Competencies Spain S.L.U., Markem-Imaje, Markem-Imaje (China) Co. Limited, Markem-Imaje - Unipessoal Lda, Markem-Imaje A/S, Markem-Imaje AB, Markem-Imaje AG, Markem-Imaje AS, Markem-Imaje B.V., Markem-Imaje CSAT GmbH, Markem-Imaje Co. Ltd., Markem-Imaje GmbH, Markem-Imaje Holding, Markem-Imaje Identificacao de Produtos Ltda., Markem-Imaje Inc., Markem-Imaje India Private Limited, Markem-Imaje Industries, Markem-Imaje Industries Limited, Markem-Imaje KK, Markem-Imaje LLC, Markem-Imaje Limited, Markem-Imaje Limited, Markem-Imaje Ltd., Markem-Imaje N.V., Markem-Imaje Oy, Markem-Imaje Philippines Corporation, Markem-Imaje Pty Ltd, Markem-Imaje S.A., Markem-Imaje S.A. de C.V., Markem-Imaje S.r.l., Markem-Imaje SAS, Markem-Imaje Sdn Bhd, Markem-Imaje Singapore Pte. Ltd., Markem-Imaje Spain S.A.U, Markpoint Holding AB, Midland Manufacturing LLC, Mouvex, Northern Lights (Nevada) Inc., Northern Lights Funding LP, Northern Lights Investments LLC, Nova Controls Inc., OK International, OK International (UK) Ltd., OK International Holdings Inc., OK International Inc., OPW Engineered Systems Inc., OPW Fluid Transfer Group Europe B.V., OPW Fluid Transfer Solutions (Jiang Su) Co. Ltd., OPW Fluids Group Inc., OPW France, OPW Fuel Management Systems Inc., OPW Fueling Components (SuZhou) Co. Ltd., OPW Fueling Components LLC, OPW Iberia Sociedad Limitada, OPW Malaysia Sdn. Bhd., OPW Slovakia s.r.o., OPW Sweden AB, Officine Meccaniche Sirio S.R.L., PDQ Manufacturing, PDQ Manufacturing Inc., PISCES by OPW Inc., PSD Codax Holdings Limited, PSD Codax Limited, PSG (Shanghai) Co. Ltd, PSG (Tianjin) Co. Ltd., PSG California LLC, PSG Germany GmbH, Petro Vend Sp. z o.o., Pike Machine Products Inc., Pole/Zero Acquisition Inc., Precision Brasil Equipamentos E Servicos Para Postos De Combustiveis Ltda., Precision Service - Servicos De Manutencao E Instalacao De Postos De Abastecimento De Combustivel Ltda., Production Control Services, Pump Management Services Co. LLC, RAV Equipos Espana S.L., RAV France, Ravaglioli Deutschland GmbH, Ravaglioli S.P.A., Reduction Engineering GmbH, Revod Corporation, Revod Luxembourg S.a.r.l., Revod SAS, Revod Singapore Holdings Pte. Ltd, Revod Sweden AB, Robohand Inc., Rosario, Rosario Handel B.V., Rotary Lift Consolidated (Haimen) Co. Ltd, SE Liquidation LLC, SWEP Germany GmbH, SWEP Malaysia Sdn. Bhd., SWEP North America Inc., SWEP Slovakia s.r.o., SWEP Technology (Suzhou) Co. Ltd., Seabiscuit Motorsports Inc., Simmons Sirvey Corporation, So. Cal. Soft-Pak, So. Cal. Soft-Pak Incorporated, Solaris Laser, Solaris Laser S.A., Somero Enterprises, Sound Solutions, Space S.R.L., Spirit, Start Italiana Petrol Cihazlari Sanayi Ticaret Anonim Sirketi, Start Italiana S.R.L., Swep Energy Oy, Swep International A.B., Swep Japan K.K., Sys-Tech Solutions, Sys-Tech Solutions Inc., Systech GB Limited, Systech Shanghai Consulting Company Limited, TQC Quantium Quality S.A. de C.V., TTSI III Inc., TWG Canada Consolidated Inc., TXHI LLC, Tartan Textile Services Inc., The Heil Co., Tokheim Belgium, Tokheim China Company Limited, Tokheim GmbH, Tokheim Group, Tokheim Hengshan Technologies (Guangzhou) Co. Ltd., Tokheim Holding B.V., Tokheim India Private Limited, Tokheim Sofitam Applications, Trans - Logistic Group S.R.L., Triton Systems, Tulsa Winch Inc., UPCO Inc., US Synthetic, Unattended Payment Solutions LLC, Unified Brands, Unified Brands Inc., Val TemperBent Glass L.P., Vectron Frequency Devices (Shanghai) Co. Ltd, Vehicle Service Group LLC, Vehicle Service Group UK Limited, Vos Food Store Equipment Ltd., WSCR Corp., Warn Automotive LLC, Warn Industries, Waukesha Bearings, Waukesha Bearings Corporation, Waukesha Bearings Limited, Waukesha Bearings Russia LLC, Wayne Fuel Management UK Ltd., Wayne Fueling Systems, Wayne Fueling Systems (Rus) Limited Liability Company, Wayne Fueling Systems Australia Pty Ltd, Wayne Fueling Systems Canada ULC, Wayne Fueling Systems Deutschland GmbH, Wayne Fueling Systems Italia S.R.L., Wayne Fueling Systems LLC, Wayne Fueling Systems Ltd., Wayne Fueling Systems Sweden AB, Wayne Fueling Systems UK Holdco Ltd., Wayne Industria e Comercio Ltda., WellMark, XanTec Steuerungs- und EDV-Technik GmbH, and em-tec GmbH.
Zalando SE operates as an online fashion and lifestyle retailer. It offers a range of products, including shoes, apparel, accessories, and beauty products for women, men, and children, as well as free delivery and returns services. The company also sells its products through its Zalando Lounge; and brick-and-mortar stores in Berlin, Frankfurt, Cologne, Leipzig, Hamburg, Hanover, MAnster, Stuttgart, Mannheim, and Ulm. It serves in Austria, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Luxemburg, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom. The company has a strategic partnership with Sephora SAS to create the online prestige beauty destination. Zalando SE was founded in 2008 and is headquartered in Berlin, Germany.

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Rogers Communications Inc. operates as a communications and media company in Canada. It operates through three segments: Wireless, Cable, and Media. The company offers mobile Internet access, wireless voice and enhanced voice, device and accessory financing, wireless home phone, device protection, text messaging, e-mail, global voice and data roaming, bridging landline, machine-to-machine and Internet of Things solutions, and advanced wireless solutions for businesses, as well as device delivery services; and postpaid and prepaid services under the Rogers, Fido, and chatr brands to approximately 10.9 million subscribers. It also provides Internet and WiFi services; smart home monitoring services, such as monitoring, security, automation, energy efficiency, and smart control through a smartphone app. In addition, the company offers local and network TV; on-demand television; cloud-based digital video recorders; voice-activated remote controls, and integrated apps; personal video recorders; linear and time-shifted programming; digital specialty channels; 4K television programming; and televised content on smartphones, tablets, and personal computers, as well as operates Ignite TV and Ignite TV app. Further, it provides residential and small business local telephony services; calling features, such as voicemail, call waiting, and long distance; voice, data networking, Internet protocol, and Ethernet services; private networking, Internet, IP voice, and cloud solutions; optical wave and multi-protocol label switching services; IT and network technologies; and cable access network services. The company also owns Toronto Blue Jays and the Rogers Centre event venue; and operates Sportsnet ONE, Sportsnet 360, Sportsnet World, Citytv, OMNI, FX (Canada), FXX (Canada), and OLN television networks, as well as 55 AM and FM radio stations. Rogers Communications Inc. was founded in 1960 and is headquartered in Toronto, Canada.

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Deutsche Post AG operates as a mail and logistics company in Germany, rest of Europe, the Americas, the Asia Pacific, the Middle East, and Africa. The company operates through five segments: Post & Parcel Germany; Express; Global Forwarding, Freight; Supply Chain; and eCommerce Solutions. The Post & Parcel Germany segment transports and delivers mail, letters, parcels, physical and hybrid letters, special products for merchandize, and registered mail to private and business customers. It also provides additional services, such as registered mail, cash on delivery, and insured items. The Express segment transport and offers time-definite international (TDI) shipments comprising urgent documents and goods. The Global Forwarding, Freight segment transports goods by air, ocean, and overland; and offers multimodal and sector-specific solutions. This segment's business model is based on brokering transport services between customers and freight carriers. The Supply Chain segment provides contract logistics solutions, including warehousing and transport services; and value-added services, such as e-fulfilment, lead logistics partner, real estate solutions, service logistics, and packaging solutions for various industrial sectors. The eCommerce Solutions segment provides parcel delivery and cross-border non-TDI services. Deutsche Post AG is headquartered in Bonn, Germany.

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Wirecard AG engages in the provision of software and information technology for payment processing and issuing products in the field of outsourcing and white label industry. It operates through the following segments: Payment Processing and Risk Management (PP&RM); Acquiring and Issuing (A&I); and Call Center and Communication Services (CC&CS). The PP&RM segment refers to products and services related to electronic payment processing, risk management, and other value added services. The A&I segment offers settlement services for credit card sales for online and terminal payments. The CC&CS segment reports the complete value-added scope of its call center activities, with other products. The company was founded on May 6, 1999 and is headquartered in Munich, Germany.

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Enbridge Inc. operates as an energy infrastructure company. The company operates through five segments: Liquids Pipelines, Gas Transmission and Midstream, Gas Distribution and Storage, Renewable Power Generation, and Energy Services. The Liquids Pipelines segment operates pipelines and related terminals to transport various grades of crude oil and other liquid hydrocarbons in Canada and the United States. The Gas Transmission and Midstream segment invests in natural gas pipelines, and gathering and processing facilities in Canada and the United States. The Gas Distribution and Storage segment is involved in natural gas utility operations serving residential, commercial, and industrial customers in Ontario, as well as natural gas distribution and energy transportation activities in Quebec. The Renewable Power Generation segment operates power generating assets, such as wind, solar, geothermal, and waste heat recovery facilities; and transmission assets in North America and Europe. The Energy Services segment provides energy marketing services to refiners, producers, and other customers; and physical commodity marketing and logistical services in Canada and the United States. The company was formerly known as IPL Energy Inc. and changed its name to Enbridge Inc. in October 1998. Enbridge Inc. was founded in 1949 and is headquartered in Calgary, Canada.

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The following companies are subsidiares of Lennar: 360 Developers LLC, Alliance Financial Services Inc., Ann Arundel Farms Ltd., Aquaterra Utilities Inc., Arbor Mill Veteran Project 2018 LLC, Asbury Woods L.L.C., Astoria Options LLC, Autumn Creek Development Ltd., Aylon LLC, Azusa Associates LLC, B2 Milpitas LLC, BB Investment Holdings LLC, BCI Properties LLC, BMR Communities LLC, BMR Construction Inc., BMTD LLC, BPH I LLC, Bainebridge 249 LLC, Bay Colony Expansion 369 Ltd., Bellagio Lennar LLC, Belle Meade LEN Holdings LLC, Belle Meade Partners LLC, Black Mountain Ranch LLC, Blue Horizons Estates LLC, Bonterra Lennar LLC, Bramalea California Inc., Bressi Gardenlane LLC, Breton Park Lennar LLC, CAP IL 1 LLC, CL Ventures LLC, CML INACTIVE LLC, CML-MO HAF LLC, CML-MO HAF PARKING LLC, CP Block 6aS LLC, CP Block 8aS LLC, CP Block 9aS LLC, CP Center Apartments LLC, CP Center Garage LLC, CP Red Oak Partners Ltd., CP Vertical Development Co. 1 LLC, CP/HPS Development Co. GP LLC, CP/HPS Development Co.-C LLC, CPFE LLC, CPHP Development LLC, CalAtlantic Financial Services Inc., CalAtlantic Group, CalAtlantic Group Inc., CalAtlantic Homes of Arizona Inc., CalAtlantic Homes of Georgia Inc., CalAtlantic Homes of Texas Inc., CalAtlantic Homes of Washington Inc., CalAtlantic Mortgage Inc., CalAtlantic National Title Solutions LLC, CalAtlantic Title Agency LLC, CalAtlantic Title Group LLC, CalAtlantic Title Inc., CalAtlantic Title LLC, CalAtlantic Title of Maryland Inc., Camarillo Village Park LLC, Cambria L.L.C., Candlestick Retail Member LLC, Cardiovascular Medical Specialists LLC, Carolina Blue LLC, Carson 175 LLC, Cary Woods LLC, Casa Marina Development LLC, Central Park West Holdings LLC, Cherrytree II LLC, Club Bonterra Lennar LLC, Coco Palm 82 LLC, Colonial Heritage LLC, Columbia National Risk Retention Group Inc., Commonwealth Incentive Fee LLC, Concord Station LLP, Coventry L.L.C., Creekside Crossing L.L.C., Crest at Fondren Investor LLC, DBJ Holdings LLC, DCA Financial LLC, DTC Holdings of Florida LLC, Darcy-Joliet L.L.C., Durrell 33 LLC, EL Ventures LLC, EV LLC, Eagle Bend Commercial LLC, Eagle Home Mortgage LLC, Estates Seven LLC, Evergreen Village LLC, F&R QVI Home Investments USA LLC, FLORDADE LLC, Faria Preserve LLC, Fidelity Guaranty and Acceptance Corp., Fidelity Land LLC, Fox-Maple Associates LLC, Friendswood Development Company LLC, GDI MANAGER LLC, Garco Investments LLC, Greystone Construction Inc., Greystone Homes of Nevada Inc., Greystone Nevada Holdings LLC, Greystone Nevada LLC, Greywall Club L.L.C., HCC Investors LLC, HPS Development Co. LP, HPS Vertical Development Co. LLC, HPS Vertical Development Co.-B LP, HPS Vertical Development Co.-D/E LLC, HPS1 Block 1 LLC, HPS1 Block 48-1A LLC, HPS1 Block 48-1B LLC, HPS1 Block 48-2A LLC, HPS1 Block 48-2B LLC, HPS1 Block 48-3A LLC, HPS1 Block 48-3B LLC, HPS1 Block 50 LLC, HPS1 Block 51 LLC, HPS1 Block 52 LLC, HPS1 Block 53 LLC, HPS1 Block 54 LLC, HPS1 Block 55 LLC, HPS1 Block 56/57 LLC, HSP Arizona Inc., HTC Golf Club LLC, Hammocks Lennar LLC, Harbor Highlands Group LLC, Harveston LLC, Haverton L.L.C., Heathcote Commons LLC, Heritage Pkwy East Holdings LLC, Heritage of Auburn Hills L.L.C., Hewitts Landing Trustee LLC, Hingham Properties LLC, Huntley Venture L.L.C., Inactive Companies LLC, Independence L.L.C., Independence Orlando LLC, Isles at Bayshore Club LLC, KMC Real Estate Investors LLC, Kendall Hammocks Commercial LLC, Kentuckiana Medical Center LLC, Kingman Lennar LLC, LB/L  Duc III Antioch 330 LLC, LCD Asante LLC, LCI Downtown Doral Investor LLC, LCI North DeKalb Investor GP LLC, LCI North DeKalb Investor LP LLC, LEN - Belle Meade LLC, LEN - OBS Windemere LLC, LEN - Palm Vista LLC, LEN BPT Investor LLC, LEN Mirada Investor LLC, LEN Notarize Investor LLC, LEN OT Holdings LLC, LEN Paradise Cable LLC, LEN Paradise Operating LLC, LEN-CG South LLC, LEN-Cypress Mill LLC, LEN-Ryan 1 LLC, LEN-Touchstone LLC, LENH I LLC, LENNAR HOMES OF TENNESSEE LLC, LFS Holding Company LLC, LH Eastwind LLC, LHI Renaissance LLC, LMC 10th & Acoma Holdings LP, LMC 144th and Grant Investor LLC, LMC 2401 Blake Street Holdings LLC, LMC 2401 Blake Street Investor LLC, LMC 360 Acoma Holdings LP, LMC 410 S Wabash Holdings LLC, LMC 808 Gateway Holdings LLC, LMC 808 Gateway Investor LLC, LMC 8th Avenue Apartment Investor LLC, LMC 990 Bannock Holdings LLC, LMC Axis Westminster Holdings LLC, LMC Axis Westminster Investor LLC, LMC Berry Hill Lofts Holdings LLC, LMC Berry Hill Lofts Investor LLC, LMC Block 42 Holdings LLC, LMC Build to Core III Investor LLC, LMC Build to Core III LLC, LMC Burnside Holdings LLC, LMC Burnside Investor LLC, LMC Chandler and McClintock Holdings LLC, LMC Charlestowne Holdings LLC, LMC Charlotte Ballpark Developer LLC, LMC Cityville Oak Park Holdings LLC, LMC Cityville Oak Park Investor LLC, LMC Cobalt Holdings LLC, LMC Costa Mesa Holdings LP, LMC Crest at Park West Holdings LP, LMC Denver Gateway I Investor LLC, LMC Denver Gateway II Holdings LLC, LMC Development LLC, LMC Downtown Doral South Holdings LLC, LMC Durham Gateway Holdings LP, LMC Evans School Holdings LLC, LMC Gateway Investor LLC, LMC Gateway Venture LLC, LMC Gilman Square Investor LLC, LMC Horton Street Holdings LLC, LMC Huntington Crossing Holdings LLC, LMC Inactive Companies LLC, LMC Lakeside Holdings LP, LMC Leya Holdings LLC, LMC Living Illinois LLC, LMC Living Inc., LMC Living LLC, LMC Living TRS LP, LMC Millenia Investor II LLC, LMC NE Minneapolis Lot 2 Holdings LLC, LMC New Bern Investor LLC, LMC North Park Holdings LP, LMC Parkfield Holdings LLC, LMC Parkfield Investor LLC, LMC Righters Ferry Holdings LLC, LMC River North Holdings LLC, LMC Spring Street Investor LLC, LMC Stonewall Station Investor LLC, LMC Triangle Square Investor LLC, LMC Venture Developer LLC, LMC Verbena Holdings LLC, LMC West Loop Investor LLC, LMCFX Investor LLC, LMCPNW Marymoor Holdings LLC, LMI - Jacksonville Investor LLC, LMI - South Kings Development Investor LLC, LMI - West Seattle Holdings LLC, LMI - West Seattle Investor LLC, LMI - West Seattle LLC, LMI Cell Tower Investors LLC, LMI City Walk Investor LLC, LMI Collegedale Investor LLC, LMI Collegedale LLC, LMI Contractors LLC, LMI Glencoe Dallas Investor LLC, LMI Lakes West Covina Investor LLC, LMI Largo Park Investor LLC, LMI Las Colinas Station LLC, LMI Naperville Investor LLC, LMI Pacific Tower LLC, LMI Park Central Two LLC, LMI Peachtree Corners Investor LLC, LMI Peachtree Corners LLC, LMI-JC Developer LLC, LMI-JC LLC, LMV 1640 Broadway REIT-DC LP, LMV 1701 Ballard REIT-DC LP, LMV 19H REIT-DC LP, LMV 2026 Madison REIT-DC LP, LMV 85 South Union REIT-DC LP, LMV ATown REIT-DC LP, LMV Annapolis REIT-DC LP, LMV Apache Terrace REIT-DC LP, LMV Block 42 REIT-DC LP, LMV Bloomington REIT-DC LP, LMV Bolingbrook REIT-DC LP (DE), LMV Central at McDowell REIT-DC LP, LMV East Village I REIT-DC LP, LMV Edina REIT-DC LP, LMV Fremont WS I REIT-DC LP, LMV Glisan REIT-DC LP, LMV Grand Bay REIT-DC LP, LMV II Grand Bay Pod V Holdings LP, LMV II Kierland Holdings LP, LMV II NoMo Holdings LP, LMV II Venture Developer LLC, LMV II Wynwood Holdings LP, LMV Kirkland REIT-DC LP, LMV Little Italy REIT-DC LP, LMV M Tower REIT-DC LP, LMV Millenia II REIT-DC LP, LMV Milpitas REIT-DC LP, LMV NE Minneapolis REIT-DC LP, LMV Oak Park REIT-DC LP, LMV One20Fourth REIT-DC LP, LMV QR Build to Core Manager LLC, LMV Rio Bravo REIT-DC LP, LMV Scottsdale Quarter REIT-DC LP, LMV Tysons REIT-DC LP, LMV Vallagio III REIT-DC LP, LMV Victory Block G REIT-DC LP, LMV Warren Street REIT-DC LP, LNC Communities II LLC, LNC Communities IV LLC, LNC Communities V LLC, LNC Communities VI LLC, LNC Communities VII LLC, LNC Communities VIII LLC, LNC Pennsylvania Realty Inc., LNC at Meadowbrook LLC, LNC at Ravenna LLC, LS College Park LLC, LS Terracina LLC, LV Opendoor Investor LLC, LV Opendoor JV LLC, LW D'Andrea LLC, Lagoon Valley Residential LLC, Lakelands at Easton L.L.C., Legends Club LLC, Legends Golf Club LLC, Len - Little Harbor LLC, Len FW Investor LLC, Len Paradise LLC, Len-Angeline LLC, Len-Hawks Point LLC, Len-Land LLC, Len-Land West LLC, Len-MN LLC, Len-Verandahs LLP, LenCom LLC, LenFive LLC, LenFive Opco GP LLC, LenFive Sub III LLC, LenFive Sub LLC, LenFive Sub Opco GP LLC, Lenalto CMBS LLC, Lencraft LLC, Lennar Aircraft I LLC, Lennar Arizona Construction Inc., Lennar Arizona Inc., Lennar Associates Management Holding Company, Lennar Associates Management LLC, Lennar Avenue One LLC, Lennar Berkeley LLC, Lennar Bevard LLC, Lennar Bridges LLC, Lennar Buffington Colorado Crossing L.P., Lennar Buffington Zachary Scott L.P., Lennar Carolinas LLC, Lennar Central Park LLC, Lennar Central Region Sweep Inc., Lennar Chicago Inc., Lennar Cobra LLC, Lennar Colgate Urban Renewal Development LLC, Lennar Colorado LLC, Lennar Colorado Minerals LLC, Lennar Commercial LLC, Lennar Communities Development Inc., Lennar Communities Inc., Lennar Communities Nevada LLC, Lennar Communities of Chicago L.L.C., Lennar Concord LLC, Lennar Construction Inc., Lennar Cory Road LLC, Lennar Courts LLC, Lennar Developers Inc., Lennar Ewing LLC, Lennar Financial Services LLC, Lennar Flamingo LLC, Lennar Fresno Inc., Lennar Gardens LLC, Lennar Georgia Inc., Lennar Greer Ranch Venture LLC, Lennar Heritage Fields LLC, Lennar Hingham Holdings LLC, Lennar Hingham JV LLC, Lennar Homes Holding LLC, Lennar Homes LLC, Lennar Homes NJ LLC, Lennar Homes of Arizona Inc., Lennar Homes of California Inc., Lennar Homes of Indiana Inc., Lennar Homes of Texas Land and Construction Ltd., Lennar Homes of Texas Sales and Marketing Ltd., Lennar Homes of Utah Inc., Lennar International Holding LLC, Lennar International LLC, Lennar Lakeside Investor LLC, Lennar Layton LLC, Lennar Living LLC, Lennar Lytle LLC, Lennar MF Holdings LLC, Lennar MPA LLC, Lennar MPA WIP LLC, Lennar Mare Island LLC, Lennar Marina A Funding LLC, Lennar Massachusetts Properties Inc., Lennar Middletown LLC, Lennar Monmouth Redevelopers LLC, Lennar Multifamily BTC Venture GP LLC, Lennar Multifamily BTC Venture GP Subsidiary LLC, Lennar Multifamily BTC Venture GP Victory Block G Mezz LLC, Lennar Multifamily BTC Venture II GP LLC, Lennar Multifamily BTC Venture II GP Subsidiary LLC, Lennar Multifamily BTC Venture II LP LLC, Lennar Multifamily BTC Venture II Manager LLC, Lennar Multifamily BTC Venture LP LLC, Lennar Multifamily BTC Venture Manager LLC, Lennar Multifamily Builders LLC, Lennar Multifamily Communities LLC, Lennar Multifamily Venture DC LP, Lennar New Jersey Holdings LLC, Lennar New Jersey Properties Inc., Lennar New York LLC, Lennar Northeast Properties LLC, Lennar Northwest Inc., Lennar OHB LLC, Lennar PI Acquisition LLC, Lennar PI Property Acquisition LLC, Lennar PIS Management Company LLC, Lennar Pacific Inc., Lennar Pacific Properties Inc., Lennar Pacific Properties Management Inc., Lennar Plumsted Urban Renewal LLC, Lennar Point LLC, Lennar QR Build to Core GP LLC, Lennar QR Build to Core LP LLC, Lennar Realty Inc., Lennar Reno LLC, Lennar Riverwalk LLC, Lennar Sacramento Inc., Lennar Sales Corp., Lennar Sierra Sunrise LLC, Lennar Spencer's Crossing LLC, Lennar Sun Ridge LLC, Lennar Texas Holding LLC, Lennar Ventures LLC, Lennar West Valley LLC, Lennar Winncrest LLC, Lennar at Franklin LLC, Lennar at Jackson LLC, Lennar at Marlboro 79 LLC, Lennar at Monroe LLC, Lennar.com Inc., Longleaf Acquisition LLC, Lori Gardens Associates II LLC, Lori Gardens Associates III LLC, Lori Gardens Associates L.L.C., Lorton Station LLC, Lyons Lennar Farms LLC, Madrona Ridge L.L.C., Madrona Village L.L.C., Madrona Village Mews L.L.C., Majestic Woods LLC, Maple and Broadway Holdings LLC, Menifee Development LLC, Mid-County Utilities Inc., Miralago West Lennar LLC, Mission Viejo 12S Venture LP, Mission Viejo Holdings Inc., Motomic Diagnostics LLC, Multibank 2009-1 CML-ADC Venture LLC, Multibank 2009-1 RES-ADC Venture LLC, NC Properties I LLC, NC Properties II LLC, North American Asset Development LLC, Northbridge L.L.C., OHC/Ascot Belle Meade LLC, One SR L.P., PD-Len Boca Raton LLC, PG Properties Holding LLC, POMAC LLC, PT Metro LLC, Pace Drive Holdings LLC, Palm Gardens At Doral Clubhouse LLC, Palm Gardens at Doral LLC, Palm Springs Classic LLC, Palm Vista Preserve LLC, Patuxent Infrastructure Inc., Pioneer Meadows Development LLC, Pioneer Meadows Investments LLC, Plaza Condominium Ventures LLC, Portside Marina Developers L.L.C., Portside SM Associates L.L.C., Portside SM Holdings L.L.C., Portside Shipyard Developers L.L.C., Prestonfield L.L.C., Quail Roost Lennar LLC, RCCF GP II LLC, RCCF GP III LLC, RCCF GP IV LLC, RCCF GP LLC, RES-FL EIGHT LLC, RES-FL SEVEN LLC, RES-FL VISION ONE LLC, RES-FL VISION TWO LLC, RES-GA CASCADE LLC, RES-GA DIAMOND MEADOWS LLC, RES-GA KAP LLC, RES-GA SOUTHERN PLANTATION LLC, RES-GA THIRTEEN LLC, RES-GA TWELVE LLC, RES-GA WEST LLC, RES-IL ONE LLC, RES-NC ONE LLC, RES-PA LSJ LLC, RES-PA POM LLC, RES-TX BOULEVARD LLC, RH Insurance Company Inc., RH MOA BBCMS 2017-C1 LLC, RH MOA CF 2017-C8 LLC, RH MOA LLC, RH MOA U 2017-C4 LLC, RH MOA U 2017-C6 LLC, RIAL 2014-LT5 CLASS B LLC, RIAL 2014-LT5 LLC, RL BB FINANCIAL LLC, RL BB INACTIVE LLC, RL BB-AL LLC, RL BB-FL ALHI LLC, RL BB-GA LLC, RL BB-GA RMH LLC, RL BB-IL LLC, RL BB-IN AA LLC, RL BB-IN KRE LLC, RL BB-IN KRE OP LLC, RL BB-IN KRE RE LLC, RL BB-MS LLC, RL BB-NC LLC, RL BB-OH LLC, RL BB-SC BROOKSA LLC, RL BB-SC CLR II LLC, RL BB-SC CLR III LLC, RL BB-SC CLR IV LLC, RL BB-SC CLR LLC, RL BB-SC CRRC LLC, RL BB-SC RACEDAY LLC, RL BB-TN BRISTOL LLC, RL BB-TN LLC, RL BB-TN RACEDAY TOWER LLC, RL BB-TX LLC, RL BB-WV LLC, RL CMBS Holdings LLC, RL CML 2009-1 Investments LLC, RL REGI ARKANSAS LLC, RL REGI Alabama LLC, RL REGI FINANCIAL LLC, RL REGI Florida LLC, RL REGI GEORGIA LLC, RL REGI INACTIVE LLC, RL REGI KANSAS LLC, RL REGI MISSISSIPPI LLC, RL REGI MISSOURI LLC, RL REGI NORTH CAROLINA LLC, RL REGI SOUTH CAROLINA LLC, RL REGI TENNESSEE LLC, RL REGI VIRGINIA LLC, RL REGI-AL HP LLC, RL REGI-AL VRC LLC, RL REGI-FL CRC LLC, RL REGI-FL ESH LLC, RL REGI-FL FT. PIERCE LLC, RL REGI-FL GDL LLC, RL REGI-FL ITALIA LLC, RL REGI-FL MRED LLC, RL REGI-FL RDI LLC, RL REGI-FL SARASOTA LLC, RL REGI-FL TPL LLC, RL REGI-FL VARC LLC, RL REGI-GA DRAD LLC, RL REGI-GA HAY DB LLC, RL REGI-GA MHU LLC, RL REGI-GA MPD LLC, RL REGI-GA RLR LLC, RL REGI-MO GMB LLC, RL REGI-MO MOSCOW MILLS LLC, RL REGI-MS Double H LLC, RL REGI-MS OCEAN SPRINGS LLC, RL REGI-NC CIL LLC, RL REGI-NC LITTLE WING LLC, RL REGI-NC MLD LLC, RL REGI-NC Mland LLC, RL REGI-NC RALEIGH LLC, RL REGI-NC SUGARM LLC, RL REGI-NM LLC, RL REGI-SC CTL LLC, RL REGI-SC LAKE E LLC, RL REGI-SC TDG LLC, RL REGI-SC TIG LLC, RL REGI-TN OAK LLC, RL REGI-TN SEVIERVILLE LLC, RL RES 2009-1 Investments LLC, RMF Alliance LLC, RMF Commercial LLC, RMF PR New York LLC, RMF Partner LLC, RMF SUB 1 LLC, RMF SUB 2 LLC, RMF SUB 3 LLC, RMF SUB 4 LLC, RMF SUB 5 LLC, RMV LLC, Raintree Village II L.L.C., Raintree Village L.L.C., Ral-Len BM LLC, Ral-Len LLC, Rannel Capital WeWork Series D LLC, Rannel Holdings LLC, Rannel Interests LLC, Rannel Investments LLC, Rannel Mortgage Investments LLC, Rannel Proprietary Investments LLC, Renaissance Joint Venture, Reserve @ Pleasant Grove II LLC, Reserve @ Pleasant Grove LLC, Reserve at River Park LLC, Reserve at South Harrison LLC, Rialto Commercial Mortgage Securities LLC, Rialto Credit Partnership GP LLC, Rialto Mezz Partners GP LLC, Rialto Mortgage Finance LLC, Rialto Partners GP II LLC, Rialto Partners GP III - Debt LLC, Rialto Partners GP III - Property LLC, Rialto Partners GP LLC, Rialto RSSF GP LLC, Riverwalk at Lago Mar LLC, Rocking Horse Minerals LLC, Rutenberg Homes Inc. (Florida), Rutenberg Homes of Texas Inc., Rye Hill Company LLC, Ryland Homes Nevada Holdings LLC, Ryland Homes Nevada LLC, Ryland Homes of California Inc., S. Florida Construction II LLC, S. Florida Construction III LLC, S. Florida Construction LLC, SC 521 Indian Land Reserve LLC, SC 521 Indian Land Reserve South LLC, SPIC CPCO Inc., SPIC CPDB Inc., SPIC CPRB Inc., SPIC Del Sur LLC, SPIC Dublin LLC, SPIC Mesa LLC, SPIC NC Fremont LLC, SPIC Otay LLC, SPIC Springs LLC, San Felipe Indemnity Co. Ltd., San Lucia LLC, San Simeon Lennar LLC, Schulz Ranch Developers LLC, Seminole/70th LLC, Siena at Old Orchard L.L.C., Sierra Vista Communities LLC, Silver Springs Lennar LLC, South Development LLC, Southbank Holding LLC, Spanish Springs Development LLC, St. Charles Active Adult Community LLC, St. Charles Community LLC, Standard Pacific 1 Inc., Standard Pacific Investment Corp., Standard Pacific of Colorado Inc., Standard Pacific of Florida, Standard Pacific of Florida GP Inc., Standard Pacific of Las Vegas Inc., Standard Pacific of Orange County Inc., Standard Pacific of Tampa GP, Standard Pacific of Tampa GP Inc., Standard Pacific of Tonner Hills LLC, Standard Pacific of Walnut Hills Inc., Standard Pacific of the Carolinas LLC, Stoney Holdings LLC, Storey Lake Club LLC, Storey Park Club LLC, Strategic Holdings Inc., Strategic Technologies LLC, Summerfield Venture L.L.C., SunStreet Energy Group LLC, SunStreet Manager LLC, TCO QVI LLC, TICD Hold Co. LLC, TIH Hold Co. LLC, Talega Associates LLC, Temecula Valley LLC, Terra Division LLC, Terra/Winding Creek LLC, The Baywinds Land Trust, The Bridges Club at Rancho Santa Fe Inc., The Bridges at Rancho Santa Fe Sales Company Inc., The LNC Northeast Group Inc., The Oasis Club at LEN-CG South LLC, The Preserve at Coconut Creek LLC, The Vistas Club at LEN-CG South LLC, Titlezoom Company, Treasure Island Holdings LLC, Treasure Island Member LLC, Treviso Holding LLC, Two Lakes Lennar LLC, U.S. Home Corporation, U.S. Home Realty Inc., U.S. Home of Arizona Construction Co., U.S. Insurors Inc., U.S.H. Realty Inc., UAMC Holding Company LLC, UB 2018C14 MOA LLC, USH - Flag LLC, USH Equity Corporation, USH LEE LLC, USH Leasing II LLC, USH Leasing LLC, UST Lennar HW Scala SF Joint Venture, VII Crown Farm Investor LLC, Venetian Lennar LLC, Vineyard Land LLC, Vineyard Point 2009 LLC, Vista Palms Clubhouse LLC, WCI Communities, WCI Communities Inc., WCI Communities LLC, WCI Towers Northeast USA Inc., WCI Westshore LLC, WCP LLC, WIP Lennar OHB LLC, Waterview at Hanover LLC, West Lake Village LLC, West Seattle Project X LLC, West Van Buren L.L.C., Westchase Inc., Westchase Ltd., Westfield Homes USA Inc., White Course Lennar LLC, Wild Plum JV LLC, Willowbrook Investors LLC, Winncrest Natomas LLC, Woodbridge Multifamily Developer I LLC, Wright Farm L.L.C., and YLRichards4Acres 2015 LLC.
Mettler-Toledo International, Inc. is a supplier of precision instruments and services. The firm manufactures weighing instruments for use in laboratory, industrial, packaging, logistics, and food retailing applications. It also manufactures several related analytical instruments and provides automated chemistry solutions used in drug and chemical compound discovery and development; and also, metal detection and other end-of-line inspection systems used in production and packaging and provides solutions for use in certain process analytics applications. Its operations are conducted by the following segments: U. S. Operations, Swiss Operations, Western European Operations, Chinese Operations and Other. The U.S. Operations segment represents certain of the company's marketing and producing organizations located in the United States. The Swiss Operations segment includes marketing and producing organizations located in Switzerland, as well as extensive R&D operations that are responsible for the development, production, and marketing of precision instruments, including weighing, analytical, and measurement technologies for use in a variety of industrial and laboratory applications. Th

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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.
Total Energy Services Inc. provides various products and services to the oil and natural gas industry primarily in Canada, the United States, and Australia. It operates through four segments: Contract Drilling Services, Rentals and Transportation Services, Compression and Process Services and Well Servicing. The Contract Drilling Services segment offers contract drilling services to oil and gas exploration and development companies. As of December 31, 2020, it operated a total fleet of 98 drilling rigs. The Rentals and Transportation Services segment provides drilling, completion and production rental equipment, and oilfield transportation services in western Canada and in the United States. This segment owned and operated a fleet of 87 heavy trucks. The Compression and Process Services segment offers gas compression services; and designs and packages skid style compressors and proprietary trailer-mounted compressors under the NOMAD brand in Canada and the United States, the European Union, Australia, and Mexico. It had 54,800 horsepower of compression in its rental fleet. The Well Servicing segment offers well services. This segment operated a total fleet of 83 well servicing rigs across Western Canada, mid-western United States, and Australia. It has a strategic alliance with Pason Systems Inc. to develop and deploy drilling automation and optimization technologies. The company was founded in 1996 and is headquartered in Calgary, Canada.

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Chief Secretary Matthew Cheung today said the Government will further explain the proposed fugitive law change to the public.

Making the statement after attending an event, Mr Cheung said some citizens and overseas organisations might have misunderstandings about the proposed law amendments.

The Chief Secretary said he hopes the Legislative Councils Bills Committee will scrutinise the Fugitive Offenders & Mutual Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters Legislation (Amendment) Bill 2019 as soon as possible.

Mr Cheung called on legislators to stay rational and peaceful when vetting the bill, adding the Government is eager to listen to their views.

He also said the Government will continue to liaise with Taiwan authorities over the homicide case.
Vermilion Energy Inc., together with its subsidiaries, engages in the acquisition, exploration, development, and production of petroleum and natural gas in North America, Europe, and Australia. It owns 81% working interest in 642,300 net acres of developed land and 87% working interest in 376,700 net acres of undeveloped land, and 613 net producing natural gas wells and 3,034 net producing oil wells in Canada; and 96% working interest in 248,900 net acres of developed land and 91% working interest in 222,100 net acres of undeveloped land in the Aquitaine and Paris Basins, and 325 net producing oil wells and 3.0 net producing gas wells in France. The company also owns 49% working interest in 930,000 net acres of land and 51 net producing natural gas wells in the Netherlands; and 36,900 net developed acres and 965,900 net undeveloped acres of land, and 61 net producing oil wells and 8 net producing natural gas wells in Germany. In addition, it owns offshore Corrib natural gas field located to the northwest coast of Ireland; and 100% working interest in the Wandoo offshore oil field and related production assets that covers 59,600 acres located on Western Australia's northwest shelf. Further, the company holds 138,000 net acres of land in the Powder River basin, and 136.6 net producing oil wells in the United States; and 951,200 net acres of land in Hungary, 244,900 net acres of land in Slovakia, and 2.4 million net acres of land in Croatia. Vermilion Energy Inc. was founded in 1994 and is headquartered in Calgary, Canada.

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The Howard Hughes Corp. engages in the development and management of commercial, residential, and mixed-use real estate. It operates through the following segments: Operating Assets, Master Planned Communities; Seaport District; and Strategic Developments. The Operating Assets segment consists retail, office, hospitality, and multi-family properties along with other real estate investments. The Master Planned Communities segment focuses in the development and sale of land in large-scale, long-term community development projects in and around Las Vegas, Nevada; Houston, Texas; and Columbia, Maryland. The Seaport District operates an approximately 453,000 square feet of restaurant, retail, and entertainment properties situated in three primary locations in New York, New York: Pier 17, Historic Area/Uplands, and Tin Building. The Strategic Developments segment involves in the other real estate assets in the form of entitled and unentitled land and residential condominium developments. The company was founded on November 9, 2010 and is headquartered in Woodlands, TX.

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The schools in Warwick, Rhode Island, can put those sun butter and jelly sandwiches away: Someone is stepping up to pay the massive lunch debt of some of its students.

That "someone" is yogurt company Chobani, which is paying off $47,650 of the $77,000 debt.

The donation from Chobani will be used to pay the debts of low-income students, Courtney Marciano, spokeswoman for the city of Warwick, told CNN.

Warwick Public School caused an uproar earlier this week when it announced that any students who had unpaid balances on their lunch accounts would receive a sunflower seed butter and jelly sandwich until their balance was paid.

"As a parent, this news breaks my heart," Chobani founder and CEO Hamdi Ulukaya said in statement. "For every child, access to naturally nutritious and delicious food should be a right, not a privilege. When our children are strong, our families are stronger. And when our families are strong, our communities are stronger. Business can and must do its part to solve the hunger crisis in America and do its part in the communities they call home."

In addition to paying off the debt, Chobani is also donating cups and yogurt to the community in Warwick.

Lunch debt is a nationwide issue

Several parents were furious about the school district's decision to give students with lunch debt a limited midday-meal option. They called it lunch shaming.

"Just give the kids lunch," one parent wrote on the district's Facebook page. "We already lost a janitor, science teacher, don't have air conditioning, we can't spring for a chicken patty for a hungry kid? What if this is their only meal of the day?"

The school district later said it was reviewing the policy. There are 1,653 families with outstanding lunch debts, CNN affiliate WJAR reported.

Both school lunch debt and "lunch shaming" are huge problems in public schools nationwide. Last April, Rhode Island public schools reportedly faced $300,000 in student lunch debt. However, the practice of singling out students who have unpaid lunch debt has received widespread criticism.

In 2017, a bipartisan group of lawmakers in the House and Senate introduced a bill which would outlaw policies that publicize a student's lunch debt. These practices can include making a student wear a special sticker or wristband, or providing cold sandwiches instead of the usual hot-meal offering.

Correction: This piece has been updated to say that Chobani is partially paying off the school lunch debt. It's donating $47,650.
ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) - Disagreements over the details of proposals to legalize recreational marijuana for adults in New York could prevent a vote on the measure this year.

Despite broad support for legalization among many lawmakers, negotiations have yet to resolve several big questions, including whether the state would expunge the criminal records of people with past pot convictions.

Democratic Gov. Andrew Cuomo and top lawmakers had hoped to reach agreement on a legalization bill before the Legislature adjourns for the year next month.

Legalization advocates say lawmakers have had enough time and are urging lawmakers to vote soon.

A similar story is playing out in next door New Jersey. There, legalization proposals have struggled to gain traction despite support from top officials including the governor.

(Copyright 2019 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)
The leaders held talks in Hanoi on May 11 during the official visit to Vietnam by the Nepalese Prime Minister and his spouse from May 9-13.

The documents signed during the visit included an agreement on visa exemption for official and diplomatic passport holders between the two governments; a memorandum of understanding on the establishment of a bilateral consultation mechanism between the two foreign ministries and a letter of intent on the negotiation and signing of a framework agreement on trade and investment cooperation between the Vietnamese Ministry of Industry and Trade and the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies of Nepal.

PM Phuc warmly welcomed PM Sharma Oli on the first official visit of a Nepalese leader to Vietnam since the two countries set up diplomatic ties in 1975, describing the visit a vivid manifestation of the developing traditional friendship between the two countries.

PM Sharma Oli expressed his joy about the visit to Vietnam visit, as the country is his first destination in Southeast Asia since he took the office in February 2018. He spoke highly of immense socio-economic and diplomatic achievements made by Vietnam and invited PM Phuc to soon visit Nepal.

The two PM discussed joint visions to deepen the traditional friendship, agreeing to boost the exchange of high-level visits and meetings, and people-to-people activities, and work together to organize practical activities to celebrate the 45th anniversary of diplomatic ties in 2020.

They reached consensus on broadening the relations between the Communist Party of Vietnam and the Nepal Communist Party in the coming time.

At the talks between Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc and his Nepalese counterpart K P Sharma Oli. (Photo: NDO/Tran Hai)



While hailing the outcomes of the Vietnam-Nepal Business Forum held on May 10, PM Phuc shared with his Nepalese counterpart that bilateral economic ties have yet to tap the respective countries potential and strength. Both said they will assign competent ministries and sectors to study new cooperative and result-oriented mechanisms on economics, trade and investment, and encourage businesspeople to research the respective markets and launch partnerships.

PM Phuc suggested Nepal assist Vietnamese investors seeking opportunities in the country, especially those who are interested in energy, infrastructure and telecommunications. For his part, PM Sharma Oli asked Vietnam to facilitate the entry of Nepalese goods in the country.

They said agriculture is a field with development potential and agreed to consider proposals to open market for respective farm produce, especially rice, black pepper, rubber, and tropical fruits along with boosting the exchange of information, expanding cooperation in hi-tech agriculture and exchanging agricultural experts.

They also agreed to step up exchanges and cooperation in culture, tourism, people-to-people exchange, science-technology, information-communications, aviation, security, logistics and the fight against disaster catastrophe.

The Vietnamese side agreed to speed up the establishment of the Vietnam-Nepal Friendship Association.

PM Phuc expected the Nepalese Government to continue supporting Vietnamese people living and working in its country so they would work as a bridge for the two countries ties.

The leaders shared views on regional and international issues of mutual concerns, asserting to work closely and support each other at multilateral forums, especially at the United Nations.

PM Phuc took the occasion to thank Nepal for backing Vietnams run for a non-permanent member seat in the United Nations Security Council for 2020-2021.
The Government has expressed regret over the extremely disorderly and uncontrollable condition resulting in bodily injuries caused by serious disruptions in Bills Committee meeting procedures in the Legislative Council.

The meeting on the Fugitive Offenders & Mutual Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters Legislation (Amendment) Bill 2019 was convened by legislator Abraham Shek today with the LegCo House Committees authorisation.

The Government noted LegCo has failed after so many meetings to elect a chairman for the Bills Committee on the amendment bill ever since it decided to set up the committee.

Adding that today's unpleasant event is unprecedented in the history of the Legislative Council, the Government said it is gravely concerned that if the situation continues, it would have an adverse impact on the scrutiny of the bill.

It urged legislators to resume rational discussion with mutual respect so that the council could restore its normal operation and scrutinise legislative proposals in a pragmatic manner.
The acting town clerk (Mrs Sikhangele Zhou) explained that there was need to look at the reality than pay attention to peoples perceptions. She explained that at entry point, that is, grade one notch one, the basic salary was pegged at $180, and said by whatever measures this cannot be said to be too high, reads part of the minutes.
Mr Mangwana also said sanctions have so far failed to bring down the Zimbabwean Government in the last 18 years of their existence and they are not going to succeed now just because one of our chiefs has chosen the quisling route and be a relentless fraterniser.
It is clear that our government is respecting the rule of law and we respect that, but the owners of the mine should either cede the claim or alternatively open the mine and provide jobs for the youths because the people who used to mine here are now jobless and without income and are turning to crime, he said.
in terms of the Law Society by laws and all costs would be met by the defendant as at between attorney and client and interest will be paid at the rate of 5% per month in the event of a default, ZFC Limited said. The matter is pending. Newsday
Mother's ex-fiance arrested in disappearance of 4-year-old Texas girl originally appeared on abcnews.go.com

The ex-fiance of 4-year-old Maleah Davis' mother was arrested and charged in connection to her girl's disappearance, one week after he told Texas police that she was kidnapped by three men who assaulted and knocked him unconscious.

Derion Vence, 26, was arrested by the Houston Police Department at a relative's home and charged with tampering with evidence, human corpse, in the disappearance of his stepdaughter on the night of May 4.

Although a police source told ABC News that the young girl was still missing, they would not say whether she was believed to be dead or alive.

PHOTO: Derion Vance, 26, the stepfather of missing 4-year-old Maleah Davis, was arrested on Saturday, May 11, 2019 in Houston. He is charged with tampering with evidence in relation to the girl's disappearance. (Houston Police Department)

Police said in a statement on Saturday that they had obtained blood evidence linked to Maleah from Vences apartment and that he was seen leaving his apartment with a full laundry basket, which was found Thursday along with a gas can in the trunk of the silver Nissan Altima that he reported missing following the kidnapping.

Surveillance images obtained by ABC Houston affiliate KTRK shows Vence walking into an apartment with the little girl, but only Vence can be seen leaving.

At a late night hearing, the district attorney said cadaver dogs reacted to scents in the trunk and the laundry basket.

Vence reported the abduction on May 5, nearly 24 hours after it occurred, claiming that he had been unconscious for much of that time, according to the statement.

PHOTO: Maleah Davis in a undated photo released by the Houston Police Department. (Houston Police Department via AP)

(MORE: Family car of missing 4-year-old Texas girl Maleah Davis located: Police)

He told police that he was driving with Maleah and his 1-year-old son on the night of May 4 to George Bush Intercontinental Airport in north Houston to pick up the girls mother, Brittany Bowens, who was returning from a trip to Massachusetts, police said.

He said that on the way there, he heard a popping noise coming from his car that made him believe he had a flat tire, so he pulled over to check on it. When he got out of the car, he said that a blue pickup truck pulled up behind him and two men got out, police said during a news conference on May 5.

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He told police that one of the men commented on Maleahs appearance as the other hit him in the head, knocking him out, police said.

PHOTO: Surveillance images show Maleah Davis and her mother's ex-fiance walking into the family's apartment, but she was never seen coming out. (Obtained by KTRK)

Vence told police that he kept going in and out of consciousness, but at one point realized that he was in the back of the pickup truck where there were actually three men and that he also saw Maleah and his son in the truck, police said.

He said that he regained consciousness the next day with only his son in Sugar Land, nearly 22 miles southwest of central Houston, and walked to Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital where he received treatment and reported Maleah missing, police said.

PHOTO: Surveillance images show Maleah Davis and her mother's ex-fiance walking into the family's apartment, but she was never seen coming out. (Obtained by KTRK)

(MORE: Mother of missing Maleah Davis, 4, claims husband allegedly abused girl)

Although he told police that his car was taken during the kidnapping, surveillance footage showed someone in the Nissan dropping Vence off at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital on May 5, police said.

Vence's public defender asked for a $5,000 bond, while the district attorney proposed $500,000.

Instead, the judge ruled Vence be held on $1 million bond since the ongoing investigation "is likely to result in a significant upgrade to this second-degree felony."

Houston police are asking anyone with information about the case, the whereabouts of Maleah Davis or the person who sold the gas can to Vence to contact the departments Homicide Division at 713-308-3600.

Editor's note: This story has been updated to reflect changes in Derion Vence's relationship to Meleah Davis' mother, which was initially based on information provided by the Houston Police Department.
South Dakota native John Latendresse was on a cross-country road trip in 1949 when he found himself at Kentucky Lake in Tennessee. Looking out at the divers combing the fertile lakebeds for mussels to sell, the former Marine saw an opportunity. Shortly after, John moved his family nearby, to the tiny town of Camden, and in 1954 he started the Tennessee Shell Company.

Now, a little bit about pearls. To make one, you need two things: an oyster or freshwater mussel and a foreign object, otherwise known as an irritant. When a foreign object, like a piece of sand for example, becomes lodged in an oyster, the animal will protect itself by coating it with a shiny substance called nacre, A.K.A. mother of pearl. The mollusk deposits layers and layers of this substance until finally a pearl is formed.

Back in the 1950s, Tennessee was exporting mussel shells to pearl farmers in Japan who used them as irritants. Tennessee shells were thicker and considered easier to implant than those in Japan.

By the 60s, business was booming for Tennessee Shell Company. John was exporting shells as well as buying and selling pearls. But, as his daughter Gina recently recalled to Topic, it was around this time that a comment from a Japanese colleague changed everything for him. You sell our beautiful pearls in the United States. Its too bad you cant grow pearls in Tennessee, the colleague reportedly chided.

Another light bulb goes off and my fathers like, You think I cant grow pearls in Tennessee? Just watch, Gina told Topic.

And grow pearls he did, and he had quite the talent for it. According to Inc., John tinkered endlessly with the shape of the beads he inserted into his mollusk, changing the shape of the pearl. As a result, he created pearls of all shapes, including bars, drops, coins, and even duck wings.

Other pearl farmers in the area came and went over the years, but the Latendresse familys American Pearl Company was always the most successful. By 1985 they had moved their operation to Kentucky Lake and were harvesting enough pearls to build a substantial inventory.

But by Johns death in 2000, the shell industry in Tennessee had weaken significantly. At its peak, it had been worth around $50 million annually. Today Topic reports that number is closer to $6 million.

When John died the Latendresse family sold their pearl farm to Bob Keast the owner of Birdsong Resort, Marina, and Campground. Today, Keast oversees whats now known as the Tennessee River Freshwater Pearl Farm, the last active pearl farm in the United States, and a relic of a Tennessee long forgotten. Though the farm still operates, its mostly a tourist attraction.

WATCH: Luke Bryan Celebrates the American Farmer

Gina, who has a graduate diploma in gemology, now runs the American Pearl Company with her mother and sister, selling the pearls her father stashed away to artists and retailers around the word, including Tiffany.

She told Topic that keeping the business going is a way of preserving her familys history. We learned everything we learned from the ground up, Gina said. From pulling mussel shells out of the muddy Tennessee river to shipping them overseas, to how to make jewelry out of them, how to sell them. How to create a pearl out of a living animal.
By David Ljunggren OTTAWA (Reuters) - Canada is softening the rules of its multibillion-dollar competition for 88 new fighter jets to allow Lockheed Martin Corp to submit a bid, following a complaint by Washington, a Canadian government source said on Thursday. The source, who requested anonymity given the sensitivity of the situation, said Ottawa was acting after the United States told Canada the regulations would exclude Lockheed Martin's F-35 fighter, the plane the Canadian air force wants. The complaint was the latest challenge for a trouble-plagued process that has dragged on for more than a decade. Canada initially said bidders for the contract - worth between C$15 billion and C$19 billion ($11.1 billion to $14.1 billion) - must commit to give Canadian businesses 100 percent of the value of the deal in economic benefits. But that contradicts rules of the consortium that developed the F-35, a group to which Canada belongs. The U.S. military's F-35 office wrote to Ottawa last December saying it would not bid unless changes were made. "The U.S. government told us they were unable to offer contractual guarantees of economic benefits," said the source. Ottawa is therefore dropping the requirement that firms give a legally binding promise they would spend the value of the fighter contract in Canada. "A bidder that is not willing and able to sign a contract and guarantee them (the benefits) can still bid and still be competitive but they will get less points in the economic benefits category" than firms that offer a watertight commitment, said the source. The planes will be judged on capability, which makes up 60 percent of the points available, as well as price and benefits, which make up for 20 percent each. The final requirements for the jets are due out in July, said the source. The policy change could prompt protests from Boeing Co, Airbus SE and Saab AB, the three other contenders. Industry sources have long predicted that Lockheed Martin's rivals could pull out if they felt Ottawa was tilting the race in favor of the F-35. The source added that Canada had made changes that benefited the other firms. For example, Ottawa initially insisted the European planes be fully compliant with strict U.S. rules on exchanging secure data. The rules now say European bidders need only outline how they planned to meet the U.S. security requirements. Airbus, Saab and Lockheed declined to comment. Boeing did not immediately respond to requests for comment. (Reporting by David Ljunggren; Editing by Peter Cooney)
Fairbanks, AK (99707)

Today

Periods of snow. Low 9F. Winds light and variable. Chance of snow 100%. 5 to 8 inches of snow expected..

Tonight

Periods of snow. Low 9F. Winds light and variable. Chance of snow 100%. 5 to 8 inches of snow expected.
Miami (AFP) - Jose Ramon Lopez Regueiro claims to be the sole heir of the once privately-owned Havana airport -- and he is preparing to sue in US courts to recover the property confiscated in Cuba under Fidel Castro.

The case is the result of President Donald Trump's administration announcement in April that it would allow lawsuits in US courts over properties seized by Cuba's communist government, enforcing a provision of the 1996 Helms-Burton Act that had been waived by successive presidents.

"I'm very optimistic that justice will finally be served. I've been waiting 60 years for this moment," Lopez Regueiro told AFP.

The plaintiff was just six years old when his father, Jose Lopez Vilaboy, fled Cuba after revolutionaries overthrew his close friend, dictator Fulgencio Batista.

He was the main shareholder of Havana's Rancho Boyeros airport, and of the Cubana de Aviacion airlines, four hotels and a newspaper, among other properties confiscated by Castro.

But starting Thursday, Cuban-Americans with US citizenship can seek compensation in US courts from the Cuban government or private companies for their "stolen" properties on the island.

"First I'm going to file my claim for the Havana airport and Cubana de Aviacion," said the 65 year-old Lopez Regueiro.

He claims that in 1958 the terminal was worth $24 million.

He also plans to sue all airlines that use the airport -- which include the likes of American Airlines, Aeromexico, Air Canada, Air France and Iberia.

- After the 'Troika of Tyranny' -

The airport case is just one of hundreds of similar claims that could inundate courts in south Florida, home to the largest community of Cuban-Americans in the country, some two million strong.

Another is that of Javier Garcia Bengochea, a Cuban-American expected to sue the Carnival Cruise Line for using a confiscated port terminal.

Nick Gutierrez, a member of Garcia's legal team, told Radio Television Marti -- which broadcasts from Miami to Cuba -- that the port of Santiago de Cuba belongs to his client's family.

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Carnival appeared unfazed by the prospects of a lawsuit. "We continue to offer our normal cruise schedule to Cuba for our guests," company spokesman Roger Frizzell told AFP.

The European Union and Canada have expressed displeasure over the US action, concerned that the property disputes will ensnare their citizens who do business in the island.

Apart from how individual cases are resolved and whether US judgments are honored, opening the floodgates of lawsuits is "a tremendous complication for Cuba," lawyer Juan Poblete told AFP.

Investors with interests in the United States will think twice before entering into transactions involving confiscated properties, he said.

Former president Barack Obama had eased restrictions on Cuba, considering that the US's half-century-old policy of isolating the island had failed.

But Trump has moved in the opposite direction, tightening sanctions against what he calls the "troika of tyranny" -- Cuba, Nicaragua and Venezuela.

The activation of the provision of the Helms-Burton Act seeks to weaken the Cuban government, which Washington considers the puppet master of Venezuela's President Nicolas Maduro and Nicaragua's President Daniel Ortega.

Marcell Felipe, who serves as a consultant to law firms on the legislation, believes it will weaken the Cuban government by depriving it of resources used to control the population.

Besides defending property rights and the rule of law, he said, lawsuits "are an important weapon to deprive the families of the generals of fresh money from investors."
MANILA, Philippines (AP)  Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte's name is not on the ballot, but Monday's midterm elections are seen as a crucial referendum on his rise to power with a brutal crackdown on illegal drugs, unorthodox style and contentious embrace of China.

Nearly 62 million Filipinos have registered to choose among 43,500 candidates vying for about 18,000 congressional and local posts in one of Asia's most rambunctious democracies.

The most crucial race is for 12 seats in the 24-member Senate, which Duterte wants to fill with allies to bolster his legislative agenda. That includes the return of the death penalty, lowering the age for criminal liability of child offenders and revising the country's 1987 constitution primarily to allow a shift to a federal form of government, a proposal some critics fear may be a cover to remove term limits.

Opposition aspirants consider the Senate the last bastion of checks and balances given the solid dominance of Duterte's loyalists in the lower House of Representatives. Last year, opposition senators moved to block proposed bills they feared would undermine civil liberties.

Duterte's politics and key programs, including his drive against illegal drugs that has left more than 5,200 mostly urban poor suspects dead, have been scrutinized on the campaign trail and defended by close allies running for the Senate, led by his former national Police Chief Ronald dela Rosa, who first enforced the crackdown when the president took office in mid-2016.

Aside from the drug killings, Duterte's gutter language and what nationalists say is a policy of appeasement toward China that may undermine Philippine territorial claims in the South China Sea, have also been hounded by protests and criticism.

"This is very much a referendum on his three years of very disruptive yet very popular presidency," Manila-based analyst Richard Heydarian said. "Are we going to affirm or are we going to reject the 2016 elections? Was that an aberration and historical accident that we have to fix, or is this actually the beginning of the kind of new era or new normal?"

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A May 3-6 survey by independent pollster Pulse Asia showed 11 of Duterte-backed senatorial candidates and four other aspirants in the winning circle, including only one from the opposition. The survey of 1,800 respondents had a margin of error of plus or minus 2.3 percentage points.

Duterte himself remains hugely popular, topping ratings surveys with about 70 percent approval.

While the election survey strongly indicated a favorable outcome for Duterte, there was a probability that the result could still change given the considerable number of undecided voters and narrow leads of some candidates.

Divided, cash-strapped and without a unified leader, opposition aspirants are fighting an uphill battle to capture the few number of Senate seats they need to stymie any hostile legislation. Many Filipinos seem more open to authoritarianism due to past failures of liberal leaders, Heydarian said. Such a mindset has helped the family of former dictator Ferdinand Marcos to make a political comeback.

Among many dirt-poor Filipinos, however, the concern is day-to-day survival.

"Martial law is scary but we're more afraid of dying in hunger," Arturo Veles, a jobless father of six, told The Associated Press.

Wiping away tears, Veles spoke outside his family's shanty in the humid squalor atop Smokey Mountain, a long-closed dumpsite in Manila's Tondo slum that remains a symbol of the country's appalling poverty. His asthma-stricken wife, Agnes, said that not one congressional candidate had treaded the fly-strewn and trash-littered path to their cluster of crumbling huts, probably because of the smell and filth.

Arturo Veles said the poor always suffer the most, indicating he and his wife would not vote for administration candidates. "They only see the poor, those using and selling drugs. That's the only thing they see, not the depth of our poverty."

Village guard Jose Mondejar, who lives in a Tondo community heavily festooned with elections streamers and posters, said Duterte's anti-crime campaign has reduced daytime robberies by drug addicts of passing cargo trucks by about 70 percent in his neighborhood.

"Criminals once even opened fire on our village hall because we were cracking down on them," he said. "Now you can walk around here without being pestered. Duterte's campaign has worked."

___

This story has been corrected to reflect that the first name of former national police chief is Ronald, not Roland.
By Tina Bellon

(Reuters) - A range of consumer products made in China and sold in the United States are affected by Friday's new set of tariffs imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump, including in categories such as vacuum cleaners, handbags and lighting fixtures.

The United States early on Friday increased its tariffs on $200 billion in Chinese goods to 25% from 10%, rattling financial markets already worried the 10-month trade war between the world's two largest economies could spiral out of control. China is expected to retaliate.

The official tariff list includes thousands of product categories, ranging from cuts of meat to furniture and auto parts. Here are examples - among many others - of consumer products affected in nine selected categories:

* The biggest sector affected is a $20 billion-plus category of internet modems, routers and other data transmission devices. One router falling under that category is Motorola Solutions Inc's Dual-Band AC1900 Router. The company on Friday did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the impact of the tariffs changes on its products.

* Printed circuit boards are also high on the list. ASUSTEK Computer Inc, which sells the Strix Z390-E Gaming motherboard under its Republic of Gamers brand, did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

* Also affected are burglar and fire alarms. Alphabet Inc's Google, whose Nest unit sells the Chinese-made Protect 2nd Gen Smart Smoke/Carbon Monoxide Wired Alarm, did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

* U.S. consumers looking to buy new lights for their home may also see a price hike, as tariffs will be increased on lamps and lighting fixtures both made "of base metal" and not. Home Depot Inc, which sells lamps from both categories made in China under its Hampton Bay and Alsy brands, did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

* If the trade dispute does not get resolved before the end of the year, American shoppers may also have to pay more for their holiday decorations: one of the categories requires tariff hikes for "lighting sets of a kind used for Christmas trees," such as strings of lights sold in the United States by Chinese company Brizled. Brizled did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

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* Also on the list are household vacuum cleaners made in China. SharkNinja, which sells its Shark Navigator Light Upright Vacuum NV105 in the United States, on Friday declined to comment on the impact of tariff increases on its product.

* Shoppers can also expect to pay more for handbags of any kind made in China, another tariff category. Fossil Group, the maker of the Maya Satchel purse, on Friday did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

* Consumers will be affected by added tariffs on all products in the category of trunks, suitcases and luggage. California-based Ricardo Beverly Hills, the seller of the China-made Mendocino carry-on spinner, did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

(Reporting by Tina Bellon in New York, Editing by Rosalba O'Brien)
(Updates index, stock moves to Friday market close; adds graphic on industrials, materials)

By April Joyner and Noel Randewich

May 10 (Reuters) - A week of worsening fears on Wall Street leading up to Washington's increase on tariffs on Chinese goods has taken a toll on stocks that rely heavily on global trade.

With U.S. President Trump saying he is in no hurry to sign a deal with China, the United States raised its tariffs on $200 billion in Chinese goods to 25% from 10% on Friday, rattling financial markets already worried the 10-month trade war between the world's two largest economies could spiral out of control. China's Commerce Ministry has said it would take countermeasures against the increase in U.S. tariffs.

"Investors have been getting a little less bullish over the last week or so, and if China does decide to retaliate with tariffs, that's when sentiment can take a dive," said Matt Watson, portfolio manager at James Advantage Funds in Alpha, Ohio.

After Trump said last Sunday he was reversing a decision he made in February to keep tariffs at 10%, Wall Street descended from record highs reached at the start of the month.

Although the S&P 500 rose on Friday after more upbeat comments on trade from Trump and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, the index ended the week 2.17% lower. Trade-sensitive stocks were bogged down after having outperformed for most of 2019.

Shares of semiconductor companies, the U.S. sector that relies more than any other on China for its revenue, turned sharply lower this week, with the Philadelphia Semiconductor Index down 5.8% since Sunday and slashing its year-to-date gain to 28%.

The so-called FAANG tech group, volatile stocks that have fueled a large part of Wall Street's rally in recent years, have also mostly underperformed as trade fears worsened, with shares of Netflix Inc and Apple Inc both down more than 6% for the week.

Shares of industrial and materials companies, dependent upon global economic growth to boost their revenue, also underperformed. DowDuPont Inc shares tumbled 9.8% while Boeing Co shares dropped 5.8%.

(Reporting by Noel Randewich and April Joyner; additional reporting by David Randall; editing by Alden Bentley, Rosalba O'Brien and Jonathan Oatis)
The trade war between the U.S. and China seems to be far from over as the latest round of talks ended without a deal this week. The recent developments come after President Donald Trumps new tariff rate of 25% on $200 billion of imports from China took effect, putting investors on edge and leaving many questioning how to play the markets.

Goldman Sachs (GS) was out with a note earlier this week suggesting investors favor services firms over goods-producing companies. The bank noted services stocks are less exposed to trade policy and have better corporate fundamentals than Goods companies and should outperform even if the trade tensions are ultimately resolved.

But not all on Wall Street agree. George Seay, Annandale Capital founder, told Yahoo Finances The Ticker that the best way to play the dispute is to be more conservative, and thinks Goldmans call on favoring services stocks is absurd.

The best way to play the dispute is to be more conservative. I think its kind of absurd for Goldman to come out and try and split hairs and say which stocks you should purchase during a trade dispute situation where tariffs may be put on for an extended period of time ... I think thats just trying to drive trading revenue and profits for Goldman.

Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin, center, and United States Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer, third from left, and Chinese Vice Premier Liu He, left, speak together as Liu He departs the Office of the United States Trade Representative in Washington, Friday, May 10, 2019. (AP Photo/Andrew Harnik)

In terms of what Seay thinks investors should do with their money, he says investors should be looking to reduce exposure until the dispute is resolved.

Weve had such a great run this year that any investor thats had heavy stock exposure throughout the year has some really awesome gains. I would be protecting those [gains] right now.

Trump may have helped ease Wall Streets jitters on Friday, tweeting the relationship between President Xi and myself remains a very strong one and conversations will continue.
Jerusalem (AFP) - Israel reopened Sunday its crossings with the blockaded Gaza Strip after closing them during a deadly escalation earlier this month, an official said, as a fragile truce held.

Both the Erez crossing for people and Kerem Shalom crossing for goods were open and operating, a spokeswoman for COGAT, the defence ministry unit that oversees the crossings, said in a statement.

Both had been closed on May 4, when Gaza rulers Hamas and its ally Islamic Jihad fired hundreds of rockets at Israel, with the army striking dozens of targets in Gaza in response.

Four Israeli civilians and 25 Palestinians, including at least nine militants, were killed in the two-day flare-up, which ended on Monday in a tentative truce.

Palestinian officials said Israel had agreed to ease its crippling decade-long blockade of the impoverished enclave in exchange for calm.

Israel did not publicly confirm the deal, but on Friday lifted the ban it had imposed on Palestinian fishing boats operating off Gaza.

Israel says its blockade is necessary to isolate Gaza's Islamist rulers Hamas, with whom it has fought three wars since 2008.

But critics say it amounts to collective punishment of Gaza's two million residents.
Jerusalem (AFP) - Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Sunday that a site for a promised new settlement to be named after US President Donald Trump had been chosen and formal approval was under way.

"I promised that we would establish a community named after President Trump," Netanyahu said at the start of the weekly cabinet meeting.

"I would like to inform you that we have already selected a site in the Golan Heights where this new community will be established, and we have started the process," he said in Hebrew.

Netanyahu pledged such a move last month, in appreciation of Trump's recognition of Israel's claim of sovereignty over part of the strategic plateau.

Trump broke with longstanding international consensus on March 25 when he recognised Israel's claim of sovereignty over the part of the Golan it seized from Syria in the 1967 Six-Day War.

That came after the US president in December 2017 said Washington would recognise the disputed city of Jerusalem as Israel's capital, sparking outrage among the Palestinians who claim Israeli-annexed east Jerusalem as the capital of their own future state.

The US embassy was moved from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem and inaugurated on May 14, 2018.

Netanyahu said he would submit the new settlement plan for cabinet approval when a new government takes office in the wake of last month's snap general election.

The premier has been conducting low-key meetings with heads of the parties expected to join his coalition and has until the end of May to put together an alliance.

Israel annexed 1,200 square kilometres (460 square miles) of the Golan it seized in 1981, a move never recognised by the international community.

Around 18,000 Syrians from the Druze sect -- most of whom refuse to take Israeli citizenship -- remain in the occupied Golan.

Some 20,000 Israeli settlers have moved there, spread over 33 settlements.
On May 12, 1970, the U.S. Senate finally confirmed Harry Blackmun to the Supreme Court, ending a 391-day-long effort to replace Abe Fortas on the bench.

Fortas had been nominated to the Supreme Court by his close friend, President Lyndon Johnson, and then confirmed by the Senate in 1965. Fortas and Johnson had worked together during the Franklin Roosevelt administration, and Fortas also represented Clarence Gideon in his landmark 1963 Supreme Court case, Gideon v. Wainwright.

In 1968, Johnson nominated Fortas to replace the retiring Earl Warren as Chief Justice, during an election year and against significant resistance in Congress from Republicans and southern Democrats. Fortas was unable to overcome a cloture vote in the Senate to move his nomination to the full floor for a vote. (To this day, it is debated whether the cloture-vote failure was a true filibuster of the Fortas nomination.)

Fortas remained on the Court into 1969, amid allegations that he had taken legal payments for speaking engagements that represented a conflict of interest and accepted money from a financier who later faced a government investigation. Fortas resigned from the Court in May 1969 after Richard Nixon had become President.

President Nixon then made two unsuccessful nominations of justices to replace Fortas. In August 1969, Nixon picked Clement Haynsworth to replace Fortas. Haynsworth received much criticism about his civil rights decisions on the lower court Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals bench and the Senate opposed his nomination in a 55-45 vote.

Next, Nixon turned to another federal judge, Harold Carswell, in January 1970. Carswell also faced scrutiny for statements he had made about the civil rights movement while he was a political candidate in Georgia, including remarks supporting white supremacy. Like Haynsworth, Carswell proceeded to a Senate vote where his nomination failed, 51-45.

Finally, Nixon turned to Harry A. Blackmun, who had been on a federal appeals court for 21 years. Nixons new Chief Justice, Warren Burger, had recommended Blackmun, his close friend from Minnesota, as Fortas replacement. Nixon nominated Blackmun in April 1970 and within a month, Blackmun was confirmed by the Senate.

There were expectations that Blackmun, a Republican, would join the Courts conservative wing. However, in 1973, Blackmun wrote the majority opinion in Roe v. Wade, and by the later 1970s he was voting more with the Courts liberals on certain kinds of cases. By the time of his retirement in 1994, Blackmun was firmly on the liberal side of the bench. He was replaced by Justice Stephen Breyer.
Sanaa (AFP) - Yemeni rebels confirmed Saturday they were beginning a unilateral withdrawal from the lifeline port of Hodeida in a bid to kickstart implementation of a December truce brokered by the UN.

Hodeida is the main entry point for the bulk of Yemen's imports and humanitarian aid, providing a lifeline to millions of civilians who have been pushed to the brink of famine by more than four years of devastating conflict.

The head of the rebels' Supreme Revolutionary Committee, Mohammed al-Huthi, said fighters would start pulling back at 10 am (0700 GMT).

He said the rebels had been forced to act unilaterally after the Saudi-backed government repeatedly delayed a parallel pullback from parts of the city of Hodeida that it had pledged to make under the truce deal.

"The (rebel) army and committees are withdrawing unilaterally as a result of the refusal of the countries of the US-British-Saudi-Emirati aggression and their allies to implement the (Stockholm) accord," the rebel leader said on Twitter.

The United Nations announced late Friday that the rebels will begin a long-delayed withdrawal from Hodeida and two other Red Sea ports on Saturday, the first step on the ground since the ceasefire deal was struck in Sweden.

The withdrawal of rebel forces will be completed by Tuesday, the head of the UN redeployment committee, General Michael Lollesgaard, said in a statement.

A UN observer mission led by Lollesgaard will monitor the withdrawal.

The information minister of the internationally recognised government, Moammer al-Eryani, welcomed the UN announcement but warned the rebels might be trying to "mislead" the international community.

"We welcome any measures towards the implementation of the Sweden agreement on redeployment in ports in Hodeida province and warn of attempts by the militia to mislead the international community and the (UN) Security Council before the next meeting," Eryani tweeted.

He said any unilateral redeployment by the rebels without control and joint verification "cannot be accepted."

Lollesgaard welcomed the rebel plan "to undertake an initial unilateral redeployment from the ports of Hodeida, Saleef and Ras Issa."
US President Donald Trump on Sunday defended his tariff policy, insisting again that China will pay billions in duties to the US, after Trump's economic advisor raised eyebrows by saying both sides will suffer.

"We are right where we want to be with China," Trump said on Twitter.

"Remember, they broke the deal with us & tried to renegotiate. We will be taking in Tens of Billions of Dollars in Tariffs from China."

In fact, research shows it is Americans that bear the brunt of the tariff impact, as the levies are paid by importers and ultimately passed on at least partially to consumers.

Trump's comments came after economic advisor Larry Kudlow earlier Sunday conceded that China is not the one paying the tariffs.

"Fair enough. In fact, both sides will pay. Both sides will pay in these things," Kudlow told "Fox News Sunday with Chris Wallace."

Trump had accused Beijing of reneging on its commitments in trade talks and ordered new punitive duties, which took effect Friday, on $200 billion worth of Chinese imports, raising them to 25 percent from 10 percent.

He then ordered a tariff hike on almost all remaining imports from China, which are worth about $300 billion, according to US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer.

"The Chinese will suffer GDP losses and so forth with respect to a diminishing export market and goods that they may need," Kudlow said, before agreeing with Wallace that even though China may suffer consequences, US businesses and consumers are the ones who will pay the tariffs.

"Yes, to some extent. Yes, I don't disagree with that. Again, both sides will suffer on this," Kudlow said.

- No new talks scheduled -

But he also assured that because the US economy "is in a boom," it would not be damaged "in any appreciable way" by the tariffs.

Trump ordered the increased duties on Friday after two days of talks to resolve the trade battle ended with no deal, although without a breakdown.

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Trump began the standoff last year because of complaints about unfair Chinese trade practices. The United States is pressing China to change its policies on protections for intellectual property, as well as massive subsidies for state-owned firms, and to reduce the yawning trade deficit.

Since last year the US and China had exchanged tariffs on more than $360 billion worth of two-way trade, gutting US agricultural exports to China and weighing on both countries' manufacturing sectors.

Kudlow told Wallace that Trump and China's President Xi Jinping could meet next month on the sidelines of the G20 summit to discuss their differences on trade, but no new talks are scheduled.

While making it clear that the US was unwilling to settle, Kudlow sought to tamp down concerns, insisting the process was ongoing.

"We need to see something much clearer and until we do, we have to keep our tariffs on," Kudlow said, adding: "We can't accept any backtracking."

As for future negotiations, while there are "no concrete, definite plans yet," Kudlow said China had invited Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin and Lighthizer to Beijing -- and higher-level discussions could be possible.

The chances of Trump and Xi meeting during the Group of 20 summit in Japan in late June "are probably pretty good," he said.

The G20 summit of the world's largest advanced and emerging economies is scheduled to take place in Osaka June 28-29.

"We have to change the trading relationship between two countries for the benefit of the United States and its workforce and its ranchers and farmers and so forth. We have to do this," Kudlow said. "The relationship has been too unbalanced."

Earlier Saturday Trump struck a more belligerent tone, urging China that it would be "wise for them to act now."

"They know I am going to win... and the deal will become far worse for them if it has to be negotiated in my second term," Trump tweeted.

While supporters laud Trump as a tough negotiator, free-trade-minded Republicans have warned that the tariffs could do real damage to the economy, and many farmers -- including Trump supporters -- say the tariffs have hit their bottom line.
One of North Korea's largest coal-hauling vessels has been taken out of service by U.S. authorities in the first-ever cargo ship seizure related to sanctions violations by Pyongyang.

The vessel Wise Honest, a 30-year old, 17,000-ton bulk carrier, was used to ship coal to China and Indonesia in exchange for delivering cargoes of heavy mining machinery and dump trucks back to North Korea  all in violation of sanctions imposed by both the United States and the United Nations, according to a court filing released by federal authorities on May 9.

Caught up in the sanctions-evading scheme were unwitting New York and other American banks, one of which provided payments totaling more than $750,000 for the ship's maintenance and improvements, according to the filing.

"North Korea, and the companies that help it evade U.S. and U.N. 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 enacted by the U.S. and the global community," commented U.S. Assistant Attorney General for National Security John Demers. "We are deeply committed to the role the Justice Department plays in applying maximum pressure to the North Korean regime to cease its belligerence."

The vessel seizure follows recent renewed missile testing by North Korea amid steadily rising tensions between the two countries since negotiations over Pyongyang's nuclear program broke down earlier this year.

In March, the U.S. published new guidelines for the maritime sector based on updated intelligence on tactics being used by North Korea to evade sanctions, which including turning off vessel transponders and falsifying ship flags.

Those tactics were apparently used by Wise Honest, operated by Korea Songi Shipping Company and affiliate Korea Songi General Trading Corporation, to avoid being detected while conducting the illicit export and import shipments. Songi Trading was already on the U.S. Treasury Department's sanctions list for being involved in the "sale, supply or transfer" of coal from North Korea.

Story continues

After Indonesian authorities intercepted and detained the vessel on or about April 2, 2018, it was later discovered that the ship "attempted to conceal information about its location, course, speed or other navigational status while in the course of transporting coal from North Korea to Indonesia" by turning off its transponder, according to the Justice Department.

The ship's captain, a North Korean national, was charged in the incident with violating Indonesian maritime law and was convicted in November 2018.

The post U.S. seizes North Korean cargo ship appeared first on FreightWaves.

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Washington (AFP) - The United States on Friday imposed sanctions on two shipping companies for delivering Venezuelan oil to ally Cuba in what it called a response to actions against opposition lawmakers in Caracas.

The Treasury Department said it was taking aim at the Monsoon Navigation Corp., headquartered in the Marshall Islands, and Liberian-based Serenity Maritime Ltd. for owning ships involved in oil transfers that took place through March.

The United States accuses its longtime nemesis Cuba of propping up President Nicolas Maduro by sending security forces, with Venezuela paying its ally back through oil.

"The US will take further action if Cuba continues to receive Venezuelan oil in exchange for military support," Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said in a statement.

The Treasury Department said that the sanctions, which will block any US holdings of the two companies, was a "direct response" to actions against members of Venezuela's opposition-led National Assembly.

Edgar Zambrano, the deputy speaker of the National Assembly, is being held in military prison two days after his arrest.

He and nine other opposition lawmakers have been indicted for treason and conspiracy over backing a failed uprising against Maduro that took place at the end of April.

The United States, along with most Latin American and European powers, considers Maduro illegitimate after a re-election married by irregularities.

The leftist firebrand presides over a crumbling economy in which the local currency has become virtually worthless, and several million Venezuelans have fled the country.

But the US-backed, sanctions-led campaign to install National Assembly head Juan Guaido as interim president has faltered, with most of the military still backing Maduro.
President Hassan Rouhani called on Saturday for unity among Iran's political factions to overcome conditions which he said may be harder than those during the 1980s war with Iraq, state media reported, as the country faces tightening US sanctions.

"Today, it cannot be said whether conditions are better or worse than the (1980-88) war period, but during the war we did not have a problem with our banks, oil sales or imports and exports, and there were only sanctions on arms purchases," Rouhani said, according to the state news agency IRNA.
Israel officially began its week of events for for the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest in Tel Aviv on Sunday, amid tight security and with approximately 20,000 police on hand. This year's competition is titled "Dare to Dream."

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The highlights of the week include two semi-final competitions scheduled for May 14 and May 16. The Grand Final, which will take place on May 18, is one of the world's largest musical events, and will be broadcast live to an estimated 200 million viewers.

Tel Aviv beach is decorated with the Eurovision logo (Photo: Shiri Hadar)

The show will be hosted by Israel television personalities Bar Refaeli, Lucy Ayoub, Erez Tal and Assi Azar.

The Eurovision Village at Charles Clore park in central Tel Aviv was also to open Sunday with musical performances and a food market to mark the occasion.

Eurovision kicks off with a party in Tel Aviv (Photo: Oren Aharoni)

Hundreds of foreign journalists and TV cameras have already gathered at the Expo Tel Aviv, while thousands of tourists were expected to arrive in the city.

For Israeli entrant Kobi Marimi, the chance to perform on his home turf is tremendously exciting. His song, "Home," was written especially for him after he won the competition to represent his country.

Kobi Marimi and his backing singers rehearse the Israeli Eurovision entry (Photo: Oren Aharoni)

"It was amazing, being on this stage," the 27-year-old Marimi said Friday after his first rehearsal, according to the Israeli media. "Im always emotional, and I feel like Im about to cry."

He also brushed off criticism over the song, which bookmakers do not expect to be placed in the top 10.

"I love what we did, and I love what we have and I believe in it no matter what, he said.

Marimi, who will be flanked onstage by five backing singers, will perform in the 14th spot on Saturday night.





The Eurovision stage

Israel, like Australia, is one of the non-European nations to take part in Eurovision. It is hosting because its 2018 entrant Netta Barzilai won with her hit song "Toy."

Tel Aviv prepares for Eurovision events

Israel's military is on high alert with troop reinforcement on the Gaza border in advance of this Wednesday's Nakba Day (Day of Catastrophe), an annual day of commemoration of the displacement 700,000 Palestinians from the newly formed state of Israel in 1948.

The Iron Dome defense system will also be deployed in the border area as well as in the center of the country in order to protect Eurovision events from possible attempts on the part of Hamas and the Islamic Jihad to disrupt the competition.

In the last round of violence for Gaza, earlier this month, 700 rockets were launched at Israel killing four civilians and injuring dozens more.
US Special Mideast Envoy Jason D. Greenblatt said Saturday the Trump administrations long-delayed peace proposal, dubbed the deal of the century will not be unveiled until mid-June after the Jewish holiday of Shavuot.

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Last month, reports suggested White House senior adviser Jared Kushner - the plans architect - planned to unveil the proposal after Israel forms a governing coalition in the wake of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's election victory and after the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, which ends in early June.

US Special Mideast Envoy Jason D. Greenblatt and Prime Minister Netanyahu (Photo: Kobi Gidon/PMO)

One thing we wont do, the Trump administration wont compromise on Israels security, he said in an interview with Fox News.

Greenblatt also spoke Thursday at a UN meeting meant to condemn Israeli militarys action during the latest round of cross-border fighting in Gaza, which left four Israeli civilians dead. The meeting - during which Palestinian foreign minister also gave a speech - was held on Israels 71st Independence Day, making it deliberately antagonistic, according to Greenblatt.

Im not a believer in boycotts but in engagement  Its outrageous to hold a meeting like this without addressing the attacks on Israel. This from a body who would not condemn Hamas several months ago, Greenblatt said in the interview.

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas (Photo: AP)

Greenblat also lamented the Palestinian Authority's dismissive attitude toward the peace plan, saying the rejection of the proposal only harms the ordinary citizens. Its terribly frustrating for ordinary Palestinians," he said. "I meet with them frequently, and this is the message they tell me. They understand they may not like aspects of the plan but are upset that their leaders are saying they wont even take a look at it. I feel terrible for the Palestinian people.

The 53-year-old emphasized the plan encompasses "all the core issues" and includes both political and economic proposals. "Its both political and economic plan," he said. "Once everyone has read and given their thoughts on it, there is still a long way to go before a final signing agreement, and that will be up to the parties themselves to negotiate.
Energy Minister Yuval Steinitz warned Sunday of possible direct or proxy Iranian attacks on Israel should the stand-off between Tehran and Washington escalate.

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The United States has increased economic and military pressure on Iran, with U.S. President Donald Trump on Thursday urging its leaders to talk to him about giving up their nuclear program and saying he could not rule out an armed confrontation.

Yuval Steinitz talks to Ynet, May 12, 2019 (Photo: Gil Yohanan)

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government, which supports Trump's hard tack against its arch-foe, has largely been reticent about the spiralling tensions.

But Steinitz told Ynet on Sunday that "things are heating up" in the Gulf.

Anti-U.S. protests in Tehran (Photo: EPA)

"If there's some sort of conflagration between Iran and the United States, between Iran and its neighbours, I'm not ruling out that they will activate Hezbollah (in Lebanon) and Islamic Jihad from Gaza, or even that they will try to fire missiles from Iran at the State of Israel," said Steinitz, a member of Netanyahu's security cabinet.

Hezbollah and Islamic Jihad are Iranian-sponsored guerrilla groups on Israel's borders.

The IDF declined to comment when asked if it was making any preparations for possible threats linked to the Iran-U.S. standoff.

Anti-U.S. protests in Tehran (Photo: AP)

Israel has traded blows with Iranian forces in Syria, as well as with Hezbollah in Lebanon and Palestinian militants. But it has not fought an open war with Iran, a country on the other side of the Middle East.

Meanwhile, the new commander of Iran's elite Revolutionary Guards Hossein Salami told Iranian parliamentarians on Sunday that the United States has started a psychological war in the region, according to a government spokesman.





IRGC Commander Hossein Salami (Photo: AP)

The U.S. military has sent forces, including an aircraft carrier and B-52 bombers, to the Middle East to counter what the Trump administration says are "clear indications" of threats from Iran to U.S. forces there.

The USS Abraham Lincoln is replacing another carrier rotated out of the Gulf last month.





The USS Abraham Lincoln is heading to the Mideast (Photo: AP)

"Commander Salami, with attention to the situation in the region, presented an analysis that the Americans have started a psychological war because the comings and goings of their military is a normal matter," the spokesman for the parliamentary leadership, Behrouz Nemati, said, summarizing the Guards commander's comments, according to parliament's ICANA news site.

Major General Hossein Salami was appointed as head of the Guards last month.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told ministers Sunday, at the start of the weekly cabinet meeting, that a location for a new community, to be named after US President Donald Trump is already designated.

Netanyahu promised to name a new town after the US president as a sign of gratitude for his recognition of Israeli sovereignty of the Golan Heights, captured from Syria in the 1967 war.
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An astronaut whose father fought in the 1948 War of Independence, will be the fourth Jewish woman to participate in a NASA space mission this September.

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This will be the first space mission conducted by an astronaut with Israeli connection since the 2003 Columbia space shuttle disaster, in which Israel's first-ever astronaut Ilan Ramon perished with his crewmates.

Jessica Meir

The 41-year-old Jessica Meir was born in the United States to an Iraqi-Israeli father and Native American-Swedish mother and holds a dual American-Swedish citizenship. She was selected by NASA back in 2013.

Jessica claims that despite her mother being Christian, she and her brothers see themselves as Jews and occasionally visit a synagogue. "I'm not religious, but my background is culturally Jewish," she said.

Furthermore, among the three items - each austronaust is allowed to take with them on a mission - Jessica decided to take an Israeli flag (along with a pair of socks which have an image of a seven branch menorah on them).

Meir holds a Bachelor of Arts in Biology from Brown University, a Master of Science in Space Studies from the International Space University, and a Doctor in Marine Biology from Scripps Institution of Oceanography (UCSD).

Meirs father is an Iraqi-born Jew, who as a child immigrated to Israel with his family, and later fought in the 1948 war after being drafted to the Israel Defense Forces.

Jessica Meir trains for space mission

After completing his military service, he went to Sweden - in order to study medicine - where he married a Swedish woman. The two immigrated to the US shortly after, where they had five children, with Jessica being the youngest of the five.

The 41-year-old says she has been dreaming of becoming an astronaut since the age of five and over the years had tried in vain to enroll into NASAs Space Shuttle program until finally being accepted in 2013.

Last month Meir was informed that she had been chosen to be part of a mission to International Space Station on a Russian Soyuz spacecraft, which will be launched from the site at Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan on September 25, 2019. Astronauts from Russia and the United Arab Emirates will also be among the missions crew.

"I still have a hard time believing this is actually happening," Jessica said. "Once Im sitting in the spacecraft, moments before the launch, I will finally believe my dream is coming true.
Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit said Sunday that a messenger sent by his office tried to deliver materials pertaining to the corruption charges against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu along with a cover letter, but the prime minister's lawyers refused to accept them.

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As a result, the AG - who was once Netanyahu's cabinet secretary - emailed the letter to the office of Netanyahu lead counsel Navot Tel-Zur and is reportedly considering his next steps.

Avichai Mandelblit (Photo: Ohad Zwigenberg)

Netanyahu is suspected of corruption in three separate cases. Earlier this year, Mandelblit recommended bribery, fraud and breach of trust charges in Case 4000, in which Netanyahu is suspected of receiving favorable coverage on the Walla! News website in return for regulatory benefits to telecommunications giant Bezeq, which owned the site.

The attorney general also called for charges of fraud and breach of trust in both Case 1000, in which Netanyahu and his family are suspected of receiving illicit gifts from wealthy donors such as Israeli Hollywood producer Arnon Milchan, and Case 2000, in which Netanyahu allegedly tried to negotiate favorable coverage in the Yedioth Ahronoth daily (Ynetnews' sister publication) in return for promoting legislation against rival paper Israel Hayom.

Ariel Sharon. Benjamin Netanyahu and Arnon Milchan, 2005

In his own missive, Mandelblit responded to a letter sent last week by the defense lawyers affirming that Netanyahu is interested in having a hearing ahead of any indictments, but asking that a new schedule for the hearing be set, as they believed they would need more time to prepare for it.

Mandelblit said in response that he "considers the hearing a very important part of the process" and intends to enter it with an "open heart and a willing disposition." He added, however, that "it is hard to accept a claim of a vast amount of material that must be studied in a short time, when it is made by those who have been refusing to accept it for a long period of time."

He said that the defense team "is allowed to ask for different things in the course of the hearing process, and all requests will be considered carefully." He also informed the attorneys that all the material required for the hearing was in digital form "in order to better facilitate preparation for the hearing."

Netanyahu defense attorney Navot Tel-Zur (Photo: Yoav Dudkevitch)

In his written response to Mandelblit's attempt to deliver the material on Sunday, Tel-Zur claimed that he was not on hand to accept the delivery when the AG's messenger arrived. He also repeated his decision not to accept material relevant to the hearing as he and his colleagues have not yet agreed to represent the prime minister because the question of payment has not yet been resolved.

This was the same reason given by the lawyers when they initially refused to receive any materials relevant to the hearing in early April 2019.
A week after the last round of escalation between Israel and Gaza during which 700 rockets and rockets were fired at southern communities, a special report shows just how terrible the toll that the repeated rocket and missiles strikes are having on the Israeli psyche, in particular in the south.

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In the three days of escalated violence alone, more than 1,000 people contacted the NATAL NGO, which deals with trauma related to wartime and terrorism, about stress and anxiety.

IDF soldiers accompany children as they return to school in Ashdod after a round of fighting with Gaza (Photo: Ittay Shickman)

According to NATAL, in 2018 the organization's helpline received calls from more than 4,000 people across Israel who were coping with symptoms of post-trauma - a 25-percent increase from the previous year. One-quarter of the applicants were children or young people living in the south of Israel.

In fact, in the last five years since the end of Operation Protective Edge, there has been a steady increase in the number of residents of the confrontation line seeking assistance and support for themselves or their children.

Residents of southern Israel try to take cover from rocket fire from Gaza (Photo: Reuters)

Following the wave of tensions with the Gaza Strip and the fighting in 2018, there was a 40 percent increase in helpline requests from residents of the southern region compared to the previous year  1,300 in 2018 as opposed to 780 in 2017. That number is expected to grow following the latest round.

The rounds of fighting in the south, the fear generated by airborne explosive devices and the regular clashes at the Gaza-Israel border fence have all led to a dramatic increase in the number of calls to the hotline by civilians.





Rockets fired at southern Israel from Gaza (Photo: Reuters)

The data shows a clear spike in calls to hotline around certain key dates in 2018.

For example, there were an average of 200 new callers per day in the run-up to the Great March of Return on March 30, whose preparations were punctuated by mortar fire and airborne explosive devices.

Anxiety among Israelis also climbed around June 5, when nine fires were started in the south by firebombs attached to balloons and sent from Gaza. In that period, NATAL was averaging 180 new calls per day.

According to NATAL, 45 percent of all those who call are discharged IDF combatants aged 21-34, 10 percent are combat veterans and 45 percent are civilians.

In terms of geographical location, 65 percent of the applicants are from the south, 10 percent are from the center of the country, 12 percent live in the north, eight percent are from the Jerusalem area and five percent live in West Bank settlements.





Residents of southern Israel try to take cover from rocket fire from Gaza (Photo: Reuters)

The NATAL data also shows that a quarter of the requests received by the helpline in 2018 were regarding care and assistance for children and young people in the south. The referrals were usually made by parents seeking support and assistance for children suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder.

According to the data, 27 percent of those seeking assistance did so following a war or military operation, 24 percent called over their military service, 13 percent due to security escalations, and 9 percent due to terrorism.

Ninety percent of the discharged combatants that receive help from NATAL are not recognized as post-trauma by the Ministry of Defense.
Israeli military arrested on Sunday a Palestinian man who breached the Gaza-Israel border.

The suspect had a knife with him and was taken for further questioning.
The Jerusalem State Attorney indicted Sunday three Palestinian residents of East Jerusalem, who planned to assassinate Israeli officials and were backed by Hamas.

According to the indictment, two of the three met in prison and decided to cooperate in order to commit terror acts. After their release, the two joined forces with another man and contacted Hamas' Istanbul base, that offered that they murder a senior Israeli official.

Possible targets the group considered were former Jerusalem mayor Nir Barkat, former Police Chief Roni Alsheikh and ex-MK Yehudah Glick.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced Sunday that a suitable spot in the Golan Heights was chosen for a new settlement to be named after US President Donald Trump ; however, the chosen place is an exciting community and not an uninhabited spot, and local residents reject the proposed plan.

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The prime minister said he would establish a new community bearing the name of the American president, who acknowledged Israel's rule over the Golan, in April, shortly after the recognition was signed in Washington.

Road sign pointing to Qela and Bruchim (file photo) (Photo: Avihu Shapira)

Netanyahu announced the choice of place during a government meeting, and said that once a new government is sworn in, it will vote on the decision.

However, the place chosen for new community is an existing village called Beruchim, located in the plateau's north, that was repeatedly settled and abandoned over the years. It neighbors Qela, a bigger community, and functions as an extension of it.

Aloney Habashan in the Golan Heights (Photo: Amir Duvdevani, TPS)

Today, Beruchim is the home of 10 people, and several other newcomers who wish to establish a leadership seminar for pre-army teens in the settlement.

The community was established in 1991, by then-housing minister Ariel Sharon, who sent a group of new immigrants from the Soviet Union to live there. It was established near Qela and meant to be a thriving extension of it, but failed to live up to the expectations.

Residents of Qela were outraged about the decision to change their existing community's name, and hung signs protesting the move on their entrance gate, apparently under the impression that the entire perimeter of Qela and Beruchim will become the new Trump community.

Welcome to Bruchim (file photo) (Photo: Avihu Shapira)

However, the residents had false information, and it was clarified Sunday that the new settlement will not replace Qela, but rather built on top of Beruchim; a draft plan already exists and offers 110 new homes be built in Beruchim, that will house both religious and secular residents.







Trump signed a decree recognizing Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights in late March. The plateau was conquered from Syria during the 1967 Six Day War, along with the West Bank and Sinai. It is home to both Jewish communities and Druze villages, the of which whose residents were Syrian nationals before the war. Some Druze residents of the Golan still choose to remain as Syrian nationals.
Israel's week-long Eurovision party was to officially kick-off on Sunday evening with a party at Charles Clore park on the beachfront promenade.

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The celebration includes food stalls, attractions and performances.

The Eurovision Village in Tel Aviv (Photo: Reuters)

Charles Clore is home to the Eurovision Village, which Israel says its the largest in the song contest's history.

Roads in central Tel Aviv have been closed for ahead of the official reception for all the competitors and their delegations, which will take place at Habima Square in the heart of the city. Major traffic delays are expected.

Eurovision fever on Tel Aviv beach (Photo: Reuters)

Thousands of police, Magen David Adom medics and stewards have already been deployed in the park as thousands flock to the city. City hall is hoping for an influx of 300,000 visitors to the week-long event.

A massive sculpture of last year's winner Netta Barzilai has been constructed in the area of the Eurovision Village. The four-meter model, made by Jaffa multidisciplinary artist Nirit Levav Packer is made of toys donated by local kindergartens, in tribute to Netta's winning song "Toy."

The sculpture of Netta Barzilai (Photo: Moti Kimchi)

Along with the delegations, thousands of foreign tourists were expected to attend the competition, although less than initially predicted.

A week after Tel Aviv was selected as the host city for the competition, the local municipality proposed erecting the village in order to "reflect its unique character of a city that never sleeps."

The proximity to the seafront allows Eurovision delegates to enjoy the climate, beaches and food in one location. Events at the village will run throughout the week, usually beginning at around 5pm. These events include Hebrew lessons for tourists eager to pick up a little of the local lingo.

The Eurovision Village in Tel Aviv

On Friday, which is the first day of the weekend in Israel, the village will open to visitors at noon and close at nightfall, when Shabbat starts.

The Eurovision contest itself will be held over three nights - semi-finals on May 14 and May 16 and the Grand Final on May 18. The village will broadcast each of these events live on massive screens.
A deal signed Sunday between the State Prosecutor and an unnamed minor indicted for conspiring to the 2015 murder off Palestinian family clears the defendant of the murder conspiracy charge.

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Riham and Saad Dawabsha were killed along with their 18-month-old son Ali in an arson attack on their West Bank home in July 2015. Their other son, Ahmed, who was then 5, was severely burned in the attack.

Saed, Reham and Ali Dawabsheh, who were murdered in the Duma arson (file photo) (Photo: Hassan Shaalan)

The plea bargain convicts the young man of conspiring to commit a crime motivated by racism. However, the indictment was amended to define the crime as arson, not murder, as stated in the original indictment.

The unnamed minor indicted for conspiring to the 2015 murder (Photo: Shaul Golan)

The defendant confessed to the crime, and the state requested a prison sentence of five and a half years.

The defendant's' attorney, Adi Keidar of Honenu, a legal aid organization that helps Israelis accused of crimes against Palestinians, said that "the plea bargain and the indictment set a precedent for an Israeli court. It disqualifies the defendant's prior confession and determines it was collected from him using severe violence."

"The court criticized the Shin Bet security service and the State Prosecutor's Office (for their behavior)," said Keidar. "The new indictment is entirely different and has no trace of harming so much as a hair on a person's head. It is entirely unrelated to the murder in the village of Duma (of the Dawabsha family).

"It's time that the defendant tries to recover We hope that one day, he'll be able to share the horrors he has been through during the Shin Bet investigations," said Keidar.

The State Prosecutor's Office said that the young man "wasn't charged of being involved in the murder scene to begin with, but rather with the planning of the attack," and added that "the defendant's distance from the scene makes it hard to prove an intention to kill, necessary to convict him of conspiring to murder."

The State added that the new indictment determines that the young man was a member of a terror organization.

Amiram Ben-Uliel, charged for the three murders (file photo)

On January 2016, the State Prosecutor's Office indicted the defendant, a resident of a West Bank settlement who was 17 at the time, for involvement in the murders of the Dawabshe family.

The unnamed defendant was originally indicted of conspiring to murder and for taking part in planning the crime. He was also indicted for six other crimes not related to the Duma murders.

Amiram Ben-Uliel, then 21, from Jerusalem, was directly charged with the murders of the Dawabshe family, and confessed to the crimes.

The charred remains of the Dawabsheh family home (file photo) (:  ,  "  ")

Ben-Uliel is currently held for 3 counts of murder for hurling a Molotov cocktail into the bedroom of the sleeping Dawabsheh family.

Ben-Uliel also faces two counts of attempted murder, arson and conspiring to commit a hate crime.

Both defendants denied the charges against them during trial, despite their confessions during the investigation, and Ben-Uliel's reenactment of the murder. Both claimed that confessions were extracted using violence.

On June 2018, the court determined that the confessions of the two men, made on a specific day during the investigation process, were extracted by force and would be disqualified. However, other parts of their testimony, collected on all other days of the investigation, remained eligible to be used in trial.
A suspect in his 30's from the village Tuba Zangariya was arrested Sunday the poisoning that killed eight rare vultures in the Golan Heights Friday.

The Israel Police will ask to extend his remand until further investigation is completed.
News

Dallas, Texas - A federal jury convicted a Dallas, Texas man on multiple terror charges, Assistant Attorney General for National Security John C. Demers and U.S. Attorney Erin Nealy Cox for the Northern District of Texas announced Monday.

Following a three-and-a-half day trial, Said Azzam Mohamad Rahim, a 42-year-old United States citizen, was convicted of one count of conspiracy to provide material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization (FTO), one count of attempting to provide material support to an FTO, and six counts of making false statements involving international terrorism to federal authorities.

Said Azzam Mohamad Rahim operated online to spread ISISs poisonous message of hate and violence, said Assistant Attorney General Demers. Then he attempted to travel to support ISIS and he lied to the FBI when questioned about his activities. With the jurys guilty verdicts, he is being held accountable for his crimes. I want to thank the prosecutors, agents, and analysts who are responsible for this result.

We will not allow radical terrorists motivated by dangerous ideologies to promote violence against innocent people, said U.S. Attorney Nealy Cox. The Justice Department is committed to combatting terror at home and abroad.

According to evidence presented at trial, Mr. Rahim moderated a social media channel dedicated to recruiting fighters for the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham, or ISIS, a State Department designated terror group.

Mr. Rahim used Zello, a push-to-talk direct messaging application, to promote violence in ISISs name, prosecutors said.

Records showed he spent hours on Zellos State of the Islamic Caliphate channel, where he touted acts of terror under various monikers:

Kill and do not consult anyone, he said in July 2016. Kill by any means, smash his head on the wall, spit in his face, burn -- I mean anything, anything  poison, anything.

Brothers! What are you waiting for?, he said a month later. Mobilize and perform jihad for the cause of Allah. Some of the brothers mobilized from this channel, they were amongst us. 

He even praised several terrorist attacks after the fact.

I was happy for this act, Rahim said after a truck barreled into a crowd of people in Nice, France, killing 86. Those dogs.

Mr. Rahim was arrested on March 5, 2017 at the Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, where he was attempting to board a flight to Amman, Jordan. Asked by agents if he had ever supported ISIS, advocated travel for the purposes of jihad, promoted violence on ISISs behalf, or encouraged anyone to kill infidels at the urging of ISIS spokesman Abu Mohammed Al Adnani, Mr. Rahim said no.

Rahim now faces up to 20 years in federal prison for each material support count and eight years for each false statement count, for a total of up to 88 years imprisonment. The FBI, the U.S. Department of State  Diplomatic Security Services and the Joint Terrorism Task Force conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Errin Martin and Trial Attorney Taryn Meeks of the National Security Divisions Counterterrorism Section prosecuted the case. U.S. District Court Judge Jane J. Boyle presided over the trial.
Accordingly, the cultural events include an exhibition on Buddhist culture in Vietnam and the world, a document photo exhibition on Vietnamese Buddhism, a Buddhist photo and painting exhibition, an artistic stone exhibition on Buddhism and nation, an exhibition featuring Buddhist cultural products, and a vegetarian food fair.

The excellent artworks on display at the exhibitions are all of high cultural and spiritual values, contributing to providing domestic and international visitors with a better insight into Vietnamese culture and Vietnamese Buddhist culture.

In particular, the organising committee lit seven lotuses on Tam Chuc Lake, a sacred symbol marking the seven pure steps of the Buddha when he appeared in life for peace and the happiness of humanity.

At the end of the programme, the venerable monks on the organising board performed the ritual of lighting flower lanterns to pray for the success of the UN Day of Vesak Celebrations 2019.

The UN Day of Vesak Celebrations 2019 will take place at the Tam Chuc Buddhist Cultural Complex from May 12 to 14, with the participation of more than 1,600 dignitaries and leaders of Buddhist sanghas and sects, and professors, doctors and Buddhism researchers and scholars from over 100 countries and territories around the world. This will be the third time that the UN Day of Vesak Celebrations has been hosted by Vietnam.
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Washington, DC - Thank you for the introduction and for the opportunity to participate in this important Summit.

Human trafficking and modern-day slavery involve deprivations of human dignity. This evil has haunted us throughout our history, and we must never relent in our ongoing efforts to prevent and eradicate these crimes.

During todays Summit, you heard a brief overview of the Civil Rights Divisions anti-trafficking program, and the impact it is having on our nations unfinished work of eliminating slavery and the many insidious forms of compelled servitude.

Seeking justice on behalf of those held in servitude has been one of the paramount priorities of the Civil Rights Division since its founding in 1957, decades before the Trafficking Victims Protection Act and the United Nations Palermo Protocol ushered in the modern anti-trafficking movement as we know it today.

I could focus my remarks on amplifying the Divisions achievements advancing our nations anti-trafficking priorities since the Trafficking Victims Protection Acts enactment in 2000 and the creation of our specialized Human Trafficking Prosecution Unit in 2007.

Instead, I would like to reflect first on how the Divisions Anti-Trafficking Program fits into our nations long and complex fight to remove the stain of slavery from our country.

When we declared our independence in 1776, we announced our founding ideals, namely, that our Creator created us equal and endowed all of us with certain unalienable Rights including the right to Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness. Yet, we struggled to reconcile these ideals with the depredations inherent in the trafficking of human beings to our shores as chattel.

And by trafficking, I do not mean merely transporting; I mean the trading in human beings that slave traders and masters engaged in to exploit other human beings for compelled servitude. This is the core evil underlying both the historic transatlantic slave trade and modern-day forms of servitude, slavery, and trafficking.

Of course, unlike historic chattel slavery, modern-day violations are legally prohibited, and they take different forms. However, both historic and modern-day forms of servitude and slavery are, by their nature, deeply dissonant with our ideals of rights and liberty.

Both of these threadsour lofty ideals of freedom and our involvement in the transatlantic slave trade and slaveryare woven deeply into the fabric of our nation.

Across the centuries, abolitionist voices have attempted to untangle these threads and consign slavery to the ash heap of history.

Controversies over slavery roiled the Constitutional Convention of 1787. Its compromises included tolerating slavery, and a Fugitive Slave Clause that required enslaved persons who escaped captivity to be delivered up on Claim of the Party to whom such Service or Labour may be due. It is notable that the language avoided using the term slavery, although its meaning was clear.

The framers of the Constitution also deferred abolition of the transatlantic slave trade for another twenty years. This allowed the legally sanctioned trafficking of human beings into our nation to continue until January 1, 1808.

After 1808, the transatlantic slave trade continued. Slave traders smuggled thousands more enslaved human beings into the United States illegally, often through Spanish Florida and Texas, over the ensuing decades.

Furthermore, domestic trafficking of enslaved men, women, and children continued unabated and fully protected under the Constitution and laws of the United States, and slavery spread into the territories and new states of our growing nation.

Legal protections perpetuated the institution of slavery and gained even greater force when Congress passed the Fugitive Slave Law of 1850. It required law enforcement officials to arrest and return any escaped slave. It also rewarded these officials financially when they complied, and penalized them criminally when they did not.

This Congressional edict enlisted free-State officials in enforcing slave-State laws.

I would like to focus on one case from that era. The case of Anthony Burns illustrates the clash between our notions of unalienable rights and the codification of servitude and subjugation.

In March 1854, Anthony Burns was an enslaved 19-year old man. He escaped from Virginia and stowed away on a ship to Boston. Mr. Burns found a job in a Boston clothing store. He then wrote a letter to his brother in Virginia, and his former owner intercepted the letter and headed north to reclaim Mr. Burns as his chattel.

An outraged vigilance committee opposed the return of Mr. Burns to bondage and pledged that resistance to tyrants is obedience to God. The authorities arrested Mr. Burns as prescribed by the Fugitive Slave Law, and abolitionists tried unsuccessfully to rescue him. Fighting broke out, and one Deputy U.S. Marshall was killed.

President Franklin Pierce ordered the U.S. Marines to restore order and ensure the enforcement of the Fugitive Slave Law. So, the authorities in Boston placed Mr. Burns on a ship and sent him back to slavery in Virginia over the vocal objections of thousands of protesters.

Mr. Burns saga energized opposition to slavery.

Boston textile magnate Amos Lawrence said that we went to bed one night old fashioned, conservative, Compromise Union Whigs and waked up stark mad abolitionists.

Another convert to the abolitionist position, after watching Mr. Burns shipped back to bondage, wrote, I put my face in my hand and wept. I could do nothing less.

Abolitionist William Lloyd Garrison publicly burned a copy of the Constitution while protesters breathed Amen to the denunciation of the Constitution as a covenant of death.

The unresolved conflict between unalienable rights and state-sanctioned slavery reached a boiling point, and the turmoil escalated into the Civil War in 1861. As the war raged on, our sixteenth President, Abraham Lincoln, issued the Emancipation Proclamation on New Years Day, 1863, and declared all persons held as slaves in the regions fighting to secede to be thenceforward and forever free.

It would, however, be some time before this promise of freedom would start to take root in our Constitution and laws. In 1865, our nation enacted the Thirteenth Amendment and finally prohibited slavery and involuntary servitude. The Thirteenth Amendment authorized Congress to enforce its prohibitions by appropriate legislation, and Congress enacted laws to abolish the badges and incidents of slavery.

After the Civil War ended, we witnessed hate crimes, lynchings, Jim Crow laws, and a host of related injustices that served to perpetuate the subjugation of formerly enslaved, recently-emancipated citizens.

These badges and incidents of slavery are entrenched in our history and not easily eradicated. We have made much progress; however, we continue to confront myriad forms of servitude and slavery, and human traffickers continue to prey on the most vulnerable members of our society. Victims often remain hidden in the shadows and silenced by fear.

This is why the sustained struggle to deliver on the promise of freedom has been one of the highest priorities of the Civil Rights Division since its founding, in 1957.

Our mission was then, as it is now, to uphold the civil and constitutional rights of all, particularly the most vulnerable members of our society. And throughout more than six decades, this mission has placed us at the forefront of the Departments and the Nations still-unfinished undertaking of delivering on the Thirteenth Amendments promise of freedom for all.

Our commitment to seeking justice for those held in involuntary servitude will remain a centerpiece of the Divisions work.

The Trafficking Victims Protection Act and Palermo Protocol intensified national and international attention to this affront to human dignity, and they provided us with powerful tools that accelerated the momentum of our efforts and enhanced their impact. They also enunciated expressly the fundamental principles that had animated our Involuntary Servitude and Slavery Program from its inception.

Most significantly, these provisions elevated the emphasis on the rights-based, victim-centered approach that has always been, and will remain, the cornerstone of our anti-trafficking efforts.

This approach is essential to helping us to restore victims lives and bring perpetrators to justice.

In addition, broad-based, inter-disciplinary partnerships have always been fundamental to our ability to detect and protect the victims of these crimes.

The Trafficking Victims Protection Act and its progeny established programs that expand our ability to bring together a wide range of government agencies, non-governmental victim service providers, survivor-advocates, community groups, pro bono attorneys, and private-sector partners. This enhances the outreach, training, protection, and prevention efforts that have proven essential to detecting and interdicting this often hidden threat.

Human trafficking is a crime of coercion centered on subjugating the will of vulnerable human beings, and it is exceedingly difficult to prove the survivors state of mind without affording them the safety and stability necessary to earn their trust and empower them to confide in and cooperate with us.

The strength of the robust, innovative strategic partnerships that define the Divisions anti-trafficking program today is rooted in the foundations of the Divisions multi-decade efforts to convene and lead broad-based partnerships. These efforts predate the Trafficking Victims Protection Act, and include the interagency Worker Exploitation Task Force chaired by my predecessors. That Task Force led the U.S. governments anti-trafficking efforts in the 1990s. It brought law enforcement, labor, human services, and immigration officials together with nongovernmental organizations and victim advocates to collaborate on outreach, training, detection, victim assistance, and enforcement.

The Trafficking Victims Protection Act enabled us to expand upon these essential protections, partnerships, and programs, enhancing our ability to bring prosecutions.

The scope and impact of our anti-trafficking work today would have been difficult to envision in 2007, when we formed our Human Trafficking Prosecution Unit; in 2000, when Congress passed the Trafficking Victims Protection Act. It would have been even more difficult to envision in the 1990s, when we formalized longstanding interagency and external partnerships into the Worker Exploitation Task Force; or in 1957, when the Civil Rights Division was founded. It would certainly have been unthinkable in 1854, when federal officials returned Anthony Burns to slavery.

For decades after the Thirteenth Amendment was ratified and after Congress enacted statutes criminalizing involuntary servitude, federal law enforcement prosecuted only a few such cases each year. Today, by contrast, we are leading strategic interagency enforcement initiatives that are successfully dismantling transnational trafficking networks and vindicating the rights of thousands of vulnerable victims. Through these strong strategic partnerships with law enforcement and non-governmental anti-trafficking advocates, the Department has brought over 800 federal trafficking cases against approximately 1,800 defendants since Congress passed the Trafficking Victims Protection Act.

All of these cases involved coercion-based crimes of forced labor, adult sex trafficking, transnational sex trafficking. These prosecutions are all in addition to the significant numbers of child sex trafficking cases that do not require proof of coercion, and that are led by the child sexual exploitation experts the Justice Departments Criminal Division.

A few examples from recent months illustrate the scope of the Divisions anti-trafficking program. We secured convictions on behalf of a young child brought here from West Africa and held in domestic servitude without pay for sixteen years. We secured convictions on behalf of a young woman from New Hampshire whose sex trafficker preyed on her opioid addiction to compel her to prostitute for his profit. We also vindicated the rights of hundreds of Thai women exploited throughout the United States by a transnational sex trafficking organization.

In another case, we vindicated the rights of dozens of young women and girls lured into the United States from Mexico on false promises of love, marriage, and a better life. In that case, a notorious transnational human trafficking organization compelled the victims into prostitution. We dismantled that enterprise by apprehending and convicting the traffickers who ran it on both sides of the border, and we did so in coordination with Mexican anti-trafficking authorities through our Bilateral Human Trafficking Enforcement Initiative.

While the number and the impact of these successful prosecutions is encouraging, the continued volume and viciousness of trafficking crimes serve as chilling reminders that we still have a long road ahead.

We will continue to grapple with the scourge of slavery, over 150 years after ratification of the Thirteenth Amendment. Our nations long struggle to cleanse its soul of slavery and servitude should not discourage us.

Together with all of you and many others, we are utilizing time-tested effective strategies: victim-centered approaches to providing the survivors the safety and security they need to come forward; innovative, broad-based partnerships so we can continue uncovering hidden trafficking threats; and the criminal investigations and prosecutions of traffickers that these strategies enable us to bring.

I am honored to carry forward the Civil Rights Divisions proud legacy of serving on the front lines of our nations battle to deliver on the Thirteenth Amendments promise of freedom. for all. We harbor no illusions that this battle can be won swiftly or easily. Still, the Civil Rights Division will work shoulder to shoulder with all of you, and with all anti-trafficking allies who have joined us in this fight, for as long as it takes to vindicate the rights of vulnerable victims and courageous survivors. We will remain inspired by the legacy and suffering of Anthony Burns and countless others subjected to slavery and human trafficking, and we will continue to pursue justice on their behalf. Thank you.
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New Delhi: Bollywood actors Kartik Aaryan and Sara Ali Khan are busy shooting for their upcoming film which is a sequel to the 2007 hit 'Love Aaj Kal'. The film is being directed by Imtiaz Ali and has been high on the buzzword ever since it was announced. Kartik and Sara's pairing is what has piqued the interest of audience as the gorgeous actress has often expressed her fondness towards the 'Pyaar Ka Punchnama' actor.

First pics from their shoot had gone viral on the internet and fans are eager to see the two share screen space.

The two were spotted along with Imtiaz in Bandra recently, post wrapping a shoot.

Check out the pics here:

(Image Courtesy: Yogen Shah)

Sara made her debut in Bollywood with Abhishek Kapoor's 'Kedarnath' last year. She is the daughter of Saif Ali Khan and his first wife Amrita Singh and is adored by many for her honest and witty replies. She is also a part of 'Coolie No. 1 remake' that stars Varun Dhawan as the male lead.

Coming to Kartik, the actor ruled hearts with his performance in films like 'Pyaar ka Punchnama 2', 'Sonu Ke Titu Ki Sweety' and the latest 'Luka Chuppi'. Known as the 'King of monologues', Kartik has a huge fan-following.

Here's wishing these two all the very best for the film!
New Delhi: A 16-year-old boy was killed and three others were injured after the roof of a shop in Narela collapsed on them on Saturday, police said.

Officials of a hospital informed police at 11.30 am that three injured persons have been admitted.

During enquiry, it was found that four persons were working at the welding shop at Swatantra Nagar, Deputy Commissioner of Police (outer north) Gaurav Sharma said.

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The roof, made of iron bars and metal sheets, collapsed when the workers were repairing its foundation for the construction of a drain by a contractor of the Irrigation and Flood Control Department, he said

Mohammad Mehraj (28), Juber (22) and Munna (16) were admitted to the Maharaja Agarsen Hospital, Sharma said.

Munna was declared dead while the rest are being treated, the officer said, adding that another injured Irshad (20) was admitted to the Satyawadi Raja Harish Chandra Hospital.

No work was in progress for constructing the drain today, police said, adding a case has been registered.
Bhubaneswar: The Meteorological Centre here issued thunderstorm warning in five districts of Odisha on Sunday.

Moderate thunderstorm and lightning are likely in Korpaut, Gajapati, Rayagada, Ganjam, Nowrangpur and Kalahandi districts. Light rainfall and gusty wind at a speed of 40 kmph are also likely in one or two areas of these districts. Such weather conditions are likely to prevail between 2 pm and 5 pm on Sunday.

Odisha has been battling the aftermath of Cyclone Fani which hit India's eastern coastline earlier this month. Puri bore the brunt of the cyclone with the overall death toll in the state at least 40. Odisha CM had asked rescue and relief agencies to remain on alert even before Cyclone Fani had made landfall. Lakhs of people were evacuated while the Centre had released emergency funds before and in the aftermath of landfall.

There has been massive destruction to property but agencies on the ground are working overtime to repair the damage.
Jammu: Two army soldiers were injured in a grenade blast in the Machil sector near Line of Control (LoC) in Kupwara on Sunday.

According to reports, the injured soldiers have been identified as Havaldar Jaipal Singh Tomar (39) and Naik Vikram Mane (33) of 56 Rashtriya Rifles.

Giving more information about the incident, the police said that a grenade launched from an Under Barrel Grenade Launcher went off when the personnel were cleaning Arms and Ammunition at their post.

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Both the injured soldiers were immediately rushed to 168 Military Hospital Drugmulla from where they were later shifted to Army's 92 Base Hospital Badamibagh Srinagar for specialised treatment.

Earlier this morning, an encounter broke out in Jammu and Kashmir's Hind Sita Pora area of Shopian district in which two terrorists were shot dead.

The two terrorists, who were killed by the security forces in the pre-dawn encounter, belonged to the Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT) and were residents of Kulgam district.

A police official identified the slain terrorists as Aadil Bashir Wani, resident of Waripora and Javaid Ahmad Bhat, resident of Redwani Qaimoh - both in Kulgam.

Weapons and a huge cache of ammunition were also recovered from the spot.

Meanwhile, internet services were snapped in Kulgam as a precautionary measure.
Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) worker Raman Singh was found dead under mysterious circumstances on Saturday night in Gopiballabpur in West Bengal's Jhargram. Singh was BJP booth president.

Jhargram is one of the eight Lok Sabha constituencies voting in Bengal on Sunday during the sixth phase of national election.

Meanwhile, in Medinipur's Kanthi, body of a TMC worker was recovered. According to reports, Sudhakar Maiti, the TMC worker, had gone to visit a relative in a hospital on Saturday night. However, he didn't return home after that. Later, the police were informed and his body was recovered from Kanthi.

Maiti's family alleges that he was murdered.

Medinipur also votes on Sunday.

In a separate incident, two BJP workers Ananta Guchait and Ranjit Maity were shot at on Saturday night in Bhagabanpur and East Medinipur. Both were admitted to a hospital in Tamluk and have now been referred to Kolkata.

As per sources, the incident happened during a scuffle. BJP alleged that TMC workers tried to capture the area and hence, they opened fire and hurled bombs after which the two workers got injured.

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However, TMC has denied BJP's accusations.

Voting in West Bengal was marred by violence in all the five phases till now. Clashes between BJP and Trinamool Congress were reported from several parts of the state.

In the sixth phase of polls, apart from Jhargram and Medinipur, Tamluk, Kanthi, Ghatal, Bankura, Bishnupur and Purulia are also voting.
KHANDWA: Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a blistering attack on the Congress party on Sunday saying ''it hatched the 'Hindu terror' conspiracy to defame our religious heritage.''

The PM also hit out at Rahul Gandhi-led main opposition party over a host of issues including the 1984 anti-Sikh riots, the Bhopal gas tragedy, the weakening of country's defence mechanism and the blatant corruption during the previous UPA regimes.

"'Congress hatched the 'Hindu terror' conspiracy to defame our religious heritage,'' the PM said, according to news agency PTI.

While appealing to voters to back BJP for a strong and decisive government at the Centre, PM Modi said, ''I am campaigning with my good work, Congress and its allies contesting with falsehood and misdeeds.''

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PM Modi made these remarks while addressing an election rally in the Khandwa district of Madhya Pradesh on Sunday.

During his speech, the PM also hit out at the Congress party for its casual approach to the 1984 anti-Sikh riots case, in which thousands of Sikhs were killed.

''Sikhs were killed in 1984, but Congress says 'so what, it happened'. Several hundreds of people died in Bhopal gas tragedy but Congress says 'hua to hua','' the PM said.

''1984 mein Sikho ke saath atyachaar hua, katleaam hua, ye kehte hain, hua to hua. Bhopal mein hazaro logo ko jahrili gas ke hawale kar diya, kayi pidhiyo ko barbad kar diya gaya,gunehgar ko bhaga diya gaya, agar aaj unko puchoge to yahi kahenge hua to hua. Log mare to mare,''

PM Modi: 1984 mein Sikho ke saath atyachaar hua, katleaam hua, ye kehte hain, hua to hua. Bhopal mein hazaro logo ko jahrili gas ke hawale kar diya, kayi pidhiyo ko barbad kar diya gaya,gunehgar ko bhaga diya gaya,agar aaj unko puchoge to yahi kahenge hua to hua. Log mare to mare pic.twitter.com/ZTmvBbpeA1  ANI (@ANI) May 12, 2019

Training his guns at the Congress party, the PM said, ''Those were involved in the 1984 riots have been rewarded by the Congress party.''

The PM was apparently referring to MP Chief Minister Kamal Nath, who is also believed to have also been involved in the 1984 riots.

''In Madhya Pradesh, one party has 2.5 chief minister. The administration doesn't even know whose orders are to be followed. Goons, murderers and dacoits have been given license here,'' the PM said.

It may be recalled the Sam Pitroda, the head of Congress party' overseas wing, had come under attack for his controversial statement on 1984 riots and since the PM and the top BJP leadership had been targeting the Congress party over the issue.

Congress had distanced itself from the controversy, saying it was ''Pitroda's personal opinion'' and cautioned its leaders to be extra careful while giving any statements on the sensitive issues.

Under attack from several quarters, Pitroda too apologised for his remarks on 1984 riots, saying, ''it was misrepresented and taken out of context.''

The Prime Minister also brought up the issue of national security, accusing the previous governments of weakening the intelligence agencies.

''Whenever the Pakistan-trained terrorists attacked, they (Congress) used to put innocent people behind bars in the name of an investigation,'' the PM said.

The PM had on Saturday came down heavily on the Congress, SP-BSP alliance in Uttar Pradesh for raising questions on his caste, asserting that he belongs to the caste of all poor countrymen.

''They have started a new thing about my caste,'' he said, in an apparent reference to Bahujan Samaj Party leader Mayawati's jibe that he is a ''farzi backward'' - a fake OBC leader.

''I want to tell them that Modi belongs to just one caste - whatever caste the poor belong to, I belong to that caste," he said, listing the schemes that his government has launched for them.

He said this while addressing election rallies in Sonebhadra and Jaunpur in UP.
Bhadohi: The district unit president of the Congress and some other office bearers on Saturday resigned from the party alleging humiliation by AICC general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra after they approached her with a complaint regarding the candidate.

"A complaint was made to Priyanka Gandhi about Congress candidate Ramakant Yadav not coordinating with anyone in the unit Friday and she was also told that none of the office bearers were invited for a rally here," Congress's Bhadohi district president Neelam Misra told newspersons.

Priyanka Gandhi addressed an election rally in Bhadohi in support of the party candidate Yadav on Friday.

Misra alleged that Priyanka Gandhi not only ignored their grievance but also used "strong words" against her publicly. "The AICC general secretary paid no heed and said if they are feeling humiliated over this then they can continue to feel this way," Misra claimed.

Misra said she and other office-bearers had approached Priyanka Gandhi as she is the Congress's eastern Uttar Pradesh in-charge. "But it seems that she does not have the thinking that could encourage the partymen," Misra said.

She said after resigning, they held a meeting and resolved to support Rangnath Misra, the joint candidate of the SP-BSP alliance for the election slated for Sunday.

When contacted, district vice president of the Congress Mushir Iqbal said Misra and others have taken this step in "haste" and need to have waited for the elections to be over.
He meant to inspire fellow citizens to come out and vote in the sixth phase of Lok Sabha election 2019. He even showed his own inked finger. In the end, Robert Vadra was mocked incessantly online for using a flag of Paraguay instead of India in his 'inspirational' tweet.

Gurugram and Delhi voted in the sixth phase of Lok Sabha election 2019 on Sunday. Lakhs of people turned out to cast their vote and among them was Robert Vadra who, after exercising his franchise, fired a tweet urging others to reach their respective polling booths. "Our right our strength!! Everyone must step out n vote...we need all support, to create a combined future for our loved ones, n for a secular, safe, productive future for our country," he posted on his account on the micro-blogging site. And while there was nothing wrong - or controversial - in his message, it was the incorrect flag emoticon he used which outraged many. Vadra had made use of Paraguay's national flag instead of the Tricolour.

And Twitter came out all proverbial guns blazing within seconds.

Vadra's tweet was on his Twitter feed for at least four hours before it was taken down and replaced with this tweet.

While it is an almost certainty that Vadra made the error inadvertently, many questioned how it took him several hours to realise his mistake. For someone with close to 40,000 followers on Twitter, Vadra would be better-advised to check his social media posts, then check once again, before putting it out for public consumption.
KOLKATA: The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Sunday ordered the police to register an FIR against BJP's candidate from Ghatal Lok Sabha constituency, Bharati Ghosh, for entering a polling station in West Bengal's Keshpur along with her security guards.

There were earlier reports of an attack on Bharati, who is a former IPS officer, when she attempted to enter inside a polling booth there.

Stones were pelted at the convoy of Bharati Ghosh at a polling station in Dogachia in West Bengal's Ghatal by locals.

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The media persons present at the polling booth were also reportedly attacked. Ghosh's private security guards then resorted to lathi-charge to disperse the agitators.

The BJP leader's car was also vandalised.

Locals alleged that the polling was going on peacefully and Ghosh came to disrupt the process.

Ghosh is contesting the 2019 Lok Sabha election from Ghatal as a BJP candidate.

Earlier today, Ghosh claimed that BJP's polling agent is not being allowed to sit inside the polling booth.

She accused TMC leader Soumen Mohapatra of stopping BJP's polling agent from sitting inside the polling booth.

In view of the reported attack and the disruption of the polling process, the CEO sought a report from the election officials.

Ghosh was also reportedly seen video-recording things inside a polling booth at Pikurda in Keshpur.

BJP's candidate and state party president Dilip Ghosh also faced protests from locals when he tried to visit a polling booth in his constituency, Midnapore.

Voting for 59 seats across seven states in the sixth phase of Lok Sabha election 2019 started at 7 AM on Sunday, amid tight security arrangements put in place by the Election Commission (EC).

Voting in phase 6 will be held in 14 seats in Uttar Pradesh, 10 in Haryana, 8 each in Bihar, Madhya Pradesh and West Bengal, all seven seats in Delhi and 4 in Jharkhand.

A total of 968 candidates are in the fray in the sixth phase, including Union Minister Maneka Gandhi, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, Congress leader Digvijaya Singh and BJP's Bhopal candidate Sadhvi Pragya Singh Thakur.
NEW DELHI: The Election Commission on Sunday removed Bankura District Magistrate Uma Shankar following reports of clashes in the poll-bound West Bengal where polling for the sixth phase was held today.

According to reports, the apex poll panel has appointed 2008 batch IAS officer Mukta Arya as the new District Magistrate and District Election Officer for Bankura.

The order from the Election Commission came following complaints against DM-cum-DEO Uma Shankar after a clash between the Mamata Banerjee-led TMC and BJP workers on Sunday.

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As per the EC order, Arya has been asked to take up her new assignment immediately.

West Bengal: Election Commission removes Uma Shankar from the post of Bankura District Magistrate. Mukta Arya is replacing him as the new DM pic.twitter.com/oa55uK8kBm  ANI (@ANI) May 12, 2019

"The new officer should join before the commencement of scrutiny tomorrow," the EC order said.

People came out in large numbers across 59 seats in Delhi, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, Jharkhand and Madhya Pradesh on Sunday to cast their vote in the sixth and penultimate phase of Lok Sabha election 2019.

The Election Commission of India informed that an estimated 63% overall voter turnout was witnessed here.

A total of 968 candidates were contesting the election in the sixth phase and while polling was largely peaceful, West Bengal once again reported several incidents of violence.

BJP candidate from Ghatal, Bharati Ghosh, was reportedly attacked but it was later alleged that she had entered a polling station with her security guards.

The EC asked cops to file an FIR against her. There were also massive clashes between BJP and TMC cadre here and it was reported that TMC stopped injured BJP supporters from getting medical attention.

There was also a scuffle at polling booth number 254 in Bankura where BJP alleged TMC workers of rigging. TMC also alleged in a tweet that central forces were coercing people to vote for BJP in booth numbers 186 and 234 in Salboni (Jhargram).
Jaunpur: A long queue of Muslim women voters at a polling booth in Uttar Pradesh's Machhali Shahar constituency had to wait for long hours to cast their votes due to glitches in the Electronic Voting machine (EVM).

The EVM glitch marred voting in Machhali Shahar for about three hours where the Muslim women voters has queued up from 6 am despite observing fast due to Ramzan. The voters alleged that the administration is stopping them from exercising their franchise and questioned if the EVM was malfunctioning, why wasn't it fixed.

After waiting for three hours, the voters left the polling booth without casting their votes.

Reports of EVM malfunction have come up from several polling booths of UP's Purvanchal district.

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The administration is taking steps to fix the EVM glitch. A few hours later, polling started at two booths out of the three. At polling booth 203, about 1,000 voters haven't yet cast their voters.
Political bigwigs campaigned extensively on Sunday for the seventh and last phase of Lok Sabha election 2019, voting for which will be held on May 19. Voting in the seventh phase will be held in 59 seats across eight states. These include 13 in Punjab and Uttar Pradesh, 9 in West Bengal, 8 seats in Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, 4 in Himachal Pradesh, 3 in Jharkhand and 1 in Chhattisgarh.

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Leaders from across party lines held rallies on Sunday. Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed 2 rallies in Uttar Pradesh and 2 public rallies in Madhya Pradesh. BJP President Amit Shah addressed 3 rallies in Himachal Pradesh and 1 in Punjab. Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav also addressed rallies in Mirzapur and Robertsganj while Bahujan Samaj Party chief Mayawati addressed a rally in Punjab's Nawashahar.

Thank you for joining us. Do come back again on Monday (May 13) for live updates of Lok Sabha election 2019.

Here are the live updates of campaigning for the last phase of Lok Sabha election:-

# EC removes Uma Shankar from the post of Bankura District Magistrate, replaces him with Mukta Arya as the new DM: Reports ANI.

West Bengal: Election Commission removes Uma Shankar from the post of Bankura District Magistrate. Mukta Arya is replacing him as the new DM pic.twitter.com/oa55uK8kBm  ANI (@ANI) May 12, 2019

# EC notice to Giriraj Singh, Union Minister & BJP Lok Sabha candidate from Bihar's Begusarai, for violation of the Model Code of Conduct, for a controversial speech he made in Begusarai on April 24

# BJP will win Delhi's all seven seats with huge margins, AAP will trail in third place, claims Delhi BJP chief Manoj Tiwari

# Narendra Modi is running a parallel govt in Bengal, in the guise of elections. We're tolerating everything silently. Our decency shouldn't be mistaken as our weakness. You people have insulted me and Bengal, you don't even allow me to run the govt: Mamata Banerjee.

WB CM in South 24 Parganas: Narendra Modi is running a parallel govt in Bengal, in guise of elections. We're tolerating everything silently. Our decency shouldn't be mistaken as our weakness. You people have insulted me and Bengal, you don't even allow me to run the govt. pic.twitter.com/4gywyUTVRf  ANI (@ANI) May 12, 2019

# I am thankful to both Madhya Pradesh and Indore. You have made one of my initiatives a great success. If the initiative of 'Swatch Bharat Abhiyaan' has reached to the common man it's because of my brother and sisters from Indore: PM Modi

PM Modi in Indore: I am thankful to both Madhya Pradesh and Indore. You have made one of my initiatives a great success. If the initiative of Swatch Bharat Abhiyaan has reached to the common man it's because of my brother and sisters from Indore. pic.twitter.com/6aYy6XXSEB  ANI (@ANI) May 12, 2019

# PM Modi arrives in Indore to address an election rally.

# Wherever he goes, PM Modi keeps saying that Congress will not win 40 seats. Do you believe that? If Congress gets more than 40 seats, will Modi hang himself at Delhi's Vijay Chowk?: Mallikarjun Kharge, Congress, in Kalaburagi.

Mallikarjun Kharge, Congress in Kalaburagi: Wherever he goes, Modi keeps saying that Congress will not win 40 seats. Do you believe that? If Congress gets more than 40 seats, will Modi hang himself at Delhi's Vijay Chowk? pic.twitter.com/ti3uPIYqlV  ANI (@ANI) May 12, 2019

# CPM's Sitaram Yechury seeks action against PM Modi for violating the Model Code of Conduct, reports ANI.

# Thousands of Sikhs were massacred in 1984 riots and they (Congress) say so what, it happened: PM Modi

PM Modi: 1984 mein Sikho ke saath atyachaar hua, katleaam hua, ye kehte hain, hua to hua. Bhopal mein hazaro logo ko jahrili gas ke hawale kar diya, kayi pidhiyo ko barbad kar diya gaya,gunehgar ko bhaga diya gaya,agar aaj unko puchoge to yahi kahenge hua to hua. Log mare to mare pic.twitter.com/ZTmvBbpeA1  ANI (@ANI) May 12, 2019

# PM is apparently referring to reports of policemen in civil uniform were seen wearing saffron scarves at the roadshow of 'Computer' Baba and Congress leader Digvijay Singh in Bhopalon May 8.

# Ye kitne bhi havan kara dein, kitne bhi janeu dikha dein, ye police ko bhi bhagwa dress silva dein, lekin bhagwa mein jo aatankwad ke daag lagane ki unhone sajish ki hai, us paap se ye Congress ya 'mahamilavati' kabhi nahi bach paayenge: PM Modi.

# PM Modi arrives in MP' Khandwa to address an election rally.

# PM Narendra Modi in Deoria: "SP-BSP can't fight terrorism, these people can't even control roadside goons, how will they combat terrorism?" he said. He also lashed out at 'vote-cutter Congress' for its defence policies which he claimed encouraged terrorism and Naxalism.

# Former Bihar Minister Tej Pratap Yadav on Sunday campaigned along with brother Tejashwi in several seats in the seats for the Rashtra Janata Dal. Calling his younger brother 'Arjun', Tej Pratap said that the opposition will be defeated and the RJD will win on all the seats.

# Prime Minister Modi while addressing a rally in Kushinagar in Uttar Pradesh: "I got to know today that some terrorists infiltrated into Kashmir and they were killed by our security forces. Now some people will question why did Modi kill them when voting is underway. An armed terrorist is attacking, should my jawans go to the Election Commission to seek permission to kill him?"

# The chief electoral officer of Delhi has sent a notice to the BJP for "airing election-related content" on NaMo TV even after the silence period began, a senior official told news agency PTI on Saturday. The Delhi CEO Office had also said that since the NaMo TV was sponsored by the BJP, all recorded programmes displayed on the platform should be pre-certified by media certification and monitoring committee of Delhi and all political publicity contents displayed without pre-certification be removed immediately.

# In another incident related to poll violence in Mednipur's Kanthi, the body of a TMC worker was recovered. Sudhakar Maiti, the TMC worker, had gone to visit a relative in a hospital on Saturday night but did not return home after his visit. Later, his body was recovered from Kanthi. Maiti's family alleges that he was murdered. (Read full report here)

# Similar to the situation in earlier phases, violence has been reported from West Bengal on Sunday too. Two BJP workers Ananta Guchait and Ranjit Maity were on Saturday shot at in Bhagabanpur, East Medinipur. Both the injured admitted to hospital. The BJP is holding the TMC responsible for the incident.

Mamata Didi, your goons can remove PM Modis posters in Bengal. But you cant remove Modi from the peoples heart. #MeraVoteModiKo pic.twitter.com/aAJZYlmlCu  BJP (@BJP4India) May 11, 2019

# Allegations and counter allegations are being levelled against the BJP and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. Mamata has alleged that the BJP is using money to buy votes and demanded that all vehicles, including helicopters used by the PM and union ministers, be checked by the Election Commission.

# On Saturday, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and Aam Aadmi Party's (AAP) were clouded over allegations that party's West Delhi candidate Balbir Singh Jakhar paid Rs 6 crore for a Lok Sabha ticket. The charge was levelled by Jakhar's son Uday. However, Jakhar refuted the claim and said that he was not in contact with his son since long. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) though is questioning Kejriwal's silence over the allegations. "Today Kejriwal cannot remain silent. He has to answer. He has been slapped many times and each time he blames the BJP, but the man who hits him turns out to be from his own party," Union Minister Prakash Javadekar said.
New Delhi: Representatives from Election Commissions from around the world are witnessing the ongoing Lok Sabha election 2019 in India. With a view of strengthening the electoral processes in their own respective countries, these also include chiefs of many of the EC bodies worldwide.

65 representatives from 20 Election Management Bodies from several countries, including Australia, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Fiji, Georgia, Kenya, Republic of Korea, Kyrgyzstan, Malaysia, Mexico, Myanmar, Romania, Russia, Srilanka, Suriname, United Arab Emirates, Uzbekistan and Zimbabwe, have been monitoring the Indian election closely in a bid to perfect the methodology of conducting elections in their own countries. These representatives were invited by the Election Commission of India to join the Election Visitors Program.

Sunil Arora, Chief Election Commissioner of ECI, hailed the contribution of the founders of the Indian Constitution in an address to the participants. He also underlined the ECI's commitment towards conducting free, fair and peaceful elections in India. "The objective and intention of the Commission is to always keep learning from the experiences of the past for necessary course corrections for the future," he said while adding that criticism and scepticism have never bogged down ECI.

Arora also stressed that the process of conducting elections in a country as diverse as India needs to be constantly updated to keep it robust, ethical, inclusive, accessible and participative. He highlighted the contribution of IT developments in helping with the electoral process in recent years.

More than 65 Representatives from 20 Election Management Bodies across the World witness 17th Lok Sabha Elections as part of Election Commission's Election Visitors' Programme. Details here: https://t.co/rcSvJer11m pic.twitter.com/OIhfdNsSiC  PIB India (@PIB_India) May 12, 2019

Lok Sabha election in the country is the largest democratic exercise anywhere in the world and countries around the world have witnessed every election here with keen interest, and a high degree of amazement. This year, approximately 900 million people are eligible to cast their vote over seven phases. While a majority have already exercised their franchise, voting in the sixth phase took place on Monday and the final phase will take place on May 19. Counting of votes would be on May 23.
New Delhi: People came out in large numbers across 59 seats in Delhi, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, Jharkhand and Madhya Pradesh on Sunday to cast their vote in the sixth and penultimate phase of Lok Sabha election 2019.

The Election Commission of India informed that an estimated 63% overall voter turnout was witnessed here.

A total of 968 candidates were contesting the election in the sixth phase and while polling was largely peaceful, West Bengal once again reported several incidents of violence. BJP candidate from Ghatal, Bharati Ghosh, was reportedly attacked but it was later alleged that she had entered a polling station with her security guards. The EC asked cops to file an FIR against her. There were also massive clashes between BJP and TMC cadre here and it was reported that TMC stopped injured BJP supporters from getting medical attention. There was also a scuffle at polling booth number 254 in Bankura where BJP alleged TMC workers of rigging. TMC also alleged in a tweet that central forces were coercing people to vote for BJP in booth numbers 186 and 234 in Salboni (Jhargram).

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Despite these incidents, West Bengal once again recorded the highest voter turnout while Jharkhand, Haryana and Madhya Pradesh followed.

The EC said that a high number of young men and women came out in large numbers again to cast their vote. In addition, the elderly citizens of the country also celebrated democracy by getting their fingers inked. Special assistance like providing shelter, cold water and placing ramps at most polling stations encouraged people from all backgrounds to come out and exercise their franchise. There were some incidents of EVMs malfunctioning but the EC said that 'none of these were very serious.'

Polling is now complete in a total of 483 seats out of a total of 543 seats. The final phase will be held on May 19 when 59 constituencies in Bihar, Chandigarh, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, West Bengal, Himachal Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh will take place. Counting of votes will take place on May 23 and the EC said on Sunday that special measures have been put in place to ensure transparency. The EC will also hold a meeting, in connection with counting of votes, on Monday.
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has a packed Monday ahead of him with rallies scheduled in MP's Ratlam before making his way to Himachal Pradesh's Solan and Punjab's Bhatinda.

PM Modi will be in Solan, ahead of May 19 voting in the final phase of Lok Sabha election, in the afternoon. Situated under 50 kilometres from Shimla, Solan has been turned into a fortress for PM Modi's visit. It is reported that over 700 police personnel have been deployed here to ensure that no untoward incident takes place on Monday. All four parliamentary constituencies of the state - Hamirpur, Kangra, Mandi and Shimla - will vote next Sunday and PM Modi will look to drum up support for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) here.

The fight across the state borders, some 220 kilometres from Solan in Bhatinda, is between Union Minister Harsimrat Kaur Badal who takes on Congress' Amrinder Singh Raja Warring. PM Modi is expected to once again flay Congress here, this time on behalf of BJP's alliance partner Shiromani Akali Dal. Interestingly, Congress' Punjab chief minister Captain Amarinder Singh reportedly said that ministers in his cabinet would be sacked if they are unable to ensure success in Lok Sabha election 2019. All 13 constituencies here will cast their vote in the final phase and the contest at hand promises to be thrilling.

The battle in Madhya Pradesh is likely to be every bit as intense.

PM Modi will kickstart his Monday's proceedings by addressing a rally in Ratlam where BJP has fielded Gumansingh Damor. Damor made a controversial statement on Sunday when he said India would not have been partitioned had Jinnah been made the PM instead of Jawaharlal Nehru. (Watch video here)

PM Modi, however, is unlikely to take off from where Damor left off and instead, could target Congress' current state.

The Lok Sabha election 2019 has been a bitter battle between political parties and their respective leaders. Polling has been completed in 483 of 543 seats and the remaining 59 constituencies will vote on May 19 before counting on May 23.
Mayawati on Sunday came out all guns blazing in her retaliatory fire against Prime Minister Narendra Modi who had questioned her support to the Congress government in Rajasthan in the aftermath of the Alwar gang-rape case.

Responding to PM Modi who had questioned why the BSP supremo continues to support the Congress' Rajasthan government despite the recent gang-rape of a Dalit woman in Alwar, Mayawati warned against politicisation of the incident. "PM Modi should not use this deplorable act to practice deplorable politics," she said, hinting that BSP won't hesitate from withdrawing support to the state government if the need arises. "In relation to this case, the BSP will definitely take a strong political step if just and stern action is not taken in the matter."

Mayawati then alleged that PM Modi remains silent on alleged atrocities committed against Dalits in BJP-governed states while choosing to highlight only the Alwar incident. "Why does he not take the moral responsibility for the attacks on Dalits in BJP-governed states and tender his resignation," she asked.

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BSP - having partnered with SP in Uttar Pradesh - has been at loggerheads with BJP in the ongoing Lok Sabha election. While PM Modi targeted Mayawati for having double standards, the BSP supremo has also levelled numerous charges against PM Modi and other BJP leaders. The Alwar gang-rape incident, however, has also led Mayawati to target Congress. "The Congress government suppressed the matter of gang rape for their politics. They didn`t let it come to fore till elections were over and even threatened the victim`s family. Our party had to struggle given the very little action Congress government took in the case," she was quoted as saying by news agency ANI on Saturday.

The gruesome incident is about a Dalit woman - travelling with her husband - being waylaid by five youths who then took turns to rape her in Alwar earlier last week. The incident was reportedly also recorded by the accused men. While the Rajasthan government has assured that the guilty will be caught and punished as per law, political parties have begun trading charges already.

(Reporting by Vishal Pandey/Zee Media Bureau)
NEW DELHI: President Ram Nath Kovind on Sunday exercised his franchise at a polling booth in the Rashtrapati Bhawan on Sunday. He was accompanied by his wife. Voting is being held in the sixth phase of Lok Sabha election in 59 constituencies across seven states.

President Kovind voted this morning at the polling station in the Dr Rajendra Prasad Sarvodaya Vidyalaya, within the Rashtrapati Bhavan complex pic.twitter.com/Rn6xj38ovE  President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) May 12, 2019

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also appealed to voters to exercise their right. "Yet another phase of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections is here! Urging all those whose constituencies are polling in todays sixth phase to go out and vote. I hope youngsters are voting in record numbers. After all, their participation makes the polls even more special," he tweeted.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal also appealed to people to vote. He urged people to vote for those who have done work and not for those who have spread "hatred" and "venom". "Good morning Delhi. Please vote. Vote for those who have done your works. Don't vote for those who are spreading hatred and venom and also stopping Delhi's works. Your vote can change the country," Kejriwal tweeted in Hindi.

Voting began on Sunday across 59 Lok Sabha constituencies spread over seven states, largely in the Hindi heartland, as the sixth and penultimate round of the mega seven-phase electoral exercise kicked off.
Rashtriya Janata Dal chief Lalu Prasad Yadav's sons Tej Pratap Yadav and Tejashwi on Sunday campaigned for the party together. The two leaders were seen sitting in a helicopter ahead of the campaigning in the state.

A former Bihar Minister, Tej Pratap called his younger brother Tejashwi 'Arjun' and said that the opposition will be defeated and the RJD will win on all the seats. As per reports, the two brothers had planned to campaign together earlier as well but could not due to logistic reasons.

There were differences reported within the Yadav family after Tej Pratap resigned from RJD's student wing after he said that he was being sidelined. He had also floated his own outfit named Lalu-Rabri Morcha and had said that he will tour 20 seats in Bihar for the election.

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Reports had also suggested that RJD was contemplating disciplinary action against him for anti-party activities. He had fielded Angesh Kumar Singh as Lalu-Rabri Morcha candidate from the Sheohar Lok Sabha seat against RJD candidate Syed Faisal Ali.

Senior RJD leader Shivanand Tiwary had then said that Lalu had noticed this and disciplinary committee of the party would take up the issue.

As per a PTI report, an RJD leader close to Lalu's family said Tej Pratap was giving sleepless nights to the family as well as the party. "There is pressure from within the party to take action against Tej Pratap for his anti-party activities," he had said.
Shimla: BJP president Amit Shah on Sunday said the Article 370 that gives special powers to Kashmir will be scrapped if Narendra Modi is elected as prime minister again.

Targeting the Congress on the issue of national security, he said the Manmohan Singh-led Congress government did nothing when Pakistan beheaded five Indian soldiers but under the Modi government, the air strike was carried out in Balakot.

In a rally at Chogan Maidan in Himachal Pradesh's Chamba district, Shah pointed out that Congress leader Sam Pitroda said instead of air strike, "we should talk to militants".

"If Pakistan will fire a bullet, we will reply with a shell," he said.

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"Pakistan obviously mourned the air strike but there was grief in Congress' office as well. After the air strike, Rahul Gandhi's face turned pale as if his relatives were killed," the senior BJP leader said.

During his whirlwind election tour in the hill state, Shah addressed three rallies on Sunday. He was campaigning in support of Kangra BJP candidate Kishan Kapoor, Hamirpur sitting MP Anurag Thakur and party's Shimla candidate Suresh Kashyap.

Citing former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah's comment that there should be another prime minister for the state, Shah said, "All this indicated their mindset but if the BJP comes to power again and Modi becomes prime minister, Article 370 will be removed for sure."

Targeting Pitroda further, the BJP chief said, "If you ask a question regarding the 1984 anti-Sikh riots, the Congress says 'hua to hua'. If you ask a question regarding the 26/11 attacks in Mumbai and migration of Kashmiri Pandits, Congress says 'hua to hua'."

He claimed that Congress president Rahul Gandhi seemed disappointed when the Modi government had put those behind bars who had raised "Bharat tere tukde honge, inshallah inshallah" slogan at JNU, and now he declared to amend provisions of sedition law in his party manifesto.

Shah also noted that it was for the first time that the opposition has not made corruption an issue as it has been "wiped out" during the Modi government.

Counting various development works done in Himachal Pradesh under the BJP government, he said, "Process is on to set up an international airport at Mandi. It will be done after the Modi government comes to power again at the Centre."

While addressing another rally in Bilaspur in support of Anurag Thakur, he said, "You elect Anurag with a record margin, I will ensure making him a big leader."

In Simarpur district's Nahan town, the BJP chief urged people to give their support to party MLA Suresh Kashyap.

Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur and veteran BJP leader Shanta Kumar were present in the Chamba rally, whereas Union minister Jai Prakash Nadda and former CM and Anurag Thakur's father P K Dhumal attended the Bilaspur rally.

The Congress has pitted sitting MLA Pawan Kajal against HP minister Kishan Kapoor from Kangra, whereas Sri Naina Deviji MLA Ram Lal Thakur of the Congress is trying his luck against three-time Hamirpur MP Anurag Thakur.

From Shimla, sitting MLA and Congress candidate Col Dhani Ram Shandil is in the fray against Pacchad BJP MLA Suresh Kashyap.
Bengaluru: Stoking a controversy, senior Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge on Sunday asked whether Prime Minister Narendra Modi would hang himself at Vijay Chowk in Delhi if his prediction of the opposition party getting less than 40 seats in Lok Sabha polls is proven wrong.

Addressing a rally in support of Subash Rathod, the Congress candidate for the Chincholi Assembly bypoll in Karnataka, Kharge said, "It is you the people sitting here who are going to write the future and fate of this country, it is in your hands to write the fate of Subash and ours, not in their (BJP/Modi) hands."

"Wherever (Modi) goes, (he) says Congress will not get 40 seats (in Lok Sabha polls). Does any of you agree with this? If we get 40 seats, will Modi hang himself at Vijay Chowk in Delhi?" the senior Congress leader said.

Mallikarjun Kharge, Congress in Kalaburagi: Wherever he goes, Modi keeps saying that Congress will not win 40 seats. Do you believe that? If Congress gets more than 40 seats, will Modi hang himself at Delhi's Vijay Chowk? pic.twitter.com/ti3uPIYqlV  ANI (@ANI) May 12, 2019

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The Congress had won 44 seats in the 2014 parliamentary election.

Senior BJP leader and MP Shobha Karandlaje has demanded Kharge's apology, saying that she never expected such low remarks from a senior leader like him.

"Blatant lies, fake allegations, derogatory remarks have become common with hollow Congress, nothing progressive! He should apologise!" Karandlaje tweeted.

Stating that Modi was not even born when India got freedom, Kharge told the rally, "He keeps speaking against Congress and claims the party did not do anything."

He said Modi claims himself to be from the backward community, but he is helping only the super-rich.

Chincholi, along with Kundgol Assembly constituency, is going to bypoll on May 19.

The by-poll to Chincholi has been necessitated by the resignation of sitting member Umesh Jadhav, who quit Congress and joined the BJP to contest the recent Lok Sabha polls from Gulbarga, while the Kundgol seat fell vacant following the death of Minister C S Shivalli.

The main contest in this bypoll will be between the nominees of the Congress, which held the seats, and the BJP.

The Congress candidates are Subash Rathod in Chincholi and Kusumavathi, Shivalli's wife, in Kundgol.

BJP has fielded S I Chikkanagowdar and Avinash Jadhav from Kundgol and Chincholi Assembly seats respectively.

Seventeen candidates are in the fray from Chincholi and eight from Kundgol.

The results will be declared on May 23, along with that of Lok Sabha poll.

The outcome of the bypolls, along with that of the elections to 28 Lok Sabha constituencies in Karnataka, held in two phases on April 18 and 23, is crucial for the ruling Congress-JD(S) alliance, facing a fresh bout of dissidence.
MUMBAI: A 15 -year-old girl was reportedly killed in a fire that broke out in a building at Dadar Police Station Compound in Mumbai's Dadar West locality on Sunday.

According to the Dadar police, the fire erupted around 1.45 PM in one of the quarters on the third floor of a building located in the police station compound here.

According to the initial investigation, a short-circuit in the building's electrical wiring is believed to have caused the fire.

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The building's electrical wirings, installations and several home items were gutted in the massive fire.

The 15-year-old girl, who was killed in the fire, was alone in her house which was locked from outside.

The girl's family members had gone out to attend a family wedding leaving her locked inside.

The girl reportedly died due to suffocation, the officials said.

The victim, Shravani Chavan, was sleeping inside a room in the apartment and was unable to come out to safety when the fire engulfed the premises, a Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation Control Room official told PTI.

The girl was seriously injured and was rushed to the BMC-run Sion Hospital where doctors declared her dead before admission, he added.

At least four fire engines and an ambulance were rushed to the spot to douse the fire which has now been contained.

One person also sustained minor injuries due to the fire and he was rushed to a nearby hospital, the officials said.
KARACHI: Three heavily-armed militants on Saturday stormed a luxury hotel in Pakistan's port city of Gwadar in the restive Balochistan province, leading to a fierce gunbattle in which four persons including the attackers were killed, police said.

The armed men entered the upscale Pearl Continental (PC) Hotel and opened random firing, a senior police official said. They shot dead a guard at the entrance, the army's media wing Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said.

A shootout between the militants and the security forces broke out at the hotel as the anti-terrorism force, the Army and the Frontier Corps were called in, Gwadar Station House Officer (SHO) Aslam Bangulzai said. Balochistan Home Minister Ziaullah Langov said that all the three attackers were killed by the security forces. He said that some of the guests in the hotel were also injured but their number was not immediately known.

The outlawed Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) claimed responsibility of the attack. BLA's spokesperson Junaid Baloch said that the attack was carried out by the militants linked with its Majeed Brigade group. Locals said several gunshots were heard after the terrorists entered the luxury hotel. Gwadar Deputy Commissioner Captain (retd) Mohammad Waseem said that "all the guests and staff members have been rescued" from the hotel and "the process of clearing the hotel has entered its final stages".

Gwadar port is one of the focal points of the USD 50 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) with many Chinese workers from other provinces of Pakistan working at the port. The Chinese embassy in Pakistan, in a tweet, condemned the attack on the hotel and expressed condolences to the families of the security guard who was killed and two security men who were injured.

The hotel, frequented by business as well as leisure travellers, is located on the Koh-e-Batil hill, south of West Bay on Fish Harbour road in Gwadar. All foreign and local guests staying at the hotel had been safely evacuated, Express Tribune quoted Balochistan Information Minister Zahoor Buledi as saying.

"At around 4:50 pm (local time) we got reports that there are two to there armed men in PC Hotel," SHO Bangulzai said. "Two to three gunmen had first fired at and then entered the hotel," Inspector General of Police (IGP) Mohsin Hassan Butt said. "A clearance operation was going on," a spokesman of the army said.

The provincial police chief further said that "the attackers may have come in a boat to launch the attack". Balochistan Chief Minister Jam Kamal Khan Alyani condemned "the terrorists attack" on PC Hotel, and instructed the authorities to "ensure the safety of all inside the hotel", Dawn news reported. He called for a "well planned and strong action against the terrorists", adding that he is "in touch with police and local administration" regarding the situation.

Balochistan, which borders Afghanistan and Iran, is Pakistan's largest and poorest province, rife with ethnic, sectarian and separatist insurgencies. On April 18, unidentified gunmen donning uniforms of paramilitary soldiers massacred at least 14 passengers, including Pakistan Navy personnel, after forcing them to disembark from buses on a highway in Balochistan.

China is investing heavily in Balochistan under the CPEC. The CPEC, launched in 2015, is a planned network of roads, railways and energy projects linking China's resource-rich Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region with Pakistan's strategic Gwadar Port on the Arabian Sea. The BLA is one of the most-organised terrorist group of Baloch nationalists fighting against security forces. The group was also involved in the terrorist attack at the Chinese consulate in Karachi last year.
Quetta: Pakistani security forces searched a luxury hotel in the port city of Gwadar on Sunday, a day after separatist insurgents stormed in, killing at least five people, in what the militants said was a strike against Chinese and other foreign investors.

Officials said at least four gunmen raided the five-star Pearl Continental Hotel, but police on Sunday declined to say if any of the attackers had been captured or killed. Senior police official Rao Munir Ahmed Zia told Reuters that three of the hotel's four floors had been cleared and security forces were searching the top floor some 20 hours after the attack began.

Intermittent firing could still be heard from the hotel on Sunday afternoon, Gwadar resident Abdur Rahim Baloch told Reuters.

The Balochistan Liberation Army insurgent group, which says it is fighting what it sees as the unfair exploitation of the province's natural resources, claimed responsibility saying in a statement that the attack was aimed at "Chinese and other foreign investors". The gunmen were dressed in army uniforms, officials said.

At least three security guards and two hotel personnel were killed and four wounded as the attackers battled members of the security forces on Saturday evening. Soldiers cornered the attackers in a staircase leading to the top floor, the military said.

Balochistan, which borders both Iran and Afghanistan, is Pakistan's poorest province but has abundant reserves of natural gas and various minerals. Separatists have for decades been fighting the central government, bombing gas and transport infrastructure and raiding security posts. Islamist militants from various factions also operate in the province.

Gwadar is a strategic port on the Arabian Sea that is being developed as part of the $60 billion China Pakistan Economic Corridor, which is itself part of China's Belt and Road infrastructure project. The separatists have denounced the development plans and vowed to block them while Pakistan has promised China it would protect its investments and Chinese workers.

The Pearl Continental Hotel, on a hillside near the port, is used by foreign guests, including Chinese project staff, but there were none in the building at the time of the attack, officials said.

Prime Minister Imran Khan issued a statement condemning the attack. "Such attempts, especially in Balochistan are an effort to sabotage our economic projects and prosperity," he said.

Security across most of Pakistan has improved over recent years following a major crackdown after the country's worst attack, when 148 people, most of them children, were killed in an assault on a school in the western city of Peshawar in 2014. But Balochistan, Pakistan's largest province, remains an exception and there have been several attacks this year, with at least 14 people killed last month in an attack on buses travelling between the southern city of Karachi and Gwadar.
Bettie Jenifer, wife of popular Ghanaian actor Chris Attoh was reportedly shot dead in Maryland, United States of America on Friday ev...





Bettie Jenifer, wife of popular Ghanaian actor Chris Attoh was reportedly shot dead in Maryland, United States of America on Friday evening.





The actor, according to reports, has since abandoned his projects in Los Angeles California, to fly into Maryland following the death of his wife.





The actor, according to sources, is overwhelmed as expected, and is sure to gather details concerning the sad news.





His new wife was reportedly shot by a gunman on the Friday night after she had closed from work.

According to Greenbelt Police the woman was shot in the head at the car park of an office complex at around 5:10 pm





Initial investigations by police in the US indicated that Jenifer had exited a nearby office building and was walking towards her car when she was approached by a suspect who was armed with a handgun.





She had walked to her car at the Greenbelt Parking Lot when the armed man approached her wielding the deadly weapon. Out of fear, Attohs wife started running to save her life.





However, her attacker kept firing shots, and police in the USA said, at least, one shot struck her.

She was later pronounced dead at the scene when police arrived.





Her attacker has been described as a a black male with a thick build and black hair, wearing a dark shirt and dark pants by the Police and he remains on the run.





Meanwhile, Chris Attoh had sparked divorce rumours when he deleted all photos of his her, whom he married just last year 2018, from his social media pages.





She was the second wife of the actor, after his first marriage to Nigerian actress, Demilola, failed.




Nigerian veteran comedian Ali Baba has sent out a strong message to ladies who make the fathers of their kids look like evil people. ...

Nigerian veteran comedian Ali Baba has sent out a strong message to ladies who make the fathers of their kids look like evil people.









Ali Baba has reached to women who are aggrieved with their husbands or ex-husbands and in the process, try to make the men look like terrible people.









In a lengthy note he penned on his Instagram page, the comedian advised the hurting mothers to allow the fathers of their kids show the children love no matter what.









He wrote: "Very often, you will see ladies who make the fathers of their children look like monsters. The said father may be the best father the child ever wished for, but, the mothers' hurt will not let the fathers have the opportunity to show the child that love. Many years ago, a certain wife of a Nigerian career diplomat, posted to East Africa, had a messy and sour marriage. It was a very popular case.









"The woman resorted to making sure she flung all kinds of dirt at the Diplomat. She even asked the Nigerian Government to recall him and dismiss him. While she was all out to ruin him. She forgot that her children were depending on their father's support to make a headway in life. The Solomonic dilemma came to play again. If I can't have him, then let me mess his career up.









"The truth is that if you think about it, the only time it's ok, to deny the father of your child access to the child and by so doing, denying the father an opportunity to play a role in the child's life, BECAUSE YOU HAVE ISSUES WITH THE FATHER, you are using your reggae to spoil the child's blues. No one stops you from being upset. And indeed, no one can stop you from venting. But if in the process of doing that vexing, don't let that mess up the relationship the child will have with the father.









"In summary, If you know you cannot give the child or children, the kind of life they deserve, and you know the father can give them, all they need, don't block their access to him. But if you can do better than him, ignore the guy and move on.









"Don't give yourself unnecessary pressure. If the father has and can give, don't block him from being the father. You can do more with all the assistance. Even if you are Oprah Winfrey"
There is disquiet in the All Progressives Congress over the list of nominees for ministerial posts by President Muhammadu Buhari. ...

There is disquiet in the All Progressives Congress over the list of nominees for ministerial posts by President Muhammadu Buhari.









Findings by our correspondent revealed that party chieftains were finding it difficult to understand the Presidents body language on the matter.









Media reports had said the President might dissolve the Federal Executive Cabinet on May 22. But the shape the new cabinet would wear was still not clear on Saturday.









It was learnt that the State Executive Committees and the National Working Committee were in the dark and had not been contacted to submit lists of nominees.









A chieftain of the party, who spoke with our correspondent on condition of anonymity, said, We are still in the dark regarding the ministerial list. We have not been contacted by the NWC to submit lists but I dont know if they are already handling that without our knowledge.









But as of today, there is no communication to the state to that effect.









Our correspondent also tried to speak with some members of the NWC who claimed ignorance of the process.





One of them said, It has not come up for discussion at our meeting; so, I have no idea what you are talking about.









However, another top member of the party said the recent United Kingdom trip of the President might not be unconnected with the pressure from some quarters to influence the ministerial list.









We sense that one of the reasons the president travelled abroad was to stave off pressure arising from the ministerial list. You can imagine if some people invaded his residence while he was having a rest, a government official told our correspondent.









Efforts to speak with the APC National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, on the matter, proved abortive.









He neither returned calls to his mobile nor replied to a text message sent to his mobile.









He was also said not to be available in the office when our correspondent visited the partys National Secretariat on Friday.









But another member of the NWC told our correspondent that the party might not have a role to play in the compilation of the list as everything was shrouded in secrecy.









The NWC member said, Do you think the President would allow anyone to pick ministers for him? By now, you should know the style of the President.









However, another NWC member said it was the prerogative of the President to appoint ministers who would work directly with him.









Appointment of ministers is the prerogative of the President. But it is the common practice that the party is allowed to have a say in the matter, he said.
Femi Fani-Kayode, a former Aviation Minister, has reacted to the statement by the Presidency that Miyetti Allah should be respected....





Femi Fani-Kayode, a former Aviation Minister, has reacted to the statement by the Presidency that Miyetti Allah should be respected.





Malam Garba Shehu, the Presidents Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, in a statement in Abuja on Friday, stated that Miyetti Allah should be respected.





Shehu was reacting to comments credited to Ohaneze Ndigbo and Afenifere, who expressed concern about the meeting between the government and Miyetti Allah.





He said: We are pleased that Afenifere and Ohaneze Ndigbo found our insights worthy of attention even when they disagreed with our view that they, as socio-cultural associations, represent same interests as Miyetti Allah, an association of Fulani herders.





Miyetti Allah, like any other trade, community, ethnic organization or interest group is a legal stake holder in our nation and should be respected.





We maintain that the government needs to engage all stakeholders and seek partnership in building our country.





The activities of Miyetti Allah do not benefit selected ethnicities or Muslims only, but everyone.





Reacting, Fani-Kayode said Miyetti Allah are worthy of our hatred, contempt, disdain and not our respect.





In a tweet on Saturday, Fani-Kayode wrote: Miyetti Allah should be respected- Presidency.





Miyetti Allah and their Janjaweed ISWA Fulani herdsmen have shed more innocent blood than any other terrorist org. in the last 4 years including Boko Haram.




The Ha Long Heli Tours use two US-produced Bell-505 helicopters, designed with two pilot and three passenger seats with comfortable seating space, making it convenient for visitors to experience the UNESCO-recognised natural heritage.

The two helicopters will always be stationed at Tuan Chau heliport to serve customers at any time without an earlier announcement. Tourists can book the service through FastSky - a helicopter ride-hailing app run by FastGo Vietnam JSC.

The tour costs at least US$125 for a 12 minute ride. (Photo: baodansinh.vn)



Customers have three options for their trip, including 12, 25 or 40 minutes with different journeys and prices starting from US$125 per pax.

In addition to sightseeing tours, the Northern Vietnam Helicopter Company also organises flight services with Bell-505 helicopters for Hanoi-Tuan Chau-Hanoi and Tuan Chau-Van Don-Tuan Chau routes, as well as charter flights, aerial survey tours, event tours, wedding photography and filming tours.

The new service is expected to diversify tourism products and attract more tourists to Ha Long Bay.

Helicopters will fly at low altitudes and move flexibly to let tourist enjoy the whole vista of Ha Long. (Photo: baodansinh.vn)
The National Agency for Food, Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) on Sunday, said it sealed 20 shops and confiscated drugs worth o...

The National Agency for Food, Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) on Sunday, said it sealed 20 shops and confiscated drugs worth over N2million at the Monday market in Maiduguri.









NAFDAC Coordinator in Borno, Nasiru Mato, who disclosed this shortly after the raid, in an interview with the newsmen in Maiduguri, said the traders were in possession of banned and expired products.









Mato said the raid was carried out after intelligence gathering and undercover assessment of the medicine facilities.









He said that the raid was part of the measures put in place to ensure traders and stakeholders ensured strict compliance with NAFDACs regulations for the overall safety and wellbeing of consumers.









We have seized all the substances and placed their facilities on hold. Such action like I said is aimed at ensuring sanity and strict compliance by all handlers of NAFDACs regulated products, he said.









He listed some of the seized items to include, herograma, heigra, suredrex, chest and lungs tablets, V9-130 lemotil, immodium capsules, amlodipine, and Dr. Really extra among others.









cold cap, lisinopril, bongela cream and expired vaccine eye drops. Others included,cold cap, lisinopril, bongela cream andexpired vaccine eye drops.









Mato pledged to leave no stone unturned in the fight against unwholesome product to safeguard public health.









He, therefore, called on all consumers to patronise products that were certified by NAFDAC and avoid self-medication.
The Presidency says Mr Austin Enejamo-Isire is the authentic Chairman of the Board of Directors, Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (...

The Presidency says Mr Austin Enejamo-Isire is the authentic Chairman of the Board of Directors, Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF), and will be inaugurated at Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa, Abuja, on Monday.









The Organised Labour under the leadership of Ayuba Wabba had allegedly accused the Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr Chris Ngige of replacing the name of Comrade Frank Kokori with his kinsman Enejamo-Isire as chairman of board of the NSITF.









The picketing of the ministers residence by the labour using two petroleum tankers to block the entrance and exit points of the house had resulted to violent clashes between people suspected to be the ministers loyalists and the affected labour officials.









The labour, who vowed to ensure the inauguration of Kokori as NSITF chairman, had called for international labour actions against the minister over the incident.









However, a statement by Mr Femi Adesina, the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, in Abuja on Sunday, expressed regret over the misunderstanding between the labour and the minister on the matter.









The statement read in parts: Following the disagreement between the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment and the leadership of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) over the appointment of the Chairman of the board of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF), the Presidency wishes to clarify as follows:













A. That the NSITF is a hundred percent, Federal Government of Nigeria owned insurance parastatal, under the supervision of the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, designed for the role of insuring workers (employees) in the public and private sectors.









The organization is empowered by law to implement the Employee Compensation Act (ECA) 2010 with mandate to insure workers and pay them compensation for accidents, deaths and injuries in the course of work.









The NSITF was bedevilled and riddled with corruption between 2012  2015, which resulted in a colossal loss and mismanagement of about N48 billion out of the total N62 billion contributions during the said period.









These were contributions by the Employers  viz government and the private sector for payment of compensation to workers and even to Employers for loss of man-hours by their workers.









This fraud has been investigated by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the last Chairman and some members of the former board and some officials of the NSITF are presently being prosecuted by the EFCC. This fraud has been investigated by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the last Chairman and some members of the former board and some officials of the NSITF are presently being prosecuted by the EFCC.









All actions taken by the Honourable Minister of Labour and Employment towards the resuscitation and repositioning of this ailing agency, including the Administrative Panel of Inquiry into the affairs of NSITF and the suspension of the inauguration of the board in 2018 were part of the special work plan approved for the Honourable Minister by Mr. President.









The appointment of the Chairman of this board, which is in consonance with Sec. 4(a) of the NSITF Act CAP N88 of 2004 was also approved by Mr President since 23rd July, 2018 on the recommendation of the Hon. Minister.









Mr Austin Enejamo-Isire, a Chartered Accountant, Fellow, Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) and renowned Insurance expert, Senior Member, Chartered Institute of Insurance of Nigeria (CIIN), Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) and Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN) was approved by Mr President for this position.









Also approved by Mr. President were the Managing Director and three Executive Directors who had assumed duties since 18 April 2017.









The statement added that others also approved as Non-Executive Directors were two members to represent the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and two members to represent the Nigerian Employers Consultative Association (NECA).









The approval also included a member each to represent the Central Bank of Nigeria and the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment.









at 9 a.m. on Monday, May 13, 2019, by the Hon. Minister of Labour and Employment at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa, Aso Rock, Abuja, it further stated. Members of this board are to be formally inauguratedat 9 a.m. on Monday, May 13, 2019, by the Hon. Minister of Labour and Employment at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa, Aso Rock, Abuja, it further stated.









a diploma awarding labour institution. According to the presidency, Frank Kokori has also been appointed on the recommendation of the Minister of Labour and Employment to chair the board of Michael Imoudu National Institute for Labour Studies (MINILS),a diploma awarding labour institution.









immense respect and has also been appointed on the recommendation of the Hon. Minister of Labour and Employment to chair the board of Michael Imoudu National Institute for Labour Studies (MINILS), a diploma awarding labour institution. It said: Comrade Frank Kokori, our respected veteran labour leader has Mr. Presidentsimmense respect and has also been appointed on the recommendation of the Hon. Minister of Labour and Employment to chair the board of Michael Imoudu National Institute for Labour Studies (MINILS),a diploma awarding labour institution.









The Presidency noted with deep concern and regrets, the events that culminated in a skirmish at the private residence of the Minister of Labour and Employment, and condemned it, in its entirety.









However, in the spirit of reconciliation, the Presidency appeals for calm from the NLC and the Ministry of Labour and Employment officials.









There are ongoing efforts to reconcile the NLC leadership with the Ministry of Labour and Employment, led by their Minister who has doggedly been fighting the cause of Nigerian workers whenever their issue is discussed by government, the latest being the enactment of the new National Minimum Wage Act 2019, the statement maintained.
The Catholic Women Organisation (CWO), Holy Cross Catholic Church Gwarinpa (11), Abuja, has urged the Federal Government to enforce la...

The Catholic Women Organisation (CWO), Holy Cross Catholic Church Gwarinpa (11), Abuja, has urged the Federal Government to enforce laws that perpetuate child labour in the country.









The President of CWO, Mrs Ukpo Amoroban, told the newsmen in Abuja on Sunday that the practice continue to flourish in spite of governments good policies against it.









Child labour has brought poor reputation to our nation today. Our main economic problem is child labour since we began on the path of nationhood.









As a result of this, there has been, for the past few years, steady drift away of young men to other countries. This has the chain result of our society being left underdeveloped, she said.









She said that child labour has become widespread and occupied a preeminent position among the ills that pervade the society.









The Vice Chairperson Communication Committee of CWO, Lady Roseline Aghabalu, who spoke on the effects of child labour, said that various health risks were associated with child labour.









She said the possible long-term health problems may include various cancers caused by the dangerous chemicals they work with and respiratory disorders caused by the inhalation of dangerous things, like coal dust.









Aghabalu said the obvious effect of child labour has already been revealed; the lack of childhood. On her part, the Secretary of CWO, Mrs Chizoba Ugwu said that children work for various reasons which include poverty and a childs need to contribute to the familys economy.









Ugwu said that conflict and natural disasters as well as drought could also determine whether children need to work to support their families.









Do you remember that time when you were a little kid and you came home from a fun day at school, put your book bag down, and went to play with friends outside? Then you came home, did a little bit of homework, and had a great meal with your family before watching some TV and going to bed. Some kids cant even dream of that because they dont have a normal childhood.









They are forced, through one circumstance or another, into foregoing such nice memories and days because they have to work for 18 hours a day.









They will never be able to look back, as an adult, and reminisce about days like yours. Yes, many little kids work hours on end for their entire childhood. Thats child labour, and it has very real effects on children, she said.









(NAN)
Since the approval of Georgia's fetal heartbeat law, which basically makes it virtually impossible for women to get safe abortions, some celebrities and people of influence have been making efforts to counter it. Filmmakers Jordan Peele and J.J. Abrams, who are shooting their HBO drama series Lovecraft Country in Georgia, have decided to donate all the episodic fees from their new show to the ACLU of Georgia and Fair Fight Georgia in protest of the controversial bill's passing. Actress Alyssa Milano has taken a different approach, and has called for a sex strike.

On Friday, she tweeted out, "Our reproductive rights are being erased. Until women have legal control over our own bodies we just cannot risk pregnancy. JOIN ME by not having sex until we get bodily autonomy back. I'm calling for a #SexStrike. Pass it on."

Our reproductive rights are being erased.



Until women have legal control over our own bodies we just cannot risk pregnancy.



JOIN ME by not having sex until we get bodily autonomy back.



Im calling for a #SexStrike. Pass it on. pic.twitter.com/uOgN4FKwpg  Alyssa Milano (@Alyssa_Milano) May 11, 2019

The tweet immediately became trending, and so did the hashtag #SexStrike. Naturally, the response to Milano's call for women to stop having sex in order to supposedly reclaim their bodily autonomy has received mixed reactions. Though Milano, and other celebrities like Bette Midler who expressed the same idea, had good intentions with the strike it's also an ironic "solution" that subscribes to arcane views on who sex is for.

As Twitter users have pointed out, this form of protest goes against progression as it assumes that men are the sole benefactors from sex. @JessicaValenti points out, "The idea of a #SexStrike - where sex is something men seek and women withhold - is the same regressive model of sexuality that Republican men use to legislate! No thanks." Meanwhile, user @emrazz replies to Milano in her own now-viral tweet, "Please stop feeding the narrative that women are providers and men are consumers of sex. Bribing men for equal rights with access to our bodies is not how feminism works."

And more women have also contributed more to the conversation online, talking about how suggesting that women are the "gatekeepers of sex" promotes rape culture. Women denying themselves of sex also assumes that unwanted pregnancies are all from consensual sex, when in fact many are caused by rape.

The idea of a #SexStrike - where sex is something men seek and women withhold - is the same regressive model of sexuality that Republican men use to legislate! No thanks.  Jessica Valenti (@JessicaValenti) May 11, 2019

Please stop feeding the narrative that women are providers and men are consumers of sex. Bribing men for equal rights with access to our bodies is not how feminism works.  feminist next door (@emrazz) May 11, 2019

Calling for a #SexStrike to protest for reproductive rights is ludicrous when the reason were facing a draconian attack on abortion is because of conservatives trying to control female bodies & sexuality. This reinforces women as gatekeepers to sex! Its the opposite of helpful! pic.twitter.com/9S3FSDe9LN  Ella Dawson (@brosandprose) May 11, 2019

Rape has nothing to do with sex - its about hatred and power, the same causes of women being stripped of their rights. A #SexStrike wont bring back our rights - voting, supporting women candidates, running for office, and fighting like hell will.  Shannon Watts (@shannonrwatts) May 11, 2019

The real solution, which will probably yield more practical results, is to fight by organizing and/or providing support to abortion funds. And instead on going on a sex strike to prove a point to your male partner/ partners maybe also, you know, don't have sex with anti-choice men.

Alyssa Milano is back being ridiculous again I see.



What is a sex strike going to do besides reinforce patriarchal notions that women have sex only to please men?



Lysistrata is not an effective organizing tool. Instead, fuck whomever and support abortion funds. #SexStrike  Imani Gandy (@AngryBlackLady) May 11, 2019

Not sure I get the hostility because I disagree on the #SexStrike. I personally dont believe it will do anything to solve this issue and only serves to reinforce sexist stereotypes. The unglamorous, heavy lifting of grassroots activism is the answer. Just like with gun safety.  Shannon Watts (@shannonrwatts) May 11, 2019

#sexstrike stuff is very . why are you having sex with anti choice men in the first place? stop doing that. and not just for a sex strike. forever.  Erika W. Smith (@erikawynn) May 11, 2019

A more sustainable model than #sexstrike is this: don't fuck anyone who is anti-choice. Ever.



Judging by my mentions and how they speak to women, this should be easy. They are tempting no one.  Geraldine (@everywhereist) May 11, 2019
Ministers and Commissioners responsible for Trade, Industry and Investment in the Economic Community of West Africa States (ECOWAS) are meeting in Accra to deliberate and validate the ECOWAS Automotive Industry Policy Framework.



The validation of the policy would enable ECOWAS member countries to harmonise their automotive policies in order to optimize the benefit in the value chain of the industry.



Currently, countries in the sub-region import 450,000 vehicles every year out of which 80% are used vehicles.



Mr Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen, Ghanas Minister of Trade and Industry, in his welcome address, at the opening of the Ministerial Meeting on Validation of ECOWAS Automotive Industry Policy Framework, on Friday, said regional harmonisation of the automotive policies would accelerate the implementation of the policy.



He noted that the automotive industry had wide value chain therefore some countries could decide to produce some parts of the vehicle such as car tyres, wipers, spare parts among others, which would prevent unnecessary competition among member countries.



Mr Kyerematen said the automotive industry was a strategic sector, which would aid in solving the unemployment situation in the sub-region, and underlined the need for ECOWAS nations to adopt manufacturing and industrialization policies to help solve the unemployment challenge.



In that vein, Nana Akudo-Addos government had adopted comprehensive and robust industrialisation policy through the formulation of 10-points plan, including the One-District, One Factory initiative, which each district was being supported to establish an enterprise.



Additionally, government was establishing anchor industries and One-Region, One-Park, which would serve as an industrial enclave for each region to accelerate economic growth, he explained.



The Minister believed that it was only through economic industrialisation that would aid the nation to add value to its natural resources and expand the import substitution as well as create jobs for the teeming unemployed youth.



For the past 100 years, he said, Ghana had been deepening on cocoa and gold for the sustenance of its economy, therefore it was adopting a paradigm shift in its economic development, and that the ECOWAS Automotive Policy was in sync with the Governments industrialization agenda.



He underlined the need for ECOWAS countries to harmonise and standardise their national policies on the importation of vehicles, which would aid in reducing the importation of used vehicles into the sub-region, saying that there should be a common orientation on the free trade liberation within the sub-region to facilitate the free movement of goods and services.



Mr Kyerematen advised ECOWAS nations to strategise ways to attract original equipment manufacturers such as Toyota, BMW, Nissan and others so that they could learn from them to improve the standard.



Mr Yero Baldeh, the Country Director of the African Development Bank, said the ECOWAS Automotive Policy would contribute to the Banks Industrialise Africa and Integrate Africa goals, which is in line with its private sector strategy.



He said the Banks strategic goal was to help improve the capacity of African producers, particularly manufacturers to compete with imported products in the local market.



As youre aware, industry has always played a vital role in development. It boosts economic activity along value chains from raw materials to finished products. It lifts productivity by introducing new equipment and new techniques, increases the capacities of the workforce, and diffuses these improvements into the wider economy, it generates formal employment, which in turn creates jobs, Mr Baldeh pointed out.



He expressed optimism that the implementation of the policy document would give the necessary impetus to transform the industrial and economic landscape of the sub-region.

Source: GNA









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Associate Professor in Economics, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Prof. (Sr) Eugenia Amporfu has suggested to the management of National Identification Authority (NIA) to consider using online for the registration.



Giving her remarks as Chairperson for the Danquah Institute (DI) Economic Forum held on Friday May 10, 2019 at the Ghana College of Physicians and Surgeons with the theme "Bridging The Gap Between The Formal And Informal Economy, The Role Of Domestic Revenue Mobilization In An Era Of Ghana Beyond Aid", Prof. Eugenia Amporfu indicated that people should not be made to form queue to register as they can do it onlne, under the e-registration system.



We know that people are supposed to register and if they register, we will be able to identify them and get them to pay taxes. Registration should be very easy and it should be done at the doorstep instead of letting people close their doors to go and queue to get registered; they can do it online, e-registration should be encouraged and be used, she remarked.



She again suggested that as the average level of education in the informal sector is very low, the country needs a tax system that is simple enough for people with low level of education to really understand and able to comply.



 . . we need a tax system that is simple enough for people with low level of education to really understand and able to comply, she emphasized.



Prof. Eugenia Amporfu however called on the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) to use mobile money as a mode of tax collection in order to stop the unnecessary leakages and improve on taxes in the country as almost everybody in Ghana in the informal sector has mobile money account.



A very popular technology that is currently used and well-integrated in the informal sector is the use of Mobile Money. Almost everybody in Ghana in the informal sector has mobile money account and so they can easily pay their taxes by mobile money instead of getting it through one person and another person and leading to unnecessary leakages. Lets use our technology to improve our taxes and tax collection, she mentioned.



But the Commissioner-General of Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) Mr. Emmanuel Kofi Nti quickly intercepted that his outfit has already adopted the usage of mobile money as means for people to pay their taxes.



On the issue of using mobile money to pay taxes, we are already doing to it in GRA. I want to clarify that so that we move on, he reacted.

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.

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Madam Shani Cooper, Israeli Ambassador to Ghana, Liberia and Sierra Leone has commended government for supporting womens empowerment in the Country.



She explained that though most Ghanaian women were not economically and culturally independent, governments interest in their development showed that women would advance in the future.



She made the observation during a stimulation conversation to empower women, organized by Women-Soaring Higher Achieving Real Excellence-SHARE, under StratComm Africa, in collaboration with the Embassy of Israeli, Ghana and Sierra Leone.



The Programme, which brought together women leaders, was dubbed The Power of Womanhood as Change-Actors.

Madam Cooper said there were so many cultural strings that were hindering Ghanaian women who wanted to make strides and that there was the need to empower them.



She noted that Israeli Government was committed to not only make women independent financially but also empower them to soar politically.



The Ambassador said with the Israeli Agency for International Development Cooperation since 1958 (MASHAV) had contributed in training over 2,000 Ghanaian professionals in the fields of agriculture, health, education and women empowerment which women had benefitted.



She added that between 2017 and 2018, about 70 Ghanaian professionals had received training in various MASHAV courses in Israel and Ghana, saying, there were specific courses designed for women especially in agric aimed at empowering them.



Mrs Ilana Rita Brand, an International Consultant on Female Empowerment and Capacity Building urged participants to harness the positives of their colleagues to develop themselves and society.

You should not allow problems to stop you from bringing transformation into their communities but always see opportunities as a stepping stone to greatness, she stated.



She advised them not to only wait for big moments to bring about changes but look for every opportunity to transform the world.

Ms Esther Cobbah, Chief Executive Officer of StratComm encouraged women to learn to share their dreams, fear, anger, experiences, among other things to get themselves revived.



She said, the world had women leaders because some people shared their ideas.

Giving the background to the event, she said, StratComm since its inception had helped improve the livelihoods in areas such as Aviation, Agriculture, Transport, Telecommunication and Education.



She said it was well-positioned to help people and institutions to improve using communication as a tool.

The CEO explained that the Organisation was culturally sensitive as it worked with both rural and urban entities using different kinds of engagements.



Participants encouraged women to learn not to be judgmental, encourage others to do better when they made mistakes as well as build more relationships.

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.

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Mr. Joe Ghartey, the Minister for Railway Development, has indicated that the Ministry has introduced an enhanced Monitoring and Evaluation mechanism to ensure that all contracts awarded are executed on schedule.



He said the Ministry was working tirelessly to transform the defunct Railway sector and the Training School located at Essikado in the Western Region into a world-class University to gain maximum economic impact next to the port and harbours.



To this end, he said the Ministry of Railway Development has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the University of Mines and Technology (UMaT) at Tarkwa to train technical personnel for industry and academia.



Mr. Ghartey said this during the inspection of the 22-kilometer Western rail line from Kojokrom to Eshiem and to Manso in the Mpohor District of the Western Region.



The Minister said, the construction of a new standard gauge railway line from Kojokrom to Manso, funded by the government of Ghana, was progressing steadily.



A 2.55km earthworks up to sub-ballast of the 5km Kojokrom-Eshiem project, had been completed while the construction of a railway bridge was ongoing.

In addition, the site camp for the 17km Eshiem-Kojokrom project has been erected with majority of the track materials on site.



Mr. Nadav Simon, Managing Director of Amandi Holdings explained that the major railway line in the Western Railway network was about 340km which would connect the Port of Takoradi with Kumasi, branch to Awaso and extend to Nyinahini, in the Ashanti Region.



According to him, the project would serve two major mines including the Ghana Manganese Company at Nsuta and the Ghana Bauxite Company at Awaso, all in the Western Region.



Transportation of other bulk cargo such as cement, mining equipment, timber, flour and petroleum would also benefit from the construction of the rail line when completed.



Mr Nadav Simon added that the project would entail a 22km single standard gauge truck, three train stations, power, water and sewage systems as well as pedestrian bridges.



He further stated that it would also have three road overpasses and the longest railway bridge in West Africa which would be about 375 metres and 45 drainage culverts.



it will have asphaltic sub-ballast layer for carriageway rain protection, more than one million cubic metres (m3) of earthworks and more than 250,000 m3 of quarry materials, he noted.

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.

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A tissue paper manufacturing company set up to assist in the reformation of prisoners agenda of the government has started operating in the Nsawam Medium Security Prisons under the One-District-One-Factory (1D1F) project.



The company, Brompton Portfolio Limited, will produce toilet rolls, tissue papers, paper towels and packaging products for both domestic and industrial use.



These products will be traded under the brand name SOFTEX.



The cost of the project, according to company officials, is estimated at GH4million which was secured from the National Investment Bank and GCB Bank through the facilitation of the 1D1F program.



Brompton Portfolio entered into a joint venture agreement with the Ghana Prisons Service to set up a commercial toilet paper manufacturing plant with the aim of assisting in the reformation of prisoners countrywide.



The company has since received certification from Ghana Standards Authority, Environmental Protection Agency and Ghana Free Zones Authority.



It has the capacity to produce over 160,000 packs of tissue papers and toilet rolls per month and provide 105 jobs for inmates of the Nsawam Medium Security Prisons as well as 5,500 distributors across the country.



Commissioning the factory at the Nsawam Medium Security Prisons in the Nsawam Adoagyir Municipality last Tuesday, the Deputy Minister for Trade and Industry, Robert Ahomka-Lindsey, said the private sector as the engine of growth, could count on the government support to enable it make important contributions towards national development.



The coming on stream of Brompton Portfolio, he noted, is evidence of the governments commitment to support the private sector to grow.



He charged Ghanaians to have the can do spirit, believing that once others have been able to do it, they too could do same.



30% of governments tax generated from the factory, according to Ahomka-Lindsey, would be used to support the upkeep of the Nsawam Prisons.



The factory, he added, will be replicated in other regions to ensure that inmates in those regions also benefit.



The National Coordinator of the 1D1F, Hon. Mrs. Gifty Ohene-Konadu, commenting on the factory said, government is committed to reforming prisoners to enable society get the best from them, hence, the Prisons Services partnership with Brompton to set up a factory in the Nsawam Medium Security Prisons.



She said the inmates at the Nsawam Medium Prisons would earn some stipends which they could use to support their upkeep and families while in custody or save to look after themselves when they leave the prison after serving the number of years slapped on them.



Apart from enabling inmates and the Prisons Service to gain sustainable incomes, the acquisition of technical and entrepreneurial knowledge will greatly shape the future of those who would be engaged directly as factory hands in the production process, she noted.



She was confident that the high suicide rate among inmates and ex-convicts could reduce to the barest minimum if not totally eliminated when such persons were encouraged to engage in productive ventures.



On his part, the Managing Director of Brompton Portfolio Limited, Mr. James Yankah, said the partnership between his outfit and the Ghana Prisons Service would enhance the prison work program to enable them achieve their reformation agenda since it will now be easier for inmates to find jobs after serving their prison terms.



It has been proven over time that inmates who are given the opportunity to engage in prison work programs while incarcerated find it easy to find work once they are released, he said.

Source: Peacefmonline.com









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Mr Shi Ting Wang, the Chinese Ambassador to Ghana on Friday handed over 300 satellite television to government to be distributed to selected public area and households in the rural areas.



The presentation was in line with a project christened 300 village satellite TV project, launched by the Ministry of Communications, in collaboration with StarTimes, a Chinese Multimedia company in September, 2018.



The project is aimed at bridging the digital divide and ensuring that all citizens especially the rural communities enjoy the full benefits of digitalization.



Mr George Andah, the Deputy Minister of Communication receiving the equipment in Accra said the ceremony signified the strengthening of the ties between Ghana and the Peoples Republic of China.



Giving background about the project, Mr Andah said in 2015, China and 50 African countries and the African Union Commission convened in Johannesburg, South Africa for a Summit on China-Africa Cooperation to consolidate solidarity and cooperation among China and Africa.



At the Summit, the Chinese government indicated its willingness to implement 10 major China-Africa cooperation plans within 50 African countries, one of the plans was the provision of a grant for access to satellite TV for 10,000 African communities of which Ghana was a beneficiary.



The Deputy Minister said as part of the grant, 900 chosen public areas in the 300 communities have benefited from two sets of solar powered projection TV systems and one set of solar 32-inch digital TV.



Mr Andah stated that 660 Ghanaians have acquired technical training on how to install satellite dishes, while 400 Ambassadors have been locally selected and trained by Startimes to operate and maintain the equipment in these communities to ensure the sustainability of the project.



However, 20 sets of satellite TV set-top boxes have been installed in 6000 houses in 300 communities to enable them have access to both local and international channels.



Mr Andah explained that timely access to information was necessary in the development of every facet of the society, adding that access to satellite TV was considered one of the most effective and efficient means of disseminating information, irrespective of the geographical locations of people.



He said the Ministry was implementing the Digital Ghana Age and ensuring that all the citizenry was part of the development journey of the country through access to information and participation in nation building.



Mr Andah said the Ministry would continue to explore creative and affordable means of making content accessible through technology and television, calling on all leaders of the beneficiary communities to ensure that equipment installed were placed under proper care.



The Chinese Ambassador said the project had so far provided more than 600 jobs to Ghanaians across the country and that China was committed to cooperating with Africa, including Ghana in a broader area of green development, poverty alleviation and cultural exchanges.



He said the 21st century was an era of ICT and that people all over the world have the right to enjoy the convenience brought about by the high rate of development of information technology, but due to limited degree of economic development, some still cannot catch up with the digital divide.

Source: GNA









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The Chief Executive Officer of Ghana Export Promotion Authority (GEPA) has indicated that one sure way of achieving the export revenue target of USD5.3 billion by 2021 will be to implement Ghanas National Export Development Strategy (NEDS).



Madam Afua Asabea Asare mentioned this at the 2nd formulation workshop of the National Export Development Strategy (NEDS) currently taking place at Aqua Safari, Ada.



Delivering her welcome remarks at the opening ceremony, Madam Asare mentioned that her organisation is well aware of H.E. the Presidents Ghana Beyond Aid agenda which can be equally achieved by riding on the back of increased exports.



She mentioned that over the last few years, GEPA has initiated some key programmes and activities that are expected to start yielding results and devoted efforts in capacity building of exporters to ensure favourable competition in international markets.



GEPA has also supported product development initiatives by procuring and distributing improved vegetable seeds and coconut, cashew, pineapple and yam seedlings to farmers and out-grower groups in various production zones across Ghana. The intervention is intended to considerably improve product supply capacity of priority crops and products.



Delivering the keynote speech on behalf of the Minister for Trade and Industry, Mr. Patrick Poku, Director for Trade Facilitation at the Ministry of Trade and Industry, reiterated the need to review the National Export Strategy to align with the Governments ten-point agenda for industrial transformation.



The National Export Development strategy is expected to serve as a blueprint that provides the roadmap for the attainment of the revenue targets and also reflect government policies, programmes and projects such as the One District One Factory (1D1F), Strategic Anchor Industries, SMEs Development, Industrial Revitalization (Stimulus Package), Export Diversification, Industrial Sub-Contracting, Industrial Park/Economic Zones, Planting for Export and Rural Development among others.



It is also envisaged that the National Export Development Strategy will prescribe measures that will enable Ghana leverage on and take advantage of the Free Trade Agreements such as the Africa Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) with USA and the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) with the European Union (EU) which ensures Ghanas export products enter into these markets duty-free and quota free as well as the up-coming African Continental Free Trade Agreement (CFTA).



The 3-day workshop is being attended by participants drawn from parliament, exporters associations, academia, private sector, government and representatives from civil society organisations.

Source: Peacefmonline.com









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The Parliamentary Select Committee on Local Government and Rural Development says the TDC Development Company and the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) must pay rates and fees to the Tema Metropolitan Assembly (TMA).



The Committee affirmed the landlord status of the Assembly and noted that it was not right for the TDC and GPHA to refuse to pay revenue to the TMA while they were operating on TMA lands.



Members of the Committee made up of Mr Edwin Nii Lantey Vanderpuaye, the ranking member and Member of Parliament for Odododiodio, Mr Ibrahim Ahmed, MP for Banda and first minority whip, Mr Dominic Napare, MP for Sene East and Mr Ampem Nyarko, MP for Asuogyaman paid an oversight visit to the TMA on Friday.



The Committee, therefore, urged the TMA to take the necessary steps including resorting to the courts to ensure that the two institutions and their tenants paid their rates including building permits to enable the Assembly accrue the needed revenue for the development of the area.



Mr Vanderpauye told the Ghana News Agency that the Committee would take the issue up with the Ministry to push for such institutions to pay explaining that even though an institution such as TDC collects ground payments from its tenants, while TMA is saddled with responsibilities including sanitation and other development issues in the jurisdiction.



He indicated that it was unfortunate that the TMA had ceded its authority to the two institutions and was losing big revenue stressing that TDC was only set up to plan Tema and being a limited liability company does not insulate them from paying.



He emphasized that they have to pay development and building permit to TMA and their occupants must equally pay rates to the Assembly.



The Ranking Member noted that even though the Kaneshie Market was a limited liability company, they still pay rates to the Accra Metropolitan Assembly adding that the various ministries also pay property rate to the Assembly.



On the issue of waste management and the dilapidated central sewer lines in the harbour and industrial city, he urged the TMA to officially make an appeal to the central government through parliament for it to be attended to.



He noted that parliament did a similar exercise for the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly to acquire a waste treatment plant adding that TMA could also be supported as it was currently all the waste in Accra is coming to Tema.



Mr Felix Mensah Nii Anang-La, Tema Metropolitan Chief Executive, on his part, also bemoaned the self acquired status of TDC, GPHA as parallel authorities in the area, saying that the TMA had prepared and presented a document on the issue to the sector Ministry but to no avail.

Source: GNA









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Former President, John Dramani Mahama has assured the Chiefs and people of the Jomoro Constituency in the Western Region that he will build fertilizer plant and an oil refinery in the area when voted into power after 2020.



He added that a petrochemical industry which is to give impetus to the Atuabo Freeport will be his next focus in the area.



The former President who is now the Presidential Candidate for the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) said this when he paid a courtesy call on the Paramount Chief of Eastern Nzema Traditional Council, Awulea Amihere Kpanyinli at Atuabo during his two days "Thank You Tour" in the Region.



According to him, his government designed plans to establish these projects in the Jomoro after the Atuabo Freeport.



"Aside from the Freeport, we also planned to build a Gas Processing plant in Port in Eastern Nzema. Western Nzema, we were bringing petrochemical plants and the designs we did are there and we will get petrochemical plants, oil refinery, fertilizer plant and these are in Western Nzema, so we have to come and continue these projects and create jobs for this area," he noted.



He said the project will create jobs for the teeming unemployed in the Nzemaland and therefore called on them to support him to win the 2020 elections to honour his pledge.



He told the people of the area that the NPP in opposition deliberately used some means to delay the project.



Mhama maintained that the Atuabo free port project and other oil and gas services projects, which his government initiated for Western and Eastern Nzema, were to enable the country derive maximum benefits from the oil find.



We planned building an oil services port here at Atuabo. Unfortunately, there was a bit of misunderstanding. Our brothers from the other political divide took the project to court, stalled it till we left office, he stated.



He continued, The Atuabo free port project is very critical as it will help the oil and gas industry. So when NDC comes back, we will resurrect and build it so that the oil industry can have a place to receive their services. It will also create employment for our young ones in the Nzema area."



Mr Mahama noted that we also thought it wise to have all these projects to be at par with the infrastructure in the Nzema area and so we initiated the gas enclave project. So now all the roads where the gas plant and ancillary companies have been tarred.



According to him, Parliament in July 2014 approved an agreement between his Government and British company Lonrho Ports for the development of an oil and gas free port at Atuabo.



He added that the US$700 million Atuabo Freeport project was expected to be operational in 2017 and serve as a regional hub in promoting safe and efficient offshore businesses but this did not materialize.



Mahama stressed that it was designed as part of the deep water port to grow the oil and gas industry. However, five Members of Parliament took the then National Democratic Congress (NDC) government to court over exclusivity clauses and attempts to stop the Takoradi Port from expanding.



According to him, it was also designed to house facilities like loadout quay connected to fabrication assemble areas and heavy lift capacity among others.



The Chief of Nzema Akropong, Nana Adu Kwame commended former John Mahama for his visionary step towards the establishment of the Ghana Gas Company Limited at Atuabo in the Nzemaland adding that, but for him, the project would not have existed.



He said the chiefs and people of Nzema will forever be indebted to the NDC administration for putting Ghana's gas infrastructure on their land.



What I want to say is that in time past what your party did for us we appreciate but for you we would not have had Ghana Gas on our soil. You did it for us and today we are seeing a lot of things. You added ENI the other day I met some, he acknowledged.



According to him, a one-touch victory for the NDC in the 2020 general elections is assured if only you do not walk where you walked which led you to your bitter defeat in 2016.



Former President John Mahama was accompanied by the former Petroleum Minister and the current Member of Parliament for Ellembelle, Emmanuel Armah Kofi-Buah, some former MMDCEs, the Western Regional Executives of the party led by the Regional Chairman, Nana Toku among others.

Source: Ghanaweb/Daniel Kaku









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The Zongo Chief of Kpedze in the Volta region, Alhaji Iddrisu Eliasu has praised President Akufo-Addo and his government for the far-reaching policies that address the basic living needs of the ordinary Ghanaian.



Alhaji Iddrisu Eliasu has indicated that he is pleased with the manner in which the government is trying to lessen the burdens of the Zongo people by not just giving them perishables like rice and sugar but rather implementing policies that guarantee them a sustainable livelihood.



Your Excellency, as you are here we are very happy that you have joined us. We have always needed somebody to come and help the Zongos. We are glad your government has come and is doing just that.



In times past many governments have come but none prioritized the plight of The Zongos. Your government has come to show us so much love by ending the era of governments giving we the Zongos just rice and sugar. No, we dont need that. Rather we need your planting for food and jobs, free SHS, Zongo Development Fund, Arabic Teaching, and the many social interventions you have rolled out. We think the era of rice and sugar should be over, Chief Iddrisu observed.



He continued Just yesterday we collected our fertilizers under the planting for food and jobs. And (thankfully) there is rain today. Tomorrow we will be applying the fertilizer.



Planting for food and exports we are also taking part and then free senior high school. I dont think we now have any excuse about poverty that our children shouldnt go to school up to SHS, and that, we are very grateful, he added.



The Zongo Chief further paid special tribute to Vice President Bawumia for the fulfillment of some promise he made to the people of Kpedze in the run-up to the 2016 elections.



Your excellency, you were here in 2016 as Vice Presidential candidate. Today you are here as Vice President, and we pray that you will come back here in 2021 as Vice President again.



You were here as a candidate and you promised and you fulfilled that led to the take-off of our Islamic school here in the Zongo, the first and the only one in the district, Chief Iddrisu mentioned.



The Zongo Chief delivered these messages when Vice President Alhaji Dr. Mahamadu Bawumia joined his Muslim brothers and sisters to worship Allah and pray for the nation as part of his Ramadan Tour to the Volta Region on Saturday, 11th May.



Dr. Bawumia started his Ramadan Tour from the Oti Region on Friday, 10th May, where he visited mosques, as well as chiefs and people in communities such as Dambai, Kwamekrom and Kadjebi.



In the Volta Region, Vice President Bawumia visited communities such as Kpando, Kpedze and Dzodze. In each of the communities, he worshipped and prayed in the mosques and also called on the chiefs and People of Kpedze and Dzodze at the Chiefs palace.



Addressing the gathering of fellow Muslims at the mosque in Kpedze, Vice President Bawumia called for peace and unity among colleagues of the Islamic faith, as well as the need for acceptance and tolerance across various faiths in Ghana, particularly between Muslims and Christians.



Currently we enjoy real peace and harmony between Muslims and Christians largely because we tolerate and accept each other despite our diversity in faith. We should not take this precious commodity (peace) for granted since the absence of it mean anything worse one can think of, Dr. Bawumia admonished.



He continued that as a country, our growth and development lie in our unity and that we must do everything possible to preserve that.



Vice President Bawumia was joined by the Volta Regional Minister (Hon. Dr.Yao Archibald Letsa), Minister for Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs (Hon. Kofi Dzamesi), Deputy Information Minister (Hon. Pius Enam Hadzide) and some other government officials.

Source: Peacefmonline.com









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iStock/travelview(BOSTON) -- In response to an uproar on campus, Harvard University decided this weekend to remove law professor Ron Sullivan from a dean's post after Sullivan had signed on as a member of the team defending disgraced movie producer Harvey Weinstein. Ironically, Harvard's decision comes just a day after Sullivan told the Manhattan judge overseeing Weinstein's case that Sullivan would, in fact, be leaving the defense team.



Sullivan's notice to the court is due to be made public Monday.



The lawyer and his wife, Stephanie Robinson, who also works at the school, will not be renewed as deans at Harvard's Winthrop House once their terms expire next month.



Sullivan's decision has no impact on Jose Baez, the noted criminal lawyer now leading Weinstein's defense, or the rest of the team. Sullivan is a noted expert on criminal law and criminal procedure and is director of the Harvard Criminal Justice Institute.



Weinstein spokesman Juda Engelmayer told ABC News Saturday evening that Weinstein "is extremely grateful to Ronald Sullivan for his work with him until now, and for Ron's offer to advise where he can going forward."



"Mr. Sullivan believed that Mr. Weinstein deserved a vigorous defense, and it is a sad moment for us all right now," Engelmayer said. "We, as a country, have now reached the point when a Harvard lawyer and professor cannot serve his duty to, and belief in, the law and defend a person who may be deemed unpopular or unworthy of a legal defense by segments of the public."



The Harvard Crimson, the college's newspaper, was the first to report on Sullivan's exit.



The Harvard Black Law Students Association supported Sullivan's decision to represent Weinstein, saying in a statement released March 31, "HBLSA finds it important that we speak to the controversy and make the ask of Harvard University to both unequivocally support survivors of sexual violence and to do so in a way that does not scapegoat Professor Sullivan for the Universitys failings to address sexual violence on campus."



Weinstein is due to go on trial in September on charges of rape and sexual assault. He was arrested nearly a year ago and is out on bail.



He is set to go on trial on accusations made by two women in New York, but has been accused of improper conduct by dozens of other women over decades.



Weinstein, 66, has been investigated by the New York City Police Department, the Manhattan District Attorneys Office, the New York Attorney Generals Office, the Los Angeles Police Department and U.K. authorities.



He has denied all allegations of nonconsensual sex.

Copyright  2019, ABC Radio. All rights reserved.
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National Defense Council welcomes redeployment from Hodeidah ports [13/May/2019] ANAA, May 13 (Saba)  The National Defense Council on Sunday welcomed the unilateral redeployment of the army and popular committees from Hodeidah, Salif and Ras Issa ports of Hodeidah province.



In its meeting held in the capital Sanaa and chaired by President of the Supreme Political Council Field Marshal Mahdi al-Mashat, the National Defense Council condemned the continuous obstruction of Stockholm Agreement on Hodeidah by Saudi-led aggression collation; despite the United Nations is keeping pace with the steps of the army and popular committees in the implementation of the agreement first phase.



The meeting reviewed developments in the military and security arena, praising the steadfastness of the army and popular committees forces on all fronts.



During the meeting, President al-Mashat stressed the importance of continuing in the development of military capabilities in various fields to defense Yemen and its sovereignty and independence.







BA

Saba
Just a day before polling in Delhi, the son of an Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) candidate made a sensational allegation on Saturday, claiming that his father had paid Rs 6 crore to party chief and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal to get the ticket.

The allegation was made by Uday, son of AAP's West Delhi candidate Balbir Singh Jakhar, while speaking to reporters here.



Jakhar, however, refuted the claim and said that he was not in contact with his son since long.





While speaking to the media, Uday alleged, "He (Jakhar) paid Rs 6 crore to (Arvind) Kejriwal for the ticket... My father told me that he paid the amount to Kejriwal."



He went on to say, "The more shocking part is that Kejriwal, who was part of the anti-corruption movement, is so corrupt and taking money."



Reacting to the claims, the West Delhi candidate of AAP told the media, "All the allegations against me are baseless. I have never met or interacted with my son in the recent past. This is an attempt to tarnish my image just before the polls."



Jakhar added, "He (Uday) was born and brought up in his maternal grandparents house. I was divorced in 2009. We don't meet frequently. He calls me once in a month or so demanding things."



He further said that he had separated from his first wife in 2001 and Uday was born after that.



"I got a mutual divorce in 2009 and Uday never lived with me. A teenage boy is often misguided. It's very sad that my political opponents have designed a conspiracy by using him as a tool for political interests," Jakhar said.



He also said that Uday did not use the surname Jakhar and that he was not sure whether his son had passed the Class XII examination.



Uday added that this was not the only thing he wanted to tell the world to clear his conscience.



He alleged that his father was among those who tried to save Congress leader Sajjan Kumar, who was awarded life term by the Delhi High Court in a 1984 anti-Sikh riots case.



"My father also decided to represent Sajjan Kumar in court. He was paid huge amount to bail him out," Uday claimed.



Insisting that he did not have affiliation with any political party, Uday claimed that he had credible evidence that his father had paid for the ticket.
A total of 770 companies of central paramilitary forces are being deployed in West Bengal's tribal heartland as well as the seats in Junglemahal, once a hotbed of Maoists, where stringent security arrangements are in place to ensure fool-proof voting in the sixth phase Lok Sabha polls on Sunday, officials said.

The Election Commission has already said plans were afoot to use satellite phones and drones in the Junglemahal region.



Eight parliamentary constituencies - Tamluk, Kanthi, Ghatal, Jhargram (ST), Midnapore, Purulia, Bankura and Bishnupur (SC) - will vote in the penultimate round of the Lok Sabha polls from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.





Asked about special measures taken for Junglemahal area, Additional Chief Electoral Officer Sanjay Basu said: "The security arrangements have been made as per the instructions of the Election Commission and sufficient armed forces have been deployed".



Special Police Observer Vivek Dube had earlier mentioned that "770 companies of central forces has been deployed for 100 percent coverage of polling stations".



A total of 743 companies will be used for guarding the booths and area domination. The remaining 27 companies will look after the strong room where EVMs are kept.



As per the sources in the CEO office, the forces have been instructed to wear bulletproof jackets, helmets and carry sufficient ammunition.



Though there has been no Maoist activity in the last few years, the commission feels it is a challenge to ensure maximum turnout and peaceful vote in these areas.



Forces deployed in Junglemahal have been briefed not to move in vehicles to avoid improvised explosive device (IEDs). They have also been asked to check all the culverts - probable places of planting IEDs much before their movement, the source said.



Senior sector officers are personally briefing the officers of the Quick Response Teams and CAPF officers about the sensitivity of the constituencies and previous reports of violence, attacks and intimidation of voters.
The Election Commission on Sunday censured Union Minister Giriraj Singh for his remarks made last month and warned him to be careful about his public utterances.

The Chief Electoral Officer of Bihar had forwarded the copy of a video clip of a speech made by Singh in Begusarai from where he is contesting on a BJP ticket to the EC.



The EC said Singh has violated the directions of the Supreme Court and the provisions of the model code of conduct which state that there will be no appeal to caste or communal feelings for securing votes.





Singh had made the remarks directed at the Muslim community. The Commission was informed that an FIR was lodged against him in this connection.



Condemning the remarks, the poll panel in its order warned Singh "to remain careful in his public utterances during the currency of model code of conduct."
The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government in Delhi on Saturday ordered a private school in the city to reimburse the Rs 2.09 crore it collected from the students as extra fees within 30 days.

Addressing a press conference here, Delhi Education Minister Manish Sisodia said that the Apeejay School in Sheikh Sarai was sent the notice following complaints by the parents.



"Apeejay School in Sheikh Sarai had increased different charges, such as annual fee and development fee, by 10-25 per cent without informing the government. After auditing the school's accounts for the last seven years, we passed an order on Friday," Sisodia said.





He further said that despite the school having a surplus of Rs 30.85 crore, the teachers were not paid as per the Seventh Pay Commission and that fees were increased every year.



"In the 2018-19 session, the school had collected Rs 2.09 crore more than the actual fees. We have ordered the school to return the extra fees within 30 days or face action. Else it has to tell the parents that it'll adjust the extra fees in the coming months," he said.



"The school spent Rs 4.5 crore collected from fees on a new building. According to the law, the school should have done this with its own money, not from the fees collected from the students.



"In this building, it opened a new school called International School. But many of the teachers of the International School were paid from the other school's account while the fees taken by it were going into another account," Sisodia said.



He also said that the school showed inflated bills of Rs 5.5 crore for housekeeping, but failed to provide any details of the same.
Incidents of clashes between Trinamool Congress and BJP activists were reported from parts of West Bengal on Saturday, a day before the penultimate phase of Lok Sabha polls in the state.

Activists of the two parties clashed in East Midnapore district's Egra after Trinamool supporters allegedly blocked state BJP President Dilip Ghosh's convoy and agitated, accusing him of continuing the election campaign well after the deadline.



Local BJP leaders, however, claimed that Ghosh was returning after having lunch at a party activist's house in the area.



Ghosh is contesting from the Midnapore Lok Sabha seat against Trinamool Congress Rajya Sabha Member Manas Bhunia.





The incident took place two days after Ghosh's car was attacked and vandalised by unidentified persons on its way back from the district Khejuri.



BJP leader and Assam Finance Minister Himanta Biswa Sharma was with Ghosh during that attack.



A day before, Trinamool Congress and the saffron party workers had clashed during a meeting of former IPS officer and BJP candidate Bharati Ghosh in West Bengal's Paschim Midnapore district, police said.



The police said two Trinamool workers were injured. But some unofficial sources said as many as 16 members belonging to the either party were injured in the clash on Friday evening.



The former Superintendent of Police of Bengal's Jhargram district is taking on Bengali film star-cum-MP Deepak (Dev) Adhikari of the Trinamool Congress in the Ghatal Lok Sabha constituency, which will go to polls on May 12.



"BJP workers along with Ghosh had gathered at a religious place in Baikunthapur on Friday. They were distributing articles, like sari and caps, when Trinamool workers chased them and a clash broke out," said a police officer.



An FIR had been lodged against unknown persons and the articles being distributed had been seized, the police said.



A member of Asthal Nimbark Math, the religious place, said people had gathered for the evening prayers. But the situation became uneasy when Ghosh arrived around 7.40 p.m.



"All those who abused us, damaged our cars and threw stones were set free by the police. When I told them I was hurt as a stone hit me in the head, the police just told me to sit inside," Ghosh alleged.
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To help gain the business owner further gain business intelligence the study on the Peripheral Vascular Devices market for the forecast period 2019 - 2026 brings to light data on production capability, consumption capacity, spending power, investment feasibility, and technology innovation. A thorough assessment of market performance across different regions is presented through self-explanatory graphic images, charts, and tables that add weight to corporate presentations and marketing materials. The study offers regional profiles of major vendors and extensive country-level break down to empower companies to make a wise investment decision when exploring new regions.



Market competition by top manufacturers, with production, price, revenue and market share for each manufacturer; the top players including:

Medtronic, Inc., Angiomed GmbH Co. Medizintechnik KG, Abbott Laboratories Vascular Enterprises Limited, Terumo Corporation, ENDOLOGIX, Inc., William Cook Europe, Bolton Medical, Inc., Jotec GmbH, ClearStream Technologies Ltd., Aesculap AG, Boston Scientific Corporation, curative medical devices gmbh, Lepu, Microport, Bioteq



A high focus is maintained on factors such as demand and supply, production capacity, supply chain management, distribution channel, product application and performance across different countries. The report not only offers hard to find facts about the trends and innovation driving the current and future of Peripheral Vascular Devices business, but also provides insights into competitive development such as acquisition and mergers, joint ventures, product launches and technology advancements.



A quick look at the industry trends and opportunities

The researchers find out why sales of Peripheral Vascular Devices are projected to surge in the coming years. The study covers the trends that will strongly favour the industry during the forecast period, 2019 to 2026. Besides this, the study uncovers important facts associated with lucrative growth and opportunities that lie ahead for the Peripheral Vascular Devices industry.



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Market split by Type, can be divided into:

- Peripheral Vascular Stents

- Pta Balloon Catheter

- Embolic Protection Device

- Aortic Stent Graft

- Surgical Artificial Transplant



Market split by Application, can be divided into:

- The Treatment of Peripheral Blood Vessels Damaged

- The Treatment of Peripheral Blood Vessels Blockage



The report investigates and analyzes the Peripheral Vascular Devices Market and shows a comprehensive evaluation of the evaluation and its specifications. Another aspect that was taken is the cost analysis of the main products dominant in the global Peripheral Vascular Devices industry considering the profit margin for the manufacturers.



This Peripheral Vascular Devices market report holds answers to some important questions like:

- What is the status of the Peripheral Vascular Devices market that is segmented on the basis sale as well as types?

- Which segment will generate more revenue for the Peripheral Vascular Devices industry in the coming years?

- Who are the leading international Peripheral Vascular Devices brands? Which product is consumed more?

- Which countries are expected to grow at the fastest rate?

- Which factors have attributed to an increased sale worldwide?

- What is the present status of competitive development?

The study objectives of this report are:

- To analyze and study the global Peripheral Vascular Devices capacity, production, value, consumption, status (2014-2018) and forecast (2019-2026);

- Focuses on the key Peripheral Vascular Devices manufacturers, to study the capacity, production, value, market share and development plans in future.

- Focuses on the global key manufacturers, to define, describe and analyze the market competition landscape, SWOT analysis.

- To define, describe and forecast the market by type, application and region.

- To analyze the global and key regions market potential and advantage, opportunity and challenge, restraints and risks.

- To identify significant trends and factors driving or inhibiting the market growth.

- To analyze the opportunities in the market for stakeholders by identifying the high growth segments.

- To strategically analyze each submarket with respect to individual growth trend and their contribution to the market

- To analyze competitive developments such as expansions, agreements, new product launches, and acquisitions in the market

- To strategically profile the key players and comprehensively analyze their growth strategies.



In this study, the years considered to estimate the market size of Peripheral Vascular Devices are as follows:

History Year: 2014-2018

Base Year: 2018

Estimated Year: 2019

Forecast Year 2019 to 2026



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Portland, OR -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/10/2019 -- Radiopharmaceuticals are pharmaceutical formulations comprising radioactive isotopes that are used in diagnosis and therapeutics. They are simple and small substances that contain a radioactive substance that is used in the treatment of cancer and cardiac & neurological disorders.



Radiopharmaceuticals Market Report, published by Allied Market Research, forecasts that the global market is expected to garner $8,207.5 million by 2022.



The global radiopharmaceuticals market is poised to grow at a significant pace, owing to growing demand for non-invasive techniques, availability of effective cancer treatment, and ability to observe the functioning of the organ from outside the body. Furthermore, increasing incidence of cancer & cardiovascular aliments, growing demand for alpha radio immunotherapy-based targeted cancer treatment, mounting call for nuclear imaging techniques, and advancements in radiotracers are expected to open new avenues in the radiopharmaceuticals market. Factors that are expected to drive the use of radiopharmaceuticals include changing lifestyle, elevated levels of stress, and ability to identify various diseases sooner than other diagnostic tests. However, factors such as supply volatility & logistical challenges, stringent regulatory vigil, and competition from conventional diagnostic procedures are anticipated to impede the market growth.



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The oncology segment contributed more than half of the market share in the overall radiopharmaceuticals market in 2015 and is expected to continue the same trend owing to perpetual rise in the number of cancer cases. The SPECT modality segment dominated the radiopharmaceuticals market in 2015, whereas the PET modality segment is anticipated to grow at a comparatively higher CAGR of 8.3% from 2016 to 2022. PET segment is driven by better quality of image and higher precision in diagnosis. Other reasons attributed to its sustained dominance are growing R&D activities especially in developing economies and widening scope of radiopharmaceutical applications such as thyroid, oncology, and bone pain palliation.



Key findings of Radiopharmaceuticals Market:



- Therapeutics segment is projected to be the fastest growing segment in the radiopharmaceuticals market, registering a CAGR of 16.9% from 2016 to 2022.

- SPECT modality segment is expected to dominate the radiopharmaceuticals market in 2015 and expected to retain its position throughout the study period.

- Thyroid application segment is expected to exhibit double-digit CAGR of 11%.

- Oncology application segment is expected to continue to lead the radiopharmaceuticals market, accounting for close to 60% share by 2022.

- Asia-Pacific is projected to be the fastest growing radiopharmaceuticals market, registering a CAGR of 8.4%.



The Asia-Pacific radiopharmaceuticals market is expected to offer lucrative growth opportunities during the forecast period owing to aging population and increasing cancer incidences. The leading Asia-Pacific countries, such as China, Japan, and Australia would exhibit a steady growth rate. The key companies profiled in the report are Mallinckrodt plc., General Electric, Medtronic Inc., Bayer AG, Cardinal Health Inc., Lantheus Medical Imaging, Inc., IBA Group, Bracco Imaging S.p.A., and NTP Radioisotopes SOC Ltd.



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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.
Press Release

May 11, 2019 De Lima appeals to voters to elect independent-minded bets to Senate Opposition Senator Leila M. de Lima has reiterated her call to elect independent-minded candidates who can stand up against Mr. Duterte's malevolent agendas and prevent him from securing ultimate hold to political power in the May 13 elections. In her message read during the "Miting de Avance ng Taumbayan" at the People Power Monument, Edsa, De Lima said that among Duterte's political agendas after the midterm polls is to aggressively push for a federal form of government or Charter Change (Cha-cha). She explained that the success of Cha-cha, which can be made easy if the Senate will be dominated by the President's allies, will allow Duterte to extend his term and ensure dynastic succession to political office of his family members. "Kapag nagtagumpay ang Pederalismo ni Duterte, sya mismo ay tila may maitim na balak na manatili sa pwesto hanggang sampung taon sa ilalim ng tinatawag na 'transition period' na nakasaad sa panukalang Cha-cha," she said. "Hindi natin ito papayagan! Ngayong Mayo 13, sabay-sabay tayong manindigan para sa karapatang pantao, kalayaan at demokrasya. Sa araw ding ito natin simulan ang paniningil. Let our vote be a protest vote against those who have looted their way to power," she added. The shift to a federal form of government has been among Duterte's key agendas since he began his presidential journey in 2016, with political pundits pointing out that any changes to the 1987 Constitution will only grant additional and unchecked powers to the Office of the President. With the success of Charter change, the lady Senator from Bicol pointed out that Mr. Duterte can have the power to strengthen political dynasties, which has become more pronounced under his regime. She stressed that the Duterte family is the perfect poster family for political dynasties as it fields all three children as candidates for elective offices in Davao in the 2019 polls. "Our country is ruled by a handful of political families, close to just a hundred. For these dynasts, the government is a family enterprise and public service, a convenient way to hold on to political power," she said. Citing a study, the Senator noted that the number of powerful political families per position rose from 75 to 78 percent among district representatives; 70 to 81 percent among governors; 58 to 70 percent among mayors, from 2007-2016. De Lima also warned that a shift to a federal form of government under Duterte's reign will only allow political families like the Dutertes to flourish and gain more power that "know[s] no bounds." "How? Because this regime is so bent on dividing the country into federal states without taking serious steps to dismantle these fiefdoms like enacting first an anti-political dynasty law," she said. "Tandaan nating nasa interes ni Duterteng manatili sa kapangyarihan ang kanyang pamilya at mga kasabwat upang hindi sila masingil sa kanilang mga inutang na dugo, pagkakanulo sa ating soberanya at sa napakarami pang mga paglabag sa karapatang pantao," she added. According to her, the Filipino electorate should do their part in saving democratic space for individuals who will genuinely serve the country and their countrymen. De Lima has since vouched for the integrity, courage and competence of Otso Diretso's senatorial line-up, including, Sen. Bam Aquino, Rep. Gary Alejano, human rights lawyer Chel Diokno, civic leader Sam Gutoc, former solicitor general Florin Hilbay, election lawyer Romy Macalintal, former senator Mar Roxas and ex-Rep. Erin Tanada.
Global ice cream company Froneri has bought Fonterra Cooperative Group's Tip Top for $380 million, ending a six-month sale process.

The price was about $100 million above book value, which will lift earnings by six cents per share, Fonterra said.

The agreed settlement date is May 31. While there will be a transition period over a number of months, it will be "very much business as usual" and Tip Top employees will transfer across to become part of Froneri, Fonterra said.

Froneri, a Nestle-R&R joint venture, also confirmed that the Tip Top business will continue to be led by the existing management team. The Tip Top name and its operations, including the factory in the Auckland suburb of Mount Wellington, will be maintained.

Fonterra announced the sale of assets no longer deemed core after reporting its first ever full-year loss last September. When it announced the business was for sale, Fonterra said it wanted Tip Top to stay based in New Zealand.

New Zealand First primary industries spokesperson Mark Patterson said the news was disappointing. If we are to build a value-added future for our economy, keeping the ownership of brands like Tip Top in Kiwi hands is critical, he said.

Chief executive Miles Hurrell said no New Zealand buyer came forward with the right terms and conditions. He acknowledged Tip Top is an "iconic brand in NZ and it is hard" when a brand is sold to an offshore buyer.

While the company will now be foreign owned, Hurrell said its attractiveness - with an average 340 serves of Tip Top every minute - "came through in both the number and quality of bids we received." He said Fonterra had secured a good price for its farmers and unitholders and the fact that Froneri's offer ensured the business remained in New Zealand was "paramount."

Hurrell said the sale was a tough decision but "we are a dairy nutrition company and this is a confectionery company."

He said its "been a privilege being the guardians of Tip Top, but its time to hand the baton to new owners. The well-loved brand needs continuing investment and focused ownership to be sustainable for generations to come. Its not something were in a position to do right now," he said.

UK-based Froneri has more than 10,000 employees and operates in 20 countries.

Hurrell said he was pleased with the price. "We've announced that we are going to get our debt position down by $800 million this financial year and this goes a long way to doing that," he said.

Regarding other divestments, Hurrell said that, while Fonterra has "other one-off transactions that are underway but not yet completed, such as the potential sale of DFE Pharma, it is too early to assess the overall impact of the co-ops divestment programme on its FY19 earnings."

He said "we've talked about our business in Europe and we are talking to a number of interested parties now. That's progressing very well."

In a separate statement, Froneri chief executive Ibrahim Najafi said Tip Top is an "iconic brand" in New Zealand.

"Our vision is to build the worlds best ice cream company; an important part of our strategy is to develop local market successes and roll them out across our other markets.

Fonterra has signed an agreement with the new owners to supply milk to Froneri.

Hurrell couldn't disclose the terms of the milk supply deal but said "it's a long agreement." Fonterra will retain full global ownership of the Kapiti brand and will be licencing its use for ice cream to Froneri. Hurrell said that the Kapiti brand pre-dates Fonterra's foray into ice cream. "We see value in that brand through the cheese and liquid milk market and so that will continue."

Units in the Fonterra Shareholders Fund are up 0.5 percent at $4.30.

(BusinessDesk)

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Synlait Milk has landed itself in a right pickle after a Court of Appeal judgment that renders its new Pokeno factory in breach of covenants restricting use of that land to grazing, lifestyle farming and forestry.

Synlait jumped the gun, starting earthworks in March last year and starting to build the factory in May when it still only had a conditional contract to buy the land.

The key condition was that the vendor, Stonehill Trustees, would get the covenants removed.

Once Justice Mark Woolford of the Auckland High Court decided to rule in Stonehills favour in November and to order the covenants extinguished, Synlait went ahead and took legal title to the land.

A panel of three Court of Appeal judges have now decided that Justice Woolfords ruling was wrong and theyve reinstated those covenants.

Thats a big win for Ye Qing and his company New Zealand Industrial Park, which owns adjacent land to Synlaits 28 hectares and which owns the benefits of the covenants.

Synlaits factory is all but completed and had been set to be commissioned in time for the upcoming 2019/20 dairy season.

As the Court of Appeal judges note, Justice Woolford had accepted that Synlait, with Stonehills consent, had started to build its plant on part of the servient land in knowing breach of the covenants and that Stonehill had made a business decision to act unlawfully.

The covenants were first created when Winstone Aggregates held some of the land Synlait now owns as well as Ye's adjacent property, and had planned to establish a quarry.

The neighbouring land had been owned by Paul and Diane Cleaver who had agreed to the covenants in August 1998 and in September 2000, restricting its use to grazing and lifestyle farming under the first covenant which was extended to forestry in the later covenant. The covenants were to last for 200 years.

Winstone had sought the covenants after learning that the Cleavers were thinking of building a house on their land. It didnt want trouble with its neighbours down the track when its proposed quarry resulted in noise, vibration, earth movement, dust, effects of explosion and the usual incidents of quarrying, the latest judgment explains.

Winstone gained resource consent for a quarry in 2002 which expired in 2009 without it ever being established. Winstone then sold the land, as did the Cleavers.

Both parcels of land were amalgamated and subdivided. Most of Yes land used to be owned by Winstone while the land Synlait owns is a mix of land owned by Winstone and the Cleavers.

The trouble is, most of Synlaits new factory sits on land the Cleavers used to own and is affected by the covenants.

The Court of Appeal judgment notes that Justice Woolford had suggested Synlait could have chosen to build on land Winstone used to own, and which doesnt have covenants attached to it. Much of the site beyond the existing factory is relatively steep, the judgment says.

Whether in practice, Synlait could have built its dairy factory on this other land is speculation, it says.

After signing the conditional sale agreement with Synlait in February last year, Stonehill had first tried and failed to negotiate with Ye to extinguish the covenants.

Ye's company NZIPL had complained in June last year about Synlait starting to build its factory and had requested building stop but Stonehill had ignored the complaint.

So then Stonehill went to court. However, two other parties own land that benefit from the covenants, Stuart PC and Grander Investments.

Stuart PC agreed to its rights under the covenants being extinguished in April last year. However, Grander Investments only discovered the action after Justice Woolfords first judgment.

While a second judgment, which had ordered Stonehill to pay Yes costs, directed Stonehill to provide Grander Investments with information on the legal action, the appeal court judges note that was too late.

It was Stonehills responsibility to ensure that service was attended to on the Waikato District Council and on all potentially affected landowners. It failed to do so, they say.

As a result, Grander Investments has been denied the opportunity to be heard. It has lost a property right and that right may have been of value to it.

Their judgment notes other legal precedents dealing with the sanctity of contract and the expropriation of property rights.

The courts are reluctant to allow contractual property rights to be swept aside in the absence of strong reasons, the judges say, and certainly not just because they become inconvenient to a party such as Synlait or Stonehill.

And they disagreed that the changing nature of Pokeno from a small village surrounded by farms and vineyards into a much larger residential settlement with a significant industrial precinct had rendered the covenants worthless.

We do not agree with the judges conclusion that the covenants, although only 18 to 20 years old, are now of little or no effect and of no practical value, the judges say.

In our judgment, the judge was wrong to conclude that the extinguishment or modification of the covenants, so as to permit operation of the Synlait dairy factory, will not substantially injure NZIPL and valuation evidence was not required to establish that it sustained injury.

Stonehill was ordered to pay Ye's "reasonable costs."

(BusinessDesk)

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The New Zealand dollar was weaker early Monday after the US moved to impose additional tariffs on China and said there are more to come as last week's talks failed to reach a deal.

The kiwi was trading at 65.80 US cents at 8am Monday versus 65.97 US cents late Friday in New York. The trade-weighted index was at 72.03 versus 72.18 late Friday.

On Friday, the US administration increased tariffs on US$200 billion of Chinese goods, raising the rate from 10 percent to 25 percent. It is now threatening to impose 25 percent on an additional US $300 billion of Chinese goods.

On Sunday, however, White House chief economic adviser Larry Kudlow, in an interview with Fox, said "both sides will suffer" in a trade war, adding that President Donald Trump and President Xi Jinping of China are likely to meet in Japan next month to continue negotiations. Trump was less conciliatory, tweeting that any deal would be "far worse" for China in his second term. "Would be wise for them to act now, but love collecting BIG TARIFFS," he said.

According to ANZ Bank FX Rates strategist Sandeep Parekh, China has vowed to retaliate, but the details of its action remain scant. Chinese Vice Premier Liu has also reiterated that China is looking to agree a deal, but insists it will be a cooperative agreement between the two nations.

The potential fallout from the ongoing trade tensions between the two nations weighs on the kiwi given that China is the country's leading trading partner. Parekh said the market will be keeping a close eye on any further tweets from US President Trump about more tariffs.

The market will also be watching for the yuan level the People's Bank of China sets today, said Mike Shirley, a dealer at Kiwibank.

According to Shirley, the yuan is weaker in the spot market, which "implies it will be set at a lower level today." A weaker yuan would partially offset the impact of the tariffs.

The kiwi was trading at 4.4907 Chinese yuan versus 4.5010 late Friday. It was at 94.23 Australian dollars versus 94.12 and at 50.69 British pence from 50.74. It was trading at 58.62 euro cents from 58.68 and at 72.29 Japanese yen from 72.18.

(BusinessDesk)

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The roadshow commenced from the Kadamuan locality of the city, a stones throw from the ancestral house of Sinha, who quit the BJP last month, at about 6.30 pm.

BJP national president Amit Shah Saturday held a roadshow in the Bihar capital, a party stronghold which is witnessing a clash of titans with Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad locked in virtually a straight contest with Shatrughan Sinha, who seeks to retain the Patna Sahib seat on a Congress ticket.

Perched atop an open vehicle with a saffron 'angavastram' around his neck, Shah was flanked by Prasad besides other senior BJP leaders like Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Kumar Modi and waved at crowds which greeted him with chants of Bharat Mata ki jai and raised slogans in favor of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

State BJP president Nityanand Rai stood behind Shah carrying a mike which he used to perk up the party workers marching on foot in the sweltering heat with slogans of Main bhi chowkidar.

Flower petals were showered and garlands were thrown at the vehicle from all sides as the leaders responded with a wave and greeted the people with folded hands.

People stood on both sides of the road, many of them carrying flags with the partys symbol the lotus - as the procession moved at snail speed criss-crossing narrow streets and covering a distance of about two kilometres towards its final point near the historic Gandhi Maidan.

Earlier, Sinha had spoken to a couple of news channels expressing displeasure over media reports quoting BJP sources that the starting point was chosen to show the actor-turned-politician his place.

"I am the Bihari Babu. The son of the soil. How much the people of Patna love me is evident from the fact that in the 2014 Lok Sabha elections I won with the highest margin for any seat in Bihar. Their talks of showing me my aukaat and haisiyat (worth) will boomerang on them. The people will give them (BJP) a befitting reply on polling day," Sinha said.

Patna Sahib goes to the polls on May 19 in the seventh and final phase of Lok Sabha elections.
Our battle today is a war of attrition to harm the enemy and they should know that Jihad will continue until doomsday There will be more to come





by Colonel (retired) Parakrama Dissanayake





Pre-incident: The saying cant see the wood for the trees stands true with Sri Lanka getting caught up with the sensationalised news of Namal Kumara, Makandure Madush and drugs. Sometimes people do not know whether to cry or laugh. The overall purpose of the article is to point out how much we are missing out on the more important things in national life.





It's not the gun that wins the battle, but the soldier behind it





The 1998 bomb attacks in Coimbatore, India have been the base for this research. Why? The attacks took place under similar circumstances and still holds water. Coimbatore, for some time, had been a hotbed of Islamic fundamentalism. The Al Ummah terror group came to be known in Tamil Nadu, after the Babri Masjid demolition in India, in 1992. February 14, 1998 saw the group killing 58 people and injuring more than 200 people by carrying out 12 bomb attacks within an area of 12 sq km. The suicide attackers, however, were said to have missed their target  Bharatiya Janatha Party stalwart L K Advani. The purpose of the attack was established to avenge the killing of 18 cadres. The authorities missed out on the intelligence. Two decades later in Sri Lanka, the pre-incident activity and the modus operandi of the terror attacks are similar. Inaction on intelligence, multiple targets at a time and ideology of the perpetrators are very conspicuous. In Sri Lanka, the motive of the attack is not yet established, other than assumptions. If any of these assumptions are believed, without rationale, substance and argument, results would be catastrophic.





A plot to kill Hindu Makkal Katchchi leader Arjun Sampath and Shakthi Sena leader Anbu Mari in November 2018 in Coimbatore was to lay bare a bigger threat. None realised it would open another chapter in the annals of global terror. That was to be Sri Lanka.





Reasons for the attack





Times changed, situations changed and technology changed, but not the extremist ideology and the will to kill. The genesis of the attack was an intelligence report from the National Intelligence Agency (NIA) on April 4. Many quarters, on different platforms, have given many different reasons for the attack and its background.





The official one was given by the State Minister of Defence, stating in Parliament that this was to avenge the killings of Muslim worshippers in New Zealand on March 15. The Minister bases his information on what he is being told by authoritative sources. Suffice to say, multiple attacks of this nature take months of preparation: Possibly six months or more, considering the planning, surveillance, logistics, training and indoctrination efforts that go into them. The period from March 15 to April 21 was just over a month.





A social media news item, which is going viral, speculates that an ambassador of a powerful nation, who happened to have served in many hot spots before Sri Lanka, is part of the plot. This opinion is gathering momentum and the culmination would be when politicians bring it out at media discussions. The danger is, at a time like this, the people believe anything and everything.





Some subscribe to the theory that it was a lesson for the Americans and anyone cooperating with them. True, some Americans, too, were killed. Going further, the attack is attributed to the defence agreement signed by the two countries. An extremely balanced view is needed in such thoughts. All Sri Lankan armed forces personnel will be happy with extended cooperation, due to the experience and exposure they gain both in the country and in the US. No national security issue could be compromised, even if logistic assistance is provided, as happens in many countries. One must not forget that the US and its citizens have been the prime target since 9/11. Thus, the US primary concern is to protect its borders and people. In such situations, with its counter-terror action, many countries will stand to benefit from the spillover effect. Having been on US higher training, I am of the opinion that the US has everything that it needs to know about Sri Lanka. Many other countries, too, have this capability.





Yet another topic is the weak security situation. We do not need specialists to tell us this. It would have been more convincing if the argument was put forward with evidence and facts comparing such attacks in other nations and their state of preparedness. Indian and other media were flooded with much information connected to the incident and its background. The most interesting revelation is about the appearance of Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, the elusive leader of the ISIS, in a video clip released on April 29.





ISIS on the run





Baghouz, the last bastion of the ISIS in Syria, fell in March 2019. With the battle of Baghouz done and dusted, the ISIS is now on the run. When they were riding high, they controlled vast swathes of land and people. Mosul alone had about 2 million people. They have now been relegated to a withdrawing army. No more holding territory. Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi appeared in the Great Mosque of Al Nuri in Mosul in 2014. The morale was high then. Public executions, people being burnt alive were shown as force multipliers. They held Mosul till 2017. He went off the radar after 2014. Suddenly, he appeared on April 29 and surprised the world. His message was loud and clear. He said: Your brothers in Sri Lanka have healed the hearts of the monotheists, with their suicide bombings, which shook the beds of the crusaders during Easter





The attacks would continue We will be everywhere, in different places





Our battle today is a war of attrition to harm the enemy and they should know that Jihad will continue until doomsday There will be more to come





He also said the attack was to avenge your brothers in Baghouz. Crusaders (Christians) the world over would be targeted. The global Jihad is a fact. He didnt make a direct claim for the attack, as one of their own (normally they would, to raise the morale of cadres). No mention of US contracts, New Zealand or weak security. After all, this comes from the horses mouth, to all followers and supporters. This is the latest piece of information that we can analyse. This is the real threat we are confronted with, the one to be appraised and told to the general public. The US President, however, said mission accomplished, the war is over. Not really.





Emerging roles





Over the years, several groups outside the Middle East have pledged their allegiance to ISIS. They have struck with devastating results. The UN in 2016, estimated them to be about 304. Therefore, in the current context, we need to think of the real threat and the role to be played in a wider dimension. The trend is self radicalised groups, from among the former, operating independent terror cells throughout the world, with adequate funding, but not directly members of the ISIS. Thus, we cannot place all mundane security matters in the hands of the armed forces and the police and sit by. Imagine how it would look, if they are to guard and protect every place of worship, hotel, bank and school for the next few years.





Specific international support





Much of the international contribution will be in the form of knowledge and technology exchange. Although our experience in fighting the LTTE is unmatched, India and the US will be looked upon to fill the critical gaps. The US involvement to raise the Mujahideen and the Indian involvement to raise the LTTE are all but similar. The damage they did to the core of society in the respective countries and the lessons learnt are difficult to ignore. In fact, Hillary Clinton admitted recently that the US was the father to the former. India has already demonstrated its ability and will to play a role on the issue.





That said, India is on record as one of the most affected countries by terrorism. Once the Indian elections are concluded, we need to be able to work more closely with the authorities. In this situation, India would be happy to have its southern border protected. It could then concentrate more on the vulnerable Pakistani and Chinese fronts. If Sri Lanka is protected and secure, India, too, will benefit and vice versa.





With regard to the US, the proposition is no different, although we are not close neighbours. In counter-terrorism today, a key weakness is that it does not address the causes. No strategy that attempts to deal with terrorism can be successful if it does not recognise the nature and seriousness of terrorisms causes. In such a situation, a large volume of data needs to be analysed. Sourcing international platforms and initiatives aggressively will be to our advantage. The state needs to interact with countries like the US and others to strategise our response. At the moment, the political leadership implies that military response is the answer to the question. The Sri Lanka Institute of Strategic Studies, the Institute of National Security Studies, the Regional Centre for Strategic Studies, the Lakshman Kadirgamar Institute, where art thou?





Corporate community





Long-term reliance on state resources like the military and the police will be unfair and impossible, other than for specific tasks. Some hotels have employed commandos and sniffer dogs for security. The latter will have more serious issues to deal with. Corporates will have to spend time and money to devise basic security mechanisms which go beyond the normal manpower. Developments in technology are one hope. Video auditing, motion detection on CCTV, explosives and narcotics sniffers are just some to mention.





Legal challenges





I heard over radio, some lawyers have decided not to appear for the suspects. My idiom holds. A citizen should have trust and confidence over various institutions of the Sate, as Justice Praba Sridevan of India has said. We remember the 9/1 and the 19/2 Detention Orders during the earlier conflict. My experience in the last conflict is that we made more enemies by remanding suspects and not putting them on trial. Innocent families were made hapless and helpless by depriving them of their sole breadwinner  in recent times, the remanding of military personnel without trial. Legal knowledge, education and literacy on basic laws to the armed forces are a must at this point.





What about the call to surrender? Hardly anything has been spoken about this aspect. Giving confidence to the wrongdoers and the indoctrinated is most important, at least, for the sake of their families. This is nothing new. We have gone through this process many years ago. The committee report on the bomb attack was handed over to the Attorney General on May 8.





Again, going back to Coimbatore, the Retired Justice Gopalkrishman Committee interviewed 1,300 witnesses. The attack took place in 1998 and the judgment was delivered in 2007. A key suspect, Madani, was acquitted. This is not taking into account the appeals. Such is the challenge for the legal fraternity. Protection of witnesses and sources of information, too, will be a need, as most of them will be from the Muslim community. Nothing will come out if their life is under threat. Already a case of killing an informant has been reported from Wathupitiwela in Nittambuwa.





Conclusion



As much as combating terrorism and fundamentalism is important, combating hate speech and propaganda to prevent communal clashes is extremely important. Weaknesses in State policy and lethargy in institutions will only be won over by multidisciplinary cooperation. The saying its not the gun that wins the battle, but the soldier behind it, cannot be more true. Its not the State but the people who will be decisive in winning this battle for the nation.





(The writer can be contacted via para.stormsat@gmail.com)
Why I Think He Will Not Get It...





by J.M. Joseph Jeyaseelan, CMF





By now it is quite well known that there is a serious campaign recommending the name of Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith to be the 2019 recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize (NPP). I initially thought about supporting the campaign; but finally decided not to. This is a personal decision and I am not campaigning in anyway against the Cardinal being a nominee to this prestigious award. If he gets there, I will be happy about it both as a Sri Lankan and a Christian.





Please don't think that I am a pessimist without first reading the write-up in full. I am only trying to be a realist. Sorry about not supporting the campaign and sorry about this prediction that may be disappointing to those "optimists" who are vigorously campaigning to make our Cardinal a NPP winner.









To begin with, the way the Cardinal-Archbishop of Colombo His Eminence Malcolm Ranjith has spoken (out) and conducted himself as a religious leader after the Easter Sunday carnage is commendable indeed. He became a voice of unity. His role in preventing more violence breaking out in post-April 21st times is very crucial and he is to be appreciated for this and the entire country is in fact doing it. Now he is bold enough to name the evils and at the same time plead for sanity to prevail.





But folks, this is not enough to qualify to win the NPP. The NPP is awarded to people who have spent years, sometimes their entire "career" as agents of transformation of the world. How many of us know that Gandhi was never awarded the NPP although he became a nominee several times. The NPP committee had its reasons to deny the prize for this person who is popularly presented as a champion of peace and non-violence. But if you read Arundhati Roy's "The Doctor and the Saint" (2017), you will find reasons there as to why Gandhi was not awarded the NPP. If Gandhi could not get there, do you think our Cardinal will?





NPP is mostly for people who are peacemakers and not peacekeepers. Doing damage control is different from actively engaging in peacebuilding. I think the role of our Cardinal in doing the latter in the 10 years that have elapsed since the war ended in our country is not that impressive. What he is doing as damage control in 4/21 times is not weighty enough to convince the committee to award the NPP to our Cardinal if they examine his work in 2009-2019 period. If he had won the trust of the Sri Lankans (above all, all the Christians) in the past 10 years as the way he does now, the committee on NPP would have at least shortlisted him. But he did not spend much time and energy in helping to find a political solution to the country's ethnic problem. True he was often found either receiving politicians or he was hosted by politicians. But it is not enough to be considered to receive the NPP.





Does the unrealistic enthusiast who began the campaign know anything at all about what the NPP is and to whom it is awarded? In 2016 it was awarded to Juan Manuel Santos of Colombia "for his resolute efforts to bring the countrys more than 50-year-long civil war to an end ..." Does the first campaigner or those people who have joined the campaign think that our Cardinal has the record of making resolute efforts over a long period of time in a consistent way to build peace in Sri Lanka like Santos did in Colombia? Folks, notice that it is 50 years of resolute, consistent, active and passionate involvement. I don't think the good work our Cardinal has done over a period of 2 weeks in helping to manage a crisis (maintaining peace, preventing conflict, etc.) can in anyway convince the NPP committee that he is a champion of peace. The committee usually look for nominees who are lifelong active peacebuilders and not mere transient crisis-managers.





In 2008, the NPP was given to Finland's Martti Ahtisaari "for his important efforts, on several continents and over more than three decades, to resolve international conflicts." Martti was out in the field, in several continents, over 30 years, trying to resolve international conflict. I think the Cardinal has traveled only within his archdiocese doing damage control. He has not visited the affected people in other parts of the country. I don't know if he did. But I have not seen anything in the media. Also the Cardinal is not known in any big way for doing peace advocacy work in Asia or in other continents. So, I don't think the Cardinal's candidature for NPP is that strong.





Among the religious leaders who have won the NPP is the 14th Dalai Lama of Tibet. He got it in 1989. He was recognized for his struggle for the liberation of Tibet. He [has] "consistently opposed the use of violence. He has instead advocated peaceful solutions based upon tolerance and mutual respect in order to preserve the historical and cultural heritage of his people." Furthermore, in the opinion of the NPP committee "the Dalai Lama has come forward with constructive and forward-looking proposals for the solution of international conflicts, human rights issues, and global environmental problems." Another religious leader who was awarded the NPP is South Africa's Anglican Archbishop Desmond Tutu (1984). It was a recognition for his "role as a unifying leader figure in the campaign to resolve the problem of apartheid in South Africa. The means by which this campaign is conducted is of vital importance for the whole of the continent of Africa and for the cause of peace in the world." I don't think our Cardinal's work is anywhere close to the ideal the Dalai Lama or Tutu lived and exemplified. Are the efforts of our Cardinal on par with these? Comparison does not help much, I know. Each one plays a unique role in unique situations. I agree. But the NPP committee has its tough criteria. That's my point.





In 1979 Saint Mother Teresa was given the NPP. Why? In 1964 it was Martin Luther King Jr. who received it. Why? We know the reasons even if the NPP committee does not tell us.There had been years when the NPP was not awarded to anybody. It does not mean there were no candidates. It means the criteria of the committee are clear and if it does not find nominees who are worthy of the prize, they are bold enough not to name anyone.





There had been occasions when a group of people or organizations were awarded the NPP. I don't think our case is impressive enough to be considered in terms of group work or organizational work. The Cardinal was doing it mostly alone except in a few cases where he appeared with others, in one case with a Muslim leader (in Poruthota) and on another occasion with some pastors. His auxiliaries (two bishops) were seen with him a couple of times. The Cardinal is unlikely to be considered together with the Bishops' Conference as nothing substantial has been reported as done by the Bishops' Conference. In one case that was reported all the bishops came together to give a press briefing. It was telecast over Verbum TV.





So, I don't think our Cardinal is going to be recognized by the NPP committee either as an individual or together with others.





P.S.: I don't think our Cardinal is doing the good that he is doing expecting to win the NPP. However, we have to wait until October 2019 to know if our Cardinal will win it or not. But for now it may be good for the campaigners to know that there are already 301 candidates for the Nobel Peace Prize for 2019 (223 individuals and 78 are organizations). In case he wins it, he will sure be a leading candidate in the next Conclave. Unfortunately, there is no campaign possible for that. Otherwise, I am sure, some Catholics would have begun by now "make Cardinal Ranjith the next Pope" campaign. One of the possible candidates for NPP, in my opinion, is not a possible future pope, but the present Pope!
iStock/MNStudio(HONOLULU, Hawaii) -- Friends, family and rescue crews spent a third day searching for a missing Maui woman on Saturday after she mysteriously disappeared during a routine hike.



Amanda Eller, 35, who is a physical therapist who moonlights as a yoga teacher, drove to Makawao to hike the Kahakapao Trail on her day off Wednesday. Eller is a regular hiker and avid outdoorswoman, friends say, but she has not been seen since taking to the trail.



The Maui Fire Department found Eller's white Toyota RAV4 at noon on Thursday, with her keys and cellphone inside. Friends said it was not uncommon for her to hike or run the trail without her phone.



Her boyfriend told police he last saw her Wednesday morning. He is not a suspect, friends say.



"We don't know her to have any depression; we don't know any reason that she would disappear on her own," her friend Sarah Haynes, who is leading the search effort and created a Facebook page to provide updates, told Honolulu ABC affiliate KITV. "She and her boyfriend are quite close; they're a very happy loving couple."



Eller's friend Lucia Maya, who knows her through her work as a physical therapist, said she spoke to Eller last week and she was as happy as she'd ever been.



"She is just an incredibly delightful, warm, loving, bright person," Maya told ABC News. "I've treasured our time together."



She called the disappearance "really difficult."



"I was just so shocked when I saw the news. It was through an email that someone told me that she was missing and I know Amanda to be an incredibly strong -- physically strong as well as emotionally, mentally strong -- person," Maya said. "I know that she hikes all the time; she's a water person. ... She goes on adventures, so the idea that she somehow went missing while on a hike or a run in the Makawao forest is just hard to believe still."



Maya said the main trail is not treacherous, but there are offshoots from the main trail that can be dangerous, including steep drops. The trail can be muddy and is heavily wooded.



Search and rescue crews and dozens of volunteers have scoured the woods looking for Eller since Thursday.



"Each minute, each hour, I keep checking for updates and hope that there is some good news," Maya said. "It gets harder and harder with each hour that goes by. It's pretty devastating and I know that there are hundreds, if not thousands, of people that are thinking of her, searching for her, and the more the word goes out the better.



"If she did somehow fall and is injured I just have to believe that she's somehow strong enough physically and mentally that she's able to survive and hold out until the rescuers find her. That's how I'm staying positive."



Eller is about 5-foot-9 and 145 pounds with brown hair and brown eyes. Anyone with information can contact Maui police at 808-244-6433. The family is offering a $10,000 reward for her safe return.



"I'm hoping that somebody's going to find her and she's just going to be OK," Maya said.

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Standard Chartered has announced the appointment of Ekram Rajab as the new head of Distribution and Hussain Abdulla Isa, as the new head of Client Acquisition for Bahrain.



Abdulla Bukhowa, chief executive officer for Standard Chartered Bank Bahrain said, I am proud to announce the appointment of Ekram and Hussain in leadership roles within our Retail Banking division. This is testament to Bahrains highly qualified talent and their ability to lead within international institutions.



With Standard Chartereds100 years of rich history in the Kingdom of Bahrain and our international footprint, we are well positioned to provide our clients with superior financial services, products and solutions. Ekrams and Hussains leadership and experience will further strengthen our engagement with clients in Bahrain through our outlets and innovative financial solutions.



We have a solid commitment to the country and to our stakeholders, and we will continue to support the development of Bahrainis and the Bahraini economy and our communities. I wish both Ekram and Hussain all the best in their new roles.



Rajab, who joined Standard Chartered more than 14 years ago, has extensive experience in managing sales and distribution teams. In her new role, Rajab will drive the Banks strategy for distribution and client reach.



Abdulla Isa has been with Standard Chartered for over 20 years, and in his new role will drive the banks strategy in client acquisition within the various segments of customers by providing differentiated financial product offering and innovative solutions.  TradeArabia News Service
Amanat Holdings, a top healthcare and education investment company, realized a net profit of Dh20.7 million ($5.6 million) during the first three months (Q1), a 43 per cent increase compared with the same period in 2018.



Amanat total income increased to Dh35.4 million, up 30 per cent compared with the same period in 2018, with Dh30.2 million recorded from investments in associates and subsidiaries. Excluding the Royal Hospital for Women & Children, which was recently opened and expected to record pre-operating losses during its ramp up phase, Amanat would have recorded a 37 per cent growth in its total income in Q1 2019 compared to Q1 2018.







Q1 2019 highlights include the opening of the Royal Hospital for Women & Children in Bahrain on 21st March 2019. The hospital, in which Amanat acquired a majority stake in August 2018, is designed to deliver industry-leading medical services centered around women and children, and its opening is testament to Amanats collaborative approach to its investments, leveraging its expertise and scale to create significant and sustainable value.



Amanat deployed Dh1.2 billion in 2018 to reach Dh2 billion of deployment since inception, marking 79 per cent of the Dh2.5 billion paid up capital.



Cash balance at end Q1 2019 stood at Dh569.4 million and efficient management of cash balances saw excess cash as of 31st March 2019 yielding 3.70 per cent compared to 3.39 per cent in Q1 2018. Additionally, with most of its revenues following DFM recognized set of rules and requirements guided by the shariaa principles, Amanat is considered a shariaa compliant entity.



Hamad Abdulla Al Shamsi, chairman of Amanat, said: I am delighted that 2019 is off to such a promising start with significant growth in our financial performance in the first quarter, and the completion of our strategic move into being a shariaa compliant company.



Following our achievements in 2018, we are moving forward in 2019 with our focused strategy which reflects our commitment to supporting the healthcare and education sectors in the GCC and beyond. Our stated aim is to grow the size of our portfolio of investments and expand our geographic footprint, working closely with our partners to support the growth and profitability of the leading platforms we have established in healthcare and education sectors.



We are confident that we are on the right path to achieve our ambition to be the investment partner of choice in healthcare and education, and to contribute to the development of those key sectors in our countries of focus, he added.



Tristan de Boysson, chief executive officer of Amanat, said: The first quarter of the year 2019 witnessed pleasing progress in our investments, most notably the official opening of the Royal Hospital for Women & Children (RHWC), our first investment in the kingdom of Bahrain.



The strong results and healthy growth achieved in Q1 2019 reflect the benefits of our active investing strategy and the collaborative approach we implement to create value in each of our leading assets. We are keen to continue enhancing the performance of our specialized leading platforms in healthcare and education, as we aim to build on them to generate additional income and keep on creating long term value and sustainable returns for our shareholders. With more opportunities ahead, we are well positioned to capitalize on the opportunities available as a scale player in each of our chosen markets.



Amanat continues to distribute dividends to its shareholders, strongly reflecting its commitment to delivering shareholder returns since inception. At the Company AGM held on March 24 2019, shareholders approved a cash dividend distribution for 2018 of 1.50 per cent of the nominal value for each share (1.5 fils per one share), with a total payout of Dh37.5 million for the year.-TradeArabia News Service
Iraq said work is progressing at a steady pace on the new head office building of Central Bank of Iraq (CBI) and is on track for completion by 2022, reported Reuters citing a senior official.



The 37-storey building is located on the banks of the Tigris River in Central Baghdad.



The 162.52-m-tall building, which boasts a 93,552-sq-m area, is being built at an estimated cost of $772 million, it stated. Enabling and deep foundation works have already been completed on the project, it added.



CBI had commissioned the late Iraqi-British architect Dame Zaha Hadid in 2010 to design the project, which would cater to the bank's future needs while also making an "architectural statement about the bank's role in the Iraqi economy," revealed Saleh Mahood Salman, CBI's director general of administration.



And in February 2012, Zaha Hadid Architects (ZHA) was awarded the contract for the design stage of the new building following the completion of the brief development.



ZHA is leading an international team of consultants comprising Adams Kara Taylor, Max Fordham, Newtecnic, DEGW, Gross Max, Davis Langdon, Arup, Warringtonfire, Winton Nightingale, and A2 Project Managers, said Salman.



Five years later, Azerbaijan-based Daax Construction was awarded the main contract in 2017, he stated.



The project features a fully automated vault, state-of-the-art cash processing systems, innovative fire and security systems, he added.
Aluminium Bahrain (Alba), the Bahrain-based aluminium smelter, will host the prestigious Arab International Aluminium Conference (Arabal) 2019, later this year in the kingdom, under the theme Shaping the Future of Aluminium in the Arab Region.



Arabal is being hosted for the fifth time in Bahrain and is being held under the patronage of HRH Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa the Prime Minister of Bahrain.



It will take place from November 19 to 21, at the Gulf Hotel.



Albas chairman of the board of directors Shaikh Daij bin Salman bin Daij Al Khalifa said: Arabal is reputed as one of the premium platforms for the aluminium industry in the Arab world that brings together the whos who of the aluminium industry across the globe.



Being the first aluminium smelter in the GCC, our company is privileged to host the 36th edition of the prestigious event, he said.



Shaikh Daij continued: We look forward to welcoming our peers and industry experts to showcase Bahrains thriving aluminium sector.



We look forward to hosting the event at a time our company evolves to become the largest aluminium smelter, and we are moving ahead as planned, he added.



Arabal, which started in 1983 and will be hosted by Alba as it is on course to be the worlds largest aluminium smelter, has become an event of international repute, bringing together industry leaders from around the world to discuss current issues in the aluminium sector whilst also exploring investment opportunities. It comprises a conference focusing on the current industry prospects and challenges, as well as an international exhibition coupled with workshops, site-visits and networking platforms.  TradeArabia News Service
Batelco, Bahrains leading telecommunications company, has announced its collaboration with the kingdoms Ministry of Labour and Social Development to support families in need as part of the companys Ramadan programme.

Batelco will provide the needy families with a cash amount through its digital wallet bwallet, which offers a convenient and easy method for money transfer. The company supports organisations that care for families in need and has launched this initiative as part of its ongoing efforts and sincere desire to contribute to the community and address their needs, the company said in a statement.

Batelco has allocated BD50,000 ($132,600) towards this initiative. It has sent a text message with the details on how to download and use bwallet and benefit from the scheme to a number of people registered under the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs. Once registered, the amount will be added to their individual accounts through a safe and secure process, said the statement.

Batelco, in collaboration with Arab Financial Services (AFS), has assigned dedicated teams to provide technical support and guide and facilitate the implementation of the scheme.

TradeArabia News Service
Arabian Centres, a leading owner, operator and developer of contemporary lifestyle centres in Saudi Arabia, said it plans to raise nearly SR2.47 billion ($658 million) through an initial public offering (IPO) that will see the company sell 95 million shares at SR26 to SR33 per share.



Out of this, 65 million will be existing shares to be sold by the current shareholders and 30 million new shares to be issued by the company by way of a capital increase, stated the company.



The offering will be the first in the kingdom under Rule 144a, which allows the sale of securities primarily to qualified institutional buyers in the US, it added.



Owned by Fawaz Alhokair Group, the Saudi firm said the IPO will lead to a market capitalisation of between SR12.4 billion and SR15.7 billion.



A major player in the retail sector, Arabian Centres aims to expand its operations to 27 malls within the next four years, including four in the next 12 months.



Four cinemas are already under construction, with 12 more to come over the next two years, said the statement.



According to Arabian Centres, the gross primary proceeds are expected to be between SR780 million and SR990 million/$208 million and $264 million which will be used for debt repayment.



The IPO will comprise 95 million offer shares to parties entitled to participate in the book-building process (Institutional Tranche) in accordance with the CMA Instructions on Book-Building and Allocation of Shares in Initial Public Offerings.



Following the completion of the institutional tranche, the offer shares will also be offered to individual

investors in Saudi Arabia (Retail Tranche).



Initially, 100% of the offer shares will be provisionally allocated to the institutional offering. This may be reduced to 85.5 million offer shares (representing 90% of the total offer shares) depending on the level

of demand by individual investors in the kingdom, said the statement.



The final number of offer shares allocated to the Institutional Tranche will be accordingly adjusted based on subscription from individual investors in the Retail Tranche, it added.



Morgan Stanley, Samba Capital, NCB Capital, and Goldman Sachs are the joint financial advisers and bookrunners for the IPO. The other bookrunners include EFG Hermes KSA, Citigroup, Emirates NBD Capital, Credit Suisse, and Natixis.-TradeArabia News Service
Adnoc Distribution, the UAE's largest fuel and convenience retailer, is planning to expand its facilities and investment services around the UAE, especially in Dubai, which currently serves only four stations, said its acting CEO Saeed Mubarak Al Rashdi.



The company, a unit of Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (Adnoc), plans to increase the number of stations in Dubai over the next five years, by constructing a total of 75 new stations, equivalent to 15 new stations per year, he added.



He also revealed that the companys board of directors has decided to set up three more stations in Saudi Arabia, following the success of two stations launched earlier in 2018, which attained profits of over 30 per cent.



Al Rashdi was speaking on the sidelines of the First Capital Markets Days being held in London and New York.



Besides the UAE, he stated, the companys plan was to expand its activities in Saudi Arabia, to include fuel services, cars washes, and restaurants.



He also stressed that the company achieved such growth due to its stature as the UAEs leading fuel supplier as well as the countrys top retail and business services provider, obtaining a profit margin of 10 cents per litre of fuel since August 2015.



Al Rashdi expects the company to achieve ongoing growth in its local and international fuel operations, while noting its plan to expand its retail operations related to fuel and non-fuel products to new countries, along with Saudi Arabia.



"We want to explore investment opportunities in new markets outside the UAE, to meet our minimum target of achieving a 15 per cent profit margin from our investments," he stated.



The expansion of the companys fuel sector and business services sector will benefit the UAE and the Gulf region, and the company will then expand its activities to neighbouring countries, added Al Rashdi.-TradeArabia News Service
Politics to serve the people, not for power: CM Bommai 26 Dec 2021 | 6:02 AM Haveri, Dec 26 (UNI) It would be politics to serve the people and not for power over the next 14 months. "Making best use of the time left to work for the people and winning their trust, we will seek their blessings on the basis of our work to come back to power in 2023," Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai said. see more..

BJP blames AP CM of diverting and misusing central funds 26 Dec 2021 | 2:14 AM Kakinada, Dec 25 (UNI) BJP National general secretary Y Satya Kumar has blamed Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy of diverting the central funds and misusing them by setting aside the norms. see more..

TTD EO directs officials to complete Ghat road and Srivari Mettu restoration work on fast pace 26 Dec 2021 | 2:11 AM Tirumala, Dec 25 (UNI) The restoration of Ghat roads and Srivari Mettu works should be completed on a fast pace to avoid traffic woes of pilgrims, said Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (TTD) Executive officer Dr KS Jawahar Reddy. see more..

SSD tokens to be released online on Dec 27: TTD 26 Dec 2021 | 2:09 AM Tirumala, Dec 25 (UNI) The online quota of SSD tokens (Sarva Darshan) for the month of January in 2022 will be released by Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (TTD) on December 27 by 9 am. see more..
Kerala CM visits Port of Rotterdam in Netherlands

Thiruvananthapuram, May 11 (UNI) Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, who is on a European tour has visited the Port of Rotterdam in Netherlands and interacted with representatives of leading Dutch companies in the maritime sector.

Port Program Manager Edwin van Espen received the Chief Minister and briefed on a number of topics such as inland waterways, logistics, flood control and water management, an official press statement said here on Saturday.

With an annual throughput of 460 million tons, Port of Rotterdam is the largest port in Europe and one of the leading ports in the world.
By West Kentucky Star Staff May. 11, 2019 | 11:30 PM | PADUCAH

Detectives with the McCracken, Marshall, and Graves County Sheriff's Departments worked together to locate and identify several of these individuals. Detectives conducted surveillance at a Paducah Hotel where the suspected drug offenders were staying.



Detectives arrested three Paducah residents, 39-year-old Eric Walls, 45-year-old James Mullins, and 26-year-old Audrionna Mullins. They also arrested 40-year-old Ari Jones, of Oak Grove, 40-year-old Danay Satcher, of Elizabethtown, and 25-year-old Erica Tracy, of Frankfort.



During the investigation detectives seized approximately 295 grams of crystal methamphetamine, scales, smoking pipes, and cash believed to be proceeds of illegal drug sales.



The investigation showed that Ari Jones, Danay Satcher and Erica Tracey traveled from Frankfort to deliver methamphetamine to Paducah.



Danay Satcher attempted to give detectives a false name. Satcher had three outstanding warrants for his arrest out of Hardin County for absconding parole, child support, and an indictment warrant for trafficking in methamphetamine and other illegal drug offenses.



Ari Jones was on felony parole at the time of his arrest and had at least three prior convictions for trafficking in cocaine. Eric Walls was also on felony probation for trafficking in methamphetamine at the time his arrest.



All six individuals were taken to the McCracken County Regional Jail.



The McCracken County Sheriffs Department Drug Division arrested six people on Saturday for methamphetamine trafficking at the conclusion of a drug investigation.Last week, drug detectives identified numerous individuals involved with trafficking in large amounts of methamphetamine in Paducah, and other areas. The investigation found that these individuals were staying in Paducah hotels.
New Year's Eve still on in Times Square, but with smaller crowd
By Representative Chris Freeland May. 11, 2019 | 04:51 PM | BENTON, KY

Since the legislative session is over, I have been able to spend more time in the district speaking with people around our community.



I appreciate the opportunity to hear from constituents about their concerns, as well as how the legislation we pass in Frankfort impacts us here in Marshall County and the surrounding area.





I consistently receive questions about jobs, workforce development, and the economy. These are important issues and I want to take a moment and share a little about the state of our economy, and steps we took this past legislative session to encourage workforce development.





We have made significant, and noteworthy improvements overall. The statewide unemployment rate has fallen to a record low of 4.0 percent and dropped in 94 counties. This spring, announcements about companies investing in Kentucky have headlined newspapers across the state. These announcements include the creation of 400 new jobs at the Bowling Green General Motors plant; a $1.35 billion investment by the nation's largest steel producer, Nucor Corp., that will lead to 400 new jobs in Meade County; a $10 Million investment by Manchester Tank and Equipment that is expected to create 175 new jobs in Campbellsville; and a $200 million dollar commitment towards a Braidy Industries aluminum mill that isexpected to bring 600 jobs to the Ashland area. Some of these exciting announcements have come as a result of job-friendly changes to our tax code and regulatory structure, which I have been proud to support.





The Governor and Congressman Hal Rogers and Andy Barr announced last week the creation of an aviation technician program at Eastern Kentucky University that promises to meet the needs of Kentucky's growing aviation industry and lead graduates into a field with an average annual salary of $61,000. Students will get hands-on training at four regional airports: London, Richmond, Chavies and Debord.





These announcements are great news for our state and proof that the work we are doing is paying off for Kentucky. But, the task of job creation is never ending and constantly changing - just like the jobs themselves. We must address our low workforce participation rate. The workforce participation rate measures the percentage of Kentuckians who are of working age that are actively working or seeking a job. Ours is 60.7 percent, and that means around 40 percent of Kentuckians are not able to provide for themselves or contribute to the economy. Comparatively, the national workforce participation rate is 65.9 percent, and we are well behind our neighboring states.





To encourage growth in our workforce, the General Assembly passed several key pieces of legislation that will ensure people have greater access to job training. We passed HB 61, which allows Kentucky students to apply KEES scholarship money toward a qualifying apprenticeship or qualified workforce training program. This bill expands the use of a proven, effective tool to prepare individual students for their chosen vocation. It ensures that students have access to a workforce training program that will lead to a valuable, and lucrative career.





Another important piece of legislation we passed was the Keep Kentuckians Working Act. HB 118 prevents occupational licensing authorities from revoking an individual's license to work purely because they defaulted or became delinquent on their student loan or work-conditioned scholarship. It makes no sense to take away someone's livelihood and means to potentially pay back their debt because of a temporary financial setback. There are better, more appropriate measures available to address this issue while still ensuring that someone is able to have a job and meet their financial needs.

We also increased access to job training and education by creating the Work Ready Scholarship Program. This program ensures that all eligible Kentuckians have affordable access to an industry-recognized certificate, diploma, or associate of applied science degree. The scholarship is available to eligible dual credit high school students who want to earn college hours, or eligible workforce students who have not earned an associate's degree. This gives more individuals the opportunity to pursue job training that will lead straight into the workforce and a well-paying, rewarding career.





As I hope you can see, we have been working hard to put the "open for business" sign up in our state, a reality reflected by our low unemployment rate and growing economy. I believe that's why Gencanna will be investing over 100 million dollars in this region and will provide opportunities for our farmers and Southwest One Industrial Park will soon open in Marshall County and will greatly enhance our ability to recruit good paying jobs for our citizens.





This is just the beginning. We have more to do in future sessions. If you would like to share your thoughts on job creation, or any other issue, please reach out to me. I can be reached here at home anytime, or through the toll-free message line in Frankfort at 1-800-372-7181. If you would like more information, or to e-mail me, please visit the legislature's website www.legislature.ky.gov.



GROWING THE KENTUCKY WORKFORCE THROUGH BUSINESS FRIENDLY POLICY:
The China Earthquake Administration pledged to enhance its earthquake detection capability as it rolls out an experimental project in the country's tremor-plagued southwestern region.

The administration has established over 360 new monitoring stations in the China Seismic Experimental Site, which spans Sichuan and Yunnan provinces, since construction of the project was launched about one year ago, Zheng Guoguang, vice-minister of emergency management and head of the administration, told a news conference on Friday.

The area previously had about 1,000 monitoring stations.

China is the only country that lists forecasting earthquakes as a government responsibility.

Considering our limited knowledge about earthquakes, the forecasting work has to be based on observation. However, the weak signals from underground are often disrupted by electromagnetic interference, he said.

He said that in cooperation with the government of Shenzhen, Guangdong province, his administration has established a research institute to accelerate the development of new apparatuses for underground detection that could reduce interference from human activity.

"We will also explore carrying out observational experiments in wells from hundred of meters to 1,000 meters deep, and through scientific drilling that will penetrate active earthquake faults to gain more information about underground structures," he said.

Currently, 13 countries have been involved in the project, including Russia, Egypt and Algeria, and 17 domestic research teams, including one from University of Science and Technology of China, have started research on the site, Zheng noted.

The site will "offer research teams with observation equipment, support for outdoor observation and data sharing services", he said.

Wu Zhongliang, director of the administration's Institute of Earthquake Forecasting, said the experimental site will help form a "united front" at the national and international level to work on earthquake forecasting.

Referring to earthquake forecasting as a hard nut to crack, Wu said the work cannot see marked progress just in a few days, but forecasting capability will be improved as technology develops. "If it's a war between humans and earthquakes, it's us that will finally win," he said.

Paul Tapponnier, a distinguished research professor at the administration's Institute of Crustal Dynamics, said he "wholeheartedly" welcomes the project. China boasts unique conditions to carry out the experiment as most of its earthquakes occur "inside the land under the feet of the people" rather than in the ocean, and there are many active faults in the country.

"My personal hope is that if there is any way or any future in trying to forecast earthquakes, it may very well happen in China," said Tapponnier, also foreign associate member of the United States' National Academy of Sciences.

According to the administration, the country is stricken by an average 20 earthquakes above magnitude 5 every year. There is an earthquake above magnitude 8 every decade. Since the turn of the new millennium, more than 91,800 people have been killed by earthquakes in the country.

(Source: China Daily)
The Confucius Institute at the University of Zimbabwe has been commended for contributing to the growing of cultural ties between Zimbabwe and China.

Speaking at the 18th Chinese Bridge -Chinese Proficiency Competition for Foreign College Students at the University of Zimbabwe (UZ) Friday night, acting UZ vice chancellor Paul Mapfumo said the Confucius Institute (CI) that was established in 2007 had become a center of excellence in the teaching and learning of Chinese language and culture in Zimbabwe.

He said this year's competition, the seventh local edition, further contributes to the growth and cementing of cultural ties between the two countries.

He said the significance and influence of Chinese as one of the languages of the future was steadily growing, stemming from China's unprecedented economic growth over the years as well as its great ancient civilization.

"This competition is part of the Chinese Institute's strategic plan to promote and motivate students who are excelling in Chinese language and culture," he said.

He said Zimbabwe has over the years produced students who have fared very well at the global competition.

Chinese Ambassador to Zimbabwe Guo Shaochun said through the teaching and learning of Chinese, the language was becoming a bridge that connects the people Zimbabwe and China.

"By narrowing the bridge or gap of language, we create and take our mutual understanding to a new high and lay a more solid foundation for our future," he said.

He said language was a carrier of culture and through learning Chinese, Zimbabweans will better understand China's cultural norms and values.

Learning Chinese language will also enhance employment opportunities for learners as more Chinese companies come to invest in the country, he said.

Six participants took part in the competition that was made up of a knowledge quiz, speech and talent show.

The competition ran under the theme:" One road, one family."

The knowledge quiz tested contestants on their knowledge of Chinese culture and conditions while the speech and talent show segments are designed to test contestants' proficiency in Chinese language and appreciation and competence in Chinese cultural skills and talents respectively.

Second year Bachelor of Arts in English and Chinese student Amanda Chirambadare was the first winner and she will represent Zimbabwe at the world finals to be held in China in July.

The runner up will attend the global finale in China as a spectator.

The other four participants will participate in the tour of Nyanga in Zimbabwe's eastern highlands organized by the CI in June 2019.

(Source: Xinhua)
Chief Constable praises policing degree at Special ceremony at university

This article is old - Published: Sunday, May 12th, 2019

North Wales leading police officer has praised Wrexham Glyndwr Universitys policing degree at a ceremony where its students became Special Constables.

The ceremony  known as an attestation  was held at the university and saw ten first year students on the universitys Policing degree formally awarded the role. It took place in front of an audience of families, friends and dignitaries  including Wrexham Glyndwr University Vice-Chancellor Maria Hinfelaar and North Wales Police Chief Constable Carl Foulkes.

Alongside the students, two Glyndwr policing lecturers  and former North Wales Police officers  were also awarded Special status, with lecturers Andrew Crawford becoming a Special Sergeant and Darren Jacks becoming a Special Inspector.

Special Sergeant Crawford said: From today, our students  and Darren and I  will be out there in uniform, working alongside Police Officers and PCSOs in North Wales Police and carrying out their duties.

The life of a Special is as varied as that of a Police Officer, and our students can expect to find themselves investigating anything from rural crime to road safety, assisting with major events across North Wales  and helping to keep their communities safe.

For our students, this first-hand experience is hugely important in shaping their understanding. For both Darren and I as lecturers, both of whom have served as officers with North Wales Police, becoming specials enables us to keep working to serve our region and to keep up-to-date with the latest developments in the force by working alongside officers on the ground.

During the ceremony, Special Chief Officer Mark Owen described how well the students had performed on a recent exercise at the forces Rhewl firing range and training complex  where they faced a series of simulated incidents including tackling an armed suspect and dealing with a distressed individual.

He added that  having worked alongside Glyndwr lecturers to devise a policing degree  seeing students from that degree become Special Constables was a moment that he, the university and North Wales Police could be very proud of.

Those sentiments were also echoed by Chief Constable Carl Foulkes, who said: I think it is really terrific that Glyndwr is so engaged with us as a force and work with us so closely. Being able to utilise the universitys staff and students in this way, to bring that support back into the community  it is a really positive thing.

This is my first visit to the university and the first time I have met students on its policing degree  but what I have seen has been really good.

Find out more about Wrexham Glyndwr Universitys BSc (Hons) Professional Policing degree here.
Police attend community centre due to anti-social behaviour by children  two bikes and scooter found abandoned

This article is old - Published: Saturday, May 11th, 2019

Police officers have attended Gwersyllt Community Centre this evening following reports of antisocial behavior where children have been using the scaffolding to climb on to the roof and disrupt events.

Local police have said: Unfortunately we have had to attend the area numerous times this week for the same issues. Not only is it very dangerous for the children to be on the roof but its also upsetting the community.

There was no one around when officers arrived tonight and we stayed in the area for some time.

Two bikes and a scooter were found and have been taken to Gresford Police Station.

Police are asking the public to please contact 101 if these belong to you, to arrange collection.
Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-11 09:45:55|Editor: Shi Yinglun

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CARACAS, May 10 (Xinhua) -- The Venezuelan government on Friday announced the reopening of its borders with Brazil and Aruba, but it will keep the borders shut with Colombia, Bonaire and Curacao.

Venezuela's Economy Vice President Tareck El Aissami said the move would "restore all the economic, political, social and cultural life, and the exchange that takes place on our border," referring the border with Brazil.

He said that President Nicolas Maduro instructed his government team to "initiate work commissions to gradually reestablish communications and trade with Aruba," an island located off Venezuela's Caribbean coast.

El Aissami specified that it is the sole authority of Aruba, Curacao and Bonaire, part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, that was committed to the "respect, solidarity and mutual work" in bilateral relations.

"The authorities of the island of Aruba, especially the prime minister (Evelyn Wever-Croes), have been emphatic in the non-intervention in Venezuela's domestic matters," said El Aissami.

"Hopefully common sense will prevail in the officials of other islands and prevent them from being instruments of aggression against the territory of Venezuela," he said.

He pointed out that the Venezuelan government expects to increase "fair trade" and air connectivity with Aruba.

Maritime and air communications with Aruba, Curacao and Bonaire were closed on Feb. 20, and the border with Brazil was closed a day later.

The Venezuelan government argued each border closure came down to safeguarding the country against a plan instigated by the United States to forcefully bring alleged "humanitarian aid" into Venezuela on Feb. 23.
Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-11 19:55:39|Editor: ZX

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BEIJING, May 11 (Xinhua) -- CITIC Securities, a major Chinese brokerage firm, reported a decline in net profit in April.

Net profit of the parent company stood at 526 million yuan (about 77.82 million U.S. dollars) in April, down from 1.38 billion yuan in March, according to a statement the company filed with the Shanghai Stock Exchange.

Operating revenue dropped to 1.33 billion yuan last month from 2.21 billion yuan in March, the statement showed.

By the end of April, the company's net assets amounted to about 129.56 billion yuan.
Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-11 22:57:27|Editor: yan

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HANOI, May 11 (Xinhua) -- Vietnam and Myanmar agreed here on Saturday to expand cooperation to potential spheres, including navy, military medicine, defense industry, logistics, search and rescue, and fighting crimes related to national and regional security.

The consensus was reached in Hanoi on Saturday when Vietnamese Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc met with Myanmar President U Win Myint, who is in Vietnam to attend the United Nations Day of Vesak celebration, Vietnam News Agency reported.

The two leaders also agreed to promote negotiations for the early signing of a memorandum of understanding on mutual assistance on anti-criminal matters.

Also on Saturday, Nguyen Thi Kim Ngan, Chairwoman of Vietnam's National Assembly, the country's top legislature, met with the Myanmar president.

The president said during his term, he will work to intensify partnership with Vietnam, particularly in economy, trade and investment.
Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-12 02:53:57|Editor: yan

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RAMALLAH, May 11 (Xinhua) -- Secretary General of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) Saeb Erekat said on Saturday that the U.S. government is trying to "de-legitimize" Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas.

The United States has "waged a war against Abbas by all means," because Abbas rejects anything that contradicts international law regarding the Palestinian cause, Erekat told the official radio station Voice of Palestine.

His statements came after Jason Greenblatt, U.S. President Donald Trump's Middle East envoy, accused the Palestinians of trying to "kill" the U.S. peace plan before it was unveiled.

"The plan can offer them (Palestinians) something that can be exciting and can transform their current situation ... They should sit tight and hold their fire until the plan comes out," Greenblatt was quoted by Israeli public radio as saying.

The PLO official, however, said the Americans have not shown the Palestinian side any plans, and the Palestinians only see the U.S. recognition of Jerusalem as Israeli capital, the U.S. closure of PLO office in Washington and its legitimization of Jewish settlements on the Palestinian territory, which violate international law.

Erekat criticized the U.S. moves for trying to test the Palestinians' patience and forcing the Palestinians to join the negotiation table.

"But we totally boycott the U.S. government," he noted.

Trump's advisor Jared Kushner previously said Trump's peace plan will be unveiled in June, after the current month of Ramadan.

The Palestinian Authority has been boycotting the U.S. government since it recognized Jerusalem as Israel's capital in December 2017 and moved its embassy in Israel to Jerusalem in May 2018.

Meanwhile, the U.S. government has taken several steps against Palestinians, including shutting down the PLO office in Washington, cutting aid to both the Palestinians and the UN agency providing support for the Palestinian refugees.

Abbas has repeatedly said the U.S. "Deal of the Century" falls way short of the expectations and aspirations of the Palestinian people for lasting and just peace settlement, calling for an international multilateral peace mechanism to overlook peace negotiations.

The last round of U.S.-sponsored negotiations between Palestine and Israel ended in 2014 after almost nine months of talks without achieving any breakthrough.
Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-12 03:04:03|Editor: yan

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ALGIERS, May 11 (Xinhua) -- The Algerian army on Saturday killed two terrorists in the northern province of Boumerdes, 55 km east of the capital Algiers, the defense ministry said.

"As part of the fight against terrorism and following a search operation near the locality of Dellys ... an army unit killed two dangerous terrorists, and retrieved a Kalashnikov-type machine gun, two magazines and a grenade," said a ministry statement.

The security situation in Algeria has remarkably improved in the last decade, but clashes between security forces and terrorist groups are still reported from time to time.
Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-12 03:09:05|Editor: yan

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BEIRUT, May 11 (Xinhua) -- The Lebanese army received on Saturday military equipment from French authorities at the port of Beirut, the National News Agency (NNA) reported.

According to NNA, the Lebanese army received armored personnel carriers labelled VAB Hot Mephisto and boxes containing spare parts for the carriers.

Over a month ago, French Ambassador to Lebanon Bruno Foucher announced that France had opened a financing account of 400 million euros (449.4 million U.S. dollars) aimed at securing maritime and land defense equipment for Lebanon.
ISLAMABAD, May 11 (Xinhua) -- At least three militants stormed a five-star hotel after spraying bullets at it in the Gwadar district of Pakistan's southwest Balochistan province on Saturday, the province's information minister told media.

Zahoor Ahmad Buledi, the minister, said that no casualty has been reported so far and security forces are battling the militants after cordoning off the area.

He said that all guests from the hotel have been successfully evacuated and shifted to some safe place.

Quoting eyewitnesses, local Urdu TV channel Samaa said that fierce exchange of firing between security forces and militants continues in the area.
Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-12 04:39:30|Editor: yan

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ADEN, Yemen, May 11 (Xinhua) -- A roadside bomb killed a pro-government soldier and wounded nine in Yemen's southern port city of Aden on Saturday, a security official told Xinhua.

The bomb exploded near a two-vehicle convoy of the newly-recruited pro-government troops in Dar Sad district moving toward the northern parts of Aden Province, killing a 30-year-old soldier and injuring seven of his fellows, the official said on condition of anonymity.

Shrapnel also hurt two civilian passers-by, the official added.

Police authorities in Aden blamed the deadly incident on the insurgents of the Yemen-based al-Qaida branch, saying they seek to create unrest and destabilize the situation in the city.

Aden, where the Yemeni government has been based since 2015, witnesses sporadic security incidents despite the efforts of the newly-recruited security forces to contain them.

The Yemeni government, allied with the Saudi-led Arab military coalition, has been battling Iran-backed Shiite Houthi rebels for the control of the country for more than four years.
Chinese Consul General in San Francisco Wang Donghua addresses the opening ceremony of the Flying Tigers History Conference in Las Vegas, the United States, May 10, 2019. (Xinhua/Han Fang)

LAS VEGAS, the United States, May 10 (Xinhua) -- Cooperation is the best choice for China and the United States, while any attempt to decouple the two economies will harm U.S. interests, a senior Chinese diplomat said here Friday.



"As the world economy faces increasing risks and uncertainties and countries are facing more challenges, China and the United States need to strengthen cooperation more than ever before," said Chinese Consul General in San Francisco Wang Donghua.

"Only by strengthening cooperation can the two countries achieve better development," he said at the opening ceremony of the 2019 U.S.-China Cultural Tourism Festival.



Pointing out that "the economic interdependence between China and the U.S. is ever closer," the veteran diplomat emphasized that "cooperation benefits both sides while conflict could only hurt both."



Wang cited the successful cooperation between China and the United States in response to the 2008 financial crisis as a good example that illustrates the broad and shared interests of the two economies.



The Chinese diplomat hailed the historic progress China and the United States have made in bilateral cooperation since the establishment of diplomatic ties 40 years ago.

History, he noted, has proved that the two countries can transcend differences and disagreements and work together to address common risks and challenges.

He expected the two sides to properly manage differences and ensure long-term, sound and steady development of their relations on the basis of mutual respect, equality, mutual benefit, mutual understanding and accommodation.
Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-12 07:43:39|Editor: mingmei

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A food stand employee takes orders from visitors at the Athens Street Food Festival in Athens, Greece, on May 11, 2019. The Athens Street Food Festival took place at the central district of Gazi in Athens, with more than 40 stands offering street food from many countries and regions around the world. (Xinhua/Marios Lolos)
Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-12 08:35:41|Editor: Li Xia

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CHICAGO, May 11 (Xinhua) -- Asian Cultural Festival was held Saturday in Chicago's Chinatown square, to celebrate Asian Pacific American Heritage Month.

Hundreds of people attended the annual event including some Chinese community leaders, municipal officials and diplomats from Chinese Consulate in Chicago.

The festival was co-hosted by Chinese American Association at Greater Chicago (CAAGC) and Midwest Asian Health Association (MAHA).

In the festival, there are many artistic groups preforming at the stage. Dancing dragon and lions attracted many visitors. Chinese cultural activities like folk dance, Chinese music instruments playing, Chinese calligraphy and folk paper-cut were also shown at Chinatown square.

On both sides of the square, professional volunteers from Midwest Asian Health Association offer free medical examinations like ear, nose, throat and vision consultation, osteoporosis screening, and colorectal education and screening.

"Every May, CAAGC organizes different kinds of events to celebrate these important days for Asian Americans. Today, we presents traditional dancing, singing, calligraphy and painting, to promote colorful Chinese culture to American society, and we encourage Chinese community to contribute more to the development of the United States." Zhen Zheng, chairwoman of CAAGC addressed the audience.

In the opening ceremony, Chinese consul general in Chicago Zhao Jian said, "This year marks 40th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and the United States. Good relationship between the two countries serves the common interests of the two peoples and is conducive to world peace, stability and prosperity."

"I hope Chinese community in Chicago would continue to support the development of bilateral relations between China and the Unites States, making contributions to local society," Zhao said.
Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-12 08:57:38|Editor: mingmei

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Children try to build an electric circuit device during the Science Rendezvous event at the campus of University of British Columbia in Vancouver, Canada, May 11, 2019. With over 300 events across 30 cities, the Science Rendezvous is an annual festival held across Canada showcasing the art in science. (Xinhua/Liang Sen)
Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-12 09:00:49|Editor: Li Xia

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SAN FRANCISCO, May 11 (Xinhua) -- An exhibition on the famous Chinese artist Zhang Daqian, also known as Chang Dai-chien, opened on Saturday in Silicon Valley to commemorate the 120th anniversary of his birth.

The memorial exhibition, entitled "120 Moments of Chang Dai-chien in California," assembles 120 pieces of archives and artworks focusing the period from 1967 to 1976 when the artist resided in California.

It is open to the public from May 10 to June 2 at the Silicon Valley Asian Art Center in Santa Clara, California.

Zhang (1899-1983) is one of the most well-known Chinese artists in the 20th century. Also renowned as a modern impressionist and expressionist painter, Zhang is often referred to as the "Picasso of China."

The artworks on display include more than 10 pieces of paintings and calligraphy from Zhang. The other artworks were created by other artists in California, such as his friends and students.

The archives include Zhang's photos taken at his home in Carmel by the Sea and with friends, and various invitations to his exhibitions.

It's a rare opportunity to learn about the artist's life through those archives, said Jay Xu, director of the Asian Art Museum in San Francisco. He said Zhang's status in Chinese modern art was "unparalleled."

"I'm happy to see this exhibition in Silicon Valley, because the San Francisco Bay Area is an important stop of his journey. He had a lot of friends and students who still live in this area," said Xu.

"Though the artist has passed away, his influence and spirit live on to this day," said Xu.

The exhibition's organizer also published a catalog, which presents Zhang's private and social life, exhibition and creation in his life in California with archives that have never been published before.

"The nine years in California was Zhang's most creative era abroad. His splash ink painting reached sublimity in these years," said Shu Jianhua, curator of Silicon Valley Asian Art Center.
Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-12 09:51:06|Editor: mingmei

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TIRANA, May 11 (Xinhua) -- Albanian President Ilir Meta called on protesters "to avoid acts of violence and confrontations" as they rallied on Saturday asking for Prime Minister Edi Rama to resign and early general elections.

Opposition supporters gathered in front of the prime minister's office on a national protest called by the main opposition Democratic Party (DP) and the Socialist Movement for Integration. The opposition accuses the ruling Socialists of being corrupt.

Protesters threw Molotov cocktails, firecrackers, flares and other projectiles to the prime minister's office and later to the parliament building.

Around 1,500 police forces were engaged to protect the government institutions during Saturday evening's protest.

Rama said on social network Twitter that "the fire does no harm to the government, but it does harm to Albania only."

Since mid-February, the opposition parties in Albania have launched a series of rallies. Opposition lawmakers have resigned from their seats in the parliament to put more pressure on the ruling Socialist Party.
Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-12 10:01:08|Editor: mingmei

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LILONGWE, May 12 (Xinhua) -- The Southern African Development Community (SADC) on Saturday launched its electoral observation mission here ahead of the country's tripartite elections on May 21.

In his launch statement, Head of the SADC Electoral Observation Mission (SEOM) Joseph Malanji acknowledged Malawi's progress towards strengthening its democracy over the last 25 years since the first multiparty elections in 1994.

He encouraged all stakeholders to ensure that the 2019 Tripartite Elections are conducted in a peaceful and secure environment, and expressed optimism that the electoral process will adhere to the laws and in conformity with the democratic values and principles envisioned in various SADC treaties and agreements concerning democratic elections.

"(The) SADC observes elections in its member states based on the revised principles and guidelines which are also informed by key instruments of the African Union, such as the African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance of 2007 as well as relevant conventions of the United Nations," said Malanji, who also serves as Zambia's foreign minister.

Malanji also said the SEOM observers will cover all the three regions and 27 of the 28 districts of Malawi focussing on pre-, during and post- election phases, and the security situation and overall state preparedness of the Malawi Electoral Commission.

The SEOM would, among other factors, assess measures put in place to prevent corruption, bribery, political violence, intimidation and intolerance, Malanji added.

The SEOM to the Malawian elections consists of 39 members drawn from eight SADC member states of Angola, Botswana, Lesotho, Namibia, South Africa, Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

The SEOM is expected to release its judgement on Malawi's elections on May 23 after the polls' results.

Over 6.8 million Malawians have registered to vote across the country in the election with seven presidential candidates.
Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-12 10:46:23|Editor: Li Xia

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BEIJING, May 12 (Xinhua) -- The following are the highlights of China's key business news from the past week:

FOREIGN TRADE

China's foreign trade of goods climbed 4.3 percent year on year in the first four months of this year to 9.51 trillion yuan (about 1.41 trillion U.S. dollars), customs data showed.

Exports increased by 5.7 percent year on year to 5.06 trillion yuan during this period, while imports went up by 2.9 percent to 4.45 trillion yuan, the General Administration of Customs (GAC) said.

Trade surplus rose by 31.8 percent to 618.17 billion yuan during this period.

FISCAL REVENUE & SPENDING

China's fiscal revenue rose 5.3 percent year on year to 7.27 trillion yuan in the first four months of the year, according to statistics from the Ministry of Finance (MOF).

The central government collected about 3.47 trillion yuan in fiscal revenue during the period, up 4.3 percent year on year, while local governments saw fiscal revenue rise 6.1 percent to around 3.8 trillion yuan, MOF data showed.

INFLATION

China's consumer inflation quickened to the highest level in six months as tighter supplies of vegetables, pork and fruit drove up food prices, official data showed.

The consumer price index (CPI), the main gauge of inflation, grew 2.5 percent year-on-year in April, according to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).
Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-12 10:51:27|Editor: mingmei

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SANTIAGO, May 11 (Xinhua) -- At least six people were killed and 30 others injured after a bus overturned in the La Araucania region of south-central Chile, according to the Pullman bus company that owns the vehicle on Saturday.

The accident occurred Saturday morning, claiming the lives of four women and two men, one of whom was a Paraguayan citizen, said Jose Silva, manager of corporate affairs.

Causes of the accident have yet to be determined, given the bus was currently on technical revisions, Silva told the electronic news site EMOL.

The vehicle left at 23:00 on Friday (0300 GMT on Saturday) for the southern areas of Llanquihue, Puerto Varas, and Puerto Montt with 52 passengers, two drivers, and one assistant aboard.

The executive expressed his sadness over the event, saying the company had commissioned buses for the victims' families to get them to the hospitals where their relatives had been sent.

"As a company, we are so sorry for what happened. We send our condolences to the families of the deceased victims. These are unforeseen events," the manager said.

Local police reported that the driver had lost control of the bus, which then flipped onto its left side, but more information are being collected from those involved to clarify the situation.
While Boeing engineers and the FAA put the finishing touches on the software makeover for the Boeing 737 MAX, a potentially more daunting task has been handed to the companys marketing department as it restores confidence in the aircraft. Some online travel agents have added filters to their search engines to alert customers if theyre scheduled to fly on a MAX and surveys suggest plenty of potential passengers will pass but some analysts say it will all blow over. The consumer has a very short attention span, George Ferguson, an analyst at Bloomberg Intelligence, told The Associated Press. He noted there have been plenty of airliners that had early-service catastrophes and went on to commercial success. Others arent so sure.

Nick Cunningham, a founding partner at Agency Partners, said hes concerned this has become too serious and too protracted for the Max to escape unscathed and that the world attention on the two fatal crashes of MAX aircraft and its aftermath will have acted to permanently lock it into peoples memories. Others reference safety issues with the Ford Pinto and Chevrolet Corvair that killed those programs and continue to be cited in relation to the MAX. For its part, Boeing says it has no plans to change the name and its going full throttle for re-entry to service with a comprehensive program. Its a multifaceted approach to taking the steps necessary to preserve the fleet, return it to service safely and restore any lost confidence that pilots, regulators and the traveling public have had in the Max, Boeing spokesman Gordon Johndroe said. A May 23 summit of operators and regulators will lay the groundwork for re-entry to service.
Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-12 10:51:29|Editor: Li Xia

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by Ahmed Shafiq

CAIRO, May 11 (Xinhua) -- The adoption of the principle of benefits for all through reviving the Silk Road makes China a main engine of the world economy, an Egyptian expert in Chinese affairs said.

The China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative "will change the economic map of the world as the number of countries supporting the Chinese initiative reached some 126 countries so far," Samy Kamhawy, an expert in Chinese affairs from Egypt's largest daily newspaper Al-Ahram, told Xinhua.

The big number of the countries that participated in last month's second Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation (BRF) in Beijing proves the success of China's economic plans, Kamhawy said.

The value of the agreements signed during the forum went beyond 64 billion U.S. dollars, he stressed.

The world is developing very dramatically, Kamhawy noted, adding that limiting economic activities is no longer appropriate nowadays.

"The more open countries will ultimately be the winners," the expert pointed out. "China's economy is very lively as a result of this openness, which China insists on maintaining."

"I believe that the most important factors that China should maintain to achieve stable development are continuing to open up to other countries, go on with win-win cooperation as well as help countries achieve development that will ensure better living standards for peoples."

"China's contribution to the growth of the world economy is the highest among the major countries because of the diversity and vitality of the Chinese economy and its openness to other economies," the expert said.

China's opening-up will certainly help strengthen cooperation between Egypt and China, as Egypt seeks to modernize industry in many fields, such as textile, irrigation technology and agriculture, the Egyptian expert said.

China has modern technology in such fields, which is a great opportunity for Egyptian-Chinese cooperation, Kamhawy said.

Kamhawy said Egypt is also seeking to use modern technology, such as in the electric car industry.

An agreement has already been signed between Egypt and China on the sidelines of the second BRF in Beijing to manufacture electric vehicles in Egypt, he said.
Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-12 10:56:31|Editor: mingmei

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CAPE TOWN, May 12 (Xinhua) -- South Africa's Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) on Saturday voiced "vigorous" opposition to any legal actions against the general elections results.

In response to the demand for an independent audit of the elections results and for an election rerun, the commission said such demand is "unreasonable and unlawful."

A coalition of 35 small parties said on Friday they were unhappy with the running of the elections which they said were marred by "double voting." They threatened to go to court and demanded an election rerun.

"Aggrieved parties had ample recourse to raise objections through the normal objection process and, if still unsatisfied, to appeal decisions of the commission," the IEC said in a statement.

The law makes no provision for preemptive legal action to interdict the commission from abiding by its constitutional and legal mandate, said the IEC.

The commission received 47 objections, of which five were upheld and five were withdrawn by the objecting parties. Most of the objections did not meet the requirements of the Constitution and lacked evidence of any irregularities, the IEC said.

The commission is satisfied with the integrity of its systems, commission spokesperson Kate Bapela said.

Additionally, the commission has further instituted an independent technical assurance process involving a random sample of 1,020 voting districts to be conducted by the statistician-general and is awaiting the findings of this process, Bapela said.

On Wednesday, South Africans went to the polls to elect their representatives for the National and Provincial Legislative Assemblies. The ruling party African National Congress (ANC) emerged as the winner, capturing 57.51 percent of the vote.

Nevertheless, it is the first time that the ANC support has been reduced to below 60 percent since 1994 when it first came to power.

The IEC described the elections as the "most complex, highly contested and logistically demanding" since the dawn of democracy in 1994.
Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-12 11:31:36|Editor: Xiang Bo

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JOHANNESBURG, May 11 (Xinhua) -- As voters have chosen the ruling African National Congress (ANC) in South Africa's national election, they cast their hope on its president Cyril Ramaphosa to fix the ailing economy and root out corruption, according to experts after Wednesday's elections.

While the ANC would return to parliament as a major party, its seats have been reduced by 19 to 230. It is the first time that the ANC support has been reduced to below 60 percent since 1994 when it first came to power.

The Democratic Alliance, the official opposition which received over 20 percent of the vote, had its seats reduced to 84 from 89. Only the Economic Freedom Fighters grew from 25 to 44 seats.

Jannie Rossouw, Head of School of Economic and Business Sciences at the University of the Witwatersrand, told Xinhua that voters want Ramaphosa to act tough on corruption and reduce government costs.

"Voters have given Ramaphosa a chance. They want to see decisive actions on corruption. They want him to deal with corrupt senior ANC members," he said.

Rossouw said reviving the economy and creating jobs are important to voters.

"They want him to deal with economic growth, create policy certainty as that would result in job creation," he said, adding that Ramaphosa is expected to reduce the size of his cabinet.

Dr. Somadoda Fikeni of the University of South Africa believed that the results have ensured that there is "stability to investors."

"The ANC needs to move with speed on the economic front because the cry is about inequality, poverty and unemployment." Fikeni told Xinhua.

Fikeni said the challenges that Ramaphosa have to deal with is acting against senior party members who have been implicated in corruption scandals.

"Unity of the party and acting against members allegedly involved in corruption would be a balancing act," he said.
Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-12 11:56:45|Editor: Xiang Bo

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YANGON, May 12 (Xinhua) -- Myanmar's Yangon region government and some private companies have signed a number of memorandums of understanding (MoUs) to undertake 19 projects at the two-day Myanmar's Yangon Investment Forum which ended on Saturday.

However, the details of the projects are yet to be disclosed.

"Many companies from the private sector signed MoUs. The regional government has formulated plans to develop the 11 townships outside the Yangon City municipal area. So, we have succeeded in encouraging private companies, both local and foreign, to become interested in investments," said Yangon Region Chief Minister U Phyo Min Thein, who witnessed the signing.

Significantly, companies from China will be engaged in the establishment of the first technology company on a 740-hectare plot in Htantabin township, known as Yangon Htantabin Technology Park Project where garment factories, shoe factories and other technological industries will be set up.

Located northwest of Yangon, the industrial park will also include housing estates, commercial buildings and recreation areas.

The companies will also construct a 200-meter-long friendship bridge in the west of Htantabin to connect Bago region.

Designed to create 150,000 job opportunities, the industrial park project, which will be carried out in four phases, is expected to become a hallmark of Yangon mega city by 2030.

The Yangon Investment Forum 2019, which was the second of its kind, was organized by the Yangon Region government and the Yangon Region Investment Committee.

Since the formation of the Yangon Region Investment Committee in July 2017, the authorities have permitted a total of 161 foreign direct investment projects worth 294 million U.S. dollars, covering sectors of industry, hotels, livestock, fisheries and service.

The authorities also granted domestic investors to run 30 projects with a total capital of more than 65 billion kyats (43.3 million U.S. dollars), creating 96,725 jobs.
Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-12 12:21:51|Editor: Xiang Bo

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VILNIUS, May 12 (Xinhua) -- The presidential election and two referendums kicked off in Lithuania Sunday with nine candidates running for the top position, including incumbent Prime Minister Saulius Skvernelis.
Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-12 12:57:01|Editor: mingmei

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YANGON, May 12 (Xinhua) -- A Myanmar National Airlines plane landed safely at Mandalay airport after suffering a nose wheel failure on Sunday morning, a police officer of the airport told Xinhua.

The accident caused panic among the 80 passengers on board, however, it resulted in no injury.

The airliner, Embraer 190, en route from Yangon to Mandalay, the second largest city in the central part of country, met with the accident while landing at the Tada U international airport at about 9 a.m. local time.

It tried to land safely while some smoke was monitored.

Rescue work is underway after the accident.
Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-12 13:12:08|Editor: mingmei

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WASHINGTON, May 12 (Xinhua) -- A U.S. expert famous for his study on Asian history and culture said that he hopes Asia could promote the co-existence and development of peoples throughout the world on the basis of its historical and cultural experiences.

"Asian civilization has contributed to the technological and cultural development of the world in many ways for thousands of years," Charles K. Armstrong, professor of the Department of History of Columbia University, said in an interview with Xinhua through email ahead of an international conference on dialogue of Asian civilizations to be held in Beijing.

Specializing in East Asian and international history, Armstrong used four keywords to define his impression of the Asian civilizations -- history, innovation, harmony and connection.

"Asia has the world's oldest continuous civilizations, from the ancient Middle East to India and China, which have made unsurpassed contributions to world civilization as a whole," the expert said. "Many of the world's greatest inventions came out of Asia, in both material and intellectual fields such as agriculture, technology, writing, religion, philosophy, literature, and the arts."

Armstrong explained Asian cultures' emphasis on harmony, saying that "because Asia has a long history of densely populated and complex societies, Asian cultures have tended to stress social harmony and cooperation over individual competition and conflict."

The expert also highlighted the idea of "connection" among Asian cultures.

"Asian societies have been linked through transportation networks, trade, and cultural exchanges since ancient times," he said. "The trading networks we now call the 'Silk Road' linked all of Eurasia, from East Asia to Europe."

"Asia is the source of the earliest continuous long-distance human connections and is once again a leader in international trade and transportation technology ... Moreover, large Asian societies such as China have been places where people of many different beliefs and backgrounds have co-existed for many centuries," the expert noted.

"Therefore Asia can build on its historical experience to promote development, cooperation, mutual respect and co-existence of peoples throughout the world," he concluded.

Meanwhile, Armstrong spoke highly of China's role in the development of Asia civilizations and the world at large through history, and in contemporary times.

"China has been the leading economy and strongest state for most of world history over the past 2,000 years," he said. "Its technological innovations, such as the compass, paper, and gunpowder, have changed the course of world history."

China's interactions with South Asia, Southeast Asia, and Central Asia have led to the development of great artistic and religious achievements, he added.

In contemporary times, "China is contributing enormously to the global economy and new technological developments," the U.S. expert noted. "It has become a catalyst for connection and exchange throughout Eurasia and beyond, in the spirit of pluralism and peaceful co-existence of different political, economic and social systems."
Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-12 13:17:12|Editor: Li Xia

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Photo taken on May 11, 2019 shows a view of the "Chinese Workers and the Railroad" exhibition in Park City, the United States. A photo exhibition is held in the western American state of Utah throughout May to commemorate thousands of Chinese workers' contributions to building the first U.S. transcontinental railroad. (Xinhua/Li Ying)

SALT LAKE CITY, the United States, May 11 (Xinhua) -- A photo exhibition is held in the western American state of Utah throughout May to commemorate thousands of Chinese workers' contributions to building the first U.S. transcontinental railroad.

The bilingual photography exhibition, curated by Stanford University and featuring the stories of the Chinese rail workers during the construction of the railroad in 1860s, runs from May 1 to 31 in Park City near Salt Lake City. It also travels to other parts of Utah.

"People from all over the country and even the world have stopped by to see this exhibit. It aims to highlight the contribution of Chinese railroad workers, and let the public know more about that history," said Kate Mapp, adult services librarian of the Park City Library.

Stanford University curated those old photographs in their archives, and compiled the exhibition through chronology of the railroad, with focuses on Chinese workers and their hard work, Mapp told Xinhua.

"The Chinese workers contributed so much to the success of the transcontinental railroad, and should be respected and remembered forever," she said.

Currently, there are some descendants of the Chinese railroad workers living in Park City, according to Mapp.

A series of events was held in Salt Lake City from Friday to Sunday to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the completion of the transcontinental railroad.

The first transcontinental railroad, also known as the Pacific Railroad, was a 3,000-km-plus continuous railroad line linking the eastern U.S. rail network with the Pacific coast.

From 1864 to 1869, 12,000 or more Chinese laborers, among the first Chinese immigrants to the United States, endured harsh working and living conditions to help build the mega project.
Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-12 13:27:15|Editor: mingmei

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VILNIUS, May 12 (Xinhua) -- The presidential election and two referendums kicked off in Lithuania Sunday with nine candidates running for the top position, including incumbent Prime Minister Saulius Skvernelis.

Polling stations are open from 7 a.m. local time (0400 GMT) to 8 p.m. (1700 GMT), with about 2.47 million Lithuanians casting their ballots.

So far economist Gitanas Nauseda, former Finance Minister Ingrida Simonyte, and Skvernelis led the race.

According to the last poll before the election conducted by Baltijos tyrimai, 21.1 percent of Lithuanians were to vote for Nauseda, compared with 19.5 percent for Simonyte and 18.4 percent for Skvernelis.

Lithuania's European Commissioner for Health and Food Safety Vytenis Povilas Andriukaitis ranked fourth with 6.6 percent.
Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-12 13:27:16|Editor: Li Xia

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HAVANA, May 11 (Xinhua) -- Alfredo Chong, a 70-year-old Cuban artist, has been showing Chinese culture through his paintings and papier-mache sculptures for twenty years.

"I am the son of a Chinese man and a Cuban woman, and although I feel like just any other Cuban, I cannot hide the cultural legacy of my father," the painter told Xinhua in an interview at his cozy, self-designed home in a quiet Havana neighborhood.

His sculpture "Distant Homesickness" was on view at the ongoing 13th Havana Biennial Art Exhibition, which concludes on Sunday.

The art piece, showcasing an anonymous immigrant sitting on the sidewalk in Havana's Chinatown, is one of the many examples that demonstrates the strong influence of Chinese culture on his life.

His father, Chong Yiman, a native of south China's Guangdong Province, came to Cuba in 1921 when he was 19 years old. The young man was then attracted by stories from his uncle who had settled in the city of Holguin, some 700 km east of Havana.

Like many other immigrants, Chong Yiman's life was hard. He worked in the Cuban capital as a barber, learning Spanish as quickly as he could. He moved to Holguin before settling down in Camaguey in central Cuba, where he came to own a "bodega," a traditional grocery store.

After a fire destroyed his burgeoning enterprise, Chong Yiman had to start from scratch, eventually building a modest restaurant where he worked together with his Cuban wife and five children.

Alfredo Chong grew up in this atmosphere of hard work and dedication. He went on to study biology and entomology at the University of Havana, where he met his wife, Magaly Diaz, also a biologist and now a retired professor, with whom he shares two children.

"My father influenced me a lot, but especially from a philosophical perspective. And he instilled in me a great love of nature, of all living things, giving a lot of value to things even when they are small," the artist said.

Chong said he arrived late to painting, beginning at 50 year old. He was looking to express his rich inner world, in which feng shui, an ancient Chinese philosophy with roots in Taoism, has an important role in the conscious and harmonious organization of space.

Being late to the world of art has made him a creator who is constantly experimenting with techniques, colors, and textures.

"A large part of my paintings are done in black and white, because I'm very interested in achieving textures and portraying things not exactly as they are, but creating a fantasy in the eye of the viewer," he said.

Chong also tends to paint in a vertical format with a distribution of figures that is reminiscent of Chinese paintings, leaving a free space for visual freedom, "so that the picture may breathe."

The strong Chinese influence on Chong's art doesn't stop there. His fascinating papier-mache sculptures are almost all dedicated to figures tied to Havana's Chinatown, "as a humble tribute to so many Chinese immigrants who came to Cuba one way or another."

This tribute, together with the cultural legacy left by his father, was the basis for his exhibition last year, "The Son of the Immigrant."

Another one of his works honoring Chinese immigrants is "The Carrier of Culture," a piece that features one of the Chinese vegetable sellers that were once ubiquitous on the streets of Havana.

Perhaps because of his immigrant descent, borders are an artistic obsession for Chong, who is determined to encourage discourse in breaking down barriers that restrict the free movement of people.
Virgin Galactic took a big step away from its test program toward commercial development of space tourism with a move from the high California desert to a purpose-built passenger flight facility in New Mexico. CEO Richard Branson announced Friday that it will be moving a significant part of its operation to a taxpayer-funded spaceport in Truth or Consequences, New Mexico. All of the testing of the passenger-carrying space plane and its launch aircraft has taken place at Mojave, California, and thats just about wrapped up. The business will be conducted at an essentially private $200 million runway and hangar at Truth or Consequences built by the New Mexico government. Virgin Galactic will keep building its aircraft and space vehicles in Mojave.

More than 600 people have put up $200,000 each for a ride to the edge of space, nominally set at about 62 miles high. Branson envisions a new space tourism industry with hotels in space and a network of spaceports allowing global hypersonic flights but he insists its not all about bucket list rides for the rich. Our future success as a species rests on the planetary perspective, Branson said. The perspective that we know comes sharply into focus when that planet is viewed from the black sky of space. The serial entrepreneur billionaire said theres a practical side to achieving that perspective. We need the financial impetus to be able to do all that, he said. If the space program is successful as I think  then the sky is the limit.
Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-12 13:27:18|Editor: Li Xia

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CHENGDU, May 12 (Xinhua) -- Two cities on the ancient Tea Horse Road linking Sichuan with Tibet have agreed to cooperate more for greater development.

The city of Ya'an in southwest China's Sichuan Province and Lhasa, capital of Tibet Autonomous Region, will cooperate in ten areas including agriculture, tourism, cultural exchanges and human resources flow, according to a framework agreement signed Friday.

"The partnership marks a new phase for the exchanges between the two cities," said Lan Kaichi, Party secretary of Ya'an.

Lan said the city will serve the construction of the logistics channel connecting Tibet, and establish a Sichuan-Tibet logistics center.

The Tea Horse Road once played important roles in trading goods. Tea used to be transported from Ya'an to Lhasa via Kangding, a city in Sichuan, along the road.

With the construction of Sichuan-Tibet Railway and Sichuan-Tibet highway, Sichuan and Tibet have enjoyed much closer ties.
Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-12 13:32:20|Editor: mingmei

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WELLINGTON, May 12 (Xinhua) -- United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres arrived in Auckland, New Zealand on Sunday for a three-day visit with a focus on climate change.

Guterres is visiting New Zealand for the first time in his role as UN secretary-general. He has previously visited in his role as the UN high commissioner for refugees.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern will meet with Guterres later on Sunday.

Guterres will visit both Auckland and Christchurch, including making a keynote speech at the Auckland University of Technology on Monday.

The secretary-general's visit is the first leg of his tour to the Pacific region to see how climate change is impacting the region.

On Wednesday, the New Zealand government submitted to the parliament the Zero Carbon Bill which outlines the country's plan over the next 30 years on climate change and aims to reduce greenhouse gases to net zero by 2050.

Ardern said she was "looking forward to welcoming Secretary-General Guterres to New Zealand and discussing the issues that matter most to us and our region."

"The United Nations is the forum where we collectively address the global challenges we face, including climate change and international security," she said.

New Zealand strongly supports the role of the UN in upholding the international rules-based system and ensuring all voices are able to be heard, the prime minister said.

Guterres will take part in a climate change and agriculture event in Christchurch on Tuesday, as well as paying tribute to the victims of the March 15 terrorist attack.
Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-12 14:27:32|Editor: Liangyu

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Photo taken on Feb. 19, 2019 shows the night scenery at Wumen Gate of the Palace Museum in Beijing, capital of China. (Xinhua/Chen Jianli)

BEIJING, May 12 (Xinhua) -- When Reginald Johnston, a British scholar, first walked into the Forbidden City in the spring of 1919, the vast walled enclosure in the heart of Beijing was "in the strictest sense 'forbidden' to all the world except those who had the entree."

Now it holds the world's busiest museum, receiving more than 17 million visitors every year.

In his memoir "Twilight in the Forbidden City," Johnston describes a world of turmoil, disruption, banditry, famine and civil war.

A century later when the People's Republic of China is to celebrate its 70th founding anniversary in October, the 599-year-old palace complex flourishes in the world's second-largest economy and one of the largest tourist markets.

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

"All buildings in Beijing, official and private, were low, except for the Forbidden City guarded by high walls and a wide moat," said Li Wenru, former vice curator of the Palace Museum, depicting the old imperial capital. "From outside the walls with a glimpse of the golden roof, ordinary people could only imagine what it looked like inside."

The public had their first view of the interior of the palaces in 1925 when the Palace Museum was established.

The following years saw the museum struggling through tight budgets, political controversy and war threats. During the war against Japanese invasion, it was forced to send away and hide a large number of collections.

In the spring of 1949, a critical moment made history at the Palace Museum. With the city of Beijing, then called Beiping, liberated peacefully, it was taken over by the People's Liberation Army without a scratch, a few months before Chairman Mao Zedong announced the founding of the People's Republic of China on the Tian'anmen Rostrum.

"In the past seven decades, China has developed into a modern nation with a strong sense of mission," said Wu Shizhou, a historian and professor with the graduate school of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences. "It was in these years that the Palace Museum finally grew out of hardship and unrest and entered a new stage."

With continuous support from the government, the Palace Museum has upgraded storage, conducted thorough examinations of its collections and launched large-scale restorations of ancient buildings, with conservation institutions established and research advancing.

In the past few years, the museum has expanded the existing exhibition space and built new facilities so that more of its 1.86 million collections could be seen by visitors.

"The museum has tried to stay relevant to contemporary visitors in every detail," said Ren Wanping, vice curator of the museum.

Exhibitions are carefully organized to attract and resonate with the general public, instead of being too academic. Rarely used old characters are avoided in text introductions, while free audio guides and multimedia adopted to improve the visitor experience.

The public now has access to 80 percent of the total area of the museum and it will increase to 85 percent in 2025.

Zhang Jianhua, a 56-year-old retired Beijing resident and amateur photographer, paid 10 visits to the Palace Museum last year.

"I might visit more this year," she said. "The palaces and halls are in better shape than years ago and look prettier in pictures."

More chairs to rest in and places to eat within the walls also made her trips more comfortable. "Now I can spend the whole day inside, carrying only my camera and lenses," she said.

"The museum upholds the people-first concept," Ren said, referring to a number of new service facilities installed in recent years, such as cafes, bookshops, souvenir shops, bigger toilets and baby care rooms.

EMBRACING THE WORLD

When Christopher Allen from Britain paid his first visit to the Palace Museum in 2008, he was overwhelmed.

"It felt like you were hit by hundreds of years of history," he said. "With so much to see, one visit is not enough."

Since then, the Beijing-based English teacher has paid more visits to the museum and grown to love its history and culture.

"The Forbidden City is becoming more open and friendly to visitors," he said.

As the world's largest and best preserved wooden palace complex, the Palace Museum attracted about 3.5 million visitors from abroad last year.

The museum also sends its exhibitions overseas.

More than 200 exhibitions and cultural events have been held by the museum in over 30 countries and regions, attracting over 100 million visitors as of now. Nine overseas exhibitions were held in 2018.

"The Palace Museum exhibition becomes a cultural phenomenon everywhere it goes," said former curator Shan Jixiang. "It plays an irreplaceable role in promoting Chinese culture."

ATTRACTING THE YOUTH

On the Palace Museum's online store on Taobao, China's largest e-commerce platform, the formidable emperors in history are given a cute and humorous spin. Products bearing their images and elements sell like hot cakes with tens of thousands of positive customer reviews.

The museum now boasts more than 10,000 cultural products ranging from paintings and power banks to lipsticks.

The popularity also goes offline. In the Corner Tower Cafe outside the museum's Gate of Divine Prowess, the "Kangxi Emperor's Favorite Chocolate," the most popular drink, always has people lining up to get a taste.

"There was a long queue last time I came, so I had to give up," said Beijing resident Xu Jing, who managed to nab a cup on her second visit to the cafe.

About 40 percent of the museum's total visitors last year were under the age of 30, and 24 percent were in their 30s.

After the screening of the "Masters in the Forbidden City," a 2016 documentary series about the museum's relics restoration teams, these technicians have become pop cultural icons and the museum received over 10,000 job applications.

As a child, Xu Jing often rode bicycles on the square in front of the Meridian Gate, the museum's front gate.

"I had little memory of the museum behind the gate then, but now I feel an urge to visit it after watching several popular variety shows about the museum on TV," she said.
Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-12 14:47:41|Editor: Li Xia

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WUHAN, May 12 (Xinhua) -- An inexpensive yet eco-friendly invention has helped local power maintenance workers at a lake area in central China's Hubei Province to take back occupied utility poles from nesting birds.

The new device, developed by power workers, looks like an anemometer with four small cups which have mirrors built-in. When the wind blows, the device spins causing dazzling reflections to scare the birds away.

Earlier this year, power companies installed over 70 new devices, which they call "wind-powered bird repellents," around the Honghu Lake in Hubei.

The lake has been banned overfishing for many years as part of green development drive. As the environment improves, the number of the birds living in the lake has increased.

However, there were not many trees in the lake area, making the birds often nest on utility poles, one of the main causes of power failures in the area.

Yang Hua, a local power worker, said the nests in poles were a great threat to both birds and power supplies.

"The 10kV line tripped nine times last year due to bird nests, greatly affecting local people's lives," Yang said.

Jiang Yi, director of the local power supply station around the lake, said they had invested a lot and tried many means including drones to drive the birds away, but all their attempts failed.

However, "From January, there has been no power supply failure caused by the birds on the lines installed with the new devices," Jiang said.

At the beginning of the year, the local power supply department also called on people to plant tall trees such as metasequoia on the shore of the lake to provide better nesting sites for the birds.
Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-12 15:22:52|Editor: Liangyu

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File photo taken on April 15, 2019 shows Wu Penghui, owner of the Gooda Creek mushroom farm, posing with mushrooms at the farm, about 30 minutes' drive from Australia's Canberra. Gooda Creek is one of the largest mushroom farms in Australia, which boasts the most mushroom types among all farms in the country. Apart from the parliament house, supermarkets like Costco and Coles are also its customers. (Xinhua/Bai Xu)

By Bai Xu, Yue Dongxing

CANBERRA, May 12 (Xinhua) -- When boxes of mushrooms were sent into the parliament house in Australia's capital, small as they are, the mushrooms epitomized the development of China for decades.

"We took the order from the parliament house last year," said 55-year-old Wu Penghui, owner of the Gooda Creek mushroom farm.

The farm was about 30 minutes' drive from Canberra, and its advertisement was eye-catching at the side of the highway.

Gooda Creek is one of the largest mushroom farms in Australia, which boasts the most mushroom types among all farms in the country. Apart from the parliament house, supermarkets like Costco and Coles are also its customers.

"I will not be able to achieve this without the experience and skills I get in China," Wu said.

Wu's father was among China's first traders after the reform and opening up in the early 1980s. From Gutian, a small town in east China's Fujian Province which was famed for growing mushrooms, he bought mushrooms from local farmers to sell in the adjacent Guangdong Province.

Wu himself was a manager in a department store at the time.

In the 1990s when many people chose to do business on their own, Wu started his own store as well. "It was like a supermarket nowadays, where customers could choose whatever they want by themselves, rather than asking staff like in the department stores."

Wu arrived in Australia in 2006, where he later chose Canberra because the city was small, with less people and more business opportunities. After he became owner of four stores, the man expected one more change.

"I would like to do something else," he said. "A friend told me that since our hometown was known as the 'capital of mushrooms', perhaps I could grow mushroom in Australia."

He bought a plot of land with 1.3 million Australian dollars (about 0.9 million U.S. dollars) in 2014, and sent his son back to China to learn how to grow mushrooms.

It was easier said than done. Climate and environment of Canberra and Fujian province are utterly different, while various mushrooms grow in different conditions.

"In those days mushroom was the only thing I thought about," said Wu. "Sometimes when I woke up at night, I would go to see my mushroom."

When the first mushroom sprouted, he was as excited as seeing his own child.

Now Gooda Creek is home to 16 types of mushrooms. Last year the farm sold 200 tonnes of mushrooms; after a supermarket in Sydney signed order contract, Wu expected the sales this year could reach 300 tonnes.

Along with the expansion of his business, a bold idea was formed. "I want to set up a China-Australian mushroom association to promote our mushroom growing technique in Australia," he said.

He noted that there was a club in Canberra where mushroom growers could learn from each other. "Due to the lack of growing experience, however, some people knew more of the theories than actual practice. I hope that with the association as a platform we could invite Chinese experts to teach us."
Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-12 15:22:53|Editor: Shi Yinglun

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KABUL, May 12 (Xinhua) -- Two Afghan security officials were shot and killed in separate attacks in the latest string of targeted killing in the country, sources said Sunday.

Gunmen ambushed the vehicle of Ghafor Khan, deputy director of intelligence department of the northern province of Baghlan, on Sunday morning.

"The attack occurred in Sang-e-Sorakh locality, Dushi district of Baghlan. The shooting left Khan and an intelligence officer on the vehicle seriously wounded. Unluckily, Khan succumbed to injuries at a hospital after the attack," Shams Barakzai, deputy provincial council, told Xinhua.

On Saturday, Hajji Haroon, deputy head of intelligence department of Afghan National Police in Kama, was shot dead in Kama district of the eastern province of Nangarhar, the provincial government confirmed in a statement.

No group has claimed the incidents but Taliban outfit routinely claims responsibility for targeted killings.

The Taliban-led insurgency has been rampant since early April when the militant group launched its annual rebel offensive, which had claimed hundreds of lives including militants, security personnel and civilians.
Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-12 15:22:55|Editor: Liangyu

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YINCHUAN, May 12 (Xinhua) -- Each time Ren Ran introduces his baby girl, he sees the surprise on people's faces. However, he has never regretted the decision to give his daughter her mother's surname instead of his own.

"Before my wife gave birth a year ago, her water broke too early, and she had to receive oxytocin," Ren recalled. "She suffered for an entire day in the delivery room, and I could do nothing." So Ren decided to give their baby girl his wife's surname Ding as a way to show gratitude.

"Mothers are some of the greatest people in the world," Ren said. "They spend almost a whole year pregnant, and they suffer during labor."

In China, newborn babies traditionally take the surnames of their fathers. But in recent years, an increasing number of people are choosing to use the mother's maiden name.

Ren Ran was born in the 1980s, after China began to adopt the family planning policy. Ren's mother knows all too well the pains and difficulties of bearing and raising a baby, so when she heard about Ren's decision, she was supportive.

"My mom has always been quite open-minded, and she believes names are just names," Ren said. "She said no matter what surname I chose for my girl, she would always love her granddaughter."

For thousands of years, giving a child the father's surname has been the status quo in many societies. But as the values of gender equality permeate societies, it is more common in China to see diverse name choices for babies. China's marriage law also allows babies to bear the surnames of either the father or mother.

However, changing centuries-old traditions does not happen overnight. In China, where values from patriarchal systems in a traditionally male-dominated society still prevails, many parents give "compound surnames" to their babies. A compound surname includes the surnames of both the father and the mother.

Wang Ying, 33, has two children. Her husband is surnamed Xu. And just like Ren Ran, Xu was born during the era of the one-child policy. When their first child was born, the couple decided to use a compound surname, as they wanted to satisfy Xu's father's wish to "pass on the family name." The baby was eventually surnamed Xuwang.

When China scrapped the one-child policy, the couple had a second child. The baby followed the surname of Wang.

"My father-in-law is open-minded, and he decided to give my surname to the baby," Wang recalled. "My father was ecstatic."

The baby was named Wang Yitong. Yitong, meaning together in Chinese, bears the common wish of the two families to live amicably together forever, Wang said.

In March, police in Shanghai released a report about names in the city. According to the report, of more than 90,000 newborns last year, 8.8 percent took their mother's surnames, and 2.5 percent bore compound surnames.

In Yinchuan, capital of northwest China's Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, police officer Guo Yanmiao said that of the 439 newborn babies in his district in 2018, three had compound surnames, while nine took the mother's surname.

"When we handle baby registrations, it is not uncommon to see compound surnames these days," Guo said. "People are becoming more open-minded, and men and women are also becoming more equal."

But the phenomenon has also courted some controversy. On China's famous Q&A website Zhihu.com, supporters of babies taking their mothers' surnames say that the situation highlights gender equality, while many say traditional values should not be broken.

"My baby having my surname shows that women's roles in families are rising," Wang Ying said.

"Whether a baby takes the mother's surname or not should be a consensus among families," she added. "It should not be an issue of conflict."
Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-12 16:08:10|Editor: Liangyu

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BEIJING, May 12 (Xinhua) -- Shanghai General Motors Wuling (SGMW) is to recall 19,680 cars over problems with the software of the engine's electronic control unit (ECU) from June 5, according to China's product quality watchdog.

The affected vehicles involve the Baojun 560 model manufactured from June 29, 2017 to Nov. 30, 2017, according to the State Administration for Market Regulation (SAIC).

The spring damper in the transmission will suffer from abnormal shocks because of the defect in the software of the engine's ECU, which will lead to a suspension of power output in extreme cases, SAIC noted.

SGMW said it would upgrade the ECU software and change the spring damper in the transmission free of charge for affected vehicles.
Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-12 16:08:13|Editor: Liangyu

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HOUSTON, May 11 (Xinhua) -- Washington's move to increase additional tariffs on Chinese imports during the just-concluded round of China-U.S. trade talks has made trade tensions "worse, not better," an expert on China said Saturday.

Jon Taylor, a political science professor at University of St. Thomas in Houston, told Xinhua that ranting about deal-breaking and increasing tariffs "is not a normal negotiation strategy with one of the world's preeminent powers."

Washington on Friday increased additional tariffs on 200 billion U.S. dollars' worth of Chinese imports from 10 percent to 25 percent, a move Beijing said it deeply regrets and will be forced to respond to with necessary countermeasures.

Taylor said China's attitude towards the tariff hike meant that China will not tolerate anything less than an equal standing in the negotiations.

In the face of Washington's move, China has repeatedly stressed that slapping additional tariffs is no solution, and the only way forward is cooperation and consultation based on respect of each other's core concerns.

"China has demonstrated both restraint and calm" throughout the trade negotiations, Taylor said.
Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-12 16:18:16|Editor: Liangyu

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BEIJING, May 12 (Xinhua) -- SAIC-GM, a joint venture between Shanghai-based SAIC Motor and General Motors, will recall 7,779 vehicles due to defective electronic power steering.

The affected cars include 16 imported Chevrolet Camaro models produced from Nov. 21, 2016 to May 4, 2017, and 7,763 homemade Cadillac ATS-L models produced from Sept. 14, 2016, to Sept. 18, 2017, according to a statement from the State Administration of Market Regulation.

Under extreme conditions, the electronic power steering may lose efficacy due to circuit problems, posing safety risks, said the statement.

The company will replace defective parts free of charge. The recall will start on June 20.
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Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-12 16:38:24|Editor: Shi Yinglun

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KABUL, May 12 (Xinhua) -- More than 40 militants were killed following the latest string of airstrikes conducted by Afghan Air Force within the past 24 hours, the government said Sunday.

In the eastern province of Ghazni, 16 Taliban militants were killed and five others wounded in two separate airstrikes, Presidential Information Coordination Center (Tawhid Center) said in a statement.

"The strikes in Ghazni province, 125 km south of Afghanistan's capital Kabul, were conducted by Afghan Air Force in Jaghori district and Razbeg locality of Andar district," the statement said.

In the neighboring province of Logar, two Taliban militants lost their lives and one militants' vehicle was destroyed following a sortie in Kharwar district in the province, 60 km south of Kabul.

About 15 Taliban militants were killed following an air raid on outskirts of Kunduz city, capital of northern Kunduz province.

Five militants were also wounded in the incident in Kunduz, 250 km north of Kabul.

The Afghan National Defense and Security Forces (ANDSF) remained in control of most of Afghanistan's population centers and all of 34 provincial capitals, but Taliban insurgents controlled large portions of rural areas, staging coordinated large-scale attacks against Afghan cities and districts since the militant group launched a yearly rebel offensive in early April.

In southern Uruzgan province, seven Taliban militants were killed and a Taliban command and control center was destroyed by an airstrike on outskirts of provincial capital Tirin Kot city, according to the statement.

Two Taliban militants were killed and a motorcycle that the deceased militants were riding on was destroyed in neighboring Zabul province, 340 km south of Kabul.

The ANDSF and the NATO-led coalition troops have increased ground and air offensives against militants in the past few months as spring and summer known as the fighting season is drawing near in the country.

However, militants responded to bomb blasts and armed attacks against security forces' outposts and checkpoints. The country, especially Kabul, has witnessed waves of terror attacks by the Taliban insurgents and Islamic State (IS) outfit.ide ca

On Wednesday, nine people, including five police officers, were killed and 20 people wounded in a Taliban group attack and a deadly suicr bomb blast against a U.S.-funded aid agency in central Kabul.
Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-12 17:28:56|Editor: Xiaoxia

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BEIJING, May 12 (Xinhua) -- China's container transport for export purposes continued to contract last month due to weak demand during low seasons, according to a report released by the Shanghai Shipping Exchange.

The average China Containerized Freight Index (CCFI) came in at 799.65 in April, down 3.8 percent from the previous month.

The pace eased from the 6.3-percent decrease registered in March, the exchange said.

In the first four months of 2019, the index averaged 839.88, picking up from an average of 817.8 for 2018.

The sub-indexes for most routes went down in April, with that for South Africa registering the largest decline of 9 percent from a month earlier.

The Europe route and Mediterranean route saw their sub-indexes fall 8.4 percent and 7.4 percent in April, respectively.

The CCFI tracks spot and contractual freight rates from Chinese container ports for 12 shipping routes across the globe, based on data from 20 international carriers.

The index was set at 1,000 on Jan. 1, 1998.
Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-12 17:33:58|Editor: Xiaoxia

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DAMASCUS, May 12 (Xinhua) -- The U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) will discharge 3,000 foreign fighters from its ranks in three months, a war monitor reported on Sunday.

The decision comes following the defeat of the Islamic State (IS) in eastern Syria as the SDF and the U.S. coalition will be training Syrian fighters in areas under the SDF control to replace the foreign ones.

The foreign fighters, who are from Iranian and Turkish among other nationalities, will depart Syria, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.

The Britain-based watchdog group said the decision also comes in light of the protests against the SDF in northern and northeastern Syria.

In March, the SDF announced defeating the IS in the eastern part of Syria near the Iraqi border.
Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-12 18:14:13|Editor: Xiaoxia

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HANGZHOU, May 12 (Xinhua) -- At least eight people were killed and nine others injured after a farm vehicle overturned Sunday in eastern China's Zhejiang Province, local authorities said.

The rollover occurred halfway up a mountain in Songmen town, Wenling city, the local public security bureau said. The vehicle was on the way to a cemetery.

Officials said the death toll is likely to rise.
Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-12 18:39:22|Editor: ZX

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Buddhist monks, nuns and followers attend the Buddha bathing ritual at Tam Chuc Pagoda in Vietnam's northern Ha Nam province, May 12, 2019. The United Nations Day of Vesak kicked off on Sunday in Ha Nam province with the participation of more than 1,650 international delegates from over 100 countries and regions. (Xinhua/VNA)

HANOI, May 12 (Xinhua) -- The United Nations (UN) Day of Vesak kicked off on Sunday in Vietnam's northern Ha Nam province, with the participation of more than 1,650 international delegates from over 100 countries and regions.

The opening ceremony of the UN Day of Vesak, or the birth of Buddha, also brought together over 20,000 Vietnamese Buddhist dignitaries, monks, nuns and followers, Vietnam News Agency reported on Sunday.

Phra Brahmapundit, president of the International Council for Day of Vesak, said the three-day event was not only a chance for Buddhist followers worldwide to celebrate, but also aims to serve all people by advocating sustainable development, and addressing global challenges such as environment pollution, climate change, education, among others.

Vietnamese Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc said the UN Day of Vesak means beyond a religious and cultural festival to send the long-lasting message of the Lord Buddha on peace, harmony, tolerance and kindness to all people.

With the theme of "Buddhist Approach to Global Leadership and Shared Responsibilities for Sustainable Societies," the Vesak 2019 aims to contribute to realizing the UN's Sustainable Development Goals. Its program includes opening and closing ceremonies and five international workshops as well as a domestic one.

The international workshops will bring up issues like responsible leadership for sustainable peace, Buddhist approaches to family issues, healthcare, education, morality, responsible consumption and the Fourth Industrial Revolution and Buddhism.

The results of workshops and discussions will be included in the Ha Nam Declaration.

This is the third time the UN's commemoration of Vesak has been held in Vietnam. Previously, it took place in Vietnam's capital Hanoi in 2008 and northern Ninh Binh province in 2014.
SourceXinhua| 2019-05-12 18:51:06|Editor: Shi Yinglun

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People visit the Archaeological Park of Pompeii in Italy, April 30, 2019. Pompeii was an ancient Roman city near modern Naples in Italy. It was buried by an eruption of the Vesuvius volcano in 79 A.D.. The city now offers a unique snapshot of Roman life, frozen at the moment it was buried, and provides an extraordinarily detailed insight into the everyday life of its inhabitants. (Xinhua/Cheng Tingting/Courtesy of the Archaeological Park of Pompeii)
Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-12 18:44:25|Editor: Shi Yinglun

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KABUL, May 12 (Xinhua) -- Up to 15 Taliban militants, including four foreign insurgents, were killed and four people were arrested in Afghanistan's eastern restive province of Ghazni, authorities confirmed on Sunday.

Afghan National Army commandoes conducted an operation in Gosfandi, a village on the outskirts of provincial capital Ghazni city, killing 15 armed militants, the Afghan Ministry of Defense said.

"Afghan commandoes have seized documents, weapons and vehicles following the raid," the ministry said in a statement.

In addition, personnel of National Directorate of Security, the country's intelligence agency, have arrested four terrorists in Ghazni city and surrounding areas in the past two days, Harif Noori, spokesperson of the provincial government, told Xinhua.

The arrestees were responsible for terrorist attacks and bomb explosions in Ghazni.

The Taliban-led insurgency has been on the rampage since the beginning of 2015 when the Afghan security forces assumed full responsibilities of security from the United States and NATO troops.

The militants have intensified attacks against security forces and staged several coordinated attacks against Afghan cities and districts since early April when the Taliban's annual rebel offensive started.

The Taliban has not made a comment on the reports yet.
People are seen at the booth of Chinese tech company Huawei at the 2019 Mobile World Congress (MWC) in Barcelona, Spain, Feb. 25, 2019. The four-day 2019 MWC opened on Monday in Barcelona. (Xinhua/Guo Qiuda)

BRUSSELS, May 12 (Xinhua) -- "Future technologies like 5G will better safeguard Europe's social model and the European way of life," Abraham Liu, Huawei's chief representative to the EU institutions, said recently.

"May 9 is a special day for Europe. On that day back in 1950, French Foreign Minister Robert Schuman delivered a remarkable declaration that braced Europe for the future," said Liu on the anniversary of the Schuman Declaration on May 9.

"In 2019, Europe Day is celebrated at a moment when new technologies will bring tremendous changes to the society and the future. Huawei cares about a strong and united Europe. We are ready to work with the EU to roll out 5G the European way," he was cited in a press release published on Huawei.eu website.

Huawei has been researching 5G technologies for over 10 years. In the past five years alone, it has invested over 530 million euros (about 595.5 U.S. dollars) in 5G R&D, said the press release.

"Everything we use and need can be improved by 5G. It will help us meet targets such as the UN's Sustainable Development Goals and European Commission objectives on, for example, climate change and on road safety. For this to happen, choices have to be made. Choices of how to reconcile European values with revolutionary new technologies that are about to impact profoundly on our way of living," said Liu.

Huawei currently runs 23 R&D centers located in 14 European countries. It has participated in 13 Horizon 2020 projects on 5G in Europe since 2012, and trials 5G technologies in testbeds in Munich, Germany, at the University of Surrey in Britain and in Bari, Italy.

It is also a board member of the 5G Infrastructure Association, the private side of the 5G Public-Private Partnership (5GPPP), the joint initiative between the European Commission and the European ICT industry, read the press release.
Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-12 19:54:48|Editor: Shi Yinglun

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TEHRAN, May 12 (Xinhua) -- Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif will visit Turkmenistan on Sunday for talks on bilateral relations as well as regional issues, Tasnim news agency reported.

In his trip to Ashgabat, Zarif will head a high-ranking political and economic delegation.

During his official visit, the Iranian foreign minister is scheduled to meet the Turkmen officials to discuss ways to expand bilateral relations in various fields, including political, trade, transportation, energy, customs, as well as regional and global developments.

The visit by the Iranian delegation to the northern neighboring country comes amidst the mounting U.S. political and economic sanction pressures against the Islamic republic.
Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-12 19:54:49|Editor: Shi Yinglun

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LONDON, May 12 (Xinhua) -- Britain's newly-formed Brexit Party has raced ahead in two separate opinion polls Sunday as the country will participate in the upcoming European Parliament election, delivering a major blow on the two main parties.

The Brexit Party, which was launched by Nigel Farage in mid April, has overtaken Prime Minister Theresa May's Conservative Party in a national poll, with Farage predicted to win 49 seats in a general election.

The survey carried out by ComRes found that if a May-led election campaign took place now the Conservatives would face their worst result in history, falling to third place in terms of vote share.

Main opposition Labour Party would become the largest party by a margin of 137 seats, with leader Jeremy Corbyn taking over at 10 Downing Street to lead a minority government.

The poll also found that the Conservatives would fall to fourth place in the European Parliament elections scheduled for May 23, with the Brexit Party gaining the highest share of the vote.

The poll, commissioned by Brexit Express, asked people of their voting intentions in the Euro election. Top came the Brexit Party with 27 percent, followed by Labour with 25, the Liberal Democrats with 14 percent and May's Conservatives just 13 percent.

Farage co-founded the United Kingdom Independence Party (UKIP) in 1993 to campaign for Britain's departure from the European Union. He quit as chairman after the 2016 referendum delivered its shock result showing 52 percent backed leaving against 48 percent wanting to keep the link with Brussels.

Andrew Hawkins, chairman of ComRes, described the poll as a "disaster," commenting: "If the Conservative leadership contenders are not careful, there will be no party for them to lead."

A second poll for the Observer newspaper Sunday by Opinium showed the Brexit Party would be one point behind the Conservatives in a general election for British parliamentary seats.

The Opinium survey showed Labour would be leading with 28 percent support, followed by the Conservatives with 22 percent and the Brexit Party on 21 percent.

In the European elections, the Opinium poll shows the Brexit Party racing ahead into first place with 34 percent support, in results almost mirroring the ComRes results.

Labour comes second with 21 percent, a seven point fall compared with a previous poll two weeks ago. The Liberal Democrats take third position with 12 percent, a five-point rise. The Conservatives have dropped three points to stagger into fourth place with 11 percent support.

More than 600 chairmen and chairwomen of local Conservative associations, along with councilors and party activists have accused May and her advisers of "sticking their fingers in their ears."

In a joint letter to the Sunday Telegraph they warned that if May cannot deliver a clean exit from Europe, MPs at Westminster must replace her urgently or risk disaster.

They said in their letter: "Unless we urgently change direction, there is now an existential threat to the party. If we deliver an honest Brexit successfully, we will see members and support flood back. More importantly, we will secure the long-term success of both the country and the party."

"We must give the people the Brexit for which they voted without delay. If Theresa May cannot and will not do that, then she must be replaced. MPs must do that urgently or risk disaster at the next election," they said.

Downing Street announced Saturday night that talks between the Conservative government and Labour to find a way through the Brexit deadlock would resume on Monday afternoon.

So far the two main parties have failed to reach a consensus deal that could be put before the House of Commons to pave the way for Britain to leave the EU.
Mario Tama/Getty Images(WASHINGTON) -- After President Donald Trump said it would be "appropriate" for him to speak to his attorney general about initiating an investigation into former Vice President Joe Biden's diplomacy in Ukraine while Biden's son was serving on the board of Ukrainian energy company, the chairman of the House Intelligence Committee said Sunday that such a move would not be appropriate and expressed concern that the attorney general -- who he said was lacking integrity -- "just might do it."

"Of course it's not appropriate [to discuss that]," Rep. Adam Schiff, D-Calif., said in an interview with ABC News Chief Anchor George Stephanopoulos on This Week Sunday. "The president of the United States is saying it's perfectly OK for him -- and he's said this before -- to go to the attorney general and get [the Department of Justice] to open an investigation of his rivals. And sadly, this attorney general has turned out to be so ... partisan and so without -- frankly, without integrity -- he just might do it."

Trump told POLITICO on Friday that he hadnt yet discussed it with Attorney General William Barr, but also said, It could be a very big situation."

On Thursday, Rudy Giuliani, one of Trump's personal attorneys, told The New York Times, and it was later confirmed by ABC News, that he was planning to travel to Kiev, Ukraine, to seek a meeting with its president-elect, comedian Volodymyr Zelensky, to encourage him to pursue an investigation into both special counsel Robert Mueller's investigation into 2016 Russian election interference and Hunter Biden's work at Burisma Holdings while his father -- who is now vying against a crowded Democratic field to take on Trump in the 2020 presidential election -- was the point man for diplomacy with the country during his time in the Obama administration. The former vice president was pushing hard for reforms in the country, specifically seeking the dismissal of a Ukrainian prosecutor who had been accused of being soft on corruption.

A spokesperson for Biden told The New York Times, and later ABC News, that Biden's push to remove the prosecutor, Viktor Shokin, was made "without any regard for how it would or would not impact any business interests of his son, a private citizen" and was all part of a broadly-supported U.S. effort "to root out corruption in Ukraine."

The Biden campaign declined to comment on Giuliani's travel plans, which have since been cancelled, Giuliani first told Fox News and later confirmed to ABC News.

Anticipating criticism that he was encouraging foreign interference in a U.S. presidential campaign, Giuliani told the Times, "Theres nothing illegal about it," Giuliani said. Somebody could say its improper. And this isnt foreign policy -- Im asking them to do an investigation that theyre doing already and that other people are telling them to stop."

On "This Week," Schiff referenced Mueller's investigation, questioning if there was "something wrong with" Giuliani and the president for thinking this wouldn't be inappropriate.

"The fact that we're not even done with this investigation of the last foreign interference in our election and Giuliani, apparently with the president's -- at least initially -- knowledge and blessing, was going to get the help of another foreign government in a presidential election ... it tells me that they not only think this -- there's nothing wrong with this. If that's true, there's something wrong with them," he said.

"How about the underlying issue, though?" Stephanopoulos pressed. "There's no public evidence that the vice president -- former vice president -- took any inappropriate action to help his son, but was it right for Hunter Biden to take a job like that in Ukraine while his father was engaged in diplomacy there?"

Schiff said he doesn't know why Hunter Biden took the job, but said of Joe Biden, "There's no evidence nor has there ever been any evidence that he was doing anything but trying to get the Ukraine government to crack down on corruption.

"Theyve had an endemic corruption problem. Thats what Joe Biden was trying to address. So going after his son is just a method of going after someone the president believes is his most formidable opponent."

Late Friday night, Giuliani said on Fox News that he decided to cancel his trip, but left open the possibility of one in the future.

"I don't know, I'll play it by ear, I'll see what is going on," Giuliani told host Shannon Bream. "I am actually quite confident that the facts, with regard to vice president -- former vice president -- Biden are so compelling that there's no way he gets from here to the election, without this being investigated, OK? And he would be better off getting investigated now, where it really isn't going to affect the election. It's 17 months away."

In a statement to ABC News on Saturday, Giuliani asserted that Ukraines incoming president Zelensky was being advised by "very vocal opponents of" Trump.

"I concluded that the President elect is being advised by people who were very vocal opponents of President Trump and peculiarly vocal supporters of Hillary Clinton," the statement read. "Under these circumstances the meeting would have accomplished little and may be in the hands of those who might might (sic) misrepresent it."

Schiff told Stephanopoulos on "This Week" that if Trump wants to "go after" Biden, an early front-runner in the Democratic primary, he can do that, but "dont seek the help of a foreign government in your election."

"And you know, if this isnt criminal ... then maybe we need to change the elements of that crime because we cannot make this the new norm, that if you cant win an election on your own, its fine to seek help from a foreign power," he said.

Copyright  2019, ABC Radio. All rights reserved.
Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-12 19:59:52|Editor: Shi Yinglun

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WINDHOEK, May 12 (Xinhua) -- Zimbabwean Saxophonist Osborne Matengenzara wooed revellers in Namibia's capital Windhoek on Friday and Saturday nights.

The Zimbabwean played on a back-to-back shows starting with a performance on Friday night in the heart of Namibia's capital Windhoek before closing off his session with the a performance on Saturday at Jojo's Music and Arts which has recently become the home of live music in Namibia.

Playing renditions of different songs from rhythms and blues, dancehall, house and old school, the Zimbabwean gave a classy act much to the pleasure of revellers.

For a rather young but popular musician to capture the imaginations of the young audience in Windhoek, Matengenzara had to play right into the hands of his revellers by playing all the popular tunes across genre in Namibia.

He managed to get the crowd to sing along when he played a rendition of chelate originally done by Namibia's award winning Kwaito musician Gazza.

Perhaps the rather quiet Saturday nights in Windhoek's central business district had the smooth music to go with the star brightened night.

While not many in the Namibian music industry follow mellow music from saxophonist, the performances resembled maturity and lured a few hearts to his seemingly growing legion of fans.

He was supported by another Zimbabwean-based Namibian musician Taps who also played drums and saxophone in addition to churning a few of his songs.
Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-12 20:20:04|Editor: Xiaoxia

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NAIROBI, May 12 (Xinhua) -- When dairy farmer Titus Rono recently suspected that one of his cows was suffering from mastitis, his first reaction was to try and call the para-vet who attends to his animals.

However, he could not reach him on phone yet he was eager to know if the animal was suffering from the disease.

Stranded, the farmer turned to his smartphone, switched on the internet and searched for the topic. He received plenty of answers and among them were videos of how to do the test himself.

"While there were plenty of articles that I scanned through, my interest was in the videos, which I watched as they took me step by step on how to conduct the test," Rono recounted at a farmers' forum.

He watched the online videos on his phone for over an hour and did not even feel a pinch in his pockets due to low internet costs.

In a country where agro-extension services are scarce, smartphones coupled with low Internet costs have become a boon for farmers - putting solutions in their hands.

Hundreds of farmers are now able to watch "how-to" videos on treating diseases and pests like ticks, attending to animals and adding value to produce, thanks to cheaper smartphones and low internet charges.

It currently costs about 3,400 shillings (about 34 U.S. dollars) to buy a 4G internet-enabled smartphone in the east African nation. This is a drop from twice the amount years ago.

The low-priced smartphones have given the Kenyan farmer a chance to create a new image of being tech-savvy.

Similarly, internet costs have come down significantly with Kenyans buying 1 gigabyte (GB) of data for as low as 50 shillings for a day. For heavy internet users, one can buy 7GB with about 10 dollars a month.

Initially, before competition between telecoms stiffened, Kenyans would pay up to 0.50 dollars for 1 megabyte of data.

"There is no challenge on the farm that I have failed to solve ever since I realized there is plenty of information online," said Moses Andanje, a poultry farmer.

From building a modern poultry house to vaccinating his birds, Andanje has benefited greatly from online farming videos.

"I get a lot of information that even when I call the para-vet, I already know what should be done," said Andanje.

In addition to the "how-to" videos, Kenyan farmers also watch TV farming programs they missed and can download and use various agro-apps besides sharing among themselves farm videos shot with smartphones.

"My interest is mainly in farming technology. One of the most fascinating videos I watched recently is how to test if a cow is on heat or pregnant using milk," said Stephen Kimani, a dairy farmer in central Kenyan county of Kiambu.

Beatrice Macharia, an agronomist with agro-consultancy Growth Point, noted that cheaper internet and smartphones are a great blessing to the Kenyan farmers.

"In my case, I record all trainings and share the videos with farmers. It is an easy way to dispense information," said Macharia.

She added that farmers are also able to take photos and videos of their animals, birds or crops and send to her for diagnosis, before she offers solution.

As of the end of 2018, the total number of active internet subscriptions in Kenya reached about 45.7 million, with 45.3 million people accessing internet via their mobile phones, according to the Communications Authority of Kenya.

Small-scale agriculture is the biggest employer in the east African nation, with about 18 million Kenyans engaged in the activity in 2018, latest data from the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics showed.
Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-12 20:30:09|Editor: Liangyu

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BEIJING, May 12 (Xinhua) -- China's medical colleges will enroll 6,700 rural students this year who will work for rural health centers in central and western China upon graduation, according to a circular issued by the Ministry of Education.

With financing by the central government, the students will enjoy five-year free education in majors including clinical medicine, traditional Chinese medicine, traditional Mongolian medicine, traditional Tibetan medicine and traditional Dai ethnic medicine.

Applicants for the project must be from rural areas, and must take part in this year's national college entrance exam, the circular reads.

Before receiving their letters of admission, the students must sign agreements with the colleges that have enrolled them as well as health and human resources authorities of the counties where they are going to work after graduation, according to the circular.
Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-12 20:40:18|Editor: Liangyu

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By Ronald Ssekandi

KAMPALA, May 12 (Xinhua) -- After putting up an impressive performance at the preliminary Chinese language proficiency contest, Moses Aine is set to travel to China where he will battle with other competitors from across the world in the 18th Chinese Bridge competition.

Aine beat six other paricipants from Makerere University, Kyambogo University and Ndejje University to emerge as the winner.

Beyond the language and cultural exhibition contest, Ayub Sooma, one of the first Ugandans to study in China, on Saturday said at the contest that youths need to exploit these exposures to reap benefits from the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

As countries embrace the BRI, Ugandan youths at the individual level need to strategize to benefit from the opportunities provided by the initiative, said Sooma, co-director of Luyanzi College, one of the pioneer schools in Uganda to teach the Chinese language.

In addition to offering Chinese language lessons to students at the secondary level, the school also hosts Ugandan language teachers who are learning Chinese so that they can teach it in their respective schools.

BRI projects, according to Sooma, provide opportunities to Ugandan youths. He noted that those with a clear understanding of the Chinese language and cultures have the upper hand.

Already, some Ugandan youths have started reaping from the benefits of BRI projects.

Infrastructure projects like construction of Karuma Hydro Power Plant, Isimba Hydro Power Plant, and expansion of Entebbe International Airport have provided employment and skills transfers to many youths.

Gabriel Omiat, who worked at the construction of the Kampala-Entebbe Expressway, has set up his own metal welding workshop.

Omiat said the workshop has ripple effects because it employs other youths and also increases his household income.

UPTAKE OF CHINESE LANGUAGE

According to the National Curriculum Development Center (NCDC), the Ugandan and Chinese government have an understanding to train over 100 Ugandan language teachers, who are trained under the guidance of the Confucius Institute at Makerere University.

The first batch graduated last December after a nine-month course of learning Chinese. The teachers are the pioneers of Ugandan Chinese language teachers.

After their graduation, the country early this year rolled out the Chinese language syllabus for secondary schools.

The NCDC estimates that within the next four years about 60,000 students would have learned how to speak Chinese.

At the Confucius Institute at Makerere University, many university students and business people are enrolling to learn Chinese.

"Chinese is bringing us closer, serving as a platform of mutual understanding," said Xia Zhuoqiong, Chinese director at the Confucius Institute at Makerere University.

Oswald Ndoleriire, the co-director of the Confucius Institute at Makerere University told Xinhua in a recent interview that there should not be any fear of the increasing Chinese interest in Africa.

Ndoleriire said China is not interested in wiping out African cultures and languages like some other powers that have attempted for the last several decades.

"The Chinese are coming because first of all they feel like they have something to offer. They are a group of disciplined people," he said.
Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-12 21:00:25|Editor: Liangyu

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by Pankaj Yadav, Zhao Xu

NEW DELHI, May 12 (Xinhua) -- Describing the Indian and Chinese civilizations as "cousin cultures," a renowned Indian scholar said that it was a matter of great honor that India and China share their historic relationship in such a vibrant manner in contemporary times.

Lokesh Chandra, litterateur and former president of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), said that India-China ties are very ancient, recalling that a Chinese emperor invited two Indian monks to China to introduce Buddhism during the 3rd century.

"Sugar went to China from India, and India got tea from China though Great Britain. And then we shared the concepts of art. Today in Beijing alone there are over 1,600 Buddhist sacred places and temples, from this you can imagine the depth of our age-old relationship," Chandra said in an interview with Xinhua prior to the Conference on Dialogue of Asian Civilizations (CDAC) starting from May 15 in Beijing.

About the languages being part of both countries' cultures and civilizations and establishing a connection between the two, he said that mandarin itself is a Sanskrit word Mantri which means "minister" in Hindi.

The Chinese people have developed their national language to a very high level, he added.

Based on a strong culture and civilization, the speed of scientific development of China is very remarkable, said Chandra, an expert on culture and a leading academician.

More than 2,000 government officials and representatives of 47 Asian countries and other countries outside the region will attend the opening ceremony and forums, under the theme "Exchanges and Mutual Learning Among Asian Civilizations and a Community With a Shared Future".

Chinese President Xi Jinping is scheduled to deliver a keynote speech at the opening ceremony of the conference.

"I wish the conference a great success," said Chandra.
Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-12 21:10:32|Editor: Shi Yinglun

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VILNIUS, May 12 (Xinhua) -- Lithuania's former finance minister Ingrida Simonyte and Prime Minister Saulius Skvernelis, two out of three presidential frontrunners in the election, casted their ballots on Sunday, both hinting their expectations to make into the second elections' round.

Simonyte admitted while speaking to reporters she felt "emotional".

"I have been through a lot of things and I understand that this is just one milestone. There will be new challenges ahead," Simonyte said after casting her ballot in the capital Vilnius.

She did not forecast the outcome of Sunday's voting. As recent polls showed, economist Gitanas Nauseda, Simonyte and PM Skvernelis emerged as the leaders of the presidential race with marginal difference of voters' support.

Skvernelis said he expected to face his rival in the second round of the elections.

"I hope to have a tough fight at the second round, and I'm determined to do that," Skvernelis told local media after casting his vote on Sunday.

Nauseda and 3 other presidential candidates have casted their votes earlier this week during advance voting. Nauseda said he had voted for a candidate who could ensure that Lithuania "chooses the right path".

More than 30 percent of voters casted their votes by early afternoon on Sunday, according to Lithuania's Central Electoral Commission (VRK). Including the advance voting, the total voter turnout has reached almost 41 percent.

Lithuania also holds two binding referendums on Sunday.

The number of registered voters in the country's Presidential elections and two referendums is 2.47 million.
Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-12 21:20:36|Editor: Shi Yinglun

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GAZA, May 12 (Xinhua) -- Israel reopened two crossings with the Gaza Strip on Sunday after eight days of closure following a recent round of tension with Palestinian factions, Palestinian officials said.

Israeli authorities informed the Palestinian side that it decided to reopen the crossings of Kerem Shalom in southern Gaza Strip and Erez in the north, said Raed Fatouh, chief of goods coordination between the Gaza Strip and Israel, in a press statement.

On Friday, Israel extended the fishing zone to 12 nautical miles, after a ban for six days.

Israel public radio said "the expansion of the fishing zone came as a step to implement the understandings of truce between Israel and Palestinian factions."

Egypt, Qatar and the United Nations succeeded to mediate a truce between Israel and Gaza militant groups, which included the armed wings of Hamas and Islamic Jihad, ending two days of military escalations between the two sides.

The Israeli radio reported on Sunday morning that Qatari Ambassador to Palestine Mohammed al-Ammadi and UN peace envoy to the Middle East Nikolay Mladenov are expected to arrive in Gaza within two days to hand over a grant of 30 million U.S. dollars to Hamas and oversee the distribution.

On May 4, Israel announced the closure of the crossings and prevented the fishermen from sailing off the coast of the Gaza Strip, during the tensions between Israel and Palestinian factions.

Israel imposed a tight blockade on the Gaza Strip right after Hamas movement had violently seized control of the enclave in 2007. Since then, the economy in the enclave has been deteriorating, with a hard living situation for its people.
Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-12 21:20:38|Editor: Liangyu

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BEIJING, May 12 (Xinhua) -- China has unveiled "the Implementation Plan for the National Ecological Civilization Pilot Zone (Hainan)," foreseeing comprehensive experiments of ecological civilization system reform to be carried out in the southern island province.

Jointly issued by the General Office of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and the General Office of the State Council, the document vows to bring about a new pattern of harmonious coexistence of man and nature in China's modernization drive and write a chapter of Hainan for building a Beautiful China.

The pilot zone aims at reaching world leading level in terms of environmental quality and resource utilization efficiency, according to the plan.

The zone will focus on developing a system for building an ecological civilization, optimizing spatial distribution of land, coordinating development and conservation of land and sea, improving environmental quality and resource utilization efficiency, realizing ecological products' values, promoting green production modes and lifestyle, and other aspects of exploration.
Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-12 21:35:46|Editor: Shi Yinglun

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CAIRO, May 12 (Xinhua) -- An Egyptian court sentenced on Sunday two defendants to death over charges of attacking a church in Cairo in 2017.

Two other defendants were sentenced to life in prison, four to 10 years in jail and two to three years, official MENA news agency reported.

The court said the defendants attacked Mar Mina church and a neighboring shop owned by a Christian man in Cairo's Helwan district in December 2017, killing seven Christians and a policeman.

They were also accused of killing another Christian man in the same district in 2016.

The court also convicted the defendants of establishing, leading, joining and funding an extremist terrorist group.

They were also found guilty of making and possessing a bomb and attempting to use it against residents of Helwan district in Cairo.

Terrorism prevailed in Egypt since the military ousted former Islamist President Mohamed Morsi in early July 2013 in response to mass protests against his 12-month reign and his currently outlawed Muslim Brotherhood group.

Terror attacks had killed hundreds of policemen and soldiers in restive North Sinai province northeastern Cairo before they gradually extended to other provinces, where dozens of civilians, mainly Christians, were killed.
Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-12 22:21:19|Editor: Shi Yinglun

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TEHRAN, May 12 (Xinhua) -- Iran traded 133,762 tons of non-oil commodities worth 231.78 million U.S. dollars with Vietnam in the last Iranian year ended on March 20, 2019, Eghtesadonline daily reported on Sunday.

The figures registered a 42.22-percent decrease in weight and a 448.18-percent decline in value compared with the previous year.

Iran's exports to Vietnam stood at 115,259 tons worth 186.04 million dollars. Vietnam was Iran's 24th export destination during the period.

Iran mainly exported saffron, shrimp, dried figs and lead to Vietnam.

The Islamic republic imported 18,503 tons of goods worth 45.74 million dollars from Vietnam. The southeastern Asian country was the 45th exporter of goods to Iran during the year.

Vietnam exports mainly included coffee, pepper, fish feed and cellphones.
Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-12 22:31:23|Editor: Liangyu

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XI'AN, May 12 (Xinhua) -- It is not easy for villagers living in mountainous areas to see a doctor in hospitals in the county due to inconvenient and costly transportation.

However, residents from the remote and rural areas in the mountainous Yanchuan County in the city of Yan'an, northwest China's Shaanxi Province, now have access to high-quality door-to-door medical services thanks to mobile hospitals.

As one of the last two impoverished counties to announce having shaken off poverty Tuesday, Yanchuan has a population of 192,000, 22,135 of whom are impoverished.

The biggest challenge facing the county is illness-caused poverty. A total of 3,285 households were poverty-stricken as a result of serious diseases or chronic diseases, accounting for 45.3 percent of the county's impoverished population, said Zhang Feng, deputy director of the county's health bureau.

To cope with the problem, the county launched 13 mobile hospitals in 2017 to provide medical service to its 163 villages scattered in the mountainous areas on the Loess Plateau, according to Zhang.

The mobile hospitals equipped with first-aid equipment and necessary medical facilities were transformed from ambulances.

Each mobile hospital has five medical workers on board, including a village doctor, general practitioner, nurse, remote medical consultation operating staff and clinical staff, said Guo Bao, director of the health center of Guanzhuang Township.

Yanchuan has cooperated with a number of prestigious hospitals in Beijing on remote medical consultation. Doctors in mobile hospitals can send a patient's test results to experienced doctors via the online medical consultation system and get advice and prescription quickly, according to Guo.

"In this way, patients with complicated or serious diseases can see an experienced doctor and prevent the condition from getting worse," Guo said.

The mobile hospital visits each impoverished household in the township at least once a month to learn the condition of the patients and provide door-to-door medical service to them.

Huang Guiying, who lives in Dazhang Village, Guanzhuang Township, has benefited from the mobile hospital. Suffering from diabetes for years, she was diagnosed with coronary heart disease in 2017 by the hospital.

Then, Huang had a coronary bypass operation in Xi'an, which cost her 180,000 yuan. Medical insurance covered most of her medical fees.

Huang lives alone. Her husband and two sons died years ago. Her third son is working as a migrant worker outside of their hometown most of the year. As a result of the complication of diabetes, she can not see clearly. The doctors in the mobile hospital have made friends with her and frequently visit her home to check on her health condition.

"If it were not for the doctors and the policy covering most of my fees, I won't survive," the 63-year-old woman said.

Gao Xuefeng, a village doctor in Dazhang Village, said local residents used to be reluctant to see a doctor in town, let alone to travel a long way to go to a hospital in the county seat dozens of kilometers away.

The mobile hospitals have completely changed their lives. Villagers from registered poor households can receive treatment and prescription medicine offered by the mobile hospital for free, according to Zhang.

Apart from providing regular medical service to poor households, the mobile hospitals also offer free basic physical checks for villagers over 50 years old across the county to prevent serious illness and illness-caused poverty from the source, said Zhang.
Performers play the roles of railroad workers during a historical re-enactment to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the completion of the first U.S. transcontinental railroad, to which thousands of Chinese railroad workers made great contribution, at the Golden Spike National Historical Park at Promontory Summit, an area of high ground roughly 100 km northwest of Salt Lake City, the United States, May 10, 2019. (Xinhua/Li Ying)

by Xinhua writers Tan Jingjing, Sun Ding

SALT LAKE CITY, the United States, May 12 (Xinhua) -- The western U.S. state of Utah kicked off celebration for the 150th anniversary of the completion of the nation's first transcontinental railroad on Friday, to which thousands of Chinese railroad workers made great contribution.

An official ceremony was held at the Golden Spike National Historical Park at Promontory Summit, an area of high ground roughly 100 km northwest of Salt Lake City. The last spike of the transcontinental railroad, often referred to as the Golden Spike, was ceremonially driven in here by Central Pacific Railroad President Leland Stanford on May 10, 1869.

A series of activities will be hosted during the three-day celebration, also referred as Spike 150, including artwork exhibition on the history of the construction of the railroad, Utah-China trade and investment forum, and a U.S.-China summit on education, innovation, trade and business, according to the organizing committee.

Guests launch the opening ceremony during the celebration for the 150th anniversary of the completion of the first U.S. transcontinental railroad, at the Golden Spike National Historical Park at Promontory Summit, Salt Lake City, the United States, May 10, 2019.(Xinhua/Li Ying)

Addressing the ceremony, U.S. Secretary of Transportation Elaine L. Chao said the transcontinental railroad was a tremendous feat of engineering, innovation and manpower that was key to the economic development of the United States.

"Today, we pay special tribute to the diverse workforce - especially 12,000 or more Chinese laborers - that built this seminal infrastructure project that transformed America," she said.

"As the first U.S. Secretary of Transportation of Chinese ancestry, I have the unique and moving opportunity to fully acknowledge and recognize the contributions and sacrifices of these laborers during the construction of transcontinental railroad," Chao said.

Guests drive the "last spike" during a historical re-enactment to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the completion of the first U.S. transcontinental railroad at the Golden Spike National Historical Park at Promontory Summit, Salt Lake City, the United States, May 10, 2019. (Xinhua/Li Ying)

The first transcontinental railroad, also known as the Pacific Railroad, was a 3,000-km-plus continuous railroad line linking the eastern U.S. rail network with the Pacific coast.

From 1864 to 1869, Chinese railroad workers, among the first Chinese immigrants to the United States, endured harsh working and living conditions to help build the mega project. They had set a record of laying 10 miles of tracks in a single day.

The White House issued a presidential message Friday on the 150th anniversary of the transcontinental railroad, saying the railroad catalyzed the country's development, empowered greater settlement of the American West, and expanded prosperity from the Atlantic to the Pacific.

"Roughly 12,000 workers of Chinese ancestry worked to dig out a particularly challenging section. Through blizzards and other treacherous weather, they blasted and chiseled 15 tunnels through the hard granite of the Sierra Nevada Mountains," said the presidential message.

A performance is held to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the completion of the first U.S. transcontinental railroad, to which thousands of Chinese railroad workers made great contribution, at the Golden Spike National Historical Park at Promontory Summit, Salt Lake City, the United States, May 10, 2019.(Xinhua/Li Ying)

Two locomotives met at the Golden Spike National Historical Park on Friday to recreate the scene 150 years ago - "Jupiter" owned by Central Pacific Railroad and "No. 119" of Union Pacific.

Governor of Utah Gary Herbert said the completion ceremony of the transcontinental railroad 150 years ago was the first mass media event that was transmitted across the whole nation.

"It is greatly important we gather again today at the same spot to commemorate that moment," he said, adding that the railroad has transformed Utah from an isolated post to a crossroad of the West.

"While we reflect the impact of the railroad, we should also look to the future," Herbert said. He encouraged people of Utah to dream big, and remember great things can be envisioned and accomplished through hard work, dedication, innovation and collaboration.

A performance is held to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the completion of the first U.S. transcontinental railroad, at the Golden Spike National Historical Park at Promontory Summit, Salt Lake City, the United States, (Xinhua/Li Ying)

Connie Young Yu, a Chinese American writer, historian, and lecturer whose ancestor was one of the Chinese railroad workers, considers the achievement of Chinese workers "epic."

She lamented that because of the Chinese Exclusion Act passed in 1882, the accomplishments of the Chinese railroad workers had been excluded from history and under-appreciated.

The Chinese Exclusion Act prohibited Chinese laborers from entering the country and denied existing Chinese living in the United States the right to become naturalized citizens.

"Today we replay the history in the original place. We should honor the sacrifice of the Chinese workers and the legacy of America which belongs to all of us," she said.

In a video-recorded speech marking Friday's ceremony, Chinese Ambassador to the United States Cui Tiankai said the railroad is a project of wonder of the world that linked America together from sea to shining sea and laid the foundation for the American economic boom.

This is also a telling example of how the Chinese and American people can come together to get things done, and make the impossible possible, he said.

"A strong bond between China and the United States can deliver real benefits to our two countries and to the world community," Cui said.

As this year marks the 40th anniversary of China-U.S. diplomatic relations, Cui called on the two sides to stay on the right track, and build together an even stronger China-U.S. relationship for the future generations of both countries and for the shared future of mankind.

Artists perform Chinese lion dance during the celebration for the 150th anniversary of the completion of the first U.S. transcontinental railroad, at the Golden Spike National Historical Park at Promontory Summit, Salt Lake City, the United States, May 10, 2019. (Xinhua/Li Ying)

Nancy Potter from downtown Salt Lake City, one of the audience, dressed up in old Utah fashion to attend the ceremony with her husband.

She told Xinhua she has ancestors who participated in the construction of the railroad, thus she knew quite well about that history as well as the contributions of the Chinese railroad workers.

"Many of them left their families back in China to build the railroad in the United States, and many of them were lost in the history. We should pay respect to all their contributions," she said.

Her husband Val K. Potter, member of the House of Representatives at the State of Utah, was also present at the 100th anniversary of the railroad completion 50 years ago, when he was 11.

"It was indeed of unique significance to join again the celebration, review the history and look to the future. Hope we could pass on the heritage from generation to generation," Potter told Xinhua.

He said Chinese workers were so dedicated and hardworking, focused on getting their work done, but they were very quiet and paid less, and American society knew little about their contribution back then.

By honoring their great accomplishments, we can let people know more about the history and the importance of China-U.S. cooperation, he added.
Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-13 00:12:26|Editor: ZX

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HO CHI MINH CITY, May 12 (Xinhua) -- Police and border guards of Vietnams southern Long An province on Sunday arrested a local man for transporting 57 kg of crystal meth and nearly seven kg of heroin from Cambodia to Vietnam, local online newspaper VnExpress reported.

The drug trafficker is Truong Quoc Cuong, 41, from Long An. Cuong confessed that he had engaged in cross-border drug transport.

According to the Vietnamese law, those convicted of smuggling over 600 grams of heroin or more than 2.5 kg of methamphetamine are punishable by death. Making or trading 100 grams of heroin or 300 grams of other illegal drugs also faces death penalty.
Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-13 00:17:32|Editor: ZX

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ANKARA, May 12 (Xinhua) -- Turkey tries to convince the United States to accept its proposal on forming a committee for examination on technical concerns about its procurement of an advanced Russian missile defense system.

"The experts should say the last word. We said that a joint working group should be set up and NATO should chair it. We know what we do about it," Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said earlier.

Tensions between Ankara and Washington have reached a fever pitch over the former's plans for procurement of Russian S-400 surface-to-air missile system.

The United States said it will jeopardize Turkey's participation in the multi-million-dollar F-35 fighter jet program and could trigger congressional sanctions.

The United States already suspended deliveries of parts and services related to F-35s over its argument that the Russian system would compromise the security of F-35 fighter jets on the potential of gathering data about their advanced technology.

Washington also emphasizes that the Russian system would be incompatible with NATO systems in Turkey.

Ankara, in response, underscored that the S-400 systems would not be integrated into NATO systems and would not pose a threat to the alliance.

Ankara said it plans to buy 100 F35 jets and already received four of them, but the aircraft are still in the United States for the training of Turkish pilots. Turkey also produces almost 7 percent of the F35 components, including parts of the fuselage and cockpit displays.

The U.S. congress warns its sanctions will hit the Turkish economy seriously and harm Turkey's aerospace and defense industry.

As the United States mounts pressure on Turkey to abandon the purchase of its Russian-made S-400s, Turkish local media reported alternative formulas to avoid the sanctions, such as selling or deploying the systems to a third-party country.

However, these claims were refuted by Cavusoglu. "It is a done deal. We are committed to the agreement. There is no possibility to sell it to a third country," he said on March 30 at a joint press conference with his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov.

On the most recent claims regarding a postponement for delivery of Russian systems to Turkey, Cavusoglu on Thursday said that "there is no statement issued by us on the issue that delivery of S-400 to Turkey will be postponed."

In an attempt to avoid possible sanctions by its NATO ally, Ankara in the meantime sticks to the formula of establishing a joint technical committee with the United States to examine Washington's concerns on the use of F-35 fighter jets on the same territory with Russian S-400s.

The Turkish leadership has not backed off its deal with Russia stressing that the procurement is a "done deal" and the deliveries will start in June. It concurrently urges Washington on the issue of the committee to gain time, according to an Ankara-based political journalist.

For Turkey, establishing a technical committee with NATO will be a step whose possible outcomes can relieve the hands of both the United States and Turkey and will gain time as well, said Hande Firat, daily Hurriyet columnist.

"If a technical committee is formed, a possible outcome of the work can comfort Turkey in the international arena," she said, noting that the two countries can take some steps by conducting backdoor diplomacy in the period gained.

However, Turkey's proposal for the committee with the participation of NATO officials has not been responded by the United States, despite a phone conversation between the presidents of the two countries two weeks ago.

Barcin Yinanc, political journalist and columnist of Hurriyet Daily News, believed that currently Turkey's decision to purchase Russian S-400 missile defense system stands as the most immediate potentially explosive crisis between Ankara and Washington.

The timeframe depends on the delivery date of the S-400, she said, adding that the two sides have to find a solution by the deadline.
Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-13 02:28:18|Editor: ZX

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SAN FRANCISCO, May 12 (Xinhua) -- For a company to profit from innovation, it needs complementary assets and dynamic capabilities, which includes "the capability to sense, seize and transform," according to an innovation expert.

David Teece, a professor with the Haas School of Business at the University of California at Berkeley (UC Berkeley), and one of the most cited scholars in economics and business, told Xinhua in a recent interview.

"In the past it was somewhat naively believed you are going to win if you come up with something inventive, different and better in a technical sense; but being inventive versus winning in the marketplace are two different things," said Teece.

The classical example is Xerox PARC, a research and development entity in Silicon Valley, he said.

Although Xerox PARC in the late 60s and into the 70s developed many key inventions contributing to the information industry, and in particular, the personal computer, including the Graphical User Interface, laser printers, the mouse and Ethernet, it did not become a significant player in the marketplace due to managerial mistakes and the unwillingness of its parent company Xerox to invest in commercialization until it was too late.

According to Teece, what separates winners from losers is their ability to access and orchestrate complementary assets and get the timing right.

In order to capture value from innovation, a company needs what he called "dynamic capabilities," including the ability to not only sense opportunities but to seize them too, and transform as necessary.

He cited Apple as an example, saying Apple didn't have a lot of resources in the early days but it put its money in the right place.

When Steve Jobs was ousted from Apple, the company lost focus and reached the point of near collapse. But when Jobs returned, he brought out the iPod as a pathway to the great success of iPhone, noted the UC Berkeley scholar.

"He cut more than 100 different research programs to just a few, including the iPod and focused on building core technological capabilities," said Teece. "This is where dynamic capabilities come in."

Teece said that Jobs focused a lot on the "sensing" and "seizing" activities while aligning the technologies that can enable new product development. He figured out for Apple what he called "the next big thing" (the iPhone), and discarded new product development distractions.

For established firms, embracing new opportunities also requires discarding old businesses, which is never easy, Teece said.

Based on the theory, Teece, who also has over 30 years of experience providing consulting services to businesses and governments around the world, said that while American companies are good at sensing opportunities, the Chinese companies are very good at seizing and mobilizing resources around opportunities.

This is one kind of innovation, and it often is financially very rewarding, he added.

However, the biggest challenge for older Chinese companies is the transformation part, since many of them have established bureaucratic structures that is strict and rigid, which leaves not much room for people lower down in the organization to be innovative, he suggested.

Teece said that he has observed some Chinese companies making great efforts to achieve continuous change, such as Haier, which has built a very decentralized organizational structure that allows them to be flexible and nimble and responsive to changing markets and technologies.

"The Chinese people are very entrepreneurial, and there is great determination to succeed," said Teece. "What they can learn from Silicon Valley is that there are three major components of dynamic capabilities, which is sensing, seizing, and transforming, and they need be good at all three."
Artists from China's Yunan Province perform during the opening ceremony of the 2019 U.S.-China Cultural Tourism Festival in Las Vegas, the United States, May 10, 2019. (Xinhua/Han Fang)

LAS VEGAS, the United States, May 12 (Xinhua) -- The 2019 U.S.-China Cultural Tourism Festival opened Friday in Las Vegas, the U.S. state of Nevada, aiming to expand cultural and tourism exchanges between the two countries.

The three-day festival consists of various themes, including Chinese and American tourist cities, scenic spots, world heritage and intangible cultural heritage.

Flying Tigers veterans (front) attend the opening ceremony of the 2019 U.S.-China Cultural Tourism Festival in Las Vegas, the United States, May 10, 2019. (Xinhua/Han Fang)

It has attracted the attendance of 145 exhibitors from Chinese and American cultural, tourism and handicraft industries, with 65 of them coming from China, according to Las Vegas Committee of Enterprise and Commerce United, organizer of the event.

"Tourism and travel is the vehicle served to promote the cultural exchanges among different countries," said Chinese Consul General in San Francisco Wang Donghua at the opening ceremony.

A visitor selects Terracotta Warrior souvenirs at the 2019 U.S.-China Cultural Tourism Festival in Las Vegas, the United States, May 11, 2019. (Xinhua/Han Fang)

"Strengthening the cooperation in the fields of culture and tourism is very important for deepening the mutual understanding, trust and further expanding China-U.S. exchanges and cooperation," he noted, adding that the festival is of great significance especially when being held on the occasion of the four-decade milestone in U.S.-China diplomatic relations.

Jiang Furong (R), representative inheritor of China's intangible cultural heritage Qiang traditional grass weaving, shows grass weaving products to children at the 2019 U.S.-China Cultural Tourism Festival in Las Vegas, the United States, May 11, 2019. (Xinhua/Han Fang)

Richard Cherchio, a councilman in the City of North Las Vegas, told Xinhua that he expected the event would "draw the two cultures closer together, so we can complement one another and learn from each other."

Richard Cherchio, a councilman in the City of North Las Vegas, addresses the opening ceremony of the 2019 U.S.-China Cultural Tourism Festival in Las Vegas, the United States, May 10, 2019.(Xinhua/Han Fang)




Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-13 03:53:37|Editor: Li Xia

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Kamila Carter, a 13-year-old student of Tierra del Sol Middle School and the youngest speaker at the 2019 National Chinese Language Conference, attends a panel titled "Student Study Abroad Experience: Impact and Best Practices" to share her story of being raised by deaf parents from two different countries and how she crosses U.S.-China barriers in the world of sounds and silence in San Diego, the United States, on May 10, 2019. The annual National Chinese Language Conference is the largest annual gathering in North America that brings together leaders and practitioners in the fields of Chinese language and culture education and U.S.-China education partnership. (Xinhua/Zhao Hanrong)

by Angela Efros

SAN DIEGO, the United States, May 12 (Xinhua) -- A crowd of over 1,300 fell silent as 13-year-old Kamila Carter told her story of being raised by deaf parents from two different countries and how she crosses U.S.-China barriers in the world of sounds and silence.

To communicate with her father, mother and grandmother, Kamila had to learn three different languages. A 7th grade student at Tierra del Sol Middle School, she was the youngest speaker at the 2019 National Chinese Language Conference in San Diego in western U.S. state of California. On a Friday's panel titled "Student Study Abroad Experience: Impact and Best Practices," young Kamila spoke about conquering her fears to travel to China all alone.

The annual National Chinese Language Conference is the largest annual gathering in North America that brings together leaders and practitioners in the fields of Chinese language and culture education and U.S.-China education partnership.

"The mother is from Mexico, she's totally deaf. The father is from the United States, he is totally deaf. He uses the American sign language, and she uses the Mexican Spanish sign language," a mentor and teacher, Lilly Cheng, PhD, director of the Confucius Institute at San Diego State University, told Xinhua.

Kamila talks to her father in American sign language, to her Mother in Spanish and Spanish sign language and to her grandmother in English.

"I can't imagine my life without deaf parents," Kamila told Xinhua. "It was never a burden, but it was this responsibility that I loved having. Interpreting for them, making phone calls... It helped me be more responsible and be the good student that I am."

At the conference, mother, grandmother, and teacher huddled around the young girl, beaming with pride as they each chimed in to talk about her past, present and future. They explained that for Kamila, being able to speak multiple languages was not only necessary, it's also a passion that she shares with her father. Tod Carter loved languages from a young age, despite being unable to hear or speak.

Judy Carter, Kamila's grandmother recollected, "He used to spread out books on the floor - that's what he wanted for his birthday presents, and he would compare languages."

Following in her father's footsteps, Kamila also loved languages as a child, often playing with a favorite toy that spoke in French, Spanish, and English.

"When she was ready to start kindergarten, her dad really wanted her to go into a school that could teach her another language," Judy explained.

The family enrolled Kamila in a Mandarin immersion program at Riverview elementary school, starting her on an exciting path that would eventually lead to China. As her Chinese language skills improved, Kamila was active in participating in contests and programs hosted by the Confucius Institute and other educational groups.

In 5th grade, Kamila competed in the U.S. Southwest Region China Bridge Competition. Out of her love for the deaf community, Kamila performed the song "A Thankful Heart" in Chinese sign language, winning first place.

"I wouldn't be the person I am today without Chinese because it's opened so many doors," Kamila spoke to the audience of conference attendees with a stage presence that far exceeded her age, "I've been able to go to China, I've been able to participate in competitions... meet new people and understand their language, and better understand those people as well."

Despite her composure on stage, Kamila confided in Xinhua how nervous she was to be on a panel with adults, "I was nervous that I wouldn't know what to say. they're so much older than me and already have a job, and I'm just a little student," Kamila said.

As Kamila shared her experiences of traveling to China alone at the age of 12, the audience listened intently and applauded her courage.

Kamila spent a month with a Chinese host family in Shandong province practicing her Chinese and learning about Chinese culture.

"We arranged for her to go to China to learn the Chinese sign language so she could communicate with the deaf people in China." Dr. Cheng explained, glowing with pride in the star pupil. "I have great hopes that she will be a goodwill ambassador... She's a global citizen."

Kamila's mother told Xinhua the experience of saying goodbye to her daughter before she flew to Beijing. Emotion showed in her eyes as she signed to the interpreter, "When we met in LAX (Los Angeles International airport), we cried. We told her we were going to be strong and we weren't going to worry and that everything was going to work out well, and it did."

Members of the audience could be seen tearing up as Kamila spoke about meeting a deaf man in China, "He used Chinese sign language and I only knew American sign language, so it was a little hard to communicate, but I was able to learn so much from him about how he grew up and compare that to how my parents grew up."

Despite her age, young Kamila has experienced aspects of life and communicated with an entire community that most people never will. She inspires all who meet her with hope through her courage to travel to China alone, and her drive to reach across borders to communicate in China with those who can hear and those who can not, building bridges and developing harmonious international relationships.

Kamila told Xinhua that she'd like to use her language ability to reach the deaf community in China, "That's definitely something that's going to be part of my plan. I want to make things a little easier for them, cause I know they don't have it easy, but that doesn't mean that they cannot do amazing things, cause my parents have shown me that nothing can stop you from achieving great and wonderful things, and they've always encouraged me to work hard and do whatever I can. Since I've had my parents help with that, I want to help other people to do the same."

Kamila will continue her multicultural adventures by being the only American to compete in a Chinese traditional Abacus competition in Malaysia later this month. Her advice for other students thinking about going abroad is to face their fears and take a chance, "Go for it, because you never know what could happen."
Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-13 03:58:39|Editor: ZX

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CAIRO, May 12 (Xinhua) -- Egypt's armed forces launched on Sunday the second home-made Gowind-class corvette as part of a 2014 contract with France to upgrade the country's marine fleet.

The Egyptian army said in a statement that the warship, named al-Moez, is manufactured by the army's Alexandria Shipyard Company in cooperation with France's state-owned shipbuilder Naval Group.

French Consul General in Alexandria Janina Herrera hailed deeply-rooted cooperation between France and Egypt, expressing hope that such ties would help boost their strategic partnership, Egypt's official MENA news agency reported.

The corvette frigate is part of a deal worth 1 billion euros (1.12 billion U.S. dollars) signed with France in 2014 to provide four naval frigates for the Egyptian naval forces.

Egypt received the first corvette frigate manufactured by the French company in September 2017 and built the second in September last year.

The multi-mission corvette is designed for surveillance as well as surface and subsurface combat. It can also perform monitoring and policing missions.

In recent years, Egypt has signed deals worth multi-billion dollars with a number of European countries to boost its military capabilities amid regional turmoil and conflicts.
Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-13 04:18:46|Editor: Mu Xuequan

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ALGIERS, May 12 (Xinhua) -- The Algerian army arrested 95 illegal immigrants in various operations, the defense ministry said Sunday.

Algeria's coast guards in Oran Province, 400 km northwest of the capital Algiers, foiled an attempt to illegally smuggle 18 people on a boat, according to a ministry statement.

In another operation, the army arrested 63 illegal immigrants of different nationalities in the province of Tlemcen in the far northwest of the country, on the borders with neighboring Morocco.

The army also arrested 14 illegal immigrants in the province of Tamanrasset in far southern Algeria.

Illegal immigration by sea has become a problem for the Algerian authorities as a huge number of local and foreign people have been arrested aboard makeshift boats attempting to cross the Mediterranean Sea for a better life.
Kamila Carter, student of Tierra del Sol Middle School in the plenary session of Student Study Abroad Experience: Impact and Best Practices at the 12th Annual National Chinese Language Conference in San Diego, the United States, on Friday, May 10, 2019. (Xinhua/Zhao Hanrong)

by Angela Efros

SAN DIEGO, the United States, May 12 (Xinhua) -- A crowd of over 1,300 fell silent as 13-year-old Kamila Carter told her story of being raised by deaf parents from two different countries and how she crosses U.S.-China barriers in the world of sounds and silence.

To communicate with her father, mother and grandmother, Kamila had to learn three different languages. A 7th grade student at Tierra del Sol Middle School, she was the youngest speaker at the 2019 National Chinese Language Conference in San Diego in western U.S. state of California. On a Friday's panel titled "Student Study Abroad Experience: Impact and Best Practices," young Kamila spoke about conquering her fears to travel to China all alone.

The annual National Chinese Language Conference is the largest annual gathering in North America that brings together leaders and practitioners in the fields of Chinese language and culture education and U.S.-China education partnership.

"The mother is from Mexico, she's totally deaf. The father is from the United States, he is totally deaf. He uses the American sign language, and she uses the Mexican Spanish sign language," a mentor and teacher, Lilly Cheng, PhD, director of the Confucius Institute at San Diego State University, told Xinhua.

Kamila talks to her father in American sign language, to her Mother in Spanish and Spanish sign language and to her grandmother in English.

"I can't imagine my life without deaf parents," Kamila told Xinhua. "It was never a burden, but it was this responsibility that I loved having. Interpreting for them, making phone calls... It helped me be more responsible and be the good student that I am."

Kamila Carter (3rd R), student of Tierra del Sol Middle School in the plenary session of Student Study Abroad Experience: Impact and Best Practices at the 12th Annual National Chinese Language Conference in San Diego, the United States, on Friday, May 10, 2019. (Xinhua/Zhao Hanrong)

At the conference, mother, grandmother, and teacher huddled around the young girl, beaming with pride as they each chimed in to talk about her past, present and future. They explained that for Kamila, being able to speak multiple languages was not only necessary, it's also a passion that she shares with her father. Tod Carter loved languages from a young age, despite being unable to hear or speak.

Judy Carter, Kamila's grandmother recollected, "He used to spread out books on the floor - that's what he wanted for his birthday presents, and he would compare languages."

Following in her father's footsteps, Kamila also loved languages as a child, often playing with a favorite toy that spoke in French, Spanish, and English.

"When she was ready to start kindergarten, her dad really wanted her to go into a school that could teach her another language," Judy explained.

The family enrolled Kamila in a Mandarin immersion program at Riverview elementary school, starting her on an exciting path that would eventually lead to China. As her Chinese language skills improved, Kamila was active in participating in contests and programs hosted by the Confucius Institute and other educational groups.

In 5th grade, Kamila competed in the U.S. Southwest Region China Bridge Competition. Out of her love for the deaf community, Kamila performed the song "A Thankful Heart" in Chinese sign language, winning first place.

"I wouldn't be the person I am today without Chinese because it's opened so many doors," Kamila spoke to the audience of conference attendees with a stage presence that far exceeded her age, "I've been able to go to China, I've been able to participate in competitions... meet new people and understand their language, and better understand those people as well."

Kamila Carter (R), student of Tierra del Sol Middle School in the plenary session of Student Study Abroad Experience: Impact and Best Practices at the 12th Annual National Chinese Language Conference in San Diego, the United States, on Friday, May 10, 2019. (Xinhua/Zhao Hanrong)

Despite her composure on stage, Kamila confided in Xinhua how nervous she was to be on a panel with adults, "I was nervous that I wouldn't know what to say. they're so much older than me and already have a job, and I'm just a little student," Kamila said.

As Kamila shared her experiences of traveling to China alone at the age of 12, the audience listened intently and applauded her courage.

Kamila spent a month with a Chinese host family in Shandong province practicing her Chinese and learning about Chinese culture.

"We arranged for her to go to China to learn the Chinese sign language so she could communicate with the deaf people in China." Dr. Cheng explained, glowing with pride in the star pupil. "I have great hopes that she will be a goodwill ambassador... She's a global citizen."

Kamila's mother told Xinhua the experience of saying goodbye to her daughter before she flew to Beijing. Emotion showed in her eyes as she signed to the interpreter, "When we met in LAX (Los Angeles International airport), we cried. We told her we were going to be strong and we weren't going to worry and that everything was going to work out well, and it did."

Members of the audience could be seen tearing up as Kamila spoke about meeting a deaf man in China, "He used Chinese sign language and I only knew American sign language, so it was a little hard to communicate, but I was able to learn so much from him about how he grew up and compare that to how my parents grew up."

Despite her age, young Kamila has experienced aspects of life and communicated with an entire community that most people never will. She inspires all who meet her with hope through her courage to travel to China alone, and her drive to reach across borders to communicate in China with those who can hear and those who can not, building bridges and developing harmonious international relationships.

Kamila told Xinhua that she'd like to use her language ability to reach the deaf community in China, "That's definitely something that's going to be part of my plan. I want to make things a little easier for them, cause I know they don't have it easy, but that doesn't mean that they cannot do amazing things, cause my parents have shown me that nothing can stop you from achieving great and wonderful things, and they've always encouraged me to work hard and do whatever I can. Since I've had my parents help with that, I want to help other people to do the same."

Kamila will continue her multicultural adventures by being the only American to compete in a Chinese traditional Abacus competition in Malaysia later this month. Her advice for other students thinking about going abroad is to face their fears and take a chance, "Go for it, because you never know what could happen."
Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-13 05:08:58|Editor: ZX

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Actresses perform ancient Greek dance during celebrations of the Flower Festival in Paphos, Cyprus, on May 12, 2019. Thousands of people participated in the annual Flower Festival of Paphos here on Sunday. (Xinhua/Zhang Baoping)

NICOSIA, May 12 (Xinhua) -- Thousands of people participated in the annual Flowers Festival of Paphos, an event that has been organized for over a century in the city.

People holding bunches of flowers marched to the tunes of the Paphos Philharmonic Orchestra to the town hall square where they watched a program of singing and acting.

Paphos Mayor Phedon Phedonos pointing out that the Flower Festival, which has been organized by the city continuously for 104 years, dedicated this year's event to the mothers, on the occasion of Mather's Day.

In the minds of most people, the flower festival is connected to May, when all the flowers are in full bloom, and is an event to celebrate spring at its peak.

But as the marshal of the event noted, the Flower Festival, or Athesteria in Greek, literally meaning celebration of flowers, was organized in classical Athens, and many other city-states, in honor of god Dionysos, who was considered to be the god of spring and the re-birth of nature, merriment and wine.

For this reason, Dionysos was the god people loved most, as made manifest by the many Dionysian Feasts held in his honor.

In ancient Paphos, Anthesteria was particularly related to celebrations in honor of the goddess of love, Aphrodite, who according to myth was born from the foam of the sea not far from the city.

During these celebrations, the maids of the city, adorned with flowers, walked several kilometers from Paphos to the temple of Aphrodite at Palaipaphos (old Paphos).

Young girls paraded on floats decorated with flowers through the streets of the city. That was also the way Panayiotis Panayides, a local man who spoke to Xinhua, remembers Athesteria.

"It is a nice tradition, celebrating May, celebrating flowers. It is a way for people to show their love for flowers. In older times there was a parade of flowers, but in modern years the event has been enriched with ballet shows, music, concerts, the Symphonic Orchestra of Paphos playing...," he said.

True to ancient tradition, the entrance of Dionysos in the town hall square was enacted by the members of a theater group, who performed the three basic stages of the ancient Dionysian Feast.

A singing group followed with songs about flowers, spring and love.
Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-13 05:14:02|Editor: Mu Xuequan

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RIYADH, May 12 (Xinhua) -- Saudi Arabia has offered a grant of 10 million U.S. dollars to Mauritius to help the hurricane victims in the African island nation, the Arab News daily reported Sunday.

The grant was handed in the capital Riyadh by Abdullah Al-Rabeeah, supervisor-general of King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre (KSRelief) to Shaukat Ali Soudhan, the visiting president of the ruling party of Mauritius, in order to help establish a rapid response system against a natural disaster in Mauritius.

According to Al-Rabeeah, the grant will also be used to help reduce the suffering of the Mauritians affected by the hurricane.

Both sides also signed a deal to distribute 50 tons of dates in Mauritius.
Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-13 06:24:19|Editor: Mu Xuequan

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VILNIUS, May 13 (Xinhua) -- Economist Gitanas Nauseda and former Lithuania's finance minister Ingrida Simonyte head to the presidential runoff in two weeks after Sunday's ballot, preliminary results announced by the country's Central Electoral Commission (VRK) showed early morning on Monday.

According to the VRK data after votes in 1,630 polling stations out of the total 1,972 stations counted, Nauseda lead the race with 31.2 percent of voters' support, while Simonyte ranked second with 27.1 percent.

Incumbent Prime Minister Saulius Skvernelis received 22.2 percent of the votes and admitted defeat.
Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-13 06:39:24|Editor: ZX

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VILNIUS, May 13 (Xinhua) -- Economist Gitanas Nauseda and former Lithuania's finance minister Ingrida Simonyte head to the presidential runoff in two weeks after Sunday's ballot, preliminary results announced by the country's Central Electoral Commission (VRK) showed early morning on Monday.

According to the VRK data after votes in 1630 polling stations out of the total 1972 stations counted, Nauseda lead the race with 31.2 percent of voters' support, while Simonyte ranked second with 27.1 percent.

Incumbent Prime Minister Saulius Skvernelis received 22.2 percent of the votes and admitted defeat.

Presidential frontrunner, independent candidate Nauseda expressed his gratitude to supporters.

"At the moment, the trend is obviously good. I would like to thank all the people who supported us, who accepted the message that we have sent to the society. Indeed, we want to create a state of welfare in Lithuania, we seek for more political peace, decision making in our country rather than pointless hustle," Nauseda told supporters at his election headquarters.

Simonyte, backed by Lithuania's main right-wing party Homeland Union, stated that the theory about two right wing candidates in the second round of the elections has materialized.

"It seems this scenario will happen in the second round. Thank you all for your votes. Two weeks of hard work is ahead of us," Simonyte told journalists at her election headquarters Sunday night.

Earlier on election night, PM Skvernelis, who was backed in the election by the ruling Lithuania's Farmers and Greens Union, repeatedly pledged he would quit from the office if the vote was unsuccessful.

"If I don't make it to the second round, I will resign. These are not empty words," Skvernelis told supporters.

On Sunday, Lithuania also held two binding referendums, on dual citizenship and downsizing the country's parliament. The outcome of both referendums is due on Monday morning.

The second round of the presidential elections scheduled for May 26, when European Parliament elections are also due to be held.
Accident intre Turda si Campia Turzii (UPDATE)

Un accident grav s-a produs in aceasta seara intre Turda si Campia Turzii. Conform unor informatii de la fata locului, ar fi vorba despre o depasire riscanta urmata de accidentarea unui pieton.... Acesta este doar un sumar al stirilor. Vizitati siteul nostru pentru mai multe stiri complete! [citeste mai departe]
On May 12, representatives of illegal armed groups conducted eleven attacks at the positions of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. There are no losses among our servicemen, the press service of the Joint Forces Operation (JFO) headquarters reports. Thus, in the Donetsk sector, the enemy fired at the positions of our soldiers near Hnutove, Kamyanka, Novotroitsk, Bohdanivka, Avdiivka, and Starohnativka.In the Luhansk sector, the militants fired near Krymske, Zaitseve, and Novotoshkivske.The headquarters noted that the illegal armed groups fired from mortars of 120 mm caliber, grenade launchers of various systems, large-caliber machine guns, and small arms."There are no losses among the servicemen of the Joint forces ... The losses of the enemy are being specified," the report said.

Earlier, oarding groups 73 of the maritime center of a special purpose of the Special Operations Forces of the Ukrainian Armed Forces Command were training capturing of ships in the open sea. The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reported this on Facebook.

According to the report, the groups were withdrawn by air from various heights by the Kanat system and by water on high-speed boats during the training of capturing of the vessel.

The hypothetical enemy was seized and destroyed in the prisons and on the deck under close combat conditions, the report added.
According to the surveillance, one occupant was killed and two more were wounded

Russian occupants violated the ceasefire regime 11 times, including using the Minsk-banned weaponry, in Donbas combat zone. Two Ukrainian soldiers were wounded, as a result of the attack. The Joint Forces Operation (JFO) HQ reported this on Facebook.

The Russian-backed militants violated the ceasefire regime 11 times, and they used five times the Minsk-banned weaponry, including 120 mm, and 82 mm mortars, the report.

The enemy fired the Ukrainian positions with the grenade launchers of various systems, heavy machine guns, and small arms.

In Donetsk region, the occupant fired seven times near Opytne, Avdiivka, Pisky, Kharchovyck and Mariinka settlements.

In Luhansk region, the enemy opened fire four times near Novooleksandrivka, Zolote-4, and Zaytseve villages.

Two servicemen of the Armed Forces of Ukraine were wounded as a result of the attack.

The soldiers of the Joint Forces operation stopped the fire by opening fire as well. According to the surveillance, one occupant was killed and two more were wounded.
No casualties of the Joint Forces operation have been registered

Open source

The Russia-backed militants violated the ceasefire regime in the Donbas conflict zone three times today, May 12. Spokesperson of the Ministry of Defense Maksym Prauta stated this during the session, as the press service of the Joint Forces Operation (JFO) HQ posted on Facebook.

In Luhansk region, the enemy used 10 shells of 120 mm caliber from Sokilnyky settlement at the positions of the Joint Forces operation near Krymske village at 5:00 a.m. In Donetsk region, the occupants fired with automatic easel and manual anti-tank grenade launchers and small arms from Verkhnioshyrokivske village at servicemen of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, who were performing their duties near Hnutove settlement at 3:00 a.m. The enemy opened fire with the automatic grenade launchers near Kamyanka village at 10:00 a.m., the report said.

According to the report, no casualties of the Ukrainian side have been registered.

Earlier, Russian occupants violated the ceasefire regime 11 times, including the Minsk-banned weaponry, in Donbas combat zone on May 11. Two Ukrainian soldiers were wounded as a result of the attack.

The enemy fired the Ukrainian positions with the grenade launchers of various systems, heavy machine guns, and small arms.
Russian-backed militants do not fulfill their obligations to divert heavy weapons along the entire demarcation line of the parties in the Donbas combat zone. The press service of Joint Forces operation reported this.

The Ukrainian party of the joint center for monitoring and coordination on the cease-fire regime and stabilization of the demarcation reports that the armed forces of the Russian Federation are concentrating dozens of tanks, howitzers and anti-aircraft missile systems, which are located in the lines and permanent storage sites with violations, the report said.

According to the air surveillance data, the presence of 14 multiple-launch rocket systems was detected at the so-called test field near the town of Miusinsk. OSCE representatives also found 12 tanks near Shymshynivka settlement, 12 tanks, 7 self-propelled howitzers, and 13 towed howitzers, as well as 3 anti-aircraft missile systems near Miusinsk, and 24 tanks near the village of Kruhlyk.

Besides, on May 7, the OSCE mission spotted at least 5 T-72 tanks at a test field near Pokrovka village (east of Donetsk), the report added.

As we reported earlier, Russian occupants violated the ceasefire regime 11 times, using the Minsk-banned weaponry, in the Donbas combat zone. Two Ukrainian soldiers were wounded, as a result of the attack.

The enemy fired the Ukrainian positions with the grenade launchers of various systems, heavy machine guns, and small arms.
Thus, tariffs will cover all imports from China

Donald Trump, the President of the U.S.

If you find an error, highlight the desired text and press Ctrl + Enter, to tell about it
The Pentagons last statement on Friday said only that Washington is ready to protect U.S. forces and interests in the region, adding that the United States does not seek conflict with Iran.Tehran called the deployment of the U.S. Navy a "psychological warfare" aimed at intimidating the country.Iran also hinted that it would resume nuclear enrichment activities.We recall that in neighboring Iraq about 5 200 U.S. troops are currently deployed.Earlier, it became known that Iran refused to negotiate with the United States. It was also reported that Iran waived a number of obligations under the nuclear deal.
The annual march is intended to draw public attention to the issues of mothers of fallen soldiers, large families, and mothers with children with cancer

Open source Open source

This morning, the annual Mothers' Procession, dedicated to the Mother's Day celebration, began in Kyiv. According to Ukrinform, about 300 people took part in it, most of whom are mothers of fallen soldiers.



During the procession, everyone could sign the postcard "Warm words to the hero's mother."



The procession began on Mykhailivska Square, then the participants went to the St. Volodymyr's Cathedral.



Related: Ukrainian radio stations in Crimea jammed by Russian ones, - human rights activists



Earlier we reported about mothers of convicted in Russia Ukrainian Stanislav Klykh and detained near Luhansk Russian Viktor Ageev pleaded the presidents of Russia and Ukraine to pardon their sons and release them, as Novaya gazeta informs.

We are the mothers of our children Stanislav Klykh and Viktor Ageev. With the greatest respect towards our governments, of the Russian Federation and Ukraine, we plead and beg you to release and pardon our children, who are in captivity, and, like Stanislav, in prison, where he has spent the last three years, Tamara Klykh said.

She says she hasnt heard anything about her son in the last six months.

I would like you, Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin, and our Ukrainian president, Petro Oleksiyovych Poroshenko, to solve this issue. I believe, its in your power to do this: send our children back home, pardon them and stop the war, Klykh added.

Svitlana Ageeva phrased her agreement and called for the wars end.
Open source

The signal of seven Ukrainian radio stations in 20 settlements in the north Crimea is completely or partially jammed by a signal of Russian radio stations. This is evidenced by the Crimean Human Rights Group, conducted in March-April 2019.



In the course of the monitoring, specialists checked 13 frequencies of seven Ukrainian radio stations, which received permission from the National TV and Radio Company to broadcast in the North Crimea from the Chongar and Chaplynka villages controlled by Ukraine.



"The monitoring is organized with the help of car stereos in the settlements of North Crimea, located near the checkpoint Chaplynka," Crimean Human Rights Group reported.



The checking was carried out in 20 settlements.



Earlier, providers in Crimea completely blocked 12 Ukrainian information websites.

Related: Ukrainian Armed Forces carry out trainings on capturing of vessels in open sea

As we reported, the Ukrainian media that broadcast to the occupied territories of Donetsk and Luhansk regions, as well as to the territory of the annexed Crimea, would conduct 75% of their broadcasting in the Ukrainian language. The member of the National Council of Ukraine on TV and Radio Broadcasting Serhiy Kostinsky told about it.

Also, the volume of Ukrainian-language broadcasting content on TV became 98% after language quotas were adopted that is 23% more than the established quotas required.

In accordance with the law "On Amending Certain Laws of Ukraine on the Language of Audiovisual (Electronic) Media," all TV channels are required to observe a quota of 75% of Ukrainian-language broadcasts during the week between next hours 07:00 -18:00 and 18:00-22:00 on nationwide TV channels. For regional TV channels, the quota is reduced to 60%, although in the first reading this figure ever reached 50%. But this was not applied to news.
Epifaniy has expressed the hope that his first meeting with the President-elect would form the basis for further cooperation between the church and the state

Superior of Orthodox Church of Ukraine Metropolitan Epifaniy told journalists about his impression and the topics of conversation during the meeting with the newly elected President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky. Epifaniy wrote this information on Facebook.

we have discussed the ways of fighting corruption and poverty, Epifaniy wrote.

The Metropolitan pointed out that Volodymyr Zelensky made a positive impression on him.

He has stressed that the church is the spiritual foundation of the Ukrainian state, especially during times of war for Ukraine.

Epifaniy expressed the hope that his first meeting with the President-elect would form the basis for further cooperation between the church and the state.

As we reported earlier, President-elect Volodymyr Zelensky and the superior of Orthodox Church of Ukraine Metropolitan met in Kyiv. The press office of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine reported that on Facebook April 30.

Zelensky and Epifaniy met at the Golden-Domed Monastery in the Ukrainian capital.
Rudy Giuliani would never be able to get an approval of the Congress with his international clients, whom he refuses to name, according to Aslund

Anders Aslund, an analyst at the Atlantic Council's American Center, said that Trump's attorney Rudolph Giuliani played an important role in withdrawing US Ambassador to Ukraine Marie Yovanovitch. Aslund stated this in the interview with The voice of America.

Rudy Giuliani with the help of various intrigues demanded the release of a perfect ambassador to Ukraine Marie Yovanovitch in just two weeks, what makes me outraged," said Aslund.

According to the analyst, Giuliani does not occupy a government post in the USA but is a private lawyer.

Rudy Giuliani would never be able to get an approval of the Congress with his international clients, whom he refuses to name, Aslund added.

As we reported earlier, personal Trumps attorney Rudy Giuliani canceled the planned trip to Ukraine and the meeting with Volodymyr Zelensky.

The reason for this decision was withering attacks accusing the attorney of seeking foreign assistance for President Trumps re-election campaign in 2020 after he announced the visit.
The training is carried out in the framework of VBSS

Boarding groups 73 of the maritime center of a special purpose of the Special Operations Forces of the Ukrainian Armed Forces Command are training capturing of ships in the open sea. The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reported this on Facebook.

According to the report, the groups were withdrawn by air from various heights by the Kanat system and by water on high-speed boats during the training of capturing of the vessel.

The hypothetical enemy was seized and destroyed in the prisons and on the deck under close combat conditions, the report added.

"In the holds and on the deck, a conditional enemy was detained and destroyed in the conditions of close combat," the General Staff added.

As we reported earlier, Canada extended the UNIFER, the Canadian Armed Forces military training mission in Ukraine, till the end of March 2022.

Operation UNIFIER supports Ukraines broader reform agenda and contributes to current Canadian efforts that invest in democracy, human rights, and the rule of law in Ukraine.
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.
Franny Choi

Name the impossible

by Keith Taylor

From the May, 2019 issue

Each section of Franny Choi's first collection of poems, Soft Science, begins with a poem labeled a "Turing Test." Alan Turing devised his test early in the search for artificial intelligence as a way to evaluate when machines might achieve independent abilities with language use and, perhaps, consciousness.



The test is a perfect metaphor for the two thematic concerns that shape this powerful book: identity (in Choi's case, Asian American and queer) and the demands and restrictions of language. In her very first "Turing Test" poem, an interviewer asks "why do you insist on lying?" The cyborg--a "persona" who recurs throughout the book and who may or may not be the poet--responds: "I'm an open book / you can rifle through my pages / undress me anywhere / you can read / anything you want / this is how it happened / I was made far away / & born here."



Choi's poems encompass fruitful differences. She is fascinated by the formal nature of language (one poem is titled "Conjugation"), but her talent is also shaped and sustained by her involvement in the community of performance poets. When Choi reads/performs her work, even very difficult poems feel accessible. In the book, that accessibility might be seen most clearly in several poems that read like stories.



I was most interested in a series of prose poems near the end called "Perihelion: A History of Touch." Based on the Native American names for the full moon, they combine science, history, and a deeply personal search for what it might mean to be both woman and queer. The first one is "Wolf Moon,"

No moon in sight, so I howled at the exit sign instead. Red runes, electric. Telling an old story of escape, of wind, a wide cold. A distant car alarm. Otherwise: the dark, and our bodies, two strange women trying to touch each other. Breathing strange. Moving toward and away from each other as the red ghost in the sky opened, called us gone, showed us the door to another world. Otherwise, the dark, and our mouths, tearing at what bones we found, grinning and hungry for something--something we couldn't, with all our words, name.

This effort to name the impossible marks Franny Choi as one of our most ambitious young poets--and one who gives me the most hope.Choi reads at Literati Bookstore Tuesday, May 14. [Originally published in May, 2019.]
Those of you who read what I write know what I have written about the political conundrum in Malaysia these last many months. You know I have written not...
After four years in operation, DDAs in most districts are not working, and development has almost totally ceased.

Governors and provincial governments are the big losers from prime minister Peter ONeills introduction of DDAs in 2014.

In fact they are impeding development because of unnecessary duplications of effort, conflicts of interest, a crippling lack of capacity and rampant political interference.

The authorities were meant to bring development decisions and implementation down to the district level but they have done no such thing.

PORT MORESBY - The failure of District Development Authorities (DDAs) to function as intended is causing a looming development crisis in most of Papua New Guineas provinces.

DDAs have been exposed as nothing more than a deceitful trick by Mr ONeill to build support from politicians in Open electorates at the expense of governors and provincial governments. Governors need to increase their efforts to protect their provinces from further failure of service delivery and development.

Some governors have taken court action concerning the constitutionality of DDAs, but that is unlikely to be enough. Even if they win, Mr ONeill is just as likely to ignore the decision, as he had done so often in the past.

What is required is a united front to restore the powers of governors and provincial governments and to resume rural development and rural service delivery.

There is no better time than now to protect the mandate that governors have and to prevent the destruction of the provincial government system. Papua New Guinea cannot afford to have that system undermined.

The only way forward for governors and provincial governments is to remove the prime minister now, while there is still an opportunity.

When the Constitution was drawn up, PNGs founding fathers regarded three tiers  national, provincial and local - as the appropriate way to decentralise power, finances, decision-making and implementation.

That system remains appropriate today, and the failure of DDAs demonstrates that.

There are some flaws in the three-tier system that need to be rectified. For example governors need to involve all their open members in setting priorities for development funding.

The present system allows for funding and project imbalances to occur. The solution is to require governors and open members by law to cooperate on development funding to ensure it is distributed fairly and effectively.

The new four-tier system is unworkable. Mr ONeill has carefully tailored the District Development Authority Act to suit his own personal purposes. It lacks any meaningful accountability and transparency measures. It is vague and full of deliberate loopholes.

What it amounts to is an open invitation to the abuse, waste and mismanagement that characterises Mr ONeills regime. The cost over time is likely to be enormous considering the opportunities for an explosion of salaries and entitlements, consultants, advisers, specialists and all the rest of the skills that districts lack.

The opportunities for political interference are many and varied  through control of funding to both provincial and district administrations, through control of appointments, and through ministerial control of virtually every aspect of DDA operations.

The DDA Act is designed to further consolidate control of the nations political and financial powers in the hands of Mr ONeill, and to bypass or pervert all the inbuilt safeguards in proper process. It lacks any semblance of accountability and transparency.

The only consequence can be further erosion of development and service delivery in rural areas and a further decline in rural living standards.

Our founding fathers, in setting up the three-tier system of government, wanted to ensure genuine and cost-effective decentralisation so that rural PNG remained a satisfying and rewarding home for the bulk of the population.

Now one man wants to sacrifice rural development and service delivery so he can extend his personal control over power and money. He must be removed.
These are Australia's largest political donors. Image: Getty

Political campaigns have taken over Australias airways, billboards, newspapers and radio stations.

Flyers have been printed, and shirts too.

But how do Australias political parties afford to do this?

Political funding in Australia comes from a range of sources, including public funding and political donations.

To reduce the impact of private money on elections and policy, political parties in Australia are publicly funded.

But while individual people, organisations and companies cant fund a political party, they can donate. And some of those donations are huge.

According to the Australian Electoral Commission, the largest single political donor in 2017-18 was the Victorian branch of the Electrical Trades Union of Australia which donated a whopping $651,900 to the Victorian branch of the Australian Labor Party.

The Victorian branch of the Electrical Trades Union of Australia also donated $450,000 to the national Australian Labor Party.

This donation, however, was outshone by a massive $599,860 donation from Professor Chilla Bulbeck to the Western Australian branch of The Greens. Professor Bulbeck, the convener of the WA Greens, donated the money from a hefty inheritance she received from her father.

The Michael Crouch Foundation donated $350,000 to the Liberal Party of Australia.

These were Australias 20 largest political donations in 2017-18

Source: Australian Electoral Commission

Political parties are not allowed to receive donations of more than $1,000 from foreign donors, and political parties at the federal level must report donations of more than $13,200.

Individuals making political donations can claim a tax deduction of up to $1,500 in any given income year, as long as they are not donating in a political capacity.

But theres more to the story

According to Lindy Edwards, a senior lecturer in politics at the University of New South Wales, theres much more to the donation story.

In a piece for The Conversation, Edwards noted that in the last 10 years, the major parties have only disclosed 10-20 per cent of their incomes as donations.

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It looks like this:

Liberal Party private income, 2016-17

Source: Australian Electoral Commission

Over this period, total private income was $43.3 million.

Labor Party private income, 2016-17

Source: Australian Electoral Commission

And for the Labor Party, total private income over this period was $38.9 million.

Political parties in Australia at the federal level only have to disclose payments of more than A$13,200. They are requested  but not required  to distinguish between donations and other receipts, Edwards explained.

There are no caps on how much people can give, or who can give. And the disclosures are only released annually, in February each year, with no more than a name and address attached.

It means the value of political donations are often much higher than those recorded, as theyre classed as other receipts, which also classes proceeds from property sales, union fees and share dividends.

In fact, a 2008 study published in the Australian Journal of Political Science suggested all other receipts should be considered donations.

Political parties may also class tickets from fundraising dinners as other receipts, further skewing the reports.

The annual ... festival of lampooning the largest visible donor lulls Australians into a false sense of security that there is a functioning political donations disclosure regime in place, Edwards warned.

Few realise how ineffective our political donations disclosure regime is, and how badly it is in need of reform.

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Baby Archie is one week old. Photo: Getty

The Duchess of Sussex has shared a new photo of her baby son Archie, to celebrate her first Mothers Day.

Meghan posted a candid image on the @SussexRoyal Instagram account, of her holding her baby boy in her arms, wrapped in a shawl, showing just his feet and her hands holding them.

Believed to have been taken within the grounds of their new home Frogmore Cottage in Windsor, it also features Princess Dianas favourite forget-me-nots flowers in the background.

Meghans bridal bouquet for her wedding last May also included the same flowers, in another sweet tribute to Harrys late mother.

The Instagram caption read: Paying tribute to all mothers today - past, present, mothers-to-be, and those lost but forever remembered. We honor and celebrate each and every one of you.

This is the first Mothers Day for The Duchess of Sussex.

The American spelling of the word honour, suggests it could have been Meghan herself who wrote the post.

While Sunday was Mothers Day in Australia and a host of other countries including the US, New Zealand and Canada, the UK wont celebrate it again until 22 March next year.

The post also included a quote from a poem called Lands by Nayyirah Waheed: My mother was my first country; the first place I ever lived.

Sunday was Meghan's first Mother's Day, and she marked it by sharing a photo of her new so. Photo: Getty

Meghan, 37, gave birth to son Archie Harrison Mountbatten Windsor at 05:26 on May 6, 2019 with husband Harry, 34, by her side.

The couple set up their own Instagram page on April 2, and it broke a world record by gaining one million followers within the first six hours of its launch.

At the time, royal watchers predicted that the first image of Baby Sussex would appear on social media, however the couple opted for a photocall in Windsor Castle instead.

Buckingham Palace announced the couple wanted to keep details around the birth of their first child private so they could enjoy some time with their newborn before showing him off to the world during a brief photo call last Wednesday.

Story continues

But like any modern couple, they shared the news that their baby was a boy on their social media channel.

The traditional birth notice was also placed on the ceremonial easel outside Buckingham Palace on the day of his birth.

The couples immediate families were informed and Meghans mother Doria Ragland was overjoyed by the birth of her first grandchild.

Doria has been staying with her daughter Meghan and Harry at Frogmore Cottage in Windsor.

Archie is seventh in line to throne and is the Queens eighth great-grandchild.

Harry broke his paternity leave last Thursday to visit The Hague in the Netherlands to launch the countdown to the 2020 Invictus Games.

He also has a day of engagements in Oxford on Tuesday 14 May.

Words by Danielle Stacey

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A Brisbane man accused of trying to kill a police officer with a pair of scissors has been arrested after neighbours complained of being terrorised.

The man is facing an attempted murder charge after allegedly stabbing an officer in the neck at an Inala shopping centre on Sunday afternoon.

A second officer tasered him, but he fled, sparking a major man hunt.

A man will appear in Richlands Magistrates Court after allegedly stabbing a police officer with scissors. Source: Google Maps

Police arrested him after residents of a nearby house called Triple 0 to say a man armed with a shovel had threatened them while trying to steal a car.

The alleged offender was tasered again and arrested.

The 29-year-old will front the Richlands Magistrates Court on Monday, charged with attempted murder, trespass, entering a dwelling with intent, armed robbery, attempted armed robbery and obstructing police.

The officer is recovering in hospital. The occupants of the house were not injured.

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A teenager who has been on her own since she was 14 was overwhelmed when her local community banded together to give her a little helping hand in life.

Asria Canada, 18, was gifted a brand-new car donated by members of her community following a lifetime of hardship.

The high school student told Yahoo Lifestyle the gift was extra special after she was born into poverty and her family struggled to keep food on the table and a roof over our heads.

Ms Canada, from New Port Richey in Florida, said 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.

Asria Canada with her new car. Source: Supplied

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.

Ms Canada got a job as soon as she turned 16, she told ABC 10.

She has been working ever since toward getting her own apartment and being self-sufficient.

After graduating from River Ridge High School in New Port Richey later this year, she plans to go to college, but paying tuition could present another obstacle.

Ms Canada decided to turn to Marjories Hope, a charitable organisation that works to build a strong foundation for children in the community by helping to provide tangible things that are necessary for success.

The non-profit, which Ms Canada learned about from her career specialist, decided that a means of transportation for the college-bound teen would be crucial  but they kept their plan a secret from her.

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, Ms Canada told Yahoo Lifestyle.

Teen touches hearts

Unbeknownst to the teen, a few of her teachers were recruited to carry out the surprise.

Story continues

Ms Peterson was in on it asking me how I get to school everyday, she said.

Ms McConnell asked my class if we had our IDs or driving licences to see if I would even be able to drive the car.

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 Ms Canada.

The moment Ms Canada was presented with the car. Source: ABC Action News

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, the teen revealed.

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.

Debi Shackowsky, from Marjories Hope, said Ms Canadas story had touched our hearts.

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.

Ms Shackowsky said the organisation also gave Canada a scholarship worth US$2,000 (AU$2,800).

Ms Canada hopes to get accepted to university to complete a degree in atmospheric science and eventually become a meteorologist.

You will be able to succeed, the teen said.

As long as you try.

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A three-and-a-half-metre tiger shark caught off Sydney was among dozens of sharks intercepted in a trial of high-tech drumlines off NSW in recent months.

The huge shark was snagged in the Palm Beach-Newport area during the recently completed 90-day trial, while a two-and-a-half-metre tiger shark was caught around Dee Why-Manly.

Fourteen sharks were caught in trials of the SMART drumlines off Sydney beaches, according to data released by Agriculture Minister Adam Marshall on Sunday.

Elsewhere more than 40 sharks were snagged on the NSW south and north coasts, and at Newcastle.

Species caught included great white sharks, bronze whalers, grey nurse and bull sharks among others.

A three-and-a-half-metre tiger shark caught off Sydney. Source: Getty Images

The satellite-linked drumlines were set near existing shark nets and alerted boat crews, who tagged and released sharks when caught.

Mr Marshall said the drumlines were a success and helped to reduce shark incidents at beaches.

"The beauty of this technology is that it not only prevents shark encounters but also allows scientists to monitor the tagged sharks and learn more about their behaviour," Mr Marshall said in a statement.

The Department of Primary Industries will analyse the results before deciding on further steps, the statement said.

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A man has been charged with trying to abduct a woman outside a central Queensland pub.

The 21-year-old man asked the woman for directions as she was standing outside a hotel in North Rockhampton on Monday about 12.15am.

He then allegedly put her in a headlock and dragged her towards a nearby ute.

The woman struggled and alerted nearby residents who came to help.

The man released the woman, who was unhurt, and fled the scene.

The dog squad tracked the man down and police took the man, who was bitten on the leg, to Rockhampton Hospital. Source: AAP

Police say they pursued the ute on the Bruce Highway and around the Rockhampton area for about 40 minutes before the man fled on foot into long grass.

The dog squad quickly tracked him down and police took the man, who was bitten on the leg, to the Rockhampton Hospital for treatment.

He has been charged with a string of offences including assault occasioning bodily harm, dangerous operation of a motor vehicle, evading police, deprivation of liberty, driving without a licence and assault obstruct police.

The man will appear in Rockhampton Magistrates Court on Monday afternoon.

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ABC News(WASHINGTON) -- U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will make his first trip to Russia this week, arriving in the city of Sochi on Tuesday where he will meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin and his foreign minister, Sergei Lavrov.



Pompeo has cancelled his planned visit to Moscow on Monday, stopping instead in Brussels on his way to Sochi, according to U.S. Department of State spokesman Morgan Ortagus.



The trip is an important step in President Donald Trump's pivot back to trying to repair relations with Russia  a goal of his since he was a presidential candidate.



But it comes with intense scrutiny over how Trump has approached Russia, praising Putin, downplaying his aggression around the world, and declining to condemn his oppression at home -- even as his administration has taken strong action against his war in Ukraine, the poisoning of a former spy in the United Kingdom, and more.



It also comes less than a month after special counsel Robert Mueller released his report detailing extensive contacts between the Trump administration and the Russian government, but finding no conspiracy to interfere in the election.



Last Friday, Trump and Putin spoke, with the president saying Putin "sort of smiled" as they talked about how the Mueller investigation "started off as a mountain and it ended up being a mouse."



"Getting along with Russia and China, getting along with all of them is very good thing, not a bad thing. Its a good thing," he added.



A senior State Department official wouldn't say if the long-awaited release of that report is why Pompeo is now ready to head to Moscow. But they told ABC News the trip is a "good opportunity... to take that conversation [with Russia] to a higher level and for a frank exchange of views on where the challenges and opportunities are."



On Monday, Pompeo and Lavrov met on the sidelines of the Arctic Council summit in Finland after three phone calls in the last three months. That followed a period of near silence and high tension, with no calls since August 2018 and Trump canceling a formal meeting with Putin at the G20 in November over Russian seizure of three Ukrainian vessels and 24 sailors.



Pompeo will be watched carefully back in Washington, especially by critics in Congress, for how he treats the Russians. While the president has consistently carried a different tune, calling for warmer relations with the government that meddled in the 2016 U.S. presidential election to support him, Pompeo has staked a middle ground, saying there may be areas where the two countries can work together.



"Where we have concerns, we're going to raise them directly, narrow those differences, and find areas where we can cooperate to protect and advance our interests," the official said, speaking anonymously to brief reporters on behalf of the department.



Ahead of the trip, the State Department pulled at least one punch. Spokesperson Morgan Ortagus released a statement Thursday that praised the conviction of two Russian intelligence officers in Montenegro as "a clear victory for the rule of law, laying bare Russia's brazen attempt to undermine the sovereignty of an independent European nation."



But the next day, the official statement disappeared from the department's website. The State Department declined to comment, but Foreign Policy magazine reported that the statement was released by mistake against Pompeo's wishes.



Trump has similarly been slow to criticize Putin's government, from telling Fox News in his first year in office, "You think our country's so innocent?" to denying Russia is involved in Venezuela last Friday. He's also continually cast doubt on the Kremlin's cyber attacks and interference in the 2016 election, infamously saying alongside Putin in Helsinki, Finland: "President Putin says it's not Russia. I don't see any reason why it would be."



Among the top issues on the table, Pompeo will look for ways to counter terrorism together, resolve the conflicts in Ukraine and Syria, deal with regional challenges like North Korea, and negotiate new arms control agreements.



"We are not going to solve these issues overnight, but we have to be engaging to create opportunities for progress," the official said, pointing to talks on North Korea, Afghanistan, and counterterrorism as successes so far.



But the other issues will be difficult, given that Russian interference in Ukraine and Syria has caused and perpetuated those wars, respectively, and that Russian violations of arms control pacts like the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty have pushed the U.S. to withdraw from the INF Treaty and possibly others, according to U.S. officials.



Still, Pompeo told ABC News he hopes "we can find places where we can have overlap in our interests... It makes perfect sense that any place we can find where we have overlapping interests, we work along with the Russians," he told ABC Chief White House Correspondent Jonathan Karl on "This Week" Sunday.

Copyright  2019, ABC Radio. All rights reserved.
A Southern California school district has placed four teachers on administrative leave after a photo surfaced showing the group smiling as one held a small noose.

US School District Superintendent Raul Maldonado said he was appalled by the photo, which was taken in a classroom, that was reported to him on May 8.

"It has been brought to the Palmdale School District's attention that an incident involving the discovery of a noose and possibly inappropriate responses to that discovery occurred at Summerwind Elementary School," he said in the statement posted on the district's Facebook page.

The principal of the school, listed on the website as Linda Brandts, has also been placed on leave pending an investigation by the district.

The district did not identify the teachers in the photo.

The four teachers pictured have been placed on leave pending an investigation. Source: Fox 11

There is also a photo of the noose pinned to a wall, US news outlet KABC-TV reported.

Two African-American women told KABC-TV they were pulling their children out of the school.

Tierra Harris emotionally explained to her daughter why she was being removed from the school.

"Do you know what they use that for? They use that to hang African American people," she said.

Breyon Clemons said she was pulling her child out for good.

"My child will not walk onto this plantation, absolutely not, she said.

Supt Maldanado said we don't tolerate that type of behaviour in our community, in our school district.

We hold our employees to the highest standards with high expectations, he said.

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After years of searching for her biological parents, a Queensland woman has finally tracked down her family on the opposite side of the world  but the reunion has only left the mother-of-four with more questions than answers.

Abigail Prangs, 36, was found dumped outside a hospital on the outskirts of Zimbabwe as a newborn baby in 1983.

At two months old, she was adopted by Sunshine Coast couple Kathy and Mike Prangs and began a new life in Australia.

But she never stopped wondering about her birth parents, and embarked on a tedious and emotionally-draining search to find her biological family.

An investigation by Sunday Night True Stories helped to track down Ms Prangs parents, believed to be Edna and Stanford Kamonere from Harare in Zimbabwe.

Abigail Prang is reunited with her biological family in Zimbabwe. Source: Sunday Night/Seven Network

The tearful reunion was caught on camera, with Ms Prangs embracing her parents in front of a cheering crowd.

I will never ever forget this moment. Ever, Ms Prang said after the celebration.

The love and laughter and happiness that they showed  obviously I dont know the language or anything but I feel at home.

Mrs Kamonere said she gave birth to twin babies in 1983, and was told by a midwife that one of the babies had not survived.

It was assumed the midwife who took the babys body had in fact taken Ms Prang away from her family.

But just days after he emotional reunion, Ms Prangs heard about a confusing twist to the story.

Further DNA tests revealed that Mrs Kamonere was not her biological mother, but more likely her aunt.

Mrs Kamonere said she was devastated and confused by the news.

I had always wanted that family, and I thought that I had found them. So how does that work?

Ms Prang believes one of Mrs Kamoneres sisters, Elizabeth, could be her biological mother and confronted her, begging her to tell her the truth.

Ms Prang was left in tears after discovering that the woman she thought was her mother was in fact her aunt. Source: Sunday Night/Seven Network

Elizabeth would have been just 14 years old at the time of Ms Prangs birth.

But during the uncomfortable conversation, a ute suddenly pulled up and whisked Elizabeth away, leaving Ms Prang no closer to the truth. She confronted Elizabeth again who refused to have a DNA test.

Story continues

While she still is uncertain who exactly her mother is, Ms Prangs DNA testing has proven Edna Kamoneres daughter, Lorraine, is her first cousin, cementing the Kamoneres as her biological family.

I've had such a connection with them that they are family, that will never change, that relationship won't change, Ms Prang said.

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Today on the Eye on NY podcast:

 An interview with Francis Conole, an Iraq War veteran, who is running for Congress in the 24th district. Conole discussed why he's running, his central New York roots and his positions on a few key issues.

 PLUS: An update on the race for New York Republican chair. Ed Cox, the incumbent chair, and Nick Langworthy are in a competitive contest to decide who will lead the state GOP.

 SUBSCRIBE: Listen on iTunes, Google Play, Spotify or PodBean.

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U.S. Rep. John Katko and other central New York Republican elected officials criticized a proposal that would allow undocumented immigrants to obtain driver's licenses.

Katko, R-Camillus, announced his opposition to the state bill in a statement released Saturday.

"Rather than legitimizing illegal immigration, policymakers at all levels of government should be focused on creating a comprehensive solution on immigration that balances the needs of our economy, immigrants and their families, and strong national security," he said.

The legislation introduced by state Sen. Luis Sepulveda and Assemblymember Marcos Crespo, Katko added, is "could have adverse effects on fraud prevention, identity theft and immigration enforcement."

The bill sponsored by Crespo and Sepulveda, both Bronx Democrats, would allow the state Department of Motor Vehicles to issue non-federal, standard driver's licenses to undocumented immigrants.

In the justification for the bill, Sepulveda writes that the state's prohibition on undocumented immigrants obtaining driver's licenses "has had and is continuing to have a negative impact on the economy." He cited declining unemployment rates and a tight labor market as reasons why his bill is necessary.

"This legislation addresses the long-held need by undocumented immigrants and workers to secure driving privileges not only to get back and forth to work but to conduct the task of their personal lives like going to doctor visits and taking their children to school," the bill states.

While many Democrats in the state Legislature support the bill, Republicans oppose it.

The Conservative Party, which traditionally cross-endorses Republicans in state-level races, held a press conference Saturday in Syracuse to pan the proposal. State Sen. Bob Antonacci is among those who spoke out against the bill.

Antonacci, R-Onondaga, believes undocumented immigrants shouldn't be eligible for driver's licenses.

"If someone is in our country illegally, they are breaking the law," he said.

A handful of central New York county clerks joined the Conservative Party in opposition to the bill. Cayuga County Clerk Sue Dwyer was one of the clerks who criticized the proposal. Earlier this year, Dwyer urged the Cayuga County Legislature to adopt a resolution opposing the measure.

Oswego County Clerk Michael Backus argued that the state bill would circumvent federal immigration laws.

"DMV customers are already frustrated and adding controversial immigration issues to that workload is not helping cut taxes, shorten lines or speed up transactions," he said.

The driver's license proposal, dubbed the "Green Light" bill, could be considered by the state Legislature before the end of the legislative session in mid-June. The Assembly and Senate bills are awaiting action in committee.

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Following his review of Special Counsel Robert Mueller's 400-page report, U.S. Rep. John Katko thinks President Donald Trump shouldn't have said anything during the investigation. But he doesn't believe the president committed obstruction of justice or colluded with the Russians during the 2016 presidential campaign.

Mueller investigated Russian interference in the 2016 election and found that there wasn't a criminal conspiracy between the Trump campaign and Russians. The report details 10 occasions when Trump may have committed obstruction of justice, but the special counsel didn't reach a conclusion on whether the president should be charged.

Attorney General Bill Barr has said that Trump won't face obstruction charges. It's possible Congress could act  as Mueller explained in his report.

Katko, R-Camillus, was impressed with the resources available to Mueller. In an interview with The Citizen, he recalled a case he prosecuted as an assistant U.S. attorney. It involved eight homicides and was the largest murder case in the country at the time. He had one other attorney on the case with him.

Mueller had a team of 19 lawyers and 40 FBI agents, according to the Department of Justice.

"The scale of this thing is overwhelming," he said.

Regarding Mueller's findings, Katko said he was "troubled" by the conduct of some Trump campaign officials. He believes they should've avoided contact with the Russians. The special counsel's report details these contacts but concluded that there wasn't a conspiracy.

Two former Trump campaign officials were convicted of making false statements to investigators about their contacts with Russians or individuals linked to Russian officials.

"They should've run away from any discussions with Russians," Katko said.

On the obstruction question, Katko believes Trump should've been "more disciplined" and not commented on the investigation. During Mueller's probe, Trump used his preferred platform, Twitter, to blast the investigation and label it a "witch hunt."

Katko said Trump was frustrated. But if he was his client, he would've advised him to remain quiet.

"He would've been better off," he said. "But I don't think any of the conduct rises to the level of obstruction."

As a former federal prosecutor, Katko recalled prosecuting obstruction cases. Some cases involved people who were killed during investigations. There were elements in those cases, he explained, that he doesn't see in Mueller's investigation into whether Trump committed obstruction.

"I think this was more frustration than it was an actual attempt to obstruct justice," he said.

While Trump is calling for an investigation into how the FBI's Russia inquiry began, Katko isn't sure that's necessary.

He's supportive of examining whether there was bias or misconduct committed by FBI agents. But he doesn't believe a "full-blown, Mueller-type investigation" is the right approach, especially after the special counsel's inquiry lasted nearly two years.

"At some point, I think we gotta move on," he said.

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Sometime in the next several weeks, New York state legislators could vote on a bill to grant farmworkers overtime pay, collective bargaining and other labor rights. It's a measure that, if enacted, would have far-reaching effects.

Opponents of the legislation say it would harm New York agriculture and may contribute to the closure of farms across the state. Supporters argue that it would end a Jim Crow-era exclusion that prevents tens of thousands of New York farmworkers from receiving these employment benefits.

That's the focus of the debate surrounding the Farmworkers Fair Labor Practices Act.

History

President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed the federal Fair Labor Standards Act in 1938. The landmark law established a minimum wage, required employers in most industries to pay overtime if employees worked over 40 hours in a week and mandated businesses keep payroll records.

However, farmworkers were excluded from the law.

Articles and academic papers about the legislative history of the Fair Labor Standards Act blame racial motives for the exclusion. An article published by the Texas Law Review explained that to pass his New Deal package, Roosevelt needed to win the support of southern congressmen.

"Those congressmen negotiated with Roosevelt to obtain modifications of New Deal legislation that preserved the social and racial plantation system in the South  a system resting on the subjugation of blacks and other minorities," the article's author, Marc Linder, wrote.

In an interview with The Citizen, Beth Lyon, a clinical professor law at Cornell University and founder of Cornell's Farmworker Legal Assistance Clinic, described it as a "deal with the devil."

"It's really up to the leading states like New York state to start to undo some of that damage," she said.

The complete exclusion remained in effect for 28 years. In 1966, the law was amended to apply the minimum wage and payroll requirements to farmworkers. But farms remain exempt from the overtime pay provision.

New York's labor laws are similar. Farmworkers are excluded from many provisions, although there is a minimum wage standard for farms. Farms must pay workers the minimum wage if "total cash remuneration paid all persons employed on the farm exceeded $3,000 in the previous calendar year."

The bill

The Farmworkers Fair Labor Practices Act is a two-decade-old proposal that would grant farm employees collective bargaining rights, the right to unionize and at least one day off every week. Employees would be paid overtime for working more than eight hours a day or 40 hours a week. The bill would also make farmworkers eligible for unemployment insurance and workers' compensation.

The legislation is sponsored by state Sen. Jessica Ramos, who chairs the Senate Labor Committee, and Assemblymember Cathy Nolan. Ramos, D-Queens, told The Citizen in February that excluding farmworkers from federal and state labor laws is a "remnant of the Jim Crow era."

Before this year, the bill didn't advance. While there was support from Democrats in the Assembly, Republicans controlled the state Senate. GOP senators opposed the bill and prevented it from receiving consideration in the chamber.

With a Democratic majority in the state Senate, proponents hope the bill will pass this year. With Ramos as its sponsor and 31 other senators as cosponsors, there are enough votes for it to pass the Senate.

Opposition

The New York Farm Bureau and several farmers oppose the Farmworkers Fair Labor Practices Act. A hearing at SUNY Morrisville in April gave farmers an opportunity to highlight what they view as the most problematic components of the bill.

Some farmers revealed that they already give their workers at least one day off a week and provide other benefits, such as housing and transportation. Most had no complaints with the proposal to extend unemployment insurance and workers' compensation to farm employees.

However, many farmers oppose the overtime pay and collective bargaining provisions. The farm bureau cited a study conducted by Farm Credit East that found the overtime pay requirement would raise costs for New York farms by nearly $300 million and reduce net farm income by 23 percent.

Judi Whittaker, a part owner of Whittaker Farms in Broome County, testified at the Morrisville hearing that the overtime pay requirement would increase the dairy farm's payroll from $500,000 to $700,000.

Whittaker believes that farmworkers will pursue opportunities in other states if New York adopts the overtime pay mandate.

"If we can't give them the hours they are looking for, they will leave and we will have no employees," she said.

Anthony Emmi, of Emmi and Sons in Baldwinsville, also testified at the hearing and said the overtime pay requirement would "put an end to the way we farm." He estimates that the farm, which has 70 seasonal employees, will need to cut labor in half.

Emmi urged legislators to consider a compromise: A 60- or 65-hour threshold for overtime instead of a 40-hour work week.

"We simply don't bring in enough income to make it happen," Emmi said of the overtime pay proposal.

While complaints about the overtime pay provision were repeated throughout the hearing, farmers raised other concerns.

One reason Karin Reeves, owner of Reeves Farm in Baldwinsville, opposes the bill is the possibility of work stoppages. If workers have collective bargaining rights and form unions, she worries that a work stoppage will have a devastating effect on the farm.

"A strike during our growing season would essentially hold us hostage," Reeves said. She asked lawmakers to consider adding a no-strike clause to the bill.

Some farmworkers joined farmers in speaking out against the bill. They oppose the legislation because they fear work schedules will be reduced to 40 hours a week due to the overtime pay mandate.

Samuel Montelongo, who works at Reeves Farms, said they usually work a 60- or 70-hour work week. The income earned, he continued, helps workers support their families in Mexico.

If the bill is approved by the state Legislature and signed by Gov. Andrew Cuomo, Montelongo added that the farm could bring in more workers instead of having to pay overtime.

"We feel that if you don't pass this law it will be beneficial to us," he said.

Republicans remain opposed to the farm labor bill. State Sen. Bob Antonacci, a GOP lawmaker who represents parts of Cayuga and Onondaga counties, said he hasn't met with a farmer who supports the measure.

The legislation reminds Antonacci, R-Onondaga, of the effort to end the tipped wage for servers. Many restaurants and servers opposed that proposal.

The farm labor bill, he argued, will hurt employees as much as the farmers.

"The employees don't want this bill. They want to work," Antonacci said.

Support

At hearings and in interviews with The Citizen, supporters outlined the reasons why they feel the bill is needed.

M. Patricia Smith, a former state labor commissioner who served as solicitor of labor in President Barack Obama's administration, countered arguments against the overtime pay provision.

Farmers, Smith said, complain about a labor shortage that hurts their farms. Extending overtime pay and other rights to workers, she added, could allow farms to become more competitive and attract workers.

Smith also highlighted the potential benefits for workers. She acknowledged that farms may reduce hours for workers to limit how much overtime is paid, but doesn't believe they will be able to avoid having employees work more than 40 hours a week.

For workers, she noted, they could earn the same income in less time because of the overtime pay requirement.

"I understand that (farmers) are nervous," she said in a phone interview. "But I just don't think the economics are as dire as they think they are."

Beth Lyon of Cornell's Farmworker Legal Assistance Clinic disputed claims by farmers that they may go out of business or workers would leave New York due to the overtime pay mandate. She believes overtime pay would help laborers who live in poverty. There are high levels of poverty and food insecurity among farmworkers, she said.

"One way to address that poverty is to simply give overtime," she continued. "Allow people to earn more for the number of hours that they work in addition to just being a matter of simple equity. It's not as if these are light jobs or easy jobs. If any job should pay overtime after 40 hours, this is it."

Through the clinic, Lyon assists children who came to the United States alone and are now working on upstate farms. Some of the minors, she revealed, are working more than 70 hours a week.

A challenge for Lyon is that the data on children employed by New York farms is "nonexistent," she said. While the number is unknown, she has observed children working on farms while visiting several counties in New York.

"If you have an industry where the jobs are so unattractive that you have to fill them with undocumented 15-year-olds, then maybe you need to make the jobs more attractive," Lyon said.

Collective bargaining rights are important for farmworkers, Smith explained, because it would provide protections against retaliation. A former farmworker, Crispin Hernandez, testified at the Morrisville hearing about the retaliation he faced while working on a northern New York farm because he advocated for better working conditions.

Supporters of the bill say Hernandez's account isn't unique.

"Right now in New York, if you're a farmworker and you ask for a raise, the farmer has a legal right to fire you just for asking for a raise," Smith said. "If you talk to your other coworkers about asking for a raise or talk about unsafe working conditions, you can be fired or otherwise retaliated against. That's perfectly legal. Collective bargaining rights would protect you from that."

Smith also differs with farmers who expressed concern that giving farmworkers collective bargaining rights and the right to unionize will lead to devastating work stoppages.

While the rights would allow farmworkers to initiate a strike, she questioned why the employees would put themselves at risk of losing most of their pay during the harvest season.

"(The farmers) are the same people who are talking about how well they get along with their workers and how they treat them like family and how their workers want to work all those hours," Smith said. "Why would those workers want to go on strike at the heart of their income-earning season?"

What's next?

The Farmworkers Fair Labor Practices Act is in the committee phase. The state Senate held three hearings on the bill, which was referred to the Senate Labor Committee after Ramos reintroduced it in January.

The bill is also awaiting review in the Assembly Labor Committee.

In addition to the hearings, Ramos visited farms across the state to gather more feedback on the legislation. She told The Citizen in February that while she was open to suggestions, much of the bill is "non-negotiable."

Senate Republicans held their own hearing on the proposed farm labor changes. Like Antonacci, many GOP senators oppose the bill. Farmers continue to speak out about the potential impact of the legislation.

But the Senate GOP opposition won't be enough to prevent passage. With Democrats controlling both chambers, the bill could move quickly through the state Legislature.

The legislation could be one of the final measures considered during the legislative session, which concludes in mid-June. There has been no timetable set for when legislators will vote on the bill.

Some advocates and farmworkers, like Hernandez, are hopeful that the state Legislature will pass the bill this session.

"We want to be recognized. We are all human beings," he said at the Morrisville hearing. "This is why it's important."

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In my office at St. Marys Church in Auburn, I have four small model churches: The Basilica of the Holy Sepulcher in Jerusalem in Romanesque style, St. Peters Basilica in Rome in Renaissance style, St. Patricks Cathedral in New York in neo-Gothic style, and Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris in medieval Gothic style. St. Marys Church in Auburn is known as modified Gothic. It is said that Notre Dame is the second best-known church in the world. Over 13 million tourists visit the Paris cathedral each year.

People throughout the world were stunned, watching on live television, at the fire and smoke rising from the top of the cathedral last month. That paled in comparison to the people of France and particularly the residents of Paris who were weeping at the sight of their beloved cathedral burning in front their eyes. What they thought would always be there was diminishing right in front of them.

National heritage specialist Stephane Bern said, Its like a person we love. We did not pay much attention to it and all of a sudden, we see it disappear and say to ourselves: Maybe I should have told it that I loved it more.

Any church or cathedral, of course, is a physical reality in our midst, but it symbolizes something greater: the gathered people, the church, who worship in those buildings. Thats why, as heart-breaking as the burning of Notre Dame is, even more heart-rending is the wanton killing of people at worship, whether it's blowing up Catholic churches in Sri Lanka on a Sunday, shootings in synagogues in Pittsburgh or San Diego on a Saturday, or a shooting at a mosque in New Zealand on a Friday. All of this carnage is an outrage and a symptom of our violent society.

The Catholic religion is incarnational, taking its cue from the fact that God took on human flesh in Jesus and dwelt among us. Thats why the church uses physical realities  water, bread, wine, oil, fire, incense, statues, art, architecture, music  as avenues of communication between God and human beings. Material things used in the seven sacraments of the church are outward signs of Gods activity in our lives.

The church building itself in the middle of a city or in the center of a town is a physical reminder of a spiritual reality  God present in our midst. However, people can easily forget what the church building represents, or the faith that inspired it. In a television interview the day after the cathedral fire in Paris, the archbishop of Paris, Michel Aupetit, asked: Why was this church built? This jewel box is for what jewel? Its not for the crown of thorns (a relic housed in the cathedral) but for a piece of bread that we believe is the body of Christ.

For us as Catholics, the stone building of a church is not only an external reminder of Gods presence in the midst of our society, it is a house in which the living stones of the people of God gather to celebrate the death and resurrection of the Lord Jesus made present through the celebration of the Eucharist  the holy sacrifice of the Mass.

Why does the Catholic Church take the Eucharist so seriously? Because Christ did. In the Gospel of John, chapter six, Jesus clearly tells his disciples, I am the Bread of Life. In addition, he told them that all must eat his body in order to have eternal life. Many of the disciples said to each other, This is too hard. We cant accept this. The idea of his being the bread of life made them walk away. Jesus did not stop them and tell them, No, you misunderstood me. Heres what I really meant to say He allowed them to leave. If they could not handle this hard truth, they could not be his disciples.

Catholics believe that, at every Mass, the bread and wine we bring to the altar are changed into the body, blood, soul and divinity of Christ. We call this transubstantiation, because the very substance of the matter (bread and wine) undergoes a change. While the appearance of bread and wine remain, the very substance is changed into the body and blood of Christ. Why do we believe this? Because Jesus told us it was true. Why do we do this? Because Jesus told us to.

Whether its Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris or any Catholic church throughout the world, the jewel box houses the jewel: the body and blood, soul and divinity of the Lord Jesus in the most blessed sacrament, the Eucharist.

The Rev. Frank E. Lioi is pastor of St. Marys Church and SS. Mary & Martha Parish (St. Francis Church and St. Hyacinth Church) in Auburn, and dean of the East Region (Cayuga and Tompkins counties) of the Diocese of Rochester. He can be reached at flioi@dor.org.

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Happy Mother's Day to all! After lunch today would be a great time to visit the Port Byron Old Erie Canal Heritage Park. Open since May 1, the park operates free of charge 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. every day, and welcomes you to the Visitor Center, accessible from Route 31 in Port Byron just west of Route 38, or by the eastbound lane of the Thruway. After an introduction to the park at the Visitor Center, take a short walk through the locks to come to the Erie House Tavern. Belly up to the newly restored bar and see the ornate National Cash Register, shown in the picture with this column. Then you can put your foot on the leaning rail, and listen to the history and tales of the former tavern on the Erie Canal.

Many local town historians and members of area historical societies are volunteer guides at the park. Many actually knew the Van Detto family who owned the house, had the Van Detto daughters as teachers in Auburn and Port Byron, and actually had ancestors who dug some portion of the canal back in the 1800s.

We get visitors not only from New York state and the United States, but also from all around the world who are interested in our canal system.

Several historians from Cayuga County recently attended the Region 9 historians meeting organized by Matthew Urtz, Madison County historian, at the historic Cazenovia Public Library and Museum. Cheryl Longyear, Montezuma historian; Susan Parsons, Fair Haven historian; and I listened to an exciting slate of speakers.

Librarian Alicia Davies welcomed us to the library, which has been in operation since 1886. The museum section even has a mummy! Dan Smith of the Onondaga County Public Library Local History and Genealogical Center spoke on all the collections there and accessibility online and in person. A former librarian from the history collections, Gerald Parsons, was from the town of Victory originally.

Sara Keen, Colgate University archivist, presented a history of the college from the time it was a seminary for males to the time it was a World War II training camp to the present with a collection of rare books, Bibles and manuscripts.

Patrick Ravines, director of the Buffalo State University Art Conservation Program, talked about its graduate restoration program, which allows organizations to have paintings, artifacts and more restored. The venture creates the preservation, conservation and restoration of our cultural heritage. Michael Martin was introduced and is the newly appointed regional advisory officer for the Central Region of the New York State Archives. He assists local governments and historians in record keeping, management and retention, among other things.

Coming up in the town of Victory is our Memorial Day Commemoration starting at 9 a.m. Monday, May 27, in the Victory Union Cemetery. Everyone is invited to attend our program honoring our ancestors. Military duties will be performed by the LaBuff-Cole American Legion Post No. 911, of Cato.

Beverly Coleman Sayles is the Victory town historian and a New York state registered historian, and can be reached at (315) 730-3183 or beverlycs65@gmail.com.

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The Auburn Police Department has identified the motorcycle driver who was airlifted to Upstate University Hospital after a crash with a car Thursday.

Police on Friday said the motorcyclist was Carl McNabb. The Cayuga County branch of the American Bikers Aimed Toward Education organization wrote in a Facebook post Thursday night that McNabb, a member of the group, had been in an accident and had been taken to Upstate.

"We are thinking about you, Carl, and sending prayers and get well wishes," the organization wrote.

The call came in around 6:40 p.m. Thursday for a scene near the railroad tracks near North Division and Columbus streets and Arterial West Thursday. The APD had said that a 2013 Chevrolet sedan had been traveling north on Columbus Street when a 1998 Honda motorcycle ran into the back of the car.

A LifeNet helicopter transported McNabb approximately 10 to 15 minutes after the accident.

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TENNESSEE  It is with great sorrow that we share with you the death of Michael Anthony Sheets. Mike passed away on the morning of May 2, 2019.

Michael served as a U.S. Marine and went on to marry and have two boys with his wife, Connie. Michael returned to Cayuga Community College where he earned his associates degree in Applied Science in criminal justice  corrections.

Michael dedicated his life to provide for his wife and children. Recently moving to Tennessee, Michaels passions were fishing, going to the Smoky Mountains, and he loved working as a baker at Camerons Bakery in Auburn. Mike loved to relax, fall asleep at concerts and sporting events with his kids and sip on his favorite Tennessee moonshine.

Michael Sheets is survived by his wife, Connie; his two sons, Michael and his fiancee, Amber, and Anthony and his wife, Morgan; his grandchildren, Landen, Breyden, Anthony Jr., Sophia, and soon to arrive baby, Charlotte; Connies grandmother, Lorraine Moore; sisters-in-law, Tracy Moore-McConnell, and Tesha Crawford; brother-in-law, Jimmy; mother-in-law, Kathy (Alice) Moore; Mikey and AJs aunt, Eva and her son, Jason Sheets; many other nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life will be held from noon to 3 p.m. on Saturday, May 18, at CCs on the Green in Elbridge, N.Y., where there will be food and raffles.

Donations may be given through Empower Bank in Auburn.
Well, folks, here we go again! Apparently the same person who told Trump that Lincoln was a Republican has informed Trump that no sitting president who sought re-election during time of war has ever been defeated. So the same Electoral College system that gave us George W. Bush has inflicted upon us Donald J. Trump, who will likely give us a new bogus war to fight.

Now it seems that the man who never saw a war he didn't like (John Bolton) and the man who dodged military service (Trump) are pushing for a new war ... this time on Iran. Old people never have a problem sending our young people off to war especially if it will increase their popularity with their political base and improve their odds of re-election. So Trump's base will wave their flags and applaud Trump's bravado and, well after the war has been waged it will be revealed, as with Vietnam and Iraq, Trump's war was based upon lies. But that will be of no matter as that fact will soon be forgotten as we pursue more important matters like Hillary's e-mails and we will continue to use our troops as political pawns just as we saw on the border.

Believe it or not this is the letter I was going to write many months ago as I knew Trump would start a war as his low polls numbers would otherwise spell defeat. For what it's worth (very little), I will oppose this preemptive war as I did before and during W's preemptive war on Iraq. I marched in bitter cold on many of the anniversaries of that war. In that regard, I do thank a clueless public who will likely support Trump's actions as Trump's less than useless war will most likely begin in warmer weather.

Thomas Hanley

Fulton

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Jack and Vivian Delaporte may have celebrated the third anniversary of their antique shop last month, but some of the artifacts the shop houses date back 2,500 years.

Jacks Antique, located near center court of the Flagstaff Mall, doubles as an art gallery with thousands of pieces from six different continents. Upon entering, the eye doesnt know whether to land on the museum-quality sculptures, 3D portraits, Chihuly-inspired glass vases, Native American Kachina dolls, vintage movie posters or gold-framed paintings that look like they are straight from the Lourve.

Some of our art is contemporary art bought from the artists themselves  whether it's jewelry or carvings or tapestries or textiles or paintings, Jack said.

Before the two settled on housing their collection in the former clothing store, which they call an absolutely perfect space, they spent more than a year accumulating items from auctions and estate sales all over Arizona and adding them to their home.

We have a fairly large house, but in the course of a year and a half our home was really stacked. We had paintings from floor to ceiling, Jack said.

Our hallways disappeared, Vivian added.

What were once dressing rooms are now special side galleries.

I did have my African voodoo fertility fetishes in a quiet spot (in a dressing room) where I thought theyd be happy, Jack said. But I had a shaman come in here and he told me that they like the store and want to be in the big room.

Jack -- who started collecting small toys, pieces of cast iron and glass at 8 years old in his New Jersey home -- treats the shop artifacts like family.

This is a lot like a foster home, Jack said. These things come and they live with us for a while and then theyre adopted and they go off to the next stage in their life.

The couple, who met in Hong Kong over 20 years ago, both admit to having mixed feelings when they see some of their most beloved pieces go.

This originally started with the idea of learning how to let go of things and there have been half a dozen pieces that we have sold over the past three years that have made me very sad and almost reluctant [to part with], Jack said. I experienced almost a pull as I was carrying one beautiful bronze horse out to a customers car and I found myself torn on whether I really wanted to sell it.

Some of Vivians favorite items are the Sabino glass they carry from the Art Deco era of 1920s Paris.

Its amazing to me that the glass formulation is different. When you hold a piece of Tiffanys in your hand versus other types of glass, it has a different presence, Vivian said. The Sabino glass feels like a bar of soap because it has arsenic in the formula and then the Vaseline glass has uranium in its formula, and of course Tiffanys has its own formula.

Oftentimes great beauty is derived from inert but toxic substances  lead, arsenic, uranium-oxide, Jack said, adding that the pieces that they sell are more decorative than functional.

While Jack does the majority of selling, buying and manning the store, Vivian is in charge of researching the items, updating the website and taking photographs of the items for inventory, as well as advertising and bills.

During weekdays, Vivian works as a nurse at Northern Arizona Healthcare, which she says is very different than working at the shop, but also more similar than one might think.

The use of integrating technology and data entry into a patients chart is actually very similar to putting in information on our website, she said, adding that both fields also provide a service to people. Nursing is a science and an art, and this business is also dealing with art  but theres also a science to how you run a business."

Jack said that Vivians thorough inspection of the objects is of great help to him and the business when buying new (old) objects. Jack estimates about 90% of purchases they do now are from people who walk-in and hand them their items over the counter.

Sometimes in the enthusiasm of the moment, looking at a piece that you really like, you may forget to check every aspect of the condition, Jack said. Sometimes the cracks are well hidden, or its not easy to see, or theres been repair. So thats a habit that Im learning to [avoid] more and more thanks to Vivians scrutiny. Shell say, this crystal has a flea-bite on it.

Jack says he rarely makes mistakes now, but for a beginner collector, it is easy to mistake certain elements -- for example, silver and the dreaded nickel.

A simple test kit helps greatly, but you get to the point where you can recognize the difference between silver and nickel, Jack said. By and large you can just hold it and look at it any type of tarnish thats on it and other indicators that will help make you virtually certain even before you test it.

Although some items such as some Native American jewelry are on the pricier side, the couple makes sure they are always stocked with some $5 toys, pendants and figurines.

What makes it endearing is during Christmas time, kids come in with their change looking for things that their mom might like, Vivian said.

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Flagstaff Shakespeare Festival has come a long way since its first show at Heritage Square, and for five seasons its been bringing the work of The Bard to Flagstaff, enticing the community with classic, humorous and daring plays.

Because FlagShakes does not have an official theater, the theater company chooses to perform site-specific productions, using venues such as the Museum of Northern Arizona and even La Posada Hotel in Winslow.

To begin its 2019 season, FlagShakes has been using the billiard room of the Riordan Mansion State Historic Park as the setting for its productions of God of Vengeance, written by Sholem Asch, and Indecent, written by Paula Vogel. The latter concludes Sunday afternoon.

The Arizona Daily Sun sat down with executive director Dawn Tucker and Cameron Scully, who co-directed Indecent with Hannah Fontes, to talk about FlagShakes 2019 season, directing in the Riordan Mansion and keeping the stage its own art form.

Gabriel Granillo, Arizona Daily Sun: The first two plays of the FlagShakes 2019 spring season are not works by Shakespeare. Why choose these plays, and how do they fit in with the Flag Shakes mission?

Dawn Tucker: To me, Indecent really stuck out because I wanted to do a female playwright for the first time. And it also stuck out to me because it seemed like it was very possible for us to perform. But in reading [the script for Indecent] I became fascinated with God of Vengeance, so I looked for a copy of the script and devoured that in a day. I thought, These will be perfect but we have to do them both instead of just one of them, which is sort of how I operate. I always choose to do more than I promised I would (laughs).

Because theyre both Jewish plays I would have felt really reluctant to do them, except that we have such a strong Jewish community here in Flagstaff, and FlagShakes is really connected [to that community]. So I felt confident that we could pull this off with as much cultural sensitivity and respect as we possibly could and still do two really fabulous, meaty, interesting plays.

I think this says something about my own awareness only, but it wasnt until after we chose them that I started to become aware of anti-Semitism in America. After my awareness of that increased, we really started talking about what else we could do to augment these shows besides just putting them up, which led to bringing Robert Skloot here, working with the Martin-Springer Institute. Im just trying to find other ways that we could be advocating for our Jewish community members here in Flagstaff and providing some kind of solidarity.

Cameron Scully: I think Flagstaff needs to be hearing these stories. And we werent not going to do these because we were [thinking], Are we the right people to necessarily say this? But I think its worse that it doesnt get said. Because we were the people who would be doing this and could be doing this.

DT: Thats the other thing about our non-Shakespeare series. Were trying to do plays that youre not otherwise going to see in Flagstaff, plays that arent safe, that dont draw in lots of audiences to laugh on a Sunday afternoon. Its not Oklahoma, right?

We like doing this series and in small spaces like Riordan, like La Posada, because then we can put up intimate theater that is otherwise not going to be produced in Flagstaff because people are afraid of their bottom line.

I think the most striking thing to me [when watching Indecent] was how intimate everything was, how the border between the actors and audience was barely there.

DT: One of the things that happened for a long time in theater is that once TV and movies came along, the theater started trying to compete as if it was the same medium. This is directly in contrast to FlagShakes mission which is to perform, again, actor-driven theater [without] all of the production elements because one of our artistic principles is to do on the stage what can only be done on the stage.

So the actors rising from the ashes at the beginning of Indecent, all of that was movement based. If you had a $2 million TV or Broadway budget thered be actual ash and smoke, but my theory of theater is it should be what only theater can be. We should stop trying to compete with movies. People get enough screen time (laughs), and what were offering is a far more visceral and immediate experience in a space with other human beings.

CS: By making it so intimate, we can put you right here and make it very emotional, which is different than what you might get in a big Broadway production. Im sure other productions going on right now will not be in a space like this.

And specifically for these shows, this space and the intimacy really works narratively because the idea of Indecent is that the show is happening in the attic and were all here huddled together watching the show. I do think that changes the theatrical experience. It creates a greater community experience so when you walk out of the theater you walk out together.

And that was a great moment in the play, when you realize that its all taking place in an attic, and then you sort of recognize the space youre in [Riordan Mansion] and it brings you into the story. At least it did for me.

CS: Yeah, and I assume this probably is not what things look like in Poland. Theres a big buffalo head and stuff (laughs), but its a room with history.

DT: Well, it was being used at the same time as the show was being performed. It was occupied at the same time. The Riordans were probably reading newspaper articles about what was going on in Europe while Jewish men and women were performing this play in attics in Europe.

What was the significance to you both performing Indecent here at the Riordan Mansion?

DT: Last year when we did Fool for Love we had the opportunity to perform at La Posada. The play is set in a hotel in the Southwest, at a far jankier hotel in the Southwest, but there was something about that weekend of performances that was magical. So when we started talking about [the 2019] plays and I knew the time period, I immediately thought, they cant go in a theater. They have to go in a space that did exist at the same time that these plays were written. I think I drive my tech team and directors crazy because I see every space as performable.

CS: Which is a benefit to the company at the end of the day. Because we dont have a theater, but Ive always felt like the show starts as soon as someone walks in the door. So I think by doing these plays in specific places it does bring a whole other element to the play, especially here, because you have to enter the mansion, go through the hallways and end up somewhere else so that you could be here.

I think at this point were in a little too deep about doing things in different spaces (laughs), but its also a very democratic idea. Theater can happen anywhere; you just find a space and bring some chairs.

DT: And I grew in Flagstaff, so did Cameron, so Riordan has significance to me. I remember coming here as a kid on tours. It was actually my birthday request every single year because I was a nerd, but I loved this space.

Cameron, this is the first play youre directing outside of college (though Scully served as assistant director during The Tempest). What was that experience like? Did you feel any pressure bringing Indecent to the stage?

CS: I did feel a bit of pressure, but Im really humbled by Dawn and everybody who is in FlagShakes and how they were willing to give me the responsibility. Its honestly really incredible because Indecent is a show that not a lot of people have directed.

Right, it came out in 2015.

DT: And the rights are really difficult to get.

CS: And it was an amazing opportunity. I learned a lot even though it was challenging to put it in this space and it was a easily one of the most complicated things weve done as a company, logistically between the movement and the music. It was hard.

I could have gone to New York or Chicago and try to do theater there, but the fact that I can come back to Flagstaff and be in my hometown and direct a show at this level is just really incredible. It was one of the most challenging things Ive ever done, but it was totally worth it the entire time.

Whats next for FlagShakes?

DT: Im directing Duchess of Malfi, which is running in repertory with Much Ado About Nothing. Theyll both be at the Museum of Northern Arizona, pre-monsoon season this year, which is a big announcement. Pre-mosquito season (laughs).

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When a woman finds a mysterious box of childhood trinkets in her apartment, she becomes determined to find the owner. Amelie is eventually able to track him down and finds his number in a phone book. She calls him with directions to find the box and then watches from afar as he finds it and reminisces on his childhood. Seeing his pure joy inspires Amelie to set off on a mission to continue these random acts of kindness although a cold childhood leaves her hesitant to truly become close with anyone.

Amelie, with music by Daniel Messe, lyrics by Messe and Nathan Tysen, and book by Craig Lucas, opened on Broadway in March 2017 and closed the end of May 2017. The endeavor has now been taken on by Eric Waldens advanced musical theater class at Flagstaff Arts and Leadership Academy.

FALA presents its production of Amelie at the Coconino Center for the Arts, 2300 N. Fort Valley Road, Thursday through Saturday, May 16-18, at 7 p.m. and a matinee Saturday at 2 p.m. A $10 donation is suggested for admission.

The musical is based on the 2001 French film of the same name. Walden hadnt been familiar with the story when a student suggested the musical at the end of the fall semester but said he was on board after watching the movie.

I thought it was absolutely delightful, whimsical and fun, Walden said. Theyve done a nice job transferring it to the stage because a good part of it happens in Amelies mind.

Senior Hannah Staudinger will be playing the titular role of Amelie.

I distinctly remember the first time I listened to this musical, she said. I was just sitting in my car, crying, like, This is so beautiful, I want to play this part so bad. So the fact that I got to play it in high school is really cool. Its a safe environment where there arent all the pressures of the professional world, and I can just have fun and be myself.

The production serves as the final for students in Waldens advanced musical theater class, with many doubling or tripling up on roles.

Theres actually more characters than we have students, Walden said. Almost everybody is playing multiple roles, and Ive brought in students from outside simply because we were already short on bodies.

A lot of the people that did musical theater sadly graduated last year so the class is a lot smaller, but I think thats good because it gives us a lot of time to focus on individual stuff and be really nitpicky, when otherwise we wouldnt have been able to, Staudinger said.

The cast is rounded out by Jasmine Ackerman, Selah Atencio, Jesse Buck, Ziv Fox, Dominique Garcia, Max Morse, Rowan Snider, Charlie Spencer, Tia Stephens and Johanna Weiss.

Though painfully shy at times, Amelie finds herself interested in a man she sees at the train station and hesitates to introduce herself. Staudinger said it was easy to get into character because she related to Amelies tendency to be a selective extrovert, being outgoing one moment and then wanting to disappear the next.

It just feels very familiar, Staudinger said. I think its really easy for young women to see themselves in that character, because thats what it feels like to be navigating young adult life.

Staudinger will continue studying musical theater in college and said she is grateful to have worked on this production before graduating from FALA.

Its taught me a lot of skills that I think were missing just because the show is so complex and Im using different parts of my voice, she said, and this is an acting challenge because [Amelie] has so many emotions. Shes so multidimensional.

Its a big show for such a small group to put out. Im very proud of my students and the work theyve done to pull this off, Walden said.

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Excerpt #16: Having A Maid

M. Bakri Musa (www.bakrimusa.com)





Back to our new house in Bungsar, as soon as we moved in, Karen freaked out. She had opened one of the many built-in closets and was met by a blitzkrieg of cockroaches, reminiscent of her experience in our Honolulu hotel room months earlier on our trip home to Malaysia.





Through our long-time friend from Edmonton days, Zainal Abidin bin Ahmad (Zai to us) who was teaching at UKM, we heard that the university was looking for English instructors. Zai put in a good word for Karen. She too felt good on her subsequent interview. Those good vibes notwithstanding, she never heard back.





Those few words would not do justice for our friendship with Zai and his wife Rahmah. Zai was a Kirby-trained teacher. When his contract with the Malaysian government was over, he returned to Britain, and from there to Alberta. We met when he was on campus for continuing education. It was hard not to be friendly when meeting another Malay in snow-white Alberta!





lah and mon! Coming from him, it was hilarious! Zai was once an announcer with Radio Malaya. No surprise that he was a regular emcee for our Malaysian events on campus. Zai had a beautiful booming voice and a perfect BBC English accent, but he could in an instant and with minimal prompting revert to the typical local Malay, complete with the obligatory  and ! Coming from him, it was hilarious! Zai was once an announcer with Radio Malaya. No surprise that he was a regular emcee for our Malaysian events on campus.





I convinced Zai on one of his visits to campus that he should go for his degree. At that time the universitys Faculty of Education, Canadas largest, was embarking on the new field of teaching English as a second language. With Zais experience he would have a lot to offer on the practical side. Zai did that and went on to get his doctorate from Wisconsin. I used to tease him saying that he was the genuine Dr. Zaaba. The other Zaaba, the famous Malay grammarian, had only an honorary doctorate!





Zais effort on Karens behalf whetted her appetite for work in Malaysia. What better way to integrate into a new culture than to work in it? However, with two little kids that meant a maid, Karens egalitarian Western ideals notwithstanding.





Our first was a girl from Perak. Gee was literally just a little girl, a distant niece of one of my brothers-in-law. Karen spent more time teaching her personal hygiene than her helping us. She had difficulty relating to me, a hang-up from her religious instructions back in the village. Nonetheless from my limited conversations with her, I gathered that she did not finish her primary school. She said that she did not learn anything and was bullied often, by her classmates as well as her teachers because of her small size.





Malaysia then (and now) often bragged about its schools being among the best in the region if not the world, but nothing like hearing directly from the children to know the reality on the (school) ground. Gee was one of those awful statistics personified.





Soon she was homesick. We paid her way home for a holiday together with some extra cash and a return bus ticket, but she never came back. Our only hope was that whatever Karen and I had taught her about personal cleanliness and taking care of babies in the only-too-brief a time she was with us would help her when she would have her own family.





Our second maid, Hapsah, was from Sarawak. She had been adopted by one family after another before landing into my uncles home. She looked Chinese. The Chinese have been known to disfavor daughters and were wont to give them up for adoption. Malays on the other hand valued girls, so that was a good fit.





My uncle brought her to our house for a preview. Karen and I had the distinct impression that she was not keen to leave my uncle. He assured us that we were misreading her. When he left her with us, it was not a pretty sight. We swallowed our embarrassment and did our best to make her feel at home. She turned out to be good with the kids. She was also very clean, an excellent cook, and keen to learn English.





We told her that she would be free from Saturday noon after lunch to late Sunday after dinner. Meaning, she was spared from having to cook us two dinners, a breakfast, and one lunch. For the first few weeks she just stayed with us acting like she did not deserve the break. For our part, we wanted her to leave so we could have some privacy. However, it did not take her long to enjoy her breaks.





Like the maid before, Hapsah ate with us. We felt better that way. In the beginning she was reluctant and felt uncomfortable. The only way we could convince both maids to eat with us was that we had a rule to finish everything on the table. No leftovers so every meal would be fresh. If she did not eat with us she would have to cook again for herself.





We did not feel right that Hapsah should be destined to be our maid for the rest of her life. That would be too heavy a responsibility and burden for us. Seeing Karen doing her knitting, Hapsah was keen to learn. She wanted to be a seamstress. Soon with us buying her the materials, she had quite a wardrobe for herself and a collection for our children.





With time she became comfortable with us; at times too comfortable, availing herself often to our only telephone. Telephones were a scarce commodity in Malaysia then. It took us months to get one, despite the high priority with my being a doctor. Before we had one installed, the hospital used to send the police to get hold of me. That would elicit quite a bit of stares from the neighbors until they found out the reason. The police were just an expensive messenger system, nothing nefarious, we assured our neighbors.





One night long after we had our phone installed, the police again came to our gate. It was the hospital trying to get hold of me for an emergency but could not break through the busy signals. Hapsah had been tying up the phone all night after we went to bed! I had warned her many times but we still caught her once in a while. Being that I did not want to see the police at my doorsteps again, I put a lock on the rotary dial without our permission so she could not dial out though people could still phone in.





My uncle was right. We had misread Hapsah. She became attached to us, and we to her. With her in our confidence, Karen began again looking for a job.





The Son Has Not Returned. A Surgeon in His Native Malaysia(2018. From the authors second memoir,(2018.





Next: Excerpt #17
Fiery S. Oregon Coast Shipwreck Under Cleanup Efforts Now

Published 05/11/2019 at 6:53 PM PDT

By Oregon Coast Beach Connection staff





(Bandon, Oregon)  A small shipwreck has created a large stir on the southern Oregon coast. Now, the cleanup begins after a fiery crash onto the sand. (Photos courtesy Oregon Parks and Recreation Department).

On May 2, a 64-foot fishing vessel out of Washington called the Ann Kathleen caught fire off the southern Oregon coast, causing all crew to abandon the craft. They were rescued by the U.S. Coast Guard. The vessel made landfall on a beach just south of Bandon, still on fire and drawing responses from both federal and state agencies.

Within 24 hours the ship was no longer burning, and teams from the U.S. Coast Guard, local fire department, and the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality were onsite at the beach near Floras Lake to evaluate the site for toxic materials and develop any necessary response plan to protect the beach and nearby shorebird nesting area. The area is designated for recovery of the western snowy plover and already under some restrictions to beachgoers.

Shortly after, some 1,000 gallons of diesel fuel were removed from the fuel tanks. Now, however, the serious cleanup of the shipwreck begins, which will cut off visitor parking and boat ramp access at Boice-Cope County Park a few miles to the south of the site.

Currently a team from several entities is removing as much of the ships remains as possible, work that is expected to go on for a few days. Its quite possible, according to Oregon State Parks and Recreation (OPRD), that not all parts of the craft will be removed.

Significant portions of the hull, mast, and mechanical components are on the beach, OPRD said. Sand has already started to accumulate around the wreckage, requiring excavation before the wreck can be cut up and airlifted by helicopter to the Cape Blanco Airport eight miles south. The work is being funded by the ships insurer. Some portion of the wreck may be left buried deep on the shore if conditions make removal too difficult.

The teams working on the cleanup are the insurer, Coquille Indian Tribe, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S. Bureau of Land Management, and Global Dive and Salvage, Inc. out of Seattle.

State officials will be keep a close eye on the federally-protected western snowy plover bird, as work continues, as well as looking at other sensitive aspects of the beach. OPRD said the active nests of the endangered bird are cause for a swift and urgent response.

The shipwreck is not easily accessible, sitting several miles from any developed beach access, and OPRD said it does not receive many visitors this time of year. The area is so sensitive that OPRD asked that no members of the media venture down there, instead providing its own array of photos.

Anyone visiting should give the work site a wide berth, watch for vehicles on the beach, and respect the plover nesting area by sticking to the wet sand, OPRD said.

More on the plover can be found at https://www.oregon.gov/oprd/NATRES/Pages/plover.aspx .

There are reports of some small and light debris scattered over several miles south of the wreck. Oregon coast visitors are asked to help by carrying trash bags and gloves to the area (south of the designated plover nesting section) and pick up some of the debris.

There were no injuries in the incident with the Ann Kathleen, which was based out of Westport on the Washington coast. The cause of the fire aboard the primarily fiberglass ship is still unknown.

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From left, Sens. Bill Rabon, R-Brunswick, Jay Chaudhuri, D-Wake, and Floyd McKissick, D-Durham, during a January 2018 committee meeting. (CJ photo by Dan Way)

Persistent questions about the constitutionality of legislation to stabilize the underfunded state retirement system have slowed the bill's advance.On Tuesday, April 16, Senate Rules Committee Chairman Bill Rabon, R-Brunswick, recommended sending Senate Bill 374 back to the Senate Pensions, Retirement, and Aging Committee. The committee agreed. The bill would eliminate three methods of paying retirement benefits.Rabon said the bill isn't lawyer-proof, noting questions over whether the bill would deprive state employees of contractual rights. U.S. and N.C. Supreme Court rulings in previous cases have said reducing retiree benefits can violate the constitutional contract clause unless the state can show the changes meet an important public interest.Actuaries have estimated keeping the options in question could cost the state an extra $60 million to $300 million per year, if not more.Patrick Kinlaw, staff actuary of the state's retirement systems, said an actuarial note showing the bill would have no impact on the retirement system's finances is flawed. It's based on the state receiving a 7% rate of return on investments, he said. The state has not hit that target on average for 20 years, and won't achieve it in the next two decades.The Pensions Committee could tighten up legal aspects and return it to the Rules Committee in time to meet the May 9 crossover deadline. Crossover is the last date in the two-year session bills in one legislative chamber must be passed to be considered in the other chamber.Sen. Jay Chaudhuri, D-Wake, was agreeable to abolishing the options, but said they should be applied only to new employees, not those who have been promised the full array of payment options.Chaudhuri said.said Sen. Andy Wells, R-Catawba, the bill's main sponsor. The pension system is $17 billion short of meeting future obligations. The state has $50 billion in total unfunded liabilities, he said, and action is needed to assure solvency.State Treasurer Dale Folwell has made reducing unfunded liabilities a priority of his time in office.Sam Watts, legislative liaison for the N.C. Treasurer's Office, said the bill wouldn't impair employee contracts. Ending a few retirement options wouldn't reduce the value of individual retirees' benefits.
Dan Gerlach, interim chancellor of East Carolina University, at his Golden LEAF office. (CJ photo by Don Carrington)

Dan Gerlach has been named interim chancellor of East Carolina University.Gerlach was chosen by Interim UNC System President Dr. Bill Roper. On May 6, Gerlach will replace ECU Chancellor Cecil Staton, who announced his resignation in March after months of discussions with leaders of the UNC System.Gerlach said.Gerlach has been president of the Golden LEAF Foundation since 2008. The foundation was established in 1999 to distribute half of North Carolina's share of the Master Settlement Agreement with tobacco companies. Golden LEAF funding provides grants to projects inThe fund has generated controversy over time, as some lawmakers and fiscal conservatives have argued the tobacco settlement money either should go to the General Fund or be rebated to taxpayers.Before Gerlach was appointed to head Golden LEAF he was a policy analyst for the left-leaning Budget and Tax Center, worked as a budget analyst at the North Carolina General Assembly, and was a senior adviser to Democratic Gov. Mike Easley, who pleaded guilty in 2010 to a felony for campaign finance violations.Gerlach has served on more than a dozen commissions and boards, and is currently a member of the MyFutureNC Commission, and of the board of NC Early Childhood Education.Gerlach is also a member of Roper's transition team, assisting with Roper's move into office after the departure of former UNC President Margaret Spellings.Roper said.
Berkman Custom Jewelers plans a grand opening celebration from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, May 18.

Shane Berkman, owner and Master Goldsmith, is a graduate of Skyview High and has received multiple certifications from the Gemological Institute of America. Berkman has extensive experience in the industry.

Berkman Custom Jewelers offers a full range of jewelry repair and wide selection of new jewelry and gemstones for sale.

The public is invited to the grand opening, which will include a drawing for a Montana Sapphire ring, as well as catering by Well Paired and other refreshments.

Berkman Custom Jewelers is at 411 N. 24th St. W., Suite 111, and may also be reached by calling 534-4755 or online at berkman.jewelershowcase.com.
From December 19th through December 26th we will be granting free access as a gift to our readers presented by TDS Fiber
The Billings Police Department responded to a shooting in a trailer park in the Billings Heights that left one teen dead on Saturday night.

A 15-year-old girl was pronounced dead on scene by law enforcement. The shooting occurred on 12 Stella Street in the Cherry Creek Estates trailer park in the Heights around 7:30 p.m. Saturday, according to BPD Sgt. Nate West.

The girl had a single gunshot wound when officers arrived, West said. No suspects were taken into custody. No other injuries were reported and no one was taken to a hospital, he said.

Police are treating the incident as a "suspicious shooting," but there is currently no threat to public safety, West said.

A detective unit was on scene investigating the incident, he said.

A coroner's unit was also on scene as of 8:45 p.m.

The Billings police and American Medical Response responded to the incident.

An investigation is ongoing.

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JACKSON, Wyo.  A Wyoming man has been sentenced to life in prison after pleading guilty in the killing of his pregnant ex-girlfriend.

Erik Ohlson, of Jackson, pleaded guilty in February to the murder of Jennifer Nalley and the involuntary manslaughter of Nalley's fetus.

He was sentenced Friday to life in prison with a chance of parole after 25 years. The Jackson Hole News & Guide reports that Teton County District Court Judge Bruce Pickett told Ohlson that he "ruined" multiple lives.

Authorities have said Ohlson shot Nalley multiple times at her cabin in Idaho in July 2016 and was arrested after crashing his truck a few miles away.

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We suspect the Trump administration doesn't really care how the information is used because of its hard-line approach to immigration. But we believe the hallmark of America is that it affords justice and due process to those most vulnerable, and we can't think of any group more at risk for exploitation than those who have fled to this country often seeking political asylum or in hopes of feeding their families.

While we believe that the census has more information than just the number of people and their respective ages, and it could be a helpful thing to understand how many are citizens, Daines' proposal has seemingly provided no safeguard to ensure this data is not misused or abused for political purposes. Moreover, it seems like he is simply pandering to an administration already under fire. He is being a good political soldier, not really solving the problems that are at the top of Montana needs, which include resolution on trade, healthcare and concerns about natural disasters like wildfires.

Again, if Daines is so serious about asking the question  if it really is that important  what is he going to do to make sure that data is protected and shielded from misuse? Does he really want to know how many people are in America, or does he want to make it easier for the President to carry out questionable policies and exploit those who are vulnerable?

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Economic Development Week 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.

HB52 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.

HB52 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.
We all want to see a brighter future for Montana. Thats why we need to make sure that clean power is affordable and accessible to all Montanans.

Unfortunately, there is an effort underway by NorthWestern Energy to ensure that going solar is no longer affordable for Montanans. In their current and ongoing rate case proceedings, NorthWestern Energy is proposing to place an unfair demand charge on future homeowners that wish to generate some of their power from a solar array, known as net metering customers. This proposed demand charge will make it impossible for net metering customers to save money on their utility bills by going solar and without that incentive Montanas brighter clean energy future will disappear.

Going solar affords customers smaller utility bills and a degree of energy independence, so why does NorthWestern Energy want to take away these options away from customers? Because they want to ensure maximum profits for their shareholders, even if its by gouging those customers that choose to generate some of their power themselves.
Author: Rachel Devlin

Title: "A Girl Stands at the Door - The Generation of Young Women Who Desegregated America's Schools"

Publisher: Thorndike Press 2018; 504 pages

Rachel Devlin has written an important history of the concerted effort to desegregate schools wherever they existed in America. Black school girls were often the point of the spear thrust into segregated all white schools pursuant to the strategies gradually planned and executed by their parents and their lawyers.

Segregated universities, graduate and law schools were the places where initial success at desegregation was achieved. The Supreme Court held in December 1938 in Gaines vs. Canada that the University of Missouri had to admit Lloyd Gaines to the law school in the absence of other graduate training within the state. After Gaines won his case, the Missouri Legislature attempted to build a law school for Gaines and a graduate school in the black Lincoln University.

Though Gaines called others to action, he dropped out. Lucille Bluford answered his call and applied in 1939 to enter the University of Missouri School of Journalism. She was refused admission, sued and, at the trial of her case, her lawyer argued: A girl stands at the door and a generation waits outside. Her case continued for three years and she lost at every stage. In response to her efforts, the university closed its School of Journalism. Bluford, a talented and tireless journalist and advocate for desegregation, was awarded an honorary degree in 1984 by the University of Missouri.

Devlin writes of Ada Lois Sipuel, the first African American person to apply to an all-white graduate school in the United States after World War II. She applied to the University of Oklahoma College of Law in 1946. She sued when she was refused. Thurgood Marshall successfully argued her case in the Supreme Court in January 1948 in Sipuel vs. Board of Regents. She immediately reapplied for admission, refusing the states offer to establish a separate Negro law school. She finally was admitted in the 1949 summer session.

In all her classes, she was segregated as the Negro student. She endured the humiliation of sitting in roped off areas and in chairs with large signs marked 'colored. She graduated, passed the bar and became the only black practicing lawyer trained in Oklahoma. Sipuel eventually became a member of the Board of Regents.

At age 13, Marguerite Carr in 1947 sought admission to an all-white junior high in the District of Columbia. Rejected because of her race, she sued. Others, similarly were rejected in other schools, filed lawsuits. Devlin discusses several of these cases and the resistance to the plaintiffs and the people who supported them. None of the cases filed in 1947 and 1948 made it to the Supreme Court  but these early cases helped to bring about a quiet revolution in the attitudes of both judges and school boards.

You would have thought with the decision of the Supreme Court in Brown vs. Board of Education on May 17, 1954, the issue was decided, but Devlin writes the Supreme Court in Brown vs. Board of Education II decided May 31, 1955, gave Southern legislatures unanticipated breathing room when they ruled this had to be done "with all deliberate speed." It would take more litigation, protests, strikes and federal troops to force integration.

I believe Devlin missed the point in the Little Rock case when she wrote President Dwight Eisenhower used federal troops to escort black students into Little Rocks Central High School. He was not acting on his own. Rather he was enforcing the order of North Dakotas own U.S. District Court Judge Ronald Davies, who ordered the integration of the high school.

Getting admitted into the schools was only a first step. Many of the black students were abused, insulted, hit and spit on repeatedly by white students, and teachers often encouraged that behavior. What really blew me away was the reaction of white students and some teachers in Baton Rouge when President John F. Kennedy was assassinated on Nov. 22, 1963. The students cheered and celebrated in the halls, effectively taking over the schools in a riotous victory party. They closed on the black students with threats and taunting. Two large white men appeared  they were U.S. Marshals  and they took the students out of the school as the crowd became increasingly violent, brazenly throwing punches at the marshals.

In 2019, we hope things are better with integration working and with desegregation battles being a distant memory. But Devlin does not mention the essence of segregated schools is alive and well in New Orleans. Basically, all but a few schools are now charter schools, and they are mainly all black or all white. This started after hurricane Katrina. Lets hope we are not going backward.

This was not an easy read for me, as having grown up in Minot in the 1950s, I lack the context of the full extent of the long fight for integration and the defeat of Jim Crow laws. The black experience of my high school life is my lifelong friendship with the Rev. Bob Polk, the youth secretary of the Minot YMCA. He is the first black person I knew. I see and communicate with him several times a year for 59 years, and he is about to turn 91.

Devlin has a lot of information packed into her book, all of which deserves a full appreciation and understanding. Devlin puts a summary at the beginning of chapters and then writes about quite a few other people and events so it is somewhat difficult to follow the point she is making. One chapter on Esther Brown, a white integration activist, had me confused as to her role. I had to go on the internet to learn she is not the plaintiff in Brown vs. Board of Education. This book would have benefited from an excellent index.

Bob Wefald is a retired North Dakota State District Court judge, former attorney general and a retired Navy captain.

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The loss of Joyce Mehrer's and Sheila Richter's sons resulted in an inseparable bond.

On June 6, 2006, their sons  Cpl. Curtis Mehrer and Sgt. Travis Van Zoest  were killed when their vehicle struck a roadside bomb in Afghanistan. They were 21 years old.

The mothers had never met prior to their sons being killed, but today they are best friends.

"We finish each other's sentences," said Mehrer, with a laugh.

Mehrer and Richter said their sons also did not know each other before they were deployed, but had striking similarities.

Mehrer said Curtis was "outgoing" and could strike up a conversation with anybody. Richter said Travis was the same, as well as "charismatic" and goal-oriented. Both of their sons also enjoyed snowboarding.

Coincidentally, on the Mother's Day before they were killed, their sons each sent them a bouquet of flowers with the same stargazer lilies. Their sons' similarities and other eerie occurrences since their deaths have strangely brought solace to the two mothers.

"I know the boys are telling us, 'Knock it off,' but also, that's how we get through it," Richter said.

Richter and Mehrer are not shy of talking publicly about their sons. In fact, they tend to always take opportunities to share their experiences as a way to increase awareness about those in the military.

"I think people tend to forget if they're not affected by the military that we still have people overseas and we have to support them no matter what," Richter said.

Since their sons died, Mehrer and Richter also have made an effort to reach out to other families of soldiers killed in action.

When there's news of another soldier killed, Richter said: "It takes you back to that day."

"It's like a wound that never heals. Every time you see that name, your heart breaks because you know there's another mother that can't sleep at night, can't breath, that lost their son or daughter," Mehrer said.

The two mothers said they remember the crucial support they received when their sons died.

For Curtis' funeral visitation, Mehrer recalled an older woman was there whom she had never met. It was Kenneth Hendrickson's mother, a National Guard soldier killed in Iraq in 2004. Mehrer said she was shocked that the woman was there, because she had just recently lost her son.

"I will never forget that; that she came and made me feel like I wasn't alone in the world. That she knew exactly what I was going through that night," Mehrer said.

Mehrer and Richter continue to support other families and remind them that the can recover from the grief and heartache.

"You just find your new normal and you do survive," Mehrer said.

Not only are Mehrer and Richter good friends, but they also have maintained close ties with about a handful of other mothers whose children were deployed with their sons.

"You form bonds," said Richter, of the other mothers and family members they've grown close to over the years. "We don't consider them friends; they're family."

Each year around the anniversary of their sons' deaths, Mehrer and Richter hold a memorial event, which is open to all veterans and their families.

"It's more about the bonding experience the soldiers are getting," Richter said of the event. "And then for us, too, it's helpful for us not to sit at home that day, because you're not supposed to focus on the date of death, you're supposed to focus on the life."

Mehrer said they encourage the veterans to talk with one another, but don't push them. For some veterans who attend, it's the first social event they've been to since returning home.

In addition to this event and promoting awareness of those in the military, Mehrer and Richter also participate in casualty officer training. When a soldier is killed, their families are visited by a casualty officer, or someone who works for the military, who helps with funeral arrangements and other tasks.

Mehrer and Richter recalled how difficult it was for their casualty officers to convey to them why it was taking several days for their sons' bodies to be brought back to North Dakota. Now, they attend casualty officer trainings in Bismarck to offer a family's perspective.

For Mother's Day, Richter and Mehrer try to focus on the good memories they have of their sons. They each have adult children  Mehrer has another son, Travis' twin, Alan, and Richter has two other sons, Derrick and Tyler.

Richter said she "feels cheated" that she didn't get to watch Travis grow up and wonders whether she would have grandchildren by now.

"That's always in the back of my mind," she said.

Mehrer said she struggles with the fact that she won't get to do the mother-son dance at Curtis' wedding, as she did with his twin brother, and other "little things like that."

While the months of May and June can be difficult for Mehrer and Richter, they aim to focus on optimism.

"For a long time, you focus on the death and why me, but now I think we've shifted to trying to remember their life, how blessed we were to have them for 21 years," Richter said.

(Reach Blair Emerson at 701-250-8251 or Blair.Emerson@bismarcktribune.com)

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WASHINGTON (AP)  President Donald Trump said Friday that trade talks between China and the United States were continuing in a "very congenial manner" despite new tariffs the U.S. imposed Friday on $200 billion in Chinese imports and Beijing's vow to retaliate.

In a series of blustering morning tweets, Trump also claimed the new tariffs will help rather than hurt the U.S. He offered a proposal he said would ease any negative impact on U.S. farmers from lost sales to China.

The U.S. stock market, which until this week had been expecting the two sides to reach an accord on trade, has been dropping for several days. Investors worry about the impact of a full-blown trade war because it would raise costs for companies importing Chinese goods, could make doing business in China more difficult and would generally threaten to slow the global economy.

The U.S. Trade Representative moved on Friday increased the tariff rate from 10 percent to 25 percent on Chinese goods.

Farmers across the country expressed concern, including the National Association of Wheat Growers, the American Soybean Association and the National Corn Growers Association. The three commodities represent around 171 million of acres of farmland in the country.

U.S. wheat growers are facing tough times right now, and these additional tariffs will continue to put a strain on our export markets and threaten many decades worth of market development, said NAWG president and Texas wheat farmer Ben Scholz.

The S&P 500 index is on track for its worst week of 2019, though it's still showing a double-digit gain for the year.

In response, Sen. John Hoeven, chairman of the Senate Agriculture Appropriations Committee and a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, outlined efforts to secure additional assistance for agriculture producers impacted by trade negotiations.

With the Chinese continuing to delay negotiations, farm country needs assistance which is the case Ive been making to the administration, both at USDA and the White House. I am encouraged that the president has said we should make more assistance available to our farmers during trade negotiations. I continue to advocate for another round of Market Facilitation Program payments, and other agriculture assistance, Hoeven said.

Our agriculture producers have been targeted by the Chinese, which is why it makes sense to put the tariff money that comes in toward providing aid, including another round of MFP and other trade assistance, for producers. That will send a clear message to China that the U.S. will do what it takes to prevail and get a better trade deal.

Actually, the burden of tariffs falls on U.S. consumers and businesses that buy imports. By the end of last year, those consumers and companies were paying $3 billion a month in higher taxes and absorbing $1.4 billion a month in lost efficiency, according to a study by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York and Columbia and Princeton universities.

North Dakota's delegation in Washington keeps telling the state's farmers that they need to be patient. Farmers do not have that luxury. Crops go bad, and livestock doesnt live forever, said Alison Jones, communications director for the North Dakota Democratic-NPL Party, in opposition to the elongated negotiations.

Geng Shuang, a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman, said Beijing is hoping the Trump administration will meet China "halfway" in the dispute over trade. China said it would take unspecified countermeasures.

-- Bismarck Tribune staff contributed to this article.

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GRAND FORKS  Standing in front of an aircraft that has had a presence in Grand Forks since 2011, Secretary of the Air Force Heather Wilson told several members of Grand Forks Air Force Base on Saturday theyre about to become even more familiar with the plane.

According to Wilson, the Air Force intends to redesignate the 319th Air Base Wing in Grand Forks to become a reconnaissance wing in charge of the Air Forces Global Hawk mission, relating to operations of the Air Forces high-flying, unmanned drone for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance efforts.

There are squadrons around the world who fly these aircraft. Those squadrons currently report to the 69th Reconnaissance Group, which is a group here on this base, said Grand Forks Base Commander Col. Ben Spencer.

The 69th Reconnaissance Group reports to officials at Beale Air Force Base in California, which Spencer said has owned the Global Hawk mission since 2011. After it redesignates Grand Forks Air Force Base, Spencer said the Air Force will rename the 69th Reconnaissance Group to become the 319th Operations Group.

So this wing will own that group (and) that group owns the Global Hawk flying operations, Spencer said.

Though Wilsons announcement confirms news that has been floating around the community for some time now, the redesignation wont be complete until a "change of command" ceremony on June 28, when Grand Forks Air Force Base will welcome Col. Cameron Pringle as its new base commander.

Pringle is the Deputy Director of Operations for Air Combat Command Headquarters at Joint Base Langley-Eustis in Virginia.

Wilson said Saturday she doesn't foresee anything stalling the Grand Forks redesignation.

Were extremely pleased this is happening, said Sen. John Hoeven, who was present for Wilsons announcement. It has taken a lot of work to get here.

That work dates back to 2005, said Hoeven, when he was governor of North Dakota and the base was the subject of Base Realignment and Closure discussions, which ultimately led to the Air Force moving its KC-135 tanker mission from Grand Forks to McConnell Air Force Base in Kansas. After the last tanker left in 2010, the first Global Hawk arrived in 2011, the same year the Air Force began having sequestration talks and military budget cuts.

As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Hoeven said he fought hard against proposals to cut funding to Air Force missions relating to unmanned aircraft.

I think part of that was the men and women at Grand Forks Air Force Base, and how they took to the Global Hawk and how they flew it, Hoeven said.

Today, Grand Forks Air Force Base is responsible for several Air Force operations. Grand Forks has a squadron in charge of monitoring six of 13 remote sites for the Air Force's High Frequency Global Communications System mission, and it also has personnel working on Air Traffic and Radar Approach Control for aircraft landing on the base and at Grand Forks International Airport.

When it comes to the Global Hawk, Grand Forks has had personnel piloting the aircraft and maintaining it for many years now.

Wilson told gathered air personnel much of the news on Saturday was thanks to them and their work.

Some people talk about these being autonomous, these drones, but theyre not, Wilson said, gesturing to one of the Global Hawks at Grand Forks Air Force Base behind her. Its kind of a unique lifestyle. These guys operate 24/7.

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JAMESTOWN  A disproportionate number of registered sex offenders live in Jamestown compared to other cities in the state, according to Scott Edinger, Jamestown chief of police.

Were by far the highest, he said.

Jamestown is home to 86 registered sex offenders, Edinger said. That does not include offenders in the James River Correctional Center, Stutsman County Correctional Center or the North Dakota State Hospital Sexual Offender Treatment Program.

Records show Jamestown makes up 2% of North Dakotas population but is home to 5.7% of the registered sex offenders not in prison, jail or committed to a treatment program in the State Hospital.

You could see more (registered sex offenders) in Jamestown because more landlords are willing to rent to registered offenders, said Eric Hassebrock, sex offender specialist and probation officer for the North Dakota Department of Corrections of Rehabilitation in Jamestown.

Monitoring the population

The Jamestown Police Department has a more strenuous protocol for tracking registered sex offenders than required under state law, according to Lt. John Gletne, the officer assigned to manage the sex offender monitoring system.

We have a system we think is working, he said. We have officers assigned to make contact (with each registered sex offender) every month.

North Dakota law requires registered sex offenders make contact with the law enforcement agency where they live just once each year if they are not on probation. They are also required to make contact if they move to a new apartment or home, change jobs, change phone numbers or even change an email address.

Sex offenders who are on court-ordered parole or probation also deal with parole officers of the North Dakota Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, Hassebrock said.

Initially, it defaults to the maximum level which is an absolute minimum of one (visit) time per month, he said. We also are in contact with their therapists, employers and others they are in contact with.

If the probation officer determines there might be a problem, daily reporting by the sex offender can be required. In addition, sex offenders are on GPS monitoring for at least the first year of probation, Hassebrock said. That can be extended if the probation officer determines there is a potential for problems.

Hassebrock said the bulk of the problems he encounters with sex offenders on parole or probation are technical in nature and include things like not checking in or registering or notifying his office if they move or take a new job.

Very few revocations are sex related, he said, referring to the number of sex offenders who have had their probation revoked. It is not uncommon to see revocations on other issues.

Who they are

Of the 86 registered sex offenders in Jamestown, 35 are high risk and are required to register for life as sex offenders, Gletne said. Of the rest, 22 are moderate offenders required to register for 25 years and 22 are low risk offenders who are registered for 15 years. There are seven sex offenders residing in Jamestown who have not been assigned a risk level yet by the North Dakota attorney generals office.

Gletne said some, but not all, of the registered sex offenders living in Jamestown have been released from the State Hospital Sexual Offender Treatment Program. Others have been listed as a sex offender as a component of their court sentence.

A review of the attorney generals listing for registered sex offenders residing in Jamestown shows about 70% committed the most recent crime listed in their history outside Stutsman County.

That doesnt surprise me because of our location, Edinger said. We have the prison, the State Hospital Sex Offender unit, the Human Service Center. A lot of them end up here. The Department of Corrections even has a parole officer that specializes in sex offenders here.

According to the North Dakota attorney generals website, the Department of Corrections has nine probation officers that specialize in working with sex offenders around the state.

Gletne said the registered sex offenders work in a variety of jobs including construction, agriculture and fast food in Jamestown. They have more problems finding housing than jobs, he said.

Gletne said the number of registered sex offenders residing in Jamestown grows by a few each year.

Edinger said the process the Police Department uses to monitor sex offenders is working in Jamestown.

I dont think wed change anything, he said. It takes a lot of time, but weve had very few incidents.

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A recent study revealed juvenile drug arrest rates in North Dakota are among the highest in the country, and federal numbers show those numbers have increased over the last decade.

Services aimed at prevention and recovery have been limited for children in North Dakota, but behavioral health experts said they have seen a shift in thinking. That has sparked a movement toward policy-making to help children before they end up before a judge.

North Dakota had the third highest rate of juvenile drug arrests in 2017, reporting almost 27 violations per 10,000 children, according to research by the Greenhouse Treatment Center in Texas. That was behind South Dakota (46 per 10,000) and Wyoming (35 per 10,000), according to the study. Minnesota ranked 17th, with a rate of about 14 drug arrests per 10,000 children.

Overall, North Dakota ranked low for total numbers with only 476 arrests in 2017, according to the FBI Uniform Crime Reporting system, from which Greenhouse pulled its information. A review of a decade of North Dakota juvenile arrest statistics and shows arrests increased 70% from 2008, which had 278 juvenile drug violations, to 2017, the latest data available from UCR.

Drug abuse in children often is the result of a behavioral health issue instead of a criminal issue, said Pam Sagness, behavioral health division director for the North Dakota Human Services Department. But there are few behavioral health services in the state for children, leaving the juvenile court system to fill the gaps, she said.

Stakeholders noted in a 2018 behavioral health system study that youth services are often swallowed up by a systems emphasis on adult services.

Sagness division has pushed this legislative session for solutions to preventing juvenile drug abuse before they end up in the court system.

Weve been evaluating and doing justice reinvestment for adults, but we havent done that for kids, Sagness said.

Waiting for law enforcement

Reported drug crime in North Dakota overall has been on the rise in the last decade  2008 had 1,769 violations in the category, which more than tripled to 5,646 in 2017.

The FBI defines a violation as one arrest for each separate instance in which a person is arrested, cited or summoned for an offense, but the program doesnt collect data from incidents in which police simply contact a child who has not committed a crime, according to the UCR website.

Rates for child drug violations also have increased over the last 10 years, according to analysis of UCR juvenile drug arrests versus U.S. Census estimates of residents under the age of 18. North Dakotas rate of juvenile drug violations was nearly 19 per 10,000 juveniles in 2008.

North Dakota tracks juvenile court referrals, which can come from police, schools, parents and other sources. Drug-related referrals have declined slightly from 1,112 cases in 2014 to 1,040 last year, according to the state juvenile court system.

Karen Kringlie, director of juvenile court services for the East Central and Southeast judicial districts, said her staff is concerned with increased juvenile use of hard drugs, including meth, cocaine and opiates, in recent years.

Kids commit delinquent offenses for different reasons, but yes, we do see youth who choose to use drugs or alcohol as a means to cope with life stressors or to self-medicate an underlying mental health issue, she said. Youth are naturally impulsive and more influenced by their peers than adults.

Accessing behavioral health services without being involved in the justice system is ideal, Kringlie said. The juvenile court system is a connector to behavioral health services, not the deliverer of those resources, she said.

Families do have the ability to access these services but we are finding that they do not, she said. Many of them wait until law enforcement is called and juvenile court receives a referral before a referral to services is done.

Sagness was concerned with the rising arrests numbers, especially because North Dakota rates for youth using substances are all below the national average, with the exception of alcohol, she said as she cited youth risk behavior surveys.

The UCR numbers could be repetitive in the sense one person may be arrested multiple times, said Lisa Jahner, initiative coordinator and director of research and programs for the North Dakota Association of Counties.

I do think that these kids who are using use extensively and  there is not just one violation, she said. Theres probably many violations among the same youth.

Good neighbors, not good prisoners

North Dakota does not have an adequate behavioral health system to help address the needs of substance abuse in children, though leaders have been working in recent years to fix that, Sagness said.

Like the rest of the country, North Dakotans with substance abuse disorders access treatment at a lower rate than those who are diagnosed with an abuse program, according to the behavioral health study. Sagness and the report noted a lack of treatment in rural areas.

Even in urban areas, we dont necessarily have the services that can meet the need, often with youth, she said.

There are pockets of services offered by local entities for drug abuse among children, Jahner said, but she was unaware of any statewide services.

More work needs to be done, including providing community-based services, meeting needs for children at an earlier age and providing services from prevention to recovery, Sagness said.

North Dakota has become more accepting of building good neighbors, not good prisoners because education efforts have helped them realize providing access to services is more effective than incarceration, she said.

These people are citizens, and theyre going to come out and be our neighbors or in our communities, Jahner said.

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FARGO  Some people are so dedicated to their occupation that they take work home with them.

Kayla Dornfeld took part of her job to her own wedding last month. Actually, she invited them as guests.

Dornfeld, a third-grade teacher at Mapleton Elementary School, invited all of the schools students to her Fargo wedding.

On the happiest day of my life, I knew how much more special it would be to have my students in attendance, she said in a post on the education union website, https://www.ndunited.org.

At this point in the year, we have become inseparable, and they were counting down the days to the wedding since January 1, when it was 100 days to go, she wrote. Since our school district is smaller  about 150 kids  I decided to invite all of the students in our school. If I didnt teach them yet, I will. What better way to kick off the start of a new relationship?

She married Dan Dornfeld in mid-April at Fargo's Sanctuary Events Center.

Photos accompanying the post show Dornfeld in her wedding gown surrounded by more than 50 youngsters.

In September 2018, Dornfeld  then Kayla Delzer  was named North Dakotas 2019 Teacher of the Year.

Now in her 11th year of teaching, Delzer has taught in Mapleton since 2016, following stints in West Fargo and Thief River Falls, Minn.

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Before launching into our main topic this week, I want to demonstrate that if you hang around long enough you can see history repeat itself, case in point: federal revenue sharing.

Back in 1967, U.S. Treasury people were shocked to discover that the nation had more money than it could spend. So they started talking about giving some of this surplus to the states and called it revenue sharing.

Well, the National Governors' Conference was not about to pass up free federal money so it quickly organized an 11-member committee headed by Gov. George Romney of Michigan. Yes, the dad.

Representing Gov. Bill Guy on the committee, I headed for the first session at the O'Hare Airport in Chicago, where we hammered out a preliminary draft and agreed to meet again in a month.

When we reconvened, we were besieged by every vice president of the National Association of Counties who argued persuasively to include counties in revenue sharing. So, to keep them in the boat, we promised them a share.

At the next monthly meeting, we were assailed by the National League of Cities, which claimed to be the backbone of American society. Besides, if we didn't take them aboard, they would oppose the plan and kill it. So the cities were included.

Needless to report, the townships heard of the scheme and demanded a share. By this time, every conceivable government was standing at the treasury door waiting for the payout.

Now this governors process took about a year, 1968 to be exact. By that time the Vietnam War had gobbled up the surplus so there was no revenue to share. But the gears of government were moving and could not be stopped. So Congress borrowed the money to fund a six-year revenue-sharing plan when there was no revenue.

There is now muttering in Congress about giving reparations to the victims of slavery. Pay reparations to all African-Americans, sort of like back pay. You can bet that if the idea moves to implementation, we will see a repeat of the revenue-sharing fiasco.

By the time we tally up all of the damage we have done, many will just look at the price tag, tear up their deeds and head back to Europe.

Lesser items

The Legislature held the bill for a new ethics program until the last day and during the noon hour it was stolen.

To control illegal immigration, the United States is building a wall while the Mexicans are digging tunnels and never the twain shall meet.

We finally have a presidential candidate everyone can support. You haven't heard of her because the Democratic field is so full of other unknown candidates. Marianne Williamson announced twice before she got noticed. She is for love and peace. Who can oppose that?

The people who build bridges report that 10.8% of North Dakota's bridges are "functionally deficient."

So you can be assured that 90 times out of 100 you will make it across the next bridge.

The president of the Board of Higher Education is wondering how many chairs should be set up for the next meeting.

Lloyd Omdahl is a political scientist and former North Dakota lieutenant governor. His column appears Sundays.

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Legislation passed by the Legislature has the potential of finding uses for the states large natural gas supply. The legislation provides a sales tax exemption for certain natural gas processing facilities. If successful, enough ethane, propane and other products would be produced to attract a plastics manufacturing plant to North Dakota.

The Tribune Editorial Board understands the argument against the exemption, but the need to reduce flaring and make use of the natural gas supply overrides that argument. Rep. Rick Becker, R-Bismarck, was among legislators who opposed the bill. He called the measure "corporate welfare" that picks winners and losers. He argued if a venture is going to be profitable a company wont need subsidies to do it.

We think thats often true. However, corporate welfare is a tax structure that allows a company to pay no taxes. This is an investment that when modeled out for 20 or 30 years pays for itself many times over.

Oil production in the state has outpaced the industrys ability to deal with natural gas and theres still too much flaring in the oil patch. Some companies have been reducing oil production to keep down flaring. We need to reduce wasteful flaring and mineral owners need to get value for the natural gas. So far the industry and the state have struggled to accomplish that goal. In February the state produced 2.6 billion cubic feet per day of natural gas with about 20 percent burned off or flared.

Presently, the state produces between 25,000 and 50,000 barrels per day of ethane at natural gas processing plants in Tioga and near Williston, according to Justin Kringstad, director of the North Dakota Pipeline Authority. Then the ethane goes by pipeline to Alberta, Canada, for plastics manufacturing.

Instead of shipping out the ethane the goal is to use the tax exemption to lure the petrochemical industry to the state. Sen. Dwight Cook, R-Mandan, a co-sponsor of the bill, has high hopes for the tax exemption. "The jobs that this could create and the revenue it would generate is unbelievable potential," he said.

Natural gas from the Bakken is considered to be rich gas with a high concentration of natural gas liquids. The new sales tax exemption, if successful, will encourage more processing of the gas to produce ethane, propane, butane and lighter gases. The incentive can be used by straddle plants, or processing plants located on or near a natural gas transmission line. The plant removes excess natural gas liquids from the processed natural gas in the pipeline. The tax exemption also applies to a facility known as a deep cut fractionator that processes the natural gas liquids to produce ethane, propane, butane and other products. North Dakota has a sales tax exemption for a petrochemical plant, but it has never been used.

The goal of the tax exemption is to bring all these factors together resulting in plants and more jobs.

One company, Bakken Midstream, provided encouraging legislative committee testimony about one opportunity. The company's website says it wants to develop value-added natural gas infrastructure in North Dakota. Bakken Midstreams website says the company believes conditions are right for North Dakota to develop petrochemical facilities similar to Alberta's Industrial Heartland. Shawn Kessel, deputy commerce commissioner, said a petrochemical facility could mean a multibillion-dollar investment for North Dakota, not including the associated infrastructure.

None of this will happen quickly, but the state needs to make a steady push for projects being discussed and ones similar to them. North Dakota needs to make the best use of its resources.

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News / National

by Staff reporter

PROPHETIC Healing and Deliverance (PHD) Ministries leader Walter Magaya and his wife, Tendai, have been taken to the High Court for failure to repay a US$23 million loan to Homelink Finance (Private) Limited.Magaya and his wife bound themselves as surety and co-principal debtor to a loan extended to Yadah Connect (Private) Limited last year. He risks losing his sprawling property in Waterfalls, Harare, which is used as a guest house. Stand numbers 167 and 168 of Prospect, Harare, measuring a combined 7,9 hectares, were tendered as security for the loan and they become executable upon failure by the debtors to service the loan.They also offered mining machinery, equipment and vehicles financed under the facility as security. Homelink, through its lawyers, Shomwe-Nyakuedzwa Attorneys filed summons for provisional sentence against Mr and Mrs Magaya as well as Yadah Connect.The company argues that the defendants breached the loan agreement, hence an order compelling them to pay should be issued. Homelink, according to the papers filed at court, extended a facility of US$23 338 745 to Yadah Connect in 2018.The parties agreed that the loan would be repaid in 33 monthly instalments of US$784 873,62 inclusive of interest, with effect from December 31 last year.Repayment, according to the papers, was to be paid in US dollars. Interest on the loan facility, according to the agreement, should be charged at the aggregate rate of 7,5 percent per annum but subject to change in line with the prevailing market conditions.Magaya is yet to respond to the civil claim. Meanwhile, the trial within a trial being conducted in the case of PHD Ministries on charges of failing to declare tax of over $28 million revenue accrued from 2013 to 2018 continued yesterday with board member (finance) Nelson Marimo denying knowledge of the financial statements being used by the State, writes Prosper Dembedza.The trial within a trial was conducted after the State tendered financial statements whose authenticity was queried by the church's lawyer, Mr Admire Rubaya.Mr Marimo disputed the financial statements being used by Zimra, saying only him can produce such information. He said when Zimra officials raided their offices and confiscated computers, he was in South Africa only to receive a phone call from Winnie Matimati, an accounts clerk, informing him that they had taken everything that they needed for their investigations."I am the only one who drafts such documents and my computer is protected by a password which is only known to myself," he said.Mr Marimo told the court that he does not relate to the contents of the financial documents as they don't reflect the financial position of PHD. Harare Provincial magistrate Mr Hosea Mujaya rolled over the matter to May 24 after the church's legal practitioner Mr Oliver Marwa said he wanted to call Matimati as a second witness in their defence.Magaya's church is being charged for breaching Value Added Tax (VAT) regulations on over $28 million realized from sale of church wares since 2013. According to the State, the church raises revenue from selling church regalia, anointing oil, holy water and its guest house.It is alleged that sometime in October last year, the Zimra conducted tax investigations and recovered financial statements from PHD for the period extending from 2013 to 2017. The court heard that Zimra recovered financial statements from the Commercial Bank of Zimbabwe which were submitted by PHD for a loan application.The statements showed that the church realised sales amounting to $28 706 040 between 2013 and 2017. It is alleged that during that period, the church did not submit income tax returns to Zimra.The court heard that during the same period, PHD paid remuneration amounting to $950 522,99 to Magaya's wife, Tendai, directly into her personal Stanbic Bank account.PHD also transferred remuneration of US$2 403 658,24 to Magaya's Stanbic Bank account and on both occasions, the church evaded tax by not paying Pay As You Earn. It is the State case that Magaya's church had no records of all goods and services that it sells and purchases, in violation of the VAT Act.
News / National

by Staff reporter

THE issue related to suspended Highlanders executive committee members is being dealt with in accordance with the club's internal regulations and there was no need for ZIFA to be worried.This was part of the response the Bulawayo giants gave to ZIFA after the association wrote a letter demanding to be appraised on developments that led to the suspension of vice chairman Morden Ngwenya and secretary Israel Moyo.Ngwenya and Moyo were slapped with suspensions for rejecting the renewal of chief executive Nhlanhla Dube's contract, which had expired on April 30."We refer to your letter dated 7 May, 2018 and further to the telephone discussion between the writer and the ZIFA president on the same date."We write to advise that the issue of our suspended executive committee members is pending before our disciplinary tribunal in terms of our constitution,'' wrote Bosso chairman Kenneth Mhlope."It is, therefore, inappropriate for us to prematurely discuss it at this stage. "Accordingly, I encourage you to be patient and allow due process to take its course, whose outcome shall be publicised."Indeed, you may want to know that everything concerning the suspended members is being dealt with strictly according to our internal regulations, in particular the constitution, a copy of which is in your possession."And, while we appreciate your concerns about the stability of our club, we assure you that there is no need to worry.''Bosso are, however, yet to set up a disciplinary tribunal, while the two accused, who were served with their letters of suspension early this week, are expected to respond to the allegations today.
News / National

by Staff reporter

A FORM four pupil allegedly drank himself to death in a suspected Vuzu party binge in Nkulumane suburb. Brandon Zimba (18) of Nkulumane suburb died on Saturday night at a party in the company of his friends and cousin at a house in the same suburb. He was staying with his grandfather following the death of his father years ago and his mother works in South Africa.The mother, Ms Sithembiso Zimba said she was devastated by her son's death. She said his behaviour completely changed when he moved to a new school and she suspects it was as a result of influence from bad friends."Never at any point in my life did I ever imagine that my child would drink himself to death. Growing up, he was obedient and brilliant in school. He started school in South Africa and came home for his secondary. I took him to Sizane High School and his school performance was very pleasing."The school, however, hiked fees and I was forced to transfer him. I regret that move because it has led to the death of my son. At the new school, I started receiving reports that he had started drinking. The elders who stayed with him would sit him down and each time he apologised and promised to change," said Ms Zimba.She decried the growing culture of juvenile delinquency and said she believed her child's demise was a result of bad friends."This society and this new culture of today will 'finish' our children and something needs to be done to stop it. We don't know what transpires at these Vuzu parties, perhaps they abuse all sorts of drugs besides alcohol. Those that were with him should have called for help when Brandon passed out but unfortunately they decided to watch him die. I am asking myself why him?" she said.Ms Zimba said she now regretted her decision to work in South Africa to fend for the family."I keep asking myself if the situation would have been different had I stayed home and taken care of my children. But I am living in South Africa to work and fend for my children. I did all I could for him as a single parent. I am doing all I can even for his younger siblings, his sister aged 14 and his younger brother aged six," she said.Bulawayo police spokesperson Inspector Abednico Ncube confirmed the death. "I can confirm that we are dealing with a case of sudden death and investigations are underway.Brandon's grandfather, who only identified himself as Mr Ndebele and was Brandon's guardian said he was shocked by the boy's death."I knew him to be a quiet fellow but there is a saying that still waters run deep. I cannot express my devastation and I cannot even imagine what his mother must be feeling following his death. He was the eldest and his father died some years ago."There is a sick culture that is slowly engulfing the youths and it is time communities took a stand. We have been reading about these strange parties and happenings but I never thought that one of these things done by youths could lead to the death of my grandson," said Mr Ndebele.Brandon will be laid to rest today at Athlone Cemetery after a funeral service at Kings and Queens' funeral parlour at 8AM.Police have been raiding Vuzu parties where youths abuse alcohol and drugs and also engage in sex but it is proving difficult to ban these parties completely.
News / National

by Staff reporter

President Mnangagwa has called on Zimbabwe to desist from practices and attitudes that divide the country. The Head of State and Government said dialogue was a central plank in the Second Republic.This he said to hundreds of people who thronged the National Heroes' Acre yesterday to witness the burial of the late national hero Misheck Ntundu Velaphi Ncube who passed away in Bulawayo last week on Monday.Velaphi Ncube (82), who was a Zanu-PF National Consultative Assembly member, died at the United Bulawayo Hospitals from a diabetes-related ailment.President Mnangagwa said: "We must resolutely oppose, shun and expose tribalism, regionalism, nepotism, corruption and all other divisive and retrogressive practices. Let us preach and live in peace, love and harmony," he said.The President added that his administration was committed to peace and unity that has seen his administration engaging other political players. "My administration's quest to further entrench the culture of peace, love and unity has seen us engage in a political dialogue with those political parties who are progressive and patriotic to our great country."The culture of dialogue will remain a hallmark of the Second Republic," President Mnangagwa added.Turning to the life of the late Velaphi, Ncube President Mnangagwa described him as a selfless cadre who was dedicated to the liberation struggle and the defence of the country's sovereignty."It is this rich record, his unflinching persistency, consistency, commitment and loyalty, which has earned him a place in our hearts and informed our decision to lay him to rest at this great shrine of honour, the National Heroes' Acre, alongside many other revolutionaries gone before him," he said.The President said Velaphi Ncube's political activism began when he was still young."His political consciousness was ignited from a very young age as he witnessed persistent humiliation, oppression and the tyranny of the racist white colonial regime on the African native," President Mnangagwa said.He added that the later national hero was heavily involved in sabotaging the colonial regime when he joined the National Democratic Party in 1960."Our hero immersed himself in political activities focusing mostly on undermining the authority of the colonial administration through acts of sabotage to make it difficult for the British South African Police to patrol the rural areas," the President said."Velaphi's span of operation extended to areas such as Bulilima, Matobo, Seula and Gwanda. He distinguished himself by his militancy and worked closely with other brave and courageous NDP youths as they intensified their daring acts of rebellion against the colonial administration."The President said some of Velaphi Ncube's peers include the likes of Ackim Ndlovu, Ethan Dube, Abel Siwela, Thomas Ngwenya, Clark Mpofu and Dumiso Dabengwa among others."His clandestine activities did not go unnoticed by the colonial regime, leading to his arrest and trial at the Bulawayo High Court in 1963 for possessing weapons of war including explosives."He was sentenced to seven years imprisonment which he served at Khami Prison, where we met," he said.President Mnangagwa said Velaphi Ncube went on to be detained between 1968 and 1974 and was detained again in 1977 until his release in 1979. Velaphi Ncube was also part of the Zapu electoral directorate in the 1980 elections."After the Unity Accord between PF-Zapu and Zanu-PF, Velaphi became actively involved in the building of party structures for the reconstituted Zanu-PF party."In spite of undertaking high level party assignments, our national hero was a humble cadre who had high regard for the party constitution, regulations and procedures and norms," President Mnangagwa said.Earlier in the day, President Mnangagwa, accompanied by Vice Presidents Constantino Chiwenga and Kembo Mohadi, took the lead during a body viewing ceremony held at Stodart Hall in Mbare.Cabinet ministers, service chiefs and Zanu-PF heavy weights were among the mourners who bade farewell to the late Velaphi. Relatives and friends also had an opportunity to view the body before the proceeding to the National Heroes' Acre for burial.Mbare Chimurenga Choir and Zanu-PF youths entertained the gathering with music and dances throughout the process. Velaphi Ncube is survived by wife Margaret, six children, 12 grandchildren and two great grandchildren.
News / National

by Staff reporter

POLICE have urged gun owners to secure their firearms as some of them are being stolen and used to commit crimes.The statement by the police follows a spate of armed robberies across the country where suspects have escaped with substantial amounts of money.In an interview, national police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi said gun owners will be charged for failing to secure their weapons in terms of the Firearms Act."We are urging people who are licensed to possess firearms for security reasons such as cash-in-transit, crop protection or any other business to adhere to the stipulated procedures under which those fire arms were issued. We have individuals who are not locking up their guns in gun cabinets as required,"said Asst Comm Nyathi.He said some people were driving their vehicles with firearms displayed on seats."When these people go out of their vehicles, they usually leave the firearms which are then stolen and used by criminals. We also have a challenge of people who give their firearms to friends and those firearms are later used in commission of crimes," said Ass Comm Nyathi.He said on their part, cops have raided and arrested several armed robbery suspects in Bulawayo, Harare, Mutare and Chegutu and will continue removing criminals from society.Asst Comm Nyathi said police suspect that some of the armed robbers are working in cahoots with people employed at premises they raid.He said it was suspicious that robbers always raid houses or business premises where victims lose substantial amounts of money. Asst Comm Nyathi said individuals and companies that handle large sums of money should avoid being predictable in moving their cash."For those who conduct daily transactions where they carry or realise large sums of money, they should make it a point that they vary their banking schedules. We have information that some of the companies are being monitored by criminals who have inside information," he said.Asst Comm Nyathi said police were also concerned about an increase in car theft cases."Motorists are leaving their cars with ignition keys on and criminals are taking advantage of this to steal these cars. We are appealing to motorists to always secure their vehicles," he said.
News / National

by Staff reporter

Former president Robert Mugabe's farm equipment and vehicles are set to go under the hammer in what could signal a collapse of the once thriving diversified business empire.A local auction firm yesterday ran an advertisement where it announced the intention to dispose of several items tomorrow from Gushungo Dairy, a firm owned by the former First Family."Duly instructed by our most valued client, we shall sell by public auction the following vehicles and farm equipment at Gushungo Dairy Farm on Saturday 11th May 2019 at 10AM," reads the notice flighted in the media.The items being auctioned include about 30 motor vehicles, an equal number of tractors and accessories that include disc harrows among others.Some of the vehicles set for auction include Ford Rangers, Toyota Hilux, Mercedes Benz, Scania horse and motor cycles. There were also tractors that include Massey Fergusson and New Holland types. It was not immediately clear why the former First Family was auctioning their equipment but the business empire had not been doing well resulting in several lawsuits from different entities that claimed their dues.In January this year, the High Court granted an order to attach and auction property belonging to former First Lady Grace Mugabe and her son Russel Goreraza for failing to settle a $278 000 debt.The debt was owed to Manase and Manase Legal Practitioners as legal fees after the law firm handled a case in which Grace Mugabe was being sued by a diamond dealer over a $1,2 million ring.Last year, Seed Co-op (Pvt) Ltd filed a lawsuit against Gushungo Dairy seeking to recover a $174 000 from the company for potato seed supplied on credit in 2015.The family was also at one time sued by a South Africa firm Blakey Investment over a $38 000 debt for packaging sold on credit to the family business.
News / National

by Staff reporter

Vice-President Kembo Mohadi's application for a protection order which was set to be heard at the Civil Courts in Harare yesterday was once again postponed for the second time after his estranged ex-wife, Tambudzani Mleya Mohadi sought postponement on the basis that she is writing examinations at the University of Zimbabwe (UZ).The VP and his former wife have been at each other's throat since the pair's marriage was dissolved by the High Court recently.Mohadi's lawyer Norman Mugiya however, declined to shed more light on the matter, but confirmed the postponement of the matter to the end of this month."I cannot comment on the matter because it is before the court, but what I can simply say is that it has been postponed to end of this month at the behest of the defendant (Mleya) who is writing examinations at the UZ," he said.The last time he matter was postponed, it was the VP who had made a request to be allowed time to respond to Tambudzani's affidavit.According to the court papers, Tambudzani denied having caused problems warranting the granting of a protection order against her accusing Mohadi of being the most violent party between the two.In her affidavit Tambudzani said at one point Mohadi had to be restrained by police officers and his aides after making attempts to shoot her and bludgeon her with an iron bar.But in his affidavit Mohadi said he would not set his foot at the Beitbridge former matrimonial home given the violent nature of Tambudzani for which reason he has petitioned the court seeking a protection order.Mohadi also said he is seeking another order interdicting Tambudzani from harassing him and interfering with his farm workers, but Mleya opposed the application challenging the authenticity of his affidavit.Tambudzani's challenge then prompted the court to postpone the matter by consent to allow Mohadi enough time to answer to the alleged fraudulent affidavit.In his evidence Mohadi said he was harassed by Tambudzani when he went to collect his personal property from the pair's former matrimonial home in Beitbridge."On March 31, 2019, I had to go to my former matrimonial home in the company of the police so that everything will be done peacefully and within the ambits of the law. The respondent (Mleya) had to be restrained by the police from attacking me. I proceeded to collect my property and I left and since then I have never been there and will never be there," he said.But in her response Tambudzani said the opposite of what the VP had articulated was what actually happened on the day in question."The applicant (Mohadi) turned violent because the respondent refused to entertain his unreasonable and unlawful request. The applicant threatened to assault and to kill the respondent in front of several police officers and his aids. The applicant's aides stopped him from assaulting the respondent with a steel bar as well as shooting the respondent with a gun," she said.
News / National

by Staff reporter

The Supreme Court has permitted prosecutors who are fighting the acquittal of Wicknell Chivayo to file their papers and that they have to pay the businessman's legal fees.Justice Bharat Patel ordered that the prosecutor-general Kumbirai Hodzi pays legal fees incurred by Chivayo while permitting the State to file its appeal after an initial attempt was adjudged to be faulty and wrongly done.According to the order issued yesterday, Justice Patel ordered Hodzi to pay Chivayo legal fees by May 31 or face consequences."The application for condonation for non-compliance with the Supreme Court rules 2018 as read with the High Court rules 1971 be and is hereby granted. The applicants (prosecutor-general) shall pay the costs of this application on the ordinary scale by not later than 4:00pm on the 31 of May 2019," Justice Patel ruled.The appeal comes after the High Court freed Chivayo on allegations of defrauding the Zimbabwe Power Company of $5,6 million in a solar project.The State represented by Sharon Fero and Zivanai Macharaga filed an appeal against the High Court decision to free Chivayo, but their papers and approach to the courts was described a childish by the Supreme Court judge, who had no kind words for the State lawyers.High Court judge Justice Owen Tagu had in March ruled that the charges against Chivayo "apart from being suggestive of a skirmish, a mere witch hunt and a fishing expedition, tells more of a hidden hand or mala fides intention in the institution of the criminal proceedings brought about by the state in the circumstances".Chivayo and his company, Intratrek were facing charges of defrauding ZPC of over $5,6 million he received for the Gwanda solar project.But the High Court ruled that the allegations were driven by malice."The charges against the appellant as revealed by the facts are undoubtedly contrived and were properly excepted to. The relationship between the complaint and both applicants is contractual and, therefore, any remedy for a dispute arising there from should be civil and in terms of the contract," Justice Tagu ruled.The judge said under whatever circumstances, it was improbable that Chivayo, would be convicted by any reasonable court given the facts availed before him.The State now wants the last court of appeal to overturn such a ruling and this will come with a cost on them for their shoddy job."In the event that the applicant (prosecutor General) fails to comply with paragraph 4 (pay Chivayo legal fees) above, the respondent (Chivayo) be and hereby given leave to proceed against the applicant by way of proceedings for contempt of court," the judge ruled.
News / National

by Staff reporter

Harare City Council has announced that it will give teachers employed at its schools stands to build their homes as a way of motivating them.Acting mayor Jacob Mafume told a school ground breaking ceremony in Budiriro that council was introducing a facility for teachers to enable them access to residential stands at affordable cost."What we have done is  we are introducing a facility for teachers and I was speaking to the chairperson of the education and housing committee to give every teacher who is stationed at a council school a stand," Mafume said."You, as headmasters, must make sure that I keep that promise."There is no reason why teachers who are at council schools should not get a stand. We might not be able to build houses for them, but we must at least be able to give them stands. I promise with the support of the mayor, we will deliver that."Council has embarked on a drive to build new primary schools in high density areas and so far, two ground breaking ceremonies have been undertaken with a third set for tomorrow in Kuwadzana.Council has 33 schools and with the three projects that have been initiated set to take the total to 36.Mafume said the new school projects will be constructed vertically as a way of saving on land and pleaded with government to avail grants as stipulated by the Constitution.Mafume also suggested that council should start to name new projects after prominent people such as the former mayor, Muchadeyi Masunda as a way of appreciating their service to the city."We can't be naming our schools as Budiriro 1, Budiriro 2 and so on. Why not name the school after people like Muchadeyi Masunda? This is because some of these people have done great for our city. This will also help the school get the support which comes from being associated with such names as they attract their friends and colleagues," Mafume said.
News / National

by Ranga Mataire

Speaking on 16 February 2001 on the need for European Unity, then President of the European Commission, Romani Prodi exclusively told Britain's The Guardian newspaper something that anyone interested in collective survival as a nation, race, continent must take seriously.Expressing his fear of America's hegemony brought about by economic globalisation, Prodi said: "The only way to express ourselves in the new world is by being together. I don't like to be a colony. If we do not get together, we will disappear from world history."I was reminded of Prodi's genuine fear of America's growing hegemony across the globe and the need for nations to be united after reading recent news of the sacking of UK's Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson. Among a litany of misdemeanours, Mr Williamson was accused of telling military chiefs of plans to intervene in at least five African states that include Zimbabwe, Nigeria, Kenya and Egypt.Most international media houses screamed with a very condescending headline; "Sacked UK's defence chief wanted to invade Africa". It is very condescending that one would think that this "Africa" is some small country in some far off backwaters of the civilised world. But the media's patronising framing is just a part of the problem. Let's focus on Mr Williamson and what his "embarrassing expose" tell us about the mentality of the majority of those of a different colour that inhabit the northern hemisphere. These are some of the people who once enslaved, subjugated and colonised us. We would have been fools to think that the end of decolonisation in Africa meant the automatic unwinding of the inherent racial prejudices of those who once colonised us including their children.Colonialism and the motivation behind it remain to this day ingrained in most whites. It is has just become unfashionable now to publicly express such disobliging or unsavoury remarks in a world that has since given us Martin Luther King, Nelson Mandela or Barack Obama  political figures that have become poster-boys in the current global liberal discourse.It is said that one can gauge the actual thinking or the pulse of a clan, family or a nation by listening attentively to some of its colourless or raucous or underdone characters. It is these characters and their unsophisticated rawness that give us an edited picture of such people discuss behind the veil of their private households. But let's also not deceive ourselves. Although prone to embarrassing gaffes, Mr Williamson is far from being a wayward buffoon. He actually has an illustrious political career for a person of his age and professional background.Born on 25 June 1976, Mr Williamson was at the time of his sacking a British Conservative MP and Secretary of State for Defense from 2017 to 2019 and has served as Member of Parliament (MP) for South Staffordshire since 2010.His rise to political stardom began when he was appointed private secretary to the Prime Minister and is said to have been fond of attributing to himself Theresa May's assumption of leadership after having been her chief campaign strategist. His strategic thinking that propelled May to the throne was not without recognition. He became the chief whip and later was rewarded by being appointed Defense Secretary on November 12, 2017. Why is all this history important? It is important because it puts in perspective the fact that we are not dealing with just some street urchin. When he says something we must as a nation or as a continent take it seriously.After all, this is the man who in 2015 was sworn in as a member of the Privy Council of the United Kingdom giving him the honorific title of the "The Right Honourable" for life. The following year he was sworn in as Commander of the Order of the British Empire. This, the empire's medal of honour seem to have had a permanent intoxication to Mr Williamson and without doubt gave him the gusto to tell close colleagues of his plans to invade Africa. Let us be aware that Mr Williamson was not essentially sacked for his statement on Africa but on different allegations, which made it unsustainable for him to remain in the Conservative government. Expressing one's wish to invade Africa cannot be a punishable offence within the British establishment. In the British corridors of power, the legacy of empire still lingers.Mr Williamson's real crime was that he had leaked classified information to a newspaper on the government's approach to allowing Chinese tech giant Huawei to build part of Britain's 5G network. That is what irked Madam Theresa May not the "invasion of Africa" thing that lies nestled safely at the subconscious of most inhabitants of the "Empire".The apt description of Mr Williamson's mishaps is probably best captured by China's Defence Ministry spokesperson. After getting so excited when Britain finally launched its new aircraft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth, Mr Williamson started threatening countries he didn't like with 'lethal force' and promised to deploy it to the Pacific. China, which ironically is home of the so-called 'carrier killer' missiles, was rightly angered and cancelled a planned Brexit trade talks. China's Defence spokesperson responded by saying: "The remarks just reinforced the deep-rooted ignorance, prejudice and anxiety among some British."In a rather revealing way, Mr Williamson is behaving like any ordinary middle-class British who still believes in the nobility of the Empire's civilisation mission. Earlier quote from Prodi teaches us something critical. Colonialism didn't end with former colonisers relinquishing political control of the colonies. Africans still need to grapple with long colonialism and former South Africa President Thabo Mbeki is probably the best African who has thus far advanced the idea of African unity beyond ethnicity and colonial borders.Mbeki's seminal speech of 1998 titled "The Time has Come" deserves to be reproduced in larger part particularly the party where he says:"My mind and my knowledge of myself are formed by victories that are the jewels in our African crown, the victories we earned from Isandhlwana to Khartoum, as Ethiopians and as the Ashanti of Ghana, as the Berbers of the Desert. I am the grandchild who lays fresh flowers on the Boer graves at St. Helena and the Bahamas, who sees in the mind's eye and suffers the suffering of a simple peasant folk: death, concentration camps, destroyed homesteads, and dreams in ruins."I am the grandchild of Nongqause.I come of those who were transported from India and China, whose being resided in the fact, solely, that they were able to provide physical labour, who taught me that we could be both be at home and be foreign, who taught me that human existence itself demanded that freedom was a necessary condition for that human existence. Being part of all these people, and in the knowledge that none dare contest that assertion I shall claim that I am an African."We need as Africans to develop a shared conception of being an African and only then can we be able to stand as a formidable entity against the psychosis of the likes of Mr Williamson.In the case of Zimbabwe, many will remember that this is not the first time that a British national has called for the invasion of its former colony. Way back in 2013, former South African president, Thabo Mbeki sensationally claimed that the British had requested his country's help for a military invasion.Mbeki noted: "There is a retired chief of the British armed forces and (he) said that he had to withstand pressure from the then prime minister of the United Kingdom, Tony Blair, who was saying to the chief of the British armed forces, 'you must work out a military plan."Mbeki said this came as no surprise as the same pressure had been exerted on his country to cooperate in a regime change scheme- even to the point of using military force.Yes, Mr Williamson could qualify to be that Pike character in a classic British Sit-com Dad's Army who is a gawky and a rather gormless accident prone individual, but his reckless words must be kept in our consciousness. Like what Prodi said, no one wants to be a "colony".
News / National

by Bishop Lazi

Hairdressers of Natpharm head honchos must understandably be worried since they might not be seeing their clients anytime soon, especially after they received quite the "hairdryer treatment" last week from Dr Obadiah Moyo.This is really a big deal, considering that some of these cosseted executives at our eternally loss-making parastatals have bottomless allowances for their hairdos  in fact, as much as US$60 000 per year.Bishop Lazi was trying to imagine what really these hairdos entail  brain surgery?You see, Natpharm managers, who are custodians of the country's national drug warehouse, stand accused of the diabolic fetish of stocking mountains of life-saving and pain-easing medicines while rural clinics do not have as much as painkillers for desperate patients.The tongue-tied executives couldn't explain away this embarrassing anomaly, which safely sits in their Harare warehouse, and Dr Moyo justifiably blew his top.Argh! But Doc Moyo so ka!Maybe it is because of those years he spent on the decks as DJ Biscuit.Bishop Lazarus has never heard such a rabid censure delivered in so genteel and aristocratic a manner that the whole exchange was as esoteric as a British tea party."Are you using them yourself, maybe you are taking the medication yourself, maybe you are all sick," said an irate Moyo at the May 5 meeting.He was not finished."We do not have to come from head office to commandeer you; you are all people who are employed. "You are paid. So work in line with the pay you are receiving. . . If you do not want to work, choose somewhere else. We do not want people who just think of tea."But they should be warned: the former DJ might not look or sound menacing like Donald Trump, but he doesn't hesitate to pull the trigger.Ask Harare Central Hospital ex-CEO Dr Nyasha Masuka.After receiving a soft warning in March for being lethargic, he was soon out of a job so fast that his head should still be spinning at this moment.But this should be the least of our worries.The Bishop really thinks what is happening at Natpharm is just a macrocosm of a plague that has become pervasive in most corridors in Government.Slothfulness, laziness, incompetence, nepotism and corruption are the nauseatingly lingering stench of Bob's fallen administration.During his last two decades in power, the old man was literally breeding sloths.Salaried sloths for that matter.Some of them continue to crawl within the corridors of power to this day.Not surprisingly, ED recently bumped into some of them before he went for the clean-up programme in Chitungwiza.They couldn't be bothered into lifting so much as lift a finger even though there is a Presidential proclamation reserving the first Friday of every month to make their environs spick and span."Vanga vakatogara zvavo kuti tekeshe . . . I foresee myself remaining in Government with those who want a clean environment," he quipped.Dear reader, laziness is diabolic.Proverbs 6:6-11, thus, counsels: "Take a lesson from the ants, you lazy fellow. Learn from their ways and be wise! For though they have no king to make them work, yet they labour hard all summer, gathering food for the winter.But you  all you do is sleep. When will you wake up? 'Let me sleep a little longer!' Sure, just a little more! And as you sleep, poverty creeps upon you like a robber and destroys you; want attacks you in full armour."Hallelujah!And our scientists tell us that we are superior to ants.They can neither think nor talk, were are told.But nature continues to remind us of their awesome feat; and in our case, the reminder is right at the heart of our central business district.Eastgate Centre, which was designed by architect Mick Pearce and Arup engineers, is the ultimate example of biomimicry, which feeds off the sophistication of anthills.Over the years, Bishop Lazarus has learnt that lazy and incompetent people never run out of excuses.As they say, poor workmen always blame their tools."The machine is broken", "I can't find my tools", "It is too cold to work", they will always moan.This is why Proverbs 26:13-16 observes: "The lazy man won't go out and work. 'There might be a lion outside!' he says. He sticks to his bed like a door to its hinges! He is too tired even to lift his food from his dish to his mouth! Yet in his own opinion he is smarter than seven wise men."The Bishop thinks that with the new national policy towards cleanliness, we should be seeing a renewed Environmental Management Board (EMA) that is actively driving an anti-litter campaign.They now only conveniently become visible once every month, only to retreat into their cocoons.With the new national policy towards innovation, we should be seeing an invigorated technologically adept Harare Polytechnic, not this affront where students endlessly queue to pay their fees. Not in the 21st century!What witchcraft is that?Don't even get me started on Harare City Council.Suffice to say, there is need for a radical mindset shift where our actions become compatible with our declarations.It's quite ironic that while as a developing country we are trying to get rid of sloths, some advanced countries are trying to flash out workaholics.Recently Japan was pushing for an optimal scheme that allows employees to clock early every Friday.Some companies have even found an ingenious way of getting rid of these indefatigable pests: turning off lights in the evening so that they leave their workstations.It is the same in South Korea.Workaholics, they reckon, disrupt the social ecosystem.You see, boozers are no longer boozing as much as brewers, while families are no longer manufacturing babies with the regularity that is needed to replace the aging population.But like Hosiah Chipanga, Bishop Lazi has a plan: Why don't we swap our sloths for their workaholics.It might work.Bishop out!
News / National

by Staff reporter

United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet will dispatch a high-level rapporteur to Zimbabwe before the end of this month on a fact-finding mission following the January violent protests, which were instigated by the MDC-Alliance and its partners, the Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU).The protests led to the loss of life and destruction of property.Business groups forecast that they lost more than US$500 million in unrealised opportunities during the January 14 to January 16 demostrations.Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs permanent secretary Mrs Virginia Mabhiza told The Sunday Mail that the rapporteur was expected this month."We extended an invitation to several human rights groups and organisations . . . Provisionally, the visit was set for May and we believe that they will be coming this month," said Mrs Mabhiza."We have a lot of organisations that have requested to visit us and see how we are implementing social and economic rights here, and these have to do with things such as health, water and sanitation."We have invited them to come in since we do not have anything to hide and we are opening up to the world."But in the case of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, their request to visit was prompted by the January 14 incidents, where there were riots in some parts of the country," she said.Government, she added, has, however, made "both verbal and written submissions to the UN about all these issues".And the submissions have reportedly been well received.Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi met the UN Human rights chief Michelle Bachelet during the 40th Session of the Human Rights Council in Geneva, Switzerland, in February, where he extended an invitation to the envoy.Minister Ziyambi also briefed her on the opposition-sponsored violent riots that erupted in some urban centres in January.Government had to invoke the Public Order and Security Act to quell the disturbances.The internet was also temporarily cut to throttle communications from organisers of the violent protests who were using social media platforms to stoke protests.Foreign Affairs and International Trade permanent secretary Ambassador John Manzou confirmed the visit by the UN rapporteur.But the itinerary for the delegation was yet to be finalised."Yes, they requested to come in May but a date has not been set as yet."We have to get in touch with Geneva this coming week to polish the rough edges and finalise everything about the visit, but, yes, they are coming."Zimbabwe is presently on a diplomatic offensive to integrate the country, which has been isolated for more than two decades, into the global family of nations.At the recent African Commission on Human and Peoples' Rights (ACHPR) bi-annual meeting in Egypt, the country pledged to table its state party reports on human rights before the organ's plenary in September.A similar report was last tabled in 2006.ACHPR  which was established by the African Charter and inaugurated in 1987  is a quasi-judicial body tasked with promoting and protecting human rights and collective (peoples') rights throughout the African continent.The new administration will soon table a slew of legislative and Constitutional amendments that are designed to deepen political, economic, social and electoral rights.The Cabinet Committee on Political and Electoral Reform has already produced a working document outlining reforms prescribed by some election observer missions, the Motlanthe Commission and the ongoing political dialogue.Once approved, Government will then expeditiously roll out the reforms.
Opinion / Columnist

Prices of commodities, insurances and basic food (basically everything) are skyrocketing but wages remain constant equating to the increase in suffering of the ordinary people. Do we deserve this much suffering, do we? I ask myself this question several times a day. I struggle to answer to find answers but I do see the reality of the suffering mass day in day out. As we suffer this much, the president of the nation continues to globe-troat with expensive chartered flights yet he calls us to bear with him. What a mockery! As if it is enough, he uses the very same expensive chartered airline for a national trip to Bulawayo, just days ago. A real descent man who knows his people are suffering will not behave in such a manner, especially when a country has a well equipped air force that could afford to fly him to Bulawayo. Yet he opts for advanced luxury while his people can't afford to buy bread or even a decent meal for a day. It all comes down to the confidence we can we put in a system and in the one of today, I doubt if we can especially with a president whose priorities are misplaced. If he can't realize the cost of his acts on the very poor people and business that are paying the tax for all those costs, he does not deserve to be a leader of Zimbabwe. That money can be used for more important things like buying medicine and equipment, refurbishing hospitals etc. Passports had to be stopped from printing because of the old machines malfunctioning and they can't afford to buy the paper. Ahhh where on earth have you heard of such insanity that a nation stops printing passports due to these reasons. I wonder why the leaders are not ashamed of such poor governance. It does not end there, we have issues of water, chemicals to treat water are in short supply and this has been an ongoing plea for decades yet they do not care about our very basic needs except flying expensive chartered flights. Misplaced priorities and lack of care is what these leaders are made of. We have to stop this insanity before we all suffer from unsustained stress.This is not the leadership we deserve. Zimbabwe deserves betterTo add more salt to our wounds, we hear the president wants to compensate white farmers. As shocking as it may sound it looks real. I never heard of anyone talking about compensating the poor farm workers who were utterly lowly paid and some even today. Truth be said, when these white settlers colonized our nation, they took the land moved people away on areas they wanted and used us as labour bandits to set up irrigation systems, farming, harvesting etc and now we have to pay them as a thank you for downgrading the nutritional value of the land and for using us a labour servants. In areas of mining, they took the minerals away to their countries for trade and to enrich themselves including the very monarch of England. Yet we have to compensate them. They must be laughing as this insanity. Now you have the money for compensating farmers, yet you don't have money for improving the lives of ordinary people. We have no clean drinking water, we have no access to hospitals, and to those that have, their is no medication. Civil servants are poorly paid and the unemployment rate is above the roof. Really, we need a serious president.Besides, the issue is not about just removing the old guard in our system and waiting for miracles, we need a plan, a concrete plan to take Zimbabwe forward. Clueless government and its structures do take our economy into deeper trenches. This is what is happening. The prices of goods and commodities are skyrocketing, their are no controls on the prices nor is the government's word strong enough to warn the producers. It is just like a toothless bulldog barking- no one listens because we all no the leader is no leader.Since, Mnangagwa took over, we still don't have access to our monies in the banks, we continue to use plastic money, the bollars have just been given a new look but still useless and they continue giving a deaf ear to those outside advising them on better ways to ease the common suffering. An example is various people and stakeholders pushing for us to join the Rand monetary policy. We need this while we move towards dollarization of our economy. You can't introduce a new currency and expect the market confidence to just rise overnight. The government seem not to care that since its inception it has not gained confidence of the nation, people still keep money out of the norm circulation simply because we can't trust banking institutions. The most cause of this failure in trust is that if one bank USDs and when you withdraw you are blessedly given RTGS, a bollar brother, whose value is weaker on the market. You actually get poorer by each transaction. Simple economics that every Tom, Dick and Harry understands but the government ignores this fact. To make matter worse, a bank exchange rate is not lucrative than the street one nor are they running parallel in order to lure people towards safe means of transactions. Which I think it was there goal but they are hesitant to take it head on.The street exchange continue to destroy the stabilisation programmes put in place and yet the government can't stop this activity. One wonders whether the main players in this street exchange are not the government or its allies simply because this activity should be history by now. This is the key root of modern corruption and yet the government continues to preach about eradicating corruption but nothing is being done that is tangible. This government has put more ulcers in our suffering. My fellow country men and women, let's wake up, we will all die poor and in misery while the few blood suckers thrive on our suffering.God bless Zimbabwe.Dr. Takesure Tazvishaya.
- 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."
For more than a decade, James Kirstein had an excellent relationship with the company that operates a well pad on his property north of Fort Assiniboine, Alta., about 150 kilometres northwest of Edmonton.

The company produced natural gas and Kirstein received an annual payment as compensation for the use of his land.

The cheques always came in February, except this year, when nothing showed up in the mail. Kirstein got a hold of the company, and it only offered 50 per cent of the scheduled payment because of its poor financial health.

As a semi-retired oilpatch worker, Kirstein sympathized and accepted $2,700 rather than the $5,400 he was due.

The company, Trident Exploration, has since ceased operations, leaving Kirstein and other landowners in a difficult position. Trident's assets may be sold to another company, or else transferred to the Orphan Well Association to be reclaimed.

Kirstein now faces three challenges. He may not receive another payment again, even though the gas wells are still on his land. His local municipality is raising taxes because too many energy companies in the area are not paying their property taxes. His property value may also fall without the revenue from the wells.

"If the receiver can find another company willing to operate these wells, I will be thrilled," he said. "If not, I guess we are stuck with an orphan well site, which, rather than being an asset, is now a liability."

Kyle Bakx/CBC

He can still recoup the remaining 50 per cent of his payment for this year by applying to the Alberta Surface Rights Board, a quasi-judicial tribunal that helps resolve disputes between landowners and operators about compensation for resource development on private land.

He's hesitant, though.

"I hate to do that, as that money has to come from all other Alberta taxpayers," Kirstein said.

He's right. The provincial government pays landowners to make up for the shortfalls of energy companies, and those payments have increased to record levels because of the fall in oil and gas prices.

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$20 million in taxpayer money

The Alberta government has paid out more than $20 million since 2010. More than $12 million was paid in the last two years alone.

There is now a backlog of about 3,500 applications by landowners for compensation after energy companies failed to pay, according to the board. The wait time for payment is about 18 months for a landowner applying for the first time.

James Kirstein

"We expect application volumes to remain high, and, as you can probably guess, it's created a number of operational challenges for the board," said spokesman Mike Hartfield.

The organization said it's hiring more staff and streamlining its processes.

In early 2010, natural gas prices in the province were about $5.50 per million British thermal unit (MMBtu), but averaged just $1.26 last month. In the last year alone, at least a dozen energy companies have gone bust.

'A catch-22'

While oil and gas companies' failure to pay property taxes and compensate landowners is a problem that's limited to a handful of industry players, it's a growing one that can have a significant impact.

For instance, after two companies failed to pay their taxes, one Alberta municipality said it felt "blindsided" as it was suddenly short more than 20 per cent of its expected tax revenue.

Some municipalities and landowners are looking to the provincial government for policy solutions, but industry players are calling for caution.

"We're in a bit of a catch-22 situation right now," said Tristan Goodman, president of the Explorers and Producers Association of Canada, which represents junior and mid-sized oil and gas companies.

"What we don't want to do is make the problem worse and push more companies into bankruptcy. We want to keep these folks solvent."

As prices improve, Goodman said there will be opportunities to ensure companies pay their bills.

For landowners like Marc Raedschelders, who owns a property near Pincher Creek in the southwest corner of the province, the uncertainty of what will happen is frustrating.

While the company that extracts natural gas from his land hasn't gone bankrupt, it still decided to suspend all payments to landowners because of its poor financial situation.

"I have to deal with having that eyesore on my property forever," he said. "I'm 64; I'd like to retire there."

Raedschelders has applied to the Surface Rights Board for compensation. He's owned the property for a decade and, in that time, ownership of the natural gas well has changed hands twice. At this point, he'd prefer the well just be reclaimed.

"I would be perfectly fine if they say, 'Sorry, we can't pay you. We'll cap [the well] and we're out of here.' That's fine with me."
B.C. has a $7.4-billion problem  that's the bottom line of two bombshell reports on money laundering released this week.

The big question now is how the province plans to fight it.

Together, the reports make dozens of suggestions for tackling the issue, but civil liberties advocates were alarmed to see something called unexplained wealth orders (UWOs) among the recommendations.

These orders go a step beyond civil forfeiture and "allow confiscation without finding the crime," an expert panel led by criminal law expert Maureen Maloney wrote in its report, released Thursday.

"I think it's an incredibly troubling notion," said Micheal Vonn, policy director of the B.C. Civil Liberties Association.

With UWOs, anyone targeted by the government would be required to prove they bought their property using legitimate sources of income. The province wouldn't need to show any link to criminal activity.

Maloney suggested UWOs would be particularly helpful in cases where the cash might be connected to crimes committed outside of Canada.

For critics like Vonn, however, the proposal is fraught with serious issues, like doing away with the presumption of innocence and subverting the rights that shield Canadians from unreasonable search and seizure.

"What you have is a report that basically sets out to say, look, we just don't have the policing resources or expertise to get at this, so how do we get around the criminal law?" she said.

Another tool for confiscating property

The province already has multiple options for confiscating property linked to crime. B.C. Finance Minister Carole James told CBC News in an email that the government will consider adding UWOs to the list.

The Criminal Code has long allowed for forfeiture of property when someone has been convicted of a crime.

B.C. also has a civil forfeiture system, which means someone doesn't need to be convicted, charged or even arrested to lose their belongings to the government, as long as the province can prove on a balance of probabilities that there's a connection to crime. The strength of that evidence is tested only if someone files a dispute to a forfeiture notice, which is allowed only when the value of the forfeiture is under $75,000.

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A small number of countries are already using UWOs, including the U.K., Australia and Colombia. Italy was one of the first countries in the world to introduce a similar system in an attempt to curtail the power of the Mafia, but it was declared unconstitutional in 1994.

The U.K.'s law was introduced last year, drawing applause from the anti-corruption group Transparency International.

'A hallmark of tyrannical regimes'

In Australia, some critics have slammed UWO laws, which some states have had in place for nearly two decades.

In a letter to that country's justice department, Civil Liberties Australia director Rajan Venkataraman wrote: "The reversal of the presumption of innocence has been a hallmark of tyrannical regimes throughout history."

That's not the only issue.

Peter Scobie/CBC

A 2010 critique of Australia's laws also asked whether allowing UWOs "distorts the investigatory incentives of police," encouraging law enforcement to move away from the more difficult task of finding evidence that proves a crime beyond a reasonable doubt.

That's already a concern in B.C. when it comes to the use of civil forfeiture.

Former Mountie Peter German raised it in his report this week on money laundering. He writes that "police and prosecutors in B.C. have essentially abandoned laundering and proceeds of crime charges," choosing instead to go through civil forfeiture.

Police risk losing the expertise to fight money laundering through the criminal system, German says, and that's a problem because the criminal system is what allows police "to follow the money trail from or to a criminal organization and dismantle it."

For her part, Vonn also worries about the unintended consequences of going down this road.

She pointed out that while the intention of a UWO scheme might be to tackle the scourge of money laundering, even the most well-intentioned laws can end up serving other purposes.

"We see it time and time again," she said. "To say that we would introduce this kind of tool and not expect it to produce abuses would be phenomenally naive."
NEW YORK (AP)  Democrats denounced a plan by President Donald Trump's personal attorney to push Ukraine to open investigations that he hopes could benefit Trump politically, saying it was an overt attempt to recruit foreign help to influence a U.S. election.

But lawyer Rudy Giuliani has scrapped plans to visit Ukraine, citing concerns about who he would be dealing with there.

Giuliani's plan had seemed poised to create an unprecedented moment  a lawyer for the American president seeking foreign assistance in trying to damage political rivals. To Democrats, it was a blatant evocation of Russia's meddling on behalf of Trump when he defeated Democrat Hillary Clinton in 2016

"The meeting would have accomplished little and may be in the hands of those who might misrepresent it," Giuliani said Saturday in a statement.

Giuliani had said earlier that he would to travel to Kiev in coming days to urge the government to investigate the origins of special counsel Robert Mueller's recently concluded probe into Russian interference in the 2016 U.S. election, and the involvement of former Vice President Joe Biden's son in a gas company owned by a Ukrainian oligarch.

Joe Biden is the early Democratic front-runner to challenge Trump in the 2020 election. The Biden campaign has denied that Biden or his son, Hunter, did anything improper.

Giuliani said he has concluded that Ukraine's president-elect is being advised by people who were the "very vocal opponents of President Trump and peculiarly vocal supporters of Hillary Clinton."

TV star and comedian Volodymyr Zelenskiy beat incumbent President Petro Poroshenko in a recent presidential election. Giuliani said he believes that the incoming president is being advised, in particular, by Serhiy Leshchenko, an opposition parliament member who helped uncover the off-the-books payments made to Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort.

"My purpose was to share information to assist their on-going investigation of Ukrainian officials being used by Americans to gather information to assist Clinton in last election and to alert them to the very real dangers that there are people involved in the investigation ... who are attempting to shut it down before it reaches a conclusion," Giuliani said in a statement.

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He said the Ukrainian investigation has the potential to reveal people who originated or propagated "the false claim of collusion" between Russia and the Trump campaign.

Leshchenko, however, said Ukraine's prosecutor general, Yuriy Lutsenko, had misled Giuliani.

Writing in the Ukrainska Pravda online newspaper, Leshchenko said Lutsenko "came up with the story" that the former vice president had pressured Ukraine to close the case involving the gas company, while it was Lutsenko himself who had closed the case more than two years ago. He re-opened the case this spring in the midst of Ukraine's presidential campaign in what was seen as an effort to win Trump administration support for Poroshenko.

Democrats took aim at Giuliani for planning the trip at all.

"It's stunning that the Trump administration is going down the same tragic path they did in 2016 seeking help from a foreign government again to influence an American presidential election. It's appalling," said Rep. Adam Schiff of California, chairman of the House Intelligence Committee. He said Trump allies were indicating, "We're going to do everything short of what's downright criminal. Ethics don't matter. Patriotism doesn't matter."

Giuliani, a former New York City mayor who often acted as a smokescreen for Trump during the Mueller probe, pushed back against the criticism.

"Explain to me why Biden shouldn't be investigated if his son got millions from a Russian loving crooked Ukrainian oligarch while He was VP and point man for Ukraine," Giuliani tweeted at Sen. Chris Murphy, D-Conn., who criticized him. "Ukrainians are investigating and your fellow Dems are interfering. Election is 17 months away. Let's answer it now."

Giuliani's planned trip, first reported by The New York Times, would have been the most high-profile effort yet by Republicans to call attention to growing talking points in conservative circles. They are trying to undermine the special counsel's investigation, call into question the case against Manafort, Trump's imprisoned former campaign chairman, and wound Joe Biden.

Trump and Giuliani have urged scrutiny of Hunter Biden and have questions about whether Joe Biden helped oust a Ukrainian prosecutor whose office was first investigating the oligarch behind the company that paid Hunter Biden. Some Trump allies have suggested they can tarnish Joe Biden with questions about corruption, founded or not, much like they did to Clinton in 2016.

Giuliani has said he updated the president about his findings on Ukraine, a nation deeply reliant on the Trump administration for U.S. military and financial aid.

"I'm hearing it's a major scandal, major problem," Trump said on Fox News recently. "I hope for (Biden) it is fake news. I don't think it is."

The president has also tried to push claims that Ukrainian officials tried to help Clinton by focusing attention on Manafort's business in Ukraine. That attention forced Manafort to resign from the campaign, and he was later convicted of financial crimes and sentenced to prison. Ukrainian officials have denied involvement, but Trump has latched onto the idea that Kiev "colluded" with Democrats and that the origins of Mueller's probe were fraudulent.

Trump's re-election campaign distanced itself from Giuliani's efforts, saying it had nothing to do with the lawyer's inquiry.

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Follow Lemire on Twitter at http://twitter.com/@JonLemire

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Associated Press writer Jim Heintz in Moscow and video journalist Padmananda Rama in Washington contributed to this report.
Explosive reports released by the B.C. government last week that reveal more than $7 billion was laundered in B.C. in 2018 have prompted calls for a public inquiry into the problem.

On Thursday, two reports were released that outlined the influence of money laundering in B.C.'s real estate market. Both revealed how criminals are using real estate to clean their money.

The reports were written by Peter German, a former RCMP deputy commissioner, and law professor Maureen Maloney, the chair of B.C.'s expert panel on money laundering in real estate.

The German report also said B.C.'s colleges and post-secondary institutions could be an avenue for money laundering.

The reports prompted Port Coquitlam Mayor Brad West to call for a public inquiry to further exam the problem. "What we have here is a systemic failure," West said.

"I think we have corruption of our entire system."

West pointed to the success of Quebec's Charbonneau Commission, which looked at corruption in the construction industry. That inquiry lasted four years and cost close to $45 million and resulted in a new regulatory body and changes to how whistle-blowers are protected.

"The Charbonneau Commission not only addressed those systemic issues but put people in jail, made politicians resign," said West.

"It did a number of things that I think British Columbians are crying out for here."

'Love of public inquiries'

There have been several high-profile public inquiries in B.C.

The Braidwood Commission looked at the tasering death of Polish immigrant Robert Dziekansi at Vancouver International Airport in 2007, and resulted in changes to Vancouver International Airport, as well as the Canada Border Services Agency and RCMP.

The Davies Commission investigated the death of Frank Paul, who died of exposure after being released by police and became the catalyst for the creation of the B.C. Independent Investigations Office, a civilian-led police watchdog group.

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The Gove Inquiry examined the death of Matthew Vaudreuil and helped bring changes to child protection in the province. Vaudreuil died when he was six years old following years of neglect by his mother despite being under the watch of dozens of social workers.

Former B.C. attorney general and retired judge Wally Oppal, who headed several public inquiries, said they aren't always useful and are expensive.

Oppal headed the Missing Women Commission of Inquiry in 2010, which looked at how police investigations into missing women were handled following the Robert Pickton trial.

He told CBC News that public inquiries don't always lead to change.

Mike McArthur/CBC

"One thing [people calling for an inquiry] have to keep in mind is that we've had extensive material," he said. "So the government has to ask themselves, 'Is there anything more we can learn?'"

Premier John Horgan said his caucus will discuss the possibility of a public inquiry this coming week.
A taste of Sudan: Burger shop teams up with non-profit to help refugee

Coming from a family of immigrants himself, Jamil Bhuya knew it was the right thing to do.

Bhuya, the founder of Ottawa restaurant Burger n' Fries Forever, was recently approached by local resettlement group Refugee 613 with a request: could he create a hamburger to help raise money for a recently arrived Sudanese refugee?

The local non-profit was hoping to help Anaam Ali, a privately sponsored refugee from the northeast African country, cover some the costs of associated with her resettlement needs and her education.

Bhuya jumped at the opportunity.

"They chose Canada, just like my family did when they came as immigrants," he told CBC Radio's All In A Day last week.

"This is still an issue, and there are small subtle ways that we can help that will have a big impact in the long run."

Sudanese fusion food

The first thing Bhuya did was dive into the online world of Sudanese recipe blogs, "googling like crazy" to figure out what, exactly, the cuisine involved.

He eventually came up with a burger he's called Mishon Accepted: a beef patty topped with a cucumber-tomato salad called jibna salataa and the namesake mish, a spicy Sudanese yogurt made with feta cheese and nigella seeds.

It's also smothered with a healthy amount of ful medames, an Egyptian fava bean stew that's also popular in Sudanese cuisine, Bhuya said, thanks to the two countries' close historical ties.

"We do a monthly burger, so we're always trying to go with something unique, off-kilter, so to speak," he said.

"We were able to come up with something that was still familiar for the community here  something very citrusy, lemony, a bit garlicky with the beans and the stew."

The burger will available until the end of May, and one dollar from each sale will go towards helping Ali.

Funding cut

Refugee 613 director Louisa Taylor said the burger project comes as her non-profit group  created in 2015 to co-ordinate refugee resettlement efforts and share information about resettlement issues  is facing a funding cut introduced by the new Progressive Conservative government.

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"It's not a huge shock to us. We did know it was coming. The core of our work from the beginning has been funded by the province of Ontario, that's the work where we are supporting private sponsors and other stakeholders, other volunteers," Taylor said.

"We knew after the new government came in that that funding was likely not to continue. And that was confirmed a few months back."

Taylor said while Refugee 613's provincial funding ran out at the end of March, donations they'd been "saving for a rainy day" will let them keep going for awhile.

"But we do want to get word out that this work  which we know has impact, and is helping to build a strong healthy Ottawa  can't continue unless we all do a little bit more," she said.
WASHINGTON (AP)  The House on Friday passed a $19 billion disaster aid bill that would deliver long-sought relief to farmers, victims of hurricanes and floods, and rebuild southern military bases, as Democrats try to dislodge the legislation from a Senate logjam over aid to hurricane-slammed Puerto Rico.

The measure passed by a 257-150 vote over the opposition of most Republicans, who said it should also include the Trump administration's $4.5 billion request for stepped up humanitarian aid and law enforcement along the U.S.-Mexico border, which is facing a wave of migrants fleeing violence in Central America.

The House had passed an earlier $14 billion version of the measure in January, but the legislation has been held up in the Senate amid a fight between President Donald Trump and Democrats over aid to Puerto Rico. Trump is feuding with Democratic officials on the island and falsely claims that Puerto Rico has already received $91 billion in aid.

Trump took to Twitter on Thursday to urge Republicans to vote against the bill.

"House Republicans should not vote for the BAD DEMOCRAT Disaster Supplemental Bill which hurts our States, Farmers & Border Security," Trump tweeted. "We want to do much better than this. All sides keep working and send a good BILL for immediate signing!"

After the vote, Trump tweeted in praise of GOP solidarity, although 34 Republicans broke with his position and supported the disaster aid. "Great Republican vote today on Disaster Relief Bill. We will now work out a bipartisan solution that gets relief for our great States and Farmers. Thank you to all. Get me a Bill that I can quickly sign!"

Some of the Republicans who broke with Trump were from areas hit by the disasters, like Texas and Florida, and others were more moderate Republicans from the Northeast.

Disaster aid measures are usually among the few reliably bipartisan pieces of legislation left in an increasingly partisan Washington. But the pending measure faces several obstacles in addition to the battle over Puerto Rico, including an attempt by powerful Senate Appropriations Committee Chairman Richard Shelby, R-Ala., to boost Army Corps of Engineers harbor dredging efforts, of which the Port of Mobile in his state would be a major beneficiary. Shelby's relationship with White House Acting Chief of Staff Mick Mulvaney also appears strained.

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Since the House measure originally passed, Midwestern floods have added billions of dollars to the government's roster of disaster needs, while a rising wave of Central American migrants seeking refuge from violence in their countries is requiring additional billions of dollars to house and care for thousands of migrants.

"The bill languished for months in the Senate over assistance for Puerto Rico. And as it sat there, floods battered the Midwest and tornadoes swept the South," said House Appropriations Committee Chairwoman Nita Lowey, D-N.Y. "This legislation attempts to meet the needs of all of America's disaster-stricken communities  whether in Puerto Rico or the Midwest, California or the Carolinas."

Republicans on Thursday delivered a new offer to Democrats in hopes of finally breaking the legislation free, adding money for Puerto Rico and flooded Midwestern states. Lawmakers had hoped to have the legislation enacted into law by now but are now eying Memorial Day as an informal deadline.

"I've spoken to the president. I've spoken to the leader on the Senate side. I believe we can solve this all by next week," said top House Republican Kevin McCarthy of California. "Let's do this together. Let's show America that when it comes to a time of need that we all put partisanship aside."

Democrats regard the offer in a positive light.

"The Republicans are finally starting to realize they can't leave Puerto Rico behind, and that's a step in the right direction," said a spokesman for top Senate Democrat Chuck Schumer of New York. "Conversations continue."

The White House and some Republicans want to add Trump's border request to the measure.

"We should provide much needed relief to communities recovering from hurricanes, floods, wildfires and tornadoes. But we cannot turn our backs on a border crisis that is growing worse by the day," said top Appropriations Committee Republican Kay Granger of Texas. "Law enforcement and humanitarian relief organizations are being pushed to the limit, and we must act now."

Democrats have resisted the idea of merging the border and disaster measures, saying that would delay the aid measure and complicate its passage.

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., however, said in a brief interview that "there may be some pieces" of Trump's border request that could be added to the disaster aid measure in endgame negotiations. "We'll see."

Friday's measure originally added $3 billion to the earlier House bill to help Midwest states such as Iowa and Nebraska recover from this spring's floods  but then was successfully amended on the floor numerous times by lawmakers in both parties, who added $1.9 billion to the measure, chiefly to rebuild military bases in Nebraska and Florida and deliver more flood aid for the Midwest.

The measure also would extend the federal flood insurance program through September to give lawmakers more time to renew the program, which enjoys broad bipartisan support. The additional time would give the House and Senate banking panels time to develop a longer-term extension of the program.
The Wisconsin dairy industry, challenged in numerous ways, remains an inescapable presence in the state  from the remaining number of small family farms dotting the landscape from county to county to the sprawling mega-farms housing thousands of cows.

Not as apparent, though, is the moneymaking magnitude of a business sector that contributes nearly $44 billion annually to the states economy. And, industry experts say, with that powerful economic punch comes the need for continued research to fuel the dairy industry.

Its really scary how few people in Wisconsin really know the impact that the dairy industry has on the entire state, said Chad Vincent, CEO of the Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin, which is the marketing and promotion arm of the states dairy farmers.

The Wisconsin Legislature is considering a bill introduced late last month by Sen. Howard Marklein, R-Spring Green; Rep. Travis Tranel, R-Cuba City; and 26 other Republicans that asks the state to spend $7.9 million a year to fund dairy research at three UW-System campuses.

Proponents say the bill is aimed specifically at improving every aspect of the struggling dairy industry.

It calls for all-encompassing research to take place at a Dairy Innovation Hub within the campuses of UW-Madison, UW-River Falls and UW-Platteville, with a goal of finding solutions to problems that have frustrated the industry and its critics for decades.

The hub includes four research spokes:

Improving the industrys negative effects on the environment.

Protecting the health and welfare of cows.

Enhancing health and nutritional benefits for people.

Strengthening the industrys businesses and the rural communities in which they are located.

Its about how do we produce whatever amount of milk we need more efficiently  with less manure, less land resources needed, less methane  without damaging the water supply, said Kent Weigel, chairman of the dairy science department at UW-Madison.

Its about doing it in a way that the consumer finds acceptable.

Plans also include an academy that would provide dairy professionals throughout the state with ongoing training to keep them updated on new technology and other industry information.

Marklein believes the research hub would strengthen Wisconsins leadership position within the global dairy market. I think its going to be a way to reinvigorate our dairy industry and, if nothing else, to let our industry know that we havent forgotten them, he said.

Sen. Jeff Smith, D-Eau Claire, said some in his caucus think Marklein jumped the gun with his proposal. Smith, a first-term senator, said he was unaware that Marklein was working on the legislation, even though Smith is on the Committee for Agriculture, Revenue and Financial Institutions, which Marklein chairs.

It would have been nice to have been given a heads-up and an opportunity to work with him on it, said Smith. The expectation was that something like this should come out of a task force that was bipartisan.

Beacon of hope

Shelly Mayer, a Washington County dairy farmer and the executive director of the Professional Dairy Producers of Wisconsin, called the bill a beacon of hope at a time when the industry  and the world  most needs it.

When we start talking about water and soil health and food safety and animal health and all of that, were not just talking about how it affects dairy, thats all of us, she said.

A reduced number of faculty researchers has made it difficult for dairy research at UW-Madison to keep pace with the growth of the industry. Budget cuts within the universitys College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) and UW-Extension are the culprit, according to CALS senior associate dean Richard Straub.

However, CALS funding for the Center for Dairy Research also has been declining since 1999-2000, even though state money the college received for all of its research went up during that period, UW budget data show.

Vincent, from the Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin, said he has grown frustrated with UW-Madisons refusal to spend more money on dairy research. That includes not filling positions or buying equipment needed for the CDRs $47 million addition that the state is helping finance.

I look at the UW and I hope they want to be known as a dairy university, Vincent said. But theres this huge business school and all this other stuff there. And sometimes I wonder if dairy isnt quite as sexy for them as they would hope it to be. I mean, theres a lot of competing forces in terms of resources in the state.

Mayer said UW System President Ray Cross has sent mixed signals about using state funding for the Dairy Innovation Hub since he was first made aware of the idea in 2017. While he has told dairy leaders and others that he understands the importance of the dairy industry to the state and the need to make a reinvestment, Cross has not put any of the Systems available state funds toward it, she said.

In a statement, UW System spokesman Mark Pitsch said, President Cross worked closely with dairy leaders and lawmakers to help craft this legislation. He recognizes the importance of the dairy industry to the state of Wisconsin.

In recent years, the UW System has faced challenges seeking funding for a wide array of worthy projects and programs, Pitsch said. President Cross will happily work with the Legislature and the governor to secure additional funding to support the dairy hub.

Filling positions

Marklein wants the UW System to do more than just talk. The bill he authored orders the Board of Regents and UW System to use the $7.9 million annually specifically to fill more than 60 positions and handle infrastructure needs for the hub at all three campus sites.

The institutions, the campuses need to recognize the importance of dairy and that dairy needs to be a priority for their ag departments, Marklein said.

Mayer cautioned that while people from around the world continue to look to Wisconsin for its food industry and leadership related to dairy, other countries are poised to pass it by.

As a dairy farmer, I rely on new discoveries and new research so I can continue to do things better. Its as simple as that, Mayer said.

After the UW System declined to fund the Dairy Innovation Hub starting in 2017, it was introduced as the signature recommendation for long-range improvements of the dairy industry from a group of state dairy leaders and farmers earlier this year. Vincent and Mayer were among the 31 voting members of the group called the Dairy Task Force 2.0. Cross was one of eight non-voting governmental members on the panel.

Gov. Tony Evers and Brad Pfaff, the new secretary of the state Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection, have supported the recommendation made by the group.

Markleins bill closely follows the groups recommendation that includes creating positions for 25 faculty members in the four spokes of the research hub, as well as 20 graduate students, 16 post-doctoral fellows and five staffers. UW-Madison would receive 52 percent of the funding while UW-Platteville and UW-River Falls would each receive 24 percent.

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Wisconsins new Democratic attorney general has used his first four months in office to shift the state Department of Justice to a more liberal footing, pleasing supporters by nullifying his Republican predecessors attempts to kill federal health care reforms and limit environmental protections.

Josh Kauls moves have Republicans complaining that they cant trust him to defend GOP-authored laws and regulations. Indeed, the difference between Kaul and former Republican Attorney General Brad Schimel couldnt be starker.

Time and again, Attorney General Kaul has refused to do his job and instead sided with liberal special-interest groups that are aiming to reverse state law, Republican Senate Majority Leader Scott Fitzgerald said.

Kaul denied that hes being ideological, but he acknowledged that he and Schimel have different views of what is in the best interests of Wisconsinites.

Schimel emerged as a hard-line conservative during his four years in office, joining a multistate lawsuit challenging the Affordable Care Act and penning a legal opinion that a 2011 Republican-authored law bars state agencies from imposing environmental permitting regulations that go beyond what state statutes specifically allow.

The opinion drove the Department of Natural Resources to relax permit requirements for factory farms and high-capacity water wells, sparking anger from liberals and two lawsuits from environmental advocacy group Clean Wisconsin.

Kaul promised on the campaign trail that he would defend state laws if he could make a case for them. At the same time, he vowed to withdraw Wisconsin from the ACA lawsuit and end the states opposition to stricter permits in the high-capacity wells case.

He went on to narrowly defeat Schimel in November, but Republicans who control the Legislature moved quickly to limit the powers of both him and Democratic Gov. Tony Evers, convening a lame-duck session weeks before the two took office and scaling back some of their powers. One of the lame-duck laws prevented Kaul and Evers from withdrawing the state from lawsuits, which stopped them from fulfilling their campaign promises to get Wisconsin out of the Affordable Care Act challenge.

Multiple fronts

After a judge ruled that the law violated the separation of powers between the executive and legislative branches, though, Evers directed Kaul to withdraw from the lawsuit and he complied. An appeal of that ruling is pending before the conservative-controlled Wisconsin Supreme Court, but Kaul has seized the opening and moved to withdraw Wisconsin from other lawsuits, too.

He has dropped the states appeal of a 7th Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals decision declaring that federal law blocks provisions in Wisconsins right-to-work law, which prohibits companies and unions from signing contracts that would require workers to pay dues or fees to the unions that represent them. Schimel had asked the U.S. Supreme Court to take the case.

Kaul also has withdrawn Wisconsin from a multistate lawsuit challenging a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency cost-benefit analysis that found that regulating air pollutants, including mercury, would be reasonable because the costs of implementing new control technology wouldnt raise retail electricity costs beyond historical ranges.

He also has joined a multistate lawsuit seeking to block Trump administration rules barring taxpayer-funded family planning clinics from referring patients to abortion providers. And this month, Kaul changed the Wisconsin DOJs stance in the factory farms and high-capacity wells cases, switching from defending Schimels opinion to aligning with Clean Wisconsin. He also pulled Wisconsin out of another multistate lawsuit alleging that the EPA is interpreting the Clean Waters Act too strictly.

The states lawyer

Rick Esenberg, the president of the Wisconsin Institute for Law and Liberty, a conservative law firm, said Kauls actions threaten to further politicize the attorney generals office.

Sure, its a partisan office. But were also electing a lawyer for the state of Wisconsin, Esenberg said. It doesnt mean he should do whatever he wants according to his (political stance). I dont want to call him disingenuous. I think what he said (during the campaign) was the right thing to say and that is now what he should do.

Attorney Lester Pines, who often handles cases on behalf of Democratic lawmakers, said Schimel and his predecessor, Republican J.B. Van Hollen, spent 12 years advancing a right-wing agenda.

The people of Wisconsin elected an attorney general to once again represent the publics interest, Pines said. That is what Attorney General Kaul is doing. Its about time.

For legal basis

Kaul defended his actions, saying in an interview that he has stuck to the parameters for defending state law that he laid out during his campaign: If theres a strong legal argument supporting the law, he will fight for it in court. He pointed out that he is defending Republican-drawn legislative boundaries in a federal lawsuit.

Otherwise, his decisions are based on whether the law or policy in question hurts Wisconsin residents, he said. For example, he said, striking down the ACA would end coverage for people with pre-existing conditions and young adults currently on their parents insurance, the EPA challenges would hurt the environment if theyre successful and Trumps abortion restrictions would reduce access to health care.

My approach has been that Wisconsin should be involved if the law or policy is harmful to the interests of the state of Wisconsin and Wisconsinites, and if theres a strong legal basis for the challenge, Kaul said. And that is the approach weve applied both in deciding what to challenge and where to withdraw from challenges.

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Imagine speaking in real time to divers exploring a shipwreck off Door County, watching an American Indian elder describe how to harvest wild rice, climbing inside a vintage Oscar Mayer Wienermobile, then eating dishes from around the state in a classic Wisconsin supper club.

Or viewing a shawl that belonged to Abraham Lincoln, a handwritten letter by Thomas Jefferson suggesting the transcontinental expedition later undertaken by Meriwether Lewis and William Clark, or the original film scripts for Citizen Kane and Gone With the Wind.

All in one place.

After two decades of planning, the vision for a new $120 million, 100,000-square-foot Wisconsin Historical Society museum Downtown is taking shape, fueled by an unprecedented outreach effort to communities across the state, American Indian tribes and generations of Wisconsinites.

The state, the Historical Society, developer Hovde Properties and landowner Fred Mohs have long seen part of the block that fronts Capitol Square and holds the current, undersized museum and surrounding properties for a joint redevelopment that could be the largest project in city history with total costs approaching $255 million.

The museum, which would more than double current exhibition space and provide flexible learning, meeting and gathering spaces, all equipped with state-of-the-art technology, would occupy the lower floors of the redevelopment. The $90 million to $135 million Hovde-Mohs private project offering 200,000 to 250,000 square feet of commercial space and housing would rise over part of the site to the state Capitol height limit.

The project had been stalled, but in early 2018, the state Department of Administration notified the Historical Society that if it could raise $50 million, the state would deliver the remaining $70 million for the museum. Gov. Tony Evers put $70 million for the project in the proposed 2019-20 capital budget, although the Legislatures budget committee will need to approve it.

Of the $120 million, $100 million would be for building the museum with the rest for an endowment and transitioning from the existing to new facility. It is expected to attract about 150,000 people and double student visits to more than 50,000 annually, finally showcase the societys biggest artifacts and world-class collections and allow for real-time distance learning from around the state through new digital tools.

Underscoring its broad appeal, former governors Tommy Thompson, a Republican, and Jim Doyle, a Democrat, have served as fundraising campaign co-chairs.

This project has had a good, strong bipartisan commitment because Wisconsin deserves a museum of this caliber, Doyle said.

Added Thompson: Now is the time to build this museum.

The Historical Society declined to say how much has been raised. But Historical Society director Christian Overland said, We are ready.

Its the right time for Wisconsin, too, he said.

Soul of Wisconsin

Today, the Historical Society, established in 1846, has one of the nations largest collections of North American historical assets and operates 12 museums and sites. But its flagship museum has been housed in the 42,000-square-foot former Wolff Kubly hardware store building at 30 N. Carroll St. since 1984.

The museum, which draws 77,000 visitors annually, including 23,000 school children, is woefully inadequate.

It has just 17,000 square feet of exhibit space and 10-foot ceilings, half the desired height. Theres no loading dock. The front lobby can be jammed when students are arriving or leaving, and the society sometimes must turn school groups away for lack of space. The building has only two slow elevators and four bathrooms with a total of eight stalls. A 1,200-square-foot area behind the main desk serves as as exhibit, luncheon and programming space, with a large column in the middle of the room blocking views when a movie screen is used.

The building lacks wide open vistas, a must for modern museums. Seating space is limited. Few windows offer views to the Capitol across the street.

All artifacts or exhibits must come through the front door, meaning the society cant display big items like the Wienermobile and must severely limit the number and scale of presentations or traveling exhibits. Many of the societys most treasured holdings cant be displayed because theyd be damaged by inappropriate lighting and lack of environmental controls.

To shape the new museum, the society is seeking a broad spectrum of voices through community events, engagement with American Indian tribes and outreach to minorities and youth, Overland said.

The simple theme, he said, is: What makes Wisconsin Wisconsin?

At a listening session in Superior, for example, there was strong sentiment for the areas shipping and maritime heritage. But speakers also wanted to tell the story of how the iron ore shipped from the region helped build an arsenal of democracy in World War II. In La Crosse, residents emphasized their deep attachment to the Mississippi River. Tribal members said they wanted to tell the story of their sovereignty and the history of their ancestral lands, and to play a role in welcoming visitors to the museum.

Eventually, more than 5,000 people are expected to be touched by the societys outreach efforts.

Its not just bricks and mortar, Overland said. Its 72 counties. Were trying to get at the real soul of Wisconsin.

Connecting the state

The emerging concepts promise a historical experience like no other in the state, and a regional attraction that could draw visitors from places like Chicago and the Twin Cities, said Wes Mosman Block, the societys chief operating officer.

The interior is being designed by Gallagher and Associates, an internationally recognized cultural institution design firm whose clients include the Smithsonian Institution, Gettysburg Museum, National World War II Museum, Grammy Museum and Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum.

The new Wisconsin history museum will be a profound statement of the value of history to the community, Patrick Gallagher said. Knowledge of the past creates a path to guide and understand the future. The rich, diverse cultures of Wisconsin make the state an exemplary example of what this country stands for.

The centerpiece will be a two-story, 360-degree multimedia experience space that will introduce guests to core themes theyll find throughout the museum and much more.

The room will be lined with a mosaic of digital screens that can offer tailored presentations on everything from customized greetings for a grade school group to dynamic presentations for evening events.

For special events, a large screen can offer real-time visuals from society underwater archaeologists, curators working in the field, or Native Americans demonstrating crafts who can also interact with an audience in the room and at remote sites, including classrooms, across the state.

Theyll feel like the whole states connected, Overland said.

Diving the Montgomery Shipwreck This video shows Wisconsin Historical Society maritime archeologists, Caitlin Zant and Tori Kiefer diving on the Montgomery. This shipwreck is

Themed galleries will include a Laboratory of Democracy, a celebration of the states political heritage with a broad window overlooking the Capitol. It will include a digital presentation on the gallerys walls of newspaper headlines drawing upon the societys archives  the second-largest newspaper collection in North America  exploring topics visitors can choose from, such as presidential elections. Other interactive displays will highlight the states changing demographics.

Another gallery on agricultural ingenuity will feature a re-created canoe central to the tribal history of harvesting wild rice, with an interactive component that lets people stand in a canoe to navigate a waterway and collect virtual grains using digital map technology.

Other galleries will focus on industrial innovation, including a re-creation of an enormous turbine built for a hydroelectric generating plant at Niagara Falls by the Allis-Chambers Co. in Milwaukee, and natural resources with a re-created wooded shoreline and an iconic vacation cottage.

The museum will have theaters at the entry to each major gallery to orient guests to what theyll see next, and which can also be used for events, demonstrations and lectures.

At the re-created supper club, guests can learn while they eat at a classically styled restaurant adorned with artifacts from local taverns across the state. An interactive feature embedded within the tables will explore the role played by food and drink in what makes Wisconsin Wisconsin.

Museum guests will also be given an opportunity to share their stories and explore family histories.

With its 25-foot-tall ceilings, the facility will let the society showcase items such as the Wienermoble, the first Culvers restaurant sign and a hand-built, Green Bay Packers-themed ice-fishing shanty, all too big to be brought into the current museum. Theyre now stored at the societys new $46.7 million, 188,000-square-foot State Archive Preservation Facility near Williamson street and the Yahara River on the Near East Side.

We want it to be dynamic, Overland said of the new museum. Its a way to connect people with history in different ways.

National collection

Many of the societys treasures, however, come from beyond the states borders. The society has the largest collection of published and unpublished materials documenting the history of North America outside of the U.S. Library of Congress.

But until now, many have never been seen by the general public due to the current museums inadequate lighting and poor environmental controls.

A sampling includes a shawl from 1861 that belonged to Abraham Lincoln; an artifact from 1513 believed to be the oldest surviving map to show any part of North America; and a rock and note that was thrown through the window of Daisy Bates, the African American civil rights activist and newspaper publisher who played a key role in the fight against segregation in Little Rock, Arkansas. The note, written on a matchbook, says, The next will be dynamite. K.K.K.

The letter from Thomas Jefferson to George Rogers Clark, a famous military commander during the American Revolution and brother of William Clark, suggests what would eventually become the legendary transcontinental expedition led by Lewis and Clark to the Pacific Coast.

That letter isnt in the Smithsonian or the National Archive, Overland said. That letter is here.

The facility will offer new opportunities to showcase a film collection held in partnership with the Wisconsin Center for Film and Theater Research at the University of Wisconsin thats one of the largest Hollywood archives in the world.

The new museum, combined with the societys holdings and printing capacities, will let the society expand beyond its current role in helping all fourth-graders in the state learn about Wisconsin history to assisting civics classes and eighth- and ninth-grade introduction to U.S. history, Overland said.

Currently, the museum suggests a donation of $5 for adults and $3 for children 5 to 12, with younger children admitted free. The society doesnt yet know what it will cost to visit the new facility.

Our current building is static, Block said. This allows us to roll out the incredible resources we have. It makes all the resources of the organization available. Were the one-stop shop for history.

We want people to be wowed, Overland said.

[EDITOR'S NOTE: This story has been updated to correct the spelling of the name of Wes Mosman Block.]

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In secret, behind locked gates, our Nation's Oldest City dumped a landfill in a lake (Old City Reservoir), while emitting sewage in our rivers and salt marsh. Organized citizens exposed and defeated pollution, racism and cronyism. We elected a new Mayor. We're transforming our City -- advanced citizenship. Ask questions. Make disclosures. Demand answers. Be involved. Expect democracy. Report and expose corruption. Smile! Help enact a St. Augustine National Park and Seashore. We shall overcome!
I'm joined in the studio today by special guest June Harman to talk about the new Zesty English Country Dance events in Ottawa coming up soon as well as featuring some May and Mother's Day theme music.

From Hereabout Hill/May Song

Coope Boyes and Simpson - Coda: A Concluding Event The May Reels

Belshazzar's Feast - Drop the Reed The Outlandish Knight

John Spiers - Bellow Take This Letter to My Mother

Jackie Oates - The Spyglass and the Herringbone Mama, Come Let's Dance

Blazin' Fiddles - Six Mama

Twin Flames - Signal Fire - Signal Fire Mothering Sunday

Jane Peppler - Sedgefield Fair: More-or-less traditional songs from England and Scotland Two Mothers

O'Hooley and Tidow - The Hum The Life of a New Mother

Grit Laskin - Unabashedly Folk: Songs and Tunes 1979 - 1985 - Unabashedly Folk: Songs and Tunes 1979 - 1985 Anthem of a Working Mum

Melrose Quartet - Dominion The Lady and the Soldier

The Dovetail Trio - Wing of Evening Chetvorno Horo

Andy Irvine/Davy Spillane - East Wind Ready for the Dance

Demon Barbers - Uncut Yellow Stockings

Bare Necessities - Simple Pleasures, the English Country Dance Collection Volume 3 Smithy Hill

Bare Necessities - Volume #2, More Favourites of the Boston Centre Puurcy's Reel (Galopede/Yarmouth Reel)

Rattlebone - Diagonally : English Country Dances by Peggy Roe - Diagonally : English Country Dances by Peggy Roe
The Indian Air Force (IAF) was formally handed over its first AH-64E (I)-Apache Guardian helicopter at the Boeing production facility in Mesa, Arizona, USA. The first batch of about four-six Apache helicopters will be delivered to India in July 2019.

About AH-64E Apache
Everyone eligible should be vaccinated against COVID-19 as a condition of long-distance travel or employment.

Vaccination should be voluntary but those who don't get vaccinated should be frequently tested for COVID-19 as a condition of long-distance travel and employment.

Both vaccination and testing should be voluntary and not required as a condition of long-distance travel or employment.

I defer to the judgment of lawmakers as long as they base their decisions on a consensus of medical professionals.

Vote

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Ernie Lee and Clint Epley take a look at the "That's All Brother" logo plastered on the Douglas C-47 at the Commemorative Air Force hangar on Monday, March 18, 2019. The plane has been restored to its original appearance, including the logo, which is missing an apostrophe on one side of the aircraft.
Here are updates of stories we have been working on:

New synagogue

The story: Beit Am Jewish Community broke ground in 2017 on a 6,700-square-foot synagogue at 4318 NW Circle Blvd. in Corvallis. The congregation has been worshipping since 1982 in a converted two-story house at 625 NW 36th St.

The latest: Construction of the new synagogue is nearing completion and the congregation hopes to move into its new home in mid-August, according to Susan Howard, Beit Ams administrator. The 36th Street house has been sold, but a contract with the buyer allows Beit Am to continue using the building through the end of August.

Bennett Hall

Ponderosa Ridge

The story: Developers plan to build housing on 274 lots in northwest Corvallis. The two-phase Ponderosa Ridge project will be built south of Northwest Ponderosa Avenue and northwest of Walnut Boulevard. The Corvallis Planning Commission approved the project in August 2017, and the Corvallis City Council rejected neighborhood appeals of the decision in November 2017.

The latest: Developers have received approval from the City Council for reimbursement of $260,000 in systems development charges. SDCs are the fees charged to developers for infrastructure, such as parks, streets and sidewalks. Reimbursements are allowed for developers when they pay for and install extra capacity elements of public infrastructure. The Holt Group of Vancouver, Washington, which is building Ponderosa Ridge, will be building collector street improvements and installing a 16-inch water line. According to the project website road construction, improvements to Northwest Ponderosa and site development will be priorities this year.

James Day

Federal block grants

The story: Each year the city of Corvallis is required to development an action plan for how it will spend the Community Development Block Grant funds it receives from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

The latest: The City Council unanimously approved the 2019-20 plan at its May 6 meeting. A total of $79,000 in human services fund grants will be divided up among Community Outreach, the Corvallis Daytime Drop-in Center, Jackson Street Youth Services, the Room at the Inn, the South Corvallis Food Bank and Work Unlimited. Capital project grants totaling $310,720 went to Community Outreach, Corvallis Housing First, Samaritan Village and Willamette Neighborhood Housing Services. Grant requests were reviewed by the citys Housing and Community Development Advisory Board, with the council signing off on the boards recommendations. Many of the same groups also receive funds from the citys social service allocations, which are vetted by the United Way. Decisions on those grants will be made later this summer.

James Day

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Tired of paying for poor choices

Can we please start to look at facts and be truthful?

The latest protest for our kids by unionized teachers is just another ruse for more money for PERS. It is always marketed as for the kids, but the only connection to the kids is that they will be the ones paying for the future PERS liability. And why do these protests always occur during a school day? It really is a form of bullying. Otherwise, hold the protest on a weekend.

The City of Albany has reported that PERS contributions increased by 6%. This increase will no doubt result in cuts to personnel. Its no secret that Kate Brown and other elected Democrats have done nothing to solve the PERS problem. Currently, PERS is estimated to have a $27 billion deficit. She did suggest that educators contribute to their own retirement, but that didnt go over well with the unionized masses?

Creating new business taxes is not a solution, but it seems to be all that Democrats know how to do. And the irony is so very thick. The teachers union and public employees union were two of the biggest supporters of Brown and her fellow Democrats. Well, folks, you have elected people with no clue as to how to solve this problem. Are you finally ready to elect some conservatives to manage our state?

If you are a Democrat and work for government, please step forward and take your lumps. Maybe losing your job will be a wake-up call on how you vote. The rest of us are tired of paying for your poor choices in leadership. Using past history as an indicator, continuing to elect Democrats will only further push our state into financial ruin.

John Robinson

Albany (May 10)

Paid family leave will help society

Recent discussion regarding paid family leave in Oregon has sparked support mainly from small business owners. These business owners are at a disadvantage because small businesses cannot part with money as easily as large businesses. House Bill 3031 would make it less financially painful to offer paid leave by letting employees take part of their pay when on family or medical leave.

This policy would have employers and their employees split the bill 50-50 to pay for this program. This makes it more appealing and likely that employers would invite this policy into their businesses. There are some states including California and Washington that already have state-run paid family leave policies. Not having a paid leave policy makes it harder for small businesses to retain workers because the large businesses are able to offer paid leave already.

I fully support this policy. The United States is one of the few countries that does not offer paid leave which could be due to the fact that our policymakers care more about public matters than private ones (such as family matters). As an individualistic society, family issues are often swept under the rug and not acknowledged by policymakers.

I believe this policy is important because families are the building blocks of society and should be more highly valued as a whole. This would help small businesses grow, improve family life, set the future up for success, and benefit many other aspects of our society.

Quinn Weisensee

Corvallis (April 30)

Legislators must pass energy bill

The Clean Energy Jobs Bill (House Bill 2020) has been a decade in the making. This legislation will put a cap on greenhouse gas emissions for the largest polluters in Oregon and invest money generated from cap revenues into more clean energy opportunities, while also providing security for communities most impacted by climate change in our state.

Transitioning from a polluting economy dependent on fossil fuels is what we need now. There is no time to wait, to push it off for later. Greenhouse gas emissions must be rapidly reduced in the next decade, and Oregon can champion the way.

Naysayers include those on the Joint Committee for Carbon Reduction, including Rep. David Brock Smith, who argues that Oregons contributions to reducing emissions will appear miniscule on a global level. Lets expand our thinking. Why pass any legislation in Oregon  if we always compare our efforts to the global level impact, of course our efforts will seem small. But small is better than nothing. Thousands of youth across Oregon who know that future generations do not have the benefit of waiting around when it comes to climate change.

Right now, HB 2020 is sitting in committee, and it needs to get to the floor for a vote. With just two months left in the legislative session, we need to express our desire to see this bill passed into law. Let your senator, representative, and those on the Ways and Means Committee know that Oregonians want the Clean Energy Jobs bill passed!

Erin Kanzig

Philomath (May 1)

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Some good news on the Ohio gerrymandering front. About a week ago, we reported that a federal court had struck down Ohio's pernicious Republican gerrymandered congressional maps . Needless to say, the pernicious Republicans immediately started screaming like stuck pigs and appealed. On Thursday a three judge panel told them to tell it to the hand, saying "it would not place a hold on an order that required Ohio to redraw its congressional district map . within a matter a weeks. No way on the delay!

The panel wrote that no new arguments persuade the Court that a stay is now warranted.





Republican Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost is appealing the case to the U.S. Supreme Court and said he will also now ask the high court to stay the panels order.





The three-judge panel 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 ordered Ohio to draw and implement a new map by June 14.





The panels order denying a stay chided the state for attempting to re-litigate the case and avoid the Courts finding and conclusion that the current map is unconstitutional and has thus harmed voters." It went on to say it was important to move forward with the process so that the voters in Ohio can avoid another election with unconstitutionally drawn districts.





Yost, in a prepared statement Thursday afternoon, said he would appeal what he called the "invented legal standard in the trial courts decision, and will ask the Supreme Court to stay the decision pending its ruling on similar cases already before it.





The attorney general on Monday filed notice of an appeal to the high court, which is currently weighing separate gerrymandering cases out of North Carolina and Maryland. Yost argued that those cases, which could be decided with weeks, could lead to a reversal of the Ohio decision.





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 Voters with representation by the American Civil Liberties Union of Ohio, said in a court filing Wednesday night that 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."





In court filings leading up the the ruling, the state said it must have a map by Sept. 20 in order to prepare for the 2020 election.





Republican leaders, in creating the current map after the 2010 census, designed districts 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.
Elizabeth Warren was in tiny Kermit, West Virginia yesterday, where she and her message were warmly received. The media dubbed it Trump Country.'s story headed it like this: Trump backers applaud Warren in heart of MAGA country . And it is true that Mingo County voters went strongly for Trump in November of 2016. Trump beat Hillary there, 83.2% to 14.4%. But guess what they had done on primary day. Mingo into Trump Country; it's Bernie Country. On primary day, Hillary came in third with 1,074 votes. Bernie came in first among Mingo voters with 2,425. In fact, Bernie beat Trump that day too. Trump trounced Ted Cruz (56), John Kasich (22), Ben Carson (14), Marco Rubio (14), Mike Huckabee (8), Jeb Bush (7), Rand Paul (6), Carly Fiorina (2) and poor Chris Christie (1). Yeah Trump's 1,161 votes was more than all the Republicans combined. Impressive. But remember how many Mingo voters pulled the lever for Bernie that day? 2,425-- more thanTrump's vote-- more than double all the Republicans' votes combined.But don't tell the media; they'll never stop calling it MAGA Country anyway. Or anti-Hillary Country or Anti-Establishment Country. Hillary offered them nothing and they returned the favor. Not only did Bernie beat her and Trump on primary day. Bernie's primary voters were nearly twice as many as Hillary's in November!

Biden has nothing to offer them either. Want to see a replay of 2016? Help nominate Biden. These are desperate people, desperate for change, not desperate for Calvin Biden Collidge's "return to normalcy." He's talking about the "normalcy" that gave Trump 83% of Mingo County's vote.

True, there areTrump supporters who are too stupid and too racist to change their ways. But those aren't the ones that Elizabeth Warren and Bernie are appealing to. They're not pursuing the voters Hillary awkwardly tagged as deplorables . They're pursuing the working families looking out for their own interest and understood the establishment politicians don't represent them. It was either a sure loser for them (Hillary) or a likely loser (Trump). They went with Trump and he didn't deliver anything besides a circus and an outlet for their anger and resentments. Yesterday Michael Brice-Saddler, reporting for the, laid out the intellectually under-developed Trump voters who will never abandon him-- not even if they get robbed.

In fact that's what Brice-Saddler was reporting-- a robbery of pathetic moron Trumpists . Remember Brian Kolfage, some random xenophobe and obvious hustler, who started a Trump-approved GoFundMe page to build the wall that first Mexico and then Congress refused to pay for? About 5 months ago, yelling about "too many illegals... taking advantage of the United States taxpayers," Kolfage raised $20 million in just a few days. How stupid does someone have to be? Their evangelical pastors have them well-trained to be juststupid. Kolfage was aiming for a billion dollars to build Trump's wall for a "fraction of what it costs the government." How'd that work out for the morons?

I am very disappointed in you Brian Kolfage, where are the progress photographs? one woman posted to the We Build The Wall Facebook page.





Quit talking about it and do it, another commented.





Ive been away for FIVE months, one person tweeted in April. Whens the groundbreaking?





Reporting on the apparent lack of progress on the private wall, published early Friday by the Daily Beast , drew criticism from Kolfage. The veteran called out the storys author, Will Sommer, who indicated hes repeatedly asked Kolfage for proof they were close to a groundbreaking.





Omg this is PERFECT timing by the liberal rag news site. They are about to look more stupid than @hillaryclinton on election night 2016! Kolfage wrote. I guaranteed we would build the wall... and Ill leave it at that!"

Kolfage did not respond to an email and message from the Washington Post requesting comment Friday. While the nonprofit has floated various groundbreaking dates in the past, its not exactly clear when, or if, construction will begin.





We should be turning dirt on this thing by May 1, June 1 at the latest, according to our experts, Kolfage told Politico in February. In a March 21 interview with American Family Radio, however, the veteran asserted they were going to start breaking ground in April.





n the interview, Kolfage said his nonprofit had identified eight locations to build along the border, but failed to name them, stating that his efforts could be thwarted by liberals if they were revealed.





I wish I could name where its at, but we cant name it because of the ACLU, these other liberal groups who want to sue us and impede our progress, he said. But its actually happening, the process is happening . . . the project is moving forward.





He continued, But as soon as we start breaking ground, well be putting that information out there to show the American people what theyre doing.





Kolfage has previously indicated that We Build The Wall Inc. seeks to develop segments of the wall on private property, which he told The Washington Post in January would cost $2 million to $3 million per mile. His GoFundMe says hes visited the border to scope out potential sites and negotiate with private land owners. Kolfage has also enlisted the help of several high-profile politicians, among them former White House chief strategist Stephen K. Bannon and Kris Kobach, the former Secretary of State for Kansas, who sit on the groups advisory board.





Back in January, Kobach told the New York Times theyd hopefully be breaking ground within weeks.





Some critics noted Kolfage was accused of shady behavior in the past, including allegations of misusing funds he raised. NBC and BuzzFeed investigations earlier this year alleged that Kolfage peddled false articles and conspiracy theories with the intent of harvesting reader email addresses. The purported scheme would draw people back to his websites and Facebook pages, generating hundreds of thousands in advertising revenue, Buzzfeed reported.





Facebook removed several of the pages he operated last year, according to NBC, in a purge of pages that were used to drive traffic to their websites. In response, Kolfage created a new campaign, Fight4FreeSpeech, which also accepts donations.





BuzzFeed looked into Kolfages previous crowdfunding efforts, which included an initiative to mentor wounded veterans at military hospitals-- among them Walter Reed and Brooke Army Medical Center. He raised thousands for the project, according to BuzzFeed, but spokespersons for the medical facilities told the outlet they have no record of him working at the hospitals or donating money.





Asked about the story in January, Kolfage told The Post that BuzzFeed 100 percent lied and had fabricated the investigation to slander him. He said the money was raised to cover his travel expenses, and that he only used them for that purpose.





On Friday, many supporters of Kolfage called the Daily Beast story fake news intended to stymie donations. We Build The Wall occasionally replied in agreement, reassuring commenters the wall was on its way.





This is what we call FAKE NEWS, they wrote in a post. We didnt stop anything and we are full steam ahead. The wall is being built."





As of Friday night, the group said theyll be breaking ground shortly.





In a separate comment, one woman indicated shed heard enough.





Saying it doesnt get it done, she wrote late Friday. Do it.
Thousands of leaders of different Buddhist groups, monks, heads of state and Buddhist followers join the UN Day of Vesak 2019, which is held on May 12-14 at Tam Chuc Pagoda in Ha Nam in northern Vietnam. Photo by VnExpress/Ngoc Thanh

The Buddhist approach to peace and sustainable development was highlighted Sunday as the UN Day of Vesak celebrations began in Vietnam.

The UN Day of Vesak commemorating the birth of the Buddha opened at the Tam Chuc Pagoda in Ha Nam Province in northern Vietnam, gathering 1,600 international participants.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Thich Pho Tue, Supreme Patriarch of the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha, said Vesak 2019 was a chance to uphold values that the Buddha bequeathed for humanity, including compassion, selflessness and non-violence.

He noted that Buddhism has a history of 2,000 years in Vietnam and has become the foundation for the thoughts and ethics of Vietnamese people.

When the values of Buddhism are upheld, a nation and its people prosper, he said, calling for participants to work together to "offer the most basic solutions that come from their souls to successfully implement the global sustainable development goal that the UN aims for."

"The Buddhist approach of Dhamma (righteous behavior) and emphasis on Pragnya (wisdom), Karuna (compassion) and Maitri (camaraderie) as well as the reduction of Trishna (greed) offers a set of building blocks for the architecture of a new world order where violence and conflict are minimized and development takes place without degrading natural resources," said Indian Vice President Venkaiah Naidu, delivering the keynote address.

Citing the UNs 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, he said: "There is a clear recognition that there can be no sustainable development without peace and no peace without sustainable development. So it is quite apt that we are discussing global leadership and sustainable development today as we celebrate UN Vesak Day," Naidu said.

Thich Thien Nhon, head of Vietnam Buddhist Sangha's executive council, said the path that combines compassion and wisdom that the Buddha has showed humanity is still the truth and the guiding principle that brings meaning to the lives of millions of people around the world.

The world is now facing conflict, terrorism, wars, inequality and environmental crises. When the rapid development of science and technology has changed every aspect of social life and traditional structures, it is much more important and necessary to promote the core values of Buddhism, which is the spirit of tolerance, selflessness, harmony and peace, he said.

He called for Buddhist followers around the world to unite, share solutions and take specific actions to cope with the challenges of the modern age.

Vietnam's Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc said that the event, which will last until Tuesday, was an opportunity for each person to find inner peace and reflect on the teachings of the Buddha.

"We should commemorate and honor the Buddha, think about the truth of peace, the spirit of tolerance, compassion, and apply that truth in our daily life to resolve conflicts, and contribute to helping each nation and people," he said.

Nepali Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli also noted that the ultimate goal of Buddhism was to achieve a harmonious society based on justice, friendship and peaceful symbiosis.

The world is more wealthy now, but one-fifth of the global population is still extremely poor, UN development goals are facing many challenges, the environment is increasingly polluted and terrorism continues to happen, threatening peace and social order.

Amidst all this, the concept of balance in Buddhism is increasingly affirming its value, he said.

The Buddhas message emphasizes the balance of people and nature, matter and spirit, present and future, and Buddhism does not support greed, anger and ignorance, and this is the cause of the world crises, he said, adding that absolute peace can be attained if all people are determined to do so.

In his message for Vesak 2019 earlier this month, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said: "In a time of growing intolerance and inequality, the Buddhas message of non-violence and service to others is more relevant than ever. On the Day of Vesak, let us renew our commitment to building a world of peace and dignity for all."

This is the third time the UN's commemoration of Vesak is being held in Vietnam after 2008 and 2014.
The Health Ministry says the way the case of nine dialysis deaths has been dealt with will undermine healthcare in Vietnam.

It said the charges levied on a doctor involved in lapses in dialysis procedures that killed nine patients back in 2017, shocking the nation, was "not right".

In a Friday document sent to the People's Court and People's Procuracy of Hoa Binh Province, the ministry said the charge was "forced, not suitable, and even unjust."

Doctor Hoang Cong Luong, 33, was charged with "involuntary manslaughter" in the healthcare disaster deemed the nation's most serious in years.

At the court of first instance in Hoa Binh, Luong, a nephrologist with the Hoa Binh Province General Hospital, was sentenced to three and a half years in jail for his inaction leading to the series of deaths in 2017.

The verdict said that although Luong was not responsible for the water used in the process, he should have been aware of the importance of the water filter system for dialysis. He did not check if the system was ready to use though he knew repair work was being done.

The court said Luong had been "negligent, confident in his own experience and performed duty out of habit."

Yet the ministry says that the investigators, Hoa Binh police, had changed the charges against doctor Luong as many as three times, which means they were confused and did not have sufficient evidence to press charge.

"It is inappropriate to punish doctor Luong for involuntary manslaughter' because the elements are not there to constitute a crime," the ministry's statement reads.

In case the appeals court, which will hear the plea Monday, sticks with the original decision, "it would set an extremely dangerous precedent, causing insecurity among all doctors and medical staff in the country," the ministry said.

"This case will prevent doctors from directly engaging in treating patients and focus more on administrative procedures, which means they will spend more time on non-professional jobs instead of dedicating their time and efforts for saving people.

"If that happens, it is the patients that will take all the consequences. They will die, and die in line with procedures and regulations, and no legal agencies will be able to question the doctors and other medical staff."

The ministry suggested that the case at Hoa Binh hospital is a serious and complicated medical accident and the investigators should be careful and identify the true cause for the deaths.

Hoa Binh hospital, 80 kilometers (50 miles) southwest of Hanoi, was in the national limelight for long after the dialysis disaster on May 29, 2017. Nine patients died after suffering nausea, abdominal pain and shortness of breath.

Minister of Health Nguyen Thi Kim Tien quickly pronounced the incident the "most serious" healthcare disaster in Vietnam in many years.

Talking to the press after the trial in January, doctor Luong said he was shocked with the verdict and that it was too harsh.

"I will appeal against the conviction at all costs because Im innocent," he said.

Public opinion was also mixed. While many said the verdict serves as a lesson for healthcare staff in Vietnam to work with due care, others said Luong was only part of faulty healthcare procedures and should not be punished so harshly.

Along with Luong, four hospital staff, including its director and deputy director, and two companies' directors responsible for cleaning the water filter system for the hospital's dialysis machine, received between two and a half years and four and a half years in jail.

All defendants were also suspended from their positions.
Police arrested two Taiwanese and one Chinese and seized 500 kilos of ketamine, a synthetic drug, on the outskirts of HCMC Saturday.

Police check the ketamine they seize in Ho Chi Minh City's outskirts on May 11, 2019. Photo by VnExpress/Quoc Thang

The Ministry of Public Security's drug crime investigation department coordinated with police and customs officers in Ho Chi Minh City arrested Taiwanese Liu Ming Yang, 34, and Jhu Minh Jyun, 32, and Chinese Su Jia Mei, 33.

They also held a Vietnamese Taiwanese woman, Nguyen Thi Thu Van, 36, girlfriend of Jhu, as they raided warehouses in Binh Chanh, Tan Phu and Tan Binh districts and detected 500 kilos ketamine hidden in four packaging printers on a seven-seat car.

The drug is worth over VND500 billion ($21.42 million) in total, according to the police, who said this is the largest amount of ketamine that has ever been seized in the nation.

Liu has been identified as the leader of this drug ring.

Police escort Liu Ming Yang, the Taiwanese leader of the ketamine ring. Photo by VnExpress/Quoc Thang

As guided by Liu, Jhu received four packaging printers from China at Mong Cai Border Gate in Quang Ninh Province in northern Vietnam on March 14.

He then took them to Binh Tan District before moving them to Binh Chanh District.

The group was about to transfer the drug to a third market as they got busted.

This case has added proofs to cement concerns that HCMC has now become a drug transit hub.

Vietnams biggest city made three massive drug seizures in the last two weeks of March. In all cases the drugs originated from the Golden Triangle, and in two of them, the drugs were on the way to Taiwan and the Philippines. Golden Triangle is an intersection of China, Laos, Thailand, and Myanmar and the world's second largest drug producing area behind the Golden Crescent in South Asia.

On March 20, police seized 300 kilos of meth that were on the way to Taiwan. Police said the ring, led by a Chinese man, operated nationwide and was linked to two seizures of around 300 kilos each in central Vietnam last October and February. They also discovered that the gang transported meth to the Philippines.

On March 22, Vietnamese customs and the Philippine police seized 270 kilos of meth the gang had transported to the Philippines by sea.

Five days later, police arrested two Taiwanese men and a Vietnamese driver who were transporting more than 300 kilos of heroin on the citys outskirts.

Top police officers have since warned that HCMC has become a transit point for drug trafficking, due to its logistics infrastructure.

The repeated haul of huge amounts of drugs is happening despite Vietnam having some of the worlds toughest drug laws. Those convicted of possessing or smuggling more than 600 grams of heroin or cocaine or more than 2.5 kg of methamphetamine could face the death penalty.

The production or sale of 100 grams of heroin or 300 grams of other illegal narcotics is also punishable by death.
Students wade through the heavily flooded Nguyen Huu Canh Street after downpour, May 7, 2019. Photo by VnExpress/Huu Khoa

HCMC has signed a rental deal with a private company to install a water pump on Nguyen Huu Canh Street to prevent flooding.

HCMC, a city of 13 million, has been suffering flooding due to high tides and heavy rains for more than two decades now, with scenes of people getting stuck or wading in deep waters becoming common.

Under the new deal, the city will pay Quang Trung Industry Group Joint Stock Company VND14.2 billion ($608,400) a year but only if the pump proves effective. The pump will have a capacity of 97,000 metric meters per hour.

Nguyen Huu Canh Street, which links Binh Thanh District with the central District 1 and District 2, is one of the most flood prone streets in HCMC.

The company initially wanted an annual rent of VND24.4 billion ($1 million) to flood-proof a 75-hectare area for seven years, but the city rejected the demand.

This is not Quang Trung Companys first deal with HCMC. It installed a large anti-flood system on Nguyen Huu Canh Street in September 2017, and it was assessed by the city as "basically effective" in reducing flooding.

The Centre for Flood Control said the street was still flooded six out of 23 times the system was operated.

Nguyen Tang Cuong, the project contractor, said the reasons for the failure included the sewage system being blocked by garbage. Intriguingly, he also did not rule out sabotage.

The city has been particularly keen on preventing flooding on Nguyen Huu Canh Street and has approved its comprehensive renovation at a cost of VND473 billion ($20.4 million).

But it will take time for procedures to be completed and the work to start, and might not be completed before the 2020 rainy season.

Last month the city also firmed up plans for 218 works to combat flooding in downtown areas and parts of the outskirts at a cost of VND8 trillion ($342 million).

They include an upgrade to the drainage network, digging of ponds and work on flood-prone streets in Districts 1, 7, Tan Phu, Tan Binh, Thu Duc, and Go Vap.

The city will use its resources and seek public-private partnerships for funding.
Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh offers burning incense sticks at Tu Hieu Pagoda several days after he returned to Vietnam in October, 2018. Photo by VnExpress/Vo Thanh

Thich Nhat Hanh has moved to a resort as renovation work begins on the pagoda he was staying in.

Thich Nhat Hanh, considered the second most influential Buddhist leader in the world after the Dalai Lama, left the Tu Hieu Pagoda in Hue in central Vietnam six days ago.

The Zen Master had been staying at the pagoda, where he studied and practiced Zen Buddhism from 1942, ever since he returned to Vietnam on October 26 last year.

He now recuperates at a seaside resort in Ngu Hanh Son District of Da Nang City, two hours south of Hue, said Thich Thu Minh, a monk at the Tu Hieu Pagoda.

Work has been started to renovate the pagoda. Worrying that the environment there could affect the health of Thich Nhat Hanh, his followers decided to move him.

It has not been decided how long he will stay in Da Nang.

After seven months staying at Tu Hieu, his health has improved, his disciples said.

In a letter to his disciples several days after he got back to Vietnam, Thich Nhat Hanh said he has come back to Tu Hieu to stay until he dies.

"The Buddhism knowledge and wisdom I learned from Tu Hieu is now spreading all over the world, and I believe its time for me to get back to my roots," he said.

"Students of Tu Hieu are now living and practicing Buddhism in many different places around the world and as a way to remind them of their roots, I want to die here in Tu Hieu."

Born in 1926, he became a monk at the age of 23 after studying Buddhism for seven years.

In the 1960s he spearheaded a movement by Buddhists in South Vietnam that called for a negotiated end to the Vietnam War.

He left the country in 1966 and lived in Plum Village in southern France for decades, traveling regularly throughout North America and Europe to give lectures on mindfulness and peace.

His key teaching is that through mindfulness people can learn to live happily in the present, which is the only way to truly develop peace, both within oneself and in the world outside.

He visited Vietnam several times, in 2005, 2007 and 2008, meeting with devout Buddhists and offering prayers for war victims. He stayed at Tu Hieu during a private trip in August last year.

In 2014 he suffered a stroke and was hospitalized in France for four and a half months. He moved to Plum Village in Thailand in 2016.

Thich Nhat Hanh is also a poet and peace activist. He was nominated for the Nobel Prize by Martin Luther King, Jr. in 1967, and is the author of more than 100 books, including the bestselling "The Miracle of Mindfulness."
Trump to China: Trade deal now or it will be 'far worse' after 2020

President Donald Trump warned China on Saturday that it should strike a trade deal with the U.S. now, otherwise an agreement would be "far worse for them if it has to be negotiated in my second term."

Washington and Beijing are locked in a trade battle that has seen mounting tariffs, sparking fears the dispute will damage the global economy.

Two days of talks ended Friday with no deal. China's top negotiator said the two sides would meet again in Beijing at an unspecified date, but warned that China would make no concessions on "important principles."

"I think that China felt they were being beaten so badly in the recent negotiation that they may as well wait around for the next election, 2020, to see if they could get lucky & have a Democrat win -- in which case they would continue to rip-off the USA for $500 Billion a year," Trump said in a tweet Saturday.

"The only problem is that they know I am going to win (best economy & employment numbers in U.S. history, & much more), and the deal will become far worse for them if it has to be negotiated in my second term. Would be wise for them to act now, but love collecting BIG TARIFFS!"

Trump had accused Beijing of reneging on its commitments in trade talks and ordered new punitive duties, which took effect Friday, on $200 billion worth of Chinese imports, raising them to 25 percent from 10 percent.

He then cranked up the heat further, ordering a tariff hike on almost all remaining imports -- $300 billion worth, according to US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer -- from the world's second-biggest economy.

Those tariffs would not take effect for months, after a period of public comment.

Trump also said Saturday that firms could easily avoid additional costs by producing goods in the United States.

"Such an easy way to avoid Tariffs? Make or produce your goods and products in the good old USA. It's very simple!" he tweeted, echoing a similar message he sent Friday -- and even retweeted.

Only a week earlier, the United States and China had seemed poised to complete a sweeping agreement.

Washington wants Beijing to tighten its intellectual property protections, cut its subsidies to state-owned firms and reduce the yawning trade deficit; China wants an end to tariffs as part of a "balanced" deal.

While supporters laud Trump as a tough negotiator, free-trade-minded Republicans have warned that the tariffs could do real damage to the economy, and many farmers -- including Trump supporters -- say the tariffs have hit their bottom line.

As the trade war spread, China imposed $110 billion in duties on farm exports and other US goods.

Republican Senator Chuck Grassley, from the farm state of Iowa, cautiously welcomed the new tariffs but urged negotiators to reach a quick solution "so we can avoid prolonged tariffs, which we know have an impact on the US economy."
New Braunfels, TX (78130)

Today

A few clouds. Areas of patchy fog developing. Low around 60F. Winds light and variable..

Tonight

A few clouds. Areas of patchy fog developing. Low around 60F. Winds light and variable.
An Iranian trade official has insisted that complying with international financial transparency rules has nothing to do with Europes efforts to facilitate trade with Iran.

The UK, Germany and France have established the Instrument for Trade and Exchanges (INSTEX) in a bid to satisfy Irans demands for trade despite U.S. sanctions. Iran in turn has set up a matching channel called Special Trade and Finance Instrument (STFI). But for nearly two years Iranian hardliners have prevented legislation demanded by the international watchdog FATF to make the countrys financial system transparent and guard against money laundering and financing of terrorism.

On May 10, the German foreign ministry spokesman Maria Adehbar commented that Europes efforts to facilitate trade depend on Iran complying with international financial standards. But the Iranian official in charge of STFI says implementation of the European trade channel has nothing to do with the ratification of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) legislation by Iran.

"Iran has established the coordinating company with INSTEX, and now the ball is in Europe's court to make it operational," said Ali Asghar Nouri.

"Before the U.S. withdrawal from Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA or Tehran's nuclear deal with world powers), European banks used to work with Iran. So, there should not be any specific issue for them to do as before," Nouri said, adding, "INSTEX minimizes banking relations between the two sides to the least degree and such issues are of the least importance for this mechanism", Asghar Nouri said.

However, while the bills related to FATF have not yet been approved by Iran, Nouri claimed, "The related regulations to combat money laundering are approved and being implemented in Iran's banking system, now."

Insisting on the complexity of INSTEX, as a system that should be able to deal with U.S. sanctions, Ali Asghar Nouri marked that Iran had given about a year to Europeans to implement the mechanism, which seems an adequate length of time, and now expects them to implement the arrangement.

It has been apparent for months that Iranian foot-dragging in adopting full financial reforms would impede European efforts to help limited trade with Iran. A tug of war between the two sides has been going on quietly, with Iran saying Europes INSTEX should kick-in first and Europe moving at a leisurely pace, partly because Iran has failed to approve the required legislation.

Meanwhile, the U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has affirmed that as long as INSTEX is limited to "humanitarian deals," it would not be targeted by Washington sanctions imposed on the Islamic Republic.

The U.S. Representative to the EU, Gordon Sondland, also reiterated on April 11, that the era of the U.S.-Europe dispute over the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) or Tehran's nuclear deal with world powers is over.

"The SPVs (INSTEX) are Europe's attempt to appease Iran by showing that they are still trying their very best to facilitate proper transfers of payments to Iran. We believe that those SPVs are really nothing more than, and I've said it before, a paper tiger," said Sondland.

The Islamic Republic's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has repeatedly called INSTEX a "meaningless" measure and "a bitter joke," adding that "Europeans should have stood up to the U.S. after it left the JCPOA and should have lifted all sanctions against Iran."
In a statement on Thursday, May 9, the Islamic Republic strongly condemned the latest U.S. sanctions targeting Iran's industrial metals sector.

Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesman, Abbas Mousavi, said Washington's decision to impose sanctions on the Islamic Republic's industrial metals violates the U.S. international commitments and makes the "regime" internationally accountable.

"These sanctions, like other unilateral U.S. sanctions, are in contravention of the basic principles and rules of international relations, and specifically in contravention of the international commitments under the UN Charter, the Algeria Declaration, the Treaty of Amity, and the International Court of Justice's ruling," the spokesman added.

By "Treaty of Amity" Mousavi was referring to a friendship agreement signed by Tehran and Washington in 1955 during the reign of the last Shah of Iran, Mohammad Reza Pahlavi. The treaty emphasizes friendly relations while encouraging mutual trade and investments.

One of the most important ideological tenants of the overthrow of the Shah was to reduce ties with the U.S., which became a reality by the 444 days of keeping American diplomats hostage in Tehran in 1979-1980.

Moreover, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on October 3, 2018, that the United States was terminating the Treaty of Amity reached with Iran in pre-Islamic Revolution days, calling it an "absolute absurdity" given the tensions between the two countries.

Following Mr. Pompeo's announcement, the Islamic Republic's Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif immediately branded the United States in a tweet as an "outlaw regime."

In legal terms, the United States withdrawal means that the termination of the 1955 treaty will come into effect a year after Mr. Pompeo's announcement, i.e., October 3, 2019.

Algeria Declaration mentioned by Mr. Mousavi is also a set of agreements between Tehran and Washington to resolve the Iran hostage crisis, brokered by the Algerian government and signed in Algiers on January 19, 1981.

In a new executive order, signed by President Donald Trump on May 8, he authorized sanctions on Iranian iron, steel, aluminum, and copper sectors, which the White House said comprise 10% of the Islamic Republic's export economy. The new sanctions could also target financial institutions or foreign countries that facilitate Iran's export of those industrial metals.

Even before the imposition of direct sanction on Iranian metals, the country's steel industry was badly hit by the earlier banking sanctions.

Condemning the new sanctions, Mousavi said in the statement, "The onus is on the U.S. regime to compensate for the damages caused by the fresh sanctions on Iran's metal industry."

Based on the annual report of the Industrial Development and Renovation Organization of Iran (IDRO), Tehran has exported nearly $3.9 billion of iron and its alloys in the last Iranian calendar year (ended March 20, 2019), while it also exported almost $700 million of copper, as well as more than $840 million iron ore.

Fourteen percent of Iran's non-oil exports are industrial metals, IDRO says.
Baku, Azerbaijan, May 12

Trend:

Over the past 24 hours, Armenian armed forces have violated the ceasefire along the line of contact between Azerbaijani and Armenian troops 23 times, the Azerbaijani Defense Ministry said on May 12, 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 12

Trend:

The ongoing aggressive policy of Armenia is the main reason why the ceasefire doesnt bring peace for 25 years, Hikmet Hajiyev, Head of the Department of Foreign Policy Affairs of the Azerbaijani Presidential Administration told reporters in Baku on May 12, Trend reports.

Hajiyev said Armenia occupied the territory of Azerbaijan with the use of force.

"More than a million Azerbaijanis in the occupied territories were subject to ethnic cleansing, and for more than 25 years they have to live as refugees and IDPs. The aggression of Armenia against Azerbaijan was also accompanied by numerous war crimes against the civilian population. Four resolutions adopted by the UN Security Council in connection with the conflict condemned the use of force by Armenia against Azerbaijan, again confirmed the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Azerbaijan, and the fact that Nagorno-Karabakh is an integral part of Azerbaijan, requiring immediate, complete and unconditional withdrawal of the invading forces from all the occupied territories of Azerbaijan, he added.

Hikmet Hajiyev stressed that the ceasefire is not peace. "The Armenian leadership also recognizes that although 25 years have passed, the ceasefire has not turned into sustainable peace. The main reason why the ceasefire regime has not brought sustainable peace is the continuation of the aggressive policy of Armenia, Hajiyev added.

He noted that the format of the negotiation process hasnt changed and is conducted between the parties to the conflict, namely Armenia and Azerbaijan.

"If the Armenian side really wants to ensure sustainable peace in the region, then it should constructively participate in the negotiation process on the basis of the existing format, in accordance with the requirements of the UN Security Council resolutions, withdraw its troops from the occupied territories of Azerbaijan and not hinder the return of Azerbaijani internally displaced persons to their native lands. Only after that sustainable peace can be secured in the region, Hikmet Hajiyev added.

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.
Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, May 12

By Huseyn Hasanov  Trend:

Sugar beets are grown at 17,900-hectare-plots in Turkmenistan, Trend reports referring to the Turkmen Ministry of Agriculture and Environment Protection.

Some 224,000 tons of sugar beets are harvested per year.

The annual sugar production plan in the country is more than 10,000 tons. According to the presidential decree, the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment Protection, the administrations of the Balkan and Mary regions of Turkmenistan will have to ensure the production of sugar beet in accordance with agrotechnical requirements.

The sowing process usually starts in the middle of May. The crops will be gradually harvested in October as sugar beets are cold-resistant.

The local beet growers usually use the Russian sugar beet varieties Romanovskaya-47 and Portland, which are resistant to pests, plant diseases and have a high content of sucrose.
Baku, Azerbaijan, May 12

Trend:

The Azerbaijani State Customs Committee has commented on the information spread by several media outlets that the customs bodies raised the prices for some goods imported from China to Azerbaijan, which resulted in problems for the entrepreneurs of the Bina and Sadarak shopping centers.

The entrepreneurs updated the media outlets about an increase in transportation prices, the Azerbaijani State Customs Committee told Trend. As a result of their appeals, "Cargo" company notified that the prices increased as a result of the measures taken by the customs bodies.

While transporting the goods which are imported into the country, entrepreneurs can negotiate with any carrier regarding the prices that correspond to their business activity, the Azerbaijani State Customs Committee said.

"Customs duties on the import of goods are based on customs tariffs, the State Customs Committee said. Other measures stipulated by the legislation in connection with the import of goods are applied according to the tariff classification of these goods. According to the Azerbaijani law on Customs Tariff, there are ad valorem, specific or combined customs tariffs.

When calculating the customs debt at the specific and ad valorem customs tariff, the unit of measurement and the customs value specified in the Commodity Nomenclature of Azerbaijans Foreign Economic Activity are taken as the basis, the State Customs Committee said. Therefore, the voiced opinions that customs payments are calculated in accordance with a cubic meter according to the current legislation are unfounded.

Some entrepreneurs who are trying to evade customs payments during export-import operations may be dissatisfied with ensuring transparency through the recent reforms carried out in the customs bodies, as well as the steps taken to strengthen financial control.

The customs bodies will always ensure transparency in their work, create favorable conditions for entrepreneurs engaged in lawful activity and take concrete measures against those who do not observe the law.
Baku, Azerbaijan, May 12

By Leman Zeynalova - Trend:

All injured as a result of the explosion in Israfil Huseynov vessel in the Caspian Sea were transferred to the specialized hospitals of Turkey, Italy, France and UK on May 11, Italys Saipem company told Trend.

Saipem company has organized medical evacuation for 11 personnel injured as a result of the incident on board the Israfil Huseynov vessel in Caspian Sea. All injured personnel on May 11, 2019 have been transferred to the specialized hospitals of Turkey, Italy, France and UK. Three other less injured persons who were able to travel independently have also safely reached their home countries with the passenger planes the same day, said the company.

Saipem deeply regrets to advise that one person who has been in most critical conditions has passed away in the hospital of France this morning.

Additionally Saipem informs that all other injured persons are not in the life threatening condition.

On May 8 in the evening, an explosion occurred on the vessel Israfil Huseynov operated by Saipem for pipelaying in the Caspian Sea in the framework of the Shah Deniz II project.

In the early hours of morning on May 9, the transportation to hospital of the fourteen people involved in the accident, all employees of the Saipem Group, was completed.

The company said the incident was related to maintenance operations on an item of equipment during pipe-laying activities.

Follow the author on Twitter: @Lyaman_Zeyn
Baku, Azerbaijan, May 12

By Elnur Baghishov  Trend:

Some 24,000 tons of tea leaves were bought from tea growers in Irans northern Mazandaran and Gilan provinces at about 800 billion rials ($19 million according to the official exchange rate and $5.33 million according to the exchange rate in the black market), chairman of Iran's Tea Organization Habib Jahansaz said.

Up till now, tea growers obtained 107 billion rials ($2.54 million according to the official exchange rate and $713,000 according to the exchange rate in the black market), Jahansaz added, Trend reports referring to ISNA.

He said that 157 tea factories bought tea leaves in Mazandaran and Gilan provinces.

Jahansaz said that this Iranian year (started on March 21, 2019) the price of 1 kilogram of 1st grade tea reached 32,750 rials ($0.77 according to the official exchange rate, $0.21 according to the exchange rate in the black market), 2nd grade tea  18,492 rials ($0.44 according to the official exchange rate and $0.12 according to the exchange rate in the black market).
A senior Iranian Revolutionary Guards commander said on Sunday the U.S. military presence in the Gulf used to be a serious threat but now represented a target, Trend reported citing Reuters.

The U.S. military has sent forces, including an aircraft carrier and B-52 bombers, to the Middle East in a move U.S. officials said was to counter clear indications of threats from Iran to its forces in the region.

The USS Abraham Lincoln is replacing another carrier rotated out of the Gulf last month.

An aircraft carrier that has at least 40 to 50 planes on it and 6,000 forces gathered within it was a serious threat for us in the past but now it is a target and the threats have switched to opportunities, said Amirali Hajizadeh, head of the Guards aerospace division.

If (the Americans) make a move, we will hit them in the head, he added, according to ISNA.

Iranian navy commander Rear Admiral Hossein Khanzadi said on Sunday that American forces must exit, according to ISNA. The presence of the Americans in the Persian Gulf region has reached its end and they must leave the region, Khanzadi said.

Major General Hossein Salami, appointed head of the Guards last month, told parliament on Sunday the United States had started a psychological war in the region, the parliamentary spokesman said.

Commander Salami, with attention to the situation in the region, presented an analysis that the Americans have started a psychological war because the comings and goings of their military is a normal matter, spokesman Behrouz Nemati said, according to parliaments ICANA news site.

Irans Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said in a tweet on Sunday that John Bolton had planned the U.S. withdrawal from a 2015 nuclear deal and a more aggressive approach even before the U.S. national security adviser took up his post.

Zarif tweeted a link to a 2017 National Review article by Bolton headlined How to Get Out of the Iran Nuclear Deal.

A detailed blueprint for #FakeIntelligence, #ForeverWar and even empty offers for talks-only phone numbers were not included, Zarif wrote.

CNN reported on Friday that the White House had passed a telephone number to the Swiss for contacting U.S. President Donald Trump in case Iranian officials wanted to hold talks.

The Swiss embassy in Tehran represents U.S. interests in the Islamic Republic.
Baku, Azerbaijan, May 12

By Elnur Baghishov  Trend:

Some 2.6 tons of drugs were seized during the operation carried out by the police officers in Saravan county of Irans south-eastern Sistan and Baluchestan province, chief of the law enforcement agency of the province Mohammad Ganbari said.

Some 2.42 tons of opium, 32 kilograms of morphine, 23 kilograms of hashish, 2.2 kilograms of heroine and 122 kilograms of other drugs were found, Ganbari added, Trend reports referring to IRNA.

Moreover, two Kalashnikov rifles, cartridge clip, shells were also seized. Three smugglers were detained.
Sri Lankan authorities have arrested a Saudi-educated scholar for what they claim are links with Zahran Hashim, the suspected ringleader of the Easter Sunday bombings, Trend reports citing Reuters.

Mohamed Aliyar, 60, is the founder of the Centre for Islamic Guidance, which boasts a mosque, a religious school and a library in Zahrans hometown of Kattankudy, a Muslim-dominated city on Sri Lankas eastern shores.

Information has been revealed that the suspect arrested had a close relationship with ... Zahran and had been operating financial transactions, said a police statement late on Friday.

The statement said Aliyar was involved with training in the southern town of Hambantota for the group of suicide bombers who attacked hotels and churches on Easter, killing over 250 people.

A police spokesman declined to provide details on the accusations.
Up to 15 Taliban militants, including four foreign insurgents, were killed and four people were arrested in Afghanistan's eastern restive province of Ghazni, authorities confirmed on Sunday, Trend reports citing Xinhua.

Afghan National Army commandoes conducted an operation in Gosfandi, a village on the outskirts of provincial capital Ghazni city, killing 15 armed militants, the Afghan Ministry of Defense said.

"Afghan commandoes have seized documents, weapons and vehicles following the raid," the ministry said in a statement.

In addition, personnel of National Directorate of Security, the country's intelligence agency, have arrested four terrorists in Ghazni city and surrounding areas in the past two days, Harif Noori, spokesperson of the provincial government, told Xinhua.

The arrestees were responsible for terrorist attacks and bomb explosions in Ghazni.

The Taliban-led insurgency has been on the rampage since the beginning of 2015 when the Afghan security forces assumed full responsibilities of security from the United States and NATO troops.

The militants have intensified attacks against security forces and staged several coordinated attacks against Afghan cities and districts since early April when the Taliban's annual rebel offensive started.

The Taliban has not made a comment on the reports yet.
Twelve people were killed and 11 others injured after a farm vehicle overturned Sunday in eastern China's Zhejiang Province, local authorities said, Trend reports citing Xinhua.

The rollover occurred halfway up a mountain in Songmen town, Wenling city, the local public security bureau said.

Eight people were found dead on the spot and four died after failed emergency treatment. Eleven injured people are still being treated in hospital.

Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the accident.
The Israeli government has chosen in the Golan Heights a place where it will build a village and name it after US President Donald Trump, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Sunday, Trend reports citing Sputnik.

"I have promised that we will build a settlement in President Trump's honour. I hereby inform you that we have already chosen a location in the Golans where this new settlement will be built," Netanyahu said at a session of the government.

The prime minister specified that decisions related to the new village would be submitted for the approval of a new government, which Netanyahu is currently engaged in forming after his right-wing Likud party won the parliamentary elections in April.

The move is meant to express Israel's gratitude for Trump, who signed in late March an executive order formally recognising the Golan Heights as an Israeli territory, in circumvention of the UN Security Council resolution that nullified Israel's annexation of the Syrian territory. The move has sparked global criticism.

The Golan Heights has been mostly under Israel's control since the country seized the area during the 1967 Six-Day War with neighbouring Arab states. While Israel adopted a law that de facto annexed the territory in 1981, the United Nations declared that the move was void and without any legal effect. In 2018, after Israel organized local elections in the area on October 30, the UN General Assembly adopted a resolution urging Israel to immediately withdraw its forces from the territory.
Bodies of a total of 35 people were found in three unmarked graves in the Mexican state of Jalisco, State Prosecutor Gerardo Octavio Solis said on Saturday, Trend reports citing Sputnik.

Most of the bodies were found at a ranch in the municipality of Sapopan, the prosecutor noted. "There were 27 bodies found, it appears these people had been deprived of their freedom. So far only two people have been identified", Solis said as quoted by El Universal portal.

According to the prosecutor, experts continue to work at the ranch, so it is possible they may discover additional bodies.

The remains of seven people were found in one house in Guadalajara, and the remains of another person in the municipality of Tlajomulco de Zuniga, the prosecutor said.

Over recent years, Mexico has been facing high crime rates as a result of the activities of drug cartels in the country and violence between them. According to official figures, over 31,000 people were killed in the violence in 2017.

In early February, the country's Deputy Interior Minister Alejandro Encinas said about 40,000 people were missing in the country. He estimated the number of secret burial places at 1,100, and the number of unidentified corpses in morgues at 26,000.

Bloodshed has reportedly gripped Mexico in recent years after turf wars began between local drug cartels for the control of the existing infrastructure, most importantly cocaine transit passes to the United States.
At least six people were killed and 30 others injured after a bus overturned in the La Araucania region of south-central Chile, according to the Pullman bus company that owns the vehicle on Saturday, Trend reports citing Xinhua.

The accident occurred Saturday morning, claiming the lives of four women and two men, one of whom was a Paraguayan citizen, said Jose Silva, manager of corporate affairs.

Causes of the accident have yet to be determined, given the bus was currently on technical revisions, Silva told the electronic news site EMOL.

The vehicle left at 23:00 on Friday (0300 GMT on Saturday) for the southern areas of Llanquihue, Puerto Varas, and Puerto Montt with 52 passengers, two drivers, and one assistant aboard.

The executive expressed his sadness over the event, saying the company had commissioned buses for the victims' families to get them to the hospitals where their relatives had been sent.

"As a company, we are so sorry for what happened. We send our condolences to the families of the deceased victims. These are unforeseen events," the manager said.

Local police reported that the driver had lost control of the bus, which then flipped onto its left side, but more information are being collected from those involved to clarify the situation.
A Myanmar pilot safely landed a passenger jet without its front wheels on Sunday, after landing gear on the Myanmar National Airlines plane failed to deploy, the airline and an official said, Trend reports citing Reuters.

It was the second aviation incident in Myanmar this week, after a Biman Bangladesh Airlines plane skidded off the runway during strong wind in Yangon on Wednesday, injuring at least 17 of those on board.

An official praised the pilot for bringing the Embraer 190 aircraft in to land at Mandalay airport on Sunday morning despite the technical failure. No one was hurt.

The pilot did a great job, said Win Khant, permanent secretary of transportation and telecommunication ministry, adding the incident was being investigated.

Myanmar National Airlines, the state-run carrier, said in a statement the aircraft had departed from the city of Yangon and was approaching the airport serving the central city of Mandalay when the pilot was unable to extend the front landing gear.
Six people, including a priest, were killed on Sunday, in an attack on a Catholic church in Dablo, northern Burkina Faso, AFP reported, Trend reports citing Sputnik.

"Around 9 a.m., during a mass, armed individuals burst into the Catholic Church. They started firing as the churchgoers tried to flee," Dablo Mayor Ousmane Zongo told AFP.

A security source told the agency that the attack was carried out by a "group of armed men estimated [to number] between twenty and thirty."

In late April, several armed people attacked a Protestant church in Silgdji in the north of the country, killing five churchgoers and the pastor. The April attack was the first attack on a church since 2015.

The attacks comes as the authorities of Burkina Faso have launched a massive anti-terrorist operation in the eastern and central-eastern regions of the country.
The Tunisian navy on Saturday intercepted a boat with 52 illegal immigrants on board off the southeastern coast, Trend reported citing Xinhua.

The illegal immigrants, including six Tunisians and 46 people of different nationalities, were arrested while sailing to Italy off the El Amra belonging to Sfax province in southeastern Tunisia, Tunisian Interior Ministry said in a statement.

After consulting with the public prosecutor's office, the relevant authorities will take necessary measures against these illegal immigrants.

Thousands of illegal immigrants attempt to cross the Mediterranean every year as Tunisia is one of the main points of access to Europe through irregular channels.
Two people are dead, two injured as a result of a domestic gas explosion in Kamensky Region, Trend reproted citing TASS.

Seven apartments have been damaged, three of them completely. The regional administration said that it will provide financial assistance to the families of the victims, as well as to those who lost their home.

According to the Russian Emergency Ministry, the explosion took place in a two-storey building, which housed 16 apartments. The roofing collapsed on the area of 50 square meters. The regional information policy department reported that rescue teams were on the scene 5 minutes after the explosion. They evacuated 16 residents of the building, unable to save two of them - a nine-year old girl died in the ambulance on her way to the hospital, and a man was found dead underneath the rubble. Two people were injured in the blast - an elderly woman remains in the hospital, in critical condition, and a man in serious condition.

The building was in danger of collapsing, and has been disconnected from gas and electricity.

The regional administration said that the last gas equipment check was carried out in March, and according to the head of the administration, Vladimir Shevchenko did not reveal complaints or damage.

The local Investigative committee has opened a criminal case after the explosion, calling the death of two people a result of negligence.

Currently, all residents of the building are staying at the emergency shelter or with relatives. Emergency services crisis teams are providing psychological support on site.

Region's Governor Vasily Golubev has ordered to provide assistance to the victims from the regional budget. Families of the victims will receive 1 million rubles each, those injured 200,000 - 400,000 ruble. All registered residents of the apartment building will receive 10,000 rubles from the regional budget, and the same amount from the district budget. Those who lost personal belongings will receive compensation of 50,000 - 100,000 rubles.